Newport Gwent Dragons captain Andy Marinos admits tonight's crucial Celtic League game against Borders at Rodney Parade will be an emotional occasion.

For it will be his final appearance at Rodney Parade and the last but one in a 13-year career at the highest level.

Marinos' appointment as chief executive of the Dragons will mean retirement as a player after he indicated he would not play even the occasional game in future.

His final home appearance comes as third-placed Dragons go in search of the full five points against Borders as they bid to maintain their title challenge.

They need a maximum return against the league's bottom team, and they could do with Cardiff Blues beating Celtic Warriors tonight to force Neath-Swansea Ospreys to go flat out for victory against leaders Llanelli Scarlets on Sunday.

Defeat for the Scarlets followed by victory in the last game against second-placed Ulster will give the title to the Dragons if they win their last two matches.

"I've had a fantastic association at Rodney Parade first with Newport and now Newport Gwent Dragons, so it's going to be an emotional evening for me," said Marinos.

"Who would have thought my first game would have been for the Sharks in South Africa in 1991 and I'd be finishing at Rodney Parade in Wales?

"I've had a lot of joy and happiness and it was a difficult decision to make, but I've been discussing it with my wife for a long time and when we knew there was a possibility of me moving upstairs I took it.

"The timing is right and I'm fortunate to have led the side when we've done so well so it's a good time to call it a day.

"It's hugely important that we maintain our 100 per cent home league record tonight and we need nothing less than five points to keep ourselves alive in the title race, then hope that others do us a favour.

"But Borders have got a lot to play for with a European placing at stake. They are improved from the last time we played them (the Dragons won 38-15 at Galashiels on January 2), they have made a few changes and have got Gary Armstrong, Tanner Vili and Bruce Douglas back so they've got strength in key positions.

"We are anticipating a difficult encounter, and the aim will be to win first and then secure a bonus point."

Flanker Jason Forster, who could take over as captain next season, pledges, "We'll do all we can to win our last two games, and if anyone slips up we'll be looking to take advantage.

"But Borders have got a lot to play for and we can't take them lightly, we've got to be on our guard. "We'll still look for a comprehensive performance in our last home game."