Scarlets Snatch Late Victory in Thrilling Judgement Day Battle

Wing Jared Rosser’s brace wasn’t enough as Scarlets snatched victory with a late try, defeating Dragons 28-23 in an absorbing BKT United Rugby Championship showdown at the Principality Stadium.

First Half Drama

The visitors opened the scoring through prop Henry Thomas, but Rosser replied with a try of his own to cut the lead. Fly-half Angus O’Brien then added a penalty on the stroke of halftime, leaving Dragons with an 8-7 lead at the break.

Second Half Frenzy

Dragons started the second half in blistering form, with tries from wings Ashton Hewitt and Jared Rosser. However, Scarlets refused to go away, scoring through Alec Hepburn and Vaea Fifita to retake the lead.

O’Brien’s penalty stretched Dragons’ lead, but Blair Murray’s late try secured a dramatic 28-23 win for the visitors.

Dragons’ Tenacious Performance

Dragons, playing with eight changes from their previous loss, went toe-to-toe with Scarlets. Co-captains Ben Carter and Angus O’Brien returned, alongside former Scarlet Scott Williams, who made his debut for the Men of Gwent.

Dragons’ fight, typified by their strong maul defence, saw them thwart Scarlets’ early domination. They finished the first half strongly, with Basham and Wainwright making significant impacts.

Late Heartache

After a see-saw second half, Dragons looked to have done enough to earn a victory. However, a late kick ahead bounced fortunate for Blair Murray, who sealed the win for Scarlets.

Timeline

• 20m – Henry Thomas try, Lloyd conversion – 0-7
• 27m – Jared Rosser try – 5-7
• 39m – Angus O’Brien penalty – 8-7
• 42m – Ashton Hewitt try, O’Brien conversion – 15-7
• 46m – Jared Rosser try – 20-7
• 50m – Alec Hepburn try, Lloyd conversion – 20-14
• 56m – Vaea Fifita try, Lloyd conversion – 20-21
• 58m – Angus O’Brien penalty – 23-21
• 72m – Blair Murray try, Lloyd conversion – 23-28

Squads

Dragons RFC: Ewan Rosser, Ashton Hewitt, Aneurin Owen, Scott Williams, Jared Rosser, Angus O’Brien, Rhodri Williams, Dylan Kelleher-Griffiths, Elliot Dee, Paula Latu, Ben Carter, Ryan Woodman, Shane Lewis-Hughes, Taine Basham, Aaron Wainwright.

Replacements: Brodie Coghlan, Rhodri Jones, Chris Coleman, Barny Langton-Cryer, Dan Lydiate, Dane Blacker, Will Reed, Joe Westwood.

Scarlets: Blair Murray, Tom Rogers, Macs Page, Eddie James, Ellis Mee, Ioan Lloyd, Gareth Davies, Alec Hepburn, Marnus van der Merwe, Henry Thomas, Alex Craig, Sam Lousi, Vaea Fifita, Josh Macleod, Taine Plumtree.

Replacements: Ryan Elias, Sam O’Connor, Sam Wainwright, Jac Price, Jarrod Taylor, Archie Hughes, Joe Roberts, Ioan Nicholas.

Referee

Referee: Aimee Barrett-Theron (SARU, 11th league game)

Attendance: 28,328

Did You Know?

Dragons had won on four of their last five visits to Principality Stadium, including their last two outings against Scarlets. – 247sports.news

Pro Tip

FAQ

Q: What was the scoreline at halftime?

A: Dragons led 8-7.

Q: Who was the referee?

A: Aimee Barrett-Theron (SARU).

Final Word

In a thrilling Judgement Day clash, Scarlets snatched late victory, securing a morale-boosting 28-23 win over Dragons. Both sides served up an absorbing contest, leaving fans on the edge of their seats until the very end. 🤩

What are your thoughts on this thriller? Let us know in the comments below! 💬