Once again the pool stages of the Heineken Cup lived it up to its lofty expectations. The identity and ranking of the eight quarter finalists was, as expected, in the balance until the very last moments of the final pool games.
We are now left with eight teams all of whom will have hopes and ambitions of progressing further. From an Irish perspective the tie of the round is undoubtedly that of Munster versus Ulster.
In spite of a number of insipid performances, Munster's Simon Zebo inspired destruction of Northampton has now left them in a most lucrative position. Admittedly I did not think they would have the wherewithal to be considered title contenders but with home advantage also in the semis if they get through they will more than fancy their chances.
Added to that they may also be able to welcome back Jerry Flannery, David Wallace and Felix Jones. This will certainly increase their prospects. Paul O'Connell and the wily Ronan O'Gara meanwhile remain in immaculate form.
However this is not the Ulster team of old. Their performances against both Leicester at Ravenhill and Clermont away highlight how difficult Munster's task will be. Players like Steven Ferris, Ruan Pienaar and the incredibly in form Andrew Trimble will not be fazed by the Thomond roar. Expect a game of seismic proportions.
The other match ups are hugely intriguing. Saracens face Clermont in Vicarage Road which should also be a most tight affair. Home advantage may tilt the balance slightly in the English champions favour but if Clermont turn up and produce their best I would not be surprised to see them topple Saracens as they have an exquisite backline and a teak tough pack. This Saracens team are relatively new to this level of the Heineken cup whilst it is time Clermont took the next step in this competition and at the very least reach a semi-final.
Elsewhere Scotland possesses a representative in the quarter finals for the first time since 2003 in the form of Edinburgh. Without doubt Michael Bradley has done an exceptional job in getting his side this far. They will however face the irresistible Toulouse for a berth in the last four. Certainly both sides will be happy with this draw as Toulouse will no doubt have preferred Edinburgh over the other home quarter finalists.
Yet Edinburgh should also feel confident of achieving victory. Toulouse are not unbeatable away from home and Edinburgh's form this year suggests they too will be eyeing up a semi-final in Ireland.
The last quarter final would seem somewhat more predictable. Cardiff clearly merited their spot in the last eight but it is hard to see how they will beat Leinster in the Aviva. The holders rarely broke a sweat in comfortably navigating their way out of their group. As well as that their form at home has been scintillating putting a combined 115points past their opponents in three games on home soil.
Indeed much rugby is to be played before then and injuries or suspension may alter the shape of any of the ties. What will not change however is that four great games of rugby lie in wait.
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