Centre Tyler Morgan is looking to build momentum – both as a team and on an individual level this season.
Morgan, who has made 78 appearances for Dragons over seven seasons, acknowledges that Dragons made an impressive start to their last home league game before falling away against Connacht.
The team are back at Rodney Parade on Saturday when they face last year’s Guinness PRO14 runners-up Glasgow Warriors (kick-off 3pm).
And for Morgan it is vital that Dragons not only look to keep momentum but also understand when they need to dig deep and stay tight under pressure.
“It’s about momentum. We had a good first 15 or 20 minutes against Connacht, but then we lost our handle on the game,” said Morgan.
“We need to stick together and know that there are going to be peaks and troughs in the game.
“We have got to ride that it and not get flustered by it. Bring back the momentum to our side and execute for points when we are in their 22.
“Hopefully it will stay dry this weekend and I’m sure both sides will be looking to put on a show and play positive and fast rugby. It will be a good one to watch,” he added.
“They are tough. They look to play from anywhere, as you’ve seen on TV, and they are physical.
“They are not afraid to run from their own 22 so they are difficult to defend. They have got a good bit of momentum over the last few years and have a good reputation, so it is going to be a difficult game.”
Morgan admits he has enjoyed the new regime under Dean Ryan and believes the team can now move forward with a clear vision and direction.
“I like working with him. He has brought a good culture to the team, has a good rugby brain and is having a good influence here,” he said.
“I feel like there has been a massive change in culture. With him being on the Board too, there is a lot more control so things can move in the right direction and we can steer the ship the right way.”
And on a personal note, Morgan admits game time and putting in performances is now crucial. “I feel fit and healthy - now it is about game time,” he said.
“Lyn (Jones) was my original coach and he told me I would never be good until I played 50 games!
“It’s all about momentum, playing and confidence building, which I need to do this year. It’s about putting in performances and not just being out on the field.
“I know my role and what I need to do. That clarity hasn’t been there before, but now we all have roles and jobs. “It would be nice to have a roof over Rodney Parade,” he laughed.
"But certainly the game we are looking to play suits me, with fast attacking rugby and high possession. “If we can get do that, and execute it well, then hopefully it will suit me and look good on the big stage.”
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He has brought a good culture to the team, has a good rugby brain and is having a good influence here...
