Speedster Jared Rosser aims to hit top gear for Dragons

The Rodney Parade region haven't played since the loss to the Ospreys on January 9 and their next fixture is against Connacht on Friday, February 5 (kick-off 7.35pm).

That game is the first of a seven-game streak to the end of the PRO14 campaign with Edinburgh in Newport then followed by clashes with the Dragons' Conference A rivals Leinster (home), Zebre (away), Ospreys (away), Ulster (home) and Glasgow (home).

Dean Ryan's men have been hindered by coronavirus postponements so far in 2020/21 while Rosser has also suffered from injuries.

The 23-year-old from Abersychan played against Ulster in October, had a three-game streak against Glasgow, Wasps and Bordeaux-Begles but missed out against Cardiff Blues and the Scarlets after suffering a concussion in France.

09.01.21 - Dragons v Ospreys - Guinness PRO14 - Jared Rosser of Dragons scores a try in the corner.

"It has been a bit stop-start all season and, speaking to some of the boys, we just want to get a run of games going so we can build on our game," said the Wales sevens international, who returned with a try against the Ospreys.

"We've shown a lot of potential, but we know we've left a bit out on the pitch too.

"We've got seven games on the bounce coming up and the boys are champing at the bit to get into it. Hopefully we can build with each game and get some results.

"The boys were disappointed with the derby results, but looking at it from a whole there were a lot of positives.

"We're trying to bring some new things into our game and build on our foundations that have looked really strong. Building on them in the next few weeks is a big focus for the team."

The Dragons are up against it in their bid to qualify for next season's Champions Cup with the third-placed Ospreys having a 13-point lead, albeit having play two games more.

Ryan's men need a strong end to the PRO14 and Rosser hopes playing five games of seven in Newport can help them reel in their rivals from the west.

"Home advantage is a big deal - although it is different this year with no fans," said the winger, who made his 50th Dragons appearance against Glasgow in December.

"Having a crowd makes a hell of a difference, especially on a Friday or Saturday night whenever we are playing.

"But it is still a big advantage having so many fixtures at home in familiar surroundings, so we can hopefully try and finish the season as strong as possible.

"We just want to keep building. The foundation of our game has come on leaps and bounds. We just need to build from there now over the rest of the season.

"The boys are really looking forward to getting back playing. We all just want to get stuck into the games now and hopefully put in some strong performances."