Bath
TIME FOR A RESET; BATH v HARLEQUINS
Dunn: leader
By PG Tips
February 2 2021
Bath Rugby need an urgent reset before hosting Harlequins on Saturday. The impression left by Friday’s heavy defeat at Bristol is one of multiple failings and almost no consolations. From lackadaisical body language in the warmup, through lack of physicality in collision, basic errors and repeatedly gifting Bristol possession and points, the essential repairs list seems endless. With Harlequins rampant after hammering Wasps, this is another dauntless prospect, another must win game.
The sudden departure of DOR Paul Gustard looked to have thrown Harlequins into disarray, but how they responded! Barely a week later, away at one of the Premiership’s most dynamic and attack—minded clubs they produced a performance of almost total dominance, notching 6 tries to their hosts 2. Even without that resurgence, they have too much pedigree and promise in their squad to be taken lightly. Veteran internationals Marler, Care and Brown provide the core of experience, Marcus Smith the class to control tempo and territory, Evans the dynamism at the breakdown to keep them on the front foot. Lewis Lynagh’s pace and adventure earned him 2 of Quins tries – the latest in a group of promising players, joining Dombrandt and Marchant as danger men running with the ball.
Bath should study tapes of their last two defeats and coming opponents this week, less for the litany of their own failings, more for the lessons to be learned from other approaches. Bristol showcased the virtues of “old fashioned” rugby: move the ball from the base swiftly, pass crisply, create and exploit space, run good support lines. If the skills are there, tries will come. Wasps showed the value of invention, snatching tries by doing what was least expected and attacking without fear from any part of the pitch if a gap appeared. Harlequins, initially, were all determination and defiance, unsettling Wasps with the ferocity of their onslaught, before finishing with a flourish of their own flowing attacks. Rugby can be a simple game, played as much with heart as mind, as these three teams have shown. Analysis and systems have their place, but right now, Bath most need something of spirit.
Even with changes enforced by international calls and injury there is enough class and talent in Bath’s squad to show much more than on Friday night. Something basic is wrong somewhere in the approach, squad culture or game plan- perhaps all three. Plenty of reasons for the slump in results have been posed on this board, as have possible solutions, so I will not repeat them, except to urge an immediate embrace of change. 7 wins in the last 9 regular season fixtures last season shows the squad have it in them. It must be found again or a relegation battle results.
In team selection, the coaches will be wary of change for change sake. I am not advocating that, but Friday’s mood suggests an injection of new blood, unembarrassed enthusiasm is needed. Is Tian Schoeman ready to show what he can do and bring some much needed, hard-nosed Springbok competitiveness? Is this the moment to introduce the pace and power of Alex Gray? Should Bath trust a youngster like Orlando Bailey, Ethan Staddon or Nahum Merrigan to light up the Rec as Zach Mercer and Semesa Rokodoguni did in the recent past? With both locks injured in a clash of heads and other blows taking their toll, Bath will probably be forced into changes anyway. Mercer, Bayliss and Reid were tireless in
their efforts to stem the tide last week. Their battered bodies may need a rest. The question is who is fit (and match hardened) to take their place? With so much unknown about fitness and availability, I will not offer my usual selection prediction this week and instead await the team announcement.
If Josh McNally fails his HIA protocols another Captain will be needed. For me that should be someone whose own commitment and example cannot be faulted and I would opt for Tom Dunn. Other too must step up. This is a time for leaders in all areas of the team. For a new attitude: defiance, determination, desperation, devilment, call it what you will. Bath must do to Quins what Quins did to Wasps. Turn the tables on them, force errors, make them chase the game.
Go out and win Bath. Put the smile back on your faces and ours!
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Discussion started by Comeonmylovers.co.uk (IP Logged), 02/02/2021 09:13
02/02/2021 09:13
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Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:02:09:08:03:35 by P G Tips.
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Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:02:09:08:03:35 by P G Tips.
When do we find out if Tom Dunn is to be cited for the knee to Afoa? Has the deadline already passed (isn't it something like 48hrs?)
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Very wisely PG has not gone for his usual possible team!
To be honest its not at all obvious this week with injuries, performances and Internationals causing chaos. Will Stuart Hooper plug last weeks gaps or will he just go for as many fresh faces as possible, knowing Mr Hooper, probably the former.
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
To be honest its not at all obvious this week with injuries, performances and Internationals causing chaos. Will Stuart Hooper plug last weeks gaps or will he just go for as many fresh faces as possible, knowing Mr Hooper, probably the former.
Id like to see a boring game where we actually have a defence of sorts, it can be as dull as ditchwater, it just needs to show that there is a semblance of a team with some structure. I dont normally say stuff like this.
I think the easy answer is to put out a team of 30 !!
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"AN OUNCE OF ACTION IS WORTH A TON OF THEORY"
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"AN OUNCE OF ACTION IS WORTH A TON OF THEORY"
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Good suggestion to make Tom Dunn captain. I'm not always a fan of blood & guts captaincy, but right now it could be just what Bath need. Another massive cuffing looks on the cards though.
Quins thrashing Wasps on emotion and then not showing up vs us is probably the most Quinsy thing tho'.
I reckon that quite often in footie when you get a regime change the team go out, shackles off and play a stormer with a point to prove. Often that subsides and they tend back towards the steady state of the previous regime. I’m hoping that was Quins last week. I don’t hold my breath though, plus we may play like seives again so Quins hardly have to turn up.
I wonder if the Smith, Brown, Dombrandt (and Care) talk of leaving was a threat that helped force their board into a change with Gustard off and now they will all announce they are staying after all? All just assumptions mind you.
I wonder if the Smith, Brown, Dombrandt (and Care) talk of leaving was a threat that helped force their board into a change with Gustard off and now they will all announce they are staying after all? All just assumptions mind you.
I would call that informed speculation Rawce. Informed as in the sense of "thought through" rather than "have my sources."
Would still like to get Marcus Smith among us - reckon he could pull our backline together - and play a more pragmatic game if the match demands. Hope we can.
PG
Would still like to get Marcus Smith among us - reckon he could pull our backline together - and play a more pragmatic game if the match demands. Hope we can.
PG
Obviously Quins are not as good as Bristol, but it’s still hard to see anything other than a comfortable TBP win for Quins. What has changed in a week at Bath to win the game?
The coaches are the same so the “game plan” is the same, the available squad is weaker, the lackadaisical body language won’t be resolved in a week. The defence certainly can be improved, but where are the tries going to come from? We are not going to beat Quins by kicking penalties.
The coaches are the same so the “game plan” is the same, the available squad is weaker, the lackadaisical body language won’t be resolved in a week. The defence certainly can be improved, but where are the tries going to come from? We are not going to beat Quins by kicking penalties.
I think Quins are the perfect opponents for us this weekend to really judge where we are. Most of us are not confident, but the players and the coaches now have this opportunity of impressing the supporters (and BC). Another poor performance and they may be playing to an empty stadium even after lifting covid restrictions, our unwavering support for the club has been taken for granted for too long.
Need to think about who is realistically going to be available.
After Friday there will be question marks over McNally, Stooke and McConnachie. Clearly call ups mean we will not have Faletau and Redpath in addition to Obano, Stuart, Ewels and Watson. Long term injuries seem to include Underhill, Batty and Boyce. I suspect that Rokoduguni, Ellis and Will Spencer must also be injured. I don't think Tian Schoeman or Jacques Du Toit will be ready to join up from isolation yet.
The squad is looking stretched to breaking point and Quins are looking almost full strength and fired up.
I fear this really could get ugly.
We could be looking at:
Bhatti
Dunn (c)
Judge
Williams
Cattell
Bayliss
Reid
Mercer
Spencer
Priestland
Hamer-Webb
Matavesi
Joseph
Cokanasiga
De Glanville
Walker, Schoeman, Thomas, Jeanes, Merrigan, Chudley, Wright, Gray
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:02:02:15:07:39 by malco.
After Friday there will be question marks over McNally, Stooke and McConnachie. Clearly call ups mean we will not have Faletau and Redpath in addition to Obano, Stuart, Ewels and Watson. Long term injuries seem to include Underhill, Batty and Boyce. I suspect that Rokoduguni, Ellis and Will Spencer must also be injured. I don't think Tian Schoeman or Jacques Du Toit will be ready to join up from isolation yet.
The squad is looking stretched to breaking point and Quins are looking almost full strength and fired up.
I fear this really could get ugly.
We could be looking at:
Bhatti
Dunn (c)
Judge
Williams
Cattell
Bayliss
Reid
Mercer
Spencer
Priestland
Hamer-Webb
Matavesi
Joseph
Cokanasiga
De Glanville
Walker, Schoeman, Thomas, Jeanes, Merrigan, Chudley, Wright, Gray
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:02:02:15:07:39 by malco.
If you were someone - like Marcus Smith, for example - aspiring to play International rugby, I'm really not sure that Bath would currently be high on your list. We do have a lot of Ints, but look what's happened to Spencer, McConnochie, Joseph, Cokanasiga, Dunn, Ewels (yes, he's in the England squad, but he's also slipped down the pecking order over the last 9 months). Those are the players with realistic International ambitions.
Then, there are the players whose ambitions might be confined to 'playing regular GP rugby' (or possibly even, 'to be removed from the missing persons list') - Wright, Walker, Vaughan, Green, Fox, Doughty, Atkins. What are we doing to these people!
I'd even be mildly worried if I was SU ... he's never played a bad game for England so he has a lot of credit in the bank. But, you wouldn't have picked him out as a star if you'd only known him from his recent Bath performances. Earl and Willis aren't going to die wondering over the next couple of months, that's for sure.
Then, there are the players whose ambitions might be confined to 'playing regular GP rugby' (or possibly even, 'to be removed from the missing persons list') - Wright, Walker, Vaughan, Green, Fox, Doughty, Atkins. What are we doing to these people!
I'd even be mildly worried if I was SU ... he's never played a bad game for England so he has a lot of credit in the bank. But, you wouldn't have picked him out as a star if you'd only known him from his recent Bath performances. Earl and Willis aren't going to die wondering over the next couple of months, that's for sure.
Malco
I believe Schoeman is OK for isolation - completed- but is he up to speed in Bath's patterns?
Maybe a good reason to throw him on, tear up the script and susrprise Quins?
PG
I believe Schoeman is OK for isolation - completed- but is he up to speed in Bath's patterns?
Maybe a good reason to throw him on, tear up the script and susrprise Quins?
PG
Quote:P G Tips
is he up to speed in Bath's patterns?
No more and no less than he's up to speed on what Scotch mist is, I would suggest.
Perhaps Hooper might be strapping his boots on this week if we’re a bit short of second rows!
Quote:hantssabre
Perhaps Hooper might be strapping his boots on this week if we’re a bit short of second rows!
I'd far rather we pick up the phone to Danny Grewcock.
We need to hope that at least one and preferably both of McNally and Stooke pass their protocols or failing that Will Spencer makes a heroic return from wherever it is that he has been hiding.
Quote:malcoQuote:hantssabre
Perhaps Hooper might be strapping his boots on this week if we’re a bit short of second rows!
I'd far rather we pick up the phone to Danny Grewcock.
We need to hope that at least one and preferably both of McNally and Stooke pass their protocols or failing that Will Spencer makes a heroic return from wherever it is that he has been hiding.
Yes Danny and Justin Harrison!
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I'm sort of looking forward to it but maybe not in a good way...
Paddy Power has Bath at 13:10, generous
Paddy Power has Bath at 13:10, generous
I'd like us to give it a lash but Quins would just out-lash us. This is a grind it out game if we want to actually win it. Given we're down to the bones of our collective ar$es, a very limited, pragmatic game plan is indicated. Playing to our strengths, then. Alex Dombrandt scores a hat trick cos we don't have the imagination to defend his running lines. Quins by 15.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:02:02:17:51:08 by joethefanatic.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:02:02:17:51:08 by joethefanatic.
I think they might just surprise a few people on here.. Bears was a horror show but we scored some tries against Wasps and Tigers. Tighten up the defence and we could keep this to a LBP margin!
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I agree that grinding out a low score win would be the way to build back normally but with so many absences just keeping it tight is unlikely to work IMO. We will need a bit of luck, losing the 2nd row last week so early on was a cruel break.
This week is a big mental test. Build a scratch team and make it competitive using the same coaches who haven't delivered consistency yet. It will certainly be interesting and the response might hint at whether the seasons problems are cultural and high up the club or the finer detail of coaches delivering the right message.
This week is a big mental test. Build a scratch team and make it competitive using the same coaches who haven't delivered consistency yet. It will certainly be interesting and the response might hint at whether the seasons problems are cultural and high up the club or the finer detail of coaches delivering the right message.
I think quins will have had a huge boost after their win against Wasps. Their upheavals seems to have galvanized them, they out played Wasps in all departments . If they play anything like that and there's no dramatic improvement in our defence and attack, it will be another long and painful day at the office. Would / could SH survive another result like that...
Have to say I'm worried. Our best team would have a good chance of a win. We don't have that, we don't have anything close to that we have are at least missing half a team. Southampton FC had 4 key players out last night and lost 9-0!
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
It’s got all the ingredients for a similar horror show this one. I can’t see any middle ground between an absolute drubbing for us, or one of those ridiculous against all odds very narrow wins or losses. If we go a couple of scores behind - well, I’m going to hide a few cans of beer behind the sofa in preparation.
Quote:Optimist
It’s got all the ingredients for a similar horror show this one. I can’t see any middle ground between an absolute drubbing for us, or one of those ridiculous against all odds very narrow wins or losses. If we go a couple of scores behind - well, I’m going to hide a few cans of beer behind the sofa in preparation.
I think you'll be watching it alongside the beers.
I agree, a horror show looming ! Will we actually be able to score 0 ? 
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"AN OUNCE OF ACTION IS WORTH A TON OF THEORY"
FRIEDRICH ENGELS
Adopted Player 2018/19 Ross Batty
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"AN OUNCE OF ACTION IS WORTH A TON OF THEORY"
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Quote:LSAR
I think quins will have had a huge boost after their win against Wasps. Their upheavals seems to have galvanized them, they out played Wasps in all departments . If they play anything like that and there's no dramatic improvement in our defence and attack, it will be another long and painful day at the office. Would / could SH survive another result like that...
1 win all season, worst points difference, worst tries against, humiliated last game. Hooper has survived that, he seems to be untouchable in Bath’s low aspiration environment.
I suspect we could lose 40-0 and nothing will happen.
Or maybe some of us hope they will lose 0-40 and force a coaching move, surely not.
Quote:shipwrecked
Have to say I'm worried. Our best team would have a good chance of a win. We don't have that, we don't have anything close to that we have are at least missing half a team. Southampton FC had 4 key players out last night and lost 9-0!
Maybe Southampton did SW but they got two players sent off, one in the first five minutes so that is not really a fair comparison unless you think we are going to get 2 players sent off. Very unlikely to get sent off that early in rugby remember Owen Farrell. I’ve only seen it once at the Rec, Bath v London Scottish I think when we needed to beat them by 50 points to qualify and we did. We had a policy of not kicking the ball away that day rumour has it there were fines if you did.. a very enjoyable afternoon.
Unlikely to get 2 red cards, but the Bristol game was a typical example of the dominant team getting the run of a few decisions. Just as Martial could have got a yellow for diving last night rather than a red for the Saints defender, the Bris/Bath ‘knock-ons’ could have gone the other way.
Agreed Opti the Ref seemed to go into well they would do that wouldn’t they mode almost from the first 10 minutes. Once that happens it’s very difficult to change their mind. It happens often at scrum time when the ref is convinced that one player is offending then they are in the wrong at every scrum thereafter whether guilty or not.
Chron reporting that Mike Williams is our first choice lock for Saturday. Ewells England, Stooknally out with concussions, Wencer not back from neck surgery and some of the academy lads injured as well. Ellis not back from shoulder injury so can’t fall into his old role. Can we put two flankers into a trenchcoat?
Anyway, more on injuries (finally) here - [www.somersetlive.co.uk]
Does my 2020/21 season Membership also put me into the ballot as a backup player?
Does my 2020/21 season Membership also put me into the ballot as a backup player?
Quote:Rawce
Chron reporting that Mike Williams is our first choice lock for Saturday. Ewells England, Stooknally out with concussions, Wencer not back from neck surgery and some of the academy lads injured as well. Ellis not back from shoulder injury so can’t fall into his old role. Can we put two flankers into a trenchcoat?
Stooknally - made I larf!
... IMHO, of course.
Now in Honolulu
Quote:TG KesmoQuote:shipwrecked
Have to say I'm worried. Our best team would have a good chance of a win. We don't have that, we don't have anything close to that we have are at least missing half a team. Southampton FC had 4 key players out last night and lost 9-0!
Maybe Southampton did SW but they got two players sent off, one in the first five minutes so that is not really a fair comparison unless you think we are going to get 2 players sent off. Very unlikely to get sent off that early in rugby remember Owen Farrell. I’ve only seen it once at the Rec, Bath v London Scottish I think when we needed to beat them by 50 points to qualify and we did. We had a policy of not kicking the ball away that day rumour has it there were fines if you did.. a very enjoyable afternoon.
The game I remember was October 98 against Bedford Blues when Ben Sturnham got a Red card for stamping about seven minutes in on the dubious report from the linesman Andy Melrose as Ref. Ashley Rowden was nowhere near the incident . I remember he literally ran over a defender , didn’t warrant a red card IMO. Bath still went on to win 57-19 . Rory Underwood at 14 for Bedford and a certain Neal Hatley at 1 for Bedford . I remember the incident clearly as I was on the touch line taking photographs for the then press and public relations officer Ken Johnstone ( great character) for those that remember him.
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"AN OUNCE OF ACTION IS WORTH A TON OF THEORY"
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Not good reading on the injury front! Bad luck now being lumped on top of a terrible run of form.
I might be missing something, but are McNally and Stooke confirmed as unable to play or do they still have a chance of making the squad, if they pass the return to play protocols prior to Saturday?
At this rate, the back 5 of the scrum could have some very young faces in it.
I might be missing something, but are McNally and Stooke confirmed as unable to play or do they still have a chance of making the squad, if they pass the return to play protocols prior to Saturday?
At this rate, the back 5 of the scrum could have some very young faces in it.
Quote:I’m assuming they are now one entity having merged through the clash of heads.joethefanatic
Stooknally - made I larf!
Dr, I read it as protocols mean they’re out out for this weekend.
Quote:RawceQuote:I’m assuming they are now one entity having merged through the clash of heads.joethefanatic
Stooknally - made I larf!
Dr, I read it as protocols mean they’re out out for this weekend.
The protocols aren’t complete yet they take a specified time to complete so there would be no answer yes or no before Friday.. either or both (?) of stooknally could still pass or fail these.
Quote:Rawce
Chron reporting that Mike Williams is our first choice lock for Saturday. Ewells England, Stooknally out with concussions, Wencer not back from neck surgery and some of the academy lads injured as well. Ellis not back from shoulder injury so can’t fall into his old role. Can we put two flankers into a trenchcoat?
Sounds like we may need to go shopping on Championship/S Hemisphere for medical jokers?
PG
Get Alex Gray in there, he's tall enough and had to do the vertical jump to get into the NFL...
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Dunno, I’m thinking we will muddle through with flankers for this week and we are likely back to a healthier place next week. I remember the Euro game where we had 5 locks in the pack, now it’s the age of 5 flankers. That said, could we sign Banners for a week as medical joker?
Quote:Rawce
Anyway, more on injuries (finally) here - [www.somersetlive.co.uk]
Does my 2020/21 season Membership also put me into the ballot as a backup player?
As I feared. The worst possible scenario.
Quote:malcoQuote:Rawce
Anyway, more on injuries (finally) here - [www.somersetlive.co.uk]
Does my 2020/21 season Membership also put me into the ballot as a backup player?
As I feared. The worst possible scenario.
No cases of Covid in the Premiership either to bail us out. All rather fraught!
Hmm, the league table makes a gloomy look given the injury issues. If we lose and Glaws win then top 6 is a big leap and we are certainly in the bottom place mix
Quote:Yep, was your team based on ears to the ground or worst case planning?malcoQuote:Rawce
Anyway, more on injuries (finally) here - [www.somersetlive.co.uk]
Does my 2020/21 season Membership also put me into the ballot as a backup player?
As I feared. The worst possible scenario.
Either way, I hope we take an opportunity to put some youngsters in and make it clear that they’ll gain a lot of experience so go out and enjoy it.
Think the SomersetLive article said that even the academy second rows are crocked
From the sound of that injury list, we are going to have genuine excuses this weekend for an almost certain drubbing. But these things do have a sort of 'chicken and egg' habit in sport. Which came first, the injury crisis or the rut?
If we knew we were down to our last 2 locks why weren't they looking for some medical jokers before now*? There is no way that both could survive the next month playing every minute?
(*maybe they have been tbf).
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(*maybe they have been tbf).
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Going to be a bit like one of those United matches of recent memory, where the team-list has *guest against several names.
There must be some decent Championship players kicking their heels right now?
There must be some decent Championship players kicking their heels right now?
Quote:BathMatt53
If we knew we were down to our last 2 locks why weren't they looking for some medical jokers before now*? There is no way that both could survive the next month playing every minute?
(*maybe they have been tbf).
I think to be fair Ewells late England call up and 2 knocking themselves out at the same time may have been on the unlikely to happen scenario play list. The injury to Spencer was known about but the academy injuries may also have been recent. So I don’t think they would have had any plans in motion. I think jokers are only allowed for long term injuries not call ups or HIA short term failures.
Quote:Optimist
Going to be a bit like one of those United matches of recent memory, where the team-list has *guest against several names.
Sounds like we are really short of numbers for this weekend, so you up for the challenge of being a guest player Opti?
Quote:OutsideBathQuote:Optimist
Going to be a bit like one of those United matches of recent memory, where the team-list has *guest against several names.
Sounds like we are really short of numbers for this weekend, so you up for the challenge of being a guest player Opti?
.... in the second-row? Think i might have just tweaked a hammy ....
Quote:TG KesmoQuote:BathMatt53
If we knew we were down to our last 2 locks why weren't they looking for some medical jokers before now*? There is no way that both could survive the next month playing every minute?
(*maybe they have been tbf).
I think to be fair Ewells late England call up and 2 knocking themselves out at the same time may have been on the unlikely to happen scenario play list. The injury to Spencer was known about but the academy injuries may also have been recent. So I don’t think they would have had any plans in motion. I think jokers are only allowed for long term injuries not call ups or HIA short term failures.
Hats did mention in the event last night that squad depth to cover international absences and injuries is the policy. He said Academy lock recent injuries wre unfortunate timing.
PG
Quote:Rawce
Can we have Ewells back now or is he still part of the England Covid bubble?
Nope they are in the bubble for the whole of the 6 nations
If we are looking for a recently retired 2nd row then surely that would be........ Stuart Hooper? Looks in shape, knows his own game plan inside out (come on, work with me here) so line out calls are all good.
Just don't tell your family Stuart, wear a scrum cap or something as a disguise.
Just don't tell your family Stuart, wear a scrum cap or something as a disguise.
Quote:Luke Charteris is a more recently retired and higher quality second row option I would have thought.B4thB4ck
If we are looking for a recently retired 2nd row then surely that would be........ Stuart Hooper? Looks in shape, knows his own game plan inside out (come on, work with me here) so line out calls are all good.
Just don't tell your family Stuart, wear a scrum cap or something as a disguise.
So, Academy locks all injured ? Is that in training (tweaking) or at home ?
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Just got a message from Glos supporting friend about the match:
'Blood on the walls!'
Theyve got Irish, havent paid much attention to them this term?
'Blood on the walls!'
Theyve got Irish, havent paid much attention to them this term?
Not a bad run-on side in the end:
1. Juan Schoeman
2. Tom Dunn
3. Christian Judge
4. Josh McNally (c)
5. Mike Williams
6. Josh Bayliss
7. Miles Reid
8. Zach Mercer
9. Ben Spencer
10. Rhys Priestland
11. Joe Cokanasiga
12. Josh Matavesi
13. Max Clark
14. Semesa Rokoduguni
15. Tom DeGlanville
REPLACEMENTS
16. Jack Walker
17. Jamie Bhatti
18. Kieran Verden
19. Ewan Richards
20. Ethan Staddon
21. Will Chudley
22. Tian Schoeman
23. Will Muir
1. Juan Schoeman
2. Tom Dunn
3. Christian Judge
4. Josh McNally (c)
5. Mike Williams
6. Josh Bayliss
7. Miles Reid
8. Zach Mercer
9. Ben Spencer
10. Rhys Priestland
11. Joe Cokanasiga
12. Josh Matavesi
13. Max Clark
14. Semesa Rokoduguni
15. Tom DeGlanville
REPLACEMENTS
16. Jack Walker
17. Jamie Bhatti
18. Kieran Verden
19. Ewan Richards
20. Ethan Staddon
21. Will Chudley
22. Tian Schoeman
23. Will Muir
Interesting.
18. Kieran Verden
19. Ewan Richards
20. Ethan Staddon
22. Tian Schoeman
23. Will Muir
Lots of new faces!
On paper probably the 'weakest' (and certainly youngest) 23 I've seen Bath put out in a long time, like a little cup team on paper. BUT, give that the more experienced guys haven't been performing then why not let them have a chance. COYB!
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:02:05:12:07:31 by BathMatt53.
18. Kieran Verden
19. Ewan Richards
20. Ethan Staddon
22. Tian Schoeman
23. Will Muir
Lots of new faces!
On paper probably the 'weakest' (and certainly youngest) 23 I've seen Bath put out in a long time, like a little cup team on paper. BUT, give that the more experienced guys haven't been performing then why not let them have a chance. COYB!
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:02:05:12:07:31 by BathMatt53.
Quote:woodpecker
I thought McNally was out
He was having his return to play tests. Guess he passed his and Stooke didn't.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
“ Josh McNally has passed all return to rugby protocols having failed his HIA assessment last Friday at Ashton Gate.”
The write up says Alex Gray could make his debut, but then he isn’t listed in the squad... [www.bathrugby.com]
Good to see Max Clark get a start.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:02:05:12:12:38 by dcsh.
The write up says Alex Gray could make his debut, but then he isn’t listed in the squad... [www.bathrugby.com]
Good to see Max Clark get a start.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:02:05:12:12:38 by dcsh.
weak looking team. forwards lack firepower. the backline has more defensive holes in it than a colander. could be a cricket score. some interesting options on the bench however.
All things considered, not a bad starting XV. The fact that McNally is fit to start makes a huge difference, as the starting pack now should hold their own.
Good luck to the lads on the bench, and interesting to see what Schoeman and Muir offer.
Most eye-popping selection for me is no JJ. Don't think it's an enforced rest and can't remember him carrying an injury last week (although it looked like it when SR breezed past him). For my mind, looks like a straightforward dropping, which is good to see. Clark deserves a chance (at last) and JJ couldn't have looked less interested last week if he'd tried.
Well, let's give it a go. Can't be worse than last week... can it?!
Good luck to the lads on the bench, and interesting to see what Schoeman and Muir offer.
Most eye-popping selection for me is no JJ. Don't think it's an enforced rest and can't remember him carrying an injury last week (although it looked like it when SR breezed past him). For my mind, looks like a straightforward dropping, which is good to see. Clark deserves a chance (at last) and JJ couldn't have looked less interested last week if he'd tried.
Well, let's give it a go. Can't be worse than last week... can it?!
Quote:bardofavon
the backline has more defensive holes in it than a colander.
Thankfully that Smith kid is rubbish so I can't see him exploiting them.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Quote:dr.bath1865
Who would you have picked instead bard?
Is JJ injured or just dropped / rested? A 12 and 13 of Clark and an on-form JJ would have been preferable if possible. I worry about Smith nipping up the inside of RP and JM tbh.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Probably the best team that we could put together at the present time. On an optimistic note, it will give a chance to see how our youngsters and reserve players cope at the highest level. On a negative note, I fear it could be a very very long night!
I agree, Matt, but an 'on-form JJ' hasn't been seen in a BB&W shirt since the summer of 2015.
After his performance last week, I think it's the right call to drop him. Not that JM did much better, but I've always preferred Clark at 13.
After his performance last week, I think it's the right call to drop him. Not that JM did much better, but I've always preferred Clark at 13.
Quote:bathwickboy
Probably the best team that we could put together at the present time.On a negative note, I fear it could be a very very long night!
Starting at 2.15 PM. If we are still playing in the dark it will be!
P G Tips
Jaco Coetzee: my adopted Player, 2023-24.
Quote:P G TipsQuote:bathwickboy
Probably the best team that we could put together at the present time.On a negative note, I fear it could be a very very long night!
Starting at 2.15 PM. If we are still playing in the dark it will be!
Having realised my faux pas I have logged back in to change my post, but you have beaten me to it. How can I beat a hasty retreat out of this? Naturally PG, I was only citing the timing of the match in a metaphorical context
![[:wor kid:]](/phorum-5.1.15/mods/smileys/images/13.gif "[:wor kid:]")
Not too sure the timing of the match will change the result but fingers crossed. Quote:P G TipsQuote:bathwickboy
Probably the best team that we could put together at the present time.On a negative note, I fear it could be a very very long night!
Starting at 2.15 PM. If we are still playing in the dark it will be!
I wonder if he meant a very long night on this forum board...
I have spices in my cupboard older than some of the bench! Great opportunity for them.
16. Jack Walker (usual)
17. Jamie Bhatti (new to the team, on loan)
18. Kieran Verden (academy)
19. Ewan Richards (academy D.O.B April 2002!)
20. Ethan Staddon (academy D.O.B July 2002!)
21. Will Chudley (usual)
22. Tian Schoeman (new to the team, from SA)
23. Will Muir (new to the team, from 7s)
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Quote:dr.bath1865
Who would you have picked instead bard?
good question. i have for a number of years complained about our lack of midfield resources on this board. the club has spent the square root of diddly squat on improving that part of our team until a few months ago when they forked out 120k for redpath. jj has never had any competition for the 13 shirt which explains why he rarely bothers to turn up. clark has failed to progress (believe it or not he and marchant used to play in the sam england u20 team) and wright was a freebie that andy rock brought with him from carnegie. he looks good in flashes but has been injured too often and, like clark, his defence is suspect. matavesi is a guy i like- great attitude, plays with a smile and gives it his best shot, but his limitations are easy to see. he could be kept on as a mentor for the academy guys, other than that i would probably let him go at the end of the season.
so given that, i would probably give the 12 shirt to ojomoh and the 13 to butt (those guys played a lot of age group rugby together). alternatively i would have groomed gray for the 13 shirt (no point having 6 wingers and only one outside centre) and given him a run.
the coaches must know that they are unlikely to hold on to jj and redpath throughout the season so should have laid in credible reserves. they havent which is hooper's fault as DoR.
Quote:bardofavon
so given that, i would probably give the 12 shirt to ojomoh and the 13 to butt (those guys played a lot of age group rugby together).
With makeshift forwards and a dodgy platform I think that it would have been 100% wrong to chuck two young centres for a hammering off the back foot. Totally agree that they could do with some game time but this weekend is not the weekend.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
That is refreshing to see a senior player dropped if form is the reason. I would rather JJ be in form and play of course.
Maybe it wasn't just the wave by incident, I would have like to have seen that from a different angle to the highlights video I saw.
Throwing the youngsters in could be the start of a siege mentality that is required on any bad run. The academy boys will know each other and take heart from playing together whatever happens. Good luck to them, enjoy it and give 100%.
Maybe it wasn't just the wave by incident, I would have like to have seen that from a different angle to the highlights video I saw.
Throwing the youngsters in could be the start of a siege mentality that is required on any bad run. The academy boys will know each other and take heart from playing together whatever happens. Good luck to them, enjoy it and give 100%.
Quote:malco
I predict another walloping.
Unfortunately with Sale (away) it could well be the same next week as well. This makes the following home game against Glos on 19th February pretty crucial, we could well find ourselves at the bottom after that game. I wonder what the management speak responses would be like at that point? (let's hope we don't have to find out).
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Quote:BathMatt53Quote:malco
I predict another walloping.
Unfortunately with Sale (away) it could well be the same next week as well. This makes the following home game against Glos on 19th February pretty crucial, we could well find ourselves at the bottom after that game. I wonder what the management speak responses would be like at that point? (let's hope we don't have to find out).
Relegation battle looks to be between Bath, Worcester and Gloucester. With only 1 win all season and no plan, no form and probably no confidence we don't go into any game as favourites.
We are the team that everyone wants to play.
Was interesting reading (Hooper’s?) comment from the Q&A tgat he wants young players to have a good experience when they ascend to the 1st team. Kind of implies that, right now, he know s full well they’re on for a hiding .... to nothing.
We had a strong side out last week and got walloped so I’ve no issue with this side. I hope for a reaction and for us to eek out a win of some sort. Please !
Sale have just showed just how poor a team we were last week. Bristol were definitely made to look better than they actually are. Is it a reference to getting a DoR with a winning mentality or just we are really that poor. Think Lam will be bemoaning how easy it was last week. As Moyne said they met a side who fronted up. Without doubt a reference to our attitude last week.
Let us see the performance tomorrow not necessarily the result the performance I personally wish to see the players reaction that will tell us whether they believe in Hooper.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:02:05:22:25:07 by Ali1969.
Let us see the performance tomorrow not necessarily the result the performance I personally wish to see the players reaction that will tell us whether they believe in Hooper.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:02:05:22:25:07 by Ali1969.
Interested to know if Thomas and JJ are dropped on the basis of a terrible showing last week. Sadly I doubt it and are probably injured. Assume ghw injured as thought we went ok against bris relatively.
Really interested to see how verden, staddon, richards, muir go- hope they all get on and go well. Suggests muir ahead of gray in his transition? Has been with us longer tbf.
Bit disappointed that chudley still getting the bench spot but I guess throwing even more inexperience into the 23 this week may not be wise.
Really interested to see how verden, staddon, richards, muir go- hope they all get on and go well. Suggests muir ahead of gray in his transition? Has been with us longer tbf.
Bit disappointed that chudley still getting the bench spot but I guess throwing even more inexperience into the 23 this week may not be wise.
Mcnally out.
6 and a 7 at lock now.
Ouch.
Hooker covering backrow from bench
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:02:06:14:11:25 by charlieboa.
6 and a 7 at lock now.
Ouch.
Hooker covering backrow from bench
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:02:06:14:11:25 by charlieboa.
Eek!
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
Not amused by this. McNally was clearly never going to be fit. Very poor from the club.
Probably won't make much difference to how badly Bath will be beaten, result a forgone conclusion anyway.
Quote:charlieboa
Mcnally out.
6 and a 7 at lock now.
Ouch.
Hooker covering backroom from bench
Wow, not sure if two flankers in the second row or the hooker having to cover the backroom staff is more surprising! ;-)
Looks a bit uneven to me!
Bath
15De Glanville
14Rokoduguni
13Clark
12Matavesi
11Cokanasiga
10Priestland
9Spencer
1Schoeman
2Dunn
3Judge
4Bayliss
5Williams
6Staddon
7Reid
8Mercer
Substitutes (revised see below)
16Walker
17Bhatti
20Doughty
21Chudley
Harlequins
15Brown
14Lynagh
13Marchant
12Esterhuizen
11Morris
10Smith
9Care
1Marler
2Baldwin
3Louw
4Symons
5Lewies
6White
7Evans
8Dombrandt
Substitutes
16Elia
17Els
18Kerrod
19Young
20de Carpentier
21Landajo
22Lang
23Green
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:02:06:14:07:52 by CoochieCoo.
Bath
15De Glanville
14Rokoduguni
13Clark
12Matavesi
11Cokanasiga
10Priestland
9Spencer
1Schoeman
2Dunn
3Judge
4Bayliss
5Williams
6Staddon
7Reid
8Mercer
Substitutes (revised see below)
16Walker
17Bhatti
20Doughty
21Chudley
Harlequins
15Brown
14Lynagh
13Marchant
12Esterhuizen
11Morris
10Smith
9Care
1Marler
2Baldwin
3Louw
4Symons
5Lewies
6White
7Evans
8Dombrandt
Substitutes
16Elia
17Els
18Kerrod
19Young
20de Carpentier
21Landajo
22Lang
23Green
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:02:06:14:07:52 by CoochieCoo.
That pack looks borderline dangerous to me!
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
Quote:shipwrecked
That pack looks borderline dangerous to me!
I genuinely fear that this could destroy a couple of young careers. It is a complete mismatch and a complete farce of a situation.
Quote:malcoQuote:shipwrecked
That pack looks borderline dangerous to me!
I genuinely fear that this could destroy a couple of young careers. It is a complete mismatch and a complete farce of a situation.
I agree, is that right? Just four subs, what happens if there is an injury, which is highly likely or at 60 minutes, the final quarter could be a total disaster.
BBC update
16Walker
17Bhatti
18Verden
19Richards
20Doughty
21Chudley
22Schoeman
23Muir
16Walker
17Bhatti
18Verden
19Richards
20Doughty
21Chudley
22Schoeman
23Muir
If Judge gets a bang on the head early and Verden has to front Joe Marler and Scott Baldwin I would be genuinely fearful for his safety.
Final BBC line ups
Lineups
Bath
15De Glanville
14Rokoduguni
13Clark
12Matavesi
11Cokanasiga
10Priestland
9Spencer
1Schoeman
2Dunn
3Judge
4McNally
5Williams
6Staddon
7Reid
8Mercer
Substitutes
16Walker
17Bhatti
18Verden
19Richards
20Doughty
21Chudley
22Schoeman
23Muir
Harlequins
15Brown
14Lynagh
13Marchant
12Esterhuizen
11Morris
10Smith
9Care
1Marler
2Baldwin
3Louw
4Symons
5Lewies
6White
7Evans
8Dombrandt
Substitutes
16Elia
17Garcia Botta
18Kerrod
19Young
20de Carpentier
21Landajo
22Lang
23Green
Lineups
Bath
15De Glanville
14Rokoduguni
13Clark
12Matavesi
11Cokanasiga
10Priestland
9Spencer
1Schoeman
2Dunn
3Judge
4McNally
5Williams
6Staddon
7Reid
8Mercer
Substitutes
16Walker
17Bhatti
18Verden
19Richards
20Doughty
21Chudley
22Schoeman
23Muir
Harlequins
15Brown
14Lynagh
13Marchant
12Esterhuizen
11Morris
10Smith
9Care
1Marler
2Baldwin
3Louw
4Symons
5Lewies
6White
7Evans
8Dombrandt
Substitutes
16Elia
17Garcia Botta
18Kerrod
19Young
20de Carpentier
21Landajo
22Lang
23Green
BBC gets it wrong as per...
Quote:CoochieCoo
Final BBC line ups
Lineups
Bath
15De Glanville
14Rokoduguni
13Clark
12Matavesi
11Cokanasiga
10Priestland
9Spencer
1Schoeman
2Dunn
3Judge
4McNally
5Williams
6Staddon
7Reid
8Mercer
Substitutes
16Walker
17Bhatti
18Verden
19Richards
20Doughty
21Chudley
22Schoeman
23Muir
Harlequins
15Brown
14Lynagh
13Marchant
12Esterhuizen
11Morris
10Smith
9Care
1Marler
2Baldwin
3Louw
4Symons
5Lewies
6White
7Evans
8Dombrandt
Substitutes
16Elia
17Garcia Botta
18Kerrod
19Young
20de Carpentier
21Landajo
22Lang
23Green
Cheers CC, numbers at least, I can see big problems though. Not a good look for a contact sport, makes you wonder if the ref has the power to stop a game on safety grounds.
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
Good first 5 mins !
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
Not so good next 5 mins. 
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
TBH, I'm right on the brink of turning this off!
Probably will do if Quins score again!
15mins in!!!
Something has to change rapidly!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Adopted Players: All of the little blighters!!!
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:02:06:14:33:20 by plong.
Probably will do if Quins score again!
15mins in!!!
Something has to change rapidly!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Adopted Players: All of the little blighters!!!
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:02:06:14:33:20 by plong.
Quote:plong
Thick penalty Bath!!!
3-3
And another !
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:OutsideBath
Hooper’s tweaks not working then?
Unless you're talking about the "slang term for the compulsive, disorganized behavior that methamphetamine users exhibit", I don't think so!!!!!
Adopted Players: All of the little blighters!!!
Quote:OutsideBath
Hooper’s tweaks not working then?
No, too much twerking instead !
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
... what' was that definition of insanity...? "Doing the same thing and expecting a different result"
Bath - accept that you are categorically inept at cheating and get caught doing mindless stuff ALL the time, so DON'T '#'#'#'#'ing DO IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Adopted Players: All of the little blighters!!!
Bath - accept that you are categorically inept at cheating and get caught doing mindless stuff ALL the time, so DON'T '#'#'#'#'ing DO IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Adopted Players: All of the little blighters!!!
Too many daft penalties as usual, 3-16
Smith off with head injury ,
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
Smith off with head injury ,
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
Can anyone honestly tell me that Priestland/Matavesi are adding anything to the team right now?
Quote:hasta
Our attack is just hopeless.
It's not that good! Our attack goes backwards and then gives up penalties
Quins rush defence is impressive, almost like they must be 3 yds offside every single ruck and the ref steadfastly ignores it
Quote:hasta
Can anyone honestly tell me that Priestland/Matavesi are adding anything to the team right now?
Been saying it for months, how matavesi can come in from a championship club and walk into our 23 every week, starting most games a little embarrassing I think. Doesn't say much for wright and clark etc (not that I rate them either, would rather see ojo)
WELL, THAT'S ENOUGH OF THAT <self-censored> FOR ME!!!
I'd rather watch Wasps v Saints!!!
Adopted Players: All of the little blighters!!!
I'd rather watch Wasps v Saints!!!
Adopted Players: All of the little blighters!!!
Oh dear ! If anybody needed any confirmation that we are ..........pretty poor , whatever Stuart Hooper uses as an excuse . This is it 3 - 23. .
Plan B anyone ?
Just going backwards - consistently, sad to see
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
Plan B anyone ?
Just going backwards - consistently, sad to see
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
The DOR hasn’t changed so why be surprised when the performance doesn’t change.
Pathetic again, have we forgotten we have a duty to protect and develop players not feed them to the lions.
Let us wait for the book of excuses to be opened post match - trained well and a few tweaks for next week.
Let us wait for the book of excuses to be opened post match - trained well and a few tweaks for next week.
Another horror show. Quick pass the Bath branded Gin. Better pass the vodka and rum too. Going to be a long afternoon.
Quote:Ali1969
Pathetic again, have we forgotten we have a duty to protect and develop players not feed them to the lions.
Let us wait for the book of excuses to be opened post match - trained well and a few tweaks for next week.
You forgot that McNally didn't make the start of the game as though that would make all the difference to the pack
Unsurprisingly our Bath United/Academy pack is unable to secure any possession or provide any platform. I would be amazed if we score any more points in this match and keep them under 50 points.
Quote:No about as inspirational as an airline salad! Having said that that's a step up from Hooper.Bath Blues
Stuart Lancaster fancy a new challenge?
De Granville didn't need to force that, just shows what lack of confidence will do.
Considering we’re pretty much the worst team in the prem at then moment how many are we losing to the six nations ?
Any who’s the annoying bloke advising the ref on every little Bath misdemeanour ?
Any who’s the annoying bloke advising the ref on every little Bath misdemeanour ?
Quote:Bath Blues
Stuart Lancaster fancy a new challenge?
Anybody ?
Will we score more than 3 points any game ?
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
Firstly, I have no issue with the pack effort given the lack of experience in key positions but once again we continue to demonstrate that almost all inventiveness and creativity have been stripped out of this team. We have no idea how to attack our even think about how to attack.
Lucky we worked on defence in the week ..... Clueless, mechanical and dispirited.
Lucky we worked on defence in the week ..... Clueless, mechanical and dispirited.
In all fairness did anybody really expect anything better given the team we have had to put out?
Time for a re-set, what a joke title for this thread, unless you were talking about the DOR? Utterly pathetic
NO. Excuses ......
This is Bath Rugby Whoever is playing .
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"AN OUNCE OF ACTION IS WORTH A TON OF THEORY"
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This is Bath Rugby Whoever is playing .
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"AN OUNCE OF ACTION IS WORTH A TON OF THEORY"
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Quote:Never In Doubt
Firstly, I have no issue with the pack effort given the lack of experience in key positions but once again we continue to demonstrate that almost all inventiveness and creativity have been stripped out of this team. We have no idea how to attack our even think about how to attack.
Lucky we worked on defence in the week ..... Clueless, mechanical and dispirited.
That’s absolutely not the game as I see it. It’s the lack of power and defensive organisation that’s hurting us in this one, some of which may be due to having no locks on the pitch. When we get the ball we’re trying to do something with it, probably trying too hard.
We’re definitely getting humped but anyone who posts on here about lack of effort should hang their head.
Noticeable how much faster TdG is than Joe C. TMO reffing the game more than Craig Maxwell-Keys!
Bayliss doing OK, Reid having a go then.........?
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
Bayliss doing OK, Reid having a go then.........?
Never thought I’d say this but I’d like to thank the PM, if it weren’t for him I might have been at the rec today!
I don’t think there is a lack of effort, for me it’s a complete lack of direction, discipline and leadership .
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"AN OUNCE OF ACTION IS WORTH A TON OF THEORY"
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Quote:hantssabre
In all fairness did anybody really expect anything better given the team we have had to put out?
+1, I cannot see the game, I do not expect a win but was hoping for a good performance from COML in terms of explaining what they are seeing in the context of effectively a Bath 3rds.
Dunn scores !!
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Quote:BeergogglesQuote:Never In Doubt
Firstly, I have no issue with the pack effort given the lack of experience in key positions but once again we continue to demonstrate that almost all inventiveness and creativity have been stripped out of this team. We have no idea how to attack our even think about how to attack.
Lucky we worked on defence in the week ..... Clueless, mechanical and dispirited.
That’s absolutely not the game as I see it. It’s the lack of power and defensive organisation that’s hurting us in this one, some of which may be due to having no locks on the pitch. When we get the ball we’re trying to do something with it, probably trying too hard.
We’re definitely getting humped but anyone who posts on here about lack of effort should hang their head.
I don't disagree we are underpowered and our defence is shocking but based on this game and the last we could play until the end of the world and we would never create an attacking opportunity. For me the pack have tried to front up but they lack experience, power and if we never keep possession or attack then they will always be ground down as the points stack up against us.
We have terrible short term problems in morale, organisation and power but all I am highlighting is that even if we solve these we have even bigger longer term problems in our inability to attack and for me that is due to the style and emphasis imposed by Hooper and Hatley.
Cheapest penalty ever (in front of the kicker when ball straight to touch) but I'll take that.
Quote:OutsideBath
Never thought I’d say this but I’d like to thank the PM, if it weren’t for him I might have been at the rec today!
Yes, it is a massive relief. We should be able to put up a decent performance whatever team we put out, not necessarily win but be competitive. There needed to be a reset but has anything changed for the better? I couldn't bring myself to watch!
Quote:Bath HammerQuote:OutsideBath
Never thought I’d say this but I’d like to thank the PM, if it weren’t for him I might have been at the rec today!
Yes, it is a massive relief. We should be able to put up a decent performance whatever team we put out, not necessarily win but be competitive. There needed to be a reset but has anything changed for the better? I couldn't bring myself to watch!
No change , we still don’t have any cutting edge or penetration or if we do go forward 20 metres we end up going backwards 50 metres !
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Officials colluding to give Roko a yellow for a so called deliberate knock on !
Never in a month of Sundays !
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Never in a month of Sundays !
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"AN OUNCE OF ACTION IS WORTH A TON OF THEORY"
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Shame roko couldn't make his arms fall off as he went into that tackle.
Laughable decision
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:02:06:15:34:46 by charlieboa.
Laughable decision
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:02:06:15:34:46 by charlieboa.
That is absolutely outrageous and quite frankly incompetent refereeing. Just shocking !
Quote:hasta
Yellow card for that?! What the hell.
Yep. Once again the laws make an ass of themselves...
Harsh yellow card on Roko. How many of these have we seen recently that have been just a penalty!
agreed that was a joke, even quins thought so plus the commentator! I did not realise the TMO was actually the ref in Rugby these days
Now a ‘lucky’ yellow for Josh Matavesi that could have been red and he didn’t even stop Care scoring!
That’s enough for me. I can deal with us being rubbish but I can’t deal with the fact that the referee has absolutely no knowledge or understanding of the game. Matravesi unlucky but you have seen them before, the fact that the buffoons pretending to ref this game were talking about red says it all.
Now a yellow for Matavasi ?
Still all helps for Stuart’s excuses!
10- 28.
Perhaps there needs to be another midweek Questions and fluffy answers session ?
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Still all helps for Stuart’s excuses!
10- 28.
Perhaps there needs to be another midweek Questions and fluffy answers session ?
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Love to know what the line judge said that got it bumped up. Second more of a yellow than the first but still harsh...
Kind of feel like they're going the extra mile to find any infringement by Bath...
Kind of feel like they're going the extra mile to find any infringement by Bath...
Well, if the game wasn't already lost, that 2nd yellow has confirmed it now
Yes, we’re rubbish, but our run of bad luck with injuries and now refereeing is quite incredible.
At least losing 2 backs in the bin won’t have any effect on our attacking play!
Quote:The BearQuote:hasta
Yellow card for that?! What the hell.
Yep. Once again the laws make an ass of themselves...
That ones not on the laws, squarely poor decision from the ref and the bloke he met at the bus stop on the way to the game.
Matavesi yellow was after TMO and ref had decided that is was a yellow offence as a starting point but with enough mitigants to bring it down to a penalty only. Then the two touch judges persuaded him is was a RED starting point!
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:02:06:15:42:17 by Never In Doubt.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:02:06:15:42:17 by Never In Doubt.
And that should be a penalty to us. Quins knock on, Brown offside interfering with play.
Great to see "Cokanasiga in full flight"... Before he slows down and ambles into the opposition player going down easily.
Could really do with him getting his attacking confidence back.
Could really do with him getting his attacking confidence back.
Schoemam and Muir !
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
Forearm to Bath head there. Once again nothing from TMO.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:02:06:15:52:50 by Bath Blues.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:02:06:15:52:50 by Bath Blues.
We aren’t any good at rugby under the current coaching team/system , perhaps we should be playing .........?
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"AN OUNCE OF ACTION IS WORTH A TON OF THEORY"
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"AN OUNCE OF ACTION IS WORTH A TON OF THEORY"
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What was that? did I see a Bath centre running at pace with commitment ...... surely not!
Also impressed with Baylis at lock and Reid, better second half!
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:02:06:16:18:16 by shipwrecked.
Also impressed with Baylis at lock and Reid, better second half!
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:02:06:16:18:16 by shipwrecked.
Well. It's better than last week. Positives TdG, Bayliss, Reid, bit more from Roko.
Schoeman makes a big difference ..... attacks the line and passing at players moving into gaps not standing still.
Much better from Schoeman great pass to TdG for his try and just looks on it. Muir adding real zip!
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
The coaches need to have some very honest answers for this absolute mess, I can’t wait to hear the post match fluffery or whatever you call it . Second thoughts I don’t !
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"AN OUNCE OF ACTION IS WORTH A TON OF THEORY"
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Quote:hasta
Well. It's better than last week. Positives TdG, Bayliss, Reid, bit more from Roko.
I'd add Muir and T. Schoeman's promising debut showings to that.
Credit to the scrum and lineout as well: given we're missing something like 6 locks, both functioned fairly well, I thought.
Quote:The Bear
Is Muir the 7s guy?
One of them yes.
Quote:Agreed, some positives in terms of getting more experience in the squad and hopefully no injuries.BarnoidQuote:hasta
Well. It's better than last week. Positives TdG, Bayliss, Reid, bit more from Roko.
I'd add Muir and T. Schoeman's promising debut showings to that.
Credit to the scrum and lineout as well: given we're missing something like 6 locks, both functioned fairly well, I thought.
The Bath coaching team must be congratulated for keeping the score under 40pts, excellent effort and under their guidance Bath are really going places.
Not going to mention negatives because we all know them.
Just wanted to say congratulations to the kids who have come up through school levels and made their Bath debuts today. None of them let themselves or the team down and I'm sure have very bright futures ahead of them. Well done!
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Just wanted to say congratulations to the kids who have come up through school levels and made their Bath debuts today. None of them let themselves or the team down and I'm sure have very bright futures ahead of them. Well done!
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Can't pick any positives. Turned over by Quins at home, Quins aren't even a top 6 team. We only started getting into the game once it was lost.
As a team, the match officials had almost as bad a game as we did. Farcical interpretation of offside and advantage, as for the ARs' judgment of when to communicate a decision, you could be forgiven for thinking that their knowledge of the game came solely from reading the laws, rather than actually watching the game.
We were poor to rubbish in the first half but that second half was almost rugby!
We were poor to rubbish in the first half but that second half was almost rugby!
Positives in the newer guys (yet to learn the Bath way) and the guys who have come through the academy for showing resilience. Coaches owe them a lot!
You have to say that on that performance, Spencer, Schoeman, Redpath, Muir, McConnachie, TdG and Watson would be a decent back line if fit.
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
Interesting watching via red button that you see the losing huddle after the match and Spencer asking questions. Mercer on the outside perhaps already half in Montpellier while Hooper looked dejected again wouldn't be surprised to see him gone in the week.
Let's play the up and coming players. Don't like losing but if we are blooding players then at least us fans can see something positive. This season is gone.
Quote:shipwrecked
You have to say that on that performance, Spencer, Schoeman, Redpath, Muir, McConnachie, TdG and Watson would be a decent back line if fit.
JJ the new water boy then. ;-)
Quote:Yes, TSchoe and Muir looked very handy when they came on. Hope to see more of them, plus I hope the youngsters who played today get some more game time especially if things are ringfenced.shipwrecked
You have to say that on that performance, Spencer, Schoeman, Redpath, Muir, McConnachie, TdG and Watson would be a decent back line if fit.
Quote:Never In Doubt
Matavesi yellow was after TMO and ref had decided that is was a yellow offence as a starting point but with enough mitigants to bring it down to a penalty only. Then the two touch judges persuaded him is was a RED starting point!
But the framework says that a high 'tackle' *starts* at red and is then subject to mitigation. The TMO & ref were wrong and the AR was right. High tackle - red card. Mitigation - player dipping to the line. Takes it to yellow
My favourite nonsense was the logic which said 'it's clearly not a deliberate knock on because a tackle is being made'. So I can slap the ball down with one hand because my other arm is round your body...hmmmm.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:02:06:16:58:31 by Trawling.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:02:06:16:58:31 by Trawling.
Arm round head or neck is a high degree of danger so it starts at a red.
Quote:Gray_Lensman
Arm round head or neck is a high degree of danger so it starts at a red.
No it's not, the framework is literally right there.
Interesting that there has been no post match interview broadcast on the website or on social media.
When you see Redpath getting good ball you have to wonder what he could do with the same thing at the Rec.
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
Quote:bathstigg
Interesting watching via red button that you see the losing huddle after the match and Spencer asking questions. Mercer on the outside perhaps already half in Montpellier while Hooper looked dejected again wouldn't be surprised to see him gone in the week.
Hooper’s going nowhere, he’ll be DOR for Bath in the Championship next season.
Ummm... Hooper out
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:02:06:21:11:51 by dannyf2.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:02:06:21:11:51 by dannyf2.
Quote:hasta
Interview with Max Clark... [twitter.com]
Much the same speak as Hooper then, hardly going to criticise other players or coaches or tell it like it really is .
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If that was a step forward then God forbid what regression looks like. At best, we have stopped getting worse.
When the team is published perhaps the club should also publish a list of excuses to be used following the loss and tweaks for the following week?
If the tweaks are not working.........what’s next ?
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Entries for an Excuses Drinking Bingo game... I'll start:
1. We trained well all week
2. We didn't follow the gameplan
3. We made too many basic errors
4. ...
Adopted Players: All of the little blighters!!!
1. We trained well all week
2. We didn't follow the gameplan
3. We made too many basic errors
4. ...
Adopted Players: All of the little blighters!!!
The first half was rubbish, but the second was the best half we've played since 5th December. I'm not saying it was good, or nearly enough, but given the personnel available, the debutants and the pattern of play towards the end, it *was* an improvement.
But no more Rhys or JoCo, thanks. Let Spencer and Schoemann start to build a partnership, given Clark game time in the centre, let TdG continue to develop and bring Muir and McConnochie into the game from the wings.
But no more Rhys or JoCo, thanks. Let Spencer and Schoemann start to build a partnership, given Clark game time in the centre, let TdG continue to develop and bring Muir and McConnochie into the game from the wings.
Quote:plong
Entries for an Excuses Drinking Bingo game... I'll start:
1. We trained well all week
2. We didn't follow the gameplan
3. We made too many basic errors
4. ...
4. We had everything thrown at us in that game with changes and decisions
My Saturday:
1) Sort bathroom lights :-)
2) Fit new doorbell :-)
3) Find missing wellies :-)
4) Watch Bath :-(
5) Watch England :-(
3 out of 5, control the controllables!!!
1) Sort bathroom lights :-)
2) Fit new doorbell :-)
3) Find missing wellies :-)
4) Watch Bath :-(
5) Watch England :-(
3 out of 5, control the controllables!!!
Quote:hasta
The first half was rubbish, but the second was the best half we've played since 5th December. I'm not saying it was good, or nearly enough, but given the personnel available, the debutants and the pattern of play towards the end, it *was* an improvement.
But no more Rhys or JoCo, thanks. Let Spencer and Schoemann start to build a partnership, given Clark game time in the centre, let TdG continue to develop and bring Muir and McConnochie into the game from the wings.
Agree with all of that but Clark is too slow. In one play RP passed back nearly 12-15 metres followed by JM doing similar. TS made breaks but passed so much flatter, his transfer to TdG was just asking to be taken at pace.
I really do thing pace makes so much difference to back play.
JJ has pace and it's done nothing for him recently. Give Clark at least a shot to run direct with distributors at 10, 12, 15.
Give JJ a shot outside a running 10 and Redpath and we might see a different player.
"When you are on a run of losing games it's not all about clinging on to the positives, but I'm massively proud of the performance. We need to harness this energy because although we didn't win, the boys came together."
What?? I just don't get Hooper Speak. Proud, to lose? What positives are being clung? What energy? Boys? Came together, what, like in the losing huddle?
How is one supposed to respond to this gibberish? I don't even think its translatable. Is Stu Klingon maybe?
What?? I just don't get Hooper Speak. Proud, to lose? What positives are being clung? What energy? Boys? Came together, what, like in the losing huddle?
How is one supposed to respond to this gibberish? I don't even think its translatable. Is Stu Klingon maybe?
When there’s a smell in the room you can always open the window.
The better option is to remove the source of the smell.
PECK
The better option is to remove the source of the smell.
PECK
Quote:Deckchair
"When you are on a run of losing games it's not all about clinging on to the positives, but I'm massively proud of the performance. We need to harness this energy because although we didn't win, the boys came together."
What?? I just don't get Hooper Speak. Proud, to lose? What positives are being clung? What energy? Boys? Came together, what, like in the losing huddle?
How is one supposed to respond to this gibberish? I don't even think its translatable. Is Stu Klingon maybe?
I understand the frustration but someone has to say something to the press and media speak is all we should expect. That's the same in all sports everywhere, win or lose. I would just focus on the game itself, you will never find out any gems of information in a pre or post match interview.
OK, it's not the most articulate response but I've heard worse. He's saying that they won't hide from the negatives but he's publicly praising the second half resilience and the efforts of the young players and debutants. Does he need to say 'Sorry, I know we're %@_£' ? I think fans are so fed up with that end of last season 'surge' being yet another false dawn as we return to, indeed fail to attain our usual mediocrity that SH is condemned whatever he does or says.
Just watched the game. A poor team playing poorly. But occasional glimpses of something better at the end. I shudder to think what the score would have been if Marcus Smith had stayed on the pitch. But if you play rookies, you get rookie mistakes. At least this way we'll learn something. Start the finishing 15 against the Tigs next week and see what happens.
MotM - Roko as recompense for the most ridiculous yellow card I have seen in my life. Especially as the ref then declined to give one to Quins after an identical tackle. CMK did not cover himself in glory.
... IMHO, of course.
Now in Honolulu
MotM - Roko as recompense for the most ridiculous yellow card I have seen in my life. Especially as the ref then declined to give one to Quins after an identical tackle. CMK did not cover himself in glory.
... IMHO, of course.
Now in Honolulu
We were poor,but better than last week I guess.
Game spoilt by CMK, who I always thought was an ok ref. But constant input from TMO, on some quite trivial stuff was frustrating and annoying. Similar thing happened in the first half of the earlier Wasps game, is this going to be the norm going forward? I really hope not.
I thought Bayliss was outstanding as a stand in lock, and Read played as well as I have seen him play.
Excited by the arrival of the Saffa 5/8, good to see him running with the ball. Additionally got stuck into a couple of rucks early on, his arrival along with Chudders coming on changed the tempo immediately.
JC offers little except being the ‘big geezer’ lumbering down the wing that nobody wants to tackle, except anyone is happy to tackle him easily.
Yellow card for Roko was simply idiotic. Muir looks pretty damned rapid.
Sale looks like a tough one.
Game spoilt by CMK, who I always thought was an ok ref. But constant input from TMO, on some quite trivial stuff was frustrating and annoying. Similar thing happened in the first half of the earlier Wasps game, is this going to be the norm going forward? I really hope not.
I thought Bayliss was outstanding as a stand in lock, and Read played as well as I have seen him play.
Excited by the arrival of the Saffa 5/8, good to see him running with the ball. Additionally got stuck into a couple of rucks early on, his arrival along with Chudders coming on changed the tempo immediately.
JC offers little except being the ‘big geezer’ lumbering down the wing that nobody wants to tackle, except anyone is happy to tackle him easily.
Yellow card for Roko was simply idiotic. Muir looks pretty damned rapid.
Sale looks like a tough one.
I hope both the Bath coaching team and the officials spend as much time listening to the recording of TMO/ref dialogue as on watching the rerun of the onfield play.
Should be illuminating for both.
A constant stream of Bath offences being highlighted.
PG
Should be illuminating for both.
A constant stream of Bath offences being highlighted.
PG
Seems like TMO are poking their nose in too often and in danger of spoiling the game. Would be better if they were restricted to serious foul play interventions only and the rest of the time for the ref to call them in if he wants input.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:02:07:10:23:38 by OutsideBath.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:02:07:10:23:38 by OutsideBath.
Agree OB - with addition of offences in the build up to a try. A forward pass which initiates a scoring move is still a forward pass, but officials rarely check unless the final one is suspect.
PG
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:02:07:10:54:31 by P G Tips.
PG
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:02:07:10:54:31 by P G Tips.
Quote:OutsideBath
Seems like TMO are poking their nose in too often and in danger of spoiling the game. Would be better if they were restricted to serious foul play interventions only and the rest of the time for the ref to call them in if he wants input.
Agree OB, but CMK was missing loads and seems to rely on his support team. He also blows very quickly, not playing advantage. I've yet to see him have a decent game!
Quote:shipwreckedQuote:OutsideBath
Seems like TMO are poking their nose in too often and in danger of spoiling the game. Would be better if they were restricted to serious foul play interventions only and the rest of the time for the ref to call them in if he wants input.
Agree OB, but CMK was missing loads and seems to rely on his support team. He also blows very quickly, not playing advantage. I've yet to see him have a decent game!
Agree with both posts.
TMO was far too involved yest, there are basically infringements every 2 seconds in a game of rugby.... if you call them all you end up with an awful game.
Likewise hard to stay quiet when the ref is missing lots of blindingly obvious things.
I normally don't mind gm-k but thought the officiating all round was a mess yesterday.
Yeah at one point it was like a mums net debate on the sanction of the penalty. I did think Muir was good when he came on. Tian was direct too but not explosive enough to think he's a number 1 flyhalf.
Quote:nick holder
Time for a re-set, what a joke title for this thread, unless you were talking about the DOR? Utterly pathetic
Unacceptable Nick. I realise emotions are high but having a go at PGT, a fellow supporter, who keeps this site alive for all of us is beyond the pale. We are very lucky to have PGT writing his excellent previews which are also acknowledged by COML’s Twitter and FB followers. These previews earn us a few pennies to pay the costs of running the site as well as giving surplus monies to charity.
I think PGT deserves an apology from you.
We definitely need the game to tell the TMOs that we don’t want to hear from them unless it’s for serious foul play or unless they’re asked. The constant pedantic wittering about potentially minor infringements is not what we want to hear. We want to focus on the ineptitude of the BBW, not the ramblings of the TMO. Put a sock in it TMO !
Quote:Beergoggles
We definitely need the game to tell the TMOs that we don’t want to hear from them unless it’s for serious foul play or unless they’re asked. The constant pedantic wittering about potentially minor infringements is not what we want to hear. We want to focus on the ineptitude of the BBW, not the ramblings of the TMO. Put a sock in it TMO !
Yes I agree, there was even comments like "good job boys".
Incidentally on the commentary I kept hearing "come on Terrence, you know whats coming". Who the heck was Terrence?
Bath conceded too many penalties.............bad teams under pressure tend too.
However two penalties made me really cross both were Bath players off the ball picked up straight away by the TMO. Neither infringement would have had a positive impact for Bath.
The two players Max Clark and Ellis (?) should be fined a weeks wages.
Palin stupid and brain dead
However two penalties made me really cross both were Bath players off the ball picked up straight away by the TMO. Neither infringement would have had a positive impact for Bath.
The two players Max Clark and Ellis (?) should be fined a weeks wages.
Palin stupid and brain dead
Didn’t realise that Michael Palin had strapped his boots on.
No wonder it was a circus.
No wonder it was a circus.
Quote:Sure it wasn’t Ellis he wasn’t playing. The Clark one was silly.Bath Supporter Jack
Bath conceded too many penalties.............bad teams under pressure tend too.
However two penalties made me really cross both were Bath players off the ball picked up straight away by the TMO. Neither infringement would have had a positive impact for Bath.
The two players Max Clark and Ellis (?) should be fined a weeks wages.
Palin stupid and brain dead
Quote:CoochieCooQuote:nick holder
Time for a re-set, what a joke title for this thread, unless you were talking about the DOR? Utterly pathetic
Unacceptable Nick. I realise emotions are high but having a go at PGT, a fellow supporter, who keeps this site alive for all of us is beyond the pale. We are very lucky to have PGT writing his excellent previews which are also acknowledged by COML’s Twitter and FB followers. These previews earn us a few pennies to pay the costs of running the site as well as giving surplus monies to charity.
I think PGT deserves an apology from you.
Nick has contacted me and apologised completely.
Lets move on.
PG
Thanks for the chat PGT. good to talk this morning. Happy to move on but also to apologise to you in the forum too.
Nick
Nick
Pleased it's been fixed lads.
Emotions do seem high?
I will inevitably take some flack for what I'm about to suggest (it is a forum after all) people love seeing the club play and win games, but here goes.
I can understand the shock of the Bristol game, but the team has been average for a long time. Despite the quality of the players, great support, a good training ground the club seems content with mid-table and a place in any European competition. 2013/14 was probably the last promising season.
Could it be the culture at the club? doing enough but no pressing aspiration of getting a trophy. I can not come up with any other reason after all the different coaches and poor results.
Emotions do seem high?
I will inevitably take some flack for what I'm about to suggest (it is a forum after all) people love seeing the club play and win games, but here goes.
I can understand the shock of the Bristol game, but the team has been average for a long time. Despite the quality of the players, great support, a good training ground the club seems content with mid-table and a place in any European competition. 2013/14 was probably the last promising season.
Could it be the culture at the club? doing enough but no pressing aspiration of getting a trophy. I can not come up with any other reason after all the different coaches and poor results.
Quote:Kaapstad
Could it be the culture at the club? doing enough but no pressing aspiration of getting a trophy. I can not come up with any other reason after all the different coaches and poor results.
I think that it is mainly about the make up of the squad vs the shape of the season and commitments of the players. All of the best clubs of the last decade have had a strong academy and plenty of opportunities for them all. This means that Sarries basically had 2 competitive teams, then Exeter had 2 competitive team and now Bristol have the same. Guys come in and out and there is barely and drop off in quality whatsoever.
For whatever reason Bath have decided to go for a binary approach. It hasn't worked for any team over the last decade and it won't work for any team in the next decade IMO. Not when your most expensive players are away half the games in the year...doesn't really matter what the coaches do (although blooding the squad whenever possible would help in any normal season) if your backup team is lacking quality and experience.
[I do recognise that we have lost a few games this season when actually the team of superstars has been on the pitch so maybe the short term issue is indeed something else, the longer term one for me is the squad balance]
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:02:08:17:25:33 by BathMatt53.
It is a shame that we are unlikely to see relegation this season as I think it is the one thing that could really give Bath a chance of becoming a good team once again. A year out, going to strange grounds, playing different teams and learning again how to win consistently may lighten the mood of the team, because at the moment they are obviously not enjoying playing for Bath and seem to be on a downward spiral. It would give the coaching staff time to work out how best to play and install the sort of winning culture that has been lost in recent years
With BT wanting to keep relegation I suspect ring fencing won’t be permitted to save Bath from relegation.
Assuming Bath are relegated do you think the coaches could keep their jobs? Even though the club has setup a low aspiration environment I don’t see how they could stay.
Assuming Bath are relegated do you think the coaches could keep their jobs? Even though the club has setup a low aspiration environment I don’t see how they could stay.
Quote:OutsideBath
With BT wanting to keep relegation I suspect ring fencing won’t be permitted to save Bath from relegation.
Assuming Bath are relegated do you think the coaches could keep their jobs? Even though the club has setup a low aspiration environment I don’t see how they could stay.
I didn't realise it was possible to fit so many assumptions into so few words, that's like an English language exercise. Well done!
Quote:Kaapstad
Could it be the culture at the club?
Ding ding ding. We have a winner.
Quote:ballsoutQuote:Kaapstad
Could it be the culture at the club?
Ding ding ding. We have a winner.
We've missed you babycakes.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
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