FLANKER Ollie Griffiths says bragging rights will give an extra edge to tomorrow's Anglo-Welsh Cup clash with the Scarlets as Newport Gwent Dragons attempt to end a nine-game derby losing streak, writes Chris Kirwan.

The Dragons are hunting their first win against Welsh rivals since beating Cardiff Blues in the last eight of the European Rugby Challenge Cup in April, 2015

They have lost their last nine derbies tussles and haven't turned over the Scarlets since September, 2013, so the fixture in the development competition takes on extra importance.

"Whenever you play against a Welsh team, whether it's Scarlets, Ospreys or Cardiff Blues, there is an extra edge and it is still a massive game," said the 21-year-old from Newbridge.

"We are at home and have to back up our win against Connacht and build into another game against Edinburgh in the Guinness Pro12, because we are looking to make Rodney Parade a tough place to come.

"We came close at the Scarlets earlier in the season (taking a pair of bonus points from a 31-27 loss), so we are looking to put that right because it was a frustrating game."

Griffiths returns to the back row for the Scarlets after being one of the leading figures rested for last week's 42-3 hammering in the tournament opener in Leicester.

The flanker led from the front with a magnificent defensive display in the 21-16 win over champions Connacht and wants to string together a run of games after being hindered by a shoulder problem suffered at Ulster on opening weekend.

"Connacht was tough, it was my first full 80 in a long time and there were a lot of bruised bodies," he said.

"I'm trying to get a run of games and to battle through now. I am feeling good and will hopefully play well against the Scarlets and put a few games together in the Pro12."