SECOND row Matthew Screech says Newport Gwent Dragons are focused on starting their European Challenge Cup showdown with Worcester tomorrow “at 100mph”.

A poor first half away to Leinster last Saturday put paid to the Dragons’ hopes of claiming an elusive win on the road, something they have managed just twice in the past 12 months.

Screech insists the Rodney Parade outfit have to show opponents they mean business from the off – and they will be looking to do that against the Warriors at Sixways (kick-off 3pm).

“We had a few good wins leading up to that Leinster game,” he said. “It was disappointing last weekend but we need to bring that buzz back and go into it at Worcester at 100mph.

“We’ve made the semi-finals of the Challenge Cup in the last few seasons and it’s always been a good competition for us.

“We had a good win last season at Gloucester and we’ve been to places and had really good wins, including against some tough French teams.

“Hopefully it can be the same again this season and can be a catalyst for us.”

He continued: “All we’ve been on about this week is going into the match at 100mph and showing teams from the first 20 minutes that we are there to win.

“When you consider the Edinburgh game, we went into half-time 24-12 up, so we need to do that from the off in every game. I think we’re fully capable of doing it.”

Screech is keen to play a part at Sixways after sitting out the Leinster loss, a game that saw Cory Hill return to action for the Men of Gwent following his exploits with Wales.

The second row made his international debut off the bench against Australia and then earned his second and third caps in the defeats of Japan and South Africa.

Commenting on his teammate’s achievements, Screech added: “It’s great for the Dragons, it’s great for the team, and it’s great for the players to get recognised.

“Cory has done really well and hopefully that pushes a lot more of the boys to get in the Welsh team.”

The Dragons currently sit second in Pool 3 after beating Brive in their opening fixture and losing in Russia to group leaders Enisei-STM.

Worcester, one from bottom in the Aviva Premiership, are seeking their first win in this season’s competition.