Newport Gwent Dragons were unable to make it two away wins in a row in the Magners League when they lost to Connacht on Friday night.
The Dragons made a bright start when fullback Martyn Thomas crossed for a try which was converted by fly half Gareth McCarthy who was making his competitive debut for the Men of Gwent. However, after that The Dragons failed to score as the home side produced a quality performance and maintained their record of winning their opening match every year since the League began in 2001.
Connacht fly half Tim Donnelly orchestrated proceedings and kicked a flawless five from five and also added a drop goal in injury time. However, the man of the match display came from homegrown talent Aidan Wynne at inside centre. He is a former Irish U20 player and has come through the academy system and he made a real impact.
Donnelly gave the home side the lead after just five minutes when he landed a penalty and then Thomas put the visitors ahead following his converted try. However, Donnelly reduced the margin with his second penalty and Connacht went 13-7 up following a Robbie Morris try and Donnelly added the extra two points. A further two penalties from the Connacht fly half put the home side 19-7 up at the break.
With the wind advantage in the second half, The Dragons failed to capitalise and didn't score a point while Donnelly, fittingly had the final say with a drop goal in injury time.
