The first half way dominated by the boot whilst the second came to life in a thrilling game of running rugby and Darren Edwards’ side hung on at the death to claim the victory over second-placed Ospreys.
Ospreys fly-half Matthew Morgan missed with an early penalty attempt, but his opposite number Jason Tovey kicked the hosts ahead with his first shot at goal.
Wales second-row Ian Evans was the first of three first-half yellow cards and in his absence the Dragons went further ahead courtesy of a second Tovey penalty.
Morgan then kicked six unanswered points to level the scores.
Dragons wing Tonderai Chavhanga and Ospreys flanker Tom Smith both found themselves in the sin-bin before the end of the first period but it was the Dragons who had the last say with a third Tovey penalty.
Morgan again levelled things five minutes into the second half but the hosts responded in style crossing for the game’s first try.
Full-back Martyn Thomas rounded off a flowing move to touch down, and his score was quickly followed by an interception score from replacement Lewis Robling.
Two more penalties from Ospreys, the second from Dan Biggar narrowed the deficit for the visitors.
The introduction of Tommy Bowe had the desired effect for the Ospreys, with the Irish winger touching down moment s after his introduction to bring the scores to within a point.
Biggar was off target with the conversion and then saw a late drop-goal strike the posts as the Dragons held on for an impressive victory.
