Dragons Academy coach Sam Hobbs is pleased for the Under-18s players after they made a winning return to action with a 15-14 victory of the Scarlets Under-18s at Parc y Scarlets on Wednesday night.
A late Sam Berry drop goal saw the Academy seal a late comeback victory after earlier tries from centre Oli Andrew and replacement winger Gruff Davies.
It was the first game in nearly two years for the Under-18s and forwards coach Hobbs was pleased to see the boys finally get on the field and play.
The former Dragons prop also praised the replacements impact off the bench but admits there is plenty to work on for the future Dragons ahead of the return fixture at Ystrad Mynach next Wednesday.
“It was a really enjoyable experience, first and foremost it’s just great to see everyone playing, we have been fortunate enough to get a game on tonight especially at Parc y Scarlets on the main pitch it was really pleasing," he said.
“Everyone has been through a tough time in the last 18 months and for some of these boys it’s been two years since they played a game so it’s really pleasing to get a good game on, two good sides and it was enjoyable to watch.”
Hobbs continued: “I thought the performance probably indicates where the boys were, in terms of not playing for a long time so the first half was a little bit rusty, second half we grew into the game.
“I thought our bench made a big impact when they came on and brought a lot of energy but it was a great drop goal at the end to win the game so I am chuffed for the boys.
“There is lots to work on but the pleasing thing is they are a big group and there is a lot of opportunity for growth within this group, so it will be great to have another game and then a few more after that so we are really chuffed and looking forward to that.”
It was a really enjoyable experience, first and foremost it’s just great to see everyone playing...
