Edinburgh target home quarter-final ahead of Myreside debut

Interim head coach of Edinburgh Duncan Hodge said his side is extremely motivated to secure a home quarter-final in the ongoing European Challenge Cup as they switch to Myreside for the first time.

Hodge's men host Timisoara Saracens on Friday at Myreside and having already secured a place in the knock-out stage, Edinburgh will look to sign off the group stage on a high with a win which will also guarantee them a home quarter-final.

The decision to shift from Murrayfield which has a capacity of 67,500 spectators to have a relatively smaller stadium at Watsonians' ground was to create a better atmosphere for the team and it will be a big boost to the new venue if Edinburgh can secure a home quarter-final.

Hodge said the team is determined to put on a good show in their debut game at Myreside.

"We need no extra motivation for this match. We're in front of our supporters at a new home ground and have the chance to secure a home European quarter-final.

"As a group we're hugely excited about playing at Myreside and will look to put down a marker on our first outing.

"It's a huge day for the club and its supporters and we hope it is a great occasion.

"The players are determined to play their part by giving a huge performance and we look forward to hearing a loud crowd creating a really intimidating atmosphere for the visiting team."

Edinburgh have been one of the most consistent team in this season of Challenge Cup with four victories from five games and Hodge wants the team to continue building the momentum as they reach the business end of the tournament.

"We were delighted with the away victory against Harlequins last week but how we build from that is absolutely key.

"We've talked a lot about consistency and being relentless. To record three consecutive victories would be a real boost to this team going forward in this competition and in the Guinness PRO12.

"Timisoara were a physical and tough side when we played them out in Romania and we can expect more of the same on their visit to Myreside."

Meanwhile, WP Nel, who is struggling with a neck injury misses out on the encounter and will be replaced Simon Berghan while Neil Cochrane will lead the team on Friday on his 50th appearance.