European Rugby Makes Its Return

This weekend see the start of the European Heineken Cup, when the big guns all go against each other to decide the best team from the northern hemisphere. Now in its 16th year it always guarantees to bring plenty of action and surprises, so who are the smart bets putting their money on and where are the gambling surprises to be had. 

French side Toulon making their debut in the competition are the surprise package, as having no history and the clubs owner has put in £20 million to ensure they are prepared. Toulon’s opening challenge isn’t going to be an easy one though, facing Welsh club, the Ospreys, who have a good record in the cup. French hopes will have to see whether you can buy passion and commitment that they Welsh side will have in bundles. 

Italian side Treviso also look like providing some interesting opposition as their first games in the Magners League have shown, managing to get three victories so far. Weakness in the pool matches does nothing for the competition and so a strong showing by the Italian club is essential. 

Two of the groups show clear signs of being tight; pool two has Clemont Auvergne, Leinster, Racing Metro and Saracens facing each other. While in pool three London Irish, Munster along with Ospreys and Toulon have stiff opposition. 

Opening matches that look like being tasty affairs include the Northampton Saints going against Castres Olympique, with the Saints sitting pretty in second place in the Aviva and Castres at the other end of the Super 14 you’d think it would be a forgone conclusion but not in European Rugby.