Scarlets still in the chase for European knockouts

Despite a third successive loss in their Champions Cup campaign, Scarlets remain in the hunt for a place in European knockout rugby.

Saturday's 47-38 defeat by Pau saw them pick up a second losing bonus-point, which could prove crucial in Pool 4.

After the final round of fixtures next weekend, the top four teams qualify for the last 16 of the Champions Cup, while fifth-placed teams drop into the same stage of the Challenge Cup.

Mathematically, Scarlets can still get into the top four, but they would need to start with a bonus-point victory at Northampton Saints, who currently top of the English Premiership, and hope Pau slip up against Bulls.

But fifth place seems a more realist target for Dwayne Peel's side as they prepare to face Northampton next on Sunday, 18 January (15:15 GMT).

"It's obviously disappointing from a loss perspective," said Peel after the loss to Pau.

"But I did feel like there were elements of our game that were more positive than they were in the last two games, and we're still in with a tangible opportunity of finishing in fifth place.

"The Bulls have to travel and we have to travel to Franklin's Gardens, which is a brilliant place to play rugby - I've played there myself - against a team who are full of quality.

"It's a big challenge, a big week, but we're still in it and that's all you can ask for is to have something to go away and chase."

Scarlets marked their return to Europe's top competition with a single-point loss to Bristol Bears who, like Saints, are also flying high in the league.

A trip to French giants Bordeaux-Begles followed and, despite being outclassed, Scarlets gave a decent account against the reigning champions, who feature superstars such as Damian Penaud and Louis Bielle-Biarrey.

Pau sent a second-string side to Parc y Scarlets, but showed why they are currently second in the Top 14 in a clinical seven-try display.

Reflecting on the campaign, Peel added: "We've played three quality fixtures in this competition and it shows we can compete.

"Maybe a bounce of a ball might go our way one day or we might get a TMO decision that goes our way and that will change a bit of momentum, but until then, we work hard and keep moving forward.

"Saints are a really good attacking side and we conceded 40 odd points... so that's going to be a big challenge for us to keep them at bay.

"For us it's about taking our chances and opportunities when we get them. We can't leave points out there when it comes to next week because it's going to be vitally important."