Josh McNally has urged Cardiff to quickly refocus on the league as the Blue & Blacks return to URC action this weekend, welcoming Benetton to Cardiff Arms Park after a tough European outing away to Exeter.
Although Cardiff fell to defeat at Sandy Park, the result came in the final match of the Challenge Cup pool stage, with qualification for the knockout rounds already secured. While the performance did not meet the standards the squad expect of themselves, the loss provided a timely reminder of the level required, without undermining the primary European objective that had already been achieved. Cardiff now turn their full attention back to league matters.
“It was important for us to qualify for the knockout stages of Europe,” said McNally. “That was a goal of ours at the start of the year. Now it’s good to be back in the league, where we’re sitting in the top four, and we want to continue the progress we’ve been making.”
With two competitions running in parallel and the Six Nations approaching, McNally highlighted the importance of squad rotation and smart management across a demanding schedule. While the performance against Exeter was not the standard Cardiff set for themselves, the lock feels the broader picture remains a positive one.
“If you want to compete in two tournaments, you need to use your squad,” he explained. “We’ve got a relatively small group, so it’s about making sure people get minutes but also get refreshed. The rotation has done us good. Some boys really put their hand up, and now everyone’s available for selection again, which gives the coaches some real selection headaches.”
Despite the disappointment at Sandy Park, Cardiff remain well placed in both competitions, sitting inside the URC’s top four with plenty of rugby still to be played.
“When you zoom out, we’re qualified in Europe and still top four in the league,” McNally added. “There’s a long way left this season and a lot to be excited about. We’re still looking to compete and challenge to be in that top four come the end of the year.”
Saturday’s clash with Benetton also marks a welcome return to Cardiff Arms Park, McNally says the squad identified the importance of making CAP a difficult place for away sides to come.
“We spoke right at the start of the year about making this place a fortress,” he said. “Bar one game, we’ve done that. Every chance we get to be at home, in front of our fans, friends and family, is massive for us – especially in a league where you’re travelling all over Europe.”
With a healthy squad, renewed competition for places and a vocal home crowd behind them, McNally insists Cardiff are relishing the challenge ahead as they look to turn European lessons into URC momentum against Benetton.