Bath
Don't stop me now....Saracens v Bath
Richards: trust
By Devonport Lad
May 27 2025
I'm having such a good time, I'm having a ball! That's how I feel at the moment and I'm sure those Queen lyrics strike a chord with many of the extraordinarily loyal and patient Bath supporters. To pinch a reference from the round ball game, it's not quite the "30 years of hurt" that Baddiel and Skinner sang about in "Three Lions" but it's felt like it at times and the transformation during JvG's tenure is nothing short of incredible.
My wife and I have watched Bath in finals a number of times over the years, regrettably it has to be said, latterly losing more often than winning. In the various iterations of the Challenge Cup competition, we were at a wet Kingsholm in 2008 when we beat Worcester, due in no small part to Lee Mears getting away with a bit of judicious shirt pulling on Shane Drahm who was heading for the try line after an Ollie Barkley kick was charged down. We were there again in 2014 when Mike Ford selected an already injured George Ford ahead of a fit and raring to go Gavin Henson and we lost, ironically to Northampton who were the other English team in action last weekend in Cardiff. Maybe it was the occasion, maybe it was the venue but this Challenge Cup win felt huge; a European trophy to underline how far we've come under JvG.
To be honest, I've never been particularly fond of the Principality, largely because it can be a pain to get to and from, especially on a Bank Holiday, but the atmosphere inside on Friday was fit for the occasion and I don't begrudge a minute of the 3 or so hours it took to get there. The renditions of "Come On You Bath" were at times deafening, possibly only exceeded in volume by the joyous chant of "Oh Beno Obano". Yes, there were "head in hands" moments and arguably we won that game by a huge defensive effort during the sin bin periods. JvG has always said that a hallmark of this team is being hard to beat and boy, did we ever see that. There is a clear culture of unity and a real sense of family in this Bath team, led by Ben Spencer who thoroughly deserved his MOTM award. It's great to behold and be a part of. Thank you, Johann!
We know that training at Farleigh will reset this week with focus on the game at Saracens on Saturday, but what's in it for Bath and what approach should we take? The home semi - final is nailed on so in that sense there isn't much at stake, but we can have an impact on the final top four placings. You would have to feel that Leicester, with a home game against Newcastle are certain to secure the other home semi - final but below them any two of the next four teams could secure a spot. Sale are looking strong in the final stages of the season and will probably have enough to beat Exeter although they are never an easy prospect at Sandy Park. Bristol have got Quins at Ashton Gate and will be looking for 5 points against a side that has not really performed consistently well this season, but Quins have "got previous" at spoiling the Bears' party in big games. Northampton will be battered and carrying a few injuries following their Champions Cup defeat but will want to end the season strongly against a Gloucester side who have to secure 5 points at Castle Grim if they have any chance.
And that brings us back to Sarries. On 51 points at the moment, nothing less than 5 points will do. So how do we approach this game? I understand all the arguments about momentum but are we going to risk our key players on a 4G artificial pitch a week before the semi - final at the Rec in a game where there is little directly at stake for us? I shouldn't have thought so. JvG trusts in the totality of his squad and I think we will see Ewan Richards leading out an augmented Premiership Cup team at the StoneX. I'm OK with that. The days when we had to borrow players and came close to defaulting matches because of lack of resources are long gone. The squad is deep, with talent that would be welcomed in pretty much any Premiership team and those boys will relish the prospect of showcasing their skills against a Saracens team for whom this game is season - defining.
The pressure isn’t quite off because of the impact that the result of this game may have on the make-up of the semi - finals, but in a sense that's "noises off". JvG will do what is right for Bath, not just for this week but for 6th June and hopefully the 14th. He said after the Challenge Cup win that these are moments to cherish and he, and we, want more! I'm sure the squad who will be playing on Saturday will have been told some time ago and had the value of their contribution to the team as a whole, underlined. I may be completely wrong, but I think for this Saturday it's a case of "in JvG's young guns we trust".
COYB
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Discussion started by Comeonmylovers.co.uk (IP Logged), 27/05/2025 07:05
27/05/2025 07:05
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Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 2025:06:03:22:15:07 by CoochieCoo.
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Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 2025:06:03:22:15:07 by CoochieCoo.
I'm sure you're absolutely right. Friday's team need a week off. We want our strongest line up fresh for the semi and hopefully the final.
I don't actually think the result will affect who gets top 4. I fully expect Sale & Bris to get 5 point wins for 3rd & 4th.
For me the main question is who of the first choice 23 needs a run out on Saturday. Does Ojomoh need more game time after his injury? Do Friday's bench need a run out? I'd say yes to TCS and Donoghue and maybe Molony & FvW. So I'm going very close to the Bristol game line up:
Ciaran Donoghue
Ruaridh McConnochie
Max Ojomoh
Louie Hennessy
Austin Emens
Orlando Bailey
Tom Carr-Smith
Francois Van Wyk
Jasper Spandler
Archie Griffin TH
Ewan Richards
Ross Molony
Josh Bayliss
Ethan Staddon
Arthur Green
Kepueli Tuipulotu
Arther Cordwell
Kieran Verden
Will Jeanes
Thompson Cowan
Louis Schreuder
Will Parry
Miles Reid
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 don't actually think the result will affect who gets top 4. I fully expect Sale & Bris to get 5 point wins for 3rd & 4th.
For me the main question is who of the first choice 23 needs a run out on Saturday. Does Ojomoh need more game time after his injury? Do Friday's bench need a run out? I'd say yes to TCS and Donoghue and maybe Molony & FvW. So I'm going very close to the Bristol game line up:
Ciaran Donoghue
Ruaridh McConnochie
Max Ojomoh
Louie Hennessy
Austin Emens
Orlando Bailey
Tom Carr-Smith
Francois Van Wyk
Jasper Spandler
Archie Griffin TH
Ewan Richards
Ross Molony
Josh Bayliss
Ethan Staddon
Arthur Green
Kepueli Tuipulotu
Arther Cordwell
Kieran Verden
Will Jeanes
Thompson Cowan
Louis Schreuder
Will Parry
Miles Reid
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
I'm sure you're absolutely right. Friday's team need a week off. We want our strongest line up fresh for the semi and hopefully the final.
I don't actually think the result will affect who gets top 4. I fully expect Sale & Bris to get 5 point wins for 3rd & 4th.
For me the main question is who of the first choice 23 needs a run out on Saturday. Does Ojomoh need more game time after his injury? Do Friday's bench need a run out? I'd say yes to TCS and Donoghue and maybe Molony & FvW. So I'm going very close to the Bristol game line up:
Ciaran Donoghue
Ruaridh McConnochie
Max Ojomoh
Louie Hennessy
Austin Emens
Orlando Bailey
Tom Carr-Smith
Francois Van Wyk
Jasper Spandler
Archie Griffin TH
Ewan Richards
Ross Molony
Josh Bayliss
Ethan Staddon
Arthur Green
Kepueli Tuipulotu
Arther Cordwell
Kieran Verden
Will Jeanes
Thompson Cowan
Louis Schreuder
Will Parry
Miles Reid
I could certainly go along with that selection, although I'd still be nervous about Ojomoh getting crocked, I think he's the only genuine first teamer in that XV. If Redpath is over his knock then I'd sooner see him included to get a few minutes under his belt before the playoffs.
Yes Ojomoh is a risk. Seeing him wearing that boot on Friday night, I don't hold out much hope for Redpath playing again this season. Poor chap! If he were fit though I'd definitely have him there instead of Ojomoh.
I'd love to see Sela in the mix, but I guess he's injured. Has that been confirmed?
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 love to see Sela in the mix, but I guess he's injured. Has that been confirmed?
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
Yeah I'd wrap Mojo in cotton wool but reckon that squad is pretty accurate. Have we got another centre to pair with LH if Mojo/Butt are all rested and Cam still unavailable?
Expect Underhill's season is over, so maybe some additional minutes for Pepper may be useful.
Haven't seen Tuipulotu as much as expected, so be great to see him get more of a run out.
Expect Underhill's season is over, so maybe some additional minutes for Pepper may be useful.
Haven't seen Tuipulotu as much as expected, so be great to see him get more of a run out.
Quote:Barfboy
Have we got another centre to pair with LH if Mojo/Butt are all rested and Cam still unavailable?.
The Premiership Cup teams included Hennessey, Will Parry and Orlando Bailey each playing in the centres at some point. None would let the team down.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Quote:BathMatt53Quote:Barfboy
Have we got another centre to pair with LH if Mojo/Butt are all rested and Cam still unavailable?.
The Premiership Cup teams included Hennessey, Will Parry and Orlando Bailey each playing in the centres at some point. None would let the team down.
No idea if Parry would be a good pairing with LH but that would be my pick. Bailey will no doubt start at 10 (unless we've got another 10 in the academy who's up to Sarries away)?
Quote:Like in the Bristol game, Donoghue to 10 and Bailey to 12.Barfboy
Yeah I'd wrap Mojo in cotton wool but reckon that squad is pretty accurate. Have we got another centre to pair with LH if Mojo/Butt are all rested and Cam still unavailable?
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
No idea if Parry would be a good pairing with LH but that would be my pick.
[www.bathrugby.com]
They played vs Bristol and got a brace each.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
A match made in heaven.
Underhill been cited. May get off, but would say with recent indiscretions he may cop a lengthy ban.
Underhill been cited. May get off, but would say with recent indiscretions he may cop a lengthy ban.
Quote:Optimist
Why would Underhill's season be over?
If [u][/u]he is guilty then a Mid-range of 6 weeks/matches down to 3 for mitigation (guilty plea or immediate apology etc?). I assume he can't do another course.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Quote:Given his red card for the same offence a few months ago - I doubt that he'd get the full 50% reduction.BathMatt53Quote:Optimist
Why would Underhill's season be over?
If [u][/u]he is guilty then a Mid-range of 6 weeks/matches down to 3 for mitigation (guilty plea or immediate apology etc?). I assume he can't do another course.
Quite honestly, given that, he SHOULDN'T get the full 50% reduction (if found guilty).
RAEBURN SHIELD
Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 2025:05:27:11:06:53 by Which Tyler.
Quote:jayeatman
Yes Ojomoh is a risk. Seeing him wearing that boot on Friday night, I don't hold out much hope for Redpath playing again this season. Poor chap! If he were fit though I'd definitely have him there instead of Ojomoh.
I'd love to see Sela in the mix, but I guess he's injured. Has that been confirmed?
Sela was out on the pitch after the final on Friday. Didn’t seem to be having difficulty moving around but that probably isn’t any sort of real indicator. Hopefully he’s alright for some mins this week
Quote:BathMatt53Quote:Barfboy
Have we got another centre to pair with LH if Mojo/Butt are all rested and Cam still unavailable?.
The Premiership Cup teams included Hennessey, Will Parry and Orlando Bailey each playing in the centres at some point. None would let the team down.
I really rate Will Parry, fast strong with an eye for a good line. Still only 21 and will bulk up a bit I suspect.
With the emergence of Donoghue Orlando Bailey fits the centre spot as well. The Prem Cup team are getting stronger and stronger.
Did we pick the Friday night playoff date?
Friday!!!!
😐 Means I can't get there. Grrr
Friday!!!!
😐 Means I can't get there. Grrr
On the subject of wildly speculating about players' injury statuses based on the post match footage from Friday, I did spot Jaco Coetzee walking around the pitch without a boot/crutches.
6 weeks on from a ruptured ACL that's forecast to keep him out for 9-12 months, no idea how long it typically takes to be back walking again, but at least he was able to join in with the festivities.
6 weeks on from a ruptured ACL that's forecast to keep him out for 9-12 months, no idea how long it typically takes to be back walking again, but at least he was able to join in with the festivities.
Quote:I understand TNT wanted the Friday night game to be the Bath one.Bath Blues
Did we pick the Friday night playoff date?
Friday!!!!
😐 Means I can't get there. Grrr
Because it is the Friday night.....I can go!!
Your loss is my gain
Your loss is my gain
My son is gutted he can't go, it clashes with a Bath Races evening fixture and Brit pop music event he'd bought tickets for himself and his wife as a treat! The game will probably affect their attendance.
Good report Devonport Lad......selection very tricky
I would go with that team Jayeatman...
I would go with that team Jayeatman...
In light of Sam's ban, I wonder whether the likes of Bayliss, Richards and possibly Staddon might be withdrawn from this week's game?
For me the best back row we could now field would be:
6 Hill; 7 Pepper; 8 Barbeary
20 Reid; 21 Bayliss
I'd then say Richards is the next cab off the rank, so for the sake of my blood pressure I'd prefer to go into the play offs knowing that we're not 1 injury/citing away from chucking in a relatively inexperienced player into the back row.
For me the best back row we could now field would be:
6 Hill; 7 Pepper; 8 Barbeary
20 Reid; 21 Bayliss
I'd then say Richards is the next cab off the rank, so for the sake of my blood pressure I'd prefer to go into the play offs knowing that we're not 1 injury/citing away from chucking in a relatively inexperienced player into the back row.
Green, Staddon, Richards are all the next options, and all have got premiership experience this season.
Quote:hasta
Green, Staddon, Richards are all the next options, and all have got premiership experience this season.
Not trying to diminish the performances they've put in this season, all have been impressive, but in the pressure cooker environment of a semi final (and possibly final), I'd really want to have my most experienced players on the field.
For what it's worth I think Richards' experience captaining the PRC team makes him a totally viable option come the play offs.
I suspect we'll see:
Starting: Hill/Pepper/Reid
Bench: Richards/Bayliss/Barbeary
For Sarries I think Jeanes, Richards, Moloney, Staddon, Green, Bayliss all get game time.
Starting: Hill/Pepper/Reid
Bench: Richards/Bayliss/Barbeary
For Sarries I think Jeanes, Richards, Moloney, Staddon, Green, Bayliss all get game time.
Quote:boozeboozeboozeQuote:hasta
Green, Staddon, Richards are all the next options, and all have got premiership experience this season.
Not trying to diminish the performances they've put in this season, all have been impressive, but in the pressure cooker environment of a semi final (and possibly final), I'd really want to have my most experienced players on the field.
For what it's worth I think Richards' experience captaining the PRC team makes him a totally viable option come the play offs.
Agree generally and Richards, two stunning breaks v Bristol. A 6 or lock and great leadership.
The back row depends a bit on the game plan, free flowing Baylis and Pepper dog it out Reid and Richards.
Sam is a loss but we do have excellent resources.
Quote:hasta
I suspect we'll see:
Starting: Hill/Pepper/Reid
Bench: Richards/Bayliss/Barbeary
For Sarries I think Jeanes, Richards, Moloney, Staddon, Green, Bayliss all get game time.
I would be very happy to see this. Sam a huge loss but offers others the chance to step up.
I would go something like:
Bailey
Emmens
Hennessey
Redpath (or parry)
Rmc
Donoghue
Tcs
Cordwell
Spandler
Griffin
Richards
Malony
Bayliss
Staddon
Green
Bench: kepu, fvw, sela (or verden), jeanes, cowan, timmins, schreuder, offiah
Seriously starting to scratch around for 23 players now if you want to rest most of the frontline players but feels the route we have to go.
If they only played 10-20min off the bench last week, they don't need resting. Similarly I wouldn't worry too much if some of last week's starters were on the bench. There's a limit to how much cotton wool you can wrap them in. You can get injuries at any time.
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
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
Yes, I agree Jay, I’d be interested to see how many minutes compared to starts/appearances some of our squad do.
Finn and Ben regularly do close to 80 so need rest consideration but its not often that others do. Some of our backs play 80 TdG, Cam, Mojo Joe C. Will Muir We have had a big work load as a club this season. Squad management has been excellent!
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
Finn and Ben regularly do close to 80 so need rest consideration but its not often that others do. Some of our backs play 80 TdG, Cam, Mojo Joe C. Will Muir We have had a big work load as a club this season. Squad management has been excellent!
I think we have the resources to cope with Sam's absence. However, i'm less concerned about our prospects, and a bit devastated for him. Having missed so many England and Bath games through injuries accumulated in the process of putting his body on the line, to be missing 2 games of sufficient magnitude to compensate (somewhat) for missing out on the Lions for the sake of 6 inches of misjudgement is extraordinarily bad luck. Feel for the bloke.
Quote:Optimist
I think we have the resources to cope with Sam's absence. However, i'm less concerned about our prospects, and a bit devastated for him. Having missed so many England and Bath games through injuries accumulated in the process of putting his body on the line, to be missing 2 games of sufficient magnitude to compensate (somewhat) for missing out on the Lions for the sake of 6 inches of misjudgement is extraordinarily bad luck. Feel for the bloke.
Yes, agreed.
Quote:Well said Opti 100% agreeOptimist
I think we have the resources to cope with Sam's absence. However, i'm less concerned about our prospects, and a bit devastated for him. Having missed so many England and Bath games through injuries accumulated in the process of putting his body on the line, to be missing 2 games of sufficient magnitude to compensate (somewhat) for missing out on the Lions for the sake of 6 inches of misjudgement is extraordinarily bad luck. Feel for the bloke.
In truth he gets around the pitch so well and makes so many tackles he is going to get caught out on maybe 1% of them and is no different from any other hard hitting back row player. Most back rowers wouldn't have been anywhere near the tackled player in this instance. Real shame for him.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Quote:Francis Allen
My son is gutted he can't go, it clashes with a Bath Races evening fixture and Brit pop music event he'd bought tickets for himself and his wife as a treat! The game will probably affect their attendance.
What a treat 😡
Quote:Optimist
I think we have the resources to cope with Sam's absence. However, i'm less concerned about our prospects, and a bit devastated for him. Having missed so many England and Bath games through injuries accumulated in the process of putting his body on the line, to be missing 2 games of sufficient magnitude to compensate (somewhat) for missing out on the Lions for the sake of 6 inches of misjudgement is extraordinarily bad luck. Feel for the bloke.
……but is there not a certain level of responsibility on his part. Players have to do everything they can to avoid endangering their opponents.
Quote:Bath HammerQuote:Francis Allen
My son is gutted he can't go, it clashes with a Bath Races evening fixture and Brit pop music event he'd bought tickets for himself and his wife as a treat! The game will probably affect their attendance.
What a treat 😡
Similarly I'm hoping that Bath make the final on 14th June so I get to miss the Robbie Williams concert at the Crescent that I am currently being strong-armed into and sounds awful.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Saracens Men team to play Bath Rugby:
1 Rhys Carre
2 Jamie George
3 Marco Riccioni
4 Maro Itoje (c)
5 Nick Isiekwe
6 Theo McFarland
7 Andy Onyeama-Christie
8 Tom Willis
9 Ivan van Zyl
10 Fergus Burke
11 Rotimi Segun
12 Nick Tompkins
13 Elliot Daly
14 Tobias Elliott
15 Alex Goode
Replacements:
16 Theo Dan
17 Eroni Mawi
18 Harvey Beaton
19 Hugh Tizard
20 Juan Martin Gonzalez
21 Ben Earl
22 Charlie Bracken
23 Lucio Cinti
1 Rhys Carre
2 Jamie George
3 Marco Riccioni
4 Maro Itoje (c)
5 Nick Isiekwe
6 Theo McFarland
7 Andy Onyeama-Christie
8 Tom Willis
9 Ivan van Zyl
10 Fergus Burke
11 Rotimi Segun
12 Nick Tompkins
13 Elliot Daly
14 Tobias Elliott
15 Alex Goode
Replacements:
16 Theo Dan
17 Eroni Mawi
18 Harvey Beaton
19 Hugh Tizard
20 Juan Martin Gonzalez
21 Ben Earl
22 Charlie Bracken
23 Lucio Cinti
A stuffing beckons, I guess. Tremendously satisfying that it's highly likely to be of s*d all use to them.
Bath Rugby Starting XV:
1 Scott Kirk,
2 Jasper Spandler,
3 Archie Griffin,
4 Will Jeanes,
5 Ewan Richards ©,
6 Ethan Staddon,
7 Tom Cowan,
8 Arthur Green,
9 Louis Schreuder,
10 Orlando Bailey,
11 Ruaridh McConnochie,
12 Will Parry,
13 Louie Hennessey,
14 Austin Emens,
15 Jack Woods
Replacements: 16 Kepu Tuipulotu, 17 Arthur Cordwell, 18 Kieran Verden, 19 Mackenzie Graham, 20 George Timmins, 21 Neil le Roux, 22 Tyler Offiah, 23 John Stewart
Nice for some of the young lads to get a Premiership debut and for some getting that before they leave. Best wishes to them all.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2025:05:30:11:50:40 by dcsh.
1 Scott Kirk,
2 Jasper Spandler,
3 Archie Griffin,
4 Will Jeanes,
5 Ewan Richards ©,
6 Ethan Staddon,
7 Tom Cowan,
8 Arthur Green,
9 Louis Schreuder,
10 Orlando Bailey,
11 Ruaridh McConnochie,
12 Will Parry,
13 Louie Hennessey,
14 Austin Emens,
15 Jack Woods
Replacements: 16 Kepu Tuipulotu, 17 Arthur Cordwell, 18 Kieran Verden, 19 Mackenzie Graham, 20 George Timmins, 21 Neil le Roux, 22 Tyler Offiah, 23 John Stewart
Nice for some of the young lads to get a Premiership debut and for some getting that before they leave. Best wishes to them all.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2025:05:30:11:50:40 by dcsh.
Maybe we're repaying the favour Sarries paid us a few seasons back where their lacklustre selection on the final day got us into the Champions Cup (still thankful to Manu Vunipola for the last minute intercept).
Great that a few players get to make their debuts.
If we could keep it under triple digits that'd be something...
Great that a few players get to make their debuts.
If we could keep it under triple digits that'd be something...
Goodness me - lads here I've literally never heard of!
Best of luck to them!
Best of luck to them!
Slaughter
Lambs
To
Fully stacked Salaries team.
It is going to be very ugly, but best of luck guys!
Lambs
To
Fully stacked Salaries team.
It is going to be very ugly, but best of luck guys!
JvG applying max cotton wool there! Not a single member of next week's 23 being risked.
10 academy players, more than in any Prem Cup 23. Fair enough.
I hope they enjoy the experience, particularly the 7 leavers, and the final scoreline is not too big.
If we can limit them to the reverse fixture scoreline 68-10, I'd be happy.
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
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2025:05:30:12:13:39 by jayeatman.
10 academy players, more than in any Prem Cup 23. Fair enough.
I hope they enjoy the experience, particularly the 7 leavers, and the final scoreline is not too big.
If we can limit them to the reverse fixture scoreline 68-10, I'd be happy.
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
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2025:05:30:12:13:39 by jayeatman.
Oh god I hope Quins do the most Quins thing ever and win at Aston Gate…I’d be able to hear the wailing here in Glos!
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Wonder if this also points towards TCS getting the nod for next week ahead of Schreuder...
Quote:They've rested M.Smith but there's a big part of me that is convinced this will happenToast and Marmite
Oh god I hope Quins do the most Quins thing ever and win at Aston Gate…I’d be able to hear the wailing here in Glos!
Quote:boozeboozebooze
Wonder if this also points towards TCS getting the nod for next week ahead of Schreuder...
And Donoghue over Bailey?
I hope the bus back will be well stocked with beers because these lads will earn it regardless
Out of interest any one know how many of the Sarries academy team we just beat at the Rec developed into senior players? Can’t remember when that game was.
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
Crikey that the whole academy squad almost!
Bath Rugby Starting XV: 1 Scott Kirk, 2 Jasper Spandler, 3 Archie Griffin, 4 Will Jeanes, 5 Ewan Richards ©, 6 Ethan Staddon, 7 Tom Cowan, 8 Arthur Green, 9 Louis Schreuder, 10 Orlando Bailey, 11 Ruaridh McConnochie, 12 Will Parry, 13 Louie Hennessey, 14 Austin Emens, 15 Jack Woods
Replacements: 16 Kepu Tuipulotu, 17 Arthur Cordwell, 18 Kieran Verden, 19 Mackenzie Graham, 20 George Timmins, 21 Neil le Roux, 22 Tyler Offiah, 23 John Stewart
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
Bath Rugby Starting XV: 1 Scott Kirk, 2 Jasper Spandler, 3 Archie Griffin, 4 Will Jeanes, 5 Ewan Richards ©, 6 Ethan Staddon, 7 Tom Cowan, 8 Arthur Green, 9 Louis Schreuder, 10 Orlando Bailey, 11 Ruaridh McConnochie, 12 Will Parry, 13 Louie Hennessey, 14 Austin Emens, 15 Jack Woods
Replacements: 16 Kepu Tuipulotu, 17 Arthur Cordwell, 18 Kieran Verden, 19 Mackenzie Graham, 20 George Timmins, 21 Neil le Roux, 22 Tyler Offiah, 23 John Stewart
Quote:WestwardboundQuote:boozeboozebooze
Wonder if this also points towards TCS getting the nod for next week ahead of Schreuder...
And Donoghue over Bailey?
Yeah both I reckon.
Thats even cotton woolier than my most cotton woolly prediction.
The squad vs bris included van wyk, malony, bayliss, reid, tcs , donoghue, big Joe and tdg. This is a genuine 3rd team at best.
On one hand totally understand it and think it's probably the right call. Did think that likes of van wyk, malony, bayliss, tcs, donoghue could benefit from some game time though.
On another hand it's a real shame this group are again getting thrown to the wolves. If they keep the points difference under 60 they have done a phenomenal job. Assuming sarries could in theory overtake glos and bris? If so taking a few lumps out of them with some youthful enthusiasm wouldn't be a bad thing.
Looks like some prem debuts coming up...
Has Scott kirk played in prem before? Have it in my head maybe he has once or twice?
Assume bris was spandlers first game so this is is second?
Same with jeanes and cowan?
Parry and woods must be prem debuts?
Could be several prem debuts off the bench? Graham? Timmins? Le roux? Offiah?
Crikey , what a huge ask of them.
Nice to have cordwell and verden on the bench for some relative experience (at least in terms of age/ being round the block)
Has Scott kirk played in prem before? Have it in my head maybe he has once or twice?
Assume bris was spandlers first game so this is is second?
Same with jeanes and cowan?
Parry and woods must be prem debuts?
Could be several prem debuts off the bench? Graham? Timmins? Le roux? Offiah?
Crikey , what a huge ask of them.
Nice to have cordwell and verden on the bench for some relative experience (at least in terms of age/ being round the block)
Smacks off a last throw of the dice for the leavers to me. Time to make a name for a few!
Writing was on the wall when Nen Spencer said he was exhausted after the final.
All the contenders for the playoffs won’t have this luxury!
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
Writing was on the wall when Nen Spencer said he was exhausted after the final.
All the contenders for the playoffs won’t have this luxury!
It'll be interesting to see how the game pans out given the simultaneous kick offs.
I imagine that Sarries players with Lions/international ambitions may want to be kept in the loop regarding the scores in the other games. If Sale, Bristol and Gloucester are well ahead at half time (effectively ending Saracens top 4 hopes) then it would be a bit foolish to jeopardise their touring opportunities by keeping them on and possibly getting injured/carded.
I imagine that Sarries players with Lions/international ambitions may want to be kept in the loop regarding the scores in the other games. If Sale, Bristol and Gloucester are well ahead at half time (effectively ending Saracens top 4 hopes) then it would be a bit foolish to jeopardise their touring opportunities by keeping them on and possibly getting injured/carded.
Nice to not have to worry about other scorelines, when to take players off, who to protect, potential injuries or suspensions etc. We have earnt the right.
None of these guys will be involved in the semi unless there are training injuries or illness.
Hoping for some nice physical games for everyone else.
None of these guys will be involved in the semi unless there are training injuries or illness.
Hoping for some nice physical games for everyone else.
Northampton did the same last year when they brought a second team to the Rec for the last game of the season. We were the beneficiaries then, leap-frogging teams to finish second.
I also think this is RMc's 99th game for Bath. If so, sentiment would have him on the bench for next week's match.
I also think this is RMc's 99th game for Bath. If so, sentiment would have him on the bench for next week's match.
Quote:shipwrecked
Out of interest any one know how many of the Sarries academy team we just beat at the Rec developed into senior players? Can’t remember when that game was.
May 2023, final game at the Rec, 61-29. It certainly wasn't an academy team, Sarries had a few senior players in the 23, Daly, Segun, Morris, Judge, Mawi, but there were some youngsters who have developed namely Hartley, Elliott and Knight. By comparison to tomorrows Bath side it was a more experienced team' if we can match that score it would be a good result. A slight worry for me will be whether the leaving players will give 100%. Guess they will if they are seeking a job.
Saints gone v weak vs glos tomorrow (understandably)
Any idea why genge is out?
Any idea why genge is out?
Quote:Charlieboa1
Saints gone v weak vs glos tomorrow (understandably)
Any idea why genge is out?
He is on the unavailable list so presumably injured. List include Max Malins and Rich Lane.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2025:05:30:15:34:07 by shipwrecked.
Quote:A.M 180Quote:They've rested M.Smith but there's a big part of me that is convinced this will happenToast and Marmite
Oh god I hope Quins do the most Quins thing ever and win at Aston Gate…I’d be able to hear the wailing here in Glos!
Why’s that? Protecting him for the Lions? Poor if you are a Quins fan.
Lions taking president over the club that pays his wages.
Dead rubber or not.
J
Quote:Charlieboa1
Saints gone v weak vs glos tomorrow (understandably)
Any idea why genge is out?
Presume to protect the Lions I’d imagine.
J
Quote:Toast and Marmite
Oh god I hope Quins do the most Quins thing ever and win at Aston Gate…I’d be able to hear the wailing here in Glos!
Would love that. Keeping Bristol out of the playoffs.
J
Quote:ChippenhamRomanQuote:A.M 180Quote:They've rested M.Smith but there's a big part of me that is convinced this will happenToast and Marmite
Oh god I hope Quins do the most Quins thing ever and win at Aston Gate…I’d be able to hear the wailing here in Glos!
Why’s that? Protecting him for the Lions? Poor if you are a Quins fan.
Lions taking president over the club that pays his wages.
Dead rubber or not.
J
I suspect so.
A lot of questionable attitude around Quins at the moment - kicking it dead when a point keeps you mathematically still in the play-off hunt was pretty inexcusable
Quote:ChippenhamRoman
Lions taking president over the club that pays his wages
Strikes me as good man management by them. How would Smith feel if he missed out on what players seem to universally regard as the biggest honour in rugby, for the sake of a dead rubber.
Quote:Doesn't bode well for him being fit for a potential semi on a Friday night I'd say!shipwreckedQuote:Charlieboa1
Saints gone v weak vs glos tomorrow (understandably)
Any idea why genge is out?
He is on the unavailable list so presumably injured. List include Max Malins and Rich Lane.
Quote:OptimistQuote:ChippenhamRoman
Lions taking president over the club that pays his wages
Strikes me as good man management by them. How would Smith feel if he missed out on what players seem to universally regard as the biggest honour in rugby, for the sake of a dead rubber.
Quins really not making any effort to do the league a favour and knock Bristol out of the playoffs. Really bad form.
Quins are pretty much at their strongest aren't they other than Marcus Smith?
Quote:Given the side we're putting out I assume this is written with tongue firmly in cheek!OutsideBathQuote:OptimistQuote:ChippenhamRoman
Lions taking president over the club that pays his wages
Strikes me as good man management by them. How would Smith feel if he missed out on what players seem to universally regard as the biggest honour in rugby, for the sake of a dead rubber.
Quins really not making any effort to do the league a favour and knock Bristol out of the playoffs. Really bad form.
Quote:TomReaganQuote:Given the side we're putting out I assume this is written with tongue firmly in cheek!OutsideBathQuote:OptimistQuote:ChippenhamRoman
Lions taking president over the club that pays his wages
Strikes me as good man management by them. How would Smith feel if he missed out on what players seem to universally regard as the biggest honour in rugby, for the sake of a dead rubber.
Quins really not making any effort to do the league a favour and knock Bristol out of the playoffs. Really bad form.
Sorry Tom let my intense dislike of everything Bristol get the better of me.
Quote:A.M 180Quote:Doesn't bode well for him being fit for a potential semi on a Friday night I'd say!shipwreckedQuote:Charlieboa1
Saints gone v weak vs glos tomorrow (understandably)
Any idea why genge is out?
He is on the unavailable list so presumably injured. List include Max Malins and Rich Lane.
Omission is odd in that Genge played all of the second half v Sale and finished the game seemingly uninjured.
Any idea of Harvey cuckson is injured?
Would imagine he would have been in this 23 (and possibly vs bris) if he wasn't.
Has had rotten luck if so in his young career.
So frustrating that sam harris is out- poor bloke would have had lots of chances of game time this season in matches such as this one.
Would imagine he would have been in this 23 (and possibly vs bris) if he wasn't.
Has had rotten luck if so in his young career.
So frustrating that sam harris is out- poor bloke would have had lots of chances of game time this season in matches such as this one.
Donoghue being wrapped by JvG in the same cotton wool as the likes of TDT and Finn is amazing. Meteoric doesn’t come close given how he really only came to our attention in the later rounds of the Prem Cup but then properly, what, 2 months ago v Newcastle?
Given his experience, the fact he’s played in semis and finals last year, I think Bailey still has the chance to force his way back into the 22 shirt but going to be incredibly hard on the back foot this afternoon.
Other guys keen to stake a claim will be Staddon and Green. 20 and 23 is up for grabs (maybe) and whilst Bayliss and Reid are in possession, a lot can happen in the coming fortnight.
Good luck to the young lads this afternoon. Literally nothing to lose.
2024/25 adoptee: Guy Pepper
Given his experience, the fact he’s played in semis and finals last year, I think Bailey still has the chance to force his way back into the 22 shirt but going to be incredibly hard on the back foot this afternoon.
Other guys keen to stake a claim will be Staddon and Green. 20 and 23 is up for grabs (maybe) and whilst Bayliss and Reid are in possession, a lot can happen in the coming fortnight.
Good luck to the young lads this afternoon. Literally nothing to lose.
2024/25 adoptee: Guy Pepper
I guess a run of games for Green to stake a claim too. Likely it's Rauridh's swansong.
Tom de Glanville - Adopted player 2024-5
Tom de Glanville - Adopted player 2024-5
Quote:shipwreckedQuote:A.M 180Quote:Doesn't bode well for him being fit for a potential semi on a Friday night I'd say!shipwreckedQuote:Charlieboa1
Saints gone v weak vs glos tomorrow (understandably)
Any idea why genge is out?
He is on the unavailable list so presumably injured. List include Max Malins and Rich Lane.
Omission is odd in that Genge played all of the second half v Sale and finished the game seemingly uninjured.
Our "unavailable" list has been used in the past for players that are uninjured, but still unavailable. Some of our foreign players have returned home and were listed as "unavailable". Hasn't Genge recently had another child? I know nothing of the ins-and-outs of the players, but it could be an already agreed weekend off for him. Doesn't necessarily mean "injured". (I know some may say "well it's the most important game of the season blah blah, but that's what a squad is for, no?)
Quote:Bristol IanQuote:shipwreckedQuote:A.M 180Quote:Doesn't bode well for him being fit for a potential semi on a Friday night I'd say!shipwreckedQuote:Charlieboa1
Saints gone v weak vs glos tomorrow (understandably)
Any idea why genge is out?
He is on the unavailable list so presumably injured. List include Max Malins and Rich Lane.
Omission is odd in that Genge played all of the second half v Sale and finished the game seemingly uninjured.
Our "unavailable" list has been used in the past for players that are uninjured, but still unavailable. Some of our foreign players have returned home and were listed as "unavailable". Hasn't Genge recently had another child? I know nothing of the ins-and-outs of the players, but it could be an already agreed weekend off for him. Doesn't necessarily mean "injured". (I know some may say "well it's the most important game of the season blah blah, but that's what a squad is for, no?)
Any other game I'd agree but it IS the most important game of the season isn't it? Is that what you buy key players for?
Thanks for the info on selection.
Thanks Ian.
Would certainly be a brave game to choose to rest him/ grant him some time off.
But then when is a good time....and bris tend to play him for alot more minutes than we play our porps so maybe needs some managing as chances are they will.play again next week.
Would certainly be a brave game to choose to rest him/ grant him some time off.
But then when is a good time....and bris tend to play him for alot more minutes than we play our porps so maybe needs some managing as chances are they will.play again next week.
He’s prepping for next Friday locked in a garage plastered with Roman Baths and Jane Austen museum pamphlets, being force fed a diet of Bath Buns whilst “Bath - Ace of Clubs” plays on an endless loop on VCR.
2024/25 adoptee: Guy Pepper
2024/25 adoptee: Guy Pepper
I agree with both of you... when is a good time. Again, I know nothing of the ins-and-outs, but maybe we owe him some time off doe to England commitments. And yes, today's game is an important game, but any of the tight games we squeaked at the start of the season could have benefitted from his involvement then. And of course, should we win today, then next week's game becomes even more important
(And the week after that is even MORE important
)
(And the week after that is even MORE important
)
[www.oddschecker.com] - Bookies have little faith in our selection, even less in the Falcons and have Bristol strong favourites v Quins...
Any ideas for radio coverage? Radio Bristol is covering Their game (not surprisingly).
Quote:Radio Somerset by the looks of itMike the Taxi
Any ideas for radio coverage? Radio Bristol is covering Their game (not surprisingly).
Quote:9215Quote:Radio Somerset by the looks of itMike the Taxi
Any ideas for radio coverage? Radio Bristol is covering Their game (not surprisingly).
Strangely, 104.6 FM comes up on my actual radio as BBC Bristol, so problem sorted.
Quins are pretty poor atm
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Saracens 12 - Bath 7 and Sarries making very heavy weather against a callow side
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Ball in the air and short but somehow a Sarries scrum?
Someone explain that to me like I’m 12
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Someone explain that to me like I’m 12
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
And pushing early which should be a free kick to us
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Quote:Toast and Marmite
Quins are pretty poor atm
Looking at the score they haven’t even bothered to turn up!
Quote:BucksBBandW
I guess a run of games for Green to stake a claim too. Likely it's Rauridh's swansong.
He’s listening to you and has scored a try v Sarries 12-7 atm
Widcombe Garçon
Sarries finally get over - 20 -7
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Quote:hasta
Dickson is terrible. Boys fighting well.
Made some baffling calls
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Scrapping well these boys
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Quote:Toast and MarmiteQuote:hasta
Dickson is terrible. Boys fighting well.
Made some baffling calls
True, like the lack of PT
Good god Quins can’t even complete simple one out passes
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Quote:SarrieboneQuote:Toast and MarmiteQuote:hasta
Dickson is terrible. Boys fighting well.
Made some baffling calls
True, like the lack of PT
He’s just generally poor all round
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Quote:Toast and MarmiteQuote:SarrieboneQuote:Toast and MarmiteQuote:hasta
Dickson is terrible. Boys fighting well.
Made some baffling calls
True, like the lack of PT
He’s just generally poor all round
Agreed
I never like criticising referees but I make an exception for Dickson, so many poor calls each time I watch him officiate a game, sadly most of them going against our young guns today.
The line out is hurting us and the backline are struggling to move the ball, Schreuder predictably charged down and slow at the base. That aside a huge amount to take from the half, fantastic physicality from the pack and fronting up in the scrums, Kirk has really packed on some muscle and I like Arthur Green more and more each time I watch him.
The line out is hurting us and the backline are struggling to move the ball, Schreuder predictably charged down and slow at the base. That aside a huge amount to take from the half, fantastic physicality from the pack and fronting up in the scrums, Kirk has really packed on some muscle and I like Arthur Green more and more each time I watch him.
Dickson reverted to type, I see!!! 
Adopted Players: All of the little blighters!!!
Adopted Players: All of the little blighters!!!
Got to work harder than that to support the carriers lafs
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Jesus they’re all at it - Quins tackled off ball and waved away
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Luke Pearce missing shedloads too!!!
Adopted Players: All of the little blighters!!!
Adopted Players: All of the little blighters!!!
…and what looks like clear penalty again for Bristol not releasing - Quins had hands on the ball with no support in site
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2025:05:31:15:56:32 by Toast and Marmite.
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2025:05:31:15:56:32 by Toast and Marmite.
Quote:plong
Luke Pearce missing shedloads too!!!
Hope we get a decent ref next week
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Quote:Bath Blues
Dickson is a worse Ref than Hollie D. Makes things up
I think Hollie Davidson is a good ref actually.
Quote:shipwreckedQuote:Bath Blues
Dickson is a worse Ref than Hollie D. Makes things up
I think Hollie Davidson is a good ref actually.
Plus 1
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Okay- just starting to get interested again at Ashton Gate…
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Quote:Toast and MarmiteQuote:shipwreckedQuote:Bath Blues
Dickson is a worse Ref than Hollie D. Makes things up
I think Hollie Davidson is a good ref actually.
Plus 1
Plus 2 despite last week
Sale not having fun at Exeter
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Emmens not a Premiership player for me...
Adopted Players: All of the little blighters!!!
Adopted Players: All of the little blighters!!!
Was that Emens running flat out then..? Looked like he was running in treacle.
Bristol keep getting away with tackles off the ball.
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Exeter v Sale v interesting
Our potential opponents really having to empty the tank to get across the line is most pleasing
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Our potential opponents really having to empty the tank to get across the line is most pleasing
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Bristol both winning fairly comfortably and showing exactly why Bath should be putting them away in a semi
What a fight from the youngsters - future looks very bright indeed
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Wow! really proud of the lads.. Really tested Sarries at times, 4 tries and a bonus point. Such promise.
Great effort by the young lads, the future is bright, the future is Blue Black & White!
Well pretty happy with that - would have liked Bris to lose for the LOLS but we should be highly confident of going all the way
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
That is some result from the Bath team. The should be really, really proud to run a stacked and massively experienced Salaries team right to the end, and getting BP in the process.
Honestly great performance. Outpowered at the maul but nothing else. Good job lads!
So many pluses for me ....
- pack looked solid in the scrum against practically a full strength Sarries
- Richards and Staddon look like premiership players now
- Jeanes, Spandler, Green and Hennessy look much more comfortable
- Offiah has so much natural talent and I can see him challenging next year.
Most of all - thank you Ruaridh.
- pack looked solid in the scrum against practically a full strength Sarries
- Richards and Staddon look like premiership players now
- Jeanes, Spandler, Green and Hennessy look much more comfortable
- Offiah has so much natural talent and I can see him challenging next year.
Most of all - thank you Ruaridh.
Quote:plong
Emmens not a Premiership player for me...
He isn't yet, but he's played well for Bath this season and I hope he'll make you eat your words.
Quote:Huew
Was that Emens running flat out then..? Looked like he was running in treacle.
I know what you mean, when he was running back for one of the Saracens try, he'd either given up the chase or was knackered, earlier he showed great pace to get back for a covering tackle , give the lad a break.
What a performance. That’ll inject next week’s training with a really good vibe. Danger was a hammering deflating a few in the week before a semi final. We’ve achieved the total opposite, and can only imagine how the likes of Spandler, Jeanes, Timmins, Cowan, Woods etc will fly into it on Monday. Well done lads. Amazing effort.
Yet another huge tick for this season is the fact that 40-50 lads have all performed well in the BB&W and played the ‘Bath way’.
Bring on Briz on Friday night. Oh it could be so sweet…
2024/25 adoptee: Guy Pepper
Yet another huge tick for this season is the fact that 40-50 lads have all performed well in the BB&W and played the ‘Bath way’.
Bring on Briz on Friday night. Oh it could be so sweet…
2024/25 adoptee: Guy Pepper
Quote:PaulHerox
Well played Bath young bucks plus McConiche.
Good luck for the Finals.
Thanks PH! Shame Quins couldn’t do you a favour.
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Quote:Toast and MarmiteQuote:plong
Luke Pearce missing shedloads too!!!
Hope we get a decent ref next week
Agree, hope it’s not Dickson or Pearce !
Adopted Player 2018/19 Ross Batty
Adopted Player 2019/20 Jack Davies
Adopted Player 2020/21 Cam Redpath
Adopted Player 2021/22 Darren Atkins
Adopted Player 2022/23 Gabriel Hamer-Webb
Adopted Player 2023/24 Tom Carr-Smith
Adopted Player 2024/25 Max Ojomoh
"AN OUNCE OF ACTION IS WORTH A TON OF THEORY"
FRIEDRICH ENGELS
Quote:Never In Doubt
So many pluses for me ....
- pack looked solid in the scrum against practically a full strength Sarries
- Richards and Staddon look like premiership players now
- Jeanes, Spandler, Green and Hennessy look much more comfortable
- Offiah has so much natural talent and I can see him challenging next year.
Most of all - thank you Ruaridh.
+1.
Kirk did remarkably well at the scrum given how little rugby he he has played this season.
Lovely to see offiah step past Daley and hennessey nicking an intercept off Tompkins.
Timmins cameo was impressive as well.
We looked clueless a few times as you would expect but overall a seriously good performance.
Sarries ended up just sticking to the shooting fish in a barrell approach of rolling mauls against our kids. Really pleased we got one of those ourselves via kepu.
Rmc has been back to his classy best this season and has helped so many young guys in the prem Cup and against bris / sarries this month- what a pro and rope model.
Quote:dr.bath1865
What a performance. That’ll inject next week’s training with a really good vibe. Danger was a hammering deflating a few in the week before a semi final. We’ve achieved the total opposite, and can only imagine how the likes of Spandler, Jeanes, Timmins, Cowan, Woods etc will fly into it on Monday. Well done lads. Amazing effort.
Yet another huge tick for this season is the fact that 40-50 lads have all performed well in the BB&W and played the ‘Bath way’.
Bring on Briz on Friday night. Oh it could be so sweet…
Yep final score doesn’t reflect it but Bris had to work for that win against a Quins team that could generously be described as only partly interested
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
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
Adopted Player 2022/23 Gabriel Hamer-Webb
Adopted Player 2023/24 Tom Carr-Smith
Adopted Player 2024/25 Max Ojomoh
"AN OUNCE OF ACTION IS WORTH A TON OF THEORY"
FRIEDRICH ENGELS
Adopted Player 2018/19 Ross Batty
Adopted Player 2019/20 Jack Davies
Adopted Player 2020/21 Cam Redpath
Adopted Player 2021/22 Darren Atkins
Adopted Player 2022/23 Gabriel Hamer-Webb
Adopted Player 2023/24 Tom Carr-Smith
Adopted Player 2024/25 Max Ojomoh
"AN OUNCE OF ACTION IS WORTH A TON OF THEORY"
FRIEDRICH ENGELS
Pat lam giving some big talk about their record against us, how many bonus points they get, and yet again mentioned how much we spend.
Having lost to them twice this season and having to endure their fans acting like they had won the world cup rather than beating our thirds I8n Cardiff i really really hope we take them down.
Having lost to them twice this season and having to endure their fans acting like they had won the world cup rather than beating our thirds I8n Cardiff i really really hope we take them down.
Louie's try not only earnt us a bonus point it meant we pipped Bristol 96-95 in tries scored. So many positives to take from this game into next week.
Quote:Francis AllenQuote:Huew
Was that Emens running flat out then..? Looked like he was running in treacle.
I know what you mean, when he was running back for one of the Saracens try, he'd either given up the chase or was knackered, earlier he showed great pace to get back for a covering tackle , give the lad a break.
Strange comment. You know what I mean, agree he’d potentially given up the chase - which is what it looked like to me - and simultaneously tell me to give him a break when you’ve seen and said exactly what I was thinking.
I think my overriding feeling watching that match is pride. I'll attempt to keep this short but ultimately, when you consider where we found ourselves 2/3/4 seasons ago with near enough the same squad, to have come as far as we have last season and then this, our youngsters doing some incredible work to help us win the Prem Cup and step in to Europe, the Prem etc..... for them to have the the opportunity to start from the off, away at Sarries who were stocked with remarkably experiences players, and the fact our 1st team had allowed us to put out such a team thanks to league performance, it's just brilliant.
Our younger boys today stood up and stood strong to the very end. I had concerns around the 30 minute mark it could get messy I won't lie, but for them to put in the display and play as we did was just a real pleasure to watch and a culmination of a whole Club effort in many respects.
Our younger boys today stood up and stood strong to the very end. I had concerns around the 30 minute mark it could get messy I won't lie, but for them to put in the display and play as we did was just a real pleasure to watch and a culmination of a whole Club effort in many respects.
Am I the only person feeling very nervous about next Friday night????
Quote:Bath Supporter Jack
Am I the only person feeling very nervous about next Friday night????
Nope I’m with you as they seem to always cause us problems, just hoping ticket prices for the away allocation are priced to keep a lot of them away.
Quote:HugoBosss
…but ultimately, when you consider where we found ourselves 2/3/4 seasons ago with near enough the same squad, to have come as far as we have last season and then this..
This comment reminds me of Denholm Reynholm: “All I had was a dream, and six million pounds”.
Quote:Bath Supporter Jack
Am I the only person feeling very nervous about next Friday night????
Not at all. Out of all those who could have and now do make up the playoffs, they're by far the least predictable team. They on their day have the ability to tear a side to shreds, or indeed they could implode as a result of their style leaving them open, and you've never a clue which way it will go or how long they will stay in a game.
Quote:Bath Supporter Jack
Am I the only person feeling very nervous about next Friday night????
We should all feel a little nervous, but hopefully we can ram Pat Lam's comments right up where it don't shine. His comments were pathetic given how rich Bristool's owners are, and how expensive his squads have been in previous seasons.
Fingers crossed that with our strongest team out against them for once, they get the stuffing their obnoxious footie fans deserve.
Quote:Dorset BoyQuote:Bath Supporter Jack
Am I the only person feeling very nervous about next Friday night????
Fingers crossed that with our strongest team out against them for once, they get the stuffing their obnoxious footie fans deserve.
Don’t sit on the fence DB!
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
wow dorset boy, you go with that big brush and paint all of us Bristol fans, go get some fresh air and calm down, its just a rugby game.
Quote:Dorset Boy
Fingers crossed that with our strongest team out against them for once, they get the stuffing their obnoxious footie fans deserve.
+1
To be fair to Lam, it’s an obvious ploy. What else is he going to do and say? He needs to get his lot champing at the bit, players and fans, to stand any chance, and I’d be doing exactly the same if I was him. Fair enough. Our job to make him look silly at 10 pm on Friday.
Home advantage and the crowd will play a huge part. Can’t let them get any momentum and look forward to cheering every one of their dicey offloads and forward passes to the rafters. Like JvG says, in, all in, all the time… from 1 to 14500.
2024/25 adoptee: Guy Pepper
Home advantage and the crowd will play a huge part. Can’t let them get any momentum and look forward to cheering every one of their dicey offloads and forward passes to the rafters. Like JvG says, in, all in, all the time… from 1 to 14500.
2024/25 adoptee: Guy Pepper
Sale dominated Bristol by winning the contact area and driving them back, they would have won at a canter had they not lost concentration in the last 20, conceded the gain line and let Bristol play their game.
We are perfectly capable of doing the same.
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
We are perfectly capable of doing the same.
Haven’t enjoyed us losing so much for a while. Staddon and Cowan were great, never stopped running, made themselves a real nuisance to play against. Impressed the scrum stood up in the first half so well, Archie is clearly an international, but Jasper and Kirk clearly did well.
Ruaridh looked like he was playing for a new contract not going into retirement (although he didn’t look his fastest when chasing his kick down the line!). The rest of his game was very strong, would have loved him to get a try.
Shame Kepu didn’t make any breaks and the knock-on at the very end was a rubbish ending to the match, I thought we had another try in us!
Ruaridh looked like he was playing for a new contract not going into retirement (although he didn’t look his fastest when chasing his kick down the line!). The rest of his game was very strong, would have loved him to get a try.
Shame Kepu didn’t make any breaks and the knock-on at the very end was a rubbish ending to the match, I thought we had another try in us!
I agree with HugoBosss very proud of this young team who fought to the end without the experience of their opposition. Immensely impressive performance and well done the squad and the coaches who have got them there.
I regret I will not be at the playoff next week as I have a sad engagement to attend but I have a strong feeling that JvG and his excellent coaching team and analysts have the trump card on how to win the next two games.
I regret I will not be at the playoff next week as I have a sad engagement to attend but I have a strong feeling that JvG and his excellent coaching team and analysts have the trump card on how to win the next two games.
As a Bristol supporter, I cannot think of any team I’d rather us play in a semi final than your team.
Brown trousers night?
Brown trousers night?
The exact performance you'd want from a side like that, despite the chasm of experience the young lads went and embodied that mantra of hard to beat. We really got under their skin at times, and Saracens resorted to off the ball niggle in the latter stages of the first half.
I thought everyone played pretty well, but I reckon our pack could have gone out with our first choice backline and won that game. Kirk, Griffin, Jeanes, Richards and Staddon were excellent, with great cameos from Kepu and Timmins off the bench.
I know its unfair to call out referees but Dickson wasn't great today, unfortunately a few tough calls went against Bath. Not straight lineouts, 5m scrum to them after the maul, and around 65minutes in one passage of play there were 3 very clear infringements by Sarries all missed by him, neck roll on Bailey, Gonzales straight in at the side of the ruck, then the ball pops out and was rolled back in.
I thought everyone played pretty well, but I reckon our pack could have gone out with our first choice backline and won that game. Kirk, Griffin, Jeanes, Richards and Staddon were excellent, with great cameos from Kepu and Timmins off the bench.
I know its unfair to call out referees but Dickson wasn't great today, unfortunately a few tough calls went against Bath. Not straight lineouts, 5m scrum to them after the maul, and around 65minutes in one passage of play there were 3 very clear infringements by Sarries all missed by him, neck roll on Bailey, Gonzales straight in at the side of the ruck, then the ball pops out and was rolled back in.
Quote:Hercules Spoons
As a Bristol supporter, I cannot think of any team I’d rather us play in a semi final than your team.
Brown trousers night?
de rigueur attire!
Quote:As a later poster commented, it's just a rugby game between rivals. I've got many Briz mates who regularly watch The Bears who are sound blokes. I'm also a football fan so get a bit tired of the stereotyping that we're all thugs. Mind you, there are a couple of posters on the Briz site also criticising this lazy, negative stereotype who, without any irony whatsoever, call us 'braying barbours'!!Toast and MarmiteQuote:Dorset BoyQuote:Bath Supporter Jack
Am I the only person feeling very nervous about next Friday night????
Fingers crossed that with our strongest team out against them for once, they get the stuffing their obnoxious footie fans deserve.
Don’t sit on the fence DB!
Quote:hooker 72
wow dorset boy, you go with that big brush and paint all of us Bristol fans, go get some fresh air and calm down, its just a rugby game.
I am not painting all Bristol fans in that manner, but since the move to Ashton Gate you have picked up more than your fair share of fans who do not understand anything about the ethos of rugby and are thoroughly nasty. However, if you feel the cap fits....!
As with all clubs, you have plenty of decent fans too.
Lam post-match talking about how they've spent £3m less than us in wages this year (Johan's done a great job though)...get the excuses in early, Pat.
Let’s let the rugby do the talking!
We have yet to beat Bristol this season. Let Friday be the day.
COYB & let’s channel our energies into roaring the lads on.
PG
We have yet to beat Bristol this season. Let Friday be the day.
COYB & let’s channel our energies into roaring the lads on.
PG
Quote:Francis AllenQuote:plong
Emmens not a Premiership player for me...
He isn't yet, but he's played well for Bath this season and I hope he'll make you eat your words.
I hope he does, but I've seen much better performances from his peers this season than his... Glad to be proven wrong!
Adopted Players: All of the little blighters!!!
Solid performance from the lads today, JvG should be proud. Thought that the forwards in particular were excellent. Richards is a future club captain, plenty to be positive about.
Quote:Hercules Spoons
As a Bristol supporter, I cannot think of any team I’d rather us play in a semi final than your team.
Brown trousers night?
Not for me. Usual knock out nerves but genuinely I think you have over performed to make the playoffs this year. Unless Bristol score 40-45 points they’re quite unlikely to win based on recent evidence and I can’t see them coming to the Rec and doing that
I know Lam is saying what he needs to in the build up but the points difference and the league table reflects that Bristol have decided they’re not going to spend the money to really push for a title at the moment.
I think if Bath put in two performances of 8/10 and above now they win the title. Nothing guaranteed of course but that feels realistic
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2025:05:31:22:00:14 by theredseat.
And there in lies the concern, the last few performances haven’t really reached 8/10 level. Bristol have proven that they do know how to beat Bath.
I’m just hoping that we can put in a 10/10 performance on Friday, because if we do there isn’t a team in England that can beat us.
I’m just hoping that we can put in a 10/10 performance on Friday, because if we do there isn’t a team in England that can beat us.
Thing is OB 8/10 performance in the challenge Cup final resulted in a 37-13 win.
The final anyone can win but TRS is right about the semi.
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
The final anyone can win but TRS is right about the semi.
Are we seriously believing that we pay the salary cap £6.4m and Bristol are only £3.4m....I find that very hard to believe.
They have 39 players in their squad so an average of £87,000 each, that is ignoring another 15 - 20 academy players.
Genge, Luatua, Mata, Van Rensburg, Randall, Ravouvou, Macginty, Byrne must all be on a reasonable amount....
They have 39 players in their squad so an average of £87,000 each, that is ignoring another 15 - 20 academy players.
Genge, Luatua, Mata, Van Rensburg, Randall, Ravouvou, Macginty, Byrne must all be on a reasonable amount....
Quote:OutsideBath
And there in lies the concern, the last few performances haven’t really reached 8/10 level. Bristol have proven that they do know how to beat Bath.
I’m just hoping that we can put in a 10/10 performance on Friday, because if we do there isn’t a team in England that can beat us.
I think we can all ignore the Cardiff result against our B team. Despite what Bristol fans feel about the game. We were resting most of our first team and they still struggled to beat us. A massively flattering scoreline.
Nothing I saw that day gave me any cause to worry. The first string Bath team, laser focused, JVG drilled. It will be too much for Bristol (and any team) at the Rec.
Really want us to put the game to bed early. None of the nervy shite. Like the Leicester game in 2015.
J
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2025:06:01:09:24:43 by ChippenhamRoman.
Quote:TomReaganQuote:As a later poster commented, it's just a rugby game between rivals. I've got many Briz mates who regularly watch The Bears who are sound blokes. I'm also a football fan so get a bit tired of the stereotyping that we're all thugs. Mind you, there are a couple of posters on the Briz site also criticising this lazy, negative stereotype who, without any irony whatsoever, call us 'braying barbours'!!Toast and MarmiteQuote:Dorset BoyQuote:Bath Supporter Jack
Am I the only person feeling very nervous about next Friday night????
Fingers crossed that with our strongest team out against them for once, they get the stuffing their obnoxious footie fans deserve.
Don’t sit on the fence DB!
Both my brothers are Briz supporters. The texts are ready flying
Couldn't watch the game but it sounds like our boys did us proud and that bodes very well for the future. The Salaries board is pretty cross.
... IMHO, of course.
Now in Honolulu
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2025:06:01:04:49:12 by joethefanatic.
Quote:Bath Supporter Jack
Are we seriously believing that we pay the salary cap £6.4m and Bristol are only £3.4m....I find that very hard to believe.
They have 39 players in their squad so an average of £87,000 each, that is ignoring another 15 - 20 academy players.
Genge, Luatua, Mata, Van Rensburg, Randall, Ravouvou, Macginty, Byrne must all be on a reasonable amount....
I think we get up over 8m with academy credits/ marquee/ injury dispensation etc and bris stayed near the old cap as lansdown keen it becomes self sustaining and only increase it in line with rising turnover.
Seems sensible tbf and does put them at a disadvantage in the way we are hamstrung against the likes of leinster and the French clubs.
Just gets boring as I have read/ heard him mention it 3 times in last few months and he won nothing with bris when they were spending to cap with the highest paid marquee.
Guess it's the psychological tack he wants to take- we are amazing given our resources, we are the little underdogs ready to take the big spenders down, we punch above our weight against the odds etc
It's all talk come Friday night.
To answer my question about genge it sounds like he has a niggle in his foot.
Rested as a precaution and should be fine for Friday.
How did bris look? How did quins treat it? Any signs of battered and bruised players?
I watched only the bath gone yest- glad I stuck with it as v v positive performance
Rested as a precaution and should be fine for Friday.
How did bris look? How did quins treat it? Any signs of battered and bruised players?
I watched only the bath gone yest- glad I stuck with it as v v positive performance
Winning a title without beating Bristol would have felt hollow anyway
Bring this on!
Don't get sucked into their@#$%&on or off the field, and we'll be grand
Bring this on!
Don't get sucked into their@#$%&on or off the field, and we'll be grand
It was a v good point further up the thread about the impact the crowd can have.
As well as the support I do think bris can be extremely clever with their tactics- they can make a mess of the breakdown playing on the fringes of legality and they love having players running blocking lines in attack.
I genuinely feel the crowd can have an influence in drawing officials attention to that.
I am a firm believer in home records often being partially attributable to favourable officiating. Not any conscious bias but I think it's natural. Always felt that at Welford rd- big, one eyed , lively crowd right on top of the pitch and keen to voice an opinion unless a pass goes backwards 2 metres etc.
Let's use our advantages on Friday-
Rested squad on 14 day turnaround vs 6 days
Power game
Squad depth so use bench early
We must not get suckered into a fast and loose game AGAIN.
Never thought I would say it but even if cam is fit I think I would stick with butt and mojo. Cam is v hot headed and can be a bit of a liability- not sure his ego wouldn't get drawn into trying to prove a point. Butt gives is what we need- simple , reliable power.
Gets v interesting if can is available- even if you start butt and mojo who gets bench slot- cam, donoghue or bailey. It's donoghue for me I think tho close call.
As well as the support I do think bris can be extremely clever with their tactics- they can make a mess of the breakdown playing on the fringes of legality and they love having players running blocking lines in attack.
I genuinely feel the crowd can have an influence in drawing officials attention to that.
I am a firm believer in home records often being partially attributable to favourable officiating. Not any conscious bias but I think it's natural. Always felt that at Welford rd- big, one eyed , lively crowd right on top of the pitch and keen to voice an opinion unless a pass goes backwards 2 metres etc.
Let's use our advantages on Friday-
Rested squad on 14 day turnaround vs 6 days
Power game
Squad depth so use bench early
We must not get suckered into a fast and loose game AGAIN.
Never thought I would say it but even if cam is fit I think I would stick with butt and mojo. Cam is v hot headed and can be a bit of a liability- not sure his ego wouldn't get drawn into trying to prove a point. Butt gives is what we need- simple , reliable power.
Gets v interesting if can is available- even if you start butt and mojo who gets bench slot- cam, donoghue or bailey. It's donoghue for me I think tho close call.
Am I nervous - of course. In JvG to do I trust - most definitely. As he always says, trust the system and focus on us. Bris's confidence is based on a win early in the season, most teams have now worked them out. Cardiff is not a true indication - Friday won't be easy but I trust the team and the 16th member, us.
PG Tips - you say we have not beaten Bristol this season, but did the Premiership Cup lads not thrash them at the Rec?
Quote:Dorset Boy
PG Tips - you say we have not beaten Bristol this season, but did the Premiership Cup lads not thrash them at the Rec?
Didn't we lose away to them?
Quote:Charlieboa1Quote:Dorset Boy
PG Tips - you say we have not beaten Bristol this season, but did the Premiership Cup lads not thrash them at the Rec?
Didn't we lose away to them?
And thrashed them at home- spot on.
So 1 win and 3 losses so far.
Defo owe them one!
Quote:Charlieboa1Quote:Dorset Boy
PG Tips - you say we have not beaten Bristol this season, but did the Premiership Cup lads not thrash them at the Rec?
Didn't we lose away to them?
Yes, but to clarify- we have not beaten them in the Prem, which is what Fri is all about.
PG
Quote:TomReagan
As a later poster commented, it's just a rugby game between rivals. I've got many Briz mates who regularly watch The Bears who are sound blokes. I'm also a football fan so get a bit tired of the stereotyping that we're all thugs. Mind you, there are a couple of posters on the Briz site also criticising this lazy, negative stereotype who, without any irony whatsoever, call us 'braying barbours'!!
Oh dear, and Barbours are so very last year!
Quote:
Considering the quality of the opposition, the vast gulf in experience and the achievement in keeping the result close I think those ratings are on the low side. Agree on the comment about Timmins. He had a great England under 20's too.
The ref will be important- we can and should win with anyone on the whistle but it feels like Pearce likes to blow his whistle the least and gives the fewest breakdown and set piece/scrum penalties of any ref, which creates a chaotic free flowing game, the sort that Bristol prefer.
Anyone else (even Dickson!) who instils a bit of structure would be good news for us and allow our (hoped for) set piece and breakdown dominance to truly get the upper hand and then the resulting territory.
Anyone else (even Dickson!) who instils a bit of structure would be good news for us and allow our (hoped for) set piece and breakdown dominance to truly get the upper hand and then the resulting territory.
Did Daly get away with a cheap shot, shoulder to head at one of the clear outs?
Bath Blues, yes he did. It provoked an audible shout of “what the **** was that?” from Louis Schreuder, I think.
Quote:Never thought I'd be hoping for Carley, but here we aredr.bath1865
The ref will be important- we can and should win with anyone on the whistle but it feels like Pearce likes to blow his whistle the least and gives the fewest breakdown and set piece/scrum penalties of any ref, which creates a chaotic free flowing game, the sort that Bristol prefer.
Anyone else (even Dickson!) who instils a bit of structure would be good news for us and allow our (hoped for) set piece and breakdown dominance to truly get the upper hand and then the resulting territory.
Ridley was ref in our home defeat to bris.
I am with you a.m.180- could defo do worse than carley who has improved a lot.
Dickson wasn't great was he- it's the blindingly obvious things he seems to consistently miss which is a concern like knock ons that go 1-2 yds forward. Fair enough to miss some stuff, obstructed view etc but seems to happen a lot.
I am with you a.m.180- could defo do worse than carley who has improved a lot.
Dickson wasn't great was he- it's the blindingly obvious things he seems to consistently miss which is a concern like knock ons that go 1-2 yds forward. Fair enough to miss some stuff, obstructed view etc but seems to happen a lot.
Agree that Pearce suits Bristol the best as he does tend to want a fast paced game. Think Maxwell-Keys is excellent these days as well after seeming to be quite fussy when he first came into the league.
Having said that I don’t think an open game against Bristol is as problematic as it used to be for us. Their defence can be so bad in those scenarios that we have every chance of out gunning them anyway and back our defence to do enough to restrict them the way Glos and Saints did when they beat Bristol
Having said that I don’t think an open game against Bristol is as problematic as it used to be for us. Their defence can be so bad in those scenarios that we have every chance of out gunning them anyway and back our defence to do enough to restrict them the way Glos and Saints did when they beat Bristol
Carley 1st choice, possibly Adam Leal 2nd...
Adopted Players: All of the little blighters!!!
Adopted Players: All of the little blighters!!!
Quote:Oh no, how dare the chirpy underclass dare to mention a fact once every four weeks in case it bores the bourgeois. Just don't know their place, do they? I suppose it would be beyond my station to point out that Bristol had won the challenge cup during that period a few years back. Good to see Bath are finally playing catch up though, competition is nice.Charlieboa1
lJust gets boring as I have read/ heard him mention it 3 times in last few months and he won nothing with bris when they were spending to cap
Quote:RinkadinkQuote:Oh no, how dare the chirpy underclass dare to mention a fact once every four weeks in case it bores the bourgeois. Just don't know their place, do they? I suppose it would be beyond my station to point out that Bristol had won the challenge cup during that period a few years back. Good to see Bath are finally playing catch up though, competition is nice.Charlieboa1
lJust gets boring as I have read/ heard him mention it 3 times in last few months and he won nothing with bris when they were spending to cap
Apologies rinkadink, my bad , forgot about the 2022 challenge cup win. Against toulon as well so a v good effort. As you say we are playing catch up after a truly dire return over the last 25 years. Thankfully I started following bath in 1984 so got more than my fair share of success to get me through this barren period.
One trophy in about 6-7 seasons under lam and with a chance to win another this season? Decent effort as the titles get shared around alot and prem is always crazily competitive.
Not sure there is any reason for you to play the underclass vs bourgeois card , all seems a bit 'chip on the shoulder' when you have the backing of lansdown , a 25k stadium, world class training facilities etc. appreciate he has reigned in the spending to try to make it sustainable which is sensible.
Thank you for acknowledging that. You have largely been one of the more charitable posters so far, as for your comment you only need to read this thread to understand why. Sledging Bristol fans saying they have no understanding of rugby values, clamouring to price them out, etc. Plus a bit of banter, it has always been thus in that regard (in fact, compared to 20 years ago it's more like the Mild West these days).
Agree rinkadink, a few have crossed the line.
It's set up for a good game on Friday, let's all try to enjoy it for what it is.
Definitely a lot riding on it hence some frayed nerves- we have been v clear the prem is our priority ever since losing last year's final so we have an awful lot to lose
It's set up for a good game on Friday, let's all try to enjoy it for what it is.
Definitely a lot riding on it hence some frayed nerves- we have been v clear the prem is our priority ever since losing last year's final so we have an awful lot to lose
Quote:theredseatQuote:Hercules Spoons
As a Bristol supporter, I cannot think of any team I’d rather us play in a semi final than your team.
Brown trousers night?
Not for me. Usual knock out nerves but genuinely I think you have over performed to make the playoffs this year. Unless Bristol score 40-45 points they’re quite unlikely to win based on recent evidence and I can’t see them coming to the Rec and doing that
I know Lam is saying what he needs to in the build up but the points difference and the league table reflects that Bristol have decided they’re not going to spend the money to really push for a title at the moment.
I think if Bath put in two performances of 8/10 and above now they win the title. Nothing guaranteed of course but that feels realistic.
'over performed to make the playoffs' Not sure I understand that redseat, sounds somewhat condescending but I appreciate you'd rather play anyone other than Bris.
Actually I think if we can draw Russell into competing with our chaotic game pattern we'll stand a good chance.
Quote:Rinkadink
Thank you for acknowledging that. You have largely been one of the more charitable posters so far, as for your comment you only need to read this thread to understand why. Sledging Bristol fans saying they have no understanding of rugby values, clamouring to price them out, etc. Plus a bit of banter, it has always been thus in that regard (in fact, compared to 20 years ago it's more like the Mild West these days).
Ironically, one of this board's worst offenders from 20 yrs ago now appears to be the board's moderator. Poachers and Gamekeepers?
Quote:
Actually I think if we can draw Russell into competing with our chaotic game pattern we'll stand a good chance.[/quote
It's a match up that makes me nervous but not sure I would be massively more relaxed about playing sale. Have decent history of beating leic at home but they made us work hard for it.
Above is a really good point and why I mentioned potentially not playing redpath even if he is fit. He likes the miracle play in attack and defence and likes to win every micro battle in a game in a hot headed way. Not sure I totally trust him tbh despite being a very high end player.
I actually think finn will respect the instruction he gets from jvg and the coaching staff. I reckon he has his ego in check and is v focused on winning trophies however is needed. He kicked tactically and for goal against lyon is a very mature way I thought. Agree, get drawn into fast and furiously game and we could be in big trouble.
Quote:Charlieboa1Quote:
Actually I think if we can draw Russell into competing with our chaotic game pattern we'll stand a good chance.[/quote
It's a match up that makes me nervous but not sure I would be massively more relaxed about playing sale. Have decent history of beating leic at home but they made us work hard for it.
Above is a really good point and why I mentioned potentially not playing redpath even if he is fit. He likes the miracle play in attack and defence and likes to win every micro battle in a game in a hot headed way. Not sure I totally trust him tbh despite being a very high end player.
I actually think finn will respect the instruction he gets from jvg and the coaching staff. I reckon he has his ego in check and is v focused on winning trophies however is needed. He kicked tactically and for goal against lyon is a very mature way I thought. Agree, get drawn into fast and furiously game and we could be in big trouble.
Thats a point I made elsewhere in the Challenge Cup final we saw a very different Russell, kicking penalties, kicking for position, not risking long passes, making defensive tackles, he was in cup mode as was Ben Spencer.
A test match animal that we will see repeated on the Lions tour I suspect.
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
Quote:Francis AllenQuote:plong
Emmens not a Premiership player for me...
He isn't yet, but he's played well for Bath this season and I hope he'll make you eat your words.
I'd love to know when he has played well coz I honestly haven't seen it. Some good spells and stuff but never more than a 5/10 for me
Obviously the coaching team see stuff I don't so really hoping he develops into a high quality winger
I thought Green was immense. Impressive hard yards made with every carry. Must be challenging Coetzee for the 23 shirt next season
Front row held firm right from first scrum. Kirk did look very good yesterday and Offish oozes class, can't wait to see him in two years
Front row held firm right from first scrum. Kirk did look very good yesterday and Offish oozes class, can't wait to see him in two years
Quote:gaz59Quote:Francis AllenQuote:plong
Emmens not a Premiership player for me...
He isn't yet, but he's played well for Bath this season and I hope he'll make you eat your words.
I'd love to know when he has played well coz I honestly haven't seen it. Some good spells and stuff but never more than a 5/10 for me
Obviously the coaching team see stuff I don't so really hoping he develops into a high quality winger
Pretty dismissive comments about Emens, who scored two tries in the PR Cup semifinal and two tries against Newcastle.
He may or may not make it in the prem but his skills are attack and probably not defence which is actually not part of the 7s game. He has only had 12, 15 a side games and was on the winning side in 10 of those, losing to Bristol away in Cardiff and Saracens away yesterday.
I agree with FA he needs to be given a chance.
Quote:Hercules SpoonsQuote:theredseatQuote:Hercules Spoons
As a Bristol supporter, I cannot think of any team I’d rather us play in a semi final than your team.
Brown trousers night?
Not for me. Usual knock out nerves but genuinely I think you have over performed to make the playoffs this year. Unless Bristol score 40-45 points they’re quite unlikely to win based on recent evidence and I can’t see them coming to the Rec and doing that
I know Lam is saying what he needs to in the build up but the points difference and the league table reflects that Bristol have decided they’re not going to spend the money to really push for a title at the moment.
I think if Bath put in two performances of 8/10 and above now they win the title. Nothing guaranteed of course but that feels realistic.
'over performed to make the playoffs' Not sure I understand that redseat, sounds somewhat condescending but I appreciate you'd rather play anyone other than Bris.
Actually I think if we can draw Russell into competing with our chaotic game pattern we'll stand a good chance.
Over performed because I think Saracens and Saints both have stronger squads but had poor seasons and Quins were even worse. At the start of the season Bristol looked like a side that were finish around 6th maybe 7th so they’ve had a good year to end up 4th.
Not sure how you took the original post as condescending I feel it was reasonably clear to be honest. Between that and the bourgeois comment (which I don’t understand given your owner could buy out every other owner in the league many times over if he wanted to) I hope you haven’t just come along looking to pick an argument. All the best
It's nuts to write off Emens. He is 23 and essentially made his professional 15's debut in October. He is obviously a talented athlete and is developing under pressure. If JvG and Blackett see potential then he deserves at least another season to hone his game.
Agree NiD.
He may not 'make it' but deserves a fair crack of the whip.
As you say in terms of his development he is really like a 19/20 year old so v early days.
I quite like that we picked him up via the uni/ 7s route. His defence/ aerial work needs some honing but that's not unusual for a back 3 player.
He may not 'make it' but deserves a fair crack of the whip.
As you say in terms of his development he is really like a 19/20 year old so v early days.
I quite like that we picked him up via the uni/ 7s route. His defence/ aerial work needs some honing but that's not unusual for a back 3 player.
Quote:Charlieboa1
Agree NiD.
He may not 'make it' but deserves a fair crack of the whip.
As you say in terms of his development he is really like a 19/20 year old so v early days.
I quite like that we picked him up via the uni/ 7s route. His defence/ aerial work needs some honing but that's not unusual for a back 3 player.
I think the point about his ‘rugby age’ is a fair one. The problem he has it’s that there’s already lots of senior competition with the likes of Offiah, Woods and Griffin all coming up behind as well. I don’t imagine he’s on much money but there’s also no cap relief for Emens so he does have to make some strides relatively quickly or risk getting lost in the shuffle as that’s cap space that could be diverted to more vital cogs
It's not the club that are at fault in any way though is it, they are giving not just Emens but lots of academy players a chance to show what they can do.
CB pointed out that Jack Woods looks like a school boy, he is spot on because he is only 18, very young both chronologically and in terms of rugby experience. That applies to a lot in this group. It's unreasonable to expect seasoned performances every time they touch the ball.
On Saturday team thrown in at the deep end where a vast majority were under 23 took on Saracens away and lost by only 10 points and took away a bonus point. That is a massive plus for the senior side in terms of club moral and also giving the senior players a rest for this Friday. That won't be missed by those that still remember what it was like in their early careers. I prefer to look at what they did right.
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
CB pointed out that Jack Woods looks like a school boy, he is spot on because he is only 18, very young both chronologically and in terms of rugby experience. That applies to a lot in this group. It's unreasonable to expect seasoned performances every time they touch the ball.
On Saturday team thrown in at the deep end where a vast majority were under 23 took on Saracens away and lost by only 10 points and took away a bonus point. That is a massive plus for the senior side in terms of club moral and also giving the senior players a rest for this Friday. That won't be missed by those that still remember what it was like in their early careers. I prefer to look at what they did right.
Thanks guys for the succinct comments regarding Austin Emens. I didn't agree with the criticism of him on this thread and previous threads and it's nice to read your support of him.
He may have a lot of competition to hold onto a contract but he's in a good place to make it happen.
He may have a lot of competition to hold onto a contract but he's in a good place to make it happen.
They were indeed up against a fully battle hardened physical Saracens side, still playing for something, littered with international players and a sprinkle of Lions tourists. It was clear they were going to struggle with that and tire as the game goes on, but that the last 30 mins was competitive speaks volumes about the toughness of an extremely young and inexperienced side. Good times ahead.
They won the second half by 2 points which included having the best quarter of the match which is amazing as you would have expected them to be tired by that point. Quality performance! Like the game against Bristol if a couple of close decisions had gone our way an upset could have been on the cards. Very promising for the next few seasons.
1st quarter - 7-12
2nd quarter - 0-7
3rd quarter - 0-17
4th quarter - 19-0
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2025:06:02:11:31:53 by Benisjammin.
1st quarter - 7-12
2nd quarter - 0-7
3rd quarter - 0-17
4th quarter - 19-0
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2025:06:02:11:31:53 by Benisjammin.
Just watched the highlights - have to say, that was a fabulous try by Burke. I've been ranting for ages about how there's so much space in the area behind the scrum/ruck when the back 3 have adopted deep positions assuming there's going to be a box or clearance kick. Van Zyl's initial kick was absolute genius.
Quote:plong
Carley 1st choice, possibly Adam Leal 2nd...
I seems to be Christophe Ridley…………is that a positive? I’m not sure
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"AN OUNCE OF ACTION IS WORTH A TON OF THEORY"
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I think it's....fine?
Obviously some nightmares from the final, but generally fair and accurate (as demonstrated by his big decision in said final)
Obviously some nightmares from the final, but generally fair and accurate (as demonstrated by his big decision in said final)
Think he was the ref when we lost to bris at the rec earlier in the season?
Hopefully been studying their mon ball carrier running g lines since then.
Could have been worse it think, hopefully we can get on top at scrum time and he rewards that.
Hopefully been studying their mon ball carrier running g lines since then.
Could have been worse it think, hopefully we can get on top at scrum time and he rewards that.
Quote:theredseatQuote:Hercules SpoonsQuote:theredseatQuote:Hercules Spoons
As a Bristol supporter, I cannot think of any team I’d rather us play in a semi final than your team.
Brown trousers night?
Not for me. Usual knock out nerves but genuinely I think you have over performed to make the playoffs this year. Unless Bristol score 40-45 points they’re quite unlikely to win based on recent evidence and I can’t see them coming to the Rec and doing that
I know Lam is saying what he needs to in the build up but the points difference and the league table reflects that Bristol have decided they’re not going to spend the money to really push for a title at the moment.
I think if Bath put in two performances of 8/10 and above now they win the title. Nothing guaranteed of course but that feels realistic.
'over performed to make the playoffs' Not sure I understand that redseat, sounds somewhat condescending but I appreciate you'd rather play anyone other than Bris.
Actually I think if we can draw Russell into competing with our chaotic game pattern we'll stand a good chance.
Over performed because I think Saracens and Saints both have stronger squads but had poor seasons and Quins were even worse. At the start of the season Bristol looked like a side that were finish around 6th maybe 7th so they’ve had a good year to end up 4th.
Not sure how you took the original post as condescending I feel it was reasonably clear to be honest. Between that and the bourgeois comment (which I don’t understand given your owner could buy out every other owner in the league many times over if he wanted to) I hope you haven’t just come along looking to pick an argument. All the best
I;ve certainly not come along to pick a fight redseat. The 'over performance' to which you referred is, I can now understand, subjective - your opinion.
So called expert journalists had us down the leugue, not understanding our recruitment and the quality of our home grown rising stars.
Anyhow we're back on a roll now so, should be a fascinating match.
Hercules - back in early September 2024, where roughly in the league did you (honestly) expect Bristol to finish?
Quote:Dorset Boy
Hercules - back in early September 2024, where roughly in the league did you (honestly) expect Bristol to finish?
DB, I think most of us Bristol supporters were of the opinion that we had been generally underrated, I know we all tend to be optimistic about our own team but, we'd been on a fantastic end of season run even without some injured players and almost made the playoffs. We had AJ McGinty coming back, Ravouvou was hitting form and the development of Kloska, Dun and Owen in the forwards and Jenkins, Bates in the backs had been showing as well as the development and integration of our Argentinian's, We were expecting Malins to be doing his stuff at 15 and confidence in the squad was high (we are a confidence side).
So, we thought (as proved) Saints were losing too many key playrers, Tiggers were under new management, Exe were unlikely to keep it up and Sarries had lost their way.
I think, with some justification, we all anticipated top four.
Our recent game v Quins was just what we needed and confidence is up there again. Given our recent record against you Buns and the shortest injury list we've had since the season started we (supporters) will be disappointed if we don't give you an excrutiatingly difficult game.
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