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EPCR statement: Decision taken on European rounds three and four
By Liam Heagney
EPCR have finally shed light on the status of the upcoming Champions and Challenge Cup fixtures which were in jeopardy of going ahead as scheduled due to the pandemic restrictions that came in before Christmas and led to numerous round two matches getting called off.
While the virus initially forced the cancellation of a number of matches that particular December week, the tournaments were thrown into further chaos when a tightening of travel regulations forced the postponement of a heap of other games featuring French Top 14 clubs in opposition against teams from the Gallagher Premiership.
Those restrictions have remained in place since then in France and it left clubs in the dark this week about their upcoming round three and four matches, but that anxiety has now been relieved following some behind the scenes politicking.
A statement on Friday afternoon read: “EPCR is pleased to clarify that pool stage matches in rounds three and four of the Heineken Champions Cup and EPCR Challenge Cup are set to go ahead as scheduled.
“Following dialogue with the leagues and unions, EPCR has been informed that exemptions for what is termed the ‘pursuit of an economic activity’ which have been put in place by the French government will apply to clubs and match officials who are travelling between France and the UK.
“Further information will also be sought from the French authorities regarding possible new conditions which may be applicable to travel between France and the UK. While recognising that these are particularly challenging times for all its stakeholders, EPCR will continue to work with the leagues and unions so that this month’s matches can be played safely.
“The leading eight Heineken Champions Cup clubs from each of the pools will qualify for the knockout stage, and with ten clubs progressing to the Challenge Cup Round of 16, plus a further six qualifiers from the Heineken Champions Cup ahead of the Marseille finals next May, EPCR is optimistic that this season’s tournaments will be played to a successful conclusion.
“In addition, discussions are ongoing regarding the five Heineken Champions Cup and two Challenge Cup round two fixtures which were postponed due to unforeseen circumstances arising from changes to border controls between France and the UK. No further comment will be made at this time.”
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Latest Comments
The difference between Fassi and Le Roux?
Almost 100 tests. Fassi is growing from test to test and is already world class. It’s going to be difficult for Damian Willemse to usurp Fassi at 15 and may find himself destined as the utility back on the bomb squad.
South Africans love hating on their fullback. A proud tradition since Percy Montgomery (before he won us a World Cup). So I don’t pay much mind to the noise that follows anyone who puts on the 15 jersey for SA.
15 is a high risk, low reward position. You don’t dare drop a high ball, certainly don’t shank a kick into the stands. In fact if you’re not kicking 60m torpedoes into the opposition corners - stay at home.
And miss tackles? After everyone else on the team has let a break through - best you not miss!
Only Andre Joubert strikes me as a fullback that has been better than Willie. Yet Willie has been widely panned on a regular basis. Irritating.
Fassi is great. And I’m sure he’s learning a lot from Willie.
Go to commentsNo, Penney's win rate as a Super Rugby coach BEFORE he was given a 2 year contract here, was 23%. He came in with a very poor success rate at SR level.
This loser vibe was borne out over the SR season where we won only 4 games while losing 10. Finishing 9th in a 12 team competition & missing a QF spot was next level DOWN.
There's zero evidence that suggests we will win 10 games (70%) as you predict. I understand there may be new assistant coaches coming on board. At this stage, we can only hope for the best.
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