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Navidi calls for complete performance in Challenge Cup final

9th May 2018


Josh Navidi insists Cardiff Blues have learnt the lessons of last season and are determined to put in an 80-minute performance in Friday's European Challenge Cup final against Gloucester.

The Blues dominated for large periods of a quarter-final against the Cherry & Whites last season but the wheels came off after the 60-minute mark.

With the Kingsholm crowd behind them, Gloucester turned the screw and ran out comfortable winners.

Now Navidi is ready to avenge that defeat as the Blues target their first piece of silverware since 2010.

Navidi said: “Gloucester like to run the ball, they have a big pack and a strong driving lineout. 

“When we played them last year it was a good one for spectators to watch so it should be good on Friday.

“We scored a few tries but after 60 minutes went we started to crumble. It is an 80-minute game so we have to put a performance in from start to finish. 

“We have learnt from past mistakes in that game and hopefully we can take it into this one.”

Navidi was in the Velodrome crowd as Wales’ Capital Region clinched the Amlin Challenge Cup title with a stunning victory over Toulon back in 2010.

Now he will be at the centre of the action and a triumph would cap a superb year for the back-row supremo, who has firmly established himself in the Wales set-up.

He added: “I was in my first year when we won the Amlin, I went out and watched it. Being there and seeing the weeks progress up to it, from then to now, it is exciting to be involved in it again.

“It’s been a good week and hopefully we can keep going and progressing through the week in the build-up to Friday.

“I am enjoying my rugby this year and it’s been a good year for me. I’ve just kept doing what I have done throughout my career, trying to improve where I can each week and it’s been enjoyable.”

For those not fortunate enough to be travelling to Bilbao, Cardiff Arms Park will be open to supporters with a giant screen on the iconic pitch. To book your free place click here.