Gareth Widdop shines as St George Illawarra Dragons beat Gold Coast Titans

Titans 14 Dragons 19

St George Illawarra's NRL points drought is over and the Dragons have returned to the winner's circle in the process.

Led by English five-eighth Gareth Widdop, the Dragons picked up their third victory of the season with a 19-14 result over Gold Coast at Robina on Saturday.

Widdop scored a try, set up another and slotted a late field goal to star for the Dragons in the absence of injured halfback Benji Marshall.

Good day at the office: Josh Dugan. Photo: Getty Images

The Englishman's day was soured however when he was placed on report in the dying seconds for a high shot that left Titans' halfback Ash Taylor prone on the field.

The young gun received extensive attention from medical staff but eventually managed to walk off the field.

NSW State of Origin fullback Josh Dugan also starred for the visitors, picking up 197 running metres and completing several last gasp defensive manoeuvres including an ankle tap on David Mead when the Titans' flyer seemed sure to score.

Widdop put to bed any concerns over the Dragons being held scoreless for a third match when he reached out to plant the ball over the line in the eighth minute.

Agnatius Paasi's determined effort instantly levelled things for the Titans but further tries to former Gold Coast winger Kalifa Faifai Loa and utility forward Jack De Belin gave the Dragons an 18-6 lead.

The Titans battered the Dragons in the second half but only had Tyrone Roberts' 67th minute try to show for their efforts as well as a late penalty goal after the hit on Taylor by Widdop.

Titans' prop Ryan James was also placed on report in the opening half for a crusher tackle on Dugan.

AAP