Amlin Challenge Cup finalists Toulon head into their first French Championship semi-final in 15 years against ASM Clermont Auvergne today pledging not to change anything in their game that has taken them to the verge of two major titles this season.
While they have a date with Cardiff Blues in Marseille on Sunday, May 23 to look forward to determine who carries of the Amlin Challenge Cup this season, they are eyeing up a potential double by reaching their first French Championship final since 1992.
That year saw them beat Biarritz Olympique 19-14 in the final, the club's third domestic title after success in 1931 and 1987. But while the pressure mounts, former Saracens lock Kris Chesney says everyone is sticking to their normal routines.
"It's very important not to change your habits, even if this week may be the most important of our season. Not changing anything takes off the pressure a little," said Chesney, who starts in the second row with fellow Englishmen Jonny Wilkinson at outside half and Joe El Abd at flanker.
"We're pretending that it's a match like any other, but we are preparing for this semi-final as is fitting is such circumstances. We've had trouble beat Clermont in the past and they're kind of our pet hate - we know it isn't going to be easy."
Toulon: L Rooney; G Lovobalavu, M Kefu, S Williams, T Umaga; J Wilkinson, P Mignoni; L Emmanuelli, S Bruno, D Kubriashvili, K Chesney, J Suta, J van Niekerk (captain), J El Abd, J-M Fernandez-Lobbe. Replacements: P Fitzgerald, S Taumoepeau, R Skeate, O Missoup, J Sinzelle, F Contepomi, F Cibray, T Lea'aetoa
