Montpellier booked their place in the European Challenge Cup final with a hard-fought 18-12 victory over Dragons at the Septeo Stadium. The French side will face Ulster in the final in Bilbao on Friday, 22 May.
Tries from lock Tyler DuGuid and scrum-half Alexis Bernadet, along with eight points from fly-half Thomas Vincent's boot, proved enough to overcome a resilient Dragons side. The Welsh outfit, despite a dogged defensive display, were starved of possession and territory for long periods and could not capitalise on limited attacking opportunities.
Dragons scored two tries through centre Aneurin Owen, showcasing their never-say-die attitude, but were ultimately outmuscled by the more experienced Montpellier pack.
The defeat ends Welsh interest in this season's European tournaments, but Dragons can take pride in a much-improved campaign that saw them reach their first Challenge Cup semi-final in 10 years.
Montpellier, currently third in the Top 14, have now won seven consecutive matches in this season's competition and are chasing a third Challenge Cup title. They made 11 changes from the side that beat Champions Cup holders Bordeaux-Begles last weekend, including Wales lock Adam Beard.
Dragons almost struck first in the opening minute after a well-worked line-out, but a wayward pass from David Richards to Thomas Young with the try line open proved costly. Montpellier soon settled, with Vincent slotting an early penalty before DuGuid crossed for the opening try.
Despite the loss, Dragons' defence, marshalled by Dale Macleod and Dan Lydiate, showed significant improvement this season, epitomised by Wales wing Rio Dyer's heroic covering tackle to deny Auguste Cadot. Richards also highlighted the Dragons' fighting spirit with a desperate chase that prevented a certain score.
Ultimately, Montpellier's superior firepower and control proved too much, setting up an enticing final against Ulster.