Bath
BISH, BOSH, BASH AT BEDFORD? BEDFORD v BATH, PRC.
Ojomoh: start?
By Tom Reagan
November 20 2024
The final round of games in the first phase of the Premiership Rugby Cup begins on Friday, with Bath's match at Bedford Blues kicking off at 3pm on Saturday. The competition has offered much needed attention and revenue for 10 of the 12 Championship clubs, given squad players and young talent in the Premiership ranks the chance to play competitive games for their clubs and filled a void in the calendar without compromising the battle for the Premiership title, but question marks remain about the level of competition and the interest the tournament is generating
In principle the tournament seems a fine idea. Many fans, myself included, put club loyalties above country, so to be able to watch your side during the long international breaks is to be welcomed. In the absence of the much-missed A League - albeit I must acknowledge that there were some poor mismatches and clubs, Bath very much included, who sometimes struggled to put out sides - we also get the chance to watch talented younger players, many of whom will hopefully be first team regulars in the near future. It's also a welcome opportunity for fans of Premiership sides to visit different grounds and watch different, unfamiliar opponents and for Championship clubs to challenge sides that some have ambitions to be playing on a regular basis. In short, the concept is a good one, but at present the tournament is struggling to generate interest, an assertion amply supported by the scarcity of posts on this board following both of our opening fixtures.
Pool 2 highlights what the tournament can offer. The games played by Coventry, Nottingham, Saints and Tigers have all been local derbies and generally competitive. Coventry (A rugby powerhouse when I was growing up in the Midlands in the early 1970's) sit top of the group, their defeat of Leicester one of just two fixtures where a Prem side has lost to one from the Championship. In the other 4 pools, Ealing aside, there has been a gulf in class between the Championship clubs and the development sides being fielded by most Premiership sides that I'd argue is not good for the sport, albeit as the thread on this message board on this very topic has made clear, is a difficult problem to address.
Bath sit top of their group, two wins from two and a points difference of +132. The brief highlights show Bath playing some lovely, fluent rugby but there was a gulf in class and experience that makes it difficult to assess just how much was taken from these games. (I had expected the game v Bristol to be more competitive but they understandably focused on a lucrative fixture vs. Australia A and their squad was stretched a little too thinly). Ignore the results of Nottingham, Coventry and Ealing and after two rounds of fixtures the other 7 Championship clubs have a minus points differential of 394!
My second concern over the Prem Rugby Cup is how anonymous it has been thus far, albeit given how uncompetitive many of the games have been I recognise my argument is a tad undermined! Bath were apparently offering some tickets for the Bristol game for just a fiver with kids going free which was an excellent initiative, but media coverage of the tournament is hard to find. In an exchange on the Briz message board it was suggested that the Pirates wanted to live stream their game for a small fee but as TNT have exclusive rights to the tournament they were prevented from doing this. You can understand the broadcaster's stance but unless you're forking out hefty sums of money to various companies it's hard to see much top-level rugby and the highlights don't appear until several days after the games. Cricket's County Championship is live streamed to, in Somerset's case at least, quite impressive audiences. Rugby needs to do more to be seen by those who aren't committed fans and this seems the perfect tournament to raise the game's profile.
As to Saturday's game, form lines suggest the score should be a bit closer than against Ampthill, but anything other than a comprehensive Bath win would be a big shock. Bristol (With a much stronger side than the one they put out at The Rec) won 67 - 19 at Ashton Gate. Bedford beat Ampthill 26 - 6. hey currently lie 3rd in the Championship table, having won 4 of their 5 games, their one loss being a 59 - 12 defeat at Ealing.
Posters like shipwrecked and BM 53 have far more knowledge than I on the young talent coming through the ranks so I'm always reluctant to try and offer much on team selection. The biggish news is that Max Ojomoh should be fit enough to take some part in Saturday's match. Whether Orlando Bailey will be risked after seeming to take a knock against Bristol is open to question. In the pack the likes of Ewan Richards, Ethan Staddon and try-scoring machine Kepu Tuipulotu should secure plenty of front foot ball for Bath's young backs. Hopefully Alfie Barbeary will be selected and able to play himself into some form after a fairly quiet opening two months.
To conclude with my obligatory 'esoteric' note, PG Tips helpfully offered me the nugget that John Bunyan was from Bedford which might offer potential for an opening caption... 'Bath on a quest' sort of approach. I felt it was too interesting a bit of information not to share and hoped that he was born in 14-50 or something similar just so I could crowbar it in as my score prediction. I was very ignorant in that respect; he was born in 1628, so no contrived link! Instead a hope that the game is competitive for the fans in attendance and for the good of a tournament that, looking long term, needs a stronger Championship to really capture widespread interest.
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Discussion started by Comeonmylovers.co.uk (IP Logged), 20/11/2024 13:33
20/11/2024 13:33
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Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 2024:11:28:09:59:13 by hasta.
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Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 2024:11:28:09:59:13 by hasta.
Good report Tom
I think that this game will be the most meaningful of this batch for Bath.
Away at Bedford who are third in the league below will be testing.......
I look forward to the return fixture in the Spring
I think that this game will be the most meaningful of this batch for Bath.
Away at Bedford who are third in the league below will be testing.......
I look forward to the return fixture in the Spring
Thanks Tom. And fully agree BFJ, not one to be taken for granted (not that we seem to do that these days).
Good review Tom. Carol Vorderman is also from Bedford and I have a feeling that we will need her to keep score for this one - I can see nothing but a convincing Bath win.
(Point of order though Tom, Ealing beat Bedford on 25th May, their loss this season was 45-7 to Coventry on 28th Sept)
COYB!
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
(Point of order though Tom, Ealing beat Bedford on 25th May, their loss this season was 45-7 to Coventry on 28th Sept)
COYB!
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
I hear we are likely to be stronger for this game than the two earlier rounds- a refelction I think BSJ of Bedford's performance so far this season.
PG
PG
Hmmm...having just listened to the weather I suspect that Storm Bert may have the upper hand (assuming it goes ahead). A forwards game and as such I predict another Kepu Tuipulotu hat-trick.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
I would assume, given we've had a month off, we'll be fielding a number of first teamers to get them back up to speed for the Exeter match the following week.
Quote:FiveSticks
I would assume, given we've had a month off, we'll be fielding a number of first teamers to get them back up to speed for the Exeter match the following week.
Makes sense, looks like Gloucester/Exeter are going pretty full on with team selection !
Adopted Player 2018/19 Ross Batty
Adopted Player 2019/20 Jack Davies
Adopted Player 2020/21 Cam Redpath
Adopted Player 2021/22 Darren Atkins
Adopted Player 2022/23 Gabriel Hamer-Webb
Adopted Player 2023/24 Tom Carr-Smith
Adopted Player 2024/25 Max Ojomoh
"AN OUNCE OF ACTION IS WORTH A TON OF THEORY"
FRIEDRICH ENGELS
Blues beat a decent Tigers at home last season and it is a tough place to go. Hopefully we can have our best team out to give you a game. Of course you should win, but you may want some experience in the side.
A perfect game for a blend of youth an experience and a great day for the 19 - 21 year olds to play in a proper contest with "the big boys".
Maybe load the bench to change/enhance things on 55 minutes
Maybe load the bench to change/enhance things on 55 minutes
Quote:gaz59
Is the game on TV?
No TV symbols on the fixture list on the website.
It'll be the first Bath game I've been able to get to for a couple of seasons, so hoping it's a decent one - be good to see some 'names' and looking forward to seeing some of the promising youngsters that I keep reading about on these pages too. I'd expect Bedford to be competitive but I think our bench should tilt the balance if the Blues are putting up a good fight for the first 50-60 minutes. COYB!
Tom de Glanville - Adopted player 2024-5
Tom de Glanville - Adopted player 2024-5
Am I correct in thinking that for players to be eligible for the knock out rounds they must have played in the group games? If so I can see us putting a few more regular fist teamers in the squad for the game against Bedford
"It's all right, Andy! It's just bolognaise!"
"It's all right, Andy! It's just bolognaise!"
Team up. Strong but not full bore.
Bath Rugby: 1 Arthur Cordwell, 2 Jasper Spandler, 3 Kieran Verden, 4 Mackenzie Graham, 5 Ewan Richards ©, 6 Ethan Staddon, 7 Thompson Cowan, 8 Alfie Barbeary, 9 Tom Carr-Smith, 10 Orlando Bailey, 11 Ruaridh McConnochie, 12 Max Ojomoh, 13 Louie Hennessey, 14 Regan Grace (debut), 15 Austin Emens
Replacements: 16 Kepu Tuipulotu, 17 Archie Stanley, 18 Mikey Summerfield, 19 Arthur Green, 20 Jaco Coetzee, 21 Neil Le Roux, 22 Ciaran Donoghue, 23 Will Parry
PG
Bath Rugby: 1 Arthur Cordwell, 2 Jasper Spandler, 3 Kieran Verden, 4 Mackenzie Graham, 5 Ewan Richards ©, 6 Ethan Staddon, 7 Thompson Cowan, 8 Alfie Barbeary, 9 Tom Carr-Smith, 10 Orlando Bailey, 11 Ruaridh McConnochie, 12 Max Ojomoh, 13 Louie Hennessey, 14 Regan Grace (debut), 15 Austin Emens
Replacements: 16 Kepu Tuipulotu, 17 Archie Stanley, 18 Mikey Summerfield, 19 Arthur Green, 20 Jaco Coetzee, 21 Neil Le Roux, 22 Ciaran Donoghue, 23 Will Parry
PG
Bath Rugby: 1 Arthur Cordwell, 2 Jasper Spandler, 3 Kieran Verden, 4 Mackenzie Graham, 5 Ewan Richards ©, 6 Ethan Staddon, 7 Thompson Cowan, 8 Alfie Barbeary, 9 Tom Carr-Smith, 10 Orlando Bailey, 11 Ruaridh McConnochie, 12 Max Ojomoh, 13 Louie Hennessey, 14 Regan Grace (debut), 15 Austin Emens
Replacements: 16 Kepu Tuipulotu, 17 Archie Stanley, 18 Mikey Summerfield, 19 Arthur Green, 20 Jaco Coetzee, 21 Neil Le Roux, 22 Ciaran Donoghue, 23 Will Parry
Replacements: 16 Kepu Tuipulotu, 17 Archie Stanley, 18 Mikey Summerfield, 19 Arthur Green, 20 Jaco Coetzee, 21 Neil Le Roux, 22 Ciaran Donoghue, 23 Will Parry
And the Bedford team:
15. Louis James, 14. Alfie Garside, 13. Lucas Titherington, 12. Joel Matavesi, 11. Dean Adamson, 10. Will Maisey, 9. Alex Day (C); 1. Joey Conway, 2. Tommy Herman, 3. Beltus Nonleh, 4. Rory Ward, 5. George Smith, 6. Fyn Brown, 7. Joe Howard, 8. Fred Tuilagi
Bedford Blues Replacements:
16. Nathan Langdon, 17. Jamie Jack, 18. Oisin Heffernan, 19. Shay Kerry, 20. Luke Frost, 21. Jac Arthur, 22. Jonny Weimann, 23. Matt Worley
Coached by former Wales utility back MIke Rayer, they will be well prepared.
Hopefully TryBlues can tell us something about this selection. Is Fred Tuilagi the former Leicester Tiger?
PG
15. Louis James, 14. Alfie Garside, 13. Lucas Titherington, 12. Joel Matavesi, 11. Dean Adamson, 10. Will Maisey, 9. Alex Day (C); 1. Joey Conway, 2. Tommy Herman, 3. Beltus Nonleh, 4. Rory Ward, 5. George Smith, 6. Fyn Brown, 7. Joe Howard, 8. Fred Tuilagi
Bedford Blues Replacements:
16. Nathan Langdon, 17. Jamie Jack, 18. Oisin Heffernan, 19. Shay Kerry, 20. Luke Frost, 21. Jac Arthur, 22. Jonny Weimann, 23. Matt Worley
Coached by former Wales utility back MIke Rayer, they will be well prepared.
Hopefully TryBlues can tell us something about this selection. Is Fred Tuilagi the former Leicester Tiger?
PG
Both our premier No.8s selected is interesting. I wouldn't have expected this unless they were returning from injury / missing game time. Jaco has been in good form, whereas Alfie finding some form could be a reason.
Backline looks really exciting!
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2024:11:22:12:10:28 by Shadders.
Backline looks really exciting!
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2024:11:22:12:10:28 by Shadders.
Quote:Griff
Am I correct in thinking that for players to be eligible for the knock out rounds they must have played in the group games? If so I can see us putting a few more regular fist teamers in the squad for the game against Bedford
I think so Griff, but there are 3 more pool games to go.
PG
Quote:P G TipsQuote:Griff
Am I correct in thinking that for players to be eligible for the knock out rounds they must have played in the group games? If so I can see us putting a few more regular fist teamers in the squad for the game against Bedford
I think so Griff, but there are 3 more pool games to go.
PG
Thanks PG I'd overlooked there were more pool games during the 6N!
"It's all right, Andy! It's just bolognaise!"
Be interesting to see how long Coetzee gets on the pitch and where in the back row he plays.
Tom de Glanville - Adopted player 2024-5
Tom de Glanville - Adopted player 2024-5
Interesting, I'm assuming that neither Harvey Cuckson nor Will Jeanes are fit. That's a bit of a fudge to put in Mackenzie Graham and Ewan Richards at lock as they are both usually in the back row. Max Ojomoh, and Louie Hennessey are surely far too much for Bedford and I expect Max will give way to Will Parry who is a handful in his own right.
BBB&W should keep an eye out for Neil Le Roux (9) and Arthur Green off the bench. This won't be a runaway but will surely be 3 in a row.
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
BBB&W should keep an eye out for Neil Le Roux (9) and Arthur Green off the bench. This won't be a runaway but will surely be 3 in a row.
Quote:Thanks SW - looking forward to seeing both scrum halves in action. Hopefully the long term solutions when Spencer eventually hangs up his boots or tops up his pension for a year or two overseas.shipwrecked
BBB&W should keep an eye out for Neil Le Roux (9) and Arthur Green off the bench. This won't be a runaway but will surely be 3 in a row.
Tom de Glanville - Adopted player 2024-5
Quote:P G Tips
And the Bedford team:
15. Louis James, 14. Alfie Garside, 13. Lucas Titherington, 12. Joel Matavesi, 11. Dean Adamson, 10. Will Maisey, 9. Alex Day (C); 1. Joey Conway, 2. Tommy Herman, 3. Beltus Nonleh, 4. Rory Ward, 5. George Smith, 6. Fyn Brown, 7. Joe Howard, 8. Fred Tuilagi
Bedford Blues Replacements:
16. Nathan Langdon, 17. Jamie Jack, 18. Oisin Heffernan, 19. Shay Kerry, 20. Luke Frost, 21. Jac Arthur, 22. Jonny Weimann, 23. Matt Worley
Coached by former Wales utility back MIke Rayer, they will be well prepared.
Hopefully TryBlues can tell us something about this selection. Is Fred Tuilagi the former Leicester Tiger?
PG
We are missing a few of our former Premiership players but have 9, 12 & 18. I would have preferred 18 to start.
No. 3, 5, 6, 16 & 22 are Saints DRs although they were either Championship, ND1 or younger players last year.
Fred is the same Tuilagi family and a former Tigers player. He has been playing really well for us and is a big physical presence. 6 & 7 have also played 8, so we have gone with as many ball carriers we can. As we also have 1 who is probably our fastest forward.
Our hooker (2nd choice) is young and played at Olney (many divisions below) last season but has the potential to be a Premiership player.
Out 2nd rows are about 6’6 & 6’8, so we must be hoping to try and disrupt the lineout.
11, 14 & 15 are all quick with 11 the highest try scorer ever in the Championship, known for his side stepping and chip and chases.
12 & 13 are our biggest centres.
Where Blues can struggle more is when they are up against a rush defence.
Bench is a 6-2 split. 17 played for Edinburgh and 23 has super fast acceleration.
Quote:P G Tips
And the Bedford team:
15. Louis James, 14. Alfie Garside, 13. Lucas Titherington, 12. Joel Matavesi, 11. Dean Adamson, 10. Will Maisey, 9. Alex Day (C); 1. Joey Conway, 2. Tommy Herman, 3. Beltus Nonleh, 4. Rory Ward, 5. George Smith, 6. Fyn Brown, 7. Joe Howard, 8. Fred Tuilagi
Bedford Blues Replacements:
16. Nathan Langdon, 17. Jamie Jack, 18. Oisin Heffernan, 19. Shay Kerry, 20. Luke Frost, 21. Jac Arthur, 22. Jonny Weimann, 23. Matt Worley
Coached by former Wales utility back MIke Rayer, they will be well prepared.
Hopefully TryBlues can tell us something about this selection. Is Fred Tuilagi the former Leicester Tiger?
PG
Any reports on how george smith gets on will be appreciated. Us down here at saints have not seen him yet but have high hopes. He's a big unit .
Just noticed that Alfie Garside is playing for Bedford Blues, once of this parish in the form of our BUCS Uni side. His brother is Jake who is an up and coming 9 for Northampton. Alfie will be out to prove a point.
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
Barbeary comes off and Jaco Coetzee rolls on. Oof. That could be a long afternoon for their backrow/midfield.
Thanks TryBlues for that really useful update. Look after Alfie!
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
Alfie, has been playing really well recently and Blues fans have been impressed. Big tackles and very quick, although still needs to develop his game.
We have had Jake Garside (as a scrum half) but he is being converted to wing but I think Alfie is a better wing option.
We have had Jake Garside (as a scrum half) but he is being converted to wing but I think Alfie is a better wing option.
Quote:BucksBBandW
It'll be the first Bath game I've been able to get to for a couple of seasons, so hoping it's a decent one - be good to see some 'names' and looking forward to seeing some of the promising youngsters that I keep reading about on these pages too. I'd expect Bedford to be competitive but I think our bench should tilt the balance if the Blues are putting up a good fight for the first 50-60 minutes. COYB!
Hope you enjoy it BBB&W. Please could you drop in the occasional update & impression on the game?
PG
Blues Twitter does a pretty comprehensive (and fairly balanced) commentary on the match.
10 mins in no score, according to the commentary its Fred Tuilagi v Alfie Barbeary having already smashed Landy!
Alfie Garside doing a bit of smashing too, its an upfront battle.
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
Alfie Garside doing a bit of smashing too, its an upfront battle.
Bedford holding their own up front so much so Bath need a team huddle still 0-0 after 20.
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
Still scoreless, as Barbeary knocks on going for the line after decent work from Orlando Bailey
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
Quote:shipwrecked
Still scoreless, as Barbeary knocks on going for the line after decent work from Orlando Bailey
So not too badly smashed then?
And any comment about the weather?
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2024:11:23:15:30:05 by Susanne.
No idea on the weather, but its still 0-0 with 5 minutes to half time, Bath a bit taken aback! Bath mauling 5m out surely this will break the duck?
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
Phases in double figures Bath kick for the line out but again Bedford box kick it clear. Another 5 metre line out with the clock on 40. Bedford in the form of Joe Howard steals it half ends at 0-0. Brilliant defence from Bedford!
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
Weather update for Susanne, its lashing down! Half restarted Bath 5 m out.
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
47 minutes, Bath have knocked it on after 12 phases. A moral victory at least for Bedford Blues, incredible defence!
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
53 minutes and still 0-0 Coetzee on, then off again for an HIA.
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
Deadlock broken, try Bedford Will Maisey.
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
7-0 converted and Bedford close again! 62 minutes gone.
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
This could all come down to fitness, Fred Tuilagi off, will that make a difference up front?
14 minutes to go and Bedford up to the Bath 22.
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
14 minutes to go and Bedford up to the Bath 22.
Bedford maul up to the Bath line and Bath concede the pen, which is wide. 10 minutes left.
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
Bath get a pen on the 10m kick to the corner and get to within 2m but no score that time but eventually Barbeary get over near the posts, Bailey does his bit 7-7
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
4 minutes left and Bath in the Bedford 22. Bath work a scrum only metres from the line.
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
Kepueli Tuipolotu score Bath in front!
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
Conveted 7-14 that's 80' Today's match attendance has been declared as 2,790. Still playing and Barbeary gets another
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2024:11:23:16:36:41 by shipwrecked.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2024:11:23:16:36:41 by shipwrecked.
Clocks not synchronised and Bailey converts 7-21 still minutes to go
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
Bedford will get nothing in terms of points from this game and that seems a huge injustice, they have been resolute in defence. Final score Bedford Blues 7-21 Bath.
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
Sounds like the weather may have been a leveller, and then the added fitness of the top flight team eventually took its toll.
I couldn’t go, but Blues should be proud, when they only train 3 nights a week and get less money from the RFU than just one of your senior players gets paid.
Shame we could get the losing bonus point, but denying you the try bonus point and only going behind after 78 mins is still good going.
Shame we could get the losing bonus point, but denying you the try bonus point and only going behind after 78 mins is still good going.
Indeed TB, super close with late scores after a titanic defence taking the points away from Bedford Blues. Your team posted a flag today.
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
Quote:Agree TryBlues. The gist of my preview was that the financial gulf between the top two leagues is much too wide and rugby would be far more interesting if more sides could be competitive. Today that gap wasn't anything like as wide as I'd argued! I was feeling very nervous for a while but the tournament needs these games to be competitive. Decent crowd, especially given the horrible weather. Good luck for the rest of the season.TryBlues
I couldn’t go, but Blues should be proud, when they only train 3 nights a week and get less money from the RFU than just one of your senior players gets paid.
Shame we could get the losing bonus point, but denying you the try bonus point and only going behind after 78 mins is still good going.
Afraid not, Sat the rest of the game out.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2024:11:23:19:15:39 by makeitagem.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2024:11:23:19:15:39 by makeitagem.
Quote:makeitagem
Afraid not, Sat the rest of the game out.
So he’s out for next week then.. ☹️
Really pleased TCS and Lando have got three games together under their belts. Would be tempted to trust them against Exeter at home and get Finn and Spenny focussed on La Rochelle.
Quote:hasta
Really pleased TCS and Lando have got three games together under their belts. Would be tempted to trust them against Exeter at home and get Finn and Spenny focussed on La Rochelle.
I agree time together is important but they didn't exactly dominate Bedford Blues with the win only confirmed in the final minutes, I realise the heavy rain affected the match. As PG mentioned we should have been kicking goals rather than going for 5m line outs. If Landy is to run games he should be making those calls.
Quote:hasta
...that's 100% a coaching call or, at minimum a captain's call.
I agree, but if Orlando Bailey was managing the game, which is what fly halves are supposed to do, then he goes to Ewan Richards and says, "Plans not working take the points" That's what Finn or Ben S would do isn't it?
Ben S is the captain. Bailey can certainly give his opinion - and who's to say he didn't? But that is 100% the coach's call on gameplan and the captain's call on the field. At the same time, everyone started this game thinking it was a potential banana skin, it was a second team against a good championship team and it was absolutely chucking it down, and we won by 14 points.
I think you're being insanely unfair calling that against Bailey, but admittedly I didn't see the game. I was talking more generally. I would like to see TCS and Lando play in a meaningful match together.
I think you're being insanely unfair calling that against Bailey, but admittedly I didn't see the game. I was talking more generally. I would like to see TCS and Lando play in a meaningful match together.
Quote:hasta
I think you're being insanely unfair calling that against Bailey, but admittedly I didn't see the game. I was talking more generally. I would like to see TCS and Lando play in a meaningful match together.
The point I'm trying to make is that I don't agree that TCS and OB are ready to start a Premiership game together yet. Both need their respective senior partner's experience. Would OB take over place kicking duties from BS next time out?
I'm not blaming Bailey in any way but it does say a lot about his confidence and ability to assert his influence on games.
We aren't going to win the Champions cup but we do have a chance at the GP and I don't think we can afford to drop a single point till a top 4 finish is nailed on its all to tight. It's too risky to throw both of them in at the deep end.
Both of them have individually started Prem games. They've just had three games in a row together. They're about to have a really good pack and an excellent backline to support them. They'd be playing against a team who haven't won a single prem game all season. It's a perfect opportunity.
We can ABSOLUTELY lose a game. But I really don't think we will and the benefit - giving both players ownership of running a prem game, lest Spencer and/or Finn be injured later on, MASSIVELY outweigh the risks.
We can ABSOLUTELY lose a game. But I really don't think we will and the benefit - giving both players ownership of running a prem game, lest Spencer and/or Finn be injured later on, MASSIVELY outweigh the risks.
Mixed feelings on selection for exeter- they have been naming strong squads in prem Cup so will be more cohesive/ less rusty potentially. Not seeing it as a walkover personally.
I am definitely in the ' we have a great chance of winning prem and next to no chance of winning champions cup' camp so prem would always be my focus.
I would give stuart and lawrence a rest. Pretty happy for the rest to get stuck back in for us.
I have loved this seasons selection approach of 4- 5 changes most weeks to freshen it up but no wholesale changes like last season. Tough run now so they may flip to that approach at some stage.
I do think we need to expose schreuder/ tcs/ bailey to starts- imagine first choice halfbacks could get close to 30 games so you want to be managing that proactively.
I think keeping some of the prem Cup guys in the 23 makes sense next week, inc the halfbacks... alfie, maybe richards, mojo, even kepu for a bit of fun!
I am definitely in the ' we have a great chance of winning prem and next to no chance of winning champions cup' camp so prem would always be my focus.
I would give stuart and lawrence a rest. Pretty happy for the rest to get stuck back in for us.
I have loved this seasons selection approach of 4- 5 changes most weeks to freshen it up but no wholesale changes like last season. Tough run now so they may flip to that approach at some stage.
I do think we need to expose schreuder/ tcs/ bailey to starts- imagine first choice halfbacks could get close to 30 games so you want to be managing that proactively.
I think keeping some of the prem Cup guys in the 23 makes sense next week, inc the halfbacks... alfie, maybe richards, mojo, even kepu for a bit of fun!
Listened to game on radio.
All well thar ends well- inexperienced team learnt on the job and power game get them there in the end.
.sounded like Richards and staddon continue to impress..
Another try for kepu who continues to look potentially the real deal.
Great for mojo and grace to get a game and alfie to go 80.
Not ideal losing coetzee but hoping it means richards/ staddon have a chance of making the 23 next week
All well thar ends well- inexperienced team learnt on the job and power game get them there in the end.
.sounded like Richards and staddon continue to impress..
Another try for kepu who continues to look potentially the real deal.
Great for mojo and grace to get a game and alfie to go 80.
Not ideal losing coetzee but hoping it means richards/ staddon have a chance of making the 23 next week
Quote:hasta
Really pleased TCS and Lando have got three games together under their belts. Would be tempted to trust them against Exeter at home and get Finn and Spenny focussed on La Rochelle.
Disagree, the Exeter game is must win so have to play Finn/Spencer if they are fit.
Premiership
Home game
We've won our last three, they have lost their last three
Only 18 premiership games in total........this is the seventh.
We must pick the strongest team and do everything to win this game!!
Home game
We've won our last three, they have lost their last three
Only 18 premiership games in total........this is the seventh.
We must pick the strongest team and do everything to win this game!!
Quote:Bath Supporter Jack
Premiership
Home game
We've won our last three, they have lost their last three
Only 18 premiership games in total........this is the seventh.
We must pick the strongest team and do everything to win this game!!
Especially as Exeter just beat a strong Gloucester team in the Prem Cup
if Orlando Bailey was managing the game, which is what fly halves are supposed to do, then he goes to Ewan Richards and says, "Plans not working take the points" That's what Finn or Ben S would do isn't it?[/quote]
I thought Bailey looked comfortable enough, but some of his decision making did suggest he wasn't necessarily managing the game in front of him, nor the conditions. The general feeling among the Bath supporters in the ground seemed to be 'just kick for some points' and there were one or two slightly over ambitious chips which were completely out of place and gave away possession. I guess he needs more properly competitive game time to get that experience.
Kepu's cameo was brilliant - a chip through, pace and a try, he also shut up the Bedford fans who had been shouting "not straight" at all of Spandler's throws.
Emens looked very comfortable in this 15-man environment and has some pace, good to see Alfie barrelling around too. Le Roux looked sharp from the bench.
The score did flatter to deceive a little bit and was harsh on Bedford's mighty defence. 0-0 for 50 minutes says it all.
Tom de Glanville - Adopted player 2024-5
I thought Bailey looked comfortable enough, but some of his decision making did suggest he wasn't necessarily managing the game in front of him, nor the conditions. The general feeling among the Bath supporters in the ground seemed to be 'just kick for some points' and there were one or two slightly over ambitious chips which were completely out of place and gave away possession. I guess he needs more properly competitive game time to get that experience.
Kepu's cameo was brilliant - a chip through, pace and a try, he also shut up the Bedford fans who had been shouting "not straight" at all of Spandler's throws.
Emens looked very comfortable in this 15-man environment and has some pace, good to see Alfie barrelling around too. Le Roux looked sharp from the bench.
The score did flatter to deceive a little bit and was harsh on Bedford's mighty defence. 0-0 for 50 minutes says it all.
Tom de Glanville - Adopted player 2024-5
Cheers BBB&W that was quite an achievement to watch 80 mins in torrential rain. I think Bath will be pleased to put that one behind them. Kepu is clearly destined for great things early. Good to hear Neil Le Roux had another decent game.
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
Quote:shipwrecked
Cheers BBB&W that was quite an achievement to watch 80 mins in torrential rain. I think Bath will be pleased to put that one behind them. Kepu is clearly destined for great things early. Good to hear Neil Le Roux had another decent game.
I cheated and was in the covered seating area. The rain held off long enough to nip out and get a pint in at half time before pelting down in the second half!
Tom de Glanville - Adopted player 2024-5
Player ratings available on Somerset Live website albeit I'm sure they're produced by a cheap AI programme!
[quote Bath Supporter Jack]Premiership
Home game
We've won our last three, they have lost their last three
Only 18 premiership games in total........this is the seventh.
We must pick the strongest team and do everything to win this game!![/quote
Totally agree, but we all know JVG loves the champions cup. I think there will be heavy rotation for Exeter. Can see Russell, Stuart, TdT Lawrence and obviously Underhill resting.
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.
Home game
We've won our last three, they have lost their last three
Only 18 premiership games in total........this is the seventh.
We must pick the strongest team and do everything to win this game!!
[/quote
Totally agree, but we all know JVG loves the champions cup. I think there will be heavy rotation for Exeter. Can see Russell, Stuart, TdT Lawrence and obviously Underhill resting.
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.
I suspect TdT will play, he hasn't played all of these games, Stuart has. Griffen backing him up, Beno, Francois, Dunn, maybe Kepu? Ewels, Roux, Hill, Pepper, Alfie. Moloney, Reid, Bayliss on the bench.
Spencer/Bailey, Muir, Mojo, Butt, Coka, TdG. TCS, Finn on bench.
Spencer/Bailey, Muir, Mojo, Butt, Coka, TdG. TCS, Finn on bench.
Be good to see Kepu get 15-20 minutes from the bench - good shout Hasta.
Tom de Glanville - Adopted player 2024-5
Tom de Glanville - Adopted player 2024-5
Quote:gaz59
Rotate for the away games. Home games are virtually must-wins
Totally agree
Quote:hasta
I suspect TdT will play, he hasn't played all of these games, Stuart has. Griffen backing him up, Beno, Francois, Dunn, maybe Kepu? Ewels, Roux, Hill, Pepper, Alfie. Moloney, Reid, Bayliss on the bench.
Spencer/Bailey, Muir, Mojo, Butt, Coka, TdG. TCS, Finn on bench.
Archie will be doing everything he can to stand on one of TdT's ankles during training.
... IMHO, of course.
Now in Honolulu
Is Beno injured? Surely having had four/five weeks off bar injuries we should be looking to go full bore. This is a must win and only if you get the win can you think of the next match - it does not matter who the visitors are.
One thing you certainly don’t want to do is give Chiefs any sniff - their confidence will be on the rise after the Premiership cup - but the Premiership is a totally different kettle of fish.
Personally as I said bar injuries - I would expect Beno, Dunn, Du Toit, Ewels, Roux, Pepper, Barbeary & Hill. Options off the bench Van Wyk, Kepu or Annett, Griffin, Moloney, Reid, Bayliss, Jaco (if fit) or Richards/Green.
I am presuming Underhill is definitely out for this weekend.
One thing you certainly don’t want to do is give Chiefs any sniff - their confidence will be on the rise after the Premiership cup - but the Premiership is a totally different kettle of fish.
Personally as I said bar injuries - I would expect Beno, Dunn, Du Toit, Ewels, Roux, Pepper, Barbeary & Hill. Options off the bench Van Wyk, Kepu or Annett, Griffin, Moloney, Reid, Bayliss, Jaco (if fit) or Richards/Green.
I am presuming Underhill is definitely out for this weekend.
Beno is reported to be recovering from injury. Will know on Friday.
See Injury Update thread below.
PG
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2024:11:27:17:45:57 by P G Tips.
See Injury Update thread below.
PG
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2024:11:27:17:45:57 by P G Tips.
Quote:OutsideBathQuote:gaz59
Rotate for the away games. Home games are virtually must-wins
Totally agree
Totally disagree but know I am in small minority.
I think keep doing exactly what we have done this season̈- rotate 4 or 5 each week irrespective of whether it's home or away.
We are well capable of winning away games when we name a strong squad. Already won all our away prem games this season haven't we!? Top of the league despite losing a home game.
Quote:Charlieboa1Quote:OutsideBathQuote:gaz59
Rotate for the away games. Home games are virtually must-wins
Totally agree
Totally disagree but know I am in small minority.
I think keep doing exactly what we have done this season̈- rotate 4 or 5 each week irrespective of whether it's home or away.
We are well capable of winning away games when we name a strong squad. Already won all our away prem games this season haven't we!? Top of the league despite losing a home game.
No disagreement that right now we are in a very strong position.
Home games are easier [not saying easy tho] to win compared to away matches obviously. We have the required away wins already so for me the priority is to focus on winning all remaining home games - that will guarantee top 2, possibly top spot and keep BBW ticket paying fans happy
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