Bath
Bring your passion and Noise - Bath v Newcastle Red Bulls
Bring the Noise
By Devonport Lad
May 11 2026
IT’S THE NOISE, THE PASSION, THE FEELING OF BELONGING, THE PRIDE IN YOUR CITY I don’t very often draw on quotes from exponents of the round ball game, but Sir Bobby Robson was one of those iconic figures whose understanding of what it means to be a supporter applies to all of us, whichever shape ball our teams use. He was, of course, referring to his beloved Newcastle United, but the parallels with Bath are striking. We’re going to need to bring all of that on Saturday to lift the BB&W as we welcome Newcastle Red Bulls to the Rec.
With absolutely no disrespect at all to Newcastle and their loyal supporters, I think most of us felt that this fixture was one where we could relax a bit in anticipation of a straightforward win without some of the pressure that goes with playing the likes of Saints or Leicester. Last Sunday at Exeter changed all that.
Taking the win, or at least a couple of points from our visit to Sandy Park, felt achievable before that game and would have placed at least one of our feet in the door of a home semifinal. We didn’t manage it and if you add in strong performances from Tigers and Saracens who are hitting form at just the right time, then the need to take 5 points from the Newcastle game becomes critical and the tension ramps up a notch.
I must admit that I have some concerns about the lingering impact of the physically and mentally brutal game against Bordeaux on our squad. Take nothing away from Exeter; they played very well. Some of the BB&W faithful will point to some apparent instances of refereeing inconsistencies, but the fact is that we just weren’t “on it” to the same level as some of our other rivals for the playoffs and that's a worry. Three losses on the bounce isn't the way we would have wanted to enter this phase of the season and some of our key players looked, frankly, a bit jaded. Don't get me wrong; it's not yet a crisis and in the inimitable words of Bob the Builder, "can we fix it? Yes, we can!" Or at least JvG can.
So what can we expect from Newcastle on Saturday? Many of us whilst being BB&W all the way through, have another team that if we don't exactly support, we keep an eye on. I've got two; the first is Plymouth Albion. No surprise there given my COML nom de plume and the fact that the Brickfields was on the cross-countryrunning route from my old school almost in drop goal range across what used to be Stonehouse Creek. My other is Newcastle. I guess my liking for them stems from that fateful match on 10th May 2003 when an in form Olly Barkley outplayed Jonny Wilkinson to help us achieve a 24-12 win which saved us from relegation and arguably saved the Club since we were at that time the subject of a potential hostile takeover by Malcolm Pearce at Bristol. Bristol were relegated, we stayed up, the takeover went away and the rest, as they say, is history.
More recently, it's been hard not to feel a degree of empathy for Newcastle and their loyal supporters. It's not easy to turn up week after week watching your team lose. We've been there and done that not so many seasons ago and you have to give credit to the Newcastle supporters who, like us, gave their all in support of their team when they needed it most. Better times should be around the corner for them. We've certainly showed what can be achieved with a committed owner and the right staff and players in place.
But all that gets parked on Saturday. I'm sure JvG will use some of the in-depth talent available to him and that some key players will get a week off. I wouldn't be at all surprised if we rest Finn and maybe even Ben and some of the forwards. I don't think it will be a complete rotation, but you would think that this match is made for the likes of Ciaran Donoghue, Ewan Richards and Ethan Staddon.
Whichever team takes the field, they have to deliver a focused, accurate and ruthlessly professional performance against a Newcastle side who will want to give their loyal supporters something to cheer about after shipping 76 points against Quins last week.
"Never too high, never too low" is one of the maxims that JvG regularly uses. Last Sunday's gone. As supporters we need to park that and get right behind the team in the remaining matches. The Rec is usually at it'snoisiest when we're under pressure but we need to bring the noise from the first whistle to the last. It’s our noise, our passion, our feeling of belonging, our pride in our team and our city that we need to showcase.
COYB
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Discussion started by Comeonmylovers.co.uk (IP Logged), 11/05/2026 15:45
11/05/2026 15:45
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Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 2026:05:25:17:13:42 by CoochieCoo.
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Thanks, DL.
Imagine we're all expecting heavy rotation this week which makes sense. Be interesting to see if we mix in one or two more senior players as well though:
- More likely he gets a rest but could argue Lawrence would benefit from finding rhythm?
- Do we give both van Wyk and Obano the week off and back a Kirk / Summerfield combo?
- Players like Reid, Bayliss and Hill could still be in the back row mix?
- Debut for Mears incoming?
Imagine we're all expecting heavy rotation this week which makes sense. Be interesting to see if we mix in one or two more senior players as well though:
- More likely he gets a rest but could argue Lawrence would benefit from finding rhythm?
- Do we give both van Wyk and Obano the week off and back a Kirk / Summerfield combo?
- Players like Reid, Bayliss and Hill could still be in the back row mix?
- Debut for Mears incoming?
Great report I feel excited already.....
Sport is all about ups and downs and the extended Bath Rugby Family need to gird up our loins and come out fighting.
3 cup finals until we get to the semi-final.......COYB
Sport is all about ups and downs and the extended Bath Rugby Family need to gird up our loins and come out fighting.
3 cup finals until we get to the semi-final.......COYB
Quote:theredseat
Thanks, DL.
Imagine we're all expecting heavy rotation this week which makes sense. Be interesting to see if we mix in one or two more senior players as well though:
- More likely he gets a rest but could argue Lawrence would benefit from finding rhythm?
- Do we give both van Wyk and Obano the week off and back a Kirk / Summerfield combo?
- Players like Reid, Bayliss and Hill could still be in the back row mix?
- Debut for Mears incoming?
I thought perhaps Lee was a bit long in the tooth, but looked it up is it his son, the SH?
Great report. Yes, excited to get back to The Rec and put some momentum back into our season!
Funny feeling- if you'd offered us this position at the start of the season, including a commendable Euro SF defeat to the world's best club club side, we'd likely have taken it. But it does feel that we've lost momentum, so this weekend is a nice chance to reset and get going again.
Interesting selection dynamic as our dip in form means that those who will (likely) rotate in have a chance to put themselves in the mix for the bigger games to come. With big personal performances, the likes of Kepu, Richards, Staddon, Bayliss, Donoghue could get themselves into SF and final squads. Especially excited to see Donoghue- care free youth and pace might be what we need to unshackle the backline. Personally I'd go with him at 10 and Santi at 15. I think Mojo was sitting in the subs area yesterday, with non playing kit on, so hopefully he's back and ready for some minutes, too.
Funny feeling- if you'd offered us this position at the start of the season, including a commendable Euro SF defeat to the world's best club club side, we'd likely have taken it. But it does feel that we've lost momentum, so this weekend is a nice chance to reset and get going again.
Interesting selection dynamic as our dip in form means that those who will (likely) rotate in have a chance to put themselves in the mix for the bigger games to come. With big personal performances, the likes of Kepu, Richards, Staddon, Bayliss, Donoghue could get themselves into SF and final squads. Especially excited to see Donoghue- care free youth and pace might be what we need to unshackle the backline. Personally I'd go with him at 10 and Santi at 15. I think Mojo was sitting in the subs area yesterday, with non playing kit on, so hopefully he's back and ready for some minutes, too.
On 21st March it was Saints 28, Newcastle 27. They have it in them again to make it tough and there is no way that I would be playing the 5th (?) choice THP in Mikey Summerfield or giving Mears his debut. Put out a similar Bath team to the one that played Saints a couple of weeks ago, still really strong but with CD at 10 etc. Arthur Green at 8, Miles at 7, Bayliss at 6. The big question will be the centres, we don’t have too many left. Butt at 12 and Harris at 13 played a few times in the cup so that maybe what I would do assuming Max, Louis still injured.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Us fans aren't great at 'never too high, never too low'.
Some seem to have gone from v high after we nearly drew away with the league leaders with a second team to us being totally doomed cos we lost to the European champions and responded v badly the week after.
Think after the focus and investment in the sarries/ saints/UBB champions cup games there was always a risk we would fall off a cliff in one game.
I think it was a case of being overcooked mentally and a few physically, rather than undercooked and too much rotation.
I would tell some guys to take a holiday and refresh before bris, leic , semi and hopefully final.
I think a team like this would be exciting, motivated and good enough to win
Santi, joe, hennessey, mojo, winters, donoghue, tcs
Kirk, dunn, verden, richards, malony, bayliss, staddon, green
Bench: kepu, beno, sela, gyamfi, hill, mears, redpath, reid
Some seem to have gone from v high after we nearly drew away with the league leaders with a second team to us being totally doomed cos we lost to the European champions and responded v badly the week after.
Think after the focus and investment in the sarries/ saints/UBB champions cup games there was always a risk we would fall off a cliff in one game.
I think it was a case of being overcooked mentally and a few physically, rather than undercooked and too much rotation.
I would tell some guys to take a holiday and refresh before bris, leic , semi and hopefully final.
I think a team like this would be exciting, motivated and good enough to win
Santi, joe, hennessey, mojo, winters, donoghue, tcs
Kirk, dunn, verden, richards, malony, bayliss, staddon, green
Bench: kepu, beno, sela, gyamfi, hill, mears, redpath, reid
Ieuan Davies Doesn’t seem to have been getting game time at Cardiff - he would presumably be a better bench option than Mears? At least he has played adult rugby…
Offiah would presumably be in front of Winters on the wing.
Charlie are Hennessy and Max Ojomoh fit for this weekend (or is that a guess)?
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Offiah would presumably be in front of Winters on the wing.
Charlie are Hennessy and Max Ojomoh fit for this weekend (or is that a guess)?
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Assume davies can be recalled at any time- as you say the slightly more experienced option but mears seems on a high with the uni wins and captaining eng u19s.
Was going to go offiah but winters got the bench spot ahead of him vs saints- arguably his ability to play 15 if you go 6:2 on bench is needed.
Guessing on the centres. Sounds like max was close for exeter so wouldn't be surprised if he is available.
If hennessey still out then redpath or butt at 12 for me and mojo at 13 , before bringing harris in.
As always will be an interesting selection and I will be miles off with my guess....
Was going to go offiah but winters got the bench spot ahead of him vs saints- arguably his ability to play 15 if you go 6:2 on bench is needed.
Guessing on the centres. Sounds like max was close for exeter so wouldn't be surprised if he is available.
If hennessey still out then redpath or butt at 12 for me and mojo at 13 , before bringing harris in.
As always will be an interesting selection and I will be miles off with my guess....
Quote:BathMatt53
Ieuan Davies Doesn’t seem to have been getting game time at Cardiff - he would presumably be a better bench option than Mears? At least he has played adult rugby…
Very true Matt Mears is only 18 but was given a pro contract about a month ago, Ieuan Davies (21) has been playing in the Challenge Cup games as a sub to a very good 26 year old Ellis Bevan who plays the SRC games. When he plays he it is with Steff Emmanuel and Ioan Lloyd in the Cardiff RFC team, both of whom are looking very good.
On form having seen both play I'd go Mears but at 18 thats pretty difficult.
Quote:BathMatt53
Offiah would presumably be in front of Winters on the wing.
Charlie are Hennessy and Max Ojomoh fit for this weekend (or is that a guess)?
Tyler Offiah is a changed player in the second half of the season, used to hold his position wide out but now actively seeks involvement coming into the line with his speed, he also is more physical and breaks tackles with more bulk recently. Scored in the semi and 2 tries in the final. He isn't far away from breaking into the seniors. Nothing in it between him and Sam Winters.
Here goes nothing:
Kirk, Kepu, Griffin, Richards, Jeanes, Bayliss, Staddon, Green, TCS, Donoghue, de Glanville, Ojomoh, Harris, Cokanasiga, Carreras
Frost, van Wyk, Sela, Opoku-Gyfami, Hill, Mears, Redpath, Reid
Expecting a low hit rate of correct guesses there
Kirk, Kepu, Griffin, Richards, Jeanes, Bayliss, Staddon, Green, TCS, Donoghue, de Glanville, Ojomoh, Harris, Cokanasiga, Carreras
Frost, van Wyk, Sela, Opoku-Gyfami, Hill, Mears, Redpath, Reid
Expecting a low hit rate of correct guesses there
Cheers DL. Agree with BM, take this game lightly at your peril.
I'm not saying they'll beat us, but we need to get a bit of confidence back. Would expect a bit of rotation but certainly not the PREM Cup squad.
If Mojo is fit, he plays. Would still have Lawrence in there too, with Santi FB and CD/TCS at 9/10.
Sprinkling of wider squad players starting in the tight five and FvW, Beno, Dunnie and Ewels off the bench. Back row of Pepper, Bayliss and Green would be good with Miles and Ted Hill to come on.
I'm not saying they'll beat us, but we need to get a bit of confidence back. Would expect a bit of rotation but certainly not the PREM Cup squad.
If Mojo is fit, he plays. Would still have Lawrence in there too, with Santi FB and CD/TCS at 9/10.
Sprinkling of wider squad players starting in the tight five and FvW, Beno, Dunnie and Ewels off the bench. Back row of Pepper, Bayliss and Green would be good with Miles and Ted Hill to come on.
Everyone gets a week off after this so I'm expecting way less rotation, particularly given it's a home game.
What a fantastic write up DL! Certainly got the excitement building not just for this weekend but the remainder of our season.
I think that it is now too late in the season for us to be rotating heavily. What this team needs now (especially after the back of 3 defeats) is to find some consistency and confidence. I personally think it's time that JVG now picks his best team for the remaining 3 games of the season. I'd love to see to us with a big halftime lead and proper dominance than relying on a second half comeback via the Bomb Squad (as exciting as that is). Then - if we are comfortable - make a raft of changes early in the second half.
The only caveat is that because Spencer has picked up knock recently and is likely playing through a bit of pain I would pick him on the bench - luckily for us TCS is in good form.
I'd pick:
1. Obano 2. Tuipolotu 3. Du Toit 4. Roux 5. Ewels 6. Bayliss 7. Pepper 8. Reid 9. TCS 10. Russell
11. Arundell(Muir if fit) 12. Ojomoh 13. Lawrence 14. Cokanasiga 15. Carreras
16. Dunn 17. Van Wyk 18. Sela 19. Hill 20. Underhill 21. Spencer 22. Donoghue 23. Barbeary
Fully believe that JVG will turn the momentum of this team around and get us firing on all cylinders again. COYB!!!!!!!!!
I think that it is now too late in the season for us to be rotating heavily. What this team needs now (especially after the back of 3 defeats) is to find some consistency and confidence. I personally think it's time that JVG now picks his best team for the remaining 3 games of the season. I'd love to see to us with a big halftime lead and proper dominance than relying on a second half comeback via the Bomb Squad (as exciting as that is). Then - if we are comfortable - make a raft of changes early in the second half.
The only caveat is that because Spencer has picked up knock recently and is likely playing through a bit of pain I would pick him on the bench - luckily for us TCS is in good form.
I'd pick:
1. Obano 2. Tuipolotu 3. Du Toit 4. Roux 5. Ewels 6. Bayliss 7. Pepper 8. Reid 9. TCS 10. Russell
11. Arundell(Muir if fit) 12. Ojomoh 13. Lawrence 14. Cokanasiga 15. Carreras
16. Dunn 17. Van Wyk 18. Sela 19. Hill 20. Underhill 21. Spencer 22. Donoghue 23. Barbeary
Fully believe that JVG will turn the momentum of this team around and get us firing on all cylinders again. COYB!!!!!!!!!
Even if Roux doesn’t pick up a ban, I couldn’t see him playing this weekend after that head/face knock!
Quote:tigersimon
Even if Roux doesn’t pick up a ban, I couldn’t see him playing this weekend after that head/face knock!
Good point - slight adjustment - I would then pick Ewan Richards to start. A lot more mobile compared to Ross Moloney
Knowing how canny JVG is it wouldn't surprise me if he was expecting that kind of performance against Exeter and knew it would be very hard to avoid following the emotional crash after Bordeaux.
We need to hope that this has lanced the boil and he is now able to remotivate the team to get back on track. On that basis I would go fully loaded again and give the players the chance to put the last two performances right and show their best stuff against Newcastle.
We need to hope that this has lanced the boil and he is now able to remotivate the team to get back on track. On that basis I would go fully loaded again and give the players the chance to put the last two performances right and show their best stuff against Newcastle.
Quote:Mini Maximus
Knowing how canny JVG is it wouldn't surprise me if he was expecting that kind of performance against Exeter and knew it would be very hard to avoid following the emotional crash after Bordeaux.
We need to hope that this has lanced the boil and he is now able to remotivate the team to get back on track. On that basis I would go fully loaded again and give the players the chance to put the last two performances right and show their best stuff against Newcastle.
I'd imagine the possibility of an away semi at Welford Road will focus minds effectively.
... IMHO, of course.
Now in Honolulu
Is really like to see Donoghue start this week, last year against Falcons he ran the show and it was the start of his real purple patch.
I know JvG likes to go hard at home, so maybe he could start at 15?
I know JvG likes to go hard at home, so maybe he could start at 15?
Quote:BathRob
Is really like to see Donoghue start this week, last year against Falcons he ran the show and it was the start of his real purple patch.
I know JvG likes to go hard at home, so maybe he could start at 15?
Yes Carreras and CD at the 10 and 15 in whatever order would be good to see.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Quote:BathMatt53Quote:BathRob
Is really like to see Donoghue start this week, last year against Falcons he ran the show and it was the start of his real purple patch.
I know JvG likes to go hard at home, so maybe he could start at 15?
Yes Carreras and CD at the 10 and 15 in whatever order would be good to see.
Agree but as we’ve now lost 3 on the bounce, the resulting loss of momentum and with 2nd place in doubt I suspect JvG will go full strength.
Whatever the team this week I am certain Ciaran Donoghue will feature. We need a performance from Santi for me I have just not seen the mercurial player we know he is and Tom DG has outshone him in the 15 jersey.
Green deserves a game as does Richards and Staddon. Scrum Half is an issue at present. Ollie probably needs a weeks off to gather his thoughts and actually spend some relaxing time with his new wife as does Finn and Ben.
Thomas DT although featuring a lot on game sheets has had his game minutes well managed and should be good to go. I hope Louis Hennessey is fit and would have him in with Cam Redpath and put Max O on the bench as back up 10 as well as 12. Good time to given young Mears a run on the bench. Maybe young Tyler Offiah on one wing to give Henry Arundell a week off.
Green deserves a game as does Richards and Staddon. Scrum Half is an issue at present. Ollie probably needs a weeks off to gather his thoughts and actually spend some relaxing time with his new wife as does Finn and Ben.
Thomas DT although featuring a lot on game sheets has had his game minutes well managed and should be good to go. I hope Louis Hennessey is fit and would have him in with Cam Redpath and put Max O on the bench as back up 10 as well as 12. Good time to given young Mears a run on the bench. Maybe young Tyler Offiah on one wing to give Henry Arundell a week off.
I don't personally really believe in momentum across a run of games but it's interesting that there's competing views on where we are this week. Seems to be some that think last week's result was at least partly down to some physical / mental fatigue from the semi final which is quite possible (alebit hard to judge from outside of camp). If that is the case then standing key players down for a couple of weeks seems the best option.
You'd think a team similar to the one that ran Saints so close would be plenty to deliver 5 points against Newcastle and if last week was a hangover match there's not much benefit in asking some of heavily run players to go again this week
You'd think a team similar to the one that ran Saints so close would be plenty to deliver 5 points against Newcastle and if last week was a hangover match there's not much benefit in asking some of heavily run players to go again this week
Agreed. And CD will be champing at the bit so start him at 10 with TCS. SC at full back so rest Finn completely for once.
Personally, I think we have been led by JVG into over thinking rotation and rest etc. No other team rest players throughout the season like we do. I would imagine this is done with the business end of the season and playing in all comps. I do sometimes wonder when I see teams like Tigers, and chiefs who clearly have a regular 23 playing to their specific roles and gameplans that we lose that familiarization. I am probably over thinking this hopefully, and the plan of having a fresh squad will help us retain the premiership.
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.
[www.oddschecker.com]
Very one sided odds offered for this game, it's seems to be a foregone conclusion...
Very one sided odds offered for this game, it's seems to be a foregone conclusion...
Harlequins quite close to Exeter? I know they did well vs RB but surely their powderpuff pack will be outmuscled by the Exeter side that beat Bath?
Interesting Saint / Bris odds as well, I see it as close than that.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Interesting Saint / Bris odds as well, I see it as close than that.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Quins, Gloucester and Sale wins please ! 
Adopted Player 2018/19 Ross Batty
Adopted Player 2019/20 Jack Davies
Adopted Player 2020/21 Cam Redpath
Adopted Player 2021/22 Darren Atkins
Adopted Player 2022/23 Gabriel Hamer-Webb
Adopted Player 2023/24 Tom Carr-Smith
Adopted Player 2024/25 Max Ojomoh
"AN OUNCE OF ACTION IS WORTH A TON OF THEORY"
FRIEDRICH ENGELS
Adopted Player 2018/19 Ross Batty
Adopted Player 2019/20 Jack Davies
Adopted Player 2020/21 Cam Redpath
Adopted Player 2021/22 Darren Atkins
Adopted Player 2022/23 Gabriel Hamer-Webb
Adopted Player 2023/24 Tom Carr-Smith
Adopted Player 2024/25 Max Ojomoh
"AN OUNCE OF ACTION IS WORTH A TON OF THEORY"
FRIEDRICH ENGELS
Quote:BathMatt53
Harlequins quite close to Exeter? I know they did well vs RB but surely their powderpuff pack will be outmuscled by the Exeter side that beat Bath?
Interesting Saint / Bris odds as well, I see it as close than that.
Agree with this. Back to reality for Quins if the same Exeter side turns up.
Only upset I can potentially see is Ford masterclass vs his old side and Sale forwards somehow rediscovering a bit of bite at home to Leicester...but even that seems unlikely. Sarries result put pay to the lingering thought that it's still a tough place to go!
The depth in that Sale pack is a mess right now. Some of the names they're putting on the bench look like characters from Rugby 08
[www.bbc.co.uk]
Muir out for the season as OB says, Hennessey out for a few weeks might be back train end of next week, and Griffin is to have surgery on his foot in the summer.
Muir out for the season as OB says, Hennessey out for a few weeks might be back train end of next week, and Griffin is to have surgery on his foot in the summer.
Quote:tigersimon
Roux banned for 3 games reduced to 2 if he does tackle school.
But crucially that doesn't start until he returns from his HIA period so not back until the playoffs. Thank you mister Dickson!
Quote:Somerset Live saying he's back in training but unlikely to play this weekendA.M 180
No word on Max? Hoping no news is good news
Quote:tigersimon
Roux banned for 3 games reduced to 2 if he does tackle school.
All stemming from a ludicrous refereeing decision.
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
A shame regarding Roux but once it was a red on field, that ban length felt pretty inevitable. Never seen the thing about him needing to be fit before.
We were saying Roux looked a little off the pace of late, so at least this will mean he's rested and absolutely ready to rumble for the season's sharp end. Good opportunity for Richards... or Enoch!
We were saying Roux looked a little off the pace of late, so at least this will mean he's rested and absolutely ready to rumble for the season's sharp end. Good opportunity for Richards... or Enoch!
Thanks DL, a good read and a great call to arms. Like you, we have a definite fondness for Newcastle, but that's put to one side on Saturday and I'll be cheering hard for the BB&W from the back row of the East stand!
Quote:Presumably if the disciplinary committee thought it was an incorrect decision they could have overturned it? But would a citing officer have picked it up and cited if it hadn’t been spotted during the match??? Consistency is all we need and seems so hard to get.Toast and MarmiteQuote:tigersimon
Roux banned for 3 games reduced to 2 if he does tackle school.
All stemming from a ludicrous refereeing decision.
Don’t want to overreact but it seems to be slightly coming apart at the seams. With Lions and internationals and so many games even with rotation the injuries are biting when it really matters. I still think that Will Stuart long term injury has been massive for this season, alongside others like OL who is trying his best but clearly needs a preseason to really get back to his best.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
I don't see many upsides to playing lots of so called front line players against Newcastle.
Us (and most others now) are picking up injuries and/or suspensions each game.
We looked more overcooked than undercooked on Sunday.
Tho we rotate heavily , a lot of the same guys are in the 23 most weeks and that is mentally v tiring. The champions cup knock out games will have taken a lot out of the squad.
I think our best chance is to give some key guys a few weeks off, trust the squad and absolutely reward guys on the fringes who put in barnstorming displays with selection in the crunch games. No time for reputations now, if richards/ gyamfi/ jeanes perform then consider them. Hennessey has earnt a place in the 23 i think , if donoghue has another couple of good games he can pile the pressure on.
Think it's exciting personally.....
Us (and most others now) are picking up injuries and/or suspensions each game.
We looked more overcooked than undercooked on Sunday.
Tho we rotate heavily , a lot of the same guys are in the 23 most weeks and that is mentally v tiring. The champions cup knock out games will have taken a lot out of the squad.
I think our best chance is to give some key guys a few weeks off, trust the squad and absolutely reward guys on the fringes who put in barnstorming displays with selection in the crunch games. No time for reputations now, if richards/ gyamfi/ jeanes perform then consider them. Hennessey has earnt a place in the 23 i think , if donoghue has another couple of good games he can pile the pressure on.
Think it's exciting personally.....
We have lost 3 consecutive games, let’s remember. We can find excuses for 2 of them but not the third. Losing can become a habit, just like winning. Injuries & a touch of seemingly poor form are contributing.
Quote:Charlieboa1
I don't see many upsides to playing lots of so called front line players against Newcastle.
Us (and most others now) are picking up injuries and/or suspensions each game.
We looked more overcooked than undercooked on Sunday.
Tho we rotate heavily , a lot of the same guys are in the 23 most weeks and that is mentally v tiring. The champions cup knock out games will have taken a lot out of the squad.
I think our best chance is to give some key guys a few weeks off, trust the squad and absolutely reward guys on the fringes who put in barnstorming displays with selection in the crunch games. No time for reputations now, if richards/ gyamfi/ jeanes perform then consider them. Hennessey has earnt a place in the 23 i think , if donoghue has another couple of good games he can pile the pressure on.
Think it's exciting personally.....
Sorry Charlie but for probably the first time I disagree with you, Exeter played a semi final the week previous too. I dont think we are overcooked physically.
The 2 games we have not turned up this season were against rotated (Saints) or injury weakened (Chiefs). On both occasions we looked like all we need to do is turn up and we will win.
The positive thing moving forward is that after the loss at Christmas we bounced straight back and I expect the same to happen this week and beyond now we are in the business end of the season.
Rugby is such a mentally directed as much as physical demanding game and when they dont align as last week it becomes tough.
Quote:dcshQuote:Presumably if the disciplinary committee thought it was an incorrect decision they could have overturned it? But would a citing officer have picked it up and cited if it hadn’t been spotted during the match??? Consistency is all we need and seems so hard to get.Toast and MarmiteQuote:tigersimon
Roux banned for 3 games reduced to 2 if he does tackle school.
All stemming from a ludicrous refereeing decision.
Whatever the rights and wrongs of the decisions both Roux and Izzy Perese got reds for comparable upright tackles that resulted in head on head collisions.
Given that was Roux's first card of any sort since joining Bath (no cards since Oct 2020 which is some going really) and Perese's third of the season for high tackles (plus four more last year which I think were mostly for similar things) it's mad that they end up with the same sanction and somehow Perese is eligible for tackle school
Quote:theredseat
Given that was Roux's first card of any sort since joining Bath (no cards since Oct 2020 which is some going really) and Perese's third of the season for high tackles (plus four more last year which I think were mostly for similar things) it's mad that they end up with the same sanction and somehow Perese is eligible for tackle school
Agree thats ridiculous.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
I think we are agreeing tbf copester.
My point was we looked a bit mentally shot on Sunday. Good players looked a bit lost and really off it emotionally.
I would rest some mainly for that reason but also to:
Derisk injuries/suspension for key players
Give other players opps to force their way into the selection mix for crunch games.
I am on a bit of a soap box recently but I really dislike any rhetoric about full bore, names on a teamsheet being the be all and end all etc
Sounds like jvg is similar- people talking about a second team for saints away. I am not convinced the 'first team' with more mental and physical load on them and half an eye on the semi final would have done as well in that game. We did well because jvg picked the right individuals and team for that particular challenge.
My point was we looked a bit mentally shot on Sunday. Good players looked a bit lost and really off it emotionally.
I would rest some mainly for that reason but also to:
Derisk injuries/suspension for key players
Give other players opps to force their way into the selection mix for crunch games.
I am on a bit of a soap box recently but I really dislike any rhetoric about full bore, names on a teamsheet being the be all and end all etc
Sounds like jvg is similar- people talking about a second team for saints away. I am not convinced the 'first team' with more mental and physical load on them and half an eye on the semi final would have done as well in that game. We did well because jvg picked the right individuals and team for that particular challenge.
Quote:theredseat
Given that was Roux's first card of any sort since joining Bath (no cards since Oct 2020 which is some going really) and Perese's third of the season for high tackles (plus four more last year which I think were mostly for similar things) it's mad that they end up with the same sanction and somehow Perese is eligible for tackle school
Bonkers
Quote:Treble
https://www.oddschecker.com/rugby-union/england/gallagher-premiership
Very one sided odds offered for this game, it's seems to be a foregone conclusion...
Of course it is.
BB
Hoping Donoghue is selected on the strength of his first involvement in this fixture last season.
"Splitting Newcastle through the middle. He's got wheels Donoghue, off he goes, he's gone!"
"Splitting Newcastle through the middle. He's got wheels Donoghue, off he goes, he's gone!"
Quote:gaz59
Well. we've gone surprisingly very strong
We have, it seems we're not taking any chances after 3 losses
Would love to know if that was the intended team for this week before the Exeter game
Quote:theredseat
Would love to know if that was the intended team for this week before the Exeter game
That's a very good point but I'm thinking that it probably was, Miles and Josh rested last week, they are back in, Alfie rested but on bench. JvG ensuring we get back to winning ways with Ben and Finn playing with a smile on their face in front of a packed Rec, should raise the spirits of fans and the squad. They must be merciless, don't want to witness a half baked going through the motions game. Nice to see Max back.
Bath Rugby: 1 Beno Obano, 2 Tom Dunn, 3 Thomas du Toit, 4 Ted Hill, 5 Charlie Ewels (200), 6 Josh Bayliss, 7 Guy Pepper, 8 Miles Reid, 9 Ben Spencer (c), 10 Finn Russell, 11 Henry Arundell, 12 Cameron Redpath, 13 Chris Harris, 14 Joe Cokanasiga, 15 Santi Carreras
Replacements: 16 Dan Frost, 17 Francois van Wyk, 18 Vilikesa Sela, 19 Ross Molony, 20 Sam Underhill, 21 Tom Carr-Smith, 22 Max Ojomoh, 23 Alfie Barbeary
Replacements: 16 Dan Frost, 17 Francois van Wyk, 18 Vilikesa Sela, 19 Ross Molony, 20 Sam Underhill, 21 Tom Carr-Smith, 22 Max Ojomoh, 23 Alfie Barbeary
15 Josh Hodge, 14 Harrison Obatoyinbo, 13 Rhys Beeckmans, 12 Sammy Arnold, 11 Alex Hearle, 10 Brett Connon, 9 Simón Benítez Cruz; 1 Connor Hancock, 2 George McGuigan (captain), 3 Murray McCallum, 4 Freddie Clarke, 5 John Hawkins, 6 Adam Scott, 7 Tom Christie, 8 Fergus Lee-Warner.
Replacements: 16 Ollie Fletcher, 17 Jamie Clark, 18 Adam Brocklebank, 19 Jamie Hodgson, 20 Amanaki Mafi, 21 James Elliott, 22 Ethan Grayson, 23 Christian Wade.
Replacements: 16 Ollie Fletcher, 17 Jamie Clark, 18 Adam Brocklebank, 19 Jamie Hodgson, 20 Amanaki Mafi, 21 James Elliott, 22 Ethan Grayson, 23 Christian Wade.
Love it. If all selected are fighting fit (Spencer?!), with a week off next week, why not? The selection demands a big performance and scoreline now. Fast paced from the off, win the set piece and gain line, limit the mistakes and keep discipline (which was awful in the first quarter last week), no being 14-12 up at 30 minutes. They've got a lot of injuries, on top of being 1-14, so zero excuses.
Interesting point re when this selection was made. I just wonder if for the first time in a long time, following last week's performance, JVG went off on one this week. No idea if that'd be ever his style but feeeeeeels ever so slightly as if he could have said: that was unacceptable, people are now doubting you, you go and sort it out this week as a 1st XXIII group.
Looking forward to it! Let's get the win, and hopefully the bonus point and a bit of positive points difference (all due respect etc).
Interesting point re when this selection was made. I just wonder if for the first time in a long time, following last week's performance, JVG went off on one this week. No idea if that'd be ever his style but feeeeeeels ever so slightly as if he could have said: that was unacceptable, people are now doubting you, you go and sort it out this week as a 1st XXIII group.
Looking forward to it! Let's get the win, and hopefully the bonus point and a bit of positive points difference (all due respect etc).
Not surprised we’ve gone strong because of the losing run we’re on.
Memo for players, please don’t give them a large lead that we’ve become accustomed to doing recently.
Just seen the ref is Ian Tempest, unlikely to be an entertaining game with him in charge, expect to see lots of cards and time wasted watching the big screen.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:05:15:12:37:15 by OutsideBath.
Memo for players, please don’t give them a large lead that we’ve become accustomed to doing recently.
Just seen the ref is Ian Tempest, unlikely to be an entertaining game with him in charge, expect to see lots of cards and time wasted watching the big screen.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:05:15:12:37:15 by OutsideBath.
Great squad, Wonder why no Lawrence? Good to see Fergus back at the rec. He was brilliant for us in the early JVG days.
Can’t remember the player but there has been a previous case of ban not kicking in until player fit to play.
Details of Roux’s hearing
[rfu.widen.net]
Details of Roux’s hearing
[rfu.widen.net]
Quote:copester
Great squad, Wonder why no Lawrence? Good to see Fergus back at the rec. He was brilliant for us in the early JVG days.
Yes, there must be a good reason for his absence and I echo the comment about Fergus, he was a class player for us. Worth mentioning the week off next weekend may also have influenced team selection. Now I'm starting to believe the squad for the Bristol game may see some significant rotation keeping key players fit for the Leicester game.
Maybe it's a case of, 2 weeks' rest after this game, and then a maximum of 4 more games in the season, so we'll see pretty much the cup final 23 from here on in. Essentially - 4 'knockout' games on the bounce. After all - if we don't win the Bristol game, that will make Tigers as near as dammit a knockout game. Etc etc
It would be great to see a full 80 minute performance with ruthless execution and a huge score.
No Donoghue is probably the only real surprise, along with Ted at lock.
Would be amazed if we didn't take the same approach for Briz. After a week off, is there any merit in resting players at this stage when a home semi is the absolute priority?
A word for Charlie Ewels too - Dunnie is Mr Bath, but 200 not out and still just 30 is very impressive. Completely different animal when he return from that stint in SA after a difficult spell with injury and England.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:05:15:14:02:53 by Barfboy.
Would be amazed if we didn't take the same approach for Briz. After a week off, is there any merit in resting players at this stage when a home semi is the absolute priority?
A word for Charlie Ewels too - Dunnie is Mr Bath, but 200 not out and still just 30 is very impressive. Completely different animal when he return from that stint in SA after a difficult spell with injury and England.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:05:15:14:02:53 by Barfboy.
No punches pulled in that selection! We were at the game at Kingston Park in December and the bench being subbed en masse at 54 minutes was a sight to behold, wonder if it'll happen again?
Quote:Barfboy
A word for Charlie Ewels too - Dunnie is Mr Bath, but 200 not out and still just 30 is very impressive.
A couple of others to challenge Dunnie's crown...
Beno Obano at 31 on 190 appearances
Miles Reid at 27 on 167
Josh Bayliss at 28 on 152
That is a monumental number of caps for Beno. Testament to his commitment and durability as a prop, especially (if I'm remembering rightly) when considering he had quite a few injuries in his first few years. He's also added to his game, and his carrying and defence are better than ever, I'd say.
Excellent Good/Bad/Rugby pod this week with TDT (which shows again what a monumentally good man he is), in which he speaks about "time in the saddle" i.e. on pitch game time as being the most important factor for a prop's development. Beno is ONLY 31 and likely has a couple of great years ahead of him- potentially the best is yet to come. What a servant.
Excellent Good/Bad/Rugby pod this week with TDT (which shows again what a monumentally good man he is), in which he speaks about "time in the saddle" i.e. on pitch game time as being the most important factor for a prop's development. Beno is ONLY 31 and likely has a couple of great years ahead of him- potentially the best is yet to come. What a servant.
I understand we’re “ never too low…” but last weeks Exeter performance was disheartening. It didnt look or feel like we had the bite and desire, and as Champions that's not good.
Compared to Leicester’s snarling, in your face performance against Northampton - thats exactly the right way to combat the Saints. Oh and making the Saints supporters sit in block FU in Welford Rd just capped it off
Leicester look very powerful coming into the final stretch - we need to put away N’castle and then deliver a similar heavyweight power performance against Bristol, to ensure we’re on it come June 6th
Compared to Leicester’s snarling, in your face performance against Northampton - thats exactly the right way to combat the Saints. Oh and making the Saints supporters sit in block FU in Welford Rd just capped it off
Leicester look very powerful coming into the final stretch - we need to put away N’castle and then deliver a similar heavyweight power performance against Bristol, to ensure we’re on it come June 6th
Tigers do look solid, but there are still potentially 5 games to play. 5 games ago Saints looked imperious and everybody on here said the league was done.
My point is, very easy for fortunes to change, to peak too early, to overplay players and exhaust them. That snarl soon becomes a snooze.
However block FU is extremely amusing!
My point is, very easy for fortunes to change, to peak too early, to overplay players and exhaust them. That snarl soon becomes a snooze.
However block FU is extremely amusing!
Saints did look good I agree… but no one had taken them on up front. I was expecting us to do this in the Xmas fixture but no. I was at the Prem game a couple of weeks ago in N’ton and the guys we selected did their best and physically took it to them and deserved the win.
We wont outrun Saints but rugby ultimately is won by the forwards - I think that Leicester victory was more important than 5pts. It exposed the flaw at the heart of Saints - their pack and specifically the front 5
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:05:15:19:41:16 by Pulteneyfan.
We wont outrun Saints but rugby ultimately is won by the forwards - I think that Leicester victory was more important than 5pts. It exposed the flaw at the heart of Saints - their pack and specifically the front 5
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:05:15:19:41:16 by Pulteneyfan.
Agree Tigers did Saints in the scrum and (mainly) lineout. Baths lineout isn’t as good as Tigers unfortunately. As discussed before I’m really surprised we haven’t picked up a towering 2nd row for next season.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Well, lets hope Finn and co have been inspired by the Saints marker laid down tonight and are in the mood to go out and out 60+ on Newcastle!
Quote:Mini Maximus
Well, lets hope Finn and co have been inspired by the Saints marker laid down tonight and are in the mood to go out and out 60+ on Newcastle!
5 points and no injuries would be just fine by me.
... IMHO, of course.
Now in Honolulu
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:05:16:07:59:43 by joethefanatic.
Agreed, but I’d like us to build up a bigger points difference barrier to Tigers, so 50+ on the board please and thankyou!
Quote:FiveSticksQuote:Barfboy
A word for Charlie Ewels too - Dunnie is Mr Bath, but 200 not out and still just 30 is very impressive.
A couple of others to challenge Dunnie's crown...
Beno Obano at 31 on 190 appearances
Miles Reid at 27 on 167
Josh Bayliss at 28 on 152
Absolutely. Building up a nice little roster of one-club, man and boy players and long may that continue.
Just thought Ewels' 200th was worth a mention, especially given how tough a time he had a few years back and how well he's played since.
It's actually easy to underrate Ewels, he is pretty important to our packs importance and only colloquially it just seems the lineout goes better when he is around.
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
Quote:A.M 180
Not able to watch the game. What happened to Pepper?
HIA but back on.
I love Bath but this isn’t a contest at the moment. Quiet crowd as a result.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
It was never going to be a contest ... I'll migrate to the Quins game at 4pm
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:05:16:15:35:03 by Treble.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:05:16:15:35:03 by Treble.
Yes, neither the crowd nor the players seem hugely interested in at this point.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Not a red imho. He is low, and another player changes the dynamic of the tackle.
Quote:BathMatt53
Yes, neither the crowd nor the players seem hugely interested in at this point.
Nor is this board judging by the lack of posts 😀
20 min red for Dunn. Carrier dropped into it a bit but Tom's not low enough. Same old story.
Hearts lost - I need a more uplifting performance than this from the boys today!
the Newcastle 11 would have only been a yellow, that was poor from Dunn looked a bit lazy too
Quote:nick holder
the Newcastle 11 would have only been a yellow, that was poor from Dunn looked a bit lazy too
Personally I thought that both decisions were correct.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Strange decision to go for touch when we had no thrower on the pitch. TdT on the field would have though a pick and go more appropriate.
Bath seem to have gone to sleep after racing to 31 points. I hope JvG wakes them up!
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
Bath seem to have gone to sleep after racing to 31 points. I hope JvG wakes them up!
Dunn’s last 🟥 was 5 years ago, so IF it’s upheld as a 🟥 then probably misses 2 games as will be eligible for Tackle school and full 50% mitigation.
i wish we would stop dicking about and start playing some rugby and pass the ball
Running out the red card I suspect but broadly agree it just lets Newcastle back into the game.
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
We have lost our swagger. Yes we are winning and winning well.........but ugh!
I know the standard of the opposition isn't great but I think it would have benefitted us more mixing it up today.
Need our swagger back quickly.
I know the standard of the opposition isn't great but I think it would have benefitted us more mixing it up today.
Need our swagger back quickly.
Agree but TCS seemed to provide quicker ball from the base or is that heresy? Mojo's handling is a level above.
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
Despite Northampton's walloping of Bristol and our loss to Exeter the points difference over the past 2 matches of the two teams is identical.
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
maybe so but they had a 4 point points difference "gain" over the weekend, Finn missed 4 kicks
Never going to anything but an easy win for Bath and all we learnt was Newcastle aren’t very good and Tempest is an appalling ref.
Worst thing about the match was the conduct of Mcguigan, he is an absolute disgrace to rugby. Squealing like footballer and clutching his head for little more than light contact, jumping up as son as he got the red card decision he was looking for and not even being checked for HIA. Continued well into the second half before finally going off to check his lipstick.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:05:16:17:18:10 by OutsideBath.
Worst thing about the match was the conduct of Mcguigan, he is an absolute disgrace to rugby. Squealing like footballer and clutching his head for little more than light contact, jumping up as son as he got the red card decision he was looking for and not even being checked for HIA. Continued well into the second half before finally going off to check his lipstick.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:05:16:17:18:10 by OutsideBath.
Funny old game that. I don’t think we really hit fifth gear despite the huge scoreline, and I don’t think Saints or Tigers will be overly worried if they face us in the knockouts.
Newcastle are not very good and also can’t catch a break- the ball never seems to bounce for them most of the time, but I guess you make your own luck.
Our line out was a lot better today, though if I were JvG I’d be putting a thumping great lock forward over the summer at the very top of the shopping list.
Dunny’s red looked harsh, but I am a strong critic of the head on head laws.
Max Ojomoh is critical to the rest of the season.
Newcastle are not very good and also can’t catch a break- the ball never seems to bounce for them most of the time, but I guess you make your own luck.
Our line out was a lot better today, though if I were JvG I’d be putting a thumping great lock forward over the summer at the very top of the shopping list.
Dunny’s red looked harsh, but I am a strong critic of the head on head laws.
Max Ojomoh is critical to the rest of the season.
Billy Sela looked rapid when chasing Frost as he was running through for his try.
All quite predictable today… no injuries? Dunny’s red the main concern, but not our weakest area.
All quite predictable today… no injuries? Dunny’s red the main concern, but not our weakest area.
Watching the game back- absolutely crazy call for Dunn’s red. His knee is nearly on the ground and it’s obviously a dynamic situation.
McGuigan’s behaviour disgraceful as well
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
McGuigan’s behaviour disgraceful as well
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Quote:I suppose the hard decision for Bath to make it do you challenge the on field decision with supporting evidence and risk a longer ban if the panel doesn’t agree or admit fault and get the ban reduced. Unless it doesn’t work that way now.Toast and Marmite
Watching the game back- absolutely crazy call for Dunn’s red. His knee is nearly on the ground and it’s obviously a dynamic situation.
McGuigan’s behaviour disgraceful as well
Quote:Toast and Marmite
Watching the game back- absolutely crazy call for Dunn’s red. His knee is nearly on the ground and it’s obviously a dynamic situation.
McGuigan’s behaviour disgraceful as well
Disagree. I think that - unfortunate as it is - he had a straight line of sight and didn’t fold at the waist. The mitigation that I could see was 2 people in the tackle. McGuigan got Dunny big noggin right on the cheekbone I’m not surprised it hurt.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Dunn Disciplinary Hearing :- You can plead Guilty at a Hearing nowadays but state you don’t think it met the 🟥 threshold nowadays without it impacting on mitigation.
Quote:BathMatt53Quote:Toast and Marmite
Watching the game back- absolutely crazy call for Dunn’s red. His knee is nearly on the ground and it’s obviously a dynamic situation.
McGuigan’s behaviour disgraceful as well
Disagree. I think that - unfortunate as it is - he had a straight line of sight and didn’t fold at the waist. The mitigation that I could see was 2 people in the tackle. McGuigan got Dunny big noggin right on the cheekbone I’m not surprised it hurt.
Clear line of sight, I agree but Dunn is folded far as you can running isn't he Matt? Thing is McGuigan is crouching as well.
I agree with OB he does make a meal of it!
Quote:Thanks, that does seem to be a more sensible approach.tigersimon
Dunn Disciplinary Hearing :- You can plead Guilty at a Hearing nowadays but state you don’t think it met the 🟥 threshold nowadays without it impacting on mitigation.
Quote:shipwreckedQuote:BathMatt53Quote:Toast and Marmite
Watching the game back- absolutely crazy call for Dunn’s red. His knee is nearly on the ground and it’s obviously a dynamic situation.
McGuigan’s behaviour disgraceful as well
Disagree. I think that - unfortunate as it is - he had a straight line of sight and didn’t fold at the waist. The mitigation that I could see was 2 people in the tackle. McGuigan got Dunny big noggin right on the cheekbone I’m not surprised it hurt.
Clear line of sight, I agree but Dunn is folded far as you can running isn't he Matt? Thing is McGuigan is crouching as well.
I agree with OB he does make a meal of it!
I think that if he was doing it again he would do something differently to not make contact with the head SW. he could definitely go lower, we see it every week. That final mitigation to bring it from red to yellow is obviously just a matter of personal judgement.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Yes I agree Matt and this has been done to death, the point for me though is that if he is upright then its always illegal therefore a red, I don't think he is upright and that rules out the reckless bit. There is a drop by McGuigan as well. As you say its a matter of personal judgement.
I don't really like the double jeopardy bit either, so its a 20 minute red during the game which can easily change the result of the gamut the time but then a ban for subsequent games minimum 2.
Neither Dunn's nor Roux's actions were deliberate, just close quarter physicality, seems overkill to me.
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
I don't really like the double jeopardy bit either, so its a 20 minute red during the game which can easily change the result of the gamut the time but then a ban for subsequent games minimum 2.
Neither Dunn's nor Roux's actions were deliberate, just close quarter physicality, seems overkill to me.
I think overkill is what they are aiming for to project heads tbh.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
The twenty minute red is I guess reasonable mitigation for that, but a likely 2+ game ban feels harsh.
Still, that's four matches in a row we've been on the wrong side of a head contact decision, need to look at our discipline.
Still, that's four matches in a row we've been on the wrong side of a head contact decision, need to look at our discipline.
Looking deeper into this I may be wrong, as of 6 weeks ago this was clarified by word rugby Law 9.20 bizairly if Dunn was bound to another player and did the same he would be legal........ I think.
It's almost impossible to keep up with these changes.
Seems to make the clear out almost impossible.
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
It's almost impossible to keep up with these changes.
Seems to make the clear out almost impossible.
Just watched the highlights.
Without disrespecting Newcastle, it was good to see the boys having some fun at the end with some of the tries. Clearly the squad enjoyed seeing Santi, Frost and Harris get tries. Suggests the mood is in a good place despite the disappointment of the past two weeks.
Max a clear creative spark. I think Finn has felt the weight of expectation at times this season so hoping a bit of continuity alongside Max, we can get the attack firing.
Without disrespecting Newcastle, it was good to see the boys having some fun at the end with some of the tries. Clearly the squad enjoyed seeing Santi, Frost and Harris get tries. Suggests the mood is in a good place despite the disappointment of the past two weeks.
Max a clear creative spark. I think Finn has felt the weight of expectation at times this season so hoping a bit of continuity alongside Max, we can get the attack firing.
An enjoyable afternoon at the Rec, a very different game to what we've been used too, almost felt like a pre-season friendly. Just watched the highlights, Finn's passing for some of the tries was outstanding aided by a great cameo from Max. Josh and Frosty have great pace for forwards. Felt sorry for Fergus L-W, he was a great player for Bath and should be playing for a better team.
Just watching the highlights. The offside pen which produced Dunny's red was wrong, it's a try, ball hits the line at the base and he's clearly onside behind the back foot. Just as well it wasn"t close, Tempest was...consistently inaccurate 🤔
Was that the Bayliss non try? Yes I also thought that looked good at the time.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Quote:BathMatt53Quote:Toast and Marmite
Watching the game back- absolutely crazy call for Dunn’s red. His knee is nearly on the ground and it’s obviously a dynamic situation.
McGuigan’s behaviour disgraceful as well
Disagree. I think that - unfortunate as it is - he had a straight line of sight and didn’t fold at the waist. The mitigation that I could see was 2 people in the tackle. McGuigan got Dunny big noggin right on the cheekbone I’m not surprised it hurt.
Tempest stated high degree of danger for the red justification. If so why was McGuigan still on the field to play on instead of having an HIA?
Just watched the game. It seems strange to say it but I thought we didn't play consistently well for 80 minutes and that is a bit of a recurrent issue for us. Against NRB its less of a problem but the Tigs or Saints will take a game away from you if you fade for 10 minutes. Still 5 points and no major injuries. My big worry is if Dunny gets a ban. Ted excellent, TDT very good at throwing a ball (who knew) and Finn started sparkling again. But that last was in no small measure because of...
My MotM - Mojo. Cam played well but Mojo was just otherworldly. If we can keep him fit and firing for the run in, I think we have a chance of beating Saints in the backs and we know Saints struggle to beat us in the forwards.
... IMHO, of course.
Now in Honolulu
My MotM - Mojo. Cam played well but Mojo was just otherworldly. If we can keep him fit and firing for the run in, I think we have a chance of beating Saints in the backs and we know Saints struggle to beat us in the forwards.
... IMHO, of course.
Now in Honolulu
The difference Mojo makes to our attack is simply unbelievable. His spatial awareness, running lines and passing are phenomenal. Yet more evidence of Borthwick being totally clueless with England selection.
It was interesting after the final whistle seeing Arundell and Wade having a lengthy conversation.....I wonder what they were talking about?
I’ve consistently believed that Cam and Mojo 12/13 are our best midfield options. A great balance between them and it’s telling that Finn looked to be running the show again with Cam outside him.
I’d have that as my cup final pairing.
Caveat that I know they didn’t play together today, but they both had great games individually.
Carreras also looked sharp, he took a couple of “shipped on” passes and turned them into a gain, so good for him!
Any idea why Ewels came off, he looked ginger after the collision from height so maybe just a stinger?
I’d have that as my cup final pairing.
Caveat that I know they didn’t play together today, but they both had great games individually.
Carreras also looked sharp, he took a couple of “shipped on” passes and turned them into a gain, so good for him!
Any idea why Ewels came off, he looked ginger after the collision from height so maybe just a stinger?
First choice centres is interesting.
Feels like mojo has to be there at either 12 or 13.
Pretty good argument for mojo and hennessey- certainly exciting from an attacking perspective.
As for the game I am glad we came through unscathed other than the dunn red which really isn't ideal.
Thought we again looked fairly sluggish until the bench came on.
I still think we should have given more fringe guys a hit out. Our differentiator from other squads is our depth and we will have some class players not getting a game for the last 2m of the season whilst others are running on fumes potentially.
Our best player was mojo who hasn't played for a month and looked mentally and physically exceptionally sharp. Would have loved to have seen a few like Richards and donoghue get a run. Donoghue is arguably one injury away from making the 'gun' 23 and he has only played once since pre season. Nice problems to have.
Feels like mojo has to be there at either 12 or 13.
Pretty good argument for mojo and hennessey- certainly exciting from an attacking perspective.
As for the game I am glad we came through unscathed other than the dunn red which really isn't ideal.
Thought we again looked fairly sluggish until the bench came on.
I still think we should have given more fringe guys a hit out. Our differentiator from other squads is our depth and we will have some class players not getting a game for the last 2m of the season whilst others are running on fumes potentially.
Our best player was mojo who hasn't played for a month and looked mentally and physically exceptionally sharp. Would have loved to have seen a few like Richards and donoghue get a run. Donoghue is arguably one injury away from making the 'gun' 23 and he has only played once since pre season. Nice problems to have.
Mojo and Hennessy is a very exciting idea, but in a semi against Leicester? I’d be hesitant to try it out!
I just think Cam brings so much around the pitch. Great defender and sets the line, fluid attacker, can distribute or run hard to fix a defender, and always good for a jackal or two. It’s a nice position to be in as you said Charlie, also agree that Donoghue could have done with a run out.
I just think Cam brings so much around the pitch. Great defender and sets the line, fluid attacker, can distribute or run hard to fix a defender, and always good for a jackal or two. It’s a nice position to be in as you said Charlie, also agree that Donoghue could have done with a run out.
Cam and mojo certainly let no one down during the business end of last season.
Been a v stop/start season for cam for one reason or another but agree he is a v v good player.
I am a bit giddy about hennessey, just think it's good to have 1 or 2 fairly unknown quantities in big games. He caused UBB some real problems.
Been a v stop/start season for cam for one reason or another but agree he is a v v good player.
I am a bit giddy about hennessey, just think it's good to have 1 or 2 fairly unknown quantities in big games. He caused UBB some real problems.
The games be Tigers will be won or lost up front. I don’t think it matters too much who is in the backs as Saints found out.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
What I love about Maxi is that he plays with a smile on his face.
I think he's a better 12 than 13 for the simple reason he acts as a second stand-off and can exploit the mess and damage Finn (or Ciaran) makes, releasing the outside centres and wings into broken play. Of course I am biased, but the kick he made for Feyi-Waboso's try during his debut against Argentina was enough to nail him down as England's starting inside centre for an age.
I think he's a better 12 than 13 for the simple reason he acts as a second stand-off and can exploit the mess and damage Finn (or Ciaran) makes, releasing the outside centres and wings into broken play. Of course I am biased, but the kick he made for Feyi-Waboso's try during his debut against Argentina was enough to nail him down as England's starting inside centre for an age.
Max could certainly do some serious damage with a hard running 13 outside him like Freeman (ie not Slade).
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Fully fit and fully on form, my Prem Cup starting backline would be:
9. Spenno
10. Finn
11. Arundell
12. Maxi
13. Lawrence
14. Horse
15. Santi
9. Spenno
10. Finn
11. Arundell
12. Maxi
13. Lawrence
14. Horse
15. Santi
Said a couple of weeks' back that Mojo has quietly become one of our most influential players, which was brought about by his absence and then confirmed after his cameo today IMO.
Yes the opposition weren't great but his link-up play is second to none and has been sorely missed in recent weeks. Fin looks so much more fluid with Mojo at 12 and it feels like there's a lot less onus on him with playmaking centres like Max and Cam on the pitch.
I too am beginning to think that is now our Cup Final centre pairing. Worked ok last year!
Yes the opposition weren't great but his link-up play is second to none and has been sorely missed in recent weeks. Fin looks so much more fluid with Mojo at 12 and it feels like there's a lot less onus on him with playmaking centres like Max and Cam on the pitch.
I too am beginning to think that is now our Cup Final centre pairing. Worked ok last year!
Quote:BathMatt53
The games be Tigers will be won or lost up front. I don’t think it matters too much who is in the backs as Saints found out.
A game where our lineout could be a big defining factor
It goes belly up and we are gonna struggle
The other key factor will be whoever is up against Nicky Smith has to stop him doing what he does to get scrum pens
Quote:gaz59Quote:BathMatt53
The games be Tigers will be won or lost up front. I don’t think it matters too much who is in the backs as Saints found out.
A game where our lineout could be a big defining factor
It goes belly up and we are gonna struggle
The other key factor will be whoever is up against Nicky Smith has to stop him doing what he does to get scrum pens
On both counts I think you have to include Ted Hill, he is a serious addition to the lineout and is an extra dynamic given his speed, when Bayliss scored his try on his inside supplying support was Hill. Not many second rows provide that and it is a point of difference. only concern would be does he have the bulk to be able to do that against heavier packs.
Quote:I don’t think that would be in the sprint of the Prem Cup that we have adhered too under JvG, Prem Final more like.@Hydor18
Fully fit and fully on form, my Prem Cup starting backline would be:
9. Spenno
10. Finn
11. Arundell
12. Maxi
13. Lawrence
14. Horse
15. Santi
Quote:dcshQuote:I don’t think that would be in the sprint of the Prem Cup that we have adhered too under JvG, Prem Final more like.@Hydor18
Fully fit and fully on form, my Prem Cup starting backline would be:
9. Spenno
10. Finn
11. Arundell
12. Maxi
13. Lawrence
14. Horse
15. Santi
My mistake, I meant Prem Final 👍🏻
Johann van Graan states Finn Russell and several of his Bath team-mates have been rested with immediate effect and given a few days away from rugby.
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
Quote:shipwrecked
Johann van Graan states Finn Russell and several of his Bath team-mates have been rested with immediate effect and given a few days away from rugby.
Makes sense with the week off.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
14 of the 23 get 7 - can't decide if that's realistic or just lazy, given that the ratings went up very quickly yesterday.
Quote:tigersimon
So out of Max, Cam, Louie & Ollie what’s your first choice 12/13?
If I’m picking a finals team right now I’m going Ojomoh and Hennessey personally. Imagine the reality is much more match up / combination / trust dependent though
I’d go Cam and Mojo - Hennessy pushing hard though! If went went to a traditional 5/3 bench then him and Santi 22 and 23
A fit and firing OL playing as he did before his injury would be in there. But that’s not him right at the moment. I’m sure it will be again come September. So Cam and Max for me as well at the moment.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
I’m picking 12 Max 13 Ollie.
Ollie is out of form, but I think he and Max have near perfectly balanced attributes. Max’s distribution skills allow Ollie to do the things he’s near world class at, like running tight lines into traffic off 9 and the 12’s shoulder.
Agree Max is so important to us. His offload to Frost yesterday was sublime- his awareness to know Frost is there is the sign of a special talent. If Max can string together 4 starts, it’ll give us a real shot at the title, as I also think he’s also the one that really makes Finn tick.
Ollie is out of form, but I think he and Max have near perfectly balanced attributes. Max’s distribution skills allow Ollie to do the things he’s near world class at, like running tight lines into traffic off 9 and the 12’s shoulder.
Agree Max is so important to us. His offload to Frost yesterday was sublime- his awareness to know Frost is there is the sign of a special talent. If Max can string together 4 starts, it’ll give us a real shot at the title, as I also think he’s also the one that really makes Finn tick.
I think Mojo at 12 is the key. His distribution from close to the line frees Finn to create at second receiver facing a disrupted defence. As long as his 11, 13 and 14 can run straight and catch, it opens up space. I don't think it is a coincidence that this is exactly what Saints have been doing with FSmith and Hutchinson for the last 2 years.
I wonder what would happen if we ran Ted or Josh off Mojo's inside shoulder...
... IMHO, of course.
Now in Honolulu
Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 2026:05:17:21:13:22 by joethefanatic.
I wonder what would happen if we ran Ted or Josh off Mojo's inside shoulder...
... IMHO, of course.
Now in Honolulu
Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 2026:05:17:21:13:22 by joethefanatic.
Mojo probably showed in 30 minutes what we’ve been missing in the last 4/5 games. He has to start from now on. Who he partners is probably the lesser worry as he brings the best out of all of them.
What a great place to be squad wise - only two major injuries (Stewart and Muir) and being to mix and match a little.
A week off now is great, then go hard for the final four matches (with a little rotation along the way I suspect) and try and do the fantastic in defending the title!
What a great place to be squad wise - only two major injuries (Stewart and Muir) and being to mix and match a little.
A week off now is great, then go hard for the final four matches (with a little rotation along the way I suspect) and try and do the fantastic in defending the title!
Yeah I agree, minor front row/back row rotation, but otherwise it's all guns blazing
Quote:BathRob
Mojo probably showed in 30 minutes what we’ve been missing in the last 4/5 games. He has to start from now on. Who he partners is probably the lesser worry as he brings the best out of all of them.
What a great place to be squad wise - only two major injuries (Stewart and Muir) and being to mix and match a little.
A week off now is great, then go hard for the final four matches (with a little rotation along the way I suspect) and try and do the fantastic in defending the title!
We need to factor in Roux/Dunn disciplinary outcomes. Roux will be a loss v Tigers, Dunn less so with Frost and Tui playing well. It feels likely we may lose others to cards and injuries b4 the play offs given our track record.
I don’t think OL was ever world class & hasn’t been even England class this season. He will hopefully regain that but he is quite average at present. It would be Ojo & one other for me, probably Cam. I do hope I’m wrong after what’s happened to West Ham, but I feel the impetus is with Saints & Tigers.
Quote:TrebleQuote:BathRob
Mojo probably showed in 30 minutes what we’ve been missing in the last 4/5 games. He has to start from now on. Who he partners is probably the lesser worry as he brings the best out of all of them.
What a great place to be squad wise - only two major injuries (Stewart and Muir) and being to mix and match a little.
A week off now is great, then go hard for the final four matches (with a little rotation along the way I suspect) and try and do the fantastic in defending the title!
We need to factor in Roux/Dunn disciplinary outcomes. Roux will be a loss v Tigers, Dunn less so with Frost and Tui playing well. It feels likely we may lose others to cards and injuries b4 the play offs given our track record.
I think we can manage the loss of Roux. Hill in the second row loses some mass but he's as close as you can get to a Chessum profile and should boost the line out so I'll take that trade off
I think i'm going Mojo + Hennessey. Horrendous to leave out Cam, but Max is everything at 12, while Hennessy's wing-level pace at 13 is the stuff of nightmares for defenders.
On the subject of pace, it kind of makes me wish that a second-row of Bayliss and Hill could realistically work! Would cause all sorts of problems in certain situations - unfortunately not just to the opposition.
On the subject of pace, it kind of makes me wish that a second-row of Bayliss and Hill could realistically work! Would cause all sorts of problems in certain situations - unfortunately not just to the opposition.
I don't think Ollie is "world class" but I do believe he does some things to a world class level. His power. His footwork in contact. His jackalling. I also think his defence is getting a bad rep- defending in a JPF system looks to be super hard for a 13 as it sets up so narrow. Even (prime) Chris Harris or Conrad Smith would struggle. I also think that we've met some almost unplayable attacks (Saints, UB
in a season when tries across the game are being scored for fun.
I too feel the excitement about Hennessy, and Cam is tried and tested, but are we seriously saying that, with 4 Cup Finals to come, we're going to drop our international 13 (who would have been a Lion if not for injury) and play a 12 at 13 or a young tyro with very little big match experience? I also think Ollie will look a much better player outside of Finn and Max.
in a season when tries across the game are being scored for fun.
I too feel the excitement about Hennessy, and Cam is tried and tested, but are we seriously saying that, with 4 Cup Finals to come, we're going to drop our international 13 (who would have been a Lion if not for injury) and play a 12 at 13 or a young tyro with very little big match experience? I also think Ollie will look a much better player outside of Finn and Max.
Quote:Optimist
On the subject of pace, it kind of makes me wish that a second-row of Bayliss and Hill could realistically work! Would cause all sorts of problems in certain situations - unfortunately not just to the opposition.
Yes lineout notwithstanding Bath would be giving away a lot of weight in the scrum (10kg per lock?) and that really wouldn't help the props - particularly Sela trying to deal with Nicky Smiths antics whilst going backwards.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
I entirely understand the shortage of weight in the 2nd row when it comes to scrummaging, but in the lineout? I'm no expert. In my days as a 2nd row, lifting was verboten, but we have a stack of jumping options. Most of the lineouts we lose are either down to a misthrow or all the complicated running around they do makes co-ordinating the jump with the throw nigh on impossible.
Charlie Ewels is one of the first names on my teamsheet every week. Why can't he sort it?
BATH supporter since 1975
Adopted players:
2015/6 Tom Homer
2016/7 Matt Banahan
2017/8 Jeff Williams
2018/9 Victor Delmas
2019/20 Semesa Rokoduguni
2020/21 Will Stuart
Charlie Ewels is one of the first names on my teamsheet every week. Why can't he sort it?
BATH supporter since 1975
Adopted players:
2015/6 Tom Homer
2016/7 Matt Banahan
2017/8 Jeff Williams
2018/9 Victor Delmas
2019/20 Semesa Rokoduguni
2020/21 Will Stuart
Quote:jayeatman
I entirely understand the shortage of weight in the 2nd row when it comes to scrummaging, but in the lineout? I'm no expert. In my days as a 2nd row, lifting was verboten, but we have a stack of jumping options. Most of the lineouts we lose are either down to a misthrow or all the complicated running around they do makes co-ordinating the jump with the throw nigh on impossible.
Charlie Ewels is one of the first names on my teamsheet every week. Why can't he sort it?
None of our locks are particularly tall either. Its a shame Bamber (6'9" and 134kgs) renewed for Sale, he's excellent...I also note that he played for Dings before being released by Bristol...
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:05:18:15:05:13 by BathMatt53.
Quote:jayeatman
we have a stack of jumping options.
Do we? I'm not so sure (quality ones at least). My breakdown of it would be:
Roux, Ewels and Molony are all 6'5 or so. Tall but not huge and not super athletic the way others are so aren't going to get up as high or as quickly as many opponents.
Pepper, Reid, Bayliss all around 6'2 and get used a lot probably because they're lighter and we can get them up at speed.
Hill / Richards are as tall as the other locks but much more athletic so should be our best options for lots of situations. Rarely on the field at the same time if at all.
I suspect the lack of elite jumpers is linked to the complicated routines and poor throwing because keeping it simple also hurts us because it's easy to read?
Quote:Optimist
I think i'm going Mojo + Hennessey. Horrendous to leave out Cam, but Max is everything at 12, while Hennessy's wing-level pace at 13 is the stuff of nightmares for defenders.
Totally agree tho there's a sneaking thought that Cam is noticeably a better defender than Max
Can't think of anything to rest that suspicion on tho
Cam offers that jackal threat as well. I stand by Cam 12 and Mojo 13 - it won us the Prem last year!
Quote:Optimist
Is there a bit of Jon Fox Davies about Hennessey gaz?
Hmm
Which bit are you thinking of Opti? I;m not really seeing that
If anything then his acceleration and overall speed is more Guscottish but I wouldn't load that comparison on anyone for so many reasons!
Whatever....when you put the bits together he is a coming star....
More in the mould of Rieko Ioane or Ringrose surely (speedy 13 / wing that uses pace to break the line?). Doesn't have the physicality of Jon Davies or Jesse Kriel yet.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Whatever....when you put the bits together he is a future star....
As you say matt, "yet'.
6ft 4 or so and bulking up all the same time whilst seemingly losing no pace. Still love that he tried (and nearly succeeded) in taking LBB for speed on an outside arc
6ft 4 or so and bulking up all the same time whilst seemingly losing no pace. Still love that he tried (and nearly succeeded) in taking LBB for speed on an outside arc
Quote:JD11
Any word on Tom Dunn disciplinary?
No hearings published from last weeks games yet 🤞
Widcombe Garçon
Dunn banned for 3 matches reduced to 2 if he does tackle school. [www.bathrugby.com]
Dunn banned for 3 matches reduced to 2 if he does tackle school.
[www.bathrugby.com]
Probably the best we could hope for in the circumstances.......
[www.bathrugby.com]
Probably the best we could hope for in the circumstances.......
Interesting that part of the submission was a character reference from JvG. What is tackle school - do you have to go somewhere or can you do it on line?!
[rfu.widen.net]
[rfu.widen.net]
Quote:It’s done with the players coaches and videoed for independent review/approval.Susanne
Interesting that part of the submission was a character reference from JvG. What is tackle school - do you have to go somewhere or can you do it on line?!
[rfu.widen.net]
[www.bbc.co.uk]
Quote:dcshQuote:It’s done with the players coaches and videoed for independent review/approval.Susanne
Interesting that part of the submission was a character reference from JvG. What is tackle school - do you have to go somewhere or can you do it on line?!
[rfu.widen.net]
[www.bbc.co.uk]
I picture it being very much like this to be honest: [www.youtube.com]
Huge relief though & the rest won’t do Tom any harm. However, not having him for the final Prem match against that Leicester pack is regrettable.
I'm quite annoyed by the outcome. From the report the Ref reckoned there was a high danger, however McGuigan did not require a HIA and his own statement stated it was only light contact. The panel deemed it reckless rather than intentional. Imho a sending off would have been sufficient. I welcome the fact that player safety is being addressed and believe that deliberate actions aimed at the head should be penalised with bans appropriate to the action and intent given.
Tom's incident is typical example of an unintentional and accidental clash of heads and a 20 minute red card for me seems about right. Bans should only be imposed if the contact is deemed to be intentional or if a player repeatedly offends.
The tackle school thingy is a good idea but instead of just implementing it when an offence has occurred could there be some merit in identifying players whose tackling is close to the edge. Maybe each match could be monitored by an independent tackle expert whose job would be to identify those players and instruct them to complete the course before their next game. Prevention rather than cure. You would hope the clubs are coaching their players to avoid head contact but I'm not sure.
Tom's incident is typical example of an unintentional and accidental clash of heads and a 20 minute red card for me seems about right. Bans should only be imposed if the contact is deemed to be intentional or if a player repeatedly offends.
The tackle school thingy is a good idea but instead of just implementing it when an offence has occurred could there be some merit in identifying players whose tackling is close to the edge. Maybe each match could be monitored by an independent tackle expert whose job would be to identify those players and instruct them to complete the course before their next game. Prevention rather than cure. You would hope the clubs are coaching their players to avoid head contact but I'm not sure.
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