
Duncan Taylor hopes to create more ‘incredible memories’ as he makes his landmark 150th appearance for Saracens in Friday night’s crucial Challenge Cup clash against Brive.
Saracens know a win under the French lights this evening would safely book their place in the last 16 after a turbulent European campaign so far.
Mark McCall’s side have mustered just one win in Pool C but can still ensure their progression if they finish their group on a high.
England captain Owen Farrell returns at fly-half while experienced centre Taylor, 32, brings up his Saracens milestone in Correze.
📝 R16 qualification to achieve.
— Saracens Rugby Club (@Saracens) April 8, 2022
🆚 Bring on Brive.#StrongerTogether ⚫️🔴 | @ChallengeCup_ pic.twitter.com/4Xco7fqTuL
And the Scotland international said: “I am honoured and proud to be making my 150th appearance for this club.
“We have made some incredible memories over the last decade and I love being part of this group.”
Scrum-half Ivan van Zyl also returns alongside Farrell, while a front row of Eroni Mawi, Tom Woolstencroft and Alec Clarey start ahead of Nick Isiekwe and Theo McFarland at lock.
Andy Christie and Jackson Wray both return as flankers and will be joined by Billy Vunipola at the base of the scrum.
On the bench is plenty of talent with the likes of Jamie George, Richard Barrington and Ben Earl.
𝗕𝗼𝗻𝗷𝗼𝘂𝗿, 𝗕𝗿𝗶𝘃𝗲 👋
— Saracens Rugby Club (@Saracens) April 8, 2022
🌍 European Rugby, we've missed you 🤩#StrongerTogether ⚫️🔴 pic.twitter.com/BA57zwTThA
Saracens overcame London Irish 45-24 in their previous European clash but have struggled for momentum in the competition so far.
A win on Friday night would book their place in the knockout stages, however, while they could still qualify for the last 16 with a fourth-place finish in the group.
Brive sit level on points with Saracens in the table and suffered a thumping 66-3 defeat against Edinburgh last time out.
Saracens will be hoping to inflict similar damage and Taylor, who starts in the centres alongside Elliot Daly tonight, added: “Thank you to everyone at the club for their support along the way and let’s hope there are plenty more memories to come.”
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