NEWPORT Gwent Dragons director of rugby Lyn Jones wants his charges to run wild when favourites against Newcastle this evening, just as they did when underdogs against Stade Francais in Paris.

The Dragons were written off ahead of last week's clash at Stade Jean Bouin but upset the odds with a 38-22 success against the then favourites to lift the European Rugby Challenge Cup.

It was an energetic display by the Rodney Parade region with the GPS tracking providing the management team with some eye-opening data.

Jones said: "There are lies, damned lies and statistics but our metres of running increased by 31 per cent and that was generated by the way that we wanted to play, whether chasing, pushing up in defence or playing more expansive rugby."

The Paris victory has increased expectations and Jones doesn't want his players to go into their shells at Rodney Parade (kick-off 7.30pm).

"All the players stood up against Stade Francais, we went out there without expectations and just played without pressure with everyone enjoying it," said Jones.

"To score 38 points in France is a major achievement and I am pleased with the way that the players responded to our defeats and poor performances against the Scarlets and Edinburgh.

"It's got our self belief back, we are a good team and do have good players but those losses had dented our confidence.

"Now we have to play with the same attitude against Newcastle. The motivation is to back up a resounding victory with another one but we are aware of how difficult that can be."

The Falcons also opened their campaign with a bonus point win, albeit an expected one against Bucharest Wolves at Kingston Park.

The side from the North East are understandably prioritising the Aviva Premiership, although a relegation scrap with London Welsh looks unlikely, but remain a dangerous side.

Jones said: "Newcastle, like ourselves, didn't have a great start to the season but have benefited from wins against Exeter, London Welsh and Bucharest.

"We have got 80 minutes of a stern challenge against very proud English opposition and we are taking nothing for granted."