About v2Aviva Premiership Round 5 - Week 9
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prop_lyd
Ozzy3213
stnick88
Londonirishollie
Sgt_Pooly
Bathite
SirJohnnyEnglish
Fluxy
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The v2 Forum :: Sport :: Sports Gaming :: Archived games :: The New Fantasy Aviva Premiership Season 1
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Aviva Premiership Round 5 - Week 9
by Fluxy Sat 18 Feb 2012, 9:28 pm
Team Sheets and tactics due by Saturday (20:00)
Predictions due till Tuesday (20:00)
Sale Sharks v London Wasps
light showers, 19mph winds, 6'
Sale Sharks
Manager – Ollie
16. Alasdair Dickinson 17. Marc Jones 18. Tony Buckley 19. Kearnan Myall 20. Jordan Crane 21. Scott Mathie 22. Jonny Leota 23. Will Addison
London Wasps
Manager – Stnick88
16. Zak Taulafo 17. Ben Broster 18. Andy Titterell 19. Richard Birkett 20. Michael Lipman 21. Charlie Davies 22. Jimmy Gopperth 23. Mike Brown
Exeter Chiefs v Bath Rugby
light showers, 17mph winds, 7'
Exeter Chiefs
Head Coach – Ozzy3213
16. Simon Alcott 17. Brett Sturgess 18. Hoani Tui 19. Tommy Hayes 20. James Phillips 21. Junior Poluleuigaga 22. Gareth Steenson 23. Phil Dollman
Tactics
Our gameplan revolves around a high intensity attacking and defensive game. We will work as units and play a structured game (as the Chiefs and Saracens do in real life). We will put a lot of emphasis on the set piece, and look to use both as a real platform to play from, whilst not allowing our opponents to do the same. We will also look to use our big ball carriers to attack the gainline whilst having support runners on their shoulders to either take the offload or hit the ruck quickly as appropriate.
Specifics
Bath Rugby
Manager – Bathite
16. D.Flatman 17. P.Dixon 18. A.Perenise 19. S.Hooper 20. G.Mercer 21. C.Cook 22. M.Banahan 23. I.Dagg
TACTICS
This deep into the season, it is important to rest some players, who have started every game so far and to test squad depth. I've picked a very strong bench, that can have a real impact and is an area of real advantage over our opponents. With Exeter playing a high intensity game, we think that they could make mistakes late in the game, as they tire and having players of the quality of Perenise, Dagg and Banahan to bring will help us to secure wins across the pitch. Banahan comes on after 50mins, replacing Carraro at 12, to give a huge physical attacking threat and to draw defenders across, creating space for Laulala to release the speedsters out wide. Dagg comes on to track Laulala in the second half and can read his offloads off his shoulder.
Looking at Exeter's tactics it seems there is real confusion at the breakdown and conflicting tactics. It is unclear how you can slow ball down and scrag the scrum half without over committing to the ruck. In Moody and Louw, we have 2 specialists at the breakdown, who will look to secure the area on our ball and spoil opposition ball.
BACKS
* Carraro picked at 12, our best defender, so looks to organise the team defensively and nullify the threat of Naqe. Carraro to run hard and straight in attack, setting up a ruck on the gainline, so our big ball carriers of Franks, Louw, Shaw, Fearns can smash through and create space out wide.
* Vesty at 15 for extra kicking option, with him coming into the line at second receiver in attack, to allow a second playmaker and kicking option
* Picked Woodburn and Heathcote to start as both in great form. Heathcote plays the basics very well and is the perfect player for a tough away game, whilst Woodburn is a real try scoring threat and great in the air.
* Heathcote looks play it safe away from home and look for territory. With Woodburn and Biggs, we have 2 great kick chasers and will look to pressurise Exeter wingers, who aren't known for their kicking game. Vesty holds back, waiting for the return kick and building a counter attack with support runners
* Laulala to look for the half gap and offload, with the pace of Biggs and Woodburn on their shoulder to make the break
FORWARDS
* Use ball carriers of Franks, Louw, Attwood, Caldwell to make hard yards up the pitch and draw defenders into the ruck area, looking to create space around the fringes for Carraro and Laulala to exploit
* With the scrummaging strength in the front row and with Flatman and Perenise coming on after 50 mins, we have the opportunity to challenge at scrum time and spoil their ball, forcing their back row and scrum half to work with messy ball. Classens experience here is crucial
* At the lineout, look to challenge for the ball in their half with the number 1 jumper. In our half, look to challenge for the ball at ground level, after the throw. The strength of Caldwell, Attwood and Franks coupled with ball winning of Louw and Moody is a great combo.
* Moody and Louw to pressurise opposition half backs, it is a new combination and inexperienced in this competition. Look to force their decision making, hoping for mistakes, this will continue in the second half, with Mercer replacing Moody.
Leicester Tigers v Newcastle Falcons
Light showers, 16mph winds, 4'
Leicester Tigers
Manager – Sgt_Pooly
16. Tom Youngs 17. Dan Cole 18. Boris Stankovich 19. Ed Slater 20. Jacques Cronje 21. Sam Harrison 22. Billy Twelvetrees 23. George Lowe
Tactics
In the windy conditions we'll be looking to play at a high tempo and intensity from the off and move the opposition around the park.
We will look to set a tone in the set piece with our big scrummaging front 5 and will look for the squeeze from the off. Parling will lead the line and we will look to target the opposition's throw with Newby/Parling marshalling the front/middle of the line. We'll use big carries from our pack to draw in the opposition defence with Youngs marshalling and looking for gaps to exploit around the fringes.
Warburton & Newby will target the breakdown with Youngs sniping around and playing flat to the line to allow Barnes & Manu space to run into. JOC will come looking for the ball in midfield and link up with Manu causing problems in the opposition midfield. We'll look to refresh pack around 60mins + and keep up the intensity.
Barnes will act as second playmaker and look to bring our backs into play and exploit Manu’s physicalty with mismatches and also as a decoy to draw the opposition defense.
- Look to use the wind to test out Falcons back 3
- Increase pressure in set piece in 2nd half
- look to get at new combinations in opposition backline
Newcastle Falcons
Manager – Fluxy
16. Euan Murray 17. David Paice 18. Bob Casey 19. Hienrich Brussow 20. Rory Clegg 21. Steven Shingler 22. Seb Stegmann 23. Darren Fearns
Tactics
General Gameplan; Playing Leicester away will be tough, however we have picked a young and frsh team to take them on. From the outset we will lookk to pressurise them, and will be comitted at the breakdown so that we can win the collisions and give us momentum. We will play sensible rugby; in our half look to clear the lines with solid chases and to pressurise their lineout. Then in their half look to play clever by sucking in defenders using big ball carriers like Gray, Muller and Mercey to punch holes. Then look to put pace on the ball.
Key Points;
Set-pieces; We will look to at least gain parity in this area, White will have had limited time at this level along with Webber and Ayerza who have played quite often there will be some tired legs late on and they will be disjointed.
Lineouts we will target Parling as he is the primary jumper. In our twenty two, we will legally looking to bring the man with the ball once he is on his feet straight to ground to prevent any mauling. We will compete with their lineout everywhere else.
Breakdowns; The back five of this pack are young and mobile and will always get to the breakdown. Whenever carrying the ball they will look to break through the tackles as they have been comitted to working for each other and will look to win the collisions. Nutley and Brussow will be first to all breakdowns and slow the opposition ball down legally, or turn it over. The pair of them will also look to haslle Youngs, as he has been out of form and his head will drop once he starts making mistakes.
Defensive line; We won't commit more than two players to any of the rucks on their ball, unless the turnover is on. If they have won the ball we look to get into line and then press at the same speed. The scrum-half will sweep behind, with the fullback also further back - creating three lines of defence.
Backs; We will look to play some simple rugby at this stage against a good team at home. Backs to be clever look for mismatches and numbers advantages to work oppurtunities to put our wingers or whoever is spare over the try line. Manning will direct traffic offering a spark to get an exicting midfield moving. May will step into first reciever to mix things up and keep the defence guessing.
Penalties; Will be taken when kickable for Cuthbert.
Substitutions; Euan Murray on for Tom Mercey at 60 minutes, likewise Golding on for Fearn at the same time. Welch on for Nutley if we were losing in the second half. Also if we are down by a more than ten points we can bring on Clegg to inject some pace and direction for Manning. And finally Stegmann on for Fielden at 65 minutes.
London Irish v Northampton Saints
Light showers, 16mph winds, 8'
London Irish
Manager – Pullthestrings
16. James Buckland, 17. Alex Corbisiero, 18. Max Lahiff, 19. Tom Palmer, 20. Imanol Harinordoquy, 21. Darren Allinson, 22. Jonathon Spratt, 23 Marlande Yarde
Tactics
Confidence is high at London Irish; we're unbeaten at home and look to keep it that way against the Saints. We'll stick to our normal game plan, using the piston system in attack with Bowden patrolling behind the pack. In defence we'll use the up and out system, forcing them to pass and get isolated at the breakdown.
We have some real firepower on the bench so we'll be looking to get them involved and seal the victory.
- Use the set piece as a platform to build attacks. At scrum time, we have 5 big front row scrummagers at our disposal to compete with the Saints. If it's messy, Hala'ufia to pick and go to set it up.
- Similarly with the lineout, use jumpers Mafi, Kennedy and Pocock. Opt for full lineouts in their half to tie in their pack and go for off-the-top ball to get wide quickly. Harinordoquy and Palmer are options too.
- Target the breakdown for possible turnovers, with Gibson and Pocock staying strong on their feet. When they arise, two quicks balls away and go. Backs, forwards, back yourselves.
- Be disciplined at the breakdown, with a guard and bodyguard at every breakdown to stop those easy yards around the fringes. No excuses here.
- Big runners off Bowden give us real go forward. Look to get outside their guards and bodyguards to suck in more and more forwards at each breakdown. The space will come, and when it does, we go.
- Simpson is back in to give us real tempo and get the ball early to Bowden. He'll control the pack and use big runners to set up a platform to go from.
- Play rugby in their half. Bowden to put us in the right places and alow us to use our lineout weapon.
- Bowden to go for points at every opportunity. With Delon on hand also, we can have a pop from anywhere in their half. Make them scared to give away penalties in their half, thus giving us more time at the breakdown.
Northampton Saints
Manager – SirJohnnyEnglish
16. Alex Waller 17. Brett Sharman 18. Danny Herriot 19. Christian Day 20. Roger Wilson 21. Martin Roberts 22. Ryan Lamb 23. Jamie Elliot
General Game Plan:
We will use our strong carriers to attack gaps and half gaps in the Irish line, looking to offload in contact to support runners thus changing the point of attack and keeping our forward momentum going. Sexton will look to attack from first receiver and inject pace to the proceedings committing the Irish defence and leaving space in wider channels for our runners to exploit. If running the ball is not on our halfbacks will look to the boot to put us in the right areas.
On defence, we will use a blitz defence coming up at pace looking to isolate the Irish ball carriers with the “choke” tackle before they can get to the gain line stopping any momentum and allowing us to turn the ball over. Lee Dickson will act as a sweeper to cover any grubbers or chips behind the line while our back three will sit deep ready to cover any kicks down the touch lines and counter attack at pace.
With the blitz in operation we will look to be at the breakdown first hitting it fast and hard. The first two players on the scene will look to ruck past the ball and clear out Pocock and co providing quick counter attacking ball to be used against a disorganised defensive line. If the ball does not look available we will not commit to the ruck and look to strengthen the defensive line instead.
Key Points:
•Scrum
We will contest every engagement! On our own feed we will look to get the wheel on and create extra room for our 8-9-10 axis to work in. On Irish ball we feel we have the edge and want to disrupt the put in as much as possible looking for penalties and freekicks.
•Lineout
With 5 jumpers and minimal challenge on our ball, we want to really use the lineout as an attacking platform like South Africa in recent years. We will use a full compliment and play the ball off the top allowing our halfbacks to get on the ball at pace with room outside.
Irish have thrown Servat and Palmer (Kennedy is ineligible) straight in to the side with 2 days training. Their lineout will be fairly basic and likely to be kept between Servat and Palmer due to their Newcastle link up.
We will look to really disrupt here and will send Lawes up at the front of the lineout while Read marks Palmer in the line out. We want to take full advantage and get our hands on as much Irish ball as possible and wreck their game plan
•Fringe Defence
Around the rucks Tom Wood will look to play on the limits of the offside line, like he does so well, hassling Simpson denying him the opportunity to snipe. We know if we can disrupt him his service to Bowden will go downhill.
•Chris Hala'ufia
We will look to put some big hits in on Hala'ufia early on and make things physical looking to rile him up. We know with his disciplinary record we can force some illegal retaliatory play from him and a trip to the sin bin.
•Target the defence
We will target Regan Kings unfamiliarty with the Irish patterns and take advantage sending runners down his channel. We will also look to take advantage of the Irish "up and out system". Ashton will look to cut lines off our midfield against the drift, completly breaking the defensive line.
Gloucester Rugby v Harlequins
light showers, 13mph winds, 7'
Gloucester
Manager – prop_lyd
16. Scott Lawson 17. Dario Chistolini 18. Adam Jones 19. Jim Hamilton 20. JVN 21. Rory Lawson 22. Tim Taylor 23. Iain Balshaw
Overall
Fast paced game is going to be played today looking to get points and a morale boosting win. Our pack and backs are very mobile and will look to stretch Quins across the pitch and look for our first win. We have JVN on the bench who is a game changer and a born leader to come on in the 2nd half.
Forwards
*Front row to look to dominate the scrums and hit every other ruck to ensure quick ball,
*Work in pod systems so there are always free players as runners,
*2nd row to look for quick lineout ball and to steal and add pressure onto their throws,
*Backrow to look for turnovers all game and to provide runners in the 10-12 channel,
*Bring on our game changers in Jones, Hamilton and JVN to add brute force to the match and continue the pressure.
Backs
*Lewis to look to provide Lambie with quick ball and Lambie to look to run everything unless in our own 22 where we'll clear for touch,
*EFS to create the gaps and May to blitz through them with support runners,
*Use the back row as decoys and give them the ball now and again to 'spice' things up,
*JSD and Sharples to go hunting with Morgan playing cheeky grubbers to put Quins on back foot,
*Play attractive fast rugby with steady heads ready to come on and slow the game down when we have a substantial lead.
Harlequins
Manager – Driver
16.Tom Lindsey 17.Kieren Brookes 18.Rob Buchanan 19.George Skivington 20.Chris Robshaw 21.Nic Berry 22.Riki Flutey 23.Danny Cipriani
Tactics
- Typical quins game plan , play at a high tempo and keep the ball moving with plenty of width and off loads.
- Brown to counter any kicks and run them back with interest
- Care and Evans to control the tempo and put us into the right areas of the pitch to put Glaws under the cosh on there try line.
- Lindsey/Robshaw/Flutey on at 50/70/60 for Neil Best/Matt Kvesic/Casson to up the tempo.
- Lindsey to slot in at 6 to make best use of his powerfull runs in the loose and not have to worry about putting the ball in at the lineout and play his natural game.
Worcester Warriors v Saracens
light showers, 13mph winds, 7'
WorcesterWarriors
Manager – InTheFastLane
16. Ed Shervington 17. Ceri Jones 18. George Porter 19. Ben Gulliver 20. Jake Abbott 21. Jonny Arr 22. Andy Goode 23. Anthony Allen
Tactics
SARCENS
Manager – Luke
16. Rhys Gill 17. Jamie George 18. John Smit 19. Hugh Vyvyan 20. Jackson Wray 21. Richard Wigglesworth 22. Nils Mordt 23. Brad Barritt
Tactics
We will work as units and play a structured game. We will use the scrum and lineout as weapons.
- Attack the lineout as much as we can using the tactical kicking of Spencer, Hodgson and Farrell. Borthwick to lead, supported by Joubert, Kruis and Saull.
- Call for scrums when we can if we are getting the advantage we expect to. Joubert to control from the base.
- Look to all of our forwards to give us real go-forward with their carrying.
- Saull is the man charged with reaching the breakdown first, securing first phase possession for us and pilfering the possession of the opposition.
- Hodgson is given license to play the game as he sees it. We do ask that he uses our lineout and carrying ability to put pressure on the opposition, but if he sees an opportunity to attack out wide - that is his call.
- Our back three are encouraged to do what they do best - counter attacking and running the ball back. All have good boots to rely on if it isn't on or they are isolated, but the counter is what we ask them to look for.
- Early on Farrell to kick all penalites within range, but we won't necessarily go for the 3 points as the game progresses. Borthwick to make the call dependant on the success of the lineout.
- Use a very powerful bench to tie the game up in the last 20/30 mins.
Predictions due till Tuesday (20:00)
Sale Sharks v London Wasps
light showers, 19mph winds, 6'
Sale Sharks
Manager – Ollie
| 01. Andrew Sheridan | 09. Dwanye Peel |
| 02. Joe Ward | 10. Jonny Wilkinson (K) |
| 03. Davit Kubriashvili | |
| 04. Dean Schofield | 11. Mark Cueto |
| 05. Andrei Ostrakov | 12. Sam Tuitipou |
| 06. James Gaskell (C) | 13. Jacque Fourie |
| 07. Hendre Fourie | 14. Tom Brady |
| 08. Richie Vernon | 15. Rob Miller |
16. Alasdair Dickinson 17. Marc Jones 18. Tony Buckley 19. Kearnan Myall 20. Jordan Crane 21. Scott Mathie 22. Jonny Leota 23. Will Addison
London Wasps
Manager – Stnick88
| 01. Tim Payne | 09. Karl Dickson |
| 02. George Chuter | 10. Nicky Robinson |
| 03. Nicolas Mas | |
| 04. Matt Garvey | 11. Tom Varndell |
| 05. Marco Wentzel | 12. Jordan Turner-Hall |
| 06. Tinus Du Plessis | 13. Jonathan Joseph |
| 07. Julien Salvi | 14. Alesana Tuilagi |
| 08. Pedrie Wannenburg | 15. Richard Haugton |
16. Zak Taulafo 17. Ben Broster 18. Andy Titterell 19. Richard Birkett 20. Michael Lipman 21. Charlie Davies 22. Jimmy Gopperth 23. Mike Brown
Exeter Chiefs v Bath Rugby
light showers, 17mph winds, 7'
Exeter Chiefs
Head Coach – Ozzy3213
| 01. Perry Freshwater | 09. Haydn Thomas |
| 02. Bismarck du Plessis | 10. Aaron Cruden |
| 03. Craig Mitchell | |
| 04. James Horwill (c) | 11. Gonzalo Camacho |
| 05. James Hanks | 12. Sireli Naqelevuki |
| 06. Tom Johnson | 13. Jason Shoemark |
| 07. Steffon Armitage | 14. Paul Sackey |
| 08. Ofisa Treviranus | 15. Isa Nacewa |
16. Simon Alcott 17. Brett Sturgess 18. Hoani Tui 19. Tommy Hayes 20. James Phillips 21. Junior Poluleuigaga 22. Gareth Steenson 23. Phil Dollman
Tactics
Our gameplan revolves around a high intensity attacking and defensive game. We will work as units and play a structured game (as the Chiefs and Saracens do in real life). We will put a lot of emphasis on the set piece, and look to use both as a real platform to play from, whilst not allowing our opponents to do the same. We will also look to use our big ball carriers to attack the gainline whilst having support runners on their shoulders to either take the offload or hit the ruck quickly as appropriate.
Specifics
- Attacking
- Play in the right areas - Cruden to use his boot to ensure we play in the right half of the pitch (kicking for touch and contesting the lineout, not to the Bath back 4).
- Control Possession - When in the right areas our pack and centres to all carry hard and straight and look to get over the gainline and recycle.
- Use driving mauls - Support runners to hit the ball carrier in contact and keep him up and drive forward turning it into a maul. Also use driving mauls off of lineouts.
- Take all points on offer - Cruden to take every kickable penalty at goal.
- Defensive
- Slow opposition ball down - Look to legally (do not give penalties away) slow the ball at the breakdown by getting our back row over it to deny Bath any momentum.
- Do not overcommit to rucks - If the ball is not there to be won, do not overcommit but maintain a solid defensive line and control gainline momentum.
- Blitz Defence - Get up to the gainline quickly as a unit and stop Bath getting any forward momentum. Haydn Thomas to sweep in behind.
- Target Classens - Back row to play on the limit of the offside line at the ruck and look to really scrag Classens at every opportunity.
- Key Points
- Home Advantage - Very few teams go to Sandy Park and get a result, however many big names they have in the side (See Leicester Tigers last week in real life).
- New Head Coach - New head coach in place always sees an upturn in form for players as they get a boost from the fresh start.
Bath Rugby
Manager – Bathite
| 01. N.Catt | 09. M.Classens |
| 02. L.Mears | 10. T.Heathcote |
| 03.O.Franks | |
| 04. D.Attwood | 11. T.Biggs |
| 05. R.Caldwell | 12. M.Carraro |
| 06. L.Moody | 13. C.Laulala |
| 07. F.Louw | 14. O.Woodburn |
| 08. S.Taylor | 15. S.Vesty |
16. D.Flatman 17. P.Dixon 18. A.Perenise 19. S.Hooper 20. G.Mercer 21. C.Cook 22. M.Banahan 23. I.Dagg
TACTICS
This deep into the season, it is important to rest some players, who have started every game so far and to test squad depth. I've picked a very strong bench, that can have a real impact and is an area of real advantage over our opponents. With Exeter playing a high intensity game, we think that they could make mistakes late in the game, as they tire and having players of the quality of Perenise, Dagg and Banahan to bring will help us to secure wins across the pitch. Banahan comes on after 50mins, replacing Carraro at 12, to give a huge physical attacking threat and to draw defenders across, creating space for Laulala to release the speedsters out wide. Dagg comes on to track Laulala in the second half and can read his offloads off his shoulder.
Looking at Exeter's tactics it seems there is real confusion at the breakdown and conflicting tactics. It is unclear how you can slow ball down and scrag the scrum half without over committing to the ruck. In Moody and Louw, we have 2 specialists at the breakdown, who will look to secure the area on our ball and spoil opposition ball.
BACKS
* Carraro picked at 12, our best defender, so looks to organise the team defensively and nullify the threat of Naqe. Carraro to run hard and straight in attack, setting up a ruck on the gainline, so our big ball carriers of Franks, Louw, Shaw, Fearns can smash through and create space out wide.
* Vesty at 15 for extra kicking option, with him coming into the line at second receiver in attack, to allow a second playmaker and kicking option
* Picked Woodburn and Heathcote to start as both in great form. Heathcote plays the basics very well and is the perfect player for a tough away game, whilst Woodburn is a real try scoring threat and great in the air.
* Heathcote looks play it safe away from home and look for territory. With Woodburn and Biggs, we have 2 great kick chasers and will look to pressurise Exeter wingers, who aren't known for their kicking game. Vesty holds back, waiting for the return kick and building a counter attack with support runners
* Laulala to look for the half gap and offload, with the pace of Biggs and Woodburn on their shoulder to make the break
FORWARDS
* Use ball carriers of Franks, Louw, Attwood, Caldwell to make hard yards up the pitch and draw defenders into the ruck area, looking to create space around the fringes for Carraro and Laulala to exploit
* With the scrummaging strength in the front row and with Flatman and Perenise coming on after 50 mins, we have the opportunity to challenge at scrum time and spoil their ball, forcing their back row and scrum half to work with messy ball. Classens experience here is crucial
* At the lineout, look to challenge for the ball in their half with the number 1 jumper. In our half, look to challenge for the ball at ground level, after the throw. The strength of Caldwell, Attwood and Franks coupled with ball winning of Louw and Moody is a great combo.
* Moody and Louw to pressurise opposition half backs, it is a new combination and inexperienced in this competition. Look to force their decision making, hoping for mistakes, this will continue in the second half, with Mercer replacing Moody.
Leicester Tigers v Newcastle Falcons
Light showers, 16mph winds, 4'
Leicester Tigers
Manager – Sgt_Pooly
| 01. Marco Ayerza | 09. Ben Youngs |
| 02. Rob Webber | 10. Toby Flood |
| 03. Martin Castrogiovani | |
| 04. Lewis Deacon | 11. Miles Benjamin |
| 05. Geoff Parling | 12. Berrick Barnes |
| 06. Craig Newby | 13. Manu Tuilagi |
| 07. Sam Warburton (c) | 14. James O’Connor |
| 08. Thomas Waldroum | 15. Geordan Murphy |
16. Tom Youngs 17. Dan Cole 18. Boris Stankovich 19. Ed Slater 20. Jacques Cronje 21. Sam Harrison 22. Billy Twelvetrees 23. George Lowe
Tactics
In the windy conditions we'll be looking to play at a high tempo and intensity from the off and move the opposition around the park.
We will look to set a tone in the set piece with our big scrummaging front 5 and will look for the squeeze from the off. Parling will lead the line and we will look to target the opposition's throw with Newby/Parling marshalling the front/middle of the line. We'll use big carries from our pack to draw in the opposition defence with Youngs marshalling and looking for gaps to exploit around the fringes.
Warburton & Newby will target the breakdown with Youngs sniping around and playing flat to the line to allow Barnes & Manu space to run into. JOC will come looking for the ball in midfield and link up with Manu causing problems in the opposition midfield. We'll look to refresh pack around 60mins + and keep up the intensity.
Barnes will act as second playmaker and look to bring our backs into play and exploit Manu’s physicalty with mismatches and also as a decoy to draw the opposition defense.
- Look to use the wind to test out Falcons back 3
- Increase pressure in set piece in 2nd half
- look to get at new combinations in opposition backline
Newcastle Falcons
Manager – Fluxy
| 01. Jon Golding | 09. Jordi Pasqualin |
| 02. Rob Vickers | 10. Jeremy Manning(K) |
| 03. Tom Mercey | |
| 04. Johann Muller (C) | 11. Jack Cuthbert |
| 05. James Hudson | 12. Dominic Waldlouck |
| 06. Ben Nutley | 13. Tom May |
| 07. William Welch | 14. Luke Fielden |
| 08. Alex Gray | 15. Tom Catterick |
16. Euan Murray 17. David Paice 18. Bob Casey 19. Hienrich Brussow 20. Rory Clegg 21. Steven Shingler 22. Seb Stegmann 23. Darren Fearns
Tactics
General Gameplan; Playing Leicester away will be tough, however we have picked a young and frsh team to take them on. From the outset we will lookk to pressurise them, and will be comitted at the breakdown so that we can win the collisions and give us momentum. We will play sensible rugby; in our half look to clear the lines with solid chases and to pressurise their lineout. Then in their half look to play clever by sucking in defenders using big ball carriers like Gray, Muller and Mercey to punch holes. Then look to put pace on the ball.
Key Points;
Set-pieces; We will look to at least gain parity in this area, White will have had limited time at this level along with Webber and Ayerza who have played quite often there will be some tired legs late on and they will be disjointed.
Lineouts we will target Parling as he is the primary jumper. In our twenty two, we will legally looking to bring the man with the ball once he is on his feet straight to ground to prevent any mauling. We will compete with their lineout everywhere else.
Breakdowns; The back five of this pack are young and mobile and will always get to the breakdown. Whenever carrying the ball they will look to break through the tackles as they have been comitted to working for each other and will look to win the collisions. Nutley and Brussow will be first to all breakdowns and slow the opposition ball down legally, or turn it over. The pair of them will also look to haslle Youngs, as he has been out of form and his head will drop once he starts making mistakes.
Defensive line; We won't commit more than two players to any of the rucks on their ball, unless the turnover is on. If they have won the ball we look to get into line and then press at the same speed. The scrum-half will sweep behind, with the fullback also further back - creating three lines of defence.
Backs; We will look to play some simple rugby at this stage against a good team at home. Backs to be clever look for mismatches and numbers advantages to work oppurtunities to put our wingers or whoever is spare over the try line. Manning will direct traffic offering a spark to get an exicting midfield moving. May will step into first reciever to mix things up and keep the defence guessing.
Penalties; Will be taken when kickable for Cuthbert.
Substitutions; Euan Murray on for Tom Mercey at 60 minutes, likewise Golding on for Fearn at the same time. Welch on for Nutley if we were losing in the second half. Also if we are down by a more than ten points we can bring on Clegg to inject some pace and direction for Manning. And finally Stegmann on for Fielden at 65 minutes.
London Irish v Northampton Saints
Light showers, 16mph winds, 8'
London Irish
Manager – Pullthestrings
| 01. Clarke Dermody (c) | 09. Joe Simpson |
| 02. William Servat | 10. Daniel Bowden (k) |
| 03. Paulică Ion | |
| 04. Steve Mafi | 11. Topsy Ojo |
| 05. Nick Kennedy | 12. Shontayne Hape |
| 06. Jamie Gibson | 13. Regan King |
| 07. David Pocock | 14. Adam Thompstone |
| 08. Chris Hala'ufia | 15. Delon Armitage (k) |
Tactics
Confidence is high at London Irish; we're unbeaten at home and look to keep it that way against the Saints. We'll stick to our normal game plan, using the piston system in attack with Bowden patrolling behind the pack. In defence we'll use the up and out system, forcing them to pass and get isolated at the breakdown.
We have some real firepower on the bench so we'll be looking to get them involved and seal the victory.
- Use the set piece as a platform to build attacks. At scrum time, we have 5 big front row scrummagers at our disposal to compete with the Saints. If it's messy, Hala'ufia to pick and go to set it up.
- Similarly with the lineout, use jumpers Mafi, Kennedy and Pocock. Opt for full lineouts in their half to tie in their pack and go for off-the-top ball to get wide quickly. Harinordoquy and Palmer are options too.
- Target the breakdown for possible turnovers, with Gibson and Pocock staying strong on their feet. When they arise, two quicks balls away and go. Backs, forwards, back yourselves.
- Be disciplined at the breakdown, with a guard and bodyguard at every breakdown to stop those easy yards around the fringes. No excuses here.
- Big runners off Bowden give us real go forward. Look to get outside their guards and bodyguards to suck in more and more forwards at each breakdown. The space will come, and when it does, we go.
- Simpson is back in to give us real tempo and get the ball early to Bowden. He'll control the pack and use big runners to set up a platform to go from.
- Play rugby in their half. Bowden to put us in the right places and alow us to use our lineout weapon.
- Bowden to go for points at every opportunity. With Delon on hand also, we can have a pop from anywhere in their half. Make them scared to give away penalties in their half, thus giving us more time at the breakdown.
Northampton Saints
Manager – SirJohnnyEnglish
| 01. Paul Doran Jones | 09. Lee Dickson |
| 02. Mikey Haywood | 10. Johnny Sexton |
| 03. Brian Mujati | |
| 04. Courtney Lawes | 11. Vasily Artemiev |
| 05. Samu Manoa | 12. James Downey |
| 06. Calum Clark | 13. John Clarke |
| 07. Tom Wood | 14. Chris Ashton |
| 08. Kieran Read | 15. Ben Foden |
16. Alex Waller 17. Brett Sharman 18. Danny Herriot 19. Christian Day 20. Roger Wilson 21. Martin Roberts 22. Ryan Lamb 23. Jamie Elliot
General Game Plan:
We will use our strong carriers to attack gaps and half gaps in the Irish line, looking to offload in contact to support runners thus changing the point of attack and keeping our forward momentum going. Sexton will look to attack from first receiver and inject pace to the proceedings committing the Irish defence and leaving space in wider channels for our runners to exploit. If running the ball is not on our halfbacks will look to the boot to put us in the right areas.
On defence, we will use a blitz defence coming up at pace looking to isolate the Irish ball carriers with the “choke” tackle before they can get to the gain line stopping any momentum and allowing us to turn the ball over. Lee Dickson will act as a sweeper to cover any grubbers or chips behind the line while our back three will sit deep ready to cover any kicks down the touch lines and counter attack at pace.
With the blitz in operation we will look to be at the breakdown first hitting it fast and hard. The first two players on the scene will look to ruck past the ball and clear out Pocock and co providing quick counter attacking ball to be used against a disorganised defensive line. If the ball does not look available we will not commit to the ruck and look to strengthen the defensive line instead.
Key Points:
•Scrum
We will contest every engagement! On our own feed we will look to get the wheel on and create extra room for our 8-9-10 axis to work in. On Irish ball we feel we have the edge and want to disrupt the put in as much as possible looking for penalties and freekicks.
•Lineout
With 5 jumpers and minimal challenge on our ball, we want to really use the lineout as an attacking platform like South Africa in recent years. We will use a full compliment and play the ball off the top allowing our halfbacks to get on the ball at pace with room outside.
Irish have thrown Servat and Palmer (Kennedy is ineligible) straight in to the side with 2 days training. Their lineout will be fairly basic and likely to be kept between Servat and Palmer due to their Newcastle link up.
We will look to really disrupt here and will send Lawes up at the front of the lineout while Read marks Palmer in the line out. We want to take full advantage and get our hands on as much Irish ball as possible and wreck their game plan
•Fringe Defence
Around the rucks Tom Wood will look to play on the limits of the offside line, like he does so well, hassling Simpson denying him the opportunity to snipe. We know if we can disrupt him his service to Bowden will go downhill.
•Chris Hala'ufia
We will look to put some big hits in on Hala'ufia early on and make things physical looking to rile him up. We know with his disciplinary record we can force some illegal retaliatory play from him and a trip to the sin bin.
•Target the defence
We will target Regan Kings unfamiliarty with the Irish patterns and take advantage sending runners down his channel. We will also look to take advantage of the Irish "up and out system". Ashton will look to cut lines off our midfield against the drift, completly breaking the defensive line.
Gloucester Rugby v Harlequins
light showers, 13mph winds, 7'
Gloucester
Manager – prop_lyd
| 01. Nick Wood | 09. Dave Lewis |
| 02. Darren Dawiduk | 10. Patrick Lambie (k) |
| 03. Rupert Harden | |
| 04. Alex Brown | 11. Charlie Sharples |
| 05. Will James | 12. EFS |
| 06. Peter Buxton | 13. Johnny May |
| 07. Akapusi Qera | 14. JSD |
| 08. Luke Narraway (c) | 15. Ollie Morgan |
16. Scott Lawson 17. Dario Chistolini 18. Adam Jones 19. Jim Hamilton 20. JVN 21. Rory Lawson 22. Tim Taylor 23. Iain Balshaw
Overall
Fast paced game is going to be played today looking to get points and a morale boosting win. Our pack and backs are very mobile and will look to stretch Quins across the pitch and look for our first win. We have JVN on the bench who is a game changer and a born leader to come on in the 2nd half.
Forwards
*Front row to look to dominate the scrums and hit every other ruck to ensure quick ball,
*Work in pod systems so there are always free players as runners,
*2nd row to look for quick lineout ball and to steal and add pressure onto their throws,
*Backrow to look for turnovers all game and to provide runners in the 10-12 channel,
*Bring on our game changers in Jones, Hamilton and JVN to add brute force to the match and continue the pressure.
Backs
*Lewis to look to provide Lambie with quick ball and Lambie to look to run everything unless in our own 22 where we'll clear for touch,
*EFS to create the gaps and May to blitz through them with support runners,
*Use the back row as decoys and give them the ball now and again to 'spice' things up,
*JSD and Sharples to go hunting with Morgan playing cheeky grubbers to put Quins on back foot,
*Play attractive fast rugby with steady heads ready to come on and slow the game down when we have a substantial lead.
Harlequins
Manager – Driver
| 01.Joe Marler | 09.Danny Care |
| 02.Joe Grey | 10.Nick Evans (k) |
| 03.James Johnstone | |
| 04.Charlie Matthews | 11.Scott Hamilton |
| 05.George Robson | 12.Tom Casson |
| 06.Neil Best | 13.Jared Payne |
| 07.Matt Kvesic | 14.Elliot Daly |
| 08.Nick Easter (c) | 15.Greg Goosen |
16.Tom Lindsey 17.Kieren Brookes 18.Rob Buchanan 19.George Skivington 20.Chris Robshaw 21.Nic Berry 22.Riki Flutey 23.Danny Cipriani
Tactics
- Typical quins game plan , play at a high tempo and keep the ball moving with plenty of width and off loads.
- Brown to counter any kicks and run them back with interest
- Care and Evans to control the tempo and put us into the right areas of the pitch to put Glaws under the cosh on there try line.
- Lindsey/Robshaw/Flutey on at 50/70/60 for Neil Best/Matt Kvesic/Casson to up the tempo.
- Lindsey to slot in at 6 to make best use of his powerfull runs in the loose and not have to worry about putting the ball in at the lineout and play his natural game.
Worcester Warriors v Saracens
light showers, 13mph winds, 7'
WorcesterWarriors
Manager – InTheFastLane
| 01. Matt Mullan | 09. Will Genia |
| 02. Alexi Lutui | 10. Dan Carter |
| 03. Tevita Taumoepeau | |
| 04. James Percival | 11. Ugo Monye |
| 05. Gerhard Mostert | 12. Ma’a Nonu |
| 06. James Haskell | 13. Matt Hopper |
| 07. Maurie Fa'asavalu | 14. Marcel Garvey |
| 08. Ben Morgan | 15. Luke Rooney |
Tactics
- We have a strong 8-9-10-12 axis and will look to control the game using these positions.
- Will Genia will be looking to snipe around the fringes and will use his running game to pressure Gloucester
- Dan Carter is the best Fly Half in the world and will look to control our game making changes as he sees fit
- Look to get our dangerous back three involved and into open space so they can cause trouble.
- Our backrow will look to provide some big carries as well
- Nonu to be focus of Attack then use him as dummy with Carter pulling the strings
SARCENS
Manager – Luke
| 01. Matt Stevens | 09. Ben Spencer |
| 02. Schalk Brits | 10. Charlie Hodgson |
| 03. Carlos Nieto | |
| 04. George Kruis | 11. Joe Maddock |
| 05. Steve Borthwick (c) | 12. Owen Farrell (k) |
| 06. Jacques Burger | 13. Adam Powell |
| 07. Andy Saull | 14. James Short |
| 08. Ernst Joubert | 15. Alex Goode |
16. Rhys Gill 17. Jamie George 18. John Smit 19. Hugh Vyvyan 20. Jackson Wray 21. Richard Wigglesworth 22. Nils Mordt 23. Brad Barritt
Tactics
We will work as units and play a structured game. We will use the scrum and lineout as weapons.
- Attack the lineout as much as we can using the tactical kicking of Spencer, Hodgson and Farrell. Borthwick to lead, supported by Joubert, Kruis and Saull.
- Call for scrums when we can if we are getting the advantage we expect to. Joubert to control from the base.
- Look to all of our forwards to give us real go-forward with their carrying.
- Saull is the man charged with reaching the breakdown first, securing first phase possession for us and pilfering the possession of the opposition.
- Hodgson is given license to play the game as he sees it. We do ask that he uses our lineout and carrying ability to put pressure on the opposition, but if he sees an opportunity to attack out wide - that is his call.
- Our back three are encouraged to do what they do best - counter attacking and running the ball back. All have good boots to rely on if it isn't on or they are isolated, but the counter is what we ask them to look for.
- Early on Farrell to kick all penalites within range, but we won't necessarily go for the 3 points as the game progresses. Borthwick to make the call dependant on the success of the lineout.
- Use a very powerful bench to tie the game up in the last 20/30 mins.
Last edited by Fluxy on Sun 19 Feb 2012, 12:32 pm; edited 2 times in total
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Re: Aviva Premiership Round 5 - Week 9
by SirJohnnyEnglish Sat 18 Feb 2012, 9:39 pm
Just going to put this here as well as it was missed on the other page but isn't Kennedy and Shingler ineligible for Irish as they have just been swapped in a deal for Servat and Palmer??? Will need to swap them in the side 
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Re: Aviva Premiership Round 5 - Week 9
by Fluxy Sat 18 Feb 2012, 11:03 pm
Is that for me to do, or at Pull's choice?
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Re: Aviva Premiership Round 5 - Week 9
by SirJohnnyEnglish Sat 18 Feb 2012, 11:13 pm
Pull will have to promote Palmer or bring someone else into the team for Kennedy and someone on the bench for Shingler
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Re: Aviva Premiership Round 5 - Week 9
by Bathite Sun 19 Feb 2012, 9:26 am
Sale 15 - 17 Wasps
Really tricky to predict this one, changed my mind a few times, tactics for either team probably would have made it a more convincing win. Really like the look of the Wasps pack and think Salvi and Du Plessis will own the breakdown and get through a lot of work as I'm not sure about Gaskell at 6 and with Fourie out of form. The signing of Dickson is a great one, he brings some good control, which brings out the best in Robinson. Centre partnership has it all, form and skill set. I would be concerned about Haughton defensively at full back and with some tactics this could be exploited I think.
Really tricky to predict this one, changed my mind a few times, tactics for either team probably would have made it a more convincing win. Really like the look of the Wasps pack and think Salvi and Du Plessis will own the breakdown and get through a lot of work as I'm not sure about Gaskell at 6 and with Fourie out of form. The signing of Dickson is a great one, he brings some good control, which brings out the best in Robinson. Centre partnership has it all, form and skill set. I would be concerned about Haughton defensively at full back and with some tactics this could be exploited I think.
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Re: Aviva Premiership Round 5 - Week 9
by Bathite Sun 19 Feb 2012, 9:34 am
Tigers 22 - 14 Falcons
Really hard to see past the Tigers here, especially at home. Youngs' form is a slight concern, but Flood coming back into the team helps boost his confidence. Was going to say that I have concerns about White lasting the game, but seeming as he is banned is he even allowed to play? Castro coming off the bench is bound to be tired, but both will have joy against Golding. I think the Falcons will have some real joy at the lineout with Hudson and Muller as a pairing, but with neither hooker being 100% reliable on the throw. Broussow might have had some joy against Warburton, missing match fitness and I think May-Waldouck is a nice combo, but the wrong way round. Relying on Cuthbert for kicking is a mistake, he isn't well practiced, good range, but not great accuracy
Really hard to see past the Tigers here, especially at home. Youngs' form is a slight concern, but Flood coming back into the team helps boost his confidence. Was going to say that I have concerns about White lasting the game, but seeming as he is banned is he even allowed to play? Castro coming off the bench is bound to be tired, but both will have joy against Golding. I think the Falcons will have some real joy at the lineout with Hudson and Muller as a pairing, but with neither hooker being 100% reliable on the throw. Broussow might have had some joy against Warburton, missing match fitness and I think May-Waldouck is a nice combo, but the wrong way round. Relying on Cuthbert for kicking is a mistake, he isn't well practiced, good range, but not great accuracy
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Re: Aviva Premiership Round 5 - Week 9
by Bathite Sun 19 Feb 2012, 9:40 am
Irish 19 - 23 Saints
Irish put on a great show at home, but eventually Saints power in the pack proves the difference. Saints will have enough in the front row to get an advantage and secure clean ball for Sexton to work with. The Saints back row has it all, in the loose, on the deck and at the lineout and the second row is very physical, which Kennedy and Palmer lack a bit. I think using AShton and Foden from the start is a bit of a mistake, but they get away with it, as this is won up front.
Irish put on a great show at home, but eventually Saints power in the pack proves the difference. Saints will have enough in the front row to get an advantage and secure clean ball for Sexton to work with. The Saints back row has it all, in the loose, on the deck and at the lineout and the second row is very physical, which Kennedy and Palmer lack a bit. I think using AShton and Foden from the start is a bit of a mistake, but they get away with it, as this is won up front.
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Re: Aviva Premiership Round 5 - Week 9
by Bathite Sun 19 Feb 2012, 9:52 am
Glos 18 - 13 Quins
Glos seem to be missing a lot less first teamers and the strength of their backs is enough here. Quins have a great 8 9 10 combo, but have little ball to work off, missing Robshaw badly, as Qera has a great game, winning turnover ball for the speedy youngsters to thrive on, as Tindall isn't there to slow it down. Jones, Hamilton and JVN are huge players to bring off the bench and their physicality is crucial in winning the hard yards and securing space out wide. It is a lack of experience in the Quins back line that means Evans leaves the Shed frustrated.
Glos seem to be missing a lot less first teamers and the strength of their backs is enough here. Quins have a great 8 9 10 combo, but have little ball to work off, missing Robshaw badly, as Qera has a great game, winning turnover ball for the speedy youngsters to thrive on, as Tindall isn't there to slow it down. Jones, Hamilton and JVN are huge players to bring off the bench and their physicality is crucial in winning the hard yards and securing space out wide. It is a lack of experience in the Quins back line that means Evans leaves the Shed frustrated.
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Re: Aviva Premiership Round 5 - Week 9
by Bathite Sun 19 Feb 2012, 9:56 am
Worcs 18 - 18 Sarries
I surprised myself when I looked at the teams, thinking this would be a simple Sarries win, but with home advantage and the signing of Mostert, Worcs have some parity up front, as Sarries sufffer from playing Stevens at LH and with Haskell outmuscling Saull. Worcs have built themselves a cracking little backline and with Hodsgon and Farrell looking jaded and tired, Carter and Nonu have great success. Nonu is rampant down the 10/12 channel.
I surprised myself when I looked at the teams, thinking this would be a simple Sarries win, but with home advantage and the signing of Mostert, Worcs have some parity up front, as Sarries sufffer from playing Stevens at LH and with Haskell outmuscling Saull. Worcs have built themselves a cracking little backline and with Hodsgon and Farrell looking jaded and tired, Carter and Nonu have great success. Nonu is rampant down the 10/12 channel.
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Re: Aviva Premiership Round 5 - Week 9
by Sgt_Pooly Sun 19 Feb 2012, 11:21 am
Flux.....
Can you put Castro in at 3 and Cole on bench for me. Didn't realise White was banned this week
Can you put Castro in at 3 and Cole on bench for me. Didn't realise White was banned this week
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Re: Aviva Premiership Round 5 - Week 9
by Londonirishollie Sun 19 Feb 2012, 4:29 pm
Pooly, in the PM i sent you with my team, i included some tactics, can you add them if possible 
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Re: Aviva Premiership Round 5 - Week 9
by stnick88 Sun 19 Feb 2012, 4:35 pm
is it too late to add tactics?
only havent done any as sale had none, which is your fault pooly it seems!
only havent done any as sale had none, which is your fault pooly it seems!
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Re: Aviva Premiership Round 5 - Week 9
by Fluxy Sun 19 Feb 2012, 4:39 pm
I guess if you can get them in by time Pooly posts it'll be fine, no one has predicted as of yet.
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Re: Aviva Premiership Round 5 - Week 9
by Londonirishollie Sun 19 Feb 2012, 4:51 pm
My tactics were very generic, so not overly bothered if included or not. Bathtite has already predicted which i didn't see, so its probably fairer if we leave it without tactics, but not bothered either way
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Re: Aviva Premiership Round 5 - Week 9
by Sgt_Pooly Sun 19 Feb 2012, 5:04 pm
Sorry Oll, was manic last week with Blogs etc.
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Re: Aviva Premiership Round 5 - Week 9
by Sgt_Pooly Mon 20 Feb 2012, 9:38 am
Sale 19-16 Wasps
Cheeky front row battle with both TH's anchoring each others scrum to perfection. Won't be much play in the lineout but I prefer Wasps combo. I like the grunt for Wasps in the backrow but with a new 8/9/10 combo I think they'll stutter through the game. I think Wasps have a little edge in backs although with new combo I think Sale will just sneak it. A couple of weeks down the line this would be a Wasps win.
Cheeky front row battle with both TH's anchoring each others scrum to perfection. Won't be much play in the lineout but I prefer Wasps combo. I like the grunt for Wasps in the backrow but with a new 8/9/10 combo I think they'll stutter through the game. I think Wasps have a little edge in backs although with new combo I think Sale will just sneak it. A couple of weeks down the line this would be a Wasps win.
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Re: Aviva Premiership Round 5 - Week 9
by Sgt_Pooly Mon 20 Feb 2012, 9:44 am
Exeter 20-16 Bath
Good to see Pete back and Exeter with some direction. I see a big physical game here with Exeter getting nudge on scrum time with a grizzly front 5. Franks would battle well but edge here for Exeter. See a little edge in the lineout for Exeter too and with set piece control at home they'll be a tough but to crack. Think Cruden could keep the backline ticking and Nacewa gives them a much needed bit of class. Tough on Bath as they've put out a tidy team but I think they'll be starved if good ball.
Good to see Pete back and Exeter with some direction. I see a big physical game here with Exeter getting nudge on scrum time with a grizzly front 5. Franks would battle well but edge here for Exeter. See a little edge in the lineout for Exeter too and with set piece control at home they'll be a tough but to crack. Think Cruden could keep the backline ticking and Nacewa gives them a much needed bit of class. Tough on Bath as they've put out a tidy team but I think they'll be starved if good ball.
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Re: Aviva Premiership Round 5 - Week 9
by Sgt_Pooly Mon 20 Feb 2012, 9:51 am
Irish 21-22 Northampton
On paper see a front 5 & set piece edge here for Irish, don't think it'll be like that with Servat thrown straight in. PDJ will suffer at LH for Saints but see Irish struggling a touch lineout time with Servat learning the calls. Excellent backrows on show with both units competing, see Pocock getting real control at breakdown but Wood & Clark give lineout issues for Irish and Read is a quality breakdown operator. Cracking halfbacks on show and some real strike players in the backs. Irish would sneak but think new combo's on show will stutter their play slightly and allow Saints to sneak it.
On paper see a front 5 & set piece edge here for Irish, don't think it'll be like that with Servat thrown straight in. PDJ will suffer at LH for Saints but see Irish struggling a touch lineout time with Servat learning the calls. Excellent backrows on show with both units competing, see Pocock getting real control at breakdown but Wood & Clark give lineout issues for Irish and Read is a quality breakdown operator. Cracking halfbacks on show and some real strike players in the backs. Irish would sneak but think new combo's on show will stutter their play slightly and allow Saints to sneak it.
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Re: Aviva Premiership Round 5 - Week 9
by Sgt_Pooly Mon 20 Feb 2012, 10:54 am
Gloucester 20-18 Harlequins
Tight affair upfront with the slightest of scrum edges to the home side. See a slight pack advantage for Gloucester but nothing game changing and both will contest. Halfbacks class above for Quins and Evans will really dictate the play. Little disjointed for Quins in the backs though with a lot of new combo's and I think this will hold them back. Think May needs to find a position for Prop to be at his best. Just enough for the home side.
Worcester 26-21 Saracens
Big upfront battle with no edge for either side. Mostert is a big signing for Worcester and gives them some grunt, in good form too keeping Palmer out of the Stade team. Wil take a few weeks to be fully up to speed though. Cracking backrows and it'll be a hell of a contest, nothing in the pack battles. Fantatsic backs for Worcester and they'll have way too much for Sarries. Strong win for Worcester/
Tight affair upfront with the slightest of scrum edges to the home side. See a slight pack advantage for Gloucester but nothing game changing and both will contest. Halfbacks class above for Quins and Evans will really dictate the play. Little disjointed for Quins in the backs though with a lot of new combo's and I think this will hold them back. Think May needs to find a position for Prop to be at his best. Just enough for the home side.
Worcester 26-21 Saracens
Big upfront battle with no edge for either side. Mostert is a big signing for Worcester and gives them some grunt, in good form too keeping Palmer out of the Stade team. Wil take a few weeks to be fully up to speed though. Cracking backrows and it'll be a hell of a contest, nothing in the pack battles. Fantatsic backs for Worcester and they'll have way too much for Sarries. Strong win for Worcester/
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Re: Aviva Premiership Round 5 - Week 9
by stnick88 Mon 20 Feb 2012, 4:20 pm
Exeter v Bath - Slight edge to the Chiefs upfront, lack of form for Moody hinders Bath a little especially up against someone in as good form as Steffon. Prefer Cruden to Heathcote and think Chiefs have enough in the backs to see off Bath. Not sure on Carraro at 12 thought he played 13 more. Dagg will do wonders for Bath.
20-17
Tigers v Falcons - Unfortunately for Falcons its one way traffic up front, most teams will struggle to match Tigers forwards. Backline is full of class too and will ultimately outclass Falcons by the end. With new signings and Brussouw, Murray etc on the bench, Falcons could have made this a close game if it was in 2/3 weeks time.
28-18
London Irish v Saints - Very tough to call, bit more grunt from Saints but think Pocock at breakdown will edge it. Hoff brings a lot of carries but Manoa and Lawes are the men to stop him. Bowden and Sexton bring different qualities but like both backlines. Cant separate sorry.
22-22
Glos v Quins - Think at Kingsholm Glos can get on top upfront and give Lambie good front foot ball which he can thrive off. That is exactly what their backline need and they will cause problems for Quins. Quins keep it tight but think Glos have too much and take a win in a high scoring game.
32-28
Worcester v Sarries - Powerful Warriors forwards against the hard working Sarries machine. tight to call think Sarries edge the front five but back rows are close. Warriors backs are a class above though with Genia, Carter and Nonu pulling the strings at home. Farrells boot to keep Sarries close.
25-21
20-17
Tigers v Falcons - Unfortunately for Falcons its one way traffic up front, most teams will struggle to match Tigers forwards. Backline is full of class too and will ultimately outclass Falcons by the end. With new signings and Brussouw, Murray etc on the bench, Falcons could have made this a close game if it was in 2/3 weeks time.
28-18
London Irish v Saints - Very tough to call, bit more grunt from Saints but think Pocock at breakdown will edge it. Hoff brings a lot of carries but Manoa and Lawes are the men to stop him. Bowden and Sexton bring different qualities but like both backlines. Cant separate sorry.
22-22
Glos v Quins - Think at Kingsholm Glos can get on top upfront and give Lambie good front foot ball which he can thrive off. That is exactly what their backline need and they will cause problems for Quins. Quins keep it tight but think Glos have too much and take a win in a high scoring game.
32-28
Worcester v Sarries - Powerful Warriors forwards against the hard working Sarries machine. tight to call think Sarries edge the front five but back rows are close. Warriors backs are a class above though with Genia, Carter and Nonu pulling the strings at home. Farrells boot to keep Sarries close.
25-21
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Re: Aviva Premiership Round 5 - Week 9
by Ozzy3213 Tue 21 Feb 2012, 11:38 am
Sale Sharks 20 London Wasps 17
Very little to call between the sides and with no tactics have to go solely on players and form. Don't see either side getting ahuge set piece advantage with both packs well balanced and very evenly matched. My concern for Wasps is about their back 3 defensively, where I think they could be caught out a little. That and home advantage means for me it's a win for Sale.
Very little to call between the sides and with no tactics have to go solely on players and form. Don't see either side getting ahuge set piece advantage with both packs well balanced and very evenly matched. My concern for Wasps is about their back 3 defensively, where I think they could be caught out a little. That and home advantage means for me it's a win for Sale.
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Re: Aviva Premiership Round 5 - Week 9
by Ozzy3213 Tue 21 Feb 2012, 11:46 am
Leicester Tigers 25 Newcastle Falcons 18
Think Tigers would get a real nudge on up front here, where the Falcons pack lacks a little bit of grunt for me. Falcons will do ok around the park and in loose play, but around the rucks and set piece could be outmuscled. Bit of a from issue at 9/10 for for Tigers means they won't convert that superiority into a massive score, but they have enough behind that to be comfortable in this one. For Falcons a lack of real quality at 9/10 means that they will struggle living off scraps and have to really rely on Manning's boot for points.
Think Tigers would get a real nudge on up front here, where the Falcons pack lacks a little bit of grunt for me. Falcons will do ok around the park and in loose play, but around the rucks and set piece could be outmuscled. Bit of a from issue at 9/10 for for Tigers means they won't convert that superiority into a massive score, but they have enough behind that to be comfortable in this one. For Falcons a lack of real quality at 9/10 means that they will struggle living off scraps and have to really rely on Manning's boot for points.
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Re: Aviva Premiership Round 5 - Week 9
by prop_lyd Tue 21 Feb 2012, 11:49 am
Really struggling for time.
Exeter 22-20 Bath
Tigers 30-12 Falcons
Irish 18-21 Saints
Warriors 20-16 Sarries
Sale 18-17 Wasps
Exeter 22-20 Bath
Tigers 30-12 Falcons
Irish 18-21 Saints
Warriors 20-16 Sarries
Sale 18-17 Wasps
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Re: Aviva Premiership Round 5 - Week 9
by Ozzy3213 Tue 21 Feb 2012, 11:51 am
London Irish 19 Northampton Saints 22
The balance of the Irish pack concerns me. Neither prop is a reknowned carrier, nor are Gibson or Pockock in the back row, which means a lot of work will fall on Servat, Mafi and Hala'ufia. In contrast Saints have some heavy carriers and their tactics show that they are intending on using them. Lack of a consistent kicker is also an issue for Irish. Saints for me will get decent ball courtesy of their better carriers and have enough in the backs to exploit this, even away from home.
The balance of the Irish pack concerns me. Neither prop is a reknowned carrier, nor are Gibson or Pockock in the back row, which means a lot of work will fall on Servat, Mafi and Hala'ufia. In contrast Saints have some heavy carriers and their tactics show that they are intending on using them. Lack of a consistent kicker is also an issue for Irish. Saints for me will get decent ball courtesy of their better carriers and have enough in the backs to exploit this, even away from home.
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Re: Aviva Premiership Round 5 - Week 9
by Ozzy3213 Tue 21 Feb 2012, 11:54 am
Gloucester 38 Harlequins 34
See this being a real high scorer with both sides looking to run the ball at every opportunity in their tactics. Ultimately I think the Gloucester backs have a little more about them, and their pack will have enough to gain parity, which at home means they will win this one, although could see both sides getting a TBP.
See this being a real high scorer with both sides looking to run the ball at every opportunity in their tactics. Ultimately I think the Gloucester backs have a little more about them, and their pack will have enough to gain parity, which at home means they will win this one, although could see both sides getting a TBP.
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Re: Aviva Premiership Round 5 - Week 9
by Ozzy3213 Tue 21 Feb 2012, 11:59 am
Worcester Warriors 23 Saracens 23
This has been the toughest call of the week. Two really good packs with different strengths. I like the Worcester back row as ball carriers, but they lack a little rugby intelligence for me, which is something that Joubert provides for Sarries, and I can see Saracens just edging the forward battle off the back of that. However, the half backs are a class apart, which means that even with not as good ball, Worcester will be capable of scoring points. I have always been a big believer that forwards win matches and backs decide by how much, and I do think that Saracens pack edge things, but not by enough for their backs to win the game away from home for them, so much as I hate doing it, I am going for a draw.
This has been the toughest call of the week. Two really good packs with different strengths. I like the Worcester back row as ball carriers, but they lack a little rugby intelligence for me, which is something that Joubert provides for Sarries, and I can see Saracens just edging the forward battle off the back of that. However, the half backs are a class apart, which means that even with not as good ball, Worcester will be capable of scoring points. I have always been a big believer that forwards win matches and backs decide by how much, and I do think that Saracens pack edge things, but not by enough for their backs to win the game away from home for them, so much as I hate doing it, I am going for a draw.
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Re: Aviva Premiership Round 5 - Week 9
by pullthestrings Tue 21 Feb 2012, 1:37 pm
Sale 18 - 16 Wasps
Strong packs on show for both sides, maybe Wasps sneak it. I think Sale will deal with the runs from JTH and JJ in midfield, making it difficult for Wasps to get go-forward. Strong back row for Sale forces penalties from Wasps and Wilko keeps the board ticking over. Wasps have decent bench options and cause problems towards the end but Sale hang on.
Strong packs on show for both sides, maybe Wasps sneak it. I think Sale will deal with the runs from JTH and JJ in midfield, making it difficult for Wasps to get go-forward. Strong back row for Sale forces penalties from Wasps and Wilko keeps the board ticking over. Wasps have decent bench options and cause problems towards the end but Sale hang on.
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Re: Aviva Premiership Round 5 - Week 9
by Driver Tue 21 Feb 2012, 4:16 pm
Exeter 20 Bath 20
Tigers 24 Falcons 10
Irish 15 Saints 20
Worcester 15 Saracens 15
Sale 15 Wasps 12
Tigers 24 Falcons 10
Irish 15 Saints 20
Worcester 15 Saracens 15
Sale 15 Wasps 12
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Re: Aviva Premiership Round 5 - Week 9
by SirJohnnyEnglish Tue 21 Feb 2012, 4:45 pm
Sale Sharks 21-19 London Wasps
Looking at the front 5 the set piece battle will be fairly even fought. Around the loose Garvey gives Wasps a little edge though. More form in the backrow for Wasps and they can get a definite edge at the breakdown.
In the backs the Wasps 9-10-12 combo needs time to gel and will see some disrupted play although they are still capable of breaking Sale down. The Sale halfbacks are able to control the tempo of the game even with scrappy ball.
A few weeks down the line and this would be a Wasps win but unfamiliarity in the backs doesn’t see them take full advantage of the breakdown success here and Sale with Wilko and co do enough for a very narrow home win.
Exeter Chiefs 20-16 Bath Rugby
Can see a scrum advantage to the Chiefs here and they can get some joy out of Catt at LH. Lineout and loose game is fairly even though. In the backrow theres a better balance to the Chiefs selection. Moody is marked down somewhat due to a lack of form for Bath.
In the backs Bath edge the midfield with a very good combo but Chiefs now with a very good back 3 at this level and Cruden provides more spark at 10. Good dynamism from the Bath bench though.
Chiefs are looking a serious side under Pete’s management and win the pack battle here overall setting Cruden and co up to get the win.
Leicester Tigers 25-18 Newcastle Falcons
Castro and Warburton with a jaded look to them for this match. Tigers can get a slight edge at scrum time but the lineout is a bit of a lottery with neither hooker overly accurate. Backrow is were Tigers can get a real edge. Plenty of potential for Falcons but even with a jaded Warburton Tigers have an extra class.
In the backs Tigers with a great midfield unit that has it all for me. Youngs will struggle but the Newcastle halfbacks haven’t the ability to play on the back foot and Falcons struggle.
Backrow edge sees Tigers take a good win with Barnes pulling the strings at 12.
Gloucester Rugby 29-24 Harlequins
Both front 5s are apt in the air and at moving the ball around but Glaws can get on top at scrum time. Neither backrow will dominate this one. No out and out breakdown man on show and both sides with good carrying games.
In the backs it’s an electric back 3 from Glaws and EFS can make some decent ground but Evans is the outstanding player on show. Glaws with some great impact of the bench but not as big an advantage as usual with Jones/Hamilton tired after their international exploits.
Not an awful lot in this one. Think Glaws have more in the backline and although Evans will pull the strings well for Quins, Sharples and co get the win in an entertaining affair.
Worcester Warriors 28-23 Saracens
Mostert adds massively to the Worcester front 5 this week. Sarries are a quality unit though and have a slight edge at the set piece and in the loose. Very good back row battle. Great carriers in both sides but slight edge to Warriors. Sarries have a slight edge at the breakdown though.Big step up in the backs though with Warriors arguably better man for man throughout though Sarries will put in a committed performance.
Sarries have an edge in the pack battle but its not big enough to overcome Carter and co and Worcester pick up a big scalp at Sixways.
Looking at the front 5 the set piece battle will be fairly even fought. Around the loose Garvey gives Wasps a little edge though. More form in the backrow for Wasps and they can get a definite edge at the breakdown.
In the backs the Wasps 9-10-12 combo needs time to gel and will see some disrupted play although they are still capable of breaking Sale down. The Sale halfbacks are able to control the tempo of the game even with scrappy ball.
A few weeks down the line and this would be a Wasps win but unfamiliarity in the backs doesn’t see them take full advantage of the breakdown success here and Sale with Wilko and co do enough for a very narrow home win.
Exeter Chiefs 20-16 Bath Rugby
Can see a scrum advantage to the Chiefs here and they can get some joy out of Catt at LH. Lineout and loose game is fairly even though. In the backrow theres a better balance to the Chiefs selection. Moody is marked down somewhat due to a lack of form for Bath.
In the backs Bath edge the midfield with a very good combo but Chiefs now with a very good back 3 at this level and Cruden provides more spark at 10. Good dynamism from the Bath bench though.
Chiefs are looking a serious side under Pete’s management and win the pack battle here overall setting Cruden and co up to get the win.
Leicester Tigers 25-18 Newcastle Falcons
Castro and Warburton with a jaded look to them for this match. Tigers can get a slight edge at scrum time but the lineout is a bit of a lottery with neither hooker overly accurate. Backrow is were Tigers can get a real edge. Plenty of potential for Falcons but even with a jaded Warburton Tigers have an extra class.
In the backs Tigers with a great midfield unit that has it all for me. Youngs will struggle but the Newcastle halfbacks haven’t the ability to play on the back foot and Falcons struggle.
Backrow edge sees Tigers take a good win with Barnes pulling the strings at 12.
Gloucester Rugby 29-24 Harlequins
Both front 5s are apt in the air and at moving the ball around but Glaws can get on top at scrum time. Neither backrow will dominate this one. No out and out breakdown man on show and both sides with good carrying games.
In the backs it’s an electric back 3 from Glaws and EFS can make some decent ground but Evans is the outstanding player on show. Glaws with some great impact of the bench but not as big an advantage as usual with Jones/Hamilton tired after their international exploits.
Not an awful lot in this one. Think Glaws have more in the backline and although Evans will pull the strings well for Quins, Sharples and co get the win in an entertaining affair.
Worcester Warriors 28-23 Saracens
Mostert adds massively to the Worcester front 5 this week. Sarries are a quality unit though and have a slight edge at the set piece and in the loose. Very good back row battle. Great carriers in both sides but slight edge to Warriors. Sarries have a slight edge at the breakdown though.Big step up in the backs though with Warriors arguably better man for man throughout though Sarries will put in a committed performance.
Sarries have an edge in the pack battle but its not big enough to overcome Carter and co and Worcester pick up a big scalp at Sixways.
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Re: Aviva Premiership Round 5 - Week 9
by CJB Tue 21 Feb 2012, 5:28 pm
Sale 19-14 Wasps
Exeter 25-18 Bath
Tigers 28-19 Falcons
Irish 22-24 Saints
Glaws 32-32 Quins
Exeter 25-18 Bath
Tigers 28-19 Falcons
Irish 22-24 Saints
Glaws 32-32 Quins
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Re: Aviva Premiership Round 5 - Week 9
by pullthestrings Tue 21 Feb 2012, 5:34 pm
Exeter 13 - 9 Bath
A gutsy performance from the Chiefs. Sandy park is a tough place to go - certainly not a time to rest big players. I think the Chiefs back row would cause problems for Heathcote at 10. The midfield would do a decent defensive job as well.
I think the Chiefs have a bit more class in the back three and would take their opportunity.
A gutsy performance from the Chiefs. Sandy park is a tough place to go - certainly not a time to rest big players. I think the Chiefs back row would cause problems for Heathcote at 10. The midfield would do a decent defensive job as well.
I think the Chiefs have a bit more class in the back three and would take their opportunity.
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Re: Aviva Premiership Round 5 - Week 9
by pullthestrings Tue 21 Feb 2012, 5:48 pm
Tigers 24 - 15 Newcastle
The Falcons are still strong in the pack and hold their own at the set piece. The pack is outdone away from the set piece at the breakdowns though, with the Tigers back row being rampant across the pitch.
The main gulf in quality is in the backs, where the Tigers tried and tested 9-10-12-13 combo really telled. Unfortunately the Falcons opportunity for points were limited to Manning's boot.
Gloucester 25 - 23 Harlequins
A difficult one, as not much to choose from in the pack. I prefer Gloucester's back row, and JVN in the second half will make an impact. Easter - Care - Evans is a great backbone and the Quins game pivots round this.
Gloucester have great mix of power and pace in the backs and I reckon they'll cause a stir. EFS will get the hard yards, Sharples, JSD, Morgan to have a good success rate.
Worcester 27 - 24 Saracens
Really impressed by this Worcester side and I think they'll do the job at home today. The best 9-10-12 in world rugby have such great versatility, meaning they can change their approach where necessary.
Sarries have a bit of dominance at the scrum though, and mostly clean lineout ball. Worcester will be keen to keep it away and do their damage in open play.
The Falcons are still strong in the pack and hold their own at the set piece. The pack is outdone away from the set piece at the breakdowns though, with the Tigers back row being rampant across the pitch.
The main gulf in quality is in the backs, where the Tigers tried and tested 9-10-12-13 combo really telled. Unfortunately the Falcons opportunity for points were limited to Manning's boot.
Gloucester 25 - 23 Harlequins
A difficult one, as not much to choose from in the pack. I prefer Gloucester's back row, and JVN in the second half will make an impact. Easter - Care - Evans is a great backbone and the Quins game pivots round this.
Gloucester have great mix of power and pace in the backs and I reckon they'll cause a stir. EFS will get the hard yards, Sharples, JSD, Morgan to have a good success rate.
Worcester 27 - 24 Saracens
Really impressed by this Worcester side and I think they'll do the job at home today. The best 9-10-12 in world rugby have such great versatility, meaning they can change their approach where necessary.
Sarries have a bit of dominance at the scrum though, and mostly clean lineout ball. Worcester will be keen to keep it away and do their damage in open play.
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Re: Aviva Premiership Round 5 - Week 9
by Fluxy Tue 21 Feb 2012, 7:33 pm
Exeter Chiefs 15 – 8 Bath Rugby
It is very difficult to come to Sandy Park and get a decent result, however Bath come close. Although the Chiefs have a very dominant front five, which gives them a great deal of ball and influence on the game. A good backrow for the Bath side gives them some area to combat the dominance, but the clever Chiefs backs capitalise upon the possession available.
London Irish 19 – 22 Northampton Saints
Probably the big game of the week as both of these sides head into this game with momentum. Northampton have a raft of big ball carriers and this allows them to dominate the collisions at ruck and tackle time. Irish to their credit has a very strong lineout, which gives them some chances to score some points. But the physicality of the Saints team gives them the edge towards the last few minutes.
Worcester 18 – 19 Saracens
Very high quality game, but this one is edged by the Saracens intelligence of the game. The pack has very solid balance and the ability to make the Worcester big boys chasing shadows for the afternoon and end up tiring them out. Despite ITFL stating the team is fresh Genia has played at least the last five games, and isn’t as sharp usual. However the quality of the Worcester backline gives them points, along with the strong running from the back five of Worcester.
Gloucester Rugby 23 – 21 Harlequins
The Gloucester team at home, return to their attacking instincts and don’t give the Quins a moments peace. The backline is electric and gets them some fantastic tries. However the Quins backline also enjoys some attacking ball through the duration of the game. It’s a brilliant front row battle between the sides, but the second row and back row is where this game is won. A great balance in the Cherry and whites back five gives them great ability to go out and get points, the Quins also have a good back five too, but there are some tired legs towards the end as Easter, Narraway and Qera have played a lot of games.
Sale Sharks 16 – 16 London Wasps
It’s a shame that neither of these teams had put out any tactics, as it would’ve quite interesting, as I see both of these team as quite even anyway. I’m a fan of the Sale front row and the Wasps secondrow. The backrows are quite even however, but I can see Sale winning the scrum battles and Wasps get the aerial battle with the lineout advantage. In the back It’s pretty even too. Tuilagi and Fourie both make scoring appearances, but no one can split these sides at the moment.
It is very difficult to come to Sandy Park and get a decent result, however Bath come close. Although the Chiefs have a very dominant front five, which gives them a great deal of ball and influence on the game. A good backrow for the Bath side gives them some area to combat the dominance, but the clever Chiefs backs capitalise upon the possession available.
London Irish 19 – 22 Northampton Saints
Probably the big game of the week as both of these sides head into this game with momentum. Northampton have a raft of big ball carriers and this allows them to dominate the collisions at ruck and tackle time. Irish to their credit has a very strong lineout, which gives them some chances to score some points. But the physicality of the Saints team gives them the edge towards the last few minutes.
Worcester 18 – 19 Saracens
Very high quality game, but this one is edged by the Saracens intelligence of the game. The pack has very solid balance and the ability to make the Worcester big boys chasing shadows for the afternoon and end up tiring them out. Despite ITFL stating the team is fresh Genia has played at least the last five games, and isn’t as sharp usual. However the quality of the Worcester backline gives them points, along with the strong running from the back five of Worcester.
Gloucester Rugby 23 – 21 Harlequins
The Gloucester team at home, return to their attacking instincts and don’t give the Quins a moments peace. The backline is electric and gets them some fantastic tries. However the Quins backline also enjoys some attacking ball through the duration of the game. It’s a brilliant front row battle between the sides, but the second row and back row is where this game is won. A great balance in the Cherry and whites back five gives them great ability to go out and get points, the Quins also have a good back five too, but there are some tired legs towards the end as Easter, Narraway and Qera have played a lot of games.
Sale Sharks 16 – 16 London Wasps
It’s a shame that neither of these teams had put out any tactics, as it would’ve quite interesting, as I see both of these team as quite even anyway. I’m a fan of the Sale front row and the Wasps secondrow. The backrows are quite even however, but I can see Sale winning the scrum battles and Wasps get the aerial battle with the lineout advantage. In the back It’s pretty even too. Tuilagi and Fourie both make scoring appearances, but no one can split these sides at the moment.
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Re: Aviva Premiership Round 5 - Week 9
by Sgt_Pooly Tue 21 Feb 2012, 7:50 pm
Cracking write ups lads.
10 mins till shut
10 mins till shut
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Re: Aviva Premiership Round 5 - Week 9
by Bathite Tue 21 Feb 2012, 8:06 pm
Wonder if blogs' Exeter team would have got as much praise! What a tool! Good to have you back Pete, great side, very hard to beat at home even if your flankers are doing three things at once tactically!
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Re: Aviva Premiership Round 5 - Week 9
by Ozzy3213 Tue 21 Feb 2012, 8:41 pm
I did note your comment mate of...
"Looking at Exeter's tactics it seems there is real confusion at the breakdown and conflicting tactics. It is unclear how you can slow ball down and scrag the scrum half without over committing to the ruck. In Moody and Louw, we have 2 specialists at the breakdown, who will look to secure the area on our ball and spoil opposition ball."
I don't see any conflict there, you don't have to overcommit to the ruck to slow the ball down, you just need to get one player who is strong over the ball there quickly and have him stay on his feet and contest with his hands. If he can stay on his feet long enough then it automatically slows the opposition. Both Armitage and Treviranus are adept at this, although not quite as good as David Pocock, who is a complete freak over the ball. Ball slowed, scrum half having to dig for it, other pacy flankers defending close to the ruck scrag the 9. Seemples. Also I effectively have 4 back row forwards out there with BDP a monster at the breakdown as well.
I will be honest though and say that I thought it would be a bit closer and you would get one or two predos your way, but I think you got a little bit unfortunate to get me this week, as new head coaches always see a reaction (as with Newcastle in real life) and some poor unsuspecting opposition usually cop it early on.
As a general point to all, the teams are all really even at present in this at the moment so I will be going heavy on tactics and real life form on predos.
"Looking at Exeter's tactics it seems there is real confusion at the breakdown and conflicting tactics. It is unclear how you can slow ball down and scrag the scrum half without over committing to the ruck. In Moody and Louw, we have 2 specialists at the breakdown, who will look to secure the area on our ball and spoil opposition ball."
I don't see any conflict there, you don't have to overcommit to the ruck to slow the ball down, you just need to get one player who is strong over the ball there quickly and have him stay on his feet and contest with his hands. If he can stay on his feet long enough then it automatically slows the opposition. Both Armitage and Treviranus are adept at this, although not quite as good as David Pocock, who is a complete freak over the ball. Ball slowed, scrum half having to dig for it, other pacy flankers defending close to the ruck scrag the 9. Seemples. Also I effectively have 4 back row forwards out there with BDP a monster at the breakdown as well.
I will be honest though and say that I thought it would be a bit closer and you would get one or two predos your way, but I think you got a little bit unfortunate to get me this week, as new head coaches always see a reaction (as with Newcastle in real life) and some poor unsuspecting opposition usually cop it early on.
As a general point to all, the teams are all really even at present in this at the moment so I will be going heavy on tactics and real life form on predos.
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Re: Aviva Premiership Round 5 - Week 9
by Bathite Tue 21 Feb 2012, 8:57 pm
Think it's pushing it a bit on the tactics, but I get your point. I'll always give a big favour to form players, home advantage and solid packs, the rest is up for grabs with tactics and combos
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Re: Aviva Premiership Round 5 - Week 9
by Bathite Tue 21 Feb 2012, 8:59 pm
I thought it would get a few wins as well, but people tend to follow suit on predictions. I rested some key players, as I want them fresh for the home games. Don't want to lose at home, away wins are a bonus
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Re: Aviva Premiership Round 5 - Week 9
by Sgt_Pooly Tue 21 Feb 2012, 9:05 pm
Disagree that people follow suit, I never look at previous predo's. Hence my telling off from Matt on other AP game!
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Re: Aviva Premiership Round 5 - Week 9
by Bathite Tue 21 Feb 2012, 9:08 pm
You might not, but it's human nature to read what people have written an if you agree it's easy to predict. Especially if you are short for time
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Re: Aviva Premiership Round 5 - Week 9
by Fluxy Tue 21 Feb 2012, 9:11 pm
Just because you lost, you're beginning to sound like someone familiar. Somoene who would make a mess out of things and complain... 
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Re: Aviva Premiership Round 5 - Week 9
by Ozzy3213 Tue 21 Feb 2012, 9:16 pm
Whether I read previous predos or not varies from week to week depending on how much time I have to be honest. I agree with Bathite to a certain extent in as much as when you read others predos you may pick up on something they have said that you hadn't thought of previously but agree with when looking at the teams. I don't see too much problem with that, as long as people are consistent with what they base their results on.
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Re: Aviva Premiership Round 5 - Week 9
by Bathite Tue 21 Feb 2012, 9:16 pm
I'm not complaining at all mate. Look through my comments, nothing but praise for Exeter and congrats after the win, so maybe have a look first
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Re: Aviva Premiership Round 5 - Week 9
by Sgt_Pooly Tue 21 Feb 2012, 9:16 pm
I think saying that goes against the whole spirit of the game Bathite.
I couldn't give a toss what other people think, my predo's are my predo's. No bias no previous results.
I only ever look at my results, don't really care what others are and go with a fresh slate.
I suspect others do exactly the same
I couldn't give a toss what other people think, my predo's are my predo's. No bias no previous results.
I only ever look at my results, don't really care what others are and go with a fresh slate.
I suspect others do exactly the same
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Re: Aviva Premiership Round 5 - Week 9
by Bathite Tue 21 Feb 2012, 9:23 pm
Ok fine, well ozzy saw my point. Did realise everytime I was going to raise some for discussion I would get accused of breaking rules or sour grapes. Getting a bit tiresome
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Re: Aviva Premiership Round 5 - Week 9
by Sgt_Pooly Tue 21 Feb 2012, 9:26 pm
Any discussion about Predo's is touchy mate
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Re: Aviva Premiership Round 5 - Week 9
by Ozzy3213 Tue 21 Feb 2012, 9:27 pm
I really wish there was a handbags smiley for use on here. 
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