Ospreys facing new Tigers says Ellis
Wed, 08 Oct 2008 15:29
England scrumhalf Harry Ellis says there is a new 'buzz' at Leicester since the arrival of Heyneke Meyer and says the Ospreys should be very weary heading into the Sunday’s opening Heineken Cup clash at Welford Road.
The rivalry between the two clubs has only grown stronger since the Welsh side 23-6 win over the Tigers in last years EDF Enery Cup final but Ellis says this time Ryan Jones and his men are up against an entirely different beast.
"It was a disappointing day but I don't think that game has a bearing on this weekend," Ellis told The Guardian.
"We played the Ospreys in pre-season and even a few months on we have new players and new coaches.
"We're a different group, playing a different style of rugby.
"Heyneke has changed the culture of the place. There is a real buzz and confidence at the moment. Ospreys, though, have loads of experience and some big-name players with bags of talent.
"We are in a difficult pool but we're a better side than last year and I've been looking forward to this game for a long time."
Meyer, who himself has spoken of his desire to bring Heineken Cup success back to Leicester, says he is well aware of the threat posed by Jones and his team but says his own squad are improving all the time and will definitely be up for the challenge come Sunday’s 1pm [UK time] kickoff.
"We know what to expect from Ospreys. I've watched a lot of their games and it's not just a question of being focused on them, it's being focused on us.
"They will lift their game, but so will we. I have had a talk with the senior players and will have a one-to-one with every player."
The former Blue Bulls boss says he has thoroughly enjoyed his new job so far and admits that the massive support the Tigers enjoy from their passionate supporters has made an immediate impression on him.
"I have been overwhelmed and very thankful. Wherever we go there are Tigers supporters and we really appreciate that. We want to make them proud."
