Head Coach Dai Flanagan admitted the first block of the BKT United Rugby Championship season had been one of frustration and missed opportunity after defeat to Connacht in Galway.
The Men of Gwent lost 31-7 at the Dexcom Stadium on an evening when a slow start and failure to turn territory and possession into points in the second half proved costly.
“It was a frustrating game for us,” said Flanagan. “The fundamentals of the game have let us down at times and a slow start in the first half.
“We’ve missed opportunities and three shots in the 22 in the first half to score and get points on the board.
“Our kicking game was exceptional to get us plenty of territory, but we have not taken advantage, particularly in the second half when we have had lots of possession and time in the Connacht 22.
“We’ve competed in games throughout this block, been a point here or there off getting more.
“We have got to be frustrated that we have not taken more from it and we have got to learn to take opportunities.
“The message now to the players is to regroup and reset,” he added.
“We have a chance to freshen up the group with some players coming back for this next block.
“The next block is the Welsh derbies and Europe, it’s the highlight of the season for many, so we have got to ensure we make it count and get both performances and results.”
We have got to be frustrated that we have not taken more from it and we have got to learn to take opportunities...
