Peter Burke – EPCR Media
Round 4 of the EPCR Challenge Cup is almost here – and it’s all to play for with the final chance for teams to qualify for the knockouts and secure home advantage.
After this weekend’s Round 4 matches, the top four teams from each pool will progress to the knockouts, joined by four fifth-placed sides from the Investec Champions Cup pools.
Pool 1
Montpellier Hérault Rugby lead the standings with 15 points from three bonus-point wins. They face Ospreys, who sit four points behind in second, in a direct clash for top spot with both sides qualified.
Third-placed Zebre Parma travel to Georgia’s Black Lion, with qualification still up for grabs and home advantage on the line if they can take the win.
Fourth-placed Connacht Rugby aim for a win against US Montauban to solidify their current knockout spot.
Pool 2
Benetton Rugby and Newcastle Red Bulls are already through after three wins each, but the remaining four teams still have a shot at the knockouts.
USAP and the Lions, both on six points, clash in Perpignan in a crucial Round 4 match.
Dragons RFC host Newcastle Red Bulls, while last year’s finalists Lyon Olympique Universitaire welcome the current pool leaders Benetton Rugby – a win is essential if Lyon are to qualify.
Pool 3
While qualification is settled, home advantage is still up for grabs.
Stade Français Paris travel to Ulster Rugby, hoping to maintain a perfect record. Meanwhile, Exeter Chiefs host Cardiff Rugby, with both sides still in contention for home advantage knockout ties.