By Brian Dick, Coventry Telegraph
November 26 2009

DAVE Addleton insists there is still more to come from the pack that gave Munster a 40-minute lesson in Friday night’s British and Irish Cup opener. While the Coventry forwards coach maintains he was happy with the second-half showing, he admits his charges were off the pace in the opening period and that is something they have to rectify.

But overall it was gratifying for Cov legend Addleton to see a side that has struggled in the set piece at times this season, able to go head to head with Munster, even if it was only the visitors’ second string.

And Addleton is convinced that is a sign things are on an upward trajectory.

“With a new side it takes time to groove combinations,” Addleton said. “With our lineouts we have banged in some extra sessions to get it right and it has come on leaps and bounds.

“We are not where we need to be though, it’s getting better every week but we can still improve a lot.”

As shown at the Butts Park Arena in the 20-13 defeat.

Cov trailed 20-3 just after the restart but fired up for a much better second 40.

And it was the forwards who did the damage. Front row colleagues Scott Roberts and Joe Merrigan crossed the Munster line to claim a loss bonus.

“We were a bit quiet in the first half but then got some momentum,” Addleton said.

“We scrummaged really well and our lineout got better. The two props that came on were a big part of that.”

Roberts proved his worth with a 64th-minute try having replaced Rob Dugard at the break.

He was ably supported by Jamie Hall, who came on at loosehead for Kevin Davis.

“They made a big difference with their ball-carrying, tackle counts and all-round physicality,” said Addleton. “Roberts came from Scarlets and had a few starts there and Hally came from Waterloo so both were making a step up into the Championship.

“They have done well too because it’s hard when you come into a new competition. Especially Hally. No one knew him before this season but he is a big young lad who listens and learns.”

Progress of Coventry pack lifts Addelton

Discussion started by Unofficial Coventry Rugby (IP Logged), 26/11/2009 16:11

Unofficial Coventry Rugby
26/11/2009 16:11

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Coventry Steve
26/11/2009 17:38

I totaly agree, the pack were great against Munster , i think the whole squad deserve credit for the second half performance. They can take alot away from the game as it proved to people that they are slowly becoming a great pack that could see of any other in the league.
I hope the backs will begin to gel and look forward to seeing the new loan signings whhen we play Heriots Friday night
I AM STILL PREDICTING COV WILL BEAT HERIOTS - COME ON COV - DO US PROUD!

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