EXCITEMENT is mounting as the countdown started today to a fantastic finale for fans of Newport Gwent Dragons.

Tonight they take on Leinster at Lansdowne Road, and could take the Celtic League championship from first- and second- placed Llanelli Scarlets and Ulster, who also meet.

More than 40 supporters left early yesterday morning on a trip organised by the Newport Supporters Club.

But many more are making their own way over to Ireland to cheer on the heroes who have stamped their authority on the Celtic League and left mud on the face of experts who predicted disaster before the season began.

Among those is Andrew Seddon, of St Julians, Newport, who left for Ireland this morning with three friends and fellow loyal supporters. They only recently decided that they had to go to Ireland to support the side.

"I think they have a great chance of being the best side in Wales and a fair chance of being league champions.

"I wouldn't miss this game for anything. It has been an extraordinary season for Newport Gwent Dragons and it could not have finished in a more fitting way. We are proud of them, whatever happens tonight, and we are looking forward to next season. Hopefully, everyone in Gwent will get behind them."

Peter Murray, of Bettws, Newport, echoed those sentiments. "This could be the game that sees Newport Gwent Dragons win the title, and I don't want to miss it."

The end of season involves some complication permutations, but the title is well within the Dragons' grasp.

l If the Scarlets and Ulster draw and the Welsh team do not get a bonus point, a win for Newport Gwent Dragons will see them take the trophy. l If Ulster win, but do not get a bonus point, Newport Gwent Dragons need to win and get a bonus point.

With one game to go in their first season, the side - which has an unbeaten home record in the league - has won more games than any other team.