NEWPORT Gwent Dragons winger Adam Hughes is positive about his team’s chances for the rest of the campaign as they try to kick start their season with victory in the LV Cup at Sale on Friday.

Hughes has risen through the academy ranks leading to a regular run in the team this year playing in 16 matches and scoring five tries.

And he’s convinced that the redevelopment of Rodney Parade can go hand in hand with the Dragons long-term progression.

“I think it will have a definite impact on the atmosphere around here. It will give the players a real buzz to play at the new stadium,’ he said.

Hughes is optimistic about the region’s chances in the Anglo- Welsh cup as they sit top of pool two after a win and a loss so far.

And he says pleasing the fans is a huge incentive to go further in this competition as they have not had too much to cheer about this year.

“One loss, one win, two games to go, if we can win both those games then we’re in with a real chance of qualifying for the semi-final, which would be good for the players and for the fans,” he added.

And Hughes believes their tough Heineken Cup pool has given the side much needed experience.

“It was a great experience,” he said. “The way we performed away against Toulouse when nobody gave us a chance, we were in the game and I think we gave Toulouse a fright.

“I have no doubt that Sale will put one of their strongest sides out to try and continue their recent good form.

“But I think we’ll put a really good squad out as well. A few boys are being rested but we’re definitely going up there to win.”