Dragons No10 signs new deal (From South Wales Argus)

Dragons No10 signs new deal

7:00am Tuesday 19th March 2013 in Sport Exclusive By Chris Kirwan

STAYING ON PARADE: Dragon Steffan Jones

FLY-HALF Steffan Jones has committed his future to Newport Gwent Dragons by penning a new two-year deal with the Rodney Parade region.

The 22-year-old, from Bargoed, had been attracting interest from England with London Welsh and Wasps among the sides that were monitoring his situation.

But he has opted to stay put after fighting back from being out in the cold around Christmas time to establish himself as the region’s first choice fly-half.

At the turn of the year he was behind Lewis Robling and full-back Dan Evans in the pecking order and playing his rugby back at Cross Keys in the Premiership.

But he has worn the Dragons’ number 10 jersey in the last six games and last month he set a regional record when he kicked 27 points and seven penalties against London Welsh.

“Steffan is a player that has great potential, he has responded to many challenges and we are delighted that he will be aiming to progress to the next level with us,” said head coach Darren Edwards.

“It has been a tough season for us and that often puts the 10 in the spotlight but after some tough times he grasped his chance at the start of the year and that shows great character.

“I think that Steffan is a natural player that can close a game out but also has a great ability to almost win games on his own – he can be a real match winner.

“He didn’t come through an academy system so is new to certain aspects of being a professional but that means there is plenty of room for improvement, as I am sure he would admit, and that is exciting.”

The Dragons signed former Wales scrum-half Richie Rees a fortnight ago and are close to adding a number of experienced players to aid in the development of their young talent – including a seasoned fly-half.

“Steffan is one of many bright young players here and with the addition of some experienced players over the summer I am confident that they will all develop rapidly,” said Edwards.