Goodfield forced to retire

Newport Gwent Dragons hooker Duane Goodfield has been forced to retire after failing to recover from a shoulder injury.

Dragons hooker fails in bid to get back from injury

Newport Gwent Dragons hooker Duane Goodfield has been forced to retire after failing to recover from a shoulder injury. The 26-year-old, who also played for Pontypridd RFC and Cardiff Blues in his career, made eight appearances for the Dragons during the 2009/10 campaign before suffering the injury. He subsequently underwent two surgeries and 15 months of rehab but has been forced to call it a day on medical advice. The front rower's main focus will now be to enhance the skills of young people through sport and outdoor education.

Devastated

He told the Dragons official website: "I enjoyed my time at the Dragons and I am devastated to have the decision taken away from me. "I'm always used to being in control of challenging situations, but this has been very difficult to deal with. "I would like to thank those who helped during these times." Dragons director of rugby Robert Beale added: "It is always difficult when a player has to retire feeling that injury has prevented them from reaching their full potential. "Duane has worked very hard before and after his injury and we are all disappointed for him. We wish him the very best of luck in his future endeavours."