Mark Cueto - England's new wing sensation with four tries in three Tests - will be at the heart of Sale Sharks' bid to go a giant step closer to a European Challenge Cup "double" when they clash with Agen in the First Leg of the quarter-finals at Edgeley Park on Friday night.
Cueto, who was in the Sale Sharks side who lifted the trophy in 2002 when they beat Pontypridd 25-22 in a thrilling final, accepts that a home win is a must against Jean-Jacques Crenca's team.
"We have been away in the First Leg matches in Rounds 1 and 2 so this will be something different starting at home in the quarter-finals," said Cueto. "It is vitally important to win your home fixture. To lose, and then have to go to France needing the win to go through, would certainly put us on the back foot.
"We expect Agen to provide a real challenge up front with their big and strong pack and to be solid in the set pieces, using their forwards a lot.
"But they also have some skilful backs - and perhaps none more skilful than Fijian Rupeni Caucaunibuca, who has such a superb World Cup.
"He is an outstanding player and will be a real handful. I am sure Agen won't want to waste someone of his attacking talents."
The Sharks, who have also got the likes of England captain Jason Robinson and fly half Charlie Hodgson bang in form, are desperate to parade their talents in the Heineken Cup next season.
"Our ultimate aim for this season was always to qualify for the 2005 / 2006 Heineken Cup, be it through the league or as a cup winner," said Cueto.
"With the winner of the European Challenge Cup automatically qualifying for the Heineken Cup, that is a big incentive for all the teams. And, having got as far as the quarter-finals, we want to go all the way. It would be great to get something tangible from the season like winning the European Challenge Cup."
