NEWPORT Gwent Dragons coach Chris Anderson claims financial problems are to blame for his departure at the end of the season.

The Argus revealed exclusively yesterday that the Dragons board had decided not to take up the option of the second year on Anderson's contract, though there is reason to believe their decision was not confined to money.

Anderson, however, said after last night's 13-11 victory over Ulster: "With Tony Brown going as benefactor they didn't have the money to keep me on.

"I've enjoyed myself here and I've got on well with the players. I'll stay until the end of the season and do my best while looking for other challenges.

"It's a shame for the club that they're in a difficult financial position, it's tough for the players as well."

That, however, will not be the message the board will wish to send out, as they are determined to consolidate and make a success of the Dragons.

The team showed the way by securing victory over Ulster, though they were without six Wales squad members, whereas Ulster were at full strength.

"The result went the right way, we dug deep and the boys showed great character," said skipper and try scorer Jason Forster.

"It wasn't a classic but it will stand us in good stead in our aim for Heineken Cup rugby next season."

He would not be drawn about the departure of Anderson. "We're professional rugby players and have got to get on with the job," he said. "We're not in control of any of that, it's a difficult time, but we've got to be professional."

However, chief executive Andy Marinos expressed some unease over the Anderson situation when he said: "Things broke without his knowledge, it's not the way we wanted it."

Though Welsh rivals the Scarlets beat Connacht in Athlone last night the Dragons remain in fourth place in the Celtic League table with a game in hand.