The Dragons have been formidable at home so far this season, their latest Rodney Parade victory a comfortable defeat of Zebre. Now, with another Italian side on the horizon, Jones will be hoping the Dragons can keep their winning streak intact and get their European campaign off to a winning start.
With rotation the name of the game, the Dragons change both half backs with Kris Burton and Jonathan Evans coming in for Jason Tovey and Richie Rees.
Hallam Amos, man of the match against Zebre, moves from wing to full back, a position he filled so expertly with Wales Under 20 in last summer’s Junior World Championship. Tom Prydie and Will Harries complete the back three with Adam Hughes and Ross Wardle in the centre.
At lock, it’s a case of youth and experience with veteran Rob Sidoli leading the side alongside young gun Matthew Screech.
“From the first pre-season game against Bath I wanted to take the opportunity that Lyn and Kingsley gave me,” said Screech.
“I have been lucky enough to get a couple of starts in the Rabo and now this will be my first time playing a European competition so it’s something I am really looking forward to.
“I just try and play to the best of my ability. I will concentrate on my game and make sure I do everything correctly and add anything I can to the game.
“I am going to take my chance and play well and hopefully I will be playing in our next Amlin fixture.”
While Mogliano is the immediate priority, next week’s encounter with Bath is already whetting the appetite of the Men of Gwent.
“It’s going to be a tough challenge playing away from home in Bath,” Screech added.
“They are going to want to try and prove us wrong as we beat them in our pre-season friendly. But if we go up there with the same confidence and attitude, then we will get the win again.”
While the likes of Screech get a start on Friday night, there is still plenty of experience with British and Irish lion Toby Faletau at No. 8. He is joined by Ieuan Jones and Nic Cudd in the back row.
