KEVIN Morgan believes that history can repeat itself with the Rodney Parade faithful inspiring Newport Gwent Dragons to victory in the quarter-finals of the European Rugby Challenge Cup this afternoon.

The stakes are high when Cardiff Blues make the short trip to Newport (kick-off 12.45pm) for what is only the Dragons' third ever European knockout clash.

Former Wales full-back Morgan was captain in 2007 when the region thumped Brive in the last eight before Paul Turner's side emerged with great credit from a 46-29 loss to Clermont Auvergne at the Stade Marcel Michelin.

It will be a packed house at Rodney Parade this afternoon and Morgan knows from first-hand experience that they have a key part to play.

"We played some really good stuff against Brive and deserved the win," said Morgan, who scored a brace in the quarter-final.

"We gathered momentum in the tournament and had a home tie – it's always a lot easier in front of the Rodney Parade crowd.

"The supporters are always very vocal, which is fantastic for the home team and it can go either way for the opposition. Some don't react well but others rise to the occasion.

"It's totally different to playing in front of 80,000 when it's just a wall of noise. At Rodney Parade it's more intimate with everyone close to the pitch and you are able to hear individual voices.

"With that backing the Dragons will be desperate to perform and win a big derby in front of their own fans."

Michael Owen told the Argus earlier this week that a win against the Blues could be a watershed moment for the Dragons and Morgan with his former teammate about the importance of this afternoon.

"The Dragons haven't had a great few years but they are developing a good young side and a win in a game this big would do them the power of good," said the 38-year-old, who is now strength and conditioning coach at the Ospreys.

"A quarter-final is huge and a semi-final would be as well, so it would be great for their development and they could put down a marker.

"But it's a difficult game to call, especially after they both won away in the Christmas derbies. It will be tight and might come down to who starts well, controls their emotions and executes under pressure.

"Having a good first 20 and getting in front would be huge but it will probably be tight and in the end the team that is the more adventurous might pull it off, and both have the ability to have a go.

"In 2007 we won and then had a great experience in Clermont and I hope whoever wins enjoys the same."

The winner of today's game will travel to either London Irish or Edinburgh, who meet in Reading tomorrow evening (kick-off 5.45pm).