Northampton Saints
Worcester must be a frustrating team to support.
Feel for Worcester, one of those days for them.
Despite some dubious breakdown penalties, the referee has had a good game considering he is inexperienced that this level. He has let the game go and been clear in his decisions.
Quality from Grayson again, he's been fantastic today. His performances lately have been silencing some doubters, myself included.
Yeah, feel for Worcester. But do you think the yellow was also a bit harsh?
Ruthless with two men up. Good to see.
This has been a really good performance. We've played against 14 men for a while but the damage was done before that. Good, clinical edge to us today, long may it continue.
Well deserved try for Dave R
My man of the match
Real power and skill
My man of the match
Real power and skill
Glad we didn't sign Ashton now. Our youngsters are electric.
Could anyone see Ribeye be our Skipper? I've been watching him closely today and he is really a commanding presence in the team. He is a core figure for us and starting to see some leadership qualities.
In the first half he was talking to Grase after one of his errors and he composed himself. I think the guy is the leader we are looking for
In the first half he was talking to Grase after one of his errors and he composed himself. I think the guy is the leader we are looking for
Well deserved hat trick for Oli
My second place MoM
My second place MoM
Quote:Saint Gordo
Yeah, feel for Worcester. But do you think the yellow was also a bit harsh?
Plenty of refs have given reds for deliberate knock on's that close to the line.
Feel sorry for Worcester now.
We're blessed with genuine depth in a shoot-out positions now.
8- Harrison/Addendorff
9-MItch/James
15- Furbank/Freeman
8- Harrison/Addendorff
9-MItch/James
15- Furbank/Freeman
How good has Teimana been since coming back from injury too? So many carries, tackles and threatening for turnovers left right and centre. Once Ludlam is back and Adendorff is fit to start, that back row becomes very hard to pick.
So funny to avoid reading a thread such as this until the 77th minute.
So much b*ll*cks talked early on!
That was a very pleasing game - from 1 - 23.
So much b*ll*cks talked early on!
That was a very pleasing game - from 1 - 23.
Worcester remind my of the style of play saints where going through towards the end of Jim’s time
Just single runners hitting the line
Or side to side play with no dummy runners
Good players but no game plan
Just single runners hitting the line
Or side to side play with no dummy runners
Good players but no game plan
The hard work to try and stop that try there, when the game is already won, I'm really pleased with that, would have been easy to not bother. Well played Saints, really happy with how they've played today.
Second half has been absolutely superb, some sublime rugby. Worcester really pretty ragged in the last 20 mins. Agree chappers re Ribbans as captain, I was thinking the same. He is so influential for us.
Do you think Boyd might smile in post match interview
I think the Worcester coach's need to get the tin tack after this run of defeats. Quite embarrassing for them.
Quote:Longers
So funny to avoid reading a thread such as this until the 77th minute.
So much b*ll*cks talked early on!
That was a very pleasing game - from 1 - 23.
Absolutely Longers. Great performance, tremendous handling and running by the whole team. Huge work rate.
Nice!
Great performance, came out with excellent intensity in the 2nd half and put them to the sword.
Such a shame Paul Hill didn't make the line with one of those long runs, was great to see especially that chip over the top!
Such a shame Paul Hill didn't make the line with one of those long runs, was great to see especially that chip over the top!
Worcester were unlucky to not be in the lead at half-time, after a very average first half, but a really bright and clinical second half display.
Quote:BY the same logic, Boyd should have been taken out to the shed after last season.saint krige
I think the Worcester coach's need to get the tin tack after this run of defeats. Quite embarrassing for them.
But I think there is something institutional about Worcester why they are always, or almost always seemingly on the relegation bubble. Not sure if they can't pay the same as other clubs or if it is something else. They do have a backer with some dough.
Break the bank and keep Nick I.
Quote:Saint GordoQuote:BY the same logic, Boyd should have been taken out to the shed after last season.saint krige
I think the Worcester coach's need to get the tin tack after this run of defeats. Quite embarrassing for them.
But I think there is something institutional about Worcester why they are always, or almost always seemingly on the relegation bubble. Not sure if they can't pay the same as other clubs or if it is something else. They do have a backer with some dough.
Our performances were never that bad, we lost X in a row but often within 1 score. Worcester got blown away by Bath and us who are both 8th and 5th respectively.
Brilliant performance and result especially with Bristols win. Take a bow Freeman, Sleightholme, Harrison, Ribbans, Grayson and James, and thought Mitchell looked really sharp.
Fingers crossed for wasps now.
Fingers crossed for wasps now.
Freeman to start week & Player of Season candidate
We played well but to be honest, the scoreline really flattered us.
I think we'd still have got a TBP against 15 men but not by that many.
Still, helps with the points difference.
Now to root for Wasps
I think we'd still have got a TBP against 15 men but not by that many.
Still, helps with the points difference.
Now to root for Wasps
Quote:saint krige
Break the bank and keep Nick I.
Back a while, I agreed with that sentiment. We needed him and his head.
I'm much less bothered now. I think we have a number coming through who can - and this is as much up to the players as the coaches - push one another to greater skill and attitude levels.
And I must put up a positive word for Nick Auterac. I was definitely unimpressed when we signed him. I reckon he has well and truly proved me wrong. And is Paul Hill getting back to where he should be?
Quote:chappers_saint
Could anyone see Ribeye be our Skipper? I've been watching him closely today and he is really a commanding presence in the team. He is a core figure for us and starting to see some leadership qualities.
In the first half he was talking to Grase after one of his errors and he composed himself. I think the guy is the leader we are looking for
Yep, great suggestion. The thing I really like about him is the charisma that comes across in his mannerisms. Happy leaders are always better leaders IMO. Plays his skin out and he's legitimately talented.
Quote:saint krige
Break the bank and keep Nick I.
Agreed. He is rapidly becoming our player of the season and sadly we won't see him again. When does Big T's contract end? That sort of money would probably keep Nick, I think. Sarries are in a terrible financial hole so this might actually be achievable.
Quote:LongersQuote:saint krige
Break the bank and keep Nick I.
Back a while, I agreed with that sentiment. We needed him and his head.
I'm much less bothered now. I think we have a number coming through who can - and this is as much up to the players as the coaches - push one another to greater skill and attitude levels.
And I must put up a positive word for Nick Auterac. I was definitely unimpressed when we signed him. I reckon he has well and truly proved me wrong. And is Paul Hill getting back to where he should be?
Think he's still massive for us and provides so much energy along with Matavesi in terms of rousing us up after a turnover.
Agree with Auterac, been a real positive seeing him progress so well.
Quote:195Rich
It's good to see such a clear selection policy being employed in the backs at the moment.
I imagine the team briefings during the 6 Nations went something like this:*
Boydy:
Our scrum half and fly half are going off on international duty so I have come up with a new plan. Listen carefully:
Step 1. We will bring in a new scrum half who I'm sure will turn out to be out to be outstanding and learn fast.
Step 2. We will leave out our fly half to put our fullback at fly half.
Step 3. We will bring in our young new full back.
Everyone following so far?
Step 4. We will leave out our (available again) international Fly Half.
Step 5. Next we leave out our best inside centre against Bristol because we will bring in an outside centre to play at inside centre.
Step 6. Tom Collins your dropped. We are going to play our best defensive centre on the wing.
All clear so far?
Step 7. Ollie your being dropped so we can put our new fullback on the wing.
Step 8. Our international fullback who has been playing at fly half you are going to have to play full-back against Bristol. Sorry I know Mr Jones said you are a fly half but someone has to play at fullback.
Step 9. James, your back in, at fly half unless you want to have ago at hooker?
Step 10. Dingers you were excellent against Bristol so your dropped, to bring back Piers whom we dropped against Bristol.
Step11. Hutch, whom we moved from outside centre to inside centre, your playing at outside centre again unless, maybe, you can play inside out centre?
I hope your still listening, stop muttering at the back Grayson and Mallinder and where's the big bloke with the long name?
Step 11.a. Change of plan: we are going to substitute you, James, at fly half. Harry you haven't played for weeks so even though James is controlling the game, your on at fly half for 15 minutes. Make sure you don't cock it up!
Step 12. Grays you have played nearly 3/4 of an hour in the last 6 weeks, you need a rest.
Step 12. Dan you've just played week after week of international rugby so you will be knackered, so your back in.
Step 13. Mitch, how was England? What! You didn't get a game, so you are a bit rusty? Right your starting on Saturday, Tom you can warm the bench for him.
Step 13. Tommy you are now a utility back so you can join Tom on the bench, week after week, waiting for your opportunity to come along.
Step 14. Harry you lost us the match last week, Tommy needs to practise on the bench; you and Grayson go and get some match practise in the Wanderers and tell Naiyaravaro, when he turns up, that I want to see him in my office.
I'm sure the plan will work tomorrow and that Saints will be a better team in the end but at the moment I'm confused!
Step 15 beat Worcester by 48 points.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 27/03/2021 17:19 by SaintsAsh.
Quote:I saw a team last season which was finding was to lose and an utter inability to close out a game. Which after a while is on the coaches. And we still haven't gotten that completely out of our system like just last week but certainly improved this year. Which is credit to the coaches.saint krigeQuote:Saint GordoQuote:BY the same logic, Boyd should have been taken out to the shed after last season.saint krige
I think the Worcester coach's need to get the tin tack after this run of defeats. Quite embarrassing for them.
But I think there is something institutional about Worcester why they are always, or almost always seemingly on the relegation bubble. Not sure if they can't pay the same as other clubs or if it is something else. They do have a backer with some dough.
Our performances were never that bad, we lost X in a row but often within 1 score. Worcester got blown away by Bath and us who are both 8th and 5th respectively.
However today, we still only had three tries when Ashton drew the red card. Then it seemed Worcester dropped down a gear. And after their yellow, it was garbage time. So still room to improve, but Saints are now beating teams we should beat and still have to work out how to beat the top ones. And have some young players which will cause concern to opposing teams for a long time to come.
Quote:StockersQuote:Longers
So funny to avoid reading a thread such as this until the 77th minute.
So much b*ll*cks talked early on!
That was a very pleasing game - from 1 - 23.
Absolutely Longers. Great performance, tremendous handling and running by the whole team. Huge work rate.
Nice!
Have not read anything from the start of the match, I knew it would be bad. Some fans seem desperate for us to do badly. I would put money on a lot of negativity at the start, but as I say I have not read it and won't bother either.
Quote:Saint GordoQuote:I saw a team last season which was finding was to lose and an utter inability to close out a game. Which after a while is on the coaches. And we still haven't gotten that completely out of our system like just last week but certainly improved this year. Which is credit to the coaches.saint krigeQuote:Saint GordoQuote:BY the same logic, Boyd should have been taken out to the shed after last season.saint krige
I think the Worcester coach's need to get the tin tack after this run of defeats. Quite embarrassing for them.
But I think there is something institutional about Worcester why they are always, or almost always seemingly on the relegation bubble. Not sure if they can't pay the same as other clubs or if it is something else. They do have a backer with some dough.
Our performances were never that bad, we lost X in a row but often within 1 score. Worcester got blown away by Bath and us who are both 8th and 5th respectively.
However today, we still only had three tries when Ashton drew the red card. Then it seemed Worcester dropped down a gear. And after their yellow, it was garbage time. So still room to improve, but Saints are now beating teams we should beat and still have to work out how to beat the top ones. And have some young players which will cause concern to opposing teams for a long time to come.
We've definitely made progress, but as you say there's more to work on. I like Boyd and think we'll see the real fruits of his tenure after he's gone and these youngsters develop into consistent performers.
If Boyd had spent quite a bit of money on big names and we'd been poor I think we could criticise him more, but he's assembled a young, inexperienced team and sometimes we click and play well, other times the inexperience shows and we bottle a lead.
Worcester just seem to get worse.
Quote:SaintsAshQuote:StockersQuote:Longers
So funny to avoid reading a thread such as this until the 77th minute.
So much b*ll*cks talked early on!
That was a very pleasing game - from 1 - 23.
Absolutely Longers. Great performance, tremendous handling and running by the whole team. Huge work rate.
Nice!
Have not read anything from the start of the match, I knew it would be bad. Some fans seem desperate for us to do badly. I would put money on a lot of negativity at the start, but as I say I have not read it and won't bother either.
This is silly. People's opinions ebb and flow in duration of match. People were commenting as they saw fit at the time, we weren't greta in the first half, especially the last 15mins. People were generally very positive in the opening 10/15' and throughout the second half.
Why you feel the need to lament other posters (without having read anything) is telling.
That was both an interesting and hugely enjoyable game. A sluggish first half seemed about right, with Worcester draining themselves as they fought for and got their line-breaks (a strength identified by Vass before the match - they make something like a dozen clean breaks per game).
But Saints were pretty clinical in nullifying them in the red zone, drawing on the excellent close-quarter defence that they've been building over the last few months. Ashton getting sent off was a bonus, but I think the lads will be very happy with the way that they snuffed out the most serious attacking threats using their most aggressive defensive weapon, against the sort of side that gets into good positions but then fails to convert.
Saints ran that game - they decided where and when to put the big defensive sets in, and they knew when to grind and when it was on to throw. Given the age of the team on the pitch, it is really hugely encouraging to be able to describe that performance as 'mature', but it really was - a proper 80 minute maturity.
Grayson was a big part of that - he managed the game so well. Hugely composed performance given how quickly he had to adjust to starting.
Mind you, it wouldn't surprise me if Dan's 'tweak' was Boyd turning a blind eye to the fact that he may not have been in the best mindset to play after winning the Six Nations, so maybe Jimmy had been given the nod with plenty of time...
And who could blame Dan or Boyd?! Both our 10s deserve to have a few celebratory pints tonight...
Nicely done, all!
But Saints were pretty clinical in nullifying them in the red zone, drawing on the excellent close-quarter defence that they've been building over the last few months. Ashton getting sent off was a bonus, but I think the lads will be very happy with the way that they snuffed out the most serious attacking threats using their most aggressive defensive weapon, against the sort of side that gets into good positions but then fails to convert.
Saints ran that game - they decided where and when to put the big defensive sets in, and they knew when to grind and when it was on to throw. Given the age of the team on the pitch, it is really hugely encouraging to be able to describe that performance as 'mature', but it really was - a proper 80 minute maturity.
Grayson was a big part of that - he managed the game so well. Hugely composed performance given how quickly he had to adjust to starting.
Mind you, it wouldn't surprise me if Dan's 'tweak' was Boyd turning a blind eye to the fact that he may not have been in the best mindset to play after winning the Six Nations, so maybe Jimmy had been given the nod with plenty of time...
And who could blame Dan or Boyd?! Both our 10s deserve to have a few celebratory pints tonight...
Nicely done, all!
I
Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 27/03/2021 17:54 by 195Rich.
Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 27/03/2021 17:54 by 195Rich.
Quote:ramseysaintQuote:Saint Gordo
Yeah, feel for Worcester. But do you think the yellow was also a bit harsh?
Plenty of refs have given reds for deliberate knock on's that close to the line.
Reds??? Can you explain how that works?
I said it was a confusing plan I didn't say it was a bad one!!
In fact I said I was sure we would win today!!!
N.B. Boydy's plan wasn't to be playing Grayson and we were ropey until Dingers and Tommy came on!
James is now a utility player I suppose!
Hats off to Dave Ribbans thought he was superb today, likewise Tom Wood, Rats is a like a new signing since he learned to catch and Harrison is playing like Tas of Tasmania!
It's fun being a Saints supporter again Bring on Llanelli next week!
In fact I said I was sure we would win today!!!
N.B. Boydy's plan wasn't to be playing Grayson and we were ropey until Dingers and Tommy came on!
James is now a utility player I suppose!
Hats off to Dave Ribbans thought he was superb today, likewise Tom Wood, Rats is a like a new signing since he learned to catch and Harrison is playing like Tas of Tasmania!
It's fun being a Saints supporter again Bring on Llanelli next week!
And did anyone want to score a try more than Paul Hill. He kept trying and running at them, but never got there. made us laugh.
Quote:ajack
Freeman looks our best 15 at the minute certainly.
That was certainly true after Furbank went off, before that Furbank was probably our best back. Great to have strength in depth.
We will need it next week with possibly Furbank, Hutchinson and Francis added to the injured list.
Quote:Saint Gordo
And did anyone want to score a try more than Paul Hill. He kept trying and running at them, but never got there. made us laugh.
Haha! Exactly - I was so rooting for him to bust that last tackle!
Quote:saint krigeQuote:SaintsAshQuote:StockersQuote:Longers
So funny to avoid reading a thread such as this until the 77th minute.
So much b*ll*cks talked early on!
That was a very pleasing game - from 1 - 23.
Absolutely Longers. Great performance, tremendous handling and running by the whole team. Huge work rate.
Nice!
Have not read anything from the start of the match, I knew it would be bad. Some fans seem desperate for us to do badly. I would put money on a lot of negativity at the start, but as I say I have not read it and won't bother either.
This is silly. People's opinions ebb and flow in duration of match. People were commenting as they saw fit at the time, we weren't greta in the first half, especially the last 15mins. People were generally very positive in the opening 10/15' and throughout the second half.
Why you feel the need to lament other posters (without having read anything) is telling.
I’m pretty sure no fans want us to do badly
But some comment on the game in the way they see it
We didn’t have a great first half
But where excellent in the second
The comments reflected the performance
Good win and excellent defence throughout. The Ashton sending off put the nail in the coffin for Worcester and I felt sorry for them towards the end.
Nice to see a ruthless streak from Saints. The pitch suited our speedsters and hopefully the weather will improve towards the end of the season giving us more of an edge over other teams.
James Grayson played well and there were some really good passes from him too as well as the usual very high standard of kicking.
Boyd’s sides are great to watch when things are going well.
Nice to see a ruthless streak from Saints. The pitch suited our speedsters and hopefully the weather will improve towards the end of the season giving us more of an edge over other teams.
James Grayson played well and there were some really good passes from him too as well as the usual very high standard of kicking.
Boyd’s sides are great to watch when things are going well.
Quote:We were too. But it is probably funnier that he was stopped on the 5. No thought of passing. Was a great run though.GaipajamaQuote:Saint Gordo
And did anyone want to score a try more than Paul Hill. He kept trying and running at them, but never got there. made us laugh.
Haha! Exactly - I was so rooting for him to bust that last tackle!
Quote:Saint Gordo
But it is probably funnier that he was stopped on the 5.
Teehee! In the context of a win, that's the sort of 'if only...' that is worth a good few pints in a post-career pub setting...!
Quote:Iamasaint
Two poor teams at the moment.
Hello mate did you enjoy the game ?
Quote:GaipajamaQuote:Saint Gordo
But it is probably funnier that he was stopped on the 5.
Teehee! In the context of a win, that's the sort of 'if only...' that is worth a good few pints in a post-career pub setting...!
Quote:Saint GordoQuote:GaipajamaQuote:Saint Gordo
But it is probably funnier that he was stopped on the 5.
Teehee! In the context of a win, that's the sort of 'if only...' that is worth a good few pints in a post-career pub setting...!
"So, anyway, there I was, 75 yards into a run, and five of them - well, seven if you count the two who were hanging on to my trailing bootlaces - tried to wrap my arms in the tackle, and..."
We won well. Maybe a down to a few cards and injuries.
Will be good to take the form into next weeks game.
Will have a few decisions Hutch will be out probably Francis give his track record on HIA
So will test out centres.
Other than that I reckon we could do Dragons?
Will be good to take the form into next weeks game.
Will have a few decisions Hutch will be out probably Francis give his track record on HIA
So will test out centres.
Other than that I reckon we could do Dragons?
Dee I think Longers point is that some come on here to criticise when we do badly but then don’t offer praise when we do well
That’s intellectually dishonest and I don’t respect them
That’s intellectually dishonest and I don’t respect them
Quote:StBuckby
Dee I think Longers point is that some come on here to criticise when we do badly but then don’t offer praise when we do well
That’s intellectually dishonest and I don’t respect them
Fair enough
Just so long since we’ve won so comprehensively
That it would have been poor to start bickering between ourselves
Quote:StBuckby
Dee I think Longers point is that some come on here to criticise when we do badly but then don’t offer praise when we do well
That’s intellectually dishonest and I don’t respect them
If that's what you think, I suggest you have a break.
Deesaint was right - up to a point. But to comment too soon, just makes some people look a little silly, when we finish up winning by best part of 50 points.
Premature opinionation!
Quote:Deesaint
Do you think Boyd might smile in post match interview
Unlikely!
I thought Ribbans was outstanding today, and Sleightholme was good in attack and defence! Piers Francis was also aggressive in defence..
OK it was only lonely Worcester at the bottom of the league, but our accuracy for once was excellent..
Ribbans and Api are playing their best saints rugby right now
Enjoyed the game and it’s good to get 5 points. Certainly a game of 2 halves. I thought we were lucky to go in ahead at half time - Wuss played well first half and some of our tackling simply wasn’t good enough. 2nd half was excellent - champagne rugby! Freeman and Dingwall off the bench were excellent, and I loved the little cameo on the wing from James. Lots of very good individual performances - Ribbans MOM for me.
First half defensive lapses would have been punished by a better team. I can see why Worcester haven't won since November. So we definitely need to work on our defence in the lead up to the Dragons game.
But we were imperious in the 2nd half. I've still got a big smile on my face.
But we were imperious in the 2nd half. I've still got a big smile on my face.
Waldorf and Statler : Saints was rubbish, they should sack the board, sack all the coaches, change the whole team : boo boo boo boo boo.
Waldorf and Statler : That was a “TRY”
Waldorf and Statler: That was a “TRY”
Waldorf and Statler: It was a WIN!
Waldorf and Statler: Bravo 🙌 Bravo:
Waldorf and Statler: The board and the coaches should be made Lords and well all the players should be paid mega monies: do not worry about budget limits 😂😂😂
Waldorf and Statler : That was a “TRY”
Waldorf and Statler: That was a “TRY”
Waldorf and Statler: It was a WIN!
Waldorf and Statler: Bravo 🙌 Bravo:
Waldorf and Statler: The board and the coaches should be made Lords and well all the players should be paid mega monies: do not worry about budget limits 😂😂😂
I'm confused. How did saints play in the first half? Good, bad or indifferent? Curate's egg?
Still buzzing
What a win
What a win
So morning after, after what was a very entertaining game to watch if you a Saints fan.
My thoughts?
Anyone on here still don’t get the fuss about Mitchell? That was absolutely top notch, his control of the game was impeccable, the little snips, always getting over the gainline, putting us on the front foot and ensuring Worcester’s back row couldn’t drift, the little delayed/stutter passes to put people through the angle at just the right time were as good as you’ll see, his decision making was spot on, to the point that when we were running riot, he just shipped the ball out, knowing he’d done his part, let the back go, so he didn’t disappear as much as made right choices.
Francis, most underrated player in thq squad, he is the key to our young backs, he keeps the control, the discipline and for his size is so aggressive, his defence again, he was everywhere putting hits in... he does the work that goes unseen in the backs.
We had a big discussion here about Painter destroying scrum, and I said look at how Hills improving to and could it actually be Auterac that’s the one making the difference? I think since that post and the games since, I imho it does seem to be Auterac who is having the biggest impact on the scrum, whether with Painter or Hill.... n we saw today what Hill offers in the loose, but again his work rate around the break down and fringes because he is so mobile.
Ribbans, Matavesi, Api, T, Nick I all playing at a consistently good level.
Really enjoyed yesterday, obviously!
Now to back it against a resurgent airieh and aTigers!
My thoughts?
Anyone on here still don’t get the fuss about Mitchell? That was absolutely top notch, his control of the game was impeccable, the little snips, always getting over the gainline, putting us on the front foot and ensuring Worcester’s back row couldn’t drift, the little delayed/stutter passes to put people through the angle at just the right time were as good as you’ll see, his decision making was spot on, to the point that when we were running riot, he just shipped the ball out, knowing he’d done his part, let the back go, so he didn’t disappear as much as made right choices.
Francis, most underrated player in thq squad, he is the key to our young backs, he keeps the control, the discipline and for his size is so aggressive, his defence again, he was everywhere putting hits in... he does the work that goes unseen in the backs.
We had a big discussion here about Painter destroying scrum, and I said look at how Hills improving to and could it actually be Auterac that’s the one making the difference? I think since that post and the games since, I imho it does seem to be Auterac who is having the biggest impact on the scrum, whether with Painter or Hill.... n we saw today what Hill offers in the loose, but again his work rate around the break down and fringes because he is so mobile.
Ribbans, Matavesi, Api, T, Nick I all playing at a consistently good level.
Really enjoyed yesterday, obviously!
Now to back it against a resurgent airieh and aTigers!
I’m a Mitchell fan but to balance your adulation he did miss 5 tackles and I didn’t see anything yesterday to convince me that right now he’s a better option than James. I think we have 2 top class options at 9.
I agree re Francis but I do worry about him. Another HIA yesterday - hopefully he passed it and his non return was because the game was by then won. Anyway, hope he’s ok.
I agree re Francis but I do worry about him. Another HIA yesterday - hopefully he passed it and his non return was because the game was by then won. Anyway, hope he’s ok.
Strange game wasn’t it.
Thought we were very lucky to be ahead at half time. Wuss reminded me of us last season. Some good stuff coupled with a complete inability to score. Ollie Lawrence presented us with some real problems. He would be a fantastic addition to our ball playing back line!?!
Second half was great fun. Some great performances all round and the cards turned it into a training run. But at least we finally managed to learn how to take advantage.
Thought we were very lucky to be ahead at half time. Wuss reminded me of us last season. Some good stuff coupled with a complete inability to score. Ollie Lawrence presented us with some real problems. He would be a fantastic addition to our ball playing back line!?!
Second half was great fun. Some great performances all round and the cards turned it into a training run. But at least we finally managed to learn how to take advantage.
Quote:Corkst
I'm confused. How did saints play in the first half? Good, bad or indifferent? Curate's egg?
It was strange. Probably best to say that there was little - but not no - sign in the first half, of what was to come!
Quote:Statesman
I’m a Mitchell fan but to balance your adulation he did miss 5 tackles and I didn’t see anything yesterday to convince me that right now he’s a better option than James. I think we have 2 top class options at 9.
I agree re Francis but I do worry about him. Another HIA yesterday - hopefully he passed it and his non return was because the game was by then won. Anyway, hope he’s ok.
I’ve been guilty of questioning Mitchell a few times but through my eyes there have been times in recent games when his play has poor
However yesterday he was different and did some good things but more pleasing for me was his desire to be in the game, tracking back and sweeping the line
Needs some work with the tackle bag but a great prospect
Struggling a little with some of the ‘ poster on the bedroom wall ‘ worshippers
Reminds me a little of when I mentioned to my daughter that One Direction sounded a little flat.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 28/03/2021 12:25 by Deesaint.
Quote:Neil-H
So morning after, after what was a very entertaining game to watch if you a Saints fan.
My thoughts?
Anyone on here still don’t get the fuss about Mitchell? That was absolutely top notch, his control of the game was impeccable, the little snips, always getting over the gainline, putting us on the front foot and ensuring Worcester’s back row couldn’t drift, the little delayed/stutter passes to put people through the angle at just the right time were as good as you’ll see, his decision making was spot on, to the point that when we were running riot, he just shipped the ball out, knowing he’d done his part, let the back go, so he didn’t disappear as much as made right choices.
Mitchell played well and seemed more like his previous performances that got him on EJ radar, but I didn't see anything that was much higher than James' performances, maybe equal or slightly higher/lower in some aspects. We have two top 9's imo and both with different styles. I would like to see how James goes with Biggar and that quick tempo of ball.
Quote:LongersQuote:Corkst
I'm confused. How did saints play in the first half? Good, bad or indifferent? Curate's egg?
It was strange. Probably best to say that there was little - but not no - sign in the first half, of what was to come!
Thanks, it seemed from the thread that it was a bit up and down and two people could have very different perspectives.
Mitchell is an interesting one a good performance but right now I don't think he adds extra compared to James. We have two in form centres who are going to really push each other on. We are in a super position to have these guys challenge for the shirt.
Unfortunately I thought our midfield defence was too fragile in the first half but having Dingers and Francis in position really helped. Looked like T was helping cover Grayson too which added further strength.
Need to work on that and I still worry about our lineout at times
Unfortunately I thought our midfield defence was too fragile in the first half but having Dingers and Francis in position really helped. Looked like T was helping cover Grayson too which added further strength.
Need to work on that and I still worry about our lineout at times
Our owners don’t have any dough - we are skint, they are skint and they haven’t filed last years accounts, 11 months late. I wonder what they don’t want to reveal?
A growing consensus from Worcs fans that we should just sell our P Shares, drop down a league and thrive in the championship. We offer absolutely nothing to the league and after 17 seasons of trying are, as has been said on here, getting worse.
We should just get out whilst we can, cash in the P Shares and let the cartel be.
A growing consensus from Worcs fans that we should just sell our P Shares, drop down a league and thrive in the championship. We offer absolutely nothing to the league and after 17 seasons of trying are, as has been said on here, getting worse.
We should just get out whilst we can, cash in the P Shares and let the cartel be.
Quote:WorcesterSauce
Our owners don’t have any dough - we are skint, they are skint and they haven’t filed last years accounts, 11 months late. I wonder what they don’t want to reveal?
A growing consensus from Worcs fans that we should just sell our P Shares, drop down a league and thrive in the championship. We offer absolutely nothing to the league and after 17 seasons of trying are, as has been said on here, getting worse.
We should just get out whilst we can, cash in the P Shares and let the cartel be.
Really feel for you, we have been on the other end of those scorelines. It would be bad to see Worcs fail as a general fan, let's hope for a positive outcome but sounds worrying
For me James is amazingly quick at delivery where Mitchell is decent but slower. James is a better tackler. Mitchell poses a bigger threat ball in hand and keeps defences guessing. Both strong kickers but Mitchell does some awesome kicks.
The biggest difference is game control. Mitchell is better assessing the game and varying to what's needed and varying the tempo. James has one gear. 5th gear. He's a big reason we've stretched oppositions in the last month but his lack of game control in the latter stages has contributed to why opposition teams have come back and won. At points in the Bristol and Bath games it just needed territory, keep it tight. We're in the lead. Make them work for it from their 22. But it was always flinging it out tocthe backs. But he's learning and has been a brilliant signing.
I'm happy that the player playing best starts and they have to fight for the jersey.
The biggest difference is game control. Mitchell is better assessing the game and varying to what's needed and varying the tempo. James has one gear. 5th gear. He's a big reason we've stretched oppositions in the last month but his lack of game control in the latter stages has contributed to why opposition teams have come back and won. At points in the Bristol and Bath games it just needed territory, keep it tight. We're in the lead. Make them work for it from their 22. But it was always flinging it out tocthe backs. But he's learning and has been a brilliant signing.
I'm happy that the player playing best starts and they have to fight for the jersey.
Quote:Saint Maul
For me James is amazingly quick at delivery where Mitchell is decent but slower. James is a better tackler. Mitchell poses a bigger threat ball in hand and keeps defences guessing. Both strong kickers but Mitchell does some awesome kicks.
The biggest difference is game control. Mitchell is better assessing the game and varying to what's needed and varying the tempo. James has one gear. 5th gear. He's a big reason we've stretched oppositions in the last month but his lack of game control in the latter stages has contributed to why opposition teams have come back and won. At points in the Bristol and Bath games it just needed territory, keep it tight. We're in the lead. Make them work for it from their 22. But it was always flinging it out tocthe backs. But he's learning and has been a brilliant signing.
I'm happy that the player playing best starts and they have to fight for the jersey.
I disagree. James' control is largely good imo. The Bath game we bought Taylor on who made a noticeable difference (in a bad way imo) until then James had been putting in very competitive box kicks and making the right decisions, same in the Bristol game, he didn't contribute to our downfall at all imo in that game. Both he and Mitch are both relatively good with control, Taylor is not.
Krige - as we see more games from James we'll get a better idea. That's my impression.
There's a reason Boyd preferred Mitchell to James despite Tom putting in some great shifts. What else might it be if not game control?
There's a reason Boyd preferred Mitchell to James despite Tom putting in some great shifts. What else might it be if not game control?
Fair enough SM.
Hmm, could be rotation which we know Boyd is a fan of. Mitchell hasn't had much game time, so (with respect to Worcester) it was a good game for him to get some minutes and shake off any match day rust?
If we had been playing tigers, I wouldn't be surprised if he had kept James starting as he was on form and ease Mitchell back.
Hmm, could be rotation which we know Boyd is a fan of. Mitchell hasn't had much game time, so (with respect to Worcester) it was a good game for him to get some minutes and shake off any match day rust?
If we had been playing tigers, I wouldn't be surprised if he had kept James starting as he was on form and ease Mitchell back.
Boyd did select Mitchell and Biggar, so there was no sign of "easing" them back. I do wonder if Biggars injury was actual or second thoughts on strategy.
Other than Lawrence, the notable break was by the Wuss No8 when both Mitchell and Harrison missed tackles. The interesting thing to me is was it chance or something we did that meant wuss didn't make those breaks in the second half (until the last minute!!).
Other than Lawrence, the notable break was by the Wuss No8 when both Mitchell and Harrison missed tackles. The interesting thing to me is was it chance or something we did that meant wuss didn't make those breaks in the second half (until the last minute!!).
If you watched closely, Tei was tackling Lawrence a bunch of time. Lawrence and Beck are big units so our guys were scrabbling across to help Jimmy G and the centres. I think Wuss missed a trick by not attacking us more near the ruck, Hougaard should have sniped about 5 times with gaping holes.
Quote:Santiago
Boyd did select Mitchell and Biggar, so there was no sign of "easing" them back. I do wonder if Biggars injury was actual or second thoughts on strategy.
.
Biggar was inevitable, had been playing well for Wales i.e he was match fit. Would Mitchell have started against a better opposition than Worcester? Who nows, but I think a large part of the reason he started is because it was against weaker opposition. Not sure to would be wise to start him against Tigers,Irish etc when he hadn't played for several weeks?
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