Bedford 32-20 Dragons
New Dragons captain Tom Willis suffered a debut defeat
The Dragons' pre-season got off to a poor start with a four-try-to-three friendly defeat at English National League One part-timers Bedford Blues.
Australian debutant Rory Sidey crossed for two tries for the Dragons.
New Zealanders Tom Willis, James Arlidge and Grant Webb also made their debuts, Webb crossing for a try.
But Bedford full-back James Pritchard claimed a try and 12 points with the boot, Ian Davey, Ryan Owen and Karl Dickson getting the Blues' other tries.
Fly-half Arlidge kicked a penalty and conversion for the Dragons, but was erratic with his shots at goal.
Australian centre Marc Stcherbina made his debut for the Welsh side after a summer move from Cardiff Blues, while veteran flanker Colin Charvis came on for a cameo appearance from the bench.