IT was our day admitted head coach Paul Turner after Newport Gwent Dragons romped into an automatic Heineken Cup place for the first time in six years after a terrific bonus point victory over Edinburgh at Rodney Parade yesterday.

They are now four points off an undreamed of Magners League play-off place and Friday’s home game against the in-form Cardiff Blues side will be pivotal in front of a near certain full house.

The Dragons scored seven tries against the Scots, their best tally of the season, and wing Will Harries got three of them in a superb performance, relishing the firm, dry conditions and impressing watching Wales coach Warren Gatland.

“We have been threatening to put someone away big time, and today was the day,” said a jubilant Turner.

“It was a team performance, but Will finished off well, in fact both wings played well and Martyn Thomas was outstanding. The track suited us and it was our day, we played some great rugby.

“As for the play-offs we are looking upwards, but it’s a big game on Friday. The Blues have been outstanding and it’s going to be a great local derby, there’s quite a bit on it with bragging right at stake and we’re two points ahead of them.

“We have made real progress and it’s down to the coaches, Darren Edwards and Colin Charvis have done a great job and the players play for us.”

The Dragons hope Jason Tovey, who left the field groggy against Edinburgh, will be fit to face the Blues, along with Luke Charteris, but centre Matthew Watkins may be doubtful.