Lyn Jones warns Dragons to up their game in Edinburgh after 'unacceptable' derby display

The Dragons go into the game on the back of a shocking performance in defeat to the Scarlets, their fourth loss in five games.

At the start of the season the region had high hopes of pushing for a top-half finish in the Pro12 and avoiding their usual tag as Wales' worst region.

However, if they fail to win in Scotland this afternoon then they could end the first block of Pro12 action with just the two Italian teams beneath them.

The Dragons haven't fired all season but last week's error-strewn display in a derby stinker at Parc y Scarlets was a new low.

"It wasn't a great advert for Welsh rugby and it wasn't a standard of rugby that I want to be associated with," said Jones.

"There's been a lot of hard work to put things right because last week was totally unacceptable.

"It was heart-breaking to go back to square one after making progress under difficult circumstances.

"We have had strong discussions about what is required to become a professional rugby player and be involved with Newport Gwent Dragons in the future.

"That standard of rugby (against the Scarlets) is simply not acceptable. We are trying to change perceptions and that was a real step backwards.

"There's no harm in losing – you can't win every game – but some individuals were carefree in their responsibilities."

The Dragons coaching team feared that their side would make a slow start to the campaign after making dramatic changes to their roster over the summer.

But Jones is pleased with the way that new signings, especially Rynard Landman, Boris Stankovich and Lloyd Fairbrother in the tight five, have settled in.

"I am delighted with the signings that we've made," he said. "They've performed very well and have really added a lot to us in various aspects. Other people need to deliver now."

Edinburgh have also had their problems this season and boss Alan Solomons is feeling the heat after a run of one win in their last 10 games.