Demetri Catrakilis converted Paul Willemse's stoppage-time try as Montpellier beat the Cardiff Blues 23-22 in their European Challenge Cup clash on Thursday.

Having lost to the Blues in round three in Cardiff last weekend, Jake White's side were in danger of not only conceding a season double to the Welsh region, but a return fixture defeat at the Altrad Stadium would also have ended their title challenge. The South African duo, however, combined two minutes into stoppage time to hand the hosts a dramatic victory.

The result saw Bok tighthead prop Jannie du Plessis starting his Montpellier career on a winning note, while brother Bismarck was left out of the match 23 altogether.

Both sides scored a converted try in the first half, but the Blues were in front 16-13 at the break as Rhys Patchell nailed three penalties to Catrakilis's two.

The kicking duel continued when a three-pointer after the restart saw Montpellier draw level, but ill-discipline cost them as the Blues reinstated a six-point advantage towards the closing stages.

With time up on the clock, Willemse stepped up with a strong leg-drive to score their second effort, before Catrakilis held his nerve and coolly knocked over the extras to turn the result in Montpellier's favour.

In the only other game on Thursday, Gloucester defeated fellow English side the Worcester Warriors 27-13 at Kingsholm Stadium.

Photo: MontpellierRugby.com