AFTER spending two seasons with Brive, prop Mesake Doge is aware of the Dragons should embrace the ache within the south of France this night.
The Rodney Parade aspect head to Perpignan to kick off their European Problem Cup marketing campaign (kick-off 5.30pm), the primary fixture in a tricky group that additionally accommodates Lyon, Benetton and Gloucester.
Getting off to a robust begin would do the Dragons’ hopes of knockout rugby the ability of fine and, as ever in France, all of it begins up entrance.
Perpignan could also be struggling within the Prime 14 – a plight that may affect their strategy to the event – however they are going to current the same old formidable set-piece contest and hard-carrying across the nook.
“The boys have performed Prime 14 groups earlier than. going into it that it’s going to be a extra direct recreation, they are going to have extra concentrate on the set items,” stated tighthead Doge.
“There are going to be a variety of huge males working in the direction of you, not a lot into areas however extra trying to match the forwards.
“There are going be some sore our bodies, however will probably be a problem the boys are prepared for.”
Doge lives a rolling maul away from Rodney Parade and has rapidly made himself at dwelling on the Dragons.
The Fijian has made six appearances and scored three close-range tries to associate with his stable work within the tight.
“I used to be coming to the top of my contract with Brive firstly of this yr once we began talks about coming over to the Dragons.
“I used to be fairly excited after which Dean contacted me and we had a Zoom name. They made it occur and I’m right here now.
“I’m settling in properly and I’m liking it in Newport. It has its occasions when it comes alive, however I additionally just like the chilled vibe and it’s actually quiet.
“I find it irresistible right here on the Dragons, the boys are good and the teaching employees are actually pushing us. Ultimately we’re going to stand up and get into that high degree once more.”
The 28-year-old’s spectacular begin is emphasised by the very fact he has bought the beginning this night with Wales prop Leon Brown, just lately again from damage, backing him up.
The purpose is to make sure the Dragons keep excessive requirements at tighthead for the total 80 minutes.
“In all places I’m going I really like a problem, so we’re pushing one another,” stated Doge, who gained caps in opposition to Wales and Georgia within the autumn after beginning twice in opposition to New Zealand final summer time.
“We’re each worldwide tightheads and taking part in on the similar membership so pushing one another is the principle aim, so we are able to get the most effective out of one another reasonably than making an attempt to only compete with one another
“I’m making an attempt to assist as a result of he’s youthful than me and I’m making an attempt to point out every part that I might for him to study additionally. He’s doing sure issues that I can study off him, so it’s a fairly thrilling problem.”
Each Doge and Brown know they are going to be to the fore on the Stade Aime Giral with the bruises to point out for it.