Defence Coach Dale McIntosh has urged Cardiff Blues to build on a proud history when they launch their bid for European Rugby Challenge Cup glory later this season.
Blues will face London Irish, Grenoble and a FIRA-AER 1 qualifier in Europe after the pool draw took place this afternoon (Tuesday) in Neuchatel, Switzerland.
McIntosh admitted Blues had been pitted in an ‘exciting’ Pool 1 with teams from the Aviva Premiership and Top 14 plus another Euro qualifier.
And he believes Blues – who won the European Challenge Cup against Toulon in Marseille back in 2010 – can go into the new-look tournament in confident mood.
He said: “It’s an exciting draw for us and we look forward to mounting another strong European campaign. As a region we have a proud history in this competition as past winners and want to build on that.
“We enjoyed the European experience last season, with unforgettable games like our home victory over the eventual European champions Toulon. Now we want more days like that this season in front of a packed out BT Sport Cardiff Arms Park.
“London Irish have a talented squad and the Madejski Stadium is not an easy place to go. Grenoble have established themselves in the Top 14 and will be keen to make an impression.
“We will also not underestimate the FIRA 1 team when they are confirmed. We will give every team the utmost respect and look to make the knockout stages.”
Watch Blues every step of the way this season in Europe with a Season Ticket at the BT Sport Cardiff Arms Park. Call the Ticket Office on 02920 302030 during office hours for more information.