Bath
REPORTING FOR EVENING DUTY AT ICE STATION ZEBRA….
By Devonport Boy
March 4 2025
Full disclosure, I spotted that nickname for Kingston Park from one of the Gloucester social media posts, but it struck a chord! Many of us have “war stories” to tell about watching Bath play the Falcons in sub – arctic weather with a wind that seems to come straight off the Siberian tundra. That said, if the Met Office is to be believed (quick pause whilst large pinch of salt is taken) then Friday evening should be a relatively balmy 8c or so with virtually no wind. Exactly the sort of conditions that would have the Falcons supporters’ round ball counterparts at St James’ Park peeling their shirts off. So it should be a good evening for entertaining rugby, but potentially there’s enough suspense and jeopardy in this match to grace an Alistair Maclean novel!
Last Friday’s Quarter Final at the Rec probably went pretty close to Andy Robinson’s script. As soon as we saw the squad announcement, we all knew what to expect, but at 21-0 down we could be forgiven for wondering if we might be leaving the “Bath Bombs” with a bit too much to do against a very lively Quins squad who, with a few changes, might have been a Premiership selection. Let’s be honest; in the first 20 minutes or so they gave the inexperienced members of the Bath side a lesson in fast, direct, attacking rugby and offloading which caused holes in the defensive line that the older heads like Ruardidh McConnochie and Ross Molony struggled to plug. However, you know that any team that has Andy Robinson managing it will be resilient and have a deal of good old fashioned “dog” about them and so it proved. Under the leadership of Ewan Richards (still only 22!) the Bath team gained a foothold in the game and started to pose their own attacking threats – even if it meant steamrollering the Referee en-route!
The second half was an object lesson in the application of aggressive forward power and Quins really had no answer to it. It would be easy to go down the “game of two halves” route but that does a disservice to the players who gave it all they had in the first half. David Flatman got it right – arguably the turning point in the game was Tom Carr-Smith’s try coupled with some dogged defending which reduced the half time deficit to 14 points and gave the bench a target to work with. All in all, the right gameplan, well executed.
Falcons on the other hand secured a scrappy win in their Quarter Final against a young Gloucester team who pushed them very hard, but it would be wrong to read too much into that. Like Exeter, the Premiership Cup represents the best chance for Newcastle to take something positive from a difficult season and that can bring its own pressure, especially when up against a young Gloucester side who were able to play with freedom and no fear. It’s the old conundrum; win in those circumstances and you’re only doing what is expected but lose and stand by for the incoming flak!
The boot will very much be on the other foot this Friday as Bath come to town. It might be the Premiership Cup but Steve Diamond would love to take the scalp of the Premiership leaders and a good result would carry forward into performances for the rest of their Premiership campaign. Falcons have a number of wily old campaigners in their squad and Callum Chick and his forwards won’t need any additional motivation to take the game to Bath. And don’t forget, Falcons are the number 1 seed in this competition, a position that they’ve earned.
So how do we approach this? I think that so far Bath have honoured the spirit of the competition by playing a squad based around a core of developing players with a sprinkling of more experienced heads. At this stage, we probably need to shift the selection process slightly and pick the strongest team that we can within the constraints of the protocols set out for the tournament. There are a couple of reasons for this; we owe it to the players who did so well in the rounds up to now to go on and win it and we also need to have an eye on the restart of the Premiership and give players game time. I think we’ll start with a stronger 15 than last week; it won’t be easy to overtake a sizeable lead at Kingston Park in the second half against an obstinate Falcons defence.
Much has appeared in the press over the last few days about the likely demise of this competition next season. I’ve enjoyed seeing the Championship teams and Bedford especially were very impressive in our group. I’m slightly sorry that we didn’t get the chance to see Roko doing what Roko always did at the Rec albeit for Doncaster! If this is to be the final season of this competition it would be right to have our name on the trophy. For me, the spirit of the Prem Cup was summed up by the post-match interviews on Friday, the first with Player of the Match Arthur Green who is at the start of his career and the other with a battle-scarred Tom Dunn who epitomises for many of us the spirit of rugby but has yet to have his loyalty rewarded with silverware.
It’s a long time since we won a trophy but this one’s within touch. So go and get to the final boys, for yourselves, for the supporters and do it for Dunny!
COYB
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StumbleuponTeam Up! REPORTING FOR EVENING DUTY AT ICE STATION ZEBRA….
Discussion started by Comeonmylovers.co.uk (IP Logged), 04/03/2025 13:50
04/03/2025 13:50
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Thanks Devonport Boy! I'm expecting a similar approach to last week, start with the kids, experience on the bench. Depending on Bailey, maybe him in. Cam's with Scotland this week, so maybe Mojo or Butt partnering Hennessey in the centre. Probably Offiah out.
Time to smash the carrion, the treble's still on!
Time to smash the carrion, the treble's still on!
Andy Robinson looks quite a lot like the science officer from the Nostromo..
What an excellent report....
I absolutely agree the Bath win against Quins was strongly influenced from when we were 21 - 0 down after 21 minutes and we then won the second quarter 14 - 7.
The youngsters were slightly all at sea in the first 20 minutes as they were cut open by some incisive running from the Quins backs......however they fought back and held on.
Also as Arthur Green repeated several times when he was being interviewed having won the Man of the Match award "how brilliant it was to play with the senior players..."
I'd like us to stick with the same structure as last weekend for Kingston Park but probably one or two more senior players in the backs.......
I absolutely agree the Bath win against Quins was strongly influenced from when we were 21 - 0 down after 21 minutes and we then won the second quarter 14 - 7.
The youngsters were slightly all at sea in the first 20 minutes as they were cut open by some incisive running from the Quins backs......however they fought back and held on.
Also as Arthur Green repeated several times when he was being interviewed having won the Man of the Match award "how brilliant it was to play with the senior players..."
I'd like us to stick with the same structure as last weekend for Kingston Park but probably one or two more senior players in the backs.......
Even a balmy 8c might be too cold for vultures.
We will have to turn into Condors.
Newcastle will be no roadkill, but I think, with the same squad & plan, we can do it.
PG
We will have to turn into Condors.
Newcastle will be no roadkill, but I think, with the same squad & plan, we can do it.
PG
Quote:P G Tips
Even a balmy 8c might be too cold for vultures.
We will have to turn into Condors.
Newcastle will be no roadkill, but I think, with the same squad & plan, we can do it.
PG
Are you flying up, PG? [www.bing.com]
Sadly not MT.
Currently winging in the French Alps, including Friday.
Will be at KP in spirit though ( played there more decades ago than I care to admit).
PG
Currently winging in the French Alps, including Friday.
Will be at KP in spirit though ( played there more decades ago than I care to admit).
PG
Great report that - for the rugby content and for the writing. Enjoyed reading that.
Thanks for the great preview.
Continuing the Alistair MacLean theme - Kingston Park - Where Eagles Dare.
The match should be as competitive as Richard Burton on top of a moving cable car.
Continuing the Alistair MacLean theme - Kingston Park - Where Eagles Dare.
The match should be as competitive as Richard Burton on top of a moving cable car.
Thanks DB, excellent read.
Really looking forward to our trip up for this, just hope it's not too much of an ice station! We're packing light for a plane trip so won't have all the usual layers - what do you think are the chances of getting the club to take a couple of extra warm up jackets?!
Really looking forward to our trip up for this, just hope it's not too much of an ice station! We're packing light for a plane trip so won't have all the usual layers - what do you think are the chances of getting the club to take a couple of extra warm up jackets?!
I'd start with:
Tom De Glanville
Louie Hennessy
Max Ojomoh
Will Butt
Ruaridh McConnochie
Orlando Bailey (if fit)
Tom Carr-Smith
Arther Cordwell
Niall Annett
Kieran Verden
Harvey Cuckson
Ross Molony
Ewan Richards
Ethan Staddon
Arthur Green
Same bomb squad:
Tom Dunn
Beno Obano
Thomas DuToit
Thompson Cowan
Guy Pepper
Neil Le Roux
Joe Cokanasiga
Jaco Coetzee
BATH supporter since 1975
Adopted players:
2015/6 Tom Homer
2016/7 Matt Banahan
2017/8 Jeff Williams
2018/9 Victor Delmas
2019/20 Semesa Rokoduguni
2020/21 Will Stuart
Tom De Glanville
Louie Hennessy
Max Ojomoh
Will Butt
Ruaridh McConnochie
Orlando Bailey (if fit)
Tom Carr-Smith
Arther Cordwell
Niall Annett
Kieran Verden
Harvey Cuckson
Ross Molony
Ewan Richards
Ethan Staddon
Arthur Green
Same bomb squad:
Tom Dunn
Beno Obano
Thomas DuToit
Thompson Cowan
Guy Pepper
Neil Le Roux
Joe Cokanasiga
Jaco Coetzee
BATH supporter since 1975
Adopted players:
2015/6 Tom Homer
2016/7 Matt Banahan
2017/8 Jeff Williams
2018/9 Victor Delmas
2019/20 Semesa Rokoduguni
2020/21 Will Stuart
I'm similar, but with 2 centres, 2 wings and keeping Donoghue in the starting team
Arther Cordwell
Niall Annett
Kieran Verden
Harvey Cuckson
Ewan Richards
Ethan Staddon
Thompson Cowan
Arthur Green
Tom Carr-Smith
Orlando Bailey (if fit)
Joe Cokanasiga
Will Butt
Louis Hennessey
Ruaridh McConnochie
Ciaran Donoghue
Tom Dunn
Beno Obano
Thomas DuToit
Charlie Ewels
Miles Reid
Neil Le Roux
De Glanville
Jaco Coetzee
A man who cannot change his mind, cannot change anything
RAEBURN SHIELD
Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 2025:03:05:18:44:33 by Which Tyler.
Arther Cordwell
Niall Annett
Kieran Verden
Harvey Cuckson
Ewan Richards
Ethan Staddon
Thompson Cowan
Arthur Green
Tom Carr-Smith
Orlando Bailey (if fit)
Joe Cokanasiga
Will Butt
Louis Hennessey
Ruaridh McConnochie
Ciaran Donoghue
Tom Dunn
Beno Obano
Thomas DuToit
Charlie Ewels
Miles Reid
Neil Le Roux
De Glanville
Jaco Coetzee
RAEBURN SHIELD
Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 2025:03:05:18:44:33 by Which Tyler.
Quote:jayeatman
I'd start with:
Tom De Glanville
Louie Hennessy
Max Ojomoh
Will Butt
Ruaridh McConnochie
Orlando Bailey (if fit)
Tom Carr-Smith
Arther Cordwell
Niall Annett
Kieran Verden
Harvey Cuckson
Ross Molony
Ewan Richards
Ethan Staddon
Arthur Green
Same bomb squad:
Tom Dunn
Beno Obano
Thomas DuToit
Thompson Cowan
Guy Pepper
Neil Le Roux
Joe Cokanasiga
Jaco Coetzee
That’s a lot of big guns to risk on that Falcons pitch.
Joe gets to risk his knee
Bath Rugby Starting XV: 1 Arthur Cordwell, 2 Tom Dunn, 3 Kieran Verden, 4 Ewan Richards ©, 5 Ross Molony, 6 Arthur Green, 7 Ethan Staddon, 8 Alfie Barbeary, 9 Tom Carr-Smith, 10 Ciaran Donoghue, 11 Ruaridh McConnochie, 12 Will Butt, 13 Max Ojomoh, 14 Joe Cokanasiga, 15 Austin Emens
Replacements: 16 Jasper Spandler, 17 Francois van Wyk, 18 Archie Griffin, 19 Harvey Cuckson, 20 Miles Reid, 21 Neil le Roux, 22 Louie Hennessey, 23 Jaco Coetzee
Bath Rugby Starting XV: 1 Arthur Cordwell, 2 Tom Dunn, 3 Kieran Verden, 4 Ewan Richards ©, 5 Ross Molony, 6 Arthur Green, 7 Ethan Staddon, 8 Alfie Barbeary, 9 Tom Carr-Smith, 10 Ciaran Donoghue, 11 Ruaridh McConnochie, 12 Will Butt, 13 Max Ojomoh, 14 Joe Cokanasiga, 15 Austin Emens
Replacements: 16 Jasper Spandler, 17 Francois van Wyk, 18 Archie Griffin, 19 Harvey Cuckson, 20 Miles Reid, 21 Neil le Roux, 22 Louie Hennessey, 23 Jaco Coetzee
15 Elliott Obatoyinbo, 14 Alex Hearle, 13 Connor Doherty, 12 Sammy Arnold, 11 Ben Stevenson, 10 Brett Connon, 9 Sam Stuart; 1 Adam Brocklebank, 2 Jamie Blamire, 3 Murray McCallum, 4 Philip van der Walt, 5 Kiran McDonald, 6 Freddie Lockwood, 7 Cameron Neild, 8 Callum Chick (captain).
Replacements: 16 Ollie Fletcher, 17 Micky Rewcastle, 18 Richard Palframan, 19 Sebastian de Chaves, 20 Ollie Leatherbarrow, 21 James Elliott, 22 Kieran Wilkinson, 23 Oli Spencer.
Replacements: 16 Ollie Fletcher, 17 Micky Rewcastle, 18 Richard Palframan, 19 Sebastian de Chaves, 20 Ollie Leatherbarrow, 21 James Elliott, 22 Kieran Wilkinson, 23 Oli Spencer.
Quote:Shadders
Joe gets to risk his knee
Bath Rugby Starting XV: 1 Arthur Cordwell, 2 Tom Dunn, 3 Kieran Verden, 4 Ewan Richards ©, 5 Ross Molony, 6 Arthur Green, 7 Ethan Staddon, 8 Alfie Barbeary, 9 Tom Carr-Smith, 10 Ciaran Donoghue, 11 Ruaridh McConnochie, 12 Will Butt, 13 Max Ojomoh, 14 Joe Cokanasiga, 15 Austin Emens
Replacements: 16 Jasper Spandler, 17 Francois van Wyk, 18 Archie Griffin, 19 Harvey Cuckson, 20 Miles Reid, 21 Neil le Roux, 22 Louie Hennessey, 23 Jaco Coetzee
Interesting selection there. Some big guns but who is back up goal kicker?
Quote:Shadders
15 Elliott Obatoyinbo, 14 Alex Hearle, 13 Connor Doherty, 12 Sammy Arnold, 11 Ben Stevenson, 10 Brett Connon, 9 Sam Stuart; 1 Adam Brocklebank, 2 Jamie Blamire, 3 Murray McCallum, 4 Philip van der Walt, 5 Kiran McDonald, 6 Freddie Lockwood, 7 Cameron Neild, 8 Callum Chick (captain).
Replacements: 16 Ollie Fletcher, 17 Micky Rewcastle, 18 Richard Palframan, 19 Sebastian de Chaves, 20 Ollie Leatherbarrow, 21 James Elliott, 22 Kieran Wilkinson, 23 Oli Spencer.
OK I recognise the obvious names there. Blamire, Neild, Chick, Palframain and de Chaves but of the rest who is first team squad?
Quote:gaz59Quote:Shadders
Joe gets to risk his knee
Bath Rugby Starting XV: 1 Arthur Cordwell, 2 Tom Dunn, 3 Kieran Verden, 4 Ewan Richards ©, 5 Ross Molony, 6 Arthur Green, 7 Ethan Staddon, 8 Alfie Barbeary, 9 Tom Carr-Smith, 10 Ciaran Donoghue, 11 Ruaridh McConnochie, 12 Will Butt, 13 Max Ojomoh, 14 Joe Cokanasiga, 15 Austin Emens
Replacements: 16 Jasper Spandler, 17 Francois van Wyk, 18 Archie Griffin, 19 Harvey Cuckson, 20 Miles Reid, 21 Neil le Roux, 22 Louie Hennessey, 23 Jaco Coetzee
Interesting selection there. Some big guns but who is back up goal kicker?
Think Le Roux can kick from memory? Not ideal as would have to make 2 subs to get him on for Donoghue, but still an option
as a Falcons fan
"That said, if the Met Office is to be believed (quick pause whilst large pinch of salt is taken) then Friday evening should be a relatively balmy 8c or so with virtually no wind. "
i've had a really hot day in August out and about then turn into ice station zebra like conditions whislt stood in the south stand watching a pre season game
do not be fooled by the weather man - it is never shorts and t shirt weather at KP
"That said, if the Met Office is to be believed (quick pause whilst large pinch of salt is taken) then Friday evening should be a relatively balmy 8c or so with virtually no wind. "
i've had a really hot day in August out and about then turn into ice station zebra like conditions whislt stood in the south stand watching a pre season game
do not be fooled by the weather man - it is never shorts and t shirt weather at KP
Intriguing selections from Bath, probably at about 75% strength when considering the players we can pick from.
My interpretation is that the coaches have decided it would be too much of a risk to field a fully stacked team for potentially 2 consecutive weeks, and then roll straight into the next block of Prem fixtures.
If we win our semi, we'll go all guns blazing for the final.
If we lose our semi, our first teamers will be well rested for Gloucester.
It might all blow up in our faces, but our youngsters have done well thus far, and I think we're capable of getting a result with that squad.
My interpretation is that the coaches have decided it would be too much of a risk to field a fully stacked team for potentially 2 consecutive weeks, and then roll straight into the next block of Prem fixtures.
If we win our semi, we'll go all guns blazing for the final.
If we lose our semi, our first teamers will be well rested for Gloucester.
It might all blow up in our faces, but our youngsters have done well thus far, and I think we're capable of getting a result with that squad.
Quote:gaz59Quote:Shadders
15 Elliott Obatoyinbo, 14 Alex Hearle, 13 Connor Doherty, 12 Sammy Arnold, 11 Ben Stevenson, 10 Brett Connon, 9 Sam Stuart; 1 Adam Brocklebank, 2 Jamie Blamire, 3 Murray McCallum, 4 Philip van der Walt, 5 Kiran McDonald, 6 Freddie Lockwood, 7 Cameron Neild, 8 Callum Chick (captain).
Replacements: 16 Ollie Fletcher, 17 Micky Rewcastle, 18 Richard Palframan, 19 Sebastian de Chaves, 20 Ollie Leatherbarrow, 21 James Elliott, 22 Kieran Wilkinson, 23 Oli Spencer.
OK I recognise the obvious names there. Blamire, Neild, Chick, Palframain and de Chaves but of the rest who is first team squad?
all of them - we either have them or academy players
Looking at the teams Newcastle will be much stronger up front so it just depends on whether Bath can weather that storm. Be nice to win, not too fussed if we don't - the squad will have gained massively in this competition and I would expect that a few will have put themselves forward (and a few out of the reckoning) on these performances. In any event, I expect Steve D will get some salty comments in win or lose.
COYB!
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2025:03:06:17:10:11 by BathMatt53.
COYB!
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2025:03:06:17:10:11 by BathMatt53.
My concern is that the bomb squad looks more like the one that bombed at Bristol rather than the missile batallion that laid waste to Quins. First half we need parity up front, better defense and more possession!
BATH supporter since 1975
Adopted players:
2015/6 Tom Homer
2016/7 Matt Banahan
2017/8 Jeff Williams
2018/9 Victor Delmas
2019/20 Semesa Rokoduguni
2020/21 Will Stuart
BATH supporter since 1975
Adopted players:
2015/6 Tom Homer
2016/7 Matt Banahan
2017/8 Jeff Williams
2018/9 Victor Delmas
2019/20 Semesa Rokoduguni
2020/21 Will Stuart
[www.oddschecker.com]
Bath slight favourites with the bookies but our selection surprises me, thought we would have gone bigger and harder. Good luck boys, bookies are usually on the money 🤞
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
Bath slight favourites with the bookies but our selection surprises me, thought we would have gone bigger and harder. Good luck boys, bookies are usually on the money 🤞
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
Falcons have gone v strong.
Hoping we have judged it perfectly again.
Our staring xv looks a hit stronger with dunn, barbeary, mojo and big joe.
Bench not as impactful on paper with no beno and tdt but reid back strengthens us.
Look like they could be well matched squads to me so fingers crossed a good game. May come down to home advantage.
Bath clearly trying to get game time into vast majority of squad before glos game.
Great to see griffin back- excellent option to have for the run in.
Hoping we have judged it perfectly again.
Our staring xv looks a hit stronger with dunn, barbeary, mojo and big joe.
Bench not as impactful on paper with no beno and tdt but reid back strengthens us.
Look like they could be well matched squads to me so fingers crossed a good game. May come down to home advantage.
Bath clearly trying to get game time into vast majority of squad before glos game.
Great to see griffin back- excellent option to have for the run in.
Quote:Charlieboa1
Our starting xv looks a bit stronger with dunn, barbeary, mojo and big joe.
Does it?! Their pack is very close to the prem side that played vs Bears at the end of Jan. Personally I think their team looks far stronger and they have home advantage, are Blamire, Callum Chick, Doherty / Arnold significantly weaker that those you mentioned? They also have their 1st choice half backs playing. I think that a Bath win would be an excellent result.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Sorry matt, I meant compared to last week with those guys coming in. I think it slightly strengthens our first xv on paper compared to the team who played against quins.
I agree that Newcastle look fully loaded and we will do v v well to sneak a win up there.
I agree that Newcastle look fully loaded and we will do v v well to sneak a win up there.
Quote:Clarkey3k
thought we would have gone bigger and harder.
Given the Falcons pitch I think the coaches have got the selection just about right, no point risking all our available big guns on a dodgy pitch.
Quote:OutsideBathQuote:Clarkey3k
thought we would have gone bigger and harder.
Given the Falcons pitch I think the coaches have got the selection just about right, no point risking all our available big guns on a dodgy pitch.
The PRC would be sprinkles on top, JvG's goal is the Prem, these games are conditioning for that target.
Newcastle definitely favourites given home advantage and a full-strength team...but it's not exactly one that puts the fear of God into you.
They're a lot more competitive this season and the continuity will help a lot but we've got a nice mix of talented youngsters and first-teamers, so it's not chalk and cheese. Being greedy it would've been great to see last week's bomb squad again though I still think we may have enough to edge it.
They're a lot more competitive this season and the continuity will help a lot but we've got a nice mix of talented youngsters and first-teamers, so it's not chalk and cheese. Being greedy it would've been great to see last week's bomb squad again though I still think we may have enough to edge it.
Quote:BathMatt53
..... They also have their 1st choice half backs playing. I think that a Bath win would be an excellent result.
a lot of Falcons fans would say that is where our problems start and finish
me, i would never say such a thing
Loving all the chat about the ‘dodgy pitch’ 😂
The pitch is absolutely fine. Well maintained, and our lads love it.
Pitch criticism coming from Bath. I’ve heard it all, now! 😂
The pitch is absolutely fine. Well maintained, and our lads love it.
Pitch criticism coming from Bath. I’ve heard it all, now! 😂
Quote:markismith50
Loving all the chat about the ‘dodgy pitch’ 😂
The pitch is absolutely fine. Well maintained, and our lads love it.
Pitch criticism coming from Bath. I’ve heard it all, now! 😂
I think you mean historical pitch criticism, the pitch these days is very good. the dodgy pitch reference isn't specific to Newcastle it refers to all synthetics, there is of course no proof that it influences injuries definitively but it has to bee said some particular players get too many injuries on synthetic pitches for it to be a coincidence.
Quote:markismith50
Loving all the chat about the ‘dodgy pitch’ 😂
The pitch is absolutely fine. Well maintained, and our lads love it.
Pitch criticism coming from Bath. I’ve heard it all, now! 😂
When were you last at the Rec, it's been very different the past few years. Jury still out on fully artificial pitches and injuries, which I think is what is at the root of the "dodgy" comments.
Sitting at Bristol airport waiting for the flight up and really looking forward to it, whatever pitch!
I find these comments by Rob Baxter somewhat distasteful and erroneous to be honest. Particularly given where Exeter came from.
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
Yes, my apologies.
You've gone from having by far the worst pitch in the league, to having a slightly better pitch.
I know it's next to the river and you have awful problems with the water table etc. I was just being facetious.
That old swamp of a pitch you had has ruined many a pair of shoes on my visits to The Rec!
You've gone from having by far the worst pitch in the league, to having a slightly better pitch.
I know it's next to the river and you have awful problems with the water table etc. I was just being facetious.
That old swamp of a pitch you had has ruined many a pair of shoes on my visits to The Rec!
Quote:markismith50
Yes, my apologies.
You've gone from having by far the worst pitch in the league, to having a slightly better pitch.
I know it's next to the river and you have awful problems with the water table etc. I was just being facetious.
That old swamp of a pitch you had has ruined many a pair of shoes on my visits to The Rec!
Very true, its barefoot or wellies, there is a whole thread waiting to be written on clothing for rugby matches. I now have the ultimate coat for games, still testing shoes!
Quote:markismith50
Yes, my apologies.
You've gone from having by far the worst pitch in the league, to having a slightly better pitch.
I know it's next to the river and you have awful problems with the water table etc. I was just being facetious.
That old swamp of a pitch you had has ruined many a pair of shoes on my visits to The Rec!
once was accidental, letting it happen again......
Quote:Barbour?shipwrecked
Very true, its barefoot or wellies, there is a whole thread waiting to be written on clothing for rugby matches. I now have the ultimate coat for games, still testing shoes!
RAEBURN SHIELD
Markismith, to be fair, Bath Rugby has invested a lot of money in improving the pitch. A new drainage system was installed about 5 years ago and Johann van Graan persuaded Bruce Craig to have it “stitched” prior to last season. It’s now effectively a Desso surface and is pretty robust, so much so that it’s now capable of having the U20s playing on it in poor weather on a Friday night and presenting a surface good enough for a Prem Cup game the following day. The areas off the actual playing surface still get very muddy but not the pitch itself. It really isn’t any longer the swamp that people think they remember.
Quote:markismith50
Loving all the chat about the ‘dodgy pitch’ 😂
The pitch is absolutely fine. Well maintained, and our lads love it.
Pitch criticism coming from Bath. I’ve heard it all, now! 😂
You may think plastic pitches are ok, but personally I believe they have no place in top level rugby, just as they don't in top level football.
As for the Rec it's not the best and far from the worst, but at least it's grass.
Yes, I'm aware you've put in a Desso pitch and it's made a positive difference.
And plastic pitches are like grass pitches - you get good ones and bad ones, depending on how they're looked after.
Our grounds team do a tremendous job on ours, and get no complaints.
Some of the outdated claptrap you hear on messageboards and from dinosaur journos on twitter is tedious beyond belief.
And yes, you get the occasional away player posting a burn pic after a game on a poorly-maintained pitch (not ours, I should add!)
We've also had lads getting burns on grass pitches, but we don't feel the urge to post them on social media or complain about them.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2025:03:07:14:17:43 by markismith50.
And plastic pitches are like grass pitches - you get good ones and bad ones, depending on how they're looked after.
Our grounds team do a tremendous job on ours, and get no complaints.
Some of the outdated claptrap you hear on messageboards and from dinosaur journos on twitter is tedious beyond belief.
And yes, you get the occasional away player posting a burn pic after a game on a poorly-maintained pitch (not ours, I should add!)
We've also had lads getting burns on grass pitches, but we don't feel the urge to post them on social media or complain about them.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2025:03:07:14:17:43 by markismith50.
Quote:markismith50
Some of the outdated claptrap you hear on messageboards and from dinosaur journos on twitter is tedious beyond belief.
Not in agreement with the stats presented by David Walsh of the Times write last month? (Injury facts alarming — so why does rugby persist with artificial pitches?)
This quoted the recent publication West SW, Hudson SJ, Starling L, et al. Br J Sports Med 2024;58:1496–1504. 'Twenty year analysis of professional men’s rugby union knee injuries from the English premiership shows high rates and burden'.
The authors are all at the top of this field and had some conclusions which appear concerning.
chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/[bjsm.bmj.com]
'The incidence of match knee injury was 44% higher on artificial pitches than grass pitches (incidence rate ratio: 1.44 (95% CI 1.21 to 1.69); p<0.01), with no significant difference in severity between surfaces.'
Quote:markismith50
We've also had lads getting burns on grass pitches
That seems unlikely unless they were playing on a surface which wasn't fit to play on (i.e. more dry mud than grass)?
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2025:03:07:14:51:50 by BathMatt53.
Quote:Which TylerQuote:Barbour?shipwrecked
Very true, its barefoot or wellies, there is a whole thread waiting to be written on clothing for rugby matches. I now have the ultimate coat for games, still testing shoes!
Cant afford that WT, had one but the waxing is annoying technology has moved on now, its one of these, 20.000mm DWR , quality shell, fleece lined, long so you can sit on wet seats wth impunity and warm. I recekoned anyone who can sit on a cold river bank in the rain for a day might know something about stayin warm and dry. Tested pitchside at Ebbw Vale, its perfect.
"That seems unlikely unless they were playing on a surface which wasn't fit to play on (i.e. more dry mud than grass)?"
No, it's happened a few times. Quite a few lads got them on our last trips to Quins and Northampton.
The RFU injury audit comes out every year and doesn't show any major increased injury risk on AGPs.
Some people just seem to have an agenda against them, for whatever reason. Baffles me.
As I say, you get well maintained ones and not well maintained ones. Just like grass pitches.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2025:03:07:14:57:12 by markismith50.
No, it's happened a few times. Quite a few lads got them on our last trips to Quins and Northampton.
The RFU injury audit comes out every year and doesn't show any major increased injury risk on AGPs.
Some people just seem to have an agenda against them, for whatever reason. Baffles me.
As I say, you get well maintained ones and not well maintained ones. Just like grass pitches.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2025:03:07:14:57:12 by markismith50.
Quote:markismith50
Some people just seem to have an agenda against them, for whatever reason. Baffles me.
As I say, you get well maintained ones and not well maintained ones. Just like grass pitches.
Have you played on any?
The problem is if you play and train regularly on them then the extra strain on legs gets acclimatised if you only do so irregularly then they do cause problems. They do cause burns unless watered, I have a tennis ball sized scar on my knee from going over in the corner one game. Took ages to heal.
When they're looked after properly, as ours is, they're fine.
Our squad train on it every day, and obviously play home games on it. Never a problem.
We seem to get more strains and ligament injuries on grass or Desso pitches, if anything.
Our squad train on it every day, and obviously play home games on it. Never a problem.
We seem to get more strains and ligament injuries on grass or Desso pitches, if anything.
Ponderous start from us. Not sure why we’re throwing it about like it’s the HK Sevens but it’s done us no favours
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Really poor from us atm. Precision and physicality just not high enough
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Someone really needs to grip this and quickly
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
All over the place , too frantic 
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
Super wrap around play from us ATM- first decent piece of play and we score
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
…and carry on as you were with another soft error
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
And suddenly we lead with powerful runs from Dunn and Barbeary finishing
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Much better ! 
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
Oof!! Great to see Alfie smiling again... now to catch the restart please!!
Quote:markismith50
The RFU injury audit comes out every year and doesn't show any major increased injury risk on AGPs.
That simply isn't true. The 2022 / 23 PRISP report (the most recent) reported that in 2022-23 the incidence of match injuries was substantially different between surface types. I'm not aware that any more recent report has been published?
Quote:markismith50
Some people just seem to have an agenda against them, for whatever reason. Baffles me.
So in your view, which of the following doctors / professors have an agenda? Or are you saying that their published and peer reviewed paper is wrong? Or something else?
Stephen W West ,1,2,3
Sam J Hudson,1,2
Lindsay Starling,1,4
Matthew Cross,5,6
Sean Williams,1,2
Carly D McKay,1,2
Dario Cazzola,1,2
John H M Brooks ,7,8
Rory Murray,9
Andy Williams,10
Simon P T Kemp 11,12
Keith A Stokes 1,2,1
1 Centre for Health, and Injury and Illness Prevention in Sport, University of Bath, Bath, UK
2 UK Collaborating Centre on Injury and Illness Prevention in Sport, University of Bath, Bath, UK
3 Sport Injury Prevention Research Centre, Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada 4World Rugby, Dublin, Ireland
5 Premiership Rugby, London, UK
6 Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre Carnegie Schools of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK
7 Physiosports, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
8S t.Kilda Football Club, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
9 Bath Rugby, Bath, UK
10 Fortius Clinic, London, UK
11 Sports Medicine, Rugby Football Union, London, UK
12 London School of Hygeine and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Clever little kick through and Emens scores
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Barbeary off, hopefully precautionary
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Gah! Poor first up tackle ends up giving them an easy score
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
We should be pulling away now but for defensive lapses.
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
It's very murky here and seems to be sapping the energy, we need to up the tempo and have a better second half. Time for the bomb squad?
Ciarran Donnaghue is cool as a cucumber running the clock to 3 seconds before converting.
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
What an odd half from Maloney! Back row good. TCS looking sharp. Donoghue has been excellent. Remarkably cool customer given his very little experience. Mojo with some lovely touches- classy player.
Bit annoying the comms making light of our XV. Kay saying we’re “missing a few” or somesuch. Alfie and JCok aside, there’s not one member of our 1st pick XV out there. I know we’re Real Madrid or whatever, but this is a 1st XV at home versus our 2nd/3rd team. And we’re doing well!
2024/25 adoptee: Guy Pepper
Bit annoying the comms making light of our XV. Kay saying we’re “missing a few” or somesuch. Alfie and JCok aside, there’s not one member of our 1st pick XV out there. I know we’re Real Madrid or whatever, but this is a 1st XV at home versus our 2nd/3rd team. And we’re doing well!
2024/25 adoptee: Guy Pepper
Blatantly played off the ground by Newcastle!
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Ref putting up with a lot of chat from a lot of Falcons players, not just the captain
Damned annoying given they were up there due to a blatant missed penalty
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
For goodness sake we are just not at the races at ttimes. Some sloppy play at times
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Christ how bad is our kicking from hand tonight- second best and it costs us a try and probably the game
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Sloppy is an understatement 
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
I know that he is still young and still learning and I appreciate that he has scored a try but Emens never fills me with confidence.
Seems to be slipping away from us?
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
Scored 2 tries now but that was dreadful defence from the chip.
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
Just too many times we have lacked precision
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Newcastle's 4th was an absolutely beauty.
If only we could catch restarts
A man who cannot change his mind, cannot change anything
RAEBURN SHIELD
If only we could catch restarts
RAEBURN SHIELD
Ooh, we're ahead now. Getting updates from BBC website whilst watching the U20's match...
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
I’m glad Spencer has signed for so long - he needs to coach TCS on his box kicks!
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Not sure how we have managed to win this game with such a patchy performance.
Definitely a streaky win!
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Definitely a streaky win!
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Really precise and accurate last twenty. TCS, Donaghue, Staddon, Richards and Mojo great.
Quote:IMO we've been the better team, just with a couple of lapses in concentrationToast and Marmite
Not sure how we have managed to win this game with such a patchy performance.
Definitely a streaky win!
RAEBURN SHIELD
That was tough going, playing poorly and winning ! 
.
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
Very decent performance from a side who were 50% development players. There is a much greater resilience about our squad from top to bottom.
Max Ojo burst an eardrum in a tackle!
Max Ojo burst an eardrum in a tackle!
Quote:CoochieCoo
I love streaky wins!🙃
As long as we bring home the bacon!😀
PG
Part of me feels sorry for Falcons after that. They played really well and scored a couple of belters, but just can’t buy any luck. A final would’ve put some pride back into a club that really needs a boost.
That said, I’m still gong next week!
That said, I’m still gong next week!
A month ago Ciarran Donnaghue was an unknown academy full back, now he is a quality 10 who has taken Bath to a final, 5 from 7 kicks and an excellent temperament. TCS was excellent as well kicking the back into their 22 and distributing quality ball.
We seem to have increased our back row quality as well. Underhill, Barbeary, Reid, Pepper, Coetzee, Hill, Bayliss and now add Timmins, Green and Staddon. Tom Cowan not far behind thats insane!
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
We seem to have increased our back row quality as well. Underhill, Barbeary, Reid, Pepper, Coetzee, Hill, Bayliss and now add Timmins, Green and Staddon. Tom Cowan not far behind thats insane!
Quote:No, it's a home match for the highest ranked team after the pool stages.Rawce
So is that a home final for us no matter who wins out of Exeter and Ealing?
So it's Exeter or Bath, depending on who wins tomorrow (I'll be an Ealing supporter for the day)
RAEBURN SHIELD
Donaghue, after Landy's injury, was incredible to step up at 10. Great commitment in defence as well, people were charging down his channel all game long and he kept hitting.
Difference was we played a full 80, even if some of it wasn't that brilliant, but we held it together really well for the last 20.
Quote:hasta
Donaghue, after Landy's injury, was incredible to step up at 10. Great commitment in defence as well, people were charging down his channel all game long and he kept hitting.
Clearly saw him as the weak link and targeted that channel, how wrong they were.
A bit scary seeing Alfie and then Jaco go off, but seemed like both were hopefully ok? Jaco certainly, Alfie not so obvious.
Ojomoh is an exceedingly classy player. All eyes on Dingwall on Sunday...
Ojomoh is an exceedingly classy player. All eyes on Dingwall on Sunday...
What a great squad performance. Some young men really stood up yet again today. Ably led by Richards, the likes of Staddon, TCS and Donoghue played like first teamers. Bench was big, too, with VV, Reid, Coetzee and then Hennessy late on making an impact.
Goodness we’re a fit side. We win so many games in the last quarter, and yes that’s because we have a deep squad, but it’s more to do with the physios and S&C teams keeping our squad +90% fit AND able to keep the power on right up until the 85th minute.
Feels like a significant night in the JvG era.
2024/25 adoptee: Guy Pepper
Goodness we’re a fit side. We win so many games in the last quarter, and yes that’s because we have a deep squad, but it’s more to do with the physios and S&C teams keeping our squad +90% fit AND able to keep the power on right up until the 85th minute.
Feels like a significant night in the JvG era.
2024/25 adoptee: Guy Pepper
Excellent recovery and shows we have strength in depth. Playing multiple players details our thought process towards the final to ensure qualification. Please let’s have a final against Exeter as I have endured so much stick being a Baf lad in my local pub near Exeter, year after year. If we win I will tap my 60 gallon cider barrel .
Great game of rugby, both teams really left it all out on the pitch.
Ojomoh well deserved PoTM, really hope to see him in an England shirt this summer.
Seeing the youth come through, the more experienced players standing up and leading by example, JP Ferreira running the water on, it really does feel like something special is going in the club, hats off to JvG who has done such a fantastic job, regardless of whether we actually win anything this season.
Ojomoh well deserved PoTM, really hope to see him in an England shirt this summer.
Seeing the youth come through, the more experienced players standing up and leading by example, JP Ferreira running the water on, it really does feel like something special is going in the club, hats off to JvG who has done such a fantastic job, regardless of whether we actually win anything this season.
Choices in their positions:
1 Arthur Cordwell 3rd
2 Tom Dunn 1st
3 Kieran Verden 4th
4 Ewan Richards 3rd
5 Ross Molony 2nd
6 Arthur Green errrr 5th at best?
7 Ethan Staddon 4th maybe?
8 Alfie Barbeary 1st
9 Tom Carr-Smith 3rd
10 Ciaran Donoghue now 4th if all fit- would’ve been 6th?
11 Ruaridh McConnochie 3rd
12 Will Butt 2nd
13 Max Ojomoh 2nd
14 Joe Cokanasiga 1st
15 Austin Emens 5th?
2024/25 adoptee: Guy Pepper
1 Arthur Cordwell 3rd
2 Tom Dunn 1st
3 Kieran Verden 4th
4 Ewan Richards 3rd
5 Ross Molony 2nd
6 Arthur Green errrr 5th at best?
7 Ethan Staddon 4th maybe?
8 Alfie Barbeary 1st
9 Tom Carr-Smith 3rd
10 Ciaran Donoghue now 4th if all fit- would’ve been 6th?
11 Ruaridh McConnochie 3rd
12 Will Butt 2nd
13 Max Ojomoh 2nd
14 Joe Cokanasiga 1st
15 Austin Emens 5th?
2024/25 adoptee: Guy Pepper
Quote:JK7
A bit scary seeing Alfie and then Jaco go off, but seemed like both were hopefully ok? Jaco certainly, Alfie not so obvious.
Ojomoh is an exceedingly classy player. All eyes on Dingwall on Sunday...
Alfie was walking round afterwards talking to the Bath fans, mild limp, he said he was fine, so hopefully taking him off was precautionary. I think Jaco came back after passing an HIA, but I got that via ref link so it wasn't clear. Falcons didn't always announce our changes.
Quote:SusanneQuote:JK7
A bit scary seeing Alfie and then Jaco go off, but seemed like both were hopefully ok? Jaco certainly, Alfie not so obvious.
Ojomoh is an exceedingly classy player. All eyes on Dingwall on Sunday...
Alfie was walking round afterwards talking to the Bath fans, mild limp, he said he was fine, so hopefully taking him off was precautionary. I think Jaco came back after passing an HIA, but I got that via ref link so it wasn't clear. Falcons didn't always announce our changes.
Thanks Susanne. Jaco was an HIA, yes - always a bit of a worry with him, but no issue this time it seems.
Quote from Tom Dunn, "I'm the piano pusher Donaghue's the piano player".
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
Dunn was also clear (and the specificity and attention to detail was fantastic and very JvG like). Prem is the priority but silverware matters. If we play Exeter it'll be on Sunday because they can't play on Friday nights (still don't really get that) so it would likely be more younger players because of the turnaround to the prem game against Glaws. If we play Ealing at home it'll be the Friday night with a longer turnaround so more likely to see some senior guys.
Well done on the win and a good game.
Squad selections have been a good mixture and you have then seen the best of Richards, Staddon, Donoghue, TCS et al.
On the pitch front, it doesn’t surprise me that Mark says they get more injures on grass as they play and train on the artificial and vice versa for those who play/train on grass IMHO as the stressors on joints/ligaments are different.
Yes the Rec is a lot lot better than it was, but like Mark I remember the swamps of old!! Two XVs playing in mud coloured shirts at the wRECk!
Regarding Ojomoh and England would like to see him in a Bath shirt more at IC which I appreciate is difficult with Cam & Butt.
Squad selections have been a good mixture and you have then seen the best of Richards, Staddon, Donoghue, TCS et al.
On the pitch front, it doesn’t surprise me that Mark says they get more injures on grass as they play and train on the artificial and vice versa for those who play/train on grass IMHO as the stressors on joints/ligaments are different.
Yes the Rec is a lot lot better than it was, but like Mark I remember the swamps of old!! Two XVs playing in mud coloured shirts at the wRECk!
Regarding Ojomoh and England would like to see him in a Bath shirt more at IC which I appreciate is difficult with Cam & Butt.
Current form at Bath, Max is playing the best rugby at IC and would be our first choice. He looked strong carrying last night (has added to his game here), passing range is top drawer. He’s a good short kicking game, not sure on his longer kick game - does he need it? Cam fresh back from injury and spending time with Scotland squad, so not a fair competition from him yet - even so, he’d need to be at A1 game to get ahead of Max. And Max needs more regular starts with us for international caps. Obvs problem position for England though.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2025:03:08:22:22:47 by Shadders.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2025:03:08:22:22:47 by Shadders.
If Exeter beat Ealing will the final be at Sandy park Saturday and if Ealing do the job will it be at the Rec Sunday?
Can someone explain how the seeding for the final works? Why would Exeter be higher than us?
Quote:Unsurprisingly as they played virtually 1st teams. Financially a good shout if they get to the final but as someone else said it can’t be much fun in the Academy.A.M 180
They got more points in the group stage
Widcombe Garçon
Getting to Sandy Park on Sunday will be tricky, it's the Bath Half so just getting out of Bath will be nigh on impossible. Cmon Ealing!
There’s potential id argue also for Max’s passing game to get more out of Lawrence than Redpath can. The skill and subtlety of Max’s pull back to Donoghue before the Staddon try was what made the try. For a lad who can now carry and hit pretty hard, he has an above average set of natural ball playing skills. It’d be fun to see what happened if he played with Finn for half a dozen games.
Having said all of that… if it was the Prem Final this afternoon, I’d start Redpath at 12 and Max, I’m afraid, wouldn’t be in the squad!
2024/25 adoptee: Guy Pepper
Having said all of that… if it was the Prem Final this afternoon, I’d start Redpath at 12 and Max, I’m afraid, wouldn’t be in the squad!
2024/25 adoptee: Guy Pepper
I was shouting at the television "more accuracy", "more precision"......however on reflection and having read the thread above........that's the whole point.
These young players have been playing at a level where they have more time and more room.....so of course they are more accurate and more precise when they play at their usual level.
Last night was a serious step up for them playing a tough old Newcastle team who were playing for their season....
It will have been a really good lesson for all of them and they will gain much from the experience.
I really liked the post by dr.bath1865 above . Very, very illuminating and informative.
Begs the question now........who to pick for Exeter!!!!!!!!!!
These young players have been playing at a level where they have more time and more room.....so of course they are more accurate and more precise when they play at their usual level.
Last night was a serious step up for them playing a tough old Newcastle team who were playing for their season....
It will have been a really good lesson for all of them and they will gain much from the experience.
I really liked the post by dr.bath1865 above . Very, very illuminating and informative.
Begs the question now........who to pick for Exeter!!!!!!!!!!
Quote:tigersimon
Regarding Ojomoh and England would like to see him in a Bath shirt more at IC which I appreciate is difficult with Cam & Butt.
He plays at IC normally and prefers it there. Whatever the perceived perceptions are of synthetic v natural the facts are pretty undeniable. There are more injuries on synthetic pitches and the Rec is now an excellent playing surface, you don't get to host two u20 6N internationals a season on a dodgy pitch!
The problems of grip on synthetic for the forwards was highlighted in commentary and McConnochie wore TS bottoms for a reason. Time to move on.
I very much enjoyed that - the young lads were fantastic again. I really hope that the core squad players that have got us to the final are given a chance to win it next week. I would prefer to let them have a go and lose it than going full 1st team and winning it (I suspect that others may have a different view). This could be the making of a few of those lads.
Well done to all of them!
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Well done to all of them!
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
I hope you don’t mind Dr bath but I copied your post onto
the Exeter Board in answer to one of their posts questioning the experience levels of the Bath team
Widcombe Garçon
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2025:03:08:10:04:06 by Widcombe boy.
the Exeter Board in answer to one of their posts questioning the experience levels of the Bath team
Quote:dr.bath1865
Choices in their positions:
1 Arthur Cordwell 3rd
2 Tom Dunn 1st
3 Kieran Verden 4th
4 Ewan Richards 3rd
5 Ross Molony 2nd
6 Arthur Green errrr 5th at best?
7 Ethan Staddon 4th maybe?
8 Alfie Barbeary 1st
9 Tom Carr-Smith 3rd
10 Ciaran Donoghue now 4th if all fit- would’ve been 6th?
11 Ruaridh McConnochie 3rd
12 Will Butt 2nd
13 Max Ojomoh 2nd
14 Joe Cokanasiga 1st
15 Austin Emens 5th?
Widcombe Garçon
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2025:03:08:10:04:06 by Widcombe boy.
Fantastic result, as others posters have said it was another example of us dominating the final 20 minutes and I thought every Bath player looked hungry, confident and well drilled.
I was watching the game on mute last night, so does anyone know if the clear out that led to Jaco's HIA got checked at all? Watching it live I instantly winced and thought "that'll need a replay", but alas the game went on (and Newcastle nearly scored whilst we were a man down).
I was watching the game on mute last night, so does anyone know if the clear out that led to Jaco's HIA got checked at all? Watching it live I instantly winced and thought "that'll need a replay", but alas the game went on (and Newcastle nearly scored whilst we were a man down).
course WB. Some of those are guesses-
Staddon might not be the 10th choice back rower (although maybe he is actually?) but if all fit, you’d pick Underhill, Pepper, Reid, maybe even Bayliss and Coetzee in the 7 shirt ahead of him. Verden perhaps 5th choice if TDT, Stuart, Griffin and Sela are fit.
Either way, paints the picture that we were missing more than a few last night. Although obviously opens us up to suspicion about how we can afford such a deep squad (yawn).
Above all, we’ve a fit squad all dialled in and playing the same way, from man 1 to 50. As said above, hope we pick a similar XV next week- perhaps with Ewels, Underhill and Spencer on the bench.
2024/25 adoptee: Guy Pepper
Staddon might not be the 10th choice back rower (although maybe he is actually?) but if all fit, you’d pick Underhill, Pepper, Reid, maybe even Bayliss and Coetzee in the 7 shirt ahead of him. Verden perhaps 5th choice if TDT, Stuart, Griffin and Sela are fit.
Either way, paints the picture that we were missing more than a few last night. Although obviously opens us up to suspicion about how we can afford such a deep squad (yawn).
Above all, we’ve a fit squad all dialled in and playing the same way, from man 1 to 50. As said above, hope we pick a similar XV next week- perhaps with Ewels, Underhill and Spencer on the bench.
2024/25 adoptee: Guy Pepper
Quote:boozeboozebooze
Fantastic result, as others posters have said it was another example of us dominating the final 20 minutes and I thought every Bath player looked hungry, confident and well drilled.
I was watching the game on mute last night, so does anyone know if the clear out that led to Jaco's HIA got checked at all? Watching it live I instantly winced and thought "that'll need a replay", but alas the game went on (and Newcastle nearly scored whilst we were a man down).
Yes, it was checked by the TMO, no foul play accidental clash of heads BBB, I did the same so had to rewatch it, not a hardship in any way!
That was very pleasing to check the score this morning and to see such a convincing looking result. Hope we didn’t pickup any injuries. Really pleased for our young players.
Near full strength Exeter next week almost certainly a step too far and I hope we don’t risk Alfie or Jaco with the PL restarting shortly. Whatever happens really good effort by the players and coaches.
Near full strength Exeter next week almost certainly a step too far and I hope we don’t risk Alfie or Jaco with the PL restarting shortly. Whatever happens really good effort by the players and coaches.
Quote:OutsideBath
That was very pleasing to check the score this morning and to see such a convincing looking result. Hope we didn’t pickup any injuries. Really pleased for our young players.
Near full strength Exeter next week almost certainly a step too far and I hope we don’t risk Alfie or Jaco with the PL restarting shortly. Whatever happens really good effort by the players and coaches.
Alfie went off after taking a bang to his knee. Coetzee passed an HIA.
I'd also like a starting 15 next week that reflects the group that got us there, but maybe a reversion to a crazily strong bench as a compromise?
Watched this morning having successfully avoided any updates.
Cracking game of rugby and an excellent victory. means more game time for this group hopefully and the outside chance of silverware against presumably exeter firsts.
Well done chaps!
Cracking game of rugby and an excellent victory. means more game time for this group hopefully and the outside chance of silverware against presumably exeter firsts.
Well done chaps!
Quote:JK7
I'd also like a starting 15 next week that reflects the group that got us there, but maybe a reversion to a crazily strong bench as a compromise?
This I agree with strongly, with a short turnaround we could afford some 'stars' for the final 20 minutes run out to give us the best chance.
Sorry, other thread is probably better for this
A man who cannot change his mind, cannot change anything
RAEBURN SHIELD
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2025:03:08:13:01:23 by Which Tyler.
RAEBURN SHIELD
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2025:03:08:13:01:23 by Which Tyler.
A word for Andy Robinson.
So much (rightly) said about JvG and Blackett etc, but Robbo, quietly, seems to have got this group really pulling in one direction. To get a mixed group, of different ages and experience (like coaching the Lions!), to play in the same way and work as hard as the 1st XV, is testament to him and his team, including Charteris and Ryan Davis, both of whom had a tough few years. Of course, well done JvG for bringing him on board!
Seeing Robbo in the background as Mojo was interviewed after the game, wide smile, shaking hands with and hugging his young charges, was lovely. Would be so sweet to see him lift the trophy next week- and would be a pretty neat way to time travel back 30 years!
2024/25 adoptee: Guy Pepper
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2025:03:08:20:26:01 by dr.bath1865.
So much (rightly) said about JvG and Blackett etc, but Robbo, quietly, seems to have got this group really pulling in one direction. To get a mixed group, of different ages and experience (like coaching the Lions!), to play in the same way and work as hard as the 1st XV, is testament to him and his team, including Charteris and Ryan Davis, both of whom had a tough few years. Of course, well done JvG for bringing him on board!
Seeing Robbo in the background as Mojo was interviewed after the game, wide smile, shaking hands with and hugging his young charges, was lovely. Would be so sweet to see him lift the trophy next week- and would be a pretty neat way to time travel back 30 years!
2024/25 adoptee: Guy Pepper
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2025:03:08:20:26:01 by dr.bath1865.
Great for Robbo - who just seems to excel in that under the radar role. Is Ryan Davis still involved? Didn’t realise that, but pleasing to hear, if so. Can’t stand head coaches who feel compelled to surround themselves with nothing but their own coterie. Yet another JVG kudos.
Quote:dr.bath1865
A word for Andy Robinson.
So much (rightly) said about JvG and Blackett etc, but Robbo, quietly, seems to have got this group really pulling in one direction. To get a mixed group, of different ages and experience (like coaching the Lions!), to play in the same way and work as hard as the 1st XV, is testament to him and his team, including Charteris and Ryan Davis, both of whom had a tough few years. Of course, well done JvG for bringing him on board!
Seeing Robbo in the background as Mojo was interviewed after the game, wide smile, shaking hands with and hugging his young charges, was lovely. Would be so sweet to see him lift the trophy next week- and would be a pretty neat way to time travel back 30 years!
And maybe we can spare a word for Tarquin who is overseeing this entire operation which is a “happy ship” & all the component parts are fitting together & working well. Much vitriol was focused on him for the failings of the Hooper era when clearly mistakes were made but the desire to blame it all on Tarquin was entirely unjustified.
As I heard....no idea if true the "Hooper Era" was only an elongated interim period.
Quote:Hugh Jarse
So chaps are we going to turn up and support our team or not?
Not. I had the Friday greyed out and fully intended to attend and support - but a midday Sunday KO means that I won't be able to watch it, let alone attend, as helping with the Bath Half. Its really disappointing / unfortunate after being there at the other matches.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
I was desperately hoping that Ealing would get it done and that the final would be on Friday. We can’t do Sunday - it’s “family first” and it’s our twin granddaughters’ birthday. I won’t reopen the can of worms around Exeter hiding behind a smokescreen of being prevented from holding matches on Friday evenings but it’s a constant source of irritation. Incidentally, did anybody else notice the state of their pitch during the Ealing game? You could almost count the blades of grass on it.
Quote:BathMatt53Quote:Hugh Jarse
So chaps are we going to turn up and support our team or not?
Not. I had the Friday greyed out and fully intended to attend and support - but a midday Sunday KO means that I won't be able to watch it, let alone attend, as helping with the Bath Half. Its really disappointing / unfortunate after being there at the other matches.
Give me a cheer Bath Matt. I will be running in the BBW of Bath Rugby Community Foundation. Race number 24147
I've had real problems with knee injury. Still nowhere healed and so hope of sub 2 hours gone and all about just getting round and enjoying it
Quote:gaz59
Give me a cheer Bath Matt. I will be running in the BBW of Bath Rugby Community Foundation. Race number 24147
Meh, I'm sure you will be a blur Gaz! (although possibly more to do with my old eyes in this case..). Good luck mate and I hope the knee holds up.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Can't resist another dig about Exeter being prevented from playing on Friday night. Must have been concocted by someone with influence in the emergency services. Supporters can't drive to Sandy Park anyway because there is no parking. Those coming from the city and all points west don't go near the M5. Most will come on shuttle buses and by rail from Exeter Central. I've worked in Exeter and know my way around like their supporters and you get familiar with the routes to avoid the potential problems between junctions 29 and 30. It is an absolute joke that Exeter are getting away with it. It is a requirement of the Minimum Standards Criteria that you are able to play on a Friday so I strongly believe the game should have gone ahead on Friday at a neutral ground or perhaps even the Rec. The rugby authorities who set the Friday date knew this could happen if Exeter won their semi and should have had an alternative venue in place. Moving it to Sunday has a unfair affect on Bath's preparations for the following weekends Premiership fixture. Don't suppose Exeter mind this as this is their only hope of anything positive about this season . One last dig, Mr Baxter once had the nerve to complain about Bath not meeting the MSC regarding the size of the changing rooms. Rant over.
Quote:BathMatt53Quote:gaz59
Give me a cheer Bath Matt. I will be running in the BBW of Bath Rugby Community Foundation. Race number 24147
Meh, I'm sure you will be a blur Gaz! (although possibly more to do with my old eyes in this case..). Good luck mate and I hope the knee holds up.
Cheers pal
Quote:Francis Allen
Can't resist another dig about Exeter being prevented from playing on Friday night. Must have been concocted by someone with influence in the emergency services. Supporters can't drive to Sandy Park anyway because there is no parking. Those coming from the city and all points west don't go near the M5. Most will come on shuttle buses and by rail from Exeter Central. I've worked in Exeter and know my way around like their supporters and you get familiar with the routes to avoid the potential problems between junctions 29 and 30. It is an absolute joke that Exeter are getting away with it. It is a requirement of the Minimum Standards Criteria that you are able to play on a Friday so I strongly believe the game should have gone ahead on Friday at a neutral ground or perhaps even the Rec. The rugby authorities who set the Friday date knew this could happen if Exeter won their semi and should have had an alternative venue in place. Moving it to Sunday has a unfair affect on Bath's preparations for the following weekends Premiership fixture. Don't suppose Exeter mind this as this is their only hope of anything positive about this season . One last dig, Mr Baxter once had the nerve to complain about Bath not meeting the MSC regarding the size of the changing rooms. Rant over.
Well said!
Just another example of what a shambles the organisation of this competition has been.
Almost non-existent TV coverage, zero interest from major sports media outlets, huge mismatches depending on whether Prem teams actually use it to develop fringe players, and now potentially a final in a half empty stadium at a hastily rearranged kick off time.
If Bath go the distance then they sure will have done it the hard way.
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