About v2Aviva Premiership Round 2 - Week 6
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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 2 - Week 6
by Fluxy Mon 23 Jan - 18:34
First topic message reminder :
Team Sheets and tactics due by Saturday (18:00)
Predictions due till Monday (18:00)
Newcastle Falcons v Exeter Chiefs
Weather - Bright, cold with mild winds
Newcastle Falcons
Manager – Fluxy
16. Tom Mercey 17. Joe Graham 18. Tim Swinson 19. Michael Lipman 20. Will Chudley 21. Jeremy Manning 22. Luke Fielden 23. Jon Golding
Tactics
Finally, any team that comes to Kingston Park will struggle to find any momentum. Our game plan is simple, which is just to get the frowards playing in the right areas and using our water tight defence to keep them pinned back. We can pick points up from the opposition indisgression and also from turning up the intenisty when we want to with either the lineout or the scrum.
Exeter Chiefs
Manager – Maj_Ballbag
16. Simon Alcott 17. Brett Sturgess 18. Craig Mitchell 19. Tommy Hayes 20. James Phillips 21. Junior Poluleuigaga
22. Aaron Cruden 23. Jack Nowell
Looking at using the advantage that a dominant forward pack will bring. Target every scrum look at using Freshwaters set piece dominance.
Take every point on offer in what will be a tight game.
SCRUM
Will have dominance, look at taking points on offer from this.
LINEOUT
Let the lineout expertise of Horwill read and attack the Newcastle ball. On own ball vary the call to use the numerous options avaliable.
GAMEPLAY
Simple game using the tackical kicking game and up and under that will best exploit the 2 wingers, then after 57mins bring on new signing Cruden to not only use his all round game to close off the game but keep using the talent on offer.
When attacking ball use the fact the in playing 3 wingers in backline that the space created by Naqelevuki is exploited. With Naqelevukis offloading ability both wingers will have space to run off and exploit the space of a limited Newcastle back-line.
The use of Sestaret in the centre may be deemed as a risk but with his position being wing but his experience at the position 13 and the fact the he wont get tested as Gopperth is playing at 10 will negate any defensive frailty and only boost the effectiveness in terms of the offensive weapon he will be.
Leicester Tigers v London Wasps
Weather - Bright, cold with mild winds
Leicester Tigers
Manager – Sgt_Pooly
16. Tom Youngs 17. Julian White 18. Kieran Brookes 19. Ed Slater 20. Luke Wallace 21. Sam Harrison 22. Berrick Barnes 23. Elliott Daley
Tactics
In the good 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 Croft/Parling marshalling the front/middle of the line. We'll use big carries from our pack to draw in the Wasps defence with Youngs marshalling and looking for gaps to exploit around the fringes.
Warburton will target the breakdown with Youngs sniping around and playing flat to the line to allow 36 & 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.
Berrick Barnes will come on at around 60mins and look to move the oppostion around the park.
SCRUM - We'll look to get the nudge on Tim Payne but if no weakness is seen we'll just look to get fast attacking ball for Youngs
LINEOUT - Numerous options to aim at and will look to target Wentzal as Wasps primary jumper
CIPRIANI - We'll look to target Cips defence all game and force him into making errors. We'll try and wheel the scrum to allow Warburton extra time to put pressure on Cips distribution. Waldroum will target off the base and Manu will look for angles from attacking ball
KICKING OPTIONS - With Flood/Youngs/36 (Then Barnes) we have plenty of kicking options to target the Wasps back 3. We'll look for up and unders with Warburton + Newby carrying out the chase and timing the hit. We think Haughton could be a weakness and will look to get the flanks over the ball after the hit to force the turnover/pen. We won't be looking to kick possesion away but see this as a good option on slow ball.
BENCH - We'll look to use our impact bench to see out the game. White will turn scrum in scrum and Wallace/Slater gives us pace and physicality around the breakdown.
BREAKDOWN - Warburton & Newby are both excellent at the breakdown and we'll look to dominate here. With the lack of a physical runner or kicking option in the Wasps midfield we'll look to get the hit in and take the man straight to ground to allow our flanks the chance of turnover or slowing Wasps attacking ball down.
London Wasps
Manager – Stnick88
16. Zak Taulafo 17. Ben Broster 18. Bob Baker 19. Richard Birkett 20. Jonathan Poff 21. Charlie Davies 22. Ryan Davis 23. Chris Bell
London Irish v Sale Sharks
Weather - Sunny intervals, cold with mild winds
London Irish
Manager – Pullthestrings
16. James Buckland, 17. Alex Corbisiero, 18. Max Lahiff, 19. Bryn Evans, 20. Jamie Gibson, 21. Darren Allinson, 22. Shane Geraghty, 23 Jonathan Spratt
Tactics
Despite injuries to key personnel, we have confidence in our squad depth and that the side named will do the job today. We'll hope to get the crowd behind us at home and drive us to victory. We can't be scared to back ourselves and take opportunities when they arise.
- Look to put the screw on at the scrum to allow Harinordoquy to play on the front foot. We have Dermody and Corbs to compete against Kubs.
- Big Bob Casey to control the lineout, using primary jumpers Casey, Pocock and Harinordoquy. Opt for full lineouts in their half to tie in their pack and go for off-the-top ball to get wide quickly.
- Our focus is the breakdown, with Harinordoquy playing like another 7. We'll look to slow their ball down (legally) and really go for turnover opportunities when they arise.
- Be disciplined at the breakdown, with a guard and bodyguard at every breakdown to stop runs from Gaskell, Schofield etc getting them easy yards.
- Pocock to brawl and cut off any big runs from the Sale midfield. Simpson to sweep behind the defence to organise and make any covering tackles.
- Simpson to put tempo on the game, quickly getting the ball away from the breakdown and away from Peel and Wilko. Look to snipe to keep them guessing.
- Play rugby in their half. Shingler to pick his marks and put us in the right places.
- Delonto go for points at every opportunity. With his big boot, that's anywhere in their half. Make them scared to give away penalties in their half, thus giving us more time at the breakdown.
Sale Sharks
Manager – LondonIrishOllie
16.Sheridan 17.Thomas 18.Ward 19.Crane 20.Auva'a 21.Mathie 22.Leota 23.Addison
Tactics
We are going to London Irish with the simple of aim of getting the win. We have a solid set of forwards, who will give us a soolid platform at both set piece time and around the park, with Vernon playing at 8 having played very well their for Sale in real life this season. We will use our strong tactical kicking game from both half backs and McLeod to ensure we play the game in the right end of the field.
We are going to target their lineout, with Gaskell, Myall and Schofield all very good in that department, with Gaskell calling our lineouts, to a variety of Schofield, Myall, Himself and Vernon.
Fourie and Tuitupou are top class defenders, and will not let anything past them. Fourie will also attempt to use his top quality ball in hands skills to create chances for himself and the great talents of Amesbury and Brady.
At scrum time we have a very strong pack, where Kubriashvili will target, Irish's loosehead, and whoever plays wille expect to go backwards.
Seymour - is the type of player who can cause any team problems at the breakdown, especially when our front 5 will be winning the physical battle.
Territory - We will not be afraid to play a territorial game, with 3 fine kickers in our ranks we can expect to win this battle.
Vernon, Schofield, Tuitupou and Jones are all very good carriers and will expect to get over the gainline regularly.
Wilko - Will kick anything that is within range, and when we have slow ball at the edge of their 22 will look for a drop goal.
We are going to employ the tactic of holding up isolated players in defence creating a maul and stopping them releasing the ball, giving us a turnover in the form of a scrum from which Kubriashvili and co will aim to get a full arm penalty.
We will look to keep the scoreboard ticking over to put pressure on their kicker, as with Homer out injured, who ever kicks for them is not a front line kicker and will struggle.
Saracens v Bath Rugby
Weather - Sunny intervals, cold with mild winds
SARCENS
Manager – Luke
16. Rhys Gill 17. John Smit 18. Petrus du Plessis 19. Hugh Vyvyan 20. Jackson Wray 21. Richard Wigglesworth 22. Joel Tomkins 23. Joe Maddock
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, Hougaard and Farrell. Borthwick to lead, supported by Joubert, Botha and Brown.
- 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.
- Hougaard and Farrell to mix up first reciever - the midfield to keep the opposition guessing.
- Hougaard is given license to play the game as he sees it. We do ask that he uses our lineout ability to put pressure on the opposition, so a kicking game will be employed, 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.
Bath Rugby
Manager - Bathite
16.A.Perenise 17.R.Batty 18.C.Beech 19.R.Caldwell 20.G.Mercer 21.C.Cook 22.T.Heathcote 23.O.Woodburn
General gameplan
Look to secure the breakdown with experienced ball players in the back row, then Classens to supply quick ball to 10 12 channel, which will be the point of attack. We focus on attacking midfield, looking to bring in the back three. Look to use the scrum where possible.
Have picked an experienced team, with leaders in all areas of the pitch, Shaw, Moody, Claassens and Barkley. Look to use their nous and big game exposure to their advantage, with a Saracens team missing key players in key positions. The 9 10 12 axis of Claassens Donald and Barkley will look to control the game tempo tactically. Hooper comes into the lineup as the Bath lineout captain in real life and with a good understanding of Borthwicks game. A big front row, with Pieter Dixon coming in, known for his scrummaging and ball carrying looks to gain an advantage at scrum time, with Stevens out of his favoured position. In an attritional game, we have the players on the bench to open up the game for the last 30mins, where we will play a more expansive game and stretch the opposition defence out wide, away from the pack.
Backs play
* Classens, Donald look to exploit an inexperienced pair. Donald takes the ball flat on the gameline, looking for a physical mismatch
* Donald runs hard at Hougaard, using Banahan, Shaw and Franks off his shoulder to attract the 10 12 channel and to tire their back row
* Picked two playmakers at 10 12, to bring in the back three in midfield. Banahan will be looking for work inside.
* Banahan defends at 12, using pace, height and power to disrupt Houghaard and get some hits in early
* Carraro picked for his defensive leadership, he will look for the man and ball hit at 13, where we can secure quick ball
Forwards play
* Use bulk of the front five at scrumtime to create a solid set piece in good ground conditions. Look to use strength advantage to apply pressureon opposing scrums, so backrow must deal with scrappy ball
* Jump at 1/2 on opposition lineout, pressurising the hooker's throw.
* Always compete for throw to discourage and impeded off the top ball
* Caldwell comes on after 50mins for Shaw, allowing both to give everything. Caldwell brings fresh carrying legs and try scoring form to
the game for the second half
* Mercer to come on after 50 mins to play as a link man / fetcher, which alllows the gameplan to shift to a more open game, with young legs of Heathcote and Woodburn also giving attacking intent and pace.
Northampton Saints v Harlequins
Weather - Sunny intervals, cold with mild winds
Northampton Saints
Manager – SirJohnnyEnglish
16. Ethan Waller 17. Brett Sharman 18. Brian Mujati 19. Mark Sorenson 20. Phil Dowson 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 Quins 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 Quins 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 Quins ball carriers before they can get to the gain line stopping any momentum and allowing us to hit the breakdown harder. 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 the Quins players 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:
•Home Advantage
With a baying home crowd at the hostile Gardens looking to intimidate both Quins and the ref, Harlequins will need to be at their very best to win!
•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 Quins ball we will disrupt the put in looking for penalties or to create rushed poor ball for the Quins halfbacks.
We feel PDJ has the technique to cause Lambert real problems and we want to draw penalties and perhaps a trip to the bin.
•Lineout
With 5 jumpers and minimalchallenge 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.
In the line on Quins ball we will look for Tom Wood to mark Robson and cut out the main Quins jumping option, leaving Day and the rest of our back 5 to try and poach the ball.
•Taking Advantage
Dickson and Sexton will look to employ low kicks in behind the Quins wingers and away from Brown looking for touch where we will look to take advantage and get our hands on the ball.
•Fringe Defence
We will look to stay tight around the fringes and deny Care opportunities to make sniping breaks and force him to continually go to his first receiver. By taking this threat away Quins will be much easier to defend against.
Samoa and the lads will look to put a few rough hits in on Care when possible. If Care has to come off it leaves ???? at scrumhalf for Quins who has been called up at the last minute and should see disjointed play.
•Ball Carrying
With a lack of dynamic carriers for Quins, Johnstone, JTH and Easter will see a lot of work. We will look to use the gang tackle and isolate these guys looking to drive them back and put us on the front foot.
Harlequins
Manager – Driver
16.Chris Brooker 17.Joe Marler 18.Tim Fairbrother 19.George Skivington 20.Chris York 21.TBA 22.Rory Clegg 23.Tom Casson
Worcester Warriors v Gloucester Rugby
Weather - Sunny intervals, cold with mild winds
WorcesterWarriors
Manager – InTheFastLane
16. Ed Shervington 17. Ceri Jones 18. George Porter 19. Nile Dacres 20. Richard Muagututia 21. Shaun Perry 22. Andy Goode 23. Anthony Allen
Gloucester
Manager – prop_lyd
16. Scott Lawson 17. Dan Murphy 18. Shaun Knight 19. Brett Deacon 20. Peter Buxton 21. Rory Lawson 22. Freddie Burns 23. Mike Tindall
Tactics
We have a pack that will look to gain the up at scrum time and are mobile,
*Our lineout will be able to steal ball and James (enforcer) and Brown will look to put pressure on their throw,
*Backrow to look for turnovers or to slow the ball down and cause general disruption,
*Lambie to look to get our backs running but if ball is slow to pin them back,
*Tindall to run close to EFS for the gaps and a backrower on their shoulder,
*Back 3 to look for the ball as often as possible and continue our exciting brand of rugby,
*Look to neutralise their attack with a banana blitz defence with a back rower looking for turnover ball at the tackle,
*Use bench as and when with Burns and Tindall altering the game and Lawson bringing physicality to the front row,
*Look for Qera to disrupt the 9-10 channel and Strokosch to be in their face on impact,
*Exciting, fast rugby, big hitting pack, gunning to make an instant impact on the league with Lambie pulling the strings and taking the points when required.
Team Sheets and tactics due by Saturday (18:00)
Predictions due till Monday (18:00)
Newcastle Falcons v Exeter Chiefs
Weather - Bright, cold with mild winds
Newcastle Falcons
Manager – Fluxy
| 01. Darren Fearn | 09. Chris Pilgrim |
| 02. Rob Vickers | 10. Jimmy Gopperth (K) |
| 03. Euan Murray | |
| 04. James Hudson (C) | 11. Paul Diggin |
| 05. Tom Palmer | 12. James Fitzpatrick |
| 06. Magnus Lund | 13. Tom May |
| 07. Hienrich Brussow | 14. Seb Stegmann |
| 08. Ally Hogg | 15. Alex Tait |
16. Tom Mercey 17. Joe Graham 18. Tim Swinson 19. Michael Lipman 20. Will Chudley 21. Jeremy Manning 22. Luke Fielden 23. Jon Golding
Tactics
- Playing the right areas and using our strengths - Using the boots of; Gopperth, May and Manning to get the forwards in the oppositions half. We have a very dominant front row at the scrum and at lineout time.
- Lineout - We have a large number of quality lineout jumpers and a very cleverly run lineout with Hudson at the helm. This should be a main focus of possession either from the disruption of opposition ball or just claiming our own.
- Ball Carriers - Falcons have a range of ball carriers from Hogg and Vickers to Fitzpatrick and May, and players like these will get us over the gain line so we can play some rugby in the oppositions half.
- Penalties - When the oppurtunity arises Gopperth shall take all kickable points within his rage.
Defence - Defensive line - We shall look to get up as the fast as the slowest man, and then drift the line man on man, in the direction of the play. Scrum-half covers behind as a pendulum.
- Halfbacks - The back row will look to be on the backs of the Exeter halfbacks, not giving them any time or space. Brussow will be straight up on Steenson and or Cruden to give them a "warm welcome" to Kingston Park. This should then ;ead to pressure and mistakes which will equal mistakes.
- Compete at the breakdown - Look to give the opposition no time to settle in to plays or not to take any ruck lightly, as this will lead to mistakes from the forwards an panicked kicks and decisions from the backs. Brussow and Lund should be first to rucks.
- Substitutions - Tom Mercey on for Euan Murray at 60 minutes, likewise Golding on for Fearn at the same time. Welch on for Hogg if we were losing in the second half. Also if we are down by a more than ten points we can bring on Maning to inject some pace and driection for Gopperth. And finally Fielden on for Stegmann at 65 minutes.
Attack
Finally, any team that comes to Kingston Park will struggle to find any momentum. Our game plan is simple, which is just to get the frowards playing in the right areas and using our water tight defence to keep them pinned back. We can pick points up from the opposition indisgression and also from turning up the intenisty when we want to with either the lineout or the scrum.
Exeter Chiefs
Manager – Maj_Ballbag
| 01. Perry Freshwater | 09. Haydn Thomas |
| 02. Bismarck du Plessis | 10. Gareth Steenson |
| 03. Hoani Tui | |
| 04. James Horwill (c) | 11. Paul Sackey |
| 05. James Hanks | 12. Sireli Naqelevuki |
| 06. Richard Baxter | 13. Nic Sestaret |
| 07. James Scaysbrook | 14. Gonzalo Camacho |
| 08. Ofisa Treviranus | 15. Luke Arscott |
16. Simon Alcott 17. Brett Sturgess 18. Craig Mitchell 19. Tommy Hayes 20. James Phillips 21. Junior Poluleuigaga
22. Aaron Cruden 23. Jack Nowell
Looking at using the advantage that a dominant forward pack will bring. Target every scrum look at using Freshwaters set piece dominance.
Take every point on offer in what will be a tight game.
SCRUM
Will have dominance, look at taking points on offer from this.
LINEOUT
Let the lineout expertise of Horwill read and attack the Newcastle ball. On own ball vary the call to use the numerous options avaliable.
GAMEPLAY
Simple game using the tackical kicking game and up and under that will best exploit the 2 wingers, then after 57mins bring on new signing Cruden to not only use his all round game to close off the game but keep using the talent on offer.
When attacking ball use the fact the in playing 3 wingers in backline that the space created by Naqelevuki is exploited. With Naqelevukis offloading ability both wingers will have space to run off and exploit the space of a limited Newcastle back-line.
The use of Sestaret in the centre may be deemed as a risk but with his position being wing but his experience at the position 13 and the fact the he wont get tested as Gopperth is playing at 10 will negate any defensive frailty and only boost the effectiveness in terms of the offensive weapon he will be.
Leicester Tigers v London Wasps
Weather - Bright, cold with mild winds
Leicester Tigers
Manager – Sgt_Pooly
| 01. Boris Stankovich | 09. Ben Youngs |
| 02. Rob Hawkins | 10. Toby Flood |
| 03. Martin Castrogiovani | |
| 04. Lewis Deacon | 11. Horacio Agulla |
| 05. Geoff Parling | 12. Billy Twelvetrees |
| 06. Craig Newby | 13. Manu Tuilagi |
| 07. Sam Warburton© | 14. James O’Connor |
| 08. Thomas Waldroum | 15. Geordan Murphy |
16. Tom Youngs 17. Julian White 18. Kieran Brookes 19. Ed Slater 20. Luke Wallace 21. Sam Harrison 22. Berrick Barnes 23. Elliott Daley
Tactics
In the good 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 Croft/Parling marshalling the front/middle of the line. We'll use big carries from our pack to draw in the Wasps defence with Youngs marshalling and looking for gaps to exploit around the fringes.
Warburton will target the breakdown with Youngs sniping around and playing flat to the line to allow 36 & 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.
Berrick Barnes will come on at around 60mins and look to move the oppostion around the park.
SCRUM - We'll look to get the nudge on Tim Payne but if no weakness is seen we'll just look to get fast attacking ball for Youngs
LINEOUT - Numerous options to aim at and will look to target Wentzal as Wasps primary jumper
CIPRIANI - We'll look to target Cips defence all game and force him into making errors. We'll try and wheel the scrum to allow Warburton extra time to put pressure on Cips distribution. Waldroum will target off the base and Manu will look for angles from attacking ball
KICKING OPTIONS - With Flood/Youngs/36 (Then Barnes) we have plenty of kicking options to target the Wasps back 3. We'll look for up and unders with Warburton + Newby carrying out the chase and timing the hit. We think Haughton could be a weakness and will look to get the flanks over the ball after the hit to force the turnover/pen. We won't be looking to kick possesion away but see this as a good option on slow ball.
BENCH - We'll look to use our impact bench to see out the game. White will turn scrum in scrum and Wallace/Slater gives us pace and physicality around the breakdown.
BREAKDOWN - Warburton & Newby are both excellent at the breakdown and we'll look to dominate here. With the lack of a physical runner or kicking option in the Wasps midfield we'll look to get the hit in and take the man straight to ground to allow our flanks the chance of turnover or slowing Wasps attacking ball down.
London Wasps
Manager – Stnick88
| 01. Tim Payne | 09. Nic Berry |
| 02. George Chuter | 10. Danny Cipriani |
| 03. Nicolas Mas | |
| 04. Ross Filipo | 11. Tom Varndell |
| 05. Marco Wentzel | 12. Dominic Waldouck |
| 06. Tinus Du Plessis | 13. Jonathan Joseph |
| 07. Julien Salvi | 14. Richard Haughton |
| 08. Sergio Parisse | 15. Hugo Southwell |
16. Zak Taulafo 17. Ben Broster 18. Bob Baker 19. Richard Birkett 20. Jonathan Poff 21. Charlie Davies 22. Ryan Davis 23. Chris Bell
London Irish v Sale Sharks
Weather - Sunny intervals, cold with mild winds
London Irish
Manager – Pullthestrings
| 01. Clarke Dermody (c) | 09. Joe Simpson |
| 02. David Paice | 10. Steve Shingler (k) |
| 03. Paulică Ion | |
| 04. Bob Casey | 11. Topsy Ojo |
| 05. Steve Mafi | 12. Shontayne Hape |
| 06. Declan Danaher | 13. Joe Ansbro |
| 07. David Pocock | 14. Adam Thompstone |
| 08. Imanol Hariordoquy | 15. Delon Armitage (k) |
Tactics
Despite injuries to key personnel, we have confidence in our squad depth and that the side named will do the job today. We'll hope to get the crowd behind us at home and drive us to victory. We can't be scared to back ourselves and take opportunities when they arise.
- Look to put the screw on at the scrum to allow Harinordoquy to play on the front foot. We have Dermody and Corbs to compete against Kubs.
- Big Bob Casey to control the lineout, using primary jumpers Casey, Pocock and Harinordoquy. Opt for full lineouts in their half to tie in their pack and go for off-the-top ball to get wide quickly.
- Our focus is the breakdown, with Harinordoquy playing like another 7. We'll look to slow their ball down (legally) and really go for turnover opportunities when they arise.
- Be disciplined at the breakdown, with a guard and bodyguard at every breakdown to stop runs from Gaskell, Schofield etc getting them easy yards.
- Pocock to brawl and cut off any big runs from the Sale midfield. Simpson to sweep behind the defence to organise and make any covering tackles.
- Simpson to put tempo on the game, quickly getting the ball away from the breakdown and away from Peel and Wilko. Look to snipe to keep them guessing.
- Play rugby in their half. Shingler to pick his marks and put us in the right places.
- Delonto go for points at every opportunity. With his big boot, that's anywhere in their half. Make them scared to give away penalties in their half, thus giving us more time at the breakdown.
Sale Sharks
Manager – LondonIrishOllie
| 01.MacDonald | 09.Peel |
| 02.Jones | 10.Wilkinson |
| 03.Kubriashvili | |
| 04.Schofield (c) | 11.Amesbury |
| 05.Myall | 12.Tuitupou |
| 06.Gaskell | 13.Fourie |
| 07.Seymour | 14.Brady |
| 08.Vernon | 15.McLeod |
16.Sheridan 17.Thomas 18.Ward 19.Crane 20.Auva'a 21.Mathie 22.Leota 23.Addison
Tactics
We are going to London Irish with the simple of aim of getting the win. We have a solid set of forwards, who will give us a soolid platform at both set piece time and around the park, with Vernon playing at 8 having played very well their for Sale in real life this season. We will use our strong tactical kicking game from both half backs and McLeod to ensure we play the game in the right end of the field.
We are going to target their lineout, with Gaskell, Myall and Schofield all very good in that department, with Gaskell calling our lineouts, to a variety of Schofield, Myall, Himself and Vernon.
Fourie and Tuitupou are top class defenders, and will not let anything past them. Fourie will also attempt to use his top quality ball in hands skills to create chances for himself and the great talents of Amesbury and Brady.
At scrum time we have a very strong pack, where Kubriashvili will target, Irish's loosehead, and whoever plays wille expect to go backwards.
Seymour - is the type of player who can cause any team problems at the breakdown, especially when our front 5 will be winning the physical battle.
Territory - We will not be afraid to play a territorial game, with 3 fine kickers in our ranks we can expect to win this battle.
Vernon, Schofield, Tuitupou and Jones are all very good carriers and will expect to get over the gainline regularly.
Wilko - Will kick anything that is within range, and when we have slow ball at the edge of their 22 will look for a drop goal.
We are going to employ the tactic of holding up isolated players in defence creating a maul and stopping them releasing the ball, giving us a turnover in the form of a scrum from which Kubriashvili and co will aim to get a full arm penalty.
We will look to keep the scoreboard ticking over to put pressure on their kicker, as with Homer out injured, who ever kicks for them is not a front line kicker and will struggle.
Saracens v Bath Rugby
Weather - Sunny intervals, cold with mild winds
SARCENS
Manager – Luke
| 01. Matt Stevens | 09. Ben Spencer |
| 02. Schalk Brits | 10. Derick Hougaard |
| 03. Carlos Nieto | |
| 04. Steve Borthwick (c) | 11. David Strettle |
| 05. Mouritz Botha | 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. John Smit 18. Petrus du Plessis 19. Hugh Vyvyan 20. Jackson Wray 21. Richard Wigglesworth 22. Joel Tomkins 23. Joe Maddock
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, Hougaard and Farrell. Borthwick to lead, supported by Joubert, Botha and Brown.
- 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.
- Hougaard and Farrell to mix up first reciever - the midfield to keep the opposition guessing.
- Hougaard is given license to play the game as he sees it. We do ask that he uses our lineout ability to put pressure on the opposition, so a kicking game will be employed, 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.
Bath Rugby
Manager - Bathite
| 01.D.Flatman | 09.M.Claassens |
| 02.P.Dixon | 10.S.Donald |
| 03.O.Franks | |
| 04.D.Attwood | 11.M.Banahan |
| 05.S.Hooper | 12.O.Barkley |
| 06.C.Fearns | 13.M.Carraro |
| 07.L.Moody (c) | 14.T.Biggs |
| 08.B.Skirving | 15.N.Abendanon |
16.A.Perenise 17.R.Batty 18.C.Beech 19.R.Caldwell 20.G.Mercer 21.C.Cook 22.T.Heathcote 23.O.Woodburn
General gameplan
Look to secure the breakdown with experienced ball players in the back row, then Classens to supply quick ball to 10 12 channel, which will be the point of attack. We focus on attacking midfield, looking to bring in the back three. Look to use the scrum where possible.
Have picked an experienced team, with leaders in all areas of the pitch, Shaw, Moody, Claassens and Barkley. Look to use their nous and big game exposure to their advantage, with a Saracens team missing key players in key positions. The 9 10 12 axis of Claassens Donald and Barkley will look to control the game tempo tactically. Hooper comes into the lineup as the Bath lineout captain in real life and with a good understanding of Borthwicks game. A big front row, with Pieter Dixon coming in, known for his scrummaging and ball carrying looks to gain an advantage at scrum time, with Stevens out of his favoured position. In an attritional game, we have the players on the bench to open up the game for the last 30mins, where we will play a more expansive game and stretch the opposition defence out wide, away from the pack.
Backs play
* Classens, Donald look to exploit an inexperienced pair. Donald takes the ball flat on the gameline, looking for a physical mismatch
* Donald runs hard at Hougaard, using Banahan, Shaw and Franks off his shoulder to attract the 10 12 channel and to tire their back row
* Picked two playmakers at 10 12, to bring in the back three in midfield. Banahan will be looking for work inside.
* Banahan defends at 12, using pace, height and power to disrupt Houghaard and get some hits in early
* Carraro picked for his defensive leadership, he will look for the man and ball hit at 13, where we can secure quick ball
Forwards play
* Use bulk of the front five at scrumtime to create a solid set piece in good ground conditions. Look to use strength advantage to apply pressureon opposing scrums, so backrow must deal with scrappy ball
* Jump at 1/2 on opposition lineout, pressurising the hooker's throw.
* Always compete for throw to discourage and impeded off the top ball
* Caldwell comes on after 50mins for Shaw, allowing both to give everything. Caldwell brings fresh carrying legs and try scoring form to
the game for the second half
* Mercer to come on after 50 mins to play as a link man / fetcher, which alllows the gameplan to shift to a more open game, with young legs of Heathcote and Woodburn also giving attacking intent and pace.
Northampton Saints v Harlequins
Weather - Sunny intervals, cold with mild winds
Northampton Saints
Manager – SirJohnnyEnglish
| 01. Alex Waller | 09. Lee Dickson |
| 02. Dylan Hartley | 10. Johnny Sexton |
| 03. Paul Doran Jones | |
| 04. Samu Manoa | 11. Vasily Artemiev |
| 05. Christian Day | 12. James Downey |
| 06. Calum Clark | 13. John Clarke |
| 07. Tom Wood | 14. Chris Ashton |
| 08. Roger Wilson | 15. Ben Foden |
16. Ethan Waller 17. Brett Sharman 18. Brian Mujati 19. Mark Sorenson 20. Phil Dowson 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 Quins 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 Quins 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 Quins ball carriers before they can get to the gain line stopping any momentum and allowing us to hit the breakdown harder. 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 the Quins players 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:
•Home Advantage
With a baying home crowd at the hostile Gardens looking to intimidate both Quins and the ref, Harlequins will need to be at their very best to win!
•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 Quins ball we will disrupt the put in looking for penalties or to create rushed poor ball for the Quins halfbacks.
We feel PDJ has the technique to cause Lambert real problems and we want to draw penalties and perhaps a trip to the bin.
•Lineout
With 5 jumpers and minimalchallenge 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.
In the line on Quins ball we will look for Tom Wood to mark Robson and cut out the main Quins jumping option, leaving Day and the rest of our back 5 to try and poach the ball.
•Taking Advantage
Dickson and Sexton will look to employ low kicks in behind the Quins wingers and away from Brown looking for touch where we will look to take advantage and get our hands on the ball.
•Fringe Defence
We will look to stay tight around the fringes and deny Care opportunities to make sniping breaks and force him to continually go to his first receiver. By taking this threat away Quins will be much easier to defend against.
Samoa and the lads will look to put a few rough hits in on Care when possible. If Care has to come off it leaves ???? at scrumhalf for Quins who has been called up at the last minute and should see disjointed play.
•Ball Carrying
With a lack of dynamic carriers for Quins, Johnstone, JTH and Easter will see a lot of work. We will look to use the gang tackle and isolate these guys looking to drive them back and put us on the front foot.
Harlequins
Manager – Driver
| 01.Mark Lambert | 09.Danny Care |
| 02.Joe Grey | 10.Nick Evans |
| 03.James Johnston | |
| 04.Ollie Kohn | 11.Scott Hamilton |
| 05.George Robson | 12.Jordan Turner-Hall |
| 06.Neil Best | 13.George Lowe |
| 07.Chris Robshaw | 14.Sam Smith |
| 08.Nick Easter | 15.Mike Brown |
16.Chris Brooker 17.Joe Marler 18.Tim Fairbrother 19.George Skivington 20.Chris York 21.TBA 22.Rory Clegg 23.Tom Casson
Worcester Warriors v Gloucester Rugby
Weather - Sunny intervals, cold with mild winds
WorcesterWarriors
Manager – InTheFastLane
| 01. Matt Mullan | 09. Will Genia |
| 02. Aleki Lutui | 10. Dan Carter |
| 03. Tevita Taumoepeau | |
| 04. James Percival | 11. Errie Claasens |
| 05. Ben Gulliver | 12. Ma’a Nonu |
| 06. James Haskell | 13. Matt Hopper |
| 07. Jake Abbott | 14. Marcel Garvey |
| 08. Kai Horstmann | 15. Luke Rooney |
- We have a strong 8-9-10-12 axis and will look to control the game using these positions.
- We feel we can put pressure on the Gloucester scrum, being used to each others game and a fearsome scrummaging unit. If the scrum is successful we will look to keep using it.
- 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
- We will look to getting Nonu into the game and creating mismatches so he can run at Gloucester defenders and will look to target May who hasn't had anyone like Nonu run at him.
- 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 and with Jake Abbott in the team we really feel we can compete at the breakdown this week
- Nonu to be focus of Attack then use him as dummy with Carter pulling the strings
Gloucester
Manager – prop_lyd
| 01. Dario Chistolini | 09. Dave Lewis |
| 02. Darren Dawiduk | 10. Patrick Lambie (k) |
| 03. Adam Jones | |
| 04. Alex Brown | 11. JSD |
| 05. Will James | 12. EFS |
| 06. Alisdair Strokosch | 13. Jonny May |
| 07. Akapusi Qera | 14. Charlie Sharples |
| 08. Luke Narraway (c) | 15. Ollie Morgan |
16. Scott Lawson 17. Dan Murphy 18. Shaun Knight 19. Brett Deacon 20. Peter Buxton 21. Rory Lawson 22. Freddie Burns 23. Mike Tindall
Tactics
We have a pack that will look to gain the up at scrum time and are mobile,
*Our lineout will be able to steal ball and James (enforcer) and Brown will look to put pressure on their throw,
*Backrow to look for turnovers or to slow the ball down and cause general disruption,
*Lambie to look to get our backs running but if ball is slow to pin them back,
*Tindall to run close to EFS for the gaps and a backrower on their shoulder,
*Back 3 to look for the ball as often as possible and continue our exciting brand of rugby,
*Look to neutralise their attack with a banana blitz defence with a back rower looking for turnover ball at the tackle,
*Use bench as and when with Burns and Tindall altering the game and Lawson bringing physicality to the front row,
*Look for Qera to disrupt the 9-10 channel and Strokosch to be in their face on impact,
*Exciting, fast rugby, big hitting pack, gunning to make an instant impact on the league with Lambie pulling the strings and taking the points when required.
Last edited by Fluxy on Sat 28 Jan - 22:38; edited 4 times in total
Fluxy- Aviva Premiership Commissioner
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Re: Aviva Premiership Round 2 - Week 6
by Bathite Sun 29 Jan - 13:39
Northampton 23 - 15 Quins
Would have been a lot closer if Quins were at full fitness, but for me this is a classic example of the forwards winning the battle with good old fashioned hard work at the scrum, lineout and breakdown. Saints have too much power in the front five and a balanced unit in the back row. Care and Evans have to feed of slow scrappy ball and do embarass the Saints centres, who lack pace, but the victory is secured by some Jonny Sexton magic and the Mooj winning a crucial defensive scrum in the last 15 mins.
Would have been a lot closer if Quins were at full fitness, but for me this is a classic example of the forwards winning the battle with good old fashioned hard work at the scrum, lineout and breakdown. Saints have too much power in the front five and a balanced unit in the back row. Care and Evans have to feed of slow scrappy ball and do embarass the Saints centres, who lack pace, but the victory is secured by some Jonny Sexton magic and the Mooj winning a crucial defensive scrum in the last 15 mins.
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Re: Aviva Premiership Round 2 - Week 6
by Bathite Sun 29 Jan - 13:45
Worcester 19 - 22 Gloucester
Worcester secure a big win in the front row, which allows Carter to kick early penalties and stretch a 9-0 lead. Gloucester squeeze their way back into the game, winning lineout ball and forcing turnovers in the opposition half. I love the Worcester centre partnership, but unfortunately they spend most of the game defending, as their forwards lose out. The turning point is at the start of the second half, where a wuss player is pinged for holding on, following a smart kick from Lambie and great chase from Qera. James wins the lineout and a 8m rolling maul sends strokosch over.
Worcester secure a big win in the front row, which allows Carter to kick early penalties and stretch a 9-0 lead. Gloucester squeeze their way back into the game, winning lineout ball and forcing turnovers in the opposition half. I love the Worcester centre partnership, but unfortunately they spend most of the game defending, as their forwards lose out. The turning point is at the start of the second half, where a wuss player is pinged for holding on, following a smart kick from Lambie and great chase from Qera. James wins the lineout and a 8m rolling maul sends strokosch over.
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Re: Aviva Premiership Round 2 - Week 6
by Sgt_Pooly Mon 30 Jan - 11:28
Newcastle Falcons 17-16 Exeter Chiefs
Good tactics from both sides and I see them playing to their stengths. I think Exeter have a definate edge in the front 5 and will put some pressure on scrum time. I really like the Falcons backrow though and with Brussow spoiling alot of the Exeter play a think they edge the pack.
A little more for Exeter in the backline but Falcons will be a hard to break through. Think Falcons just have enough at home.
Irish 20-17 Sale
Good front 5 battle, I think Kubs was an astute signing and he'll anchor the scrum well for Sale. Hari helps Irish in the lineout and I think they'll have a bit of joy here. Excellent backrow for Irish and probably the best in the league at this moment with a bit of everything needed.
Sale's halfbacks are classy but I think Irish have enough in the backline to see them through in a real tight affair.
Saracens 20-20 Bath
Tight upfront, I see Franks giving Stevens issues all game. Enginbe room has a bit more control for Sarries and simimar with the backrow I see them just getting the edge in set piece and around the park.
Definate halfback advantage for Bath with Hougaard's lack of from costing Sarries and it's a similar story in the backs with Bath having a bit too much. Really hard game to judge, I think Sarries have a pack advantge but Bath will do more with ball and come away with a draw.
Saints 19-17 Harlequins
Definate scrum advantge for Saints in this one but I think Quins have a very good lineout. Nothing in the backrows with some serious quality on show for both sides despite big injury worries. I think Quins shade the halfbacks and centres but Saints have a real threat in the back 3. Really tight game but home advantage and a little more threat out wide just sees Saints sneak this one, see Quins doing some real damage throughout the 6N.
Worcester 22-20 Gloucester]
Good game this one with two improving sides. Think Worcester have enough in the front 5 to hole things out despite Jones really pressuring the scrum. Pretty tight backrow battle with Gloucester having a little more but Haskell giving Worcester good go forward. Loving Worcester halfbacks and with Nonu running lines off Carter they'll really cause Gloucester issues. Another really tight game but home advantage and Carter pulling the string sees Worcester shade it.
Good tactics from both sides and I see them playing to their stengths. I think Exeter have a definate edge in the front 5 and will put some pressure on scrum time. I really like the Falcons backrow though and with Brussow spoiling alot of the Exeter play a think they edge the pack.
A little more for Exeter in the backline but Falcons will be a hard to break through. Think Falcons just have enough at home.
Irish 20-17 Sale
Good front 5 battle, I think Kubs was an astute signing and he'll anchor the scrum well for Sale. Hari helps Irish in the lineout and I think they'll have a bit of joy here. Excellent backrow for Irish and probably the best in the league at this moment with a bit of everything needed.
Sale's halfbacks are classy but I think Irish have enough in the backline to see them through in a real tight affair.
Saracens 20-20 Bath
Tight upfront, I see Franks giving Stevens issues all game. Enginbe room has a bit more control for Sarries and simimar with the backrow I see them just getting the edge in set piece and around the park.
Definate halfback advantage for Bath with Hougaard's lack of from costing Sarries and it's a similar story in the backs with Bath having a bit too much. Really hard game to judge, I think Sarries have a pack advantge but Bath will do more with ball and come away with a draw.
Saints 19-17 Harlequins
Definate scrum advantge for Saints in this one but I think Quins have a very good lineout. Nothing in the backrows with some serious quality on show for both sides despite big injury worries. I think Quins shade the halfbacks and centres but Saints have a real threat in the back 3. Really tight game but home advantage and a little more threat out wide just sees Saints sneak this one, see Quins doing some real damage throughout the 6N.
Worcester 22-20 Gloucester]
Good game this one with two improving sides. Think Worcester have enough in the front 5 to hole things out despite Jones really pressuring the scrum. Pretty tight backrow battle with Gloucester having a little more but Haskell giving Worcester good go forward. Loving Worcester halfbacks and with Nonu running lines off Carter they'll really cause Gloucester issues. Another really tight game but home advantage and Carter pulling the string sees Worcester shade it.
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Re: Aviva Premiership Round 2 - Week 6
by prop_lyd Mon 30 Jan - 14:23
Falcons 9-14 Chiefs
Think kicking to the Chiefs will give their back 3 space to be dangerous. Front row dominates from Exeter but can see Brussouw winning penalties for Falcons.
Tigers 30-15 Wasps
No tactics really affect this match. Can see Tigers keeping Wasps at bay with Newby and Warbuton stealing constant ball. Also can't see the Wasps' defence coping here.
Irish 15-12 Sale
9-10 dominance for Sale here but Irish's back row will win the decisive penalties.
Sarries 24-18 Bath
Good game of rugby here but can see Franks dominating Stevens. The back line running game of Sarries will win this.
Saints 24-17 Quins
Match of the round here.....if Quins had put in tactics! Can see both teams going full at it but think that Sexton will win enough clean ball to steal this.
Think kicking to the Chiefs will give their back 3 space to be dangerous. Front row dominates from Exeter but can see Brussouw winning penalties for Falcons.
Tigers 30-15 Wasps
No tactics really affect this match. Can see Tigers keeping Wasps at bay with Newby and Warbuton stealing constant ball. Also can't see the Wasps' defence coping here.
Irish 15-12 Sale
9-10 dominance for Sale here but Irish's back row will win the decisive penalties.
Sarries 24-18 Bath
Good game of rugby here but can see Franks dominating Stevens. The back line running game of Sarries will win this.
Saints 24-17 Quins
Match of the round here.....if Quins had put in tactics! Can see both teams going full at it but think that Sexton will win enough clean ball to steal this.
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Re: Aviva Premiership Round 2 - Week 6
by CJB Mon 30 Jan - 16:47
Pooly got exams this week so revising lots, will have predos in at some point tonight
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Re: Aviva Premiership Round 2 - Week 6
by Bathite Mon 30 Jan - 16:54
Good luck fella! Eleven plus is easy these days though!
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Re: Aviva Premiership Round 2 - Week 6
by Maj_Ballbag Mon 30 Jan - 17:05
Leicester Tigers 19 v 10 London Wasps
Can see this match being won in a way less conventional then the Leicester way. With the front rows playing I don't see Leics getting a definate advantage here and with limited options on bench this is unlikely to change throughout the game. Can see Wasps dominating lineout as far more options and no Croft for Tigers. It is in the backs where the game will be decided as there is a distinct advantage with Leics who have too many power runners. With that and the tactical kicking of Flood and OConor it will prove too much of Wasps.
Saracens 25 - 15 Bath
Saracens look too strong all over the park and with home advantage for I can only see one winner, Bath will push them for 50-60 mins but lack the depth off the bench. Can see a couple of tries being ran in by Sarries late on.
Saints 32-17 Harlequins
Again like the Saracens game Northampton look to be superior. With what will be a very dominant scrum that I believe will lead to numerous penalties. A commanding lead is likely to be built up, with this advantage and the likelyhood of dominance in possesion I can see the Saints back 3 having a field day running off the big runners in the centre. Harlequins as they always do will be dangerous when they have quality ball I just don't believe they will have enough.
Irish 29-10 Sale
The outstanding Irish backrow will prove the difference. Pocock will dominate the break down and cause turnovers and plenty of penalties. With the class of Parrisse controlling the pack around the park a plentyful supply of ball for the backs to utilise will be produced. I can't see the Sale backs being given enough quality possession or at any pace to be able to mount any serious attacks. Irish by a distance for me.
Worcester 34-27 Gloucester
A free flowing and high scoring game here with neither defence known for keeping opposition at bay. The class and speed of though of Geina and Carter will create many scoring oppotunities and with the goalkicking of Carter the score board will continue to tick over. Gloucester will pose many questions and score a few tries themselves but in the end I feel they lack the quality that Worcs possess.
Can see this match being won in a way less conventional then the Leicester way. With the front rows playing I don't see Leics getting a definate advantage here and with limited options on bench this is unlikely to change throughout the game. Can see Wasps dominating lineout as far more options and no Croft for Tigers. It is in the backs where the game will be decided as there is a distinct advantage with Leics who have too many power runners. With that and the tactical kicking of Flood and OConor it will prove too much of Wasps.
Saracens 25 - 15 Bath
Saracens look too strong all over the park and with home advantage for I can only see one winner, Bath will push them for 50-60 mins but lack the depth off the bench. Can see a couple of tries being ran in by Sarries late on.
Saints 32-17 Harlequins
Again like the Saracens game Northampton look to be superior. With what will be a very dominant scrum that I believe will lead to numerous penalties. A commanding lead is likely to be built up, with this advantage and the likelyhood of dominance in possesion I can see the Saints back 3 having a field day running off the big runners in the centre. Harlequins as they always do will be dangerous when they have quality ball I just don't believe they will have enough.
Irish 29-10 Sale
The outstanding Irish backrow will prove the difference. Pocock will dominate the break down and cause turnovers and plenty of penalties. With the class of Parrisse controlling the pack around the park a plentyful supply of ball for the backs to utilise will be produced. I can't see the Sale backs being given enough quality possession or at any pace to be able to mount any serious attacks. Irish by a distance for me.
Worcester 34-27 Gloucester
A free flowing and high scoring game here with neither defence known for keeping opposition at bay. The class and speed of though of Geina and Carter will create many scoring oppotunities and with the goalkicking of Carter the score board will continue to tick over. Gloucester will pose many questions and score a few tries themselves but in the end I feel they lack the quality that Worcs possess.
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Re: Aviva Premiership Round 2 - Week 6
by CJB Mon 30 Jan - 17:13
Very funny Bathite...mock AS levels....guide you as to what universities to look for...realising I need to work harder at sixth form :L
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Re: Aviva Premiership Round 2 - Week 6
by Bathite Mon 30 Jan - 17:18
Yeah mate, I know what AS Levels are, got 5 of them! I'm not Pooly's age!
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Re: Aviva Premiership Round 2 - Week 6
by Sgt_Pooly Mon 30 Jan - 17:19
Bathite wrote:Yeah mate, I know what AS Levels are, got 5 of them! I'm not Pooly's age!
No idea what they are, sound pretty bent though
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Re: Aviva Premiership Round 2 - Week 6
by Bathite Mon 30 Jan - 17:20
Ha, very good. Poor old Pooly, had to do all his exams in black and white with a candle for light and a sundial to time it.
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Re: Aviva Premiership Round 2 - Week 6
by LukeLovesLuka Mon 30 Jan - 18:00
Falcons 18 - 18 Exeter
Slight advantage to the away side up front, even second rows but Falcons to domiate the back row for me which could prove crucial. Not a lot in the HB's, but prefer Exeter's back line. Really tight game that ebbs and flows.
Leicester 24 - 19 Wasps
Not a lot of give in the front five battle, slight edge to Tigers in the second row. Edge to Tigers back row, but Parisse causes them problems. Tigers take the HB's, whereas the centres are a really tight battle. JOC the standout in the back threes but two nice units. Enough for Tigers, especially at home.
Irish 23 - 21 Sale
Good battle in the packs, with two solid front fives. Irish's back row is arguably the best about, and they will cause Sale some real problems here. Much stronger HB's from Sale though, which levels things out. Bit more about Irish's backs for me too. Irish have just enough to take this at home.
Saints 24 - 18 Harlequins
Big advantage to Saints up front for me which causes Quins problems. Front five goes to the home side,but a better back row from Quins keeps them in the game. Two nice HB combo's, and tight centre pairings, but Saints back three much more dangerous. Sanits to take it with set piece and finishing ability.
Worcester Warriors 18 - 12 Gloucester
Slight advantge to Gloucester up front, and a very strong lineout too. Good back row battle, I like Horstmann and Haskell in good nick. I think Worcester have just enough in the pack for their 9, 10, 12 to use. Gloucester look dangerous with the ball in hand though. Edge to the home side in a tight affair.
Slight advantage to the away side up front, even second rows but Falcons to domiate the back row for me which could prove crucial. Not a lot in the HB's, but prefer Exeter's back line. Really tight game that ebbs and flows.
Leicester 24 - 19 Wasps
Not a lot of give in the front five battle, slight edge to Tigers in the second row. Edge to Tigers back row, but Parisse causes them problems. Tigers take the HB's, whereas the centres are a really tight battle. JOC the standout in the back threes but two nice units. Enough for Tigers, especially at home.
Irish 23 - 21 Sale
Good battle in the packs, with two solid front fives. Irish's back row is arguably the best about, and they will cause Sale some real problems here. Much stronger HB's from Sale though, which levels things out. Bit more about Irish's backs for me too. Irish have just enough to take this at home.
Saints 24 - 18 Harlequins
Big advantage to Saints up front for me which causes Quins problems. Front five goes to the home side,but a better back row from Quins keeps them in the game. Two nice HB combo's, and tight centre pairings, but Saints back three much more dangerous. Sanits to take it with set piece and finishing ability.
Worcester Warriors 18 - 12 Gloucester
Slight advantge to Gloucester up front, and a very strong lineout too. Good back row battle, I like Horstmann and Haskell in good nick. I think Worcester have just enough in the pack for their 9, 10, 12 to use. Gloucester look dangerous with the ball in hand though. Edge to the home side in a tight affair.
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Re: Aviva Premiership Round 2 - Week 6
by CJB Mon 30 Jan - 18:04
You did 5 as levels :o nutter! 4 is killing me
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Re: Aviva Premiership Round 2 - Week 6
by pullthestrings Mon 30 Jan - 19:41
Falcons 18 - 15 Exeter
I think the Falcons overall have the advantage in the pack, with a decent scrum and lineout and some big ball carriers. Exeter perhaps have the advantage in the scrum, but not enough to put dominance on the game. Exeters back three would threaten, but unfortunately don't get enough of the ball.
Leicester 22 - 16 Wasps
Pooly on the wire with his highlighting of Cips, but all legal. Leicesters home advantage, pack strength and clear game plan take this one. Not as easy as they would have liked, with some hearty performances from Wasps individuals, including the front row and Parisse.
Saracens 25 - 20 Bath
Pretty even battle up front initially, with both sets of backs being frustrated with the lack of ball. Sarries have so much firepower to call upon from the bench, and eventually will wear Bath down. Sarries backs to make better use of their opportunities and be the difference today.
Northampton 28 - 24 Harlequins
Big battle here. Saints have a monstrous pack, and whilst Quins will be able to compete at the set piece, I think Saints are superior in the loose and those charging runs set a good platform for the Saints back line to play. Furthermore, lack of game plan from the Quins stifles them and hands the game to the Saints, who were able to break Quins down piece by piece and create gaps in the defence.
Worcester 29 - 19 Gloucester
Gloucester's pack has a good day, with a solid set piece and good ball from the breakdown. Lambie has a tough time with Abbot and Haskell breathing down his neck. Qera is smart and will make Carter's day hard, although I think Genia would have a field day around the fringes, and if he breaks he'll have plenty of support. Nonu to run and run all day and get Worcester on the front foot. Gloucester's back three punished Worcester too often but it wasn't enough to seal the win.
I think the Falcons overall have the advantage in the pack, with a decent scrum and lineout and some big ball carriers. Exeter perhaps have the advantage in the scrum, but not enough to put dominance on the game. Exeters back three would threaten, but unfortunately don't get enough of the ball.
Leicester 22 - 16 Wasps
Pooly on the wire with his highlighting of Cips, but all legal. Leicesters home advantage, pack strength and clear game plan take this one. Not as easy as they would have liked, with some hearty performances from Wasps individuals, including the front row and Parisse.
Saracens 25 - 20 Bath
Pretty even battle up front initially, with both sets of backs being frustrated with the lack of ball. Sarries have so much firepower to call upon from the bench, and eventually will wear Bath down. Sarries backs to make better use of their opportunities and be the difference today.
Northampton 28 - 24 Harlequins
Big battle here. Saints have a monstrous pack, and whilst Quins will be able to compete at the set piece, I think Saints are superior in the loose and those charging runs set a good platform for the Saints back line to play. Furthermore, lack of game plan from the Quins stifles them and hands the game to the Saints, who were able to break Quins down piece by piece and create gaps in the defence.
Worcester 29 - 19 Gloucester
Gloucester's pack has a good day, with a solid set piece and good ball from the breakdown. Lambie has a tough time with Abbot and Haskell breathing down his neck. Qera is smart and will make Carter's day hard, although I think Genia would have a field day around the fringes, and if he breaks he'll have plenty of support. Nonu to run and run all day and get Worcester on the front foot. Gloucester's back three punished Worcester too often but it wasn't enough to seal the win.
pullthestrings- Posts : 5914
Join date : 2011-01-27
Age : 35
Location : Reading
Re: Aviva Premiership Round 2 - Week 6
by SirJohnnyEnglish Mon 30 Jan - 19:58
Newcastle Falcons 15-14 Exeter Chiefs
Lineout battle is fairly even but Chiefs can get a good edge at the scrum battle. Not much either way around the park in the front 5s. Injuries were hard on Chiefs in the back row and Falcons can get on top here. Brussow can b a real menace here.
Not much either way in the halfbacks. Better balance to Falcons in midfield but Chiefs offer a better threat out wide. Cruden will give the most impact from the bench but with minimal time at the club won’t be able to direct things as well as possible. Both sets of tactics suit their sides but not sure how Chiefs are setting up defensively?
Can’t see either side dominating possession or territory here with two fairly similar set ups and Newcastle take this by virtue of home advantage.
Leicester Tigers 16-9 London Wasps
Very even battle in the front 5. Neither side can get a real advantage at the set piece and there isn’t much in it in the loose either way. Backrow battle fairly even as well possibly shading to Wasps on current form but cant really see an advantage.
In the halfbacks Youngs isn’t playing his best rugby but is a step up from Berry while Cips sees some defensive problems. In the backs JOC is the main man on show in the back 3 while Tigers are stronger in the midfield. Barnes gives the best impact but rest of the benches are fairly even.
Pack battle is as tight as it can get. Tigers at home though with a better set of backs and against a Wasps side with no game plan should see a win.
London Irish 19-12 Sale Sharks
No edge at scrum time here. Sale with more jumping options and if they had looked to double up on Harri they would have got an advantage here. Around the park theres nothing in. Back row is a step up for Irish here. Can see them getting more go forward and more of the breakdown battle.
Halfbacks are a step up for Sale. Quality unit that can dictate the game when they have the ball. Sale with a bit more threat in midfield but the Irish combo will get the ball out to their more dangerous back 3. Bit more in the Sale pack when subs come into play.
Perfect set up for an away trip for Sale but not sure they will get as much ball as they need from the lineout and with Irish really getting on top in the back row cant see past a home win.
Saracens 15-20 Bath Rugby
Set piece wise neither side will get the upper hand here. The Bath 2nd row gives them an edge in the carrying stakes in the front 5. Better balance to the Sarries back row but the Bath selection will get through a lot of work and neither side will get an edge at the breakdown
Halfback battle goes to Bath. Both combo’s bring good game management to the table but the Bath pair more capable of putting their backs through. In midfield great defensive unit from Sarries but there is no attacking spark. Barkley provides an extra playmaker for Bath and is well protected on defence. Both back 3s are quality and will get themselves into the game. Can’t see either side getting on top when the subs come in.
Think Bath match Sarries here in the pack, kicking game and on defence but have the attacking edge and its a very good win for Bathite’s men.
Worcester Warriors 19-24 Gloucester Rugby
Glaws can get an edge at both set pieces here. Around the park Worcester will see more work from the front 5 though. Glaws with a bit more class overall in the back row will see more front foot ball.
In the backs Worcester are of course a step up at 9-10-12 but Glaws aren’t weak here and will do plenty with front foot ball. Glaws back 3 provide more attacking threat. More attacking threat from the Glaws bench.
Glaws should see the lions share of possession while on the front foot and take a good away win.
Lineout battle is fairly even but Chiefs can get a good edge at the scrum battle. Not much either way around the park in the front 5s. Injuries were hard on Chiefs in the back row and Falcons can get on top here. Brussow can b a real menace here.
Not much either way in the halfbacks. Better balance to Falcons in midfield but Chiefs offer a better threat out wide. Cruden will give the most impact from the bench but with minimal time at the club won’t be able to direct things as well as possible. Both sets of tactics suit their sides but not sure how Chiefs are setting up defensively?
Can’t see either side dominating possession or territory here with two fairly similar set ups and Newcastle take this by virtue of home advantage.
Leicester Tigers 16-9 London Wasps
Very even battle in the front 5. Neither side can get a real advantage at the set piece and there isn’t much in it in the loose either way. Backrow battle fairly even as well possibly shading to Wasps on current form but cant really see an advantage.
In the halfbacks Youngs isn’t playing his best rugby but is a step up from Berry while Cips sees some defensive problems. In the backs JOC is the main man on show in the back 3 while Tigers are stronger in the midfield. Barnes gives the best impact but rest of the benches are fairly even.
Pack battle is as tight as it can get. Tigers at home though with a better set of backs and against a Wasps side with no game plan should see a win.
London Irish 19-12 Sale Sharks
No edge at scrum time here. Sale with more jumping options and if they had looked to double up on Harri they would have got an advantage here. Around the park theres nothing in. Back row is a step up for Irish here. Can see them getting more go forward and more of the breakdown battle.
Halfbacks are a step up for Sale. Quality unit that can dictate the game when they have the ball. Sale with a bit more threat in midfield but the Irish combo will get the ball out to their more dangerous back 3. Bit more in the Sale pack when subs come into play.
Perfect set up for an away trip for Sale but not sure they will get as much ball as they need from the lineout and with Irish really getting on top in the back row cant see past a home win.
Saracens 15-20 Bath Rugby
Set piece wise neither side will get the upper hand here. The Bath 2nd row gives them an edge in the carrying stakes in the front 5. Better balance to the Sarries back row but the Bath selection will get through a lot of work and neither side will get an edge at the breakdown
Halfback battle goes to Bath. Both combo’s bring good game management to the table but the Bath pair more capable of putting their backs through. In midfield great defensive unit from Sarries but there is no attacking spark. Barkley provides an extra playmaker for Bath and is well protected on defence. Both back 3s are quality and will get themselves into the game. Can’t see either side getting on top when the subs come in.
Think Bath match Sarries here in the pack, kicking game and on defence but have the attacking edge and its a very good win for Bathite’s men.
Worcester Warriors 19-24 Gloucester Rugby
Glaws can get an edge at both set pieces here. Around the park Worcester will see more work from the front 5 though. Glaws with a bit more class overall in the back row will see more front foot ball.
In the backs Worcester are of course a step up at 9-10-12 but Glaws aren’t weak here and will do plenty with front foot ball. Glaws back 3 provide more attacking threat. More attacking threat from the Glaws bench.
Glaws should see the lions share of possession while on the front foot and take a good away win.
SirJohnnyEnglish- Posts : 8536
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Age : 36
Location : Limerick
Re: Aviva Premiership Round 2 - Week 6
by CJB Mon 30 Jan - 20:12
Falcons 20-22 Exeter
See this as being a very close game. Forwards I give to Exeter. They are likely to get the edge in the scrum and I see them dominating the lineout stealing a few of Falcons balls. Brussow is the stand out in the back row and will probably secure a bit more ball for Falcons. Again in backs, Exeter edge and they also have the advantage on the bench.
Tigers 30-7 Wasps
No tactics against one of the top sides of the league is just asking for problems.
Irish 26-23 Sale
This Irish back row is one that will really win them some games this year. Sale have the better backs I suspect especially with Wilkinson at 10 but I can’t see them getting enough ball to stop Irish.
Sarries 29-21 Bath
Sarries will dominate this game. Better lineout and scrum will give them a good platform for the backs who perhaps aren’t magical to work off.
Saints 30-13 Quins
Could and should have been a really close game. Don’t think any team will beat Saints if they don’t hand in their tactics.
See this as being a very close game. Forwards I give to Exeter. They are likely to get the edge in the scrum and I see them dominating the lineout stealing a few of Falcons balls. Brussow is the stand out in the back row and will probably secure a bit more ball for Falcons. Again in backs, Exeter edge and they also have the advantage on the bench.
Tigers 30-7 Wasps
No tactics against one of the top sides of the league is just asking for problems.
Irish 26-23 Sale
This Irish back row is one that will really win them some games this year. Sale have the better backs I suspect especially with Wilkinson at 10 but I can’t see them getting enough ball to stop Irish.
Sarries 29-21 Bath
Sarries will dominate this game. Better lineout and scrum will give them a good platform for the backs who perhaps aren’t magical to work off.
Saints 30-13 Quins
Could and should have been a really close game. Don’t think any team will beat Saints if they don’t hand in their tactics.
CJB- Posts : 5762
Join date : 2011-04-24
Age : 29
Location : Croydon
Re: Aviva Premiership Round 2 - Week 6
by Driver Mon 30 Jan - 21:40
Newcastle Falcons 10 Exeter Chiefs 10
Leicester Tigers 21 London Wasps 15
London Irish 24 Sale Sharks 15
Saracens 12 Bath Rugby 18
Worcester Warriors 20 Gloucester Rugby 18
Sorry for no explanations lads
Leicester Tigers 21 London Wasps 15
London Irish 24 Sale Sharks 15
Saracens 12 Bath Rugby 18
Worcester Warriors 20 Gloucester Rugby 18
Sorry for no explanations lads
Driver- Posts : 11038
Join date : 2011-04-20
Age : 32
Location : Hartlepool
Re: Aviva Premiership Round 2 - Week 6
by Sgt_Pooly Mon 30 Jan - 22:00
RESULTS:
NEWCASTLE FALCONS 20-18 EXETER CHIEFS*
LEICESTER TIGERS* 31-13 LONDON WASPS
LONDON IRISH 29-17 SALE SHARKS
SARACENS 25-21 BATH RUGBY*
NORTHAMPTON SAINTS* 33-17 HARLEQUINS
WORCESTER WARRIORS 28-22 GLOUCESTER*
* - Bonus point
Full bonus to:
Bathite. Ballbag, Pooly, Pull, Johnny, Luke
1/2 to:
Prop, Driver, ITFL
NEWCASTLE FALCONS 20-18 EXETER CHIEFS*
LEICESTER TIGERS* 31-13 LONDON WASPS
LONDON IRISH 29-17 SALE SHARKS
SARACENS 25-21 BATH RUGBY*
NORTHAMPTON SAINTS* 33-17 HARLEQUINS
WORCESTER WARRIORS 28-22 GLOUCESTER*
* - Bonus point
Full bonus to:
Bathite. Ballbag, Pooly, Pull, Johnny, Luke
1/2 to:
Prop, Driver, ITFL
Sgt_Pooly- Posts : 36294
Join date : 2011-04-27
Re: Aviva Premiership Round 2 - Week 6
by Bathite Mon 30 Jan - 22:06
Well done lads! Well chuffed with the bonus point
Bathite- Posts : 8468
Join date : 2011-05-01
Re: Aviva Premiership Round 2 - Week 6
by Sgt_Pooly Mon 30 Jan - 22:10
Drivers was a good result for you, got you within reach mate.
Some close games but huge margins this week.
It's going to be really tight at the top and bottom.....
I might have to have a little think as there's a definate split happening
Some close games but huge margins this week.
It's going to be really tight at the top and bottom.....
I might have to have a little think as there's a definate split happening
Sgt_Pooly- Posts : 36294
Join date : 2011-04-27
Re: Aviva Premiership Round 2 - Week 6
by Bathite Mon 30 Jan - 22:18
That surprises me, haven't a clue which bit i'm in, haven't looked yet. To be honest, think I did the worst out of the starting set up, last in the draft and one of the lowest for cash
Bathite- Posts : 8468
Join date : 2011-05-01
Re: Aviva Premiership Round 2 - Week 6
by Sgt_Pooly Mon 30 Jan - 22:23
You done ok.....Shaw, Steyn & Franks is a pretty good trio to bring in without losing much from your squad.
Sgt_Pooly- Posts : 36294
Join date : 2011-04-27
Re: Aviva Premiership Round 2 - Week 6
by prop_lyd Mon 30 Jan - 22:42
Looks like another relegation battle!!
Pooly: is there a word limit to get the full bonus then?
Pooly: is there a word limit to get the full bonus then?
prop_lyd- Posts : 10387
Join date : 2011-01-28
Age : 36
Location : Rogerstone, Wales
Re: Aviva Premiership Round 2 - Week 6
by Bathite Mon 30 Jan - 22:49
Prop - need a minimum of 3 lines per prediction to get the full £2m
Bathite- Posts : 8468
Join date : 2011-05-01
Re: Aviva Premiership Round 2 - Week 6
by Sgt_Pooly Mon 30 Jan - 22:52
You'll do ok Prop, just two tough games.
It's 3 line average for the full bonus mate.
It's 3 line average for the full bonus mate.
Sgt_Pooly- Posts : 36294
Join date : 2011-04-27
prop_lyd- Posts : 10387
Join date : 2011-01-28
Age : 36
Location : Rogerstone, Wales
Re: Aviva Premiership Round 2 - Week 6
by Driver Mon 30 Jan - 22:57
For the 3 lines could I just space them out lol
Driver- Posts : 11038
Join date : 2011-04-20
Age : 32
Location : Hartlepool
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