With Wales' fearsome back-row duo Dan Lydiate and Toby Faletau away on Six Nations duty, Jevon Groves is hoping to take full advantage and force his way into the Dragons' starting XV as the RaboDirect PRO12 kicks back into action this week.

The Men from Gwent won 22-9 when the two sides met at Rodney Parade in round five but have not achieved a season's double over the Ulstermen since 2008/09, whilst the Dragons' only win in Ireland since 2004 was 16-14 over Ulster at Ravenhill on 19 September 2008.

Already a fully qualified pilot at 21, Dragons winger Adam Hughes was a headline writer's dream when his try-scoring exploits catapulted him onto the scene last season.

Dragons Prop Ben Castle has been forced to retire from rugby following a back injury incurred in the Dragons match against Leinster last September.

The Ospreys gave fans a hint of a bright future as a young side saw off the Dragons 26-21 in the Anglo-Welsh Cup.

Matthew Jones leaves Newport Gwent Dragons for Bristol with the blessing of the Welsh side, according to rugby director Robert Beale.

Newport Gwent Dragons outside half Matthew Jones has been released with immediate effect by the region to continue his rugby career with Bristol Rugby.

RaboDirect, the straight talking online bank, are partnering up with RTE, Irish broadcasters of the RaboDirect PRO12, for an exclusive LIVE Twitter Q&A with RTE Radio rugby expert, Michael Corcoran.

Wales lock Luke Charteris will be leaving the Dragons next season with Darren Edwards' blessing but the head coach insists he cannot afford to lose rising stars such as Toby Faletau.

Aled Brew produced a moment of brilliance to give Newport Gwent Dragons hope of victory against Perpignan - but the RaboDirect PRO12 outfit fell just short in the Amlin Challenge Cup clash.