This weekend portrays both surprise and expectation through the teams achieving finalist status. Let’s start with the inevitable - two French sides are in the European Champions Cup Finale (we may as well all start spelling final with an “e” when referring to this cup, it could be like this for some time…) as Toulon face Clermont Auvergne. Having already won the Heineken Cup twice (with one against Clermont) in succession, and as reigning champions, Toulon have something to prove. However, with Clermont snapping at their heels in the Top14, and with a proven record for causing upset, it will be an encounter you don’t want to miss! We predict that in this clash of champions, Toulon will batter the opposition with big forwards and their Ha’penny’s worth will put the points through the sticks by foot.
Friday night, in the European Rugby Challenge Cup Final, Edinburgh are pitched against Gloucester in what will be a colossal clash of the underdogs! Back in 2006, Gloucester pinched the title from the London Irish by two points in a gruelling 36 points to 34 battle in Twickenham Stoop, with the exiles missing out on opportunities by both drop goal and penalty. Edinburgh, however, have no final heritage. In fact, Scotland has no history of putting a club into any European cup final. Edinburgh, on Friday night, step out into unknown territory as they seem to not only carry the hopes of their fans and coaches, but a nation (ironic considering most of the Scotland National Squad are at Glasgow!) as they take up the gauntlet. Neither side is doing particularly well in their respective leagues (which, unlike kick-ball, the Pro12 and Premiership actually stand comparable) which is why very few expected either side to make it. But that is the beauty of rugby, skill and persistence are important, but heart and courage can still win through!We predict Edinburgh to win it (how could we not!), not only for Edinburgh but to bring Scottish Rugby into the record books! As such, we've knocked at least 25% off our Edinburgh clothing until Monday, with some items better than half price!
