NEWPORT Gwent Dragons had a mixed February going from the high of a stunning win at Leinster to the low of another home loss to Connacht.

The month started with a pair of LV= Cup encounters, Exeter surviving a spirited Dragons charge to win 37-32 before the region spluttered to a 17-13 victory against London Welsh.

The Dragons returned to the Guinness Pro12 with a bang by enjoying a first ever win in Dublin but that momentum was lost when Rynard Landman saw red against Connacht, who took the spoils at Rodney Parade despite a gutsy display by Lyn Jones’ men.

The candidates for their star performer in February...

RHYS THOMAS: The former Wales hooker has enjoyed a great battle with Elliot Dee for the number 2 jersey and has maintained his super form in the absence of the injured young prospect. Was voted by the Dragons players as their man of the match in Dublin.

BROK HARRIS: The South African tighthead has helped lay a solid foundation up front and has impressed with his work rate around the park.

ANDREW COOMBS: The lock has continued his excellent form, developing a fruitful partnership with Landman until the Connacht game. When the South African was dismissed his lock partner stepped up with an energetic display.

JASON TOVEY: Came off the bench to steady the ship against London Welsh and then was a key figure in Dublin with his kicking game.

BORIS STANKOVICH: Returned from injury with a cameo against London Welsh and then was to the fore against the two Irish provinces with his strong scrummaging and leadership. Put in a mammoth shift against Connacht.

September vote: NIC CUDD 63%, Rynard Landman 24%, Elliot Dee 8%, Hallam Amos 3%, Taulupe Faletau 2%
October vote: NIC CUDD 38%, Rynard Landman 25%, Richie Rees 14%, Lewis Evans 12% Angus O’Brien 11%
November: JAMES THOMAS 43%, Lewis Evans 41%, Rhys Jones 8%, Cory Hill 7%, Ross Wardle 1%
December: JASON TOVEY 44%, Rynard Landman 35%, James Thomas 12%, Andrew Coombs 5%, Ross Wardle 4%
January: RYNARD LANDMAN: 64%, Tyler Morgan 22%, Andrew Coombs 6%, Hallam Amos 6%, Brok Harris 2%