By Cornerball
October 29 2004

The Italian Job, part II. Cornerball drives his pumpkin-encrusted Mini through the posh seats, up the Cheadle End steps and into the Sapphire Suite to bring us his musings on the return fixture.

The Sharks take a surprisingly narrow 9 point lead over Catania into the second leg of the European Challenge Cup. It was apparent from the fist leg that Catania had heart, grunt and pace to compete. Whether they can repeat the feat on a cold Sunday afternoon against a (probably) stronger Sale side at EP remains to be seen. Catania, like Sale, have benefited from astute transfers in the summer to produce a good international squad.

The Catanian back three of Chris Catling, Massimillano Perziano, and Rosario Di-Paola are certainly a threat. Chris Catling, formerly of Gloucester, joined Catania from Beziers, at the start of the season. He has quickly formed a good understanding with his new colleagues which has been instrumental in Catania’s excellent start to their domestic season. Perziano is an Italian international wing with a try against France to his credit. Di-Paola has the pace and ability to make the Sevens side.

Barry Irving has shown great judgement and tactical awareness this season. His ability to kick from hand and to orchestrate and release the back line will be crucial to Catania’s chances of producing an upset.

Up front there are plenty of options from the home-grown talent mixed with Argentinian imports for a solid pack with secure scrum. However, the pick of the pack is likely to be Benjamin De Jager, another sevens player who combines grunt, pace and a high work rate.

Last week, several factors contributed to a closely fought contest. Catania’s spirit and desire to prove themselves in European rugby, PSA took the chance to rest key players (and give European experience to young players), and last but not least the heat.

This week we can probably expect the same team spirit from Catania, a stronger Sale side and a dry English autumn day. A good match? It has all the makings, but hopefully not so close.