PARTY POOPERS? HARLEQUINS V BATH
Underhill: to start?
By PG Tips
April 18 2023
Somebody’s party is bound to be spoiled at Twickenham on Saturday when Harlequins host Bath. For Quins, frustrated in Europe and with only a slim mathematical chance of reaching the playoffs, this will be a last chance of a “home” party in the sunshine to celebrate the season’s end. For Bath, with a daunting home tie against Saracens to follow, defeat would deflate the swell of optimism created by two recent derby victories. So who at full time will be breaking out the bubbly and who will feel flatter than week old pop?
Harlequins have already enjoyed one Twickenham celebration – in March’s “Big Game” when they humbled Exeter Chiefs 40-5, scoring 6 tries to 1. That performance, shutting the Devonians out like gate-crashers ejected on arrival, was an even bigger win than their greatest moment of recent times, spoiling Exeter’s party in the 2021 Final, after bursting the Bristol Bears’ balloon at Ashton Gate a week earlier. The omens for Bath therefore are gloomy: Quins clearly rise to the Twickenham occasion and feel it gives them the metropolitan edge over rustics from the West Country. Who could blame them for anticipating a party mood?
The fulcrum of Quins’ attacking play- Dombrandt, Care, Smith & Esterhuizen were in strong form last week in victory over Newcastle and should be fit for Saturday. So too the all-international front row of Marler, Walker and Louw, whose graft sets the stable platform for the pyrotechnics of their midfield and dash of the outside backs. Those speedsters should include Marchant, Lynagh, Murley and David, three of them recent England squad members. If the hosts are allowed to get their high tempo game flowing early, they could be fizzing their way to celebration by half time.
What can Bath do to spoil their party? Certainly the last two wins, cherished derby triumphs, will have built confidence, as will the different game plan approaches to unlock defences. While neither was a perfect performance, the desire to scrap for everything for 80+ minutes in both matches suggests the Blue, Black and White will look to punish any prematurely loose play by Quins.
There should be a more settled feel to Bath’s lineup for the match, with the 23 based on the squad so successful against Exeter and Gloucester. Discipline will be essential so a start for Underhill in place of the heavily penalised Cloete looks likely. Josh Bayliss may also be fit after withdrawing from last Friday’s selection: those could be the only changes. Another strong forward performance, both in scrum and ruck/maul is needed, supported by improved accuracy and retention at the lineout. The forwards will want to dominate not just possession and territory but also dictate the tempo of the game. They should though guard against slow set up at the lineout. Above all the game plan needs variety in attack: roared on by a large crowd, Quins will be desperate to repel any predictable assaults.
Harlequins have endured a chequered spell since before Christmas. Their Big Game triumph was sandwiched between defeats by London Irish, Gloucester, Bristol and Saracens, so they could be vulnerable against visitors near full strength. Bath have previous in spoiling London Clubs’ Twickenham parties (remember the “St George’s day massacres” against Wasps in 2010 &11?). Can they lift themselves to poop this proposed party parade?
Possible Teams:
Bath: Obano, Dunn, Stuart, Van Velze, McNally, Hill, Underhill, Reid. Spencer (Capt.), Bailey. Gallagher, Redpath, Lawrence, Cokanasiga, De Glanville.
Replacements:, Morozov, Annett, Rae, Lee-Warner, Bayliss. Green, Francis, Ojomoh.
Harlequins: Marler ,Walker, Louw, Lewies,Herbst, Wallace,Evans, Dombrandt. Care, Smith. Murley, Esterhuizen, Marchant, Lynagh. David.
Replacements: Riley, Baxter, Kerrod, Hammond, Kenningham. Gjaltema, Beard, Bassett.
I shall be hanging up my preview keyboard at the end of May. Volunteers still needed for match previews and articles -especially for off season. COME On You COML!
If you do not already have an account Click here to Register.
Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 2023:05:02:08:20:22 by P G Tips.
[www.oddschecker.com]Adopted players: 24/25 J Bayliss; [24] O Lawrence; [23] J Cokanasiga; [22] M Green; [21] A Watson; [20] T Faletau; [19] M V Vuuren; [18] T Faletau; [17] D Denton; [16] H. Agulla; [15] L Houston; [14] W Spencer; [13] F. Louw
Family . Community . Nation - [sdp.org.uk]
My mind's been going places without me lately - Bushfire The B52's
PG
Beno to upstage Marler.
Quote:JK7
Love Quins but they can show a soft underbelly at times. Let's hope this is one of them.
Beno to upstage Marler.
Did louw go off injured early at the weekend.
If he is out I defo fancy beno having a big impact on the game.
Quote:charlieboaQuote:JK7
Love Quins but they can show a soft underbelly at times. Let's hope this is one of them.
Beno to upstage Marler.
Did louw go off injured early at the weekend.
If he is out I defo fancy beno having a big impact on the game.
He did and he did not look in great shape. I'd be surprised if he's able to play.
... IMHO, of course.
Now in Honolulu
Though maybe he isn't fit either? Didn't feature against Falcons.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2023:04:18:22:20:40 by JK7.

Quote:shipwrecked
Two away games in a row for me on Saturday, looking forward to it having done the same fixture last year when we won! One of the few with Nathan Hughes excelling. If I'm honest I fear Cadan Murley.
Stop Esterhuizen and they look a different team. Easier said than done of course! Is Cam going to be fit?
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
none other than ex-Quins scrum half, Karl Dickson.
It utterly beggars belief that he is allowed to ref a match involving his ex-team mates and good mates......
Which idiot makes these appointments?
Quote:Dorset Boy
Guess who this week's referee is!
none other than ex-Quins scrum half, Karl Dickson.
It utterly beggars belief that he is allowed to ref a match involving his ex-team mates and good mates......
Which idiot makes these appointments?
He continually is given top matches despite being criticised heavily after every game. I presumed after the Marler affair he would not be officiating Quins again but all I can think he has some serious dirt on someone high up or a relative in a position of power.
Remind me Ali, which of Marler's many incidents are your referring to?
PG
PG I was referring to the disgusting remarks made to Bristol back row Fitz Harding I believe about his desperately sick mother which at the disciplinary meeting it transpired many clearly heard the comments who were further from the action than Dickson who claimed he did not hear it.
Certainly Dickson and his officiating team did not cover themselves with glory at all. All very unpleasant and again started the me debate about his officiating and whether he should officiate his old club.
As I say very few team mates still active but Marler will be one (Care, possibly Collier the others).
None of which should matter to Dickson. Hopefully there will be no controversy on Saturday.
PG
Quote:Dorset Boy
Guess who this week's referee is!
none other than ex-Quins scrum half, Karl Dickson.
It utterly beggars belief that he is allowed to ref a match involving his ex-team mates and good mates......
Which idiot makes these appointments?
Puts Dickson in a potentially difficult situation which is totally avoidable. If only those in charge of the officials had a clue what they are doing.
Quote:OutsideBathQuote:Dorset Boy
Guess who this week's referee is!
none other than ex-Quins scrum half, Karl Dickson.
It utterly beggars belief that he is allowed to ref a match involving his ex-team mates and good mates......
Which idiot makes these appointments?
Puts Dickson in a potentially difficult situation which is totally avoidable. If only those in charge of the officials had a clue what they are doing.
This. I don't think Dickson is a bad (or biased) ref but he is more idiosyncratic than most and that leaves him open to opposition suspicion.
... IMHO, of course.
Now in Honolulu

Quote:Ali1969
Remind me Ali, which of Marler's many incidents are your referring to?
PG I was referring to the disgusting remarks made to Bristol back row Fitz Harding I believe about his desperately sick mother which at the disciplinary meeting it transpired many clearly heard the comments who were further from the action than Dickson who claimed he did not hear it.
Certainly Dickson and his officiating team did not cover themselves with glory at all. All very unpleasant and again started the me debate about his officiating and whether he should officiate his old club.
Just to say it was Jake Heenan's mother not Fitz Harding
Quote:OldMarovian
Interested in whether you feel anecdotally or from personal experience Bath supporters are more or less likely to go to this game as its at the Cabbage Patch rather than Quins?
Bath fans have always turned up in large numbers for games at Twickenham. We had home games against Leicester and Bristol that were well attended and large numbers for the St George's day away games against Wasps. I'm not expecting anything like those attendances on Saturday but the last two performances have probably tempted a few to turn up, certainly in higher numbers than those who would have attended at the Stoop. I'll be there on Saturday although personally I would have preferred the game to be at the Stoop.
Quote:joethefanaticQuote:OutsideBathQuote:Dorset Boy
Guess who this week's referee is!
none other than ex-Quins scrum half, Karl Dickson.
It utterly beggars belief that he is allowed to ref a match involving his ex-team mates and good mates......
Which idiot makes these appointments?
Puts Dickson in a potentially difficult situation which is totally avoidable. If only those in charge of the officials had a clue what they are doing.
This. I don't think Dickson is a bad (or biased) ref but he is more idiosyncratic than most and that leaves him open to opposition suspicion.
He's done virtually nothing to suggest he is a good ref, or good enough to be officiating at the level he is at.
PG Tips, he will know quite a few of the current Quins squad, basically any of them now in their mid to late 20s, who were at the club when he retired.
Quote:Dorset BoyQuote:joethefanaticQuote:OutsideBathQuote:Dorset Boy
Guess who this week's referee is!
none other than ex-Quins scrum half, Karl Dickson.
It utterly beggars belief that he is allowed to ref a match involving his ex-team mates and good mates......
Which idiot makes these appointments?
Puts Dickson in a potentially difficult situation which is totally avoidable. If only those in charge of the officials had a clue what they are doing.
This. I don't think Dickson is a bad (or biased) ref but he is more idiosyncratic than most and that leaves him open to opposition suspicion.
He's done virtually nothing to suggest he is a good ref, or good enough to be officiating at the level he is at.
He is also a relatively inexperienced ref who appears to have been fast-tracked. Wayne and Nige had their learning curves, too.
... IMHO, of course.
Now in Honolulu
Quote:OldMarovian
Interested in whether you feel anecdotally or from personal experience Bath supporters are more or less likely to go to this game as its at the Cabbage Patch rather than Quins?
Personally you couldn’t pay me enough to go to either Twickenham or the Stoop. Located in a dreadful area and a nightmare to get home after the game.
Would force myself to go there for a premiership final, but not sure I’ll ever have to worry about that again.. 😎
Quote:hasta
Both the Stoop and Twickenham are a 15 minute walk from the station on a mainline to Reading and Waterloo, on a main road with loads of parking. Not quite sure how much easier you want it to be to get home from.
They could speed up the trains in west London. Pretty sure a horse and cart overtook us last time I was over there.
Quote:hasta
Both the Stoop and Twickenham are a 15 minute walk from the station on a mainline to Reading and Waterloo, on a main road with loads of parking. Not quite sure how much easier you want it to be to get home from.
Not queuing for an hour to get onto the station platform on the way home would be a start.
Quote:OutsideBathQuote:hasta
Both the Stoop and Twickenham are a 15 minute walk from the station on a mainline to Reading and Waterloo, on a main road with loads of parking. Not quite sure how much easier you want it to be to get home from.
Not queuing for an hour to get onto the station platform on the way home would be a start.
Wander up through the waterworks, grab a pint or two in the Royal Oak and then on to get the train from Isleworth. Easy
... IMHO, of course.
Now in Honolulu
Quote:OutsideBathQuote:OldMarovian
Interested in whether you feel anecdotally or from personal experience Bath supporters are more or less likely to go to this game as its at the Cabbage Patch rather than Quins?
Personally you couldn’t pay me enough to go to either Twickenham or the Stoop. Located in a dreadful area and a nightmare to get home after the game.
Would force myself to go there for a premiership final, but not sure I’ll ever have to worry about that again.. 😎
When you know where to go in this "dreadful" area there are plenty of decent pubs and restaurants and The Stoop is an excellent ground, food , bars, fans, atmosphere all acceptable preferable to Twickenham for club games in my opinion. The logistics of travel to SW London and parking can be difficult, you need to plan carefully, think outside the box a bit and be prepared for changes to those plans.
For those going on the train on Saturday, if there are 3 of you or more travelling together you can get discounted group travel. Also buy split tickets, off peak return Bath to Didcot with off peak return Didcot to Twickenham. Saves about £9 each. As long as the train you are on is due to stop at Didcot you can stay on that train. Change at Reading for Twickenham.
For a more pleasant drive I like to avoid the M4 by going across Salisbury Plain via Chitterne to join the A303 then up the M3.
Come on Bath fans, get a ticket if you haven't already got one, it could be a great day out!
Bath Rugby: 15 Matt Gallagher, 14 Joe Cokanasiga, 13 Ollie Lawrence, 12 Max Ojomoh, 11 Ruaridh McConnochie, 10 Orlando Bailey, 9 Ben Spencer ©; 1 Beno Obano, 2 Tom Dunn, 3 Will Stuart, 4 Josh McNally, 5 GJ van Velze, 6 Ted Hill, 7 Chris Cloete, 8 Miles Reid
Impact players: 16 Niall Annett, 17 Juan Schoeman, 18 D’Arcy Rae, 19 Will Spencer, 20 Richard de Carpentier, 21 Max Green, 22 Piers Francis, 23 Josh Bayliss
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2023:04:21:12:11:41 by Malco.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Shame Sam Underhill is not listed, he had a big impact on the game last week.
Sometimes JvG's selections are baffling
Quote:nick holder
I thought Underhill had a huge impact last week off the bench and look fit and raring to go. Has he been reported as injured again, as if not I am bemused as to why chippy has been selected ahead of him. Also Will Spencer really??
Sometimes JvG's selections are baffling
You really think that given the choice, JvG chose De Carpentier over Sam Underhill?
Obv it's an injury.
Quote:bathonian80Quote:nick holder
I thought Underhill had a huge impact last week off the bench and look fit and raring to go. Has he been reported as injured again, as if not I am bemused as to why chippy has been selected ahead of him. Also Will Spencer really??
Sometimes JvG's selections are baffling
You really think that given the choice, JvG chose De Carpentier over Sam Underhill?
Obv it's an injury.
So why not say something about it, we did get injury updates until quite recently
Quote:bathonian80Quote:nick holder
I thought Underhill had a huge impact last week off the bench and look fit and raring to go. Has he been reported as injured again, as if not I am bemused as to why chippy has been selected ahead of him. Also Will Spencer really??
Sometimes JvG's selections are baffling
You really think that given the choice, JvG chose De Carpentier over Sam Underhill?
Obv it's an injury.
The Chron says “there is no place in the 23 for Sam Underhill” - no mention of injury.
PG
Quote:P G TipsQuote:bathonian80Quote:nick holder
I thought Underhill had a huge impact last week off the bench and look fit and raring to go. Has he been reported as injured again, as if not I am bemused as to why chippy has been selected ahead of him. Also Will Spencer really??
Sometimes JvG's selections are baffling
You really think that given the choice, JvG chose De Carpentier over Sam Underhill?
Obv it's an injury.
The Chron says “there is no place in the 23 for Sam Underhill” - no mention of injury.
PG
The Chron aren't privy to all club news.
Quote:bathonian80
Because there's two games left.
and the relevance of that is what exactly?
No reference of either Underhill or FLW being unfit so looks like it is selection decision.
Of course they may not have had a straight answer but from the info given it is not necessarily clear that he is “injured obvs”.
PG
15 Alex Goode
14 Max Malins
13 Alex Lozowski
12 Nick Tompkins
11 Sean Maitland
10 Owen Farrell (c)
9 Ivan Van Zyl
1 Mako Vunipola
2 Theo Dan
3 Marco Riccioni
4 Maro Itoje
5 Callum Hunter-Hill
6 Nick Isiekwe
7 Ben Earl
8 Jackson Wray
16 Ethan Lewis
17 Eroni Mawi
18 Christian Judge
19 Hugh Tizard
20 Toby Knight
20 Ruben De Haas
22 Olly Hartley
23 Rotimi Segun
I remember this guy when he was a villain on Dangermouse
Quote:hasta
20 Ruben De Haas
I remember this guy when he was a villain on Dangermouse
Also, Baron Greenback (with his henchman, Stilletto). I still use "Si, Baroné" in conversation. No one ever gets the reference.
... IMHO, of course.
Now in Honolulu
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2023:04:21:17:49:13 by joethefanatic.
Quote:hasta
20 Ruben De Haas
I remember this guy when he was a villain on Dangermouse
That’s made up right?

Quote:BathIron
So Sarries have gone full strength vs Irish having put a weakened side out last week. I suspect they want to put Irish out of the playoffs as they'd much rather play Saints.
Given I've had croissants less flaky than Saints, can't say as I blame them.
Quote:hastaQuote:BathIron
So Sarries have gone full strength vs Irish having put a weakened side out last week. I suspect they want to put Irish out of the playoffs as they'd much rather play Saints.
Given I've had croissants less flaky than Saints, can't say as I blame them.
😂😂😂
Think that means Falcons end up bottom, and Quins can't make the pay offs.

Quote:Dorset Boy
Sai nts thumping Falcons.
Think that means Falcons end up bottom, and Quins can't make the pay offs.
And as the table never lies Bath really have improved after all.
Quote:OutsideBathQuote:Dorset Boy
Sai nts thumping Falcons.
Think that means Falcons end up bottom, and Quins can't make the pay offs.
And as the table never lies Bath really have improved after all.
Let’s hope we don’t replicate the Falcons score first then !

Adopted Player 2018/19 Ross Batty
Adopted Player 2019/20 Jack Davies
Adopted Player 2020/21 Cam Redpath
Adopted Player 2021/22 Darren Atkins
Adopted Player 2022/23 Gabriel Hamer-Webb
Adopted Player 2023/24 Tom Carr-Smith
Adopted Player 2024/25 Max Ojomoh
"AN OUNCE OF ACTION IS WORTH A TON OF THEORY"
FRIEDRICH ENGELS

Quote:shipwreckedQuote:hasta
20 Ruben De Haas
I remember this guy when he was a villain on Dangermouse
That’s made up right?
Great name for number 4 for Bath Ladies 2nd’s tomorrow at Amesbury ‘ Skye Koyote ‘

Adopted Player 2018/19 Ross Batty
Adopted Player 2019/20 Jack Davies
Adopted Player 2020/21 Cam Redpath
Adopted Player 2021/22 Darren Atkins
Adopted Player 2022/23 Gabriel Hamer-Webb
Adopted Player 2023/24 Tom Carr-Smith
Adopted Player 2024/25 Max Ojomoh
"AN OUNCE OF ACTION IS WORTH A TON OF THEORY"
FRIEDRICH ENGELS

Adopted Player 2018/19 Ross Batty
Adopted Player 2019/20 Jack Davies
Adopted Player 2020/21 Cam Redpath
Adopted Player 2021/22 Darren Atkins
Adopted Player 2022/23 Gabriel Hamer-Webb
Adopted Player 2023/24 Tom Carr-Smith
Adopted Player 2024/25 Max Ojomoh
"AN OUNCE OF ACTION IS WORTH A TON OF THEORY"
FRIEDRICH ENGELS
Quote:Mike the Taxi
... and leading at 1/2 time?
Because Quins look like scoring every time they get into our half?
Adopted players: 24/25 J Bayliss; [24] O Lawrence; [23] J Cokanasiga; [22] M Green; [21] A Watson; [20] T Faletau; [19] M V Vuuren; [18] T Faletau; [17] D Denton; [16] H. Agulla; [15] L Houston; [14] W Spencer; [13] F. Louw
Family . Community . Nation - [sdp.org.uk]
My mind's been going places without me lately - Bushfire The B52's
Adopted players: 24/25 J Bayliss; [24] O Lawrence; [23] J Cokanasiga; [22] M Green; [21] A Watson; [20] T Faletau; [19] M V Vuuren; [18] T Faletau; [17] D Denton; [16] H. Agulla; [15] L Houston; [14] W Spencer; [13] F. Louw
Family . Community . Nation - [sdp.org.uk]
My mind's been going places without me lately - Bushfire The B52's
The bad - conceding against 13 and making Murley (good player that he is) look like Jason Robinson.
Spencer leading by example.
Quote:recmanQuote:Mike the Taxi
... and leading at 1/2 time?
Because Quins look like scoring every time they get into our half?
And they have again ! Is anybody watching Murley ? more quick feet with David on !
Adopted Player 2018/19 Ross Batty
Adopted Player 2019/20 Jack Davies
Adopted Player 2020/21 Cam Redpath
Adopted Player 2021/22 Darren Atkins
Adopted Player 2022/23 Gabriel Hamer-Webb
Adopted Player 2023/24 Tom Carr-Smith
Adopted Player 2024/25 Max Ojomoh
"AN OUNCE OF ACTION IS WORTH A TON OF THEORY"
FRIEDRICH ENGELS

Adopted Player 2018/19 Ross Batty
Adopted Player 2019/20 Jack Davies
Adopted Player 2020/21 Cam Redpath
Adopted Player 2021/22 Darren Atkins
Adopted Player 2022/23 Gabriel Hamer-Webb
Adopted Player 2023/24 Tom Carr-Smith
Adopted Player 2024/25 Max Ojomoh
"AN OUNCE OF ACTION IS WORTH A TON OF THEORY"
FRIEDRICH ENGELS
PG
Quote:Mike the Taxi
Oh! Ye of little faith (and praise)!
I see no lack of faith in the comments, just fair observations and a couple of subtle digs from yourself.
As above, big win, 3 in a row is fantastic and some superb try’s. Equally, plenty to work on but as they said in commentary it’s training ground stuff. When you consider the new signings and players still to come back from injury, can start to get a little excited for next season..!
Quote:Still behind Brizzle.nigewing
6 tries away from home & now above both Glaws & Brizzle. Beer will taste even better tonight !!!!!
Equal on points, equal on wins, but they've a less-bad points difference.
RAEBURN SHIELD
Murley was killing Joe but Joe got his own back.
Turns out the Quins supporter who was from 3 para and built like Mike Tyson reckons it’s quietly acknowledged that Marcus Smith is off to France, as is Itoje apparently!
Now in search of a curry in Twickenham

Quote:shipwrecked
Turns out the Quins supporter who was from 3 para and built like Mike Tyson reckons it’s quietly acknowledged that Marcus Smith is off to France, as is Itoje apparently!
Well that might force the RFU to change their rules on playing for England.
Once again our T5 made the difference, and GJVV must be the first choice lock now. Baylis, Spencer and Jc all great games! Ollie and Ted both showed they are human with unforced errors, but more than made up for it with their incredible industry.
Starting to believe that we have turned a corner.
Defensively we were frail early on, but really tightened up, only undone later by some outstanding play.
The pack was immense today, set piece strong, maul excellent. And the backs shone a light on what might be possible. Best feeling away from home for a long time.
Quote:Could say the same for Quins.OutsideBath
Excellent win, but we do need to get someone in to fix the dodgy defence.
But even in victory and as far as I'm concerned a very good performance. You moan. Ah well some things never change.
I guess Joe Maddock remembered!
PG
PG
Quote:P G Tips
You did CC!
PG
Think BT commentator (Bayfield?) chuckled and said that Smith had just been dunn like a kipper
PG
Incidentally Josh Baylis is ridiculously fast for a back row!
An excellent game of rugby by both sides and we were a match for Quins for all of it. The pack looked like a well oiled machine and the backs were accurate, efficient and brutal when they needed to be. JC4 played the best game I've seen from him in years and Mojo and Ollie were just a pleasure to watch. The grinding of the gears of the commentators as they tried to change their preset pro-Quins narrative was deeply entertaining.
I rarely comment on the opposition's players but a word for Marcus Smith. An absolute genius of a player who is disappointingly becoming an increasingly petulant figure. Perhaps we could send him a straw.
My MotM - Josh Bayliss. I hate to agree with the BT crew and particularly Lil' Oz but I thought he was the difference for us when Quins looked like they might run away with it. Three months ago, we'd have folded. Now we are made of sterner stuff and its beautiful to see.
We always play well after the clocks go forward but this looks like it might just be the real deal. I am so looking forward to next season.
... IMHO, of course.
Now in Honolulu
Quote:OutsideBathQuote:shipwrecked
Turns out the Quins supporter who was from 3 para and built like Mike Tyson reckons it’s quietly acknowledged that Marcus Smith is off to France, as is Itoje apparently!
Well that might force the RFU to change their rules on playing for England.
I don't think it would. Borthers would happily press on with Farrell/Ford/Fin Smith, and this is not the irreplaceable Itoje of old. Bring on Chessum, Martin and others.
Anywho, another note for Maro's cousin Beno who not only held his own against arguably the best scrummaging outfit in the Prem but also sent both Herbst and Marler backwards at pace with big hits.
At 55-60 mins quins had taken the lead, were all over us and we looked dead on our feet. To come back and win fairly comfortably shows amazing resilience.
Basics again were solid- not too concerned about defence as smith is a bit of a genius, quins have a good attack, and a dry day on a big pitch.
Lovely to see us layering on some attacking pattern and strike moves and then go back to driving maul at key times.
As for individuals... agree beno was immense, cj vv good ( capt when spencer went off ...and dunn was off), bayliss excellent off bench, spencer instrumental, lawrence and coko causing mayhem.
Highlight, prob as Healey flagged the almost perfect multiphase exit from a kick off in second half that resulted in an attacking lineout after spencers 50:22. Not been able to accuse us often over recent years of being smart and accurate!
Healey mentioned on commentary at kick off how it looked as if Bath were really up for it. He also said later on how, despite our poor season, we’d never given up the fight in games, unlike in previous seasons. JvG has certainly instilled some belief and desire and, as Lawrence said after, so much of rugby, especially the fancy bits, depend on a player’s want to get off the floor, fight for your team mate etc. We had more of THAT than Quins yesterday. We also had more Glos and Exe in recent weeks, and that is hugely pleasing.
On to Sarries and hopefully to finish an odd but ultimately encouraging season on a high. Not bothered about top 8 - but would love a win, with some scrum penalties, maul tries, and a JCok hat trick out wide in the sun.
Onwards and upwards lads.
adopted player, 24/25 Hame Faiva. 23/24 Ted Hill. 22/23 Cam Redpath. 21/22 Max Clark. 20/21 Henry Thomas. 19/20 Max Wright. 18/19 Cooper Vuna.
It may have been a selection choice - Cloete to counter Evans & Wallace at breakdown & rest Sam until Sarries.
Or maybe he has a knock but nothing stated on that.
PG
Some belting tackles yesterday, Obano and Dunn on Herbst was brilliant, worth checking that one out OB!
Bath looked very tired at 60 minutes then seemed to get a second wind. What would we do without Lawrence? He also seems to bring the best out of Joe C.
Final point Orlando Bailey seems to be settling in at 10, his distribution is a regular link to the backs now and is way better than Piers Francis. Be nice to see him getting back to kicking duties though.

What a win.
I actually think breakdown was one of the few disappointing areas yest- don't remember more than a few turnovers/breakdown pens and in the third quarter quins average ruck speed was 2 seconds!
One to work on but a hell of a lot went well...
adopted player, 24/25 Hame Faiva. 23/24 Ted Hill. 22/23 Cam Redpath. 21/22 Max Clark. 20/21 Henry Thomas. 19/20 Max Wright. 18/19 Cooper Vuna.
Very impressive and a huge improvement on last year
Quote:OutsideBath
Just seen the game and have to say I’m totally confused as I’m sure I heard Dallaglio praise Bath. Surely I must have misheard the commentary?
He was also unable to tell Mojo from JC4. Which was awkward.
... IMHO, of course.
Now in Honolulu
Quote:annie blackthorn
No need for more **** endless posts with analysis. End of. .
What’s that all about?
Quote:OutsideBath
Just seen the game and have to say I’m totally confused as I’m sure I heard Dallaglio praise Bath. Surely I must have misheard the commentary?
The irony being that Dallaglio is considerably more likely to praise Bath than you are.
Quote:charlieboa
Hope Sam is ok.
I actually think breakdown was one of the few disappointing areas yest- don't remember more than a few turnovers/breakdown pens and in the third quarter quins average ruck speed was 2 seconds!
One to work on but a hell of a lot went well...
I can recall at the match that our turnover count was good but in fact we won 11 turnovers and they won 10
Wonder who got those turnovers- remember 1 or 2 from josh. Vaguely think mcnally maybe got one, van velze...?
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2023:04:23:19:03:04 by charlieboa.
Quote:joethefanatic
He was also unable to tell Mojo from JC4. Which was awkward.
There was quite a lot of this sort of thing going on, Mullins in particular guilty.
Quote:MalcoQuote:OutsideBath
Just seen the game and have to say I’m totally confused as I’m sure I heard Dallaglio praise Bath. Surely I must have misheard the commentary?
The irony being that Dallaglio is considerably more likely to praise Bath than you are.
Do grow up and get an education.
Quote:joethefanaticQuote:OutsideBath
Just seen the game and have to say I’m totally confused as I’m sure I heard Dallaglio praise Bath. Surely I must have misheard the commentary?
He was also unable to tell Mojo from JC4. Which was awkward.
That’s pretty disrespectful and he should do better.
Was such a ding dong game, and goes to show what can happen with 'fast' rugby.
Quote:OutsideBathQuote:joethefanaticQuote:OutsideBath
Just seen the game and have to say I’m totally confused as I’m sure I heard Dallaglio praise Bath. Surely I must have misheard the commentary?
He was also unable to tell Mojo from JC4. Which was awkward.
That’s pretty disrespectful and he should do better.
I mean against Exeter they couldn't tell the difference between Cam Redpath and Orlando Bailey either
Quote:hastaQuote:OutsideBathQuote:joethefanaticQuote:OutsideBath
Just seen the game and have to say I’m totally confused as I’m sure I heard Dallaglio praise Bath. Surely I must have misheard the commentary?
He was also unable to tell Mojo from JC4. Which was awkward.
That’s pretty disrespectful and he should do better.
I mean against Exeter they couldn't tell the difference between Cam Redpath and Orlando Bailey either
Don’t get this at all, Ojomoh scored the last try where is the miss identification?

Quote:shipwreckedQuote:hastaQuote:OutsideBathQuote:joethefanaticQuote:OutsideBath
Just seen the game and have to say I’m totally confused as I’m sure I heard Dallaglio praise Bath. Surely I must have misheard the commentary?
He was also unable to tell Mojo from JC4. Which was awkward.
That’s pretty disrespectful and he should do better.
I mean against Exeter they couldn't tell the difference between Cam Redpath and Orlando Bailey either
Don’t get this at all, Ojomoh scored the last try where is the miss identification?
The fact that Dallaglio repeatedly referred to the try having been scored by Cokanasiga even as Mojo was being congratulated by his teammates. Once in real time, OK, i guess. But repeatedly, after slo-mo replays? Not so good.
... IMHO, of course.
Now in Honolulu
Quote:Clarkey3k
Quins strong favourites with the bookies at the moment, 2/9 on. Bath 6/1. Tempted?[www.oddschecker.com]
Did anyone place a bet? I wish I had. More faith required from me.
Adopted players: 24/25 J Bayliss; [24] O Lawrence; [23] J Cokanasiga; [22] M Green; [21] A Watson; [20] T Faletau; [19] M V Vuuren; [18] T Faletau; [17] D Denton; [16] H. Agulla; [15] L Houston; [14] W Spencer; [13] F. Louw
Family . Community . Nation - [sdp.org.uk]
My mind's been going places without me lately - Bushfire The B52's
It also exactly what Eddie Jones had him doing for England!

Thought Quins actually played really well, though losing Care might have been the difference. Bath played an excellent gameplan of starving them from opportunities. When Gjaltema scored in the second half I presumed we would begin to unravel, players looked out on their feet and the game had started to break up giving Quin's exactly what they like. To then take control of the game, and come back from that was mightily impressive.
GJ VV is a must keep for me, as is Cloete. Both in red hot form, and have seemingly brought a real sharp edge to our pack.
I'm sure BT put up a stat showing that we had the best scrum in the premiership. Hat's off to Hatley turning that around.
Overall it's been a pretty good first season for JVG. A lot of narrow games in the first half of the season. Then suddenly we had a dip in form despite fielding our strongest teams, our performances against Bristol, Saints, Irish and Tigers could rival last season. Looking back, I suspect that certain returnees were still bedding into the new game plan.
I'm very much looking forward to our last game, I'm intrigued to know who will be leaving us and who is replacing Hatley. And I'm praying that JVG chooses to stay at Bath.
And agree hasta that attack and lineout have hugely improved. I'd say that attack is only starting to function because of our lineout and scrum. You can't create consistency in attack (and bed in systems in live game environments) if you're getting battered at the scrum and not able to trust your lineout. This was v evident away at Leic – them all over us in the set piece meant our attack disintegrated into one-out runners and box-kicking. We now play multi-phase because we're much more solid, if not dominant, up front.
The JCok try sums it up – bit of maul momentum, footwork and a strong hit up in the midfield by Mojo over the gain line, wide to McCon who makes metres, hard angle and carry from Schoemann, defence on the back foot, Spencer drifts and JCok takes that training line from the blind side to the open to go through a shoulder and score. Brilliant – and all about set piece and gain line dominance. As Opti said pre-match, cms up front = ms elsewhere. We've seen that in the past few weeks with our set piece and carrying game getting us the centimetres that are paying huge dividends elsewhere.
On that note, wonder if Charteris has done enough to stay? I guess so.
Quote:by
GJ VV is a must keep for me, as is Cloete. Both in red hot form, and have seemingly brought a real sharp edge to our pack.
You could say that about ALL of JvG's recruitment, would any one have thought Matt Gallagher would have usurped TdG!
The Worcester lads have proved to be real Warriors! Many of the Hooper era have had to reprove their worth.

Saint's have a slightly inflated score in the table as they have one game on everyone else.
Had Exeter, or Quins beat us they'd be closing in on top 4.
Tigers also had a bad run of games during their "injury" crisis. However they've managed to weather it and pull away from the mid table pack in the latter half of the season.
I think you may well see a side similar to the Saints one at Bath but who knows? Looking forward to that game

And nor does the league table. We are a bottom third club, but on the rise, and I don't think anyone is really claiming otherwise. And I'm fine with that, as long as we continue to see gradual improvement, which considering our recent form and the recruitment we've made, looks like a fair forecast.
I think even Sarries 2nd XV would be an interesting test, as then the pressure kind of ramps up on us to beat them and perhaps beat them well. So think it'll be a fascinating and very telling last game of the year.
Quote:hasta
I mean against Exeter they couldn't tell the difference between Cam Redpath and Orlando Bailey either
He managed to credit J Willis for a Turnover Itoje was making in a recent England game. I mean it would be wonderful to live in a World where we don't "see" colour but that was a bit special even by Dallaglios standards.
If he rests players and they lose that means that the winning cycle is broken albeit 1 game but you go into the play offs on the back of a defeat.
If he plays a full strength side and picks up an injury or two particularly to someone like Farrell, Goode or Alex L then it could be disastrous same in the pack where he is already without some big hitters.
Seems crazy I actually think we are in the better position and we do owe them for the thumping of last season - many players hurting and remember - Of course I wish we were challenging but facts are facts - we are an outside bet for Euro big cup - I just hope we put on a show and continue this upward curve to make next season really exciting and how many of us at this time of the season in the past few years have felt excited for next season?
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2023:04:24:14:35:29 by Ali1969.
Quote:OldMarovian
There's a piece in the DT suggesting Bath with be a side to "reckon" with next season and I agree.
Sounds like pretty much every other similar prediction over the last 10 years+? It would be nice if true!
I think that the lower cap (which should now be acorss a teams with the 25% fudge falling away) will mean that there is even less between all of the remaining sides than there is this season... Sarries will be top, Newcastle bottom (assuming still here) and everyone else in random positions.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
I get the absence of key players in the front row would inevitably depower the scrum but the players central to the lineout have been fairly consistent in their presence, I think
But it seems only a few weeks ago when we were bemoaning how a decent attack was just not possible off a seriously malfunctioning lineout and the number of times we butchered a 5m lineout maul was so frustrating
Quote:gaz59
The massive improvement in the lineout and maul have been the biggest mystery for me.
I get the absence of key players in the front row would inevitably depower the scrum but the players central to the lineout have been fairly consistent in their presence, I think
But it seems only a few weeks ago when we were bemoaning how a decent attack was just not possible off a seriously malfunctioning lineout and the number of times we butchered a 5m lineout maul was so frustrating
Having what is not far off a first choice tight 5 has IMO been the reason for the improvement across all aspects of the game over the last 3 results - as we knew it would be when the players of that quality got front foot ball.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
And lineout is a good example. The second there's a bit of doubt in the throw, the lift, the catch, the whole thing can go to pot. On the flip, you win a couple of turnovers, get a scrum penalty, Redpath runs one in from 50 yards in the first 5 minutes, and the lineout becomes a lot easier as everyone is in the groove, feeling good, and has a bit of confidence. There is a snap to it – rather than a hesitancy.
A lot of that comes down to leadership (VV, Spencer) to instil that confidence, so that when Redpath scores from 50m, that's a nice moment for the guys in a huddle to celebrate and talk about going again, but also when Exe score twice in 10 minutes, the leaders get everyone around and tell them not to worry, not to lose confidence, to trust the throw, the lift, the catch.
On lineout specifically, I also think we've simplified our process. There seems to be far less messing about. It's basically to Hill at 2 or VV at 4. And that simplification has also made us more confident, which allows us to go the Reid or Bayliss at the back. Small things, big steps. Cms = metres.
Quote:dr.bath1865
Murley was almost unplayable at times
I was a bit surprised but also v impressed that Spencer caught him up and robbed him of the ball on the bounce to take it into touch. He (Spencer) looks back to his old self after seeming to lose his way a touch. Great to see.
Quote:OldMarovianQuote:dr.bath1865
Murley was almost unplayable at times
I was a bit surprised but also v impressed that Spencer caught him up and robbed him of the ball on the bounce to take it into touch. He (Spencer) looks back to his old self after seeming to lose his way a touch. Great to see.
The whistle interrupted a potential foot-race between Spencer and Marchant the other day ... was looking forward to seeing how that went! Spencer looks absolutely rejuvenated right now - maybe he senses that there's an end to the mediocrity (that must have bugged him enormously after his Sarries upbringing) in sight.
Quote:Optimist
Spencer looks absolutely rejuvenated right now - maybe he senses that there's an end to the mediocrity (that must have bugged him enormously after his Sarries upbringing) in sight.
Which 9 isn't gonig to have fun behind a dominant pack - there wasn't much that him (or the 10 and above) could do before. Now they are able to get a bit of speed up before the oppo close them down.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Quote:BathMatt53
a dominant pack
Not sure it's easily quantifiable, but you have to wonder just how much difference Ben Obano (especially in tandem with a resurgent Stuart, and in turn Tom Dunn) has made - it remains one of rugby's truisms that a rock-solid foundation at 1-3, makes everyone from 4-15 a bit better - and the cumulative sum of those improvements can be huge.
Quote:BathMatt53Quote:Optimist
Spencer looks absolutely rejuvenated right now - maybe he senses that there's an end to the mediocrity (that must have bugged him enormously after his Sarries upbringing) in sight.
Which 9 isn't gonig to have fun behind a dominant pack - there wasn't much that him (or the 10 and above) could do before. Now they are able to get a bit of speed up before the oppo close them down.
That and the fact there are more genuine leaders in the team means he doesn't have to do or even feel he has to do everything and decide everything. That will get even better with Russell arriving
This is the BIG missing piece of next year's jigsaw puzzle.
Quote:BathSalmon
We talk about the benefit of a dominant pack, but Neal Hatley our forwards coach is leaving at the end of the season - who is going to replace him? I've not seen anything announced, and I hope JVG doesn't take on the role. Taking on too much will no work out well, as we saw last season with Hatley himself.
This is the BIG missing piece of next year's jigsaw puzzle.
There was a view held by quite a few on ere earlier in the season that perhaps Hatley had lost his mojo and the opportunity for a new challenge was best for him and for Bath. Perhaps the Aussie opportunity has re-sparked him, perhaps the forwards with a few key returnees are getting more into what he is coaching, who knows?
I have the faith that JvG will be able to find the replacement he wants for the team
If he can attract forwards of the quality of Du Toit and a playmaker like Russell, JvG clearly has pulling power. The question then is one of availability.
PG
Quote:P G Tips
One would hope so gaz.
If he can attract forwards of the quality of Du Toit and a playmaker like Russell, JvG clearly has pulling power. The question then is one of availability.
PG
Agree PG he cleverly chose Graham Rowntree at Munster so he has the contacts, post RWC would be a good time to recruit.

Quote:Ali1969
I am sure JVG has someone in mind perhaps ex Scotland International turned International coach Matt Proudfoot? excellent CV and is a scrum specialist and is highly regarded throughout the rugby world and I don't believe he has committed elsewhere since leaving the England set up.
Proudfoot said will stuart has the potential to be the world's best tighthead. May hold some appeal to work with him again.
Be v interested to see who we end up with
The Mojo try was class. The timing of the Gallagher give is just lovely but Lawrence’s change of angle, using footwork BEFORE he receives the ball, is the stuff of attack coaching dreams. JJ used to do similar (did earlier this season v Leics), but the ability of the 13 to hit the line late and pick their gap in advance of the ball being delivered is such a dangerous weapon. Another reason why I think Lawrence could be/is fast becoming a world class 13, and far more suited to a position with more space than at 12 (where he’s being shoe horned for England).
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2023:04:26:22:17:21 by dr.bath1865.
Quote:hasta
Just rewatching the Mojo try again and it makes me so happy to see a Bath team with some creativity and power scoring a try from first phase off a scrum from the 10m. It feels... A long time (can't be 8 years but still feels it maybe) since that has happened.
I did a leap off the sofa shouting.... not had reason to do much of that over recent years!
Front foot scrum, nice deception, lovely angle , great hands to finish it... Happy days.
Quote:charlieboaQuote:Ali1969
I am sure JVG has someone in mind perhaps ex Scotland International turned International coach Matt Proudfoot? excellent CV and is a scrum specialist and is highly regarded throughout the rugby world and I don't believe he has committed elsewhere since leaving the England set up.
Proudfoot said will stuart has the potential to be the world's best tighthead. May hold some appeal to work with him again.
Be v interested to see who we end up with
Stuart has yet to convince me he is the Prem's best TH after a couple of seasons blighted by injury and a dip in form. The signing of Du Toit seems to have given him a kick up the backside and he's responding thank goodness.
Adopted players: 24/25 J Bayliss; [24] O Lawrence; [23] J Cokanasiga; [22] M Green; [21] A Watson; [20] T Faletau; [19] M V Vuuren; [18] T Faletau; [17] D Denton; [16] H. Agulla; [15] L Houston; [14] W Spencer; [13] F. Louw
Family . Community . Nation - [sdp.org.uk]
My mind's been going places without me lately - Bushfire The B52's
Quote:charlieboaQuote:hasta
Just rewatching the Mojo try again and it makes me so happy to see a Bath team with some creativity and power scoring a try from first phase off a scrum from the 10m. It feels... A long time (can't be 8 years but still feels it maybe) since that has happened.
I did a leap off the sofa shouting.... not had reason to do much of that over recent years!
Front foot scrum, nice deception, lovely angle , great hands to finish it... Happy days.
I was jumping up and down and somewhat confusing my 5yo at Twickenham, I can tell you!
