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All change! : Bath v Worcester match preview


Inside Centre?

By Mr Frivolous
September 6 2020

What a difference a week makes, with most Bath fans in abject despair after the part self inflicted Wasps loss turning to euphoria after the stunning win at the potential banana skin that is Harlequins on their own patch, left even the blackest of black depressive Bath fans strangely quiet. Most encouragingly the young guns and not so young squad members proved their worth so perhaps now this is the perfect time to rest some of the big guns against Worcester mid week.

It could be a very straight forward decision for Hoops and the coaching team with switching the bench to starters from the Quins game or more likely a more radical selection to balance player time, utilising squad depth where we have it and more game time for returning stars. Lets also not forget we have to play close rivals Sale in the race for a top four spot next Sunday so resting key men for this a must, but let's not lose sight of a loss to Worcester would be serious dent in any ambitions Bath might have. Would you risk a brave selection? 

Could it be... 

Obano, Walker, Judge, McNally, Spencer, Ellis, Reid, Falatau, Chudley, Matavesi, Hamer-Webb, Boyce, Redpath, Rokodugni, de Glanville. 

What to make of Worcester? Perennial 10th / 11th finishers in the premiership, just the one win since the restart against a lacklustre Harlequins, swept away by Bristol in the second half of their latest match and Bath not the most happy hunting ground for them makes this on paper an uphill struggle for Worcester. A quirk of the fixture list for next Sunday pairs them with close rivals in the table London Irish, so if Worcester are still aspiring to the prized eight place spot they potentially might be in the same position in Bath in needing to keep the troops fresh for the following game.

However let's not write off Worcester just yet, we have seen more than one side struggle to breakdown a determined Worcester and I suspect both teams fielding very different selections to what might be considered their strongest could level the playing field or on the other hand a rather lop sided affair and a bonus point win for the Blue, Black and White. That's one of the upsides in the restart fixture list you just can't be sure of most things...I suspect complacency will be Bath's biggest enemy in this fixture 

As a sub for the first choice PG Tips I'd like to remind you he's walking across northern Spain for charity so if you would like to make a donation please visit the O/T thread

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All change! : Bath v Worcester match preview and TEAM’S UP
Discussion started by Comeonmylovers.co.uk (IP Logged), 06/09/2020 18:00
Comeonmylovers.co.uk
Comeonmylovers.co.uk
06/09/2020 18:00
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Edited 3 time(s). Last edit at 2020:09:10:10:55:00 by CoochieCoo.

MESSAGES->author
shipwrecked
06/09/2020 18:31
Yes. Worcester have periods when they put together some great moves but don't usually put in an 80 minute performance, remind you of anyone?

https://i.ibb.co/t3wMLGB/Sam-Harris-185.jpg

Sam Harris

Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.

opti
Optimist
06/09/2020 21:22
I mean, it was a decent interception and finish, but surely a bit of a stretch to put Boyce at 13?

MESSAGES->author
hasta
06/09/2020 21:47
It's 12 and I think... That's the joke?

opti
Optimist
06/09/2020 21:57
12 - ah, I get the joke in that case.

MESSAGES->author
Rawce
07/09/2020 10:46
Mid strength team with a strong bench that we will only call on if we need to?

MESSAGES->author
Rawce
07/09/2020 10:47
Also, was Matavesi rested on Saturday with the intention Rhys is rested on Wednesday?

Never In Doubt
Never In Doubt
07/09/2020 11:06
Josh M was on the bench but not used so I guess so. He jokingly seemed willing to come on as a hooker.

MESSAGES->author
hasta
07/09/2020 11:14
I'm pretty sure it'll be Mata/Redpath midfield. This feels like the opportunity to put Bailey on the bench.

dr.bath1865
dr.bath1865
07/09/2020 11:36
Looks like Worcester may well target their London Irish game at the weekend so their team should be a bit mix and match, too. I'd be tempted to trust a second-ish XV for this one and hope we get 4 points.

Something like:
Boyce, Walker, Judge (anyone know how close H Thomas or Schoemann are?)
McNally, Spencer (bit heavy but we seem to be a light lock light)
Williams/Ellis, Mercer, Underhill (good backrow for a 2nd XV!)
Green, Matevasi
Redpath, Clark/Green
JCok (if not, GHW), TdG, Roko (Is Atkins fit? A shame we don't have L Davis anymore!)

opti
Optimist
07/09/2020 11:44
Quote:
dr.bath1865
Looks like Worcester may well target their London Irish game at the weekend so their team should be a bit mix and match, too. I'd be tempted to trust a second-ish XV for this one and hope we get 4 points.
Something like:
Boyce, Walker, Judge (anyone know how close H Thomas or Schoemann are?)
McNally, Spencer (bit heavy but we seem to be a light lock light)
Williams/Ellis, Mercer, Underhill (good backrow for a 2nd XV!)
Green, Matevasi
Redpath, Clark/Green
JCok (if not, GHW), TdG, Roko (Is Atkins fit? A shame we don't have L Davis anymore!)

If we reckon Wuss are going light, I'd be very tempted to start strong, aim for a BP as early as possible, and mass substutions as soon as poss. Of course, every strategy is prone to going horribly wrong - and you don't want to end up with tired bodies in a big bun fight. But a bird in the hand, and all that. And we could very easily go to Sale fully loaded and fresh and still come away with nothing. They have a formidable first choice XV.

Having said that - that pack of yours really should be more than capable of controlling the game.



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2020:09:07:11:46:57 by Optimist.

Bath Supporter Jack
Bath Supporter Jack
07/09/2020 11:45
We should.......we need, to be targeting 5 points to make up for the inexplicable Wasps loss.

Surely RP cannot be tired after all all he did on Saturday was kick for penalties and goals..........how tiring is that?(Sm159)(Sm159)(Sm156)

So I like the idea of JM in the centre and bringing on OB on 60 minutes when we are 29 points ahead (five scores). I think the match report was a tad on the frivolous side.............oh hang on!(Sm163)

bardofavon
bardofavon
07/09/2020 11:51
sale will be missing lood de jäger. done his shoulder again apparently.

MESSAGES->author
hasta
07/09/2020 12:20
I think the Wasps loss was frustrating, but it certainly wasn't inexplicable.

Bath Supporter Jack
Bath Supporter Jack
07/09/2020 12:49
I agree................but I thought we had moved away from the dragging a defeat from the jaws of a victory.........

In the lead with 8 minutes to go we need to not lose from that position. Play keep ball and "game management" to the fore and play the game in the opponents half and defend the half way line like it is our try line. Frustrate the hell out of them and run the clock down so the pressure shifts on to them.

Kidney Stone
Kidney Stone
07/09/2020 14:08
Quote:
dr.bath1865
JCok (if not, GHW), TdG, Roko (Is Atkins fit? A shame we don't have L Davis anymore!)

Apologies for not keeping up, but what happened to Levi Davis?

I thought he had the potential to be a real handful.

MESSAGES->author
shipwrecked
07/09/2020 14:22
Quote:
dr.bath1865
(Is Atkins fit?

Good question!

https://i.ibb.co/t3wMLGB/Sam-Harris-185.jpg

Sam Harris

Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.

MESSAGES->author
CoochieCoo
07/09/2020 14:46
Quote:
Kidney Stone
Quote:
dr.bath1865
JCok (if not, GHW), TdG, Roko (Is Atkins fit? A shame we don't have L Davis anymore!)

Apologies for not keeping up, but what happened to Levi Davis?

I thought he had the potential to be a real handful.

Signed for Ealing in August.

Adopted player 2023/24 Matt Gallagher
https://uploadscdn.sportnetwork.net/upload/105/105_0_1694105203.jpg

http://v4admin.sportnetwork.net/upload/105/105_0_1597330055.jpghttp://v4admin.sportnetwork.net/upload/105/105_0_1597330111.jpg

charlieboa
charlieboa
07/09/2020 14:51
Quote:
dr.bath1865
Looks like Worcester may well target their London Irish game at the weekend so their team should be a bit mix and match, too. I'd be tempted to trust a second-ish XV for this one and hope we get 4 points.
Something like:
Boyce, Walker, Judge (anyone know how close H Thomas or Schoemann are?)
McNally, Spencer (bit heavy but we seem to be a light lock light)
Williams/Ellis, Mercer, Underhill (good backrow for a 2nd XV!)
Green, Matevasi
Redpath, Clark/Green
JCok (if not, GHW), TdG, Roko (Is Atkins fit? A shame we don't have L Davis anymore!)

Agree with all this. Pretty much the team i would pick. I expect wuss to name a largely second string but who knows!

I think main decision is do you load the bench or give some top players some complete rest mentally and physically.....or mix and match the bench.

I think we are playing with fire asking big front 5 forwards to play every 4/5 days. Hand is being forced a little as dont think schoeman is in the country yet and verden has been match day cover by looks of it so assume henry out?

Warrior7
Warrior7
07/09/2020 16:14
Our side will definitely be rotated from Bristol - only potential first team present are likely to be Lewis, Beck, Pennell and Searle. The rest will be academy/young players or fringe team.

copester
copester
07/09/2020 16:28
Doesn't everyone have to miss one game completly before Sept 13? Presumably this is the game the front row and half backs will sit out?

adopted player, 23/24 Ted Hill.22/23 Cam Redpath. 21/22 Max Clark. 20/21 Henry Thomas. 19/20 Max Wright. 18/19 Cooper Vuna.

MESSAGES->author
CoochieCoo
08/09/2020 12:07
Bath Rugby side to face Worcester Warriors

15. Tom de Glanville, 14. Semesa Rokoduguni, 13. Max Clark, 12. Cameron Redpath, 11. Gabriel Hamer-Webb, 10. Josh Matavesi, 9. Will Chudley; 1. Lewis Boyce, 2. Jack Walker, 3. Christian Judge, 4. Josh McNally (C), 5. Elliott Stooke, 6. Tom Ellis, 7. Miles Reid, 8. Zach Mercer
Replacements

16. Ross Batty, 17. Juan Schoeman, 18. Kieran Verden, 19. Mike Williams, 20. Sam Underhill, 21. Max Green, 22. Orlando Bailey, 23. Jonathan Joseph

Adopted player 2023/24 Matt Gallagher
https://uploadscdn.sportnetwork.net/upload/105/105_0_1694105203.jpg

http://v4admin.sportnetwork.net/upload/105/105_0_1597330055.jpghttp://v4admin.sportnetwork.net/upload/105/105_0_1597330111.jpg

opti
Optimist
08/09/2020 12:20
Very exciting 23 that! Really like the back-row. Excited to see Bailey.

MESSAGES->author
hasta
08/09/2020 12:27
Excellent, good looking team, good rotation.

BathMatt53
BathMatt53
08/09/2020 12:28
I'm so excited I may explode. COYB!!!!!!!

Warriors Team (I can't say that I recognise too many).

15 Chris Pennell, 14 Nick David, 13 Ollie Lawrence, 12 Will Butler (C), 11 Ed Fidow, 10 Billy Searle, 9 Jono Kitto, 1 Callum Black, 2 Beck Cutting, 3 Richard Palframan, 4 Justin Clegg, 5 James Scott, 6 Matt Cox, 7 Sam Lewis, 8 Tom Dodd.

Replacements | 16 Isaac Miller, 17 Kai Owen, 18 Joe Morris, 19 Ted Hill, 20 Matti Williams, 21 Gareth Simpson, 22 Scott van Breda, 23 Alex Hearle.

[23/24 adoptee: Will Butt]



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2020:09:08:12:30:12 by BathMatt53.

by
by
08/09/2020 12:28
Was hoping to see a bit more rotation in preparation for Sale on Saturday.

What happened to Max Wright and Will Spencer?

dr.bath1865
dr.bath1865
08/09/2020 12:33
Good looking team. A nice mix and a sensible amount of rotation means that we should have enough to get the 4/5 points and send a full strength team to Sale. Excited to see Redpath and Clark partner up and that backrow in action. I would've started Green over Chudley but hoping Spencer is pushing all the 9s to up their game/ quicken their service/ flap arms less etc.

Bailey on the bench with Underhill and JJ... What fun for that young man. Well done him and look forward to seeing him come on with 30 to go when we're 30 ahead.

MESSAGES->author
OutsideBath
08/09/2020 12:37
Quote:
BathMatt53
I'm so excited I may explode. COYB!!!!!!!

(Sm22)

opti
Optimist
08/09/2020 12:38
Massive congratulations to Beechen Cliff school - 5 boys in the 23. Another great sign that talent recruitment and development has moved on.

MESSAGES->author
woodpecker
08/09/2020 12:42
Good team, I'm liking this compressed schedule, much better than I expected.

MESSAGES->author
Widcombe boy
08/09/2020 12:45
Quote:
Optimist
Massive congratulations to Beechen Cliff school - 5 boys in the 23. Another great sign that talent recruitment and development has moved on.
My old school. Chuffed to bits

opti
Optimist
08/09/2020 12:52
It's also quite interesting in terms of a fairly fresh starting XV for Sale:

Beno, Dunn, Stuart, Ewels, Spencer, Underhill, Faletau, Bayliss, Spencer, RP, Wright (?), JJ, McC, Ant, dare we hope for big Joe C??

MESSAGES->author
woodpecker
08/09/2020 12:55
Has matavesi started at 10 in any of the previous games?

DorsetBoy
Dorset Boy
08/09/2020 12:59
Quote:
woodpecker
Has matavesi started at 10 in any of the previous games?

away to Saints?

MESSAGES->author
woodpecker
08/09/2020 13:02
Quote:
Optimist
Massive congratulations to Beechen Cliff school - 5 boys in the 23. Another great sign that talent recruitment and development has moved on.

It wasnt much fun going there when my son was at school got absolutely battered every time.

sid the seagull
sid the seagull
08/09/2020 13:02
Hmmm Academy prop on the bench, hope that works out.

HOP

opti
Optimist
08/09/2020 13:14
Quote:
sid the seagull
Hmmm Academy prop on the bench, hope that works out.
HOP

There's Academy players cropping up in every teamsheet this (mini) season. Academy fly-half too.

MESSAGES->author
shipwrecked
08/09/2020 13:23
You would have to think that Orlando gets 20 minutes on the pitch wouldn't you? Bailey and Redpath 10 and 12. I'd love to see that work.

https://i.ibb.co/t3wMLGB/Sam-Harris-185.jpg

Sam Harris

Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.

bardofavon
bardofavon
08/09/2020 13:42
I would have expected to see w Spencer in this team. does that mean he starts v sale?
wright must be injured. we haven't seen him at all. he also sat out the 15 v 15 training run at the rec last month.
at last we see young Bailey. only 18 so we shouldn't expect too much from the lad. looking forward to seeing how he goes with redpath and some of his old beechen cliff mates.

MESSAGES->author
woodpecker
08/09/2020 13:43
I didnt spot Bailey on the bench, excellent.

MESSAGES->author
shipwrecked
08/09/2020 13:52
Quote:
bardofavon
I would have expected to see w Spencer in this team. does that mean he starts v sale?
wright must be injured. we haven't seen him at all. he also sat out the 15 v 15 training run at the rec last month.
at last we see young Bailey. only 18 so we shouldn't expect too much from the lad. looking forward to seeing how he goes with redpath and some of his old beechen cliff mates.

I expect 1 good line break, 5 flat passes to put Redpath in the gap, 50 metre touches, a drop goal and 1 off the tea in his 20 minutes. The crunching hits can come next week. If we don't get it get Bruce on the plane to Montpellier at the earliest opportunity.

https://i.ibb.co/t3wMLGB/Sam-Harris-185.jpg

Sam Harris

Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.

Bath Supporter Jack
Bath Supporter Jack
08/09/2020 14:04
Stage 1 Hurrah OB on the bench

Stage 2 Bath get 22 points ahead and have a try bonus

Stage 3 On 63 minutes OB comes on and has Chudleigh for 7 minutes

Stage 4 On 70 minutes they bring on Max Green to see out the match

Stage 5 Plentiful cider consumed in the Sands End Pub, Fulham!

Bath Supporter Jack
Bath Supporter Jack
08/09/2020 14:07
Opti saving me the faff of looking it up who are the Beechen Cliff pupils........


OB

G H-W

T de G

P G Tips
P G Tips
08/09/2020 14:47
Quote:
Bath Supporter Jack
Stage 1 Hurrah OB on the bench
Stage 2 Bath get 22 points ahead and have a try bonus

Stage 3 On 63 minutes OB comes on and has Chudleigh for 7 minutes

Stage 4 On 70 minutes they bring on Max Green to see out the match

Stage 5 Plentiful cider consumed in the Sands End Pub, Fulham!

Don’t know the Sands End BSJ, but like your style!

P G Tips


Jaco Coetzee: my adopted Player, 2023-24.

BathMatt53
BathMatt53
08/09/2020 14:49
Quote:
Bath Supporter Jack
Opti saving me the faff of looking it up who are the Beechen Cliff pupils........

OB

G H-W

T de G

15. Tom de Glanville
11. Gabriel Hamer-Webb
7. Miles Reid
18. Kieran Verden
22. Orlando Bailey

[23/24 adoptee: Will Butt]

MESSAGES->author
CoochieCoo
08/09/2020 14:57
Bath v Worcester Warriors at The Rec
Referee: Andrew Jackson
Assistant referees: Adam Leal, Phil Watters
TMO: David Rose

Adopted player 2023/24 Matt Gallagher
https://uploadscdn.sportnetwork.net/upload/105/105_0_1694105203.jpg

http://v4admin.sportnetwork.net/upload/105/105_0_1597330055.jpghttp://v4admin.sportnetwork.net/upload/105/105_0_1597330111.jpg

opti
Optimist
08/09/2020 15:03
Quote:
shipwrecked
1 off the tea in his 20 minutes
- do you mean, and 'home for tea before bedtime'?

Bath Supporter Jack
Bath Supporter Jack
08/09/2020 15:25
(Sm22)

I thought the same too!

B4thB4ck
B4thB4ck
08/09/2020 16:32
A youthful team, wish I could watch it.

Having seen the free to air game v Quins I was disappointed to see Watson sat with a leg in a plastic tub of presumably ice water after he came off. Any news on his injury? He looked glum, well until the interception try anyway.

MESSAGES->author
shipwrecked
08/09/2020 18:08
Quote:
Optimist
Quote:
shipwrecked
1 off the tea in his 20 minutes
- do you mean, and 'home for tea before bedtime'?

Quote:
Bath Supporter Jack
(Sm22)
I thought the same too!

Oops......shamed again (Sm67)

https://i.ibb.co/t3wMLGB/Sam-Harris-185.jpg

Sam Harris

Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.

charlieboa
charlieboa
09/09/2020 10:29
Looks a really sensible selection to me but guess we will only know at 10pm this eve!

Wuss look a fair way from full strength and glad we have backed the squad and getting some game time into players that may be needed further down the line.

Would have been seriously risky to try and get 2 more games in quick succession out of the likes of beno, dunn, stuart, ewels, spencer, priestland.

Great to have schoeman as an option. Assume thomas and w spencer injured?

opti
Optimist
09/09/2020 11:17
We haven't yet seen: Catt, Thomas, Joe C - known injuries; or Doughty, Vaughan, Fox, Atkins.

First appearances - iirc - this evening for: Batty, Schoeman, Green, Bailey and two Academy players - Verden and Bailey.

Frustratingly, the offie site doesn't say which side of the scrum props play on. Has Verden leapfrogged Vaughan, or do they play different sides?

charlieboa
charlieboa
09/09/2020 11:24
Quote:
Optimist
We haven't yet seen: Catt, Thomas, Joe C - known injuries; or Doughty, Vaughan, Fox, Atkins.
First appearances - iirc - this evening for: Batty, Schoeman, Green, Bailey and two Academy players - Verden and Bailey.

Frustratingly, the offie site doesn't say which side of the scrum props play on. Has Verden leapfrogged Vaughan, or do they play different sides?

Rumour that catty has been forced to retire, very sad but doesnt surprise me. Sounded like he wouldnt be back til next year even if everything went well. Schoemans signing on a multi yr contract made me suspect there were at least doubts.

Verden is tighthead so assume henry t is unavailable as verden is 4th choice on paper. Effectively stepped up to fill nixons departure i guess.

Imagine vaughan is next cab off the rank behind schoeman on the loose head side.

Some good options!

dcsh
dcsh
09/09/2020 11:33
Quote:
Optimist
First appearances - iirc - this evening for: Batty, Schoeman, Green, Bailey and two Academy players - Verden and Bailey.
Green was in the bench for Wasps, but didn’t get on. Hopefully he’ll get some game time then tonight.

ballsout
ballsout
09/09/2020 14:40
Quote:
sid the seagull
Hmmm Academy prop on the bench, hope that works out.
HOP

It’s something to be pleased about, same as the other academy boys. Especially in this pretty meaningless season.

opti
Optimist
09/09/2020 15:00
Agree bo. And it should have a positive effect on squad depth for all clubs going forward. There are lots of players who wouldn't have seen the light of day within the normal season - so this has been one hell of a 'pre-season' for the likes of TdG for us, and Stephen Varney, Crean, Heyes and others elsewhere.

Mike the Taxi
Mike the Taxi
09/09/2020 15:18
[www.bbc.co.uk] - O/T I know, but Somerset have set the West Country scene for tonight!

MESSAGES->author
Rawce
09/09/2020 19:52
Chudley looking sharp, maybe Spencer has pepped things up a bit.

MESSAGES->author
Rawce
09/09/2020 19:54
Well read from Searle. Need to take advantage of time in the 22.

MESSAGES->author
Rawce
09/09/2020 19:55
And back in it! Great support play and kick from Josh M.

9215
9215
09/09/2020 19:56
That was some nice backs play

Mike the Taxi
Mike the Taxi
09/09/2020 20:01
Ellis try! and Matavesi conversion

7 v 7

Mike the Taxi
Mike the Taxi
09/09/2020 20:03
Chudley kick forces Bath scrum on Wuss 5 metre

MESSAGES->author
Rawce
09/09/2020 20:05
Dallaglio hates it when a 50:50 goes our way.

Great chip by Chudley and pressure by the team there.

We should have worn yellow.

Mike the Taxi
Mike the Taxi
09/09/2020 20:08
Pushover try for Bath conversion by Matavesi

14 v 7

Mike the Taxi
Mike the Taxi
09/09/2020 20:09
Crepe restart handling results in Wuss try conversion missed

14 v 12

Old Bath Tub
Old Bath Tub
09/09/2020 20:09
Oh dear !

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


"AN OUNCE OF ACTION IS WORTH A TON OF THEORY"
FRIEDRICH ENGELS

Mike the Taxi
Mike the Taxi
09/09/2020 20:21
Medic board brought out for Wuss Butler leg injury so pause in play

MESSAGES->author
Rawce
09/09/2020 20:22
They’ve had 2 gifts and got 12 points. Eliminate the daftness and we’d be well on top.

MESSAGES->author
Clarkey3k
09/09/2020 20:23
We don't seem as sharp as Wasps were earlier at the moment. Still plenty of time to earn 5pts tho'...

Adopted players: 23/24 O Lawrence; [23] J Cokanasiga; [22] M Green; [21] A Watson; [20] T Faletau; [19] M V Vuuren; [18] T Faletau; [17] D Denton; [16] H. Agulla; [15] L Houston; [14] W Spencer; [13] F. Louw

Family . Community . Nation - [sdp.org.uk]

My mind's been going places without me lately - Bushfire The B52's

MESSAGES->author
Rawce
09/09/2020 20:33
BP before half time. Happy days. I’m liking the look of the unity of this team.

Mike the Taxi
Mike the Taxi
09/09/2020 20:35
Wuss penalty

HT

26 v 15

MESSAGES->author
Rawce
09/09/2020 20:36
Ollie Lawrence moving well beyond prospect. If we get away without points from this, we’ve done very well. Kitto should have given it.

jameswood14
Woodpecker
09/09/2020 20:53
I’m enjoying watching Bath more than I have for 3 years. Like Matavesi at 10. A beast!

MESSAGES->author
Rawce
09/09/2020 21:01
Stooke with a hand off and wanders through. Starting to dominate now. Josh M lucky Worcs didn’t have anyone on the touch line!

MESSAGES->author
Rawce
09/09/2020 21:06
More filth from Matavesi. Wow!

MESSAGES->author
liquidmonkey
09/09/2020 21:12
Bath play much better without our support from the stands

Desperate affairs require desperate measures.
Horatio Nelson

MESSAGES->author
Rawce
09/09/2020 21:19
Verden and Bailey on for their debut, as well as Schoeman.

MESSAGES->author
Rawce
09/09/2020 21:21
Also great to see Green back on the pitch.

sid the seagull
sid the seagull
09/09/2020 21:24
I wish Mercer would cut out the showboating! There is a reason TF is a Lion and frankly I’d drop Zac until he grows up a bit.
2. Despite the laidback-ness and the errors, Matavesi is sure showing why Freddie was so utterly cr*p in comparison.

FLAP

MESSAGES->author
Rawce
09/09/2020 21:37
D fence! D fence! Great stuff from Bath all throughout. All of the debutants seemed to take it in their stride.

TomReagan
TomReagan
09/09/2020 21:46
Despite the laidback-ness and the errors, Matavesi is sure showing why Freddie was so utterly cr*p in comparison.

FLAP[/quote]
Not sure I agree! Fun to watch him barging through 2 tackles for a try and a couple of good crossfield kicks but plenty of dodgy moments and in a tight game you're playing a risky game relying on JM to kick points. I'm really glad we held on to him and he offers good cover at 10 and centre but we were playing a weak side tonight. We won through our physicality and decent ball retention. I won't judge the backs harshly given the circumstances of these midweek games and there are some good young individuals there, but a bit manic at times when we did try and go wide. Lawrence and their South African winger were quality.

opti
Optimist
09/09/2020 21:47
Quote:
sid the seagull
I wish Mercer would cut out the showboating! There is a reason TF is a Lion and frankly I’d drop Zac until he grows up a bit.
2. Despite the laidback-ness and the errors, Matavesi is sure showing why Freddie was so utterly cr*p in comparison.

FLAP

That’s some grade A garbage Sid.

MESSAGES->author
shipwrecked
09/09/2020 21:48
Just for a moment I thought Orlando was going to wriggle in on his debut at the end. Did nothing wrong and doesn't look out of place at all. Got to love Josh M though!

https://i.ibb.co/t3wMLGB/Sam-Harris-185.jpg

Sam Harris

Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.

sid the seagull
sid the seagull
09/09/2020 21:52
Interesting point by Ellis in post match Vox pop saying how pleased they were to keep up performance despite lack, inevitably, of on field training time.

Lightbulb: guys that aren’t over-coached enjoy themselves more, self-motivate AND perform better.

SQUAAAAAAAAWK

great win

Bepetas
Bepetas
09/09/2020 21:53
Massive love for Josh Matavesi, he's such a joy to watch. I think his calm, positive attitude has had a hugely positive impact on the squad. Is he the biggest flyhalf to play for Bath?

jameswood14
Woodpecker
09/09/2020 21:58
Mercer is 23 he could be very special

Rokobilly
Rokobilly
09/09/2020 22:00
Quote:
Bepetas
Massive love for Josh Matavesi, he's such a joy to watch. I think his calm, positive attitude has had a hugely positive impact on the squad. Is he the biggest flyhalf to play for Bath?

He's a joy to watch and, I an sure fun to play with too. Easy to say when we sre winning, but the team spirit looks good at the moment.

jameswood14
Woodpecker
09/09/2020 22:09
Great game from Stooke

MESSAGES->author
hasta
09/09/2020 22:09
Lots of Ballsout posts to pick through, I see...

Two poor mistakes, two scores against, bit annoying. Otherwise they didn't have a sniff. Great depth in the squad.

Sid, could not disagree more, Mercer works his bottom off and is always carrying.

Danchinho
Danchinho
09/09/2020 22:20
Personally I’d like to see ZM offloading from these runs rather than getting tackled and rely on his teammates to get to the breakdown and recycle.
He’s one of my favourite players and an easy pick ahead of Faletau for Bath. Got to aim higher than that though. To get more England caps he needs to bring his players into the game more. He’s definitely got the hands for it.

I probably don't know what i'm talking about.

jameswood14
Woodpecker
09/09/2020 22:21
Quote:
hasta
Lots of Ballsout posts to pick through, I see...
Two poor mistakes, two scores against, bit annoying. Otherwise they didn't have a sniff. Great depth in the squad.

Sid, could not disagree more, Mercer works his bottom off and is always carrying.

If one side is so dominant with so much possession it sort of makes those scores more likely.

MESSAGES->author
hasta
09/09/2020 22:31
I'm sightly less fussed by the intercept try. The dropped restart annoys me.

The Redpath try was good. Lots of possession, kept the ball, powered up, saw an overlap in the backs, took it.

Defence was superb. We seem to have a plan of:

Exeter 17-20 forwards
Saracens 10-15 kicking
Wasps 03-07 defence

MESSAGES->author
hasta
09/09/2020 22:34
And, I dunno, England 2009 Erinle/Noon attack.

Kidney Stone
Kidney Stone
09/09/2020 22:39
How can you not love Josh M? I lmao when he batted those guys for his try.

Don’t want to tempt fate, but something is very different since lockdown, in a positive way. Spencer and Hats of course, but the entire squad seems to be acting like the ‘team’ we have been desperate to see.

Kudos to Hoops and Hats, this is rugby worth watching.

And BTW how did Elliott not get motm today?

Bepetas
Bepetas
09/09/2020 22:39
Quote:
Danchinho
Personally I’d like to see ZM offloading from these runs rather than getting tackled and rely on his teammates to get to the breakdown and recycle.
He’s one of my favourite players and an easy pick ahead of Faletau for Bath. Got to aim higher than that though. To get more England caps he needs to bring his players into the game more. He’s definitely got the hands for it.

I'm a huge Zach Mercer fan, but I'm not convinced carrying the extra weight he's put on in the lockdown period suits him. He seems to carry with 5% more momentum but 10% less agility, I just don't think it suits his game. He's never going to carry like Billy Vunipola, but then Billy will never be able to do some to the things Zach does. It's like the Zinzan Brook vs Buck Shelford argument, there will never be a winner. Back rows, packs, teams need to work together with some kind of balance that fits the game plan. Trying to manipulate player to fit a game plan will never work.

Bathovalballer
Bathovalballer
09/09/2020 22:42
Very well played. Yes it wasn't perfect but we are effective in a limited sort of way. Our scrum wasn't good early on, giving up penalties at the set up.

Our backs moves (now that is a novelty saying that about Bath) looked laboured and inaccurate at times but at least we tried some. Thought Chudley was sharp and inventive, and was the main supporter when we drove over the line twice. Matevesi was always relaxed. Too relaxed at times especially when kicking for goal.

However, he was one of our best leaders of tackling and defence which was wondrous to see.

I thought Stooke was my man of the match, always involved in all the dirty graft of the pack as well as being very prominent in open play and tackling defence. Ellis ws good but again IMV was shaded by Miles Reid who was top class.

As much as Redpath and. TdG excites, I am a real fan of Gabe Hanmer-Webb. I wish we could get him into space and let us see what he could do.

Very well done lads. The results have far exceeded my expectations after the season start and I hope we can build on it next season as well. In vieevofvthevremaining fixtures, I cannot see us making the play offs but would be extrememly happy if we did make it.

Adopted player 2020/21 Beno 'the Transformer' Obano


Adopted player 2019/20 Jonathan 'JJ' Joseph.The Jink Joseph.
Adopted player 2018/19 Adopted player 2018/19 Semesa 'The Rock' Rokoduguni

MESSAGES->author
hasta
09/09/2020 22:43
Great quote from Hoops after 'Josh told me he could kick or he could knock down second rows and score tries'

supermarinematt
supermarinematt
09/09/2020 22:43
Chudley has rightfully taken some stick, but tonight he was sharp. He was quick, his box kicking was generally better and he also looked to snipe from around the ruck at least once, maybe even twice.

Was a good watch for the most part, a little agitated by the dropped restart and their resulting try though



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2020:09:09:22:44:19 by supermarinematt.

MESSAGES->author
shipwrecked
09/09/2020 22:46
Real dilemma in the back row now, picking on performance rather than reputation who do you pick. I'd pick Tom Ellis, Josh Baylis and Miles Reid, yes I know it doesn't work but they are our best performers.
P.S. Matevesi's comment to Hooper after the game was, "I can either bounce of second rows or kick but I can't do both!

https://i.ibb.co/t3wMLGB/Sam-Harris-185.jpg

Sam Harris

Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.

MESSAGES->author
hasta
09/09/2020 22:47
Really feels like competition for places is pushing everyone forward.

sid the seagull
sid the seagull
09/09/2020 23:05
Hasta and Opti, I know where you are coming from but a lot of those ‘clever’ passes weren't really needed at the time and would have been destroyed by a better side then Wuss.
Also he doesn’t do enough simple/gainline (for others) passes, he’ll be found out on a bigger stage unless he starts thinking more.

HOP

sid the seagull
sid the seagull
09/09/2020 23:08
Hasta and Opti, I know where you are coming from but a lot of those ‘clever’ passes weren't really needed at the time and would have been destroyed by a better side then Wuss.
Also he doesn’t do enough simple/gainline (for others) passes, he’ll be found out on a bigger stage unless he starts thinking more.

HOP

MESSAGES->author
The Bear
09/09/2020 23:24
It's a cliché but you can only play what's in front of you. We won and we won well.

That's not to say there aren't things that we can, and need, to improve and for all our forward dominance, I still dream of a bit more cohesion in the backline.

This was a 2nd team, of sorts, and I think a lot of these guys are challenging for 1st team - if not more. It's not a bad situation we find ourselves in...

Danchinho
Danchinho
09/09/2020 23:25
Mercer’s got great hands and I think he should make that his USP. Offloads. Get runners on his shoulder and I think he could some clever stuff. Would take him to the next level imo.

Thought Reid’s speed around the park was a big plus. Him and Bayliss have pace. If they could learn to use that in attack they’d be a genuine threat at 6 & 7.

I also think Walker has a different skill set to Dunn and is showing his point of difference and qualities that set him apart rather than just being a back up.

I probably don't know what i'm talking about.

sid the seagull
sid the seagull
09/09/2020 23:32
Lastly (for tonight) just loved how our 3rd or was it 4th? Choice front row came on and just motored thro theirs at their first scrum. Happy days are here again, de-dah dah-dah, Dee-dah, de . . .

PECK

Bath Hammer
Bath Hammer
10/09/2020 00:01
With continual changes of lineup & little opportunity to train together a lack of fluency in the backs may be excused but other teams are having to do the same & we seem to struggle more than most.
I never expect our back line to sythe through defenses & that is invariably the case. There have been lots of other improvements which is great but we are still struggling in that department.

opti
Optimist
10/09/2020 00:36
On Mercer - just imagine him playing for Bristol, where other players expect offloads and quick taps and other sorts of spontaneity. You could criticise him for going off script, but I think in the right set up he’d be an absolute rock star. Hopefully our style of play will evolve such that he does that with us.

Our back play tonight was execrable in attack, but great in defence once again. Chudley did put real pace on the game by whipping the ball away early, but in doing so his passing accuracy went to pot, chucking it head high and loopy on too many occasions, which left the receiver cramped for space. Even when we get decent ball beyond 10, the timing of runs and passes is dismal. When we turn the ball over the first instinct is just to hoof it away or slow it down.

But we are a bloooky effective rugby machine right now, and being positive, there is so much room for improvement that the sky is the limit.
We have 2 x front rows, 2 x second-rows, 2 x back rows - and our best backs are the youngest ones.

And anyone who thinks an in-form Burns wouldn’t have absolutely thrived in that game must be certifiable. Matavesi is a fantastic character, and as good a kick-return option as many forwards. But that was a VERY forgiving game and opposition this evening. We probably made 25-30 errors, but Wuss just said ‘hold my beer’ every time.

MESSAGES->author
shipwrecked
10/09/2020 00:43
In a couple of these games we have seen extravagant attempts to keep the ball alive, they haven't worked but it does indicate that the backs are authorised to experiment and are no told to 'play safe'.
I hope they keep it up, one day it will come off and the result will be spectacular. Keep it up!

https://i.ibb.co/t3wMLGB/Sam-Harris-185.jpg

Sam Harris

Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.

opti
Optimist
10/09/2020 00:55
‘ In a couple of these games we have seen extravagant attempts to keep the ball alive’ - only really once it’s become apparent that we are way too strong for the opposition and that mistakes are unlikely to be very costly. The real sign is when players have the confidence to pull off a difficult skill in a properly meaningful contest at a critical point. I’m willing to bet we won’t see anyone passing it between their legs up at Sale.

by
by
10/09/2020 01:12
Lovely to see that we've got a very strong group of young lads coming through. Redpath, Tom De Glanville and Reid looked as brilliant as they have done since the restart, Bailey looks like he has bags of potential and good to see Verden get the best of his opposite number when he came on.

RE Matavesi, seems to be the exact kind of player we needed, bit like when Kahn Fotuali'i signed. A real leader type who leads from the front lines - something we've lacked over recent years.

dcsh
dcsh
10/09/2020 08:06
A dominant performance with a largely rotated squad. I thought the news boys did well and the squad all seemed to be on the same page. A shame about the two errors for the Wuss tries, but they should keep people grounded!

What can you say about Josh M? A terrific effort at fly half again.

MESSAGES->author
CoochieCoo
10/09/2020 08:37
Josh M is clearly a popular team member and leader. What an outrageous dummy for his try even better than his dummy at Leicester.

Adopted player 2023/24 Matt Gallagher
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Long Term
Long Term
10/09/2020 10:14
Dare I say it? we are looking like a well coached squad, all the players including the youngsters buying into our current style of play with enthusiasm!

bathwickboy
bathwickboy
10/09/2020 10:17
Naturally very pleased with the result last night but I do think a large measure of realism needs to be injected into the debate before we start kidding ourselves that we are world beaters. I accept that you can only play against what is put out before you, but Worcester were a very young and largely inexperienced side against a Bath side which was largely the opposite in key positions (i know we blooded some youngsters). We are however beginning to look far more of a cohesive unit, our set play is strong and our back rows are formidable (any combination).
Josh Matavesi is a very talented player who is strong and brings something special to the team, but I would not like to rely on his skills at Number 10 playing against good opposition that press hard, nor would I like to rely on his place kicking in tight matches.
My biggest concern is still the lack of creativity from the backs as a unit. Individually you would say that they are playing well especially in defence, but going forward with ball in hand they just seem to drift across the field, so certainly work in progress but looking better.
The Mercer debate will rumble on about just how good he is or will be. He has an abundance of talent and is very special although not sure the watching Eddie Jones will have been impressed with the pass between his legs. He has a tendency to pick up the ball and then run laterally before going forward and crossing the gain line. He effectively runs away from his supporting players before crossing the gain line which is high risk especially against hard hitting quick opponents. I suppose it is all about balance and would not like to see his skills stifled.
Really pleased to see the team performing as they are at the moment but I think I will err on the side of caution at the moment.

MESSAGES->author
woodpecker
10/09/2020 10:24
I dont think that anyone thinks beating Worcester in the strange scenario we find ourselves in means we are world beaters or challengers.

My take is that for the last few years I have questioned why I bother to watch sometimes and i stopped buying a season ticket as a result. It has been on the whole turgid rubbish. The last 2 matches have been fun.

Also its a given that if we play a better team then it will be harder to beat them and errors will cost. Can we just have that as a given, its stating the bleeding obvious.

opti
Optimist
10/09/2020 10:52
"Also its a given that if we play a better team then it will be harder to beat them and errors will cost. Can we just have that as a given, its stating the bleeding obvious"

.... reasonable point, that!



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2020:09:10:10:52:23 by Optimist.

MESSAGES->author
hemington
10/09/2020 13:22
We are far from the finished product but the lads must be doing something right as we haven't heard fro Eeyore this week

opti
Optimist
10/09/2020 14:54
Quote:
hemington
We are far from the finished product but the lads must be doing something right as we haven't heard fro Eeyore this week

It's a shame really isn't it. I mean, recently, every time he opens his mouth to enlighten us all as to how terrible Bath are, we generally score.

Warrior7
Warrior7
10/09/2020 15:04
From a Worcs perspective I think your coaches/players got the tactics spot on in the first half. We have only seen glimmers of performances since the resumption, when we actually have some possession.

Your pack was bigger and they played to their strengths in the 1st half to tire us out and starve us of ball, which opened up the space/created tired bodies later. Good tactics and game management. I think a more open/unstructured game would have given us more opportunity to get into the game and get more scrappy tries, so fancy backs moves probably weren't the right decision anyway!

Edit: I wish we had Zach Mercer (I wouldn't complain (Sm128))



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2020:09:10:15:06:13 by Warrior7.

MESSAGES->author
joethefanatic
11/09/2020 07:22
Just watched the game. One comment. I enjoyed Josh Matavesi"s performance enormously, dodgy kicking and all. He may not be a great 10 but he is a great leader and *that* is what we've been missing in the backs. We're now trying things in the backs which means that the opposition have to pay attention out wide which spreads the defence and gives us chances elsewhere. Plus his 10 channel defence is epic. I hope we can keep him fit cos we're a different side with him in it. Not necessarily better, but different, and having that Plan B is more than enough.

... IMHO, of course.

Now in Honolulu



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2020:09:11:07:25:02 by joethefanatic.

Bath Supporter Jack
Bath Supporter Jack
11/09/2020 09:33
Watched the game last night...............

I endorse all of the comments above.

It really looked like everyone was enjoying playing and playing for each other.

I thought Chudleigh had a good game however as mentioned above by Opti at times his pass looked slightly laboured, particularly off his left hand where he uses his shoulders to "heave" the ball. However I think I am just being picky.

Its now a three from four for the final three places.

Our game against Saracens is looking like a decider!

MESSAGES->author
woodpecker
11/09/2020 09:38
Quote:
Optimist
Quote:
hemington
We are far from the finished product but the lads must be doing something right as we haven't heard fro Eeyore this week

It's a shame really isn't it. I mean, recently, every time he opens his mouth to enlighten us all as to how terrible Bath are, we generally score.

So what you are saying is we need him in a tight game.

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