HEAD coach Kingsley Jones believes the rabid Ravenhill atmosphere is the perfect setting for his Newport Gwent Dragons young guns to show they have what it takes to thrive on the big stage.

The Rodney Parade region take on Guinness Pro12 title hopefuls Ulster in Belfast with a patched-up side because of injuries and international call-ups.

They are without 13 players who are on the treatment table while Taulupe Faletau, Hallam Amos and Tom Prydie are with the Wales squad ahead of the autumn internationals.

Flanker Lewis Evans and centre Ashley Smith came through late fitness tests but the Dragons still have to field fly-half Jason Tovey at full-back, on-loan Carmarthen Quins back Rhys Williams in midfield and blindside flanker James Thomas at lock.

They have six under-21s in the matchday squad with Angus O'Brien pulling the strings from fly-half and James Benjamin earning a first Pro12 start at openside flanker in place of the injured Nic Cudd while lock Scott Andrews and openside Ollie Griffiths could make their debuts from the bench.

The young guns will also get the nod in the upcoming LV= Cup encounters at Harlequins and the Ospreys and Jones wants them to grasp their chance to shine.

"They are three tough games but what an opportunity for our young players," said the head coach. "We always planned to use them in the LV= Cup but our injury situation means that they have an extra match to impress.

"Ravenhill is an intimidating place to play but these boys can just go out there, be positive and give it a go. We will learn a lot about them, it's a big test in a tough environment but everyone starts somewhere.

"Ulster are without a number of players but will still be well-drilled and will play smart rugby. They may not be on the top of their game at the moment and will be seething after defeats to Leicester and Toulon."

Hooker Rhys Thomas will provide some welcome experience and the former Wales international has urged his teammates to rise to the occasion, just like they did at Stade Francais a fortnight ago.

"There's no better place to play than Saturday night at a packed Ravenhill," he said. "I've had some good times and some bad there.

"We have to start well because if you are not at the races then you will get what you deserve."

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