News: MYLER: AMLIN CHALLENGE CUP MEANS A LOT TO THE TEAM

Myler was the team’s hero when the Saints lifted the Amlin Challenge Cup in 2009, landing the match-winning drop goal against Saracens in the semi-final, and then all 15 points in the final against Bourgoin.That was the last year that did not include Heineken Cup teams, who would join the Amlin Challenge Cup quarter finals from 2009/10 onwards. Since then three of the four Amlin Challenge Cup champions have begun their European campaigns in the Heineken Cup, and Myler says that this give the tournament added kudos.“The Challenge Cup means as much now as it did back then,” the fly half says. “Obviously it’s classed as the ‘second’ European competition behind the Heineken Cup, but it’s still a massive competition to be involved in.“There are some quality teams left in it, which adds to the meaning and value of it. You can’t just go out and win it; you’ve got to go and earn it by beating quality teams like Harlequins.“The chance to win any trophy for the club is a huge opportunity and one which we’re really looking forward to. We love playing at the Gardens and the fans love it when we play well, so hopefully we can play well and give them something to cheer about on Friday.”You can hear the full interview with Stephen Myler in this week’s official Saints podcast. And tickets are still available for Friday night’s big Amlin Challenge Cup semi-final against Harlequins – to order online head to www.northamptonsaints.co.uk/buytickets and follow the straightforward instructions.