Dragons support and Argus Terrace regular David Wilkinson has put together his memories of watching matches from the Corporation Road side as the Terrace comes down to make way for the new stand.
“The recent Magners league game against Connacht saw the end of a trusty companion to many a Dragon’s supporter as it was the last night of action for the Argus Terrace.
“The current incarnation of the Argus Terrace has been in place since 1987 and has seen many a fine victory over the years and seen many a great player take to the field both for and against the Dragons.
“Fittingly our match against Connacht ended in victory meaning the terrace could end on a high. It is being demolished to make way for the first wave of stadium regeneration which will see a new east stand providing an improved bar, hospitality and catering facilities for Dragon’s supporters.
“It will be a shame to see the Argus terrace go as it holds a special place in the heart of many Dragon’s fans and represents much about our region, not the most glamorous but full of passion and endeavour.
“ It has been a place to spend an afternoon with mates having a beer and watching the rugby, a place to escape from the monotony of work, get out of the house and forget the frustrations of the week.
“Fans have been quick to remember their time on the terrace. There are many special moments to mention, a favourite was the Charvis kick pass to Jason Tovey to score vs the Ospreys, the Dragon’s maiden Heineken Cup win over French giants Stade Français and let’s not forget the fine victory over Munster earlier this season.
“That said, the terrace has not always been the most pleasant place to watch the game when the all too familiar Newport weather takes hold, the Newcastle game in the Heineken cup a few seasons ago is a game many fans have mentioned where the torrential rain was soaking the fans, filling up the pints quicker than they could be drunk!
“ The banter flying about the terrace has always been great, directed both at home and away fans, more often than not the ref, always harmless but always amusing and witty.
“Although we have always welcomed and backed the home players, the visitors have not always been afforded that hospitality. Austin Healey aka the ‘Leicester Lip’ coming off the bench against us, taking up his position at full-back and duly knocking the ball on much to the delight of the fans, something I am sure he won’t forget and we certainly haven’t.
“It has always been a place brimming with support for the home players and there has been some great banter towards the players which has always been well received. The USA chants to Paul Emerick and more recently the Brooow chants and the Toby wigs all adding to backing for our players.
“When the crowd starts to roar, there is no doubt it must boost the players to double their efforts, the last five minutes against Gloucester this season is one such moment where I’m sure the crowd boosted the team to victory.
“As we saw at the Glasgow game, the terrace is all but gone however, the memories certainly are not. It will be sad to lose it but it is important the region updates and brings its facilities into the 21st century. One thing is for sure, that if the new stand sees half the action the Argus terrace has then it can look forward to an exciting future ahead.”
