Dragons beat Perpignan in Challenge Cup opener but miss out on bonus point

Welsh rugby union side Dragons beat French club Perpignan 29-14 at Rodney Parade in Newport in their opening match of the European Challenge Cup, a continental club rugby competition featuring teams from several countries. Dragons scored four tries but did not earn a bonus point, as this season's rule change meant they needed five because Perpignan had scored twice.

A dull first half

Dragons started quickly, with wing Jared Rosser going over down the left in the fifth minute after a multi-phase attack. They failed to build on that lead. Perpignan gradually took control, and flanker Jules Coulon scored from close range approaching the half hour. Full-back Tristan Tedder converted to put the visitors 7-5 ahead.

The French side dominated possession, territory and chances in a low-quality first half. Dragons' Jac Lloyd had a try chalked off for crossing, and the Welsh side also wasted opportunities in the Perpignan 22 by turning down shots at goal.

The decisive second half

After 55 minutes, centre Aneurin Owen exploited weak defence to score. Perpignan responded when lock Posolo Tuilagi crashed over, and Tinus de Beer then kicked a penalty to make it 15-14 to Dragons with a quarter of an hour left. Tonga wing Anzelo Tuitavuki then scored a close-range try, which De Beer converted. In the closing stages, compatriot Fetuli Paea scored his first try for the club, but Dragons could not find a fifth.

Perpignan have yet to win away from their Stade Aime Giral home this season.

Dragons head coach Filo Tiatia said the most pleasing aspect was the players finding a way to make it happen. He said the team chased the extra bonus point but did not quite get there, and added that the players were outstanding on both sides of the ball.