INJURY hit Newport Gwent Dragons fell to a convincing defeat at the hands of the Scarlets in a poor Magners League Welsh derby at Parc y Scarlets last night.

Hit by late withdrawals and losing their captain Tom Willis in the first half, the Dragons struggled to impose themselves.

And they found Rhys Priestland, a late replacement for Stephen Jones, in prime kicking form as he landed six penalties from six attempts with Scottish referee Peter Allan constantly penalising the Dragons.

Tom Riley made the best break of the match for the Dragons, but the conditions made it difficult for them to play the rugby they are capable of and though beaten they remain three points clear of their rivals in the table and the race to avoid being fourth Welsh team.

Both teams were hit by late withdrawals to key players, the Dragons losing Luke Charteris and Wayne Evans to neck and back injuries, respectively, while the Sca