Scarlets excited by Champions Cup pool draw

The Scarlets will take on Guinness PRO12 champions Glasgow Warriors, Aviva Premiership side Northampton Saints and Top14’s Racing 92 in the 2015-16 European Rugby Champions Cup.

The Pool Draw was held today for 20 clubs from the Aviva Premiership, the Top 14 and PRO12 who have qualified on merit for the European competition.

The Scarlets will look forward to hosting three showcase European pool games for season ticket holders and supporters at Parc y Scarlets in 2015-16 including a huge clash against fellow PRO12 side and last season’s champions Glasgow Warriors.

Scarlets have faced Glasgow Warriors on four occasions in Europe, securing a double over the Scottish side in season 2004-05 with the West Wales side familiar with their Guinness PRO12 counterparts. Former Warrior John Barclay has settled into life in West Wales since his move and the region will welcome Canadian international winger DTH van der Merwe to Llanelli after the World Cup.

Northampton Saints and Scarlets have come up against each other on seven previous occasions in European competition with the last home clash at Parc y Scarlets a 28-23 Welsh victory in 2011-12.

Scarlets secured a home draw against Racing 92 in 2013-14 and a Parisian victory in dramatic fashion with a late try from winger Kristian Phillips.

Scarlets Head Coach Wayne Pivac said: “We’re excited by the pool and are looking forward to the challenge that lies ahead.

“I’d heard a lot from staff, players and supporters alike about the European competition after I arrived last year and wasn’t at all disappointed by the excitement, support and competition surrounding the tournament.

“The supporters put everything into following us to Toulon, Ulster and Leicester last season and we’ll certainly be looking for their support once again this season as we take on strong opposition away from home in the shape of Glasgow, Saints and Racing.

“Glasgow is a team that I’ve come up against last season in the Guinness PRO12 but Northampton Saints and Racing will be new opponents for myself as head coach.

“We showed some real growth in Europe last season, secured strong victories over Leicester Tigers and Ulster at home and bounced back from some disappointing results on the road.”

Every home European Champions Cup game is included in the 2015/16 Season Ticket package. Season Tickets can be renewed or purchased now at tickets.scarlets.co.uk including in the all-new Family & Community West Stand! For more information visit scarletsseasontickets.wales