What a game it was! Edinburgh pulled off a stunning comeback to snatch a late win against the Dragons in the opening round of the 2023-24 United Rugby Championship season. The Welsh region started strong with early tries from Sio Tomkinson and Corey Baldwin, giving them a 14-point lead. But Edinburgh fought back, thanks to the boot of Ben Healy and a crucial try from Ben Vellacott. And it was Healy who had the final say, kicking two late penalties to seal the victory.
The Dragons were hoping for a win on the opening day of the season for the first time in years. The atmosphere at Rodney Parade was electric as the Dragons took an early lead with a try from Tomkinson. But Edinburgh didn’t let that dampen their spirits. They kept pushing and were rewarded when Vellacott scored a try 15 minutes from time, setting up a thrilling finish.
Healy’s accurate kicking kept Edinburgh in the game, and his three penalties reduced the Dragons’ lead. Then, with just 15 minutes left on the clock, Vellacott’s try brought Edinburgh within one point of the Dragons. The tension was palpable.
But it was Healy who stole the show in the end. With nerves of steel, he slotted over two late penalties to give Edinburgh their first lead of the game and secure the win. It was a hard-fought victory, and the Edinburgh players showed incredible resilience.
Dragons head coach Dai Flanagan was disappointed with the loss. He acknowledged that his team lost momentum in the second 20 minutes of the first half and made some ill-disciplined decisions. Flanagan also recognized the impact of Healy’s kicking, stating that it’s difficult to win against a kicker like him with a high penalty count.
On the other hand, Edinburgh head coach Sean Everitt was delighted with his team’s performance. He praised their resilience and their ability to stick to the game plan. Everitt highlighted the effectiveness of their contestable kicking and solid defense, which led to crucial turnovers.
Overall, it was a thrilling match that showcased the determination and skill of both teams. While it may not have been as convincing as Edinburgh’s previous victory over the Dragons, the win will undoubtedly boost their confidence as they head back to Scotland.
In conclusion, Edinburgh’s epic comeback against the Dragons was a testament to their fighting spirit and never-give-up attitude. With Healy’s accurate kicking and Vellacott’s crucial try, they turned the game around and secured a memorable victory. It’s a result that will be remembered for years to come.