Jac Morgan impresses as Dewi Lake suffers an injury scare, while Deian Gwynne strengthens his case for a Wales call-up ahead of Tuesday's squad announcement

Jac Morgan's early withdrawal was questioned by supporters after an impressive performance for Gloucester in their thrilling 36-36 draw with Bordeaux Begles, while Dewi Lake's injury has given Wales head coach Steve Tandy another potential fitness concern ahead of his autumn squad announcement.

The two Wales internationals were among the standout performers at Kingsholm on Friday night, as Gloucester and the reigning Champions Cup holders played out a remarkable draw in their European opener.

Morgan, making his Champions Cup debut in a Gloucester shirt, earned widespread praise for his all-action display before being replaced in the 67th minute.

The decision to take him off proved a talking point, with some supporters questioning Gloucester's management of the closing stages.

Posting on X, one account wrote: "Some questionable decisions from Gloucester at a critical time in such a tight game. Take off the best flanker in the world right now and then turn down points right in front of the posts."

Morgan's performance certainly justified the plaudits. GloucestershireLive awarded him an 8/10 in its player ratings, highlighting the influence he had against a formidable Bordeaux pack.

"Won a penalty from the opposite scrum in the Bordeaux half that led to a try for his side," the assessment read. "His strength led him into a powerful contest, doing great to fight off a scary pack. A great Champions Cup debut in a Gloucester uniform to remember."

Lake leaves field with medic

While Morgan impressed, Lake's evening ended prematurely after the Wales hooker seemed to pick up an injury in the 52nd minute.

The timing will be of particular interest to Tandy, who is due to announce his Wales squad on Tuesday, with the extent of Lake's problem yet to be established.

The Gloucester captain had also received an 8/10 rating from GloucestershireLive for his contribution against the French giants.

"Led his side through plenty of phases against a tough and resilient Bordeaux pack," the publication wrote. "Looked steady at the lineout, only seeing one lost."

However, Lake's night came to an end in the second half, with the report noting that his departure coincided with Gloucester losing momentum. Lake was seen leaving the pitch with the club medic, however the severity of any injury has not yet been reported.

Any injury concern involving the hooker would be an unwelcome development for Wales ahead of a demanding autumn schedule.

Gwynne strengthens his case for Wales call-up

One Welshman who may have given Tandy something to think about is Deian Gwynne, whose performances for Gloucester have strengthened the argument for his inclusion in the autumn squad.

The forward has been tipped by some to earn involvement with Wales this autumn, and his showing against Bordeaux offered another compelling reminder of his qualities.

GloucestershireLive awarded Gwynne a 7/10, praising his contribution to a forward effort that stood up impressively against one of Europe's most formidable packs.

"Very strong game alongside his forward counterparts, worked within an outstanding scrum and lineout to gain costly momentum for his side and turn an extremely strong Bordeaux pack over," the assessment read.

With Tandy preparing to name his squad on Tuesday, Gwynne has a timely opportunity to force his way into the conversation, however Wales' back-row options are currently stacked and it is a fiercely-contested area of the squad.

His ability to contribute in the set-piece and hold his own against elite opposition could prove valuable as Wales assess their options in the pack.

Llewellyn makes his mark in thrilling draw

Max Llewellyn was another Welsh player to emerge with credit after an influential performance for Gloucester.

The centre scored the hosts' second try of the evening and earned an 8/10 from GloucestershireLive for his contribution at both ends of the field.

The assessment highlighted his awareness in attack, with Llewellyn spotting a gap in Bordeaux's defensive line and exploiting it to score.

He also played a part in building pressure on the visitors, with a determined effort to keep possession from a grubber kick helping Gloucester advance deep into Bordeaux territory before a subsequent try.

His defensive work was equally notable, with the report praising an emphatic, old-fashioned tackle.

Llewellyn's display added to a strong collective showing from Gloucester's Welsh contingent on a night when the hosts pushed the reigning champions all the way.