Bath
SHOOTOUT FOR KNOCKOUT. BATH v EDINBURGH
van Graan: short odds
By Tom Reagan
January 13 2026
On Friday Bath, along with Pau, get the crucial 4th and final round of the European Champions Cup underway, knowing that a win will guarantee them home fixtures in the Round 16 and QF, should they reach it. Edinburgh will guarantee the same with a bonus point victory. Given the paucity of rugby highlights on offer and my not having a TV I'm perhaps not best qualified to be writing this preview, but I've blagged my way through quite a few now by turning to my usual sources - the opposition club website, their - rather inactive - fans' forum and a few YouTube highlights on my phone to offer some sort of insight...
Edinburgh sit 10th in the URC, having won 3 and lost 5 games thus far. Two of those losses were recent affairs against rivals Glasgow in their 1872 Cup, named after the year the sides first met in what is said to be the game's oldest derby. A 43 - 0 hammering of Benetton aside, most of their games seem to be quite tight, low-scoring affairs. This might seem a little surprising given some of the quality players in their backline, notably Darcy Graham, Duhan Van Der Merwe and Matt Currie but the latter pair have suffered injuries this season. Currie is definitely unavailable with a torn hamstring and Van Der Merwe has had hip and calf niggles to contend with. Graham is one of my favourite players. Frequently described as 'diminutive' he's actually 5 feet 10 and around 13 stone, but in these days of rugby behemoths it's good to see that pace and trickery still count for a lot (He was supposedly the fastest player in last season's 6N). Other backs whose names are familiar to me (And I emphasise that this is entirely an admission of my ignorance and not a comment on Edinburgh's team) are ex-Glos scrum half Ben Vellacott and Mosese Tuipulotu, although unfortunately a bit of basic research revealed that a) He's injured and b) I'd actually got him confused with his brother, Sione, who plays for Glasgow!
At the risk of going off on a slight tangent, my research did confirm something vaguely interesting about Mosese and Sione. I'm a 49ers and Patriots fan and noticed in the Pats win yesterday that the L.A Chargers had a defensive linebacker called Tuli Tuipulotu. He is indeed, if Wikipedia is to be believed, part of the rugby dynasty that includes the Vunipolas and, of course, our own Kepu.
In the forwards there were again a number of very familiar names, and I sort of wonder why Edinburgh aren't doing a bit better in their domestic league. One reason is that they have a lengthy injury list. Amongst those listed as unavailable against Glos last week were ex-Chiefs lock Sam Skinner, Darcy Rae, once of this parish as they say, and Grant Gilchrist. Another of my favourite Scottish players - Hamish Watson - wasn't on that list but doesn't seem to have played much this season. That may well be down to the form of Freddy Douglas, who is apparently a rising star in Scottish rugby. Another quality back row forward is their captain, Magnus Bradbury. Another name I noticed was Paul Hill, ex-Saints prop and one I've always rated highly. Against Glos Edinburgh had a reserve front row of Hill, Ewan Ashman and Pierre Schoeman. I don't know if they were being kept back for Friday's game or if Edinburgh have their own version of a 'Bomb squad' to take advantage of those two weary forwards who haven't been subbed after the obligatory 60 minutes...
Despite slightly indifferent form in the URC Edinburgh go into Friday's game with a chance to seal top spot having won 2 of their 3 games. They began with an impressive 33 - 20 victory at home to Toulon, then lost 33 - 0 away at Castres. The French sides really are different animals depending on whether they play home or away. Perhaps Edinburgh recognised this when choosing a very young side to play in France but I do think this competition suffers from the fact that so many sides concentrate on winning certain games and more or less accept defeat in others. Against a patched up Gloucester side they turned round an 18 - 5 half-time deficit to win 26 - 24. On that form, after our impressive win in Castres it's not surprising that Bath are firm favourites to win on Friday, but I was amazed to see that the best odds you'll currently find on a Bath win are 16 to 1 ON (They're as short as 1 - 25 on some sites!) and Edinburgh are 12 to 1, amazing odds in a two horse race. The spread is given as 19 points.
As to the possible ramifications going forward, thankfully I'm spared having to work my way through that as there's a separate thread on it with some very carefully researched posts. I also won't worry about picking a side. As to the result, I'm always worried about hubris but as the saying goes, 'You don't see bookies on buses' so against my natural cautious instincts I'll go with a fairly comfortable Bath win, 44 - 25
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Discussion started by Comeonmylovers.co.uk (IP Logged), 13/01/2026 13:40
13/01/2026 13:40
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Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 2026:01:25:08:47:00 by CoochieCoo.
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Underhill and Lawrence good to go, Ewels and Richards still 'weeks' away according to the midweek presser. Bayliss has a knock and is tbc. No news on the likes of Coetzee, Harris and Donoghue
Thanks Tom and trs
The bookies may have us at short odds but the winner of this one will be best placed for the next two rounds. Edinburgh will not be travelling to be sacrificial lambs.
It looks like being a drizzly night, so may not be a very open game. We will need to be on our toes -in handling and in receipt of restarts.
PG
The bookies may have us at short odds but the winner of this one will be best placed for the next two rounds. Edinburgh will not be travelling to be sacrificial lambs.
It looks like being a drizzly night, so may not be a very open game. We will need to be on our toes -in handling and in receipt of restarts.
PG
Really well written and I very much enjoy the style.
Also I have never heard, "you don't see bookies on buses", before which made me chuckle.
I trust we go all out for this one because the prize if we win and get 5 points is very valuable and would set us up neatly for the Round of 16 and Quarter Finals
Also I have never heard, "you don't see bookies on buses", before which made me chuckle.
I trust we go all out for this one because the prize if we win and get 5 points is very valuable and would set us up neatly for the Round of 16 and Quarter Finals
I'd expect to see close to last week's 23.
Lawrence & Underhill in, Bayliss & Butt out.
Restoring the 6/2 split, maybe Green for JoeC.
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
Lawrence & Underhill in, Bayliss & Butt out.
Restoring the 6/2 split, maybe Green for JoeC.
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
With a trip to the basket-case that is currently Glos the following week, and then no GP business until late March, this Friday is a mini cup-final type game - very much 'full on'.
My guess
TdG
Arundell
Lawrence
Ojomoh
Muir
Finn
Spencer
Obano
Dunn
Sela
Roux
Molony
Pepper
Underhill
Barbeary
Frost
Van Wyk
TDT
Hill
Reid
VDL/TCS
Carreras/Redpath/Butt
Green
Difficult to know which No 22 gives you the most cover!
TdG
Arundell
Lawrence
Ojomoh
Muir
Finn
Spencer
Obano
Dunn
Sela
Roux
Molony
Pepper
Underhill
Barbeary
Frost
Van Wyk
TDT
Hill
Reid
VDL/TCS
Carreras/Redpath/Butt
Green
Difficult to know which No 22 gives you the most cover!
I know with 6N selection coming he won't want it but anybody else think Arundell could do with a rest? He's looked a bit jaded the last couple of games. With Muir and Joe C available we would be fine, especially as it's likely to still be a forward power first type of game.
I would go:
Carreras
Big joe
Mojo
Redpath
Muir
Finn
Spencer
Beno
Dunn
Griffin
Roux
Malony
Hill
Pepper
Reid
Bench: kepu, fvw, tdt, underhill, alfie, tcs, butt, arundell
Love sela but would keep using him sparingly.
Massive shame richards is out same time as ewels.
I think muir and big joe deserve the wing spots.
Tdg vs carreras a close call.
I would prefer to play same midfield as been so many changes/ combos there. Use ollie against glos maybe but wasnt at his best last few games.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:01:13:21:29:02 by Charlieboa1.
Carreras
Big joe
Mojo
Redpath
Muir
Finn
Spencer
Beno
Dunn
Griffin
Roux
Malony
Hill
Pepper
Reid
Bench: kepu, fvw, tdt, underhill, alfie, tcs, butt, arundell
Love sela but would keep using him sparingly.
Massive shame richards is out same time as ewels.
I think muir and big joe deserve the wing spots.
Tdg vs carreras a close call.
I would prefer to play same midfield as been so many changes/ combos there. Use ollie against glos maybe but wasnt at his best last few games.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:01:13:21:29:02 by Charlieboa1.
Quote:Optimist
With a trip to the basket-case that is currently Glos the following week, and then no GP business until late March, this Friday is a mini cup-final type game - very much 'full on'.
+1
I’d be sorely tempted to keep Redpath and Ojo as 12/13 for this and seek a bit of continuity.
Also seems like a game JvG would bring in someone like Hennessy or Arthur Green to expose them to a bit more pressure. Would be fine with either of those two starting if surrounded by experience.
Agree about Arundell, giving him a week or two off wouldn’t be the worst idea in the world
Also seems like a game JvG would bring in someone like Hennessy or Arthur Green to expose them to a bit more pressure. Would be fine with either of those two starting if surrounded by experience.
Agree about Arundell, giving him a week or two off wouldn’t be the worst idea in the world
Opti less of the tongue in cheek hubris!!!
Away at Gloucester is a really important game!!
Certainly do not want to give them any cause to "rub our noses in it".
I would start Tom de G and bring Santi on at 50 minutes. They are both great players and if possible we should spread the workload between them. Of course Santi could stand in for Finn over the next few weeks......however as pointed out on another thread he could probably do with a few weeks off.
Next two games are very important for the way our season turns out
Away at Gloucester is a really important game!!
Certainly do not want to give them any cause to "rub our noses in it".
I would start Tom de G and bring Santi on at 50 minutes. They are both great players and if possible we should spread the workload between them. Of course Santi could stand in for Finn over the next few weeks......however as pointed out on another thread he could probably do with a few weeks off.
Next two games are very important for the way our season turns out
Quote:Benisjammin
I know with 6N selection coming he won't want it but anybody else think Arundell could do with a rest? He's looked a bit jaded the last couple of games. With Muir and Joe C available we would be fine, especially as it's likely to still be a forward power first type of game.
I'd go Muir and Cokanasiga this week too I think.
Expecting Pepper to start which would put him up against Freddy Douglas who looks to be a cracking player and might be the match up we see in the 6N as well.
Part of me wonders if Finn gets a pre 6N break after this week and Carreras plays 10 at Glos?
I could see Finn starting this week and resting next week - Santi against Glaws makes a lot of sense!
Would love to see Ted start again and put together a decent run. IMO he’s our best back rower so it pains me to see him on the bench even though I see the logic of him being a Bomb Squad player
Would love to see Ted start again and put together a decent run. IMO he’s our best back rower so it pains me to see him on the bench even though I see the logic of him being a Bomb Squad player
This is as much a 'must win' game as any, as I see it
No disrespect to Edinburgh. A very good all round team with a sprinkle of stardust. So, no complacency - we will need to bring our A game. But, if we do not win this type of game at home then we are some distance off where we expect to be
Might be a different perspective if we were away
No disrespect to Edinburgh. A very good all round team with a sprinkle of stardust. So, no complacency - we will need to bring our A game. But, if we do not win this type of game at home then we are some distance off where we expect to be
Might be a different perspective if we were away
Might be worth resting Finn against Glaws just to create headroom in his 30-game limit.
Having 3 x 'nailed-on' centres is great for depth, but not ideal for continuity. As an England supporter, i'd love to see Max+Ollie starting regularly - a/ 12 is Max's best position and his best chance of becoming an England fixture; b/ 13 isn't Max's best position, so it's a shame to shoehorn him there.
However, Cam on the bench too much is a surefire way to lose him. Not a simple task for JVG to keep both Max and Cam happy.
However, Cam on the bench too much is a surefire way to lose him. Not a simple task for JVG to keep both Max and Cam happy.
Think the balance on centres is ok at the moment. Ojomoh better at 12 but fine at 13 which helps juggle the main three and between injuries and rest I think it's workable to keep them happy. Butt does suffer as a result which explains why he appears to be leaving. Hennessey then moves up the pecking order next year to add a different complication as he seems to be a 13 only and will probably be around the Wales squad and wanting to press his claim there. Tricky but nice problems to have
Watching our wingers against wee Darcy and van der Merwe is going to be exciting - presuming Edinburgh pick them with the 6 nations coming up!
The wing battle is going to be international class I agree - which is exactly what we all want!
[www.bbc.co.uk]
Russell demands Bath improvement for Europe title tilt
"We're probably not satisfied with how we are playing this year, which is a good place to be in given that we're in good positions in both competitions [Prem and Champions Cup], but we know there's a lot more life in us."
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Russell demands Bath improvement for Europe title tilt
"We're probably not satisfied with how we are playing this year, which is a good place to be in given that we're in good positions in both competitions [Prem and Champions Cup], but we know there's a lot more life in us."
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Pats and Niners fan!? Is this an East and West coast thing? An AFC and NFC team? In theory, both could make the SB, though I’d rate Pats’ chances very slightly higher. Who would you go with if that did happen?
Team Up:
Bath Rugby: 1 Beno Obano, 2 Tom Dunn, 3 Thomas du Toit, 4 Quinn Roux, 5 Ross Molony, 6 Guy Pepper, 7 Sam Underhill, 8 Alfie Barbeary, 9 Ben Spencer ©, 10 Finn Russell, 11 Henry Arundell, 12 Max Ojomoh, 13 Ollie Lawrence, 14 Joe Cokanasiga, 15 Tom de Glanville
Replacements: 16 Dan Frost, 17 Francois van Wyk, 18 Archie Griffin, 19 Ted Hill, 20 Miles Reid, 21 Tom Carr-Smith, 22 Santi Carreras, 23 Cameron Redpath
PG
Bath Rugby: 1 Beno Obano, 2 Tom Dunn, 3 Thomas du Toit, 4 Quinn Roux, 5 Ross Molony, 6 Guy Pepper, 7 Sam Underhill, 8 Alfie Barbeary, 9 Ben Spencer ©, 10 Finn Russell, 11 Henry Arundell, 12 Max Ojomoh, 13 Ollie Lawrence, 14 Joe Cokanasiga, 15 Tom de Glanville
Replacements: 16 Dan Frost, 17 Francois van Wyk, 18 Archie Griffin, 19 Ted Hill, 20 Miles Reid, 21 Tom Carr-Smith, 22 Santi Carreras, 23 Cameron Redpath
PG
The big Question - Omission of Muir - Injured again or reintroducing slowly?
And Edinburgh.
Graham starts but no DVM
Edinburgh Rugby: 15. Harry Paterson, 14. Darcy Graham, 13. Piers O'Conor, 12. James Lang, 11. Malelili Satala, 10. Ross Thompson, 9. Ben Vellacott, 1. James Whitcombe, 2. Ewan Ashman, 3. Ollie Blyth-Lafferty, 4. Callum Hunter-Hill, 5. Glen Young, 6. Tom Dodd, 7. Freddy Douglas, 8. Ben Muncaster
Replacements: 16. Harri Morris, 17. Mikey Jones, 18. Paul Hill, 19. Euan McVie, 20. Connor Boyle, 21. Charlie Shiel, 22. Ben Healy, 23. Jack Brown
PG
Graham starts but no DVM
Edinburgh Rugby: 15. Harry Paterson, 14. Darcy Graham, 13. Piers O'Conor, 12. James Lang, 11. Malelili Satala, 10. Ross Thompson, 9. Ben Vellacott, 1. James Whitcombe, 2. Ewan Ashman, 3. Ollie Blyth-Lafferty, 4. Callum Hunter-Hill, 5. Glen Young, 6. Tom Dodd, 7. Freddy Douglas, 8. Ben Muncaster
Replacements: 16. Harri Morris, 17. Mikey Jones, 18. Paul Hill, 19. Euan McVie, 20. Connor Boyle, 21. Charlie Shiel, 22. Ben Healy, 23. Jack Brown
PG
Very strong side. Hard to see any outcome other than a win but then said that vs Saints.
Anyone know if they've got loads of injuries? I recognise about 5 of that 23.
Anyone know if they've got loads of injuries? I recognise about 5 of that 23.
No complaints on that side - looks 'cup final-y' and should have more than enough for bonus point win against an understrength Edinburgh team
No Schoeman, Bradbury etc. means they're there for the taking, but we have to actually do it!
Great stuff. Love that team. Weather forecast turning more positive too.
Be nice to get out of the blocks quick and then see a bit more of the "attacking off 10" that Finn has talked about. 5 points is the priority, and can't take a result against any side in the Euro comp for granted, but it could be a nice chance for us to entertain a little and get the likes of Max, Ollie, and Arundell in the game.
Interesting we've gone 5:3 two weeks in a row. Potentially pointing to a wider game? Bayliss had a knock, but no Reid or Green in the 23 shirt is interesting. Having said that, we might just be resting one or two power players for Glos, who shouldn't be able to cope if we execute our forward-orientated, 80-minute game effectively.
2024/25 adoptee: Guy Pepper
Be nice to get out of the blocks quick and then see a bit more of the "attacking off 10" that Finn has talked about. 5 points is the priority, and can't take a result against any side in the Euro comp for granted, but it could be a nice chance for us to entertain a little and get the likes of Max, Ollie, and Arundell in the game.
Interesting we've gone 5:3 two weeks in a row. Potentially pointing to a wider game? Bayliss had a knock, but no Reid or Green in the 23 shirt is interesting. Having said that, we might just be resting one or two power players for Glos, who shouldn't be able to cope if we execute our forward-orientated, 80-minute game effectively.
2024/25 adoptee: Guy Pepper
Quote:dr.bath1865
Interesting we've gone 5:3 two weeks in a row. Potentially pointing to a wider game? Bayliss had a knock, but no Reid or Green in the 23 shirt is interesting. Having said that, we might just be resting one or two power players for Glos, who shouldn't be able to cope if we execute our forward-orientated, 80-minute game effectively.
Reckon it could partly be down to a lack of second row availability (not sure if EOG is fit after limping off against Exeter) and a way to get all three senior centres plus Carreras and de Glanville in the 23 so they're all involved / happy
Miles Reid is on the bench, dr.bath but I share your view this selection has a bearing on the Gloucester game , we often hear that JVG's selections are planned weeks ahead subject to injuries.
Arundell v Darcy G should singe some turf !!!
Good to see JVG go full bore 👍
Good to see JVG go full bore 👍
Judging by the comments on Edinburgh's socials, their fans aren't giving them much hope, but we can't be complacent. The fact we no longer need the bonus point to top the group means we don't need to chase the game, just get the fundamentals spot on and trust that the players will get the job done.
Does seem a bit odd that they aren't playing all the games from our group all on the same day. If Gloucester were considering going full strength against Toulon, then:
a) they could look at the Bath v Edinburgh squads and decide that the result is unlikely to favour them, and change their selection accordingly
b) they could see how things pan out on Friday night, if the result rules them out of progression then they could sub off any key players after 5 mins in the Toulon match to keep them fresh for the next Prem game
Seems like a real missed opportunity to inject some final fixture drama into a pretty jeopardy-less competition format.
Does seem a bit odd that they aren't playing all the games from our group all on the same day. If Gloucester were considering going full strength against Toulon, then:
a) they could look at the Bath v Edinburgh squads and decide that the result is unlikely to favour them, and change their selection accordingly
b) they could see how things pan out on Friday night, if the result rules them out of progression then they could sub off any key players after 5 mins in the Toulon match to keep them fresh for the next Prem game
Seems like a real missed opportunity to inject some final fixture drama into a pretty jeopardy-less competition format.
Quote:A.M 180
No Schoeman, Bradbury etc. means they're there for the taking, but we have to actually do it!
If Bath do not hammer this lot, questions should be asked. You'd struggle to even call this an Edinburgh second team. I have put where I'd rank these players in the squad after their names. Of course, some changes are forced by injury, but there are a decent number of players being rested.
The only conclusion is that Edinburgh decided they were not winning this game so are focussing on the league. Their performances after beating Toulon in this comp have been terrible.
15. Harry Paterson (1/2), 14. Darcy Graham (1), 13. Piers O'Conor (3), 12. James Lang (1/2), 11. Malelili Satala (debut but 3/4), 10. Ross Thompson (1/2 which shows how weak we are here), 9. Ben Vellacott (1), 1. James Whitcombe (3), 2. Ewan Ashman (1), 3. Ollie Blyth-Lafferty (2/3, 19 years 145kg and a future Scottish TH), 4. Callum Hunter-Hill (3/4), 5. Glen Young (2/3), 6. Tom Dodd (3/4, 7. Freddy Douglas (1/2), 8. Ben Muncaster (2 but just back from long term injury.)
Replacements: 16. Harri Morris (3), 17. Mikey Jones (4), 18. Paul Hill (2/3), 19. Euan McVie (4/5 second game after a few minutes but promising youngster) 20. Connor Boyle (2/3), 21. Charlie Shiel (2), 22. Ben Healy (3), 23. Jack Brown (3/4)
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:01:15:13:40:57 by Edinburgh01.
Quote:Edinburgh01Quote:A.M 180
No Schoeman, Bradbury etc. means they're there for the taking, but we have to actually do it!
If Bath do not hammer this lot, questions should be asked. You'd struggle to even call this an Edinburgh second team. I have put where I'd rank these players in the squad after their names. Of course, some changes are forced by injury, but there are a decent number of players being rested.
The only conclusion is that Edinburgh decided they were not winning this game so are focussing on the league. Their performances after beating Toulon in this comp have been terrible.
15. Harry Paterson (1/2), 14. Darcy Graham (1), 13. Piers O'Conor (3), 12. James Lang (1/2), 11. Malelili Satala (debut but 3/4), 10. Ross Thompson (1/2 which shows how weak we are here), 9. Ben Vellacott (1), 1. James Whitcombe (3), 2. Ewan Ashman (1), 3. Ollie Blyth-Lafferty (2/3, 19 years 145kg and a future Scottish TH), 4. Callum Hunter-Hill (3/4), 5. Glen Young (2/3), 6. Tom Dodd (3/4, 7. Freddy Douglas (1/2), 8. Ben Muncaster (2 but just back from long term injury.)
Replacements: 16. Harri Morris (3), 17. Mikey Jones (4), 18. Paul Hill (2/3), 19. Euan McVie (4/5 second game after a few minutes but promising youngster) 20. Connor Boyle (2/3), 21. Charlie Shiel (2), 22. Ben Healy (3), 23. Jack Brown (3/4)
Thanks Edinburgh01, really useful to get this context on the squad, even for us rugby nerds it can be difficult to ascertain strength of opposition selection, usually I just go with:
Are they an international?
If yes, must be half decent
If no, haven't a clue
Looks like it'll be wet on Friday night, how has Edinburgh's scrum faired this season? Schoemann will obviously be a big miss.
Exact same backline and front 5 as started v Saints.
Let's hope they defend a lot better tomorrow.
Pretty sure they will. Hoping for a big win.
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
Let's hope they defend a lot better tomorrow.
Pretty sure they will. Hoping for a big win.
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:boozeboozebooze
Looks like it'll be wet on Friday night, how has Edinburgh's scrum faired this season? Schoemann will obviously be a big miss.
Boan Venter has probably been a better player recently. That he was capped by the Boks playing at Edinburgh tells its own story. But him and Schoeman are a big losses right enough. Apart from anything else, there are a pile of young / inexperienced front rowers less able to manage / communicate with the ref.
At TH 19 year old, but 145kg Blyth-Lafferty has been a revelation. He is one of those players who does not look his size till you stand next to him. Started against Toulon after literally about 5 mins of pro rugby and never took a step back against Toulon's best. Also dealt handily with Glos, but is only played in shortish bursts as he gathers experience. Hill was always solid and remains so. But the best scrummaging locks to support the front row are missing, and whilst both Ashman and Morris are tough scrummagers, Whitcombe is in just his third Edinburgh game and looks like he has potential that is yet to be realised, and Jones has a three Edinburgh caps but is just too small at this level.
Ashman and Morris both have poor lineout accuracy. Against Gloucester it was like a competition to see who could lose more lineouts with Edinburgh losing 3 or 4 attacking lineouts within 10m of the Glos line.
The backrow are a bit small to all play together, but Freddy Douglas has an absurd number of jackals, and is one of those players who everyone thinks is illegal but somehow gets away with it with every ref (so far).
Bath beat Edinburgh the last time round by smashing them upfront. If Bath just keep coming at them up front I'd expect doughty resistance from Edinburgh, but eventually they will crack and the floodgates open.
Russell and Redpath may be of little help with inside information on this team as they will hardly know most of them.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:01:15:14:22:41 by Edinburgh01.
Quote:nigewing
Arundell v Darcy G should singe some turf !!!
Good to see JVG go full bore 👍
Despite appearances, Graham is not that quick in international wing terms. Edinburgh have a number of quicker (top speed) players including VD Merwe. He is obviously decently quick, but what gives him the edge is blistering acceleration and the ability to change direction at speed in unfeasibly small spaces.
Quote:Edinburgh01Quote:boozeboozebooze
Looks like it'll be wet on Friday night, how has Edinburgh's scrum faired this season? Schoemann will obviously be a big miss.
Boan Venter has probably been a better player recently. That he was capped by the Boks playing at Edinburgh tells its own story. But him and Schoeman are a big losses right enough. Apart from anything else, there are a pile of young / inexperienced front rowers less able to manage / communicate with the ref.
At TH 19 year old, but 145kg Blyth-Lafferty has been a revelation. He is one of those players who does not look his size till you stand next to him. Started against Toulon after literally about 5 mins of pro rugby and never took a step back against Toulon's best. Also dealt handily with Glos, but is only played in shortish bursts as he gathers experience. Hill was always solid and remains so. But the best scrummaging locks to support the front row are missing, and whilst both Ashman and Morris are tough scrummagers, Whitcombe is in just his third Edinburgh game and looks like he has potential that is yet to be realised, and Jones has a three Edinburgh caps but is just too small at this level.
Ashman and Morris both have poor lineout accuracy. Against Gloucester it was like a competition to see who could lose more lineouts with Edinburgh losing 3 or 4 attacking lineouts within 10m of the Glos line.
The backrow are a bit small to all play together, but Freddy Douglas has an absurd number of jackals, and is one of those players who everyone thinks is illegal but somehow gets away with it with every ref (so far).
Bath beat Edinburgh the last time round by smashing them upfront. If Bath just keep coming at them up front I'd expect doughty resistance from Edinburgh, but eventually they will crack and the floodgates open.
Russell and Redpath may be of little help with inside information on this team as they will hardly know most of them.
Very interesting, will keep an eye on Blythe-Lafferty and Douglas, this might be their audition for the Scotland 6 Nations squad.
Interesting team selection from Edinburgh - you have to presume they’ve decided they don’t want to focus on Europe.
Strong from us, looking forward to it!
Strong from us, looking forward to it!
Deja vu the Saints game, all this talk of a weakened squad, I'm convinced complacency was partly to blame for that defeat. No room for that this time.
None at all, and if it did creep in before Saints you’ve got to think that JvG, Spencer and Dunn have stamped it out quick sharp this week
Quote:Francis Allen
Deja vu the Saints game, all this talk of a weakened squad, I'm convinced complacency was partly to blame for that defeat. No room for that this time.
Very much so. Younger players with high potential & a lot to prove cannot be underestimated!
Quote:Bath HammerQuote:Francis Allen
Deja vu the Saints game, all this talk of a weakened squad, I'm convinced complacency was partly to blame for that defeat. No room for that this time.
Very much so. Younger players with high potential & a lot to prove cannot be underestimated!
Hope Edinburgh haven’t sent the second team otherwise we really could be in trouble.. 🙂
Quote:Edinburgh01
If Bath do not hammer this lot, questions should be asked.
Thank you Edinburgh01 for enriching this board with your insight and wishing you all the best for the rest of the season (but hopefully no more than a losing bonus point tomorrow night!)
From recent posts on their Facebook page it looks like Edinburgh are here and were on the Rec last night. Also interesting short interview from Satala which we should take note of - unless it's a bluff to put us off guard! "try to catch them off guard and play unstructured." And use the backs to "pick off the big players."
Hope to see an improvement in our discipline tonight as it's been poor at times in recent games.
Quote:OutsideBath
Hope to see an improvement in our discipline tonight as it's been poor at times in recent games.
Totally agree - lots of pens and also quite a few totally unnecessary ones (where it wasn't even worth risking being on the edge of legality).
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
I don't buy the "complacency" thing, even less so in Europe. It's essentially a Euro knock out game, so whoever we're playing, be it Bordeaux 1sts or Dragons 6ths, I just can't see us doing anything other than approaching the game with the right mindset, especially knowing what we do about JvG.
I really don't think that professional rugby players often, if ever, underestimate or get complacent when they look at the opposition team sheet. If we get beaten by them, it'll likely be that their players have played a blinder, just like Saints did.
2024/25 adoptee: Guy Pepper
I really don't think that professional rugby players often, if ever, underestimate or get complacent when they look at the opposition team sheet. If we get beaten by them, it'll likely be that their players have played a blinder, just like Saints did.
2024/25 adoptee: Guy Pepper
Quote:Susanne
From recent posts on their Facebook page it looks like Edinburgh are here and were on the Rec last night. Also interesting short interview from Satala which we should take note of - unless it's a bluff to put us off guard! "try to catch them off guard and play unstructured." And use the backs to "pick off the big players."
That's their best chance of a win isn't it? If they try to keep it tight then we should out muscle them up front
We beat them quite convincingly with our pack last year, naturally they'll be trying to avoid that happening again.
Good to see some young talent coming through for Scotland, regardless of the outcome tonight.
Good to see some young talent coming through for Scotland, regardless of the outcome tonight.
Quote:by
Good to see some young talent coming through for Scotland, regardless of the outcome tonight.
👍
Quote:Treble
https://www.oddschecker.com/rugby-union/european-champions-cup
Staggering odds in Bath's favour in this two horse tonight
Even Quins away at La Rochelle are a mere 12 - 1
Toulouse to beat Sale 1 - 100
Cokanasiga and Lawrence playing themselves out of the first XV at the moment. Truly awful, lazy performance from Joe.
Pretty clinical stuff in the first half from us. Get that final 5 per cent right in attack and we will be very difficult to live with.
Why am I underwhelmed by our 4 try BP at h/time? Am I disrespecting Edinburgh or expecting more from us? I'm hoping for a more fluid, clinical 2nd half performance...
Our backs are just not clicking & must do far better. Thanks to the forwards we’re well on top but we won’t get far in the later rounds playing like this. Perhaps they are trying too hard.
Ollie is overplaying and trying too hard, coming back from injury. Joe is reverting (so far) to some of his worst old habits.
I might be in a minority of one, and no our backs aren’t firing perfectly, but up until c18 months ago we hadn’t won a Euro Cup match in something like 5 seasons! Tonight we’ve a bonus point in the bag at HT and we’re going to qualify with home advantage all the way to the semis. I’d take penalty tries as long as we get to play a quarter at the Rec!
I know, I know we’ll need to play better to beat better teams but I’m not too down on our first half. We played far more rugby, as promised, off of 10 and Ollie and Max have had their hands on the ball a lot. It’s greasy as hell also (not an excuse but a reason).
Hoping for some tries from the 3/4s in the second half and a nice scoreline to boot. Allez allez allez.
2024/25 adoptee: Guy Pepper
I know, I know we’ll need to play better to beat better teams but I’m not too down on our first half. We played far more rugby, as promised, off of 10 and Ollie and Max have had their hands on the ball a lot. It’s greasy as hell also (not an excuse but a reason).
Hoping for some tries from the 3/4s in the second half and a nice scoreline to boot. Allez allez allez.
2024/25 adoptee: Guy Pepper
OK so far but no better than that. It's an Edinburgh 2nd team and it looks like it. We should win with much to spare but it doesn't really tell us how we would get on if Edinburgh 1sts pitch up.
On a side note, I have Andy Goode on comms and he NEVER misses an opportunity to be snarky about Bath Rugby. It's pretty annoying.
... IMHO, of course.
Now in Honolulu
On a side note, I have Andy Goode on comms and he NEVER misses an opportunity to be snarky about Bath Rugby. It's pretty annoying.
... IMHO, of course.
Now in Honolulu
In his defence, Joe has made three excellent high ball plays in the first ten minutes of the second half.
Agree re Goode. Snarky about everything. Can’t stand his “banter”. So bad I’m shouting at the telly: hurry back Austin!
2024/25 adoptee: Guy Pepper
2024/25 adoptee: Guy Pepper
Clear instruction to up the pace and blow them away. Much better second half.
Well if the first half was whelming, the second was dominant. Top of the pool! Let's go.
Quote:hasta
That were gert lush.
My brother sings in a choir called Gurt Lush!
... IMHO, of course.
Now in Honolulu
Just back, that 2nd half felt much more like things were clicking. Loved the genuine joy on the players faces when Joe scored. Alfie continues his good form, looks much fitter. Frost's pace at the end was startling, I genuinely thought it was a back!
Very strong performance and interesting to hear so many people commenting about the importance of the backline performance, including Spenny in his post-game interview.
Edinburgh really faded in that second half and that does put an artificial gloss on the scoreline, but I'm certainly not complaining because we're heading in the right direction.
A few observations...
* Alfie is by far our standout player at the moment – in the past he has picked up an injury when in this kind of form so let's keep everything crossed for him
* Joe and Henry looked dangerous when we got the ball to them – things still seem a little muddled in the centre, but hopefully we're not far off it all clicking
* Our front row is a real weapon close to the line, in a way other sides don't seem to be. A lot was made of how many tries our props score during the week – who cares? I'll take 14 banker points each game all day long
* Our discipline was MUCH better – only three penalties conceded and one was very boneheaded (Dunny playing the 9). Okay, we weren't under a great deal of pressure but we need to build on this in the rest of the season.
Edinburgh really faded in that second half and that does put an artificial gloss on the scoreline, but I'm certainly not complaining because we're heading in the right direction.
A few observations...
* Alfie is by far our standout player at the moment – in the past he has picked up an injury when in this kind of form so let's keep everything crossed for him
* Joe and Henry looked dangerous when we got the ball to them – things still seem a little muddled in the centre, but hopefully we're not far off it all clicking
* Our front row is a real weapon close to the line, in a way other sides don't seem to be. A lot was made of how many tries our props score during the week – who cares? I'll take 14 banker points each game all day long
* Our discipline was MUCH better – only three penalties conceded and one was very boneheaded (Dunny playing the 9). Okay, we weren't under a great deal of pressure but we need to build on this in the rest of the season.
No need to get carried away against probably the weakest opposition we’ll play this year but a job well done. Forwards secured the win early on then the backs got to have some fun from then on. Don’t know how much we learned about how our attack would run against better teams but good for the players to have a chance to try some things out. Good few chances left out there as well
Barbeary is absolutely on one with his carrying at the moment - brutal going into contact every time. Thought Cokanasiga, Ojomoh and Pepper very good too
Barbeary is absolutely on one with his carrying at the moment - brutal going into contact every time. Thought Cokanasiga, Ojomoh and Pepper very good too
Alfie is showing the benefit of a run of fitness and form. I'm sure Ollie will get back there too. Just a shame after next week we have to wait a couple of months for a first XV game.
The clear and notably pick up of pace in the second to blow them away was great (although that was a really poor Edinburgh performance).
The clear and notably pick up of pace in the second to blow them away was great (although that was a really poor Edinburgh performance).
Should add - hopefully Molony’s elbow / arm isn’t too badly hurt. Roux looked gassed at the end and seems like he might have to put another big shift in at Glos next week. de Glanville seem to jar something when his leg got stuck in the turf.
Just maybe for next week?
15 Arundell
14 Cokanasiga
11 Muir
10 Carreras
Just maybe for next week?
15 Arundell
14 Cokanasiga
11 Muir
10 Carreras
I hope Ross Molony is ok. He looked to be struggling with his arm when he came off.
Moloney/Roux get a couple months rest and recovery after next week and by God they have earned it.
Excellent result, one of those games when result never seemed in doubt. Good to see an improvement in discipline.
JvG said we haven't had a home Euro knockout since 2002 - can that be right?? 😱😱😱
Really good game and from about 5 minutes onwards the result was never in doubt.
Couple of thoughts:
- Barbs MotM again, that’s three in a row! He’s on such form at the moment, wonder if JvG had an arm round his shoulder a few weeks ago because it’s quite some sight at the moment!
- Wings looked awesome, Joe carrying with such power and getting round the corner on so many occasions
- Finn bossed it yet again, and nailed every conversion which is so so important. Shame he can’t catch 😂
- Front row just brutal, and the replacements kept up the power game
Another good night under the lights, one more and everyone gets a bit of a rest!
Couple of thoughts:
- Barbs MotM again, that’s three in a row! He’s on such form at the moment, wonder if JvG had an arm round his shoulder a few weeks ago because it’s quite some sight at the moment!
- Wings looked awesome, Joe carrying with such power and getting round the corner on so many occasions
- Finn bossed it yet again, and nailed every conversion which is so so important. Shame he can’t catch 😂
- Front row just brutal, and the replacements kept up the power game
Another good night under the lights, one more and everyone gets a bit of a rest!
Hat-trick of MOTMs for Alfie. Seem to recall a similar feat being achieved in 2015 by a Mr S Burgess. Believe he was picked for England off the back of that form.
If he does get a well deserved call up, you'd hope he'd be playing in his actual position.
If he does get a well deserved call up, you'd hope he'd be playing in his actual position.
Does anyone know who the player was doing shuttles in front of the clubhouse before the match? Hennessey was in front of East stand. Worried about lock resources.. and he looked “lock-ish”!
Disappointed with Edinburgh who turned off in second half. I don’t think our attack is really where it needs to be yet (certainly behind Saints), but signs of improvement. Joe C a real mixed bag
Disappointed with Edinburgh who turned off in second half. I don’t think our attack is really where it needs to be yet (certainly behind Saints), but signs of improvement. Joe C a real mixed bag
JVG is correct - the 2002 match in the Champions Cup knock out stages was against Scarlets (which we lost 10-27). Which was particularly galling as we had won all 6 pool matches to get the home fixture.
Last Euro knock out match (Challenge Cup) at the Rec was last years QF against Gloucester.
Last Euro knock out match (Challenge Cup) at the Rec was last years QF against Gloucester.
From memory that Scarlets game was played in terrible conditions but we tried to play as though it was a sunny day in May. Stephen Jones beat us on his own, I recall.
Quote:Mini MaximusQuote:Edinburgh01
If Bath do not hammer this lot, questions should be asked.
Thank you Edinburgh01 for enriching this board with your insight and wishing you all the best for the rest of the season (but hopefully no more than a losing bonus point tomorrow night!)
Thanks. I quite enjoy visiting English club boards. I hope no one is offended by this, but the club boards (and the many English club grounds I have visited, including your own) seem to be much more populated by proper rugby fans than those we encounter at Twickenham or Murrayfield.
It is also a welcome change of pace from some of the URC boards.
The result was never in doubt, just the margin. In the first half my son and were debating whether Bath were off the level they'd like to be at, or if they were just keeping their powder dry in the full knowledge that just constant grinding pressure would reap its rewards. The wheels fell off Edinburgh half way through the second half and things then went from bad to worse.
At least the Edinburgh youngsters can hold their heads up for never giving up and showing flashes, though by the end they were falling off too.
It'll mean nothing to you guys, but the saddest thing was Ben Healy making mistake after mistake when he came on. He was a regular Munster starter and with Jordan yet to emerge and Hastings perma crocked, he came to Scotland as back up to Finn (Irish and Scottish qualified). Capped for Scotland he was a good if unspectacular 10. I have never seen a player suffer such a total loss of form and confidence such that he barely gets picked for Edinburgh, and when he does he just seems to be overwhelmed.
Anyway, good luck for the rest of the season.
Quote:Shadders
Disappointed with Edinburgh who turned off in second half.
I'm not sure that is really fair - they were just outmuscled and outclassed on the night and the dam burst when they ran out of puff. Defending for that long is not easy.
[www.bathrugby.com]
Feel sorry for their players - it must be frustrating to travel to cup game knowing that you haven't put a competitive team out. Also that some of those young lads have basically been thrown to the worlves as they haven't had the platform to show what they can do. Though that their flanker (
Freddy Douglas?) and Harry Paterson (the 15) did well. Nice touch by TdT speaking with / encouraging young Ollie Blyth-Lafferty after the game.
Really hope that Ross Molony is OK, it didn't look good (I thought initially that he had dislocated the elbow but hopefully just an uncomfortable hyper-extension?). TDG didn't look great either initially - although he was smiling at the end so fingers crossed. The Prem Cup is going to be a valuable opportunity to rest a few bruised bodies.
In all, fairly clinical performance in slippery conditions and a few glimpses at the end of it 'clicking'. Well done Bath - job done (for now).
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
True - but can’t be possible to keep motivation at 100% when you are a long way down on the scoreboard and knackered.
Paterson was very good for them, made a few nice line breaks. Thanks to Edinburgh01 I was watching out for their tighthead, clearly found it a tough day in the office but good to hear about TdT.
Just watched some of the highlights, wanted to see how bad Max O butchered the first half opportunity. It actually wasn’t too bad, as the defender had moved off him to cover Spenno. But Spencer did then still have an unmarked winger on the touchline - so Max should have still passed, but lower level of butchering offence!
Paterson was very good for them, made a few nice line breaks. Thanks to Edinburgh01 I was watching out for their tighthead, clearly found it a tough day in the office but good to hear about TdT.
Just watched some of the highlights, wanted to see how bad Max O butchered the first half opportunity. It actually wasn’t too bad, as the defender had moved off him to cover Spenno. But Spencer did then still have an unmarked winger on the touchline - so Max should have still passed, but lower level of butchering offence!
As above we did leave a few tries out there.....Finn will never, ever live that dropped ball down.
Good result
Really pleased for Alfie, Joe, Henry and Max who all sparkled.
Saw Alfie going round after the match and was surprised how large and heavy the MOM medals are.
I always got the impression that the Premiership ones are small and light.....
Are they all engraved with the match and date.....obviously they can't put the name on as they would not have the time or equipment.
We have an interest in the Trophies and Medals sector!!
Good result
Really pleased for Alfie, Joe, Henry and Max who all sparkled.
Saw Alfie going round after the match and was surprised how large and heavy the MOM medals are.
I always got the impression that the Premiership ones are small and light.....
Are they all engraved with the match and date.....obviously they can't put the name on as they would not have the time or equipment.
We have an interest in the Trophies and Medals sector!!
Quote:Bath Supporter Jack
Are they all engraved with the match and date.....obviously they can't put the name on as they would not have the time or equipment.
Just put Alfie down for all of the euro cup ones and you will be fine.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Quote:Shadders
True - but can’t be possible to keep motivation at 100% when you are a long way down on the scoreboard and knackered.
Paterson was very good for them, made a few nice line breaks. Thanks to Edinburgh01 I was watching out for their tighthead, clearly found it a tough day in the office but good to hear about TdT.
Just watched some of the highlights, wanted to see how bad Max O butchered the first half opportunity. It actually wasn’t too bad, as the defender had moved off him to cover Spenno. But Spencer did then still have an unmarked winger on the touchline - so Max should have still passed, but lower level of butchering offence!
Yeah the Edinburgh scrambling defence played that very well.
[quote Shadders]Does anyone know who the player was doing shuttles in front of the clubhouse before the match? Hennessey was in front of East stand. Worried about lock resources.. and he looked “lock-ish”!
Pretty sure Bernard van der Linde was on the pitch pre-match. Could have been him?
Pretty sure Bernard van der Linde was on the pitch pre-match. Could have been him?
Quote:A few inchs and 20kgs bigger than him! (Good to see BVDL back though!)Devonport Lad
Pretty sure Bernard van der Linde was on the pitch pre-match. Could have been him?
Quote:ShaddersQuote:A few inchs and 20kgs bigger than him! (Good to see BVDL back though!)Devonport Lad
Pretty sure Bernard van der Linde was on the pitch pre-match. Could have been him?
If a forward I think Scott Kirk the young prop was warming up & holding a tackle bag.
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