Winger Rio Dyer is looking to step-up his game following his return from a long injury lay off against Cardiff Rugby in the United Rugby Championship.
The speedster returned to the side for the big derby clash in the capital and crossed the whitewash for his first score on his first appearance of the season.
It was Dyer’s first game in five months since the final round of the Rainbow Cup against Leinster in Dublin.
The 21-year-old is happy to be back after a frustrating few months on the sidelines, but admits he is looking to step-up his game now he has returned to full fitness.
“Obviously, it can be difficult when you’re injured and I was out for a bit longer than previous injuries,” said the Dragons Academy graduate.
“But everything went to schedule and I came back probably better than expected so I’m happy with how that has gone and where I am now.
“I have been out for about four to five months now since my last game, so to play against someone like Cardiff for my first start back, there were a few nerves before the game, but it was nice to get back out there and get into a game and scoring was a bonus.
“I think the first half we came out and we stuck to the game plan, we were putting pressure on them but there were a few mini mistakes that then let them into the game.
“I think if we didn’t make those mistakes and kept the pressure on them, I believe we would be standing here with a different result now.
“Team wise I think we just need to stick to our philosophy, improve our discipline and if we play like we did in that first half for a full 80 then we will see results.”
Next up for the Dragons is a Scottish double header as they take on Edinburgh at Rodney Parade before traveling to Glasgow to face the Warriors.
Dean Ryan’s men will be looking to bounce back following the recent defeats to Stormers and Cardiff.
Dyer believes now is an opportunity for him to kick on and step-up for the region ahead of the return to URC and European action.
“For me I just need to continue to grow after a long time off, training is completely different to a game,” he said.
“You can train as much as you want but you won’t have those game scenarios and experience until you’re actually out there playing.
“It’s just trying to stay on top of everything review the game and then keep going and growing throughout the season.
He continued: “On a personal note I just need to try and get back into it, review my individual performances, get on the field and get that experience under my belt, so I can build confidence and step up my game as much as I can and continue improving.”
It’s just trying to stay on top of everything review the game and then keep going and growing throughout the season...
