Quartet shortlisted for February Warrior of the Month

28 Feb 2023

Four players have been shortlisted for the McCrea Financial Services Warrior of the Month award for February, after being recognised for their performances and contributions in training by the club’s coaching team.

GLASGOW, SCOTLAND - FEBRUARY 17: Glasgow Warriors pre-match huddle during a BKT United Rugby Championship match between Glasgow Warriors and Ulster at Scotstoun Stadium, on February 17, 2023, in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ross MacDonald / SNS Group)

A potentially invaluable 17-11 victory over Ulster at a sold-out Scotstoun saw Franco Smith’s men move into the top four of the BKT United Rugby Championship for the first time this season, extending their unbeaten run to 10 matches – a streak matching the club’s record in the professional era.

It was a run that would come to an end in Johannesburg on Saturday as the Warriors were edged out by the Emirates Lions, with just a four-try bonus-point to show for their efforts in the South African sun.

Supporters can vote for their winner until 4pm on Friday 3 March through the poll on our Twitter page.

The nominees are:

Stafford McDowall

Captain for both of Glasgow’s fixtures in February, centre McDowall continues to go from strength to strength in the Warriors’ midfield.

The Scotland squad member was heavily involved throughout proceedings at Scotstoun in the win over Ulster, including playing a key role in the pivotal try finished off by Jack Dempsey.

McDowall then lined up in the 13 jersey once more in Johannesburg, making three line breaks against the Lions at Emirates Airline Park.

Sam Johnson

February proved to be a milestone month for Johnson, as the 29-year-old brought up a century of Glasgow Warriors appearances in the visit to the Emirates Lions.

It was a match in which Johnson led from the front, providing a try assist for Eli Caven’s early score, as well as producing five offloads – more than any other Warrior in the match.

His brand of direct running and expert distribution was also a valuable asset in the win over Ulster, dove-tailing well with McDowall in the centres in both attack and defence.

Lewis Bean

Second-rower Bean started both of Glasgow’s matches during the month of February, extending his run of matchday involvements to 11 consecutive outings for Smith’s side.

The former Army man stole two lineouts from Ulster hands during the victory at Scotstoun, as well as providing a physical presence around the field on both sides of the ball.

Bean also led the Glasgow squad in turnovers in Johannesburg, registering two for his side as he took the battle to the home side.

JP du Preez

The round one defeat away to Benetton remains the only match in which du Preez hasn’t featured in the 2022/23 BKT URC, the big second-rower continue to impress with his work ethic across both training and matches in Glasgow colours.

The 28-year-old proved a menace to the lineouts of both Ulster and the Lions during the month of February, spoiling opposition ball whenever the opportunity arose.

His impact from the replacements bench also saw him make an impression in defence, continuing to give everything to the Glasgow Warriors cause.

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