Smit can't wait for Clermont reunion

Former Springbok captain and Saracens hooker John Smit is relishing the chance to go head-to-head with his former club Clermont Auvergne in the Heineken Cup quarterfinals.

The South African World Cup winning skipper spent a season at Stade Marcel Michelin in 2007 but will come up against his former teammates in April, after edging past Benetton Treviso to top Pool Five and secure a home quarterfinal.

“Clermont are a fantastic club with quality players throughout the squad and it’s going to be a massive challenge for us – but one which we cannot wait for,” said Smit.

“I know from my time there that they always want to do well in the Heineken Cup. But at Saracens we are looking to create our own legacy with the squad of players we have. It should be a really exciting match.”

Sarries trailed by four points at the interval in Italy following tries from Robert Barbieri and Tommaso Iannone for the hosts and Mouritz Botha for the visitors.

David Strettle scored after the restart to hand Saracens the advantage. Treviso fought back and pushed for a try with Tobias Botes having an effort ruled out but the English out fit hung on.

“Treviso are a good side, Biarritz had it tough here this season, they’re a proud bunch,” added Saracens coach Andy Farrell.

“They’re well drilled, well organised and it was always going to be tough and physical as you always expect in the Heineken Cup.

“We have come away with the win, we’re through to the quarter-final and are very proud of the achievement.”