By Glen Leat
October 31 2002

The Bath players travel to a sold out Stoop on Saturday knowing that another close call is not acceptable if they are to prove to themselves and their fans that progress is being made and a climb up the league table is possible. This time second place won't do!

Jason Leonard's Harlequins are sitting one place above Bath in the league table, though last week's cancelled match against bottom side Bristol gives them a game in hand. It will be interesting to see how England centre, Will Greenwood, performs at fly-half and no doubt the Bath back row will be targeting him to see if his inexperience in this position will weaken the Quins attacking options. Greenwood has had a couple of very good seasons so no doubt he will successfully turn his hand to this new role.

Bath have still to name their side but I would be surprised to see it being too different from last week. Michael Foley is keen to maintain some consistency in his side so will not be looking to chop and change; we must hope that Catty's hamstring has held up during training this week as his contribution will be crucial. I would also like to see Olly Barkley brought in from the wing, perhaps swapping places with Kevin Maggs.

Despite a massive 85% of voters believing that Quins will win this match I am feeling confident as we generally do well against Quins and I predict that Bath will win by 10 clear points. However if my prediction is to come true we have to take advantage of every opportunity created and not waste as much "potential scoring ball" as we did last week.

Click on to the Harlequins site for their perspective on things.

Biggest Win

Player Greats

Last Meetings (Bath scores first)