Diamond says it’s not too late for Sharks to make European push
SALE Sharks will aim to launch a late run for the European Challenge Cup quarter-finals when they host Lyon today.
Although Sale currently prop up Pool Two, they are just two points off second place, with the three best runners-up across five groups joining pool winners in the last eight.
“I think all four teams in our pool still have everything to play for going into this penultimate round of matches,” Sale rugby director Steve Diamond told the club’s official website.
“It promises to be a pivotal weekend in determining who tops the group and so earns a ticket through to the quarter-finals.
“Reflecting on our first four games in the Challenge Cup, I think we have played well in the competition without necessarily getting the wins that our form has merited.”
Sharks’ attack coach Paul Deacon says the players must be ready for a physical battle this afternoon. “First and foremost we’ve got to be on it physically this weekend,” he said. “French teams are always big and always confrontational so we’ve to match that – especially at the breakdown. “There’s probably a shift in mentality needed from us there as the French game is a bit different from us in that regard and we’ve got to be crash-hot in that area. “But I believe if we get that bit right this week and get some quick-ball we can cause some damage to the opposition.” The game will also see the return of former Sale favourite Sebastien Bruno, who played for the club between 2004 and 2009 and is now a part of Lyon’s coaching set-up. Sale show eight changes for Lyon’s visit to the AJ Bell Stadium, including starts for full-back Mike Haley, wing Marland Yarde and scrum-half Will Cliff.
I think all four teams in our pool still have everything to play for. It promises to be a pivotal weekend Steve Diamond