Northampton Saints
Saints v Tigers 12th October 2024 - Teams Up
By Saint Ted
October 11 2024
This is the Leicester Tigers v Northampton Saints match day thread
Who: Leicester Tigers v Northampton Saints
Where: Mattioli Woods Welford Road
When: Saturday 12th October 2024; 17:30
How do I watch: TNT 1/TNT Ultimate/Discovery +
Tickets: Individual tickets available From Tigers
Saints take: Saints O'ffy
Tigers Take: Tigers O'ffy
Officials:
Referee: Anthony Woodthorpe
Assistant referee: Jack Makepeace and Greg Macdonald
No.4: Jamie Leahy
TMO: Andrew Jack
Teams:
| Northampton Saints | Leicester Tigers | |
| George Furbank © |
15
|
Freddie Steward |
| James Ramm |
14
|
Anthony Watson |
| Tom Litchfield |
13
|
Dan Kelly |
| Rory Hutchinson |
12
|
Joseph Woodward |
| Tommy Freeman |
11
|
Ollie Hassell-Collins |
| Fin Smith |
10
|
Handré Pollard |
| Archie McParland |
9
|
Jack van Poortvliet |
| Emmanuel Iyogun |
1
|
Nicky Smith |
| Curtis Langdon |
2
|
Julián Montoya |
| Elliot Millar |
3
|
Joe Heyes |
| Temo Mayanavanua |
4
|
Harry Wells |
| Chunya Munga |
5
|
Ollie Chessum |
| Josh Kemeny |
6
|
Hanro Liebenberg |
| Angus Scott-Young |
7
|
Tommy Reffell |
| Sam Graham |
8
|
Olly Cracknell |
|
REPLACEMENTS
|
||
| Robbie Smith |
16
|
Charlie Clare |
| Tom West |
17
|
James Cronin |
| Trevor Davison |
18
|
Dan Cole |
| Gavin Thornbury |
19
|
Côme Joussain |
| Tom Pearson |
20
|
Emeka Ilione |
| Henry Pollock |
21
|
Ben Youngs |
| Jake Garside |
22
|
Jamie Shillcock |
| Ollie Sleightholme |
23
|
Will Wand |
Not available for selection:
Juarno Augustus, Emeka Atuanya, Alex Coles, Fraser Dingwall, George Hendy, Callum Hunter-Hill, Tom James, Tom Lockett, Alex Mitchell and Burger Odendaal.
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StumbleuponSaints v Tigers 12th October 2024 - Teams Up
Discussion started by Marching On , 11/10/2024 12:25
Marching On
11/10/2024 12:25
11/10/2024 12:25
What do you think? You can have your say by posting below.
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Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2024:10:18:08:41:51 by Saint Ted.
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Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2024:10:18:08:41:51 by Saint Ted.
Dingers now injured too. Injuries really are mounting up. A massive game for Archie M. He has looked tentative in previous premiership matches, a bit unsure. Obviously the prem cup and England u20 games are a pretty different consideration, but he has shown a lot of potential and hope he relaxes into it a bit and gets more of his game on the field. Obviously easy for me to say and WR for a derby is a tough gig ...
Anyway will be on the terrace, near 22m at the Welford Rd end of the ground - in case others are on the terrace and fancy grouping. We'll be the ones making the noise. COYS, up the shoe army.
Anyway will be on the terrace, near 22m at the Welford Rd end of the ground - in case others are on the terrace and fancy grouping. We'll be the ones making the noise. COYS, up the shoe army.
Two good teams with Saints as definite favourites!
For those making the journey, safe travels and enjoy the game (but not too much!)
Tigers missing George Martin, Cam Henderson, Sol Kata, Izaia Perese, Finn Carnduff, Matt Rogerson
For those making the journey, safe travels and enjoy the game (but not too much!)
Tigers missing George Martin, Cam Henderson, Sol Kata, Izaia Perese, Finn Carnduff, Matt Rogerson
Still a good team considering the names missing. If it's a close game at 60 mins having the luxury to bring on Pearson, pollock, sleightholme and Davison could prove huge .
If ever there was a time for McParland to have an Iyogun sized breakout game, this is it.
Have a decent game and this could be the making of him.
Have a decent game and this could be the making of him.
A tough ask but if our starting team can stay in touch we have a decent bench
I know a few commented on the drop in play when he came on in the last few games but imagine McParland coming in to play this game with zero minutes under his belt? It's a big ask but a good game from him would very much help - I am a little nervous with that combined with absentees in the engine room.
Mcparland has all the skills to become a class 9. It’s just that tricky bit of confidence. It’s a bit of a sink or swim to start at welford road. Let’s hope he can have a stormer!
Quote:tigersimon
Two good teams with Saints as definite favourites!
Agreed! Saints by at least 12.
I would think JVP will target McParland and really get into him in the early stages.
A huge test, good luck to him, time to step up.
Battle of the backrows, think Tigers might just have the edge.
A huge test, good luck to him, time to step up.
Battle of the backrows, think Tigers might just have the edge.
Dingwall is a huge loss, would be a shame if that happened during England training. I’d have favoured moving Freeman to 13, with Sleightholme on the wing and Seabrook on the bench over starting Lichfield (who I think is short on game time?) but I suppose he offers a little more ballast in the midfield.
Definitely feels like there’s a concerted effort to strengthen the bench this week, so if we can stay in touch we should finish strongly if the bench is used wisely. In order to stay in touch, we’ll have to marshall Reffell and Montoya far better than we did Kenningham and Evan’s in the first half last week.
I think that Tigers are firm favourites for this and have to see my Tigers supporting Father-in-law on Sunday, so hope our lads surprise me…
Definitely feels like there’s a concerted effort to strengthen the bench this week, so if we can stay in touch we should finish strongly if the bench is used wisely. In order to stay in touch, we’ll have to marshall Reffell and Montoya far better than we did Kenningham and Evan’s in the first half last week.
I think that Tigers are firm favourites for this and have to see my Tigers supporting Father-in-law on Sunday, so hope our lads surprise me…
Can Mitchell be a waterboy? It might be helpful for an experienced 9 to be around as much as possible to almost 'coach' McParland through the game.
Quote:tigersimon
Two good teams with Saints as definite favourites!
For those making the journey, safe travels and enjoy the game (but not too much!)
Tigers missing George Martin, Cam Henderson, Sol Kata, Izaia Perese, Finn Carnduff, Matt Rogerson
I would have Tigers as favorites with so many key players injured for Saints.
Quote:tigersimon
Two good teams with Saints as definite favourites!
For those making the journey, safe travels and enjoy the game (but not too much!)
Tigers missing George Martin, Cam Henderson, Sol Kata, Izaia Perese, Finn Carnduff, Matt Rogerson
Really Saints favourites???, look at our injuries and you are at home LOL
Just out of interest, how many of those would you consider would start in your first 15, then best match day squad?
Id say Saints are missing Augustus, Coles, Dingwall, Hendy, Mitchell, Burger, who only Hendy, wouldn't be guaranteed a start but definitely on the bench... add James to bench to... thats 5 starters and 2 of bench out injured... a third??? ouch!!!
I am not comfortable at all... we need McParland to actually deliver, no point having all the promise in the world if you never show it... interesting choices for us at back row? Maybe try be very physical first 50-60 and then bring on Pearson and Pollock?
I am not confident, happy to be told thee of little faith tomorrow night LOL
Think Tigers will target Saints forwards particularly the front row with Smith, Montoya and Heyes starting with Cronin, Claire and Cole to come off the bench.
Neil,
‘George Martin, Cam Henderson, Sol Kata, Izaia Perese, Finn Carnduff, Matt Rogerson’
Martin, Kata & Perese (centre pairing in R1) to start
Henderson bench
Carnduff or Rogerson on bench possibly
As for Saints as Favourites well you are the Champions and it’s first match of the season for Montoya & Pollard so I expect some integration issues!
‘George Martin, Cam Henderson, Sol Kata, Izaia Perese, Finn Carnduff, Matt Rogerson’
Martin, Kata & Perese (centre pairing in R1) to start
Henderson bench
Carnduff or Rogerson on bench possibly
As for Saints as Favourites well you are the Champions and it’s first match of the season for Montoya & Pollard so I expect some integration issues!
Tigers huge favourites on their own patch. It will be forward dominated using Tiggers tactics of old - possession, territory and raw power.
Bookies have Tigers at 1:2 on and Saints at 2:1 so Tigers very clear favourites
Quote:tigersimon
Neil,
‘George Martin, Cam Henderson, Sol Kata, Izaia Perese, Finn Carnduff, Matt Rogerson’
Martin, Kata & Perese (centre pairing in R1) to start
Henderson bench
Carnduff or Rogerson on bench possibly
As for Saints as Favourites well you are the Champions and it’s first match of the season for Montoya & Pollard so I expect some integration issues!
But would they be your centre pairing if everyone fit???
And you talking about 2 of the most experienced internationals playing the game, look how Pollars fitted in straight away last season upon joining?
I think you’re playing your chances down
2-3 max missing and maybe 2 on bench? Against 5 missing 2 on bench
Sorry Simon but do t agree with you and neither do the bookies mate
Btw I love your contribution to our board, so not digging at you, please continue … just something we all do and play chances down, when actually this time the cards are stacked in your favour big time n that’s not me playing our chances down…. If we in touch without forced replacements with 20 to go, then we may have a game, but I think you’ll be to physical n dominate the break down to much… which is why I think we gone Graham n Scott—Toung to start to try n match it…
May the best team win 🏆
Neil,
No they wouldn’t be MY first choice centre pairing I would go for Kelly & Perese, with Kata on the bench.
I also wouldn’t start Kelly at 13, I think his skills are far more suited to 12. So I would have started Kelly & Wand.
Obviously some of my you are favourites is tongue in cheek but Pollard was poor for Tigers last season! Him & Montoya are short on time with the squad!
Thank you for the comment about my contributions, I try not to be too one-eyed!
💯, May the best team win and 🤞for no Controversy!
Quote:Neil-H
But would they be your centre pairing if everyone fit???
No they wouldn’t be MY first choice centre pairing I would go for Kelly & Perese, with Kata on the bench.
I also wouldn’t start Kelly at 13, I think his skills are far more suited to 12. So I would have started Kelly & Wand.
Obviously some of my you are favourites is tongue in cheek but Pollard was poor for Tigers last season! Him & Montoya are short on time with the squad!
Thank you for the comment about my contributions, I try not to be too one-eyed!
💯, May the best team win and 🤞for no Controversy!
Let’s hope we see a good competitive game. Key to any Tigers success will be keeping 15 players on the field and not giving Saints soft exit options if we get into your 22.
Safe travels to any going and hope we all enjoy the game from wherever we watch.
Safe travels to any going and hope we all enjoy the game from wherever we watch.
Hang on, no controversy? It wouldn’t be an East Midlands derby without at least one moment that keeps us all chuntering on for months if not longer. 😀
Oh it doesn’t need to be anything specific that will keep one of the two sides’ fans chuntering for months/decades, apart from the letter L. 😊
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2024:10:12:13:02:45 by Stopsy.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2024:10:12:13:02:45 by Stopsy.
Archie mcparland man of the match
Tommy Freeman hatrick
Forward dominance
This is all I want for Christmas
Tommy Freeman hatrick
Forward dominance
This is all I want for Christmas
Definitely looks a tough ask this afternoon, but they are still my lads COYS!
Sick and tired to listening to the poison dwarf commentating and his biased comments. Why do TNT continually do this having him as a commentator on this match. Never ever been neutral and it shows a mile.
Referee telling Leicester scrum half to use it twice from scrum and penalised saints as they don’t , either tell them and do something or be quiet.
Referee telling Leicester scrum half to use it twice from scrum and penalised saints as they don’t , either tell them and do something or be quiet.
Quote:JohnI
Sick and tired to listening to the poison dwarf commentating and his biased comments. Why do TNT continually do this having him as a commentator on this match. Never ever been neutral and it shows a mile.
Referee telling Leicester scrum half to use it twice from scrum and penalised saints as they don’t , either tell them and do something or be quiet.
Well said, totally agree with this. Nauseatingly biased.
Is there any reason why the match commentary seems to be lagging play by 15 mins and only has 4 comments?
Two blatant knock ons ignored…….hey ho, it’s just one of those afternoons when the ref is not going to give anything to the visitors.
So langdons head hits the shoulder and he bounces upwards and the tigers player leads with straight arm?
What has McPartland got on Dowse/Vesty. Been given so many opportunities - yet strikingly average on each.
Leicester look glaringly average, but with rub of green so far.
Leicester look glaringly average, but with rub of green so far.
Quote:JohnI
So langdons head hits the shoulder and he bounces upwards and the tigers player leads with straight arm?
That incident does seem to make a mockery of the rule being about player safety. The only player potentially getting injured as an outcome of that was the bloke yellow carded. Players seem a bit scared/shell shocked. We've been far too sloppy, would like gardside on for a bit of zip.
I though he has actually had a good game so far, the better of the two scrum halfs so far
I don't think we are going to get much change out of this ref TBH. Second try should have been at least scrum to saints for FS knock on if not a yellow.
I don't think we are going to get much change out of this ref TBH. Second try should have been at least scrum to saints for FS knock on if not a yellow.
Quote:ZuluSaint
What has McPartland got on Dowse/Vesty. Been given so many opportunities - yet strikingly average on each.
Leicester look glaringly average, but with rub of green so far.
Jeez the guy is what 19? How many players are the finished article at that age? He has kicked superbly and kept us going forward, been far from our weakest player.
Quote:100% Agreejimusjones
I though he has actually had a good game so far, the better of the two scrum halfs so far
I don't think we are going to get much change out of this ref TBH. Second try should have been at least scrum to saints for FS knock on if not a yellow.
Hope Sam Graham is not too badly hurt, but that’s never a yellow for Reffell.
You can’t ask players to tackle lower then yellow card when knee touches the ground when completing a legitimate tackle!
You can’t ask players to tackle lower then yellow card when knee touches the ground when completing a legitimate tackle!
Complete lack of intensity here from saints. Being bullied all over the park.
Zulu - well, apart from anything else Mitchell and James are unavailable and the only other option is the diminutive Garside who is on the bench !
Quote:ajackQuote:ZuluSaint
What has McPartland got on Dowse/Vesty. Been given so many opportunities - yet strikingly average on each.
Leicester look glaringly average, but with rub of green so far.
Jeez the guy is what 19? How many players are the finished article at that age? He has kicked superbly and kept us going forward, been far from our weakest player.
Why is age relevant?? He hasn't impressed in any of his outings imo. He's far too ponderous, often goes the wrong way, dithers and kicks poorly when in open play (he has kicked well to touch on a couple of occasions). Excited to see Garside who I think is the better player.
Quote:ZuluSaintQuote:ajackQuote:ZuluSaint
What has McPartland got on Dowse/Vesty. Been given so many opportunities - yet strikingly average on each.
Leicester look glaringly average, but with rub of green so far.
Jeez the guy is what 19? How many players are the finished article at that age? He has kicked superbly and kept us going forward, been far from our weakest player.
Why is age relevant?? He hasn't impressed in any of his outings imo. He's far too ponderous, often goes the wrong way, dithers and kicks poorly when in open play (he has kicked well to touch on a couple of occasions). Excited to see Garside who I think is the better player.
Age is relevant. But I do agree with you to an extent Zulu, he's not ready and I think Gardside would have added more. Easy to say in hindsight and I don't see them in training in fairness to the coaching staff.
If someone is being chosen to play, it should be assumed they are at the required standard, regardless of age.
And anothere no try decision - woud you believe it. Ref may as well be wearing a tigers shirt. Now a saints yellow card
Quote:ZuluSaint
If someone is being chosen to play, it should be assumed they are at the required standard, regardless of age.
Age is clearly relevant he is the best age player in England. No one at that age is going to be stand out, not Lawes no one.
Players need experience to get to the top of the game. He is current third choice and playing better than more experienced Saints players today.
This is deja vu to last season at tigers, we seem to just play into their hands. Said it before, and injuries notwithstanding, the departure of 5 matchday forwards really shows in these games.
Ref calls no try because he hasn’t seen a grounding, no TV angle to show definitely grounded.
Happened to us against Saracens last Season at MWWR, Kelly 99% certainly scored but wasn’t given for exactly the same reason.
Happened to us against Saracens last Season at MWWR, Kelly 99% certainly scored but wasn’t given for exactly the same reason.
Quote:ajackQuote:ZuluSaint
If someone is being chosen to play, it should be assumed they are at the required standard, regardless of age.
Age is clearly relevant he is the best age player in England. No one at that age is going to be stand out, not Lawes no one.
Players need experience to get to the top of the game. He is current third choice and playing better than more experienced Saints players today.
I think it's quite clear that U20's is a lot different to men's rugby. We regularly see players who fail to make the transition, a plethora of players have been outstanding at age-grade and then not been able to step up. Others such as Cunningham South (played for England at 20), Wilkinson made his England debut at 18! If you're good enough, you're old enough. Sadly McPartland looks to be struggling with the transition.
Not McParland’s fault that you are being out-muscled.
Loss of big name players and injuries and a very motivated Tigers side!
Loss of big name players and injuries and a very motivated Tigers side!
Quote:tigersimon
Hope Sam Graham is not too badly hurt, but that’s never a yellow for Reffell.
You can’t ask players to tackle lower then yellow card when knee touches the ground when completing a legitimate tackle!
Given no one saw the replays, I'm surprised at your confidence.
Worth noting that Henry Pollock (also 19) is absolutely tearing up. Looks like a fine player already.
Quote:ZuluSaintQuote:ajackQuote:ZuluSaint
If someone is being chosen to play, it should be assumed they are at the required standard, regardless of age.
Age is clearly relevant he is the best age player in England. No one at that age is going to be stand out, not Lawes no one.
Players need experience to get to the top of the game. He is current third choice and playing better than more experienced Saints players today.
I think it's quite clear that U20's is a lot different to men's rugby. We regularly see players who fail to make the transition, a plethora of players have been outstanding at age-grade and then not been able to step up. Others such as Cunningham South (played for England at 20), Wilkinson
made his England debut at 18! If you're good enough, you're old enough. Sadly McPartland looks to be struggling with the transition.
Clearly you have your opinion and Dowson and Vesty have a different one. I just find myself agreeing with them.
Quote:ajackQuote:ZuluSaintQuote:ajackQuote:ZuluSaint
If someone is being chosen to play, it should be assumed they are at the required standard, regardless of age.
Age is clearly relevant he is the best age player in England. No one at that age is going to be stand out, not Lawes no one.
Players need experience to get to the top of the game. He is current third choice and playing better than more experienced Saints players today.
I think it's quite clear that U20's is a lot different to men's rugby. We regularly see players who fail to make the transition, a plethora of players have been outstanding at age-grade and then not been able to step up. Others such as Cunningham South (played for England at 20), Wilkinson
made his England debut at 18! If you're good enough, you're old enough. Sadly McPartland looks to be struggling with the transition.
Clearly you have your opinion and Dowson and Vesty have a different one. I just find myself agreeing with them.
They obviously see something we don't, happy to concede that and they clearly know more than me. But your age comments make absolutely no point.
Let's not try and pin our misfortune on one man. McPartland is 100% not the reason for for this loss and for me has had his best game in the BG and G.
There are 99 reasons we didn't win today and McPartland ain't one.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2024:10:12:19:25:55 by jimusjones.
There are 99 reasons we didn't win today and McPartland ain't one.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2024:10:12:19:25:55 by jimusjones.
He's not the reason we've lost, absolutely. Buy he's not ready at this level- I think that's a fair enough observation.
Pollock has been outstanding, strong game from Ramm too I thought. Got sucked in to Tigers (yawning style) and that was a mistake.
Pollock has been outstanding, strong game from Ramm too I thought. Got sucked in to Tigers (yawning style) and that was a mistake.
Quote:ZuluSaintQuote:ajackQuote:ZuluSaintQuote:ajackQuote:ZuluSaint
If someone is being chosen to play, it should be assumed they are at the required standard, regardless of age.
Age is clearly relevant he is the best age player in England. No one at that age is going to be stand out, not Lawes no one.
Players need experience to get to the top of the game. He is current third choice and playing better than more experienced Saints players today.
I think it's quite clear that U20's is a lot different to men's
rugby. We regularly see players who fail to make the transition, a plethora of players have been outstanding at age-grade and then not been able to step up. Others such as Cunningham South (played for England at 20), Wilkinson
made his England debut at 18! If you're good enough, you're old enough. Sadly McPartland looks to be struggling with the transition.
Clearly you have your opinion and Dowson and Vesty have a different one. I just find myself agreeing with them.
They obviously see something we don't, happy to concede that and they clearly know more than me. But your age comments make absolutely no point.
No they clearly see something you don't not we don't. If you think anyone is at their best at 19 I doubt anything I say or Dowson and Vesty can see will change your mind.
I have never been a great fan of Archie McParland but respect to the lad, he did a fair job tonight under immense pressure. We were just unlucky tonight. The fight was there but we had so many tries disallowed and we couldn't convert opportunity to points. Let's pick the boys up and look forward to next week. Hopefully we can do a number on them in the return game. COYS
Saints were awful. If we had played like that against sarries or a current bristol we would of had 50 plus points put on us. The one thing we need to take from that is that Henry pollock has put his hands up to start .
Quote:ZuluSaint
He's not the reason we've lost, absolutely. Buy he's not ready at this level- I think that's a fair enough observation.
Do you think Van Poortvliet was miles ahead of him? I thought Van Poortvliet looked average for an international.
Quote:ajackQuote:ZuluSaintQuote:ajackQuote:ZuluSaintQuote:ajackQuote:ZuluSaint
If someone is being chosen to play, it should be assumed they are at the required standard, regardless of age.
Age is clearly relevant he is the best age player in England. No one at that age is going to be stand out, not Lawes no one.
Players need experience to get to the top of the game. He is current third choice and playing better than more experienced Saints players today.
I think it's quite clear that U20's is a lot different to men's
rugby. We regularly see players who fail to make the transition, a plethora of players have been outstanding at age-grade and then not been able to step up. Others such as Cunningham South (played for England at 20), Wilkinson
made his England debut at 18! If you're good enough, you're old enough. Sadly McPartland looks to be struggling with the transition.
Clearly you have your opinion and Dowson and Vesty have a different one. I just find myself agreeing with them.
They obviously see something we don't, happy to concede that and they clearly know more than me. But your age comments make absolutely no point.
No they clearly see something you don't not we don't. If you think anyone is at their best at 19 I doubt anything I say or Dowson and Vesty can see will change your mind.
Ajack, you're trying to re-frame the point. Never said 'anyone is at their best at 19 y/o'. Just think this lad looks off the pace, as I have thought for the past few games he's played in. Hopefully all these minutes will be part of his growth, but some minutes with Bedford seems like a good idea.
Quote:jimusjonesQuote:ZuluSaint
He's not the reason we've lost, absolutely. Buy he's not ready at this level- I think that's a fair enough observation.
Do you think Van Poortvliet was miles ahead of him? I thought Van Poortvliet looked average for an international.
Thought he marshalled Tigers reasonably well, didn't panic and kept composure. But nothing special as you note.
It’s a difficult one with McPartland he suffered at the hands of Bristol away last season and since seems to have taken steps in the right direction but he is a long way from pressing AM or TJ if they were fit
However I would love to see him grow over the next year or so and move into that position
It’s always emotional when we lose particularly against Tigers but young players move forward with confidence let’s get behind him as one for the future
I continually see on here comments around how well we have recruited
Can I just say we have made some good decisions but lock has been below par
We really needed a big engine today to get on top of Tigers once the initial adrenaline had subsided
But just missing
Moon was the biggest loss from last year
We need big powerful guys making a serious difference
If we had that there would be more front foot more confidence and more direct play giving the backs opportunities to play
We are missing a key element this year
Just my opinion
However I would love to see him grow over the next year or so and move into that position
It’s always emotional when we lose particularly against Tigers but young players move forward with confidence let’s get behind him as one for the future
I continually see on here comments around how well we have recruited
Can I just say we have made some good decisions but lock has been below par
We really needed a big engine today to get on top of Tigers once the initial adrenaline had subsided
But just missing
Moon was the biggest loss from last year
We need big powerful guys making a serious difference
If we had that there would be more front foot more confidence and more direct play giving the backs opportunities to play
We are missing a key element this year
Just my opinion
We just failed to put the ball down over the line. That's all. It was a very balanced game. We did all the hard work and then the ball was knocker on, held up etc over the line.
Leicester barged a few over at the line, we did not. Simple as. Another day we might have got 5 points. Plenty to work on but considering the situation it could have been worse.
Leicester barged a few over at the line, we did not. Simple as. Another day we might have got 5 points. Plenty to work on but considering the situation it could have been worse.
Well, on a different day, we could have had a fair few tries there, without really turning up. I think the blueprint to beat us hasn't changed. Bully us up front, especially at scrum time. Keep up defensive pressure by being constantly offside cutting down any opportunity for saints to play. Hated our lack of intensity, I won't go as far as saying a lack of fight as that's a harsh accusation, but Leicester seemed to have more purpose in everything they did.
Regardless of any ‘Derby’ result it always seems to matter that little bit more to Leicester. That’s probably completely wrong but it just seems that way…….
I’ve watched McParland since U16s. Always thought there were better that got released.
But Parkinson and Hopley would know far, far better than me. 🤷♂️
But Parkinson and Hopley would know far, far better than me. 🤷♂️
Quote:DeeSaint
Moon was the biggest loss from last year
Bigger than Courtney?
No Coles, CHH, Lockett today and No Augustus obviously impacted on the Physicality of the Forwards and no Burger and M1 in the backs!
Quote:herbie85
Well, on a different day, we could have had a fair few tries there, without really turning up. I think the blueprint to beat us hasn't changed. Bully us up front, especially at scrum time. Keep up defensive pressure by being constantly offside cutting down any opportunity for saints to play. Hated our lack of intensity, I won't go as far as saying a lack of fight as that's a harsh accusation, but Leicester seemed to have more purpose in everything they did.
There seems two ways to beat us you either go in with the attitude of scoring more than us and not worry about our attack. Probably only the likes of Bristol, Quins or Sarries could attempt that, maybe Gloucester this season or you bully us up front which is the more common approach.
When our backs don't click it looks like we are not trying but nothing could be further from the truth. Sadly we seem to have gone backwards with who left and who has replaced them.
We will still have days when it clicks and we look great but we look a good way off the likes of Bath and Sarries.
Quote:tigersimonQuote:DeeSaint
Moon was the biggest loss from last year
Bigger than Courtney?
No Coles, CHH, Lockett today and No Augustus obviously impacted on the Physicality of the Forwards and no Burger and M1 in the backs!
I'm still curious as to why you mentioned "never a yellow for Refell" given that there were no replays? Perhaps you saw it perfectly the first time, if so, could you enlighten us (genuine question btw). Hope the lad is OK, perhaps a citing for Refell...
On another day we would have won that. Had 4 tries not given.
Not sure that describes an “awful” team?
Not sure that describes an “awful” team?
Quote:tigersimonQuote:DeeSaint
Moon was the biggest loss from last year
Bigger than Courtney?
No Coles, CHH, Lockett today and No Augustus obviously impacted on the Physicality of the Forwards and no Burger and M1 in the backs!
The more I watch rugby the more you know you need to win the forward battle to win a game
We suffered for years under Boyd who looked for athletic forwards rather than powerful guys
Once that got sorted we competed and gave our backs the ability to play
( we can thank Boyd for a lot of things particularly our style of play and bringing on a lot of academy players)
But without that platform of forward front foot nothing else really works
Courtney was fantastic but he would be far more effective behind a powerful lock partnership
Im not going to comment on Reffell's yellow as there were no replays. I don't think either of Langdon nor Pollards yellows should have been given. Penalties at most.
I didn't think McParland had the awful game that sone saw. He's not our 1st or 2nd choice 9 for a reason. Yes he's young but also inexperienced. The two aren't the same! If he was a full international, then you could question his level but not yet. Comparing him to Pollock feels unfair. Henry Pollock is a class apart. He is going to be phenomenal.
Today felt like 'one of those days'. Another day, a pass would go to hand, a ball wouldn't be knocked on or a ball would be touched down. Another day we could come home with 4 points, if not 5.
Mitchell
James
Coles
Augustus
Dingwall
5 key players that have required us to field 3rd choice players. That's always going to be telling.
I didn't think McParland had the awful game that sone saw. He's not our 1st or 2nd choice 9 for a reason. Yes he's young but also inexperienced. The two aren't the same! If he was a full international, then you could question his level but not yet. Comparing him to Pollock feels unfair. Henry Pollock is a class apart. He is going to be phenomenal.
Today felt like 'one of those days'. Another day, a pass would go to hand, a ball wouldn't be knocked on or a ball would be touched down. Another day we could come home with 4 points, if not 5.
Mitchell
James
Coles
Augustus
Dingwall
5 key players that have required us to field 3rd choice players. That's always going to be telling.
Quote:St Stokey.
Im not going to comment on Reffell's yellow as there were no replays. I don't think either of Langdon nor Pollards yellows should have been given. Penalties at most.
I didn't think McParland had the awful game that sone saw. He's not our 1st or 2nd choice 9 for a reason. Yes he's young but also inexperienced. The two aren't the same! If he was a full international, then you could question his level but not yet. Comparing him to Pollock feels unfair. Henry Pollock is a class apart. He is going to be phenomenal.
Today felt like 'one of those days'. Another day, a pass would go to hand, a ball wouldn't be knocked on or a ball would be touched down. Another day we could come home with 4 points, if not 5.
Mitchell
James
Coles
Augustus
Dingwall
5 key players that have required us to field 3rd choice players. That's always going to be telling.
But they are both regarded as being "the best in their age group", both are 19 y/o. I don't doubt McPartland has potential, but clearly hasn't been able to demonstrate too much of it during his game time. Off he's chosen to start against Tigers, I think making comparisons to his age-grade peer is fair enough.
Quote:Chris Hoddle
On another day we would have won that. Had 4 tries not given.
Not sure that describes an “awful” team?
Agree. Just felt like a day when everything was against us, and sometimes they are. Another day the referee asks different questions and we get those tries awarded ( Graham and Pearson both scored imo). We aren't fairing too badly at all considering the injuries.
Massive disruption due to injuries at the moment. Thought that McParland was a lot better than previous outings. Everyone has to start at some point.
Apologies if you mentioned it above but who would you have started ahead of McParland, Zulusaint.
He wasn’t dreadful today in my opinion
He wasn’t dreadful today in my opinion
I thought Mcparland did well to me he's better than James who blows hot andcokd
On the way home from the match on the train to Kettering. We were the poorer team in the day. Didn’t hang around after the game as a “tigers” supporter decided to punch me in the face as he left on the Breedon terrace. Security aware, but what can they do. In 30 years of travelling to Tigers first time of being assaulted. Guess the government had them in mind with their new policy ☹️
C. O. Y. S. !!
C. O. Y. S. !!
Quote:Stopsy
Apologies if you mentioned it above but who would you have started ahead of McParland, Zulusaint.
He wasn’t dreadful today in my opinion
Personally like Garside, not sure why he isn't given more of chance. He seems far more decisive and backs himself a lot more imo. Has a natural instinct for the game.
Thanks, he seemed less effective than McParland to me but we all see different things
Quote:ajackQuote:ZuluSaint
What has McPartland got on Dowse/Vesty. Been given so many opportunities - yet strikingly average on each.
Leicester look glaringly average, but with rub of green so far.
Jeez the guy is what 19? How many players are the finished article at that age? He has kicked superbly and kept us going forward, been far from our weakest player.
I thought he had his best game yet for Saints, under testing conditions
Both the Telegraph and the Guardian game reports suggest politely that three of the Saints disallowed tries were good tries. If thats right then we would have won. But heigh ho -etc.
I thought tactically we were poor - trying to bulldoze through the middle -again and gain -while wings shivered in the cold un marked seemed to be pretty ineffective. When it didnt work what did we do ? we did it again -and again.
I thought tactically we were poor - trying to bulldoze through the middle -again and gain -while wings shivered in the cold un marked seemed to be pretty ineffective. When it didnt work what did we do ? we did it again -and again.
Quote:ZuluSaint
What has McPartland got on Dowse/Vesty. Been given so many opportunities - yet strikingly average on each.
.
Absolutely disagree. Today was the day when he stood up and used what he'd learned in his previous dodgy performances. From today he plays on merit not potential. Refusing to be intimidated by JVP and seemingly treated with respect by Youngs. Well done that guy -it was a performance i'd been looking forward to.
it struck me that there were a couple of occasions when the kids wanted to play at a faster pace than the usual suspects - which is a great sign.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2024:10:12:21:56:30 by Santiago.
Quote:SantiagoQuote:ZuluSaint
What has McPartland got on Dowse/Vesty. Been given so many opportunities - yet strikingly average on each.
.
Absolutely disagree. Today was the day when he stood up and used what he'd learned in his previous dodgy performances. From today he plays on merit not potential. Refusing to be intimidated by JVP and seemingly treated with respect by Youngs. Well done that guy -it was a performance i'd been looking forward to.
it struck me that there were a couple of occasions when the kids wanted to play at a faster pace than the usual suspects - which is a great sign.
+1
Guess we all see things differently. Glad McPartland excelled in some of your eyes, hopefully I shall see the same in due course.
The hype was absolutely correct re HP. Incredible performance.
The hype was absolutely correct re HP. Incredible performance.
Not long back from the game. Well done, Tigers, on the win.
Thought Graham's try was good but the others all properly disallowed. Didn't understand Langdon's yellow - he got carded for putting his face into the ball carrier's shoulder? - and thought Pollard's was harsh too. Pleased McParland was fine today - I'd feared him being targeted and taken to the cleaners, but he was fine and stood up well. Certainly not our weakest link!
Mounting injuries are becoming more and more of a concern - the Prem Cup looks be coming a couple of weeks too late for us!
At least we didn't cough up the TBP like we normally do.
Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 2024:10:12:22:56:11 by Matthew.
Thought Graham's try was good but the others all properly disallowed. Didn't understand Langdon's yellow - he got carded for putting his face into the ball carrier's shoulder? - and thought Pollard's was harsh too. Pleased McParland was fine today - I'd feared him being targeted and taken to the cleaners, but he was fine and stood up well. Certainly not our weakest link!
Mounting injuries are becoming more and more of a concern - the Prem Cup looks be coming a couple of weeks too late for us!
At least we didn't cough up the TBP like we normally do.
Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 2024:10:12:22:56:11 by Matthew.
Quote:ZuluSaint
Guess we all see things differently. Glad McPartland excelled in some of your eyes, hopefully I shall see the same in due course.
The hype was absolutely correct re HP. Incredible performance.
At least give him the respect of getting his name right
“Hope PYffy is ok?”
I admit I can be a loud Saints supporter and a bit of a nause to opposition supporters because of my support, however after 30 years of following the Saints it’s the first time anyone has physically assaulted me. I was blindsided by being punched in the face as the Leicester “supporter” left the terrace, dislodging my glasses as he did. security got involved as I was angry at being punched and was asked if I wanted to escalate the situation . What could they do after the assault, at that particular time, I do not know, so I declined, even though it was witnessed by many people around me, However my pride was more injured than my face which just has a bruise on my cheek, so insisted I be allowed to leave the ground without escalating the complaint and return to the railway station. The real Leicester supporters around me were dumbfounded that it had happened and apologised profusely before we left the ground and headed to the station. I’m now at home in Rushden and having eaten supper am looking forward to next Friday at the gardens where I will be a darn sight safer than at welford road today.
C. O. Y. S. !!
I admit I can be a loud Saints supporter and a bit of a nause to opposition supporters because of my support, however after 30 years of following the Saints it’s the first time anyone has physically assaulted me. I was blindsided by being punched in the face as the Leicester “supporter” left the terrace, dislodging my glasses as he did. security got involved as I was angry at being punched and was asked if I wanted to escalate the situation . What could they do after the assault, at that particular time, I do not know, so I declined, even though it was witnessed by many people around me, However my pride was more injured than my face which just has a bruise on my cheek, so insisted I be allowed to leave the ground without escalating the complaint and return to the railway station. The real Leicester supporters around me were dumbfounded that it had happened and apologised profusely before we left the ground and headed to the station. I’m now at home in Rushden and having eaten supper am looking forward to next Friday at the gardens where I will be a darn sight safer than at welford road today.
C. O. Y. S. !!
Quote:ZuluSaintQuote:tigersimonQuote:DeeSaint
Moon was the biggest loss from last year
Bigger than Courtney?
No Coles, CHH, Lockett today and No Augustus obviously impacted on the Physicality of the Forwards and no Burger and M1 in the backs!
I'm still curious as to why you mentioned "never a yellow for Refell" given that there were no replays? Perhaps you saw it perfectly the first time, if so, could you enlighten us (genuine question btw). Hope the lad is OK, perhaps a citing for Refell...
I worked on the game's tv coverage and have seen the reply many times. I agree with Tigersimon that Refell didn't deserve a yellow card for his tackle. Even if his knee was on the ground, it's just a penalty. It's one of those that the outcome has swayed the decision.
I'm surprised at the negativity against McParland. I'll eat plenty of humble pie. I thought he would be the reason we'd suffer, getting targeted by VPF but he did OK. Yes he's no Mitchell (but time is on his side), but compared to his performance away at Bristol earlier this season, he looked a much better player.
Unfortunately, as someone said further up, Tigers always seem a little more up for this Derby than us.
Quote:Saint.Kenneth
worked on the game's tv coverage and have seen the reply many times. I agree with Tigersimon that Refell didn't deserve a yellow card for his tackle. Even if his knee was on the ground, it's just a penalty. It's one of those that the outcome has swayed the decision.
Exactly, I can’t see how anything Tommy did was considered Foul Play!
It’s a legitimate tackle with a wrap and as you say IF his knee was on the ground that’s a PK.
ZuluSaint - I replayed the Live Action!!
As a rugby lover, and as they mentioned on Commentary you can’t coach to tackle low then have officials giving out Yellow cards when players do!!
Wishing Sam Graham a speedy recovery.
Quote:Pyffy
On the way home from the match on the train to Kettering. We were the poorer team in the day. Didn’t hang around after the game as a “tigers” supporter decided to punch me in the face as he left on the Breedon terrace. Security aware, but what can they do. In 30 years of travelling to Tigers first time of being assaulted. Guess the government had them in mind with their new policy ☹️
35 years of attending WR and never encountered anything close to that. Sorry for what is clearly unacceptable. I hope they find the culprit and ban them for life.
If we were going to win yesterday things had to click but our handling let us down, inaccurate passes and sloppiness from the start and that set the tone. We also failed to look after the ball in contact, it was like watching us 2 or 3 years ago, everything was forced and a bit desperate not the well oiled machine we have become used to.
Unlucky with the Freeman score, that looked like an intentional knock on by Steward, that in turn caused Furbank to knock the ball on to Freeman; that would have been game changing if spotted by the TMO, a 7 point score and a yellow card. As for the other disallowed tries, its frustrating that we continually go for the score one or two phases too early, from too far out, we are too impatient.
Leicester's front row seemed to have us on toast, so I reckon McParland did pretty well with scrappy ball that he had to deal with.
Unlucky with the Freeman score, that looked like an intentional knock on by Steward, that in turn caused Furbank to knock the ball on to Freeman; that would have been game changing if spotted by the TMO, a 7 point score and a yellow card. As for the other disallowed tries, its frustrating that we continually go for the score one or two phases too early, from too far out, we are too impatient.
Leicester's front row seemed to have us on toast, so I reckon McParland did pretty well with scrappy ball that he had to deal with.
I am so sorry for the appalling attack. I suppose there are morons at every ground but seldom thankfully to this extreme.
Pyffy,
On behalf of all the genuine Tigers supporters and lovers of Rugby Values, I can only apologise for this Muppets behaviour!
Should you wish to follow it up with Tigers, please email
Gary.Harrison@tigers.co.uk
On behalf of all the genuine Tigers supporters and lovers of Rugby Values, I can only apologise for this Muppets behaviour!
Should you wish to follow it up with Tigers, please email
Gary.Harrison@tigers.co.uk
On a positive note last year our worst performances were bath , tigers and Bristol away. So far we have had 2 of those away games. Of the 4 games this year that was our worst performance overall and we could of scored 4/5 trys. Tigers of old always used to peak at the right time of the season . If we can be at least 3 from 6 of the first group of games we would still be in touch and can build this team up. Getting Mitch, trokkie,coles and odenndall would make such a big difference . We need to beat sale at home and pick up at least 1 point in the bristol game. I would take that with our current injuries .
Didn’t think we were a million miles away tbh. I still fancied we might win with 20 mins left, but we just didn’t click. The injuries are killing us atm, but the game time for Pollock, McParland et al should stand to us in the longer term.
Find the criticism of McParland very bizarre. The talent is clearly there. Great service, including the long flat passes into midfield that Vesty likes so much. A skilful kicker and all the attributes for a running threat. Just remember all the criticism Mitchell and even Furbank used to get in the early days, about taking wrong options, overplaying etc.
If you want top players you have to invest in them. They don’t fall fully formed from the sky, unless you just want to buy them all in. But then what about the club DNA?
Find the criticism of McParland very bizarre. The talent is clearly there. Great service, including the long flat passes into midfield that Vesty likes so much. A skilful kicker and all the attributes for a running threat. Just remember all the criticism Mitchell and even Furbank used to get in the early days, about taking wrong options, overplaying etc.
If you want top players you have to invest in them. They don’t fall fully formed from the sky, unless you just want to buy them all in. But then what about the club DNA?
James should be back for the Sale game but Furbank and Graham added to the list!
Augustus, CHH, Dingwall & Mitch?
Is Burger back running? And Friday evening is probably too soon for Coles’ ribs!
Augustus, CHH, Dingwall & Mitch?
Is Burger back running? And Friday evening is probably too soon for Coles’ ribs!
Quote:tigersimon
James should be back for the Sale game but Furbank and Graham added to the list!
Augustus, CHH, Dingwall & Mitch?
Is Burger back running? And Friday evening is probably too soon for Coles’ ribs!
Hunter hill was said to be very close before tigers game
James should be back
Augustus don't know
Dingwall don't know
Coles I think another few weeks
Burger maybe Christmas time
Hendy was in the warm up last night so could feature
Mitch don't know .
Ramm will move to 15 I think next week with Freeman and Sleights on wing with Hendy on bench .
Quote:Saint dolphQuote:tigersimon
James should be back for the Sale game but Furbank and Graham added to the list!
Augustus, CHH, Dingwall & Mitch?
Is Burger back running? And Friday evening is probably too soon for Coles’ ribs!
Hunter hill was said to be very close before tigers game
James should be back
Augustus don't know
Dingwall don't know
Coles I think another few weeks
Burger maybe Christmas time
Hendy was in the warm up last night so could feature
Mitch don't know .
Ramm will move to 15 I think next week with Freeman and Sleights on wing with Hendy on bench .
Or partner Hutch with Freeman and put Hendy straight back in on the wing
Thanks Saint dolph.
A possible 23?
15 James Ramm
14 Tommy Freeman
13 Fraser Dingwall/Tom Litchfield
12 Rory Hutchinson
11 Ollie Sleightholme
10 Fin Smith
9 Tom James
1 Emmanuel Iyogun
2 Curtis Langdon
3 Trevor Davison
4 CHH
5 Chunya Munga
6 Josh Kemeny
7 Tom Pearson
8 Juarno Augustus/ Henry Pollock
Replacements:
16 Craig Wright
17 Tom West
18 Elliot Millar Mills
19 Temo Mayanavanua
20 Henry Pollock/Angus Scott-Young
21 Archie McParland
22 Charlie Savala
23 George Hendy
A possible 23?
15 James Ramm
14 Tommy Freeman
13 Fraser Dingwall/Tom Litchfield
12 Rory Hutchinson
11 Ollie Sleightholme
10 Fin Smith
9 Tom James
1 Emmanuel Iyogun
2 Curtis Langdon
3 Trevor Davison
4 CHH
5 Chunya Munga
6 Josh Kemeny
7 Tom Pearson
8 Juarno Augustus/ Henry Pollock
Replacements:
16 Craig Wright
17 Tom West
18 Elliot Millar Mills
19 Temo Mayanavanua
20 Henry Pollock/Angus Scott-Young
21 Archie McParland
22 Charlie Savala
23 George Hendy
Quote:tigersimon
Thanks Saint dolph.
A possible 23?
15 James Ramm
14 Tommy Freeman
13 Fraser Dingwall/Tom Litchfield
12 Rory Hutchinson
11 Ollie Sleightholme
10 Fin Smith
9 Tom James
1 Emmanuel Iyogun
2 Curtis Langdon
3 Trevor Davison
4 CHH
5 Chunya Munga
6 Josh Kemeny
7 Tom Pearson
8 Juarno Augustus/ Henry Pollock
Replacements:
16 Craig Wright
17 Tom West
18 Elliot Millar Mills
19 Temo Mayanavanua
20 Henry Pollock/Angus Scott-Young
21 Archie McParland
22 Charlie Savala
23 George Hendy
I'd go very similar to that. If Augustus is fit I'd play Pearson at 6 and pollock at 7 put kemeny on bench. Just on basis pollock has put his hand up and kemeny has high minutes so far so rotation would not hurt.
Quote:Pyffy
“Hope PYffy is ok?”
I admit I can be a loud Saints supporter and a bit of a nause to opposition supporters because of my support, however after 30 years of following the Saints it’s the first time anyone has physically assaulted me. I was blindsided by being punched in the face as the Leicester “supporter” left the terrace, dislodging my glasses as he did. security got involved as I was angry at being punched and was asked if I wanted to escalate the situation . What could they do after the assault, at that particular time, I do not know, so I declined, even though it was witnessed by many people around me, However my pride was more injured than my face which just has a bruise on my cheek, so insisted I be allowed to leave the ground without escalating the complaint and return to the railway station. The real Leicester supporters around me were dumbfounded that it had happened and apologised profusely before we left the ground and headed to the station. I’m now at home in Rushden and having eaten supper am looking forward to next Friday at the gardens where I will be a darn sight safer than at welford road today.
What is wrong with people that feel it’s ok to take a swing at someone for just being an opposition supporter
Glad you’re ok, bruised cheek and likely bruised ego
Never sure which hurts the most
I did read an article, I think in the telegraph, this week suggesting Rugby follows Soccer and segments part of the ground for away fans
I thought at the time that it isn’t necessary in Rugby but problems at Bath now Welford Road does make you think
Hope it disappeares from your memory quickly
Don’t want that kind of negativity hanging around
Quote:tigersimon
Pyffy,
On behalf of all the genuine Tigers supporters and lovers of Rugby Values, I can only apologise for this Muppets behaviour!
Should you wish to follow it up with Tigers, please email
'Gary.Harrison@tigers.co'.uk
Morning Simon, stopsy et al, after of a morning in the garden, clearing the cobwebs of yesterdays drama and reflecting on what occurred, I would like to thank you all for your kind words. What happened was not reflective of your club or the match days I’ve experienced there over the years. The day until this started to unfold had been a great one and it was fun chatting to the Tiger fans around us in the first half and and agreed you were worth your lead. The problems started after half when some people moved around. After some thought I have come to the conclusion that the only thing really hurt yesterday was my pride. What started as banter, descended later into lunacy. From exchanges of light hearted banter, through to more personal insults, to nearly being deliberately pushed down the terrace steps on 2 occasions requiring me on a third attempt to confront the guy pushing me, which luckily was quickly defused by another Tigers supporter stepping between us. I moved away down a couple of steps to distance myself for the rest of the game thinking that would be the end of it. However at the final whistle I returned to my friends and was blindsided by the punch. On reflection I think there were words exchanged that I or the other guys involved wouldn’t be proud of in the cold light of day. However I believe these people were out looking for trouble and this 60 year old overweight ex prop was who they chose to exact it on before disappearing into the crowd. As such , it’s over, life’s moved on and the sun is shining, so I have no intention of pursuing this any further. I’ve got it off my chest cleared my mind and look forward to the next time we meet.
As far as the game went, it wasn’t our day and Tigers did what they had to do to win, as they usually do at home. Had one or two of the disallowed tries gone our way it may have shaped the game differently. However I will watch the game back today and see how badly or well we actually played before making any judgement on who was good, bad or indifferent and if I can’t I will invariably just blame the ref 🤣
C. O. Y. S. !!
Quote:Sorry for your crappy experience. I’ve been a Tigers season ticket holder for 40 years and have rarely seen any trouble. Hope the culprit is caught and banned for life as we don’t need people like this blemishing our reputation as the best fans in the league😃PyffyQuote:tigersimon
Pyffy,
On behalf of all the genuine Tigers supporters and lovers of Rugby Values, I can only apologise for this Muppets behaviour!
Should you wish to follow it up with Tigers, please email
'Gary.Harrison@tigers.co'.uk
Morning Simon, stopsy et al, after of a morning in the garden, clearing the cobwebs of yesterdays drama and reflecting on what occurred, I would like to thank you all for your kind words. What happened was not reflective of your club or the match days I’ve experienced there over the years. The day until this started to unfold had been a great one and it was fun chatting to the Tiger fans around us in the first half and and agreed you were worth your lead. The problems started after half when some people moved around. After some thought I have come to the conclusion that the only thing really hurt yesterday was my pride. What started as banter, descended later into lunacy. From exchanges of light hearted banter, through to more personal insults, to nearly being deliberately pushed down the terrace steps on 2 occasions requiring me on a third attempt to confront the guy pushing me, which luckily was quickly defused by another Tigers supporter stepping between us. I moved away down a couple of steps to distance myself for the rest of the game thinking that would be the end of it. However at the final whistle I returned to my friends and was blindsided by the punch. On reflection I think there were words exchanged that I or the other guys involved wouldn’t be proud of in the cold light of day. However I believe these people were out looking for trouble and this 60 year old overweight ex prop was who they chose to exact it on before disappearing into the crowd. As such , it’s over, life’s moved on and the sun is shining, so I have no intention of pursuing this any further. I’ve got it off my chest cleared my mind and look forward to the next time we meet.
As far as the game went, it wasn’t our day and Tigers did what they had to do to win, as they usually do at home. Had one or two of the disallowed tries gone our way it may have shaped the game differently. However I will watch the game back today and see how badly or well we actually played before making any judgement on who was good, bad or indifferent and if I can’t I will invariably just blame the ref 🤣
Looking at the stats on the Premiership app it would suggest that Saints had the upper hand in just about every area except the score🤔
Shows how misleading stats can be. Tigers scrum was well on top and post contact metres made far superior.
Look, Leicester wanted it that little bit more and deserved the win - it was a typical Tigers performance on their own patch based upon determination and physicality centred around the set piece. Saints were never able to really impose their flowing game against the home side, indeed I would suggest we were suckered in trying to match Leicester’s style and we came up short. It was one of those days when very little seemed to go Saints way especially from the four officials. You could say that the scoreline flattered Tigers and you might be right but from where I was sitting the home side always seemed to be in control even when under pressure. I get the feeling that we are going to have a transitional season as the forwards find their feet as a unit. There is along way to go and if we get a bit more luck on the injury front, then a top four place is within our grasp but with no points from the first two away games the pressure on next Fridays game has gone up a notch with a trip to Ashton Gate just a week later.
Be surprised if you’re not top 4. Everyone’s chances depends on injuries and how far they go in Europe . We have Toulouse , Bordeaux , stormers and Ulster so doubt we’ll get out of the group stages.
Thought we were back to a position where the pack looked a bit lightweight yesterday. Obviously all the injuries not helping. But we lacked ball carriers who could punch holes and didn't generate enough quick ball to play with sufficient width to trouble Tigers out wide. Stepping up the intensity in the pack will be crucial to beating Sale. I would like to see Pollock and Pearson both start. If Hunter Hill is available would like to see him start too, with Temo I think. Would consider Freemo to centre if Dingers is still out. Sleights and Hendy (if fit) on wings if Furbs is out. Ramm at 15.
V sorry to hear about your experience at WR yesterday Pyffy. Inexcusable behaviour and sad to hear about.
V sorry to hear about your experience at WR yesterday Pyffy. Inexcusable behaviour and sad to hear about.
I was surprised to see Pollock repeatedly trying to bludgeon his way through tackles. He’s obviously a very talented player but this didn’t seem wise tactics on the day.
Quote:Stopsy
I was surprised to see Pollock repeatedly trying to bludgeon his way through tackles. He’s obviously a very talented player but this didn’t seem wise tactics on the day.
Presumably to generate front foot ball, a long with the fact is was absolutely chucking it down for the final 20'?
Thought he was outstanding and especially for a 19 y/o (age matters apparently). He'll play for England.
Don’t get me wrong, he’s a prodigious talent. I was just surprised and quite pleased, from a one eyed Tigers perspective, that he persevered so long with a failing move. It will of course work against different defences on a different day.
The last 19 year old Saints forward I can remember who impressed me as much as Pollock did against Tigers was a young Courtney Lawes.
The flip side is from our best starting pack and bench (13 forwards) we were only missing two in Augustus and Coles and yet we were a distant second best to the Tigers pack in pretty much every facet (bar defence), which is a worry. We don’t look terrible but we look bang average so far this season.
The flip side is from our best starting pack and bench (13 forwards) we were only missing two in Augustus and Coles and yet we were a distant second best to the Tigers pack in pretty much every facet (bar defence), which is a worry. We don’t look terrible but we look bang average so far this season.
I think Friday evening’s match is a must-win for you guys as the following week (as I understand it) you go to Ashton Gate minus the England Camp Players!
So could be missing Furbank, Mitch (if fit), Smith, Freeman, Dingwall (if fit), Sleightholme, Coles (if fit) & Davison in camp!
Bristol likely to lose Genge & Randall!
So could be missing Furbank, Mitch (if fit), Smith, Freeman, Dingwall (if fit), Sleightholme, Coles (if fit) & Davison in camp!
Bristol likely to lose Genge & Randall!
Unfortunately there seem to be plenty of rumours about on Saintly Facebook groups suggesting Mitch has a career ending problem😏
Quote:Saint Maul
The last 19 year old Saints forward I can remember who impressed me as much as Pollock did against Tigers was a young Courtney Lawes.
The flip side is from our best starting pack and bench (13 forwards) we were only missing two in Augustus and Coles and yet we were a distant second best to the Tigers pack in pretty much every facet (bar defence), which is a worry. We don’t look terrible but we look bang average so far this season.
I would agree with that. However Pollock is another fairly small forward, by todays standards, playing in what looks like an already small and underpowered pack. I am not sure we lack skill in the forwards or any are bad players we just seem to have the balance all wrong again.
Take away Waller, Lawes, Hill, Ludlam and Moon, then factor in injuries to Coles, Graham and Augustus - is it any wonder that this may be a transitional season for Saints as replacements bed themselves into the equation. It is always a big ask to maintain Championship winning momentum and we do not have the same physical presence as, for example, Bath and Leicester. Keep winning at home and do what you can on your travels - it keeps you in the mix at the very least.
Chris H - I don’t think that spreading rumours, which personally I have not seen anywhere else, helps very much.
Chris H - I don’t think that spreading rumours, which personally I have not seen anywhere else, helps very much.
Quote:ajackQuote:Saint Maul
The last 19 year old Saints forward I can remember who impressed me as much as Pollock did against Tigers was a young Courtney Lawes.
The flip side is from our best starting pack and bench (13 forwards) we were only missing two in Augustus and Coles and yet we were a distant second best to the Tigers pack in pretty much every facet (bar defence), which is a worry. We don’t look terrible but we look bang average so far this season.
I would agree with that. However Pollock is another fairly small forward, by todays standards, playing in what looks like an already small and underpowered pack. I am not
sure we lack skill in the forwards or any are bad players we just seem to have the balance all wrong again.
Is it the size of the players or is it the mindset on the day? Is it tactics? Is it how much each player wants it on the day? Is it the style in a team plays. Based purely on weight from wiki tell me if there's much difference between us and tigers?
Smith 17st 11. Iyogun 18st 10
Montoya 17st 5 langdon 16st 12
Heyes 19st 3 millar Mills 19st 1
Chessum 18st 8 munga 18st 9
Wells 19st 1 temo 18st 13
Hanro 17st 5. Kemeny 17st 5
Reffell 16st 3 Scott Young 17st
Cracknell 17st 5 graham 17st 9
We are by no means a poor team. We've lost some key players but on the whole, I think we've recruited well and these new recruits will take time to bed in.
Hopefully, the result was just missing 'those top two inches'. That is something we can sort. Perhaps it was just a case of being away, it being the derby and us having that 'Champions target' on our back, a culmination of the three in Leicester's favour. The old adage of learning more from a loss than a win holds true and the more inexperienced players can learn from the experience. McParland, Pollock, even Munga, Iyogun and Litchfield will be better for these experiences.
I still believe that another day, we could have one that. If the ball had bounced differently, we'd have had 4 tries.
This isn't a time to drop the players or call for Dowson' head. Lets just use it as a kick up the ar$e for next weekend and those to come.
Hopefully, the result was just missing 'those top two inches'. That is something we can sort. Perhaps it was just a case of being away, it being the derby and us having that 'Champions target' on our back, a culmination of the three in Leicester's favour. The old adage of learning more from a loss than a win holds true and the more inexperienced players can learn from the experience. McParland, Pollock, even Munga, Iyogun and Litchfield will be better for these experiences.
I still believe that another day, we could have one that. If the ball had bounced differently, we'd have had 4 tries.
This isn't a time to drop the players or call for Dowson' head. Lets just use it as a kick up the ar$e for next weekend and those to come.
Quote:St Stokey.
.
This isn't a time to drop the players or call for Dowson' head. Lets just use it as a kick up the ar$e for next weekend and those to come.
What absolute cojones do you really think anyone might be thinking like that?
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2024:10:14:13:34:31 by Santiago.
I thought Pollock was mighty impressive on Saturday but following on from Saint Dolph’s weights post it did mean you lost 1stone 8lb when he replaced Graham.
I was surprised at the time when he came on rather than Pearson.
I was surprised at the time when he came on rather than Pearson.
Quote:Chris Hoddle
Unfortunately there seem to be plenty of rumours about on Saintly Facebook groups suggesting Mitch has a career ending problem😏
I've heard he's been training . Would saints let him have a jolly game of darts with Hendy at an event if it was that serious ??
I'm a little late to the party here but it's worth noting that 9 and 6/7 are very different positions - the former very much more involved with decision making and highlighted when it doesn't go well, doubly so in our way of playing. By contrast the worst case scenario for a flanker (other than giving away lots of pens and/or cards) is being relatively quiet.
I've taken a day or two to reflect as I was hugely frustrated after watching that, clearly there is bias at play on my part and on balance Tigers probably deserved to win but it was just such a weak reffing performance that allowed such negativity around the breakdown - very reminiscent of a certain Exeter vintage which was very effective if allowed. Probably too late to matter but how many penalties were there in the Tigers 22 in the last 10 mins or so?
I've taken a day or two to reflect as I was hugely frustrated after watching that, clearly there is bias at play on my part and on balance Tigers probably deserved to win but it was just such a weak reffing performance that allowed such negativity around the breakdown - very reminiscent of a certain Exeter vintage which was very effective if allowed. Probably too late to matter but how many penalties were there in the Tigers 22 in the last 10 mins or so?
[/u] if we’re being pedantic Tigers were given 2 yellow cards both of which were poor decisions by the officials.
I think the officials had a bad day. Poor positioning, decisions arrived at too soon, even poor camera angles.
Saints' and Tigers' fans will point at different things and with a degree of justification. However, the Saints certainly didn't get the rub of the green and the occasion was a bit much for the team of officials we had.
Saints' and Tigers' fans will point at different things and with a degree of justification. However, the Saints certainly didn't get the rub of the green and the occasion was a bit much for the team of officials we had.
Quote:twsaint
I think the officials had a bad day. Poor positioning, decisions arrived at too soon, even poor camera angles.
Saints' and Tigers' fans will point at different things and with a degree of justification. However, the Saints certainly didn't get the rub of the green and the occasion was a bit much for the team of officials we had.
I would agree with all of that and that we were unlucky but still think that if we'd won it would have been against the run of play.
As always Leicester were far more aggressive and a bit more determined than we were.
It’s very early in the season but I’ll go for top four of In no particular order Bath, Saints, Tigers and Sarries.
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