Two-try hero Jonah Holmes was pleased that Dragons proved a point as they held off a late comeback from Scarlets to open the Guinness PRO14 Rainbow Cup with an emphatic bonus point win.
Holmes grabbed a brace and Aaron Wainwright (2), Jordan Williams, Aneurin Owen and Rio Dyer also crossed the whitewash in an entertaining 52-32 Round One win.
And Dragons also held off a late Scarlets charge to the delight of man-of-the-match Holmes.
“It was tiring and a first game in the sun, but a good start in the Rainbow Cup for us,” he smiled.
“We had a bit of a point to prove after the last game (with Northampton) and it’s important to get the win. We’re looking forward to the next game now.
“We made it hard for ourselves again late on, but we pulled through. It has been coming for us and we finally did it.
His thoughts were echoed by captain Rhodri Williams who added: “I felt it was a good performance.
“There is still plenty to work on and there were thoughts of Northampton and letting them back in.
“But the boys turned that momentum around and got some scores towards the end.
“Derby games are special and to get a result like that, the boys are chuffed.
“It would have been a lot nicer if Rodney Parade was full, but we will enjoy that one.”