Quinn Roux, Ian Porter and Niyi Adeolokun will all make their first competitive appearances for Connacht tomorrow evening with the Dragons visiting the Sportsgrounds.

John Muldoon captains the side from blindside flanker.

Jack Carty is at out-half for the opening fixture while academy graduate Shane Layden, from Carrick-on-Shannon, has been named at full back.

Another academy grad in the shape of Conor Finn from Ballinasloe could earn his first competitive cap from the bench.

Robbie Henshaw and new signings Bundee Aki and Mils Muliaina were unavailable for selection.

Connacht line-up v Newport Gwent Dragons:

15. Shane Layden
14. Niyi Adeolokun
13. Darragh Leader
12. Dave McSharry
11. Danie Poolman
10. Jack Carty
9. Ian Porter

1. Denis Buckley
2. Dave Heffernan
3. Nathan White
4. Mick Kearney
5. Quinn Roux
6. John Muldoon ©
7. Jake Heenan
8. Eoin McKeon

Replacements:
16. Sean Henry
17. Finlay Bealham
18. Rodney Ah You
19. George Naoupu
20. Willie Faloon
21. Kieran Marmion
22. Miah Nikora
23. Conor Finn