Cardiff Blues director of coaching Dai Young said: “There’s no real surprise that we’ve drawn against the Ospreys and I think most people would have put money on us getting them. However, one good thing is that we will definitely get a Welsh representative in the final which will be a big boost to Welsh rugby.
“The players know each other really well and in the context of it being a semi-final of the EDF Energy Cup it looks like being a big occasion for the fans and the players alike.
“The English sides that we’ve come up against so far had realistic chances of going through and fielded strong teams and now it’s at the business end of the competition they will be even more focused on that game as it’s also a route for them to get in to Europe next year.”
Ospreys assistant coach Sean Holley said: “We’re delighted with the way things have panned out and that there will definitely be a Welsh team in the final of the EDF Energy Cup.
“The semi-final will be a great day of rugby all round in Cardiff and I’m sure there will be a great atmosphere and a huge crowd. Although it’s next door for the Blues, it’s not too far for our supporters to travel and I’m sure they’ll be out in force. After all, we’re playing for a place in a major final.”
Leicester Tigers chief executive Peter Wheeler said: “It’s a tough game for us but there are four very good teams in the semi-finals. We’ve had tough games against the Ospreys and Cardiff in the last 12 months and of course some big games against Sale too.
“I’m sure there will be a big crowd at the Millennium Stadium. We have won there once already this season and I’m sure all our players will be looking forward to it.”
Sale Sharks head coach Philippe Saint Andre added: “It’s a tough draw but we are looking forward to a great game with Leicester and the day out with our loyal supporters at the Millennium Stadium.”
The semi-finals will be played at 2.30pm and 5.15pm at the Millennium Stadium on March 24th with the order of play to be confirmed in due course.
Tickets for the semi-finals are available from http://www.ticketmaster.co.uk/ or on 08705 582 582 priced £28 & £18 for adults, and £14 & £9 for juniors.
