Planet Rugby

Saracens face stiffest challenge

07th December 2012 08:29

Will Fraser

Will Fraser: Tough test awaits

Saracens flanker Will Fraser knows his side will have to be at their best to knock over Munster at Thomond Park on Saturday.

The English side, who are unbeaten in this season's Heineken Cup after victories over Racing Metro and Edinburgh, will have ambitions of lowering the colours at one of the fortresses of Europe.

Sarries may well be second in the Aviva Premiership, but they have never beaten Munster in Europe - losing all three of their previous meetings with their last defeat back in 2008.

However, Saracens will head into the match on a high after returning to winning ways with victory over Gloucester in the Aviva Premiership on Sunday, and Fraser is confident that this will stand them in good stead for the Munster showdown.

"It was a massive game for us against Gloucester, especially after the poor performance we put in against Worcester the previous Friday," he said.

"We just backed ourselves, and it's that belief that came through for us in the end.

"We've got a double header against Munster, and it's always good to go into tough games with a bit of momentum."

Saracens are also set to be boosted by the likes of Owen Farrell, Brad Barritt, Chris Ashton, Alex Goode and Mako Vunipola - all set to return from England duty. Scotland captain Kelly Brown as well as Springbok hooker Schalk Brits are also both available for selection.

Sarries skipper Steve Borthwick was pleased with the depth shown at the club whilst their international contingent were away on Test duty.

"I think it's fantastic that our players are getting recognition on the international stage," he said.

"It's a reward for their hard work over the past few years. It's great for them individually and, if they are getting call-ups, it means Saracens are being successful - and that is what we all want.

"We've had ten players away with their respective countries in recent weeks and, but for injury, it could have been more.

"What that's done is give a chance to other members of the squad, and we've seen some of the talent that is coming through our academy.

"There really is no let-up in whatever competition we play, be it domestically or in Europe, and that is why it is important to have strength in depth across the squad to be competitive in all competitions. I think we have that at Saracens."

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