Head Coach Filo Tiatia has called on his Dragons to ‘build on what has started’ as they prepare for the Boxing Day showdown with rivals Cardiff Rugby in the capital.
The Men of Gwent make the trip to Cardiff Arms Park buoyed by back-to-back victories in Europe and BKT United Rugby Championship.
Tiatia admits there has been a positive atmosphere in camp this week following the convincing 48-28 victory over Connacht last time out.
But he has warned his players that now is the time to stop reflecting and look forward and keep building as they look to end a poor record against their local rivals.
“We’re under no illusions over the challenge in front of us and I understand we haven’t beaten Cardiff in a little while,” said Tiatia.
“It’s a special place to play at the Arms Park and it’s an opportunity for us to put our game in place.
“It’s a big occasion, we’re clear on how we want to play and now we need to build on what has started these last few weeks.
“It’ll be tough away from home and Cardiff are a good side. I watched the game with Scarlets where they had a lot of set piece launches but they didn’t quite execute.
“I’m sure they will be focussed to respond to that and look to exploit any shortcomings they feel we have. We’ll look to do the same.”
Meanwhile, Tiatia has revealed mixed fitness news ahead of derby clash and team announcement on Wednesday (December 24).
He said: “Oli (Burrows) won’t be involved as he goes through the return to play protocols and Jared (Rosser) picked up an injury so will be out for a period. We’ll know shortly for how long.
“Waino is back in the mix along with a few other players. Seb Davies trained this week after being out for a spell and Wyn Jones is also back training.”
It’s a big occasion, we’re clear on how we want to play and now we need to build on what has started these last few weeks...
