NEWPORT Gwent Dragons director of rugby Lyn Jones says their glorious night at Stade Francais gives them the belief to build on their dream Challenge Cup start with another big Top 14 scalp.

The Dragons, semi-finalists last season, started their European campaign with a 30-12 victory against Sale at Rodney Parade.

They earnt a five-point haul thanks to first half tries by flanker Ollie Griffiths, lock Rynard Landman and centre Adam Hughes plus replacement lock Matthew Screech's effort in the closing stages.

They now travel to Castres, whose game against Pau was postponed because of events in Paris, looking to repeat a stunning success in France.

Last season they did the double over a Stade Francais side who went on to win the Top 14 and if they can leave the Stade Pierre Antoine with something to show for their efforts then they will be in good shape in what promises to be a tight pool.

"There are four really strong teams in this group and we travel to Castres appreciating that if you want to do anything in this competition then you have to go to France and win a game of rugby," said Jones.

"We've got two opportunities and after starting with a bonus point win it's important that we go to Castres and get something from our journey.

"It's a massive challenge but winning out in Stade Francais last year and scoring four tries gives us confidence and understanding that we can do it.

"We have nothing to lose and we need to drag them into a game of rugby and play to our strengths."

The Dragons head to France with a spring in their step thanks to an excellent display against the Sharks.

Jones' side have struggled to cross the whitewash in the Guinness Pro12 and have managed just two tries in their three Newport fixtures so far but they showed a cutting edge in Europe.

"We played very well against Ulster last week without scoring a try but today was another step, we made sure we finished the opportunities that we created," said Jones.

"We were positive and I am really pleased for the players because we have been developing and growing for a few weeks.

"We got the mix of our game right, we played with tempo, speed and accuracy."