By Moorsman
August 27 2007

Exeter Chiefs have now concluded their pre-season fixtures and the season starts this Saturday with a home game against Sedgley Park. So what have we learned about the squad, playing style etc.? Moorsman gives some personal thoughts and looks forward to the season.

Pre-season Review

What's different for 2007/08?

Exeter Chiefs have now concluded their pre-season fixtures and the season starts this Saturday with a home game against Sedgley Park.  The score in these matches isn't important, it's all about getting players ready for the start.  So what have we learned about the squad, playing style etc.?  I'll concentrate mainly on the new players but we've seen good signs from the more established Chiefs.

Well for one thing it looks like Pete Drewett has made some really good signings.  Unfortunately we haven't had the chance to see Kieran Geraghty as he has been injured but the other new players have all looked sharp. 

The front row seems to be working well and the new players like John Andress and Craig Dunlea carrying the ball well.  It's also good to see Shane Kingsland back in action.  This is also true of the engine room with Lewis Stevenson matching Richie Baxter in line out and ball carrying.  Tom Skelding also looks fit and raring to go and Chris Bentley is going to have to work hard to get into the side when he returns in October.  In the back row Andy Miller has been very dynamic and reminds me of Neil Back at his best.  Whilst Tom Johnson is showing good handling and speed around the pitch.

In the backs Clive Stuart-Smith has made the most of Kevin Barrett's absence due to injury and put in some dynamic performances.  Outside him Danny Gray has been running the show with his quick thinking and equally quick hands.  Both have also shown solid defensive abilities when needed.  It's great to see Stephen Ward and Ben Breeze looking so fit and they look quicker than ever.  But the star speedster is Josh Drauniniu who Pete Drewett has managed to get released from the Navy.  Josh has lightening speed and gets the crowd buzzing whenever he recieves the ball in open play.  He and the other backs have been running more incisive lines and linking well with the forwards.

So things are looking good with strength in depth in every department and Chiefs fans will have high expectations for this season.  They're not alone in this as the players and coaches won't be happy with anything but a win from every encounter.

Come On You Chiefs.......