Jones plotting to repeat Euro history against old team mate O'Gara

Newcastle Red Bulls head coach Stephen Jones went on two British & Irish Lions tours with La Rochelle boss Ronan O’Gara, but now he is plotting his downfall in the Challenge Cup.

Jones and O’Gara were together on the 2005 trip to New Zealand, and then went to South Africa four years later, and will go head-to-head at Kingston Park on Saturday night for a place in the quarter-finals.

The former Wales fly-half was part of the Scarlets side, who in March 2007 at the then Stradey Park ended O’Gara and Munster’s reign as Heineken Cup champions with a 24-15 victory.

And after home wins over the Lions and Perpignan, and another on the road in Lyon, Jones is relishing another crack at a Top 14 outfit, especially in the knockout format.

“Obviously, respect him (O’Gara) for what he achieved as a player. We had quite a few games against each other for Munster and Ireland, and obviously teammates on the Lions.

Fixture

Challenge Cup

Newcastle

18 - 26

Full-time

Stade Rochelais

All Stats and Data

“He’s gone on and had a very good coaching career, with the Crusaders and now with La Rochelle. Hence why he’s got trophies in the cabinet, and he’s built a good group there.

“I know there’s a bit of talk (O’Gara’s future) at the moment, but ultimately, he’s a quality coach and built up a very good group there. They’re very physical, very direct, and give the ball a bit more width, trying to stress us in the wide channels.

“This is a wonderful game for the club. We’re playing a really good side. It’s going to be a nice challenge for our defence. We need to be able to connect in the middle of the park and then make sure we work as a defensive line across the pitch.

“From our perspective, it’s a huge game for us, and it is a priority for us. We respect the competition. The group’s done well in Europe, and the boys should take confidence from that,” said Jones.