Kingsley Jones insists Newport Gwent Dragons can defy the odds to finally reach the final of the European Challenge Cup.
The Dragons coach hailed a “huge achievement” by his squad in making the semi-finals for a second year in a row.
The Dragons stunned champions Gloucester at Kingsholm on Saturday with a 23-21 victory that set up a semi-final clash against Montpellier.
Jones said: “It’s a huge win for the region. There’s a bit of relief as well after so many defeats but we’re really pleased.
“It’s a huge achievement for the club to reach the semi-finals of Europe for a second year in a row. We will celebrate and cherish this win before we look forward to a huge occasion in France against Montpellier.
“We will be under-dogs in everyone’s eyes but we were for this semi-final against the champions and we will approach the game against Montpellier in a positive manner.”
“Montpellier’s front five is particularly strong and their physicality is evident. They are a top side but they are not unbeatable.
“Last year we played Stade Francais, who went on to win the Top 14, and did the double over them.
“Montpellier is a fantastic place to go and we will just have a crack. Montpellier are an excellent side but they are not unbeatable.
“Most people have us as underdogs. We are respected at Rodney Parade by the people in our league because they know it’s a tough environment but home advantage will have them as favourites.
“But it’s sport, who would have said that I would be sat at Kingsholm talking about a semi-final? It can happen.”
Dorian Jones kicked five penalties against Gloucester and Carl Meyer added a sixth before replacement Charlie Davies dived over three minutes from time to cancel out tries by Ben Morgan and Steve McColl.
Jones said: “What was most pleasing was the maturity and composure shown by a lot of young guys.
“We’ve always thought we had the ability but today we made the right decisions at key times and controlled the game for long parts and then to close-out the game.
“The decision to go for the corner late on was a big one by the captain. If it comes off you’re right, if we come away with nothing then we’re all asking questions.
“My initial thought was to kick the penalty but you have credit the players for backing themselves and getting the try.”
Greig Laidlaw kicked 11 points but his team paid the price for an indisciplined performance.