THE BACKS seem to be getting all the praise at Rodney Parade at the moment but Cardiff Blues lock Paul Tito has pinpointed a former second row partner as playing a key role in the resurgence of Newport Gwent Dragons.

Injuries have plagued the Dragons front eight this season but two of Welsh rugby’s forgotten men have made a real impression since joining the ranks this summer.

Flanker Gavin Thomas’ displays since joining from the Scarlets led to coach Paul Turner tipping him for a Wales recall while lock Robert Sidoli, pictured, has proved to be an equally astute signing.

The former Blues second row, who has been capped 42 times, headed back over the Severn Bridge after a season with Bristol and Tito has been impressed with the way he has slotted in to his new side.

“Sids has been awesome for them, he is calling the lineouts and they have operated well,” said the New Zealander. “He played quite a few Tests back in the day so he is probably not an unsung hero in that respect but is one of those players who enjoys doing the hard graft and plenty of unseen work.

“He probably doesn’t get the praise that he deserves and since coming back from Bristol he has become a massive part of the Dragons pack and they are all firing.

“The Scarlets must be kicking themselves the way that Thomas is playing in the back row, he is definitely one that got away for them, but all the forwards have been going well and they are benefiting from playing with a nine and ten that are controlling things.”

The Blues have won their last seven encounters with the Dragons though Tito believes they will face a different challenge this time out.

They may have dished out a 42-13 thumping when the sides met at Cardiff City Stadium but they face a Dragons side that have developed a creative streak since.

Tito said: “Their backs coach (Darren Edwards) has come along and changed a few things and they are giving it a real go, it’s good to see.

“We have looked at a few things in preparation but they are pretty innovative and there will probably be something different thrown at us on Friday.

“But we just have to react to that when it happens and we will have to be on our guard from the off. If you are at 80 per cent then the Dragons will roll you over.”