Teddy Williams hopes Cardiff can use their bonus point win over Brive as a springboard to compete on the European stage this season.
The homegrown lock came off the bench to cross for his second try in Cardiff colours on Saturday, as the Blue and Blacks stormed to a 41-0 win over the Top 14 outfit. A trip to Newcastle now awaits two-times Challenge Cup winners this weekend.
Williams’ father, Owain, wore the seven jersey for Cardiff in the first ever Heineken Cup final against Toulouse in 1996, and the lock is eager to follow in his footsteps and add to the club’s rich history in Europe.
“It was a good win for us. We probably laid the foundations in the first half and by the second half there were points to be scored,” said the academy graduate.
“It got a bit scrappy at times, and probably a little bit slowed than we’d have liked, but that’s how it goes sometimes.
“Particularly in the opening 20 minutes we laid those foundations. We took the game away from them with a good start and that made it easier for us in the second half.
“It’s massive for us to get off to a good start in this competition, particularly with the home games.
“The bonus point is obviously a really good start for us, but Newcastle is a tough place to go.
“As we would in any games in this competition, we’ll certainly be going there looking for the win.
“We’ve got good history in Europe, whether that’s the top tier or the second tier, so it’s something we’ll be targeting this year.
“We’ve had a good start to the season, and it’s just about keeping that up.
“We had a decent start last season as well, but fell away towards the tail-end for various reasons. We’re definitely in a stronger place to keep that up this year, and I’d like to think we can maintain this form.”
Former Wales under-20 lock, Williams, has featured in the first team on five occasions this season, but admits he’s looking to take his game to the next level and challenge for a place in Dai Young’s line-up.
The former Glantaf pupil added: “I’m always looking to try and get some game-time. There’s lot of competition within the squad but hopefully I can put my best foot forward and get as many games as I can.
“Obviously selection can be frustrating for everyone, but I’m just looking to keep improving. There’s good players in my position here.
“When I do play, I like to try and get around the ball as much as I can, get as many involvements as possible and show my work rate.”