Bath
TRICK OR TREAT? BATH v SALE
Russell: maestro!
By Bath Supporter Roy
October 28 2026
Halloween at the Rec, and the scariest thing on show lately has been the phantom tries we’ve missed out on from our trips to the opposition 22 in recent games. Bath have had phase on phase in the red zone in recent matches, yet we come away with a fraction of the points that the territory and pressure should earn - and did earn until recently. The nightmare started with the held up try in the Exeter semi-final last year, and ever since an out of sorts attack has often been stumbling in the final few inches, sleepwalking into held-up turnovers.
Kingsholm typified it. For long stretches of the first half, Bath had Gloucester on the tackle rack, at times down to 13 men, but we lost that 20-minute phase 9-0. Our maul try on the stroke of half-time saved a few blushes. Ninety seconds after the restart we were held up over the line again. Once may be bad luck; this often presents a frightening pattern.
Pick-and-go and the close-range maul used to be our banker. We’d close out key moments in a ceaseless barrage of monstrous carries, and teams couldn’t live with the waves of power. But with TdT now bulldozing for the Durban Sharks and defences seemingly having deciphered the routine, the strike rate has collapsed. Goal-line pressure only counts when it becomes points on the board and bodies in the bin, but we got the bodies without the points.
Contrast that with what has been done to us. Northampton a fortnight earlier, and Gloucester on 53 minutes: a couple of phases only, speed and movement, and a searing line straight through a backtracking defence. Is it the deception of the opposition’s attack, or the price of our pressure and rush in D? Our defence can drive teams backwards when it lands but leaves a gap to find when it doesn’t.
There was a glimmer in the second half around 45 mins - our first set of attacks started looking wider and further from the ruck, forwards and backs in mixed interplay, passing the ball a couple times per phase, and Gloucester looked stretched for the first time all night. More of that, please, it should not take the first half to realise the need for variation and pace.
Santi’s ACL and Pepper’s ankle now join Underhill, Bhatti, and DDP on the treatment table. Scott Kirk’s new toe injury means we are down to “the kids of the kids” at loosehead. I would say we’ve got off lightly on injuries over the past two seasons, chance is balancing the books at the moment. This means an acceleration in blooding our youngsters and, without being too pessimistic, this season emerging as a transition season of sorts. Time invested in new talents now will bear fruit alongside a likely sprinkling of post world-cup stars swelling the ranks.
Very, very briefly - credit to Gloucester. Our first Prem defeat to them since November 2022 says as much about their recovery as about our fall, and they had earned it by half-time, ahead despite two yellow cards and untold pressure.
Now onto our opposition - another side whose teeth have gone blunt. Sale were held to just three points against Newcastle in a gale, the Red Bulls’ first win of the season. In a reflection of the modern game, Ford’s sole penalty was their first penalty goal of his team’s season.
Sanderson called last season (their worst league finish in seven years) ‘a year of transition’, he cleared out fifteen players, and signed Courtney Lawes, Joe Marchant, Christ Tshiunza, Nicky Smith, and Tomas Francis. In reality, Sale are still forming again as a side, and we are (should be) further along the process, with recent history on our side: before September’s PREM Cup reverse (50-28 in Salford), Bath had beaten Sale eight times running. Sale’s last league win at the Rec came in 2022.
The killer factor this week will be conversion. Can one of these teams start to use deception and depth to score tries from range in fewer, but more decisive phases? Or will we see a race to the bottom, two monstrous packs slogging pick-and-go’s, with Spencer and Russell’s out-of-form boots determining the rest.
Are we in for a trick - a Halloween home loss, or a treat – Bath’s attack firing from distance, Finn remembering he’s a maestro, and the young tyros showing their class AND composure in the red zone.
In JVG we trust, Prendergast must be given time as Blackett was, it can’t all be champagne and trophies… we must take the rough with the smooth, and better the rough in winter and the smooth in Summer… Come on you BATH.
Suggested Team – match the Sale pack first up, keep the youngster’s blend, not enough forwards remaining for the 6-2..?
1. Beno
2. Dunn
3. Griffin
4. Ewels
5. Jeanes
6. Hill
7. Bayliss
8. Green
9. Spencer
10. Russell
11. Hennessey
12. Redpath
13. Ojomoh (if fit enough)
14. Griffin
15. De Glanville (back in training)
16. Frost
17. ??? Ioan Emanuel / Claudius Wheeler ??? whoever is left
18. Verden
19. Opoku-Gyamfi
20. Reid
21. Carr-Smith
22. Donoghue
23. Lawrence
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StumbleuponTRICK OR TREAT? BATH v SALE.. Team Up!
Discussion started by Comeonmylovers.co.uk (IP Logged), 28/10/2026 08:33
28/10/2026 08:33
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Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 2026:10:30:12:02:29 by P G Tips.
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Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 2026:10:30:12:02:29 by P G Tips.
I am struggling to keep up with who is available and am a little bit cluless now as to how we intend to play ans what is a sensible squad to pick against sale.
Not going to let any of that stop me tho....
Tdg
Arundell
Hennessey
Mojo
Griffin
Finn
Spencer
Beno
Dunn
Stuart
EO-G
Ewels
Richards
Reid
Green
Bench: frost, emmanuel, griffin, jeanes, bayliss, tcs, redpath, jaco
I assume kepu out. Giving hill , lawrence and big joe a break as all look out of sorts
Toss up between griffin and offiah.
No idea if roux is fit or not.
Tempting to go 5:3 with question marks over tdg and arundell.
Not going to let any of that stop me tho....
Tdg
Arundell
Hennessey
Mojo
Griffin
Finn
Spencer
Beno
Dunn
Stuart
EO-G
Ewels
Richards
Reid
Green
Bench: frost, emmanuel, griffin, jeanes, bayliss, tcs, redpath, jaco
I assume kepu out. Giving hill , lawrence and big joe a break as all look out of sorts
Toss up between griffin and offiah.
No idea if roux is fit or not.
Tempting to go 5:3 with question marks over tdg and arundell.
I very much hope that Finn and coaches will remember that it was he who initially converted us from pick-and-go headbangers into red-zone efficiency monsters, by actually wanting the ball.
I've said it ad nauseam, but pick and drives that don't result in a try should be regarded no differently to butchering a 2 on 1.
I've said it ad nauseam, but pick and drives that don't result in a try should be regarded no differently to butchering a 2 on 1.
With the pace of Bayliss and Hill either can play wing to good effect. So we can go 5:3
Nice report presenting a more balanced view to my febrile attitude at the moment!
We have been unfortunate on injuries of late or perhaps for the past two years we were very fortunate.
If we don't win this, and that is a serious possibility, we need to look to ourselves very closely.
Nice report presenting a more balanced view to my febrile attitude at the moment!
We have been unfortunate on injuries of late or perhaps for the past two years we were very fortunate.
If we don't win this, and that is a serious possibility, we need to look to ourselves very closely.
Opti 100%
Earlier in the season we started to pick and drive for a few goes and then two or three passes to a man in space.
We should never pick and go more than 5 times......
Earlier in the season we started to pick and drive for a few goes and then two or three passes to a man in space.
We should never pick and go more than 5 times......
Because of the mess we’ve got ourselves into in recent weeks this is a must win to keep in touch with top 4.
The last home game was dire and reminiscent of Hooper’s era so I’d actually just settle for Bath entertaining us.
The last home game was dire and reminiscent of Hooper’s era so I’d actually just settle for Bath entertaining us.
Excellent preview, Against Sale I would be putting the biggest pack out .
TdG
Cokanasiga
Hennessey
Ojomoh
Arundell
Russell
Van der Linde
Obano
Dunn
Griffin
Ewels
Roux
Hill
Bayliss
Green
Wheeler Frost Stuart EOG Reid Spencer Redpath Coetzee
Think Archie Griffin has done well, keeping Stuart benching to help Wheeler or EmmanueL at scrum time. Get Lewis Boyce on the phone.....
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.
TdG
Cokanasiga
Hennessey
Ojomoh
Arundell
Russell
Van der Linde
Obano
Dunn
Griffin
Ewels
Roux
Hill
Bayliss
Green
Wheeler Frost Stuart EOG Reid Spencer Redpath Coetzee
Think Archie Griffin has done well, keeping Stuart benching to help Wheeler or EmmanueL at scrum time. Get Lewis Boyce on the phone.....
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.
Back three will be interesting selections this week. Assume de Glanville comes in as the only senior specialist 15, Cokanasiga is a favourite of JvG and would be both surprising and harsh if he missed two in a row. Arundell would normally be the third now he's fit but maybe depends on confidence in him and de Glanville both going 80?
Certainly with the options coming back there it would be frustrating not to give Hennessey a run at 13.
Does feel like a must win game even if in the bigger picture it's probably not. Might be up against the only team playing more below where they should be than us and should be a nervy international break for Sanderson if we can take the points on Saturday
Certainly with the options coming back there it would be frustrating not to give Hennessey a run at 13.
Does feel like a must win game even if in the bigger picture it's probably not. Might be up against the only team playing more below where they should be than us and should be a nervy international break for Sanderson if we can take the points on Saturday
Quote:Optimist
I very much hope that Finn and coaches will remember that it was he who initially converted us from pick-and-go headbangers into red-zone efficiency monsters, by actually wanting the ball.
I've said it ad nauseam, but pick and drives that don't result in a try should be regarded no differently to butchering a 2 on 1.
I'd go even further, even though I know it will never happen. Every failed pick n die from 1 metre out after 5 is one point to the defending team
Quote:theredseat
Certainly with the options coming back there it would be frustrating not to give Hennessey a run at 13.
Hennessy was with the Wales squad at the start of the week so quite probable Tandy told him to have a good one this weekend.
Good write up BSR-thanks.
De Glanville has started training, but will he be ready?
It could be we will be stretched in the backline as well as front row. At least in Griffin & Offiah we have some good wing backups should reshuffles be necessary there.
Reid should be available for the pack. Not sure what has happened to Roux as he has yet to feature in injury updates, so hopefully he will be available.
PG
De Glanville has started training, but will he be ready?
It could be we will be stretched in the backline as well as front row. At least in Griffin & Offiah we have some good wing backups should reshuffles be necessary there.
Reid should be available for the pack. Not sure what has happened to Roux as he has yet to feature in injury updates, so hopefully he will be available.
PG
A good write up- and a bit of perspective, which I agree with. Us and Saints are 2 from 4. Another loss would be worrying, but a win and we'll be right amongst the pack. This season was always going to be tight, but I'll be heartened if on Saturday night, despite not playing our best, if we're in and around the top 4. Problem is the injuries, but some are being offset by returnees, before we get a break. Feels like a massive game that will end this first block either in an ok spot or in a troubling one.
I think Hennessy will play 13 and I've a suspicion Lawrence will play 12. Pack kinda picks itself and I hope BVDL is fit as I think he's the only way Spencer gets a break and we shake it up a bit.
Obano Dunn Stuart EOG Ewels Hill Reid Green
Spencer Finn Arundell/Muir Lawrence Hennessy JCok TDG
Frost Emman Griffin Roux Bayliss BVDL Donoghue JC23
I think Hennessy will play 13 and I've a suspicion Lawrence will play 12. Pack kinda picks itself and I hope BVDL is fit as I think he's the only way Spencer gets a break and we shake it up a bit.
Obano Dunn Stuart EOG Ewels Hill Reid Green
Spencer Finn Arundell/Muir Lawrence Hennessy JCok TDG
Frost Emman Griffin Roux Bayliss BVDL Donoghue JC23
Does spencer need a break? He has only played 2 games aince the aummer tour.
Good shout trs to maybe hold back stuart to help out emmanuel.
Good shout trs to maybe hold back stuart to help out emmanuel.
Sorry- as in, a break from playing the full 80 minutes... or 74 minutes if it's a lost cause.
Almost every team in the league subs their 9 in and around the 50-60 minute mark, and Spencer isn't getting any younger, so think we need to be braver in trusting our alternate options at 9, both to preserve Spencer but also just to give our game more energy and some variation.
Almost every team in the league subs their 9 in and around the 50-60 minute mark, and Spencer isn't getting any younger, so think we need to be braver in trusting our alternate options at 9, both to preserve Spencer but also just to give our game more energy and some variation.
Quote:dr.bath1865
Sorry- as in, a break from playing the full 80 minutes... or 74 minutes if it's a lost cause.
Almost every team in the league subs their 9 in and around the 50-60 minute mark, and Spencer isn't getting any younger, so think we need to be braver in trusting our alternate options at 9, both to preserve Spencer but also just to give our game more energy and some variation.
Drawback of a 6:2 bench and need to keep a back on the bench until late in the game? Unless you want Bayliss on the wing!
Agree dr bath but also agree with TS.
Need to hold someone back and tends to be our bench 9 when we have a 6:2 bench.
Need to hold someone back and tends to be our bench 9 when we have a 6:2 bench.
On the bench question if our gameplan is broadly continuing as it has for the last few years a 6:2 is necessary as (successful or not) trying to bash the door down with forwards is going to hit stamina pretty hard and so it's better to have more big lads able to come on as re-enforcements.
I'm not sure the week before an international break and following a disrupted training week is the optimal time to change from this unless there's availability and match fitness issues to account for
I'm not sure the week before an international break and following a disrupted training week is the optimal time to change from this unless there's availability and match fitness issues to account for
I would go with some of the young guns again, they held their own last week.
Ojomoh has to start, we were toothless against Gloucester. My biased team:
Obeno Tupe Griffin
Roux Jeanes
Richards Reid
Green
Arundell Spencer Russell Ojomoh Hennessey Griffin
Donoghue
I want to rest Russell but we cant with two full backs out.
We are also getting too many injuries in the backs.
I would drop the bombsquad for a shake up and go with a 5:3 split to help the injuries.
Ojomoh has to start, we were toothless against Gloucester. My biased team:
Obeno Tupe Griffin
Roux Jeanes
Richards Reid
Green
Arundell Spencer Russell Ojomoh Hennessey Griffin
Donoghue
I want to rest Russell but we cant with two full backs out.
We are also getting too many injuries in the backs.
I would drop the bombsquad for a shake up and go with a 5:3 split to help the injuries.
Agreed on Spenny but this is the problem with our half-back combo and has been for a few years now. They are so integral to us, I just don't know how you phase them out when the drop off is so noticeable. And as above too, Ojomoh simply has to start.
Curiosity got the better of me on the Boyce shout. LinkedIn says he's a scaffolder back home in Boro aged just 30. If his body's still up to it, there's been worse shouts!
Need the biggest possible crop of forwards available on Sat for obvious reasons and really hope TdG is fit. Fear it could be the start of a crisis if we lost - at home - to a team currently in the midst of one but nothing to suggest Sale have such a result in them
Curiosity got the better of me on the Boyce shout. LinkedIn says he's a scaffolder back home in Boro aged just 30. If his body's still up to it, there's been worse shouts!
Need the biggest possible crop of forwards available on Sat for obvious reasons and really hope TdG is fit. Fear it could be the start of a crisis if we lost - at home - to a team currently in the midst of one but nothing to suggest Sale have such a result in them
Quote:Barfboy
Curiosity got the better of me on the Boyce shout. LinkedIn says he's a scaffolder back home in Boro aged just 30. If his body's still up to it, there's been worse shouts!
Presumably JvG still has Arthur Cordwell's number?!
Thinking about who’s available this weekend it looks as if we might have Finn but I’m not so sure whether Will Stuart or Max Ojomoh (is he still carrying a slight injury?) have been released back to us from the England training camp. I guess we’ll find out at lunchtime.
Do england have any say over who is available for their clubds this weekend?
I didnt think they did but i lose track of what the deal involves....
I didnt think they did but i lose track of what the deal involves....
Quote:theredseatQuote:Barfboy
Curiosity got the better of me on the Boyce shout. LinkedIn says he's a scaffolder back home in Boro aged just 30. If his body's still up to it, there's been worse shouts!
Presumably JvG still has Arthur Cordwell's number?!
I think arthur retired pretty young due to a chronic injury?
If kirks injury will keep him out for a few of the prem games after the autumn ints i think jvg will look for injury cover.
Emmanuel i am sure will be ok for 20 mins tomorrow, tho sale have a big old set of forwards- excited to see how he goes, packed the muscle on over past few years and a good ball player.
Quote:Honestly if you are going after retired players who never made it past 3rd choice several years ago, all hope is lost.theredseatQuote:Barfboy
Curiosity got the better of me on the Boyce shout. LinkedIn says he's a scaffolder back home in Boro aged just 30. If his body's still up to it, there's been worse shouts!
Presumably JvG still has Arthur Cordwell's number?!
I think you’d be better looking in the Championship if the Uni doesn’t have anyone.
Quote:dcshQuote:Honestly if you are going after retired players who never made it past 3rd choice several years ago, all hope is lost.theredseatQuote:Barfboy
Curiosity got the better of me on the Boyce shout. LinkedIn says he's a scaffolder back home in Boro aged just 30. If his body's still up to it, there's been worse shouts!
Presumably JvG still has Arthur Cordwell's number?!
I think you’d be better looking in the Championship if the Uni doesn’t have anyone.
It wasn't a serious suggestion don't panic
Maybe they will wait and see how emmanuel does tomorrow.
21 yrs old , 22 in jan- in his second season playing mens rugby in wales i think.
6ft 2 and 19 st 5 lbs. Plenty of experience wirh wales u20s.
I would be excited to see him get a go.
Imagine the plan was always to give him and wheeler some games in the prem cup.
21 yrs old , 22 in jan- in his second season playing mens rugby in wales i think.
6ft 2 and 19 st 5 lbs. Plenty of experience wirh wales u20s.
I would be excited to see him get a go.
Imagine the plan was always to give him and wheeler some games in the prem cup.
Really fascinated by jvg selection today.
I think the pre- planned rotation has largely happened.
I can only think of possibly beno and finn who have started in every game.
Will he reward some promising displays by fringe players, will he leave out players who are in a disappointing run of form.
For me the key indicators as to whether he just reverts to tried and trusted will be whether jeanes or eog get a go at lock, does green get a start, does hennessey play at 13, do griffin or tyler get another go on the wing.
V interesting , not long to wait...
I think the pre- planned rotation has largely happened.
I can only think of possibly beno and finn who have started in every game.
Will he reward some promising displays by fringe players, will he leave out players who are in a disappointing run of form.
For me the key indicators as to whether he just reverts to tried and trusted will be whether jeanes or eog get a go at lock, does green get a start, does hennessey play at 13, do griffin or tyler get another go on the wing.
V interesting , not long to wait...
Quote:Charlieboa1
Do england have any say over who is available for their clubds this weekend?
I didnt think they did but i lose track of what the deal involves....
England have the final medical say on whether EEPS players are available for their clubs.
So most should be available, the issue is that those in England camp have missed Club training. Maybe why JVP is on the bench for Tigers this evening especially with a 6 day turnaround.
JvG will go as strong as he can ......... it's a home game!
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
Quote:shipwrecked
JvG will go as strong as he can ......... it's a home game!
Totally agree, although I’m no longer convinced OL is part of our strongest team.
Team Up. TdG, Arundell & Reid return:
Bath Rugby: 15 Tom de Glanville, 14 Joe Cokanasiga, 13 Ollie Lawrence, 12 Max Ojomoh, 11 Henry Arundell, 10 Finn Russell, 9 Ben Spencer (c), 1 Beno Obano, 2 Dan Frost, 3 Archie Griffin, 4 Will Jeanes, 5 Charlie Ewels, 6 Ted Hill, 7 Miles Reid, 8 Josh Bayliss.
Replacements: 16 Tom Dunn, 17 Claudius Wheeler (debut), 18 Will Stuart, 19 Enoch Opoku-Gyamfi, 20 Ewan Richards, 21 Bernard van der Linde, 22 Louie Hennessey, 23 Jaco Coetzee
PG
Bath Rugby: 15 Tom de Glanville, 14 Joe Cokanasiga, 13 Ollie Lawrence, 12 Max Ojomoh, 11 Henry Arundell, 10 Finn Russell, 9 Ben Spencer (c), 1 Beno Obano, 2 Dan Frost, 3 Archie Griffin, 4 Will Jeanes, 5 Charlie Ewels, 6 Ted Hill, 7 Miles Reid, 8 Josh Bayliss.
Replacements: 16 Tom Dunn, 17 Claudius Wheeler (debut), 18 Will Stuart, 19 Enoch Opoku-Gyamfi, 20 Ewan Richards, 21 Bernard van der Linde, 22 Louie Hennessey, 23 Jaco Coetzee
PG
Bath Rugby: 1 Beno Obano, 2 Dan Frost, 3 Archie Griffin, 4 Will Jeanes, 5 Charlie Ewels, 6 Ted Hill, 7 Miles Reid, 8 Josh Bayliss, 9 Ben Spencer (c), 10 Finn Russell, 11 Henry Arundell, 12 Max Ojomoh, 13 Ollie Lawrence, 14 Joe Cokanasiga, 15 Tom de Glanville
Replacements: 16 Tom Dunn, 17 Claudius Wheeler (debut), 18 Will Stuart, 19 Enoch Opoku-Gyamfi, 20 Ewan Richards, 21 Bernard van der Linde, 22 Louie Hennessey, 23 Jaco Coetzee
Pretty strong but seems to be a bit of the best we've got and really hoping Arundell and de Glanville are fit. Only 2 backs on bench so concern if those returning have issues. Interesting that Bayliss is at 8 with Reid at 7. Another opportunity for Jeannes who seemed to be playing an enforcer role last home match. Wonder if Roux is injured as not been mentioned for a while?
Replacements: 16 Tom Dunn, 17 Claudius Wheeler (debut), 18 Will Stuart, 19 Enoch Opoku-Gyamfi, 20 Ewan Richards, 21 Bernard van der Linde, 22 Louie Hennessey, 23 Jaco Coetzee
Pretty strong but seems to be a bit of the best we've got and really hoping Arundell and de Glanville are fit. Only 2 backs on bench so concern if those returning have issues. Interesting that Bayliss is at 8 with Reid at 7. Another opportunity for Jeannes who seemed to be playing an enforcer role last home match. Wonder if Roux is injured as not been mentioned for a while?
And now the Sharks, without Rodd & Lawes:
Sale Sharks team news
15. Joe Carpenter14. Tom Roebuck13. Joe Marchant12. Alex Lozowski11. Tom O’Flaherty10. George Ford9. Gus Warr;1. Nicky Smith2. Nathan Jibulu3. Asher Opoku-Fordjour4. Ernst van Rhyn (c)5. Ben Bamber6. Christ Tshiunza7. Ben Curry8. Tom Curry
Replacements:
16. Luke Cowan-Dickie17. Si McIntyre18. Tomas Francis19. Tom Burrow20. Sam Dugdale21. Dom Hanson22. Rekeiti Ma’asi-White23. Elia Canakaivata
PG
Sale Sharks team news
15. Joe Carpenter14. Tom Roebuck13. Joe Marchant12. Alex Lozowski11. Tom O’Flaherty10. George Ford9. Gus Warr;1. Nicky Smith2. Nathan Jibulu3. Asher Opoku-Fordjour4. Ernst van Rhyn (c)5. Ben Bamber6. Christ Tshiunza7. Ben Curry8. Tom Curry
Replacements:
16. Luke Cowan-Dickie17. Si McIntyre18. Tomas Francis19. Tom Burrow20. Sam Dugdale21. Dom Hanson22. Rekeiti Ma’asi-White23. Elia Canakaivata
PG
Quote:Tlacey90
Interesting that Bayliss is at 8 with Reid at 7. Another opportunity for Jeannes who seemed to be playing an enforcer role last home match. Wonder if Roux is injured as not been mentioned for a while?
Have to assume an issue with Roux at this point. Annoying that JvG hasn't been asked about him.
Agree on Bayliss / Reid. Probably doesn't matter too much in game but according to Allrugby they haven't been picked together that way around since October 2022 and hard to believe but seems Bayliss hasn't started at 7 since April 2021
It's an incredibly meaty looking bench this week - some protection there for Wheeler maybe?
Over / under on Beno's minutes set at 72
That's still a decent looking Sale team. Let's hope that playing broadly the same players in the PRC will give us an advantage.
Quote:theredseatQuote:Tlacey90
Interesting that Bayliss is at 8 with Reid at 7. Another opportunity for Jeannes who seemed to be playing an enforcer role last home match. Wonder if Roux is injured as not been mentioned for a while?
Have to assume an issue with Roux at this point. Annoying that JvG hasn't been asked about him.
Agree on Bayliss / Reid. Probably doesn't matter too much in game but according to Allrugby they haven't been picked together that way around since October 2022 and hard to believe but seems Bayliss hasn't started at 7 since April 2021
It's an incredibly meaty looking bench this week - some protection there for Wheeler maybe?
Over / under on Beno's minutes set at 72
Wheeler over Emmanuel is interesting. Makes sense in that he has presumably been training with the squad all season rather than out on loan.
As you say trs, wise move to have dunn and stuart with him on the bench.
Roux is interesting- could believe he was kept on largely as a mentor but 1 game in 6 (where he played v well) seems very light. I am pleased jeanes and EOG are being trusted though and shows how far malony has fallen. if ewels got inj he may be next in line though tbf.
Really disappointing that green doesnt get a go at 8 (or even in the squad) but hard to be upset by a backrow of hill/ reid/ bayliss.
Not sure how many chances ollie l will get to find his form- really think hennessy should have been given a go.
Glad to see tgd back along with henry for a bit of x factor
Quote:Charlieboa1
Not sure how many chances ollie l will get to find his form- really think hennessy should have been given a go.
Other than Finn he's played the most minutes of anyone in the squad this year. Hennessey was obviously unavailable for most of the games but feels now like a contract related thing: 'we'll give you every chance to show what you can do and try and get back into the England make up in the first block and then let's see where we are over the break' seems like a plausible stage in the negotiations to me
On paper, thats a strong Sale team with (several) points to prove. I think we're going to be in for a real scrap and test this weekend ...
You may be right about lawrence TRS but feel like he is miles off being a starter for england and prpbably played himself backwards in the pecking order.
I think a good result is us getting him signed to a reduced contract for a year or 2 and put the difference to helping keep mojo and hennessey.
Hopefully he has a big game and rams my words down my throat- would be delighted as it his best he is almost unplayable
I think a good result is us getting him signed to a reduced contract for a year or 2 and put the difference to helping keep mojo and hennessey.
Hopefully he has a big game and rams my words down my throat- would be delighted as it his best he is almost unplayable
I hope I don’t regret this, but I think playing Sale is good for us in that they’re a relatively simple “bash” team.
What I mean is, the last three years the only teams we’ve truly struggled against are the throw it around, run from anywhere, basketball style teams. Saints, Bristol, to a slightly less extent Glaws. However against teams who play more rigidly we’ve been largely successful, I’m thinking Sale, Saracens, Tigers.
I suspect it suits our defence style, and our offensive patterns.
Merely an observation, but I’m hoping for a decent win that lifts spirits and gets us right back in the mix for top four! A couple of wild card results would be helpful as well!
What I mean is, the last three years the only teams we’ve truly struggled against are the throw it around, run from anywhere, basketball style teams. Saints, Bristol, to a slightly less extent Glaws. However against teams who play more rigidly we’ve been largely successful, I’m thinking Sale, Saracens, Tigers.
I suspect it suits our defence style, and our offensive patterns.
Merely an observation, but I’m hoping for a decent win that lifts spirits and gets us right back in the mix for top four! A couple of wild card results would be helpful as well!
Both Farrell and Ford seem to be doing considerable damage to their clubs by hanging on for "one more season"
That is actually a really good backs selection for Sale. Stick Lozo at 10 and Masi White at 12 and that looks like a unit that won't be a defensive liability and will offer a lot in attack. You even have the security of Ford on the bench to close games out if that's the way you're going.
That is actually a really good backs selection for Sale. Stick Lozo at 10 and Masi White at 12 and that looks like a unit that won't be a defensive liability and will offer a lot in attack. You even have the security of Ford on the bench to close games out if that's the way you're going.
Quote:Charlieboa1
Wheeler over Emmanuel is interesting. Makes sense in that he has presumably been training with the squad all season rather than out on loan.
As far as I can see Emmanuel was recalled from his Cardiff loan in October due to the front row injuries so should be fully available.
I can only think Beno will go long into the second half.
Managed to guess most of the lineup.
But where is Roux, he had a stormer against Exeter, they kept him on the full game. After the match footage did show him looking pretty pis*ed off. It might be a fallout.
I went with Griffin over Big Joe. Personally many in the backline are not playing well enough, and I also chose Hennessey over Lawrence.
De'Glanville is back!! And Arundell!!
This match will be close, both sides are underperforming. I think it will be a draw, or Sale by 3.
Unless Prendergast convinces JVG to play wide, I do not see us winning by trying forward power against their pack.
Best of luck to Jeanes, Griffin, and can't wait to Opoku-Gyamfi coming on.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:10:31:04:31:17 by exbathballboy.
But where is Roux, he had a stormer against Exeter, they kept him on the full game. After the match footage did show him looking pretty pis*ed off. It might be a fallout.
I went with Griffin over Big Joe. Personally many in the backline are not playing well enough, and I also chose Hennessey over Lawrence.
De'Glanville is back!! And Arundell!!
This match will be close, both sides are underperforming. I think it will be a draw, or Sale by 3.
Unless Prendergast convinces JVG to play wide, I do not see us winning by trying forward power against their pack.
Best of luck to Jeanes, Griffin, and can't wait to Opoku-Gyamfi coming on.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:10:31:04:31:17 by exbathballboy.
Quote:shipwreckedQuote:Charlieboa1
Wheeler over Emmanuel is interesting. Makes sense in that he has presumably been training with the squad all season rather than out on loan.
As far as I can see Emmanuel was recalled from his Cardiff loan in October due to the front row injuries so should be fully available.
I can only think Beno will go long into the second half.
I think he was always due back for prem cup SW by the sounds of it but they brought him back a week or 2 early.
Wheeler has the advantahe of having been with the squad all season as far as i am aware, inc playing a game in pre-season.
Maybe that tipped it in his favour.
Jvg says he likes to make 5/6/7 subs at once to minimise the disruption of tinkering through the 2nd half but i agree about beno and would be surprised if he did less than 65 mins.
He will have seriously earnt putting his feet up in the prem cup break!
Thanks CB the other thing is that Cardiff have a crunch match in the SRC against Ebbw Vale (2nd v 3rd) I wonder if that played a part.
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
Even without Rodd and Lawes that is a serious team. Bar O' Flaherty and van Rhyn, every one either an international or heavily tipped to be. Bench not too shabby either...if Sanderson doesn't get top 4 with that squad this season then his time is surely up.
Would've stuck with Green and Griffin too but can understand why he's gone with experience in this one. As stated though makes the omission (?) of Roux all the more baffling.
Can't see it being a classic given both sides' current form but hoping the returning backs a) get the ball and b) provide a bit of spark. Hopefully been a big emphasis at FH this week on former to achieve the latter.
Would've stuck with Green and Griffin too but can understand why he's gone with experience in this one. As stated though makes the omission (?) of Roux all the more baffling.
Can't see it being a classic given both sides' current form but hoping the returning backs a) get the ball and b) provide a bit of spark. Hopefully been a big emphasis at FH this week on former to achieve the latter.
Well we’re not going to have forward dominance so let’s hope there’s a plan B, otherwise it could be a repeat of Montpellier.
We really should be winning this game comfortably, but ….
We really should be winning this game comfortably, but ….
Oh joy. We get Austin AND Ugo today…
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Cock up a basic straight away
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Oooffff - Arundell needs no second invitation to go through that gap
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Sigh - still interminable pick and go’s leading to a turnover
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Our error count is just unacceptable
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Oh what a surprise AH wants more than a penalty for a frankly innocuous tackle
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Ugh that was unusually awful from DG - let’s call it rust
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Should be further ahead - still making a lot of basic errors.
Good to see more ambition though
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Good to see more ambition though
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
After that Joe C try I'm thinking, all we have to do now is be sensible and do the basics, it's in the bag.
Cue completely unnecessary flapping n our 22 and try Sale. Still think we'll be ok but for crying out loud.
Cue completely unnecessary flapping n our 22 and try Sale. Still think we'll be ok but for crying out loud.
Big Joe is having an absolute stormer today
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Far too sloppy again - they should not be in sight of a single bp
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Much better in terms of effort this week but still making too many errors.
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Mostly pretty solid effort all round today I thought. Never really felt like the 5 points were in doubt and the final score flattered Sale a bit whose backs were really poor. Nice to see us show a bit more attacking intent even if not quite fully firing yet
de Glanville excellent in the first half (hopefully just a knock?) and Finn’s best game of the season (particularly enjoyed him ragdolling their big Fijian back row) but after being critical of him recently I thought Ewels had a really big performance and would have been my player of the match
If Gus Warr was playing as well as he’s yapping he’d be world class
de Glanville excellent in the first half (hopefully just a knock?) and Finn’s best game of the season (particularly enjoyed him ragdolling their big Fijian back row) but after being critical of him recently I thought Ewels had a really big performance and would have been my player of the match
If Gus Warr was playing as well as he’s yapping he’d be world class
Much better performances today from Miles, Ewels,Spencer.
Ollie looks to have improved though still not at his unplayable best.
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Ollie looks to have improved though still not at his unplayable best.
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Really pleased for Big Joe, excellent performance today and thought he could have got man of the match.
Good to have a Saturday afternoon on the Rec - everyone there for the rugby rather than the beer and knowledgeable about their rugby. More of that please!
But can someone do something about the person doing the team announcements - don't think I've heard someone butcher so many Bath players' names!
But can someone do something about the person doing the team announcements - don't think I've heard someone butcher so many Bath players' names!
Quote:Susanne
Good to have a Saturday afternoon on the Rec - everyone there for the rugby rather than the beer and knowledgeable about their rugby. More of that please!
But can someone do something about the person doing the team announcements - don't think I've heard someone butcher so many Bath players' names!
I did wonder who Charlie Oo-alls was
Good solid win. Thought Finn controlled well and a couple of magic sprinkles.
Big Joe fantastic, when he’s up for it like that there’s not many better. OL looked good again, I wonder if he’s been advised to stop trying and just let it happen, it appeared a much more natural game from him.
Reid was fantastic as always, Bayliss everywhere, Mojo linked play well.
Five points, I’ll take it!
Big Joe fantastic, when he’s up for it like that there’s not many better. OL looked good again, I wonder if he’s been advised to stop trying and just let it happen, it appeared a much more natural game from him.
Reid was fantastic as always, Bayliss everywhere, Mojo linked play well.
Five points, I’ll take it!
Miles & Max MOTM candidates for me. Josh Bayliss had some real standout moments.
The pack were a lot more aggressive at the ruck and the whole backline more adventurous. Made for a most enjoyable (if imperfect) victory.
PG
The pack were a lot more aggressive at the ruck and the whole backline more adventurous. Made for a most enjoyable (if imperfect) victory.
PG
Quote:OutsideBath
Really pleased for Big Joe, excellent performance today and thought he could have got man of the match.
Totally agree. He was excellent
Butva massive shout out for Henessey and BvdL. They were brilliant
And ... I almost prefer BvdL to Ben. The speed of ball away from breakdown is so noticeable and his inventiveness with sniping and grubber kicks just gives the opposition more problems
Totally agree about BvdL and Hennessy.
TNT commentators were gushing about Hennessy's first three involvements, the third of which was his try.
A couple of poor decisions in attack again which should have resulted in 2 more tries, but overall a much better performance. Miles should have been MotM, another exeption performance.
TNT commentators were gushing about Hennessy's first three involvements, the third of which was his try.
A couple of poor decisions in attack again which should have resulted in 2 more tries, but overall a much better performance. Miles should have been MotM, another exeption performance.
Quote:Susanne
But can someone do something about the person doing the team announcements - don't think I've heard someone butcher so many Bath players' names!
Agree, other mystery players were Tom Dur Glan Vill, Joe Cockan cigar and Jaco Coot sea?
It wasn't just that numpty that couldn't say big Joe's surname - who's the idiot commentator who insists on saying it as if it starts with an f? Sounds like the first two syllables are a German fighter plane!
Solid game today by all 23
To listen to the TNT commentators, team of the season Gloucester have 16 points, Out of sorts Bath have err 16 points.....
To listen to the TNT commentators, team of the season Gloucester have 16 points, Out of sorts Bath have err 16 points.....
Quote:Susanne
It wasn't just that numpty that couldn't say big Joe's surname - who's the idiot commentator who insists on saying it as if it starts with an f? Sounds like the first two syllables are a German fighter plane!
I thought the actual Fijian pronunciation is ‘Th’ at the start rather than the hard C sound it looks like in English?
Quote:theredseatQuote:Susanne
It wasn't just that numpty that couldn't say big Joe's surname - who's the idiot commentator who insists on saying it as if it starts with an f? Sounds like the first two syllables are a German fighter plane!
I thought the actual Fijian pronunciation is ‘Th’ at the start rather than the hard C sound it looks like in English?
That seems correct TRS ...... In Fijian orthography, the letter c is pronounced as a voiced dental fricative, sounding like the English "th" as in that or this.
Therefore, Cokanasiga is pronounced Tho-ka-na-sing-a (IPA: /ˈðɒkænəˌsɪŋə/ or roughly tho-kan-a-see-ga).
Correct trs.
Thokanasinga is the phonetic pronunciation.
Jaco C is pronounced Coot-seer.
PG
Thokanasinga is the phonetic pronunciation.
Jaco C is pronounced Coot-seer.
PG
Defintely plenty of positives but overiding feeling was it was an average team beating a bad team.
3 wins from 5 and 3 away games amongst that so in decent nick, just feel like that performance wouldnt have been good enough to win against some other teams. Beat what is in front of you i guess.
League feels wide open this season which is good for the neutral.
We are in the mix but need to improve a lot imho. Too many basic , unforced errors, lots of repeat errors game to game and players putting in really mixed bag performances.
The young guys are stepping up excellently, outperforming their seniors often. They are ready, them playing is no reason to lower expectations and one change in the coaching staff shouldnt mean we cant challenge.
3 wins from 5 and 3 away games amongst that so in decent nick, just feel like that performance wouldnt have been good enough to win against some other teams. Beat what is in front of you i guess.
League feels wide open this season which is good for the neutral.
We are in the mix but need to improve a lot imho. Too many basic , unforced errors, lots of repeat errors game to game and players putting in really mixed bag performances.
The young guys are stepping up excellently, outperforming their seniors often. They are ready, them playing is no reason to lower expectations and one change in the coaching staff shouldnt mean we cant challenge.
In the ground for a pleasing win.
Some honourable mentions - Griffin has really come on as a scrummager, dealt well with a tough assignment. Beno heroic once again
Jeanes worker really hard and seemed to be in the right areas particuarly as a ball carrying option. Get Roux back and 2nd row feels less of a concern.
Arundell - what a difference pace makes. Forgot how much of a threat his gas can be
Special mention for Hennessey's try. Am i right in thinking he initially retrieved the high ball? He then hared on a massive arc to get in to the line to keep the move flowing and there he pops up on his opposite win to collect the grubber. My favourite moment of the afternoon.
Sale were....not great. Carpenter had a stinker, Marchant anonymous, and Ford is starting to look a little one dimensional
Some honourable mentions - Griffin has really come on as a scrummager, dealt well with a tough assignment. Beno heroic once again
Jeanes worker really hard and seemed to be in the right areas particuarly as a ball carrying option. Get Roux back and 2nd row feels less of a concern.
Arundell - what a difference pace makes. Forgot how much of a threat his gas can be
Special mention for Hennessey's try. Am i right in thinking he initially retrieved the high ball? He then hared on a massive arc to get in to the line to keep the move flowing and there he pops up on his opposite win to collect the grubber. My favourite moment of the afternoon.
Sale were....not great. Carpenter had a stinker, Marchant anonymous, and Ford is starting to look a little one dimensional
Quote:A.M 180
In the ground for a pleasing win.
Some honourable mentions - Griffin has really come on as a scrummager, dealt well with a tough assignment. Beno heroic once again
Agree, there was on scrum where they destroyed the Sale front row, actually thought he rummaged better than Stuart!
Quote:A.M 180
In the ground for a pleasing win.
Some honourable mentions - Griffin has really come on as a scrummager, dealt well with a tough assignment. Beno heroic once again
Jeanes worker really hard and seemed to be in the right areas particuarly as a ball carrying option. Get Roux back and 2nd row feels less of a concern.
Arundell - what a difference pace makes. Forgot how much of a threat his gas can be
Special mention for Hennessey's try. Am i right in thinking he initially retrieved the high ball? He then hared on a massive arc to get in to the line to keep the move flowing and there he pops up on his opposite win to collect the grubber. My favourite moment of the afternoon.
Sale were....not great. Carpenter had a stinker, Marchant anonymous, and Ford is starting to look a little one dimensional
Agree with all that.
Correct re hennessey- within 2 mins he had taken a great high ball, lovely outside arc and chicken wing offload and then on the end of the grubber for the try. The guy is class.
Can someone watching on TV explain why Curry escaped a card after his shoulder charge on Frost at the second half scuffle?
PG
PG
Quote:P G Tips
Can someone watching on TV explain why Curry escaped a card after his shoulder charge on Frost at the second half scuffle?
PG
Think the officials got it spot on tbh.
Checked for late tackle- fine, checked for going beyond the horizontal- fine.
Over reaction from curry who got penalised- was no more than a pen for me, pretty innocous but rightly penalised.
Austin Healey is quite insightful on comms, but I think he reckons he still has an influence on the TV ref. He’ll spot something and bang on and on about it. So boring.
Quote:Charlieboa1Quote:P G Tips
Can someone watching on TV explain why Curry escaped a card after his shoulder charge on Frost at the second half scuffle?
PG
Think the officials got it spot on tbh.
Checked for late tackle- fine, checked for going beyond the horizontal- fine.
Over reaction from curry who got penalised- was no more than a pen for me, pretty innocous but rightly penalised.
Thanks Charlie.
To me it looked like head contact but I sit a long way from the screen and the replay was wide angle mostly showing action away from the scuffle, so I could not make out the fine detail.
PG
Felt so much better watching us play today. Felt we actually tried to play. Lawrence looked better which is nice to see for himself and us. Nice to see us use our backs today, hopefully that is a sign of things to come, we look so much better when we do that. I'm hoping we get to see more of Hennessey, looks excellent every time he plays. Do we think he ends up on the wing more or centres?
BVDL was great when he came on too, gave us a real injection of pace around the ball. Hopefully this is a sign of things to come.
BVDL was great when he came on too, gave us a real injection of pace around the ball. Hopefully this is a sign of things to come.
Quote:On repeat watch, even the affable Mullins seemed to have had enough of him@Hydor18
Austin Healey is quite insightful on comms, but I think he reckons he still has an influence on the TV ref. He’ll spot something and bang on and on about it. So boring.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:10:31:21:29:15 by A.M 180.
Quote:theredseatQuote:Susanne
It wasn't just that numpty that couldn't say big Joe's surname - who's the idiot commentator who insists on saying it as if it starts with an f? Sounds like the first two syllables are a German fighter plane!
I thought the actual Fijian pronunciation is ‘Th’ at the start rather than the hard C sound it looks like in English?
Thanks for that - I'll stop being irritated by it!
Not a game of particularly contentious decisions but I thought it was well refereed today.
Healey has become very fixated on finding minor infringements ever since the Farrell thing happened. He’s constantly popping up with possible issues and if that much stuff was either blown for or checked the game would be unwatchable
Healey has become very fixated on finding minor infringements ever since the Farrell thing happened. He’s constantly popping up with possible issues and if that much stuff was either blown for or checked the game would be unwatchable
Prendergast thank you!! That was much more expansive and creative.
I am glad that JVG is open to listening, it is a quality.
Arundell, Russell, Ojomoh, De Glanville that is what happens when you get the ball in their hands! Really nice to see.
Still not perfect, conceding four tries against a toothless Sale, wasn't great. We need to defend for the entire 80, not just 30 minute glimpses.
But the young guns really stood up again, especially against a big pack. Obviously scrum was shaky, but I am not taking anything away from Jeanes, Griffin and Opoku-Gyamfi.
Subs were great, I can't wait to see more of Hennessey.
I am glad that JVG is open to listening, it is a quality.
Arundell, Russell, Ojomoh, De Glanville that is what happens when you get the ball in their hands! Really nice to see.
Still not perfect, conceding four tries against a toothless Sale, wasn't great. We need to defend for the entire 80, not just 30 minute glimpses.
But the young guns really stood up again, especially against a big pack. Obviously scrum was shaky, but I am not taking anything away from Jeanes, Griffin and Opoku-Gyamfi.
Subs were great, I can't wait to see more of Hennessey.
Especially as he was wrong about the Russell “knock on” being as it went backwards.
Austin is Austin, I actually give him kudos as he’s one of the very few commentators who gives Bath praise. Dallaglio and Kay never have/had anything good to say even when we were tearing up trees!
Austin is Austin, I actually give him kudos as he’s one of the very few commentators who gives Bath praise. Dallaglio and Kay never have/had anything good to say even when we were tearing up trees!
Quite interesting after the game that the younger players were all congratulating Hennessy in a group with Ioan Emmanuel, Louie Hennessy, Austin Emens, Kepu Tuipulotu, Bailey Cutts, Archie Griffin laughing and showing great camaraderie. Anyone spot the link?
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
Quote:shipwrecked
Quite interesting after the game that the younger players were all congratulating Hennessy in a group with Ioan Emmanuel, Louie Hennessy, Austin Emens, Kepu Tuipulotu, Bailey Cutts, Archie Griffin laughing and showing great camaraderie. Anyone spot the link?
If the camaraderie helps persuade Hennessey on a nice (lonnnnng) new contract I’m all for it. He can have an emotional support Emens included in that deal for good measure if needed. He’s properly good - more minutes for the lad please, Johan
I think it's between Louie Hennessy and Eddie James for the Wales 13 spot to play Japan in the Nations Championship. (5 Nov) That would be a perfect introduction and benefit his game even further.
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
Commenting having only seen the highlight as a family commitment prevented me from watching the game...
Looks like we found some cutting edge today in attack and although I've clocked a few comments here about basic errors, some of the handling for the tries was excellent and both Ollie and Big Joe look to have found some form – great.
I don't like the look of us defensively this season – we've shipped the most points in the league (the Saints game is obviously a major factor) and it looks like we ran out of steam in the second half again. I appreciate that with a long injury list it makes sense to ease off when the game is won, but the bomb squad approach is clearly no longer working.
Looking foward to watching the full thing now.
Looks like we found some cutting edge today in attack and although I've clocked a few comments here about basic errors, some of the handling for the tries was excellent and both Ollie and Big Joe look to have found some form – great.
I don't like the look of us defensively this season – we've shipped the most points in the league (the Saints game is obviously a major factor) and it looks like we ran out of steam in the second half again. I appreciate that with a long injury list it makes sense to ease off when the game is won, but the bomb squad approach is clearly no longer working.
Looking foward to watching the full thing now.
Just watched the match. A workman like win but no better than that. Sale were very Sale - not as bad as they've been painted but we had enough in hand all game and I never really thought we'd lose. TDG confirming that he is a our best 15 by a mile, Super Ted confirming he IS made of adamantium and Enoch confirming that England may have missed a trick. But...
My MotM - Big Joe. His best game for us in an age. When we play to his strengths, he's epically good. But we play to his weaknesses far too often and I don't understand why. He's a confidence player and when he's happy, we tend to be very happy indeed.
A special request. If anyone has any pull with the absolute muppets at TNT can you ask them NOT TO GIVE AWAY THE SCORES OF THE OTHER FREAKIN' MATCHES ON LIVE COMMENTARY!
Thank you.
... IMHO, of course.
Now in Honolulu
My MotM - Big Joe. His best game for us in an age. When we play to his strengths, he's epically good. But we play to his weaknesses far too often and I don't understand why. He's a confidence player and when he's happy, we tend to be very happy indeed.
A special request. If anyone has any pull with the absolute muppets at TNT can you ask them NOT TO GIVE AWAY THE SCORES OF THE OTHER FREAKIN' MATCHES ON LIVE COMMENTARY!
Thank you.
... IMHO, of course.
Now in Honolulu
That was a better performance & we showed some good patches but we’re nowhere near where we need to be. Currently I would say the top 4 will be Leicester, Saints, Gloucester& Bristol with us & Sarries 5th & 6th as long as we are over those recent debacles otherwise we’ll drop right down. Despite their lineup Sale are not a good team & in the end our margin of victory was quite narrow.
Quote:P G Tips
Miles & Max MOTM candidates for me. Josh Bayliss had some real standout moments.
The pack were a lot more aggressive at the ruck and the whole backline more adventurous. Made for a most enjoyable (if imperfect) victory.
PG
Yep, Miles as MotM for me. Loads of great stuff but that turnover pen under our posts in first half was a big game moment.
Certainly job done with 5pts after a difficult start to the season. The style of play was much more enjoyable and there were a few notably impressive performances. Strangely subdued atmosphere in the ground which seemed to reflect the crowd apprehension. We never looked like losing, but equally never looked like running away with it either. Careless to gift them a TBP.
Our lineout still needs work as it’s just not an attacking weapon, in total contrast to Sale which was the only thing they were really good at.
Glad to not have to watch games on TNT sport as Austen et all are totally annoying and offer no added value, if only there was an option to mute the commentators and just hear crowd noise and ref.
Our lineout still needs work as it’s just not an attacking weapon, in total contrast to Sale which was the only thing they were really good at.
Glad to not have to watch games on TNT sport as Austen et all are totally annoying and offer no added value, if only there was an option to mute the commentators and just hear crowd noise and ref.
Very confused now. Wasn't Joes surname, 'Cokanasiga' part of a discussion about whether it pronounced the letter "g" as a "ng" sound (like the "ng" in sing or finger). (on commentary).
If that was an issue why was the fact that the pronunciation of the C was wrong addressed at the same time?
While we are on the subject of names sorry but I also ge irritated by abbreviations that clearly mean something to the poster but quite possibly not to the audience. The convention is: the "full term on first reference followed by the abbreviation in parentheses. For all subsequent references in the same text, you use the abbreviation alone."
Clearly main figures like JvG for Johann Van Graan are widely used. However, in my view using correctly spelt full names are preferable. Id also be interested to find out if Kepueli Tuipulotu and Vilikesa Sela are "OK" with being called Kepu and Billy. I would change my use if it was objectionable.
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
If that was an issue why was the fact that the pronunciation of the C was wrong addressed at the same time?
While we are on the subject of names sorry but I also ge irritated by abbreviations that clearly mean something to the poster but quite possibly not to the audience. The convention is: the "full term on first reference followed by the abbreviation in parentheses. For all subsequent references in the same text, you use the abbreviation alone."
Clearly main figures like JvG for Johann Van Graan are widely used. However, in my view using correctly spelt full names are preferable. Id also be interested to find out if Kepueli Tuipulotu and Vilikesa Sela are "OK" with being called Kepu and Billy. I would change my use if it was objectionable.
Shipwrecked, if it helps the first time my wife and I met Kepueli Tuipolotu at a “meet the new players event” he introduced himself by his full name and then said “please call me Kepu”. Vilikesa Sela’s Mum and family occasionally sit behind us at the Rec and I’ve heard her refer to him as “Billy”. I do take your point, though.
Quote:joethefanatic
......and Enoch confirming that England may have missed a trick. But...
Enoch Opoku-Gyamfi is Italian (born in Portogruaro, Italy, to Ghanaian parents. He naturally speaks the language fluently. I don't thin he was ever eligible for England, ridiculously his senior debut for Italy was in November 2025 aged 19!
Quote:Devonport Lad
Shipwrecked, if it helps the first time my wife and I met Kepueli Tuipolotu at a “meet the new players event” he introduced himself by his full name and then said “please call me Kepu”. Vilikesa Sela’s Mum and family occasionally sit behind us at the Rec and I’ve heard her refer to him as “Billy”. I do take your point, though.
I thought as much DL, I've met his sister Sisilia Tuipulotu who plays rugby for Wales women in Pontypool where the family have strong connections, very grounded!
Buoyed by so many different mentions for POTM. Wasn't a perfect performance but so much better than recent weeks.
No one wants to see a player like Santi injured, but our attack looks so much more fluid with Deeg at FB.
No one wants to see a player like Santi injured, but our attack looks so much more fluid with Deeg at FB.
They can use the Th pronunciation, but to me he'll always be Joe-Cocker-the-Singer.
Much better in attack where we used the kick pass and grubber options instead of just pick and go.
Thought Reid was outstanding throughout, TdG and Arundell were
both welcome returnees.
The missed tackles are still a worry.
Thought Reid was outstanding throughout, TdG and Arundell were
both welcome returnees.
The missed tackles are still a worry.
My understanding (happy to be corrected) is that the players can choose how their names are listed for squads, team sheets etc and that’s the convention that gets used so by that logic Kepu and Vilikesa is what they prefer. Believe Billy was used at the start of his career though
And the other thing that was so much better was our choice and timing of subs
Far smarter than the bomb squad especially when we are missing out on a couple of big bombs
Far smarter than the bomb squad especially when we are missing out on a couple of big bombs
Oli Lawrence did have a better game - he is very strong over the ball in defence (nearly always the best back on the pitch for this), slowing ball and winning turnovers, but he’s always had this quality and hasn’t lost it. Certainly timing and understanding with Max worked well yesterday, he’s lost no strength. The long miss pass that he attempted in the first half wasn’t great, I think Max would have nailed that (his hands are magic), perhaps Oli would more often one or two seasons ago. It’s still OL’s loss of a yard of pace that concerns me - and especially for defending at 13 or on kick chases, he just seems to get picked off more often than he used to.
Hopefully he will get back to where he was, but I think we need to be careful with where he’s used in defensive plays.
Hopefully he will get back to where he was, but I think we need to be careful with where he’s used in defensive plays.
I do think that as players get older, I know 27 isn't old, but the recovery to full fitness after surgery may be a year but establishing previous match form takes regular games and patience. He came back early but was he really ready. There has been criticism of Ben Spencer's pass as well recently but I think the same applies to him.
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
Quote:Shadders
Oli Lawrence did have a better game - he is very strong over the ball in defence (nearly always the best back on the pitch for this), slowing ball and winning turnovers, but he’s always had this quality and hasn’t lost it. Certainly timing and understanding with Max worked well yesterday, he’s lost no strength. The long miss pass that he attempted in the first half wasn’t great, I think Max would have nailed that (his hands are magic), perhaps Oli would more often one or two seasons ago. It’s still OL’s loss of a yard of pace that concerns me - and especially for defending at 13 or on kick chases, he just seems to get picked off more often than he used to.
Hopefully he will get back to where he was, but I think we need to be careful with where he’s used in defensive plays.
He delivered two dreadful long passes & though better is still a shadow of his former self.
Agree brands that missed 1 on 1 tackles are a worry.
Agree gaz about use of bench. Seemed a bit more 'feel' based than overly formulaic.
Agree re OL, some shoots of recovery but still some poor skill execution and looks a yard slower.
Agree gaz about use of bench. Seemed a bit more 'feel' based than overly formulaic.
Agree re OL, some shoots of recovery but still some poor skill execution and looks a yard slower.
Agree the bench was handled better, and we got our wish in Ben being given a rest once the result was pretty much out of doubt.
Now we need the same with Finn, I’d love Donoghue to step up and claim that 22 jersey full time tbh
Now we need the same with Finn, I’d love Donoghue to step up and claim that 22 jersey full time tbh
Quote:BathRob
Agree the bench was handled better, and we got our wish in Ben being given a rest once the result was pretty much out of doubt.
Now we need the same with Finn, I’d love Donoghue to step up and claim that 22 jersey full time tbh
I initially thought Donaghue would be our next worldly of a player but since he’s come back from injury, some of his plays look to me to be for him not the team, ie running towards touch when he could have used Hennessy . Reminds me of Freddy Burns . Hope I’m wrong
Widcombe Garçon
One the one, massive work on for next game has to be the kick chase for the tap back off front runner/jumper
It was largely woeful against Sale
It was largely woeful against Sale
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