Ruislip Eagles star ready for European challenge

Great Britain international Sam Crocker believes Ruislip Eagles can “turn a few heads” when they face ABC/UMinho Braga in the European Challenge Cup this weekend.

Eagles face back-to-back matches in Portugal on Saturday and Sunday, with a third-round tie against Romanian club Odorhei awaiting the winners.

And Crocker said he and his team-mates were well prepared for the challenge ahead.

He said: “The team has been training very hard over the past few weeks in order to get ourselves ready to play a strong side.

“We have also prepared by watching the opposition online to give ourselves an idea of how best to approach the match.

“I expect to be part of two very tough, physical games and to come out battered and bruised but enjoying every moment. I also hope to be proud of the team and my personal performance.

“Being part of the Ruislip Eagles team that heads out to Braga is very special. I have never played in a European tournament on as big a stage as this so I am really looking forward to it.

“I feel that we, as a team, are in a good position to turn a few heads and surprise a few people with how we play this weekend.”