NEWPORT Gwent Dragons' hopes of reaching the Magners League play-offs were dealt a blow tonight after losing an absorbing derby clash to deadly rivals Cardiff Blues.

The Dragons were superb in the first half and could have been further ahead than 8-3 at the interval.

They scored a superb try through prop Ben Castle, James Arlidge kicking a penalty in reply to Ben Blair's effort.

But they were starved of possession for long periods of the second half, the Blues going 20-8 ahead at one stage thanks to tries from old boy Ceri Sweeney and centre Garan Evans.

The Dragons never gave up but a few calls against them by Scottish referee Peter Allan and some crucial errors from stand-off Arlidge meant that a glorious victory would elude them.

Flanker Gavin Thomas was again simply outstanding and played a major role in their try with a sublime miss-pass.

The Dragons were dealt a major blow when their impressive full back Martyn Thomas suffered a serious ankle injury late in the game, likely to put an end to his chances of touring New Zealand with Wales this summer.

For a full match report, pictures and reaction, see Saturday's Argus.