DAN Lydiate wants one more win as a Newport Gwent Dragon after enjoying an emotional and victorious Rodney Parade farewell.

The blindside flanker was a key figure in the region’s 30-24 RaboDirect Pro12 win against Munster last Friday.

It was the 25-year-old’s final game as a home player in Newport with the back row ace expected to pen a big money deal with Racing Metro in Paris.

And Lydiate was pleased to enjoy a first win since breaking his ankle in September, especially in front of a bumper 7,523 crowd.

“It was emotional,” said the Wales star. “The support was great and reminded me of the days of old. (There’s) no better way to sign out than getting a win and it was a fitting tribute to the fans who come week in, week out. I’ve got a lot of fond memories and there is no better feeling than coming off with a victory and all the Dragons fans clapping.

“The Dragons have given me the chance to play at the highest level, so I can’t thank them enough for all they have done for me.

“I’ve been here six years, I’ve had a couple of injuries and it’s time for a change and a new challenge.

“I just want to reiterate how thankful I am for the Dragons for giving the chance to push on. Wherever I go hopefully I will become a better player.”

The Munster clash was a final chance for Lydiate, who made his comeback in March after six months on the sidelines, to enhance his Lions credentials.

Boss Warren Gatland names his squad for the summer tour to Australia a week on Tuesday.

But the 27-times capped flanker insists it’s Murrayfield rather than Oz, or even Japan with Wales, that is on his mind.

“I can only do what I do but I have not played a lot of rugby this year so I am at a disadvantage straight away, especially not having played international games,” he said.

“All I am focused on is one more game at Edinburgh and I owe it to the Dragons to play well in that game, then what will be will be.

“I want to build on what I did against Munster. It was a fast game just as it was at Ulster the previous week. That can only help get the match fitness back.

“And It was just nice to enjoy the winning feeling after the game, that buzz.

“If it’s meant to be, it will be when it comes to the Lions. I’ve just got to focus on Edinburgh and hopefully I will get on one of the tours.”

  • Fly-half Steffan Jones pulled a calf in Friday’s win but fellow 10 Dan Evans is likely to return following an ankle problem.

Loosehead Aaron Coundley (sternum) and wing Matthew Pewtner (dead leg) came off against Munster but the injuries are not thought to be serious.