Harlequins v Sale: Teams
Harlequins director of rugby Dean Richards has called for focus ahead of his side's pivotal game against Sale.
Last Updated: 02/05/08 1:33pm
Harlequins director of rugby Dean Richards has called for focus ahead of his side's pivotal game against Sale.
A victory for Quins would go a long way to sealing them their place in the Premiership play-offs, with Sale just one point behind them in fifth spot.
And Richards insists that his side will go out and give it their all at the Stoop.
Richards said: "Although everyone associated with Harlequins knows how important this match is, the boys will be running out today in the right frame of mind.
"You have to remember that each game is only as important as the last one, something I stress both to players and supporters. It is all about the mind set, and we will go out there again, like every match previously, and give it our all."
Boosted
Richards makes three changes to his pack for the clash, with No.8 Tom Guest replacing the bench Nick Easter; hooker Tani Fuga starting in place of the injured Gary Botha; and James Percival getting the nod in the second row ahead of George Robson.
Sale have been boosted by news that Sebastien Chabal and captain Jason White will be fit to tackle the Quins
The influential duo have both past fitness tests to take their place in the forwards for the must-win clash - with Sale needing a victory to leapfrog Quins into the last play-off place
Director of rugby Philippe Saint Andre said: "Our physios have worked overtime this week and we are able to name a strong side for this crucial game against Harlequins.
"The return of Jason White and 'Seabass' [Chabel] is a big bonus for us in a game we need to win.
"Harlequins have had an excellent season under Dean Richards and they, like us are looking to win this game to bolster their chances of a top four finish and Heineken Cup qualification."
Harlequins: 15 Mike Brown, 14 David Strettle, 13 Ugo Monye, 12 Tosh Masson, 11 Tom Williams, 10 Adrian Jarvis, 9 Danny Care, 1 Ceri Jones, 2 Tani Fuga, 3 Mike Ross, 4 James Percival, 5 George Robson, 6 Chris Robshaw, 7 Will Skinner (c), 8 Tom Guest.
Replacements:16 Chris Brooker, 17 John Brooks, 18 Jim Evans, 19 Nick Easter, 20 Steven So'oialo, 21 Chris Malone, 22 De Wet Barry.
Sale: 15 Ben Foden, 14 Selorm Kuadey, 13 Chris Bell, 12 Luke McAlister, 11 Andy Vilk, 10 Charlie Hodgson, 9 Richard Wigglesworth, 1 Andrew Sheridan, 2 Sebastien Bruno, 3 Stuart Turner, 4 Chris Jones, 5 Brent Cockbain, 6 Jason White (c), 7 Juan Martin Fernandez Lobbe, 8 Sebastien Chabal.
Replacements: 16 Neil Briggs, 17 Eifion Roberts, 18 Sean Cox, 19 Dean Schofield, 20 Michael Hills, 21 Will Cliff, 22 Matt Riley.