Duncan Hodge urges Edinburgh to 'put down a marker' in Myreside opener

19 January 2017 02:39

Edinburgh aim to mark their move to Myreside in style by securing a home European quarter-final.

Duncan Hodge's side top Pool 5 of the European Rugby Challenge Cup ahead of Friday night's visit of Romanian side Timisoara Saracens in the club's first match at Myreside this season.

The Scottish club are moving from BT Murrayfield in a bid to create a better atmosphere and they will certainly do that if they can progress.

Acting head coach Hodge said: "We need no extra motivation for this match. We're in front of our supporters at a new home ground and have the chance to secure a home European quarter-final.

"As a group we're hugely excited about playing at Myreside and will look to put down a marker on our first outing.

"It's a huge day for the club and its supporters and we hope it is a great occasion.

"The players are determined to play their part by giving a huge performance and we look forward to hearing a loud crowd creating a really intimidating atmosphere for the visiting team."

Hodge added: "We were delighted with the away victory against Harlequins last week but how we build from that is absolutely key.

"We've talked a lot about consistency and being relentless. To record three consecutive victories would be a real boost to this team going forward in this competition and in the Guinness PRO12.

"Timisoara were a physical and tough side when we played them out in Romania and we can expect more of the same on their visit to Myreside."

WP Nel misses out after aggravating a neck injury against Harlequins. Simon Berghan comes in to replace the prop while hooker Neil Cochrane will captain the side on his 50th appearance.

Source: PA