Much work to do for Saracens afer Quins defeat

By Rupert Thacker (filed: 6/9/03
September 6 2003

Friday evening saw Sarries complete their friendly programme at The Stoop, losing 28-20 to Harlequins. Managing to complete a full 80 minutes this time, a typically disjointed pre-season performance showed that the Men in White need more game time before their opener in the north-east next weekend.

The score of 28-20, 3 tries to 2, suggests an open game in which both sides managed to put together flowing moves - nothing could be further from the truth! For the record, Quins scored tries via George Harder (2) and Ugo Moyne, we replied with one from a slimline (comparative to last season) Andy Goode and a penalty try in the last minute from Mr Rowden. Paul Burke scored a total of 13 points, Andy Goode 15.

More importantly, Sarries' fans were looking for signs that the team would become a force in the ZP this season. So, how did we all get on?

Worryingly, Dan Kirton's pass was appalling, leaving Goode with no time to get the backs moving. Our game changed appreciably when Morgan came on for the second half, he looked sharper and the pass he gave enabled us to, at least, start to string some moves together.

Let's hope the cover for the RWC arrives soon. A constant area of concern, as last year, was the scrum. During the game, we turned over the ball 3 times by being turned through 90 degrees and once by just being pushed off the ball - this is something which must be addressed, urgently.

We also gave away 5 penalties or free kicks for collapsing or not binding correctly, all of which were given against new prop Stephen Sparks - whether this is a technical fault of his or whether he is just getting used to the different refereeing style in the ZP over the French league, we will have to wait and see.

Positives, however, did exist. Taine Randell showed enough in his first start to suggest that he could be a real driving force this season, some of his handling was out of the top drawer.

New captain Simon Rawailui seems to be able to share the ball-crashing duties, relieving the ever-willing Ches, who looked as strong as ever.

Richard Haughton impressed again, as did Aston Croall when he replaced Joe Ross early on. A mention too for Adrian Wynnan, who made a real impact in the 30 minutes he was on. If he can keep fit, he appears capable of really challenging Thomas for the 15 shirt.

We had plenty of possession, as the scoreless second half endured by Quins showed, but just never seemed really threatening - our return of only a last minute penalty try bears testament to that. Pre-season rustiness for sure, but how on earth do we now get rid of that rustiness before Kingston Park next Sunday?

Overall, a disappointing performance - but one which gave some signs of hope for a solid season ahead in the ZP, once the team has learnt how to play together and to work as an offensive/defensive unit.