Dean Ryan is expecting a full-blooded derby - despite the distractions of Covid-19 - as his side prepare to take on Cardiff Blues at Rodney Parade on Boxing Day (kick-off 3pm).
Dragons will go onto the game looking to avenge defeat to Saturday’s opponents from Boxing Day last season.
And Director of Dragons Rugby Ryan is predicting a fully committed and physical encounter – even without the crowds roaring both teams on.
“I don’t expect the game to change that much, but obviously it’s without the emotion of supporters in there,” he said.
“These rivalries have gone on for however many years and I expect that to be exactly the same.
“It will be a fully committed and physical event, even though we sadly haven’t got the added impact of crowds around us.
“With the back-drop of what it happening (Covid-19), let’s not get too caught up with anything, let’s just enjoy a full-blooded derby.
“I think if anybody has been consistent during this period then they got a magic formula,” he added.
“I certainly don’t know how to (remain consistent) when it so stop, start.
“I don’t think consistency can be something that is challenged to anybody, I’m just looking for a great derby. Let’s get back and enjoy playing with everything that goes with it.”
Dragons will be welcoming back a number of players who have missed their European exploits due to isolation.
The Men of Gwent were forced into eight changes to their matchday squad just 24 hours before kick-off in the Heineken Champions Cup opener against Wasps.
Aaron Wainwright, Harrison Keddie, Ashton Hewitt, Matthew Screech and Leon Brown could all be welcomed back into fold.
However, Ryan admits it has been a challenge to re-integrate those players, especially those who have been away with Wales in recent months.
“Integrating them back is an enormous challenge and for each individual it will be different as well,” he said.
“A number of the Welsh boys weren’t here then were not involved because of isolation and everything else. We are talking nearly three months (since playing for Dragons).
“Some of them haven’t even played very much, so it’s a huge challenge, one for their own form and continuity and everything else that comes with it.”
It will be a fully committed and physical event, even though we sadly haven’t got the added impact of crowds around us...
