JASON Forster insists there will be no panic in the Newport Gwent Dragons camp after losing their last three games and facing five more really tough games up to the end of next month.

That schedule starts with Friday night's home game against twice Heineken Cup winners Leicester in the Anglo-Welsh Powergen Cup.

"We have got to take a look at ourselves and not let teams in with soft tries or give silly penalties away, but we're not panicking," said the Dragons captain.

"There is a lot of talent and experience in our squad and we've got some great players. There is no panic, we'll regroup and stay tight as a group.

"The next five weeks are going to be tough, but you want hard fixtures week in, week out."

And Forster has a warning for all opposing teams who might think the Dragons are becoming a soft touch. "We won't be taking a backward step and we'll meet the challenge head on," he said. "If people show us disrespect they will do so at their own peril."

Having said that, Forster is expecting a fierce test from Leicester. "They set their stall out years ago and they've won the European Cup twice. They've filled the void left by Martin Johnson and Neil Back, they've got a hard nucleus and a big work ethic," he said.

"But it is a challenge we're relishing and looking forward to. Our Celtic League defeats have gone now and this is going to be full on, Welsh teams playing against English opposition and it should be a great advert.

"We've learnt some very harsh lessons and I'm sure things are going in the right direction."