Gloucester Ready for Intense Challenge Cup Opener

Gloucester director of rugby George Skivington anticipates a “really intense” match as his team begins their Challenge Cup campaign at home to Edinburgh on Friday. Last season, Gloucester narrowly defeated Edinburgh 21-20 away in the pool stage, maintaining a perfect European record until they lost to Sharks in the final. Skivington expects a tough challenge from Edinburgh, recalling their 33-26 loss in pre-season.

He highlighted the physicality and intensity of their previous encounters describing the matches as fast and competitive. Skivington anticipates Edinburgh will have new strategies to test Gloucester’s defense especially after last season’s tight contest. Gloucester enters the game in strong form, sitting fifth in the Premiership, following a 25-17 win over Northampton Saints. However, they face injury concerns with Zach Mercer and Ollie Thorley both sidelined with knee injuries.

Despite this, Skivington is impressed by the performances of his fringe players and plans to rotate his squad for the Challenge Cup. Edinburgh currently eighth in the United Rugby Championship, boasts key players such as Ross Thompson (leading points scorer) and Ben Muncaster (joint-top try scorer). Skivington is cautious of Edinburgh’s ability to score from unexpected opportunities as seen in their pre-season game.

He also praised their strong set-piece and defensive capabilities. Skivington is looking forward to the Challenge Cup, with Gloucester facing French side Vannes on 14 December then hosting Scarlets and finishing their group stage against Bayonne. He emphasized the importance of securing points from the first two games as early results are crucial in these European competitions.