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Jenkins issues call to arms ahead of huge European encounter

20th October 2018


Ellis Jenkins has called on the Cardiff Blues supporters to make Sunday's Heineken Champions Cup clash against Glasgow Warriors an unforgettable day in the Welsh capital.

Europe’s premier club competition makes a long-awaited return to the Cardiff Arms Park, with John Mulvihill’s side looking to build on last week’s stunning win over Top14 Lyon.

Jenkins insists the Arms Park crowd gives the home side a boost throughout the 80-minutes, and is looking forward for another big occasion at the iconic ground.

“If we can get a nice, full crowd, it will be a day to remember and hopefully we can get a result to remember,” said the Cardiff Blues captain.

“I think there’s been a lot of tickets sold already, and the more people you have at the Arms Park, the better the atmosphere is.

“Even with lower crowds, the noise is still loud and the atmosphere is pretty good. 

“It’s a pleasure to play when you’ve got those people cheering for you. If it’s at the end of a big defensive set and you get a turnover, or if you’re attacking and get a breakthrough and a score, it just lifts everyone.

“It’s nice and gives you the extra lift that you need towards the end of games.

“If Glasgow come with the intent to play, so will we and hopefully it will be an entertaining game.”

Th Welsh international insists his side must keep to their high standard if they are to remain in contention for a place in the knockout stages, but believes Glasgow will pose a different type of challenge to Lyon.

Jenkins said: “I don’t think many people gave us a chance out in Lyon. It was pleasing the way everyone turned up individually and came together collectively.

“We deserved to win. We were probably down in the stats, but felt comfortable during the game.

“But it’s game one out of six pool stage games in the Heineken Champions Cup. It will be a step up in every game.

“When we were in the Challenge Cup, there was perhaps one team that could be considered easier, but that won’t be the case now. 

“We’ll need to raise our game again this weekend against Glasgow, who are top of our conference in the PRO14. It will be a tough one.

“It will be a completely different test because of the way they play the game. There will be a lot less structure and they will be more similar to us, compared to Lyon. 

“We need to be as accurate as we can because they will thrive from turnover ball and poor kick chase. 

“With their team selection, they’ve gone fairly attacking so we’ll have to make sure we look after the ball and trust our defence.”

Cardiff Blues kicked off their Heineken Champions Cup campaign with a stunning victory at Lyon, and will return to the Arms Park to take on Glasgow Warriors on Sunday.

Be there to support the boys! Tickets are available now and can be purchased by clicking here or calling 029 20 302030.