European rugby at its finest
Following the footballing thrills and spills of the FA Cup last weekend, this time round rugby union takes a turn in the spotlight.
It's round five of the Heineken Cup this weekend with the best sides in Europe on show. Sky will broadcast six matches, so there's bound to be a game that will appeal to the rugby lovers in your neck of the woods.
This weekend is a fine opportunity to mark your pub as the place to be to watch rugby, as there's plenty to look forward to. The final round of the group stage of the Heineken Cup is next weekend. Just a fortnight later it will be the start of this year's Six Nations tournament; then in September, there will be a six-week feast of international rugby to enjoy in the form of the Rugby World Cup 2007. Bring it on!
To get the oval ball rolling, on Friday Gloucester travel to France to take on Agen. Both sides need a win if they are to challenge group leaders Leinster.
The French side won 32-26 away at Kingsholm. Could thoughts of revenge spur Gloucester on? The West Country side have a good record on the road. Kick-off is at 7.30pm on SS3.
On Saturday the Ulster v Llanelli and Wasps v Perpignan matches are between teams at the top of their groups, so the quality should be high. Past form suggests the Wasps-Perpignan game should be close. Kick-offs are at 1.35pm and 3.30pm on SS2. Leinster v Edinburgh is the day's third match, on SS1 from 5.30pm.
Sunday's games are between Bourgoin and reigning European champions Munster, followed by the Neath Swansea Ospreys v Stade Français clash. The game in Wales is another between sides topping their group so a hard-fought encounter is in store. Kick-offs are at 1.00pm and 3.00pm on SS2.
l Six Nations tournament feature - p23-24
