European Challenge Cup: Scarlets v Vannes

Vannes, who are currently bottom of France’s Top 14 league, are one point and one place above Scarlets in fourth place in Pool 3.

The top four sides qualify for the knockout stages.

If Scarlets were to beat their French opponents they would not only secure a place in the last 16, but also have an outside chance of a home knockout match depending on other results.

If Scarlets draw and collect a four-try bonus point with no bonus point for Vannes, both teams will finish on nine points so the French side would stay above Scarlets on points difference.

Sunday’s encounter between Bayonne and Gloucester could also have a big bearing on the pool if Scarlets and Vannes have drawn.

If Bayonne lose to Gloucester with no match points and Scarlets have reached nine points, Dwayne Peel’s side would finish above the French side on points difference.

“Vannes’ position in the Top14 isn’t reflective of how competitive they have been this season and they pushed Edinburgh last week having made a few changes from their Top14 side the week before,” said Peel.

“It is a straight shootout, the pool is definitely the most competitive in the competition and hopefully we can finish well this week. We are home with our supporters behind us and qualification is in our control.”