Four-try Dragons beat Perpignan - but without bonus

Dragons turn a half-time deficit around to beat Perpignan in their Challenge Cup opener at Rodney Parade.

Aneurin Owen made his Dragons debut at Bordeaux-Begles in 2020

Tries: Rosser, Owen, Tuitavuki, Paea Cons: De Beer 3 Pen: De Beer

Dragons started their Challenge Cup campaign with a hard-fought win against Perpignan at Rodney Parade.

Filo Tiatia's side, semi-finalists in 2025-26, ran in four tries in Newport to edge a scrappy opener, but did not claim a bonus point after this season's change in rules.

Perpignan led 7-5 after a drab first half by responding to Jared Rosser's opener with a try from Jules Coulon.

Dragons backs Aneurin Owen and Anzelo Tuitavuki scored either side of a powerful effort by Posolo Tuilagi to secure victory against their French opponents, with Fetuli Paea adding a flourish in the closing stages.

Five tries would have been needed for a bonus due to Perpignan, who are yet to win away from their Stade Aime Giral home this season, scoring twice.

Source: BBC Sport