THE Dragons have hit back at "inaccuracies" over the cancellation of a proposed pre-season fixture with RGC, stating that they gave the Premiership club plenty of advance warning.

The north Walians announced yesterday that the Rodney Parade club were no longer able to play a tune-up as planned in Llangefni on Saturday, August 27.

RGC, who are led by former Dragons coach Ceri Jones, said in a statement the professional club were now unable to raise a side to head to Anglesey.

The Dragons never listed the encounter on their first team schedule, which features friendlies against Bristol, Wasps and the Scarlets.

They state that the trip north was always planned to be a development fixture but that they told RGC on July 3 that it would no longer be possible to fit it in.

Dean Ryan's seniors kick off their pre-season against the Bears on Friday, August 26 when a large squad will be used while a number of up-and-coming players will prepare for the Premiership season with Newport and Ebbw Vale.

"Dragons RFC informed RGC on July 3 that we would be unable to fulfil a proposed fixture with them at the end of August," read a statement.

"This game was scheduled to be a development/academy fixture. The first team squad and senior academy members have a fixture with Bristol Bears at Rodney Parade that weekend.

"The game was arranged with the understanding we would require Premiership players to fulfil the fixture. However, the new season structure meant that this was not possible.

"We are disappointed to see some of the inaccuracies that have been reported over this cancelled fixture.

"We wish RGC every success for the season ahead and look forward to taking part in future development/academy fixtures with them in north Wales."

Ebbw Vale play a pre-season friendly at Cross Keys on Thursday, August 25 ahead of the derby opener in Newport on Saturday, September 3.

Meanwhile, Ben Stirling has left the Dragons to take up a role with the Welsh Rugby Union.

The head of physiotherapy and medical services joined the club five years ago after previously being with Warrington Wolves, Castleford Tigers, Celtic Crusaders and Wales Rugby League.

Director of rugby Ryan said: "Ben has been an important figure at the club and has created a medical department that is focused on optimising squad performance and player welfare.

"We wish him all the very best for his new role with the WRU, following more than five years of excellent service.

"We will now look to appoint a leading candidate to succeed Ben in this exciting role."