There is bound to be a big crowd for the opening shots of the season when the Ospreys come calling for the first Welsh derby of the 2024-2125 campaign. The reigning Welsh Shield champions have already beaten Exeter Chiefs in their pre-season build-up and will be aiming for a flying start.
After the Ospreys, Dai Flanagan’s side will host the Sharks, Lions and Benetton Rugby at Rondey Parade before ethe end of October.
“Out sole focus is on getting a good start to the season and it’s a great chance to make a statement early on. You really can’t ask for anything more than getting to play in front of your own fans on Day 1 of the new season,” said Flanagan
“Rodney Parade is a fantastic place to play and our supporters stick with us come rain or shine They’ve have been through a lot with us, and they are awesome.
“Every team we play in this league is littered with internationals, so there are no easy games. It’s tough week in, week out, home or away.”
The Dragons have already faced Hartpury, Bristol Bears and Bath in pre-season and should be well prepared for the big kick-off. Flanagan also has some new signings to use after a solid summer of recruitment.
Tongan back row man Solomone Funaki has joined from Super Rugby side Moana Pasifika, Waratahs centre Harry Wilson has arrived from Australia and giant lock Steve Cummins has crossed The Channel from Top 14 side Pau.
Closer to home, Wales back row star Shane Lewis-Hughes has made the switch from Cardiff, former Wales U20 hooker Oli Burrows has returned home from Exeter Chiefs and outside half Lloyd Evans has come in from Gloucester.
“The new players have come in and they have been good. They’ve added some high-performance behaviours to our group as well as a lot of experience,” said Flanagan.
We’ve had Super Rugby, Top 14 and English Premiership players come in to add to the environment, so it has been great to see. They’ve all settled in well.
“A few have got a couple of niggles, but they are all keen to get out there and perform at Rodney Parade. We can’t wait to see them in our shirt.
“We made a big point about using our pre-season to develop our athletes. Our recruitment needed to bring in bigger athletes to allow our game to be a little different and to allow us to play to the majority our strengths.
“As in any boxing match, we understand that for the first six rounds we need to compete and match the collisions. That is what we are focussed on.”
