Centre Jamie Roberts insists Dragons are making progress and now playing a good brand of rugby – but was left ‘gutted’ as his former region edged the team out in the Guinness PRO14 Rainbow Cup.
Former Arms Park favourite Roberts returned to his old home in an opposition side as Dragons were edged out 17-16 on Sunday.
Roberts admitted it was a disappointing result given the manner of the second half that saw Dean Ryan’s men dominate for long periods.
However, he believes crucial lessons will be learnt and the game was ultimate another step forward for Dragons.
“It’s a game we should have won so that is disappointing,” he said.
“There was a 20-minute period between 50 and 70 minutes when we had complete control and just didn’t convert.
“We were a bit impatient on their try line, played to width a bit too early.
“The danger when they go down a man or two is to get to width quickly and run in tries in the corner.
“But they are a smart defensive side and they came up with crucial turnovers at crucial times.
“We have only got ourselves to blame and I’m gutted with the result.
“We knew the strength they had at the breakdown and they bought it a couple of times.
“We were held up; Josh Turnbull has a crucial turnover in the corner and then there is the knock on five-metres out. They are big moments.
“We are playing good rugby and that is a positive,” he added.
“We want to be a side that can cut sides, through width and also through people and I felt we showed that.
“I am pleased with our performance and the way we are moving forward as a team, but that is definitely a game we should have won.”
We want to be a side that can cut sides, through width and also through people and I felt we showed that...
