ED Jackson believes that the way Newport Gwent Dragons rallied when their backs were against the wall in Connacht bodes well for a strong season.

The Dragons failed to get their Guinness Pro12 campaign off to a winning start after being downed 29-23 in Galway but they did fight back after a nightmare start.

The men from Rodney Parade trailed 14-3 at the break but came storming back and a smash-and-grab looked on the cards when James Thomas’ try cut the gap to 22-20 with five minutes left.

A first win in Galway since 2004 wasn’t to be – and it took a booming Tom Prydie penalty with the last kick to earn a bonus point after a breakaway try by the hosts – but number eight Jackson liked what he saw at the Sportsground.

“It was very promising,” said summer arrival from Wasps. “We’ve got some great leaders in this squad and to be that far behind away to a tough team like Connacht and come away with something shows the character of the boys.

“We’re gutted, because you never want to come out of close games on the wrong end of the score, but it will stand us in good stead.

“I’m told that the performance in first game in Connacht last year was a lot different to this one so if we can build on what we did against a strong side then we should have a good season.

“We’ve got a few new players in key positions that will take a little bit of time to gel but we are getting better and better every week as we get used to each other.

“Our attacking play can be very good and we showed glimpses of that against Connacht.”

The expectation will be that they show plenty of flair on Friday against a Zebre side that shipped 11 tries to Cardiff Blues on opening weekend.

“It will be good to get back to Rodney Parade,” said Jackson. “The Connacht supporters made a big difference, it’s not the biggest ground but they are very passionate.

“The Dragons fans are just the same, so hopefully we will do a job for them on Friday.”