The Welsh region have suffered back-to-back defeats at the start of their EPCR Challenge Cup campaign, but still retain hopes of qualifying from Pool B.

Ryan says his side’s performance at Stadio Comunale di Monigo in Round 3 will be just as crucial as the result, given their slight drop off in form in recent weeks.

“It’s an important game and we’ve still got a chance in this competition, but we also need to get back playing,” he told Dragons’ website. “That is the most important factor.

“We play Benetton twice over the next few weeks and it will be two very different sides for the fixtures because of the Six Nations.

Ryan went on to speak of his relationship with Benetton head coach Marco Bortolami and the main threat of their fellow United Rugby Championship team.

“Benetton will be physical with a big set piece,” he pointed out. “I know Marco very well. He is a smart coach and I’m looking forward to seeing him.”

“This competition and going into the next phase of the season is about us being able to maintain a level of competitiveness and get some momentum.

“There is a fixture mountain building towards the end of the year, and we want to be in the best shape across this period to get some momentum into it.”

Dragons’ EPCR Challenge Cup game at Benetton Rugby today will be the perfect opportunity to get back to winning ways, according to director of rugby Dean Ryan.