Showcase

update with world by showcase

Dragons 38-26 Scarlets: Six-try hosts seal URC Welsh derby success


Dragons struck straight after the break when wing Rio Dyer took the ball superbly from kick-off to put the hosts on the front foot.

After subtle build-up work from de Beer and Anderson, a searing Tuitavuki break was only halted by a brilliant tap tackle from Scarlets full-back Blair Murray, but Argentina prop Martinez followed up to cross, with de Beer converting.

Scarlets retaliated and, following another midfield charge from James, a perfect Page chip narrowly eluded Mee’s hands as he lost possession over the Dragons line.

The home side brought on Wales props Rhodri Jones and Dillon Lewis and the duo forced a scrum penalty.

Scarlets replacement prop Sam O’Connor made his own early impression when he burrowed over for the third try.

Costelow’s conversion regained the lead, but Scarlets put themselves under pressure with needless penalties from the kick-off.

Dragons flanker Young was held up over the line, but it was Anderson who scored the bonus-point try in the right-hand corner to give the Dragons the advantage once more.

Dyer produced an excellent break, and Scarlets captain Josh Macleod could only stop the momentum with a professional foul that resulted in a yellow card.

The hosts took control with Dee driven over for his second score, which proved his final act before being replaced.

Scarlets, playing with 14 men, struck back quickly with a quick line-out before replacement Jones crossed for the bonus-point try.

Dragons gathered themselves and Hunt’s final try sealed the success in what was a fourth try on the day for the home front-row.

Dragons head coach Filo Tiatia: “We had all the possession and territory in the first half but just weren’t clinical enough.

“We were in control and needed to maximise the opportunities when they were on.

“I am proud of the group. We want to keep growing and keep going up the ladder.”

Scarlets director of rugby Nigel Davies: “We battled well but we were on the wrong side of some big moments that swung the game.”

“It is very frustrating.”


Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *