WING Pat Howard says Newport Gwent Dragons won't waste time wallowing about their derby defeat in Cardiff, declaring that they can feed off the raucous Rodney Parade support to start 2017 with a bang against the Ospreys.

The Dragons will hunt their first Guinness Pro12 derby success in over two years when they welcome the west Walians to Newport on Sunday.

They head into the game on the back of a frustrating 27-16 loss to Cardiff Blues in the capital when they failed to repeat the form that they have shown on home soil.

The Dragons have won five on the spin at Rodney Parade, a streak give Howard confidence of a morale-booster against the title-chasing Ospreys.

"There's no time to sit down and cry about anything. We've got to get back on it and be as positive as we can," said the 24-year-old South African.

"It's going to be a tough game against the Ospreys but we can do it and get some momentum in the New Year.

"At Rodney Parade the fans really get behind us and we can get a lot of energy from that. We really enjoy playing at home and gives everyone an extra lift and we tend to get everything right."

Howard has been a hit since signing from Northampton in the summer and is likely to resume his 'little and large' partnership with livewire wing Ashton Hewitt.

Hewitt, 22, crossed for his fifth try of the season at the Arms Park and the 5ft 11ins was a constant menace with his jinking while the more abrasive Howard, 6ft 2ins, has also scored five times and comes off his wing to great effect.

"It's a good combination to have because the opposition never really know how to defend you," said Howard, who played as an outside centre for the Stormers and Munster.

"Ashton is lightning quick and has amazing feet while I am a little bit more physical and like to take the straighter route. It's a nice mix to have in the game."

As a player who doesn't shy away from the rough stuff, clashes with Welsh rivals are right up Howard's alley.

"These derby games are always going to be close with a lot of grit and physicality," he said. "The guys want to prove something to the Welsh selectors so they are good games to be a part of."