Monty to go on Parade again for Dragons

Jan 16 2008 by Phil Blanche, Western Mail

PERCY MONTGOMERY will need no introduction to Rodney Parade when Perpignan bid to clinch a quarter-final spot with a victory over the Dragons.

The 2007 World Cup winning full-back played two seasons of Heineken Cup rugby at the ground for the Dragons in 2003-04 and 2004-05 when he established himself as a huge favourite with the fans.

Now he faces his former club in a Pool 1 clash on Saturday with a place in the last eight on the line for the 2003 Heineken Cup finalists.

“It’s a crucial game for us – we really need a bonus point to reach the quarter-finals,” he said.

“They will be pretty confident as they are playing well at the moment and will no doubt be looking to win at home.

“However, it’s very important to Perpignan, not just as a club, but the players themselves.

“Although we haven’t played the best rugby so far this season, we are capable of playing good rugby and getting the wins for the fans.”

Reflecting on his time in Gwent, Montgomery (pictured below) added, “I have great memories of Newport, especially when Mike Ruddock came in with Clive Griffiths.

“We brought in that rush defence and I think Newport had a great season then. I had a great couple of years.

“I believe I played well for the club and then I got the international call-up from back home.

“Newport was an awesome experience for me and I had the time of my life.

“I got the chance to mix with some fantastic people and I can’t wait to go there and see some of the guys.

“Having said that, it’s a massively important game for us and we are very focused on getting the result we need.”