Mark McHugh's boot gave the home side an early lead with a penalty and drop-goal in four first-quarter minutes. But the Dragons fought back and were held up over the Connaught line three times in the first half.

The Irish defence held out however, and just before the break Ray Ofisa scored what turned out to be a crucial try, converted by McHugh - who earlier had added a third penalty.

Ceri Sweeney's three second-half penalties gave the visitors hope, but it wasn't enough to earn them the points.