Week 15 - The Aviva Cup Round 3

Week 14 - Aviva Premiership Round 8
Team Sheets and tactics due by Saturday (20:00)
Predictions due till Tuesday (20:00)

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London Wasps v Newcastle Falcons

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London Wasps

Manager – Stnick88

01. Tim Payne	09. Karl Dickson
02. George Chuter	10. Nicky Robinson
03. Ben Broster
04. Matt Garvey	11. Tom Varndell
05. Marco Wenztel	12. Jordan Turner-Hall
06. Tinus Du Plessis	13. Joe Ansbro
07. Julien Salvi	14. Leigh Halfpenny
08. Pedrie Wannenburg	15. Mike Brown

16. Zak Tau'lafo 17. Nicolas Mas 18. Chris Brooker 19. Richard Birkett 20. Sergio Parisse 21. Micky Young 22. Jimmy Gopperth 23. Richard Haughton

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Newcastle Falcons

Manager – Fluxy

01. Grant Shiells	09. Paul Hodgson
02. David Paice	10. Tom Heathcote (K)
03. David Wilson
04. Simon Shaw	11. Alesana Tuilagi
05. James Hudson (C)	12. Steven Shingler
06. Jerome Kaino	13. Dominic Waldlouck
07. Hienrich Brussow	14. Tom May
08. Alex Gray	15. Nick Abendanon

16. Tom Mercey 17. Joe Graham 18. Bob Casey 19. Will Welch 20. Joel Hodgson 21. Ruan Pienaar 22. Adam Thompstone 23. Alex Corbisiero

Tactics
Off the back of a big victory last week the confidence in the Falcons squad is sky high, and the confidence will be represented in the way the boys will play. Our game plan is based upon a high intensity attacking game, and a solid defence with competition at the breakdown against the opposition, hunting for turnovers. Heathcote will dictate the tempo and the direction of the game, trying to get us playing in the right areas of the pitch and make it difficult for the opposition to get out of their half. In early phases we will try and get big ball carriers in like Kaino and Tuilagi, on the inside and outside of Shingler or Heathcote to punch holes, and get over the game line. Once over the game line and giving our backs quick ball, this will allow our strong runners like; Waldlouck, May and Tuilagi cutting lines off Shingler and Heathcote. Shingler will alternate with Heathcote at first reciever to keep the defence guessing. Early penalties will be kicked at goal to gain a strangle hold on the game. Once a strong lead has been established, and there is an advanatage at any setpiece will look to opt to our strength. We will look to use our strong bench in the second half to blood new signings.

Forwards;


• 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.
  
  
• Scrums - The powerful front five, will get the drive on, on our ball to create space and time for our 8-9-10. On their ball we will get the shove and wheel the scrum so that their 8 and 9 become isolated from their backline, here Brussow and Kaino can cause turnovers.
  
  
• Breakdown - We have selected a very physical and committed team, and will always work for each other and put their bodies online for one another. Brussow and Kaino will be first to all breakdowns and slow the opposition ball down legally, or turn it over.
  
  
• Defensive line - No more than two players, at 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, with the fullback also further back - creating three lines of defence.
  
  Backs;
  
  
• Game plan - 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 opportunities to put our wingers or whoever is spare over the try line.
  
  
• Back three - Tuilagi and May will come off the wings to come in the line and to cross the gainline on crash balls. Any kicked ball will be ran back, to get us back in their half. Unless under pressure look to find touch.
  
  
• Penalties - Heathcote will look to take all penalties within his range, unless Hudson dictates we have a serious advantage at the lineout where we will kick for touch.
  
  Key Points;
  
• Confidence is high, and our play will be confident yet assured.
  
  
• We have a fresh team as barely any of players played in the Six Nations and haven't played many games in a row.
  

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Bath Rugby v Northampton Saints

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Bath Rugby
Manager – Bathite

01. N.Catt	09. C.Cook
02. R.Batty	10. R.Clegg
03. A.Perenise
04. R.Caldwell	11. M.Banahan
05. S.Hooper	12. O.Barkley
06. J.Ovens	13. D.Hipkiss
07. G.Mercer	14. K.Eastmond
08. S.Taylor	15. R.Chisholm

16. K.P-Newport 17. P.Dixon 18. C.Beech 19. J.Beaumont 20. B.Skirving 21. M.Keyte 22. S.Vesty 23. O.Woodburn

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Northampton Saints
Manager – SirJohnnyEnglish

01. Alex Waller	09. Martin Roberts
02. Mike Haywood	10. Ryan Lamb
03. Paul Doran-Jones
04. Mark Sorenson	11. Noah Cato
05. Christian Day	12. Greig Tonks
06. James Craig	13. John Clarke
07. Teimana Harrison	14. Jamie Elliot
08. Roger Wilson	15. Tom Collins

16. Ethan Waller 17. Brett Sharman 18. Danny Herriot 19. Darrell Dyer 20. James Ingle 21. Ryan Glynn 22. Stephen Myler 23. Tom Stephenson

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General Game Plan:

We will use our strong carriers to attack gaps and half gaps in the Bath line, looking to offload in contact to support runners thus changing the point of attack and keeping our forward momentum going. Lamb will look to attack from first receiver and inject pace to the proceedings committing the Bath 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 Bath ball carriers before they can get to the gain line stopping any momentum and allowing us to hit the breakdown harder. Roberts 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 Bath 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.

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Gloucester Rugby v Leicester Tigers

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Gloucester

Manager – prop_lyd

01. Nick Wood	09. Dave Lewis
02. Darren Dawiduk	10. Freddie Burns (k)
03. Adam Jones
04. Sam Whitelock	11. Johnny May
05. Jim Hamilton	12. Mike Tindall
06. Alisdair Strokosch	13. Henry Trinder
07. JVN (c)	14. JSD
08. Luke Narraway	15. Pat Lambie

16. Scott Lawson 17. Rupert Harden 18. Shaun Knight 19. Alex Brown 20. Akapusi Qera 21. Rory Lawson 22. EFS 23. Charlie Sharples

Tactics
We want no more than a big reaction after gaining a lbp from an in-form Wasps team away. This is probably our strongest squad possible and we are looking for a lot of confrontation up front and then using our centres to make the gaps and offload to an exciting back 3. With Lambie and Burns we have 2 players who can slot in at 10 and make the inspirational breaks (see Burns' try this weekend!!). We expect to win this match and none of our players are safe so need to impress.

Forwards
*Get the inital hit and look for the second shove on the scrums, the front row will look to turn them inside out and their main target will be to clear out the rucks for quick ball
*Dominate the lineouts with 4 jumpers starting and 2 more to come on, the 2nd rows will look to be physical and Whitelock'll look to link with the back row, Brown will come on to take apart a tired lineout.
*Backrow to carry strong throughout the game and to run off the back line giving them further options.
*Look for turnovers and use Qera's hard hitting and JVN's turnovers to do this and slow their ball, Narraway will provide the link to the back line and we will look at a 8-9-15 move off the base of the scrum.
*Use the bench with impact subs in all positions with Qera coming on on the hour to hit tired defence.

Backs
*Quick ball to Burns who will look to release Tindall and Trinder to get us over the gainline if the ball is slow we will pin them back off the park, he will have the freedom to use his initative with clever kicks.
*Centres to run straight and hard and to look to offload to back 3 or back row support, Trinder will look to target tired forwards with angles.
*Back 3 to go hunting for the ball and use their angled running to slice through the defence, high balls will be used to get space and give May the opportunity to run, Lambie will pick and choose his runs and, when with the ball in own half will sometimes look at up and unders.
*Hard blitz banana defence with a backrower on Burns' shoulder to look to get the first hit and turnover, Lawson/Lewis will act as a sweeper.
*Use the bench wisely with EFS adding the injection of pace and Sharples and running at a tired defence.

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Leicester Tigers
Manager – Sgt_Pooly

01. Boris Stankovich	09. Danny Care
02. Tom Youngs	10. George Ford
03. Julian White
04. Ed Slater	11. Charlie Walker
05. Joe Launchbury	12. Billy Twelvetrees
06. Sam Jones	13. George Lowe
07. Luke Wallace	14. Matt Smith
08. Jacques Cronje(c)	15. Niall Morris

16. Rob Hawkins 17. Marco Ayerza 18. Ryan Bowers 19. Richie Gray 20. Craig Newby 21. Sam Harrison 22. Toby Flood 23. Miles Benjamin

TACTICS:

- Target set piece (scrum especially) with two of the best scrummaging props in the AP
- Numerous jumpers to secure own ball & put pressure on opposition (Slater/Launch/Cronje)
- Look to get mobile/powerful back five into game and win the contact driving opposition back and smashing every ruck
- Target turnover ball & look to slow opposition with Wallace key
- Care & Ford to dictate tempo and Tweletrees offers 2nd kicking option
- Play conditions and high intensity rugby to wear opposition down
- Impact bench to see game out

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Exeter Chiefs v Sale Sharks

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Exeter Chiefs

Head Coach – Ozzy3213

01. Brett Sturgess	09. Haydn Thomas
02. Bismarck du Plessis	10. Aaron Cruden
03. Hoani Tui
04. Tommy Hayes	11. Josh Tatupu
05. James Horwill (c)	12. Sireli Naqalevuki
06. Tom Johnson	13. Richard Kahui
07. Steffon Armitage	14. Gonzalo Camacho
08. Richard Baxter	15. Isa Nacewa

16. Neil Clark 17. Luke Cowan-Dickie 18. Lloyd Fairbrother 19. James Hanks 20. James Phillips 21. Kevin Barrett 22. Ignacio Mieres 23. Luke Arscott

Tactics

Our gameplan involves doing everything with a high intensity and asserting ourselves on our opponents, both in attack and defence. 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.

We will look to turn this game into a real slugfest, keeping the ball generally close to the ruck when carrying and looking to drag opposition forwards in and tying them up in rucks and mauls. Only when it is completely on will we look to go wide.

Specifics

• Attacking
  
  
• Target the scrum – We are aiming to scrum, and use it as a real attacking weapon.
  
  
• Carry close to the ruck – Get big carriers carrying close to the rucks forcing Sale to make lots of tackles which will tire them quickly.
  
  
  
• Defensive
  
  
• Blitz Defence - We will look to blitz and stop the Sale carriers before they hit the gainline. Thomas will sweep in behind the line.
  
  
• Breakdown - We will look to get our back row there quickly and contest for the ball if it's on to be won, but we will not overcommit, instead maintaining a solid defensive line to repel the Sale ball carriers.
  
  
  
• Key Points
  
  
• Form/Momentum/Confidence - We are off the back of a couple great results and come in full of confidence.
  
  
• Gameplan – Simple gameplan with the right players to be able to effect it perfectly.
  
  
  

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Sale Sharks

Manager – LondonIrishOllie

01.Andrew Sheridan	09.Dwayne Peel
02.Gary Botha	10.Jonny Wilkinson
03.Davit Kubriashvili
04.Dean Schofield	11.Mark Cueto
05.James Gaskell	12.Sam Tuitupou
06.Richie Vernon	13.Jaque Fourie
07.Dave Seymour	14.Tom Brady
08.Andy Powell	15.Rob Miller

Subs
16.Marc Jones 17.Alasdair Dickinson 18.Henry Thomas 19.Kearnan Myall 20.Onosai Auva'a 21.Hendrie Fourie 22.Scott Mathie
23.Nick McLeod

Tactics

We will look to play our normal game of territory and points accumalation. With our frontrow we are more than prepared to target them in the set piece, and we believe we can get a nudge on up front.

At scrum time Kubs will look to target their loosehead, and with Sheridan being more than capable of handling Exeter's tighthead we can get a clear advanatge hear.

At lineout Gaskell, Schofield and Vernon will be used as the main jumpers. We will look to let them have the ball at the front of the lineout and stop any mauls at source.

We are going to use the driving maul as a key weapon, looking to build momentum and gain penalties.

Wilko and Peel will win the territoral against their opponents.

Wilko to kick all penalties in range.

Tuitupou and Fourie willl look to target their still quite new centre partnership with Sam looking to make half breaks and offloading to Fourie.

Our backrow has a perfect balance and we beleive we can get an advantage their.

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Saracens v Harlequins

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SARACENS
Manager – Beshocked

01. Rhys Gill	09. Richard Wrigglesworth
02. Jamie George	10. Charlie Hodgson (K)
03. Carlos Nieto
04. Hayden Smith	11. David Strettle
05. George Kruis	12. Brad Barritt
06. Justin Melck	13. Adam Powell
07. Andy Saull	14. James Short
08. Ernst Joubert ©	15. Alex Goode

16. John Smit 17. Matt Stevens 18. Mako Vunipola 19. Mouritz Botha 20. Will Fraser 21. Morgan Parra 22. Brock James 23. Joe Maddock

Tactics

• Variation is the aim -in attack. Varying the attack to keep the opposition guessing. Kicking in the right areas at the right time is important, not just for the sake of it.
  
  
• Well drilled and aggressive defence to force the opposition into mistakes. Not allow the opposition the time and space.
  
  
• If the opposition adopts a similar aggressive defence we'll chip and grubber more to exploit that the space that would be available.
  
  
• Keep the ball in hand mostly but keep the opposition defence guessing with occasional kicks either for territory,grubbers or chips over the defence.
  
  
• The frontrow's job is to put pressure on the opposition scrum, rumble forward and make space for faster players.
  
  
• Athletic 2nd row chosen to reflect a more open game. Still plenty of jumpers available to shut the opposition 2nd row down with Joubert also a handy option.
  
  
• Backrow to contest well at the breakdown but not to the detriment of the defence. We'll aim to play to the ref - find out what he likes and doesn't like and adapt accordingly. Pace and elusiveness of Joubert and Saull will be useful.
  
  
• Wigglesworth and Hodgson to mix things up nicely. Expect plenty of variation to keep the opposition defence guessing. In addition Barritt and Goode will act as first receivers
  
  
• Barritt will run the midfield and shut down any potential attack as whilst the other backs will be licensed to attack.
  
  
• Bring on the bench to up the tempo further with the likes of Parra,Wyles,Vunipola and Stevens running at tired legs.

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Harlequins

Manager – Driver

01.Chris Budgen	09.Luke Burgess
02.Joe Grey	10.Nick Evans (K)
03.James Johnstone
04.Tom Denton	11.Andy Short
05.George Skivinton	12.Riki Flutey
06.Matt Kvesic	13.Jared Payne
07.Will Skinner(c)	14.Scott Hamilton
08.Jack Clifford	15.Adam Ashley-Cooper

16.Rob Bunchman 17.Joe Marler 18.Kieron Brookes 19.Charlie Matthews 20.Neil Best 21.Nic Berry 22.Danny Cipriani 23.Elliot Daley

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Worcester Warriors v London Irish

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WorcesterWarriors

Manager – InTheFastLane

01. George Porter	09. Jonny Arr
02. George Bee	10. Andy Goode
03. James Currie
04. James Percival	11. Josh Pennell
05. George Robson	12. Anthony Allen
06. Maurie Fa'asavalu	13 Matt Hopper
07. Sam Betty	14. Tom Arscott
08. Barney Woods	15. Sam Atkin

16. Ed Shervington 17. Matt Mullan 18. Tevita Tauempeona 19. Ben Gulliver 20. Jake Abbott 21. Will Genia 22. Dan Carter 23. Alex Grove

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London Irish

Manager – Pullthestrings

01. Gethin Jenkins	09. Joe Simpson
02. William Servat	10. Daniel Bowden
03. Euan Murray
04. Tom Palmer	11. Sailosi Tagicakibau
05. Nick Kennedy	12. Shontayne Hape
06. Jamie Gibson	13. Regan King
07. David Pocock	14. Topsy Ojo
08. Imanol Harinordoquy	15. Tom Homer (k)

16. James Buckland, 17. Paulica Ion, 18. Max Lahiff, 19. Steve Mafi, 20. Declan Danahar, 21. Darren Allinson, 22. Shane Geraghty, 23 Delon Armitage

Tactics
We will continue to play the way we have done in this Aviva Cup, securing two victories in the process. In general, we will use our piston system and look to use our running power to get over the gain line. We'll use the boot sensibly play position. If it's on, we'll trust in our handling ability and have a go.

- Massive front row on show today, so we'll use the scrum as a weapon. Quick ball to Bowden if we're stable, Harinordoquy to pick and go if it's messy

- In the lineout, we'll dominate. Opt for full lineouts in their half to tie in their pack and try to initiate a rolling maul to give the backs more time.

- Target the breakdown for possible turnovers, with Pocock and Gibson staying strong on his feet. When they arise, lets use them to our advantage. If the back three are sparse, look to kick for territory. If there are mis-matches, lets have a go.

- Be disciplined at the breakdown, with a guard and bodyguard at every breakdown to stop those easy yards around the fringes. No excuses here.

- Use the piston system Irish have developed so well. Big runners off Bowden to give us real go forward, inside and outside runs. We've opted for a more mobile pack with players like Jenkins, Gibson, Harinordoquy.

- For slow ball, look to get outside their guards and bodyguards to suck in more and more forwards at each breakdown. This will give more time to the backs.

- Simpson to prawl behind the defense line and mop up any breaks or half breaks. Patrol the breakdown area and keep an eye up for numbers.

- Play rugby in their half. Bowden to put us in the right places and alow us to use our lineout weapon.

- Tagi to get involved as much as possible, coming in off his wing and cutting angles of Bowden.

- Homer to go for points at every opportunity.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.

Cup tables updated with a brief summary. Only Saints and Worcester with nothing left to play for this week

Northampton Saints continue their selection policy and make a host of changes for round 3 of the Aviva Cup.
DOR SJE talking to The Rugby Paper had this to say:

“ After a massive performance in the league last week to keep the unbeaten run going at the Rec we return to the cup this week and will be looking to give a few younger heads a chance to shine.

We have seen Alex Waller develop a lot this season and he will have a chance to show us some more this weekend but his younger brother Ethan will be looking to get involved with Danny Herriot in the front row as well. Collins and Stephenson have been fantastic for the Academy and the Wanderer’s (Northampton A’s) this season and will get a chance to step up. Teimana Harrison is another interesting participant this week. He has all the skills needed to become a real success at open side and we will be looking to test him out against what will be a strong Bath back row.

We have had a great run in the league so far this season and clinching that Premiership title the Garden faithful have been waiting on for so long remains the priority but this cup has been a great tool for the development of some quality youngsters for us”

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Northampton Saints
Manager – SirJohnnyEnglish

01. Alex Waller	09. Martin Roberts
02. Mike Haywood	10. Ryan Lamb
03. Paul Doran-Jones
04. Mark Sorenson	11. Noah Cato
05. Christian Day	12. Greig Tonks
06. James Craig	13. John Clarke
07. Teimana Harrison	14. Jamie Elliot
08. Roger Wilson	15. Tom Collins

16. Ethan Waller 17. Brett Sharman 18. Danny Herriot 19. Darrell Dyer 20. James Ingle 21. Ryan Glynn 22. Stephen Myler 23. Tom Stephenson

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General Game Plan:

We will use our strong carriers to attack gaps and half gaps in the Bath line, looking to offload in contact to support runners thus changing the point of attack and keeping our forward momentum going. Lamb will look to attack from first receiver and inject pace to the proceedings committing the Bath 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 Bath ball carriers before they can get to the gain line stopping any momentum and allowing us to hit the breakdown harder. Roberts 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 Bath 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.

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Harlequins

Manager – Driver

01.Chris Budgen	09.Luke Burgess
02.Joe Grey	10.Nick Evans (K)
03.James Johnstone
04.Tom Denton	11.Andy Short
05.George Skivinton	12.Riki Flutey
06.Matt Kvesic	13.Jared Payne
07.Will Skinner(c)	14.Scott Hamilton
08.Jack Clifford	15.Adam Ashley-Cooper

16.Rob Bunchman 17.Joe Marler 18.Kieron Brookes 19.Charlie Matthews 20.Neil Best 21.Nic Berry 22.Danny Cipriani 23.Elliot Daley

Bath Rugby
Manager – Bathite

01. N.Catt	09. C.Cook
02. R.Batty	10. R.Clegg
03. A.Perenise
04. R.Caldwell	11. M.Banahan
05. S.Hooper	12. O.Barkley
06. J.Ovens	13. D.Hipkiss
07. G.Mercer	14. K.Eastmond
08. S.Taylor	15. R.Chisholm

16. K.P-Newport 17. P.Dixon 18. C.Beech 19. J.Beaumont 20. B.Skirving 21. M.Keyte 22. S.Vesty 23. O.Woodburn

Leicester Tigers
Manager – Sgt_Pooly

01. Boris Stankovich	09. Danny Care
02. Tom Youngs	10. George Ford
03. Julian White
04. Ed Slater	11. Charlie Walker
05. Joe Launchbury	12. Billy Twelvetrees
06. Sam Jones	13. George Lowe
07. Luke Wallace	14. Matt Smith
08. Jacques Cronje(c)	15. Niall Morris

16. Rob Hawkins 17. Marco Ayerza 18. Ryan Bowers 19. Richie Gray 20. Craig Newby 21. Sam Harrison 22. Toby Flood 23. Miles Benjamin

TACTICS:

- Target set piece (scrum especially) with two of the best scrummaging props in the AP
- Numerous jumpers to secure own ball & put pressure on opposition (Slater/Launch/Cronje)
- Look to get mobile/powerful back five into game and win the contact driving opposition back and smashing every ruck
- Target turnover ball & look to slow opposition with Wallace key
- Care & Ford to dictate tempo and Tweletrees offers 2nd kicking option
- Play conditions and high intensity rugby to wear opposition down
- Impact bench to see game out

Newcastle Falcons

Manager – Fluxy

01. Grant Shiells	09. Paul Hodgson
02. David Paice	10. Tom Heathcote (K)
03. David Wilson
04. Simon Shaw	11. Alesana Tuilagi
05. James Hudson (C)	12. Steven Shingler
06. Jerome Kaino	13. Dominic Waldlouck
07. Hienrich Brussow	14. Tom May
08. Alex Gray	15. Nick Abendanon

16. Tom Mercey 17. Joe Graham 18. Bob Casey 19. Will Welch 20. Joel Hodgson 21. Ruan Pienaar 22. Adam Thompstone 23. Alex Corbisiero

Tactics

that gives me a selection headache now.

Saracens
Manager – Beshocked

01.Gill 09.Wigglesworth
02.George 10.Hodgson (k)
03.Nieto
04.Smith 11.Short
05.Kruis 12.Barritt
06.Melck 13.Powell
07.Saull 14.Strettle
08.Joubert © 15.Goode

16.Smit, 17.Stevens, 18.Vunipola, 19.Botha, 20.Fraser, 21.Parra,22.James,23.Wyles


Tactics and gameplan:

Variation is the aim -in attack. Varying the attack to keep the opposition guessing. Kicking in the right areas at the right time is important, not just for the sake of it.

Well drilled and aggressive defence to force the opposition into mistakes. Not allow the opposition the time and space.

If the opposition adopts a similar aggressive defence we'll chip and grubber more to exploit that the space that would be available.

Keep the ball in hand mostly but keep the opposition defence guessing with occasional kicks either for territory,grubbers or chips over the defence.

The frontrow's job is to put pressure on the opposition scrum, rumble forward and make space for faster players.

Athletic 2nd row chosen to reflect a more open game. Still plenty of jumpers available to shut the opposition 2nd row down with Joubert also a handy option.

Backrow to contest well at the breakdown but not to the detriment of the defence. We'll aim to play to the ref - find out what he likes and doesn't like and adapt accordingly. Pace and elusiveness of Joubert and Saull will be useful.

Wigglesworth and Hodgson to mix things up nicely. Expect plenty of variation to keep the opposition defence guessing. In addition Barritt and Goode will act as first receivers

Barritt will run the midfield and shut down any potential attack as whilst the other backs will be licensed to attack.

Bring on the bench to up the tempo further with the likes of Parra,Wyles,Vunipola and Stevens running at tired legs.

Great 1st go lol

I've got a format somewhere I'll put it on your page fella

Sgt Pooly I liked the look of yours more but didn't want to rip it off!

Does everyone do tactics and gameplan?

Yea mate, don't need to go mental but a simple game plan and points helps people predict game.

I'll send you the sarries format

WorcesterWarriors

Manager – InTheFastLane

01. George Porter	09. Jonny Arr
02. George Bee	10. Andy Goode
03. James Currie
04. James Percival	11. Josh Pennell
05. Graham Kitchener	12. Anthony Allen
06. Maurie Fa'asavalu	13 Matt Hopper
07. Sam Betty	14. Tom Arscott
08. Barney Woods	15. Sam Atkin

16. Ed Shervington 17. Matt Mullan 18. Tevita Tauempeona 19. Ben Gulliver 20. Jake Abbott 21. Will Genia 22. Dan Carter 23. Alex Grove

Exeter Chiefs make 3 changes to the pack for this weeks visit of Sale Sharks to Sandy Park.

Exeter Chiefs

Head Coach – Ozzy3213

01. Brett Sturgess	09. Haydn Thomas
02. Bismarck du Plessis	10. Aaron Cruden
03. Hoani Tui
04. Tommy Hayes	11. Josh Tatupu
05. James Horwill (c)	12. Sireli Naqalevuki
06. Tom Johnson	13. Richard Kahui
07. Steffon Armitage	14. Gonzalo Camacho
08. Richard Baxter	15. Isa Nacewa

16. Neil Clark 17. Luke Cowan-Dickie 18. Lloyd Fairbrother 19. James Hanks 20. James Phillips 21. Kevin Barrett 22. Ignacio Mieres 23. Luke Arscott

Tactics

Our gameplan involves doing everything with a high intensity and asserting ourselves on our opponents, both in attack and defence. 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.

We will look to turn this game into a real slugfest, keeping the ball generally close to the ruck when carrying and looking to drag opposition forwards in and tying them up in rucks and mauls. Only when it is completely on will we look to go wide.

Specifics

• Attacking
  
  
• Target the scrum – We are aiming to scrum, and use it as a real attacking weapon.
  
  
• Carry close to the ruck – Get big carriers carrying close to the rucks forcing Sale to make lots of tackles which will tire them quickly.
  
  
  
• Defensive
  
  
• Blitz Defence - We will look to blitz and stop the Sale carriers before they hit the gainline. Thomas will sweep in behind the line.
  
  
• Breakdown - We will look to get our back row there quickly and contest for the ball if it's on to be won, but we will not overcommit, instead maintaining a solid defensive line to repel the Sale ball carriers.
  
  
  
• Key Points
  
  
• Form/Momentum/Confidence - We are off the back of a couple great results and come in full of confidence.
  
  
• Gameplan – Simple gameplan with the right players to be able to effect it perfectly.
  
  
  

Sale Sharks
Manager – LondonIrishOllie

01.Andrew Sheridan	09.Dwayne Peel
02.Gary Botha	10.Jonny Wilkinson
03.Davit Kubriashvili
04.Dean Schofield	11.Mark Cueto
05.James Gaskell	12.Sam Tuitupou
06.Richie Vernon	13.Jaque Fourie
07.Dave Seymour	14.Tom Brady
08.Andy Powell	15.Rob Miller

Subs
16.Marc Jones 17.Alasdair Dickinson 18.Henry Thomas 19.Kearnan Myall 20.Onosai Auva'a 21.Hendrie Fourie 22.Scott Mathie
23.Nick McLeod

Tactics

We will look to play our normal game of territory and points accumalation. With our frontrow we are more than prepared to target them in the set piece, and we believe we can get a nudge on up front.

At scrum time Kubs will look to target their loosehead, and with Sheridan being more than capable of handling Exeter's tighthead we can get a clear advanatge hear.

At lineout Gaskell, Schofield and Vernon will be used as the main jumpers. We will look to let them have the ball at the front of the lineout and stop any mauls at source.

We are going to use the driving maul as a key weapon, looking to build momentum and gain penalties.

Wilko and Peel will win the territoral against their opponents.

Wilko to kick all penalties in range.

Tuitupou and Fourie willl look to target their still quite new centre partnership with Sam looking to make half breaks and offloading to Fourie.

Our backrow has a perfect balance and we beleive we can get an advantage their.

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[/quote]

London Irish manager has picked what may be the strongest side available, looking to win the pool in style.

London Irish
Manager – Pullthestrings

01. Gethin Jenkins	09. Joe Simpson
02. William Servat	10. Daniel Bowden
03. Euan Murray
04. Tom Palmer	11. Sailosi Tagicakibau
05. Nick Kennedy	12. Shontayne Hape
06. Jamie Gibson	13. Regan King
07. David Pocock	14. Topsy Ojo
08. Imanol Harinordoquy	15. Tom Homer (k)

16. James Buckland, 17. Paulica Ion, 18. Max Lahiff, 19. Steve Mafi, 20. Declan Danahar, 21. Darren Allinson, 22. Shane Geraghty, 23 Delon Armitage

Tactics
We will continue to play the way we have done in this Aviva Cup, securing two victories in the process. In general, we will use our piston system and look to use our running power to get over the gain line. We'll use the boot sensibly play position. If it's on, we'll trust in our handling ability and have a go.

- Massive front row on show today, so we'll use the scrum as a weapon. Quick ball to Bowden if we're stable, Harinordoquy to pick and go if it's messy

- In the lineout, we'll dominate. Opt for full lineouts in their half to tie in their pack and try to initiate a rolling maul to give the backs more time.

- Target the breakdown for possible turnovers, with Pocock and Gibson staying strong on his feet. When they arise, lets use them to our advantage. If the back three are sparse, look to kick for territory. If there are mis-matches, lets have a go.

- Be disciplined at the breakdown, with a guard and bodyguard at every breakdown to stop those easy yards around the fringes. No excuses here.

- Use the piston system Irish have developed so well. Big runners off Bowden to give us real go forward, inside and outside runs. We've opted for a more mobile pack with players like Jenkins, Gibson, Harinordoquy.

- For slow ball, look to get outside their guards and bodyguards to suck in more and more forwards at each breakdown. This will give more time to the backs.

- Simpson to prawl behind the defense line and mop up any breaks or half breaks. Patrol the breakdown area and keep an eye up for numbers.

- Play rugby in their half. Bowden to put us in the right places and alow us to use our lineout weapon.

- Tagi to get involved as much as possible, coming in off his wing and cutting angles of Bowden.

- Homer to go for points at every opportunity.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.

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London Wasps
Manager – Stnick88

01. Tim Payne	09. Karl Dickson
02. George Chuter	10. Nicky Robinson
03. Ben Broster
04. Matt Garvey	11. Tom Varndell
05. Marco Wenztel	12. Jordan Turner-Hall
06. Tinus Du Plessis	13. Joe Ansbro
07. Julien Salvi	14. Leigh Halfpenny
08. Pedrie Wannenburg	15. Mike Brown

16. Zak Tau'lafo 17. Nicolas Mas 18. Chris Brooker 19. Richard Birkett 20. Sergio Parisse 21. Micky Young 22. Jimmy Gopperth 23. Richard Haughton

Unless someone spots any mistakes, Predictions Open

Wasps 18-20 Newcastle Falcons

Not much move in the front 5's with two good units holding their own set piece. Falcons backrow is a class above though, not sure that Gray is good for starting against top oppo but Kaino/Bruss are great flanks. I think the backs shade to the home team but lack of game plan hinders and Falcons will just sneak this one.

Bath 17-18 Northampton Saints

Saints front row could do a bit of damage in the scrum but nothing in lineout and both units pretty mobile. Not much in backrow contest but halfbacks just side to away team. Again the home team have the stronger backline on show but lack of game plan hinders and Saint just come away with win.

Exeter 23-23 Sale

Although scrum not a major issue I see Sale getting on top with a strong prop pairing getting push on opposite numbers. I like both engine rooms but a little more grunt for the home team around the park. Again both units in the backrow are strong but I think the Exeter unit has a little more. I think the Sale backline is stronger as a unit and will cause real issues plus with Wilko popping pens from scrums will push Exeter all the way. Can't seperate.

Saracens 24-18 Harlequins

Strong gameplan reflecting team selection fom beshocked, he's settled straight in this one. Not much in front 5's although Sarries edge scrum and backrow has a bit more. Real attacking halfbacks from Quins that will cause issues around fringes but Sarries unit suits their pragmatic approach. 2 great backs units on show. If Quins pairing on form would be great but not. Sarries strong at home and great game plan sees them home.

Worcester 9-30 London Irish

Should be Kitchener in Worcester Engine room not Robson lol

Erm......Although Murray has just signed I don't think it'll be a major issue for Irish. Complete set piece domination for the away team, Kitchener just signing doesn't help the Worcester cause and they'll struggle throughout. Backrow a similar story and Simpson/Bowden live off great ball. Centre battle to Worcester but much stronger Irish side and game plan give them easy win.

Wasps 18 - 14 Falcons
Forwards - Don't see any huge areas of dominance or weakness in the front fives. Not convinced by Payne and Wilson at the scrum, but they balance each other out. Pretty even second rows as well, both with a nice combo. Back row is a huge huge gain to the Falcons and will help them secure quick ball, as well as make some huge carries.
Backs - Not overly convinced by either combo, as I'm not sure that either 9 is suited to their 10. Wasps have a big advantage in the outside backs though with JTH, Halfpenny and Brown in great form. They have enough finishing power out wide to get the try that makes the difference here

Glos 22 - 11 Tigers
Forwards - Front row goes to the home team here, with Wood in great form and Jones is a rock. Tigers front row is a real weakness here, with all three players having limited game time this year. White will struggle over 80 mins. The second row is a resounding win for Glos, with 2 proven performers. Back row also hugely goes to Glos, with a nice balance of attack and defence and again experience here is key.
Backs - Halfbacks go to the away team, but that is the only area they have an advantage. Glos are man for man much better in the outside backs and with a dominant pack, they have plenty of ball to play with and the Shed gets behind them

Exeter 19 - 13 Sale
Forwards - This battle goes to the home team, with some powerful and on form players on show. Watching the Sharks this weekend reminded me of how awesome BDP is and how much work he gets through in the loose. Horwill will command the lineout here and I really worry about the form of Sheridan and Powell a little bit also.
Backs - halfbacks to Sale, a solid and dependable unit, which is ideal for their gameplan. The centre pairing of Exeter has a really nice balance to it and with Steffon, TJ and BDP providing quick ball, Cruden has time to pick his passes and lines. The pace of Nacewa and Camacho out wide means Exeter can grind this one out in their familiar style.

London Wasps vs Newcastle Falcons

15 (2 tries,1 conversion,1 penalty) -23 (2 tries,2 conversion,3 penalties)

Two evenly matched frontrows leaving the scrum battle a clear stalemate. Same with the 2nd row. Clear advantage to Newcastle in the backrow which would cause plenty of problems for Wasps. In my opinion

Both backlines in my opinion have a strange balance to them. Both have excellent backlines that can cut open defences.

Heathcote outperforms the occasionally shaky Robinson with the boot to snatch the away win for Newcastle.

Sarries 21 - 17 Quins
Forwards - Enough first teamers in the key positions here to ensure some dominance. Nieto is a beast at TH and a great cornerstone, whilst Joubert at 8 gives some great leadership in attack and defence. Not sure that I can rate Hayden Smith at all, unless you're planning to use him for the touchdown or chucking hail marys! The only other real weakness for Sarries is Saull, but in the good weather, his lack of power isn't a problem here and the team get to use his pace.
Backs - Think Quins have the upper hand here, especially with Wiggles being out injured for so long. Prefer the Quins centres, although Barritt will be great in defence as always. Think that AAC coming into the line from deep and at pace will cause some problems.

All in all, a cracking first effort from Beshocked, some great tactics and he gets the home win here.

Worcs 9 - 26 Irish
A real mismatch here, with a full strength Irish side picking apart Worcs' second team. A lot of dominance for the away side, with a hugely powerful front row ensuring great scrummage ball and with enough big names to really damage the breakdown. Only real area that I can see Worcs getting some joy is in the centre, with Hopper and Allen being a nice little combo and 2 players i really rate.

Wasps 15 Newcastle Falcons 15

Bath 17 Northampton Saints 20

Gloucester 23 Leicester 16

Exeter 23 Sale 20

Worcester 12 London Irish 23

Wasps 12-18 Newcastle Falcons
Forwards: 2nd row and back row goes to Falcons with the experience of Shaw just out performing Wenztel. Kaino and Brussouw will win the breakdown battle.
Backs: Wasps seem more set in their ways but Heathcote is on form at the moment. Can see Tuilagi running over 1/2p but 1/2p getting the victory when in space.
Tactics: Wins the match as Falcons have some!

Bath 15-18 Northampton Saints
Forwards: Can see PDJ getting one up on Catt here. However the back 5 are just edged for Bath with the 2nd row combo looking good here!
Backs: Not really seen Tonks at 12 but Clarke should help outside him. Prefer the Saints 9-10 with Lamb really hitting some form.
Tactics: Again Saints have some, think Lamb's injection'll help here. Unfortunately Bath will put up a good fight but just think Saints have enough to see them over the line.

Exeter 20 Sale 20
Forwards: Front rows even with all cancelling each other out. Can see the Exeter back 5 gaining advantage here just, with their experience. Liking the backrow balance too.
Backs: Massive clash in midfield which will be outstanding to watch. Think Wilkinson will release Sale quicker though.
Tactics: Don't think Sale targeting the scrum will not work here. Feel they will gain some victory in the backs but Exeter's 'dog' just keeps them in the game. Can't split it.

Sarries 24-23 Quins
Forwards: Quins will win all bar the backrow battle with their front row winning easy penalties.
Backs Form speaks here and gives it to Sarries.
Tactics: None from Quins doesn't help them here. Sarries need to describe more than just going through the motions in some points.

Worcester 10-20 London Irish
Forwards: Massive mis-match with Irish obviously targeting this cup.
Backs: If the ball gets past 9-10 then Irish will do welll, think when Genia and Carter come on they'll shore things up but a bit too late.
Tactics: Tactics for Irish continue their dominance.

Bath vs Saints

16 (2 tries,2 penalties) vs 20 (2 tries,2 conversions,2 penalties

The packs look very evenly matched with neither playing most of their big guns. Slight edge to Saints in the halfbacks but Bath have clear superiority in the centres.The back three battle slightly edges towards Bath.

Bath are hampered by no game plan and in particular Clegg suffers from this lack of direction. Very talented on his day but prone to howlers.

Lamb to outperform the more fragile Clegg to steer Saints to a very narrow victory.

Wasps 16-18 Falcons
That Newcastle back row will win the games and I think they will again here. If Wasps had tactics it could be a different story.

Bath 17-21 Saints
Both teams have rotated well but I think Saints get the best of it. Prefer the Saints forwards not much in backs. Lack of tactics once again key in the match for me

Gloucester 26-20 Tigers
Love the Gloucester team and think against a second string Tigers team they have enough to dominate all over the park. Both have good subs but the Tigers have some world class ones to keep them close.

Exeter 19-17 Sale
Think there is not a huge deal in the forwards but I'd edge towards Exeter. Once again hardly anything in the backs but Exeter get it with home advantage.

Sarries 26-23 Quins
Sarries have gone with the option of resting players while Quins have decided to rest their tactical mind. Think Sarries have players to win it coming off the bench.

Gloucester vs Tigers

26 (3 tries, 2 conversions, 3 penalties) vs 13 (1 try, 1 conversion 2 penalties)

Two quite decent frontrows but Adam Jones is the real difference here. Would expect him to put real pressure on Stankovich. Clear 2nd row win to Gloucester. The Leicester locks are young and talented but lack the experience and class of their illustrous opposition. Again in the backrow battle the Gloucester players are simply too experienced. Overall this Gloucester pack has too much.

When it comes to the backs it is a different story. Care is clearly superior to his opposite number. Tindall is simply too slow and could see him hampering the otherwise strong Gloucester backline. Leicester's strong 9,10,12 and 13 to be hampered by their back three.

On balance it's a very equal backline battle with Leicester looking to exploit Tindall and Lewis, Gloucester to exploit Tiger's back three.

Gloucester to greatly improve in the 2nd half with EFS replacing Tindall.

The pack of Gloucester leads them to victory though.

Bath Rugby 16 - 18 Northampton Saints

Despite PDJ getting a nudge on Catt at scrum time, he are two very even packs which scrap for the ball. I can see Saints just getting a edge in the backrows, but this is nullified with Bath slighy advantage at the lineout. I like the young partnership of Cook/Clegg, but the Roberts/Lamb combination is a combo that is form and do some damage here. The backline are both quite equal, some tactics from either side could have swayed it one way or another. But Lamb seals it for Saints.

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Gloucester Rugby 25 - 12 Leicester Tigers

The powerful front five of the Glous pack, does some serious damage to a togers pack which is usually on top of most teams. The youthful exuberance of the Tigers second row is a good combination, but they lack the experience and nous that the Gloucester pair has. Again the Leicester backrow looks dangerous, but on the back foot there is little they can do. Care would get the better of Lewis in a straight fight, but being on the back foot for much of the game with the backline there is little the Tigers can do. And giving quick ball to the Cherry and Whites is one of the worst things to do, as Burns/May/Trinder put the Tigers in a spin, Tindall would sand bag the team abit, but a clear win for the home team.

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Exeter Chiefs 18 - 19 Sale Sharks

A very close thought game at Sandy Park, with two fully fit sides. The Sharks front row will get a nudge here, seeing as Hoani Tui is more adept at LH. But in the packs it is pretty even. Maybe a lsight edge at the lineout to the Chiefs. Then in the backs, I like the Exeter combinations; Cruden, Kahui, Nacewa all compliment this side well. But the experience of the Sharks half backs who keep the score board ticking over, and the dynamic combo of their centres allows them to gain an edge and sneak a valuable win away form home.

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Saracens 21 - 23 Harlequins

It's a good first game for Beshocked at the helm of the Sarries, but he comes up against some tough opposition for his first game. Up front it's a good battle and I really like the Sarries unit, as they have a combination of everything for me. The second rows are equal the battle, but the Sarries just about take an edge up front for some dominance in the scrum. As I said Quins are a horrible team to come up against in your first game and just look at the halfbacks. They take the game by the scruff of the neck. It looks like the Sarries have taken a conservative approach to attack the league in this game but they're still some established stars in the team which makes the score close.

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Worcester Warriors 10 - 30 London Irish

As someone mentioned before, this is a real mismatch. The Warriors look like they're resting the players and using this chance to bed in new players. Whereas Irish obviously looking to get through the group stages. Warriors do challenge the Irish through the game getting some joy at the lineout, but they're completely outclassed up front. A similar story in the backlines, Bowden has time to dictate and run the show for Irish as he creates numerous oppurtunities for his side to score.

London Wasps 15-21 Newcastle Falcons

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Good even battle in the front 5 but Newcastle a step up in the backrow and can get real control here. At halfback there is a better balance to the Wasps combo but Heathcote in good from for Falcons. Wasps with a bit more in the back line with Halfpenny a great signing.

No tactics hurts Wasps here and the Newcastle back row sets the tone for a good win.

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Gloucester Rugby 26-24 Leicester Tigers

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Gloucester can get a real edge around the park in this one with a good front 5. Bit more class overall to the Glaws backrow gives them a slight edge but not sure on the balance. Halfbacks are fairly even overall but Glaws have an edge across the backline with a strong side out for this one.

Gloucester will get through more work here and do enough damage to see this one out before the Tigers cavalry come into the fray.

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Exeter Chiefs 22-18 Sale Sharks

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It’s a good set piece battle here with 2 quality front 5s on show. Not much in it around the park either. Back row battle shades to Chiefs though with more form in their selection. Across the backline as a whole it’s fairly even. Both sides with decent line breakers and playmaking options and no advantage either way really.

Chiefs at home with a bit more form in the backrow take this game. Two fairly even matched sides ability wise I have to say though.

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Saracens 23-18 Harlequins

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Slight edge to Sarries at scrum time here. Quins with more around the park in the front 5 though. Backrow edges to Sarries just slightly. Halfbacks go to Quins. 10s on recent form are fairly even but Burgess a class above Wiggles who is lacking form. In the backs its getting hard to rate the Quins midfield with serious lack of playing time and form. AAC the outstanding player in the back 3 but the Sarries combination overall stronger.

Sarries with the slightest of edge in the pack and more on offer in midfield at the moment pick up a first win under new management

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Worcester Warriors 9-37 London Irish

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There’s just a gulf of class in this one with Worcester resting most of the 1st team and Irish should have a fairly comfortable days work.

(Just some feedback for Pull. Cracking dealing you have done in the forwards but agree with some of the lads on the home page you need a big carrier some where in that pack)

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Bath Rugby 19 - 21 Northampton Saints

Not much between the packs, both have rested and have some youngens on show. Bit more class in Baths backline but no tactics hinders them and gives Saints a narrow away win.

Gloucester Rugby 28 - 12 Leicester Tigers

Glos sending out a message with this selection. Strong side throughout and will be too much for Tigers all over. Some good youngsters in Tigers side but will get a little lesson here at Kingsholm. Good attacking game though.

Exeter Chiefs 25-24 Sale Sharks

Chiefs have gone strong again here, as have Sale, to make for a great cup game. Exeters pack works v.well together and have powerful hard running backs. dont think sale will get on top enough to win at sandy park, but they will run it close.

Saracens 23 - 23 Harlequins

Think Sarries experience can get them on top upfront and give their backs some good ball. Quins have a better backline but wont get the best out of them as they will be on the back foot a bit. Evans magic late on rescues a draw.


Worcester Warriors 12 - 34 London Irish

Easy one for Irish here. Warriors heavily rotating and resting, Irish strong, results in one thing. Big win for the Exiles. Good back line and decent pack gives them front foot ball to thrive off.

Exeter Chiefs vs Sale Sharks

23 (2 tries, 2 conversions,3 penalties) vs 22 (1 try, 1 conversion,5 penalties)

With the gameplans in place it is clear this will be a slug fest.

The Sale Sharks backrow is decent but does not suit the slug fest that this game is. In comparison the Exeter backrow is no frills brutality. I think the halfback combo of Peel and Wilkinson does suit this kind of battle very well though so does that of Thomas and Cruden.

The backlines both look like going at it hammer and tongs. In a tight battle full of hard knocks it does favour the team from Exeter who do this day in day out. I expect them to be more physical and edge out a competitive Sale side.

Home advantage also plays it's part.

Worcester Warriors vs London Irish

13 (1 try, 1 conversion, 2 penalties) vs 36 (5 tries,4 conversions, 1 penalty)

Very powerful London Irish pack which completely outclasses that of Worcester. Worcester wins the centres battle fairly comfortably but the rest of the backline battle is in favour of London Irish.

Due to actually having a gameplan and a much superior team overall it would be hardly be surprising to expect London Irish to win this comfortably.

The likes of Pocock and Harinorduquy to run rampant and link up well with the likes of Tagicakibau,Homer and Ojo against an understrength Worcester to make it a try bonanza.

Wasps 22 - 19 Falcons

Bath 15 - 15 Northampton

Gloucester 22 - 20 Leicester

Exeter 29 - 24 Sale

Saracens 13 - 21 Harlequins

Wasps 23 Falcons 28
Front 5 even, with a clear advantage to Newcastle in the backrow. Halfbacks are pretty even, with Heathcote in good form and although Wasps backs are probably better, Newcastle's backrow and the fact they have tactics are positives for them and will win it for them in the end.

Glaws 28 Leicester 21
Glaws to get a big advantage up front and with that they will get the majority of possesion. I can see Stankovich struggling at scrum time and I expect gloucester to win the set piece battle. Leicester's backrow has better balance to it, but Glaws has more expereince and the better individual players so this area is pretty even. I slightly prefer Gloucester's backs and with the greater possesion they will get i expect a win for them.

Sarries 21 Quins 19
Sarries get an advantage up front and will ultimately win the game because of this. Quins overall have the better players 9-15 but lack they will lack the good ball to do anything with it. Sarries are a well oiled team now and this will be important in shutting the game out.

Worcester 6 London Irish 42
Only one winner here. Worcester are going to pulverised up front and will be on the back foot all game. I think Irish will dominate throughout but will take their foot off the gas after the hour mark where subs will lose the momentum and the games flow will be lsot. Thats the only thing that keeps the score below 50 for me.

Bath 19 Saints 19
Very little in it. The packs are even but Bagth do have the stronger backs, which is what will see them to a draw, their lack of tactics stop them from winning what is a very close game.

Predo's closed.....

London Wasps 19-26 Newcastle Falcons
Bath Rugby 17-26 Northampton Saints
Gloucester 34-17 Leicester Tigers
Exeter Chiefs 29-21 Sale Sharks
Saracens 28-23 Harlequins
Worcester Warriors 10-40 London Irish

Full Bonus for:

Everyone.....except

Half for:

Driver & Pull

None for Ozzy

Sorry for not predicting folks, had intended to this evening but only just got in from work.

As a quick point of order Fluxy, Hoani Tui is a tighthead who is covering on the loosehead side in real life due to injuries at the Chiefs.

No issues Pete

That's my biggest win ever on these games, cheers pooly!!

Thought i'd get a LBP but i suppose it was an all or nothing game anyway so whether i got the LBP is irrelevant.

I owe you one Prop

Everyone owes me it for the other league!!

Haha....get dealing then

Ill knock up tables and announce the semis lunch time/this evening