Phil Davies’ side welcome the defending European champions to Cardiff Arms Park tomorrow on the back of a convincing defeat to the Chiefs last weekend. A poor start to the game saw the Devon side stroll into a comfortable first half lead and although the Blues came back after half time, a four try bonus point was the best they could hope for.
With Toulon next up, it doesn’t get any easier for the Blues with Jonny Wilkinson, Matt Giteau, Bakkies Botha and company fresh from a first half demolition of Glasgow. Bernard Laporte has world class players available in every position but Wales lock Davies says the Blues will give it their all against the French superstars.
“Toulon are always going to be a good team whatever side they put on the field – we know what to expect,” said the 26-year-old.
“Our backs are against the wall and we’re a bit of a wounded animal. Hopefully we can come out and fly straight into them.
“They have some outstanding players but we have the spirit and togetherness and can prove to people on Saturday that we’re a good team. It’s not good enough as a squad or region to accept narrow defeats – we want to go out against Toulon and beat them.”
Davies partners Filo Paulo at lock against the French giants with the Blues making changes from the side which started at Sandy Park. Robin Copeland comes in at No. 8 after impressing from the bench against Exeter while Scott Andrews is the other change to the forwards, packing down with captain Matthew Rees and Gethin Jenkins in the front row. Jenkins takes on his former side with talented centre Owen Williams recalled to partner Cory Allen in midfield.
“We’ve tried to nip last weekend in the bud. It was disappointing as players but we showed a lot of character in the second half and we’re still in the group overall,” said Davies.
“If we win on Saturday, which we’re planning on doing, we’re more than just in it. There’s no bigger test than the champions of Europe at home but we’ll look forward to it and hopefully we’ll get a response.”
The Blues will face Toulon in front of a sell-out crowd with the likes of Leigh Halfpenny, Sam Warburton and Alex Cuthbert also featuring from the off.
“We’ve got to start the game like we finished in Exeter and use that momentum,” said Director of Rugby Phil Davies.
“It’s a full house and it will be some atmosphere. Toulon have an outstanding squad full of world class players.
“We know their set piece is strong, their driving game is powerful and they have a solid defence particularly around the edges.
“But we have got some good players ourselves and if we perform the way we know we can we will cause teams problems.”
