Lam has Sharks in his sights as Bristol aim to pass French test

BRISTOL will aim to repeat one of their most impressive European performances when they tackle Challenge Cup quarter-final opponents La Rochelle today.

Former Connacht coach Pat Lam is now in charge at Bristol and his charges return to Stade Marcel Deflandre, where they beat La Rochelle 13-3 in a pool game earlier this season.

Another victory would secure a semi-final next month against English Premiership rivals Sale Sharks who defeated Lam’s former side on Friday.

‘It was an unbelievable atmosphere the last time we were there, and the boys did really well to come away with a win,’ Lam (right) said.

‘It’s going to be tougher this time. There is more at stake It’s going to be a fast game. They like to play rugby, and they are big boys.’

LEICESTER TIGERS have taken urgent action to address their slide into the Premiership relegation danger zone by appointing Mike Ford as a senior coach.

The former Bath head coach is due to start work for the Tigers tomorrow. Sportmail understands he has initially been appointed on a short-term contract to assist rookie head coach - and former Ireland international – Geordan Murphy in his quest to guide the club to safety.

He will also be teaming up with his son George, who plays fly-half with the club.

A series of dire results have seen Leicester plunge to 10th in the table and, with five matches of the regular season remaining, they find themselves just five points above bottom club Newcastle Falcons.