NOVICE coach Ian Evans is relishing the chance to pit his wits against his former Ospreys boss Lyn Jones when the Dragons host Russia this evening (kick-off 7.35pm), writes Chris Kirwan.

Former Wales lock Evans and skills coach Alan Kingsley are holding the reins for head coach Bernard Jackman for the clash with the Bears at Bridge Field.

The 34-year-old joined the Dragons management last summer after cutting his coaching teeth with Treorchy and Cross Keys.

And Evans is excited about going up against Jones, who gave him his Ospreys debut in 2005 and was at the helm for two Celtic League triumphs and an Anglo-Welsh Cup victory at Twickenham.

"Lyn is an absolutely quality coach and he will always know how to win a game of rugby," said the 33-times capped forward about Jones, who went on to be in the Rodney Parade hotseat between 2013 and 2016.

"In the World Cup I think he could pull off quite a big victory somewhere down the line. His rugby knowledge is phenomenal and he's got a proven track record.

"I was fortunate enough to have some quality coaches as a player and hopefully I can transfer that into my coaching role."

The Dragons endured a torrid 2017/18 before Evans joined the management team.

The frustration that there has not been an upturn in fortunes in the current campaign resulted in the axing of defence coach Hendre Marnitz this week.

Evans, assistant to forwards guru Ceri Jones, insists within the camp there is no concern about criticism from the region's doubters.

"We have a tight environment. I've been involved in Welsh rugby for along time and there are always comments from outside," he said.

"We have got standards and have to deliver but as players, coaches and staff we are tight and as long as we get our house in order it is irrelevant what other people are saying."