Wasps flyer Elliot Daly says playing at the Ricoh, as they will be next Saturday, gives the side a lot of confidence heading into their semi-final against Leicester.
A 35-15 win over defending champions Saracens last weekend ensured Wasps finished top of the tree and will play one more game in front of their adoring supporters. Leicester snuck into the play-offs ahead of a floundering Bath side to earn themselves a short trip to Coventry to play a fixture they lost 22-16 in January.
Jimmy Gopperth scoops double @WaspsRugby awards #AvivaPremhttps://t.co/gb1Cm185MA pic.twitter.com/960wsBpftt
— Premiership Rugby (@premrugby) May 10, 2017
WASPS AT EASE WHEN PLAYING IN FAMILIAR TERRITORY
An unbeaten home record this season has Wasps down as firm favourites to make their first final appearance since 2008, and Daly was keen to stress the confidence felt by the group.
“It’s the same with any game, the Ricoh has been really good to us and the fans have been amazing”, Daly said.
“Our record there is very good, I think we’ve lost only one or two games in the last two years almost so it does give us a lot of confidence.”
“We love playing there (The Ricoh), it’s a great stadium, there’s always great crowds and if we get the weather it’s a great place to play.”
The last side to leave the Ricoh with a win was, of course, Saracens who beat Wasps 26-16 in December 2015. Saracens themselves are on the road and play the record setting Exeter Chiefs side at Sandy Park in the first of Saturday’s semi-finals.
Wasps, by virtue of finishing top, have earned themselves what looks like an easier tie with Dai Young’s side strongly anticipated to be present at Twickenham on 27th May.
Fortunately for Daly, regardless of how the next two weeks pans out, he has a Lions tour to look forward to this summer after being the only member of the Wasps side to be selected for the trip to New Zealand.
Daly’s versatility has been highlighted as a particular point of difference that enabled him to get on the plane and the 24-year-old has stressed he just wants to be involved regardless of where that may be.
“I like playing anywhere on the pitch, whether that’s centre, wing or full-back I don’t mind. I just want to do my best, get my hands on the ball and influence the game.”
“Main photo credit”
