NEWPORT Gwent Dragons must get to grips with one Glaswegian who certainly has no qualms about going it alone when they attempt to get their Guinness Pro12 campaign up and running at Rodney Parade.

Niko Matawalu is one of the most elusive runners in world rugby and has led countless teams a merry dance with his fast feet and sharp brain.

The inventive Fijian scrum-half scored one of the tries of the season at Rodney Parade last February when he opted to run from the Warriors' 22, chipping over the onrushing defence before gathering and winning the foot race.

And he heads into tomorrow afternoon's clash (kick-off 2.40pm) on the back of a game-changing performance against Cardiff Blues at BT Sport Arms Park when his quickfire brace helped his side to a 33-12 win.

Matawalu is box office but mixes individual brilliance with the odd clanger – his clearance kick was charged down for the winning score in Newport last year while his pass into fresh air when running from his own line enabled Jason Tovey to score in the Dragons' shock win at Scotstoun.

But with three tries in four games against the Dragons, the Fijian is going to be a marked man.

"Matawalu is one of those players who can win a game or lose it," said Wales wing/full-back Hallam Amos. "We've been doing our analysis on Glasgow and he is definitely one to watch.

"He is a really exciting player and you have to be careful not to 'bite' on him in defence, we need to let him dance around and see what happens.

"I remember two seasons ago in Glasgow when he ripped us to shreds and won man of the match. He is a great player but I am sure we will handle him well.

"Hopefully we can emulate last year. I didn't play in either win but the boys defended really well, hounded them and the blitz defence did really well."

The Dragons will be aiming to defend tenaciously but also need to up their game in attack after crossing for just one try in their Pro12 defeats to Connacht and the Ospreys.

They have been hit hard by injuries with fly-half Tovey, centres Pat Leach, Jack Dixon, Tyler Morgan and Ross Wardle and full-back Lee Byrne sidelined but have been boosted by the return of Ashley Smith to midfield after six months out with a foot problem.

"Ashley is a general on the pitch and commands us," said Amos. "With Angus O'Brien, a young 10, it's good to have Ashley outside him.

"He is so experienced and embodies Newport Gwent Dragons. He brings a great level of communication and is also a really good player."