SHAUN Connor hopes a new enterprising approach can transform Newport Gwent Dragons into Guinness Pro12 entertainers this season.

The Rodney Parade region struggled for tries in the league and had the least potent attack, crossing the line just 33 times in 22 games.

They frequently failed to turn pressure into points in enemy territory so hope to develop a cutting edge thanks to a summer of getting back to basics both in terms of decision making and execution.

The Dragons also intent to adopt a more expansive approach with backs coach Shaun Connor realising the need to provide entertainment for the punters at Rodney Parade.

"Last year our average passes per game was 120 and against RGC 1404 in our first pre-season run out it was 170, so that definitely shows our intent to try and play a little bit more rugby this season," said the former fly-half.

"Maybe I'm old fashioned but while we all naturally want to win games, we also have to produce a product that people want to want as well… if we can do both then we really are onto a winner!

"From day one this summer we have had ball in hand and maybe that comes from learning from past mistakes.

"With good basics and good decision-making in key positions we have the players to score a lot more tries than last season."

The Dragons made an encouraging start with a 38-28 victory against Cardiff Blues last Friday with lock Rynard Landman, hooker Elliot Dee, wing Adam Hughes, flanker Nic Cudd and hooker Rhys Thomas scoring tries.

"We are not getting carried away with one pre-season win and it's a building process because we are nowhere near where we want to be, or need to be, for the Ulster game," said Connor.

However, the coach is pleased with how his new backs have settled as they count down to the league opener in Belfast on Friday, September 2.

"(Centre) Sam Beard has been excellent in training for us while (wing/centre) Pat Howard is a big, physical ball carrier and adds something different," he said.

"(Fly-half) Nick Macleod was excellent on Friday and controlled the game superbly without being spectacular, as befits a player of his experience. He just made good decisions at key times and I can see him being a big help in bringing through our young 10s."

The Dragons continue their pre-season preparations with a friendly against Ealing Trailfinders in Ystrad Mynach on Saturday (kick-off 3pm).

The game is free for season ticket holders, who must get a match ticket from the Dragons ticket office. Entry costs £10 for adults, £5 for concessions and £2 for under-16s. There is no parking at the ground.

- The dates for rounds one to four of the Challenge Cup will be announced at midday on Friday. The Dragons have been drawn with Worcester, Brive and Russian side Enisei-STM.