Captain Will Rowlands admitted he was ‘immensely proud’ of the squad after they pushed Cell C Sharks all the way on home soil – but insisted winning games remains the target.
Second row Rowlands was an inspirational figure as Dragons produced a relentless and spirited display at Rodney Parade against a powerful South African side.
The Wales international was pleased with how the team has performed in the last two weeks back in Newport – but vowed to keep pushing for even more and a clinical winning edge.
“We’re a million miles away from where we were at the beginning of the season. That is reflected in how disappointed everyone is,” he said.
“That is a marker for where we are now as a club. For 75 percent of the game, we did what we talked about, we were in control and squeezing them.
“We just need to grow in confidence and get used to how we see out these kinds of games.
“Round one seems like a long time ago. We have spoken as a group about a fresh start to the season and have moved on,” he added.
“I’m proud of what we have done the last two weeks, but we are not just here to compete. We are here to win games and that is one that has slipped away.
“We played lots of good stuff. For most of the game we felt in control, now we need to learn how to keep our foot on their throat and don’t let them back in.
“There were just a few tiny areas where we let ourselves down, but we will learn and be better for this game.
“I’m immensely proud of the group and excited about the direction we’re going in."
Dragons RFC return to league action at Rodney Parade on Sunday, October 23 when we face Ospreys! Catch the big derby by CLICKING HERE or by calling 01633 670690.
I’m proud of what we have done the last two weeks, but we are not just here to compete... We are here to win games and that is one that has slipped away...
