The Cheetahs let a 10-point lead slip as they suffered a disappointing 13-10 defeat by the Dragons in South Wales on Saturday.

In cold, wet-weather conditions, this match was difficult to watch. In fact, one particularly had to feel sorry for the fans in the stands who braved the inclement weather, only to watch such an unappealing error-riddled encounter.

Early on, it looked as if the Cheetahs would seize control after they opened up a 10-0 lead following a try by Junior Pokomela, but they were unable to capitalise on this.

The Dragons gradually worked their way back into the match, with Jared Rosser scoring midway through the second half, while eventually it looked as if both teams would have to settle for a 10-10 draw.

The hosts had to kick a penalty to win the match after regulation time and although that attempt drifted wide, the Cheetahs opted to try to run the ball back.

It turned out to be a massive mistake, as they would concede another penalty from a far easier kicking position, with Dragons flyhalf Sam Davies making no mistake at the second time of asking.

It’s a result that leaves the Cheetahs in fourth place in Conference A, with the team next in action on 21 March.

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