Backs Coach Gordon Ross has challenged Dragons to raise the bar this week – ahead of what he admits will be another unusual week of preparation at Ystrad Mynach.
Dragons are now gearing for Saturday’s home clash with Connacht Rugby at Rodney Parade (kick-off 5.15pm) – but will be once again be without boss Dean Ryan.
Ryan is currently self-isolating after a confirmed Covid-19 case in the region’s management team.
Ross stepped in to lead the team during the weekend’s clash with Munster and admits it had been a ‘fantastic opportunity’ for him to develop.
“The effort from everyone who has been at Ystad Mynach this week has been absolutely outstanding,” said the former Scotland international.
“People have been chipping in, guys doing other people’s jobs to the best of their abilities, and the boys have responded really, really well.
“Our challenge now is to do it again this week and be better. As coaches, as management and as players. We are in this business to win rugby games and came up short against Munster.
“It has been a really good learning experience for us all. As coaches we have all developed."
Ross admits Ryan his input during the defeat to Munster and will again have a big influence this week – even if it is from afar.
“I think Dean had to recharge the batteries on his phone about ten times in the first half,” he smiled.
“But seriously, Dean has got an outstanding rugby brain and we’d be daft not to take his advice on and he got a few key messages in. We will have zoom meetings all week and we will stay in touch.”
And Ross has been full of praise for the systems put in place by Ryan to ensure the coaching team at Dragons can step up during this period.
“The structures that Dean has put in place, to allow people to develop, is great. You learn from him and at the same time want to put your own stamp on it,” he added.
“It was a fantastic opportunity for me the last few days and hopefully I can improve again this week. We have some really good people in the place and that has helped.
“Dean is an excellent Director of Rugby because he wants coaches to improve and get better and he gives them opportunities.
“It’s been hands on all week. Sam (Hobbs), Barry (Maddocks), Chappy (James Chapron) and Dan (Baugh) have all stepped up, but it’s been a real team effort.”
The structures that Dean has put in place, to allow people to develop, is great... You learn from him and at the same time want to put your own stamp on it...
