Bates: 'Silverware will save season'
Wed, 23 Apr 2008 23:49
Steve Bates, the acting Director of Rugby for Newcastle Falcons, says winning the European Challenge Cup would give his side a real boost after a difficult domestic season.
"This is a very important game in terms of reaching a European Final, and this is a competition in which we have done well this season," Bates said.
"We have had some good performances in this tournament, especially Brive away, and if we get to the final that would be a fantastic occasion for our supporters."
With the European Challenge Cup being the Falcons' only remaining chance of silverware this season, he added: "We would have to win the tournament, not just reach the Final, to say that this is a significant enough step in terms of fulfilling our potential.
"Getting to the Final would definitely be positive progress, but only if we win the whole thing could we say we have had a reasonable season, given how the league campaign has gone.
"As well as the obvious aim of winning a trophy, the main goal is Heineken Cup rugby for next season and all the benefits that brings to the club and the fans.
"It gives us a great chance to finish the season on a high, and while we understand this will be a tough fixture away from home, the application and focus of the squad this week has been excellent."
