CROSS Keys flanker Scott Matthews has pledged to keep knocking on the door at Newport Gwent Dragons after being named as Principality Premiership player of the year.

The 21-year-old openside has been a star performer at Pandy Park in recent seasons but has found himself behind Nic Cudd, James Benjamin and Ollie Griffiths in the regional pecking order.

But Matthews, who played a trial game for Worcester in March, hasn’t given up hope of forcing his way in and hopes that another year leading the charge for Keys will help his cause.

“I want to keep pushing on to bigger and better things but that’d be a bonus for me because I just want to keep enjoying playing rugby,” said the flanker, who played three times for the Dragons last season.

“I’ll put my head down and keep working hard and hopefully somewhere down the line I will get my chance.

“What helps is that me, Ollie and James came through the system together and have challenged each other,” he continued.

“We are battling against each other but also learn off each other. You see the 10s, 9s, props and hookers and they all seem to argue but we are all good friends.”

Jason Strange was named as coach of the year after leading Ebbw Vale to second place in the table on their return to the top flight.

“This isn’t an individual award, it’s more about the position of the club on and off the field,” he said.

“A lot of hard work has gone in over the last five years and I am delighted for everyone involved at the club. We are heading in the right direction and have a lot of good people involved.”

The Steelmen lost to Pontypridd in the play-off final at Sardis Road but the former fly-half believes that his charges have what it takes to go one better next term.

“Internally our target was always the top three and the players rose to that challenge and have been outstanding,” said Strange.

“They can take a lot of confidence from our performance against Pontypridd and have already spoken about the challenges ahead. The group has gained a lot from playing in a big match atmosphere and intensity.”

Principality Premiership awards winners: Jason Strange (Ebbw Vale) – coach of the year, Scott Matthews (Cross Keys) – player of the year, Tomos Williams (Pontypridd) – best newcomer, Ron Taylor (Ebbw Vale) – clubman of the year, Richard Powell (Bedwas) – top points scorer, Tom O’Flaherty (Bridgend) – top try scorer, Kyle Evans (Llanelli) – try of the season, Craig Evans – referee of the year, Pontypridd – fair play award.