Mackinnon ready for do or die tie

Don Mackinnon will use the European Cup match against Leinster in the intimidating atmosphere of Donnybrook, Dublin, to underline his credentials for a place in Scotland's Six Nations team.

Speaking ahead of Edinburgh's crunch tie - which they must win to retain their flickering hopes in the tournament and set up an intriguing game against Mackinnon's former club, Northampton, at Netherdale next week - the Reivers' captain said the build-up throughout the week had been remarkable.

"I moved to Edinburgh at the start of the season, but from the response of the management and the players, it is clear that the trip to Dublin is developing into something extraordinarily special," said Mackinnon.

He said it was vital for Edinburgh to get a result. Mackinnon added: "We have to secure victory against Leinster to ensure our European Cup hopes aren't dashed. If we can achieve that, the prospects of facing Northampton with everything to play for is tremendously exciting."

Mackinnon, a pivotal figure in Northampton's Heineken Cup success last season, admitted that he still had a strong urge to repeat that feat with Reivers, who are starting to find their feet after a shaky season.

"Once you've tasted that heady atmosphere, that level of success, it becomes an addiction. There's no reason why Reivers can't produce that sort of form and have a good cup run," said Mackinnon.