The Rugby Paper

Blackett: Players had option to pull out

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WASPS’ director of dugby Lee Blackett questioned EPCR’s approach to the Covid situation in the Dragons’ camp.

He said: “EPCR were aware of the situation last night but I find it a bit strange and I’m disappoint­ed that they only informed us at 2pm today when we were travelling down.

“We discussed the matter with our medical advisers and each of the players was given the option to withdraw but despite the distractio­n, all were happy to play.

“You should never underestim­ate an away win in Europe as it’s a results business but it was a disjointed performanc­e from us.

“Our attack showed glimpses but we kept coming up with errors.

Dragons are a tough side to play against and the game was still in the balance with 15 minutes to go.”

Wasps’ skipper, Joe Launchbury, agreed.

He said: “We knew Dragons’ position as it was exactly the same as ours a few weeks ago and it didn’t appear to unsettle them.

“Our scrum was really strong as we’ve got some talented props.

“The scrum has really improved since the middle of last season but parts of our game didn’t get going including the lineout and breakdown area.”

Dragons boss Dean Ryan said: “I’m always proud of the Dragons. What we’re trying to do in this environmen­t is keep adding to our lessons and I think we had a moment, maybe two, where we could have won the game.”

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