Bath
ALL SAINTS? BATH v NORTHAMPTON
Lawrence: reviving
By PG Tips
October 18 2022
Will All Saints Day come early when Bath host Northampton at the Rec on Saturday? The visiting Saints can play divine rugby in attack, while Bath’s supporters, showing the patience of saints, will be hoping their team can effect a miracle to claim a first win of the season. Inspired by a sublime performance from Ollie Lawrence, Bath kept their faith alive last weekend in testing Saracens to the limit. They will need more than faith though to overcome opponents whose sometimes celestial dash is based squarely on earthly brutality and pragmatism.
Saints’ form places them 4th in the table and has been rewarded with 5 places in England’s Autumn Nations squad. Locks Ribbans and Coles will be hoping for international debuts soon, but it is in the back row where most alarm bells could ring for Bath. Lawes, Ludlam and Augustus offer a mix of pace and power which a less hefty Bath loose forward combination could struggle to contain. All action scrum half Mitchell will want to show his omission from the squad to be an error. If he can get the ball moving quickly, Saints’ sweeping backline moves should make plenty of space for the pace of Sleightholme and spirited fizz of Tom Collins.
What can Bath offer in reply? It is far too early to canonise Johann van Graan but the last two matches have shown more clearly what he wants the team to achieve. More solidity at the set piece and more ruthless competition at the breakdown are allowing the squad to play with more coherence, spending more of the game on the front foot. Joe Maddock’s work in attack is starting to bear fruit, but early opposition tries show that JP Ferreira still has much to work on in the defence before he can be satisfied.
Supporters should be wary of pinning all their hopes on one player, but the reviving effect of Ollie Lawrence cannot be denied. He has helped bring a new spring to the step of Joe Cokanasiga. Between them these two can keep Saints’ midfield honest and provide targets for the forwards to win quick ball: they also offer a potent strike threat, as individuals and in partnership. Greater snap in the pass from scrum half can provide that vital extra half second to set them motoring. Up front Bath will need another shift from the evergreen Dave Attwood, although Fergus Lee-Warner did well in his cameo at the StoneX. To match Saints’ power in the loose forwards Bath may wish to field more heft. Perhaps a return for Ellis, Richards or Merigan, but if fit the experienced Ted Hill should fit the bill well.
For All Saints Day to come a week early could require a miracle from Bath. Saints the visitors may be called, but there will be nothing charitable in their demeanour on match day. Bath must match their demonic power at the breakdown and compete like devils at lineout and in defence. JvG’s mission is to replace the squad’s hope for miracles with the work to achieve them. Only then can they aspire to hit the heavenly heights. Is this the weekend for the miracle – and will van Graan and co be wearing haloes at teatime on Saturday? We wait in hope.
Possible Teams:
Bath: Schoeman, Dunn, Rae, Attwood, Roux, Ellis, Reid, Merigan. Schreuder, Bailey. McConnochie , Redpath, Lawrence, Cokanasiga. Gallagher.
Replacements: Cordwell, Annett, Jonker, Lee-Warner, White. Carr-Smith, Worboys, Ojomoh.
Northampton: Waller, Matavesi, Hill, Ribbans, Coles, Lawes, Ludlam, Augustus. Mitchell, Grayson. Sleightholme, Dingwall, Hutchinson, Collins. Furbank.
Replacements: Smith, Waller, Petch, Moon, Hinkley. Braley, Procter, Hendy.
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Discussion started by Comeonmylovers.co.uk (IP Logged), 18/10/2022 09:28
18/10/2022 09:28
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Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 2022:10:31:11:12:08 by P G Tips.
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Can't imagine seeing Jonker play on Saturday after playing 60+ minutes last night.
Quote:by
Can't imagine seeing Jonker play on Saturday after playing 60+ minutes last night.
Cheeters website says Aranos Coetzee is here until 15th November, so quess he will play on Saturday.
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.
Bailey is out till November. Redpath is with Scotland? JVG doesn't like cut of Mojo's jib at the moment after some horrific defending. Harris played on Wednesday, perhaps a clue that Worboys will start?
Quote:Gaughers
Bailey is out till November. Redpath is with Scotland? JVG doesn't like cut of Mojo's jib at the moment after some horrific defending. Harris played on Wednesday, perhaps a clue that Worboys will start?
Redpath doesn’t have to be released until the international window, depends if you want to give Worboys a run or go with Redpath/Ojomah/Lawrence?
Quote:Gaughers
Bailey is out till November. Redpath is with Scotland? JVG doesn't like cut of Mojo's jib at the moment after some horrific defending. Harris played on Wednesday, perhaps a clue that Worboys will start?
I thought I saw on another threat someone say Billy Searle was training this week, so a potential short-term contract for him?
Quote:nick holder
Jeez, will we ever catch a break with injuries??
It is getting depressing the amount of injuries we get every season, although highlights how ridiculous it was to go into the season with only one recognised 10.
Quote:OutsideBathQuote:nick holder
Jeez, will we ever catch a break with injuries??
It is getting depressing the amount of injuries we get every season, although highlights how ridiculous it was to go into the season with only one recognised 10.
The rate we are losing them it would have been a problem if we had gone into the season with half a dozen!
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
More Worcester players than Bath in the backs at this rate!
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Yes- I expect Searle will feature this weekend; possibly Shillcock too.
PG
PG
Team's up. Worboys at 10 with Ted Hill and Searle on the bench.
Bath Rugby: 15 Matt Gallagher, 14 Joe Cokanasiga, 13 Ollie Lawrence, 12 Cameron Redpath, 11 Will Butt, 10 George Worboys, 9 Louis Schreuder; 1 Juan Schoeman, 2 Tom Dunn ©, 3 Aranos Coetzee, 4 Dave Attwood, 5 Quinn Roux, 6 Josh Bayliss, 7 Miles Reid, 8 Richard de Carpentier
Impact players: 16 Niall Annett, 17 Arthur Cordwell, 18 D’Arcy Rae, 19 Fergus Lee-Warner, 20 Ted Hill, 21 Tom Carr-Smith, 22 Billy Searle, 23 Max Ojomoh
Bath Rugby: 15 Matt Gallagher, 14 Joe Cokanasiga, 13 Ollie Lawrence, 12 Cameron Redpath, 11 Will Butt, 10 George Worboys, 9 Louis Schreuder; 1 Juan Schoeman, 2 Tom Dunn ©, 3 Aranos Coetzee, 4 Dave Attwood, 5 Quinn Roux, 6 Josh Bayliss, 7 Miles Reid, 8 Richard de Carpentier
Impact players: 16 Niall Annett, 17 Arthur Cordwell, 18 D’Arcy Rae, 19 Fergus Lee-Warner, 20 Ted Hill, 21 Tom Carr-Smith, 22 Billy Searle, 23 Max Ojomoh
Despite the injuries, thats a decent side. Saints are still favourites for me, but hope we can build upon last weeks performance.
Good to see Ojomoh still in contention for match day squads, but where is McConnochie?
For all their athleticism and class, we will be light in the backrow again up against Saints' bulk. This is winnable though if we can get a decent shift out of the front 5 and more of last week's effrt from lawrence, Joe C & Max.
PG
For all their athleticism and class, we will be light in the backrow again up against Saints' bulk. This is winnable though if we can get a decent shift out of the front 5 and more of last week's effrt from lawrence, Joe C & Max.
PG
Whats happened to Lewis Boyce? not mentioned as injured? Are Schoeman and Cordwell picked above him?
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.
I'm pleased we're giving Worboys the chance to start here. He needs to be given the opportunity. No sign of RMac?
With all the injuries, short term replacements, loans and signings perhaps we should rebrand as the Bathbarians.
It's so frustrating/unlucky. Agree it's good Worboys gets a go, but we were right in the mix for this game, building on a 9-10-12-13 who had been improving for a couple of weeks... then an injury takes out our most important cog (having already taken out Spencer). I hope Worboys goes well – but it means, IMHO, we start clear second favourites.
Perhaps McCon is being managed back to fitness and it's Butt's turn this week? It's a big backline, so I'd expect us to put it in the air a lot. Nice to see Hill on the bench as, if we're in it, he might be a guy to drag us over the line. Is his inclusion the reason we're now calling them "Impact Players"?
I'll be there in hope rather than expectation but goodness me it'll feel like we've won Europe if we get the win. Come on you Bath!
Perhaps McCon is being managed back to fitness and it's Butt's turn this week? It's a big backline, so I'd expect us to put it in the air a lot. Nice to see Hill on the bench as, if we're in it, he might be a guy to drag us over the line. Is his inclusion the reason we're now calling them "Impact Players"?
I'll be there in hope rather than expectation but goodness me it'll feel like we've won Europe if we get the win. Come on you Bath!
Quote:dr.bath1865
it's good Worboys gets a go
Blimey thats a big step up from playing for the Uni and the odd A league game. Fingers crossed.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Saints team.
15 George Furbank, 14 Tom Collins, 13 Matt Proctor, 12 Fraser Dingwall, 11 Ollie Sleightholme, 10 James Grayson, 9 Alex Mitchell; 1 Alex Waller, 2 Sam Matavesi, 3 Paul Hill, 4 Lukhan Salakaia-Loto, 5 David Ribbans, 6 Alex Coles, 7 Lewis Ludlam (c), 8 Juarno Augustus
REPLACEMENTS
16 Robbie Smith, 17 Emmanuel Iyogun, 18 Alfie Petch, 19 Alex Moon, 20 Sam Graham, 21 Tom James, 22 Tom Litchfield, 23 George Hendy
15 George Furbank, 14 Tom Collins, 13 Matt Proctor, 12 Fraser Dingwall, 11 Ollie Sleightholme, 10 James Grayson, 9 Alex Mitchell; 1 Alex Waller, 2 Sam Matavesi, 3 Paul Hill, 4 Lukhan Salakaia-Loto, 5 David Ribbans, 6 Alex Coles, 7 Lewis Ludlam (c), 8 Juarno Augustus
REPLACEMENTS
16 Robbie Smith, 17 Emmanuel Iyogun, 18 Alfie Petch, 19 Alex Moon, 20 Sam Graham, 21 Tom James, 22 Tom Litchfield, 23 George Hendy
All the best to all my Bath friends. We (Saints) can be somewhat poor in defence, I think Joe and Ollie could cause a few problems.
To the Saints posting on 'ere. What's your view of Alex Coles? I was pretty surprised he's made it to Edie's autumn squad. Does he really fill Courtney Lawes role on the blindside? Always looked a bit lost on a rugby pitch to me, but don't see that much of him.
I try not to moan about injuries and get v annoyed when anyone in the club does but jeeze.....
Another week where it looks like we get 1 'back' (hill) and assume lose at least 3 (stuart, bailey, rmc).
Must have over 20 out.
Saints looks much stronger on paper to me so work cut out.
I think we have only 5 (dunn, attwood, redpath, lawrence, coko) that I would say are first team and 6 involved who are injury cover.....
Another week where it looks like we get 1 'back' (hill) and assume lose at least 3 (stuart, bailey, rmc).
Must have over 20 out.
Saints looks much stronger on paper to me so work cut out.
I think we have only 5 (dunn, attwood, redpath, lawrence, coko) that I would say are first team and 6 involved who are injury cover.....
[Alex coles has been on fire this year and is probably one of the first names on the board either at 5 or 6. He is still prob on the lighter side as a lock but that does not hold him back. He is one of the fittest in the squad and i can see him as a replacememt 6 for lawes who also gets used in the second row. He will now have a shocker tomoz after saying this .
quote redmix]To the Saints posting on 'ere. What's your view of Alex Coles? I was pretty surprised he's made it to Edie's autumn squad. Does he really fill Courtney Lawes role on the blindside? Always looked a bit lost on a rugby pitch to me, but don't see that much of him.[/quote]
quote redmix]To the Saints posting on 'ere. What's your view of Alex Coles? I was pretty surprised he's made it to Edie's autumn squad. Does he really fill Courtney Lawes role on the blindside? Always looked a bit lost on a rugby pitch to me, but don't see that much of him.[/quote]
Our injuries are extraordinary and, despite us moaning about it quite a bit, I still don't think it gets enough air time! As charlie says, another 3 starters from last week are not available tomorrow. It is a savage turnover. Saints are one of the other teams who have a few big players missing, hence why I was semi-optimistic. Our XV last week could win tomorrow. The named XV... I'm not so sure.
I always look at the other teams named on a Friday and see the likes of Sarries, Exeter, Harlequins, Leicester, Sale... and I wonder, how on earth do you have so few changes week to week? What are we doing differently? Why can't we have a couple of consistent weeks where we enjoy something similar?
This week, we've seen 3 changes to the starting XV (20%). Last week versus Sarries, 4 changes. Versus Glos, we had 6. Versus LI, we had 5. Versus Wasps, we had 7. Versus Sale, we had 5.
Yes, some of those might have been selection decisions but the majority are injuries. It is chaos, and as charlie says, having half a dozen in as injury cover, as good as Lawrence and Hill are, is just a wild way of approaching a rugby season. Lineouts are worked out in pre-season. Half-back pairings take months to become effective.
I don't like to moan. I know all teams suffer from it... But COME ON!
I always look at the other teams named on a Friday and see the likes of Sarries, Exeter, Harlequins, Leicester, Sale... and I wonder, how on earth do you have so few changes week to week? What are we doing differently? Why can't we have a couple of consistent weeks where we enjoy something similar?
This week, we've seen 3 changes to the starting XV (20%). Last week versus Sarries, 4 changes. Versus Glos, we had 6. Versus LI, we had 5. Versus Wasps, we had 7. Versus Sale, we had 5.
Yes, some of those might have been selection decisions but the majority are injuries. It is chaos, and as charlie says, having half a dozen in as injury cover, as good as Lawrence and Hill are, is just a wild way of approaching a rugby season. Lineouts are worked out in pre-season. Half-back pairings take months to become effective.
I don't like to moan. I know all teams suffer from it... But COME ON!
So far as I can tell our injury list this week is:
1. Obano, Boyce, Morozov
2. Full strength!
3. Stuart
4. Ewels, Williams
5. McNally, W Spencer
6. Ellis
7. Underhill, Cloete
8. Coetzee, Van Velze
9. B Spencer, Green
10. Bailey, Francis
11. Muir
12. Full strength
13. Full strength
14. McConnochie
15. De Glanville
1. Obano, Boyce, Morozov
2. Full strength!
3. Stuart
4. Ewels, Williams
5. McNally, W Spencer
6. Ellis
7. Underhill, Cloete
8. Coetzee, Van Velze
9. B Spencer, Green
10. Bailey, Francis
11. Muir
12. Full strength
13. Full strength
14. McConnochie
15. De Glanville
That is quite an ask at 9/10, communication will be key across the whole team, might need to slow the game down a touch between play.
Venter out also but he is v fringe tbf.
Wonder if ghw is out- butt over him seems a bit odd on face of it.
Wonder if ghw is out- butt over him seems a bit odd on face of it.
Malco
Tom Ellis was involved on Wednesday evening. Not sure he’s injured! Just a minor point!
Tom Ellis was involved on Wednesday evening. Not sure he’s injured! Just a minor point!
Quote:Hamptonite
Malco
Tom Ellis was involved on Wednesday evening. Not sure he’s injured! Just a minor point!
He's not fully match fit. Moot point!
in the same vein, Wednesdays Team included Mike Williams albeit on the bench
"Mike Williams is back from a knee injury and will make his first outing of the campaign and his 50th for Bath."
"Mike Williams is back from a knee injury and will make his first outing of the campaign and his 50th for Bath."
Quote:Hamptonite
Malco
Tom Ellis was involved on Wednesday evening. Not sure he’s injured! Just a minor point!
Well at least this season we’re not saying we look stronger on paper every week before losing.
Saints by 5
Saints by 5
Quote:OutsideBath
With all the injuries, short term replacements, loans and signings perhaps we should rebrand as the Bathbarians.
Bath Warriors has nice ring to it and quite appropriate at the moment!
Btw Those Worcester players are very welcome
Widcombe Garçon
I think it all comes down to constant scrambling, being in weak positions to tackle, clear out, carry.
Missing today's game. Given I've been there every other game this season, I'm clearly a jinx and Bath will now romp home by 20 points. You can all thank me later.
Quote:by
Despite the injuries, thats a decent side. Saints are still favourites for me, but hope we can build upon last weeks performance.
Bookies agree, Bath 2/1 for the win, Saints c1/2...
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
What is this strange sensation? An evenly matched game where we’ve taken our chances and our opponents haven’t?! Now let’s pretend we’re 14 behind at half-time and play for the full 80…
All the coaches need to say is: “do what you’ve done in the second half to date in (almost) every match this season and we’ll romp home!”
Excellent half, esp defence, riling Saints and knocking them off their stride. Dunn awesome. Roux into everything. Worboys… I salute you. A very assured 40.
A pain worse than losing your first 6 of the season? Losing the 7th after being 14-0 up at home at HT. COME ON YOU BATH!
Excellent half, esp defence, riling Saints and knocking them off their stride. Dunn awesome. Roux into everything. Worboys… I salute you. A very assured 40.
A pain worse than losing your first 6 of the season? Losing the 7th after being 14-0 up at home at HT. COME ON YOU BATH!
Enjoying the score but listening to the Radio Bristol commentary is once again a nightmare of not having any idea where the ball is. Is it in our half? The Saints half? Half way up Brassknocker Hill or floating down the Avon?
Defence was so so so much better today. Even when stretched they were drifting well and smartly. Very few missed tackles. Excellent work, great win.
Quote:Rokobilly
Missing today's game. Given I've been there every other game this season, I'm clearly a jinx and Bath will now romp home by 20 points. You can all thank me later.
Thanks Rokobilly
Great win half time lead against the run of play.
Redpath was just class. He won at least two turnovers.
At last a win. Still a lot to work in attack, but we’re playing as a team against this terrible run of injuries
Widcombe Garçon
Redpath was just class. He won at least two turnovers.
At last a win. Still a lot to work in attack, but we’re playing as a team against this terrible run of injuries
Widcombe Garçon
Quote:B4thB4ck
Well done everyone, special congrats to Worboys.
+1
Best team performance this season.
No lineouts lost in the first half, no scrum penalties conceded, good decisions made and no quarter given, tremendous first half. We lost a restart and lineout then conceded a try early in the 2nd half but that was our only loss of composure. Hats off to Warboys who was courageous and mature beyond his years. A great effort and worthy win today, so pleased and proud. Lawrence is a special player and Ted Hill played well on debut. So few mistakes and so many good decisions including kicking for goal when right to do so. COUB!!!
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
Cannot see Dunn playing next weekend, he was all over the place after the tackle on Ludnam
No match next week - Bath were originally scheduled to play Worcester. I guess they could arrange a private Bath v Worcester amongst themselves...
Quote:Didn’t feel like the first half was against the run of play to me. Q3 did, but thepught we were best for the other quarters. Saints seemed to penalise themselves out of any momentum and contention. But that’s not to say we didn’t do very well. Building, there’s more to come from this squad as the systems settle.Widcombe Boy
Great win half time lead against the run of play.
Redpath was just class. He won at least two turnovers.
At last a win. Still a lot to work in attack, but we’re playing as a team against this terrible run of injuries
Delighted with the win. Big performances from 1-23. Dunn. Roux. Reid. Bayliss. Schreuder. Redpath. Gallagher (again).Worboys didn’t do much but he no way looked out of place - and going from behind his own line on debut too showed some guts! Far from perfect or a work of art, but for commitment and heart, exceptional team effort. Got some luck, too, with Saints unusually mistake-ridden.
Could sense in the first half we’d got under their skin. Yes, we play slow, kick it in the air, maul, hit up one-out a lot… and I think they wanted an entirely different game. Slippy ball and wind helped our plan, too. We got to Ludlum, Mitchell was ineffective and their dangerous backs barely strung anything together, so the plan worked.
Pleased for the squad and JvG. One win does not a season make but I could clearly see what we want to do today and I could see all the players desperately wanting to do it. Cheers all.
Could sense in the first half we’d got under their skin. Yes, we play slow, kick it in the air, maul, hit up one-out a lot… and I think they wanted an entirely different game. Slippy ball and wind helped our plan, too. We got to Ludlum, Mitchell was ineffective and their dangerous backs barely strung anything together, so the plan worked.
Pleased for the squad and JvG. One win does not a season make but I could clearly see what we want to do today and I could see all the players desperately wanting to do it. Cheers all.
Quote:Rokobilly
Missing today's game. Given I've been there every other game this season, I'm clearly a jinx and Bath will now romp home by 20 points. You can all thank me later.
Thank you!
J
Immaculate set piece.
Competing at the break down.
A decent kicking game.
Solid narrow defence - if still a little shaky out wide.
Worboys was fantastic - start the lad again next week.
Fantastic Bath!
Competing at the break down.
A decent kicking game.
Solid narrow defence - if still a little shaky out wide.
Worboys was fantastic - start the lad again next week.
Fantastic Bath!
Well, it must have been a good game for us, my watch flashed up a warning worried that my heart rate had jumped up despite being inactive.
It would be interesting to see stats on the handling errors and penalties, mentioned by Coochie in the commentary
Lots of really good performances and finally a slice of luck. However, biggest plus was a mean defence. In other games, we would have gone behind early and then never been able to catch up.
One game isn't going to turn us round but we are starting to see progress in attitude, defence, set piece and calmness under pressure (Bayliss behind the try line).
Really liked Roux's work rate in mauls, Lawrence always looks strong and Hill (if only we could keep him) made an impact at 6 late in the game. Worboys very calm and controlled and didn't try too much.
One game isn't going to turn us round but we are starting to see progress in attitude, defence, set piece and calmness under pressure (Bayliss behind the try line).
Really liked Roux's work rate in mauls, Lawrence always looks strong and Hill (if only we could keep him) made an impact at 6 late in the game. Worboys very calm and controlled and didn't try too much.
Impressive win, especially defensively. Even thought Saints were a little bit lucky not to get a yellow for killing the ball next to the try line before Worboys first penalty and thought their maul try had both lifters obstructing the defence. Though that’s through very blue, black and white specs.
Just watched the game and thought Worboys had a cracking debut. Looked very at home in a committed team performance.
Just watched the match. YES, BOYS!!!!!!
Right, now we've got that out of the way, we can admit we were lucky. Saints created more than enough chances to have won that and against more clinical sides (ie Salaries and Tigs), we'll lose. We weren't anywhere near as good as last week but it was a huge step in the right direction because we could have folded and we didn't. The team defence was miles better and we worked hard to maximise a limited attacking game plan. Yet again the attack of Ollie Lawrence and Matt Gallagher was outstanding but you'd struggle to argue anyone elses in the backs was but from a severely depleted pack that hasn't played together much that was a damn fine effort. And a word for Ted Hill. He lifted the whole of a tiring team when he came on. That is a rare talent to be able to call on.
Much to work on but a win washes away many sins.
My MoTM - George Worboys. Decision making good, defence very good, kicking close to perfect. Played like a veteran. If he's our 4th choice 10 (and I suspect he's higher than that now), we're in a good place.
PS. Co-comms on my coverage was Charlie Ewels. He was genuinely outstanding. Balanced, informative and intelligent. I learnt more about the thinking behind top level rugby in one match than I have in years of listening to Lol, Austin and Ben Kay.
... IMHO, of course.
Now in Honolulu
Edited 4 time(s). Last edit at 2022:10:23:01:07:22 by joethefanatic.
Right, now we've got that out of the way, we can admit we were lucky. Saints created more than enough chances to have won that and against more clinical sides (ie Salaries and Tigs), we'll lose. We weren't anywhere near as good as last week but it was a huge step in the right direction because we could have folded and we didn't. The team defence was miles better and we worked hard to maximise a limited attacking game plan. Yet again the attack of Ollie Lawrence and Matt Gallagher was outstanding but you'd struggle to argue anyone elses in the backs was but from a severely depleted pack that hasn't played together much that was a damn fine effort. And a word for Ted Hill. He lifted the whole of a tiring team when he came on. That is a rare talent to be able to call on.
Much to work on but a win washes away many sins.
My MoTM - George Worboys. Decision making good, defence very good, kicking close to perfect. Played like a veteran. If he's our 4th choice 10 (and I suspect he's higher than that now), we're in a good place.
PS. Co-comms on my coverage was Charlie Ewels. He was genuinely outstanding. Balanced, informative and intelligent. I learnt more about the thinking behind top level rugby in one match than I have in years of listening to Lol, Austin and Ben Kay.
... IMHO, of course.
Now in Honolulu
Edited 4 time(s). Last edit at 2022:10:23:01:07:22 by joethefanatic.
Agree, PRTV coverage with Charlie was absolutely excellent, a professor of the game that one and a pleasure to listen to.
Ratings from yest.
As always pretty generous but the higher scorers seem to relate to those very prominent in the radio commentary
[www.somersetlive.co.uk]
As always pretty generous but the higher scorers seem to relate to those very prominent in the radio commentary
[www.somersetlive.co.uk]
Quote:RawceQuote:Didn’t feel like the first half was against the run of play to me. Q3 did, but thepught we were best for the other quarters. Saints seemed to penalise themselves out of any momentum and contention. But that’s not to say we didn’t do very well. Building, there’s more to come from this squad as the systems settle.Widcombe Boy
Great win half time lead against the run of play.
Redpath was just class. He won at least two turnovers.
At last a win. Still a lot to work in attack, but we’re playing as a team against this terrible run of injuries
+1
I thought we were good value for the lead at half time and felt we could have scored more. Saints certainly better team in the second half and we had a bit of fortune for a change, but deserved the win.
Defence inside our 22 was excellent, but still think it’s too easy for teams to get space out wide.
Warboys was my MOM giving a very assured performance. Keep playing like that and he could keep Bailey out of the team.
Someone not mentioned much on here. JP Ferrera. He must be working really hard with those players and it's clearly paying off. Even the mid week game against Bristol. They scored maul tries only. We now have a defensive system in place.
Worboys was my MoM too. Managed the game very well, made many good tackles and 5 out of 6 successful kicks at goal. It doesn't get much better than that!
I also think it's notable one of the bigger players is not involved in match day squads. He hasn't been playing up to premiership standard for a long while.
Worboys was my MoM too. Managed the game very well, made many good tackles and 5 out of 6 successful kicks at goal. It doesn't get much better than that!
I also think it's notable one of the bigger players is not involved in match day squads. He hasn't been playing up to premiership standard for a long while.
Just a comment on defence out wide. Yes we were giving some metres but what we weren't giving was line breaks. Tackles were made, turnovers too. Really excellent improvement in defence and follows on the trajectory from Glaws and Sarries. Really hard work by everyone and we're a notably fitter team as well.
Yeh, blooming well done JPF.
Our defensive system is becoming more engrained, notably out wide. The likes of Butt and Lawrence give up metres, backing off often, to allow others to rejoin the defensive line. A few times Saints got outside the 13 but our decision making meant a tackle was soon made behind the gain line, often Gallagher or Schreuder sweeping (who was excellent in all facets), our line reset, and we defended again. Unlike v Irish, say, where we got done out wide and conceded tries. Giving up metres > giving up tries.
A mention for Lee-Warner. Huge impact off the bench. A tonne of aggressive carries. Him, Hill (sign him, put his wife on the payroll, whatever, just sign him), Annett kept our intensity high, if not pushed it higher. Given our injury list, that depth looks to be making a difference this season. Last year, it was academy guys off the bench. Now, this year, especially with our Worcester influx, it’s internationals.
Our defensive system is becoming more engrained, notably out wide. The likes of Butt and Lawrence give up metres, backing off often, to allow others to rejoin the defensive line. A few times Saints got outside the 13 but our decision making meant a tackle was soon made behind the gain line, often Gallagher or Schreuder sweeping (who was excellent in all facets), our line reset, and we defended again. Unlike v Irish, say, where we got done out wide and conceded tries. Giving up metres > giving up tries.
A mention for Lee-Warner. Huge impact off the bench. A tonne of aggressive carries. Him, Hill (sign him, put his wife on the payroll, whatever, just sign him), Annett kept our intensity high, if not pushed it higher. Given our injury list, that depth looks to be making a difference this season. Last year, it was academy guys off the bench. Now, this year, especially with our Worcester influx, it’s internationals.
Agree on depth.
We could have been 3 wins from 3 last few weeks with a bit of luck and composure whilst having over 20 guys missing.
Definite room for optimism now and hopefully have a few back in a fortnight's time.
Also agree on hill- class player. Hoping willis x 2, barbeary etc coming on the market have improved our chances of keeping him.
We could have been 3 wins from 3 last few weeks with a bit of luck and composure whilst having over 20 guys missing.
Definite room for optimism now and hopefully have a few back in a fortnight's time.
Also agree on hill- class player. Hoping willis x 2, barbeary etc coming on the market have improved our chances of keeping him.
Happy with George Worboys getting MotM but Cam Redpath ran him close. Three moments stand out for me his jackalling in our 22 where Saints were pushing hard, his break and perfectly timed pass to Miles and of course his try. He was also very good in defence.
The team also seem to be displaying signs of unity and dare I say it a bit if leadership. After Saints second try the players got in a huddle and were clearly getting some messages across. Last season all we did was stand around under the posts looking lost after each try.
Thought Dunn led the side well until he was forced to go off.
Thought Dunn led the side well until he was forced to go off.
Quote:OutsideBath
The team also seem to be displaying signs of unity and dare I say it a bit if leadership. After Saints second try the players got in a huddle and were clearly getting some messages across. Last season all we did was stand around under the posts looking lost after each try.
Thought Dunn led the side well until he was forced to go off.
…and Josh Bayliss took over equally affective.
Had to miss it unfortunately (as did a few other ST holders) for my daughter’s wedding, but the result raised a big cheer at the reception!
PG
PG
Great game and amazing atmosphere at the Rec.
I was nervous when GW was announced at out half, but need not have been concerned, he looked very confident and was certainly very effective.
My MOTM was Baylis, hugely industrious and covered so much ground, However the entire team deserved a pat on the back.
One last point, for years the one player who gets the Rec on its feet and full of expectation when running with the ball in space was Roko, that mantle now sits with Ollie, just such an exciting runner. Let’s hope that we have turned a corner.
I was nervous when GW was announced at out half, but need not have been concerned, he looked very confident and was certainly very effective.
My MOTM was Baylis, hugely industrious and covered so much ground, However the entire team deserved a pat on the back.
One last point, for years the one player who gets the Rec on its feet and full of expectation when running with the ball in space was Roko, that mantle now sits with Ollie, just such an exciting runner. Let’s hope that we have turned a corner.
There is a really good "unofficial adjusted" table on the Saints website, which I have not been able to copy here, which shows the position with the Wasps and Worcester results deleted. I think it is worth a look if someone can do the necessary.
Thanks
Thanks
[v4admin.sportnetwork.net]
Best I could do Nick
Widcombe Garçon
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2022:10:23:21:53:18 by Widcombe Boy.
Best I could do Nick
Widcombe Garçon
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2022:10:23:21:53:18 by Widcombe Boy.
so much to be encouraged about the performance and the result but the one big thing from me watching the game then the replay is that ...... there is absolutely no doubt that Worboys is ready for the Prem and he will be a top player at this level
And, I am so happy to see that, really am
And, I am so happy to see that, really am
And for me Bayliss was easily MOTM
Not denying the impressive contributions of others but he was just brilliant
Not denying the impressive contributions of others but he was just brilliant
Any news on the injuries?
Was it calf issue for aranas?
Hammy tweak for roux?
Rolled ankle for attwood but lasted the 80?
Missed any others?
That's a decent result for us this season. Fingers crossed a few are back in the selection mix for next game inc Ben Spencer who always makes a big difference.
Was it calf issue for aranas?
Hammy tweak for roux?
Rolled ankle for attwood but lasted the 80?
Missed any others?
That's a decent result for us this season. Fingers crossed a few are back in the selection mix for next game inc Ben Spencer who always makes a big difference.
Quote:OutsideBath
The team also seem to be displaying signs of unity and dare I say it a bit if leadership. After Saints second try the players got in a huddle and were clearly getting some messages across. Last season all we did was stand around under the posts looking lost after each try.
Thought Dunn led the side well until he was forced to go off.
I had a few concerns about parachuting warriors players straight into matchday squads.
Actually I think their arrival has massively helped.
I wonder if it's been a reality check as to how lucky the squad are to be pro rugby players and how it can be lost in the blink of an eye.
Sure they have brought the attitude of being desperate to make their mark, earn a contract, and be grateful for the opportunity.
V pleased to hear the positive comments on worboys.
I wonder personally if he has the same ceiling as Bailey and Harris who look class but if he can carve out a decent prem career then absolutely fantastic for him.
Great for us to have good options at 10 without having to shunt cam and mojo about.
Clearly the club mean a huge amount to him and his family who have suffered awful times in the past- really hope they were able to all enjoy the day at the rec on Saturday.
I wonder personally if he has the same ceiling as Bailey and Harris who look class but if he can carve out a decent prem career then absolutely fantastic for him.
Great for us to have good options at 10 without having to shunt cam and mojo about.
Clearly the club mean a huge amount to him and his family who have suffered awful times in the past- really hope they were able to all enjoy the day at the rec on Saturday.
Quote:charlieboa
V pleased to hear the positive comments on worboys.
I wonder personally if he has the same ceiling as Bailey and Harris who look class but if he can carve out a decent prem career then absolutely fantastic for him.
Great for us to have good options at 10 without having to shunt cam and mojo about.
Clearly the club mean a huge amount to him and his family who have suffered awful times in the past- really hope they were able to all enjoy the day at the rec on Saturday.
Worboys may or may not have a lower ceiling but judging on Saturday's performance, he looks like he has a higher base and that might turn out to be more important.
... IMHO, of course.
Now in Honolulu
Quote:charlieboa
Any news on the injuries?
Was it calf issue for aranas?
Hammy tweak for roux?
Rolled ankle for attwood but lasted the 80?
Missed any others?
Be surprised if Dunn wasn't out for a couple of weeks on concussion protocols - he was pretty much trying to run while unconscious before the medic got to him. But they couldn't have been too worried as they just sat him on the bench when they subbed him.
A quick word of agreement with those above complimenting Ewels on his commentary.
Having watched the replay, his input added so much to my experience of watching the game and he's clearly got a rare rugby brain on him. He was also perfectly balanced, and highly complimentary of Saints' efforts, which must always be difficult for these guys doing the co-comms when they're a player from the home team.
Having watched the replay, his input added so much to my experience of watching the game and he's clearly got a rare rugby brain on him. He was also perfectly balanced, and highly complimentary of Saints' efforts, which must always be difficult for these guys doing the co-comms when they're a player from the home team.
Thanks susanne. Forgot about dunn. Think it's a 2 week turnaround now but still may well come too soon for him
Quote:joethefanaticQuote:charlieboa
V pleased to hear the positive comments on worboys.
I wonder personally if he has the same ceiling as Bailey and Harris who look class but if he can carve out a decent prem career then absolutely fantastic for him.
Great for us to have good options at 10 without having to shunt cam and mojo about.
Clearly the club mean a huge amount to him and his family who have suffered awful times in the past- really hope they were able to all enjoy the day at the rec on Saturday.
Worboys may or may not have a lower ceiling but judging on Saturday's performance, he looks like he has a higher base and that might turn out to be more important.
Look forward to finding out but certainly increasingly confident that 10 shouldn't an issue for a while with landy, worboys and harris
The only way to know Worboys' ceiling is through gametime. Glad he got this game, guess if there's a facial injury to Bailey he'll probably get at minimum the Falcons game too.
Yep assume Bailey and Francis will still be out for next game so let's hope he backs it up.
Searle is a v good player but would make sense to give George the start again.
Useful having a playmaking 12 in form like cam and spencer inside would help further.
Hopefully he will get some decent game time this season as has been starved of games over last few years other than the uni.
Searle is a v good player but would make sense to give George the start again.
Useful having a playmaking 12 in form like cam and spencer inside would help further.
Hopefully he will get some decent game time this season as has been starved of games over last few years other than the uni.
We won't have Cam and possibly not Bayliss for November, so time for Mojo to step up as well.
GW played inside centre for Coventry against London Scottish on the 8th October so that was useful before being needed back in Bath. Very assured performance on Saturday, loved the way he encouraged the crowd in the east stand to raise the noise at a crucial point in the game. Away at Newcastle next may be a big test for him so wouldn't be surprised if Billy Searle gets the nod assuming Bailey, Francis unavailable.
Missed the game as well thanks to a bout of sinusitis. That wins been coming and so pleased for everyone at the clubs and fans. From the clips I've seen Worboys looked assured and did very well, Cam was class. Lets hope we can kick on, finally seems like JvG plans are starting to bear fruit
"It's all right, Andy! It's just bolognaise!"
"It's all right, Andy! It's just bolognaise!"
Considering it was his debut, Worboys was excellent. He surprised me, looked assured, like a player with experience. For a small guy, he tackles well and he even held up a maul 5m out, wearing a hit in the ribs from Proctor for his troubles. Well done him. Nice to know we can turn to him if required.
It's nice we've a fortnight off as means we get some bodies back and continue to build in training. Must say, away at Newc and then home v Leic (who haven't been great and will be missing ints), if Bailey's not fit, I'd be tempted to go with Searle. He's got plenty of Prem experience and kicks nicely, so as good as Worboys was, if Searle trains well, I'd still get him into the XV ASAP.
Given our game plan, the more experience we have at 10, the better. Now isn't the time to be developing players – we need to harness the positive few weeks we've had and book a couple more wins, potentially against weakened opposition.
It's nice we've a fortnight off as means we get some bodies back and continue to build in training. Must say, away at Newc and then home v Leic (who haven't been great and will be missing ints), if Bailey's not fit, I'd be tempted to go with Searle. He's got plenty of Prem experience and kicks nicely, so as good as Worboys was, if Searle trains well, I'd still get him into the XV ASAP.
Given our game plan, the more experience we have at 10, the better. Now isn't the time to be developing players – we need to harness the positive few weeks we've had and book a couple more wins, potentially against weakened opposition.
On the one hand, the break is good for us as we've got players returning. On the other, we've had 3 good performances on the trot, and it's absolutely vital that we build upon this momentum to shake the confidence issues that have hounded us.
My worry is that we'll come back after the break and forget all the good that we've put in.
My worry is that we'll come back after the break and forget all the good that we've put in.
i found a 12 minutes highights on the prem site, anywhere i can see the whole match or longer highlights?
Quote:Thanks!
Late to the thread, and much has already been said.
Definitely feels as though a corner has been turned. Overall I thought we didn't play quite as well as we did last week, although the defence for sure was better (helped a bit by Saints failing to exploit the possession and territory that they won). Maybe our squad is now more at ease, and trusting in, the new systems - looked that way to me. The ferocity of our defence (esp Miles Reid) when we were being battered close to our line was very impressive.
Agree with what other have said about Worboys. I worried a bit about 10 this week, but needlessly. He was confident and assured, and I reckon there's more to come.
MOTM for me though was Cam Redpath. Made one try and scored another, and strong in defence as well. Hope his injuries are behind him now, and he has the season he deserves (and we need).
Definitely feels as though a corner has been turned. Overall I thought we didn't play quite as well as we did last week, although the defence for sure was better (helped a bit by Saints failing to exploit the possession and territory that they won). Maybe our squad is now more at ease, and trusting in, the new systems - looked that way to me. The ferocity of our defence (esp Miles Reid) when we were being battered close to our line was very impressive.
Agree with what other have said about Worboys. I worried a bit about 10 this week, but needlessly. He was confident and assured, and I reckon there's more to come.
MOTM for me though was Cam Redpath. Made one try and scored another, and strong in defence as well. Hope his injuries are behind him now, and he has the season he deserves (and we need).
Just finished watching the game again. I’d say that’s the most composed 80 minute game of rugby I’ve seen Bath play for a long time.
Looks like all the players (Available) have bought into JVG’s & JPG’s game.
Forwards are going well so hats off to Hats & Charteris.
One think I did notice is how much we attacked the breakdown & pretty successfully.
Really enjoyed the commentary insight of Charlie Ewels
Keep it going boys! 🇪🇪
Widcombe Garçon
Looks like all the players (Available) have bought into JVG’s & JPG’s game.
Forwards are going well so hats off to Hats & Charteris.
One think I did notice is how much we attacked the breakdown & pretty successfully.
Really enjoyed the commentary insight of Charlie Ewels
Keep it going boys! 🇪🇪
Widcombe Garçon
Quote:dr.bath1865
Reid made 17 tackles and missed 0. What a shift.
That's seriously impressive and must be the kind of stat that JvG must love to see
Big Dave cited & banned for 3 weeks
Adopted Players: All of the little blighters!!!
Adopted Players: All of the little blighters!!!
Quote:dr.bath1865
Reid made 17 tackles and missed 0. What a shift.
Would be one of the first names on the Bath teamsheet for me - the lad bleeds BB&W and is seriously talented to boot. A back row including Hill and Reid would be ridiculously mobile and strong.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Quote:BathMatt53Quote:dr.bath1865
Reid made 17 tackles and missed 0. What a shift.
Would be one of the first names on the Bath teamsheet for me - the lad bleeds BB&W and is seriously talented to boot. A back row including Hill and Reid would be ridiculously mobile and strong.
That's leaving out Underhill then?
Quote:dr.bath1865
A quick word of agreement with those above complimenting Ewels on his commentary.
Having watched the replay, his input added so much to my experience of watching the game and he's clearly got a rare rugby brain on him. He was also perfectly balanced, and highly complimentary of Saints' efforts, which must always be difficult for these guys doing the co-comms when they're a player from the home team.
Ewels absolutely needs to go into commentary when he retires, way better than any of the BT sport crew
Quote:gaz59Quote:BathMatt53Quote:dr.bath1865
Reid made 17 tackles and missed 0. What a shift.
Would be one of the first names on the Bath teamsheet for me - the lad bleeds BB&W and is seriously talented to boot. A back row including Hill and Reid would be ridiculously mobile and strong.
That's leaving out Underhill then?
Perhaps controversially, yes. Fantastic player but salary + (un)available games means that under this current cap I would probably pass, particularly as he is really only a 7. Don't get me wrong I think he is great, but a luxury that Bath can't afford at the moment.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Only managed to see the highlights last night & was delighted to see our changed attitude, application & focus for the entire 80 mins. There didn’t seem to be any obvious brain lapses or even
any injuries that I noticed. We looked like a proper competitive team again after so long. Our defence gave nothing away & we looked incisive in attack. Fantastic! I suppose going forward the excellent JvG will be looking for more control as we can’t be conceding so much possession like that on a regular basis but such a rewarding watch at last.
any injuries that I noticed. We looked like a proper competitive team again after so long. Our defence gave nothing away & we looked incisive in attack. Fantastic! I suppose going forward the excellent JvG will be looking for more control as we can’t be conceding so much possession like that on a regular basis but such a rewarding watch at last.
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