Bath
FIRST BITE OF THE CHERRY AND WHITE...
Russell: return?
By Devonport Lad
October 7 2025
At least for this season! The media commentators are already waxing lyrical about the next round of fixtures as the “Derby weekend.” That’s always seemed a bit contrived to me. After all, Sale and Newcastle are hardly neighbours and our nearest but not necessarily dearest are the Bears. But thank goodness, at a time when the rugby landscape seems to be changing, traditional rivalries still count for a lot and few things get the Blue, Black and White blood pumping like an encounter with Gloucester at the Rec!
The great American Football coach Vince Lombardi once said, “if we chase perfection we can achieve excellence.” To be fair, it’s difficult to be perfect on a rugby pitch in a biblical downpour and with the wind blowing a hooligan, but even without the resting Lions and some other key players the Bath team came close to excellence at times last Friday. Notwithstanding George Ford kicking penalties and drop goals from an outrageous distance in those conditions, Bath controlled the first half reasonably comfortably. What about that try from Henry Arundell? I swear that if it hadn’t been so wet there would have been scorch marks from when he engaged the afterburners following the pass from Ollie Lawrence who himself looked to be moving at something like "full chat" as Dave Flatman would put it.
The second half was a bit more nervy. In soccer terms, the Sale defence, coached by Byron McGuigan, "parked the bus" and frustrated the normally clinical Bath attack for long periods. Sale are going to miss him if the reports that Steve Borthwick is after him for England are true. It looked as if the game plan was to shut Bath out and try to nick the win and as the game wore on, there was a lot of chat in my area of the ground about the possibility of us getting "mugged" - probably by George Ford! As it turned out a moment of shared brilliance by deserved MOTM Ben Spencer and the irrepressible Max Ojomoh combined with some red mist indiscretions by WillGriff John saw the Bath team home to a comfortable win, taking all 5 points in the process.
So what can we take forward to Saturday's game against Gloucester? On the face of it we should look forward to this game with all the confidence that comes from winning our two opening games and picking up maximum points along the way, but Friday's game came at a considerable cost in terms of injuries. Charlie Ewels and Quinn Roux have arguably become one of the best lock partnerships in the Premiership and Ted Hill is a phenomenal athlete who can change games. At the time of writing we hadn’t heard how serious their injuries are, but it's reasonable to assume that we're going to be without them for some weeks, testing our squad depth. On the plus side, Finn Russell and Will Stuart should be available and hopefully Will Muir will be fit again.
It's difficult to know what to make of Gloucester. Sunday's game against a depleted Saints side almost defied belief. Even the most one-eyed denizen of the Shed would be hard pressed to argue that the first half was anything other than embarrassing for Gloucester. Saints were good, but the Gloucester defence was porous to say the least. One of my walking rugby teammates is a Gloucester supporter and he said to me that he thought that on a week-by-week basis Gloucester might miss Chris Harris more than Santi Carreras. After Sunday I think I know what he meant; nobody seemed to be marshalling the backs in defence, a role that Chris Harris is very good at.
That said, in the second half Gloucester demonstrated some of the "dog" that has been the hallmark of their teams over the years. Yes, I know that Saints imploded for the second week on the trot and that they were down to 13 men at one point, but that doesn’t detract from Gloucester's ability to stay in the fight and take any opportunities that present themselves. They almost delivered the biggest upset since Quins overturned a 28-0 deficit against Bristol in 20/21 semi-final, and they will surely take heart from that as they head to the Rec. George Skivington will have no difficulty in motivating his players for this one. What better way to get Gloucester's season back on track than to beat the current Champions at their home ground, especially when it's Bath! There was a time when you knew that if you could just subdue the Gloucester pack then you had a very good chance of winning the game, but they've developed much more of an all-court game these days and can attack from pretty much anywhere. It's another of those matches where we will have to be "on it' for the full 80 minutes and not allow them to build momentum.
In my last preview for the Exeter PRC game I got my team selection completely wrong, so I'll leave it to others to have a stab at the likely 23! Before last Friday I would have predicted that JvG would choose to rotate the squad for this one, but he's already had three unplanned changes thrust on him. I think we'll almost certainly see Ewan Richards in the squad and possibly also the likes of Will Jeanes and Ethan Staddon. I also wonder if we might see Tom Dunn being given a game off. I know he's talismanic but there will arguably be other games where we need him more. Dan Frost was impressive when he came on against Sale and Kepu Tuipolotu would pose a lot of questions for the Gloucester defence coming off the bench. There may also be some adjustments to be made in the backs and the centres; could this be a game for the physicality of Will Butt?
I think we'll win this. Despite the motivation for Gloucester I think we've got the momentum and squad to edge it, even with the injuries and those still on international duties. I think it will be close and hard fought, but our first bite at the Cherry and White this season should leave a sweet taste in the mouth!
COYB!
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Discussion started by Comeonmylovers.co.uk (IP Logged), 07/10/2025 07:53
07/10/2025 07:53
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Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 2025:10:14:08:10:58 by P G Tips.
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That's a great preview DL sums up the club's situation well and clearly selection will need some tweaks. You are right about Harris who you would think should feature and Will Jeanes on the bench seems right as well. Kepu was on the bench for Bath Uni's BUCS game v Leeds last Wednesday, gif not selected for tomorrow's game at Cardiff I suspect he will also be in the squad.
The first two games of the season have brought us some strange matches, I hope we get back to normal soon!
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
The first two games of the season have brought us some strange matches, I hope we get back to normal soon!
OK I'll go first to be shot down:
I don't think JvG will be thinking about resting players for this one.
His mantra has always been 'win the home games', so I think he'll rest a few next week at Tigers when I'd expect to see Carreras & TdT back.
Tom De Glanville
Henry Arundell
Ollie Lawrence
Cameron Redpath
Will Muir
Finn Russell
Ben Spencer
Beno Obano
Tom Dunn
Will Stuart
Ross Molony
Ewan Richards
Josh Bayliss
Guy Pepper
Alfie Barbeary
Replacements
Dan Frost
Francois Van Wyk
Archie Griffin
Will Jeanes
Sam Underhill
Tom Carr-Smith
Max Ojomoh
Miles Reid
BATH supporter since 1975
Adopted players:
2015/6 Tom Homer
2016/7 Matt Banahan
2017/8 Jeff Williams
2018/9 Victor Delmas
2019/20 Semesa Rokoduguni
2020/21 Will Stuart
I don't think JvG will be thinking about resting players for this one.
His mantra has always been 'win the home games', so I think he'll rest a few next week at Tigers when I'd expect to see Carreras & TdT back.
Tom De Glanville
Henry Arundell
Ollie Lawrence
Cameron Redpath
Will Muir
Finn Russell
Ben Spencer
Beno Obano
Tom Dunn
Will Stuart
Ross Molony
Ewan Richards
Josh Bayliss
Guy Pepper
Alfie Barbeary
Replacements
Dan Frost
Francois Van Wyk
Archie Griffin
Will Jeanes
Sam Underhill
Tom Carr-Smith
Max Ojomoh
Miles Reid
BATH supporter since 1975
Adopted players:
2015/6 Tom Homer
2016/7 Matt Banahan
2017/8 Jeff Williams
2018/9 Victor Delmas
2019/20 Semesa Rokoduguni
2020/21 Will Stuart
I’d go along with Jay’s team this week other than bringing in Ojomoh and Underhill. Think Underhill is due a start this season and feels better to me to reward Ojomoh with a chance outside Russell back in his best position after filling in at 10.
Then some rotation next week to give some players a breather ready to go all out against Bristol.
Then some rotation next week to give some players a breather ready to go all out against Bristol.
J, do you think JvG will miss the chance to put Chris Harris up against his old team mates?
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
Quote:jayeatman
OK I'll go first to be shot down:
I don't think JvG will be thinking about resting players for this one.
His mantra has always been 'win the home games', so I think he'll rest a few next week at Tigers when I'd expect to see Carreras & TdT back.
Tom De Glanville
Henry Arundell
Ollie Lawrence
Cameron Redpath
Will Muir
Finn Russell
Ben Spencer
Beno Obano
Tom Dunn
Will Stuart
Ross Molony
Ewan Richards
Josh Bayliss
Guy Pepper
Alfie Barbeary
Replacements
Dan Frost
Francois Van Wyk
Archie Griffin
Will Jeanes
Sam Underhill
Tom Carr-Smith
Max Ojomoh
Miles Reid
I have to say the addition of Russell and Stuart does allay a lot of anxiety around absentees elsewhere in the squad.
Overall this looks really strong, my only tweaks would be hold back Bayliss (as he could be needed at lock in the coming weeks) and give Lawrence a rest, let one of Harris, Butt or Hennessey have a run out.
Good read that - thanks DL.
Only caught the second-half on Sunday, so just saw the good side of Glos. Saints had so many absentees so they must have been truly awful in that first 40.
What with our bench options, it's unlikely they'll be able to do similar damage to us. Their emphasis has to be on a fast start and I expect a similar story to Quins away.
Re: selection, I can't see JvG resting anyone. I'm another who thinks Mojo should be rewarded with a start at 12 and I too think Underhill will start. We lost a lot of heft to injury last week, so a slightly bulkier back row may be in order.
Only caught the second-half on Sunday, so just saw the good side of Glos. Saints had so many absentees so they must have been truly awful in that first 40.
What with our bench options, it's unlikely they'll be able to do similar damage to us. Their emphasis has to be on a fast start and I expect a similar story to Quins away.
Re: selection, I can't see JvG resting anyone. I'm another who thinks Mojo should be rewarded with a start at 12 and I too think Underhill will start. We lost a lot of heft to injury last week, so a slightly bulkier back row may be in order.
Quote:I did debate switching Reid and Bayliss, but I think Reid needs the rest more.boozeboozebooze
Overall this looks really strong, my only tweaks would be hold back Bayliss (as he could be needed at lock in the coming weeks) and give Lawrence a rest, let one of Harris, Butt or Hennessey have a run out.
Alfie gets to start I think, Pepper is too good not to start, so Underhill doesn't, because that would mean 2 7s. Not impossible, but I think Underhill to start v Tigers when Pepper gets a rest.
With Muir and Russell coming back in, I think JvG will resist any further changes to the back line.
So Harris misses out on playing his former team, Ojomoh getting the bench spot because he can cover 10 very competently and I imagine first game back Russell won't want to play the full 80.
BATH supporter since 1975
Adopted players:
2015/6 Tom Homer
2016/7 Matt Banahan
2017/8 Jeff Williams
2018/9 Victor Delmas
2019/20 Semesa Rokoduguni
2020/21 Will Stuart
The fact that Ojomoh is a very competent 10 is quite a big development, well it was for me anyway, maybe not to Max!
Not sure I agree re the backs J, I think he will mix it up, rest Ollie, who is just back from a major rehab. I hope Arundell gets an outing again as I think Finn will be a perfect foil.
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
I think jay's point is spot on: JvG goes after home games, so he'll pick full strength. Santi and TDT need managing, but unless they're at breaking point, there's an argument to say that they're battle hardened/match fit, having just come from playing the most intense level of international rugby possible. Santi might need to get up to speed in training, but unless he's carrying an injury, TDT is ready to rumble.
I'd take any sort of win, but I'd like us to crush Glos and put a bit of a marker down- we've had a pair of very good but kinda scrappy wins. Think it's time to turn it up a notch. Weather looks good too.
With the above on my mind, I'd go:
Obano Dunn TDT Roux/Maloney Richards Pepper Underhill Barbeary
Spencer Russell Muir Ojo Lawrence Arundell TDG
Frost FVW Stuart Bayliss Staddon TCS Carreras Reid
2024/25 adoptee: Guy Pepper
I'd take any sort of win, but I'd like us to crush Glos and put a bit of a marker down- we've had a pair of very good but kinda scrappy wins. Think it's time to turn it up a notch. Weather looks good too.
With the above on my mind, I'd go:
Obano Dunn TDT Roux/Maloney Richards Pepper Underhill Barbeary
Spencer Russell Muir Ojo Lawrence Arundell TDG
Frost FVW Stuart Bayliss Staddon TCS Carreras Reid
2024/25 adoptee: Guy Pepper
Next week's back line?
Santi Carreras
Henry Arundell
Chris Harris
Max Ojomoh
Will Muir
Finn Russell
TCS
That's quite mixed up!
But I'm getting too far ahead.
BATH supporter since 1975
Adopted players:
2015/6 Tom Homer
2016/7 Matt Banahan
2017/8 Jeff Williams
2018/9 Victor Delmas
2019/20 Semesa Rokoduguni
2020/21 Will Stuart
Santi Carreras
Henry Arundell
Chris Harris
Max Ojomoh
Will Muir
Finn Russell
TCS
That's quite mixed up!
But I'm getting too far ahead.
BATH supporter since 1975
Adopted players:
2015/6 Tom Homer
2016/7 Matt Banahan
2017/8 Jeff Williams
2018/9 Victor Delmas
2019/20 Semesa Rokoduguni
2020/21 Will Stuart
Good report.....new one for me "blowing a hooligan"....!!!
I have to say I agree with that team selection by Jayeatmam, it is a home game and it is Gloucester!
After the game we will be one sixth (17%) through the season......
I have to say I agree with that team selection by Jayeatmam, it is a home game and it is Gloucester!
After the game we will be one sixth (17%) through the season......
Quote:Bath Supporter Jack
Good report.....new one for me "blowing a hooligan"....!!!
I have to say I agree with that team selection by Jayeatmam, it is a home game and it is Gloucester!
After the game we will be one sixth (17%) through the season......
hmmm
To "blow a hoolie" is a distinctly Scottish phrase meaning "it's very windy" or "it's extremely windy". The word "hoolie" or "hooley" refers to a strong gale or a noisy party, with the origin of the phrase potentially coming from the Orkney Scots word "hoolan," meaning a strong gale, which may itself come from the Old Norse word "ýlung," meaning howling or wailing.
Breakdown of the phrase:
"Blow": In this context, it refers to the act of strong wind.
"A hoolie": A hoolie is a Scottish term for either a strong, howling gale or a very noisy, boisterous party.
Origin:
The exact origin is uncertain, but the most accepted theory links it to the Orkney Scots word "hoolan," meaning a strong gale.
"Hoolan" is thought to derive from the early Scandinavian word "ýlung," which means "howling" or "wailing".
Another possible influence is the Irish use of "hooley" for a lively party, suggesting a comparison between the noisy wind and a rowdy celebration.
Thanks for that Woodpecker. My use of it was a lot simpler and came from 40 odd years of working with the RN. Blowing a hooligan is (or was ) fairly standard naval slang for storm force winds.
Do think Chris Harris will play this weekend - his knowledge of Glos will be invaluable and Ollie could do with a rest, so I would go for an all Scottish core of Finn, Cam and Chris.
I cannot believe given how much test rugby both TdT and Santi C have played to see them feature this week albeit Santi C I am sure will be offering advice alongside Chris H in relation to Glos weaknesses.
I cannot believe given how much test rugby both TdT and Santi C have played to see them feature this week albeit Santi C I am sure will be offering advice alongside Chris H in relation to Glos weaknesses.
Looks like they didn't lose anyone last weekend so should be a fairly similar team to this week?
Injury update:
Ewels, Roux and Hill all out for "weeks".
Sounds like Stuart and Russell are definitely in the mix for selection this week.
[www.somersetlive.co.uk]
Ewels, Roux and Hill all out for "weeks".
Sounds like Stuart and Russell are definitely in the mix for selection this week.
[www.somersetlive.co.uk]
As long as it stays 'weeks' that should put them back in the frame for Saracens at the end of Nov after the Autumn internationals. Given how bad they all looked at the time that would be a pretty decent outcome. Bristol game is two and a half weeks away so that seems unlikely for any of them
Think I would go:
Tdg
Big Joe
Lawrence
Mojo
Arundell
Finn
Spencer
Beno
Dunn
Griffin
Malony
Richards
Bayliss
Pepper
Reid
Bench: frost , fvw, stuart, jeanes, underhill, tcs, cam, alfie
Huge test for malony stepping into Charlie's shoes and presumably lineout calling.
Bring in tdt and santi for leic, plus muir if he is fit.
Lawrence won't play weekend of 25th Oct and doubt he will play all 4 eng games either so should naturally get a few weekends off in the next few months. No issue with resting him tho as loads of options and don't want to push our luck with his comeback.
Hope we don't go overly strong for glos and then overly weak for Tigers- all a very fine balance.
Tdg
Big Joe
Lawrence
Mojo
Arundell
Finn
Spencer
Beno
Dunn
Griffin
Malony
Richards
Bayliss
Pepper
Reid
Bench: frost , fvw, stuart, jeanes, underhill, tcs, cam, alfie
Huge test for malony stepping into Charlie's shoes and presumably lineout calling.
Bring in tdt and santi for leic, plus muir if he is fit.
Lawrence won't play weekend of 25th Oct and doubt he will play all 4 eng games either so should naturally get a few weekends off in the next few months. No issue with resting him tho as loads of options and don't want to push our luck with his comeback.
Hope we don't go overly strong for glos and then overly weak for Tigers- all a very fine balance.
I can't imagine us not going all out for the next three fixtures. There's more than a month of Prem Cup nonsense after that.
Sir..........Karl Dickson for Saturday ? 
Adopted Player 2018/19 Ross Batty
Adopted Player 2019/20 Jack Davies
Adopted Player 2020/21 Cam Redpath
Adopted Player 2021/22 Darren Atkins
Adopted Player 2022/23 Gabriel Hamer-Webb
Adopted Player 2023/24 Tom Carr-Smith
Adopted Player 2024/25 Max Ojomoh
"AN OUNCE OF ACTION IS WORTH A TON OF THEORY"
FRIEDRICH ENGELS
Adopted Player 2018/19 Ross Batty
Adopted Player 2019/20 Jack Davies
Adopted Player 2020/21 Cam Redpath
Adopted Player 2021/22 Darren Atkins
Adopted Player 2022/23 Gabriel Hamer-Webb
Adopted Player 2023/24 Tom Carr-Smith
Adopted Player 2024/25 Max Ojomoh
"AN OUNCE OF ACTION IS WORTH A TON OF THEORY"
FRIEDRICH ENGELS
I would bring in TdT - he's not played more than 50 minutes in 3 games over 5 weeks so not sure he'll be that battle scarred
Santi i'd maybe leave for Leicester given it's a totally fresh start for him this week.
Muir doesn't seem to be close unfortunately
Santi i'd maybe leave for Leicester given it's a totally fresh start for him this week.
Muir doesn't seem to be close unfortunately
Do we think there's much in Jeanes v Cuckson in the pecking order at the moment? Think you can read into Cuckson being the one to get loaned to Worcester last week both ways and I don't have a strong sense either way having not seen much of either of them
Quote:theredseat
Do we think there's much in Jeanes v Cuckson in the pecking order at the moment? Think you can read into Cuckson being the one to get loaned to Worcester last week both ways and I don't have a strong sense either way having not seen much of either of them
To me it looks like Jeanes is edging Cuckson in the hierarchy, both have made a similar number of appearances, but Jeanes has played in the Prem twice and was also a starter in the Prem Cup Final, versus Cuckson who has only ever played Prem Cup (although not sure whether injuries may have influenced this).
Quote:theredseat
Do we think there's much in Jeanes v Cuckson in the pecking order at the moment? Think you can read into Cuckson being the one to get loaned to Worcester last week both ways and I don't have a strong sense either way having not seen much of either of them
Good call, 18 months ago I'd have said Cuckson was the better lock, now I've seen development in Jeanes physically and in performance. Perhaps Jeanes has the edge. What we don't know is about them both as personalities. Neither are particularly quick around the park and both are still young and its early in their careers. Cuckson will get the benefit of more game time so I hope Will Jeanes gets time off the bench.
Cuckson came from Worcester in the first place so its no surprise to see him loaned back to them. Will Jeanes is a product of Beechen Clff.
21 is still very young in a second row's development!
An outsiders selection to be shot down. Largely agree with Jay.
Tom De Glanville
Henry Arundell
Ollie Lawrence
Cameron Redpath
Joe C
Finn Russell
Ben Spencer
Beno Obano
Dan Frost
Will Stuart
Ross Molony
Ewan Richards
Josh Bayliss
Sam Underhill
Alfie Barbeary
Replacements
Tom Dunn
Francois Van Wyk
Archie Griffin
Will Jeanes
Guy Pepper
Tom Carr-Smith
Max Ojomoh
Miles Reid
Frost & Underhill starting spreads the minutes between them and Dunn & Pepper.
Appreciate Santi & TDT were in London but do they need rushing back?
Based on the following being N/A
Ewels, Roux, Hill, Coetzee, VDL, Harris, Muir
There is no Full England training camp on the weekend of R5, so all internationals should be available.
I had heard rumours but Charlie Morgan has confirmed it in the Telegraph.
“There is no tune-up training camp, as there has been in previous years, either. In theory, everyone should be available for their clubs for the round of games the weekend before the Wallabies are at Twickenham.”
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2025:10:08:10:41:31 by tigersimon.
Tom De Glanville
Henry Arundell
Ollie Lawrence
Cameron Redpath
Joe C
Finn Russell
Ben Spencer
Beno Obano
Dan Frost
Will Stuart
Ross Molony
Ewan Richards
Josh Bayliss
Sam Underhill
Alfie Barbeary
Replacements
Tom Dunn
Francois Van Wyk
Archie Griffin
Will Jeanes
Guy Pepper
Tom Carr-Smith
Max Ojomoh
Miles Reid
Frost & Underhill starting spreads the minutes between them and Dunn & Pepper.
Appreciate Santi & TDT were in London but do they need rushing back?
Based on the following being N/A
Ewels, Roux, Hill, Coetzee, VDL, Harris, Muir
There is no Full England training camp on the weekend of R5, so all internationals should be available.
I had heard rumours but Charlie Morgan has confirmed it in the Telegraph.
“There is no tune-up training camp, as there has been in previous years, either. In theory, everyone should be available for their clubs for the round of games the weekend before the Wallabies are at Twickenham.”
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2025:10:08:10:41:31 by tigersimon.
Quote:tigersimon
There is no Full England training camp on the weekend of R5, so all internationals should be available.
I had heard rumours but Charlie Morgan has confirmed it in the Telegraph.
“There is no tune-up training camp, as there has been in previous years, either. In theory, everyone should be available for their clubs for the round of games the weekend before the Wallabies are at Twickenham.”
Brilliant news. Won't open up that particular can of worms again - just glad to see clubs/RFU have agreed on a workaround. Wonder if that means there won't be one ahead of 6N as well?
Also agree (in part) with Hasta. With a month off soon, we shouldn't be rotating. I'd stop short of calling it Prem Cup nonsense though, it formed part of our historic treble after all ; )
Quote:Thank godtigersimon
There is no Full England training camp on the weekend of R5, so all internationals should be available.
I had heard rumours but Charlie Morgan has confirmed it in the Telegraph.
“There is no tune-up training camp, as there has been in previous years, either. In theory, everyone should be available for their clubs for the round of games the weekend before the Wallabies are at Twickenham.”
R5 : Tigers v Sale - not so sure it’s the best of news for us!
But will be nice to have Ford at MWWR and see ‘Full’ strength teams.
The weekend before the 6Ns is a PRC round 👍
But will be nice to have Ford at MWWR and see ‘Full’ strength teams.
The weekend before the 6Ns is a PRC round 👍
Great news, thanks tiger Simon.
Given we play bris that is a huge boost as would be amazed if they have more call ups than us.
Given we play bris that is a huge boost as would be amazed if they have more call ups than us.
PRC is an important competition
It is particularly important for the development and exposure of the younger players. I really enjoyed last year as our "kids" battled it out against pretty much first teams from other clubs
It is particularly important for the development and exposure of the younger players. I really enjoyed last year as our "kids" battled it out against pretty much first teams from other clubs
Quote:Bath Supporter Jack
PRC is an important competition
It is particularly important for the development and exposure of the younger players. I really enjoyed last year as our "kids" battled it out against pretty much first teams from other clubs
Agreed. I chuckled at a comment on the Exeter site where someone said that its essential to have an A league to give their squad experience...when Exeter basically played their 1st team in the competition designed to do exactly that. It has been brilliant to allow the less experienced lads a chance to bridge that gap between u20s and BUCS type comps to top tier rugby.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
The best point was against Harlequins at the Rec when.....I will misremember this but we seemed to go 21 - 0 down in the first 10 minutes.....and then ended the half 21 - 7 down.....and then the bench was emptied and we were 28 - 21 after about 10 minutes of the second half.
It was the kids what won it keeping the score close at half time against a very strong Harlequins team
It was the kids what won it keeping the score close at half time against a very strong Harlequins team
Bath Rugby Starting XV: 1 Beno Obano, 2 Tom Dunn, 3 Will Stuart, 4 Ewan Richards, 5 Ross Molony, 6 Guy Pepper, 7 Sam Underhill, 8 Josh Bayliss, 9 Tom Carr-Smith, 10 Finn Russell ©, 11 Henry Arundell, 12 Max Ojomoh, 13 Ollie Lawrence, 14 Joe Cokanasiga, 15 Tom de Glanville
Replacements: 16 Kepueli Tuipulotu, 17 Francois van Wyk, 18 Thomas du Toit, 19 Miles Reid, 20 Alfie Barbeary, 21 Neil le Roux, 22 Santi Carreras, 23 Chris Harris
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Replacements: 16 Kepueli Tuipulotu, 17 Francois van Wyk, 18 Thomas du Toit, 19 Miles Reid, 20 Alfie Barbeary, 21 Neil le Roux, 22 Santi Carreras, 23 Chris Harris
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
In all seriousness it's a surprising week to be a forward short. I know Bayliss has covered second row before but I'd like another option there given we're a Molony / Richards injury or card away from scrambling there
Fortunately it's not a Glos pack that should be striking fear so backing us to get the job done
Fortunately it's not a Glos pack that should be striking fear so backing us to get the job done
22 Santi Carreras, 23 Chris Harris on the bench should be fun!
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
"in the absence of Ben Spencer"
Delighted TCS is going to get a run, and think it's a great opportunity for him behind that pack and with Finn alongside, but what is this absence???
2024/25 adoptee: Guy Pepper
Delighted TCS is going to get a run, and think it's a great opportunity for him behind that pack and with Finn alongside, but what is this absence???
2024/25 adoptee: Guy Pepper
In both the last two games, he has limped off at the end with some tightness in his leg. May just be giving him some rest to fully recover. TCS needs a chance to perform under real pressure.
5 - 3 makes sense given injuries to Hill, Ewels and Roux. Presume Reid is back up second row.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2025:10:10:12:14:07 by Never In Doubt.
5 - 3 makes sense given injuries to Hill, Ewels and Roux. Presume Reid is back up second row.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2025:10:10:12:14:07 by Never In Doubt.
Quote:dr.bath1865
"in the absence of Ben Spencer"
Delighted TCS is going to get a run, and think it's a great opportunity for him behind that pack and with Finn alongside, but what is this absence???
He was holding his hamstring just after the 50/22 last week? could be a strain?
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2025:10:10:12:12:35 by copester.
JvG mentioned in his pre-match injury update that they'd had the whole squad together for the first time and had had squad photos taken so I went to the Offy to have a look. Is Alfie's hair even legal?! Looks longer than it did last Friday.
[www.bathrugby.com]
[www.bathrugby.com]
Good for TCS to get a chance to start with Finn as well. More helpful for him than when we change 9 and 10 at the same time
I hadn’t noticed that Ruaridh McConnochie has been appointed as skills coach working with the back 3 and rehab.
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
Quote:shipwrecked
I hadn’t noticed that Ruaridh McConnochie has been appointed as skills coach working with the back 3 and rehab.
Yes he has been doing it a few months now. I think that he is also helping with Monkton Combe School (guess he is working on his badges / experience).
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
I really hope we avenge the 60 point nilling we got off them a few years back. No Spencer and a lock crisis for us, yes, but with their injury list we really ought to be aiming for a shoeing here. I will accept nothing less!
Rawce, I agree, we need to be ruthless tomorrow and I hope we will be. But there is another side to that horrible defeat at Castle Grim. I’ve heard that after that match the senior Bath players got together and said “Enough - that ain’t happening again” so in some ways it may have done us a favour.
The Gloucester team may feel a bit that way after the first half of last week’s game and see tomorrow at the Rec as a great opportunity to at the very least show their pride in the shirt.
From their social media, it looks as if a lot of their supporters have lost confidence in George Skivington’s ability to take Gloucester forward but I fully expect them to front up and make it difficult for us. I do think we have too much strength all around for them.
The Gloucester team may feel a bit that way after the first half of last week’s game and see tomorrow at the Rec as a great opportunity to at the very least show their pride in the shirt.
From their social media, it looks as if a lot of their supporters have lost confidence in George Skivington’s ability to take Gloucester forward but I fully expect them to front up and make it difficult for us. I do think we have too much strength all around for them.
Interesting selection.
Stuart/tdt/finn/santi all straight in- wow!
5:3 makes sense.
Just have to live with josh or guy at lock if needed but with those front row options we hopefully can live with that.
Backrow is v mobile and big jackal threat.
Nice bang off the bench as always.
Assume spencer is a tight hammy- makes sense to take no risks and hopefully fine for Tigers away. Great opp for tcs in a strong 23. Le roux could get a prem debut.
Interesting kepu back on bench. Decision or a knock I wonder. Mojo over redpath a selection decision?
Be nice to keep rotation for next week minimal. Hopefully spencer back in ans rotate a few between starting xv and bench.
Stuart/tdt/finn/santi all straight in- wow!
5:3 makes sense.
Just have to live with josh or guy at lock if needed but with those front row options we hopefully can live with that.
Backrow is v mobile and big jackal threat.
Nice bang off the bench as always.
Assume spencer is a tight hammy- makes sense to take no risks and hopefully fine for Tigers away. Great opp for tcs in a strong 23. Le roux could get a prem debut.
Interesting kepu back on bench. Decision or a knock I wonder. Mojo over redpath a selection decision?
Be nice to keep rotation for next week minimal. Hopefully spencer back in ans rotate a few between starting xv and bench.
Quote:Rawce
I really hope we avenge the 60 point nilling we got off them a few years back. No Spencer and a lock crisis for us, yes, but with their injury list we really ought to be aiming for a shoeing here. I will accept nothing less!
Hey, that is way too disrespectful. Even with their absentees that's a very decent Glaws team sprinkled with real quality
Yes, we will be very disappointed not to come off the park with less than 5 points but I really don't think they will make it easy for us and a big upset is always possible in this league
+1 Gaz
I think the 10 teams are much, much closer than results might indicate.
Glos have 23 players who will give everything to firstly stop us and secondly try to get one over us
I think the 10 teams are much, much closer than results might indicate.
Glos have 23 players who will give everything to firstly stop us and secondly try to get one over us
Personally I would not read anything into Cam and Ben missing from matchday 23 - it will be part of JvG protecting his players with resources being available.
I agree it is disrespectful to just assume we will just take the field and destroy Glos - they will relish being huge underdogs and players wishing to prove a point on the back of some bad results last season against us - they have a really exciting backline and any pack containing a 50 cap All Black deserves respect. Our bench may well prove to be decisive.
Remember Quins v Saracens last year if you want a perfect example of the official "Banana Skin" very similar to tomorrows game. Sarries fully loaded against a Quins ravaged by injury.
We need to stick to our game plan and concentrate on executing our game and not worry about Glos and who they have missing, there is always a chance of over confidence albeit JvG will never allow this. They showed last week in 2nd Half if you given them an opportunity they can score and score quickly.
I agree it is disrespectful to just assume we will just take the field and destroy Glos - they will relish being huge underdogs and players wishing to prove a point on the back of some bad results last season against us - they have a really exciting backline and any pack containing a 50 cap All Black deserves respect. Our bench may well prove to be decisive.
Remember Quins v Saracens last year if you want a perfect example of the official "Banana Skin" very similar to tomorrows game. Sarries fully loaded against a Quins ravaged by injury.
We need to stick to our game plan and concentrate on executing our game and not worry about Glos and who they have missing, there is always a chance of over confidence albeit JvG will never allow this. They showed last week in 2nd Half if you given them an opportunity they can score and score quickly.
What I like about bath these days (and back in the old days) is it feels like we know our dna, we know how to win and we expect to win.
I can well see it being tight and then us pulling away as we turn to our power game and unloading the bench.
If we have parity or close to at 50 mins I would always back us. Agree that's a decent glos 23 but ours is stronger and we are at home so would be disappointed by less than 5 points.
Next week I really hope we go all out and would be disappointed with anything less than 2 pts.
I can well see it being tight and then us pulling away as we turn to our power game and unloading the bench.
If we have parity or close to at 50 mins I would always back us. Agree that's a decent glos 23 but ours is stronger and we are at home so would be disappointed by less than 5 points.
Next week I really hope we go all out and would be disappointed with anything less than 2 pts.
Quote:Bath Supporter Jack
+1 Gaz
I think the 10 teams are much, much closer than results might indicate.
Glos have 23 players who will give everything to firstly stop us and secondly try to get one over us
+2
It's a derby so form, injuries etc etc are all irrelevant.
Should we win, yes absolutely. Should we expect it to be easy, absolutely not, Gloucester are a dangerous team going forward and will be respected by Bath.
Quote:OutsideBathQuote:Bath Supporter Jack
+1 Gaz
I think the 10 teams are much, much closer than results might indicate.
Glos have 23 players who will give everything to firstly stop us and secondly try to get one over us
+2
It's a derby so form, injuries etc etc are all irrelevant.
Should we win, yes absolutely. Should we expect it to be easy, absolutely not, Gloucester are a dangerous team going forward and will be respected by Bath.
+3 if our forwards can assert dominance over the 80 we should have enough...but I'm not expecting a walkover. Far from it.
They have the Prem Player of the Year in Williams. Would've played in all 3 Tests for the Lions but for injury. We know from last week just how influential a top class 9 can be, so need to be on our game (especially in Spenny's absence). If he, alongside Byrne, gets front foot ball, that backline will hurt us.
Nepo Laulala is starting at tighthead for Glaws tomorrow. I know he’s coming back from a serious injury but a 50 cap All Black is still going to be a handful for Beno to manage.
It was interesting that Laulala didn't come on from the bench last week and Faso played the full 80. He's had big fitness problems and has hardly played any rugby these last few years, but if he's fit, he'll be a handful. It also means Faso comes on fully fired up with 30 to go and with our second row and bench underpowered in terms of heavyweight scrummaging.
I'm really bullish about tomorrow's game but if I was a Glos fan I'd be looking at that little battle as an area that could give them momentum.
2024/25 adoptee: Guy Pepper
I'm really bullish about tomorrow's game but if I was a Glos fan I'd be looking at that little battle as an area that could give them momentum.
2024/25 adoptee: Guy Pepper
Who's covering second row? That looks a potential worry.
Tom de Glanville - Adopted player 2024-5
Tom de Glanville - Adopted player 2024-5
He’s primarily a flanker but I think Will Jeanes has played second row in the past, but not at this level!
Quote:Devonport Lad
He’s primarily a flanker but I think Will Jeanes has played second row in the past, but not at this level!
Will Jeanes is a second row DL, loose head lock. I think he will do ok.
Quote:Bayliss (6,3), Pepper (6,3) or Reid (6,2) I would imagine based on the squad announced. Will Jeanes (reports vary) or Harvey Cuckson (6,7) would be a more obvious second rows, but are significantly less experienced than the other 3, so more likely for the Prem Cup sides.BucksBBandW
Who's covering second row? That looks a potential worry.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2025:10:10:18:32:10 by dcsh.
Harvey Cuckson is on loan at Worcester.
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
Surprised at Bath’s 5:3 bench.
Gloucester 6:2 with a couple of players I haven’t seen a lot of!
Gloucester 6:2 with a couple of players I haven’t seen a lot of!
Quote:tigersimon
Surprised at Bath’s 5:3 bench.
Gloucester 6:2 with a couple of players I haven’t seen a lot of!
Why surprised? Nothing too wacky about a 9, utility back and centre on the bench is there? Not something Bath do a lot of, but should be a dry track and a lot of backs play, so in JVG we trust…
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Sirs:
Referee: Karl Dickson
ARs: Hamish Grant & Calum Howard
TMO: Dan Jones
(Before you say it, Karl is fine!)
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Referee: Karl Dickson
ARs: Hamish Grant & Calum Howard
TMO: Dan Jones
(Before you say it, Karl is fine!)
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Quote:hasta
I can't remember the last time we played a 5:3 bench
Hence my surprise!
Quote:hasta
I can't remember the last time we played a 5:3 bench
Maybe the injury problems we have forced the change in tactic?
I finally came round to 6:2 but not upset to see a 5:3.
If your forward options are a bit hit but you have lots of exciting backs available it feels fairly pragmatic to switch.
Glos aren't monstrous up front so can see the logic of picking santi for example over jeanes.
If your forward options are a bit hit but you have lots of exciting backs available it feels fairly pragmatic to switch.
Glos aren't monstrous up front so can see the logic of picking santi for example over jeanes.
Gloucester have decent backs who are clicking at present & will test us so our defence has to be up for it & Redpath may be missed. We look to be far stronger up front though & hopefully that will tell as the match proceeds. We can’t afford to drop any points this week.
Quote:Ali1969
We have used Guy Pepper in the 2nd row last season
He moved up last week didn't he as well?
If anyone were to start up the chant "One Lewis Moody, there's only one Lewis Moody" on the 7min mark, I would find it hard not to join in... (footy chant, I know but...)
Adopted Players: All of the little blighters!!!
Adopted Players: All of the little blighters!!!
Why wait? If you are there make it happen I’m sure you would get massive support!
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
Quote:plong
If anyone were to start up the chant "One Lewis Moody, there's only one Lewis Moody" on the 7min mark, I would find it hard not to join in... (footy chant, I know but...)
❤️💚🤍 💙🖤
Great idea.
Apparently Tigers are planning some things for next weekend, club liaising with Moodos about arrangements and consent.
Solid, comfortable 21-point routine win... If Finn hadn't his yellow or Dickson hadn't been rubbish at ruck time in the second half that could have been 60.
Richards player of the match for me.
Only TNT could give a POM award to a player who gets a Yellow Card!
Don’t get me wrong Finn was v. good but Richards IMVHO was more deserving!
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2025:10:11:19:31:17 by tigersimon.
Only TNT could give a POM award to a player who gets a Yellow Card!
Don’t get me wrong Finn was v. good but Richards IMVHO was more deserving!
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2025:10:11:19:31:17 by tigersimon.
TCS is a close replacement for Ben Spencer
Ewan Richards has to be the fastest lock in the Prem
Arundell is just getting started, pace terrifies defences
Kepu is going to challenge Tom Dunn this season
Finn Russell is human!
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
Ewan Richards has to be the fastest lock in the Prem
Arundell is just getting started, pace terrifies defences
Kepu is going to challenge Tom Dunn this season
Finn Russell is human!
Quote:hasta
If…Dickson hadn't been rubbish at ruck time in the second half that could have been 60.
Sigh…look forward to reviewing your reffing performance next week Hasta.
Why oh why on every thread after every match do people have to bang on about how (in their amateur view) refs make mistakes? Weird.
Well done Bath, solid performance. Great to see Finn back and Arundel up to speed (literally).
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2025:10:11:19:43:19 by BathMatt53.
Quote:BathMatt53Quote:hasta
If…Dickson hadn't been rubbish at ruck time in the second half that could have been 60.
Sigh…look forward to reviewing your reffing performance next week Hasta.
Why oh why on every thread after every match do people have to bang on about how (in their amateur view) refs make mistakes? Weird.
Well done Bath, solid performance. Great to see Finn back and Arundel up to speed (literally).
Because we review everyone else's performance? It's a discussion forum?
Dickson was fine in the first half. In the second half he let Gloucester hold on with impunity. His decisions on the no tries were fair. His decision to yellow card Finn was fair.
Clearly you are more than welcome to your view but don’t be surprised when it is challenged. All of the Prem refs individually know lore about reffing the breakdown (and everything else) than everyone on this board put together. They are at the top of their game as much as the players are (although human obviously).
Personally I barely noticed KD today and more importantly thought that Bath were excellent.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Personally I barely noticed KD today and more importantly thought that Bath were excellent.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
I thought we were very, very good for the first 36 minutes, and very close to perfection.
Cracking try from Will Joseph.
Arundell has been a great signing so far.
Euan Richards was excellent.
One small brain f@rt aside, Finn was brilliant.
Cracking try from Will Joseph.
Arundell has been a great signing so far.
Euan Richards was excellent.
One small brain f@rt aside, Finn was brilliant.
Quote:BathMatt53
Clearly you are more than welcome to your view but don’t be surprised when it is challenged. All of the Prem refs individually know lore about reffing the breakdown (and everything else) than everyone on this board put together. They are at the top of their game as much as the players are (although human obviously).
Personally I barely noticed KD today and more importantly thought that Bath were excellent.
But they should not be above criticism, which is something you disagree with.
We comment on players positives and negatives, and so we should do the same for refs. They are professionals like the players but they also are not perfect.
After every game there is a general view on all boards that the ref was awful. On the Bris board today there is even a seperate thread about how bad the ref was and how his isn’t fit to carry whistle. It’s embarrassing and it’s a real slippery slope towards having no refs. If I told you how many local games were short of a shorty ref today you wouldn’t believe me. Of course they make mistakes, but No ref, no game. Be careful what you wish for.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Today felt like the definition of a routine win.
Richards took his chance with both hands, Underhill was brutal, Stuart stabilised the scrum and made some big hits and Arundell just feels like such a threat whenever he’s near the ball.
I’d be really concerned if I was a Gloucester fan. They don’t have any go forward (although Mann helped when he came on), the lineout was a mess and the attack just seemed to involve going side to side and hoping for the best.
Byrne had an absolutely rotten game. Either not involved or making mistakes to the point that Williams was playing both 9 and 10 at times.
Richards took his chance with both hands, Underhill was brutal, Stuart stabilised the scrum and made some big hits and Arundell just feels like such a threat whenever he’s near the ball.
I’d be really concerned if I was a Gloucester fan. They don’t have any go forward (although Mann helped when he came on), the lineout was a mess and the attack just seemed to involve going side to side and hoping for the best.
Byrne had an absolutely rotten game. Either not involved or making mistakes to the point that Williams was playing both 9 and 10 at times.
I liked the way Dickson ran the match today - he was decisive and quick - which is much more than we can say about last week when scrums took for ever thanks to the ref’s deliberations.
That said, I agree with DB. Of course officials are human and mistakes are to be expected but they are not above criticism on a discussion forum.
What i noticed that most surprised me was how many times he awardwd knock ons when the ball travelled backwards.
PG
That said, I agree with DB. Of course officials are human and mistakes are to be expected but they are not above criticism on a discussion forum.
What i noticed that most surprised me was how many times he awardwd knock ons when the ball travelled backwards.
PG
This isn't the Bris board - don't know what they're saying but it seems pretty constructive here. You can comment on the approach of commenters 'ere but what's going on elsewhere isn't relevant to this discussion - if they're annoying you take it up there. And Finn's yellow card offence was only picked up because a Glaws player asked for a review, missed by Mr D and the TMO.
Quote:Well, at minute 38 I was feeling pretty smug… then Finn’s yellow kicked in.gaz59Quote:Rawce
I really hope we avenge the 60 point nilling we got off them a few years back. No Spencer and a lock crisis for us, yes, but with their injury list we really ought to be aiming for a shoeing here. I will accept nothing less!
Hey, that is way too disrespectful. Even with their absentees that's a very decent Glaws team sprinkled with real quality
Yes, we will be very disappointed not to come off the park with less than 5 points but I really don't think they will make it easy for us and a big upset is always possible in this league
Yep, in the main a great game, but for Finn's brain fart it probably would have been something like 60-7.
For fun, this is the best 15 I could think of that didn't play today:
Sam Harris
Louie Hennessy
Will Butt
Cameron Redpath
Will Muir
Ciaran Donoghue
Ben Spencer
Mikey Summerfield
Dan Frost
Archie Griffin
Quinn Roux
Charlie Ewels
Ted Hill
Ethan Staddon
Jaco Coetzee
I think it demonstrates we have strength in depth everywhere except LH.
BATH supporter since 1975
Adopted players:
2015/6 Tom Homer
2016/7 Matt Banahan
2017/8 Jeff Williams
2018/9 Victor Delmas
2019/20 Semesa Rokoduguni
2020/21 Will Stuart
For fun, this is the best 15 I could think of that didn't play today:
Sam Harris
Louie Hennessy
Will Butt
Cameron Redpath
Will Muir
Ciaran Donoghue
Ben Spencer
Mikey Summerfield
Dan Frost
Archie Griffin
Quinn Roux
Charlie Ewels
Ted Hill
Ethan Staddon
Jaco Coetzee
I think it demonstrates we have strength in depth everywhere except LH.
BATH supporter since 1975
Adopted players:
2015/6 Tom Homer
2016/7 Matt Banahan
2017/8 Jeff Williams
2018/9 Victor Delmas
2019/20 Semesa Rokoduguni
2020/21 Will Stuart
The point about commenting on referees isn't that it shouldn't happen, its a discussion board after all its that the comments are made by posters watching a game on TV or from 50 metres away and by individuals who have little or no refereeing experience and hence a questionable appreciation of the Laws. It's impossible to get everything right anyway and refs don't have the TV view of the game.
Hence the TMO. No two viewers will see the game in the same way. I'd be against refs getting it 100% right anyway as it would ruin continuity of play. I'd be happy with a 9/10 success rate.
What I do dislike is players appealing to referees to review decisions on the pitch.
That being said I don't understand why Ewan Richards try was disallowed, I thought that Underhill lost the ball backwards or perhaps sideways but not forwards.
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
Hence the TMO. No two viewers will see the game in the same way. I'd be against refs getting it 100% right anyway as it would ruin continuity of play. I'd be happy with a 9/10 success rate.
What I do dislike is players appealing to referees to review decisions on the pitch.
That being said I don't understand why Ewan Richards try was disallowed, I thought that Underhill lost the ball backwards or perhaps sideways but not forwards.
Just watched the match on the most infuriatingly choppy feed I've ever had. Pretty nearly unwatchable and particularly annoying cos the Saints v Tigers feed had been perfect.
Looked like the classic games of 2 halves from my freeze frame perspective, everything clicking for us to start with and nothing doing so after. Glaws are clearly not a bad side but just can't seem to play any rugby for the first 40 minutes, so its really hard to say how good we actually were. But 5 points is 5 points and no one seemed to get broken, which is a welcome change.
My MotM - Ewan Richards. Looks like our lock stocks are as strong as all of the other positions in the squad. In JvG we trust
... IMHO, of course.
Now in Honolulu
Looked like the classic games of 2 halves from my freeze frame perspective, everything clicking for us to start with and nothing doing so after. Glaws are clearly not a bad side but just can't seem to play any rugby for the first 40 minutes, so its really hard to say how good we actually were. But 5 points is 5 points and no one seemed to get broken, which is a welcome change.
My MotM - Ewan Richards. Looks like our lock stocks are as strong as all of the other positions in the squad. In JvG we trust
... IMHO, of course.
Now in Honolulu
One very pleased long term fan of ewan richards- class bloke, class player.
Feels like it will take us being a bit off and the opposition being very on it to lose too many games this season, esp at home.
Leic away a great test next week. If you win at WR you know you are doing a lot of things right.
Thought dickson was fine as ref- I really didn't rate him a few seasons ago but fair play he has improved a lot.
Feels like it will take us being a bit off and the opposition being very on it to lose too many games this season, esp at home.
Leic away a great test next week. If you win at WR you know you are doing a lot of things right.
Thought dickson was fine as ref- I really didn't rate him a few seasons ago but fair play he has improved a lot.
Would also say from today - the Joseph DNA is very strong. JJ had such a distinctive running style and it’s clearly bean passed down the line to Will. One of very few Glos players to come away in credit today, thought he looked excellent
With one exception at a defensive ruck, that was the most Spencer-like performance I've seen from TCS. Really great.
Quote:hasta
With one exception at a defensive ruck, that was the most Spencer-like performance I've seen from TCS. Really great.
I know when things go well then everyone looks good but was really impressed with TCS. His decision-making - especially picking the rught runner off the ruck - was fantastic. Intelligent player.
I thought Josh Bayliss played well at 8, we are very fortunate to have so much depth of talent in that position. Henry Arundell's acceleration is a tremendous asset and Ewan Richard's had a fine game. All in all it was a fairly routine win with a good team effort, the only negative for me was our performance under the high ball.
Bayliss caught the kick offs whereas Alfie on the other hand had an afternoon to forget!
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
Quote:Ben Loader looked excellent bar letting Arundell get behind him.theredseat
Would also say from today - the Joseph DNA is very strong. JJ had such a distinctive running style and it’s clearly bean passed down the line to Will. One of very few Glos players to come away in credit today, thought he looked excellent
Quote:theredseat
Would also say from today - the Joseph DNA is very strong. JJ had such a distinctive running style and it’s clearly bean passed down the line to Will. One of very few Glos players to come away in credit today, thought he looked excellent
I’m wondering if Will is actually better than JJ. The latter was amazing for the first couple of years but after that his impact on the team was limited & he certainly didn’t have the pace of his brother.
Quote:shipwrecked
Bayliss caught the kick offs whereas Alfie on the other hand had an afternoon to forget!
It would be great if Alfie could find the form he had at Wasps. It has been suggested that not having a consistent run of games doesn’t suit him.
A performance/result that shows how far we’ve come. A comfortable win with a bonus point and some brilliant tries but can’t help but feel a little frustrated! Which is ridiculous.
Brilliant performances across the XXIII. If we’d been more accurate it could’ve got embarrassing for Glos. Fair play to them for fighting until the 80. Finn’s kicking game is SO good now. Richards and TCS stepped up and were Prem level. TDG so classy. Arundell so exciting- for me, Jason Robinson edge of seat vibes when he gets the ball.
My motm- Ollie Lawrence. Just amazing. What an athlete. He’s back so far ahead of schedule and delivering performances that make it look like he’s mid season, fully firing. Such a threat ball in hand. Huge in defence and on the floor. He’s clearly loving it too. So great to see.
Interested to see what Gleeson layers on. Not much evidence last night (he’s been here a week) but excited to see what new ideas he give our 9s, Finn, Mojo etc. Our power game is almost unplayable when it’s on the gain line and front foot with a little deception. As said above, TCS made great decisions choosing which runner to hit within our structure. Exciting to see if Gleeson can take it to the next level.
2024/25 adoptee: Guy Pepper
Brilliant performances across the XXIII. If we’d been more accurate it could’ve got embarrassing for Glos. Fair play to them for fighting until the 80. Finn’s kicking game is SO good now. Richards and TCS stepped up and were Prem level. TDG so classy. Arundell so exciting- for me, Jason Robinson edge of seat vibes when he gets the ball.
My motm- Ollie Lawrence. Just amazing. What an athlete. He’s back so far ahead of schedule and delivering performances that make it look like he’s mid season, fully firing. Such a threat ball in hand. Huge in defence and on the floor. He’s clearly loving it too. So great to see.
Interested to see what Gleeson layers on. Not much evidence last night (he’s been here a week) but excited to see what new ideas he give our 9s, Finn, Mojo etc. Our power game is almost unplayable when it’s on the gain line and front foot with a little deception. As said above, TCS made great decisions choosing which runner to hit within our structure. Exciting to see if Gleeson can take it to the next level.
2024/25 adoptee: Guy Pepper
Quote:hasta
Solid, comfortable 21-point routine win... If Finn hadn't his yellow or Dickson hadn't been rubbish at ruck time in the second half that could have been 60.
Personally thought Dickson was fine yesterday and the only reason we didn’t score 60 was because Bath dropped the intensity in the second and pretty much coasted.
Not sure what’s up with Gloucester fans and their booing of Carreras, guess they are just an uneducated, ignorant bunch of muppets.
Quote:dr.bath1865
A performance/result that shows how far we’ve come. A comfortable win with a bonus point and some brilliant tries but can’t help but feel a little frustrated! Which is ridiculous.
Brilliant performances across the XXIII. If we’d been more accurate it could’ve got embarrassing for Glos. Fair play to them for fighting until the 80. Finn’s kicking game is SO good now. Richards and TCS stepped up and were Prem level. TDG so classy. Arundell so exciting- for me, Jason Robinson edge of seat vibes when he gets the ball.
My motm- Ollie Lawrence. Just amazing. What an athlete. He’s back so far ahead of schedule and delivering performances that make it look like he’s mid season, fully firing. Such a threat ball in hand. Huge in defence and on the floor. He’s clearly loving it too. So great to see.
Interested to see what Gleeson layers on. Not much evidence last night (he’s been here a week) but excited to see what new ideas he give our 9s, Finn, Mojo etc. Our power game is almost unplayable when it’s on the gain line and front foot with a little deception. As said above, TCS made great decisions choosing which runner to hit within our structure. Exciting to see if Gleeson can take it to the next level.
Totally agree including your sense of frustration. We failed to convert often enough when in the red zone. If we compare ourselves to the very best, Toulouse, Leinster etc, would they have left so many tries out there?
Exactly Hammer we seem to be unable to convert try line pressure as consistently as a really top team should
I’m not sure if that’s wholly true- we scored the most tries in the league last season (and won the league) and have 3 bonus points from 3 this season. Yes we’ve left points out there in all 3 games but I still think our efficiency, whilst not perfect, is still pretty incredible.
It’s actually pretty unreasonable to think we should win every game by 40 or 50. Glos’ scramble defence and fight were admirable. Hard to embarrass a team that doesn’t allow themselves to be embarrassed.
My frustration yesterday was just more personal, in that I’d love to have seen Arundell or JCok run in a few more. Before kick off however I’d have taken a 5 point win, however we got it, so job done.
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It’s actually pretty unreasonable to think we should win every game by 40 or 50. Glos’ scramble defence and fight were admirable. Hard to embarrass a team that doesn’t allow themselves to be embarrassed.
My frustration yesterday was just more personal, in that I’d love to have seen Arundell or JCok run in a few more. Before kick off however I’d have taken a 5 point win, however we got it, so job done.
2024/25 adoptee: Guy Pepper
Jvg said we left a few tries out there.
I think the frustrating time was being on their line at start of second half with a chance to completely bury them but we didn't (and they came back)
On one hand being very picky but on the other if we have ambitions to be a top European team that's the standard we have to judge ourselves by.
The development of TCS has been great to watch. With him and bvdl looking a promising signing hopefully we are derisking that position, having signed Santi to derisk any loss of finn.
Alfie needs a run of form and fitness to get a new contract I think.
Something needs to give in the cap and all our other backrowers have arguably outperformed him over yhe last few seasons.
Enjoyed will Joseph's performance and hope seb atkinson is OK.
I think the frustrating time was being on their line at start of second half with a chance to completely bury them but we didn't (and they came back)
On one hand being very picky but on the other if we have ambitions to be a top European team that's the standard we have to judge ourselves by.
The development of TCS has been great to watch. With him and bvdl looking a promising signing hopefully we are derisking that position, having signed Santi to derisk any loss of finn.
Alfie needs a run of form and fitness to get a new contract I think.
Something needs to give in the cap and all our other backrowers have arguably outperformed him over yhe last few seasons.
Enjoyed will Joseph's performance and hope seb atkinson is OK.
Quote:Bath HammerQuote:theredseat
Would also say from today - the Joseph DNA is very strong. JJ had such a distinctive running style and it’s clearly bean passed down the line to Will. One of very few Glos players to come away in credit today, thought he looked excellent
I’m wondering if Will is actually better than JJ. The latter was amazing for the first couple of years but after that his impact on the team was limited & he certainly didn’t have the pace of his brother.
Steady on. JJ was plenty quick, Lion, excellent try scoring record for England and one of the best defensive 13s in the world at his peak. Will has some way to go to get to those levels yet
Quote:shipwrecked
Bayliss caught the kick offs whereas Alfie on the other hand had an afternoon to forget!
The problem is that he had obviously forgot the last afternoon to forget like that!
Why don't we put someone else in that position with Alfie about 5 metres behind to take a pop pass from the catcher to then make a couple of hard yards?
Quote:theredseatQuote:Bath HammerQuote:theredseat
Would also say from today - the Joseph DNA is very strong. JJ had such a distinctive running style and it’s clearly bean passed down the line to Will. One of very few Glos players to come away in credit today, thought he looked excellent
I’m wondering if Will is actually better than JJ. The latter was amazing for the first couple of years but after that his impact on the team was limited & he certainly didn’t have the pace of his brother.
Steady on. JJ was plenty quick, Lion, excellent try scoring record for England and one of the best defensive 13s in the world at his peak. Will has some way to go to get to those levels yet
I was literally writing the words "steady on" before I scrolled down to check no on else had pulled BH up on this.
Will looks good but JJ was on another level. The hat-trick vs Scotland and that try in Toulouse will live long in the memory. And he was absolutely rapid too. Covered wing for England several times IIRC.
Commentary on Will Joseph getting in a tangle on the floor after 'tipping' Guy Pepper was amusing. JJ seeing his brother on his back on the grass with Bath players defending Pepper was spotted by the commentary team laughing his head off. Brotherly love and empathy!
Clearly not as quick as JJ but he challenged some very good defenders even if Ollie and Henry Arundell did take each other out when scoring his try. Gloucester lost but they are still good side when they get their line out sorted and players back.
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
Clearly not as quick as JJ but he challenged some very good defenders even if Ollie and Henry Arundell did take each other out when scoring his try. Gloucester lost but they are still good side when they get their line out sorted and players back.
Mark of how good a side we are when fans are airing discontent around leaving points out there. But for Finn's yellow i think we'd have scored 50 yesterday.
TdG was excellent yesterday as TNT highlighted. Carreras has a fight on his hands to displace him at 15. Arundel too was great but we do really miss Horse's aerial threat. For all HAs pace and Big Joe's power, our kick-chase game isn't there when he's not playing.
Personally I'd have given POTM to Richards. Stepped in after an injury crisis at lock. Put in a performance worthy of a 100cap international. Our succession planning is yet another strong point of the club right now.
TdG was excellent yesterday as TNT highlighted. Carreras has a fight on his hands to displace him at 15. Arundel too was great but we do really miss Horse's aerial threat. For all HAs pace and Big Joe's power, our kick-chase game isn't there when he's not playing.
Personally I'd have given POTM to Richards. Stepped in after an injury crisis at lock. Put in a performance worthy of a 100cap international. Our succession planning is yet another strong point of the club right now.
Quote:shipwrecked
Harvey Cuckson is on loan at Worcester.
And scored for Worcester in their narrow defeat to Hartpury 28-25, Ex Bath's Short and Kareem started and Summefield and Spandler on the bench.
[quote OutsideBath][quote
Not sure what’s up with Gloucester fans and their booing of Carreras, guess they are just an uneducated, ignorant bunch of muppets.[/quote]
Yes I had an older guy near me when in a break of play and Santi within earshot he shouted out ‘traitor’ , Santi gave him the death stare ! I told him that was out of order and perhaps he should talk to the senior management at Gloucester and ask why they reportedly messed him around on a new contract. Meanwhile a younger supporter nearby told me he could see why Bath are doing well , he could see the ‘Togetherness’ he said.
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"AN OUNCE OF ACTION IS WORTH A TON OF THEORY"
FRIEDRICH ENGELS
Not sure what’s up with Gloucester fans and their booing of Carreras, guess they are just an uneducated, ignorant bunch of muppets.[/quote]
Yes I had an older guy near me when in a break of play and Santi within earshot he shouted out ‘traitor’ , Santi gave him the death stare ! I told him that was out of order and perhaps he should talk to the senior management at Gloucester and ask why they reportedly messed him around on a new contract. Meanwhile a younger supporter nearby told me he could see why Bath are doing well , he could see the ‘Togetherness’ he said.
Adopted Player 2018/19 Ross Batty
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Adopted Player 2022/23 Gabriel Hamer-Webb
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"AN OUNCE OF ACTION IS WORTH A TON OF THEORY"
FRIEDRICH ENGELS
Shortly after that shout a group of girls behind me began singing “We love you Santi, Oh yes we do” which probably made up for the earlier insult.
PG
PG
Quote:Much like Peppers try being disallowed in the final when Muir dropped the ball sideways or backwards. Additionally there were 3 breakdowns between the Underhill fumble and the Richards try, previously there was a limit how many phases back a TMO could look from the try for incidents, maybe that changed?shipwrecked
That being said I don't understand why Ewan Richards try was disallowed, I thought that Underhill lost the ball backwards or perhaps sideways but not forwards.
[quote Old Bath Tub][quote OutsideBath][quote
Not sure what’s up with Gloucester fans and their booing of Carreras, guess they are just an uneducated, ignorant bunch of muppets.[/quote]
Yes I had an older guy near me when in a break of play and Santi within earshot he shouted out ‘traitor’ , Santi gave him the death stare ! I told him that was out of order and perhaps he should talk to the senior management at Gloucester and ask why they reportedly messed him around on a new contract. Meanwhile a younger supporter nearby told me he could see why Bath are doing well , he could see the ‘Togetherness’ he said.[/quote]
The shouting from Gloucester ’fans’ near me also included calling their previous players “@#$%&” which seems well beyond acceptable ’banter’. Shouldn’t stewards be acting action for this kind of behaviour?
Not sure what’s up with Gloucester fans and their booing of Carreras, guess they are just an uneducated, ignorant bunch of muppets.[/quote]
Yes I had an older guy near me when in a break of play and Santi within earshot he shouted out ‘traitor’ , Santi gave him the death stare ! I told him that was out of order and perhaps he should talk to the senior management at Gloucester and ask why they reportedly messed him around on a new contract. Meanwhile a younger supporter nearby told me he could see why Bath are doing well , he could see the ‘Togetherness’ he said.[/quote]
The shouting from Gloucester ’fans’ near me also included calling their previous players “@#$%&” which seems well beyond acceptable ’banter’. Shouldn’t stewards be acting action for this kind of behaviour?
You would hope so dcsh, but in practice will the stewards be able to identify the correct culprit?
PG
PG
Long-time lurker, first-time poster here (be kind)...
I still feel this Bath side hasn't strung a genuine 80-minute performance together over the last couple of seasons and when they do somebody is going to get thumped.
Three from three at this stage of the season when the guys haven't quite found their flow is a great result and hopefully the continuity will come in short order.
Richards was excellent yesterday and Maloney also put in a great shift. I wouldn't be too harsh on Alfie as he was great for us last season and dropping two restarts in that way is a total outlier (although he does have form on this front).
The only really worrying thing was that we looked aimless when Finn saw yellow – take him and Ben out of the picture and we look exposed.
Roll on Tigers next week!
I still feel this Bath side hasn't strung a genuine 80-minute performance together over the last couple of seasons and when they do somebody is going to get thumped.
Three from three at this stage of the season when the guys haven't quite found their flow is a great result and hopefully the continuity will come in short order.
Richards was excellent yesterday and Maloney also put in a great shift. I wouldn't be too harsh on Alfie as he was great for us last season and dropping two restarts in that way is a total outlier (although he does have form on this front).
The only really worrying thing was that we looked aimless when Finn saw yellow – take him and Ben out of the picture and we look exposed.
Roll on Tigers next week!
Quote:P G Tips
You would hope so dcsh, but in practice will the stewards be able to identify the correct culprit?
PG
Text their seat number to the ASB number the Club advertises - they are pretty good at sending a senior steward to monitor, even if they can't act on what has already happened. It's anonymous and no one needs to know you've done it, just another person on their phone
On the other hand we had a little group of Gloucester supporters with one wag in particular.....at 38 - 17 Gloucester had the ball and were making some ground "Well done Glos we've got them on the run now"
Giggles all round
Giggles all round
Quote:SusanneQuote:P G Tips
You would hope so dcsh, but in practice will the stewards be able to identify the correct culprit?
PG
Text their seat number to the ASB number the Club advertises - they are pretty good at sending a senior steward to monitor, even if they can't act on what has already happened. It's anonymous and no one needs to know you've done it, just another person on their phone
That’s a useful bit of info, not had a big problem with that sort of thing, I tend to get 2 numpties who just want to talk about girls, beer, cars whatever anything but watching Bath Rugby!
Quote:Good suggestion, thanks.SusanneQuote:P G Tips
You would hope so dcsh, but in practice will the stewards be able to identify the correct culprit?
PG
Text their seat number to the ASB number the Club advertises - they are pretty good at sending a senior steward to monitor, even if they can't act on what has already happened. It's anonymous and no one needs to know you've done it, just another person on their phone
Edit: for reference here is the number and email, I have reported with approximate location.
Supporters should report any anti-social behaviour to the stewards on duty who will do their best to resolve the situation. Supporters can also do this at any time on a matchday by text on 07979181865. SEE IT, HEAR IT, REPORT IT
If anyone’s behaviour inside the ground isn’t acceptable, we would like to know. If the matter cannot be dealt with on the day, please contact us at 'customerfeedback@bathrugby.com'.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2025:10:12:18:40:10 by dcsh.
Quote:Mini Maximus
Long-time lurker, first-time poster here (be kind)...
I still feel this Bath side hasn't strung a genuine 80-minute performance together over the last couple of seasons and when they do somebody is going to get thumped.
Three from three at this stage of the season when the guys haven't quite found their flow is a great result and hopefully the continuity will come in short order.
Richards was excellent yesterday and Maloney also put in a great shift. I wouldn't be too harsh on Alfie as he was great for us last season and dropping two restarts in that way is a total outlier (although he does have form on this front).
The only really worrying thing was that we looked aimless when Finn saw yellow – take him and Ben out of the picture and we look exposed.
Roll on Tigers next week!
Welcome on board! Agree with much of this, if we put together a full 80 no one could live with us.
I wonder in the modern game is a full 80 minutes possible.....given you have 15 very fit well trained athletes trying to stop you!
Quote:Bath Supporter Jack
I wonder in the modern game is a full 80 minutes possible.....given you have 15 very fit well trained athletes trying to stop you!
Its interesting. There has always been an ebb and flow to rugby games, even between what appear to be mismatched sides, and its not usually obvious why it happens. Perhaps the best way to characterise champion sides is that they maximise the flow and minimise the ebb.
... IMHO, of course.
Now in Honolulu
Quote:joethefanaticQuote:Bath Supporter Jack
I wonder in the modern game is a full 80 minutes possible.....given you have 15 very fit well trained athletes trying to stop you!
Its interesting. There has always been an ebb and flow to rugby games, even between what appear to be mismatched sides, and its not usually obvious why it happens. Perhaps the best way to characterise champion sides is that they maximise the flow and minimise the ebb.
In other words it is all about who has the momentum
And then of course there is the little matter of what goes on in 30 peoples heads!!
Quote:gaz59Quote:joethefanaticQuote:Bath Supporter Jack
I wonder in the modern game is a full 80 minutes possible.....given you have 15 very fit well trained athletes trying to stop you!
Its interesting. There has always been an ebb and flow to rugby games, even between what appear to be mismatched sides, and its not usually obvious why it happens. Perhaps the best way to characterise champion sides is that they maximise the flow and minimise the ebb.
In other words it is all about who has the momentum
Switching off and allowing a soft try just before half time gave Gloucester momentum. Then dropping intensity at the start of the second half allowed Gloucester to increase their momentum.
Not possible to dominate for 80 minutes, but I suspect JvG will be a little disappointed with allowing Gloucester back into the game.
Something Have always been fascinated by is attention span. Adults have an attention span of about 15-20 minutes before getting distracted.
You can train to refocus attention but getting 15 players to do that all at the same time has issues.
I read somewhere at as a result adults tend to operate in cycles of 15-20 minutes.
Concentrating a team to be fully focused for 80 minutes would be impossible.
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
You can train to refocus attention but getting 15 players to do that all at the same time has issues.
I read somewhere at as a result adults tend to operate in cycles of 15-20 minutes.
Concentrating a team to be fully focused for 80 minutes would be impossible.
Quote:shipwrecked
Something Have always been fascinated by is attention span. Adults have an attention span of about 15-20 minutes before getting distracted.
You can train to refocus attention but getting 15 players to do that all at the same time has issues.
I read somewhere at as a result adults tend to operate in cycles of 15-20 minutes.
Concentrating a team to be fully focused for 80 minutes would be impossible.
If you follow the links from the article the guru cited seems to be all about computer/IT focus.
It could well be very different for other fields of activity especially a high energy, high impact sport
And focus - distraction is not a simple On-Off thing
But your main point is spot on. Check out Tim Gallwey's principle of Performance = Potential - Interference
The role of the coach is primarily to reduce the interference
Yes, you can go in depth if you want to. I got into it related to lectures but things like adrenalin, exercise (serotonin) all play a part. I was interested in the cyclic nature of attention, there was a study on football where the coaching was, if you are losing hang in there for 20 minutes then start again.
Noticeable in the closing quarter when dominant teams often conceded scores.
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
Noticeable in the closing quarter when dominant teams often conceded scores.
Quote:shipwrecked
Something Have always been fascinated by is attention span. Adults have an attention span of about 15-20 minutes before getting distracted.
You can train to refocus attention but getting 15 players to do that all at the same time has issues.
I read somewhere at as a result adults tend to operate in cycles of 15-20 minutes.
Concentrating a team to be fully focused for 80 minutes would be impossible.
Interesting stuff SW. Shows the human side of sport and highlights the reason clubs/players employ people like Don Macpherson. Quick scroll of his website reveals he helps players "maximise their concentration" among other things, so definitely not a something that can just be expected of someone!
Quote:shipwrecked
Yes, you can go in depth if you want to. I got into it related to lectures but things like adrenalin, exercise (serotonin) all play a part. I was interested in the cyclic nature of attention, there was a study on football where the coaching was, if you are losing hang in there for 20 minutes then start again.
Noticeable in the closing quarter when dominant teams often conceded scores.
As West Ham supporters you & I will be expecting & hoping that Nuno has the necessary qualities in the way that JvG clearly has!
Quote:shipwrecked
Concentrating a team to be fully focused for 80 minutes would be impossible.
Absolutely the case that a normal adult attention span is 15-20min. I can also confirm this reduces as you age, BUT given a highly important task, once per week, I'm pretty sure I can concentrate for 60-80mins. It is a trainable skill, so I would dispute your 'impossible' conclusion. I wonder if the club specifically trains for this skill. I imagine it varies dramatically individual to individual. I'd hazard that if measured, Alfie would perhaps be towards the bottom of the scale.
Quote:jayeatmanQuote:shipwrecked
Concentrating a team to be fully focused for 80 minutes would be impossible.
Absolutely the case that a normal adult attention span is 15-20min. I can also confirm this reduces as you age, BUT given a highly important task, once per week, I'm pretty sure I can concentrate for 60-80mins. It is a trainable skill, so I would dispute your 'impossible' conclusion. I wonder if the club specifically trains for this skill. I imagine it varies dramatically individual to individual. I'd hazard that if measured, Alfie would perhaps be towards the bottom of the scale.
I think the coaching trick would be to get those 15-20 minute spans in some form of rotation, so not everyone is inattentive all at the same time!
Quote:jayeatmanQuote:shipwrecked
Concentrating a team to be fully focused for 80 minutes would be impossible.
Absolutely the case that a normal adult attention span is 15-20min. I can also confirm this reduces as you age, BUT given a highly important task, once per week, I'm pretty sure I can concentrate for 60-80mins. It is a trainable skill, so I would dispute your 'impossible' conclusion. I wonder if the club specifically trains for this skill. I imagine it varies dramatically individual to individual. I'd hazard that if measured, Alfie would perhaps be towards the bottom of the scale.
That brings into play another variable factor, personality type
Someone with high Introverted - Thinking will find it more natural and easier to keep focus for longer periods than someone with high Extroverted - Feeling
I would bet my house on Alfie's personality fitting the latter type strongly
JvG on the other hand would be polar opposite
On the Russell yellow - it was dumb but worth reflecting that he had stopped a charging Thorley on our right wing, got up, worked his way across to the left hand side and made another tackle. His defensive commitment was exceptional this weekend including a successful jackal.
Finn doesn't appear to have any hangover from the Summer, aside from his yellow card he had a commanding game a fact acknowledged by most of the sports media who have heaped praise on him this weekend, he is so good for Bath and the Prem. As for Alfie we must keep faith with him, he's just turned 25 so has many years ahead of him, he will only improve imho and I want that to be with Bath. Coetzee, Reid, Alfie and Bayliss are doing great and we have Arthur Green waiting in the wings so forget the Willis Brothers and strengthen elsewhere. However if JVG is courting Tom Willis and he's interested I would unreservedly back JVG's judgement.
Quote:Mini Maximus
I still feel this Bath side hasn't strung a genuine 80-minute performance together over the last couple of seasons and when they do somebody is going to get thumped.
Absolutely. We don't want to peak too soon. Need to reserve that perfect 80min performance for the biggest stages: Bilbao in May or Twickenham in June.
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