Doncaster Knights 21 Newport Gwent Dragons 16

Knights dominated a game, which never rose to any great heights, for long periods but found themselves hanging on at times in the closing stages.

Knights boss Clive Griffiths rested several key players, including second-rower Jon Phelan who has been dominant in the lineouts in recent games.

But he still fielded a strong side and had his charges made better use of their first half dominance the result would have been a foregone conclusion at the break.

As it was all they had to show for their first half dominance was a brace of tries by flanker Latu Makaafi from driving mauls.

Dragons scored late in the half to reduce the interval deficit to a flattering eight points.

Knights bossed the third quarter during which time Dragons were reduced to 13 men at one stage.

The Welsh side came more into the game in the final quarter and Knights had to dig deep at times to deny them a second try.