KINGSLEY Jones praised the composure of his Newport Gwent Dragons team for staying cool to claim the vital bonus-point win against Enisei-STM that keeps their European Challenge Cup dream alive.

The Dragons looked like they would need a favour from Worcester in Brive this evening when they led just 13-5 entering the final quarter at Rodney Parade on Friday night.

However, replacement Rhys Buckley secured the win by mirroring his fellow hooker Rhys Thomas in scoring from a driving lineout and then number eight Harri Keddie scored a brace.

The 34-10 success means that they will now head to Brive with a chance of pipping the Frenchmen to the Pool Three top spot and a place in the quarter-finals.

“It wasn’t what we wanted at times but I know that Enisei are a stubborn team and we had to respect our opposition,” said head coach Jones.

“I thought the way we went about our business in the second half was excellent because they came back into the game with a try and the challenge for this team is the top two inches.

“The biggest positive is that we have achieved what we set out to do, we scored four tries and are going to Brive for a big game.

“I was a little bit disappointed with errors but by and large I am pleased we got a bonus point and are in contention. That it’s still in our hands is the main thing and we have a chance.”

It’s unlikely that the Dragons, who have not yet won away from Rodney Parade this season, will have enough points for one of the three runners-up spots even if they triumph with a bonus point in Brive.

If the French side beat Worcester with a bonus point this evening then Jones’ side will need a 5-0 match point scoreline at the Stade Amedee-Domenech.

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