Perfect Percy

A column doesn't do it justice. A whole newspaper wouldn't be enough.

In fact, I'm about to verge on heresy by claiming that Monty is an even better investment than Gary Teichmann.

Slightly unfair perhaps, for Teich was a wonderful captain, a perfect example of of an inspirational skipper leading by example.

But Monty wins match after match on his own. Again, not strictly accurate because because if his teammates didn't provide him with the ball he couldn't win anything, of course.

But you know what I mean, it's what he does with the ball when he gets it that really counts and pays such rich dividends.

His last two appearances in the Celtic League say it all, matchwinner against The Borders in Scotland and man-of-the-match in the victory over Leinster at Rodney Parade.

And in Europe, which for all the Dragons' noble efforts was a step too far for this new hastily put together team, it was what Percy did without the ball that was so impressive.

On the fields of France and Northern Ireland when the Dragons failed to register a point and were totally outplayed Monty stood between them and even heavier defeats.

For as the last line of defence, he tackled bravely and marshalled his troops and when he did receive the ball he spiralled it back with interest, his big left boot sending it miles.

Yet his performance against Leinster last Friday came after he was switched to an almost alien position at outside centre from his normal full back role.

Dragons coach Mike Ruddock realises as much as anyone else that the team lacks a cutting edge behind, so he tried Monty in a different role - and how it worked.

Far from complaining Monty just got on with the job like the true professional he is.

The first time he had the ball he simply shot outside his man and over the line for a try. That was after only six minutes.

It wasn't just that, however, or even his five conversions, some from difficult angles, it was his all-round play, like the time he ripped the ball out of the opposition's grasp to have a hand in another try.

It is that fierceness which so characterises the man's game, for the real secret of his success lies in his sheer competitiveness.

He told me once quite matter-of-fact as though he was talking about the weather that he's a winner. It wasn't an idle statement and you could see he really meant it. In fact, he proves it every time he steps on to the field.

He simply hates losing and he finds the kind of hefty setback the Dragons suffered against Stade Francais and Ulster, both away, completely unacceptable.

His whole lifestyle is abstemious, another contributory factor to his successful career. Not for him the drinking culture, the late nights or anything like that. He takes considerable care of himself and he is dedicated to rugby, and winning rugby at that.

Though not originally first choice kicker, he has slotted into that role comfortably as well and he spends hours practising in all kinds of weather.

He takes young kids and members of his own family with him as he practises so that they can retrieve the ball for him.

He asked me once as I was leaving Rodney Parade after a Press conference if I'd like to be his ball boy which, considering the driving rain and my advancing years, I politely declined.

He even makes light of the awful Welsh weather, even if he doesn't like it. He's not here for the ride and he's not here just to play out his days.

He's given us, and will continue to provide us, with the full Monty. We can only marvel at his skills, and with him in the side anything is possible for the Dragons.