Connacht have tripped up in round one of the Magners League for the past two seasons, but have suffered just one reversal at the Sportsground in the Magners League in their last six matches. Connacht have won four of their last five home games against Welsh visitors.

Newport Gwent Dragons have won their opening match in a Magners League season in four of the past five years. Dragons' only away victory since November was 23-22 at Saracens in the LV= Cup on 7 February. The Men of Gwent's single win in Ireland in their last 24 visits was 16-14 at Ulster on 19 September 2008.

Connacht and the Dragons have met once before in round one: in 2007 at the Sportsground where Connacht won
22-7.

Referee: James Jones (WRU, 39th League game).
Assistant Referees: Alan Rogan, Olly Hodges (both IRFU).
TMO: Dermot Moloney (IRFU).

Live on TG4.