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Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 2025:05:14:13:06:09 by hasta.

Thank you DL, good preview

Whoever is chosen, bath will need to be "on it". Bristol are expecting serious reinforcement, especially in the pack: [www.bristolpost.co.uk]

That said, Bath have a history of beating Bristol in big national stadia and there are vulnerabilities to exploit.

Key, I believe will be a ruck approach to win the ball or spoil their speed of ball, allied to savvy midfield defence against their dummy (and frequently blocking) runners. We need an aggressive backrow approach too- Randall, for all his zip and brilliance, can be hassled into error - as New Zealand and Ireland showed in the 6N.

I think JvG will rotate, but the core is more likely to be from the Premiership squad - enhanced by the best performers of the PRC campaign.

We will know tomorrow.

COYB!

PG

[www.somersetlive.co.uk]

JVG indicates this will be a heavily rotated side.

Sounds like someone in line for this week got injured in training yesterday as well

Thought we’d go stronger than those quotes imply but fine with it either way. As much as it’s a derby and a big occasion I trust the coaches and medical team to get the squad set up for the games that matter.

Yes, just seen that AM.

Heavily rotated but could still be strong given the talent we saw in the PRC. Fresh and raring to go- with something to prove - will be no pushover for Bris.

PG

When it comes to rotated teams, there are so many permutations, but it's fun to speculate, so here's my guess at the lineup made pre JvG's press conference:

Ciaran Donoghue
Ruaridh McConnochie
Cameron Redpath
Will Butt
Louie Hennessy
Orlando Bailey
Tom Carr-Smith

Niall Annett
Francois Van Wyk
Archie Griffin
Ewan Richards
Ross Molony
Ted Hill
Ethan Staddon
Josh Bayliss

Kepueli Tuipulotu
Thomas DuToit
Vilikesa Sela
Charlie Ewels
Arthur Green
Louis Schreuder
Austin Emens
Alfie Barbeary

BATH supporter since 1975

Adopted players:
2015/6 Tom Homer
2016/7 Matt Banahan
2017/8 Jeff Williams
2018/9 Victor Delmas
2019/20 Semesa Rokoduguni
2020/21 Will Stuart

Really good review......I had no idea we were in the presence of Bath Supporters Royalty!

Amazing that we have played so many more games than most other teams. Even more credit to the coaching staff and the S&C team that we have had so many players available for so much of the season.

It is a really fine line between resting players, keeping players at match fitness and winning games. Its like a 3D puzzle and if you change one thing it then puts the other two objectives out of kilter.

It has been said on 'ere, often, that this is a great opportunity for our really talented younger players to be given the opportunity...and to take the opportunity.....to play against a top team who will be playing as if their lives depended on it.

If Bristol lose this game it makes their play-off qualification very, very difficult, particularly as their last game is away at Sale who I suspect will be playing for a home tie in the playoffs..

BSJ
Our last game is actually home to Quinns but i get your point. We need to win badly Saturday and against Quins and it is still nip and tuck for us. Good luck Saturday but not too much......

CMON BRISSSSSSSSS

Not sure why I put TdT on the bench there.

I just hope it's a better game than the Prem Cup game where despite a pretty decent bench, we didn't fire a shot in the second half.

BATH supporter since 1975

Adopted players:
2015/6 Tom Homer
2016/7 Matt Banahan
2017/8 Jeff Williams
2018/9 Victor Delmas
2019/20 Semesa Rokoduguni
2020/21 Will Stuart

I'd have thought that Underhill can only benefit from a bit of game-time for next 2 weeks - maybe starter this week, bench next?

For those hoping to attend, Bristol Bears have sent the following (comprehensive)travel info to Bath Rugby & I copy it here:

TRAVEL INFORMATION 🚍
Here’s everything you need to know about getting to Principality Stadium
PUBLIC COACHES
Many coach services that operate out of Bristol and Bath travel to Cardiff. National Express, Megabus and Flixbus all operate from Bristol with journeys into central Cardiff.
Please check their individual websites to check journey options and book tickets.
NATIONAL EXPRESS
MEGABUS
FLIXBUS
TRAIN SERVICES
Almost 10,000 extra train seats will be laid on for fans heading to Cardiff for the hotly anticipated Big Day Out.
BOOK YOUR TRAVEL
Cardiff Central Station is next to the Principality Stadium so take the train to ease the strain, with eight additional services from Bristol Temple Meads. Bath supporters can take advantage of five extra trains from Bath Spa and Chippenham to Cardiff (not calling at Bristol Temple Meads). GWR continues to operate connecting services to Temple Meads from surrounding areas, including Taunton and Weston-super-Mare.
Reservations will be required on journeys to Cardiff from Bristol Temple Meads, and from Bath, with fans encouraged to book early. Fans are strongly encouraged to book for the earliest service possible and allow plenty of time for their journey.
A queuing system will be in place on a first-come-first served service basis for the return trip and supporters should consider delaying their return from Cardiff Central to avoid waiting.
Fans who get on at Bristol Parkway can easily change at Bristol Temple Meads as there will be no direct train to Cardiff on matchday.
PLAN YOUR TRIP
LOCAL BUSES
Principality is well connected to Cardiff and surrounding areas by an extensive public bus network.
The easiest way to plan your route is the Cardiffbus Journey Planner.
Many services across Cardiff are operated by Cardiffbus – you can find more information on their routes, timetables and fares here.
Bus routes may be impacted by road closures near the stadium, please check diversion routes and temporary bus stops by visiting Major City Centre Events – Cardiff Bus.
DRIVING AND PARKING
Due to road works, road closures and a high volume of fans travelling from the South West to Cardiff, we recommend starting your journey to the Principality as early as possible to accommodate long journey times.
Many road closures will be in operation around The Principality stadium on matchday. Please visit Travel advice for major events closer to the fixture to check updates on any road closures, planned engineering work or disruptions to car travel.
Road closures will be in operation near the Stadium, please check the Cardiff Council website for details.
The following roads will be closed as part of the full city centre road closures between 11am-9pm:
• Kingsway from its junction with North Road to its junction with Duke Street.
• Cowbridge Road East from its junction with Cathedral Road to its junction with Westgate Street.
• Tudor Street from its junction with Clare Road to its junction with Wood Street (access for residents and traders will be permitted via Fizthammon Embankment.)
• Plantagenet Street and Beauchamp Street from their junctions with Despenser Place to their junctions with Tudor Street (access for residents and traders will be permitted.)
• Saunders Road from its junction with St Mary Street.
• Customhouse Street throughout its length (access to private car parks will be permitted).
• Penarth Road from its junction with Saunders Road to the entrance leading to the rear of the Central Train Station.
• The following roads will be closed in their entirety: Duke Street, Castle St, High Street, St Mary Street, Caroline Street, Wood Street, Central Square, Westgate Street, Quay Street, Guildhall Place, Golate, Park Street, Havelock Street and Scott Road, Green Street.

Additions:
• Civic Centre: Access to part of the Civic Centre will be controlled throughout the day from 7am, with access allowed only for event parking, limited commuter parking, loading and access to private car parks
• Roads affected include: King Edward VII Avenue, Museum Avenue, City Hall Road, College Road and Gorsedd Gardens Road.
TAXIS & DROP-OFF/PICK-UP
Cardiff has many taxi operating services including Uber and Bolt. Fans can use these services to reach the Stadium as well as to depart post-match.
A suggested drop-off and pick-up point would be at Callaghan Square, which is approximately a 10-minute walk to the Stadium.
For more information on taxi services in Cardiff, please visit Taxi Passengers.
DISABLED PARKING
Where available, the Principality Stadium reserve parking for blue badge holders.
To book this parking on a first-come, first-served basis, please email customercare@wru.wales
Disabled parking is also available at various private car parks, please see the Parking section for more information.
PARKING
There are no dedicated spectator parking options at or immediately near the Stadium. However, there is plenty of parking options in the city centre which fans can book in advance.
Some options available for NCP parking include:
• Cardiff Rapports (CF10 2EH) – approx. 12 min walk to stadium
• Cardiff Greyfriars (CF10 3AD) – approx. 13 mins walk
• Cardiff Pellett Street (CF10 4FD) – approx. 15 mins walk
• Dumfries Place (CF10 3DJ) – approx. 17 mins walk
• Cardiff Knox Road (CF24 0EA)– approx. 19 mins walk
Fans can also use Just Park to find parking locations around Cardiff – please click here to discover more on this option.
Pre-booking parking in advance of the match is advised to avoid disappointment closer to the time.
PRIVATE MINI BUSES
If you have arranged a private mini-bus or shared transport to the stadium it is possible to park at the Civic Centre for £30. This service is run on a first-come-first-served basis and can be paid for in advance or on the day.

To book a space, please email Claire Moggridge c.moggridge@cardiff.gov.uk.
WALK
The easiest way to get to the Principality Stadium once in Cardiff is on foot. The Principality Stadium is a short walk from many central points in Cardiff, including:
• 5 minutes away from Cardiff Central Station
• 10 minutes away from Cardiff Castle
• 15 minutes away from St David’s Centre for shopping
• 35 minutes away from Cardiff Bay
For further information on attractions and places to see in Cardiff, please check out Visit Cardiff.
FURTHER INFORMATION
For further information, please visit the Principality Stadium travel page here: Principality Stadium | Getting Here
BIG DAY OUT TRAVEL


PG

More info from Bristol bears:

STADIUM INFORMATION 🏟️
Please arrive early to allow time for security checks and scanning your ticket at the gate.
Your waiting time will be longer if you bring a bag. Principality will not permit large bags into the stadium, only small bags and handbags allowed. No larger than 35cm x 40xm x 19cm.
Collapsible bottles up to 500ml will be permitted but must be empty at the point of entry and tops removed.
The ticket office desk is accessible via 26 steps. Ticket office staff will be available to provide support on the ground floor if required.


PG

A lot more info-including matchday entertainment schedule, food outlets etc can be found on Bears Offy:

[www.bristolbearsrugby.com]

PG



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2025:05:08:19:14:44 by P G Tips.

Appreciate sharing the post but it doesn't take a genius to work out that there is an effective abandonment of fans if travelling by train.

10,000 extra train seats to get to the game but only 2 trains to Bristol to return (say 50 people per carriage).

"A queuing system will be in place on a first-come-first served service basis for the return trip and supporters should consider delaying their return from Cardiff Central to avoid waiting."

Car or coach is the only viable option surely.


Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.

Thanks HappyH

For the record Bristol have

Bath in Cardiff (away match?)

Sale away.......very tough

Quins at home

Team up. Heavily rotated it is!

Bath Rugby Starting XV: 1 Francois van Wyk, 2 Jasper Spandler, 3 Archie Griffin, 4 Ewan Richards ©, 5 Ross Molony, 6 Josh Bayliss, 7 Ethan Staddon, 8 Arthur Green, 9 Louis Schreuder, 10 Ciaran Donoghue, 11 Austin Emens, 12 Orlando Bailey, 13 Louie Hennessey, 14 Joe Cokanasiga, 15 Tom de Glanville

Replacements: 16 Kepu Tuipulotu, 17 Arthur Cordwell, 18 Kieran Verden, 19 Will Jeanes, 20 Tom Cowan, 21 Tom Carr-Smith, 22 Ruaridh McConnochie, 23 Miles Reid

PG

Big rotation.

Like that team selection

That is a very green squad (and I'm not just talking about Arthur)

Will provide valuable experience to our young guns, hopefully we'll reap the benefits of this kind of game in seasons to come.

Wonder if this suggests we'll be going for a strong selection versus Leicester?

Quote:

A.M 180
https://www.somersetlive.co.uk/sport/other-sport/johann-van-graan-opens-up-10165241
JVG indicates this will be a heavily rotated side.

Sounds like someone in line for this week got injured in training yesterday as well

Johann: "We just finished training about an hour ago and one of the young lads who was selected for the game unfortunately picked up an injury but I will say more after the game when I know a bit more about it.”
Now after team announcement trying to work out who got injured. Assume it was either Sela, Harvey Cuckson, Tyler Offiah. Glad to see the replacement props are fit along with Richards, Staddon, Green and Carr-Smith who I thought it might have been.

Going big against Leicester then!

Glad for Richards, Green, Donoghue, Bailey and Staddon

Bristol Bears team:
15. Rich Lane (58 apps), 14. Kalaveti Ravouvou (28 apps), 13. Benhard Janse van Rensburg (46 apps), 12. James Williams (51 apps), 11. Gabriel Ibitoye (55 apps), 10. AJ MacGinty (49 apps), 9. Harry Randall (142 apps); 1. Ellis Genge (58 apps), 2. Gabriel Oghre (39 apps), 3. Max Lahiff (107 apps), 4. Josh Caulfield (34 apps), 5. Joe Batley (71 apps), 6. Steven Luatua (150 apps), 7. Fitz Harding (c) (93 apps), 8. Viliame Mata (14 apps).

System players: 16. Will Capon (97 apps), 17. Yann Thomas (128 apps), 18. George Kloska (61 apps), 19. James Dun (50 apps), 20. Joe Owen (32 apps), 21. Kieran Marmion (48 apps), 22. Siva Naulago (43 apps), Santiago Grondona (12 apps).

Unavailable: Harry Thacker, Tomas Gwilliam, Lovejoy Chawatama, Steele Barker, George Taylor, Sam Worsley, Noah Heward, Jack Bates, Harry Rowson, Max Malins.

Quote:

P G Tips
Team up. Heavily rotated it is!
Bath Rugby Starting XV: 1 Francois van Wyk, 2 Jasper Spandler, 3 Archie Griffin, 4 Ewan Richards ©, 5 Ross Molony, 6 Josh Bayliss, 7 Ethan Staddon, 8 Arthur Green, 9 Louis Schreuder, 10 Ciaran Donoghue, 11 Austin Emens, 12 Orlando Bailey, 13 Louie Hennessey, 14 Joe Cokanasiga, 15 Tom de Glanville

Replacements: 16 Kepu Tuipulotu, 17 Arthur Cordwell, 18 Kieran Verden, 19 Will Jeanes, 20 Tom Cowan, 21 Tom Carr-Smith, 22 Ruaridh McConnochie, 23 Miles Reid

PG

Hmm, I wonder how Bath fans going to the game in Cardiff feel about that selection

Highly significant that Ciarran Donoghue preferred at 10 to Orlando Bailey at 12. However it might be a stroke of pure genius as I think Bailey would be good at centre.
My worry is that Bristol will target the 10/12 channel.

That's a very green bench as well!


Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.

If I was going to Cardiff, I'd be excited to see our Cup Winning young lads getting a taste of the big time as they seek to bloody the nose of some much more experienced opposition. These lads went have beaten bigger boys before- great chance for them to do it again.

Love the selection, simply the balls of it, but can't help but have a nagging feeling that a complete stuffing by a Bears team where everything sticks in front of 50something thousand people might not be ideal for squad morale. Having said that, almost any other result (win, brave narrow loss, competitive loss) and zero/few injuries would be an absolutely excellent use of this fixture.

2024/25 adoptee: Guy Pepper

Quote:

gaz59

Quote:

P G Tips
Team up. Heavily rotated it is!
Bath Rugby Starting XV: 1 Francois van Wyk, 2 Jasper Spandler, 3 Archie Griffin, 4 Ewan Richards ©, 5 Ross Molony, 6 Josh Bayliss, 7 Ethan Staddon, 8 Arthur Green, 9 Louis Schreuder, 10 Ciaran Donoghue, 11 Austin Emens, 12 Orlando Bailey, 13 Louie Hennessey, 14 Joe Cokanasiga, 15 Tom de Glanville

Replacements: 16 Kepu Tuipulotu, 17 Arthur Cordwell, 18 Kieran Verden, 19 Will Jeanes, 20 Tom Cowan, 21 Tom Carr-Smith, 22 Ruaridh McConnochie, 23 Miles Reid

PG

Hmm, I wonder how Bath fans going to the game in Cardiff feel about that selection

I'm going and a bit disappointed but only a bit as I really like to see the academy coming good. It has to be seen for what it is an away game.

I can see a points fest and not our way either!


Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.

Quote:

gaz59

Quote:

P G Tips
Team up. Heavily rotated it is!
Bath Rugby Starting XV: 1 Francois van Wyk, 2 Jasper Spandler, 3 Archie Griffin, 4 Ewan Richards ©, 5 Ross Molony, 6 Josh Bayliss, 7 Ethan Staddon, 8 Arthur Green, 9 Louis Schreuder, 10 Ciaran Donoghue, 11 Austin Emens, 12 Orlando Bailey, 13 Louie Hennessey, 14 Joe Cokanasiga, 15 Tom de Glanville

Replacements: 16 Kepu Tuipulotu, 17 Arthur Cordwell, 18 Kieran Verden, 19 Will Jeanes, 20 Tom Cowan, 21 Tom Carr-Smith, 22 Ruaridh McConnochie, 23 Miles Reid

PG

Hmm, I wonder how Bath fans going to the game in Cardiff feel about that selection

A bit like how I felt in Treviso.

Going for the day out now.

I have to keep telling myself. Eyes on the prize(s).

European Challenge Cup and the Premiership title.

We have earned this rest. Shame I spent £50 on train tickets, £60 on match tickets and likely £150ish on food and drink.

Still imagine if this was a must win game with our first XV kicking lumps out of each other.

J

I think it is a great selection.

We have got to give these young talented players the opportunity, and if not now....when?

Imagine if they win!!!!

Quote:

Bath Supporter Jack
I think it is a great selection.
We have got to give these young talented players the opportunity, and if not now....when?

Imagine if they win!!!!

Exactly BSJ

This will either be an incredible victory for the ages or, a Bristol victory against a 2nd/3rd string side

Quote:

Bath Supporter Jack
Going big against Leicester then!
Glad for Richards, Green, Donoghue, Bailey and Staddon

You think?

Seems weird to not risk guys 13 days before a big cup final but risk them 6 days before?

I think they have decided that 2 weeks off for most of the senior guys is fine and will also rest them for sarries.

I don't necessarily disagree with that approach- this block of games is brutal and playing every 2-3 weeks is fine i reckon at this stage.

As someone travelling 200 miles to go to Cardiff I am rather gutted tho. Expected them to rest some like dunn/tdt/ roux/ hill/ alfie/ finn/ redpath but didn't expect all our best players to be out of the 23.

Quote:

ChippenhamRoman

Quote:

gaz59

Quote:

P G Tips
Team up. Heavily rotated it is!
Bath Rugby Starting XV: 1 Francois van Wyk, 2 Jasper Spandler, 3 Archie Griffin, 4 Ewan Richards ©, 5 Ross Molony, 6 Josh Bayliss, 7 Ethan Staddon, 8 Arthur Green, 9 Louis Schreuder, 10 Ciaran Donoghue, 11 Austin Emens, 12 Orlando Bailey, 13 Louie Hennessey, 14 Joe Cokanasiga, 15 Tom de Glanville

Replacements: 16 Kepu Tuipulotu, 17 Arthur Cordwell, 18 Kieran Verden, 19 Will Jeanes, 20 Tom Cowan, 21 Tom Carr-Smith, 22 Ruaridh McConnochie, 23 Miles Reid

PG

Hmm, I wonder how Bath fans going to the game in Cardiff feel about that selection

A bit like how I felt in Treviso.

Going for the day out now.

I have to keep telling myself. Eyes on the prize(s).

European Challenge Cup and the Premiership title.

We have earned this rest. Shame I spent £50 on train tickets, £60 on match tickets and likely £150ish on food and drink.

Still imagine if this was a must win game with our first XV kicking lumps out of each other.

J

£150 on food and drink

Quote:

shipwrecked
Appreciate sharing the post but it doesn't take a genius to work out that there is an effective abandonment of fans if travelling by train.
10,000 extra train seats to get to the game but only 2 trains to Bristol to return (say 50 people per carriage).

"A queuing system will be in place on a first-come-first served service basis for the return trip and supporters should consider delaying their return from Cardiff Central to avoid waiting."

Car or coach is the only viable option surely.

There will still be the scheduled trains running every 30 minutes. I’m going to be hanging back for a few hours and let the crowds dissipate.

J

Quote:

Tlacey90

Quote:

A.M 180
https://www.somersetlive.co.uk/sport/other-sport/johann-van-graan-opens-up-10165241
JVG indicates this will be a heavily rotated side.

Sounds like someone in line for this week got injured in training yesterday as well

Johann: "We just finished training about an hour ago and one of the young lads who was selected for the game unfortunately picked up an injury but I will say more after the game when I know a bit more about it.”
Now after team announcement trying to work out who got injured. Assume it was either Sela, Harvey Cuckson, Tyler Offiah. Glad to see the replacement props are fit along with Richards, Staddon, Green and Carr-Smith who I thought it might have been.

I was thinking sela which would be a blow for him as only just back from an injury in u20s 6 nations I believe

Excited to see kepu, richards, staddon, green, donoghue, hennessy get a go.

Jury is out on how much benefit they will get given how weak our squad is.

Feels like lambs to the slaughter tbh- I predict it to get v v ugly! Would love to be wrong!

As I say don't necessarily disagree with the approach but those guys would certainly benefit from having more experience around them.

Quote:

gaz59

Quote:

P G Tips
Team up. Heavily rotated it is!
Bath Rugby Starting XV: 1 Francois van Wyk, 2 Jasper Spandler, 3 Archie Griffin, 4 Ewan Richards ©, 5 Ross Molony, 6 Josh Bayliss, 7 Ethan Staddon, 8 Arthur Green, 9 Louis Schreuder, 10 Ciaran Donoghue, 11 Austin Emens, 12 Orlando Bailey, 13 Louie Hennessey, 14 Joe Cokanasiga, 15 Tom de Glanville

Replacements: 16 Kepu Tuipulotu, 17 Arthur Cordwell, 18 Kieran Verden, 19 Will Jeanes, 20 Tom Cowan, 21 Tom Carr-Smith, 22 Ruaridh McConnochie, 23 Miles Reid

PG

Hmm, I wonder how Bath fans going to the game in Cardiff feel about that selection

We'll be split into 2 camps. Those of us who passionately follow the club and have bought into JVG's journey will accept this as a price to pay for a very credible league campaign, we are top, no one can catch us, with the prospect of a unprecedented treble give the young squad a chance against an unpredictable Bristol. I'm quite happy going with that in mind. However those neutrals and part time fans going for a big day out expecting to see Finn and co will be disappointed. It's a missed opportunity for a real test match showing the best of English rugby which was what I was expecting when the fixture was announced but so be it. If the young lads can make a game of it for 60 minutes I will be happy whatever the result.

Quote:

gaz59

Quote:

ChippenhamRoman

Quote:

gaz59

Quote:

P G Tips
Team up. Heavily rotated it is!
Bath Rugby Starting XV: 1 Francois van Wyk, 2 Jasper Spandler, 3 Archie Griffin, 4 Ewan Richards ©, 5 Ross Molony, 6 Josh Bayliss, 7 Ethan Staddon, 8 Arthur Green, 9 Louis Schreuder, 10 Ciaran Donoghue, 11 Austin Emens, 12 Orlando Bailey, 13 Louie Hennessey, 14 Joe Cokanasiga, 15 Tom de Glanville

Replacements: 16 Kepu Tuipulotu, 17 Arthur Cordwell, 18 Kieran Verden, 19 Will Jeanes, 20 Tom Cowan, 21 Tom Carr-Smith, 22 Ruaridh McConnochie, 23 Miles Reid

PG

Hmm, I wonder how Bath fans going to the game in Cardiff feel about that selection

A bit like how I felt in Treviso.

Going for the day out now.

I have to keep telling myself. Eyes on the prize(s).

European Challenge Cup and the Premiership title.

We have earned this rest. Shame I spent £50 on train tickets, £60 on match tickets and likely £150ish on food and drink.

Still imagine if this was a must win game with our first XV kicking lumps out of each other.

J

£150 on food and drink

Two teenage boys to fund. Easily hit £150.

J

I guess the ones most disappointed will be TNT and ITV4

Quote:

gaz59

Quote:

P G Tips
Team up. Heavily rotated it is!
Bath Rugby Starting XV: 1 Francois van Wyk, 2 Jasper Spandler, 3 Archie Griffin, 4 Ewan Richards ©, 5 Ross Molony, 6 Josh Bayliss, 7 Ethan Staddon, 8 Arthur Green, 9 Louis Schreuder, 10 Ciaran Donoghue, 11 Austin Emens, 12 Orlando Bailey, 13 Louie Hennessey, 14 Joe Cokanasiga, 15 Tom de Glanville

Replacements: 16 Kepu Tuipulotu, 17 Arthur Cordwell, 18 Kieran Verden, 19 Will Jeanes, 20 Tom Cowan, 21 Tom Carr-Smith, 22 Ruaridh McConnochie, 23 Miles Reid

PG

Hmm, I wonder how Bath fans going to the game in Cardiff feel about that selection

No doubt the same as those of us who travelled to Treviso, although JvG rightly can't be concerned with that.

Oh well, looks like it's a case of just enjoy the day out. It's only money isn't it Bath!

Young & mobile back row will hopefully be all over Randall & AJ McG.

Not surprised in the rotation and glad to see the younger squad members get a go. Part of JvG thinking may also be, isn't there a 30 game involvement limit across all competitions on players throughout the season? Not sure if this applies to England players only or players signed to a premiership club

"It's all right, Andy! It's just bolognaise!"

The game tomorrow has no bearing on the where we will finish ahead of the play offs, I seem to remember Sarries did something similar two seasons ago when we just clinched a Euro spot, but we would not want to get anymore injuries ahead of the final league game of the season when I fully expect us to put out the cup final side . Good squad and player welfare management.

I don't think it's about 'picking up an injury' as such - you can get those in non-contact training sessions - that's just luck, and i doubt the players pencilled in for 23 May will be wrapped in cotton wool for the next two weeks.

It's really about managing freshness/energy levels ahead of the final(s). JVG was saying that we've had up to 7 more games than most GP teams now. And Lyon have played 22 League games - 7 more than us. Seems like a sensible strategy to trade a bit of match sharpness for 80-minute energy levels.

Had hoped for a stronger bench which potentially could have given us a chance of retaliation against a full on Bris side and our biggest/nearest rivals.. Sadly think 35+ points difference and some very happy Bris fans with 5 points towards their play off goal.

Like many thousand Bath followers will be travelling in hope but little expectation unfortunately - hopefully I am proved wrong!

I fear that things will click for Bristol, and Luke P and his officials will miss some blatant blocking and a few forward passes, as is usually the case when Bristol play us.

Quote:

David 1113
Sadly think 35+ points difference and some very happy Bris fans with 5 points towards their play off goal.
Like many thousand Bath followers will be travelling in hope but little expectation unfortunately - hopefully I am proved wrong!

Just remember the dark days when that was the every week experience

A gamble - if we lose and then face Bris in the SF with their morale boosted. On the other hand, a valuable rest for the first choices and assume strong for Leicester, who look strong candidates for a final. Also as dr.bath says, these lads have beaten more experienced sides before -don't write them off.

Bristol a tricky couple of games after us- notably Sale in Manchester. They cannot afford to slip up against us. Will the pressure be on them too?

PG

Quote:

gaz59

Quote:

David 1113
Sadly think 35+ points difference and some very happy Bris fans with 5 points towards their play off goal.
Like many thousand Bath followers will be travelling in hope but little expectation unfortunately - hopefully I am proved wrong!

Just remember the dark days when that was the every week experience

Also worth remembering that during those dark days most of the time Bristol were languishing in the Championship. Unable to win a playoff game.

J

I was hoping not to gaz!

Like the selection the youth with the mixture of some real experience - it is an away game and we have our last regular home game of the season next week against our old foes who are playing Sale tonight - Bristol have to go strong for every game now - they have an unbelievably hard task next week away at Sale and given how tight those last 3 places are it is going to be a huge scrap.

On the positive note - given the Pollock hysteria some of these young guns will want to prove a bit especially to JvG & Co and it is really awkward for Bristol who would have prepared for a much different 23, and now they have seen the 23 we have put out they have to ward against complacency and thinking about next weeks game.

Come on Bath - We have nothing to lose boys.

Unless Bristol are completely cut off from reality they will have predicted (and prepared for) this kind of selection. People on 'ere have been predicting it for weeks!

BATH supporter since 1975

Adopted players:
2015/6 Tom Homer
2016/7 Matt Banahan
2017/8 Jeff Williams
2018/9 Victor Delmas
2019/20 Semesa Rokoduguni
2020/21 Will Stuart

Quote:

jayeatman
Unless Bristol are completely cut off from reality they will have predicted (and prepared for) this kind of selection. People on 'ere have been predicting it for weeks!

I think some were edging towards thinking it wouldn't be wholesale rotation for bris and that would come for leic which is 6 days before the euro final.

I would find it weird if we go strong next week. Hugely risky.

V relaxed if we see a similar squad next week.

Also in the sarries game- absolutely no sense in playing anyone on a 6 day turnaround before the semi unless it's someone like mojo coming back from injury.

These guys don't need games back to back at this stage of the season.

I think the only time we will see the likes of beno/ dunn/ tdt/ stuart/roux/ewels/ alfie/ spencer/ finn will now be semis and final(s)

I am pretty convinced Bristol will have expected a similar 23 to the Premiership cup final team with a much stronger/loaded bench.

I personally think we will go a lot stronger particularly up front against Tigers - JvG will not want to risk a Leinster and go into the Euro final with his first choice 23 game shy.

One thing about playing a rotated side is that it is the likes of Bristol, Sale Leicester and Gloucester that now have to be concerned about picking up key injuries and 6 day turnarounds and over playing. It will be interesting to see how they fare.

Ibitoye, AJ MacGinty and Randall won't fancy Green, Staddon and Cowan bearing down on them with everything to gain and nothing to lose. All three have bulked up this season.


Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.

Quote:

Ali1969
I am pretty convinced Bristol will have expected a similar 23 to the Premiership cup final team with a much stronger/loaded bench.
I personally think we will go a lot stronger particularly up front against Tigers - JvG will not want to risk a Leinster and go into the Euro final with his first choice 23 game shy.

Would we be undercooked if the frontline guys don't play between Saturday 3rd and Fri 23rd ?

I honestly don't know but I think it's worth the risk.

It was flagged that numerous leinster guys had played less than 6 games for them all season.

Feels a very different scenario.

Quote:

Charlieboa1
Would we be undercooked if the frontline guys don't play between Saturday 3rd and Fri 23rd ?

I honestly don't know but I think it's worth the risk.

It was flagged that numerous leinster guys had played less than 6 games for them all season.

Feels a very different scenario.

Agreed.
It's not the decision I'd have made, but in JvG we trust - he's earned it.

Would want to see more-or-less this same squad for Leicester and Sarries, feels like going strong for either of those risks undoing the benefits of this much rotation tomorrow.

Not too worried about opponents' morale - it's a no-win situation for them.
Put 50 on us and it's "it was only Bath's 2nd / 3rd XV"
Put less than that and it's "how did we not do better?"
Let us take any points at all and it's "oh ***, what are their 1sts going to do to us?"

A man who cannot change his mind, cannot change anything

RAEBURN SHIELD

All the younger guys have the motivation of trying to get into the 23 for the big games, or being first in mind if there's an injury. Pretty good place to be.

Green and Donoghue have both stood out in their recent Prem outings/debuts, Bailey and Griffin will be looking to reassert themselves after injuries, it doesn't feel like lambs to the slaughter.

Tom de Glanville - Adopted player 2024-5

I agree that the selected guys will be hugely motivated and they have a lot to play for personally and for the club.

I still think it's lambs to the slaughter to an extent tbh.

I can see us getting a 4 try BP but I can see bris scoring 60-70 +.

As has been said I don't think other clubs will gain much from beating our 3rd team and let's be honest that's what is it- have a few 1st team, a few second team but many are 3rd/4th/5th choice.

We have something to gain- if we avoid a walloping and a few guys stand up to the challenge well then happy days.

Quote:

Charlieboa1
I still think it's lambs to the slaughter to an extent tbh.

I can see us getting a 4 try BP but I can see bris scoring 60-70 +.

Yes thats how I see it, not "lambs to the slaughter" more like a "stout rear guard action by the sheep".

Try BP would be great.


Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.

Quote:

Optimist
I don't think it's about 'picking up an injury' as such - you can get those in non-contact training sessions - that's just luck, and i doubt the players pencilled in for 23 May will be wrapped in cotton wool for the next two weeks.
It's really about managing freshness/energy levels ahead of the final(s). JVG was saying that we've had up to 7 more games than most GP teams now. And Lyon have played 22 League games - 7 more than us. Seems like a sensible strategy to trade a bit of match sharpness for 80-minute energy levels.

+1

I’d speculate further. During one of the annual “it’s not fair, Leinster have it so easy in the urc and are able to rest and be fresh for euro games” debates an ex player of theirs did remark that they would use the 2 or 3 urc games prior to euro matches to rehearse plays/tactics so they were hitting those games both fresh and sharp so maybe that’s in JVGs head for our remaining fixtures.

Sarries sending out the kids against us in 2023, as well as allowing us to nick the last euro spot that season (ahead of bris ) didn’t do them any harm. I thought in the final they looked fresh and sale like they’d played 1 game too many.

Match day in Cardiff is the best, but such pain to get back from so I chose not to go tomorrow; one trip to Cardiff a month is enough, this was looking like a dead rubber some time ago so I was always gonna choose one euro final or another. Maybe bris should reconsider their scheduling if they’re gonna do this again in Cardiff

I’m going and I’m excited to see the young lads play and gain more experience in front of a huge crowd.
The right call by JVG in my opinion who had earned the right to rest the big guns. Really hope Orlando goes well 🇪🇪

Widcombe Garçon

Just noticed the game is being televised by ITV4

Quote:

Widcombe boy
I’m going and I’m excited to see the young lads play and gain more experience in front of a huge crowd.
The right call by JVG in my opinion who had earned the right to rest the big guns. Really hope Orlando goes well 🇪🇪

Agree. Hope it’s an enjoyable day out WB. Echo your sentiment re Orlando. There’s been much justified excitement about Donoghue, but Bailey has served us well for 4-5 seasons and is still young. I hope he puts in a late run for England’s summer tour.

PG

Really hoping Green continues his form, big opportunity for him especially with JC23 injury. My guess on the ‘young player injury’ is Tyler Offiah. Coka’s inclusion looks a bit odd compared to the rest of the team. Verden was excellent in the Prem cup so can understand him squeaking ahead of Billy Sela on merit. CD needs to wait for opportunities in front of him and not try too much (not that he has before, but he’s had a few more column inches since!).

Charlie

As I said somewhere above its a balance......play the best players in every match or give them three weeks rest.

Neither of those can possibly be correct.

So we have to not exhaust them but also to keep them in tip top match fitness......tricky balance

I imagine that McConnachie will share FB with TdG who is an important first team starter at the sharp end as is JC but they can be rested next week.

Safe travels Bath fans! Shame it’s in Cardiff but hoping for a good game, I feel the first half might be close, but the subs your end might struggle in the second half. Stranger things have happened though, and we are very good at imploding!

Will be a good experience for your young lads and am sure they’ll be right up for the challenge. Fingers crossed no injuries either way

Anyone else choosing to not watch this one, bank some home credits with the wife and kids and save them for future weekends, and nervously check the shoreline every now and again?

Feel like it could get ugly-ish. Would love to check the score at half time and for it to be close and full time and for it to be not too bad. Would rather not watch that unfold, which I know is curmudgeonly. I’m also usually an optimist ere.

2024/25 adoptee: Guy Pepper

Blimey!

IN JVG WE TRUST

Quote:

dr.bath1865
Anyone else choosing to not watch this one, bank some home credits with the wife and kids and save them for future weekends, and nervously check the shoreline every now and again?
Feel like it could get ugly-ish. Would love to check the score at half time and for it to be close and full time and for it to be not too bad. Would rather not watch that unfold, which I know is curmudgeonly. I’m also usually an optimist ere.

I’m afraid to admit that I do that all the time with West Ham. I just hope that this will be a competitive match & the youngsters benefit from it. A thumping win by Bristol will not be great for club morale.

I've got no choice but to be honest it would only affect my moral if the game was important. I'll be looking for "green shoots'. Quite keen on how Orlando Bailey goes at 12, there might well be bit of interchange there. Our biggest problem will be the amount of ball we win.


Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.

I don't think the result of this game will have any impact on team morale.

In fact the exact opposite.

Do you remember Saracens sending a very, very green team to us a couple of years ago. We beat them but they were close on 60 minutes and at the ned it was them who got the plaudits!

Oh 100%. Absolutely in JvG we trust- and I think it’s the perfect selection given the circumstances.

Oh heck I’m gonna watch it and hope for the best from behind the sofa, and look for Richards and Staddon and Green and Donoghue to make me even more confident about the future.

2024/25 adoptee: Guy Pepper

I’m going but with the wife 😂

Quote:

dr.bath1865
Anyone else choosing to not watch this one, bank some home credits with the wife and kids and save them for future weekends, and nervously check the shoreline every now and again?
Feel like it could get ugly-ish. Would love to check the score at half time and for it to be close and full time and for it to be not too bad. Would rather not watch that unfold, which I know is curmudgeonly. I’m also usually an optimist ere.

Quote:

Widcombe boy
I’m going but with the wife 😂

Quote:

dr.bath1865
Anyone else choosing to not watch this one, bank some home credits with the wife and kids and save them for future weekends, and nervously check the shoreline every now and again?
Feel like it could get ugly-ish. Would love to check the score at half time and for it to be close and full time and for it to be not too bad. Would rather not watch that unfold, which I know is curmudgeonly. I’m also usually an optimist ere.

Yours or Dr B's?

Tom de Glanville - Adopted player 2024-5

Quote:

BucksBBandW

Quote:

Widcombe boy
I’m going but with the wife 😂

Quote:

dr.bath1865
Anyone else choosing to not watch this one, bank some home credits with the wife and kids and save them for future weekends, and nervously check the shoreline every now and again?
Feel like it could get ugly-ish. Would love to check the score at half time and for it to be close and full time and for it to be not too bad. Would rather not watch that unfold, which I know is curmudgeonly. I’m also usually an optimist ere.

Yours or Dr B's?

Ooh ´er Mrs 😘

Quote:

BucksBBandW

Quote:

Widcombe boy
I’m going but with the wife 😂

Quote:

dr.bath1865
Anyone else choosing to not watch this one, bank some home credits with the wife and kids and save them for future weekends, and nervously check the shoreline every now and again?
Feel like it could get ugly-ish. Would love to check the score at half time and for it to be close and full time and for it to be not too bad. Would rather not watch that unfold, which I know is curmudgeonly. I’m also usually an optimist ere.

Yours or Dr B's?

Very witty!


Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.

All that’s important today is Bath players get a decent run out, they enjoy themselves and no injuries for Bath.

Haha.

It’ll leave me watch the telly in peace, so I’m most grateful, WB!

2024/25 adoptee: Guy Pepper

Eugh Schreuder…

’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”

And followed up by a poor clearing kicj

’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”

Gods he is terrible

’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”

Good attacking set boys!

’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”

Well that will hopefully settle nerves - just need to score here!

’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”

Always think you should choose the scrum there.
I know it takes longer, but it forces a non-prop off

A man who cannot change his mind, cannot change anything

RAEBURN SHIELD

Quote:

Which Tyler
Always think you should choose the scrum there.
I know it takes longer, but it forces a non-prop off

Proven right! Poor set there from us

’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”

I like the ref but he is taking far too long to set those scrums

’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”

Try Donoghue!

A man who cannot change his mind, cannot change anything

RAEBURN SHIELD

Lovely score - brilliant physicality from Joe

’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”

Ref @#$%& off with Brizzle - down to 13

A man who cannot change his mind, cannot change anything

RAEBURN SHIELD



Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 2025:05:10:15:12:52 by Which Tyler.

Pearce already fed up with Genge

’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”

Too loose in possession so far

’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”

Got to retain the ball better but not going to moan T this score 30 minutes in

’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”

Ibbitoye in from the side to pick up the ball for his try, not erven looked at!

We have had an excellent defensive shape up till then and it completely disappeared

’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”

Was always going to happen, but Dammit!

A man who cannot change his mind, cannot change anything

RAEBURN SHIELD

Jeez we're knackered

Hope we've an oxygen tank waiting in the changing room

A man who cannot change his mind, cannot change anything

RAEBURN SHIELD

Surely need to look at that again

’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”

Quote:

Toast and Marmite
Surely need to look at that again

I thought Green got it down before the Bristol arm got under it.
But not confident in that

A man who cannot change his mind, cannot change anything

RAEBURN SHIELD



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2025:05:10:15:32:39 by Which Tyler.

Sorry? Can you go to ground and then shove players over the line???

’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”

Quote:

Which Tyler

Quote:

Toast and Marmite
Surely need to look at that again

I thought Green got it down before the Bristol arm got under it.
But not confident in that

That’s what I thought - has to at least review

’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”

Genuinely baffled as to what is happening at scrum time

’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”

Annoying try to concede. We're making so many errors, particularly at ruck.

Probably what we should expect - lack power. A good result would be second half character and some attacking intent.

This was always going to be a real challenge.

Meh! They have had to huff and puff and they don’t look like a top 4 side.

Just annoyed at our error count.

Was starting to think that Schreuder had been coming good but this game is showing why he isn’t going to be here next season.

’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”

Pearce really should have reviewed the Arthur Green non-try. That was a 14 point turn around in the end.

Bristol actually playing sensibly for once.

Great shift from our young lads. Lung busting! Gone toe to toe with their 1st XV. Huge shame to concede at the end there after we’d be hammering at their line- 14 point swing.

Richards and Bayliss have been excellent. Will need our bench, and if we’d gone with the Prem Cup style bomb squad I think we’d be going on to win this. Still, excellent effort thus far.

2024/25 adoptee: Guy Pepper

Disappointing scoreline but expected worse. Hope we can keep it respectable 2nd Half.

BjVR lucky with yellow only and knew it.

I also thought on first viewing that Green had got it down. I presume TMO checked in background....

The Schroeder penalty for playing Randall was very dumb and cost us 7 points.

Quote:

Dorset Boy
Pearce really should have reviewed the Arthur Green non-try. That was a 14 point turn around in the end.
Bristol actually playing sensibly for once.

Genuinely baffled by this’s

Much as we moan about him you just know AH would have picked up on that!

’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”

Like to see TCS off bench, but appreciate JvG may want to keep him fresh and fit for more important games

’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”

Hopefully we see TCS asap in the second half. Need to show some better ball handling in contact as well - Staddon in particularly has coughed a couple up he should have the size to look after better.

Not sure what’s happening with the scrums. Seems like we’re a bit all over the place with our timings

Too easy - they are gaining metres far too easily- inexperience showing now

’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”

Louis Schreuder is making me long for the halcyon days of Micky Young

Schreuder again with a shocking pass

My eyes nearly rolled into the back of my head

’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”

Quote:

theredseat
Louis Schreuder is making me long for the halcyon days of Micky Young

At least he had a physical sniping game!

’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”

We just can’t get a break today- simple stuff not being executed

’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”

TCS on!

’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”

Euan Richard’s absolutely rinsing them

’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”

Thank... Goodness For That one.
Really needed that after 2 disallowed

A man who cannot change his mind, cannot change anything

RAEBURN SHIELD

Oh please god let Bristol implode- it would be hilarious

’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”

Emens needs to hit the gym!

’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”

8 minutes against 13 men this time

A man who cannot change his mind, cannot change anything

RAEBURN SHIELD

Don't understand why we don't go for a 5m scrum when they are a lock and No 8 down.

I appreciate the callow nature of the team but players really need to be better in these situations

’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”

Quote:

Never In Doubt
Don't understand why we don't go for a 5m scrum when they are a lock and No 8 down.

Poor decision making

’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”

Goodness me I love these young lads.

Whatever happens in the final 20, what fun this is to make them look ordinary and dampen their Big Day with our young lads throwing shots

2024/25 adoptee: Guy Pepper

Why on earth is Pearce taking so long to set the scrums!

’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”

Quote:

dr.bath1865
Goodness me I love these young lads.
Whatever happens in the final 20, what fun this is to make them look ordinary and dampen their Big Day with our young lads throwing shots

This is not the Bristol team we feared in n the first half of the season

’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”

Just hold on to the ***** ball!!!!

’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”

Absolutely ludicrous how poorly we have looked after the ball

’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”

Quote:

Toast and Marmite
Just hold on to the ***** ball!!!!

you need on copy/paste today
Still very proud of the boys today though.
Yeah, so Bristol have had 4 cards, but they've conceded them because we've rattled them

A man who cannot change his mind, cannot change anything

RAEBURN SHIELD



Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 2025:05:10:16:30:38 by Which Tyler.

This is giving me an aneurysm

’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”

Quote:

Which Tyler

Quote:

Toast and Marmite
Just hold on to the ***** ball!!!!

you need on copy/paste today

I would have exploded by now if this game meant something!!

This side has the beating of Bears but simply incapable of cutting out errors

’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”

Really missing someone like Butt in midfield to keep it straight and hard.

Whatever the result ... kudos to Bayliss. He has had an exceptional game.

And another chance blown

’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”

****

A man who cannot change his mind, cannot change anything

RAEBURN SHIELD

Hold on. To the frigging ball.

Error count from is must easily be double figures.

Ah well - our youngsters have made Bristol look very ordinary.

I will be amazed if they finish Top 4

’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”

Some tough lessons here for the younger players. More game management and decision-making than anything else. I feel we have tried to make too many wonder passes at top speed than necessary.

However, this won't make a jot of difference if it means we get fresh bodies back for the important games.

Annoying. Oh well.

Quote:

hasta
Hold on. To the frigging ball.

Yeah you can talk about being second string but that’s an aspect the coaches will be extremely upset by

’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”

Quote:

Never In Doubt
Some tough lessons here for the younger players. More game management and decision-making than anything else. I feel we have tried to make too many wonder passes at top speed than necessary.
However, this won't make a jot of difference if it means we get fresh bodies back for the important games.

Yeah to be fair there will be a lot of learning for them and it’s excellent experience.

’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”

Far far too many errors but we must remember that these are our young guys who will hopefully get better. Nevertheless I am disappointed that we could not convert more of our chances. Heads up in particular to Bayliss and Moloney who I thought were heroic.

Didn't expect to win but did expect better accuracy with ball in hand. We lacked power too but what was most frustrating was what it could have been...

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

Final score very flattering to Bristol. Thought the strip was forward on the Bristol line before Capon's try.
All told, close to 20 handling errors cost us, but got Bristol rattled.

Sure it's 5 points for Bristol, but against very much a second team, and the had to work really hard for it/.

Frustrating yes, especially as they had 4 yellows, but I think that was a super performance given our XV. Proud of the whole squad.

Scoreline flatters them. Couple of 14 point swing, length of the field tries. Maybe even only add in Ben and we convert a couple more chances and it’s much closer.

Loved Richards, Bayliss, Donoghue and Hennessy putting in monster shifts. Also love the first XV guys like Maloney, JCok and TDG giving it absolutely everything.

2024/25 adoptee: Guy Pepper

Well it was a loss - personally I think it was a huge win and well played boys - a full strength Bristol against our academy with a few senior squad thrown in.

I fully expected Bears to win by 60+ points but they at times really struggled and if we had taken our chances boy it would have been close.

Well played Bears you deserved your win good luck at Sale.

Never in the whole of Bath's 150 year history have we consistency selected a player as sh*t as Louis Schreuder. The difference Carr-Smith made to that team was night and day. I wish to never see Louis in the blue, black and white shirt ever again.

Good result for us in the end. Our thirds gave them a right scare and lots of players put their hands up.

Youngsters will have learned an absolute tonne from that, all will be better for the experience, and all can hold their heads high.
Coaches know they need more work on composure and execution under pressure
Bristol rattled, and desperate for those 2 late scores to get vaguely close to respectability on the board.

A man who cannot change his mind, cannot change anything

RAEBURN SHIELD

Quote:

Gaughers
Never in the whole of Bath's 150 year history have we consistency selected a player as sh*t as Louis Schreuder. The difference Carr-Smith made to that team was night and day. I wish to never see Louis in the blue, black and white shirt ever again.

He had a poor game but he hasn’t played badly this season when called upon & there have certainly been worse players representing the BB & W

Quote:

Gaughers
Never in the whole of Bath's 150 year history have we consistency selected a player as sh*t as Louis Schreuder.
.

Sean O’Leary??

’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2025:05:10:16:51:21 by Toast and Marmite.

Quote:

Bath Hammer

Quote:

Gaughers
Never in the whole of Bath's 150 year history have we consistency selected a player as sh*t as Louis Schreuder. The difference Carr-Smith made to that team was night and day. I wish to never see Louis in the blue, black and white shirt ever again.

He had a poor game but he hasn’t played badly this season when called upon & there have certainly been worse players representing the BB & W

Agree to disagree Hammer. Poor every single time. A renewal of his contract is a mockery and imo JVG's only blindspot.

Big picture - that’s one potential playoff team we should be confident we can beat at either the Rec or on the big pasture at Twickenham. A couple of better decisions and (mainly) the sort of handling levels we’ve seen for the rest of this season and we take that game really close.

I’d expect Sale to beat Bristol next week but then Bristol should also beat Quins on the last day. Too much going on to say if that’s enough for them

Quote:

Gaughers
Never in the whole of Bath's 150 year history have we consistency selected a player as sh*t as Louis Schreuder. The difference Carr-Smith made to that team was night and day. I wish to never see Louis in the blue, black and white shirt ever again.
Good result for us in the end. Our thirds gave them a right scare and lots of players put their hands up.

lol at this. I’ve been baffled at the number of time Schreuder has been preferred to TCS this season.

Sale should hammer that Bristol team- interesting Bristol kicking more today but I think they’d have more of a shot v teams like us and Sale fully committing to their full chaos, all out attack rugby.

Great to be watching these games as a (sort of) neutral. Gloucester winning now would put them, I think, favourites for fourth spot. Problem is I bet Marcus reupped by his Lion’s pick, has a blinder today- but then Marcus may also have a blinder in the final round when Quins play Bristol.

(But in my thinking above I completely forgot about Sarries!)

2024/25 adoptee: Guy Pepper

That was very winnable

Everything that was good was very, very good but with some smarter play when they were down to 13 and fewer handling errors we would have won with something to spare

And that's a great credit to the young guns

Yes the youngsters will gain a lot from that experience. However I think our coaches and strategists will also learn what a full brizzle team is capable of or not! The error count by them was also high. If they do get into the play offs I am sure JvG and his team will know how to play them.

Quote:

CoochieCoo
Yes the youngsters will gain a lot from that experience. However I think our coaches and strategists will also learn what a full brizzle team is capable of or not! The error count by them was also high. If they do get into the play offs I am sure JvG and his team will know how to play them.

I think our first team would have minced them today - the lack of power in the team was obvious and the first choice guys convert at least half the chances put down today

’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”

50,095 attendance, for those critiquing the ball retention the atmosphere was very intimidating. Principality ridiculously loud with the roof on. Lyon will find it an ordeal I just hope this game has prepared our club for the atmosphere.

Several players came out the cauldron with credit Donoghue's temperament is superb, Bailey and Hennessy struggled physically. Richards and Bayliss were standout forwards and I though Jasper Spandler did jut fine. Billy still learning!

I'd be happy if we meet Bristol in the playoffs they should have ripped us apart. Luatua's injury looked bad.


Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.

Quote:

hasta
Hold on. To the frigging ball.

Exactly this………..93 missed chances Excellent effort though, well done to all

Adopted Player 2018/19 Ross Batty
Adopted Player 2019/20 Jack Davies
Adopted Player 2020/21 Cam Redpath
Adopted Player 2021/22 Darren Atkins
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"AN OUNCE OF ACTION IS WORTH A TON OF THEORY"
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In other news Lyon lost at home to Pau today

Quote:

theredseat
In other news Lyon lost at home to Pau today

By 2 points. That's a rotated side as well. Saving themselves for the final?


Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.

That wasn't much fun. Pleased to see positive responses on here, to be honest I was feeling a bit let down by it but more optimism on my part probably needed.

Seems odd to criticise the ref team when they gave Bristol four yellows but I will anyway.

Pearce was rushing things too much in the first half (calling for the SH to play it before a ruck had even formed at one point). I'm not against that in principle but he needs to be more consistent with what other refs are doing - either he slows down or they speed up. He was also very quick to call 'held up' which seemed to cost us a try and swung momentum.

Worse than that was our game management. Taking so much time against 13 - particularly with a lineout first half and a scrum second half to the point where Pearce was having to rush us - is pretty abysmal. Generally we were really poor against 13. Senior guys didn't do their bit there, I thought.

A regular gripe for me, today was a good example - the commentary team rabbiting on endlessly when the ref was talking to the players. Would really like to hear what's being said on the field, not the relatively uninteresting droning of today's guilty parties, Warburton and Roberts. Who I generally like, to be clear. Producer needs a silencing button.

Last thought, Bill Mata is terrifying.

Pearce is always like that, he pushes for a fast play the ball.

TCS didn't seem to have any issues...

Quote:

Gaughers
Never in the whole of Bath's 150 year history have we consistency selected a player as sh*t as Louis Schreuder. The difference Carr-Smith made to that team was night and day. I wish to never see Louis in the blue, black and white shirt ever again.
Good result for us in the end. Our thirds gave them a right scare and lots of players put their hands up.

Didn’t watch the game but the comment about Schreuder is out of order.

Quote:

OutsideBath

Quote:

Gaughers
Never in the whole of Bath's 150 year history have we consistency selected a player as sh*t as Louis Schreuder. The difference Carr-Smith made to that team was night and day. I wish to never see Louis in the blue, black and white shirt ever again.
Good result for us in the end. Our thirds gave them a right scare and lots of players put their hands up.

Didn’t watch the game but the comment about Schreuder is out of order.

Yep. Seems to be the way the board is going now though, which is a shame.

Agree- out of order. Horrible sentiment and also completely ridiculous. Find something nice to say or at least keep it civil.

2024/25 adoptee: Guy Pepper

Quote:

Toast and Marmite
I like the ref but he is taking far too long to set those scrums

I think Ref Pearce is one of our best but his continuous coaching and commentary of both sides today became irritating for me. I know it was a showpiece event live on terrestrial TV but it's not his job to make the game flow or is it these days? His job is to referee the match under the applicable laws. Am I missing something?

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

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Quote:

Clarkey3k

Quote:

Toast and Marmite
I like the ref but he is taking far too long to set those scrums

I think Ref Pearce is one of our best but his continuous coaching and commentary of both sides today became irritating for me. I know it was a showpiece event live on terrestrial TV but it's not his job to make the game flow or is it these days? His job is to referee the match under the applicable laws. Am I missing something?

i think he takes it upon himself to do more and go further than others. I don't have an issue with what he does for the most part, but I really do think the refs should be instructed to approach things consistently. Players have enough on their hands without having to second guess how a referee is going to act.

There's always a need to adapt to a ref but that tends to be more at international level where you aren't used to officials from another competition/nation. Having someone be quite a significant outlier within the same league seems unhelpful.

Pearce has been around for ages and always refs the same way. I don't see an issue. Games he refs consistently tend to be entertaining.

We could've won that with our 3s! Well done lads, that was some shift against a 1st team. Imagine that in your playing days. Very encouraging. And if you disagree, please keep it classy, everyone put in a good effort today, no need for nasty words

I think TCS is a better scrum half than Schreuder but I guess JvG wanted an experienced 9 to help Green and Donaghue. Fully understandable but I think TCS is up to the job now of being our number 2 scrummie.

I thought Bailey grew into the game, after he'd had time to push his ribs back into place. Hennesey has lots of promise, but not the finished article yet - confident he will make it though. As others have said, TdG was setting a great example with his efforts. Impressed with Staddon in the first half, he looks to have a big engine and worked really hard. Wanted to see Kepu with ball in hand a bit more (knock-on near the line was actually close to being a try, so can understand why he went for it).

Green not quite at the level he achieved in last outing. Scoreline went Briz's way in the last 10mins.

Big regret was not managing the game better when they had 13, they got through that phase well.

The comment about Schreuder might have had a clumsy delivery but as the senior halfback it was up to him to 'up' the game especially when Bristol were down to 13. His kicks were charged down and both Bailey and Donoghue were under pressure that eased when TCS came on.
It won't come over on the TV but the noise pre-game and at half time was ridiculously loud. It was so loud several spectators round me retired to the concourse until the game stated.
I'll be taking ear plugs for the Final on the 25th. I'm showing my age I guess.


Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.

Some brave performances today but a few didn't rise to the occasion and play as well as they have previously this season. Agree with previous posts regarding those that played well but thought Griffin also had a good game. The ridiculous comment from the critic whose been watching Bath since 1865 was totally garbage. Schreuder is a fine player, unfortunately he wasn't at his best today. Score flattered Bristol today, had all our players played their best they were there to be beaten.

Only just seen the score, sounds like a valiant but flawed performance from our young guns.

Did anyone notice whether the squad came away unscathed?

It is quite acceptable to criticise a player’s performance but it is completely unacceptable to imply they should not wear the shirt.

Staddon to me seems like Miles Reid 2.0 and I mean that as a huge compliment. Bayliss was superb, can't guess how many metres he covered.

Bailey was really good given how little he's played in the last few months.

We were short on ball carriers to really make a dent and set up quick ball and short on our usual power from 2m out. Not a shock, but if a shame.

Quote:

Gaughers
Never in the whole of Bath's 150 year history have we consistency selected a player as sh*t as Louis Schreuder. The difference Carr-Smith made to that team was night and day. I wish to never see Louis in the blue, black and white shirt ever again.

Not his best day today, but has been good for us this season. Above comments very out of order & not in keeping with the spirit we have enjoyed on this board for the last few years.

PG

Just watched the game. Proud of the boys but the difference in class was pretty clear. Not necessarily in physicality, more in composure. Briz looked like they knew what they were trying to do (even if they didn't do it very well) and we were much more operating as individuals. A good learning experience for the next generation.

The contrast of the speed of our distribution from the ruck once TCS came on was startling and it was noticeable that we really didn't have anyone over the ball in the game until Miles arrived.

My MotM - Josh Bayliss. Just seemed have an extra yard to work in compared to everyone else.

If I were Briz I'd be worried about 4 yellows, one of which would have been a straight red under another ref. BJVR was a lucky boy.

... IMHO, of course.

Now in Honolulu



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2025:05:11:00:55:27 by joethefanatic.

I thought we did amazingly well fo still be firmly in the game with 10 mins to go- I thought we would get stuffed so delighted to see bris kicking for goal at 73 mins to try a close it out against a team where many were 2nd/3rd/4th choice in their position.

The errors and decision making were frustrating but it's kind of inevitable from a cobbled together squad , most of whom were young and inexperienced.

I would rather congratulate their brave efforts and take the positives.

Bsyliss was immense- that's cos he is a v v good player, with hundreds of senior games for bath and Scotland. He really stood up manfully to help the young guys through.

I would be worried if I was a bris fan- they made seriously heavy work of it.

As an experience it was a good day.

Spent the day in town/ Cardiff bay/ walkabout with supporters club (q & a with Dave hilton, Nathan thomas, Gareth lewellyn).

Loads of bath fans and first game with my 2 daughters.

Thank you to jasper spandler, Thompson Cowan, ethan staddon, ciaran donoghue, archie griffin who did a full lap of the stadium thanking fans and had their photos taken with my girls- they were really chuffed.

Nice, down to earth guys who seemed really grateful for the opportunity of the day and will benefit from it.

On the van rensberg yellow I obviously couldn't hear the officials dialogue in the stadium.

What was the mitigation?

Did the conversation start at red given richards (?) landed on his shoulder/ neck from great height?

Looked a nasty one live but i was a hundred yds from the incident!

Can't recall what was said on TV - I think BJVR did just enough to demonstrate that he was genuinely competing for the ball.

Sounds like the Cardiff experiment worked out well. Good job by both clubs and the Welsh hosts.

Quote:

JK7
Can't recall what was said on TV - I think BJVR did just enough to demonstrate that he was genuinely competing for the ball.
Sounds like the Cardiff experiment worked out well. Good job by both clubs and the Welsh hosts.

Thanks jk7. Felt like he was a lucky boy live but very hard to tell from that distance sp maybe yellow was fair enough. Not a big fan of early red cards and their impact on games.

I've now watched the game on TV, a couple of things stand out. firstly Ciaran Donoghue might be a converted full back but he is emerging as a serious fly half, his covering defence was significant and his speed creates opportunities. For me he has overtaken Landy.
We get caught out defence wise wide out, its as though we line up wrong leaving an overlap, not sure why but it happens too often.
Lineout went well both Spandler and Kepu hit their targets with just one wobbly throw from JS.
Some of our academy players ran out of puff, unsurprising as they threw everything into that game.
Josh Bayliss is an absolute star (mentioned by loads of people) his self disgust when he overthrew a pass showed he really cared about his error.


Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.

Quote:

JK7
Can't recall what was said on TV - I think BJVR did just enough to demonstrate that he was genuinely competing for the ball.
Sounds like the Cardiff experiment worked out well. Good job by both clubs and the Welsh hosts.

Pat Lam stated his intention to repeat the fixture next year.


Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.

Felt from the telly that it was one of those incidents (like Green’s near try) where Pearce wanted to keep the game moving so decided on a yellow himself without much/any reference to the TMO. Fair enough.

I really like Pearce and his style. Think he most importantly has the respect of the players. As said above, you get a good, fast moving game. However I prefer when he’s the ref and Bath AREN’T playing. We all (naturally) focus on how poorly our own team is being treated by the ref and because Pearce likes to keep the game flowing and the stoppages to a minimum, inevitably, stuff gets missed or glossed over.

To be honest, as long as he’s consistent, fine, and we all moan about excessive TMO intervention so I like it. However you always come away from a game with him in charge, especially if your team loses, feeling hard done by. I’ve also a hunch that our power game suits a slower, more technical game. For that reason, I hope Carley gets the final!

2024/25 adoptee: Guy Pepper

The crazy thing is if coetzee was fit bayliss may struggle to make our best 23.

Even with coetzee out and a 6:2- split you could go hill, underhill, alfie , pepper, reid, malony/richards.

I think all the guys in the back 5 of the scrum know they need to play amazingly to even make the matchday squad at the business end if the season.

He certainly delivered on his side of the bargain yest.

It's an interesting one with donoghue.

I was v much in the bailey camp but now not so sure.

Yesterday showed that playing 10 in a big game on the back foot is v different to playing a 14 man newcastle at the rec.

Despite that its really hard to knock anything he did other than a chargedown and a few aimless kicks.

He challenges the line, makes breaks, keeps defenders interested. Solid goalkicker. His pace allows great cover defence.

He is a normal sized human being having met him after the game and looks like a child! I tried to give him some compliments which he smiled away.

Loads to like about him. Bailey had a good game as well I thought.

Nice selection problems....

Forgot about Ewan Richards, two significant breaks one resulting in an outrageous try, huge leader by example.


Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.

Quote:

shipwrecked
Forgot about Ewan Richards, two significant breaks one resulting in an outrageous try, huge leader by example.

You know I don't need asking twice to heap praise on richards!

He is a v good player. His engine when he is at lock is crazy- huge line break in first half. Great try in second half.

Class bloke and continually gaining leadership experience. Fingers crossed he get a few more chance to lead the side against leic and sarries.

Any idea why he was subbed relatively early? Maybe had just unloaded the tank. Jeanes did well in his cameo for malony and in the last 15.

Quote:

Charlieboa1
It's an interesting one with donoghue.
I was v much in the bailey camp but now not so sure.

Yesterday showed that playing 10 in a big game on the back foot is v different to playing a 14 man newcastle at the rec.

Despite that its really hard to knock anything he did other than a chargedown and a few aimless kicks.

He challenges the line, makes breaks, keeps defenders interested. Solid goalkicker. His pace allows great cover defence.

He is a normal sized human being having met him after the game and looks like a child! I tried to give him some compliments which he smiled away.

Loads to like about him. Bailey had a good game as well I thought.

Nice selection problems....

I think Donoghue has convincingly shown he potentially has a higher ceiling than Bailey. We need to find out if that is indeed the case. Perhaps OB2's future is at 12. But, after todays hits, his both his and Donoghue's bravery and toughness are absolutely not in doubt.

... IMHO, of course.

Now in Honolulu

I watched Donoghue after Mata melted him, he is like rubber! He just got up and dropped back to cover full back. Crazy! Bailey also seemed unaffected amazing resilience.


Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.

Probably right joe about donoghue having a potentially higher ceiling. V limited body of evidence as has played most of his rugby at 15 for dings but he is thriving every chance he gets.

Agree him and bailey did amazingly to bounce back from those huge shots.

Disappointing game with far too many errors, Bristol looked a shadow of the team that played so well earlier in the season. It shows clearly that everything in the league up to the point of choosing the semi finalists stands for nothing once the knock out games start. All of a sudden the quick fire teams like Bristol just freeze a little and with a small loss of confidence their game falls apart. The tough forward dominated teams start coming through and generating confidence.

It worries me a little having played so well this season, we must get back to winning ways to keep up our confidence otherwise if we start to fall behind or don't get the rub of the green will we be able to keep that belief to press home in the last quarter. I think so and hope so but Tigers, Sale and Saracens are no pushovers.

Thought Pearce had a good game and liked the way he gave yellow cards as soon as her thought it necessary, compare to Quins match where the referee spent half the match warning both sides and only reacted when it was unavoidable. If an offence warrants a yellow card, even in the first minute it should be given or teams will know they can get away with murder without any fear of an early card.

Quote:

Charlieboa1
Jeanes did well in his cameo for malony and in the last 15.

…….but by gum, is he slooow!

Quote:

Bath Hammer

Quote:

Charlieboa1
Jeanes did well in his cameo for malony and in the last 15.

…….but by gum, is he slooow!

Pacey he is not!

Do locks need to be quick? I think we are spoilt by having Baylis and Richards in the forwards, it would have been nice if his try had stood.


Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.

CB out of interest given Pat Lam saying Bristol will repeat this next year would you go again.


Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.

A different take in Schreuder from Stephen Jones in the Sunday Times;

"Bath will remember for months the resistance of Ciaran Donoghue and Louis Schreuder at half back and they will remember the Herculean efforts of their young forwards. "

PG

We are right to consider the positives from that performance as well as the negatives, but I suspect it is the latter that JvG & co will focus on.

If results go as expected, Bristol look likely to finish 4th- hence our semi final opponents. They have won at the Rec already this season and have seen the faults they need to iron out should they meet us again.

We will need to be very canny on SF day.

PG

Bristol have many more issues to worry about I feel than us post match- that was a very inexperienced XXiii bar a couple of older heads. Bristol had their full strength side out and quite frankly bar those last minute tries they struggled to put that side away.

Lam changed tactics and clearly the team are struggling to come to terms with it.

Their defence was a lot better but god they were close to a couple of Red Cards BJVR on another day may well have gone and Matta was a split second and a very contentious arm wrap from going. Luke Pearce is an exceptional official and I applaud his efforts to keep the game moving however in that you sometimes get it wrong, that being said the TMO can come in at anytime.

I stand by comments earlier that our young side despite the defeat got more out of the game than the Bears - Luatua’s injury did not loom good and they have an immense game next week.

I also want to add Louis Schroeder has done a brilliant job for us this season and I accept everyone is entitled to their opinion but he is also a Sprinkbok International and that honour does not come cheap - let us get behind our side and cheer them on to the treble.

Quote:

P G Tips
A different take in Schreuder from Stephen Jones in the Sunday Times;
"Bath will remember for months the resistance of Ciaran Donoghue and Louis Schreuder at half back and they will remember the Herculean efforts of their young forwards. "

PG

Well The Sunday Times is just wrong about Louis Schreuder, he did not have a good game yesterday.
multiple charge downs from box kicks, no threat from the base, slow and inaccurate passing, failure to manage the pace of the game. All that changed when TCS came on.


Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.

I thought schreuder wasn't great yest and if Stephen Jones thinks he did well that prob reaffirms my belief.

Think he has generally been fine as a back up. Assume he will leave this summer with van de linde coming in.

Interesting selection call for the crunch games. Was pretty easy for TCS to know what was needed. It was tempo and keeping ball in hand when bris were down to 13/14.

Quote:

shipwrecked
CB out of interest given Pat Lam saying Bristol will repeat this next year would you go again.

Would be tempted SW.

Is a 7 hour round trip so we made a weekend of it- 2 nights in an airbnb in canton with my siblings.

Kids enjoyed a boat ride on the taff, elements of the razzmatazz and we had a nice drink in Cardiff bay then a good meal at the Pizza express. Good breakfast out this morning in canton.

Lovely weather helped.

Shame about the squad selection- changed it from us being favourites to being a damage limitation exercise. As discussed totally understand and don't disagree with the approach but 100% devalued the game experience for me. Explaining why we selected a massively underpowered 23 to a 10 and 8 yr old not easy. Saying that I take great pleasure from watching the development of the young squad members and these dead rubbers are a bonus on that front.

Yet another away game I left feeling thankful for the match day experience of The Rec. Stadium is fantastic but City Centre was like a war zone...and that was early evening!

Thought the young lads did well and can hold their heads high. Yes there were mistakes and thought we lacked cohesion but that's to be expected.

Re: Briz, Ellis Genge's face on the bench said it all - looked well miffed despite them being well ahead. They were very poor and would've been beaten by most Prem first-teams playing like that.

My favourite part of the day was being sat around the non-playing members of the squad...all enjoying themselves, especially Mr Barbeary...who was a little uneasy on his feet on the way down those steep steps!

On a day like yesterday the roof open would have been really nice, especially with a 3pm KO. I also suspect that that KO time made the trains more manageable.

I think an 8pm KO will be a different experience, I expect more than 50,000 for the final and Bath will be full bore team wise. I agree I'd probably do it again but fully agree that making it a weekend it becomes an event. Great that your kids got to meet the players and you had a good time.


Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.

I agree it's odd that Jones seems to have overlooked Schreuder's 4 chargedowns, but journalists have to file copy asap after the final whistle, so their reporting is based on first impression rather than deep analysis of replays. He must have seen something in Schreuder's performance (maybe as simple as sticking to task after so much pressure and his error) to write of "resistance". Donoghue, who most on here are happy to praise was also charged down - twice in the opening ten minutes.

That said, I confess that I see TCS as the stronger 9 myself. Just think the constant down on Schreuder (who has mostly been fine this season) rather OTT.

PG

I agree PG, certainly one of Donoghue's charge downs was the result of LS's failed attempt. I think Schreuder fails to impress others because he is being compared to BS. Spencers scores tries from open play and running support lines and breaks of his own, as does TCS.

We have yet to see Spencer and Donoghue in a Prem game at 9 and 10. That will be an interesting comparison.


Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.

I was disappointed in Schreuder, especially the charge downs early on. Things definitely improved when TCS came on.
I don’t think anyone else had a bad game.
The only time I actually yelled at the TV was when Bayliss after a bit of magnificent play, threw it forward. Calling it a pass would’ve charitable!
My MoM was Richards, although as Captain he will be taking some of the blame for not scoring against 13.
Note from a pedant: This was NOT an academy or third team. There were just 4 current academy players in the 23 balanced by 5 full internationals, and 7 players who would be in our first choice 23. Besides our remarkably short injury list of 5,16 players were rested, so definitely a 2nd or Prem Cup team, in fact remarkably similar in strength to the one that lost 40-21 to Bristol in Feb.

BATH supporter since 1975

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PS where is the Bristol that outplayed us at the rec in October? I don’t think Bris make the playoffs. Leicester 2nd whether or not we beat them next week. Sale will beat Bris for third. Sarries will beat our 2nds for 4th and the privilege of playing our 1sts at The Rec the following weekend. Leicester at HQ then just like in the good old days!

BATH supporter since 1975

Adopted players:
2015/6 Tom Homer
2016/7 Matt Banahan
2017/8 Jeff Williams
2018/9 Victor Delmas
2019/20 Semesa Rokoduguni
2020/21 Will Stuart

Quote:

Barfboy

Thought the young lads did well and can hold their heads high. Yes there were mistakes and thought we lacked cohesion but that's to be expected.

I don’t think a lack of cohesion was expected as the bulk of that team has played a lot together. However, they did lack composure which sadly cost them.

Quote:

jayeatman
PS where is the Bristol that outplayed us at the rec in October? I don’t think Bris make the playoffs. Leicester 2nd whether or not we beat them next week. Sale will beat Bris for third. Sarries will beat our 2nds for 4th and the privilege of playing our 1sts at The Rec the following weekend. Leicester at HQ then just like in the good old days!

It is possible that PL will have stemmed that decline & they perform well in the remaining matches. They have several players who can really turn a game so I wouldn’t be over confident against them.

Agree BH. The difference Batley & AJ McGinty make is immense.

PG

Hi Guys

Met some of you on the train on the way there - getting the '3rd team' excuses in early - but seriously - thanks for contributing to a great day out

For info: next year's fixture will almost certainly be Bears v Gloucester

Cheers

Always felt we'd come away with a loss, but exceedingly proud of the young guys that stepped up and made Bristol work for their win. As for Bath picking an under strength side, we have some important games coming up and we've earnt the right to rest a large number of the starting XV, aside of that the fact we have played pretty much double the number of games Bris have since Feb player welfare also come into this and I'd rather Finn, Ben etc etc. get a day off and a few beers in Cardiff, than playing just to makes Bris day out a bit more special! If their so keen to see our best players, easy enough to buy a ticket to the Rec

"It's all right, Andy! It's just bolognaise!"

My main takeaway from the day was how many people from Bristol had never been to Cardiff before. Even met some in the arms park asking if they were in the right place, they fully expected the game to be at the arms park.

Strange lot!

As for the game if only we got the 3rd try around the 60 -65mins mark. Bristol were on the ropes.

Still a good day out.

Quote:

jayeatman
PS where is the Bristol that outplayed us at the rec in October? I don’t think Bris make the playoffs. Leicester 2nd whether or not we beat them next week. Sale will beat Bris for third. Sarries will beat our 2nds for 4th and the privilege of playing our 1sts at The Rec the following weekend. Leicester at HQ then just like in the good old days!

That’s exactly how I think it will play out. Think Bris will just miss out.

J

Quote:

Bath Blues
As for the game if only we got the 3rd try around the 60 -65mins mark. Bristol were on the ropes.
Still a good day out.

Yep, would have loved to have seen bris is a complete panic if we had scored when they went down to 13 men for the second time (we really should have).

Bad enough they were having to kick for goal in the 74th minute....

Really thought this game has created some real selection issues for the Run-in/finals.

Molony and Richards good in different ways. Both good options for that 19 spot.
Backrow is so so contested right now. Reid and Bayliss just get the hard work done and also both have the ball carrying ability to get go forward. Green going well at 8, although feels like more of someone to build into a game rather than 20 mins of impact.
TCS and Schreuder offer very different styles. TCS brings the speed off the bench and a style change from Speno. Whereas Schreuder probably gives more control in those last 5 mins.
That back spot could truly be anyone. Donoghue absolutely immense right now. But does he come on in a big game? Not sure he does. Bailey with gives added experience in comparison and covers centres. And then a fit Ojomoh who off the bench is scary fun. But then no 10 cover.

My bench with all expected fit would be

16. Annett
17. Van Wyk
18. TDT
19. Bayliss
20. Pepper
21. TCS
22. Ojomoh
23. Barbeary

Complete backrow change (Hill Underhill Reid) with Hill moving to lock. Which to me has seemed to be the pattern. But who knows anymore!

Quote:

Bath Blues
My main takeaway from the day was how many people from Bristol had never been to Cardiff before. Even met some in the arms park asking if they were in the right place, they fully expected the game to be at the arms park.
Strange lot!

Why were you at the Arms Park then?

Quote:

Bath Hammer

Quote:

Bath Blues
My main takeaway from the day was how many people from Bristol had never been to Cardiff before. Even met some in the arms park asking if they were in the right place, they fully expected the game to be at the arms park.
Strange lot!

Why were you at the Arms Park then?

Supberb pre and post match drinking and scran. Right underneath the stadium. The hidden gem in Cardiff on match day Cardiff RFC Clubhouse. Stumbled on it for Wales v Scotland last season.

No queues for drinks and loads of space.

J

Quote:

Jimeno
For info: next year's fixture will almost certainly be Bears v Gloucester

Good news.

[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]

[quote ChippenhamRoman][quote Bath Hammer][quote Bath Blues]My main takeaway from the day was how many people from Bristol had never been to Cardiff before. Even met some in the arms park asking if they were in the right place, they fully expected the game to be at the arms park.

Strange lot![/quote]

Why were you at the Arms Park then?[/quote]

Supberb pre and post match drinking and scran. Right underneath the stadium. The hidden gem in Cardiff on match day Cardiff RFC Clubhouse. Stumbled on it for Wales v Scotland last season.

No queues for drinks and loads of space.

great tip its impossible to get a beer anywhere after about midday

Max back available for the weekend.

For me slots straight back into 13 for the run in. Get him off the bench for Tigers then ready for the Final. Makes such a difference for our attack.

Quote:

HK890
Max back available for the weekend.
For me slots straight back into 13 for the run in. Get him off the bench for Tigers then ready for the Final. Makes such a difference for our attack.

Where did you hear this?

Quote:

Bath Hammer

Quote:

HK890
Max back available for the weekend.
For me slots straight back into 13 for the run in. Get him off the bench for Tigers then ready for the Final. Makes such a difference for our attack.

Where did you hear this?

On Twitter, from Sam Jess (sports journalist) reporting a statement from JvG.


Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.

Quote:

ChippenhamRoman

Quote:

Bath Hammer

Quote:

Bath Blues
My main takeaway from the day was how many people from Bristol had never been to Cardiff before. Even met some in the arms park asking if they were in the right place, they fully expected the game to be at the arms park.
Strange lot!

Why were you at the Arms Park then?

Supberb pre and post match drinking and scran. Right underneath the stadium. The hidden gem in Cardiff on match day Cardiff RFC Clubhouse. Stumbled on it for Wales v Scotland last season.

No queues for drinks and loads of space.

J

Correct, even giving out Thatchers bucket hats, t-shirts and free pints for the lucky ones.