Flanagan leaves Dragons by 'mutual agreement'

Dragons have parted company with head coach Dai Flanagan by mutual agreement with assistant Filo Tiatia taking over on an interim basis.

The Newport-based region said the departure was with immediate effect.

Dragons added: "The decision has been mutually agreed by all parties following extensive discussions regarding the club’s performance and future direction."

Flanagan, 39, leaves with Dragons the lowest-placed of Wales United Rugby Championship (URC) teams - they are 15th with only Zebre below them having won once and lost six times this season.

In a statement Dragons said: "We thank Dai for his contribution, professionalism, and dedication to Dragons RFC throughout his time at the club and wish him and his family well for the future."

Tiatia will be "supported by the current coaching staff".

Flanagan left his role as Scarlets backs coach to become Dragons head coach in June 2022 while Dean Ryan was director of rugby.

During Ryan's protracted departure that was finalised in January 2023, Flanagan took charge and he remained the team boss until his own exit.

Despite continued expressions of optimism that Dragons would become more competitive and occasional wins to savour, they remained the least successful of the four professional sides.

More to follow.