Dragons centre Emerick has warned his side against complacency

Newport Gwent Dragons centre Paul Emerick has warned his team-mates to expect a "brawl of game" in Friday's Heineken Cup play-off with Calvisano.

Emerick spent two years in Italian club rugby and scored a winning try for Parma against the Dragons last season.

"Calvisano are a good side and no doubts about it this is going to be a brawl of game," said the American, 27.

"They'll be up for it and passionate. They'll be fighting tooth and nail to stay in the Heineken Cup."

He added: "I played against Calvisano a number of times during my two years in Italy.

"They are not a flash side, but they are tough up-front and carry a strong pack."

Emerick, who signed a one-year contract with the Gwent region last week, believes a lack of respect cost the Dragons dear against Parma in last season's 15-24 play-off defeat at Rodney Parade.

Calvisano will bring a squad brimming with Italian internationals to Newport and Emerick is sure the players will not be underestimating their opponents.

He said: "I remember thinking it was going to be a tough game against a very good Welsh side who were playing in the Celtic league, which we knew was a very good standard.

"I really didn't think we would come away with the win, but maybe the Dragons were too complacent and that is something we won't be doing this time around.