There was much excitement from an Irish perspective ahead of the new Guinness Pro 12 season.
But the opening weekend did not go to plan for most of the provinces.
While Connacht pick up a home win over Newport Gwent Dragons, the weekend saw Leinster and Munster lose, while Ulster got a draw at Scarlets.
Grenoble coach Bernard Jackman watched all four games and he gave his analysis on a disappointing opening weekend on Off The Ball tonight.
He was impressed by Connacht and their new winger Niyi Adeolokun.
But he thinks the prospect of the men from the west breaking into the Top 7 is a "big ask" because of their lack of depth in some areas, although not being in the Rugby Champions Cup may benefit them.
Munster's new era under Anthony Foley also got off to a disappointing start with a 14 - 13 loss to Edinburgh at home.
"I think he learnt that they are very much a side in transition," said Jackman on Foley's start to life at Thomond Park.
However, he feels Edinburgh have improved and deserved to win. But he does see Munster stepping it up a gear.
"I think Munster will improve. They've got guys to come into that side. It will take time to get everybody comfortable with what [Foley's] trying to achieve."
Leinster also lost with questions marks over their work rate. But Jackman felt other factors were of more relevance against a strong Glasgow outfit.
"I didn't think the work-rate was that poor. I just felt that they were a little bit off. I thought defensively they were so focused on getting massive line speed and their line integrity was a little bit off," said Jackman, who has no worries about Matt O'Connor's side.
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