Montpellier have punched their ticket to the Challenge Cup final, setting up a showdown with Ulster after a hard-fought 18-12 victory over Dragons at the Septeo Stadium. The French side will now head to Bilbao on Friday, 22 May, with their sights set on a third Challenge Cup title.

Tries from lock Tyler DuGuid and scrum-half Alexis Bernadet, complemented by 8 points from the boot of Thomas Vincent, proved enough to secure the win. But it wasn't all one-way traffic. Dragons centre Aneurin Owen crossed the line twice in a resilient display that kept the Welsh side in the contest until the final whistle.

Dragons were defensively dogged throughout, but they simply couldn't get their hands on enough ball. Starved of possession and territory, their limited attacking opportunities were not enough to punish a Montpellier side that has now strung together seven consecutive wins in this season's tournament.

This defeat brings an end to Welsh interest in European competitions this year, but there's plenty for Filo Tiatia's side to be proud of. Dragons were the only Welsh team left standing in Europe, and this was their first Challenge Cup semi-final appearance in a decade—their fourth overall. It's been a season of real progress for the region.

Interestingly, Montpellier were the same side that ended Dragons' hopes 10 years ago on their way to winning the first of their two Challenge Cup titles. Only hooker Elliot Dee and full-back Angus O'Brien remain from that Dragons squad that fell short back in 2016.

Coming into this match, Montpellier were heavy favourites. Sitting third in the Top 14 and fresh off an impressive away win against Champions Cup holders Bordeaux-Begles last weekend, they oozed confidence. Head coach made 11 changes from that victory, including handing a start to Wales lock Adam Beard—who was replaced in the Six Nations starting lineup by Dragons co-captain Ben Carter.

Dragons nearly produced a dream start. A slick line-out move released centre Owen, who sent winger David Richards racing into space. But his pass to flanker Thomas Young was just off the mark with the try line begging. It was a sign of things to come—close, but not quite enough.

Montpellier settled into their rhythm quickly, with Vincent slotting an early penalty. He then nearly collected his own chip through before some superb covering work from Young, who followed up with a crucial turnover after the Dragons forwards had repelled a driving maul. The French side's composure and control eventually told, booking their place in the final and setting up a tantalising clash with Ulster for the silverware.