NOVEMBER was another challenging month for Newport Gwent Dragons, who suffered four defeats and a solitary derby win against the Ospreys.

They crushed their Welsh rivals 51-35 in Bridgend in the LV= Cup, were edged out 31-21 by Harlequins at the Stoop and showed plenty of tenacity to earn a losing bonus point at Glasgow.

However, they were hammered 23-6 by Ulster in Belfast and battered 38-12 by Munster on their own turf.

Results haven’t gone the region’s way but a number of individuals have performed admirably. Which of the following candidates do you think has been the star performer in November?

JAMES THOMAS: Has impressed when given his chance in the second row and at blindside flanker. Has grafted incredibly hard and scored his first regional try against Harlequins at the Stoop.

ROSS WARDLE: Has come back from a serious knee injury and performed well, carrying hard and defending strongly. Has formed a good partnership with Ashley Smith.

LEWIS EVANS: Overcame injury to give a whole-hearted performance in Belfast and then scored a brace on his 150th appearance against the Ospreys. Has carried hard and adapted to playing across the back row.

RHYS JONES: Did well filling in for injured captain Lee Byrne, performing well under the high ball and kicking beautifully from the tee. His excellent goal-kicking display helped earn a deserved point at Glasgow.

CORY HILL: Came back against the Quins after a layoff with an ankle injury and has been a permanent fixture since. Was part of a dominant tight-five display against the Ospreys and grafted hard against a powerful Glasgow pack.

 

September vote: Nic Cudd 63%, Rynard Landman 24%, Elliot Dee 8%, Hallam Amos 3%, Taulupe Faletau 2%

October vote: Nic Cudd 38%, Rynard Landman 25%, Richie Rees 14%, Lewis Evans 12% Angus O’Brien 11%