Steeno 'excited' after Euro draw

By Mark Stevens
8/6/17

Exeter Chiefs fly-half Gareth Steenson said he and his team-mates are "excited" by the challenges that lie ahead following today's European Champions Cup draw in Neuchâtel, Switzerland.

The newly-crowned Premiership champions were today pitted in Pool 3 against Montpellier-Herault, Glasgow Warriors and three-time former European champions Leinster.

Ranked as one of the five Tier One clubs, the Chiefs will find themselves up against familiar foes, having played all three clubs previously in European competition.

Reflecting on the draw, Steenson - who is one of only a handful of survivors left at the Devon club from their opening European fixture in 2010 against Montpellier - said: "Obviously it's a very exciting draw for everyone connected to the club.

"We've played all three teams before in Europe and we know the quality that each of them possess. Playing at this level you know whoever you come up against, it's never going to be easy.

"As a club and as players, however, this is the competition you want to be in. To be classed in the top 20 clubs in Europe is a huge thing and for all of us - and I include the supporters in this - it's always a fantastic experience to be part of."

Obviously a trip back to his native Ireland sticks out for Steenson following today's draw, but he insists that every fixture will allow the Chiefs to further establish themselves a force within the modern-day game.

"I remember going to Leinster for our first-ever game in the old Heineken Cup," he added. "We gave a good account of ourselves that day [the Chiefs lost 9-6] and it introduced us to that next level. For years they've been one of the top teams around, so going over there to face them will be a great challenge for us.

"Equally, Montpellier have shown othey are one of the top teams in France. They have great support, the city is fantastic, so it's one to definitely look forward to.

"Then with Glasgow, they've proved over the last few seasons that they are one of the top teams in the Pro 12. They play a good brand of rugby, they have quite a few boys in the Scotland team, and they have good experience in Europe.

"As I said, you're not going to get an easy game or anyone lying down for you. If we're honest we were disappointed with how Europe went for us last season, so this offers us a great chance to try and put things right this year."