NEWPORT Gwent Dragons coach Kingsley Jones has warned his charges that smiles will swiftly turn to frowns if they fail to rise to the occasion again when Newcastle head to Rodney Parade this evening.

The Dragons upset the odds against Stade Francais in their European Rugby Challenge Cup opener, scoring four tries in a shock 38-22 success in Paris.

Nobody gave them a hope at Stade Jean Bouin and their victory has not only boosted confidence but increased expectation.

The Dragons will have a great shot at earning a quarter-final spot if they beat the Falcons (kick-off 7.30pm) – but Jones knows it will be no 'gimme' against English opponents who thrashed Bucharest last weekend.

"There's no way we are suddenly thinking we are the best team in the world," he said. "It was a great performance at Stade Francais but we also have enough experience to realise it will be another big challenge tonight.

"Our hard work will be wasted and the smiles will be wiped off our faces if we don't reinforce a good win."

The Dragons relished the underdogs tag in Paris and stunned their hosts thanks to an expressive, expansive approach.

The challenge is to repeat that when favourites for victory against a youthful but dangerous Newcastle side.

"The players were really positive in their approach and their mental strength was key because Stade built a lead but we kept coming back at them," said Jones.

"Now we have some confidence and we can kick on but it will be tough against Newcastle, who are on the back of three wins.

"Their forwards are very well coached by John Wells, they will have a good scrum and lineout but will also have some decent game-breakers."