Jason Smith opened the Dragons' account with a try just five minutes into the game, Corey Millgate converted and Josh Henry followed up with his first of four tries five minutes later.

Daniel Jones put first points on the board for the Shamrocks at the 17-minute mark and added to the score five minutes later, but tries to Keith Hollis, Josh Henry self converted and Phillip Jones took the Flat well ahead, with the half-time score 24-8.

There was no relief for the Shamrocks in the second half, again having plenty of opportunities but unable to get the ball down across the line.

Mat Bell, who put in a creditable performance in his 100th game, was held up over the line to deny him the satisfaction of scoring in this momentous milestone game for him.

Long Flat added another 22 points with tries to James Arden, Keith Hollis, Josh Henry's other two, which included a length of the field runaway with Kyle Kirkman in hot pursuit, and two virtually impossible conversions in the worst conditions seen at beautiful Beechwood in a long time.

Corey Millgate converted Keith Hollis's second try of the game and the final score was 46-8.

Referees points were awarded to Josh Henry, Keith Hollis and Mathew Bell. Best for Beechwood were Daniel Jones, Kurt Nicholson and Stan Chatfield, with Daniel Jones taking the players' player points as well.

Many stayed on after the game to enjoy the sausage sizzle, presentation of the Shield to victorious Dragons by Paul Roods and entertainment thanks to the very talented Cheryl Hall.

Beechwood heads to Kendall next Saturday to take on the competition leading Blues, which will be another tough encounter for this side whose players continue to play out the full 80 minutes each game.