Bath
TAKE THE TIGER BY THE TAIL! PRC SEMI FINAL
By PG Tips
March 4 2026
Bath will need to be on their mettle in Sunday’s Prem Cup Semi Final in Leicester. Welford Road has seldom been a happy hunting ground for the men from the Rec, even in years of glory. Meanwhile Tigers are performing strongly on all fronts this season. Fourth in the Prem table, they have the strongest record of all teams in this year’s Cup tables. Add in the hope of ‘revenge’ for defeat in last year’s Prem Final and Leicester will relish the chance to send their old rivals away empty handed.
Leicester's Prem Cup record of Played 8, Won 7 with only 37 match points conceded speaks of a dominant campaign to date and a miserly defence. They have amassed 34 match points in the Pool B Table, 6 more than Pool A leaders Exeter, with 6 of those bonus points. The Tiger of old has definitely shown its teeth. Like the other semi-finalists, Leicester have reinforced their Academy and squad players with first teamers throughout the campaign. The likes of Blamire, Wells, Liebenberg, Reffell, Bailey and Hassell-Collins have all featured. We can confidently expect them to go as strong as qualification regulations permit.
So what of Bath? The Blue, Black and White have been equally careful to ensure that a strong selection is eligible for the knockout rounds. Coach Mark Lilley and last year’s PRC Captain Ewan Richards recently dismissed any suggestion that the tournament is a reduced priority for Bath this year. Richards said, “We aim to win every time we take the field.” Silverware clearly matters, whatever the level and Johann van Graan has publicly committed to building both current strength in depth and a strong dynasty. Achieving both can only be accomplished by marrying stretching ambition with maximum game time for all.
So, expect Bath to go strong. How strong, and the exact mix of those who built momentum in the early rounds with regular Prem first choices, will depend on the needs of forthcoming Prem matches and van Graan’s careful rotation management. I would expect a “mix and match” 23 similar to those for last year’s Semi Final and Final. Squad players likely to feature could include Tuipulotu, Sela, Richards -hopefully now fit and ready and Green up front; Carr-Smith, van Der Linde and Butt behind. There will, I expect be roles for Dunn, Reid, Ojomoh, De Glanville and/or Redpath and Muir.
Bath’s defence is likely to be stressed even more in the claustrophobic and hostile atmosphere of Welford Road than by Gloucester and Exeter in the last two rounds. However, it passed the most recent of those tests and the Gloucester derby included several scything attacks, plus the alert opportunism of Tuipulotu and Staddon, bringing exciting tries. Bath will be aiming to improve on that form, blunt the Tigers’ claws, clamp their jaws shut and twist their tails to move onto another away final. They can do it, but will they? That is the beauty of knock-out rugby.
COYB!
Possible Bath selection:
Kirk, Dunn, Sela, Ewels, Richards, Hill, Staddon, Green. Carr-Smith, Ojomoh. Muir, Redpath, Butt, Cokanasiga, De Glanville.
Replacements: Obano, Tuipulotu, Summerfield, Jeanes, Reid, Barbeary, van Der Linde, Harris.
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StumbleuponTAKE THE TIGER BY THE TAIL! PRC SEMI FINAL. TEAM UP!
Discussion started by Comeonmylovers.co.uk (IP Logged), 04/03/2026 09:40
04/03/2026 09:40
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Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 2026:03:11:11:24:33 by P G Tips.
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Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 2026:03:11:11:24:33 by P G Tips.
In relation to the Leicester team Fissler has a story up on RugbyPass saying they're looking for immediate cover at lock before the Prem resumes so sounds like they're struggling in that spot a bit with Martin and Henderson out and Chessum with England.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:03:04:10:09:25 by theredseat.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:03:04:10:09:25 by theredseat.
I too would be going with a very similar lineup to last week, maybe with the inclusion of Richards (for Jeanes), Green (for Roue, going to a 6/2 bench) & Verden (for Summerfield).
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
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 think Santi will start at No 10 and keep that position on into the next couple of league fixtures whilst Mr Finn Russel is resting. Also TDT needs game time so expect him to figure maybe.
Quote:wetside
I think Santi will start at No 10 and keep that position on into the next couple of league fixtures whilst Mr Finn Russel is resting. Also TDT needs game time so expect him to figure maybe.
Unfortunately neither featured in any of group games so can't be picked for the knock outs.
From my digging I believe we're restricted to picking from the following players:
LH: Kirk, Emanuel, FvW, Beno
HK: Frost, Kepu, Pearce, Spandler, Dunn
TH: Verden, Sela, Summerfield, Alfie Griffin
LK: Richards, Jeanes, Cuckson, Bennett, Roux, Moloney, Ewels
FL/8: Cowan, Staddon, Green, Ridgeway, Timmins, Treacey, Reid, Hill, Maloney, Barbeary
SH: Davies, BVDL, TCS, le Roux
FH: Linegar, Roue
C: Redpath, Ojomoh, Harris, Butt, Hennessey, Harrison
W: Muir, Charlie Griffin, Offiah, Winters, Mason, Cokanasiga
FB: TdG, Emens, Woods
Ojo is nailed on for 10 this week and next if we make it.
Which will make him a good option for the first couple of PREM games while Finn is rested and Santi eases his way back in.
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
Which will make him a good option for the first couple of PREM games while Finn is rested and Santi eases his way back in.
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
Interestingly this SL article does make reference to the possibility of "special dispensation" being requested.
[www.somersetlive.co.uk]
I doubt we would go down that route, but I guess JvG could try and make an argument that having only an 18 year old (Linegar) and a mid season signing (Roue) as out-and-out fly halves is enough of an extenuating circumstance to bring in Santi.
[www.somersetlive.co.uk]
I doubt we would go down that route, but I guess JvG could try and make an argument that having only an 18 year old (Linegar) and a mid season signing (Roue) as out-and-out fly halves is enough of an extenuating circumstance to bring in Santi.
I would hope the lineout has been repaired but it was the scrum that worried me last week - Glaws were certainly on top as far as the ref was concerned
That would be a big problem if repeated
And there were too many unnecessary pens gifting red zone territory. That needs fixing
That would be a big problem if repeated
And there were too many unnecessary pens gifting red zone territory. That needs fixing
I doubt the dispensation would be given so think we should expect Mojo at 10.
As for the scrum, yes we will need to be at our best at WR, but “as far as the ref was concerned” is the key phrase IMO. Different officials may have viewed the matter differently.
TCS made several appeals to the ARs about Glaws loosehead and the penalties started to go Bath’s way in the second half.
I certainly felt from my angle that a number of the calls got the wrong culprit.
PG
As for the scrum, yes we will need to be at our best at WR, but “as far as the ref was concerned” is the key phrase IMO. Different officials may have viewed the matter differently.
TCS made several appeals to the ARs about Glaws loosehead and the penalties started to go Bath’s way in the second half.
I certainly felt from my angle that a number of the calls got the wrong culprit.
PG
Quote:gaz59
I would hope the lineout has been repaired but it was the scrum that worried me last week - Glaws were certainly on top as far as the ref was concerned
That would be a big problem if repeated
And there were too many unnecessary pens gifting red zone territory. That needs fixing
Yeah the scrum was a bit of a surprise, but then again Fasogbon and Knight are arguably Gloucester's first choice props, so there's not too much shame in being slightly on the back foot.
Tigers will be without Heyes and Smith, so the strongest props they could put out would probably be Haffar and Hurd, which should be pretty closely matched to Sela and FvW.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:03:04:11:19:39 by boozeboozebooze.
In some ways the result is dependent on who selects who. But, given that Tigers are bound to go pretty strong, and I think JVG will want to empower and entrust a lot of those that got us here - and give them invaluable experience whatever the outcome - I think a win this Sunday would rank amongst the very best results of the JVG era.
Quote:Optimist
In some ways the result is dependent on who selects who. But, given that Tigers are bound to go pretty strong, and I think JVG will want to empower and entrust a lot of those that got us here - and give them invaluable experience whatever the outcome - I think a win this Sunday would rank amongst the very best results of the JVG era.
Playing away is part of it but think the two teams could be quite evenly matched man for man. Leicester board discussing something like this which seems comparable to our likely 23:
Pearson
Wand
Perese
Bailey
Hassell-Collins
Searle
Allan
Moro
Reffell
Palmer
Wells
T Manz
Loman
Clare
Haffar
Blamire
van der Flier
Hurd
Liebenberg
J Manz/ Williams
Whiteley/ Bemand
O’Connor
Woodward
Quote:tigerburnie
Pretty sure Pearson and Palmer are with the England U20's this weekend
Pearson selected on the bench for u20s, along with Marsh.
Bath lose Treacy and Offiah (although unlikely that they would have been involved anyway)
By way of interest, is the Leicester scrum half Charlie Bemand related to Scott Bemand, former scrummie for both Leicester and ourselves?
Assume sela will be travelling cover for England?
Is it viable for him to fly back and play Sunday?
Is it viable for him to fly back and play Sunday?
Quote:FiveSticks
By way of interest, is the Leicester scrum half Charlie Bemand related to Scott Bemand, former scrummie for both Leicester and ourselves?
Scott who currently is a coach with Ireland women is Charlie's uncle.
Quote:Charlieboa1
Assume sela will be travelling cover for England?
Is it viable for him to fly back and play Sunday?
Sela wasn’t in the wider England Squad this week! Replaced by Kloska.
So if fit expect to see him on Sunday!
My guess at Tigers
JOC
Wand
Perese
Woodward
OHC
Searle
Whiteley
Haffar
Blamire
Hurd
Wells
T. Manz
Liebenberg
Reffell
Moro
Clare
AVDF
Loman
Palmer
Williams
Allan
Bailey
Crowley
If Thompson or Ilione are fit they could come onto bench.
JOC
Wand
Perese
Woodward
OHC
Searle
Whiteley
Haffar
Blamire
Hurd
Wells
T. Manz
Liebenberg
Reffell
Moro
Clare
AVDF
Loman
Palmer
Williams
Allan
Bailey
Crowley
If Thompson or Ilione are fit they could come onto bench.
Quote:tigersimonQuote:Charlieboa1
Assume sela will be travelling cover for England?
Is it viable for him to fly back and play Sunday?
Sela wasn’t in the wider England Squad this week! Replaced by Kloska.
So if fit expect to see him on Sunday!
Missed that!
Any idea why or just another seemingly inexplicable decision?
I would go a bit more mix and match than last week.
Tdg
Griffin
Harris
Butt
Muir
Mojo
Tcs
Kirk
Kepu
Verden
Jeanes
Ewels
Richards
Staddon
Green
Bench: frost, fvw, sela, hill, reid, bvdl, redpath, alfie
Tdg
Griffin
Harris
Butt
Muir
Mojo
Tcs
Kirk
Kepu
Verden
Jeanes
Ewels
Richards
Staddon
Green
Bench: frost, fvw, sela, hill, reid, bvdl, redpath, alfie
Agree that it would be a fine achievement to win this tie when Leicester have the added incentive of a home final to play for. We've certainly got the personnel to get the job done, but it's going to require a big performance.
Quote:Mini Maximus
Agree that it would be a fine achievement to win this tie when Leicester have the added incentive of a home final to play for. We've certainly got the personnel to get the job done, but it's going to require a big performance.
I would really like us to get to the final but I believe it will not be in Bath. We are seeded 4th and the final will be staged at team with the higher seeding and also thought even if we could we wouldn't get it due to it being on same day as the Bath Half so may have been too much disruption for the city with road closures, traffic & trains.
Leicester have the incentive of a home final. There is no question of Bath getting hosting rights.
PG
PG
Quote:Charlieboa1Quote:tigersimonQuote:Charlieboa1
Assume sela will be travelling cover for England?
Is it viable for him to fly back and play Sunday?
Sela wasn’t in the wider England Squad this week! Replaced by Kloska.
So if fit expect to see him on Sunday!
Missed that!
Any idea why or just another seemingly inexplicable decision?
Maybe just a continuity thing after being out a while or Kloska could be tearing up trees in training. Who knows
Quote:tigerburnie
https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/rugby-union/articles/c8r116ljkv3o
100% confident of a Bath win.
![[:wor kid:]](/phorum-5.1.15/mods/smileys/images/13.gif "[:wor kid:]")
Quote:Tlacey90Quote:Mini Maximus
Agree that it would be a fine achievement to win this tie when Leicester have the added incentive of a home final to play for. We've certainly got the personnel to get the job done, but it's going to require a big performance.
I would really like us to get to the final but I believe it will not be in Bath. We are seeded 4th and the final will be staged at team with the higher seeding and also thought even if we could we wouldn't get it due to it being on same day as the Bath Half so may have been too much disruption for the city with road closures, traffic & trains.
Correct, Bath is the only place the final cannot be!
Bath Rugby: 1 Scott Kirk, 2 Dan Frost, 3 Kieran Verden, 4 Jack Bennett, 5 Ewan Richards, 6 Ethan Staddon, 7 George Timmins, 8 Arthur Green, 9 Ieuan Davies, 10 Will Roue, 11 Charlie Griffin, 12 Will Butt (c), 13 Chris Harris, 14 Austin Emens, 15 Sam Winters
Replacements: 16 Kepu Tuipulotu, 17 Ioan Emanuel, 18 Mikey Summerfield, 19 James Maloney, 20 Alex Ridgway, 21 Neil le Roux, 22 James Linegar, 23 Jack Harrison
Not as strong as expected in terms of lacking senior players. Whether injuries but seems like if the youngsters can do a job this weekend then more senior players would come in for the final.
Replacements: 16 Kepu Tuipulotu, 17 Ioan Emanuel, 18 Mikey Summerfield, 19 James Maloney, 20 Alex Ridgway, 21 Neil le Roux, 22 James Linegar, 23 Jack Harrison
Not as strong as expected in terms of lacking senior players. Whether injuries but seems like if the youngsters can do a job this weekend then more senior players would come in for the final.
Very pleased that they have placed so much trust in the squad players. COYB!
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Leicester have gone about as strong as they could:
15. James O’Connor (7)
14. Gabriel Hamer-Webb (8)
13. Will Wand (28)
12. Orlando Bailey (17)
11. Ollie Hassell-Collins (64)
10. Billy Searle (16)
9. Tom Whiteley (56)
1. Archie van der Flier (15)
2. Jamie Blamire (15)
3. Will Hurd (67)
4. Harry Wells (231)
5. Tom Manz (23)
6. Harry Palmer (8)
7. Tommy Reffell © (150)
8. Joaquin Moro (18)
Replacements
16. Finn Theobold-Thomas (29)
17. Tarek Haffar (15)
18. Ale Loman (13)
19. Hanro Liebenberg (141)
20. Josh Manz (19)
21. Charlie Bemand (6)
22. Joseph Woodward (50)
23. Izaia Perese (22)
Seems JvG is valuing rest over game time for first teamers. Not too worried either way on the Prem Cup chances but hopefully we're not as rusty looking for the return of Prem action as we were against Saints after some time off
15. James O’Connor (7)
14. Gabriel Hamer-Webb (8)
13. Will Wand (28)
12. Orlando Bailey (17)
11. Ollie Hassell-Collins (64)
10. Billy Searle (16)
9. Tom Whiteley (56)
1. Archie van der Flier (15)
2. Jamie Blamire (15)
3. Will Hurd (67)
4. Harry Wells (231)
5. Tom Manz (23)
6. Harry Palmer (8)
7. Tommy Reffell © (150)
8. Joaquin Moro (18)
Replacements
16. Finn Theobold-Thomas (29)
17. Tarek Haffar (15)
18. Ale Loman (13)
19. Hanro Liebenberg (141)
20. Josh Manz (19)
21. Charlie Bemand (6)
22. Joseph Woodward (50)
23. Izaia Perese (22)
Seems JvG is valuing rest over game time for first teamers. Not too worried either way on the Prem Cup chances but hopefully we're not as rusty looking for the return of Prem action as we were against Saints after some time off
I guess its televised?
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:03:06:11:44:27 by BathMatt53.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:03:06:11:44:27 by BathMatt53.
That's potentially a bit of a mismatch away at Tigers. Fair enough - in JVG we trust.
Wow, I didn't expect that, so much trust in the young squad. Great stage to see what they can do against a strong Leicester 23. Wishing them well, JVG protecting first teamers from injury for the run-in.
Quote:Optimist
That's potentially a bit of a mismatch away at Tigers. Fair enough - in JVG we trust.
Take out three words there Opti: potentially and bit of, and you are getting close to reality
Well seems a bit pointless watching this now frankly.
Good exposure to the young lads and I trust the coaches long term strategy, but as a one off selection it’s meh
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Good exposure to the young lads and I trust the coaches long term strategy, but as a one off selection it’s meh
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
I'm relatively sanguine about the selection, a semi final at Welford Road is the kind of fixture you just can't manufacture for young players, so the opportunity to really test their metal and give them a taste of what high pressure rugby really entails is worth taking, even if it may be our last involvement in the competition.
There's very little let up in the fixture list after this, so if we want to go "full beans" in the PREM and Europe from here on out, then we need to keep our front line players fresh.
There's very little let up in the fixture list after this, so if we want to go "full beans" in the PREM and Europe from here on out, then we need to keep our front line players fresh.
Why didn't we just play this team last week? What's the point of getting to a SF then flooding it with youngsters again? Especially against a Tigers' team who have gone strong in every game.
Quote:Barfboy
Why didn't we just play this team last week? What's the point of getting to a SF then flooding it with youngsters again? Especially against a Tigers' team who have gone strong in every game.
a) it gave a few of the first teamers their first competitive game time for ages
b) it gave this Prem Cup squad a rest before the semi
c) it gets them an extra game (and one that should real test their mettle
Fully agree with BBB on this. Good opportunity for them without risking anything for the Prem / Big Cup.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Odd selection after last week, in JvG we trust - it’s a great learning opportunity for a lot of young players, but you do fear it could get a bit ugly by the end.
Quote:Barfboy
Why didn't we just play this team last week? What's the point of getting to a SF then flooding it with youngsters again? Especially against a Tigers' team who have gone strong in every game.
If you play this team last week and they lost there wouldn't be any rugby at all for those first teamers before the Prem restarts. I don't fully get the logic of this selection mind you
Quote:Barfboy
Why didn't we just play this team last week? What's the point of getting to a SF then flooding it with youngsters again? Especially against a Tigers' team who have gone strong in every game.
probably went strong at home to get a full house. If there was a chance of a home final, I think we could of seen a stronger squad.
adopted player, 24/25 Hame Faiva. 23/24 Ted Hill. 22/23 Cam Redpath. 21/22 Max Clark. 20/21 Henry Thomas. 19/20 Max Wright. 18/19 Cooper Vuna.
Quote:BathMatt53
Very pleased that they have placed so much trust in the squad players. COYB!
100%.
Great chance for them to learn in a v tough environment.
If we lose then not to worry.
If we win then amazing and have opp for some senior players to have a run off the bench maybe.
A very inexperienced Saints team took apart a very experienced Tigers team earlier in the competition. Come on you Bath boys!!
Quote:Toast and Marmite
Well seems a bit pointless watching this now frankly.
Good exposure to the young lads and I trust the coaches long term strategy, but as a one off selection it’s meh
Really? Can't believe you said that. I cherish every opportunity to see our wider squad players perform, If it wasn't for my mobility issue I would be going to see the game live. I was expecting a stronger side but will watch every minute of it on tv regardless of the result. Cast your mind back to last season Saracens v Bath, a total mis-match selection, they lost but I was so proud of their performance, hoping this squad will emulate that.
I think its a Bath team and they will do their very best.......
I'm taking nothing for granted, full concentration and application required, safe journey for anyone travelling to Leicester.
Bookies have Tigers by 10 which sounds sensible given the teams (and not insurmountable).
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
A great opportunity for the young lads in a real cauldron. They’ll learn so much from this and who knows we might push tigers close.
Ps I’ll be watching the game ( These are our stars for the future) 🇪🇪
Widcombe Garçon
Ps I’ll be watching the game ( These are our stars for the future) 🇪🇪
Widcombe Garçon
Quote:BathMatt53
Bookies have Tigers by 10 which sounds sensible given the teams (and not insurmountable).
Comparing player to player I would have put most likely score as +3 clear scores so something like 32 - 10
But with the enthusiasm and energy that youth can bring to undoubted potential and an upset is always possible
I actually think our pack is really exciting and has a chance of giving a much more experienced Tigers outfit a bloody nose. If we can hold our own in the front 5, Staddon, Timmins and Greene could really put themselves about. I'm interested to see how our half backs and back 3 go, as that is where there is a very clear disparity in experience/proven quality between the two sides. The addition of a couple or all of BVDL, Mojo, Redpath, Muir, JCok, TDG would have made a result much more possible.
The fact JvG has decided that this XXIII has a chance of getting a result AND our first XV guys wouldn't benefit from the game time is surprising to say the least .... but, as ever, in JvG we trust.
2024/25 adoptee: Guy Pepper
The fact JvG has decided that this XXIII has a chance of getting a result AND our first XV guys wouldn't benefit from the game time is surprising to say the least .... but, as ever, in JvG we trust.
2024/25 adoptee: Guy Pepper
I am also remembering the game against Bristol in Cardiff where we didn’t win but up a very valiant resistance, and gave Bristol fans a couple of heart in mouth moments.
I wonder if the senior players have told JvG that they’re good for prep and would prefer a longer rest period?
I wonder if the senior players have told JvG that they’re good for prep and would prefer a longer rest period?
we are going to get stuffed, how good learning experience that will be for the young lads only time will tell. I am fearful many will be under cooked going against Sarries in 2 weeks, but I guess they could be too
A simular squad annihilated a decent sale team and comfortably put away a far more experienced bris team.
Think they deserve some respect. I don't expect them to win but would surprised if they get horribly thrashed but Welford Rd v tough venue even for frontline players so not ruling it out!
Also not sure how happy people would be if we picked up to bad injuries to senior players on this comp. The prem run in + champions cup knock out will be brutal.
I think we are using this comp in the exact right and if we take a beating Sunday then it's all still good learning. All the pressure is on leic to come out and give us a hiding.
Think they deserve some respect. I don't expect them to win but would surprised if they get horribly thrashed but Welford Rd v tough venue even for frontline players so not ruling it out!
Also not sure how happy people would be if we picked up to bad injuries to senior players on this comp. The prem run in + champions cup knock out will be brutal.
I think we are using this comp in the exact right and if we take a beating Sunday then it's all still good learning. All the pressure is on leic to come out and give us a hiding.
Having been at Welford Road during the week…….lets just say that Leicester are treating this game very seriously
If Tigers feel they need to go strong to win this competition that’s up to them, personally though I prefer Bath’s approach, mostly playing young players for experience.
I think the big mismatch of relative bang off the bench could tip this from tight loss to bad loss but dangerous underestimating our youngsters.
Will be watching with interest and if we get vaguely close that will be a seriously good effort to be proud of.
Leic haven't won anything for 4 years? A relative barren streak for them which they appear to be v keen to sort out!
Will be watching with interest and if we get vaguely close that will be a seriously good effort to be proud of.
Leic haven't won anything for 4 years? A relative barren streak for them which they appear to be v keen to sort out!
I pray we Tigers dont take this game lightly in the slightest, we have already suffered from that v Saints.
It is important to recognise the need for us to be successful given 30 heads of rugby in the last 3 seasons (stats supplied by D Trump). We came closer than anyone thought possible in the big final last year, which puts more pressure on this season
It is important to recognise the need for us to be successful given 30 heads of rugby in the last 3 seasons (stats supplied by D Trump). We came closer than anyone thought possible in the big final last year, which puts more pressure on this season
Love it stopsy
Hope you are well sir. Sure your boys will be fine.
My prediction is bath will be plucky and tenacious but they are all pretty much 3rd/4th/5th...even 6th choicers in that 23 and other than kepu we have v v little off the bench.
Need the likes of frost, verden, richards, staddon, green, butt and harris to have huge games and drag a few youngsters with them
Something like 45- 19 would be a respectable performance and score for us i think.
As a complete aside how is ilione? Class player and bloke. Seemed on the verge of eng honours before an untimely injury.
Enjoy the match- sure you will!
Hope you are well sir. Sure your boys will be fine.
My prediction is bath will be plucky and tenacious but they are all pretty much 3rd/4th/5th...even 6th choicers in that 23 and other than kepu we have v v little off the bench.
Need the likes of frost, verden, richards, staddon, green, butt and harris to have huge games and drag a few youngsters with them
Something like 45- 19 would be a respectable performance and score for us i think.
As a complete aside how is ilione? Class player and bloke. Seemed on the verge of eng honours before an untimely injury.
Enjoy the match- sure you will!
All well here thanks, won’t get to see it unfortunately but will follow online. It’s a strange competition but one that allows clubs to use it for their priorities.
Obviously after we wallop UBB in Europe we can focus on the league.
Hope all well with you
Obviously after we wallop UBB in Europe we can focus on the league.
Hope all well with you
Comparing Prem & international appearances across both teams will hopefully give our young lads plenty of incentive to perform. Let’s hope the Welford Rd crowd aren’t allowed to referee the match !!!!
Our young halfbacks will remember the experience, fondly I hope. Arthur Green to show why our resources at #8 are so good 👍
Our young halfbacks will remember the experience, fondly I hope. Arthur Green to show why our resources at #8 are so good 👍
When you think about those great Twickenham finals of the past, It's absolutely heartbreaking how devalued our domestic cup tournament has become – third/fourth string sides picked for big games, finals at club grounds etc etc
I do understand JVG's approach, but frankly I would be happier to end the season with just the cup than nothing at all.
I do understand JVG's approach, but frankly I would be happier to end the season with just the cup than nothing at all.
Interesting stat on the FB group (caveated as being AI generated) about number of prem startstl this season in the respective starting xv's.
Exeter: 53
Saints 45
Leic: 31
Bath: 18
Bath figure feels about right. Think all of frost, richards, staddon, green, butt, harris may be in that list., or most of them at least.
Looks like exeter will make the final again.
Exeter: 53
Saints 45
Leic: 31
Bath: 18
Bath figure feels about right. Think all of frost, richards, staddon, green, butt, harris may be in that list., or most of them at least.
Looks like exeter will make the final again.
Ok the domestic cup has been devalued- but we didn’t have a European Cup back in ye good old days.
I’ll 100% give up our chances in the domestic cup if it ups our chance of competing on the two bigger fronts. Interesting that JvG believes our big boys will have a better return to the league having played barely any rugby for +2months. That seems odd but he’s the boss. Presume we’ve treated the 6Ns period like a pre season, which is great for conditioning, just hope it’s good for our actual rugby.
I’ll 100% give up our chances in the domestic cup if it ups our chance of competing on the two bigger fronts. Interesting that JvG believes our big boys will have a better return to the league having played barely any rugby for +2months. That seems odd but he’s the boss. Presume we’ve treated the 6Ns period like a pre season, which is great for conditioning, just hope it’s good for our actual rugby.
Are others able to watch this via discovery+? TNT Sports seems to have disappeared for me.
Edit: mystery partially solved, discovery+ has decided I’m abroad (I’m not and not using a vpn) so won’t show me sport…
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:03:08:17:38:14 by dcsh.
Edit: mystery partially solved, discovery+ has decided I’m abroad (I’m not and not using a vpn) so won’t show me sport…
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:03:08:17:38:14 by dcsh.
Staddon scores from a super line!
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Frustrating that the issue is discipline more than anything else
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
We are under the pump but fighting hard for possession and territory. The young guns are giving a very good account of themselves 💙🖤🤍
Impressive 40. Second best in terms of physicality, which is no surprise given the experience gap, but impressed by how our 9 and 10 have shaped the game and our grit in defence. Oddly it’s the older lads who are just letting us down a touch with some poor decisions and discipline. Staddon has been immense!
Annoying because I reckon if we had Kepu, Beno, Ewels, Hill, Reid, BVDL, Mojo to spring from then bench, we could well win. Kinda feels inevitable Tigers will muscle to the win but you never know!
Annoying because I reckon if we had Kepu, Beno, Ewels, Hill, Reid, BVDL, Mojo to spring from then bench, we could well win. Kinda feels inevitable Tigers will muscle to the win but you never know!
Quote:Bath Blues
Gifted it to them.
Why?
I would guess different priorities.
Quote:Final score?OutsideBathQuote:Bath Blues
Gifted it to them.
Why?
I would guess different priorities.
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Quote:tigerburnie
46-21, well played Bath
Cheers - had to retire to kitchen. Making Korean fried chicken so not a total loss!
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Quote:tigerburnie
46-21, well played Bath
Indeed. Thanks tb.
Given the gulf in power and experience Bath's squad can be proud of their efforts. Leicester deserved winners. Brave Bath resistance in first half and flashes of defiance in the second. I am pleased that they did not settle for damage limitation in the last 20, but in trying to fire a few shots of their own, exposed themselves to counter attack. Leicester transitioned quickly into attack off Bath errors.
Had Bath tried to close the game down the score might have been closer, but we'd have been denied some good stuff from Kirk, Staddon, Timmins, Griffin plus the Tuipulotu & Ridgway tries.
Some optimistic stuff for the future.
PG
Seems like pretty good experience and showing for some young lads.
Last year this felt like it was targeted to get the monkey off the back a bit. This year, that isn't required so much, so I back the selection and hope the squads raring to go for Sarries
Last year this felt like it was targeted to get the monkey off the back a bit. This year, that isn't required so much, so I back the selection and hope the squads raring to go for Sarries
Tigers had some youngsters who stood up well, two of them have played for my old club Leicester Lions in Nat1 league this year, nice to see them step up.
Staddon seems intent on showing what we're going to be missing next season. I know we can't keep everyone happy, but he's been really good this season.
Impressed with Griffin today, some good defense, excellent in the air - he's done well in the Prem cup.
Thought our centre partnership should have shown more given their experience. A fair result.... look forward to the proper stuff restarting.
Impressed with Griffin today, some good defense, excellent in the air - he's done well in the Prem cup.
Thought our centre partnership should have shown more given their experience. A fair result.... look forward to the proper stuff restarting.
They will be feeling disappointed with the result, I'm sure they think they could have been more clinical, a few mistakes leading to Leicester tries but Leicester were quite efficient and took their opportunities. I'm proud of their effort and work rate, they kept going, none more so than the option to play on after 82 minutes deep in their own half for the best try of the game. Well played and Ethan was outstanding, real shame he's moving on.
A very brave and plucky performance from our young lads. Did us proud, and great amount of learning for this squad. I wonder if JVG wanted these young guys to play is such a hard game to see who are worthy of future contracts ?
For those moaning about our selection had we taken a stronger team and got to the final , it would then have been a 6 day turnaround for the Friday Sarries game.
Well played Tigers you’ve got some great players coming up
Widcombe Garçon
For those moaning about our selection had we taken a stronger team and got to the final , it would then have been a 6 day turnaround for the Friday Sarries game.
Well played Tigers you’ve got some great players coming up
Widcombe Garçon
Quote:Charlieboa1
Love it stopsy
Hope you are well sir. Sure your boys will be fine.
My prediction is bath will be plucky and tenacious but they are all pretty much 3rd/4th/5th...even 6th choicers in that 23 and other than kepu we have v v little off the bench.
Need the likes of frost, verden, richards, staddon, green, butt and harris to have huge games and drag a few youngsters with them
Something like 45- 19 would be a respectable performance and score for us i think.
Enjoy the match- sure you will!
My prediction was exceeded by 1 point, great work boys.
Enjoyable watch, thought kirk was v good, as was griffin.
I have been quite vocal in my disappointment about staddon leaving- today summed it up nicely. Superb
This tournament is serving us v v well, amazing experience for loads of young guys
Quote:dr.bath1865
Anyone know who’s sitting next to JvG in the coaching box?
Was going to ask the same thing.
No idea!
Orlando Bailey quietly efficient in Tigers' midfield. Even taking second place to Searle at 10 he has found a niche.
Similar fates at Bristol and Exeter may await Staddon and Butt. As JvG says "Some players will get off the train."
Staddon clearly still BBW till he departs and Butt was putting himself about to effect too. I suspect they will thrive in new opportunities.
PG
Similar fates at Bristol and Exeter may await Staddon and Butt. As JvG says "Some players will get off the train."
Staddon clearly still BBW till he departs and Butt was putting himself about to effect too. I suspect they will thrive in new opportunities.
PG
Hamer-Webb was a bit 'edgy'. Obviously didn't leave us on good terms. Nice to see Staddon give Landy a well done pat on the shoulder after his try.
Quote:hemington
Hamer-Webb was a bit 'edgy'. Obviously didn't leave us on good terms. Nice to see Staddon give Landy a well done pat on the shoulder after his try.
Yeah that was classy by staddon.
Think they are same age group and came through at Dorchester together? May be wrong
Felt we could have gone with a strong bench, could have been effective yesterday. Get the young lads to a final and that would have been a better experience than a semi final. Plenty of time to rest before the Sarries last 16 game.
Missed opportunity.
Missed opportunity.
Thought Bath youngsters gave a good account of themselves but a bit disappointed that a couple of your forwards just seemed to be constantly niggling and your prop could have been carded for an head butt on Wells who is the nicest bloke you could wish to meet.
Quote:Bath Blues
Felt we could have gone with a strong bench, could have been effective yesterday. Get the young lads to a final and that would have been a better experience than a semi final. Plenty of time to rest before the Sarries last 16 game.
Missed opportunity.
It’s the 6 day turnaround from the Prem cup final to the Sarries Prem game at home BB
Widcombe Garçon
A bridge too far unfortunately but well done to each of the 51 lads that played in the cup this season for getting that far. They will have improved as a result of the experience and the coaches will know a lot more about them.
Now, time to roll out the (well rested) heavy artillery for the rest of the season.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Now, time to roll out the (well rested) heavy artillery for the rest of the season.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Quote:P G Tips
Similar fates at Bristol and Exeter may await Staddon and Butt. As JvG says "Some players will get off the train."
PG
Interesting that Butt has signed for Exeter at the same time as Wimbush has got himself fit and in form with a decent amount of hype behind him (understandable given his rare size and power). Still a better path to minutes than he has now and Exeter will enjoy being able to have them share time and keep a similar threat at 12
Quote:Widcombe boyQuote:Bath Blues
Felt we could have gone with a strong bench, could have been effective yesterday. Get the young lads to a final and that would have been a better experience than a semi final. Plenty of time to rest before the Sarries last 16 game.
Missed opportunity.
It’s the 6 day turnaround from the Prem cup final to the Sarries Prem game at home BB
Hence why I said we should have gone with a strong bench in the semi and got the youngsters to the final and then they could have had a long rest for the Sarries game!
Quote:Charlieboa1Quote:dr.bath1865
Anyone know who’s sitting next to JvG in the coaching box?
Was going to ask the same thing.
No idea!
That was Rob Burgess who is leaving to join Gloucester
Quote:Bath BluesQuote:Widcombe boyQuote:Bath Blues
Felt we could have gone with a strong bench, could have been effective yesterday. Get the young lads to a final and that would have been a better experience than a semi final. Plenty of time to rest before the Sarries last 16 game.
Missed opportunity.
It’s the 6 day turnaround from the Prem cup final to the Sarries Prem game at home BB
Hence why I said we should have gone with a strong bench in the semi and got the youngsters to the final and then they could have had a long rest for the Sarries game!
I understand injuries can happen anytime but George Hendy being carried off the field with a nasty looking injury makes JVGs decision understandable. Imagine the same unfortunate fate happening to say Ojomoh, Hill etc.
adopted player, 24/25 Hame Faiva. 23/24 Ted Hill. 22/23 Cam Redpath. 21/22 Max Clark. 20/21 Henry Thomas. 19/20 Max Wright. 18/19 Cooper Vuna.
Interesting that was Burgess. Thanks, FA.
I might be reading too much into this, but I haven't seen him in the coaching box before. So being alongside JvG could be interpreted as another reason why JvG is such a good boss. Burgess is leaving for a more on-field role, so for him to be gaining experience alongside the coaching team, kinda feels like JvG equipping him with knowledge/training that will stand him in good stead.
Considering he's off to a rival, we could just keep him at arm's length on as many matters as possible until he leaves. But looks like JvG is going to help him every moment he's here. As said, might be hyperbolic/misinterpretation, but would match with how so JvG apparently manages his people.
2024/25 adoptee: Guy Pepper
I might be reading too much into this, but I haven't seen him in the coaching box before. So being alongside JvG could be interpreted as another reason why JvG is such a good boss. Burgess is leaving for a more on-field role, so for him to be gaining experience alongside the coaching team, kinda feels like JvG equipping him with knowledge/training that will stand him in good stead.
Considering he's off to a rival, we could just keep him at arm's length on as many matters as possible until he leaves. But looks like JvG is going to help him every moment he's here. As said, might be hyperbolic/misinterpretation, but would match with how so JvG apparently manages his people.
2024/25 adoptee: Guy Pepper
I was surprised to see him there. Perhaps it was final thoughts on the retention or not of those on view or were they looking at some Leicester players with a view to recruit.
Quote:A2O
Thought Bath youngsters gave a good account of themselves but a bit disappointed that a couple of your forwards just seemed to be constantly niggling and your prop could have been carded for an head butt on Wells who is the nicest bloke you could wish to meet.
Thanks for coming over here and taking the time out of your day to post that.
Good luck Sunday
Who do people feel have benefitted most from this years comp?
I think the game time for kirk has been great.
Jeanes was going well- assume injured now.
Staddon has proved his class again.
Good to see timmins get some games.
I like the look of winters and esp griffin in the back 3.
Will roue could have earnt himself a contract.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:03:09:20:38:43 by Charlieboa1.
I think the game time for kirk has been great.
Jeanes was going well- assume injured now.
Staddon has proved his class again.
Good to see timmins get some games.
I like the look of winters and esp griffin in the back 3.
Will roue could have earnt himself a contract.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:03:09:20:38:43 by Charlieboa1.
So now we have a friendly Vs Bedford to get our players ready for the return of the PREM!
Baffling, considering yesterdays game.
Baffling, considering yesterdays game.
7 day turnaround vs 5 day turnaround is the key I assume.
Could have gone a bit stronger yest and mix and match for the final if we made it I guess but risking anyone 5 days.before a prem game seems a bit silly.
7 days at least gives time to get over any knocks or fatigue of first game in a while.
Means tdt and santi can play also, unlike in the prem Cup. Think there are others who didn't play in prem cup that could do with a game? Dunn?
Could have gone a bit stronger yest and mix and match for the final if we made it I guess but risking anyone 5 days.before a prem game seems a bit silly.
7 days at least gives time to get over any knocks or fatigue of first game in a while.
Means tdt and santi can play also, unlike in the prem Cup. Think there are others who didn't play in prem cup that could do with a game? Dunn?
Niggling forwards in a Bath v Leicester semi final? Someone prepare my fainting couch and pass the smelling salts
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:03:10:09:29:54 by theredseat.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:03:10:09:29:54 by theredseat.
Quote:😂theredseat
Niggling forwards in a Bath v Leicester semi final? Someone prepare my fainting couch and pass the smelling slats
Widcombe Garçon
Assume Bedford game will be different XV for each half or rolling/extended bench which wouldn’t have happened for a Final!
“Niggling”? In a Bath - Leicester Cup Semi?
“I tell you. The games gone soft!”
😀😂
PG
“I tell you. The games gone soft!”
😀😂
PG
Just got back from holiday and watched the game.
67 minutes 27 - 14 I think the Bath team did very well against much more experienced senior players.
67 minutes 27 - 14 I think the Bath team did very well against much more experienced senior players.
Quote:Charlieboa1
Who do people feel have benefitted most from this years comp?
I think the game time for kirk has been great.
Jeanes was going well- assume injured now.
Staddon has proved his class again.
Good to see timmins get some games.
I like the look of winters and esp griffin in the back 3.
Will roue could have earnt himself a contract.
Haven't seen much game time but from what I have Griffen in attack certainly looks very good
Not sure about Roue. His work from boot was very good against Tigers. The one blip into the corner was excusable as he really was going for broke and I liked seeing that. Just not sure why he wasn't able to get more from his backs but that may have been marshalling from Butt n Harris
Agree about Roue, when you consider that he isn't even on the Bath books and is essentially 7th fly half behind Russell, Donaghue, Harris, Linegar, Ojomoh and Redpath then he has done amazingly well .... I don't think he is officially a Bath player but I might be wrong.
I don't think he is even a Bath University Scholar so he has been an absolute bolter ..... see how he goes next year but he is behind Donaghue, Harris and Linegar then I sense he might go somewhere else.
I don't think he is even a Bath University Scholar so he has been an absolute bolter ..... see how he goes next year but he is behind Donaghue, Harris and Linegar then I sense he might go somewhere else.
Yeah +1 to Roue coming out of apparently nowhere. Absolutely no disgrace in an incredibly exposed position.
Ex Bath players Orlando Bailey and Gabriel Hamer Webb get their hands on Silverware as Tigers demolish Exeter 66 -14 to win the Prem Cup. Rules need to insist on a quota of academy players for this competition.
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
Quote:shipwrecked
Ex Bath players Orlando Bailey and Gabriel Hamer Webb get their hands on Silverware as Tigers demolish Exeter 66 -14 to win the Prem Cup. Rules need to insist on a quota of academy players for this competition.
Agreed, you could almost feel sorry for Exeter had they not picked their strongest available XXIII in most of the games.
Then seeing their supporters throwing stones at Tigers on social media because in their view Chiefs had selected a squad "in the spirit of the competition"...🥱
Scores like this one leave me cold tbh, as did our recent warm up v Bedford. The 90 point matches in the 6N also left me scratching my head. They seem to be more commonplace these days.
Quote:Treble
Scores like this one leave me cold tbh, as did our recent warm up v Bedford. The 90 point matches in the 6N also left me scratching my head. They seem to be more commonplace these days.
Yes, a waste of time unfortunately - not competitive sport. Nobody can be surprised that they have struggled for sponsors and interest etc.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Quote:boozeboozeboozeQuote:shipwrecked
Ex Bath players Orlando Bailey and Gabriel Hamer Webb get their hands on Silverware as Tigers demolish Exeter 66 -14 to win the Prem Cup. Rules need to insist on a quota of academy players for this competition.
Agreed, you could almost feel sorry for Exeter had they not picked their strongest available XXIII in most of the games.
Then seeing their supporters throwing stones at Tigers on social media because in their view Chiefs had selected a squad "in the spirit of the competition"...🥱
Leicester were definitely stronger on paper but it didn't look a 50 point difference in quality by any means. Not particularly clued up on their availability situation but it does look odd that Exeter ended up with a weaker 23 in the final than they had been putting out in several games before that.
Some of Baxter’s hand was forced by injuries - THs.
But the majority was Selection choices by RB! (6 day turnaround before Sale game)
I never saw a 50 point gap on paper!!
Tigers flew out of the blocks (for once) and then the conditions turned biblical for a while and the Exeter Hooker couldn’t hit a barn door with his 🎯.
What was encouraging as a Tigers fan is that the players never eased off, even when the game was well & truly won!
I agree and would like to see more rules about Player selection but with the current format (Pre-season games, games during long league breaks in the International windows) not sure how you implement them. Age limit, Academy only, number of Prem appearances? But you then end up having so many caveats for Front Row players and return from injuries (these are in the current regs for the knockout stages)
A couple of our Tiglets yesterday - Harry Palmer (no not that one!) - 20 year old Senior Academy player, played in every game in this season’s PRC, Archie van der Flier (cousin to JVDF) - 24 year old LH from our Senior Academy.
Then Clare and Wells are both Academy graduates!
But the majority was Selection choices by RB! (6 day turnaround before Sale game)
I never saw a 50 point gap on paper!!
Tigers flew out of the blocks (for once) and then the conditions turned biblical for a while and the Exeter Hooker couldn’t hit a barn door with his 🎯.
What was encouraging as a Tigers fan is that the players never eased off, even when the game was well & truly won!
I agree and would like to see more rules about Player selection but with the current format (Pre-season games, games during long league breaks in the International windows) not sure how you implement them. Age limit, Academy only, number of Prem appearances? But you then end up having so many caveats for Front Row players and return from injuries (these are in the current regs for the knockout stages)
A couple of our Tiglets yesterday - Harry Palmer (no not that one!) - 20 year old Senior Academy player, played in every game in this season’s PRC, Archie van der Flier (cousin to JVDF) - 24 year old LH from our Senior Academy.
Then Clare and Wells are both Academy graduates!
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