The Dragons (the new regional side made home advantage count against 1999 European champions Ulster and Ruddock will be banking on that again standing the Welsh region in good stead.
“It is an enormous challenge for us,” said Ruddock. “Stade have a huge reputation throughout Europe and Nick Mallett is widely recognised as one of the best coaches in the world.
“The Heineken Cup is a big step up from the Celtic League, the intensity of the games is a big difference, but our home form this season has been a big bonus for us and I hope we can keep that going against Stade.
“They have got a squad full of international players but we won’t be overawed and we look forward to taking them on at Rodney Parade. Michael Owen made a two-try first start in the 38-15 win at The Borders last weekend following a back injury and his return to fitness is a big plus, enhancing our forward options.
“Stade have got a very big pack but our forward power is looking quite good and it will be crucial against the French champions to match them up front.
“We will also have to keep our discipline because Diego Dominguez is such a threat with his goal kicking and you simply cannot afford to give him the chances to start rattling up the points.”
The 24-15 victory over Ulster included a 2-0 try count and although double champions Leicester beat The Dragons by 31 points, the Welsh side never buckled.
“I have been pleased with our defence – Clive Griffiths has done a great job and with so much spirit in the side the boys all want to play for each other – but we will have to be at our best against an extremely talented Stade Francais team,” added Ruddock.
“Overall I believe we are coming on nicely – though we did experiment a bit against Leicester Tigers – and we are still trying to bed in certain combinations in the side.
“You don’t get any easy games in Europe – all the other sides in our group have played in Heineken Cup finals, Leicester and Ulster both winning the tournament – and, as this is our first season in the competition, we are still feeling our way.
“But we look forward to the huge challenge of playing the French champions and we are determined to give it our best shot.”
