Gloucester Rugby host Leicester Tigers on Friday night in the Premiership Rugby Cup Final.
The cherry and whites centre Seb Atkinson, who will start the final, was a wider squad member when Worcester Warriors beat London Irish in the 2022 final.
“The biggest thing I remember is what it did for the community, the team took a lot out of it, but I think it brought the community together and created memories that will last forever and in the experience of Worcester were even more important than we first realised.
“The power of that and what it could do for Gloucester if we can put in a performance could be really good. For the team, we have had a challenging season so far up till now, we are trying to ride the momentum and finish off with a strong second half of the season. “
Gloucester’s recent league form has dipped massively, with three wins and nine defeats in their last 12, but their cup form has been drastically better, reaching the quarter finals of the European Challenge Cup and this upcoming final on Friday.
“It gives us confidence; it gives us belief in our game plan. It allows people to get some more rugby in against different opponents. A win makes more wins.
“Hopefully coming into the next block of premiership fixtures we can start pushing up the table.”
As a result of Gloucester being the top seeded team after the group stay, Kingsholm will host the final, which Atkinson believes will play into the Cherry and Whites hands.
“It’s an advantage to us. It’s a great opportunity for us to enjoy it more. The Gloucester fans are amazing.
“We have worked hard so we can have a home final so we can give back to the supporters.
“So the team is looking forward to it and we love playing on a Friday night.”
Gloucester Rugby number 8 Zac Mercer has been snubbed by England head coach Steve Borthwick, who set up the try of the game in the semi-finals. Atkinson believes performances like this will be key to winning the final.
🪄 @Mercer8Zach & @JoshHathaway14 combining for a moment of semi-final magic!#PremRugbyCup pic.twitter.com/mSpejAzGIZ
— Gloucester Rugby 🍒 (@gloucesterrugby) February 19, 2024
“You are learning things each week. People like Zac Mercer can spark life into a game in moments when you think not much is going to happen, which is amazing because if they make a half break you might be on their shoulder for an offload or he will put one of those kicks through, and you can get onto that.”
“It gives you opportunities, but it also inspires and lifts a team in moments when you potentially need that kick.”
Seb Atkinson has one of the best defensive centres in the world to learn from in Scotland outside centre Chris Harris.
“His defences, particularly looking back to that Sale Sharks game a few weeks ago, just some of the tackling and his positioning. I am always asking him for tips and feedback here and there.
“I think he is just a very comforting character, always manages to enjoy himself and put out good performances. It makes you feel comfortable and confident, but you can also ask for help.”
There are still some tickets left on The Gloucester Rugby website with kick off at 19:45
