Bath
BOUNCEBACKABILITY: EXETER CHIEFS V BATH RUGBY
By Rokobilly
May 6 2026
It was the then Crystal Palace football manager Iain Dowie who coined the word ‘bouncebackability’ some twenty-two years ago. The Collins Dictionary defines it as “the ability to recover after a setback, especially in sport.”It is a quality that both teams will be searching for on Sunday. Both are coming back off successive defeats, one each in the Prem and in Europe. Both are rueing the impact of decisions around head contact and counting the cost of mounting injuries. Both know a third defeat could derail what has been a very promising season.
With four rounds to go, this could be the most pivotal week of the regular Prem season. Six teams can still qualify for the play-offs and this weekend they all face one of the other five contenders.
The ideal situation for Bath would be 5 league points to 0 with wins for us, Northampton and Saracens. That would leave us fifteen points clear of 5th and eleven clear of 3rd with three games to go. In this perfect world, a bonus point win at home to Newcastle would secure a semi-final at The Rec with two rounds to go.
Alas three away wins this weekend may be too much to wish for…
Certainly JVG and his team will only be focusing on one result. The oft repeated mantra ‘never too high, never too low’ will be severely tested this week. This players’ disappointment on Sunday was evident, and wholly understandable.
Leaving aside the presence or otherwise of various camera angles, it is the nature of sport that every player will be able to point to a moment where they could have made a difference. Regrets, they’ll have a few.
The management have done a wonderful job in building the squad’s belief that we could compete with Europe’s best, they now need to help them get over that Bordeaux hangover quickly.
Such is the level of planning at Farleigh House, we know that a team will have been pencilled in for this game weeks ago. I wonder if this is a week where there may need to be more flexibility than most. Not just for injuries – and the initial reports on Will Muir and Louie Hennessey are not encouraging – but for wider emotional energy too. Sandy Park will be no place for tired minds.
Exeter have their own selection challenges and injuries. One key question may be whether Immanuel Feyi-Waboso is permitted to play. Withdrawn from the Ulster semi-final after a clash of heads appeared to briefly knock him out cold, he apparently passed his HIA but was prevented from returning to the pitch by the independent doctor. Speaking earlier this week, Rob Baxter did not seem to be clear whether he would be available this weekend.
I won’t repeat the selection discussion already started on an earlier thread, but whatever the injury update and the squad selected, we can take heart from the performances ‘The Purples’ have given at Sale and Northampton away in recent weeks.
We now have a squad where players can step up full of confidence in both their individual ability and how they play within the team. If we are to take our last chance at silverware this season, we will need everyone to play their part between now and Twickenham. COYB.
Digg
Delicious
Facebook
Reddit
StumbleuponBOUNCEBACKABILITY: EXETER CHIEFS V BATH RUGBY. TEAM UP!
Discussion started by Comeonmylovers.co.uk (IP Logged), 06/05/2026 09:46
06/05/2026 09:46
What do you think? You can have your say by posting below.
If you do not already have an account Click here to Register.
Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 2026:05:11:15:47:04 by CoochieCoo.
If you do not already have an account Click here to Register.
Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 2026:05:11:15:47:04 by CoochieCoo.
Many thanks to Rokobilly for this fine preview.
So- what do you think? Who would you select and what are the challenges?
Let's get the build up going on this thread and look forward to getting our title fight back and running!
PG
So- what do you think? Who would you select and what are the challenges?
Let's get the build up going on this thread and look forward to getting our title fight back and running!
PG
A fine preview, indeed, of what will be a fascinating weekend in the PREM.
I'm demanding no less than 5 points from Sunday, so I'd be picking as full strength as possible. I also think that Exeter have a few injuries, and have lost a bit of momentum, so we've a chance to get on top of them and lock in a really good away win that does a lot for our top 2 hopes.
For me:
Beno Dunn Sela Roux Ewels Hill Underhill Reid
Spencer Russell Arundell Butt (as looks like no other 12 will be fit) Lawrence JCok TDG
Kepu VW TDT Richards Pepper TCS Santi Bayliss
I'm demanding no less than 5 points from Sunday, so I'd be picking as full strength as possible. I also think that Exeter have a few injuries, and have lost a bit of momentum, so we've a chance to get on top of them and lock in a really good away win that does a lot for our top 2 hopes.
For me:
Beno Dunn Sela Roux Ewels Hill Underhill Reid
Spencer Russell Arundell Butt (as looks like no other 12 will be fit) Lawrence JCok TDG
Kepu VW TDT Richards Pepper TCS Santi Bayliss
Fantastically well written preview of a huge section of our Prem season. If we were to win with 5 points and say Northampton lose away to Tigers with only one bonus point - we could finish the weekend joint top of the league but pipping Saints to first based on our superior points difference.
We could further consolidate first place the following weekend as we play Falcons at home.
I've picked a slightly rotated team on another thread and really would stick with that. Exeter are strong at home but I believe that even a rotated team will be enough for us to get 5 points.
I think that there is no need to rush Spencer back fully so give TCS a start and I really see the benefit in giving Kepu as much playing time as possible. Dunn is a known quantity and will always give his 100% best so he would benefit from a brief rest. I also think Beno could do with a rest.
We could further consolidate first place the following weekend as we play Falcons at home.
I've picked a slightly rotated team on another thread and really would stick with that. Exeter are strong at home but I believe that even a rotated team will be enough for us to get 5 points.
I think that there is no need to rush Spencer back fully so give TCS a start and I really see the benefit in giving Kepu as much playing time as possible. Dunn is a known quantity and will always give his 100% best so he would benefit from a brief rest. I also think Beno could do with a rest.
Cheers Roko. Loving the Iain Dowie reference...scorer of possibly the greatest own goal there ever was.
I digress. Absolutely essential we get back to winning ways and, as much as I love Bayliss and Barbeary, I do think the gameplan works best when these guys come off the bench at 50/60mins. Same for TdT.
Really hope we get some positive news on Big Joe, Max and Cam. Horse and Hennessey look like they'll be out for a while. Guess Carreras/Deeg best-placed cover wing if need be? Would rather them than Griffin or Offiah, especially away from home.
I digress. Absolutely essential we get back to winning ways and, as much as I love Bayliss and Barbeary, I do think the gameplan works best when these guys come off the bench at 50/60mins. Same for TdT.
Really hope we get some positive news on Big Joe, Max and Cam. Horse and Hennessey look like they'll be out for a while. Guess Carreras/Deeg best-placed cover wing if need be? Would rather them than Griffin or Offiah, especially away from home.
Seems like there Muir, Hennessey and Ojomoh definitely out. No mention of Bayliss so he might well be fit.
hSomerset Live Bath Rugby Update
Reading the above Exeter injury update - they are a much weaker team without IFW and Fisilau - so I would feel more comfortable about the taking some rotation risk.
hSomerset Live Bath Rugby Update
Reading the above Exeter injury update - they are a much weaker team without IFW and Fisilau - so I would feel more comfortable about the taking some rotation risk.
I think if Exeter are weakened, I'd almost tend towards going absolutely full bore and - as far as is possible - guaranteeing a win. Securing 5 points from this one would pretty much allow JVG to then approach selection for the final 3 league games in whatever way he wants.
Any idea what cam's injury is and the prognosis.
As others have said it sounds like mojo and hennessy likely to be out.
As others have said it sounds like mojo and hennessy likely to be out.
Quote:Optimist
I think if Exeter are weakened, I'd almost tend towards going absolutely full bore and - as far as is possible - guaranteeing a win. Securing 5 points from this one would pretty much allow JVG to then approach selection for the final 3 league games in whatever way he wants.
Agree with this approach. Exe missing some names, and not having the deepest squad, increases our chances of 5 points if we really start strong, and perhaps gives the opportunity to get the likes of Beno, Roux, Ben, Finn off with c30 minutes to go.
2024/25 adoptee: Guy Pepper
Do think that - while a bit one dimensional - Butt and Lawrence should be fine for this one.
Maybe Santi at FB with TdG on the wing would ensure there's a second ball-playing threat in absence of Max/Cam again. They'd be interchangeable too of course.
Maybe Santi at FB with TdG on the wing would ensure there's a second ball-playing threat in absence of Max/Cam again. They'd be interchangeable too of course.
Whilst Butt does like to break a tackle and offload and he doesn’t have the 10 playmaking ability of Max, his hands and vision are actually pretty good. Plus 12 is his main position. I would definitely play Butt vs Exe.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Redpath was called 'touch and go' for last week. Should be a decent chance he's in the frame for Exeter
Quote:Having a player facing their future team can be pretty effective as well, Alfie v Sarries being the recent examplesBathMatt53
Whilst Butt does like to break a tackle and offload and he doesn’t have the 10 playmaking ability of Max, his hands and vision are actually pretty good. Plus 12 is his main position. I would definitely play Butt vs Exe.
Great report.....love "bouncebackability".....never was there a more appropriate made up word!
I think we should go strong this week and next....
Other teams are going to slip up so all you can do is look after your own results.
I think we should go strong this week and next....
Other teams are going to slip up so all you can do is look after your own results.
Not sure how strong we can go after that game? But agree as strong as is possible. A win in Devon would really set us up nicely
Widcombe Garçon
Widcombe Garçon
I'm very much in the camp of 'let's get this thing done' in terms of a home semi. If anyone needs a breather or an extra week's recovery then fine but broadly let's go strong this week. Unless we get a midweek update today it seems like too many variables to guess a teamsheet with any confidence so would be more of a wild stab in the dark than usual.
We want to select the best team to do the job. That doesn’t necessarily mean go as strong as possible in all positions. We need the players to be fit, fresh & raring to go. Not all those who turned out against Bordeaux will be even if uninjured.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:05:07:09:28:48 by Bath Hammer.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:05:07:09:28:48 by Bath Hammer.
Quote:Bath Hammer
We want to select the best team to do the job. That doesn’t necessarily mean go as strong as possible in all positions. We need the players to be fit, fresh & raring to go. Not all those who turned out against Bordeaux will be even if uninjured.
Ooh that’s made my brain hurt (Double negative)
Widcombe Garçon
I'd be surprised if JvG goes full strength as he tends to not do this for PL away fixtures.
Quote:OutsideBath
I'd be surprised if JvG goes full strength as he tends to not do this for PL away fixtures.
Agree OB, so strong but not the strongest.
"I'd be surprised if JvG goes full strength as he tends to not do this for PL away fixtures."
I think he has a plan for every single game with all factors/context taken into account. He may or may not go 'full' strength - but if he does, I think that will be more to do with what state specific players are in, rather than the fact that it's a PL away fixture.
I think he has a plan for every single game with all factors/context taken into account. He may or may not go 'full' strength - but if he does, I think that will be more to do with what state specific players are in, rather than the fact that it's a PL away fixture.
Yep JvG will have a plan, but just because we had a "Test match intensity" last weekend doesn't mean the big guns will sit out this weekend. We played Saracens the weekend after the 6Ns finished, and Pepper and Underhill and Finn and Ben played. So, knocks and bumps aside, I'd expect a pretty much full strength XXIII for the next 2 rounds, before we get a week off ahead of the run in.
IU get the usual approach but there are only six games left in the next seven weeks.
If we could win against Exeter and Newcastle then it gives us more flexibility for the next two games after that.
Also we have these two games, a weeks rest, then two big games. So I would pick the strongest team for the next two games by which time I am sure some of the injured players will be coming back to bolster the squad.
Also the other five teams will also be tasking lumps out of each other so I am sure that with 2 games to go things will be much clearer.
If we could win against Exeter and Newcastle then it gives us more flexibility for the next two games after that.
Also we have these two games, a weeks rest, then two big games. So I would pick the strongest team for the next two games by which time I am sure some of the injured players will be coming back to bolster the squad.
Also the other five teams will also be tasking lumps out of each other so I am sure that with 2 games to go things will be much clearer.
I would leave Lawrence out of the team, seems to have lost pace since his injury, butt and Redpath for me.
Quote:makeitagem
I would leave Lawrence out of the team, seems to have lost pace since his injury, butt and Redpath for me.
Ollie Lawrence might have made a full recovery from his Achilles injury it can take over a year to recover the the same strength in the calf muscles, so he may still be recovering.
Quote:makeitagem
I would leave Lawrence out of the team, seems to have lost pace since his injury, butt and Redpath for me.
Having two 12s on the field isn't going to do our narrow defence any favours I don't think
Quote:shipwreckedQuote:makeitagem
I would leave Lawrence out of the team, seems to have lost pace since his injury, butt and Redpath for me.
Ollie Lawrence might have made a full recovery from his Achilles injury it can take over a year to recover the the same strength in the calf muscles, so he may still be recovering.
Agreed, its a huge ask for him to be completely back from that injury so fast. Thankfully Hennessey has been brilliant in that 13 position to provide (more than) adequate cover in the meantime.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
With Hennessey injured, I think Ollie will be happy to resume in his favoured position. Good opportunity for him to build fitness/form for the business end of the season.
Hennessy has barely played 13 for us, he has been deployed on the wing generally, sunday excepted.
Quote:Dorset Boy
Hennessy has barely played 13 for us, he has been deployed on the wing generally, sunday excepted.
4 starts at centre this year and 3 on the wing. 4 as sub
10 at centre and 2 on the wing last year. 2 as sub.
Haven’t checked those sub appearances but several are low minutes anyway
Quote:Dorset Boy
Hennessy has barely played 13 for us, he has been deployed on the wing generally, sunday excepted.
OK he has been brilliant when on the field for Bath, with whatever number on his back and generally wherever hs is standing. I have been massively impressed at how he has improved this year (bulked out a bit?).
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Quote:BathMatt53Quote:Dorset Boy
Hennessy has barely played 13 for us, he has been deployed on the wing generally, sunday excepted.
OK he has been brilliant when on the field for Bath, with whatever number on his back and generally wherever hs is standing. I have been massively impressed at how he has improved this year (bulked out a bit?).
I agree, he has really stepped up in the last few weeks
Quote:Dorset BoyQuote:BathMatt53Quote:Dorset Boy
Hennessy has barely played 13 for us, he has been deployed on the wing generally, sunday excepted.
OK he has been brilliant when on the field for Bath, with whatever number on his back and generally wherever hs is standing. I have been massively impressed at how he has improved this year (bulked out a bit?).
I agree, he has really stepped up in the last few weeks
Wouldn't surprise me if next season he becomes a starter at 13, it really wouldn't
I agree gaz - you've got to love an outside centre who has sufficient gas to play on the wing. Pair that with Donoghue at 10 ... absolutely nightmare to defend!!
Very much agree with Opti and Gaz - so exciting having someone as big, fast and athletic as Hennessey at 13. Between him and Lawrence we have two outside centres that offer different strengths for different games. I do believe that Lawrence will soon be back to his previous form prior to his achilles injury - the club just need to be patient.
I think this weekend, Ollie will really step up to the mark in his favoured position of 13 - especially with the prospect of facing a direct England rival Henry Slade who himself is in fantastic form.
I think this weekend, Ollie will really step up to the mark in his favoured position of 13 - especially with the prospect of facing a direct England rival Henry Slade who himself is in fantastic form.
I’m probably wrong but does our current way of attacking suit Lawrence’s skills. We seem to line up very flat, which negates his power when running a hard line and busting through defenders?
Widcombe Garçon
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:05:07:16:28:37 by Widcombe boy.
Widcombe Garçon
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:05:07:16:28:37 by Widcombe boy.
Quote:Widcombe boy
I’m probably wrong but does our current way of attacking suit Lawrence’s skills. We seem to line up very flat, which negates his power when running a hard line and busting through defenders?
We regularly use him as first receiver deep inside the oppo 22, running hard onto a flat pass.
Ollie is a far better 13 than 12. I'd much rather we selected him there (or not) rather than messing him about. It smacks of Borthwick - "oh look he's built like a outhouse, let's run him into brick walls at 12" rather than asking "what is he really good at"?
... IMHO, of course.
Now in Honolulu
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:05:08:00:14:58 by joethefanatic.
... IMHO, of course.
Now in Honolulu
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:05:08:00:14:58 by joethefanatic.
You’re definitely right that he benefits from that extra meter or two to accelerate in to at 13 - ideally we see him and Cam at 12/13 against Exeter as we really need that 5 points.
Given their injuries in the pack I could see us giving a start to Kirk/Frost/Griffin up front.
Given their injuries in the pack I could see us giving a start to Kirk/Frost/Griffin up front.
Quote:Optimist
I agree gaz - you've got to love an outside centre who has sufficient gas to play on the wing. Pair that with Donoghue at 10 ... absolutely nightmare to defend!!
And with Max at 12. He's got the physique but also the handling skills and eye for the support line
That's a class 10 - 12 -13 for quite some time and BvdL develops into a quality 9 then wow!
Quote:BathRob
Given their injuries in the pack I could see us giving a start to Kirk/Frost/Griffin up front.
Just clocked that. Roots (banned), Fisilau, Painter and Yeandle. Anyone else? Some serious heft missing.
Also some bloke called Feyi-Waboso unavailable.
I have said it before about OL at inside centre but I think it takes him an actual game to adjust.
When playing 12 for England he has been better in the second game.
I still think of him as an OC playing out of position at IC.
It was a gamble last Sunday with no MO or CR and given Hennessey’s form I can understand the selection.
When playing 12 for England he has been better in the second game.
I still think of him as an OC playing out of position at IC.
It was a gamble last Sunday with no MO or CR and given Hennessey’s form I can understand the selection.
My thinking is that the things Lawrence is best at as an attacker are things you generally see in the 13 channel like getting on the outside arc and attacking the 2nd/3rd man out.
Having said that I don't think it matters too much if he wears 12 sometimes providing you set up the team to put him in the best positions to succeed often enough. Use him like de Allende and it's going to look bad but run shapes that give him the right opportunties and I don't see the harm. He can still crash the odd one up at 12 if needed whatever position he's in to change the picture / vary things or whatever
It's a bit like Freeman for England in a way. I think he's better on the wing but he's also dangerous in that 13 channel so build an attack that gives him those chances rather than expect him to do everything else a centre needs
TL: DR - I'm less worried about numbers if you get the combinations and tactics right to maximise people's talents
Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 2026:05:08:08:25:38 by theredseat.
Having said that I don't think it matters too much if he wears 12 sometimes providing you set up the team to put him in the best positions to succeed often enough. Use him like de Allende and it's going to look bad but run shapes that give him the right opportunties and I don't see the harm. He can still crash the odd one up at 12 if needed whatever position he's in to change the picture / vary things or whatever
It's a bit like Freeman for England in a way. I think he's better on the wing but he's also dangerous in that 13 channel so build an attack that gives him those chances rather than expect him to do everything else a centre needs
TL: DR - I'm less worried about numbers if you get the combinations and tactics right to maximise people's talents
Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 2026:05:08:08:25:38 by theredseat.
Team Up. Strong bench.
Bath Rugby: 1 Francois van Wyk, 2 Dan Frost, 3 Archie Griffin, 4 Quinn Roux, 5 Ross Molony, 6 Ted Hill, 7 Sam Underhill, 8 Alfie Barbeary, 9 Ben Spencer (c), 10 Finn Russell, 11 Henry Arundell, 12 Will Butt, 13 Ollie Lawrence, 14 Joe Cokanasiga, 15 Tom de Glanville
Replacements: 16 Kepueli Tuipulotu, 17 Beno Obano, 18 Thomas du Toit, 19 Charlie Ewels, 20 Guy Pepper, 21 Tom Carr-Smith, 22 Santi Carreras, 23 Cameron Redpath
PG
Bath Rugby: 1 Francois van Wyk, 2 Dan Frost, 3 Archie Griffin, 4 Quinn Roux, 5 Ross Molony, 6 Ted Hill, 7 Sam Underhill, 8 Alfie Barbeary, 9 Ben Spencer (c), 10 Finn Russell, 11 Henry Arundell, 12 Will Butt, 13 Ollie Lawrence, 14 Joe Cokanasiga, 15 Tom de Glanville
Replacements: 16 Kepueli Tuipulotu, 17 Beno Obano, 18 Thomas du Toit, 19 Charlie Ewels, 20 Guy Pepper, 21 Tom Carr-Smith, 22 Santi Carreras, 23 Cameron Redpath
PG
Love that selection - back to the Bomb Bench - 2 strong teams hopefully good weather and a cracking match - Come on Bath.
Quote:Ali1969
Love that selection - back to the Bomb Bench - 2 strong teams hopefully good weather and a cracking match - Come on Bath.
Yep looks good to me. Nice to see Hill at 6
Exeter Chiefs:
15 Olly Woodburn
14 Paul Brown-Bampoe
13 Henry Slade
12 Len Ikitau
11 Campbell Ridl
10 Harvey Skinner
9 Stephen Varney
1 Scott Sio
2 Max Norey
3 Josh Iosefa-Scott
4 Dafydd Jenkins (c)
5 Andrea Zambonin
6 Tom Hooper
7 Christ Tshiunza
8 Ross Vintcent
Replacements:
16 Joseph Dweba
17 Ethan Burger
18 Bachuki Tchumbadze
19 Rusi Tuima
20 Finn Worley Brady
21 Tom Cairns
22 Will Haydon-Wood
23 Ben Hammersley
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:05:08:12:07:54 by BathMatt53.
15 Olly Woodburn
14 Paul Brown-Bampoe
13 Henry Slade
12 Len Ikitau
11 Campbell Ridl
10 Harvey Skinner
9 Stephen Varney
1 Scott Sio
2 Max Norey
3 Josh Iosefa-Scott
4 Dafydd Jenkins (c)
5 Andrea Zambonin
6 Tom Hooper
7 Christ Tshiunza
8 Ross Vintcent
Replacements:
16 Joseph Dweba
17 Ethan Burger
18 Bachuki Tchumbadze
19 Rusi Tuima
20 Finn Worley Brady
21 Tom Cairns
22 Will Haydon-Wood
23 Ben Hammersley
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:05:08:12:07:54 by BathMatt53.
Exeter Chiefs v Bath Rugby - 3.30pm, live on TNT Sports 2, HBO Max
Referee: Karl Dickson*
ARs: Luke Pearce & Jonathan Healy
TMO: David Rose
(*don't start
)
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Referee: Karl Dickson*
ARs: Luke Pearce & Jonathan Healy
TMO: David Rose
(*don't start
)[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Quote:theredseatQuote:Ali1969
Love that selection - back to the Bomb Bench - 2 strong teams hopefully good weather and a cracking match - Come on Bath.
Yep looks good to me. Nice to see Hill at 6
Wanted to see Ted selected at 6, yes! Presumably Dunn, Reid, Bayliss, Sela rested. Ojo, Muir and Hennessey injured. Not a bad squad at all and should be good enough to do the job at Sandy Park.
Really pleased to see Butt start, I would have picked him there last week and hope he goes really well on Sunday. Nicely rotated team playing to our strengths. COYB 🇪🇪
Very pleased with the squad picked, a lot stronger than I thought we would have opted for.
I do think it will be a tight tense affair in the first half but as usual, our bench is likely to be the big difference in this one with the likes of Beno and Du Toit, Pepper, Carreras and Redpath.
I really hope that TCS gets plenty of time in this game and not just 5 mins at the end. Just in the interest of making sure that Spencer is fully fit and firing by the playoffs.
Can see us getting a full 5 points here.
I do think it will be a tight tense affair in the first half but as usual, our bench is likely to be the big difference in this one with the likes of Beno and Du Toit, Pepper, Carreras and Redpath.
I really hope that TCS gets plenty of time in this game and not just 5 mins at the end. Just in the interest of making sure that Spencer is fully fit and firing by the playoffs.
Can see us getting a full 5 points here.
2 strong teams. It's always going to be a struggle to beat a top 4 team at their place, I will be more than happy with a 1 point win. COYB!
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Chiefs fan in peace, most of us down the M5 are predicting a BP win for you with hopefully an LBP for us but I'm not to confident of that. Your squad is arguably the strongest in the Prem. Let's hope for an entertaining game either way and that Mr Dickson has a "quiet" game.
Quote:Chief Bert
Chiefs fan in peace, most of us down the M5 are predicting a BP win for you with hopefully an LBP for us but I'm not to confident of that. Your squad is arguably the strongest in the Prem. Let's hope for an entertaining game either way and that Mr Dickson has a "quiet" game.
Away wins are always tough, particularly in the Prem vs top 4 opponents. There will very little in it either way IMO.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Even without IFW, there's still lots of players in that backline capable of causing us problems. Imagine their young winger will be particularly keen to make amends after corresponding fixture in Jan.
Big issue for them (and majority of our domestic opponents) will be making the most of the first 40/50mins because they know what's coming in the second half.
With home advantage, I could see them going in ahead at HT but they will have to be clinical in our 22 and probably need the rub of the green from Dickson - both of those things are eminently possible.
Looking forward to it - play-off picture should be a lot clearer on Sunday evening!
Big issue for them (and majority of our domestic opponents) will be making the most of the first 40/50mins because they know what's coming in the second half.
With home advantage, I could see them going in ahead at HT but they will have to be clinical in our 22 and probably need the rub of the green from Dickson - both of those things are eminently possible.
Looking forward to it - play-off picture should be a lot clearer on Sunday evening!
Quote:Barfboy
Even without IFW, there's still lots of players in that backline capable of causing us problems. Imagine their young winger will be particularly keen to make amends after corresponding fixture in Jan.
Big issue for them (and majority of our domestic opponents) will be making the most of the first 40/50mins because they know what's coming in the second half.
With home advantage, I could see them going in ahead at HT but they will have to be clinical in our 22 and probably need the rub of the green from Dickson - both of those things are eminently possible.
Looking forward to it - play-off picture should be a lot clearer on Sunday evening!
It was the other way around at our place IIRC, they came back really strongly after the Ridl 20 min red and actually won the rest of the game.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Quote:Barfboy
Even without IFW, there's still lots of players in that backline capable of causing us problems. Imagine their young winger will be particularly keen to make amends after corresponding fixture in Jan.
True both wingers Paul Brown-Bampoe and Campbell Ridl are accomplished, Ridl is capable of a few surprises.
I remember that last year at Sandy Park we basically played all of our rugby in a 15 minute period in the first half and then just held on for the rest of the game. Not dissimilar to this season's home game but without the epic 30 odd phase try at the end.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:05:08:18:30:45 by Benisjammin.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:05:08:18:30:45 by Benisjammin.
Quote:Weirdly predicted tight games across the PREM this weekCharlieboa1
Etoro predictor has us by 3 points.
Would v happily take that!
Have I missed any updates on the injuries to hennessey and muir? Fingers crossed we can have them both back before the end of the season.
Assuming mojo back next week or for bris.
Assuming mojo back next week or for bris.
Only this general one by Somerset Live CB:
Providing an injury update on Muir and Hennessey post-match on Sunday, van Graan said: “It's definitely a shoulder. Rory [Murray, head of medical] made the call to get him straight off, so look, we'll travel back and get that looked at. - JvGs comments
“Louis Hennessey looks like he might have a shoulder as well, the hit that he made there on Ben Tameifuna—some collision that was. Look, there'll be a bit of bumps and bruises. That was a physical game, and from a humidity point of view, this would have taken a lot out of both teams.
"So we'll travel back, and we'll train again on Wednesday. We'll kind of take stock again and start on zero on Wednesday, and then look forward to the Premiership.”
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
Providing an injury update on Muir and Hennessey post-match on Sunday, van Graan said: “It's definitely a shoulder. Rory [Murray, head of medical] made the call to get him straight off, so look, we'll travel back and get that looked at. - JvGs comments
“Louis Hennessey looks like he might have a shoulder as well, the hit that he made there on Ben Tameifuna—some collision that was. Look, there'll be a bit of bumps and bruises. That was a physical game, and from a humidity point of view, this would have taken a lot out of both teams.
"So we'll travel back, and we'll train again on Wednesday. We'll kind of take stock again and start on zero on Wednesday, and then look forward to the Premiership.”
Quote:BathMatt53Quote:Barfboy
Even without IFW, there's still lots of players in that backline capable of causing us problems. Imagine their young winger will be particularly keen to make amends after corresponding fixture in Jan.
Big issue for them (and majority of our domestic opponents) will be making the most of the first 40/50mins because they know what's coming in the second half.
With home advantage, I could see them going in ahead at HT but they will have to be clinical in our 22 and probably need the rub of the green from Dickson - both of those things are eminently possible.
Looking forward to it - play-off picture should be a lot clearer on Sunday evening!
It was the other way around at our place IIRC, they came back really strongly after the Ridl 20 min red and actually won the rest of the game.
That's why I said majority - 60% of the time, it works every time.
Seriously though, we won the league with the Bomb Squad tactic and - generally speaking - most teams struggle to cope with it.
Alex Sanderson recently said ‘you know what’s coming , but stopping it is another matter’
Widcombe Garçon
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:05:09:09:53:51 by Widcombe boy.
Quote:BarfboyQuote:BathMatt53Quote:Barfboy
Even without IFW, there's still lots of players in that backline capable of causing us problems. Imagine their young winger will be particularly keen to make amends after corresponding fixture in Jan.
Big issue for them (and majority of our domestic opponents) will be making the most of the first 40/50mins because they know what's coming in the second half.
With home advantage, I could see them going in ahead at HT but they will have to be clinical in our 22 and probably need the rub of the green from Dickson - both of those things are eminently possible.
Looking forward to it - play-off picture should be a lot clearer on Sunday evening!
It was the other way around at our place IIRC, they came back really strongly after the Ridl 20 min red and actually won the rest of the game.
That's why I said majority - 60% of the time, it works every time.
Seriously though, we won the league with the Bomb Squad tactic and - generally speaking - most teams struggle to cope with it.
Widcombe Garçon
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:05:09:09:53:51 by Widcombe boy.
Quote:BarfboyQuote:BathMatt53Quote:Barfboy
Even without IFW, there's still lots of players in that backline capable of causing us problems. Imagine their young winger will be particularly keen to make amends after corresponding fixture in Jan.
Big issue for them (and majority of our domestic opponents) will be making the most of the first 40/50mins because they know what's coming in the second half.
With home advantage, I could see them going in ahead at HT but they will have to be clinical in our 22 and probably need the rub of the green from Dickson - both of those things are eminently possible.
Looking forward to it - play-off picture should be a lot clearer on Sunday evening!
It was the other way around at our place IIRC, they came back really strongly after the Ridl 20 min red and actually won the rest of the game.
That's why I said majority - 60% of the time, it works every time.
Seriously though, we won the league with the Bomb Squad tactic and - generally speaking - most teams struggle to cope with it.
That is true but teams find a way round these ploys. Having not employed that tactic in the CC. I wonder if we might see a different style of play next season particularly with the bomb squad leader returning to SA.
Quote:Barfboy
That's why I said majority - 60% of the time, it works every time.
Indeed, let’s make this kitty purr.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Quote:Charlieboa1
Etoro predictor has us by 3 points.
Would v happily take that!
Maybe but that would be squeaky bum time. Hopefully we have more in the tank than that though they cannot be underestimated. Their centre pairing is probably better than ours on current form & if our previous encounter is anything to go on Slade’s boot is lethal.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:05:10:07:15:51 by Bath Hammer.
Terrible call - no ruck formed there and perfect steal from Sam
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Did a Bath player sleep with his Mrs?
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Wow. Batley head butted Itoje and it’s a dynamic accident and Roux gets a 20 min red…
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Both TJs say yellow, but Dickson decides he's right and they;re wrong.
After he missed the clear knock on by exeter at the first kick off, and he's reffing us off the park atm
After he missed the clear knock on by exeter at the first kick off, and he's reffing us off the park atm
Quote:All day thisBathMatt53
Wow. Batley head butted Itoje and it’s a dynamic accident and Roux gets a 20 min red…
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Too easy- not enough physicality in the tackle
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
I'm being as kind as I possibly can here; Dickson is an idiot.
To anyone saying this season he's improved - he has not.
To anyone saying this season he's improved - he has not.
Why is that not yellow for PBB? No effort to play the ball, just takes DG out in the air?
So jjimpd straight into DG but penalty only
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Just a knock on, no effort to catch it - surely yellow as line break on.
Dealing with the card well atm
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
I won’t miss some of Alfie’s wayward passing
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Feeling positive for the second half. Wind will be behind us.
Just need a bit of control - from set piece ideally.
Just need a bit of control - from set piece ideally.
Done well to keep this to an 8 point game, playing half the first half with 14 and into a gale. Frost having a good day, line-out looks a bit better and a couple of crunching tackles.
13-5 feels like a great result given we didn't have the ball for the first 20 minutes and played for 20 with 14. I'd like to see a little more ambition from us in the second half though.
Quote:A.M 180
Opposition with the obligatory double digit head start
That is really a problem now.
Given they way the half went, we've done well to come right back into it and only be 8 points down.
Poor tactics by Exeter have helped.
Referees meeting on Monday should discuss consistency of decisions - swinging arm to head in a ruck, penalty.
Charging into a ruck with your head and hitting a head - nothing.
And then Roux ends up a 20 minute red when there's a change of direction - yellow sure, but in relation to the other 2 incidents, it was an accident, whereas they were cynical acts..
Poor tactics by Exeter have helped.
Referees meeting on Monday should discuss consistency of decisions - swinging arm to head in a ruck, penalty.
Charging into a ruck with your head and hitting a head - nothing.
And then Roux ends up a 20 minute red when there's a change of direction - yellow sure, but in relation to the other 2 incidents, it was an accident, whereas they were cynical acts..
Gah that all stems from a terrible call from Finn
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Spencer having a shocker- absolutely ridiculous that’s missed touch and leads to conceding
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Finally found touch
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:05:10:16:43:31 by Toast and Marmite.
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:05:10:16:43:31 by Toast and Marmite.
Why is our passing so terrible today
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Our attacking shape seems to have gone back to the level we were seeing at the end of last year.
I genuinely hope Bath complains about this ref performance- stone cold red all day
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Quote:Barnoid
Consistency...?
What’s that then?
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Quote:Toast and Marmite
Spencer having a shocker- absolutely ridiculous that’s missed touch and leads to conceding
I know you like to lead the comments but that is pretty unfair to describe Ben Spencer as having a shocker when he just chase back from their 22 to kill a breakaway. Missing 2 kicks in that wind isn't a disaster.
Really disappointed in the lack of intensity - feels like a massive hangover from last week
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Quote:Dorset Boy
What is the TMO thinking? That's ball onto head.
The officials have been really poor today
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Poor display. Lack of discipline, looking stagnant. Not sure what else to say really.
I cannot believe how sloppy we have been
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
To get nothing from this game is so so poor
Made this season a lot harder for ourselves
Made this season a lot harder for ourselves
What a disaster of a weekend.
Exeter have shown how to play into the wind this half and thoroughly deserve their win.
Exeter have shown how to play into the wind this half and thoroughly deserve their win.
Simply nowhere near good enough. Shambolic and the players need to take a long hard look at themselves
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
What a shambles utterly utterly horrible play and now we’ve penalised ourselves for the 2nd spot as well
This has been pretty dreadful all round really. Attacking shape, discipline and first up tackling way off where it needs to be.
Minimal positives other than hopefully we’ve got a stinker out of the way before the end of the season really kicks in
Minimal positives other than hopefully we’ve got a stinker out of the way before the end of the season really kicks in
Quote:Dorset Boy
What a disaster of a weekend.
Exeter have shown how to play into the wind this half and thoroughly deserve their win.
The ridiculous thing is we were in a good position at halftime and then chose not to use the wind to our advantage in the second half
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Quote:A.M 180
When was the last time we lost three on the bounce?
Early JVG days?
We look well out of sorts. Haven’t played sensible rugby or the referee. Exeter were every good as bit as we were bad.
Quote:Florida97Quote:A.M 180
When was the last time we lost three on the bounce?
Early JVG days?
Asterix against that Saints loss tbf
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Austin said it was a 20+ point wind.
Don't think he meant in Exeter's favour in the second half.
Don't think he meant in Exeter's favour in the second half.
God I want to know when Max is back. We are impotent without him. When he's fit, I'd rather see Cam outside him than Lawrence on current form
Good job we have Newcastle next week because that was utterly rudderless and nowhere near good enough in terms of intensity
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
I'd say that's our worst performance of the season by some way. We were just not in that game at any point.
Perhaps it was inevitable given the disappointment of last week – hopefully we can now reset and refocus for the last three games of the season.
Perhaps it was inevitable given the disappointment of last week – hopefully we can now reset and refocus for the last three games of the season.
Quote:Not sure he was responsible for the forward pack turning over ball or our half backs having a shockerA.M 180
God I want to know when Max is back. We are impotent without him. When he's fit, I'd rather see Cam outside him than Lawrence on current form
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Kind of glad I missed that second half to take my kids to a party - sounds like we were well off the pace!
Hangover from last week and missing Max’s invention at 12. I hope Ollie finds some form for the run-in to the season. Get it out of the system before it really counts, but little time to build momentum now.
Ollie Lawrence doesn't seem to have gotten his form back or his speed from the achilles tear. We don't seem to be at the races, hopefully next week will be a full reset. Best to get this game out of the way now then later down the road.
Quote:I'm not saying he was - it was more about feeling we need Max back and how that would lookToast and MarmiteQuote:Not sure he was responsible for the forward pack turning over ball or our half backs having a shockerA.M 180
God I want to know when Max is back. We are impotent without him. When he's fit, I'd rather see Cam outside him than Lawrence on current form
We currently seem to put so much on our pack because we don't seem to have much in the locker out wide. Unfortunately, our pack is going through a @#$%& storm when it comes to lineouts
Quote:A.M 180Quote:I'm not saying he was - it was more about feeling we need Max back and how that would lookToast and MarmiteQuote:Not sure he was responsible for the forward pack turning over ball or our half backs having a shockerA.M 180
God I want to know when Max is back. We are impotent without him. When he's fit, I'd rather see Cam outside him than Lawrence on current form
We currently seem to put so much on our pack because we don't seem to have much in the locker out wide. Unfortunately, our pack is going through a @#$%& storm when it comes to lineouts
I agree. On both sides of the ball we can still win the majority of battles at close quarters. As soon as the ball goes into midfield we seem to get caught out going backwards and forwards.
It’s fine to focus on a strength but we need to be much much better when things open up. We’re too easy to breakthrough and unless Russell throws a worldie or there’s an obvious gap we’re struggling to ask enough questions ball in hand
Could it be that we expended so much getting to the CC semis we had nothing left to give today?
Quote:OutsideBath
Could it be that we expended so much getting to the CC semis we had nothing left to give today?
It would be amazing if that weren’t the case
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Quote:Incredibly worrying if that's the reasonOutsideBath
Could it be that we expended so much getting to the CC semis we had nothing left to give today?
We have a ridiculously deep squad, and injuries aren't as bad compared to most clubs around the league.
I will chalk today off to a dip after last Sunday but hard not to think we've put needless pressure on ourselves for the remainder of the season
Quote:Cheers memnoch - important to remember that every cloud has a silver lining!!memnoch
You had one job Bath.
Hope Finn is ok seemed to me to be out of sorts today. We need to put this performance out of mind and get the w’s in the remaining 3 games!
Quote:A.M 180Quote:Incredibly worrying if that's the reasonOutsideBath
Could it be that we expended so much getting to the CC semis we had nothing left to give today?
We have a ridiculously deep squad, and injuries aren't as bad compared to most clubs around the league.
I will chalk today off to a dip after last Sunday but hard not to think we've put needless pressure on ourselves for the remainder of the season
It’s the mental toll, not the physical
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
I honestly don't mind us losing to a better side and we have given it a real go, but to be honest I am not sure either of those were the case today. Anyway, well done Exeter.
Going to have to go full Bore against Bristol and Leicester now
Going to have to go full Bore against Bristol and Leicester now
Next week is a chance to reset and regroup. If you are going to have to win 3 in a row to get a home semi, starting with Newcastle at home is about as good as you could wish for.
Quin Roux is either out because of his head injury or as a result of his red card. Perhaps that is more of problem than the loss. The lineout went better with Ted Hill but Kepu's throwing needs to improve. Bomb squad just didn't work. Looks to me like Spencer and Russell are tired. Midfield looks stagnant and discipline isn't good 3 yellows and a red in the last 3.
We have lost Will Muir, Bernard van der Linde and Max Ojomo now Quin Roux. Home semi not at all definite!
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
We have lost Will Muir, Bernard van der Linde and Max Ojomo now Quin Roux. Home semi not at all definite!
[quote makeitagem]I would leave Lawrence out of the team, seems to have lost pace since his injury, butt and Redpath for me.[/quote
Lawrence was exposed for pace on numerous times today, a change is required PDQ !]
Lawrence was exposed for pace on numerous times today, a change is required PDQ !]
Silver-lining, you've upset an awful lot of Bears and Saracens supporters.
Quote:NicePaulHerox
Silver-lining, you've upset an awful lot of Bears and Saracens supporters.
Quote:TomReaganQuote:Cheers memnoch - important to remember that every cloud has a silver lining!!memnoch
You had one job Bath.
Definitely morale boosting, but it would have been equally hilarious to see Bristol go to Saints in the semi and get an absolute stuffing.
I think many on here are forgetting the mental toll of failing in the main objective for the club this season.
Wonder if Tigers are now favourites for 2nd given they have the momentum.
Just heading home. Just really disappointed not that we lost but we just had no threat and bar Ben and Alfie seemed to be not up for the battle. First and foremost Well done Exeter good for the win.
That was a Hooper era performance, particularly in attack. Devoid of any ideas it seemed.
Dickson was awful as per but certainly not the reason we lost.
Need to get Max Ojomoh back and quick - his absence in past few weeks has quietly confirmed him as one of our most important players.
We need to go 3 from 3 now. Away SF at Tigers if not and I don't fancy our chances up there after this weekend.
Dickson was awful as per but certainly not the reason we lost.
Need to get Max Ojomoh back and quick - his absence in past few weeks has quietly confirmed him as one of our most important players.
We need to go 3 from 3 now. Away SF at Tigers if not and I don't fancy our chances up there after this weekend.
Never too high, never too low. Let's reset, take it out on Newcastle and refocus for the remainder of the season?
Quote:I know Briz are limping towards the season's end with injuries and a tired squad but without bothering to check, I think they have a very good recent record v Saints. Certain teams seems to have the measure of particular opponents. Briz are very good v us and Saints for example, not so good v Sarries and Sale.OutsideBathQuote:TomReaganQuote:Cheers memnoch - important to remember that every cloud has a silver lining!!memnoch
You had one job Bath.
Definitely morale boosting, but it would have been equally hilarious to see Bristol go to Saints in the semi and get an absolute stuffing.
I think many on here are forgetting the mental toll of failing in the main objective for the club this season.
Wonder if Tigers are now favourites for 2nd given they have the momentum.
Quote:Florida97
Ollie Lawrence doesn't seem to have gotten his form back or his speed from the achilles tear. We don't seem to be at the races, hopefully next week will be a full reset. Best to get this game out of the way now then later down the road.
Agreed. Poor from Lawrence, and bang average from Spencer.
Hate to say it but Lawrence came back in Sept from that ACL. We're now in May and I can't recall a standout game from him.
A far cry from the guy who won Player of the Season in '23 amd played so well the following year.
Some players (particularly those wirh explosive pace) just aren't the same after such injuries.
A far cry from the guy who won Player of the Season in '23 amd played so well the following year.
Some players (particularly those wirh explosive pace) just aren't the same after such injuries.
Quote:Barfboy
Hate to say it but Lawrence came back in Sept from that ACL. We're now in May and I can't recall a standout game from him.
A far cry from the guy who won Player of the Season in '23 amd played so well the following year.
Some players (particularly those wirh explosive pace) just aren't the same after such injuries.
Not really BB he came back from a ruptured Achilles early, as stated elsewhere whilst the Achilles might have healed full fitness can take a good 12 -18 months after surgery. It's only been just over a year. If Hennessy was fit I'm not sure if he would have played.
Zero creativity today. Think the wind was in our heads. Exeter's defence and desire were top draw though so a lot of credit has to go to them.
Quote:shipwreckedQuote:Barfboy
Hate to say it but Lawrence came back in Sept from that ACL. We're now in May and I can't recall a standout game from him.
A far cry from the guy who won Player of the Season in '23 amd played so well the following year.
Some players (particularly those wirh explosive pace) just aren't the same after such injuries.
Not really BB he came back from a ruptured Achilles early, as stated elsewhere whilst the Achilles might have healed full fitness can take a good 12 -18 months after surgery. It's only been just over a year. If Hennessy was fit I'm not sure if he would have played.
Hope you're right. Approaching his prime and would love to see him get back to the player he was when he first arrived.
Think yourselves lucky. At least most of you aren’t West Ham supporters 😡 At least Essex won 🙄
I think we can chalk that to the mental aspect of the game. Few weeks ago we were scoring tries for fun, this week we looked like we didn't know how to attack. Agree with the above - I think after the intensity and disappointment that came with last week, a down week was always a risk. Obviously Prem doesn't wait for noone but I think some of the guys could have done with a week off.
Still, 2nd is in our own hands and Newcastle is a good opportunity to get back in the groove. Better to have this match now than in the Semis.
Still, 2nd is in our own hands and Newcastle is a good opportunity to get back in the groove. Better to have this match now than in the Semis.
Quote:Bath Hammer
Think yourselves lucky. At least most of you aren’t West Ham supporters 😡 At least Essex won 🙄
It's not over yet BH, at least we know refereeing shenanigans are not restricted to rugby. At least OB will be happy, though I think he is waiting till its confirmed before piping up! They have missed out too many times before.
Just watched the game. Well, if we were beginning to believe our own publicity, that was a sharp corrective. Just not on it at all, all match from 1-23. Chiefs were good in attack but but we really didn't set them any problems to solve in defence and seemed to think that having the wind in the second half would be enough. Clearly, not. The Tigs game will be huge now.
My MotM - rollover.
... IMHO, of course.
Now in Honolulu
My MotM - rollover.
... IMHO, of course.
Now in Honolulu
We’ve had two “down” matches this season. If we bounce back we will hopefully still be on course for a top two birth but I thought with the changes we would have been strong enough to win or at least get closer than we did. Spencer & Russell need to be rested next week.
That was v v poor. Congrats to exeter for fully taking advantage.
Can only assume the tough CC games against sarries/ saints/ UBB took a lot out of us physically but esp mentally.
We actually freshened up selection by moving a few from the bench to start like fvw, hill, underhill, tdg and bringing in some from outside the 23 like frost, griffin, malony, butt, joe but still looked completely flat.
Personally think you get a few on a beach for a week or 2 to recharge and come back for massive games against bris and Tigers.
Worrying, hopefully a blip. Tigers and sarries look the form means currently!
Can only assume the tough CC games against sarries/ saints/ UBB took a lot out of us physically but esp mentally.
We actually freshened up selection by moving a few from the bench to start like fvw, hill, underhill, tdg and bringing in some from outside the 23 like frost, griffin, malony, butt, joe but still looked completely flat.
Personally think you get a few on a beach for a week or 2 to recharge and come back for massive games against bris and Tigers.
Worrying, hopefully a blip. Tigers and sarries look the form means currently!
Raises some interesting selection decisions for remainder of season.
I think roux has been on the slide a bit this season but no obvious options at TH lock- assume we will need to plump for someone now as assume he is banned and/ or injured
Centre feels wide open. Good argument to say mojo and hennessey if we can get them fit would be our best combo.
Clearly yest went beyond selection tho- just mentally and physically not in the right place. Soooo many basic errors!
I think roux has been on the slide a bit this season but no obvious options at TH lock- assume we will need to plump for someone now as assume he is banned and/ or injured
Centre feels wide open. Good argument to say mojo and hennessey if we can get them fit would be our best combo.
Clearly yest went beyond selection tho- just mentally and physically not in the right place. Soooo many basic errors!
Quote:Bath Hammer
Think yourselves lucky. At least most of you aren’t West Ham supporters 😡 At least Essex won 🙄
Ypu were robbed. So many fouls by Arsenal at that corner, all ignored, for a minor one on their keeper.
Arsenal seem allowed to wrestle the opposition at every corner with impunity, particularlty one D Rice.
Quote:Dorset BoyQuote:Bath Hammer
Think yourselves lucky. At least most of you aren’t West Ham supporters 😡 At least Essex won 🙄
Ypu were robbed. So many fouls by Arsenal at that corner, all ignored, for a minor one on their keeper.
Arsenal seem allowed to wrestle the opposition at every corner with impunity, particularlty one D Rice.
Spurs fan by any chance? WH player was clearly holding Raya’s arm. Don’t worry though, this Arsenal team are serial bottlers so it’s not over yet.
Back to the subject of Bath, I’m not a fan of rotating for home games but think it would be best for the Falcons game. Also in an ideal world none of Bath’s players will play this summer as that must be exhausted.
Very, very disappointing.....Exeter away has always been a tough one......the wind is always a factor mental or otherwise.
This is when JVG and his team earn their corn.
Finn has been very quiet for several matches now.....
This is when JVG and his team earn their corn.
Finn has been very quiet for several matches now.....
Can't think of a recent game where I left so disappointed, not so much by losing as Exeter were much better and fully deserved the win, but the total lack of spark with so many players. If it was caused by the Bordeaux match the the coaches should have seen this and changed selection, but it is hard to pick a player who really gave a good performance. The two wings did not touch the ball, Spencer kicking all day on autopilot, Russell seemed to have his mind on other things and just wanted to get rid of the ball, with hardly a smile in sight. Wondered if he is carry a bit of a knock as he seemed a bit lame at times or
Presumably we must try to give a number of players a rest next week, whilst trying to ensure 5 points and get ready for the Bristol and Tigers games.
Presumably we must try to give a number of players a rest next week, whilst trying to ensure 5 points and get ready for the Bristol and Tigers games.
Agree with alll the above regarding yesterday. I would love to see a back line of TCS, Donoghue, Arundell, Ojomoh, Hennessey, Cokanasiga and Carreras next week giving the half backs and Lawrence a couple of weeks off to recharge.
adopted player, 24/25 Hame Faiva. 23/24 Ted Hill. 22/23 Cam Redpath. 21/22 Max Clark. 20/21 Henry Thomas. 19/20 Max Wright. 18/19 Cooper Vuna.
adopted player, 24/25 Hame Faiva. 23/24 Ted Hill. 22/23 Cam Redpath. 21/22 Max Clark. 20/21 Henry Thomas. 19/20 Max Wright. 18/19 Cooper Vuna.
Really odd performance. Fair play to Exe and Baxter, in a good week for them, but it almost felt like we, including Baxter, were just waiting for us to take control in the second half… and we didn’t. We were even more flat, in fact.
I thought Spencer played well, and managed the game well, our kick chase and carrying game had such low intensity. Two rolling maul tries and not a lot else in attack and, other than Unders, little impact in defence. Thought we missed Bayliss, as his pace could’ve got us some go forward. Centres were anonymous. When did we last score only 12 points??!!
Roux was a tad unlucky, but the right decision. Must say, I think Brown Bampoe is going to hurt someone soon. The way he goes up for kick chases is mad- and TDG was lucky not to be hurt. But kinda sums up the game- they wanted it at whatever cost, we for some reason did not.
I thought Spencer played well, and managed the game well, our kick chase and carrying game had such low intensity. Two rolling maul tries and not a lot else in attack and, other than Unders, little impact in defence. Thought we missed Bayliss, as his pace could’ve got us some go forward. Centres were anonymous. When did we last score only 12 points??!!
Roux was a tad unlucky, but the right decision. Must say, I think Brown Bampoe is going to hurt someone soon. The way he goes up for kick chases is mad- and TDG was lucky not to be hurt. But kinda sums up the game- they wanted it at whatever cost, we for some reason did not.
Quote:Charlieboa1
Raises some interesting selection decisions for remainder of season.
I think roux has been on the slide a bit this season but no obvious options at TH lock- assume we will need to plump for someone now as assume he is banned and/ or injured
I would expect it to be Molony if Roux is missing beyond the Newcastle game but I'd like to see us try Ewels and Richards with Hill at 6. You lose some heft in the row but I wonder if the trade off for some dynamism and line out jumping is worth it.
Feel bad for commenting solely on Lawrence - was in response to others (and of course I meant achilles - blame the beer!) but we were poor across the board.
Russell has indeed been quiet past few games, so surely Donaghue plays some part on Saturday - maybe he goes to 15 and Santi at 10 for Newcastle? Or vice versa of course. Maybe Finn and Spenny go into the bomb squad.
Roux is indeed the head scratcher - maybe the one problem JvG has yet to solve. Obviously quite glad we didn't go for Snyman now, but we are very dependent on a 35y/o tighthead lock with little to no back up. Prospect of Ewels/Molony up against Chessum/Martin doesn't fill me with confidence.
Russell has indeed been quiet past few games, so surely Donaghue plays some part on Saturday - maybe he goes to 15 and Santi at 10 for Newcastle? Or vice versa of course. Maybe Finn and Spenny go into the bomb squad.
Roux is indeed the head scratcher - maybe the one problem JvG has yet to solve. Obviously quite glad we didn't go for Snyman now, but we are very dependent on a 35y/o tighthead lock with little to no back up. Prospect of Ewels/Molony up against Chessum/Martin doesn't fill me with confidence.
My huge concern having been at the game is our forwards - they just do not seem aggressive enough, Tigers, Chiefs etc just appear a lot more hungry, aggressive and powerful. Yesterday except for Alfie no one was really hitting the gain line with any determination and it looked like Dan Frost was the only one fired up.
It has been said before no backline or fly half is going to create anything if they are on the back foot. The bench yesterday just did not have any impact bar one scrum. I will state that Chiefs worked out Dickson was not going to penalise them if they just dropped it every scrum which is what they did after conceding the first scrum penalty.
We need to be wiser - we need to adapt to the official and we didn't yesterday. Yesterday was the first time I felt concerned that we are just not at the races in relation to the top 4 maybe 6 - Saints are looking jaded and so are we. JvG has his work cut out - we need to shake things up and with NRB at home next week I hope Ciaran and some of the young lads come in and show a bit of energy.
It has been said before no backline or fly half is going to create anything if they are on the back foot. The bench yesterday just did not have any impact bar one scrum. I will state that Chiefs worked out Dickson was not going to penalise them if they just dropped it every scrum which is what they did after conceding the first scrum penalty.
We need to be wiser - we need to adapt to the official and we didn't yesterday. Yesterday was the first time I felt concerned that we are just not at the races in relation to the top 4 maybe 6 - Saints are looking jaded and so are we. JvG has his work cut out - we need to shake things up and with NRB at home next week I hope Ciaran and some of the young lads come in and show a bit of energy.
Quote:theredseatQuote:Charlieboa1
Raises some interesting selection decisions for remainder of season.
I think roux has been on the slide a bit this season but no obvious options at TH lock- assume we will need to plump for someone now as assume he is banned and/ or injured
I would expect it to be Molony if Roux is missing beyond the Newcastle game but I'd like to see us try Ewels and Richards with Hill at 6. You lose some heft in the row but I wonder if the trade off for some dynamism and line out jumping is worth it.
My thought as well, Hill's lineout work was pretty vital and Richards is fast fit and shows leadership by example.
My concern is the lack of impact from the bench by the 'Bath bomb' time to revisit that, clubs have worked round that tactic, dare I say it? Did TdT deliver? For all our depth if one of BS and FR have an off day we don't do well.
I'd like to see the against Saints at the Rec, it won't happen because it's not part of 'the process' but we need fresh players mentally and physically.
Kepu's throwing is going to hold him back, he has to be able to adapt.
Well that was a pleasant surprise for us chiefs fans.
Whoever it was on here who said they were worried by our centre partnership, you were right. Len is coming back into fitness and was a cut above yesterday, his presence in attack allows Henry the time and space to show off his undoubted skills.
We made good ground in this area, and also managed to cut off your supply to your wingers, Henry A and Joe C barley touched the ball. That made it much easier for us to defend. I was surprised by how little affect the bomb squad had.
Obviously, tiredness played it's part as did an inability to use the wind, although we were no different in the first half.
I though the 20min red was a bit harsh, especially when compared to Stockdales taking out of Manny last week, which not only took him out of that game but this one too. I was glad the red didn't really affect the game to much, you dealt with it well. Most of the other decisions were fair enough. I do have some concerns over players competing for the high ball, Paul BB could have been carded yesterday, but it's not just him multiple occurrences of this are in every game. How do you ref it? If both players have their eyes on the ball how can you say one or other is reckless. It's a bit of a minefield now.
The next fixture has come at a good time for you. As guaranteed five points as there ever can be. Should allow you to rest up and get a few players back.
Whoever it was on here who said they were worried by our centre partnership, you were right. Len is coming back into fitness and was a cut above yesterday, his presence in attack allows Henry the time and space to show off his undoubted skills.
We made good ground in this area, and also managed to cut off your supply to your wingers, Henry A and Joe C barley touched the ball. That made it much easier for us to defend. I was surprised by how little affect the bomb squad had.
Obviously, tiredness played it's part as did an inability to use the wind, although we were no different in the first half.
I though the 20min red was a bit harsh, especially when compared to Stockdales taking out of Manny last week, which not only took him out of that game but this one too. I was glad the red didn't really affect the game to much, you dealt with it well. Most of the other decisions were fair enough. I do have some concerns over players competing for the high ball, Paul BB could have been carded yesterday, but it's not just him multiple occurrences of this are in every game. How do you ref it? If both players have their eyes on the ball how can you say one or other is reckless. It's a bit of a minefield now.
The next fixture has come at a good time for you. As guaranteed five points as there ever can be. Should allow you to rest up and get a few players back.
I had similar thoughts to others on Brown-Bampoe yesterday. It's quite possible it was one of those days where he just got his timing wrong / got beaten to the ball but he does look to have a technique in the air that doesn't give him much leeway. Seems like he's big and athletic but can be a bit 'all arms and legs' with it in comparison to a Calouri who seems much smoother and more in control.
SW I thought Kepu threw in well yesterday, unfortunately he de a dummy throw just when we had some momentum. A score from that Lineout may have changed things.
Hats off to Chiefs scrum on their ball. Really quick route one which denied our bomb squad to put any pressure on
Best team won on the day. Really need to show some form against Bristol and then into the Tigers match
Widcombe Garçon
Hats off to Chiefs scrum on their ball. Really quick route one which denied our bomb squad to put any pressure on
Best team won on the day. Really need to show some form against Bristol and then into the Tigers match
Widcombe Garçon
Quote:Widcombe boy
SW I thought Kepu threw in well yesterday, unfortunately he de a dummy throw just when we had some momentum. A score from that Lineout may have changed things.
That incident stuck out for me WB so you may be correct, he has been done for dummy throws before though but for me I've seen those ignored by other refs.
Quote:dr.bath1865
Roux was a tad unlucky, but the right decision.
It goes without saying: I'm not blaming the ref for interpreteling the laws correctly not am I implying that it would alter the result.
But, I don't know. I've watched it far too many times and its clearly taken Roux by surprise and, if anything, Slade is the more dynamic actor in the collision and has headbutted him.
Like, what is the objective of this sanctioning. Do we want to be penalising people for standing upright while an upright player collides with them? Do we always need to assume that the attacker has no part to play in head collisions too?
Quote:Barfboy
Roux is indeed the head scratcher - maybe the one problem JvG has yet to solve. Obviously quite glad we didn't go for Snyman now, but we are very dependent on a 35y/o tighthead lock with little to no back up. Prospect of Ewels/Molony up against Chessum/Martin doesn't fill me with confidence.
Yeah, Leicester I think really showing the strength of a quality second row partnership - seems to just unlock the front row and the back row. Plus a functional lineout (obviously about more than a 2nd row). No idea who we have, or haven't, targeted but it does feel like the one area where we haven't got the depth of quality we'd like.
Quote:The BearQuote:dr.bath1865
Roux was a tad unlucky, but the right decision.
It goes without saying: I'm not blaming the ref for interpreteling the laws correctly not am I implying that it would alter the result.
But, I don't know. I've watched it far too many times and its clearly taken Roux by surprise and, if anything, Slade is the more dynamic actor in the collision and has headbutted him.
Like, what is the objective of this sanctioning. Do we want to be penalising people for standing upright while an upright player collides with them? Do we always need to assume that the attacker has no part to play in head collisions too?
For Roux to get a 20 minute red when there was a change of direction from Slade, albeit it small, highlights the massive inconsistencies between refs - swinging arm direct to head at a ruck in the Tigers game, and charging into a ruck leading with the head by Batley on Itoje in the Bristol game were far, far worse and yet barely sanctioned.
Both ARs told Dickson that a yellow was sufficient for Roux, but no, he just had to show who was the boss.
Quote:Dorset BoyQuote:The BearQuote:dr.bath1865
Roux was a tad unlucky, but the right decision.
It goes without saying: I'm not blaming the ref for interpreteling the laws correctly not am I implying that it would alter the result.
But, I don't know. I've watched it far too many times and its clearly taken Roux by surprise and, if anything, Slade is the more dynamic actor in the collision and has headbutted him.
Like, what is the objective of this sanctioning. Do we want to be penalising people for standing upright while an upright player collides with them? Do we always need to assume that the attacker has no part to play in head collisions too?
For Roux to get a 20 minute red when there was a change of direction from Slade, albeit it small, highlights the massive inconsistencies between refs - swinging arm direct to head at a ruck in the Tigers game, and charging into a ruck leading with the head by Batley on Itoje in the Bristol game were far, far worse and yet barely sanctioned.
Both ARs told Dickson that a yellow was sufficient for Roux, but no, he just had to show who was the boss.
I thought that was odd, I know a 20 minute red is less of a game changer, but its still significant, you would think you'd give a player the benefit of the doubt if 2 ARs are saying yellow
Quote:Dorset Boy
For Roux to get a 20 minute red when there was a change of direction from Slade, albeit it small, highlights the massive inconsistencies between refs - swinging arm direct to head at a ruck in the Tigers game, and charging into a ruck leading with the head by Batley on Itoje in the Bristol game were far, far worse and yet barely sanctioned.
100%. I assume that all 3 will be watched by the Prem refs at their meeting today - assume Batley won't be cited as not even a card - would love to be a fly on the wall. You just have to hope that they will all have a really productive discussion about it and things will be more consistent in the remaining games.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Yeh I can easily see how Slade's step could have mitigated it to a yellow. I think Luke Pearce would've given a yellow. I also think that the actions of Paul B-B (or any winger who doesn't actually get hands up to try to catch the ball) are much more dangerous than Roux's and/or Ridl's.
Goes without saying, it's shame Dickson wasn't reffing in Bordeaux!
Goes without saying, it's shame Dickson wasn't reffing in Bordeaux!
Let's deal with the most important part of yesterday, we were woeful, had no energy and Exeter deserved to win. I really like our 'never too high/never too low' approach but in some games it leaves us emotionally flat.
Leaving all that aside, the problem with Dickson is he just doesn't want or take advice. Both A/Rs thought it was a yellow and when he asked the TMO, he set out what he had seen but asked whether it was high force or not to decide on yellow or red. The TMO said he agreed with the fact pattern laid out by Dickson but gave no view on the level of force. Dickson then proceeded to give a red irrespectively.
He never wanted advice, he wants to be centre stage. In his early games, he made stupid decisions without going to the TMO and now he basically ignores his A/Rs.
Leaving all that aside, the problem with Dickson is he just doesn't want or take advice. Both A/Rs thought it was a yellow and when he asked the TMO, he set out what he had seen but asked whether it was high force or not to decide on yellow or red. The TMO said he agreed with the fact pattern laid out by Dickson but gave no view on the level of force. Dickson then proceeded to give a red irrespectively.
He never wanted advice, he wants to be centre stage. In his early games, he made stupid decisions without going to the TMO and now he basically ignores his A/Rs.
Quote:The Bear
Do we want to be penalising people for standing upright while an upright player collides with them? Do we always need to assume that the attacker has no part to play in head collisions too?
This is the issue we have with the current laws as I see it. In answer to your first question, yes the research does say that we want tacklers going into contact situations not to be upright. We can see that in the interpretation we're seeing on the field. IF there's head contact its: "little attempt to reduce height", "always upright, always illegal." penalty and card. However, IF there ISN'T head contact, practically the same action is "Play on." We're sanctioning the outcome and not the play, as a result the play isn't changing.
If we do always look at the tacklers height, regardless of head contact, then yes the attackers actions are usually irrelevant, unless they do something to put their head in the tacklers headspace. If they don't do that we're in the place the research wants us to be, two heads, never at the same height.
The short answer is to implement the grassroots laws. I do have a slight issue with them in that I don't think a carrier should be able to drop their height in a way that makes the tackle harder and more dangerous, that's neither safe nor fair. Put another way, it should be "Low" not "Late and low." But I'd take some action on this by world rugby at this point. No doubt they'll introduce another card to be reviewed by a new official stationed on the moon.
Quote:Dan Wiley
If we do always look at the tacklers height, regardless of head contact, then yes the attackers actions are usually irrelevant, unless they do something to put their head in the tacklers headspace. If they don't do that we're in the place the research wants us to be, two heads, never at the same height.
The short answer is to implement the grassroots laws. I do have a slight issue with them in that I don't think a carrier should be able to drop their height in a way that makes the tackle harder and more dangerous, that's neither safe nor fair. Put another way, it should be "Low" not "Late and low." But I'd take some action on this by world rugby at this point. No doubt they'll introduce another card to be reviewed by a new official stationed on the moon.
I know how the rules are policed but Rugby is not a game played on one's knees or bent 90. Quinn Roux was upright because he had to observe Slade's landing. Slade moves into him.
You could argue Roux functionally isn't tackling, he's more akin to a wall at that point. Crouching in a split second is not possible, not jumping out of the way.
The moment Slade landed the only thing that could affect the trajectory of the challenge was the direction Slade chose to take.
I expect plenty will disagree but that's an unfortunate collision that a red card does nothing to solve.
I can't see why Roux HAS to go in at that height, Here is Slade landed on his feet.
Any pro player, any player really, needs to be able to adjust their height in that sort of space.
New, here's the point of contact
So, has Roux done enough to reduce his height? I would accept there would be different opinions on that, but he's on the wrong side of that height battle for me. Not quite low enough. But leave it as an open question, I can see three outcomes and they are all pretty easy for a decent ref to just in real time:
1) Roux hasn't done enough, penalty (no more) Exeter, he'll do better next time if he ALWAYS pinged for being at that height.
2) Roux has done enough but Slade is also playing at a legitimate height. Play on its a rugby incident. We're just in a narrow area where this stuff happens.
3) Slade has dropped below where a legal tackle can feasibly attempted without risk. He's stopping Roux playing the game in a legal fashion. Penalty Bath.
As I say, for me its 1. Roux can easily go lower there. There's plenty of Slade to hit hard.
Any pro player, any player really, needs to be able to adjust their height in that sort of space.
New, here's the point of contact
So, has Roux done enough to reduce his height? I would accept there would be different opinions on that, but he's on the wrong side of that height battle for me. Not quite low enough. But leave it as an open question, I can see three outcomes and they are all pretty easy for a decent ref to just in real time:
1) Roux hasn't done enough, penalty (no more) Exeter, he'll do better next time if he ALWAYS pinged for being at that height.
2) Roux has done enough but Slade is also playing at a legitimate height. Play on its a rugby incident. We're just in a narrow area where this stuff happens.
3) Slade has dropped below where a legal tackle can feasibly attempted without risk. He's stopping Roux playing the game in a legal fashion. Penalty Bath.
As I say, for me its 1. Roux can easily go lower there. There's plenty of Slade to hit hard.
Interesting discussion.
I think, given the laws, it's a red as Roux had time to adjust BUT I think the big problem is that Roux is 6" taller than Slade. Roux rounds his back, he is bending, but as Dan says, not enough. He isn't "upright" though, as KD says. He hasn't done enough and the effort he made wasn't enough, given his height, which means, essentially, that the law is applied differently to different players. This kinda works out ok because most teams have 2-3 really tall lads, but if any other player (Maloney aside) in the XV is involved, nothing happens. Of course, that's just the way it is but that seems slightly odd.
You see players constantly adjusting their heights as they train all week to make it automatic. Underhill in defence is constantly bent, running round like a sort of neanderthal, bent at the waist, shoulders rounded. I saw a clip of a team doing a defensive drill with a defence coach swinging a stick at sort of 5ft height, and everyone had to be under it or they'd get hit. So I think coaches and players are, quite rightly trying to tackle lower, it's just harder for Roux than it is for Underhill.
I think, given the laws, it's a red as Roux had time to adjust BUT I think the big problem is that Roux is 6" taller than Slade. Roux rounds his back, he is bending, but as Dan says, not enough. He isn't "upright" though, as KD says. He hasn't done enough and the effort he made wasn't enough, given his height, which means, essentially, that the law is applied differently to different players. This kinda works out ok because most teams have 2-3 really tall lads, but if any other player (Maloney aside) in the XV is involved, nothing happens. Of course, that's just the way it is but that seems slightly odd.
You see players constantly adjusting their heights as they train all week to make it automatic. Underhill in defence is constantly bent, running round like a sort of neanderthal, bent at the waist, shoulders rounded. I saw a clip of a team doing a defensive drill with a defence coach swinging a stick at sort of 5ft height, and everyone had to be under it or they'd get hit. So I think coaches and players are, quite rightly trying to tackle lower, it's just harder for Roux than it is for Underhill.
Ironically, if Roux had remained bolt upright, Slade would've moved forward and pushed his head into Roux's chest! And it would've been play on!
Yeah, refs often seem to describe that stance as "upright" and I've always felt it is a misrepresentation. He's not upright, but he's not sufficiently bent, so I read it as them saying "Upright means not sufficiently bent."
I think its quite a nice example in a way, you can look at Roux's body shape, bent at the knee but not at the waist and say he's "upright." I think that is why this is working in grassroots (largely) its a really easy decision for ref to make. You're looking for a picture of a safe tackle and that involves the body shape bent at knees AND waist. If you see that, play on. If you don't, penalty with the "MAY be liable for sanction" get out clause if you think there's nothing in it. At most levels, possible almost all grassroots, refs aren't going to see whether there was head contact in real time, certainly not consistently enough to be fair. You'll pick up one or two pieces of head contact from one team, miss one or two from the other and as a result you've made the game unfair through no real fault of your own.
You could say "well that's a necessary allowance made because grassroot refs aren't as well trained as pros, don't have TMOs and usually don't have ARs." and there's truth in that, but it's allowed a game where head contact has come down a lot AND we don't need to review pieces of contact let alone give out cards. So why not in the pro game? Isn't that what we want?
I think its quite a nice example in a way, you can look at Roux's body shape, bent at the knee but not at the waist and say he's "upright." I think that is why this is working in grassroots (largely) its a really easy decision for ref to make. You're looking for a picture of a safe tackle and that involves the body shape bent at knees AND waist. If you see that, play on. If you don't, penalty with the "MAY be liable for sanction" get out clause if you think there's nothing in it. At most levels, possible almost all grassroots, refs aren't going to see whether there was head contact in real time, certainly not consistently enough to be fair. You'll pick up one or two pieces of head contact from one team, miss one or two from the other and as a result you've made the game unfair through no real fault of your own.
You could say "well that's a necessary allowance made because grassroot refs aren't as well trained as pros, don't have TMOs and usually don't have ARs." and there's truth in that, but it's allowed a game where head contact has come down a lot AND we don't need to review pieces of contact let alone give out cards. So why not in the pro game? Isn't that what we want?
My first reaction to the Roux head contact was 'that's a rugby incident'.
The strict letter of the law is very unforgiving, but I just don't see how a very tall player can possibly react in a split second when the opposing player makes a totally unexpected move like Slade did.
Slade was facing away from the contact at the point Quinn goes in to make the tackle, so it's very different to the Persese scenario for Tigers. And and it's one of those where the movement looks less exaggerated in slow motion, but in real time it's quite a jerky change of position by Slade.
I think a 20-minute red was very harsh and I don't think there would have been too many complaints if it was just a yellow, which as has been pointed out the majority of the officials were recommending!
I'm all for making the game safer, but I also think we need a little more empathy from officials.
The strict letter of the law is very unforgiving, but I just don't see how a very tall player can possibly react in a split second when the opposing player makes a totally unexpected move like Slade did.
Slade was facing away from the contact at the point Quinn goes in to make the tackle, so it's very different to the Persese scenario for Tigers. And and it's one of those where the movement looks less exaggerated in slow motion, but in real time it's quite a jerky change of position by Slade.
I think a 20-minute red was very harsh and I don't think there would have been too many complaints if it was just a yellow, which as has been pointed out the majority of the officials were recommending!
I'm all for making the game safer, but I also think we need a little more empathy from officials.
It did seem that Dickson had red in his mind immediately and refused to back down. Both the ARs said yellow and he dismissed their view, and the TMO seemed hesitant and almost like he didn’t want a public disagreement.
I don’t think anyone complains about a yellow, but I also don’t think it changes that result at all we were so outplayed so I guess it’s a move on…
I don’t think anyone complains about a yellow, but I also don’t think it changes that result at all we were so outplayed so I guess it’s a move on…
Quote:BathRob
I don’t think anyone complains about a yellow, but I also don’t think it changes that result at all we were so outplayed so I guess it’s a move on…
Agreed on both counts. Exeter were excellent and Bath the poorest I’ve seen in quite a while.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Mini Maximus - Karl Dickson missed out when the empathy gene was handed out.
He always knows best.
He always knows best.
In fairness, you could a have worse characteristics as a ref.
There's an issue with consistency with these cards. Not that long ago its red all day long, in those times calling for a yellow would look very one eyed. That was clearly spoiling the game so they've tried to discourage as many reds, but that's not reduced the incidence of head contact, just created this inconsistency in application. Then they've introduced a new card so we can maximize this disparity.
There's an issue with consistency with these cards. Not that long ago its red all day long, in those times calling for a yellow would look very one eyed. That was clearly spoiling the game so they've tried to discourage as many reds, but that's not reduced the incidence of head contact, just created this inconsistency in application. Then they've introduced a new card so we can maximize this disparity.
[rfu.widen.net]
Roux would be available for the final if Bath get there:
16/05/26 - not available (HIA)
Ban game 1: Bristol
Ban game 2: Tigers
Ban Game 3: Semi final
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Roux would be available for the final if Bath get there:
16/05/26 - not available (HIA)
Ban game 1: Bristol
Ban game 2: Tigers
Ban Game 3: Semi final
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Am I missing something in the report- but wouldn't Roux's attendance of tackle school mean he only gets a 2 game ban? (6 games mitigated by 50% to 3 games, minus 1 for tackle school). So he'd miss Bristol and Leicester (#1) but back for the semi final?
Quote:dr.bath1865
Am I missing something in the report- but wouldn't Roux's attendance of tackle school mean he only gets a 2 game ban? (6 games mitigated by 50% to 3 games, minus 1 for tackle school). So he'd miss Bristol and Leicester (#1) but back for the semi final?
Ah, is that what they mean by the 'World Rugby Coaching Intervention'? In which case yes you are quite right.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Sorry, only registered users may post in this forum.
Bath News 24/7
More Bath headlines
- LEARNINGS FOR NEXT SEASON. SEASON REVIEW CONTINUED.
- World Rugby Junior World Championship 2026 Preview
- FAILURE, FRUSTRATION OR FLATLINE? 2026 SEASON REVIEW
- "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
- NOW OR NEVER: BATH V LEICESTER
- LE HANDICAP? BORDEAUX v BATH ECC SEMI FINAL
- “MAY YOUR CHOICES REFLECT YOUR HOPES NOT YOUR FEARS”.
- EYES BACK ON THE OTHER PRIZE! BATH v HARLEQUINS
- AIM FOR GLORY. BATH v NORTHAMPTON SAINTS ECC QUARTER FINAL
Bath latest threads
- O/T Postcards from the Past No 4 – Naples 2010
- Injury latest on forgotten Bath Rugby wrecking ball Jaco Coetzee
- OT / Prostate
- OT - Fox wins the Open at Birkdale
- O/T Postcards from the Past No 3 Théoule-sur-Mer – May 2017
- OT/ Site advertising
- Will Roue Signed ahead of the 2026/27 season
- Bath Rugby's confirmed 2026/27 incoming signings and outgoings
- 2026/27 PREM Rugby Cup fixtures confirmed
- O/T Postcards from the Past No2 Cordoba 2015