By Nick Pullen, Birmingham Mail
October 31 2008

MOSELEY can console themselves with the fact they didn’t leave Cambourne completely empty-handed last week, having snatched defeat from the jaws of victory. Although beaten 19-15 by a last-gasp Cornish Pirates try, Moseley did at least pick up a bonus point. In addition, they also added their former record points scorer Ollie Thomas to their ranks after agreeing a deal with Pirates.

Thomas was surprisingly out of the picture at Pirates and will be back to Billesley Common for the remainder of the season.

There is every suggestion Thomas will play a prominent role against Esher tomorrow, with coach Ian Smith aware the former favourite is chomping at the bit to play.

Smith said: “Ollie’s hardly played any rugby this season. He’s fit and well conditioned but, in that situation, there’s nothing worse than not having a vehicle in which to play in.

“He’s a talented player who brings dynamism and exuberence to the side.’’

Thomas also possesses an accurate boot, which will provide back-up to Richard Vasey.

Smith will check with Gloucester coach Brian Redpath to see who is available before naming his side to face Esher but doesn’t anticipate many changes.

He added: “Esher were in the Second Division with us where we had some titanic battles.

‘‘Apart from the end-of-season affair last term, all games against Esher have been tight and there’s nothing to suggest tomorrow’s will be any different.

“It was disappointing not to beat Pirates, although I didn’t think we showed enough ambition in the first half.

“That said, we still found ourselves 15-14 up with a minute remaining, which showed we had a resolve and ability to stay in the game.

“It just shows how far we’ve come. We’ve improved year upon year and there’s just a few edges that we need to work and improve upon.

“History suggests we won’t make many changes but we’ll do what is needed to keep things fresh for what should prove an exciting game with Esher.’’

Moseley buoyed by Ollie Mitchell return

Discussion started by Unofficial Coventry Rugby (IP Logged), 31/10/2008 14:14

Unofficial Coventry Rugby
31/10/2008 14:14

Moseley buoyed by Ollie Mitchell return

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