Dragons v Scarlets Scrum V Live

The Scarlets were in a festive mood on Boxing Day, sending the Ospreys

back across the bridge empty handed. No presents, no bonus points.

The Scarlets are delighted with their win.

All the sweeter because it was our first win in it for years against

them. Now they travel to play against the

Dragons who had a Christmas to forget. Beaten by the Blues, it has

been a difficult season for the Dragons. Today could see them start

the new year propping up the Pro12. Toby Faletau is fit and firing,

showing glimpses of why he is one of rugby's most exciting talents.

Darren Edwards team will have to be on top form if they want to end the

year in style. The Scarlets are looking to make it

The Scarlets are looking to make it two wins in four days. The team is

almost unrecognisable from the one that played the Ospreys. Dominic

Day the only survivor as Nigel Davies looks to test his strength

Good evening and welcome to Scrum V Live. I am joined by a former Wales

and Lions centre, Scott Gibbs. 14 changes, Nigel Davies has made. He

wants to manage his squad but it is risky?

It is. It will upset continuity and cohesion this evening. Unsure they

have an eye on the game against Northampton Saints in a fortnight

for the Heineken Cup. A few guys tonight have played a

lot during the World Cup. They might be the first choices?

Dan Newton and Adam Warren in the centre, the top try-scorer. There

are players there on merit and the Scarlets have and one away from

home since April last year. A long time since they were on the road

and when. The Dragons are in a desperate

position and in danger of falling to the foot of the table?

11th in the lead. They concede on average 22 points. They are in a

sorry state. A great slump. They need to win today. They have some

class finishers on the wing. Aled Brew will and Tonderai Chavhanga.

They would like those boys to get their hands on the ball. It is

about sharing work rate and no better opportunity than these guys

to get involved and take the balls of the rack. For Aled Brew, it is a

huge opportunity for him to cement his place in the Welsh squad, given

Shane Williams his retirement. A must-win game for the Dragons

tonight. When it comes to it, they love a scrap and tonight, the

weather conditions are there for a huge scrap.

As ever, there are plenty of intriguing head-to-head tonight.

Former Dragons pair Ian Gough is with Phil Steel.

It is wet with drizzle. Looking at those match ups, the two hookers,

Lloyd Burns and Ken Owens, both on the fringes of the Wales squad. The

scrum will be something? Everything will be something

between them tonight. I can't wait for the match up. Lloyd Burns has

had a meteoric ride for -- meteoric rise. Ken Owens has struggled but

it will be a great head to head. Stephen Jones failed a late fitness

test and Nigel Davies has gone with Aled Thomas rather than Rhys

Priestland. Does that surprise you? I'm surprised by all of the changes.

I realise it is a short tone around but I thought they would take

confidence from the last game. Then again, the youngsters have a chance

to put their hand up and put a big performance in.

A must win for the Dragons? It is huge. They step up in France

but they have played every game is when they haven't. There will be a

big intense crowd and we have prayed for this weather. It will be

a great battle. Nigel Davies throwing some of the

Scarlets in at the depend. The deep end is the far end.

We have another special guest tonight. Phil Davies in our

analysis track. Who are you looking forward to watching tonight?

Toby Faletau, the rising star of We are looking at his defensive

qualities. He works hard and gets around the field. He tries to slow

the ball around. His second quality is his attacking quality. Always

get past the first defender. Great control at the base of the scrum.

Good support player of the back of the scrum. Healey is again. It

takes -- here he is again. It takes four men to take him down. Good

qualities from deep, taking the ball in hard and carrying ball in

space. He doesn't panic went there is pressure on. That's an offload

to Gavin Thomas and the Dragons continue to attack. Toby Faletau is

fit and firing and I'm looking forward to watching him play this

A young man with a big reputation. Conditions will inevitably play a

part tonight. The rain is coming down slightly. How do you see it

going? I favour the home side. Tonight is

the defining moment. They have to go out and perform. They have to

win and keep going forward. Territory will be huge for them

tonight and certainly, decision makers. We have to at about the --

we have talked about the back three. Look at the back row. If they go

for today, it is a home victory and a great start to the new year for

the Dragons. Thank you. There is Welsh

commentary available on the red button. That is also where you will

find Gwyn Jones and ricocheted discussing the burning issues in

Welsh rugby. -- Gwyn Jones and others. Over to our commentary team.

The rain, as usual, in Rodney the whole team from the team that

won four days ago. Josh Turnbull back for the first time since

September. Former Dragons Gareth Maule -- Gareth Maule leads the

Scarlets scrum-half, it Rodney Williams. The Dragons come out in

the unfamiliar colours of the bright purple and that in support

stick with exactly the same starting line-out that lost at the

Blues. Toby Faletau, Dan Lydiate and Gavin Thomas. Such a potent

back-row. Can the half backs bring in the back three? If so, potential

tries. The Dragons need them. They haven't scored that many. Lewis

Evans the only change in the 22 and George North comes on to the bench

after the withdrawal of Stephen Jones. Neil Hennessy man in charge

this evening. A decent-sized crowd have braved the elements and Rodney

Parade. The local derbies over the Christmas and New Year period

continue. Jason Tovey des things under way. -- DEC Springs under way.

That is a very good return in the end from the skipper.

A very good kick. Difficult to tell which way the wind is going. Ian

Gough tonight said that e didn't know about the changes. It is a

balancing act, doubling players. Continuity is a big thing, and

ready to carry. He chooses Lloyd Burns. Dan Lydiate will carry the

ball all night long. Back up on his feet again. The tackle wasn't

completed, giving an extra few inches, getting the Dragons on the

front foot. It is a good tackle by Jonathan Edwards.

That is a good hit. Nathan Buck did well. In at the end,

Sione Timani came in from the side rather than behind the back feet.

Straight in from the side, not back row for Wales when you have

got Sam Warburton over the ball and Toby Faletau rarely ink -- running

in the open spaces. A very impressive back row, the

Dragons half. The front five need to lay that platform. They have a

very pacy back three. Martyn Thomas, Aled Brew, Tonderai Chavhanga. They

have to work on their creative skills. They are carrying the ball

defensively but that creative element to bring the back three

gradually. Plunging right over him, Rob Sidoli.

Straight down, purple five. That is one thing that the change

in all over the last season or two is preventing, protection of the

ball on the ground by going over the top.

Sealing off, that is what he said. Let us watch number 5 as the ball

comes out. He carries the ball, doesn't stay on his feet,

unfortunately for Rob Sidoli. There beginning of the season when a few

of the Scarlets were away on World Cup duty.

He is a very balanced runner. Aled Thomas had three seasons with

the Dragons after starting with the Scarlets and move on to London

Welsh before returning to west you don't want to give him a chance

to build up a head of steam running It had to be taken, there, on the

full. Look at the number of defensive

players on the Dragons line-up. Not committing to the ruck. He try to

look for the quick pass. He got outside Rob Sidoli and you could

see him try to set up the men outside him. The Scarlets get away

with the scrum for the knock-on. I'm happy that he has made the

Apology for the loss of subtitles for 62 seconds

evening. The Dragons are enjoying a Neil Hennessy thought different.

Maybe Quin Morris on the far side did his best to keep it alive but

it is spot on. What Aled Thomas is trying to do is

get on the outside and take this guy inside. He didn't need to do it

because there is already an overlap. If we run it on... The chance is

there but he does a great job because that ball would have gone

with the overlap. Good awareness by Aled Thomas.

The Scarlets forwards trying to make the most of the position they

have been given by their outside back of the scrum.

The defence so far has been solid from both sides.

Warren spells it. Beautifully out the back door by Gavin Thomas.

Trying to make the most of the Dan Lydiate is in there as well.

Such a destructive defender. Plays the double hit on Jonathan

Dragons. That was a close call.

The referee was in a good position. He absolutely smashes Tonderai

Chavhanga out of the way. He really should have stayed there

the hands are going backwards or going for attacking options.

Another mistake. They have been a few crucial knock-ons in this part

of the field. Snatching at it a bit. Just getting tangled up with the

feet at the back of the scrum, Rhodri Williams. He will not be 19

until next May and has had a very highly thought of. -- and he is

very highly thought of. His father was a very talented scrum-half. He

played for Swansea. Phil John just getting down a bit too early.

they should be a warning first of four on them a penalty. There is no

continuity with the scrum. It is a very important part of the game.

There is not much in that is their? Front rows go on about the

importance of the hit and Phil John it was just a bit too will be eager

to get at it. -- to over EDF. Gavin Thomas links up with Lewis Robling.

The penalty is coming for the Dragons. The Scarlets do not get

away from the tackle area. I know it is the first offence but is that

a yellow card? They had the momentum going from the line-out

ball. Good off load. Lewis Robling is there. It is very difficult to

try and get out of the way there. Jason Tovey pulls it wide. The

first chance of the evening is not taken. Let's go down to Phil Davies.

What have you seen? First as an example of Dan Lydiate carrying

hard. He and Toby Faletau have worked together at the edge of the

ruck to go for it. Early indication of some great ball-carrying for the

Dragons. Again, in from the side is the offence. Gavin Thomas is the

offender. I wonder what he does here because it is a fair way out.

Toby Faletau had done well to keep control of it. It was in danger of

Apology for the loss of subtitles for 62 seconds

That was a good strike. It was a has four caps for South Africa. One

ball into the space they created by Aled Thomas. Dan Newton is there.

Unlucky for Adam Warren because it Hughes. Up come as Martyn Thomas

from fullback. You need Martyn Thomas hitting the line more often

because he has such great pace. You need to involve him and give the

wingers extra space. Make the defence think. Wayne Evans did not

want to pass on a dodgy ball. There were plenty of Scarlets defenders

on the far side and there is a penalty come in. -- coming.

nine offside. Rhodri Williams Court on offside. -- caught offside.

Apology for the loss of subtitles for 62 seconds

are no points so far but plenty of endeavour from both teams. Defences

are clearly on top and there is nobody committing to the rucks.

They how well -- they will have to change their tactics a bit. Robert

Sidoli lost it and this is a chance for a counter attack. But plenty of

Defence out wide for the Dragons. Phil John. Good work from the props

and a bit of space. Back inside his Dan Newton. This is a definite

chance. Jonathan Edwards rounds it off! Excellent counter-attack from

the Scarlets. Even though the defences have been on top, they

have been broken. Good try. That is a very good try. Good support play

and will finish off. Numbers outside. Andy Fenby draws Tonderai

Chavhanga or. The inside ball and what a lovely try. Great hands by

the forwards. The to prop forwards involved. Andy Fenby to Gareth

Maule and Dan Newton with a lovely pass to set up the try. Two lovely

pass is in midfield by the two props and the pass from Andy Fenby

was top notch. It gave Gareth Maule some space and from there morning,

the support and the passing was an excellent conversion and the try

becomes worth seven points. Let's go down the Phil Steele.

Dragons have missed a penalty and conceded a try. What we do for

their morale? They will be disappointed. They are looking a

bit nervous. Both sides are trying to run the ball but when you have

been losing games, you need a bit of consistency and you need to put

pressure on the opposition. It was a good turnover and a good try but

they Dragons need to get a foot in this game. The Scarlets messed up

the restart and the Dragons pinched it but Phil John has pinched it

back. Martyn Thomas has plenty of time. Toby Faletau was caught by

surprise and Josh Turnbull was there. Ken Owens. He is on his own.

That was great play by Gavin Thomas but he was unlucky. Now what is the

Dragons with the counter-attack. That is so unlucky. That was deemed

as they tackle but Dominic they would say that was a loose ball.

Neil Henessy does not agree. If he stays on his feet, that is Jason

Tovey with the intercept, a great tackle by the second Row. The

referee said he did not stay on his feet. It is such a tough call. But

the referee has been Clear, stay on your feet. You must know Cup --

must not go to ground in that area. He did died on it. The tackle area

is so difficult to referee. Jason Tovey played it back and took his

and offered so was the tackle the? Yes. He was up on his feet. They

are such marginal decisions. Even the players don't know what the

referee is going to give because it's just different interpretation.

As long as he is clear and concise, that is crucial and is consistent,

so everyone knows. Top marks for Dominic Day for his effort.

game has opened up a bit and it is very entertaining. It is a turnover

again but if we stop it there, you can see the overlap. There are a

few Dragons forwards there as well so the Llanelli Scarlets forwards

do very well and tie the forwards in and the quick backs get inside.

Dan Newton inside and good support from Jonathan Edwards. That is a

lovely try from the turnover. It just shows clever thinking from the

forwards. If you have the extra number, the forwards are capable of

creating space. An early pressure again. It is absolutely ridiculous.

The touch judge has seen it. Let's see what we has got to say.

had players in front of me so I couldn't see. I've got a red high

tackle. It is just high. The arm was up. Number?

I didn't get a number. Just a penalty?

tackle. It is appear. Just a that is high. That's not high at

all. It is across the chest. It looked worse.

That is not a penalty. I'm sure Scott group -- Scott Gibbs would

agree with me. I've seen him do higher than that.

That is never high. It hits his chest and the ball. It looked worse

because his head rocked back. That is never a penalty and the

assistant referee got that wrong. Not straight. It is a stop and

start again. We've had 10 minutes of a very entertaining rugby but

the scrums and line-outs have stopped the flow of the game. Easy,

end. A obstruction. Six read.

Josh Turnbull protecting the ball carrier, Kieran Murphy, and doing

the two teams going into this one. The Dragons with no wins and a draw

in their last five in the league. Four wins and a draw in the last

Six for the Scarlets. The Dragons have got their first points from

side of the pitch for him. Lovely, have the weight advantage. It is a

second string Scarlets pack, are they in front?

I think there is pretty much parity. Going into the game, he would have

thought the Dragons would go for them and they have got away with it

so far. They have done well. What about the hookers so far?

It has been pretty much the same with that. It is pretty much parity

on that front. Up to half way, the Dragons. Good

Tonderai Chavhanga -- Viliame Iongi is heading the far touchline.

I think that might have been touched. Touched in flight. What a

bit of luck for the Scarlets. A real bonus for the Scarlets.

This is a very good steal. You don't see Dan Lydiate lose the ball

often. Ken Owens and space. Was it touched in flight? It must have

been the fingertips. Another good attacking opportunity

for the Scarlets. That's Sione Timani down at the front. Ideally

they would have wanted to stay on their feet and ideally they would

have wanted to have held on to the ball. Knock on. Disappointing.

Three handling errors in the red zone by the Scarlets. Again, I

think, possession and territory that the Dragons have had, you just

feel the back row have made great strides in defence and then you

need a slipped pass so the back three I can get into this game. At

the moment, not a lot of ball. Martyn Thomas isn't involving

himself. He has such pace and balance when he runs, Martyn Thomas,

I would like to see him with the ball a bit more. This is a try.

Just watch. Two props. Take and give. Inside ball. No selfish play,

just very good play by Jonathan Edwards try. They have said before

that they are not clinical enough and I think that is the difference.

They've got enough ball, enough endeavour, they just need that

creative element to finish things off.

There is another chance to see the Sports Review of the year

immediately after this programme on last of the Christmas Derby's is on

this New Year and Dragons against Ospreys into the new year here on

scrum five next weekend. -- hereon Scrum V Live next weekend. Cannot

the Scarlets forwards control it this time? Popped down by Dominic

Day. It is in at the space. It might work for alleged Thomas.

Totally unexpectedly. That was well played on the floor.

He misled the play but he got the ball.

Sione Timani is up ended but he presents the ball. The rain is

coming down heavier. Williams looks towards the Blindside. Nice

Nobody is quite sure what is going on. It is Adam Jones that brings it

away. Unlucky. Unlucky. Very scrappy but

very entertaining. Both sides are trying to play a bit of football.

He is a great runner but unfortunately the ball spilled from

his grasp. Adam Jones is 32 in a fortnight but

he is having a new lease of light - - lease of life this season. Only a

couple of players have played more than him in the Magners League, the

Celtic League, the Pro12, whichever incantation they have been in. The

good base, again, for them to work from. That could have been danger.

A little bit too much on it. Viliame Iongi was chasing it. It is

good to see a solid scrum and then getting up on the right-hand side.

There was an overlap there, wasn't -- wasn't there. That could have

been alarm bells for the Dragons Tovey but only as far as Viliame

Iongi. He scored a try against Ulster. Again, almost an

interception. The Scarlets are living dangerously with those

passes. Ken Owens set it up. Jonathan Edwards and trying to put

the other players in some space put Gavin Thomas and Rob Sidoli waiting

for him. It was a planned move. It was a short ball to Warren.

Great change of angle but it was have seen from both teams this

evening. A little bit of enterprise. They want to play rugby and it

Apology for the loss of subtitles for 62 seconds

always -- it hasn't always come off. Jason Tovey's solitary penalty for

one. He snapped it a bit too quick.

Nigel Davies, much was said about your selection. They are to be

proud? It is not a weak side. The boys are

showing we have a strong squad. It is a tough game. It is always tough

when you come here. We are playing in the right areas but we need to

be clinical. How pleased are you upfront?

Our squad is very strong at the moment and our boys are showing

that. Good pressure on Toby Faletau From

behind these colours defence. He slips a couple of times as he gets

there to cover but he is in trouble. Support arrives from a Jonathan

Edwards. Not in time, though. The ball not released. They are taking

it quickly. Not 10, there we go. Wayne Evans,

Gavin Thomas. There are men on the outside but they take it inside.

If they give the long ball, Tonderai Chavhanga is in.

10 metres, please. Back for another penalty. Half a

chance for the Dragons. Jason Tovey is down injured, will they go for

goal or not? Here we are, the ball comes wide and they should have

gone wide. Tonderai Chavhanga is on the outside. It is three against

treatment. What have you seen, Jonathan?

If we roll later on from the scrum. Stop it there. He goes for this guy

first of all. If you run it on again, just watch. There are two

players. All they have to do is keep their depth and there is an

overlap there. From a good scrum, that is what you can achieve.

Create the overlap, very your depth and that could work.

Ended up with the kick rather than Dragons where they are now. Jason

Tovey spotting the space. Another stumble and then the pressure was

really on. couple of free kicks from the

scrums. Phil John's shoulders is below his hips and you want the

hips below the shoulders. Because he has not a good balance, he goes

early. Same with the Dragons year. The scrum engages too early and the

referee gives a free kick. That is the reason for the free kicks.

is one of the mysteries of the scrum explained. Unfortunately for

the Dragons, Jason Tovey is receiving treatment Sole it is

Lewis Robling who has taken over the kicking duties. Unfortunately

for him, and disappointingly for the Dragons, he pursued it wide.

That is a bad miss. His head was not over the ball. That is the

reaction of the crowd. You don't get many opportunities in these

local derbies and you have to take them. A nice take by Tonderai

Chavhanga. Lewis Robling trying to make up for the missed kicks. Jason

Tovey to Adam Hughes. Jason Tovey is still struggling. Lovely work by

Aled Brew. Toby Faletau has Tonderai Chavhanga on the outside.

The half chances are not been taken. Just that little bit of composure.

Aled Brew creates the overlap. He gets the ball away. A lovely pass

by Lewis Robling. That is a poor pass by Toby Faletau. In and out

and a lovely offload from Aled Brew. Lewis Robling get behind the

defence but a poor pass by Toby Faletau. He will not be happy with

that. If that had been in the bread basket, they would have been home.

There was cover coming across but Scarlets away from the the danger

zone as half-time approaches. Rhodri Williams relieves the

pressure for a moment. Tonderai Chavhanga has it but he has been

bundled over out of touch. It was a very good kick. The Scarlets now

have the throw-in as well. It was a nicely weighted kick by Rhodri

Williams. A bit more distance on that kick. That will do nicely from

it Martyn Williams. -- Martyn Thomas. That ball was touched in

flight and it will be Scarlets throw-in. They will have one more

chance to attack. It was very lucky but it was touch in flight. --

touched in flight. Here come up the Scarlets with their last effort in

the first half. Sione Timani gets over the game line. Josh Turnbull.

Holding on. He was isolated. Tap and go. Try and get into the danger

zone and maybe get three points. There is no time to go for the

line-out. They have to keep the ball in the playing area. Good fit

again by Toby Faletau. He always gets over the game line. A nice

ball to Tonderai Chavhanga. They are within kicking distance now and

that is just what they wanted. If this is a yellow card and it is, it

is disaster as far as the Scarlets are concerned. A good overlap. The

number it goes in and is blocking off. -- number 8. Here we go. He

gets a right Hook from Wayne Evans as well. This will be interesting.

That is Kieran Murphy off to the changing room. This is an

interesting kick for Jason Tovey because the standing leg needs to

be strong and that is where he is injured. Jason Tovey puts it safely

through. I don't think he will be out in the second half the way he

is walking off. It was an important kick from Jason Tovey because after

missing a few kicks earlier, that second one puts the Dragons back

within a point. Jonathan Edwards with the only try. A lot of half-

chances and endeavour and everything to play for in the

How crucial could that yellow card be? It is massive. There will be so

disappointed they gave that the way. They sped up the game when they did

not need to. To get that yellow card right and half-time will be

disappointing for them. The Dragons lawn conference. They have missed a

few kicks and Mr two scoring passes. -- and missed two scoring passes.

think the Scarlets have had most of the territory but they're not being

clinical. Errors are being made by both sides but it was a shame that

Jason Tovey got the injury before that kick before last because he

The Dragons ran out in front of a vocal home crowd knowing they were

desperate for a win. The first gap appeared after wonderful handling

from of the props and the three- quarter line. Jonathan Edwards

crossed for the try. Jason Tovey kept the home side in the hunt with

this penalty. There was a late chance to steal the lead on half-

time but the final pass went astray. Momentum has swung the Dragons way

following a yellow card for Kieran Murphy and thus penalty from Jason

Nigel Davies will be the happier of the two coaches but a bit of drama

at the end. Darren Edwards, the Dragons coach, will be happy with

that. The Dragons need a huge second half to get back into this

game but they have the extra man. Both sides are lacking confidence

in their depth and width. I am sure they will correct that in the

second half. The weather conditions have improved but when you are

lacking confidence, as soon as an error is committed, your heads drop.

They need to pick themselves up, the Dragons. Toby Faletau one Dan

Lydiate the big second heart. Davies is in our analysis trek.

There have been good attacks from scrums. Let's look at how the

Dragons cross the gain-line from a scrum. They get a good scrum and

Jason Tovey with a bit of a pass to Martyn Thomas who hits a great line.

When you go wide, it is how you manage the ball in the wide areas.

Great body positions by the Dragons to allow Adam Jones to come around

the corner. The Dragons keep recycling the ball and go for it.

Lloyd Burns was again. A little snipe and they just keep taking it

forward. They keep going forward and the Scarlets have not really

recovered their defensive structure from the game line bust the Dragons

made. There were few opportunities in that first half but only the one

try and the Scarlets to did very well. They did. It extenuated -- it

was extenuated by Phil John and Deacon Manu and the peripheral

vision. Jonathan Edwards capitalised on a great break.

That's how clinical the good sides are. For the draggers, three missed

opportunity at goal and that one missed opportunity by Tonderai

Chavhanga after a poor pass. But it is 15 ins 14 in the second half and

they have some hope. There will be some banter over those hands from

the front row union. It is great to see those guys involved because

their principal jobs are to be a nuisance around the field but it

could for them. As a competition, we'll have to see skilful play and

when it's by the front row, we all applauded. Let's remind ourselves

oz the results of this busy Ulster are currently leading

Munster 20-10 tonight. The second half as coming up shortly and there

is plenty more rugby on BBC Wales All the referees have been told, if

anybody is above, they have to be sent off which I think it's

ridiculous. The referee of his experience, class and ability,

should have the scope to make that decision by himself.

The festive Derby's continue on New year's Day with the Ospreys against

the Blues. On Sunday, we have highlights and an excuse of India

will with a Shaun Edwards. We're back at Rodney Parade next week for

the Dragons against the Ospreys. There is another chance to see a

full review of the Welsh sporting year following this year on BBC Two

Wales. There is 365 days in the er, that is 8760 hours, more than half-

a-million minutes Andover 31 million seconds. But it takes just

one second to score a goal, one second to break into the history

books, one second to break a rule, to break hearts, one second to work

your opponent, one second to break a record, one moment, one chance,

one second. But great athletes don't count the seconds, they make

the second count. That is the difference.

Make sure you stay tuned for that on BBC Two Wales at 9pm.

Last week, Scott Johnson criticised referee Nigel Owens over his

comments on Twitter and he announced this week that he was

leaving the Ospreys at the end of the season.

Scott Johnson is one of the most recognisable characters was rugby.

He arrived in Wales has skills coach as part of the Graham Henry

Europe. He was assistant coach with Steve Hansen and right -- Mike

Ruddock. He was given credit for Wales' attractive style of prey --

play in the grand slam. He stayed in charge of Wales for three games

as caretaker coach after the shock departure of Mike Ruddock. Later

that year, he returned to Australia to join John Connolly in the

Australian National coaching set-up but in 2008 he became the USA coach

but left the following year to return to Wales and become Ospreys

coaching director. The Ospreys won the Magners League Grand Final and

the Scott Johnson but never made it Pat the splash past the quarter-

finals of the Heineken Cup. He has announced that he is leaving the

Ospreys at the end of the season to What do you think the Ospreys

should do next? I think they might promote from

within but given the austerity measures Welsh rugby is going

through at the moment, the job well just remain open until matters

improve. For the Ospreys, there is plenty of talent there and a cast

of thousands from a coaching perspective so they haven't got a

problem. You need to cut fat from the overhead.

A cast of thousands, as you said. It has been suggested they might do

away with the title altogether. I wouldn't be surprised. He has

fulfilled a role within the organisation in creating structures

so they will be happy for succession. I just don't think they

will have the financial wherewithal to find a replacement.

Phil Davies, they have had an overseas coach at the Ospreys, is

it time for a Welshman? He firstly have to recognise what

Scott Johnson has brought to Welsh rugby, not just the Ospreys but

what he has done for Wales over the past six years. There are capable

coaches there and I hope, anyway, that they do recognise the

capabilities they already have there and maybe they will promote

from within rather than look for somebody with a big reputation to

come in. A final word on this with Phil

Steel and Ian Gough. You played under Scott Johnson.

What is he like as a player? He is a charismatic broke and full

of quips. It is quite hard to keep up with him but he has brought a

lot to our organisation and how we think about the game. Sorry to see

him go but I wish him all the best in his new endeavours.

What is your favourite quip? It gets lost in translation. He is

Australian and I'm from went. Common sense is not very common, he

said that to me once. What about the second half the Dragons with

the wind and rain? A great try by the Scarlets against

the run of play. The sin bin incident could be crucial. The

Dragons must get the crowd behind them and get some superiority in

the game. I have been in the Dragons changing room. Jason Tovey

will not be out for the second half. Lewis Robling is going to turn and

# Start wearing purple for the next 10 minutes but they

have had an enforced change which means there is a replacement in the

centre. That will give them direction. Andy

Tuilagi. Nobody wanted it but Aled Brew took

on responsibility in the end. He does very well to get out of

that pickle. They need to make first extra man

advantage count. First penalty. There we go. 26 seconds, look, for

the first penalty. That is great, isn't it?

Five red, purple nine deliberately of the ball.

Recommendation? Penalty.

Read five? Severe warning. Watch out, boys!

You have taken up the man out of the ball. It is just a penalty this

time. I tell you what, he is warning? What is going on here?

They are having a laugh! He only son. Anymore pushing and you will

be of! As we said, they've got to keep their composure, now. The

Dragons have an extra man. Go through the phases and make the

most of the extra man. The Dragons approach the Scarlets

There is no fullback at home. And again. Another handling error.

There are too many handling errors and turnovers. Both sides losing

fullback can be the vision. On numerous occasions, with the

forwards isolated, you just need Martyn Thomas to say, I will have

it, I'll take it on, and have a go at these forwards.

Gareth Maule has added his weight to the flank to try and shore up

the Scarlets scrum. Back 10. Purple one, bind.

Sione Timani is at the corner with Josh Turnbull.

They need to keep the ball in hand for these 10 minutes. Very good.

That is what they have to do. Take it up the middle. That got them 20

he is, in the end, involved because before what wanted an extra man.

They were 18 stone down. They lost a man to the sin bin.

If he brings his hand up, it is not an issue. That has given him the

time to appear on the flank. I wouldn't expect too much wit from

it. -- width from it. Beautifully for that exact kick. Lewis Robling

has to play it. Phil Steel. I'm with Darren Edwards, Dragons

coach. It is quite difficult for us at the

moment. We are getting pinned back. We are trying to be brave and

hopefully we can get something from the pressure.

A lot of responsibility on Lewis Robling at 10?

It will be difficult. I think he will be fine. He is a good player

and I am quite happy with his playing.

Any news on Jason Tovey? He has injured his knee and a not

sure about that at the moment. killing the clock, aren't they?

They have another three minutes to Then Kieran Murphy will be back on

the field. Good angle. They need to create

quicker ball, that is the key. Up come as the Dragons defence

again. Good off lowered by a Gareth Maule. That is excellent defence by

the Dragons. Pressure defending. That forced them back time and

again. Trying to play a little bit too

much football there. The ball is slow. Trying to keep the ball in

hand is fair enough but when slow defences are up tight, you have got

Tuilagi gets him. His Adam Hughes of his feet? It is very, very

difficult. Phil Price has come on for Nathan

Williams. Dan Lydiate has gone off and Lewis Evans is wearing 20.

Dan Lydiate is a blood replacement. Let us see what they try and do in

The pressure is still very much on Robling, bounces off the tackle. He

almost brings the referee down. That is unlucky for the Dragons. I

thought it came off the referee's foot.

I thought that as well. They were very unlucky there. Polo-playing

bounced. -- Lewis Robling. They you have to use Andy Tuilagi as

well. I still think Martyn Thomas need to get involved a bit more as

well. The Scarlets have survived so far with 14 men. One more set of

plays and Kieran Murphy will be back on the field and he will be

joined by quite a two substitutes. There are five ready to come on.

Jonathan Edwards put Rhodri Williams under pressure but he got

out of it well. Martyn Thomas looks for the counter-attack. A loose

pass. You mentioned composure earlier and that is what the

Dragons have not shown that he phases. That is right, composure.

Darren Edwards has been saying it all the time. Here come the

substitutes. The Dragons brought them six replacements at the same

time against the Blues. It is five for the Scarlets tonight. They are

all familiar faces anyway. Iestyn Thomas, George North, Richie Pugh

and the other one is Gareth Davies. Kieran Murphy is restored to number

8. A very flat pass. A good angle from Ken Owens and determined

running from the Scarlets hooker. Deacon Manu. It was dropped by

Dominic Day. Nobody can keep their hands on it at the moment. The

frustrations of the crowd are self- evident. Very untidy passage of

play. He is dragged of anyway and does not stay on his feet. Jonathan

Edwards was holding on as he went for the Jackal. No shape to the

game in the opening 10 minutes of the second half. With 15 aside

restored, maybe it will get better. Once they get into good territorial

position, they knock the ball on. Most sides are guilty of it. The

biggest frustration is for the coaches. Lewis Robling to Andy

Tuilagi. He is very strong. Lloyd Burns has lost the ball in contact.

Gareth Maule pushes the Dragons Back but Aled Brew keeps it alive.

Martyn Thomas sends them back to halfway. Gareth Davies. This is a

chance. George North is behind Gareth Maule, looking for the

offload. Another penalty. They have got the penalty. It is the battle

of the two number sevens. Gavin Thomas dragging in Jonathan Edwards

on that occasion. 20 penalties now. Do they go for goal or not? The

Dragons do not look like scoring a try at the moment. They are going

for the try. That is Gavin Thomas slowing it down a little bit.

game a needs something to spark it at the moment. Sione Timani. Gareth

Davies. Tonderai Chavhanga was flying up at Aled Thomas. George

North tries to get the goose step going. Aled Thomas is back up on

his feet. Is that counter rucking or not? Did Gavin Thomas loses Bath

-- balance as he went for it? -- A lose his balance. Let's go down the

Phil Davies. The Dragons are keeping the ball for phases and

lose it at the breakdown but the Scarlets are controlling the

breakdown well. George North goes in to secure the ball. Ill

discipline from the Dragons. Kieran Murphy controls the break down and

get the penalty. They are staying on their feet and are not getting

penalised. The Dragons and not staying on their feet. -- are not.

George North was not meant to be in the squad this evening but Stephen

Jones failed a late fitness test because of a back strain. Aled

Thomas moved from the venture it at half and George North took his

best of evenings for the kickers. So there is still just a point in

it. I can't see exactly what the wind is doing down there but it is

not helping the police kickers. -- and the Tuilagi comes in on a good

angle. George North is hearing downfield. Wayne Evans did just

enough. It is all happening now! was a great follow up by George

North. It needs based bark, it needs something. Good tackle by

George North and the chase by George North. Wayne Evans has not

sure what's happening. He was very unlucky not to get to that. A very

scrappy game. Dan Lydiate is back on the field. Dan Way comes him at

tighthead. Nathan Buck has gone off. They have to put pressure on a

Lewis Robling because he has not looked comfortable. It was a great

kicker of. He kicked against the grain. It was a great kick but the

opportunity of the charge down was there. The Dragons will be forced

into another change. Adam Hughes is being helped off the field. Making

his first league appearance of the season will be Will Harries.

might add a bit of a spark. Aled Brew safely in a third. -- safely

underneath it. Lloyd Burns. This game is still on a knife-edge.

Lewis Robling looks for position. Good thinking by Aled Thomas. He

put his foot back behind the line when the ball was still moving.

That is the important bit. Where is Will Harries going to slot in?

will be interesting. Aled Brew might go into the centre. They have

Andy Tuilagi and Aled Brew in the centre now. They have turned take

advantage of that physicality. This is all about position now and way

you play this game. The discipline is not great. Wayne Evans hopes it

over the top. Plenty of time to let it go dead. That crunching tackle

was the last play for Sione Timani and Lou Reed comes on to replace

Dragons. -- the scarlet. Andy Tuilagi. Gavin Thomas 2 Adam Jones.

Richie Pugh got in there and stole the ball. This is a chance because

there was a prop forward out there. Aled Brew. Now it is opening up a

bit. That's what I want to see. A Martyn

Thomas. He has taken back so he can't kick into touch. Now then,

here we go. It doesn't sit up for him.

He is isolated. There we are. Ball must be made payable

immediately. The crowd enjoyed that one.

Well, well. He is going to go for goal, maybe.

Phil Price is in there, trying to win the ball.

If we run it on from the turnover. There we go. Dan Newton, stop it

there. Two forwards. He has to get on the outside and there are two

players there. You have to have a look. The full-backs of the vision

of the side. They have to look and time. Wayne Evans will take over

the captaincy. This is a big kick for Lewis Robling. Missed an easy

one in the first half. This want to put the Dragons ahead for the first

time. And the distance was too great. The effort meant the

Ken Owens. Also running off his Dan Newton who is replaced by another

Dan, Dan Evans. A bonus point try for Ulster against Munster.

Ulster's second-string or even third string it to Leinster got

absolutely hammered. They now have kicking distance.

Now then, it is an easier kick. Look at the penalties conceded at

the bottom of the screen. 21 handling errors in total. 30

turnovers. Well, you know... Try and pick who is going to win this

game, then. Go on. Anyone who can cut down on those

mistakes. Great endeavour by both sides but

accuracy, composure, and a bit of vision as well. They have their

heads down. The full-backs have got one.

I feel for him now. He has missed three kicks. Two relatively easy

ones. That's a bad, it is closer than the last one but he is darting

of the left-hand side. Could take by a Aled Brew.

Toby Faletau picks up the pace. has knocked it on.

The Dragons have an opportunity. A bit of class by Toby Faletau. He

breaks the tackle and keeps his composure. Andy Tuilagi doesn't --

goes into still. Unfortunately it is knocked on. This is now all

about territory. Three points will win it for one of the teams.

It should do but the Dragons have missed four kicks and the Scarlets

have missed three. Look at the inspiration the Dragons need. The

ball from behind the back by Wayne Evans.

Obstruction. Early push. Clearly. He took out Richie Pugh.

Silly play. Look at the position they are in.

Right in front of the referee. just feel now that the Dragons have

had their opportunity to take the lead in this game and haven't taken

it. If the Scarlets get some position, one opportunity...

The players are of frustrated as well. Live their coach will be

relaxing her tall at the moment. It is therefore either side to lose. -

- neither coach will be relaxing at all at the moment. Excellent run by

Apology for the loss of subtitles for 62 seconds

getting up into the play-offs zone at least for the time being. The

Scottish Derby to come, of course. They will leapfrog the Blues and

the Glasgow Warriors if they win again. Very much the go to man.

Good hands. Aled Brew Against George North. No it isn't, it's

down Evans. Now they should go wide.

There is a penalty coming anyway. I am starting to feel for Lewis

Robling. He is getting closer, though. Hopefully it will be a

little bit easier for him. Jason Tovey and then Adam Hughes is a

very good kicker as well. He is off injured as well.

Lewis Robling just turned 20 last month. It is his third start in the

RaboDirect Pro12 League. This is a big kick for him. As in

He has snatched it. What a night for poured Lewis

Robling. He is just to shop on it. He is

coming down so quickly on it. He is snapping it so quickly and there is

no rhythm all follow through. You can see by his body. He is facing

past the left-hand upright. What a night it is turning out to

be for the young man. Still time to go for another one.

The way the Scarlets are giving our opportunities away, I'm sure he

will get another chance. The Scarlets have got to get their

hands on the ball if they want to win this game. Good acceleration

from Martyn Thomas. This time the penalty goes the

other way. The crowd are baying for another Dragons penalty. It is

given the other way by Neil Hennessy. The Dragons players are

at expressing their displeasure as much as the Dragons fans. 10 metres

are added on. As I said earlier on, it Scarlets

on the ropes. Now they have got field position and this is the

latest penalty. Martyn Thomas, a good acceleration. He goes down.

Jonathan Edwards is not on his feet there. There is nobody on their

feet there. I can see why the the Newport crowd went nuts. They

there, are they? Well played, Toby Faletau. He drove straight through

and took the man out. It is amazing to think he is in the 21. He is

some player! Against the Blues he was brilliant.

I hope he doesn't put too much bulk on. He has great pace, good

acceleration and perceptive power. Great balance. This man has got a

huge teacher in front of him. Absolutely huge future. He is a

tremendous player. Eight minutes still to go. Great

part -- by the Scarlets, that is what one thing the penalty.

-- what one than the penalty. top.

He took off Gareth Davies from the side.

He just did not move. I'm sure when they analyse the penalties from

this game, some players should hold their hands up and say, how stupid

could I be? Watch this now. Off the ropes. Bang in the middle. This is

there. What a kick from Aled Thomas, the former dragon. Taking on the

punches and suddenly they could have landed a killer blow.

That is a very, very good kick, as I thought. The Dragons haven't

taken their opportunities. They have dominated the second half,

every facet of play. All the Scarlets have got to do now is play

territorial game and keep the ball in their half. They really haven't

created much, the Dragons. They've got dangerous Gert -- dangerous

runners there, Martyn Thomas, Anna Tuilagi, Aled Brew in the middle.

They have to try and look and create something. Quick ball and

clear-out. 34 minutes of the second half to

get the first Points and despite all the territory, all the

possession from the Dragons, those points have gone the Scarlets way.

If the Scarlets turn this and put this in the bottom corner, there we

are, definitely not straight. All they have to do, the Scarlets, is

hit the midfield, take it back. Aled Thomas goes back in the pocket

and puts it in the right hand corner and then the Dragons have

everything to do to win this game from 80 metres. The clock is

against them as well. Five minutes. The Dragons need a

try or two penalties. They have missed five kicks.

Go up the middle or drive and get a penalty. He is isolated, there.

The Scarlets scrum has been looking carry. You can be in midfield to

give the outside half an option to kick. He is back in the pocket.

That was a bit too slow because Martyn Thomas had covered it.

Brew is chasing it. It is too far for him. Martyn Thomas once again.

Lewis Evans did the sensible thing and let it go. At least the Dragons

still have possession. They have not got much time. Lewis Robling is

dispossessed by Jonathan Edwards. It is not happening for the Dragons

this evening. Let's go down the Phil Davies. Look at Jonathan

Edwards tackling there. He never releases the player. The penalty

should have gone to the Dragons, not to the Scarlets. The other

Dragons for what was on one knee. Jonathan Davies, who is your man of

the match? It is a tough call because nobody has stood out. For

me, whenever he's had the ball, this man has to that. When he's had

the opportunity to do things, he's done it so Toby Faletau was man of

the match. Can he put his team on the winning side in the final three

minutes? Just take it down the middle and even bring George North

him off the scrum-half. Run over the top of Lewis Robling and either

set yourself up for a drop goal or put it in the corner. They need to

know how to close games down. I would not fancy tackling him.

Scarlets have the experience of Iestyn Thomas on the loose head.

George North was there waiting for the past but it never came. Emyr

Phillips steps in ahead of Aled Thomas. They could go blind now.

Another knock on. Tonderai Chavhanga has a run. It is all

time-consuming for the Dragons. Another opportunity missed. Another

handling error. Iestyn Thomas getting a bit of treatment. The

Dragons have just two wins in 10 and just 10 tries and had the

lowest try count in the RaboDirect Pro 12 League this season. It is a

game that the Dragons should have won. They have created enough

pressure and have one penalties but unfortunately, Lewis Robling has

missed three kickable penalties. You have to turn pressure into

points. Aled Brew in the Gatt. Andy Tuilagi is in support. The Rodney

Parade crowd on their feet. There is a penalty coming. They have to

tap and goal or take the scrum. -- tap and go. This is a difficult

kick to touch to get the line-out. That is a very good kick. That is a

great kick by Ian Lewis Robling. Fair play to him, he put his head

on the block and went for the five metres and that was a great kick.

Very brave kick. They've got the position and this is the last

chance. They deserve to win, the Dragons, because of the way they

have played but you have to take the opportunities. The final play

coming up. A try would won it for the Dragons. The Scarlets defending

for all their worth. Dan Lydiate with the Carry. In the shadow of

the Scarlets posts. The clock goes red and this is the final play. The

Scarlets have to hold out once more. They've had a lot of defending to

do in the second half. Now they have to keep their concentration

right until the death. Aled Brew. Andy Tuilagi. George North wraps to

map. The ball is back to Adam Jones. Will Harries to Aled Brew but the

pass was asking too much. It has gone forward and the last chance

has gone. The Scarlets, by the skin of their teeth, have survived and

they have two wins over the Christmas period. It has been in

excellent festive period for the Scarlets. An amazing win for the

Scarlets and the coaching staffs of the Dragons will be thinking how on

earth did they lose that. The try - - the Scarlets took their

opportunities, just two of them, and that is why they come away

victorious. Just one penalty in the second half and crucially it went

to Aled Thomas and the Dragons missed their opportunities. In the

end, they have to settle for a losing bonus point. The Scarlets'

winning run against the Dragons Let's take a look at the match

facts. They tell a story in that That is a pretty telling statistic,

that the Dragons had to make twice as many tackles. The Dragons did

not have that killer punch. The Scarlets made over 100 tackles and

came away with the win. It validated to Netley's choice for

going with a squad system.-Llanelli. The Dragons dominated the second

half but lost the game. The Jason Tovey injury was crucial. Give

credit to the Scarlets. They have made a lot of changes and played as

a team and offended brilliantly. They have come away with a win away

from home. Let's talk to Phil Davies. The scarlet controlled the

game well with 14 men. You want the players to be smart and control the

ball when you have a player in the sin bin. They used good line-out

variation and get a catch and drive. They played on the short side and

had good composure and control. A bit of variation when they hit Adam

Warren in the middle. He places the ball which allows Rhodri Williams

to pick and go through the middle and again eight good clean-out.

Jonathan Edwards is the key. He controls the situation. Deacon Manu

goes on the short side and they take it forward again. They control

the breakdown and stay on their feet. They recycle the ball until

the scrum-half is in position at he plays the forwards back to the open

side. Beautiful play. Despite being on the losing side, the man of the

match was Toby Faletau. Congratulations but how frustrating

was it for you? We're just disappointed not to win again. We

had chances but we did not convert them. How confident are you you can

put this behind you? We hoped to take a win tonight into the new

year but we have to work on it again. How sorry did you feel for

Lewis Robling, who played well generally? You'll work on it and

get better. I am joined by Nigel Davies, the winning coach. How much

did that victory mean to you? a huge result for us. This is a

difficult place to come and in fairness for the Dragons, they are

playing good stuff. We were confident in this group of players.

They have proved their worth. you have indicated with your

selection. You have to be bowled sometimes and I thought it was the

right thing to do. -- bold. The Scarlets' decision was vindicated.

Their defence was impeccable tonight. It was. The Scarlets had

more excitement when they had the ball. It was disappointing not to

see Toby Faletau in attacking mode tonight because he did something

positive every time he had the ball. The Scarlets are real contenders

now are they? They are. Getting wins away from home really get you