Dragons v Scarlets Scrum V Live Pro 12

It is round three of the RaboDirect PRO12 and it is Derby time.

John Davies in his 100th game. Who will be best when East meets West?

It is the first Welsh derby of the season. The draggers -- the Dragons

against the Scarlets. John Barclay making his debut for the Scarlets

this evening. A real carnival atmosphere. They are expecting a

full capacity crowd. The children are being put through their paces at

Rodney Parade. The rain has gone and we are in late evening sunshine.

Welcome to the programme. Both sides of the East-West divide are

represented here. A quick reminder of the fortunes of both teams so

far. There is a revolution underway at Rodney Parade. Last year, the

Jones boys were either coaching London Welsh or in the studio. Now

they are in charge of the Dragons. Gareth Davies has taken over as

chief executive. The big story this season was somebody staying. Toby

Faletau has put pen to paper on a new contract and resisting the money

on offer over the Channel. There was a dream start when they beat the

runners-up from last year. But last week was not so sweet. Defeat

against Edinburgh. Tonight, they will come the Scarlets will have

also won one match and last another. -- last another. They bounced back

to beat Treviso in style. An intriguing encounter awaits. As

we saw there, the Jones boys at Intel. How quickly can a new regime

in both their philosophy and change the fortunes of a side around? They

can do it very quickly. He did a fantastic job at London Welsh last

year. He will focus on a couple of areas in the game. One of those

areas will be the defence. They have only conceded 20 points so far this

season and they will look to maintain that. What is he like as a

motivator? He has come in. Nobody knows where he is coming from. Every

time he speaks, people hang on his every word. He puts in little

differences and finishing touches. The detail he puts in gets people

attention. These sites have been renowned for their forward power in

the past. What do you make of the pack at the moment? I enjoyed

playing for Wales with Thomas. He is up against the shared it with Ken

Owens tonight. When I was here, Andrew Coombs was on the fringe. He

is now a senior player. He is dragging everyone through. It is a

massive change. Toby Faletau is a superstar. Everyone thought he would

be moving from Wales. But above statement is that the ambition of

the club? They have been able to hold onto himself all credit for

that. He gets his team on the front foot. When you get that, you are

playing with a different type of ball. He is very powerful and

unassuming. He is only going to get better. Big things expected from

Toby Faletau this season. We have heard all about the coach. A

pleasing start. This is a local derby. Big expectation and a big

crowd. Comet today up is this the night? First up, it was a high

intensity match. The Scarlets will be highly motivated. It is not just

five points we have picked up. We have conceded and at 25 points as

well which is a big plus for us. We went to make life difficult for the

scallops and we will fight for the points. Any worries about their

scrum? It is a challenge for as. We have been preparing all week for

many facets of their attack. The scrum is one of those. It is a test

for both sides this evening. He was very calm ahead of the big test.

Sean Holley is our that is in our analysis track tonight. They have

spent a lot of time in the breakdown and on defence this summer. When a

debt that takes a bit more time to improve an is the set piece. Nigel

Owens will really need to be on his mettle. It is interesting that the

new protocols allow the opposition mettle. It is interesting that the

to know when the ball has been fed in. It results in a bit of pressure.

Nigel Owens will be looking for the crooked feet. Will we see an

infringement? Asda have a square scrum and apply a lot of pressure so

the number eight has difficulty at his feet. They will need all the

scrimmage. It is a crucial area in the game tonight. They will need to

be on their mettle for this. Take a look at this. It is crucial to stop

a rolling maul by dealing with the lifters. They set up their drive and

the Dragons will be looking to strip away those lifters, upon them to the

floor and in this case they do not do it. The ball is protected at the

back where Roger Wilson is holding it. He eventually makes it easy and

scores. In contrast, it is a confident area at the moment for the

opposition. Look for the Scarlets to keep the ball and impose themselves.

Once they have the upper hand, they have the lightning quick Gareth

Davies and Shingler. Danny Wilson has worked on this. They will look

to squeeze them. A great new signing for the Scarlets. Look out for him

tonight. John Barclay. He missed the first two rounds through injury. We

can hear the thoughts of the head coach. It has been no secret that

the scrum has been a great weapon. How much of a platform are you

looking to get from that tonight? We have dealt with the new law is

pretty well. It is something that has gone reasonably well fires in

the first couple of games will stop game and every front row and forward

pack has different good and bad points. We had to make sure we are

right for the money. As a rugby man, how are you -- how excited are you

about some of the matchups? There are a feel of them. It is great we

have an early chance to have a derby game. Hopefully, it will live up to

the billing. The pages in superb condition. We are looking forward to

the game. Best of luck. The scrum for the Scarlett has become a

powerful attacking weapon. Where has it come from? Danny Wilson has

brought a different mentality to the pack. Samson Lee has emerged over

the last couple of years. Particularly with the new

interpretation of the laws for the scrum. He fits the bill perfectly.

He is difficult to deal with. Samson Lee has been earning plaudits. I

He is difficult to deal with. Samson have no idea what they do in there.

I just stick my head where the head does not shine and do what they tell

me. They have hurdles and committing practices when we go away. They do

not let many people in. They earn their trust there. It will be a

crucial battle. A fascinating insight. The centre battle is a big

one tonight. An established international partnership with the

Scarlets. Jonathan Davies is back. It is fantastic to see him back. He

is electric on the ball and is very quick and powerful. He brings

defenders towards him. The two young boys in the Dragons will have their

work cut out for them. But by no means will it be one-way traffic.

They will be relishing the opportunity to go up against a

British Lion. Steve Shingler has withdrawn late with an Achilles

injury. Phil Steele can tell us more. He has an Achilles injury.

Gareth Owen comes into full back. Rhys Priestland, I understand, will

take over the goal-kicking duties for the first time this season. A

fantastic atmosphere here. Conditions are fantastic. Newport

County play here as do the Newport rugby team. Coming into the stadium,

people were wearing dragon shirts. You would not have seen that last

season. That is a real good -- feel-good factor here. It is very

exciting. We are all looking forward to this. That is Welsh language

commentary on the red button. It is time to cross to our commentators.

Thank you very much. A great crowd and a great atmosphere. Thankfully,

good conditions as well. It is a lovely evening at Rodney Parade. For

the returning lions and for the rest of them, it could not be any better.

John Barclay will not be 27 until next week. It seems he has been

around for a number of years. He will be a big influence tonight

because he is a genuine open side. They're with evidence is not a

natural open side. It could be quite telling later. The fireworks before

hand and the home crowd will be hoping for the same once the game

commences. Jason Tovey will have a big part to play this evening.

Alice Thomas accepted last position for the Scarlet.

-- perfect conditions. Immediately, a first touch for Toby Faletau.

Getting a few yards under the belt. The ball goes out of play with just

eight minutes played. I expect the Dragons to be quite eager

defensively. A very good kicking game. I can imagine very similar

tonight for them. Too much for Barclay. One of the

Dragons players is down, I am not sure who he is. It is good to see

the Scarlet onto the target. It was kicked a couple of times early in

the game. That was quite a loose pass there. There is no way Barclay

was going to get that. John Barclay missed the beginning of

the season with an injury. It does not look good. I think he is all

right and getting back on his feet. He definitely lost the ball they

are, didn't he? He twisted his ankle as he went over.

What a contrast to the deluge last week. The former Blues player, Rhys

Thomas. You have to plant that puts to get the strike. -- plans that

puts. A penalty on its way. That was an

interesting decision for Tovey. Hang on. It will be Tom Prydie. He will

have a crack at it. That is what the Dragons will do, they will defend

and try to get opportunities. Good tackle. I think he rolls away. There

is a penalty. Tom Prydie, in his second year with

the Dragons. He does not waste any time. That is a great kick. That is

an excellent kick from Tom Prydie, and it is the Dragons. No mistake.

One line out. Three points. That is just what the Dragons will

have wanted, get the building blocks in place. There was no hang time on

its, no chase. They get the ball back and it was a very good kick.

Why not compete for it? That is a good drive from the

Scarlet 's. I am not sure how legal that is.

A very good drive, though. If the referee is happy with it, it will

carry on. Great play, Andrew Coombs. A good

pace. Strong pace. He goes straight over the top. They

cannot shift him. That is a very easy penalty, Nigel Owens.

Andrew Coombs stepped up to the plate last year, did a great job.

Matthew Screech took it down, all right.

What a great kick that is. Great play. Dragons, looking to attack

again. The Dragons are certainly in command

at the moment. I do not know whether Tom Prydie got

it down or not. It is a very close call. It is all about the feet.

It is a great tackle. Does he get the ball down? I think he is in. He

is in touch. That is a great tackle by Priestland. Good tackle. Superb

tackle by Rhys Priestland. The Welsh management. They are

keeping a close eye on things as the autumn internationals get ever

nearer. That was a great bit of work by Rhys Priestland. It is good to

see him back at full fitness. They are really putting Davies under

pressure. That was not an easy kick. Jon Davies has got a left foot.

Rhys Thomas could not cope with the ankle injury. A chance for the

Scarlet 's to clear the lines. They do not have much time.

Just watch. Great charge by Toby Faletau. The pressure from the

Dragons is relentless. They are not letting the Scarlet get away from

their own try line. They really are hounding them at every opportunity.

Even though they lost their own ball, every time the Scarlet had it,

they have no time at all to settle and clear. This is a great position

for the Dragons. Lewis Evans did well to support. The

two Dragon centres, always an option. I think that was Barclay.

This is like a free play now. Give it a crack. Go for it, just go for

it. Evans with the first thrust towards the try line. Lovely ball

over the top. They did not need the penalty

advantage. Phil Price get the Dragons award for all the pressure.

Just watch. Gotze to make the tackle. Two men on the tackle. --

got to make the tackle. Great play. His partner is the

beneficiary. A lovely strike from Jason Tovey.

What they start from the Dragons! Just some there was Rhys Thomas. A

left ankle problem. We understand he went over on it so it is a sprain.

Is encased in ice in front of me. The Scarlets knew they would have a

warm reception at Rodney Parade. The Dragons are on fire in the opening

ten minutes. The knock-off came off Jonathan Davies. They were

fortunate. No quick flow from the Scarlets. The

Scarlett have numbered of correctly. This man is going to come in. He has

to stop him. The off-load makes running an. He has to close the

ball. The off-load just makes that drive.

That was a dreadful pass. They have put themselves under pressure. Just

for a moment, the Dragons thought they could sniff a turnover.

Advantage was still being played. I think the Scarlets are going to

lateral at the moment. They have a lot of ball but they are not making

the hard yards. The Dragons are more spread out. I think the Scarlets

have got to just take up the middle before they go wide. The Dragons

defence is spread well. It is a good tactical game for the Dragons.

Nothing fancy. They are taking it up and they are ten points in front.

One mistake, penalty kick and a try on the off-load. The Dragons have

been very clinical. Nothing silly. The Scarlets just got it away in

time. Straight over the ball. There is some fierce competition there.

That is against Jack Dixon from Notre tailing off the back feet.

They are doing well at the breakdown. Interesting for Rhys

Priestland, in the first two games, Stephen Shingler has been the

placekicker. After being able to concentrate on his outside half

duties, Shingler is absent tonight. That will do nicely for Rhys

Priestland and the Scarlett as they get their first points of the

evening. A nice easy one for Rhys Priestland to start off.

The Scarlets have beaten the Dragons the last ten times.

The Dragons this year appear to be a different prospect. They are

hounding everything in sight. They have got the ball back. Dan Evans

goes straight through. The Scarlett are stretched again.

Gareth Owen as down injured. A loose ball. Dan Evans just slept on it.

Keeping it alive. Same again from the skipper. Some magic hands

keeping the ball alive and away from the touchline. Dan Evans get past

his man. Almost up to the try line. They are within striking distance.

It is still on. Daniel Evans arrived and the former Scarlett gets a try

which took so long in coming. Eventually, they brought the Rodney

Parade crowd to raptures. The support kept on coming. A great

drive up the middle. It is the pace and the recycling. A quick ball and

a late to pass. A lovely run. That was a great tackle.

Richie Rees has the confidence to pick his man. A great something

tackle from Jonathan Davies. Richie Rees weights and presents to Dan

Evans. Well weighted and perfectly weighted. Gareth Owen was on the ten

metre line receiving treatment. He lasted a quarter of the game. He was

not meant to start. He was a late replacement for Steve Shingler who

picked up an Achilles injury. What an opening quarter for the Dragons!

The ball was cleared. He only had to get to that man. He holds. He runs

up. Great off the ball running by Dan Evans. Good communication. The

pace the recycling pushed the defence too far.

They are claiming a high tackle on Matthew Screech. Nic Reynolds is the

man who has come an. -- come on. The Scarlets have to keep possession

now. The forwards have to carry the ball. At the moment, they cannot

cope with the Dragons. Ken Owens trying to do what Jonathan was

suggesting, carry. Richie Rees comes across and cuts

out the danger. The pace of the ball they are recycling makes the

difference at the moment. Liam Williams is now back at full-back.

Still in play. Toby Faletau sweeps it out immediately to Dan Evans.

Jordan Williams pulls out of it that the last moment. If Lewis Evans had

been more aware, as it is, the Scarlets could get something from

it. The game is playing at an incredible pace. The Scarlets will

have to go wide now. They have gone the wrong way. A lot of loose

passes. They are taking a lot of possession

away, the Scarlets. A lovely step and go from Ken Owens.

He could not pick anyone out in the traffic. A lovely run by Ken Owens.

Just the loose pass. A lovely step. Just a couple of loose passes.

Knock-on. Nigel Owens, grateful of the

opportunity for a drop of water. He has an eye for detail. It matches

his socks and jersey. He is a fashion icon. He had a haircut this

morning ready for the game. The Scarlets needed points and Rhys

Priestland supplied them. Plenty for Danny Wilson and Simon

Easterby and Mark Jones to be discussing.

I think there has been one scrum so far. They have not had a chance to

get any pressure. Fast and loose. Great play, Lewis Evans. Wonderful

turn over. Jonathan Davies was a tackler,

wasn't he? Another great corner cover tackle.

Loose ball. The Dragons seemed a lot sharper. Saul the opportunity --

they saw the opportunity. What a brilliant tackle, McCusker.

That is great corner flagging from McCusker. I think I heard another

commentator sneaked behind us. We have been hearing about the

off-loading game. , Chevy put into that? -- how much effort have you

put into that? You are not worried about it begins fast and loose? We

can break the game up. We can make things happen. There was a great

tackle there. This is a good spectacle of rugby tonight. Thank

you. What a game eight is turning out to

be. -- what a game it is turning out to be. A great tackle. Last ditch to

get the ball on the floor. Amos just got there. Jonathan Davies new he

could just twirl out of it and get the ball back into play.

The pass was held till the last moment. It was close. The Scarlets

's are desperate for a score behind -- before half-time.

Scott Williams dances his way through. All of that pressure for

the Scarlets has turned into points finally. Boy, did they need it. Just

watch here. He comes inside. Great step.

A lovely step, isn't it? Scott Williams news he was up against the

replacement hooker. Priestland wants to make absolutely

sure, even though he is well in the 22.

Suddenly, it is 2-1. Stop it there. There is a forward bear. -- a

forward bear. The whole is too big. That is the defensive area. The gap

is too big. Now they are beginning to try and play a bit of rugby

again. It cost them early on. I think they were not clinical

enough. They had a lots of opportunities and they kicked far

too much ball away. Jordan Williams is the smallest

player on the field. They needed that, the Dragons. The

Scarlets have taken the game by the scruff of the neck. Priestland was

hoping, but no, it was inched perfectly by Jason Tovey.

The first half has positively flown by. There are four minutes

remaining. The Scarlets 's will not want it to end now. They have really

come good. The ball was not in his possession.

Groves was just a little bit too eager. Fine margins, but as Nigel

Owens is explaining, if you are going to take the scrum-half, he has

to have the ball in his possession. He has got his hands on it. You

cannot blame it Groves for going for it. It is just a matter of

interpretation. Nick Reynolds won the battle in the

air, but could not control it. That is a lottery. Jonathan Davies was

there lurking. Toby Faletau picked it up and went.

They have got to give him options. Liam Williams was stretching out his

arms. Kept alive by Priestland. One more play. It has been a very

entertaining first half. They had back to the changing rooms

in what has been a very enjoyable first half. Dragons took the

opportunities very well. The Scarlets have clawed their way back

into the game. The Scarlets have clawed their way back in. It was a

fantastic first have to watch. What was it like to play? We started

well. We were disappointed, we have to work harder. If we tighten up our

back three, we are looking good. It was really good. We played some good

stuff. We will have to start well again on the second half. The

Cardiff Blues are trailing against zebra Seabrook.

It has been an explosive game so far. The Dragons stretch their lead

further. Just when the Dragons appeared to be running away with

it, the Scarlets hit back. It is very much game an apt Rodney Parade.

-- game on. For a Welsh derby, the first rung of

the season, it has everything you would have wanted. You are expecting

a strip scrappy game with lots digs going in. But the Dragons opened up

superbly. Just what they wanted. They really came out and put the

pressure on the Scarlets. They made the Scarlets play in their own half.

They made six handling errors. The pressure, they scored a try but they

had a feel of clear cut chances. The Scarlets have realised what is going

on and they are playing more down at the other end. Are you surprised at

the Temple of the first half? It has been a fantastic game of rugby.

There has been a lot of kicking. They have put a lot of pressure on

the Scarlets. Richie Rees has been at the heart of everything the

Dragons have done. He is creating all sort of problems for the

Scarlets. Some fantastic last-gasp tackling. That has saved the

Scarlets quite a long. They have come back into the game and put

pressure on the Dragons. The Scarlets may be fortunate to be only

four points down after the first half. They have been no Scarlets

scrums in the Dragons half. Let us look at the first try. It is

important to see the build-up. They followed on the far side. The

foreword for the Dragons pull back. It is a great off-load but they hold

their width and it is a great finish. It was a great off-load.

Gareth Owen had no choice but to try and come in and take him. It was

brave. You are exposing your ribs on that. We can go to the second try

now. Only about ten minutes after that, the Dragons went further ahead

on the scoreboard. Dan Evans scored that. It is important that we look

at the build-up. It happened a long way back. The coach will like this.

It is around the halfway line. It is about exploiting off-load and

putting people into space. Quick passes and then getting to the quick

men. A bit of elevated play. Matthew Screech looks like he will check it

out but then he comes behind the Dan Evans. Dan Evans works hard to get

on the outside and that is a great score from the Dragons. I guess

there was a point there when we thought Toby Faletau had taken the

wrong option. But they chose the composure at the Dragons have got to

carry on and scored the try. They have great energy as a team. They

have good efficiencies in the breakdown. They are keeping their

width in an attack individually. They made it difficult for the

Scarlets. Dan Evans loved that. Absolutely. He would have enjoyed

that. It looked as if it was one-way traffic up until that. But the

Scarlets strike back? They had made 45 carries in and only 16 were over

the gain line. That is a line-out in the half. Scott Williams looks like

he will carry the tape on the Jonathan Davies. They switchblade.

They pulled back from the line-out and Gareth Davies does well to

exploit the forwards. You can see all of the defensive structure is or

that -- is not organised for the Dragons. They exploit the space and

the feet of Scott Williams does the work. They have tightened things up

as the first half progressed. They were pretty loose in the first 20

minutes. When you go away from home, you do not want to be like that.

They allowed the Dragons to rattle them. It was what the Dragons

wanted. They want to get in amongst them and make them make mistakes.

That first trip sort of set the tone. It went into touch and frumpy

and from the ensuing line-out they kicked the first three points. It

set the tone for the first 20 minutes. An intriguing second half

on the way. There's plenty more action coming your way this weekend.

You cannot paper over the cracks. We have to expose them and gouge them

out and filled them in properly. That is a possibility that you can

play better than your opposite number but the selectors will look

at you. You have to educate their thinking and expand the thought

process. They are in charge of their destiny.

Intriguing stuff there from the coach. He adds laying down the law

there for the Dragons. A close encounter for the Cardiff Blues.

We can go back to the touchline now. Phil is with Gareth Davies. He is

now the chief executive of the Dragons. That drop goal against

Newport. What year was that? I think it was every year. What did you

think of the first-half performance? It was a good game. The Dragons

started stronger and the Scarlets came back in the closing minutes. A

cracker of a game. It is a good product tonight. What are the

problems facing you as new chief executive? The performances will be

critical. A sustainable business moving forward is important. I think

the whole question of the region, the identity, the fact a product

like tonight should be available for everybody in Monmouthshire and

Newport to be able to enjoy and feel proud of the team. What is it like

to be applauded by a Rodney Parade crowd? I never thought I would see

the day. I am sure some of the old diehards in Cardiff will think I am

a traitor. But it is a great opportunity. We can keep the coach

very animated in the coach at half-time. We spoke about the

motivation. Have you seen anything from the way the Dragons are playing

that has his improvement? The control and the confidence. They are

actually playing. The Dragons have not beaten the Scarlets for the last

ten games. They have come here and all of a sudden you see a different

team. All of a sudden, they are putting off-loads together. They

have had their own in the scrums and they are holding their own. In the

second half, they need to keep the pressure on the Scarlets like they

did in the first 20 minutes. Can the Scarlets pull this back? It'll be

interesting to see if the Scarlets can hold up the tempo. If they can

maintain that, it should be a can hold up the tempo. If they can

fantastic game. The players are about to take to the pitch for the

second half. Welsh language commentary continues on your red

button now. No changes to either side from what

I can see so far to the side that finished the first half. I dare say

they will be chances for the people on the bench if the game carries on

at the same pace. Interesting, I think confidence as Ian Gough said.

It is nice to see the ball in hand and they are looking far more

confident. The Scarlets were a little bit uneasy and kicked a bit

too much ball away. They went lateral far too much. For the

Dragons, I feel territory as vital. -- is vital. They have to play in

the heart of the Scarlets. Richie Rees into the gap. Immediately,

pulling the Scarlets out. Rob McCusker does the first job of

taking the pressure off. Rhys Priestland takes it downfield.

Good controlled play. I think Rob McCusker may have taken a knock from

Liam Williams when they went up for that high ball.

Liam Williams just watched the balance. Jordan Williams tries to

blag the corners. He does so successfully. That will just put

them back on their haunches a little bit. Territory will be a crucial

factor. That is where the set piece might become very powerful. They

cannot afford to make mistakes in this area.

He found his skipper that time. Toby Faletau tries to win a little more

time for that partnership. Rees and Tovey did not have the

happiest time at the Blues. Good play, Ken Owens. Offside, isn't

he? I am not sure if he was offside. I thought Ken Owens may have

dislodged the ball there. We will have to see that. Gustafson does

well. Just feel momentum. The Scarlets

have to pick the tempo up. The ticking has been more accurate for

the Dragons. -- the kicking. All the points for the Dragons came in the

first quarter. Starlets are clawing their way back, they were clawing

their way back before half-time. The Scarlets 's are back within a

point. I just feel the Dragons need to get something, though.

Toward an Williams, he can play ten, he can play 15. -- Jordan Williams.

Evans was defending deeper. Good kick. We have not seen the material

Jordan Williams that we have seen in the past.

Happy birthday, Jordan Williams, 20 years old today. 20! Do you remember

those days? Are -- no. Ross Wardle is only 21.

The Dragons have held their ground and managed to clear the deck. How

close was that desperate defence from the Dragons? You can see what

he was trying to do. He cocked his arms back and went for the long

pass. He looks, he looks. Evans is up. Unfortunately, for the Scarlets,

it is a great tackle. Great communication. Brilliant play.

Brilliant defence by the Dragons. John Barclay was creating the block.

He was talking to me about that before the game. Eight minutes into

the second half, the Dragons need to get some ball and hold the ball.

They have kicked away a lots of possession because of the quality of

the kicking of the Scarlets. Look at that. 76% territory. Gustafson is

throwing the ball in line now, so there is a lots of pressure on him.

The Scarlets have not had the opportunities in this game to get

the scrum dominance going. Rhys Priestland fancies a shot from a

couple of metres inside the Dragons half. It is a lot about competence

with Priestland. If he was not confident, he would not have done

this one. They have got to stay square as they are driving. The

Dragons are just wheeling it around. Scarlets won the penalty.

53 metres is asking a lot. Even for someone who has kicked every single

one successfully tonight. He had a good look at that, didn't

he? We were looking here. No-one was sure what side of the post it went

on. Good yard, good yard. That has gone backwards but that is

OK. That is a brilliant recovery kick.

At last, the Dragons have got a foot in Scarlets territory will stop --

territory. They wanted to go towards the touch line, but on its went and

on and on. He can see the funny side of it.

He is taking a bit of stick. You could easily see where he kicked

that ball. The assistant referee hasn't got its hopelessly wrong. --

has got. That lying there, look. -- the line.

Scarlets not committing too many to the breakdown. The Dragons get a

penalty anyway. He likes to get stuck in! Jonathan

Davies, calm down, boy, calm down. I do like that in a scruff --

scrum-half. Just keep it right, OK? I thought he was a gentleman for a

minute! He turned it all away to slow.

He is offside. The scrum-half comes in.

The Dragons have spent no time at all in Scarlets territory in the

second half, but they are the ones to get the point when they matter.

We can speak to you the Scarlets 's forward coach. That's kicked apart

there, what have you been doing different? We have tried to play a

little bit more rugby. The Dragons have capitalized on our errors. We

got back into the game, which was great, but hopefully we can stay in

the right areas. Any reason that you have not got that big scrum going

yet? It is just not a game for scrums. There were more line outs

than scrums. There will be some talking points

for Sunday. A prop changer for the Dragons.

I would like to see Jordan Williams having a crack.

He needs a little bit more confidence at this level.

Halfpenny has just got a penalty for the Blues. The Blues got there first

try of the season. The crowd, just under 7000.

Priestland takes a bit more stick. Priestland has done well there. They

thought they had lost it. It is a very open game. He plays for

position. Territory is on the minds of both sets of players. The

momentum is shifting once again. After ten minutes, the Scarlets had

it all. Now, it is the Dragons. Getting those points on the board is

vital. They need to put the pressure on them. The Dragons are confident.

They are running back at every opportunity. They are trying for it.

But they do not need to at the moment. The pass was on as well.

Shingler is again the line-out target. A bit of space there. The

Dragons develop again. Jason Tovey floated out to Tom Prydie.

They put the ball over the top. Just forced out by Jonathan Davies. A

field demi- runners have created space. A lovely pass.

There are still opportunities. Watch the demi- run. If the ball goes

here, the whole is there. But they throw those long missed passes. If

they lock up, the demi- runner has done his job. He had fixed Jonathan

Davies. The kick or the long pass should be the last option. Richie

Rees has had an excellent hour. Jonathan Evans comes on to replace

him. It is a big call Richie Rees going

off. He has played exceptionally well.

Create Java by Toby Faletau. -- great gathering by Toby Faletau.

The demi- run is working extremely well for the Dragons. -- the demi-

run. A complete new front row for the

Scarlets. Rhys Priestland was back waiting

it. Dan Evans took his time and

approached the touchline before departing at -- depositing it.

The Dragons weight -- waste no time. I think George Earle hurt himself. A

turnover ball, I think. A dangerous ball flicked on by Jonathan Davies.

Again, Jordan Williams does not get the chance.

The Dragons started with a win but lost out on a draw against Edinburgh

in the closing minutes of their second game.

It is going one way then other. It is the turn of the Scarlets again.

They have still got possession. 15 phases. They need something to show

at the end of it. Tom Prydie had to stay in touch there.

Take them on. He is looking to get the step going. He was well covered

by Matthew Screech. Great defence by the Dragons. A

hundred pass by Josh Turnbull. -- a hurried pass. They have lasted. That

man was isolated. Dan Way get the support he wanted. It is on.

That is superb defence from the Dragons and then to get it 50 metres

away from danger. The most important thing has been their discipline.

They have not given a penalty away. They put themselves under pressure.

They are very good. One little thing there, they took the second row on

the outside shoulder, maybe he could have gone on the outside. They ran

on the act straightaway. It was easy for the second row to close him

down. Straight at him and then the out would be better.

George Earle took a knock earlier. He has been replaced.

That is a great kick. That is a superb kick from Tom Prydie, and

that could be the match winner, because the Scarlets now need a

converted try just to draw level. They have weathered the storm, the

Dragons. All square. 16 all. I think we picked the right game tonight.

This guy has got to run straight at the second row, then go on the

outside and run it on. He runs across and does not force the check.

Once you make in check, you can get him on the outside and make it two

and one. -- two on one. Final ten minutes and still a one score game.

They have got to keep it going. The Scarlets 's are throwing everything

at them in the last ten minutes. Good hands, Josh Turnbull. Scarlets

still have it. You do not want to go there! And the answer. A little bit

narrow, the Scarlets. They have gone very, very narrow, this car lets. --

the Scarlets. They have to force a bigger gap in the defensive line.

The Dragons are giving it everything, aren't they? Just

looking for that little chink in the armour of the Scarlets. The Dragons

just need to get their hands on the ball now. Just get the ball into the

Scarlets half. They have been solid tonight, the back line. Wardle,

Dixon, anus -- Amos. Very impressive. The Jones, former

Dragons hooker, now part of the coaching centre here.

Time is slowly heading for the Scarlets. Just eight minutes

remaining. The need to get a converted try to get back on terms.

The Dragons lost 16-13 in Edinburgh. After losing heavily to Leinster in

the opening game, the Scarlets are very relieved to be away from

Treviso. I think they lost their footing. A

very difficult that, isn't it? That is a big decision, because field

position for the Dragons, keep possession... Certainly going

forward, then he just goes down. Whether he goes down or slit, I

think that is a tough call. -- or slit. They have got nothing to drive

against and there is only one place to go, and that is down.

The Dragons will want to spend as much time as possible with ball in

hand. It does not matter if they do anything with it. Tovey goes for the

Hail Mary. Liam Williams is away and running.

He could not get the ball in. They just switched off, the Dragons. They

kicked it a little bit too far and the chase was not good. The Scarlets

are doing exceptionally well. It was just overrun a little bit

maybe. I do not think you can do right this

game off until that very last whistle. Something is always capable

of happening. They have got Kris Burton on the

bench, the of trillion international -- the Australian international.

Price got things going for the Dragons.

The Dragons went ahead. 17-13 at half-time. Two penalties in the

second half, although the game hasn't lost any its excitement. --

any excitement. That is pressure, isn't it? Pressure

from the scrum. They will do a scrum again, do you

think? They have got to sharpen up a bit, the Scarlets. The clock is

ticking away. They are taking their time. Get it up. Oh, yes. Zebre are

ahead. Leinster have drawn back level...

Treviso have drawn back level to Leinster.

Good scrum for the Scarlets, very good rum. -- very good scrum. Catch

and drive. If you get a scrum, you go for the scrum. That is all you

can do. Why are they wasting their time? There is only a few minutes

left. How close can Rhys Priestland get them?

The Scarlets need a converted try to get back on level terms. Where the

try is a scored will also be vital. Scoring it is the first job.

Scrum. I would definitely go scrum. Line out is much more messy.

Jake Ball will need a bit of treatment first. The clock has been

stopped. I thought there was a very good driver here. Do you see how it

took McCusker out? Blues gained back a point. 50 minutes to go in that

one. Just 90 seconds remaining to stop at

the moment, the Scarlets need a converted try.

I thought Richie Rees was the man of the match. Andrew Coombs has led

from the front and has been in then. He has been in men, carrying and

defence. -- in men. The home crowd to try and cheer the

team home. I would not get a penalty try. You have got to try and make

him score from there. The kick is a little bit tougher if the scrum is

strong. Andrew Coombs now knows that one effort is all he needs from his

team. The defence has been outstanding all evening. The

Scarlets scrum has been a weapon that they are aware of, and they

managed to not give away too many scrums tonight, but now, right at

the death, they have to hold out the force of this scrum. The clock

ticks. This will be the final play. Can the Scarlets pull it out of the

fire? Time. It is another flat full stop another

chance for the Scarlets. I suppose the play has not been

completed. They are changing the rules every day.

Drama at the end. Everyone realises exactly what is at stake.

Nigel Owens said he would stay there all night until the scrum is

complete. Can they complete the scrum this

time? It is a penalty for the Scarlets. Scrum. They will go down

again. That is no doubt about that. -- there is no doubt about that.

Ten minutes to go for the Cardiff Blues. They need a converted try to

win. A dramatic end to what has been a

terrific game. The scrum has taken more than three minutes. This will

decide the outcome. The pressure is on.

Not a single supporter has left the ground. The Scarlets are not going

to get this out of the scrum, are they?

Here we go again. The Scarlets drive again. It has been lost at the

crucial time. The Dragons are away and Toby Faletau puts the ball off

the park. A tremendous celebration at Rodney Parade. For the first time

in 11 games, for the first time in six games, the Dragons have beaten

the Scarlets. What an effort that has been from the homicide led by

Andrew Coombs. -- from the home side, led by Andrew Coombs. A second

win for the Dragons. What a precious when and how have the fans and the

team loved that! They were under the cosh in the last few minutes. They

did not buckle and they lost control at the back of the scrum. That was

it. Great scenes at Rodney Parade. What is that of the season for the

Dragons! They went off to a flyer and scored a couple of tries in the

opening quarter. The Scarlets clawed their way back at half-time to

within one point just after half-time. At two more penalties for

the Dragons and it had a terrific attitude and determination and

defence means they are the ones to celebrate with a victory. A

hard-fought game. A losing bonus point for the Scarlets. A precious

win for the Dragons. They are victorious.

A dramatic end to a hugely enjoyable game at Rodney Parade. Phil Price

with the first and then Dan Evans scoring against his own team with

the second. It looked as if the Dragons may run away with it but the

Scarlets struck back. They came back within four points. No tries in the

second half. Rhys Priestland got the Scarlets back within one point. But

a penalty for Tom Prydie was enough to seal victory. Scenes of

celebration. The scenes are still going on behind this. A very happy

home crowd behind us. The statistics tell a different story.

The Dragons have one. They have broken the duck against the

Scarlets. The players and supporters are lapping up the applause. Do you

think the Dragons deserved it? I think they did. You need something

special to win away from home. The Dragons looked like they were on the

ropes in the second half. They picked it back up after ten minutes

into the second half. They started a hassle the Scarlets again. Both

sides looked tired at the end. I think they were worthy of the win.

They will be happy with a win. It was a fantastic advert for the

league. Compelling and even until the last minute, it could have been

a very dramatic ending. I thoroughly enjoyed watching as a spectator.

They played some great rugby today. A very solid game. The individual

spacing they kept an attack really asked questions from their

opponents. That is the first win against the Scarlets in 11

attempts, six years, how does it feel? Great. They are a tough team

to beat. We believed in ourselves tonight. You are down on the

statistics. That is right. Our defence has improved so much. Our

discipline is good and we believe in the system. Credit to the boys and

the substitutes coming on. Everybody gave everything. We cannot ask any

more. What is the difference this season? It is belief. The coaches

have belief in us. That is no doubt here. We want to challenge people.

We look forward to our next game in Munster. You go there not as

also-rans but with a real chance. We are comfortable with our defence. We

went to improve. We will work hard on that. Hopefully things will go

well for us. What do you think of your father? Good. Good. The

Scarlets are gutted. They came off second best tonight. Andrew Coombs

is a man of few words. He is emotional also it has been a real

journey. When he first got his international call at, he was a back

row and playing for Newport. He stood up and he has and said the

critics. It is what you have to do. He is still doing it now. He came

through late and it proves to any youngsters out there, you always

have a chance. Keep working hard and keep the motivation going. The

rewards are there at the end. We have mentioned that it has been a

rewards are there at the end. We great advert for the league. What a

game exclamation mark I thought two teams entered into it and was went

for it. We are quick to chastise poor games. There was some great

skill out there and lots of individual flair.

He keeps the ball on the chest and transfers it from one hand to the

other. They get outside and challenge the heavy defending

positions. On the angle, he rakes it 60 yards. A big man, willing to off

load. Difficulty with two players underneath. Jason Tovey, not known

for his bravery, another ball. At eyes on all the time. Excellent

stuff. This is what we call a jackal. Andrew Coombs reading it and

getting peace deal. He turns the ball over for his team. It lets

tackle and the inside shoulder. Saving a try from Toby Faletau. Do

not underestimate the pressure and the technique. It was an enthralling

first derby of the season. Great composure from Tom Prydie there. We

have messages coming in saying it is a great advert for the game. A game

like this is. You had three players in the under 20s World Cup this year

full stop it is fantastic to see them coming through for the regions.

Some of the skills alluded to their is what is part of the good work

going on. We can speak to the losing coach now. It was a fantastic game

to watch. The Scarlets played their part. We gave the Dragons too much

advantage early in the game. They got up to 17 points without as

really doing too much and that, we did get back into the game and we

showed some good stuff. But it was always going to be difficult to claw

it back. We will have to have a look back at the scrum incident. It seems

we were fully formed and they disintegrated. Those are the breaks.

They were a well drilled and skilled side. We have to take it on the chin

and make sure we do not give advantage away early on in the game

again. They were effective in the contact area early on. We dealt with

that in the second half. A good round of rugby. They played

effectively. I have no issue with that. We, at times, are our own

worst enemy. We need to deal with it. Unfortunately, we did not do

that early on in the game. Thank you. Simon Easterby giving credit

where it is due. Belief was the word Andrew Coombs kept mentioning. What

struck me was the fact they were having to -- willing to have a go.

If the game was played on paper, when you look at the experience of

the Scarlets, to mould 18 and 19 euros in a team against experienced

seniors, it is pretty impressive. The Dragons have a bit of solidarity

and they try to make this a fortress at Rodney Parade. They have put a

marker down. All of a sudden, they have beaten the runners-up from last

year and the Scarlets. With a bunch of youngsters as well.

We spoke about the fact that, these guys, if they had a problem with

centres, they did not show it tonight. They focused on a couple of

areas and they believed in what they were doing in those areas

defensively. They were efficiently in the contact area. I was mostly

impressed with their attack today. First receivers were stepping up. It

was a joy to watch them play. I think we can go to a man who has

probably got a very raw smile, Kingsley Jones. 18 minutes is enough

punishment -- 80 minutes is enough punishment. Great belief shown from

the players. They stuck it out. Fantastic. The players deserve a lot

of credit. Are you fearing the worst -- were you fearing the worst? I

felt tonight we got the ball away from the scrum quickly and that was

a strategy that we had. Honestly, the referee tonight, the game was

fantastic all stuff I wish I had been up in the box washing it --

watching it. I am sure it was a great game to watch. I feel that

Nigel Owens got nearly everything right. Some of the off-loading play

of the Dragons in the first 20 minutes was a joy. We want to be

positive. Our kicking game was excellent, but we still felt there

were opportunities. A fly off came on and on the wing. Well done, enjoy

the night. I am sure he will. We can see the Dragons players are

celebrating. Lyn Jones leading the charge of moments after the final

whistle. Lyn Jones has joined us in the studio this evening. Relieved?

Yes. There is always a sense of relief at the end. But we are very

pleased with the standard of Robbie. I thought we were very good today

and our breakdown work was excellent. -- the standard of rugby.

Nigel Owens is a world-class referee. He picked up the legalities

in the opposition and we were very, very pleased with the standard that

we put them together. We are not a complete aside yet, but at least we

have some belief and confidence. You've used the word police and a

lot of your players have used that word. -- belief. You seem to be

giving the players to have a go out there. It is about empowering your

players and that is what we do. That takes time. Experiences are

wonderful things. There are experienced players out there. They

knew the game and they know when to and when not to. We are getting the

balance right at the moment. If we are to achieve our goals, we need to

achieve them on the back of back -- victories. That makes it easier for

everyone. Munster next up. You mentioned empowering your players.

We have seen you playing this week. We have had cameras in the Dragons

camp, and we will see the results of that on Sunday's programme. Here is

a little taste. We have got to expose them, Dowd 's them out and

fill them in properly. -- gouge them out. There is a possibility that if

you play better than your opposite number, that means... You need to

develop trust with the players that they can make their own decisions on

the field all stop you need to expand their thought process. -- on

the field. You need to expand their thought process.

Intriguing stuff and well worth a watch. Tune in for that and seven

o'clock -- at seven o'clock on Monday night... Sunday night. How

impressed have you been with the way things have been going with the

Dragons? There is a real sense of positivity. When you go into a new

set up, you have to focus on the fact that you cannot change

everything at once. Belief will come within the group because they will

work hard and make sure they deliver things for the team. From that, they

can grow. We have certainly seen that here with the Dragons. You

mentioned Munster next up. What will you be working on next week? We will

be celebrating tomorrow! We are interested in the opposition at the

moment. We can play really well and improve our game was stopped there

are still areas for us. -- our game. There are still areas for us. It is

just growing in confidence and knowing when to kick. Just small

things, but that comes. This week, everything is the same. You have got

to trust the coaching process to develop a better players. If we are

true to our players come and they will eventually play international

rugby. Congratulations again. Have a little tipple. Thank you for your

time in the studio tonight. Richie Rees was one of the man -- men of

the match. He spoke to fill a few moments ago. Richie, it was a

fantastic game to watch. What was it like to play in? These are the sort

of games that you want to play in as a player. Full credit to everyone.

Take us through the last three or four scrums. I am probably not the

best person to ask. The boys were criticised at the start of the

season. They were superb today. Full credit to them. What was the crowd

like? When they are on your side, it makes that extra 10%... It helps

with the scrums. You are on a little bit of a role. What will happen in

Munster? We will take each game as it comes. We are looking to build

for the next two or three years. That makes a happy change. Cheers.

Old substitution at the time. Up to that point, Richie Rees had been

outstanding. As much as we talk about the coaching process and

setting targets for the team, you need individuals on either side to

make things tick. As a nine, he is going to need to be one of the best

players. I thought he was a superb today, the way he picked his head up

and saw what was in front of him and was where he needed to be. It was

fantastic. The grounds that he covered. You have got to give him

full credit for his individual performance. He is always a tough

player to play against. He is a pain in the bum. He is in your face. He

is only a small guy but he is a Tahrir. He is in a key position and

is a good communicator. That showed the link between himself and Tovey

in front of him. That was a key area. I thought he was superb. I was

surprised when he went off after 60 minutes. Richie Rees is enjoying

life at the Dragons, but his former team is having a bad night. The

Blues have lost to Zebre tonight. The Blues did go ahead through the

first try. A great rate there. Things were finished off, but they

got pretty bad for the Blues after that. Two tries in total for Zebre.

This puts the Italians ahead. The lead was extended. Great hands

for the third and deciding try from a new signing. The final score,

30-25. The first victory Zebre have ever recorded, and that is enormous

at that -- at this point. Blues will be disappointed. They had a

reasonable start. You would have thought they would have a

comfortable win but unfortunately that will not happen. Treviso have

ended up beating Munster. The Dragons of course be to the

starlets. In Glasgow have had an impressive season, and they won

against Leinster. Glasgow have gone top and beaten three from three.

Munster going to second. The Dragons have leapt into third. They are in

the top four, and Leinster are in fourth. The Ospreys are hoping to

keep their great start to the season. There will be a lot of talk

about that one. The Ospreys have named their side this afternoon for

that match. Where do you see that when going? Only one way. The

Ospreys have had a good start. They have been preparing for this game. I

do not see anything other than the Ospreys at winning. They need a

bonus point. Thank you. All the lines are back. Their front five

looks pretty powerful. They've got quite a few people back. Can you see

any other outcome? The prediction is great on paper. The only thing I

worry about is that if you bring a lot of players back in its disrupts

what they have been doing. They have played superbly and had a really

good game at Treviso. They went after Leinster and snatched the draw

at the end, but you have to hope this guys come in and it does not

disrupt the flow of what they have been doing so far. That is the only

worry. The bonus point could win, but it doesn't quite go like that. I

would not say where cluster are in the table. They have got Northampton

tomorrow. I am really looking forward to the game tomorrow. A

sell-out crowds. Fantastic team. Northampton have had a great start

to their in season. We need to win tomorrow so there is a bit of

pressure on us. I am looking forward to the match. It'll be good to see

George. All the very best. Thank you for coming tonight. And you two as

well. It has been a memorable might for the Dragons at Rodney Parade,

and it was of course the first Welsh Derby of the season. The starlets

came in very confident. They have -- the starlets came in very confident.

They beat the Dragons on this very ground on New Year's Day 2008.

Dragons are off to Munster and the Rodney Revolution is firmly

underway.