Captain Rhodri Williams wants Dragons to continue their journey forward this season in the Guinness PRO14.
Dragons, under the guidance of Director of Dragons Rugby, have enjoyed a period of positive progress over the 18 months in both the league and European competition.
Last season saw a number of scalps claimed in the Guinness PRO14 – including Scarlets and Ospreys in the regional derby fixtures.
Dragons also secured a place in the Heineken Champions Cup for the first time in a decade.
The new 20/21 campaign launches this evening (Friday) as Dragons face a difficult clash first up against champions Leinster Rugby in Dublin (kick-off 8.15pm).
But for scrum half Williams the game represents another step forward as Ryan’s men look to keep learning and developing.
“We’ve got to keep moving on this journey,” said Williams. “We are on a journey that is going to take a few years, we are not hiding away from that, but we need to step up now as a playing group.
“It is very strange times, but we can only control what we can control and we will concentrate on the on-field stuff. “We want to build on last year, make sure it is not just a one-off and keep building.
“Yes, we have a positive year last year, but that will soon be forgotten if we have a poor season.
“It’s the first game this week and we are all excited to get going.”
Leinster are unbeaten in 17 league games – a record that saw them claim a third successive Guinness PRO14 title.
Leo Cullen’s men conquered all before them in the Championship last season but came up short in Europe against Saracens, a result that will still be fresh in their mind when Dragons visit.
However, Williams refuses to be daunted and instead is eager for the team test themselves against the best in a season that will see them sit at the top tier of European competition.
“Playing Leinster first game of the season means they are going to be a wounded beast after their defeat, but we have to go there at some point and we are looking forward to the challenge,” he said.
“It’s an ideal game to test ourselves against the best. This season we are in the Champions Cup, playing these top sides, so why not go there first game of the season and challenge ourselves.
“Leinster’s record speaks for itself. They have quality across the board and they are obviously a top side.
“If we can get anywhere near that quality we are going in the right direction. It will be a big challenge come Friday.”
We’ve got to keep moving on this journey... we need to step up now as a playing group...
