Bath
DEVELOPMENT, SILVERWARE- OR BOTH? PRC QUARTER FINAL
Richards: developing lead
By Tom Reagan
February 26 2025
Tomorrow night Bath take on Quins at The Rec in the one televised quarter-final of the Prem Rugby Cup. It's a matchup between the 4th and 5th seeds respectively in a competition I'm really enjoying, but one that for all the much-maligned paucity of 'A-team' rugby doesn't seem to have really attracted the interest and attention that it perhaps deserves. Given the inevitable mis -matches that have sometimes occurred in a tournament incorporating clubs of such contrasting resources, the competition has also offered some excellent games and provided valuable experience and exposure for developing players and for Championship clubs who are rarely in the spotlight
The lack of media coverage, especially given sides - Exeter excepted - are picking a nucleus of developing players, makes reviewing these games something of a lottery! Even the tournament website is rather underwhelming. Click on the 'Match highlights' icon under virtually every fixture and you're told 'NEWS UNAVAILABLE'!
The tournament is structured to heavily favour the highest seeded qualifiers from the group stages. Newcastle, as top seeds, potentially have a home QF, SF and Final. Bath might yet rue failing to
gain even a bonus point after scoring 3 tries in the first half of their final group game at Bristol, but their immediate challenge is to beat a Quins side that, but for conceding a decisive 78th minute penalty against Saracens at The Stoop would have qualified as top seeds. That game offers a pretty good glimpse of the side Quins may well put out tomorrow, and it was a very strong one, yet despite playing some typically flowing rugby they still managed to lose to a far less experienced Sarries side. From the brief highlights available Dombrandt had a stormer and their backs looked as good as you'd expect from Quins, but 7 minutes doesn't give you too many clues as to where they went wrong!
I'm hoping Bath continue to prioritise player development over any desire to win some long-awaited silverware, but JVG will also have an eye on the Premiership game against Gloucester on March 23rd, and with the semi-finals on the 7th/8th March and the final on 14th March he'll be viewing those as useful fixtures for getting some of the established first teamers a much needed run out. A win tomorrow therefore becomes doubly important.
With this in mind I expect Bath to go a little stronger than the side they put out against Bristol, although even with the bench they fielded, on paper at least it seems that they'll be drawing from a less experienced squad than Quins.
Despite their well -deserved reputation for playing free-flowing rugby, Quins have a pretty strong pack. Hopefully Billy Sela will get a chance to pit himself against one of the game's top scrummagers in Welsh International Wyn Jones. In the 2nd row there's plenty of ballast in perming any two from Stephan Lewies, Joe Launchbury and Irne Herbst.
Against Sarries Quins had Danny Care and Jarrod Evans at 9 and 10 with Nick David and Tyrone Green just two of a number of talented outside backs and Leigh Halfpenny to punish any ill - discipline. Bath will be warned!
You won't have long to wait to see the Bath side so as always when I write a preview I won't try and predict it, in part for fear of naming players who you all know are injured or ineligible and also because I don't like choosing one individual over another - a ridiculous stance I know, given the players won't be reading this, but there it is!
With the cameras there let's just hope it's a close, exciting game for a tournament that needs the positive publicity.
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Discussion started by Comeonmylovers.co.uk (IP Logged), 26/02/2025 22:28
26/02/2025 22:28
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Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2025:03:04:13:51:43 by hasta.
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Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2025:03:04:13:51:43 by hasta.
Thanks Tom.
Fingers crossed that Orlando Bailey is fit to take his place at 10.
Like you, I suspect that one or two Prem starters may be called on - especially in midfield if Bailey is not available, but I expect that the squad will mostly be based on those who have got us thus far in this cup.
PG
Fingers crossed that Orlando Bailey is fit to take his place at 10.
Like you, I suspect that one or two Prem starters may be called on - especially in midfield if Bailey is not available, but I expect that the squad will mostly be based on those who have got us thus far in this cup.
PG
For all my interest in the competition I'd completely forgotten that this preview was one I'd said I'd do until I happened to check the thread at 8pm tonight. Thanks PGT - handed my homework in late at 22.30 and it's been checked and put on the board already with omitted heading supplied. My next preview will be handed in much earlier. Apologies again!
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2025:02:26:22:44:38 by TomReagan.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2025:02:26:22:44:38 by TomReagan.
Great write-up Tom. It's definitely a more exciting competition than it has been in previous years (likely down to the fact we've actually won a few games) and I would like to see us progress.
However, I'd also like to see us stick with the largely the same team, which I expect Robbo will. Given the Quins players you've listed above, it seems unlikely we'll be able to match such an experienced team...unless we play one ourselves. Bit of a quandary for the coaching team, but I'm sure they've had worse decisions to make.
Just hoping for an entertaining game tbh and to see a few of our budding stars get some valuable game time. If Exeter and Newcastle continue to play their strongest team then the result will probably be immaterial anyway.
However, I'd also like to see us stick with the largely the same team, which I expect Robbo will. Given the Quins players you've listed above, it seems unlikely we'll be able to match such an experienced team...unless we play one ourselves. Bit of a quandary for the coaching team, but I'm sure they've had worse decisions to make.
Just hoping for an entertaining game tbh and to see a few of our budding stars get some valuable game time. If Exeter and Newcastle continue to play their strongest team then the result will probably be immaterial anyway.
I’d be very disappointed in the club if they play a stronger than usual team for this game.
Ben Spencer has been released from the England squad. Might be worth giving him 10-15 minutes off the bench if we're winning or nearly winning at that point. Thinking more along the lines of him getting some game time before the run-in. Could apply the same logic to a few other first team players remembering that if they haven't played by the end of this round they can't play in the SF and Final should we get that far.
Sadly I think it's a case of go big or go home for this one...
Adopted players: 24/25 J Bayliss; [24] O Lawrence; [23] J Cokanasiga; [22] M Green; [21] A Watson; [20] T Faletau; [19] M V Vuuren; [18] T Faletau; [17] D Denton; [16] H. Agulla; [15] L Houston; [14] W Spencer; [13] F. Louw
Family . Community . Nation - [sdp.org.uk]
My mind's been going places without me lately - Bushfire The B52's
Adopted players: 24/25 J Bayliss; [24] O Lawrence; [23] J Cokanasiga; [22] M Green; [21] A Watson; [20] T Faletau; [19] M V Vuuren; [18] T Faletau; [17] D Denton; [16] H. Agulla; [15] L Houston; [14] W Spencer; [13] F. Louw
Family . Community . Nation - [sdp.org.uk]
My mind's been going places without me lately - Bushfire The B52's
They’ll write books about Ben Spencer’s involvement (or lack thereof) with England. So odd. It’s almost a Cipriani like situation- without the attitude (it seems). As so many have said since the Scotland match, it’s even odder if the strategy is to box kick 15 times per game.
Utterly explainable and whilst I’m no conspiracy theorist it does smack of some issue with Wigglesworth.
Anyhoo- agree give Ben the last quarter v Quins. In fact I’d load the bench I think. Start Kepu, Sela, Richards, Staddon, TCS, Hennessy, Odonoghue…. And bring on Dunn, TDT, Roux, Coetzee, Ben, Redpath and TDG.
2024/25 adoptee: Guy Pepper
Utterly explainable and whilst I’m no conspiracy theorist it does smack of some issue with Wigglesworth.
Anyhoo- agree give Ben the last quarter v Quins. In fact I’d load the bench I think. Start Kepu, Sela, Richards, Staddon, TCS, Hennessy, Odonoghue…. And bring on Dunn, TDT, Roux, Coetzee, Ben, Redpath and TDG.
2024/25 adoptee: Guy Pepper
In terms of selection - I hope the starting XV is about the same balance of 12-14 youngsters and 1-3 top 2 choices, but with those top2s who haven't played in the last month (and haven't already qualified for the knock-out stages).
I'd probably go quite heavy on the bench though.
Partially, this is to knock some rust off for those top 2 choicers who've been rehab.ing and doing gym work; and partly this is to give us options if we do go deeper into the tournament.
That said, there's also the "we're 11 points clear of 3rd place in the Prem, and have 2 home matches to kick start the run-in; maybe we'd be better with an extra 3 weeks of R&R than knocking off 4 weeks worth of rust"
I fully support the idea of this being a development tournament, and would love to see it treated that way throughout; but it isn't, it's multi-purpose.
It serves as a development opportunity for young players who don't get much game time (or at least, not together)
It serves to allow the first XV to have a bit of a rest and recuperation (physical and psychological)
The latter stages serve to get those same players back off the beach and onto the pitch
It's a chance for more secondary coaches to step up to more primary positions
It's a chance to trial potential new tactics with an eye on next season
It's a trophy with value of it's own, both as a trophy, and as a confidence booster
Each club will prioritise each of those purposes (and no doubt, some I've missed) differently.
A man who cannot change his mind, cannot change anything
RAEBURN SHIELD
I'd probably go quite heavy on the bench though.
Partially, this is to knock some rust off for those top 2 choicers who've been rehab.ing and doing gym work; and partly this is to give us options if we do go deeper into the tournament.
That said, there's also the "we're 11 points clear of 3rd place in the Prem, and have 2 home matches to kick start the run-in; maybe we'd be better with an extra 3 weeks of R&R than knocking off 4 weeks worth of rust"
I fully support the idea of this being a development tournament, and would love to see it treated that way throughout; but it isn't, it's multi-purpose.
It serves as a development opportunity for young players who don't get much game time (or at least, not together)
It serves to allow the first XV to have a bit of a rest and recuperation (physical and psychological)
The latter stages serve to get those same players back off the beach and onto the pitch
It's a chance for more secondary coaches to step up to more primary positions
It's a chance to trial potential new tactics with an eye on next season
It's a trophy with value of it's own, both as a trophy, and as a confidence booster
Each club will prioritise each of those purposes (and no doubt, some I've missed) differently.
RAEBURN SHIELD
Quote:dr.bath1865
Anyhoo- agree give Ben the last quarter v Quins. In fact I’d load the bench I think. Start Kepu, Sela, Richards, Staddon, TCS, Hennessy, Odonoghue…. And bring on Dunn, TDT, Roux, Coetzee, Ben, Redpath and TDG.
Don't hate this idea.
Out of interest - looking at who's been involved so far (and presumably already qualified for a SF / F), we could put out.
1. Francois van Wyk
2. Stewart/Spandler/Kepu
3. Archie Griffin / Billy Sela
4. Ross Molony
5. Ewan Richards
6. Jaco Coetzee
7. Miles Reid
8. Alfie Barbeary
09. Tom Carr-Smith
10. Orlando Bailey
11. Ruaridh McConnochie
12. Redpath/Ojomoh
13. Ojomoh/Butt
14. Joe Cokanasiga
15. Sam Harris
So... we've got more "top 2" players qualified than I'd though (okay, so those THPs are fighting for 3rd choice, but plenty good enough).
Depending on injuries, availability and who's just too bored of the gym, I'd go with:
1. Arthur Cordwell
2. Dunn/Annett
3. Kieran Verden
4. Charlie Ewels
5. Ewan Richards
6. Ethan Staddon
7. Tom Cowan
8. Jaco Coetzee
09. Tom Carr-Smith
10. Bailey
11. Will Muir
12. Will Parry
13. Louie Hennessey
14. Austin Emens
15. Donoghue
16. John Stewart
17. Francois van Wyk
18. Thomas du Toit
19. Harvey Cuckson
20. Arthur Green
21. Ben Spencer
22. Will Butt
23. Harris
That's a touch stronger than we sent to Bristol, respects the guys who got us this far, and qualifies us Dunn/Annett, Ewels, Muir; du Toit & Spencer (and potentially de Glanville).
If Harris and Bailey are both out, then Donoghue to FH, Emens to FB & Butt to wing. De Glanville and either Cam or Max come in the bench.
A man who cannot change his mind, cannot change anything
RAEBURN SHIELD
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2025:02:27:10:55:21 by Which Tyler.
1. Francois van Wyk
2. Stewart/Spandler/Kepu
3. Archie Griffin / Billy Sela
4. Ross Molony
5. Ewan Richards
6. Jaco Coetzee
7. Miles Reid
8. Alfie Barbeary
09. Tom Carr-Smith
10. Orlando Bailey
11. Ruaridh McConnochie
12. Redpath/Ojomoh
13. Ojomoh/Butt
14. Joe Cokanasiga
15. Sam Harris
So... we've got more "top 2" players qualified than I'd though (okay, so those THPs are fighting for 3rd choice, but plenty good enough).
Depending on injuries, availability and who's just too bored of the gym, I'd go with:
1. Arthur Cordwell
2. Dunn/Annett
3. Kieran Verden
4. Charlie Ewels
5. Ewan Richards
6. Ethan Staddon
7. Tom Cowan
8. Jaco Coetzee
09. Tom Carr-Smith
10. Bailey
11. Will Muir
12. Will Parry
13. Louie Hennessey
14. Austin Emens
15. Donoghue
16. John Stewart
17. Francois van Wyk
18. Thomas du Toit
19. Harvey Cuckson
20. Arthur Green
21. Ben Spencer
22. Will Butt
23. Harris
That's a touch stronger than we sent to Bristol, respects the guys who got us this far, and qualifies us Dunn/Annett, Ewels, Muir; du Toit & Spencer (and potentially de Glanville).
If Harris and Bailey are both out, then Donoghue to FH, Emens to FB & Butt to wing. De Glanville and either Cam or Max come in the bench.
RAEBURN SHIELD
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2025:02:27:10:55:21 by Which Tyler.
Should Bath win, the most likely outcome could be a trip to Newcastle who are in pole position to host home Semi & Final.
Steve Diamond is determined to end the Falcons' "trophy drought":
[www.bbc.co.uk]
PG
Steve Diamond is determined to end the Falcons' "trophy drought":
[www.bbc.co.uk]
PG
One of the reasons (for me) that this competition is more interesting is the fact that we had home and away pools. The stupidity of being ranked in so-called pools where we didn't play the other teams in that pool simply didn't work.
The perceived drop off in interest in the European cups is (again for me) mostly based on not having straightforward home and away pools.
The perceived drop off in interest in the European cups is (again for me) mostly based on not having straightforward home and away pools.
Team's up
"Squad to date" starters, with strong bench:
Bath Rugby: 1 Arthur Cordwell, 2 Jasper Spandler, 3 Kieran Verden, 4 Harvey Cuckson, 5 Ross Molony, 6 Ewan Richards ©, 7 Ethan Staddon, 8 Arthur Green, 9 Tom Carr-Smith, 10 Ciaran Donoghue, 11 Ruaridh McConnochie, 12 Cameron Redpath, 13 Louie Hennessey, 14 Tyler Offiah, 15 Tom de Glanville
Replacements: 16 Beno Obano, 17 Tom Dunn, 18 Thomas du Toit, 19 Tom Cowan, 20 Guy Pepper, 21 Louis Schreuder, 22 Joe Cokanasiga, 23 Jaco Coetzee
PG
"Squad to date" starters, with strong bench:
Bath Rugby: 1 Arthur Cordwell, 2 Jasper Spandler, 3 Kieran Verden, 4 Harvey Cuckson, 5 Ross Molony, 6 Ewan Richards ©, 7 Ethan Staddon, 8 Arthur Green, 9 Tom Carr-Smith, 10 Ciaran Donoghue, 11 Ruaridh McConnochie, 12 Cameron Redpath, 13 Louie Hennessey, 14 Tyler Offiah, 15 Tom de Glanville
Replacements: 16 Beno Obano, 17 Tom Dunn, 18 Thomas du Toit, 19 Tom Cowan, 20 Guy Pepper, 21 Louis Schreuder, 22 Joe Cokanasiga, 23 Jaco Coetzee
PG
And Harlequins, strong.
Harlequins team news
15. Tyrone Green (86)
14.Rodrigo Isgro (7)
13. Will Joseph (20)
12. Ben Waghorn (9)
11. Cameron Anderson (13)
10. Jarrod Evans (32)
9. Jake Murray (9)
1. Jordan Els (43)
2. Sam Riley (64)
3. Titi Lamositele (12)
4. Irne Herbst (60)
5. Joe Launchbury © (35)
6. George Hammond (75)
7. Will Evans (107)
8. Lucas Schmid (6)
Replacements:
16. Jack Walker (80)
17. Simon Kerrod (119)
18. Will Hobson (16)
19. Jonny Green (6)
20. Tom Lawday (87)
21. Jonny Law (*)
22. Jamie Benson (16)
23. Nick David (66)
PG
Harlequins team news
15. Tyrone Green (86)
14.Rodrigo Isgro (7)
13. Will Joseph (20)
12. Ben Waghorn (9)
11. Cameron Anderson (13)
10. Jarrod Evans (32)
9. Jake Murray (9)
1. Jordan Els (43)
2. Sam Riley (64)
3. Titi Lamositele (12)
4. Irne Herbst (60)
5. Joe Launchbury © (35)
6. George Hammond (75)
7. Will Evans (107)
8. Lucas Schmid (6)
Replacements:
16. Jack Walker (80)
17. Simon Kerrod (119)
18. Will Hobson (16)
19. Jonny Green (6)
20. Tom Lawday (87)
21. Jonny Law (*)
22. Jamie Benson (16)
23. Nick David (66)
PG
Blimey, Quins going full bore there then - very strong team. Good experience for our young lads. COYB!
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Quote:Clarkey3k
Sadly I think it's a case of go big or go home for this one...
Pleased with our selected XV and the "big bench" to avoid going home 🤞
Adopted players: 24/25 J Bayliss; [24] O Lawrence; [23] J Cokanasiga; [22] M Green; [21] A Watson; [20] T Faletau; [19] M V Vuuren; [18] T Faletau; [17] D Denton; [16] H. Agulla; [15] L Houston; [14] W Spencer; [13] F. Louw
Family . Community . Nation - [sdp.org.uk]
My mind's been going places without me lately - Bushfire The B52's
Love the squad and approach, although slightly terrified of an injury to TdG given Harris’s injury and not knowing how long Landy is out for - would’ve preferred him on the bench
I can see a lot of the bench coming on at half time if Quins romp away in the first half.
That is a very good young back row who should quit themselves well, pleased for Spandler will be interesting to see how the lineout goes.
Big test for Hennessy and Offiah, I'd love to see a LH offload special put Offiah away but the team will have their work cut out to win this.
A 'Joseph' back at the Rec has a sort of resonance to it.
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
Big test for Hennessy and Offiah, I'd love to see a LH offload special put Offiah away but the team will have their work cut out to win this.
A 'Joseph' back at the Rec has a sort of resonance to it.
Quote:gaz59
We will do amazingly well to win this, given the strength Quins have put out
Not sure they are quite as good as that, backline looks very good. But a pretty inexperienced 9, Young centre combo.
Lots of areas of strength from them but it doesn’t look unbeatable by any standard. Jarrod will be big for them. Maybe it’s just because they haven’t been doing that well but it doesn’t really strike me as a team that’s massively stronger.
Big games from Richards Staddon TCS again I expect.
Also interesting the 6/2 split with only a winger. With England A guys probably needing a rest shows that we are probably out of 10/15 options or centre options.
Quote:HK890Quote:gaz59
We will do amazingly well to win this, given the strength Quins have put out
Not sure they are quite as good as that, backline looks very good. But a pretty inexperienced 9, Young centre combo.
Lots of areas of strength from them but it doesn’t look unbeatable by any standard. Jarrod will be big for them. Maybe it’s just because they haven’t been doing that well but it doesn’t really strike me as a team that’s massively stronger.
At a quick glance we have 10 'young uns' in the starting XV, they have 4
We have a stronger bench, true with a 1 v 4 'young uns' but game could be lost by then
Good report Tom
I think our selection is spot on.....
I recall when I was coaching mini rugby, we had an agreed policy with the parents, that in tournaments in the round robin/league stage we would adopt our usual practice of playing mixed ability teams. Our philosophy was that the less good players would only improve if the person making the pass to them knew what they were doing.
In the quarter finals and onwards we would pick our best team which was always well supported by the whole squad who of course had been involved in getting through the first phase.
When we won the tournament......which often happened all of the squad were delighted.
I think our selection is spot on.....
I recall when I was coaching mini rugby, we had an agreed policy with the parents, that in tournaments in the round robin/league stage we would adopt our usual practice of playing mixed ability teams. Our philosophy was that the less good players would only improve if the person making the pass to them knew what they were doing.
In the quarter finals and onwards we would pick our best team which was always well supported by the whole squad who of course had been involved in getting through the first phase.
When we won the tournament......which often happened all of the squad were delighted.
Agree they definitely have a more senior team.
But that bench is absolutely stacked, probably our best forward in TDT plus most explosive bench player in Coetzee.
Going to be a real tough game but if we are in this at about 50 mins expect most if not all the bench on within 10 mins or so.
But that bench is absolutely stacked, probably our best forward in TDT plus most explosive bench player in Coetzee.
Going to be a real tough game but if we are in this at about 50 mins expect most if not all the bench on within 10 mins or so.
Quote:Clarkey3kQuote:Clarkey3k
Sadly I think it's a case of go big or go home for this one...
Pleased with our selected XV and the "big bench" to avoid going home 🤞
Given the competition a stronger bench than I’d hoped for.
Hope one of our big guns doesn’t get injured coming off the bench in this sort of game.
Quote:HK890
Agree they definitely have a more senior team.
But that bench is absolutely stacked, probably our best forward in TDT plus most explosive bench player in Coetzee.
Going to be a real tough game but if we are in this at about 50 mins expect most if not all the bench on within 10 mins or so.
Spot on, I think JvG is looking for an all in 50 minute performance from the guys that got us here, then go for the win with experience.
Good team. Great bench. Nice opportunity for the likes of Spandler, Staddon, TCS, Offiah to show what they can do on the TV.
Interestingly, does JvG take back over the coaching again from Robinson? No mention of Robinson being the front line HC this week, so presume the 1st XV coaches are back in situ as we build towards the league's return.
2024/25 adoptee: Guy Pepper
Interestingly, does JvG take back over the coaching again from Robinson? No mention of Robinson being the front line HC this week, so presume the 1st XV coaches are back in situ as we build towards the league's return.
2024/25 adoptee: Guy Pepper
Just had a look at the amount of tickets left on the open side and there are literally thousands of empty seats - really feel like the club has messed up the prices for this game (not helped by it being on TV). Should’ve been £10-£25 max
Quote:rugbyfan11
Just had a look at the amount of tickets left on the open side and there are literally thousands of empty seats - really feel like the club has messed up the prices for this game (not helped by it being on TV). Should’ve been £10-£25 max
Pretty much. Will be best part of £100 for me and my 7y/o daughter to sit in our regular seats, so that ruled me out. How does dynamic pricing work when there's low demand? People already paid up would no doubt be pretty unhappy at last minute reductions.
Reckon they'll do well to hit 10k tomorrow night, which is a real shame.
FYI terrace tickets only £25 and £10 for students. Don't imagine the terraces will be packed so not intimidating for kids.
Quote:HK890
Agree they definitely have a more senior team.
But that bench is absolutely stacked, probably our best forward in TDT plus most explosive bench player in Coetzee.
Going to be a real tough game but if we are in this at about 50 mins expect most if not all the bench on within 10 mins or so.
This is my read of it.
Quins look strong but not scarily so.
Would expect them to be up at half time and then it's can our bench have a much bigger impact than against bris. With the personnel you would really hope so.
In it at 50 ans should turn the screw really. Have to hope we don't get blown away early
Feels like a squad selection broadly in keeping with the spirit of the competition, the fact Quins have gone pretty strong could be down to their comparative performance in the league.
Only concern I have is that our XV has 3 out of the 4 remaining fit fullbacks playing. We're already without Harris for the rest of the season, and with no news on Bailey's knock we really need to keep TdG and McConnochie protected.
I'm backing the bench to see us home.
Only concern I have is that our XV has 3 out of the 4 remaining fit fullbacks playing. We're already without Harris for the rest of the season, and with no news on Bailey's knock we really need to keep TdG and McConnochie protected.
I'm backing the bench to see us home.
Quote:rugbyfan11
Just had a look at the amount of tickets left on the open side and there are literally thousands of empty seats - really feel like the club has messed up the prices for this game (not helped by it being on TV). Should’ve been £10-£25 max
Think for the first time this season the club might have got the pricing wrong if there are thousands of tickets still available. Surely a game that kids could go free with every full price adult ticket?
Quote:OutsideBathQuote:rugbyfan11
Just had a look at the amount of tickets left on the open side and there are literally thousands of empty seats - really feel like the club has messed up the prices for this game (not helped by it being on TV). Should’ve been £10-£25 max
Think for the first time this season the club might have got the pricing wrong if there are thousands of tickets still available. Surely a game that kids could go free with every full price adult ticket?
Hopefully there will be community tickets released or free tickets handed out to schools as there have been for the other rounds OB - much better than leaving them empty.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
The weather is lovely today in Bath.....at last......and I think it will be dry, clear and cold this evening.
This is a big match and, unlike the earlier rounds, will after the first half be largely a Premier League game.
I am going for £42 in my usual seat and am really looking forward to it!
This is a big match and, unlike the earlier rounds, will after the first half be largely a Premier League game.
I am going for £42 in my usual seat and am really looking forward to it!
Quote:Trawling
FYI terrace tickets only £25 and £10 for students. Don't imagine the terraces will be packed so not intimidating for kids.
Just out of interest, do you have to show any proof of being a student?
For those who are still persevering with the Prediction League the game is set up for your predictions!
Quote:gaz59Quote:Trawling
FYI terrace tickets only £25 and £10 for students. Don't imagine the terraces will be packed so not intimidating for kids.
Just out of interest, do you have to show any proof of being a student?
I don't mean to be rude Gaz but I think your age might give it away........
Wow, the Dyson stand looks about 30% full at the moment.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Real shame........
Given we don't "have" to watch turgid England this weekend it will be fun watching our young guns.....for the first period
Given we don't "have" to watch turgid England this weekend it will be fun watching our young guns.....for the first period
Quote:Bath Supporter Jack
Real shame........
Given we don't "have" to watch turgid England this weekend it will be fun watching our young guns.....for the first period
It is a shame to see a less than full Rec, but it's only the PRC which just doesn't float my boat so we didn't take up our seats. Looking at how empty the ground will be I guess many others are underwhelmed by the competition as well.
Quote:WoodpeckerQuote:gaz59Quote:Trawling
FYI terrace tickets only £25 and £10 for students. Don't imagine the terraces will be packed so not intimidating for kids.
Just out of interest, do you have to show any proof of being a student?
I don't mean to be rude Gaz but I think your age might give it away........
Lol. It was, in all honesty, a purely enquiring question tho you have heard of mature students? Not beyond the imagination that I could study a GCSE or similar or even go PhD!
Student ID card was ubiquitous when I was getting £10 terrace tix over 25 years ago (eeep).
When I've bought student tickets for my son I and he haven't been asked for student ID. I daresay that they do some random checks though and it would be a little embarassing if you couldn't prove you were indeed a student.
In this day and age with the advancement of I.T and the proliferation of colleges and unis even I could knock up a pretty convincing student I.D.!
I expect there is a feeling amongst many season ticket holders that we pay big money for fewer games these days and they just can't be bothered to fork out £40 when many can watch it on tv. Add to that the fact Friday games for Premiership games often don't sell out so you can understand their reluctance. I've enjoyed the cup games so far and am going this evening but I have felt that in the early rounds it only seems like a competition to replace the A league Monday games which I loved, and they were free! Would have appreciated a "free" ticket tonight to reward our loyalty.
Maybe Gaz is a mature student?
My brother in law, the Saracens supporter, is doing a Masters aged 66....
My brother in law, the Saracens supporter, is doing a Masters aged 66....
Quote:TomReagan
In this day and age with the advancement of I.T and the proliferation of colleges and unis even I could knock up a pretty convincing student I.D.!
Making fake student IDs is not exactly something that's needed the advancement of IT!
Quote:Bath Supporter Jack
Maybe Gaz is a mature student?
My brother in law, the Saracens supporter, is doing a Masters aged 66....
I know their attedances aren't great, but I think theres more than one
![[:wor kid:]](/phorum-5.1.15/mods/smileys/images/13.gif "[:wor kid:]")
Cool idea by Newcastle - their match tonight also isn’t on the season ticket, but anyone that buys a ticket gets free entry to the semi final at their place if they get through. It’s unlikely wed get a home semi anyway, but just thought it was quite a cool initiative
Quote:TomReagan
In this day and age with the advancement of I.T and the proliferation of colleges and unis even I could knock up a pretty convincing student I.D.!
Uh, how much? Just asking for a friend
Too narrow, too many missed first up tackles undo. You can talk about level of experience but this is rugby 101 stuff…
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Jesus we are finding every way possible of handing possession back
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Much better- need the more experienced players to step up like that
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
God almighty there is some terrible terrible play by us. Keystone cops stuff
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Isgro's great but Nick Mullins waxing lyrical about his finish when he had a foot in touch and dropped the ball is a touch embarrassing.
Quote:JK7
Isgro's great but Nick Mullins waxing lyrical about his finish when he had a foot in touch and dropped the ball is a touch embarrassing.
He’s an embarrassing commentator.
Quote:Bath HammerQuote:JK7
Isgro's great but Nick Mullins waxing lyrical about his finish when he had a foot in touch and dropped the ball is a touch embarrassing.
He’s an embarrassing commentator.
Can't stand him.
Quins side far to experienced for Bath, not unexpected score so far. 
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
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
No scrums in that first half? Thank goodness we're back in it, bring on the bench...
Adopted players: 24/25 J Bayliss; [24] O Lawrence; [23] J Cokanasiga; [22] M Green; [21] A Watson; [20] T Faletau; [19] M V Vuuren; [18] T Faletau; [17] D Denton; [16] H. Agulla; [15] L Houston; [14] W Spencer; [13] F. Louw
Family . Community . Nation - [sdp.org.uk]
My mind's been going places without me lately - Bushfire The B52's
Adopted players: 24/25 J Bayliss; [24] O Lawrence; [23] J Cokanasiga; [22] M Green; [21] A Watson; [20] T Faletau; [19] M V Vuuren; [18] T Faletau; [17] D Denton; [16] H. Agulla; [15] L Houston; [14] W Spencer; [13] F. Louw
Family . Community . Nation - [sdp.org.uk]
My mind's been going places without me lately - Bushfire The B52's
Well... Given how that started, could be a lot worse. Donaghue growing into the game. Green and Joseph look deadly.
We aren’t helped by the ref refusing to see a single knock on or forward pass by Quins!
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Well we're still in it, just about. Not sure how given the number of missed first up tackles and line breaks. Hopefully the stacked bench can turn it around.
Completely lost the kicking gamer that half, just handed possession back to Quins on every kick.
2 scrums that half Clarkey, btw. First after about 25 minutes, second 2 minutes later. Our kids held up well against their experience.
Completely lost the kicking gamer that half, just handed possession back to Quins on every kick.
2 scrums that half Clarkey, btw. First after about 25 minutes, second 2 minutes later. Our kids held up well against their experience.
Interesting now 2 scores behind do they bring on the bench early?
Ha just answered my question
Widcombe Garçon
Ha just answered my question
Widcombe Garçon
Well this is a nice start
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Nick Evans having a little dig at the experience on Bath's bench.
Presumably he forgot to look at his starting team.
A man who cannot change his mind, cannot change anything
RAEBURN SHIELD
Presumably he forgot to look at his starting team.
RAEBURN SHIELD
Quote:Which Tyler
Nick Evans having a little dig at the experience on Bath's bench.
Presumably he forgot to look at his starting team.
He wasn't wrong though, eh? Completely different game.
Great job. Really excellent second half so far, but the first half team keeping it together after going 21-0 down shouldn't be understated.
Twice 21 points down, and to come back and dominate for a comfortable win was impressive.
Great come back, can't remember when I last enjoyed a game so much, Quins supporters sent packing, lovely.
Does anyone know when we know the day of the semi final? Quite fancy a trip to Kingston Park!
My MoM was Ciarran Donaghue, took a while to settle in and he is a far better kicker than that but he passed and ran at them really well. Remembering he plays a lot at 15 I was impressed.
Arthur Green is a bit like Jaco, running over the ref was classic!
For me I'd go TCS before Schreuder from now on.
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
Arthur Green is a bit like Jaco, running over the ref was classic!
For me I'd go TCS before Schreuder from now on.
Quote:Susanne
Does anyone know when we know the day of the semi final? Quite fancy a trip to Kingston Park!
Next Friday
Thought Arthur Green was a deserving player of the match.
Of the young guys him , TCS, donohue and hennessey went well I thought.
Played out as we hoped and expected- young guys dug I'm really well after 20 mins to allow the bench to go and win it.
Treble is on....
Of the young guys him , TCS, donohue and hennessey went well I thought.
Played out as we hoped and expected- young guys dug I'm really well after 20 mins to allow the bench to go and win it.
Treble is on....
Quote:Is it in Creative Accounting?Bath Supporter Jack
My brother in law, the Saracens supporter, is doing a Masters aged 66....
Well, the difference some go forward makes. Don’t get me wrong, the starting front row held their own in the set piece, but when the Bomb Squad came out it was night and day. Quins looked shell shocked and it was a complete reversal of the first half. Credit to the young guns who started and those that played all match, but credit also to the coaches for making the necessary changes.
Bench made the difference but of the starters I thought Arthur Green was immense and thoroughly deserved his award. Well worth the money, where I sit in the east stand it was very noticeable that few season ticket holders attended but the supporters who replaced them were great, made a lot of noise and really got behind the team. Really appreciated their support, created a great atmosphere.
Quote:shipwrecked
My MoM was Ciarran Donaghue, took a while to settle in and he is a far better kicker than that but he passed and ran at them really well. Remembering he plays a lot at 15 I was impressed.
Arthur Green is a bit like Jaco, running over the ref was classic!
For me I'd go TCS before Schreuder from now on.
I thought at the ground that it was Jasper Spandler who bundled the ref out of the way?
PG
Eventful - and exciting match. Thought at one stage we would leave ourselves too much to do, but the bench turnaround was great.
Interesting how the Quins threat was snuffed out after half time.
PG
Interesting how the Quins threat was snuffed out after half time.
PG
Quote:P G TipsQuote:shipwrecked
My MoM was Ciarran Donaghue, took a while to settle in and he is a far better kicker than that but he passed and ran at them really well. Remembering he plays a lot at 15 I was impressed.
Arthur Green is a bit like Jaco, running over the ref was classic!
For me I'd go TCS before Schreuder from now on.
I thought at the ground that it was Jasper Spandler who bundled the ref out of the way?
PG
It was definitely young Arthur, PG.
Quote:P G TipsQuote:shipwrecked
My MoM was Ciarran Donaghue, took a while to settle in and he is a far better kicker than that but he passed and ran at them really well. Remembering he plays a lot at 15 I was impressed.
Arthur Green is a bit like Jaco, running over the ref was classic!
For me I'd go TCS before Schreuder from now on.
I thought at the ground that it was Jasper Spandler who bundled the ref out of the way?
PG
It was Green, he referenced it in a pretty fun way in his MOTM interview
Thought Donaghue really should be proud of himself. Playing not his usual position, caught out a couple of times early in defence, he really grew into the game. One bad kick at goal but didn't let it knock him. TCS excellent, it seems clear he should be number 2 at the club, but who knows. Cordwell/Spandler/Verden really held their own and Cordwell's break for the TCS try was excellent. Also a note for RMac - works so hard, makes so few mistakes. Really been a great co-captain for this team.
Agree re Donaghue, he could do with bulking up a little mind!
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
His attempts at a moustache (which seems to be a team thing?!) are... less than ideal.
Quote:hasta
Also a note for RMac - works so hard, makes so few mistakes. Really been a great co-captain for this team.
Agree. Really smart move to involve him from day one in this tournament- good role model and sure he's been a great support to richards
Unfortunately missed a chunk of the 1st half so didn’t catch a great deal of Green’s performance. If his carrying was anything like Coetzee in the second half he more than deserved player of the match and is a hell of a prospect at 20.
Coetzee just has that Wiese / Valentini thing about him where he carries like he means it every single time. If the defence isn’t completely on it he’s going over the gain line one way or another
Coetzee just has that Wiese / Valentini thing about him where he carries like he means it every single time. If the defence isn’t completely on it he’s going over the gain line one way or another
Great result! Looks like we got the balance of youngsters/first teamers just about right.
Didn't manage to catch the game, is anyone able to confirm whether we came away unscathed on the injury front?
Didn't manage to catch the game, is anyone able to confirm whether we came away unscathed on the injury front?
Made the last-minute decision to go last night and glad I did. Friend of mine got sent a link where tickets were a fiver and kids a quid(!) so club obviously knew the pricing was off.
Sat in the East Stand opposite my normal seat in West Stand it was great...view was actually better. Really enjoyable evening.
Very interesting to see squad selection for Falcons away. Knowing they'll go full-strength, I wonder if we'll do something similar to last night?
Sat in the East Stand opposite my normal seat in West Stand it was great...view was actually better. Really enjoyable evening.
Very interesting to see squad selection for Falcons away. Knowing they'll go full-strength, I wonder if we'll do something similar to last night?
Whoever, Robinson, JVG or both planned the strategy they got it absolutely right.
Largely the young players for the first half and then of course 8 of the starters by definition played the second half.
I think Quins performance was summed up by Tyrone Green who was fabulous in the first 20 minutes......slightly disappeared in the second part of the first half and then his declining contribution was summed up when he dropped the ball having already caught it with no one near him towards the end of the second half.
Big question who do you pick for the semi final away at Newcastle????
Largely the young players for the first half and then of course 8 of the starters by definition played the second half.
I think Quins performance was summed up by Tyrone Green who was fabulous in the first 20 minutes......slightly disappeared in the second part of the first half and then his declining contribution was summed up when he dropped the ball having already caught it with no one near him towards the end of the second half.
Big question who do you pick for the semi final away at Newcastle????
Quote:boozeboozebooze
Great result! Looks like we got the balance of youngsters/first teamers just about right.
Didn't manage to catch the game, is anyone able to confirm whether we came away unscathed on the injury front?
TdT had some treatment towards the end of the game and one of his legs was strapped up. He played on and hopefully he’s ok
Quote:Bath Supporter Jack
Whoever, Robinson, JVG or both planned the strategy they got it absolutely right.
Largely the young players for the first half and then of course 8 of the starters by definition played the second half.
I think Quins performance was summed up by Tyrone Green who was fabulous in the first 20 minutes......slightly disappeared in the second part of the first half and then his declining contribution was summed up when he dropped the ball having already caught it with no one near him towards the end of the second half.
Big question who do you pick for the semi final away at Newcastle????
Injury permitting I think I’d pick pretty much exactly the same squad again, although maybe Emens over Offiah who looked very green, and Bailey in over Tdg (Donoghue to F
if fit
Wouldn’t the eligible players from the England A game be in the squad for KP?
Quote:rugbyfan11Quote:Bath Supporter Jack
Whoever, Robinson, JVG or both planned the strategy they got it absolutely right.
Largely the young players for the first half and then of course 8 of the starters by definition played the second half.
I think Quins performance was summed up by Tyrone Green who was fabulous in the first 20 minutes......slightly disappeared in the second part of the first half and then his declining contribution was summed up when he dropped the ball having already caught it with no one near him towards the end of the second half.
Big question who do you pick for the semi final away at Newcastle????
Injury permitting I think I’d pick pretty much exactly the same squad again, although maybe Emens over Offiah who looked very green, and Bailey in over Tdg (Donoghue to F
Really hope we don’t risk too many big guns on that awful Falcons pitch, we have important games coming up.
It was a great night and as stated the tactics were spot on. Quins clearly showed they were going to use their superiority of speed in their backs to overwhelm our youngsters. They clearly needed at least a three try margin at half time. The fact they conceded two excellent tries was a big blow to their game plan.
A game of two halves is exactly what happened as our cavalry closed them down and forward power kept them on the back foot the whole half.
Well done the youngsters for the first half containment, well done the cavalry for finishing them off and well done Robbo for the tactics.
A game of two halves is exactly what happened as our cavalry closed them down and forward power kept them on the back foot the whole half.
Well done the youngsters for the first half containment, well done the cavalry for finishing them off and well done Robbo for the tactics.
Can anybody who watched on TV comment on the McConnochie incident midway through the first half? Attacking along the west stand touchline, it appeared that the tackler was trying to unscrew his head.
It was not penalised and there was no visible warning but (from quite close to) looked serious enough to deserve at least a penalty. Did commentators or TMO say anything about it?
PG
It was not penalised and there was no visible warning but (from quite close to) looked serious enough to deserve at least a penalty. Did commentators or TMO say anything about it?
PG
Quote:P G Tips
Can anybody who watched on TV comment on the McConnochie incident midway through the first half? Attacking along the west stand touchline, it appeared that the tackler was trying to unscrew his head.
It was not penalised and there was no visible warning but (from quite close to) looked serious enough to deserve at least a penalty. Did commentators or TMO say anything about it?
PG
I can't remember that PG, so it can't have been made an issue of on TV.
Thanks guys.
Possibly a different camera viewpoint gives a different impression.
PG
Possibly a different camera viewpoint gives a different impression.
PG
Really enjoyed last nights game. For me the highlight was the TCS try, In particular the KD pass to put the runner through the gap. It was almost like they've been training with FR and BS.
From being 21 points down the young lads did such a great job. What a great learning experience.for them.
From being 21 points down the young lads did such a great job. What a great learning experience.for them.
Quote:Widcombe boy
FR BS ?
Finn Russell and Ben Spencer?
Quote:shipwreckedQuote:Widcombe boy
FR BS ?
Finn Russell and Ben Spencer?
Thanks Shippy
Widcombe Garçon
Quote:Makes sense - cheers.Charlieboa1
Assume should be CD.... ciaran donohue?
I felt that FR and BS were a touch easier to work out.
RAEBURN SHIELD
I've looked at the Ciaran Donoghue pass to Cordwell for the break and he picks him out of 3 possibilites with a brilliant pass who then finds TCS for the critical try just before half time. Three fresh names excelling at creativity is exciting.
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
I seem to recall that Arthur Cordwell was highly rated by Neil Hatley
Widcombe Garçon
Widcombe Garçon
Didn't realise that, the run, pass and timing by Cordwell were all perfect and changed the game at a critical time.
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
Ten degrees at kickoff and virtually no wind, Susanne.
You’ll be fine.
You’ll be fine.
Quote:markismith50
Ten degrees at kickoff and virtually no wind, Susanne.
You’ll be fine.
This is Kingston Park, the West stand doesn't get to 10 degrees in July!
Quote:Yellow Hammer
Really enjoyed last nights game. For me the highlight was the TCS try, In particular the KD pass to put the runner through the gap. It was almost like they've been training with FR and BS.
From being 21 points down the young lads did such a great job. What a great learning experience.for them.
They did a great job but by the end of the game how many “young lads” were left on the field of play?
Quote:Bath HammerQuote:Yellow Hammer
Really enjoyed last nights game. For me the highlight was the TCS try, In particular the KD pass to put the runner through the gap. It was almost like they've been training with FR and BS.
From being 21 points down the young lads did such a great job. What a great learning experience.for them.
They did a great job but by the end of the game how many “young lads” were left on the field of play?
Quins started with only 7 players under 23, Bath started with 10. Doesn't matter how many were on the field of play at the end it's how you manage their time over 80 minutes. Clearly Robinson got it right.
So far in this cup Bath have used 49 players and 6 have been in every match squad.
Richards, Cordwell, Staddon, Green, Hennessey and Donoghue.
Richards, Cordwell, Staddon, Green, Hennessey and Donoghue.
That is an excellent stat Dorsetoldboy
Including our absent players that is 3 teams plus some "international" subs!!!
Including our absent players that is 3 teams plus some "international" subs!!!
Always liked Cordwell. Used to think he was good enough to be 3rd choice LH and get quite a bit of game time. In these rarified times, maybe only 4th choice but a very good one.
Quote:Dorsetoldboy
So far in this cup Bath have used 49 players and 6 have been in every match squad.
Richards, Cordwell, Staddon, Green, Hennessey and Donoghue.
Hope these 6 get another go on fri
Quote:Francis Allen
Quins started with only 7 players under 23, Bath started with 10. Doesn't matter how many were on the field of play at the end it's how you manage their time over 80 minutes. Clearly Robinson got it right.
What are the stats for Exeter, I’m guessing rather more first team regulars?
Just been told by an Exeter supporter that Sale did not turn up.....it wasn't that Exeter were brilliant just that Sale were really not!
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