NEWPORT Gwent Dragons head coach Kingsley Jones believes a trip to Kingsholm is the perfect preparation for a daunting block of Guinness PRO12 fixtures.

The Dragons conclude their Anglo-Welsh Cup campaign with a fixture at Gloucester this afternoon (kick-off 3pm), returning to the scene of their last away triumph.

They took the spoils against the Cherry and Whites in the quarter-finals of the European Rugby Challenge Cup in April last year and could do with another upset.

The Dragons face a tricky February in the league that pits them against title contenders Munster (away), Leinster (home) and Glasgow (away) along with a visit to champions Connacht.

“There’s no better place to prepare for Munster away than Gloucester away,” said the head coach, a former captain of the Cherry and Whites.

“It’s a tough environment and we know that they are a tough side with a little bit of angst after their defeat in our European game.

“They will want to prove a point and that’s a challenge for us as well, but Kingsholm is a great place to go and play rugby and we have to go there and enjoy it.

“Let’s hope we get the Shed chanting "Dragons" again because it was a fantastic and memorable day.”

Jones has named an experienced side for the trip to his old stomping ground with just two players - lock Ashley Sweet and back row forward Robson Blake - being regional novices.

The head coach has called on his players to grasp their opportunity to stake a claim for a starting spot in Cork next Friday.

“We go into it with individuals having the opportunity to put their hands up,” said Jones. “If we win then collectively they will have more chance to start again next week or the week after.

“Gloucester will be a solid set piece team and have some real speed on the edge of the field.

“There are challenges all over the park and the biggest thing that we need to improve is our physicality at the scrum and maul.

“It’s the same challenge against French and English teams. We can’t afford to be put in the corner.”

The Dragons' home defeat to Newcastle last Sunday ended their hopes of pipping Saracens to Pool One top spot and claiming a place in the semi-finals.

It isn't a dead rubber for their hosts as Gloucester can overtake Leicester if they enjoy a bonus-point win and the Tigers endure a pointless trip to Sarries tomorrow afternoon.