Dragons’ game against DHL Stormers on Saturday was always set to be a memorable occasion with flanker Dan Lydiate celebrating his 150th league appearance.
Meanwhile there was also a presentation for the career of Brok Harris who made more than 300 appearances for both teams combined.
Dragons trailed 29-12 with 10 minutes to go but a late flurry of tries from Stormers meant the home side won 48-12.
During the first half, your Men of Gwent struggled for possession, however the scoreline was only 7-0 after half an hour following a strong defensive effort from your Dragons.
"There’s no question with the boys that we’ll always fight,” said Carter. "There were large parts of that game where the dig-in and the fight was really impressive and no doubt we’ll be in there next week to give it our all.
“The physical aspect of the game is something we knew we’d have to get after and for large parts of the game I thought it was really good.”
Carter, who was returning after missing the game against Ospreys as he followed concussion protocols, “really enjoyed being back out there with the team” following a season which has been blighted by injuries.
Number Eight Aaron Wainwright, who scored Dragons’ first try, admitted Dragons had played into Stormers’ hands at times with loose balls giving the South African side counterattacking opportunities.
“Stormers are full of internationals and good athletes so we knew it was going to be a tough test,” said Wainwright.
“We need to work on some small details to keep us in the game as you saw today; penalties, dropped balls, missed tackles here and there that allow teams to creep into the game, and once they get the scoreboard ticking over like the Stormers did today it’s tough to come back from.”
Wainwright’s back-row teammate Dan Lydiate was forced off during the first half of his 150th URC game, with the flanker having announced that he will retire at the end of the season.
“I don’t know the extent of Dan’s injury,” said Wainwright, “but he’s been awesome for us.”
“He’s an unreal player and an even better bloke off the pitch, so good with the young guys, helping them with their craft, small details defensively and he’ll be the first and last one out on the tackle bags.
“He’ll also make sure everyone’s accountable for their little bits after training and he’s great to have around the group and hopefully he continues doing what he’s been doing.”
After the game, both sides came together to celebrate the career of prop Harris who made 143 appearances for Dragons along with 170 appearances for Stormers, during the course of a 400 plus game professional career.
Harris, who received a guard of honour while walking onto the pitch with his family pre-match, played with Wainwright during his time with Dragons.
“It was so nice for Brok to have the send-off he had today,” said Wainwright. “It was lovely to see him walk out with his family and be able to celebrate what a great career he’s had.
“So unfortunate he picked up that knee injury and wasn’t able to play against us today but what a great guy and what a career.
“I was lucky enough to share a lot of memories with him on and off the pitch but what a great character and I wish him all the best with whatever he does next.”
He’s an unreal player and an even better bloke off the pitch, so good with the young guys, helping them with their craft, small details defensively and he’ll be the first and last one out on the tackle bags.
