By Coventry Telegraph
December 9 2008

DIRECTOR of rugby Mark Ellis has detected a different mood in the Rugby Lions camp. Even before last weekend’s morale-boosting draw with unbeaten league leaders London Scottish, Ellis said there was a new steely resolve about his players and he has urged them to take that new found belief into today’s home clash with Henley. “There has definitely been a change,” Ellis said. “Where before there was negativity, that has gone. When we talk now it is all positive, that we will put things right instead of can we put things right.

“Last week’s performance was on a whole different level to any other since I went back to the club.

“The boys showed a great attitude, will to win and good heart. The whole team showed a fantastic level of physicality.”

Ellis said the difference has been the from of his more experienced players who have set the bench mark for the younger Lions.

“Although this is a young squad, we do have a few players who have played National One before,” he said.

“They have all started to perform at the same time and have become big leaders for us.

“Now the younger lads who may not have the experience are getting the on-field leadership that is so vital.

“We have really found some form now and we can’t go back to the side we were before. We are unbeaten in seven games and we can’t drop our standards.”

Ellis is expecting another tough challenge today from Henley, who were relegated from National Two last season and are currently fourth in the table. However, he has spotted a weakness.

“Henley are not a bad side,” he said. “They have a lot of experienced players and a strong squad.

“Their discipline is horrendous and we have to target that. We have to take the game to them, apply the pressure and force them to crack.

“We need to get straight out of the blocks and not allow them to relax.”

Ellis: Lions have found new belief

Discussion started by Unofficial Coventry Rugby (IP Logged), 09/12/2008 21:09

Unofficial Coventry Rugby
09/12/2008 21:09

Ellis: Lions have found new belief

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