Blades Call For Sharpness

Newcastle Falcons coach Andrew Blades will call on his side to be more clinical as they attempt to build on their narrow first leg advantage against Tony Marsh's star-studded team...

"Obviously we would have liked a bigger advantage to take to France but we are concentrating on simply winning the game," said Blades. "It is a great challenge for us as the first leg was a tough and physical battle. We made a few openings but couldn't finish off the chances and we will want to do that this time.

"I was very impressed with their defence - defence coach Frank Ponissi has obviously done a great job for them - because when we did attack their scramble defence kept us out.

"They also attacked the ball at the breakdown most effectively and, with both sides looking to play the game at pace, we are really looking forward to the return.

"At this stage I am not confident that Jonny Wilkinson, Garath Archer or Mark Andrews will be fit for the game but, as it is the beginning of the week, I always live in hope."