European Challenge Cup: Dragons boss Filo Tiatia dedicates semi-final spot to Gwent and Wales

Tiatia’s side had gone into the quarter-final fixture confident after the impressive last-16 victory over Stade Francais in Paris.

“In the first half we conceded too many penalties and with the two yellow cards we were under the pump and kept Zebre in the game,” added Tiatia.

“It was our lack of discipline and easy turnovers and we wanted to limit both of those in the second half. We needed to make some changes around our mentality and possession.”

Having conceded those two yellow cards in the first half – for backs David Richards and Inisi – Dragons went in at half-time with the game tied at 17-17.

After the break Tiatia’s side were the more clinical side to secure a second away win of the season.

“We came away with some points at the start of the second half and got our noses in front,” said the 54-year-old coach.

“We tried to stay in front for the last 10 minutes and they fought hard. They are a proud nation and a tough bunch here.

“There are things we need to tidy up, how we stay on mentally, but it is about who wins the game and we held on.”

Dragons chief executive Rhys Blumberg added on social media: “This group is special and deserve nothing less. We are really proud.”