The exciting new-look European Challenge Cup - 20 teams in five Pools of four teams each - kicks-off on Saturday with Bristol Rugby back in Europe after a two-year absence and coach Richard Hill knowing exactly what to expect when they travel to Narbonne in Round 1.
Hill was on the NEC Harlequins coaching staff when they beat Narbonne 42-33 in extra time of the 2001 European Challenge Cup final, travelling to Narbonne on a fact-finding mission to see them in action against La Rochelle.
"Going to Narbonne is a bit of a stern test for our opener, there is a superb atmosphere at the ground but it is also extremely intimidating," said the former England captain and scrum half.
"They are massively passionate about their rugby and the crowd noise is just fantastic. Quite a few of our players are new to playing in Europe and this will be a completely different experience for them - I am looking forward to seeing the look on their faces when they go out onto the pitch!
"I know how brilliant it is to play in Europe and the experience our squad will gain from the tournament is huge, it is a terrific opportunity for them.
"However, we have no pretensions of winning what is an extremely tough and demanding competition which has lots of top quality teams. Realistically, we do not expect to go that far."
