FORGET Judgement Day, it's more like Groundhog Day for Newport Gwent Dragons ahead of this weekend's Millennium Stadium double-header.

Just like last year Dragons fans will head to the capital with a feeling of dread rather than optimism.

Many would settle for not being completely humbled by their playoff-chasing rivals – the Ospreys in 2014 after the Scarlets in 2013 – let alone getting a win to halt the slide.

The manner of last weekend's 45-27 defeat to Treviso did little to allay fears of the Dragons failing to add to their tally of six victories. That is the same as they managed last season and would condemn them to another 11th-placed finish.

Of course it will soon be time for season ticket renewals and the Dragons fans will be told that next season will be better. The punters are always being fobbed off: 'hey, we know it's not been great but we'll reap the benefits next year when we have a few more seasoned campaigners'.

"What I am looking to do is add a core of experienced players that will feature prominently but also help in the development of the next generation," said the Dragons boss.

"We need some battle-hardened players to go along with the young players. Their signings will not be to the detriment of them.

"I think that a lot of boxes have been ticked this season in terms of exposing some young talent to regional rugby.

"That exposure is good but now we need to develop them to the next level and experienced players will be vital to that."

Those words weren't spoken by director of Lyn Jones; they came from the mouth of his predecessor Darren Edwards in May 2012.

The following season was a shocker and this one has only been marginally better.

After stepping through the door in June it would be harsh to judge Jones on the current campaign, and his (necessary) rebuilding job has no doubt played a part in the wheels coming off.

Plenty of players have already been told that their services will no longer be required while many of those who are contracted for next season have termination offers on the table.

But if history repeats itself in 2015 then it really will be Judgement Day for the Dragons and Lyn Jones.