“We are feeling good and focused” - Alvarado and Iberians ready for semi-final
Iberians only missed out on topping the Western Conference on points difference, so although they face a tough Rugby Europe Super Cup semi-final away to Black Lion in Georgia on Sunday, the Spanish outfit are looking forward to it.
In 2021 they were just pipped by the same opponents - who went on to win the competition - 43-40 in an amazing last four tie.
Experienced forward Andres Alvarado was on the bench for that one and, ahead of the rematch, said: “Last year’s semi-final loss was hard to take because I think we had the chances to win.
“Black Lion is a great challenge and we are excited to play them again on Sunday.
“They play a very physical game and they are well known for their scrum and hard contacts.
“We need to trust in our game plan and keep the ball alive. We have confidence and we have quality players to go for the win.
"I've enjoyed playing in the Super Cup this year.
“[Winning away at Lusitanos, 17-12 in October] was an important objective to achieve and we did it, it was a pity that we couldn't finish leading the group table.
“We have a lots of players in the squad and every time that we play you can see a united team and we play some good rugby also.
“I think is very important for young, talented players to keep growing and learning in this kind of tough level of competition. It’s a big chance for them to show what they can do.
“We are feeling good and we are really focused on this game at Black Lion - I think the team is ready to go for it.”
The semi final will take place on Sunday and will live on rugbyeurope.tv, the venue for the final will be announced after the two games.
By Gary Heatly
