The Liberty Stadium side tightened their grip on Pool Two with a 51-20 triumph over the French heavyweights on Saturday. They are two points clear of Worcester Warriors at the pool’s halfway point, and will be able to start planning for the knockout stages if they can score a repeat victory at Stade Jean Bouin yesterday.
“After next weekend we will know the shakeup of the group,” said Clarke. “We’re in a healthy position at the moment, but we have a big job next week to see if we can go over there and get something out of the game.
“They’ll definitely be stronger next week, it is more of a mental challenge playing a way from home against the momentum of the crowds and the expectation on the players. But we’re building nicely and we’ve got a good camp here, we want to show that through our rugby and that will be really tested next week.”
Cory Allen scored a brace to take his try tally to four from three Challenge Cup matches. The Wales international starred alongside the returning Scott Williams, who played 62 minutes after recovering from a hamstring injury.
Owen Watkin came on and scored after he impressed during Wales’ historic unbeaten Under Armour Series campaign, and Clarke is delighted with his magic being conjured in his midfield.
“Cory is a really talented player and after speaking him it’s clear he’s in a really good place,” he added. “He’s happy, and like most of us in life, if you’re happy doing something then you will perform to your best. He’s shown good consistency and good durability and he merited his man of the match award.
“Scott’s important to us, it’s fantastic to have him back. He’s a quality rugby player and a top quality person. He’s also like our coach on the field, he gives composure to people around him and people are excelling and flourishing when he’s on the field.”
