TO SAY that I’m no expert on rugby is an understatement and, indeed, not in dispute, but I’d still like to congratulate the Newport Gwent Dragons for their fabulous summer.

You don’t need a PHD in line-out tactics or a photographic memory of all Gavin Henson’s misdemeanours off the pitch to know that this has been the best summer in ages for the ailing region, capped off yesterday with the news that Toby Faletau is to stay on Parade for three more years.

The Dragons have been lagging behind for too long now, but with key appointments made off the field and efforts made at strengthening their squad, it would appear they are sick and tired of languishing.

The arrival of the likes of Kingsley Jones and their relatively healthy bank balance – in comparison to the other Welsh regions – lead me to believe they’ll really catch up the Ospreys, Scarlets and Blues in the coming years.

It’s further evidence of the success of Newport County’s move to Rodney Parade, because it’s not only added to the coffers at the Dragons, it’s put pressure on them to bring the good times back.

The real winners though are supporters of both the Dragons and the Exiles... exactly as it should be.