Bath
FROZEN NORTH? NEWCASTLE FALCONS v BATH
Muir -exciting
By PG Tips
March 9 2021
A chill wind will blow along the Tyne on Saturday afternoon. Bath must beware freezing for a second time having been caught cold by an unexpectedly vibrant Newcastle on the opening weekend of the season. There is little difference in the two clubs’ results but Bath last won on Tyneside 5 seasons ago. Both sides lost heavily in derbies last week and need the morale boost of a comfortable win. So will this be another flog on the Tyne for the visitors or can Bath snatch a rare win there?
Newcastle will lose Graham to Scotland and Wilson to England. Otherwise they will be unhampered by the 6 Nations while Bath must surrender Obano back to England to join Stuart, Ewels and Watson, plus Faletau to Wales and could yet be deprived of Underhill as Eddie Jones searches for bite in defence. These disruptions tilt the balance in favour of the hosts but Bath will hope to counter that with their pack power and new found fluency in attack. Losing their international backrowers reduces Falcons but hardly leaves them bereft. In Robinson and Hardie they have flankers uncompromising at close quarters, potent on the carry and adept at the lineout. Their unyielding front row includes the dynamic McGuigan who is worth an extra loose forward to them- all bustle in attack and defence. Under the astute guidance of attack coach Dave Walder, Schreuder and Connon are fast forming a sound partnership at half back and if Burrell can give them midfield go forward Radwan, Stevenson or Tait can be released to strike.
Bath came down to earth with a bump after three wins on the bounce. Reeled in, then eventually splintered by a relentless Exeter Chiefs they have much to ponder on this week. That experience should be good practice for a visit to Kingston Park. Newcastle are another side who aim for a game of keep-ball intensity and just keep coming in waves of attack. Bath will know that for all their defensive failings in the last twenty against Chiefs, there were failings too in attack, heartening though the signs were. At least two more tries were wasted in the opening twenty by poor passing options or insufficient support and another went awry soon after half time. Greater accuracy in finishing and support would have given Exeter a much bigger recovery task. Defence of a big lead gives the beleaguered team more options. If Bath gain early ascendancy they must make it pay ruthlessly – every visit to Falcons 22 must count, the scoreboard kept ticking. If that means Rhys Priestland extending his record run of successful goal kicks, so be it. Points win matches, however gathered.
Defence, once again, is the priority. Newcastle have one more victory than Bath and two fewer bonus points. Their points difference though is -7 against Bath’s -113. Those figures alone justify their 7th place standing against Bath’s 10th. Bath coaches and players talk of “the system” , which clearly has it’s place, but the key to tactical success is often surprise, as Chiefs showed in their first try. Are Bath’s defensive and midfield leaders alert to the unexpected? Somehow they must be made so, because many of the tries they have conceded in recent weeks have been the result of opposition wit as much as any edge in talent.
To win Bath must ensure not only early set piece dominance but constant forward intensity, even when the replacements are introduced. The inventive attack that we have seen flashes of in recent matches will be welcome but passing must be more accurate in the Tyneside wind. Long floating cut-outs risk checking the attack or interception by sharp opponents. In Muir, McConnochie and De Glanville Bath have three of the most exciting attacking talents in the Premiership. To use them to effect Bath need to take the game to Falcons and dominate up front. They also need a ninety minute performance. Otherwise it will be a bitterly cold return journey.
Possible Teams:
Bath: Schoeman, Dunn, Thomas, Stooke, McNally, Ellis, Reid, Mercer. Spencer (Capt.), Priestland. Muir, Matavesi, Joseph, McConnochie. De Glanville.
Replacements: Bhatti, Walker, Judge, Richards, Staddon. Chudley, Schoeman, Cokanasiga.
Newcastle Falcons: Davison, McGuigan, Mulipola, Peterson, Fuser, Robinson, Hardie, Chick. Schreuder, Connon. Stevenson, Burrell, Orlando, Radwan. Penny.
Replacements: Blamire, Brocklebank, Tampin, Barry, Van der Walt. Young, Hodgson, Tait.
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StumbleuponFROZEN NORTH? NEWCASTLE FALCONS v BATH. TEAM UP!
Discussion started by Comeonmylovers.co.uk (IP Logged), 09/03/2021 16:36
09/03/2021 16:36
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Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 2021:03:16:09:40:04 by P G Tips.
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Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 2021:03:16:09:40:04 by P G Tips.
Sorry, wrong subject
Edited 3 time(s). Last edit at 2021:03:09:17:17:44 by Mike the Taxi.
Edited 3 time(s). Last edit at 2021:03:09:17:17:44 by Mike the Taxi.
My understanding is Sam will be available as Eddie isn't allowed to add him to the England squad.
Why do they need a 90 minute performance PGT, are you foreseeing a lot of injury time?
Weather looks not as bad as it could be considering the storms coming across this week, so fingers crossed. I would put Clark at 12 if he is fit and Redpath isn't.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Weather looks not as bad as it could be considering the storms coming across this week, so fingers crossed. I would put Clark at 12 if he is fit and Redpath isn't.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Yes, Sam's ours for the weekend as EJ can't add him back into the squad unless there's an injury (as I understand it). Also, Bayliss isn't in the Scotland squad, so the back row is looking strong.
Love to see us play like last week for longer than 40 minutes. Having said that, I think that a lesser team would've cracked a lot easier than Exeter. Newcastle are a fine, fine side, but if we can stress and stretch them as we did to Exeter in the first 40 last week, we should score more points. Should...
Love to see us play like last week for longer than 40 minutes. Having said that, I think that a lesser team would've cracked a lot easier than Exeter. Newcastle are a fine, fine side, but if we can stress and stretch them as we did to Exeter in the first 40 last week, we should score more points. Should...
I did not include Bayliss as I believe he may still be under HIA protocol.
If we get him & Sam then things even up a lot.
PG
If we get him & Sam then things even up a lot.
PG
Matt
Most halves are more than 40 minutes duration. As well as injury time play can extend hntil the ball goes dead at the end.
PG
Most halves are more than 40 minutes duration. As well as injury time play can extend hntil the ball goes dead at the end.
PG
Quote:Optimist
Wonder if big Joe will sit out the 4G game?
TBF, it would be hard to start him ahead of RMc and Muir at the moment.
... IMHO, of course.
Now in Honolulu
I don't mean starting him - I mean sitting it out altogether.
If he were in better form, would be an interesting option partnering JJ in the centre. But no, wouldn't start him ahead of Muir right now, or Ruaridh ever.
If he were in better form, would be an interesting option partnering JJ in the centre. But no, wouldn't start him ahead of Muir right now, or Ruaridh ever.
Quote:P G Tips
I did not include Bayliss as I believe he may still be under HIA protocol.
If we get him & Sam then things even up a lot.
PG
Wouldn't Bayliss be with Scotland if available?
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Quote:TG Kesmo
Baylis may be out but Bhati is in so we need another prop!
Ouch. Schoeman and vaughan?
Ref: Ian Tempest (84th Premiership game). Assistant Refs: Peter Allan & Wayne Falla.
TMO: Trevor Fisher.
Citing Officer: Shaun Gallagher
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:03:10:13:51:02 by CoochieCoo.
TMO: Trevor Fisher.
Citing Officer: Shaun Gallagher
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:03:10:13:51:02 by CoochieCoo.
Quote:Mike the Taxi
Would Wayne Fella be Australian?
No Mike Irish, got 2 brothers, collectively they are known as Tree Fellas.
one assumes bath are banking on batti not making the scottish matchday 23 and meeting up with the team in newcastle. if not who else is there since vaughan has apparently disappeared off the radar?
I guess that Arthur Cordwell is about 22 now so should be getting a look in if needed (and fit?). Verden is a TH I think.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
This is a very important game if Bath are to retain any reasonable aspiration to top 6
If we lose and Irish and Tigers pick up wins then the gap to 6th spot is heck of a gap to close
If we lose and Irish and Tigers pick up wins then the gap to 6th spot is heck of a gap to close
I'd rather be thinking about it in a Stuart Lancaster way - 'the result (and our position in the table) will look after itself'.
If we play to anything like the sum of our parts, we'll win. I'd just like to see a tempered version of the Exeter first-half, and enough tactical appreciation to get the tempo right across 80 minutes.
If we play to anything like the sum of our parts, we'll win. I'd just like to see a tempered version of the Exeter first-half, and enough tactical appreciation to get the tempo right across 80 minutes.
Quote:Optimist
I'd just like to see a tempered version of the Exeter first-half, and enough tactical appreciation to get the tempo right across 80 minutes.
That is pretty much what Ryan Davis said in the coach's video this week, are you mates?
Easy as that then, just play amazingly across the 80 minutes with the fitness and tactical brilliance to match it! They must have had an intense week in training. 
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Well Ryan didn't use the word "amazing" but he did say that training had gone very well this week. 
Looking to make more of a link between attack and defence apparently though I would have thought they should have hit on that revolutionary approach a while ago. Wasn't it at the centre of Ford's chaos strategy?
Looking to make more of a link between attack and defence apparently though I would have thought they should have hit on that revolutionary approach a while ago. Wasn't it at the centre of Ford's chaos strategy?
Quote:BathMatt53
Easy as that then, just play amazingly across the 80 minutes
That’s the whole point. You can’t play brilliantly for 80 minutes, and the other team, whoever they are, will have their phases. So, last week, maybe we could have slowed the game down a bit around the 59-minute mark and started to just work the corners. Right tempo at the right time.
Quote:OptimistQuote:BathMatt53
Easy as that then, just play amazingly across the 80 minutes
That’s the whole point. You can’t play brilliantly for 80 minutes, and the other team, whoever they are, will have their phases. So, last week, maybe we could have slowed the game down a bit around the 59-minute mark and started to just work the corners. Right tempo at the right time.
That's true of course, consistent pressure such as that which Exe applied from the 2nd quarter onwards is effective. Exe and Sarries before them played very well for most of the match and brilliantly for part of it. Bath, Wasps, Glos, Tigers (in fact all the rest basically) are far more binary. Not falling apart for significant portions of any match when we ship 20 odd points would help our situation no end.
(I don't understand this reference to the 59th minute though, Bath scored a single pen after minute 18 in that match and were feeding off scraps from then. Exe didn't even bother even kicking for the post for their pens they were so in control/ confident.)
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
"Well Ryan didn't use the word "amazing" but he did say that training had gone very well this week."
Crikey it must be catching - I did hear Hooper use the fateful comment prior to the Chiefs match - "The boys have trained really well this week"
I was kind of hoping that he and the coaches may have learnt lessons from earlier in the season - seems not.
As for making top 6 - once upon a time I would have been screaming that was a minimum for Bath - and certainly when Todd Blackadder was in charge that appeared to be an absolute minimum - however with what I have witnessed this season part of me hopes we don't make top 6 and focus on actually improving as a side instead of overstretching our limited team to play Top European sides who quite frankly are out of our league at present.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:03:12:10:50:51 by Ali1969.
Crikey it must be catching - I did hear Hooper use the fateful comment prior to the Chiefs match - "The boys have trained really well this week"
I was kind of hoping that he and the coaches may have learnt lessons from earlier in the season - seems not.
As for making top 6 - once upon a time I would have been screaming that was a minimum for Bath - and certainly when Todd Blackadder was in charge that appeared to be an absolute minimum - however with what I have witnessed this season part of me hopes we don't make top 6 and focus on actually improving as a side instead of overstretching our limited team to play Top European sides who quite frankly are out of our league at present.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:03:12:10:50:51 by Ali1969.
Drove past Lambridge at 09.55 this morning on the way to the RUH, the players, coaches etc all getting ready to board the buses for what I assume was a 6hr drive North, unless they were heading to Bristol Airport for a flight?
BATH RUGBY SIDE TO FACE NEWCASTLE FALCONS
15. Tom de Glanville,
14. Joe Cokanasiga,
13. Jonathan Joseph,
12. Josh Matavesi,
11. Ruaridh McConnochie,
10. Rhys Priestland,
9. Ben Spencer;
1. Juan Schoeman,
2. Tom Dunn,
3. Henry Thomas,
4. Josh McNally ©,
5. Elliott Stooke,
6. Miles Reid,
7. Sam Underhill,
8 Zach Mercer
REPLACEMENTS
16. Jack Walker, 17. Arthur Cordwell, 18. Christian Judge, 19. Tom Ellis, 20. Ethan Staddon, 21. Ollie Fox, 22. Tian Schoeman, 23. Semesa Rokoduguni
Arthur Cordwell it is then, congratulations to him and hope he goes well. Muir dropped, rested, injured or with 7s? Looking forward to seeing Ollie Fox play a part too, hopefully this is the case for the rest of the season so that he can get some much needed game time.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:03:12:12:03:28 by BathMatt53.
15. Tom de Glanville,
14. Joe Cokanasiga,
13. Jonathan Joseph,
12. Josh Matavesi,
11. Ruaridh McConnochie,
10. Rhys Priestland,
9. Ben Spencer;
1. Juan Schoeman,
2. Tom Dunn,
3. Henry Thomas,
4. Josh McNally ©,
5. Elliott Stooke,
6. Miles Reid,
7. Sam Underhill,
8 Zach Mercer
REPLACEMENTS
16. Jack Walker, 17. Arthur Cordwell, 18. Christian Judge, 19. Tom Ellis, 20. Ethan Staddon, 21. Ollie Fox, 22. Tian Schoeman, 23. Semesa Rokoduguni
Arthur Cordwell it is then, congratulations to him and hope he goes well. Muir dropped, rested, injured or with 7s? Looking forward to seeing Ollie Fox play a part too, hopefully this is the case for the rest of the season so that he can get some much needed game time.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:03:12:12:03:28 by BathMatt53.
Newcastle Falcons team to face Bath Rugby (Saturday, 12.30pm, Kingston Park Stadium, live on BT Sport Extra 3)
15 Tom Penny
14 Alex Tait
13 George Wacokecoke
12 Luther Burrell
11 Mateo Carreras
10 Joel Hodgson
9 Michael Young (captain)
1 Trevor Davison
2 George McGuigan
3 Mark Tampin
4 Greg Peterson
5 Darren Barry
6 Gary Graham
7 Philip van der Walt
8 Callum Chick
Replacements
16 Charlie Maddison
17 Kyle Cooper
18 Logovi'i Mulipola
19 Sean Robinson
20 John Hardie
21 Sam Stuart
22 Brett Connon
23 Joel Matavesi
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
15 Tom Penny
14 Alex Tait
13 George Wacokecoke
12 Luther Burrell
11 Mateo Carreras
10 Joel Hodgson
9 Michael Young (captain)
1 Trevor Davison
2 George McGuigan
3 Mark Tampin
4 Greg Peterson
5 Darren Barry
6 Gary Graham
7 Philip van der Walt
8 Callum Chick
Replacements
16 Charlie Maddison
17 Kyle Cooper
18 Logovi'i Mulipola
19 Sean Robinson
20 John Hardie
21 Sam Stuart
22 Brett Connon
23 Joel Matavesi
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Given the number of absentees that's a decent squad that can hopefully compete.
Glad to see Fox given a chance. The inclusion of Staddon and Cordwell bodes well for the academy.
Glad to see Fox given a chance. The inclusion of Staddon and Cordwell bodes well for the academy.
Wonder if vaughan is fit? If so seriously slipped down the pecking order.
Also wonder if green is fit. If so I wonder if fox is staying and green is leaving.
Not a bad looking team. Assume bayliss still struggling
Also wonder if green is fit. If so I wonder if fox is staying and green is leaving.
Not a bad looking team. Assume bayliss still struggling
Is it obligatory for every Premiership team to have a player called Mataves?
Quote:Bath Supporter Jack
Is it obligatory for every Premiership team to have a player called Mataves?
Have you heard about the sensational new London Irish hooker, Matt O'Vacey?
I'm going to stick my neck out after seeing these teams. Bonus point win for Bath. Two tries for Dunn, one for Stooke, and brilliant try scoring performances from Joseph and Cokanasiga, who are both due.
Would be very lovely to see big Joe C getting on some front foot ball early on. Last week showed some signs of 'spring'. Come on Rhys, get him in the game.
Quote:malcoQuote:Bath Supporter Jack
Is it obligatory for every Premiership team to have a player called Mataves?
Have you heard about the sensational new London Irish hooker, Matt O'Vacey?
I'm going to stick my neck out after seeing these teams. Bonus point win for Bath. Two tries for Dunn, one for Stooke, and brilliant try scoring performances from Joseph and Cokanasiga, who are both due.
Nice touch Malco,
For the first time in a while, following what we saw in patches v Saints and for the first half (ish) last week, I'm excited to see what we bring to the party. Even if we go down, as KP is a tough place to go and they're a very good side this year, I'd like to see us go down giving it a go.
M Young always seems to up his game against us and they have a strong back row, but our pack should compete. Nice to see Thomas getting a run of games. Underhill is a huge bonus. On paper, with the same freedom as last week on an astroturf, our backs should score some points. JJ is finding form and the back 3 will be dangerous on the front foot. A word for TdG who seems to be getting better and gaining confidence every time I see him play.
Be nice to concede less than 20 one week soon, too. Either way, hope it's a fun lunchtime watch.
M Young always seems to up his game against us and they have a strong back row, but our pack should compete. Nice to see Thomas getting a run of games. Underhill is a huge bonus. On paper, with the same freedom as last week on an astroturf, our backs should score some points. JJ is finding form and the back 3 will be dangerous on the front foot. A word for TdG who seems to be getting better and gaining confidence every time I see him play.
Be nice to concede less than 20 one week soon, too. Either way, hope it's a fun lunchtime watch.
Quote:dr.bath1865
Be nice to concede less than 20 one week soon, too. Either way, hope it's a fun lunchtime watch.
Dean Richards certainly sees it as an opportunity:
[www.newcastlefalcons.co.uk]
“One of the most annoying things is we haven’t managed a four-try bonus point yet despite coming close on a number of occasions, and that really irks us. But we’ll get there in the end, and when we finally let rip I believe we’ll score a lot of points.”
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Quote:malcoQuote:Bath Supporter Jack
Is it obligatory for every Premiership team to have a player called Mataves?
Have you heard about the sensational new London Irish hooker, Matt O'Vacey?
I'm going to stick my neck out after seeing these teams. Bonus point win for Bath. Two tries for Dunn, one for Stooke, and brilliant try scoring performances from Joseph and Cokanasiga, who are both due.
Been on the happy juice a bit early malco? In my wildest hopes I can't see that happening. A good win is possible if we can build on the positive stuff of late and add in some more secure defensive stuff when Newcastle bring in their strong arm game but would love to be proved wrong and see something much more comfortable
Personally I see both the Newcastle and France games as 50:50 this weekend. Should be interesting.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
We have some players with points to prove after recent events and if they aren't hungry to prove that point now, they never will be. Especially against Newcastle after what happened at the Rec. I honestly think we will play a lot tighter at the Rec and the weather conditions will actually suit our game. We can win the forward battle and then we have the backs to rip that team to bits if we gain ascendancy up front. Newcastle 15 Bath 37.
However I do prophesise that due to those conditions Rhys Priestland will finally miss a couple of kicks...
However I do prophesise that due to those conditions Rhys Priestland will finally miss a couple of kicks...
Quote:malco
We have some players with points to prove after recent events and if they aren't hungry to prove that point now, they never will be. Especially against Newcastle after what happened at the Rec. I honestly think we will play a lot tighter at the Rec and the weather conditions will actually suit our game. We can win the forward battle and then we have the backs to rip that team to bits if we gain ascendancy up front. Newcastle 15 Bath 37.
However I do prophesise that due to those conditions Rhys Priestland will finally miss a couple of kicks...
Whats he on now 35 in a row?
Quote:malco
However I do prophesise that due to those conditions Rhys Priestland will finally miss a couple of kicks...
BBC is saying 40+mph winds at midday so it will certainly be tricky.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Quote:Bath Supporter Jack
Is it obligatory for every Premiership team to have a player called Mataves?
I think it’s the Fijian equivalent of Smith.
See the name Dembele in football and Mali.
[www.foottheball.com]
Quote:BathMatt53Quote:dr.bath1865
Be nice to concede less than 20 one week soon, too. Either way, hope it's a fun lunchtime watch.
Dean Richards certainly sees it as an opportunity:
[www.newcastlefalcons.co.uk]
“One of the most annoying things is we haven’t managed a four-try bonus point yet despite coming close on a number of occasions, and that really irks us. But we’ll get there in the end, and when we finally let rip I believe we’ll score a lot of points.”
We have conceded the most tries and have the worst points difference in the league so Richards must view this match as the game to let rip and get the TBP.
Quote:OutsideBath
We have conceded the most tries and have the worst points difference in the league so Richards must view this match as the game to let rip and get the TBP.
That's what I think will hand Bath a major advantage. Playing fast and loose will cost Newcastle the game.
No sign of any Matavese's playing rugby here, CR. I blame a fecund family near Falmouth (apologies).
OBinFiji
OBinFiji
There is less chance of Dean Richards playing fast and loose than Dean Richards wearing a pink tutu and dancing the cha-cha at half time
How do you know he has not promised the team that if they score a bonus point?
P G Tips
Jaco Coetzee: my adopted Player, 2023-24.
P G Tips
Jaco Coetzee: my adopted Player, 2023-24.
Really good start. Positive defence, positive running and confidence to go for the corner. 5 - 0. Bath
Somebody get Dunn a scrum cap his ears are going to be proper cauliflowers. They bleed every week.
Quote:9215
Schoeman’s starting, what’s up with Priestland?
Any idea who has moved on to bench?
Good start!
Quote:charlieboaQuote:9215
Schoeman’s starting, what’s up with Priestland?
Any idea who has moved on to bench?
Good start!
Max Clark
Quote:charlieboaQuote:9215
Schoeman’s starting, what’s up with Priestland?
Any idea who has moved on to bench?
Good start!
Clark
Matavesi trying too hard to be clever .... simple the game down and we are fine.
Quote:9215
Schoeman’s starting, what’s up with Priestland?
Didn't fancy place kicking in that wind
Second Falcons try - should it have been given? Player comfortably short of line when Tempest calls tackle, relase, release, tackle, tackle. We release, and player surges across the line as a result.
Feels very harsh as release applies to both ball carrier and defenders.
Feels very harsh as release applies to both ball carrier and defenders.
Quote:Never In Doubt
Matavesi trying too hard to be clever .... simple the game down and we are fine.
+1
I love an offload but like them to have some vague chance of success
Quote:gaz59Quote:9215
Schoeman’s starting, what’s up with Priestland?
Didn't fancy place kicking in that wind
He's got a streak to maintain!
Hope Tian is okay, but we really need Josh Matavesi to calm down. I can see the injuries to the two 10s costing us the match.
That looks like a nasty knee injury to Schoeman. Seen that before on artificial pitches, studs caught in the surface and all the shock going through the knee joint. Likely to be unpleasant ligament damage I'm afraid.
I'm sorry to say that I think Matavesi is one of the weakest players in our squad. He seems very one paced and defensively vulnerable and going forward for every one or two times the magical offload works there are eight or nine times he gives up possession.
I'm sorry to say that I think Matavesi is one of the weakest players in our squad. He seems very one paced and defensively vulnerable and going forward for every one or two times the magical offload works there are eight or nine times he gives up possession.
Listening on Radio Bris, have to say commentary by Darren Allinson is great a real find.
PECK
PECK
I think that would be tough to do ... basically saying you don't trust Matavesi. Also PdG so good at 15 wouldn't want to change that.
4th try - keep playing, but judiciously! Big responsibility for Spencer from here on.
Doing a really good job in keeping penalty count down. Continue that and we should be ok.
Well done the Heavy Brigade!
P G Tips
Jaco Coetzee: my adopted Player, 2023-24.
P G Tips
Jaco Coetzee: my adopted Player, 2023-24.
Yep - if you add Matavesi, Clark and Cokanasiga to a lineout drive you have some additional bulk!
It occurs to me that our maxim of ‘never in doubt’ could legitimately be updated to ‘always in doubt’! But it does feel as though we might be able to relax now?
Quote:malco
I'm going to stick my neck out after seeing these teams. Bonus point win for Bath. Two tries for Dunn, one for Stooke, and brilliant try scoring performances from Joseph and Cokanasiga, who are both due.
Ahem...
Commentary:
"and Tom Dunn with claret streaming from his lug goes over for his second try"
What's not to like?
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:03:13:13:56:25 by shipwrecked.
"and Tom Dunn with claret streaming from his lug goes over for his second try"
What's not to like?
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:03:13:13:56:25 by shipwrecked.
It isn't pretty, but it is highly effective. Our physicality is too much for them atm. Underhill is deadly - targeted Hardy and smashed him off the pitch. Very impressed with whole pack.
"swiftly becoming a rout" says BT commentator...
Adopted players: 24/25 J Bayliss; [24] O Lawrence; [23] J Cokanasiga; [22] M Green; [21] A Watson; [20] T Faletau; [19] M V Vuuren; [18] T Faletau; [17] D Denton; [16] H. Agulla; [15] L Houston; [14] W Spencer; [13] F. Louw
Family . Community . Nation - [sdp.org.uk]
My mind's been going places without me lately - Bushfire The B52's
Adopted players: 24/25 J Bayliss; [24] O Lawrence; [23] J Cokanasiga; [22] M Green; [21] A Watson; [20] T Faletau; [19] M V Vuuren; [18] T Faletau; [17] D Denton; [16] H. Agulla; [15] L Houston; [14] W Spencer; [13] F. Louw
Family . Community . Nation - [sdp.org.uk]
My mind's been going places without me lately - Bushfire The B52's
Tom Ellis looks as though he is auditioning for the part as a dashing young officer returned on leave from the trenches, about to discover that his love has taken up with the gamekeeper.
Excellent victory. Best thing for me was our discipline and very relieved that we adapted our game with Schoeman off and it became clear that Matavesi was unwise to force stuff.
Another v good away win in a frozen north...
Adopted players: 24/25 J Bayliss; [24] O Lawrence; [23] J Cokanasiga; [22] M Green; [21] A Watson; [20] T Faletau; [19] M V Vuuren; [18] T Faletau; [17] D Denton; [16] H. Agulla; [15] L Houston; [14] W Spencer; [13] F. Louw
Family . Community . Nation - [sdp.org.uk]
My mind's been going places without me lately - Bushfire The B52's
Adopted players: 24/25 J Bayliss; [24] O Lawrence; [23] J Cokanasiga; [22] M Green; [21] A Watson; [20] T Faletau; [19] M V Vuuren; [18] T Faletau; [17] D Denton; [16] H. Agulla; [15] L Houston; [14] W Spencer; [13] F. Louw
Family . Community . Nation - [sdp.org.uk]
My mind's been going places without me lately - Bushfire The B52's
Quote:Dorset Boy
Only conceded 7 penalties today to 14 from Falcons.
Absolutely key
Ollie Fox gets on the pitch for the first time for ages then gets harshly red carded! Couldn't make it up.
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
Quote:shipwrecked
Ollie Fox gets on the pitch for the first time for ages then gets harshly red carded! Couldn't make it up.
Thought it was a yellow?
Quote:Yup it was a yellow, should do him any harm. Good for him to get some game time, his passing seemed fast, if a bit high.CoochieCooQuote:shipwrecked
Ollie Fox gets on the pitch for the first time for ages then gets harshly red carded! Couldn't make it up.
Thought it was a yellow?
Quote:Seemed like sensible tactics to me. We started off with intent to move it wide but we lost our replacement 10 and it started hammering it down we reverted to keeping it tight.Optimist
Last week we were the Barbarians, this week we’re Exeter. I’m confused.
Damned good win for me.
Great win Bath Rugby ! How was that a penalty try ?
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:dcshQuote:Yup it was a yellow, should do him any harm. Good for him to get some game time, his passing seemed fast, if a bit high.CoochieCooQuote:shipwrecked
Ollie Fox gets on the pitch for the first time for ages then gets harshly red carded! Couldn't make it up.
Thought it was a yellow?
Glad I got that wrong!
Hope we don't have a list of injury worries though, Schoeman's didn't look good!
Quote:Old Bath Tub
Great win Bath Rugby ! How was that a penalty try ?
Tempest saying Fox was offside and his action prevented a try being scored, not sure he did to be honest. Ref had a decent game otherwise I thought.
Tempo did well.
Card harsh but correct
P G Tips
Jaco Coetzee: my adopted Player, 2023-24.
Card harsh but correct
P G Tips
Jaco Coetzee: my adopted Player, 2023-24.
Quote:malcoQuote:malco
I'm going to stick my neck out after seeing these teams. Bonus point win for Bath. Two tries for Dunn, one for Stooke, and brilliant try scoring performances from Joseph and Cokanasiga, who are both due.
Ahem...
😆
Credit where credit's due.
Fox was offside, but absolutely no way that his one-arm loose grab tackle from the side would have prevented the try. Ridic
[quote stephen4944][quote malco][
😆
Credit where credit's due.[/quote]
TBF Joe Co & JJ’s chances greatly hampered by strong wind & 2 injured 10s.
Bath used the right tactics.. we did also show some useful attacking intent.
Need a better controller at 10 though if Rhys & Tian are out.
P G Tips
Jaco Coetzee: my adopted Player, 2023-24.
😆
Credit where credit's due.[/quote]
TBF Joe Co & JJ’s chances greatly hampered by strong wind & 2 injured 10s.
Bath used the right tactics.. we did also show some useful attacking intent.
Need a better controller at 10 though if Rhys & Tian are out.
P G Tips
Jaco Coetzee: my adopted Player, 2023-24.
Quote:malco
We can win the forward battle and then we have the backs to rip that team to bits if we gain ascendancy up front. Newcastle 15 Bath 37.
Tonight's lottery numbers are...
If Schoeman and Priestland are both out injured we are going to have major problems at 10.
Let's just enjoy the victory today before the gloomsters start worrying about next week. When was the last time we scored 6 tries and beat another team by 19 points. Can't we celebrate it for a bit....please.
Quote:malcoQuote:malco
We can win the forward battle and then we have the backs to rip that team to bits if we gain ascendancy up front. Newcastle 15 Bath 37.
Tonight's lottery numbers are...
If Schoeman and Priestland are both out injured we are going to have major problems at 10.
Full credit malco for the first part of that prediction and the overall score. Very impressive. But I don't recall seeing the backs ripping it up
Who was man of match?
I'd have said Underhill just nicking it from Mercer or Spencer but Mcnally was very, very good as was Dunn and porps
I'd have said Underhill just nicking it from Mercer or Spencer but Mcnally was very, very good as was Dunn and porps
Quote:gaz59
Who was man of match?
I'd have said Underhill just nicking it from Mercer or Spencer but Mcnally was very, very good as was Dunn and porps
Underhill followed closely by McNally and Juan Schoeman for me.
Quote:nigewing
Recall young Orlando from U20’s. If this isn’t the time then when ?
Could we recall someone like that from a seperate camp?
With covid precautions maybe they would want to isolate players/camps, might not be easy.
I couldnt watch the game today, thanks for the updates. I was wondering who were stand out performers and glad to hear Underhill stepping up.
Could have been Spencer, Underhill or Schoeman who was excellent. He’s enjoying his run in the side - big shift. But my MotM would be Reid. Amazing work rate. Playing like a man many years his senior.
TdG and McCon great too. If the weather had been better, I think we’d have won by a few more and our backs would have cashed in. We looked very dangerous.
TdG and McCon great too. If the weather had been better, I think we’d have won by a few more and our backs would have cashed in. We looked very dangerous.
Aaagh I had to miss second half. Gret result! How did Joe C go, from what i saw a lot better!
TdG oozes class.
Miles Reid is going to be some player. He's excellent already.
Miles Reid is going to be some player. He's excellent already.
Great win! Not perfect but 100% better than the Tigers abomination from a few weeks ago. We are looking more and more mid-table which I know SHOULDN’T be reassuring... Moving the right direction which always leaves a good feeling.
Quote:woodpecker
Aaagh I had to miss second half. Gret result! How did Joe C go, from what i saw a lot better!
I though much better, I'd still like him to drive into contact and off load and believe he can score, he still seems to avoid contact to my mind. Positionally he was better as well.
Quote:woodpecker
Aaagh I had to miss second half. Gret result! How did Joe C go, from what i saw a lot better!
Far more solid than in his earlier appearances.
Nothing that stood out, like Muir has, but not the liability he appeared a few matches back. When chasing back at one point, his pace looked less compromised than it has done on other occasions.
Agree with the above comments on big Joe.
Personally thought there were tiny shoots of hope in the quins game and today he didn't look out of place.
Fingers crossed he can regain the form of a few years ago as he has such huge potential.
Personally thought there were tiny shoots of hope in the quins game and today he didn't look out of place.
Fingers crossed he can regain the form of a few years ago as he has such huge potential.
Quote:dannyf2
Is that 6 pushover trys? We're Leicester from 2000
Just think how many tries we could score if we had a decent attack coach who could inject some fluidity, cohesion & incisiveness into our back line!
Quote:stephen4944Quote:woodpecker
Aaagh I had to miss second half. Gret result! How did Joe C go, from what i saw a lot better!
Far more solid than in his earlier appearances.
Nothing that stood out, like Muir has, but not the liability he appeared a few matches back. When chasing back at one point, his pace looked less compromised than it has done on other occasions.
The thing for me is how all our wingers currently pale in comparison to RMc. Muir has been excellent but he looks average compared to McConnochie in this form.
Similar for Underhill in the back row. Reid, Bayliss and Mercer have played really well but Underhill looks a class apart.
Does anyone else think it odd that they beat us at the Rec, easily (?), and then we beat them easily at Kingston Park?
Just watched the game. And very impressive it was too. Falcons are no mugs and we mugged them. RMc was just majestic and the last time I saw anyone run like TdG in a Bath shirt, it was Jerry Guscott. I really hope Tian is OK but that looked bad.
MotM - Sam Underhill. Single handedly stopped pretty much all the Falcons go forward and gave us our base.
... IMHO, of course.
Now in Honolulu
MotM - Sam Underhill. Single handedly stopped pretty much all the Falcons go forward and gave us our base.
... IMHO, of course.
Now in Honolulu
Lots of positive individual performances again I thought.
J Schoeman much better, dunn has become a top prem player and Thomas working his way back.
Mcnally v good player. Zach and Reid in nice form and underhill is world class imho.
Spencer is a brilliant prem player , as is rmc. Tdg is a pleasure to watch.
Staddon continues to look an unbelievable prospect.
J Schoeman much better, dunn has become a top prem player and Thomas working his way back.
Mcnally v good player. Zach and Reid in nice form and underhill is world class imho.
Spencer is a brilliant prem player , as is rmc. Tdg is a pleasure to watch.
Staddon continues to look an unbelievable prospect.
If we can get 5 points against Wuss next week we’ll be well in the top 6 mix and we’ll have had a very decent return out of a 6Ns period that looked likely to be ruinous for us. We’ll then go into the run-in and Euro Cup with a very much broader pool of genuine competitors for starting spots than we thought.
not a great game to watch but precious points and an important result. when was the last time we won away at sale and newcastle in the same season?
some encouraging signs that HT, JC are rediscovering form. recent opportunities for the likes of staddon, richards, fox can only be a positive development.
TdeG is coming on in leaps and bounds. i'm afraid he is going to be another one we will lose to england.
JS had probably his best game for bath at loose head. TS has great distribution; flat fizzing passes. hope he is not out for too long.
was rhys really injured or did he check out the wind and decide he wanted to hang on to his kicking record?
some encouraging signs that HT, JC are rediscovering form. recent opportunities for the likes of staddon, richards, fox can only be a positive development.
TdeG is coming on in leaps and bounds. i'm afraid he is going to be another one we will lose to england.
JS had probably his best game for bath at loose head. TS has great distribution; flat fizzing passes. hope he is not out for too long.
was rhys really injured or did he check out the wind and decide he wanted to hang on to his kicking record?
Quote:bardofavon
was rhys really injured or did he check out the wind and decide he wanted to hang on to his kicking record?
Now that is an excellent question! Would anyone blame him if it were true?
Quote:gaz59Quote:malcoQuote:malco
We can win the forward battle and then we have the backs to rip that team to bits if we gain ascendancy up front. Newcastle 15 Bath 37.
Tonight's lottery numbers are...
If Schoeman and Priestland are both out injured we are going to have major problems at 10.
Full credit malco for the first part of that prediction and the overall score. Very impressive. But I don't recall seeing the backs ripping it up
I think that would have been different if Schoeman hadn't been injured.
Watching London Irish v Worcester just highlights for me how efficient and effective Bath are becoming at the nuts and bolts of the game eg the set piece, the dealing with restarts and in particular scoring from five yards out with the pick and drive. I don't think it can be underestimated how important this is in the long term development of the team and reflects well on the coaching team. However many 'stars' one has in a team does not guarantee this is going to happen!
Quote:malcoQuote:gaz59Quote:malcoQuote:malco
We can win the forward battle and then we have the backs to rip that team to bits if we gain ascendancy up front. Newcastle 15 Bath 37.
Tonight's lottery numbers are...
If Schoeman and Priestland are both out injured we are going to have major problems at 10.
Full credit malco for the first part of that prediction and the overall score. Very impressive. But I don't recall seeing the backs ripping it up
I think that would have been different if Schoeman hadn't been injured.
Lol. Bank your credit malco don't go for broke, there is no way any decent 10 would have contemplated playing fast and loose out wide in that weather. If he had i think McNally, Dunn and co would have had a not so quiet word
Strong performance albeit Newcastle were a bit of a mess compared with some of their performances earlier in the season. Hard to fault any of the players and some stand out play from those mentioned in posts above, RMc, Underhill, Dunn, TdG etc.
Fingers and toes tightly crossed that the 10s recover for next week. Bit surprised that RMc didn't go to 15 and TDG to 10 but maybe that would have been a bit disruptive since they were playing well in those positions - Josh M can do a job at 10 but he clearly isn't (a premiership) one.
It's great that some of the standout performances this 6N have been from lads coming though - bright futures for those young men I'm sure.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Fingers and toes tightly crossed that the 10s recover for next week. Bit surprised that RMc didn't go to 15 and TDG to 10 but maybe that would have been a bit disruptive since they were playing well in those positions - Josh M can do a job at 10 but he clearly isn't (a premiership) one.
It's great that some of the standout performances this 6N have been from lads coming though - bright futures for those young men I'm sure.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Quote:This was pretty much word for word what I was going to post. Some of the play last week showed we can do the fancy stuff, but the basics are really coming togetherLong Term
Watching London Irish v Worcester just highlights for me how efficient and effective Bath are becoming at the nuts and bolts of the game eg the set piece, the dealing with restarts and in particular scoring from five yards out with the pick and drive. I don't think it can be underestimated how important this is in the long term development of the team and reflects well on the coaching team. However many 'stars' one has in a team does not guarantee this is going to happen!
Probably expecting a bit much but I watched all of the Saints Bath game thanks to someone posting a link. All I've found is the 5 min highlights package, which seemed to be a rumble over the line repeated 5 times! If anyone can post a link of the whole game I'd be very grateful as we apparently played some enterprising stuff (and not bemoaning our efficiency in converting from 5 metres-very important!)
Quote:If you are looking at the Premiership Rugby site try looking under Bath Rugby ie the logo as this has full match highlights which are not showing up properly on full match section.TomReagan
Probably expecting a bit much but I watched all of the Saints Bath game thanks to someone posting a link. All I've found is the 5 min highlights package, which seemed to be a rumble over the line repeated 5 times! If anyone can post a link of the whole game I'd be very grateful as we apparently played some enterprising stuff (and not bemoaning our efficiency in converting from 5 metres-very important!)
Tom, try this Newcastle v Bath.
NB The home team is first then the away team!
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
NB The home team is first then the away team!
Game live
Tom,
Whenever you're interested -
Go on Gallagher Premiership website
Click on tab at the top for Premiership Rugby TV
go to the bottom of that page and you see Full Match Video.
Newcastle Bath game is already up (thats my evening sorted).
The full video normally gets on there within 36 hours or so of the game.
Makes an expat a long way from home a very happy bunny.
OBinFiji
Tom,
Whenever you're interested -
Go on Gallagher Premiership website
Click on tab at the top for Premiership Rugby TV
go to the bottom of that page and you see Full Match Video.
Newcastle Bath game is already up (thats my evening sorted).
The full video normally gets on there within 36 hours or so of the game.
Makes an expat a long way from home a very happy bunny.
OBinFiji
I thought Deano would have had a chat with Stuart before the game and said 'look 3 or our lads have just gone down - you got any spare? Alternatively it would be great if you could withdraw your top point scorer in order to make a game of it'.
Its what used to happen when I played (for Old Sulians 3rds back in the 70s) anyway.
OBinFiji
Its what used to happen when I played (for Old Sulians 3rds back in the 70s) anyway.
OBinFiji
Thanks to both of you, much appreciated. That's my Sunday evening sorted, especially as we won 19-38 sw!!
OBinfiji and sw, thanks again for the link. Just finished watching the game after a little break for MOTD. Decent team performance and I particularly liked the commentary of Flood and the Scottish commentator and hearing Tempest on the ref mic-he seems to have a good rapport with the players (I enjoyed his reffing in the Saints game too).
To echo the above, one of the things that has seriously improved in the past 5 games is how much better our restarts and exits have got. Not perfect, for sure, but reliably catch, 5m rumble, set up ruck, one more phase, box kick to touch. It's just calming to the whole team.
Quote:hasta
To echo the above, one of the things that has seriously improved in the past 5 games is how much better our restarts and exits have got. Not perfect, for sure, but reliably catch, 5m rumble, set up ruck, one more phase, box kick to touch. It's just calming to the whole team.
Completely agree. It makes a huge difference. The kind of thing that sarries and now Exeter are very efficient at. Not flashy but v important
Quote:hasta
To echo the above, one of the things that has seriously improved in the past 5 games is how much better our restarts and exits have got. Not perfect, for sure, but reliably catch, 5m rumble, set up ruck, one more phase, box kick to touch. It's just calming to the whole team.
And very calming to those of us still watching nervously from behind the sofa Hasta
Quote:hasta
To echo the above, one of the things that has seriously improved in the past 5 games is how much better our restarts and exits have got. Not perfect, for sure, but reliably catch, 5m rumble, set up ruck, one more phase, box kick to touch. It's just calming to the whole team.
And very calming to those of us still watching nervously from behind the sofa Hasta
I watched the highlights on ITV last night and it showed JC 20 yards out with the fullback to beat he draws the fullback and passes to TDG...............JC of 18 months ago would have scored himself...............I wonder when they analyse the game that is something that will be pointed out to him
Excellent win against a very difficult opposition and location. What pleases me most is that we actually showed we learnt lessons from when we played them on the first weekend of the season.
The team including the coaches realised that we lost the forward/aggression battle at the Rec and addressed that to their credit - because we won that battle we were able to negate their threats and dictate the game even with no recognised 10 from minute 38.
Excellent win and the team need to take great credit - cannot see any other team going up against them this season up at Kingston Park and scoring 38 points against them.
In relation to the penalty try - the card was correct he was never on side but I think the penalty try decision was the only mistake Tempest made - no way could you say with another defender on the line who actually blocked the ball being grounded (Fox tackled the player - he did not block the grounding) that a try would definitely have been scored - but that is life at least it did not cost us the game.
Hope Rhys and or Shoeman's injury not too bad - or we are in problems - TBF Rhys looked OK as he brought the water on hopefully a precaution with the 4G pitch.
The team including the coaches realised that we lost the forward/aggression battle at the Rec and addressed that to their credit - because we won that battle we were able to negate their threats and dictate the game even with no recognised 10 from minute 38.
Excellent win and the team need to take great credit - cannot see any other team going up against them this season up at Kingston Park and scoring 38 points against them.
In relation to the penalty try - the card was correct he was never on side but I think the penalty try decision was the only mistake Tempest made - no way could you say with another defender on the line who actually blocked the ball being grounded (Fox tackled the player - he did not block the grounding) that a try would definitely have been scored - but that is life at least it did not cost us the game.
Hope Rhys and or Shoeman's injury not too bad - or we are in problems - TBF Rhys looked OK as he brought the water on hopefully a precaution with the 4G pitch.
Quote:Bath Supporter Jack
I watched the highlights on ITV last night and it showed JC 20 yards out with the fullback to beat he draws the fullback and passes to TDG...............JC of 18 months ago would have scored himself...............I wonder when they analyse the game that is something that will be pointed out to him
I don't think he did draw the full-back, that was the problem. The full back just drifted on to TDG, an outrageous Josh style dummy was required and he'd have been under the posts.
moment of the match for me was Gary Graham getting absolutely smashed back into his 22, think it was McNally? Graham hardly touched the ball after that and was subbed early in the second half.
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.
Quote:Final straw was when he was over the ball trying to jackal in his 22 and Underhill smashed into him to clear him out, he went off shortly after that!copester
moment of the match for me was Gary Graham getting absolutely smashed back into his 22, think it was McNally? Graham hardly touched the ball after that and was subbed early in the second half.
JC should've dummied and put his head down. A symptom of his rustiness/lack of confidence? No surprise given his lack of rugby. Fit and on form, he shows, goes and has the power to go over. Their cover defence did well but I'd hope if he gets the same opportunity next week, JC will act with more conviction. He's improving with every week. Not long until we see him back at his box office best.
That chance came from Schoeman doing what he's already done a couple of times in BB&W. Carries to the line, strong enough to get through the tackle and beyond the advantage line, pops to a runner in acres of space. He looks a great threat with ball in hand, especially if against smaller 10s.
Wonder about his injury? Any chance a dead leg of sorts or that might be wishful thinking. Huge shame that he didn't just boot that penalty into touch on the 22! Couldn't see him in the huddle at the end of the game so assume he was off being treated. Would be a real shame as he started the game well and looks like the perfect foil to Rhys. Fingers crossed it's not too bad, poor chap.
That chance came from Schoeman doing what he's already done a couple of times in BB&W. Carries to the line, strong enough to get through the tackle and beyond the advantage line, pops to a runner in acres of space. He looks a great threat with ball in hand, especially if against smaller 10s.
Wonder about his injury? Any chance a dead leg of sorts or that might be wishful thinking. Huge shame that he didn't just boot that penalty into touch on the 22! Couldn't see him in the huddle at the end of the game so assume he was off being treated. Would be a real shame as he started the game well and looks like the perfect foil to Rhys. Fingers crossed it's not too bad, poor chap.
Yes you are absolutely right it was on 2.32 and a dummy pass and a strike of his left foot and he would have been in under the posts.
You have to think he is avoiding contact because he has no confidence that he won't get hurt or rather hurt his knee in a collision. Thats why he isn't running flat out either. He was supposed to be super quick on return from injury in training. In training however, no-one is throwing their boney knees and elbows in front of him to stop him.
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
As shadders says, to me the pass was the right option but he delivered it too soon! A simple 2 on 1 blown, but hints of some return to form. I hope we try and keep him and trust he'll be the player he threatened to be 2 years ago.
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