THE Dragons have begun the search for a new head coach following the firing of Bernard Jackman, writes Iwan Gabe Davies.

Former Ireland hooker Jackman arrived at Rodney Parade in 2017 but has overseen just three wins from 10 outings in the PRO 14 this season and the Newport-based region have won just one of their three European Challenge Cup games.

Forwards coach Ceri Jones will take control on an interim basis ahead of the weekend Challenge Cup match against Clermont Auvergne in France.

Dragons chairman David Buttress said: “I would like to place on record our gratitude to Bernard Jackman for his dedication and hard work in his role as head coach.

“Although this has been a difficult decision, we believe it provides us with the best opportunity to create future success on the pitch.”

Jackman, who was just 18 months into a three-year deal, said: “I would like to thank the WRU and the board for the opportunity at the Dragons and I believe that there is a bright future for the region.”

The 42-year-old former Grenoble coach’s tenure returned just 11 wins in 44 competitive games and was notable for several big defeats at the hands of the Irish provinces and in European competition.

His first campaign in charge produced a paltry two PRO14 victories, but Jackman maintained it was all about getting things in place for the 2018-19 term.

A number of summer signings followed, including Wales internationals Ross Moriarty, Richard Hibbard, Ryan Bevington, Aaron Jarvis and Rhodri Williams.

But things didn’t improve and the fans’ dissatisfaction only grew. One man linked to the job is Wales’ 2005 Grand Slam coach Mike Ruddock who was the architect of the Dragons’ best season in their inaugural regional rugby campaign.