Montferrand Vulcanised.

It’ll be the p>The Vulcans versus The Lions in the Parc des Sports Marcel-Michelin in Clermont-Ferrand on Saturday next in the Heineken Cup, Pool 4 clash (3pm).

Leinster’s Heineken Cup opponents, Montferrand have changed their name – they will now call themselves, “The Vulcans”.

Originating from an idea from the club’s players, ASM have agreed to change their identity with the emphasis on the club, its locality and the town’s economy. And how they came up with the name was quite simple. You see, the town of Clermont-Ferrand is surrounded by the volcanic peaks of the Massif Central, while the major industry in the town is tyre giants Michelin.

With the word volcan’ meaning volcano and the obvious link between vulcanisation and tyre production, the club have taken their biggest step in years by renaming the team The Vulcans. “We felt we needed to get together around a name that motivates us and brings us closer to the values of our region and our supporters,” explained Vulcans’ captain and France openside flanker Olivier Magne.

“We wanted a young, modern and dynamic name that helps to place us on the map of France and Europe,” he said.

The first Vulcanic eruption was easily contained, by Biarritz Olympique who beat them 24-16. Hardly the best result going into their Heineken Cup game with Matt Williams’ pride of lions and to make matters worse prop, Abraham Tolofua, made history by becoming the first Vulcan to be sent off in that game against Biarritz.