RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH
Carreras: at 10?
By Rokobilly
December 18 2025
There are – to misquote Benjamin Franklin – three certainties in life: death, taxes and beating Newcastle in the League.The former Falcons may have been invigorated by a can or two of caffeinated energy drink, but their League form has not improved on last year. Played six, lost six is the record in the Prem so far. Matching last year’s tally of two wins is already looking a difficult target to reach. Given Bath’s record this season, it would be easy to write this one off as a foregone conclusion. In fact, the bookies have pretty much done just that. Bath - on Oddschecker (other gambling sites are available) – are currently 1-16 to win a two-horse race…
Those odds look a little unfair to Newcastle. Why? The are two main reasons. Firstly, Newcastle may be beginning to turn a corner and find their feet in the post-Diamond era. Secondly, Bath’s rotation policy and JVG’s stated goal of giving everyone who played in the autumn internationals a week off before Christmas. Let’s deal with the first point. Newcastle have won both their two European Challenge Cup games: away in Lyon and at home to the Lions. I am not expert enough to analyse the specific matchday squads Lyon and the Lions fielded, but these are good results regardless – and winning back to back games, tight games at that, will breed confidence through the club.
New signing Tom Christie – a three time Super Rugby winner with the Crusaders – is playing very well at openside and brings quality, experience and a fresh mindset to Kingston Park. Amanaki Mafi (briefly of this parish) has been carrying hard; Brett Connon is kicking very well from both hand and tee; and Christian Wade has returned to the pitch motivated by becoming the League’s record try scorer. Life on the Tyne might just be looking up. Exactly a year ago we went fully loaded to the North-East and struggled to get ahead in the first half, eventually running out 40-15 winners. We are unlikely to be quite as strong this Sunday and with the Red Bull’s recent improvements might find ourselves in something of a scrap.
A better comparison might be the last time we visited Kingston Park, last year’s Cup Semi-Final. On that occasion, Newcastle led a youthful Bath team with 20 minutes to go before succumbing to a 29-41 defeat. Much will depend on who JVG picks. The players with the most autumn international minutes have all been stood down for a week already, but JVG’s policy means there are others who are now due a rest. On the basis they all played in the AIs and were named to play against Saracens, Munster and Toulon, Finn Russell, Max Ojomoh, Henry Arundell, Charlie Ewels and Thomas Du Toit are all likely to miss the trip this weekend.
With injuries to Will Stuart, Will Muir and Guy Pepper amongst others, it makes for an intriguing selection. JVG will also be very aware that there is a six day turn around to Saints at The Rec in a top of the table clash. The question might just be how much can we rotate without slipping up on this banana skin? Starting with the half-backs, I am expecting Spencer to return and to partner Santi at 10. That suggests TDG will play full-back. No Arundell or Muir means Joe on one wing and an opportunity for someone else on the other. Tylar Offiah or Charlie Griffin perhaps? In the centres, we might see a return of the Harris and Butt combination that started at Sarries. Redpath can cover 10-13 from the bench sitting alongside Carr-Smith as back up 9.
In the pack, I can see a rare start for Van Wyk alongside Tom Dunn and Vilikesa Sela with Verden, Tuipulotu and Griffin on the bench. Let Beno start Christmas early. Richards and Molony in the second row – with Ted Hill covering from the bench; and a back of row of Alfie, Staddon and Bayliss. Green and Reid amongst the replacements. It’s not a Cup Final XV or XXIII but it is still a strong Bath team that mixes experienced internationals with solid first-team squad players and a handful of bright young things. No doubt Newcastle will fancy having a crack at this game and will use any Bath rotation as motivation (the old “They don’t rate us” routine), but for all my talk of banana skins I still think the bookies having got this one right,
The pattern of Newcastle’s home league matches so far this season has been a tight first half, followed by the visitors pulling away in the last quarter. I expect a similar game on Sunday with the likes of Kepu, SuperTed, Green and Reid bringing another level of power and energy from the bench.
A win means we will be top at Christmas for the second year running, and that is something I think we would all celebrate. Win our next two home games against second and third in the league, and we will finish the first half of the season in pole position for a home semi…. but I am getting far too far ahead of myself.
Travel well everyone who is making the trip to Newcastle. I will be watching in the Hop Pole opposite Royal Victoria Park with a festive pint of Bellringer if you fancy joining me.
Merry Christmas everybody and COYB!
RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: Comeonmylovers.co.uk (IP Logged)
Date: 18/12/2025 22:22
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Edited 3 time(s). Last edit at 2025:12:23:14:13:40 by hasta.
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Edited 3 time(s). Last edit at 2025:12:23:14:13:40 by hasta.
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH
Posted by: P G Tips (IP Logged)
Date: 18/12/2025 22:25
Thank you Roko.
I like your thinking but suspect JvG may go stronger. Bath have slipped too many times on that particular Kingston Park banana skin to take the Red Bulls lightly.
I notice you don't mention Sam Underhill - could be just his sort of match.
PG
I like your thinking but suspect JvG may go stronger. Bath have slipped too many times on that particular Kingston Park banana skin to take the Red Bulls lightly.
I notice you don't mention Sam Underhill - could be just his sort of match.
PG
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH
Posted by: Rokobilly (IP Logged)
Date: 18/12/2025 22:31
Thanks PG - I forgot about Sam! He missed Sarries so will almost certainly feature.
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH
Posted by: joethefanatic (IP Logged)
Date: 18/12/2025 23:33
I used to play darts in the Hop Pole c1982. I hit my only ever 180 there.
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH
Posted by: Charlieboa1 (IP Logged)
Date: 19/12/2025 04:34
I think i would go something like:
Tdg
Big joe
Lawrence
Redpath
Offiah
Santi
Spencer
Fvw
Dunn
Sela
Malony
Ewels
Bayliss
Staddon
Green
Bench: kepu, beno, griffin, hill, underhill, tcs, butt, alfie
Hoping Lawrence is fit but have hennessey/ harris/ butt if not.
Not sure if dropping out on the day will count as ewels rest last week.
Tdg
Big joe
Lawrence
Redpath
Offiah
Santi
Spencer
Fvw
Dunn
Sela
Malony
Ewels
Bayliss
Staddon
Green
Bench: kepu, beno, griffin, hill, underhill, tcs, butt, alfie
Hoping Lawrence is fit but have hennessey/ harris/ butt if not.
Not sure if dropping out on the day will count as ewels rest last week.
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH
Posted by: Rokobilly (IP Logged)
Date: 19/12/2025 05:34
Quote:Charlieboa1
Not sure if dropping out on the day will count as ewels rest last week.
From memory JVG said internationals would ger a week's "holiday" which sounded pre-planned, time away with family so I assumed Charlie's late drop didn't count.
Joe - I will see if I can match your top score
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH
Posted by: Barfboy (IP Logged)
Date: 19/12/2025 09:41
Good write up Roko. Enjoyed many an evening in the HP in my student days!
Definitely a balance to be struck with team selection but you know by now any team he picks is more than capable. It'll be a mix of youth and experience no doubt and I think Spencer returns to tell both what to do in absence of Mr Russell.
Like CB1s choices save for Ollie. Would give him an extra week and save the risks associated with artificial pitches. Between Cam, Harris, Hennessey and Butt we should have enough. Actually, one of the latter over Offiah too.
Not expecting a classic but don't think 5 points will be beyond any side selected.
Definitely a balance to be struck with team selection but you know by now any team he picks is more than capable. It'll be a mix of youth and experience no doubt and I think Spencer returns to tell both what to do in absence of Mr Russell.
Like CB1s choices save for Ollie. Would give him an extra week and save the risks associated with artificial pitches. Between Cam, Harris, Hennessey and Butt we should have enough. Actually, one of the latter over Offiah too.
Not expecting a classic but don't think 5 points will be beyond any side selected.
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH
Posted by: theredseat (IP Logged)
Date: 19/12/2025 10:21
Beno was in England camp so is due a week off per JvG's plan so imagine that will be this week so he's good to go for Saints. Think Frost may get a game here as well (either 2 or 16) so Dunn is rested for that one too. No need to send Lawrence to play on a plastic pitch I don't think either. Ewels missing out with an infection last week could mean anything almost so his availability a bit up in the air.
Tough to predict this week but for what it's worth:
van Wyck
Kepu
Griffin
Richards
Molony
Bayliss
Staddon
Green
Spencer
Carreras
Offiah
Redpath
Harris
Cokanasiga
de Glanville
Frost
Kirk
Sela
Hill
Reid
TCS
Butt
Barbeary
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2025:12:19:10:22:09 by theredseat.
Tough to predict this week but for what it's worth:
van Wyck
Kepu
Griffin
Richards
Molony
Bayliss
Staddon
Green
Spencer
Carreras
Offiah
Redpath
Harris
Cokanasiga
de Glanville
Frost
Kirk
Sela
Hill
Reid
TCS
Butt
Barbeary
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2025:12:19:10:22:09 by theredseat.
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH
Posted by: Rawce (IP Logged)
Date: 19/12/2025 10:31
Many a Boules match, Trafalgar Nights and Burns Nights in the Pop Hole! Fun times. Thanks for the write up Roko. There’s no guarantee against a Falcons team that will be improving with every game, so it’ll be cagey.
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH
Posted by: P G Tips (IP Logged)
Date: 19/12/2025 10:40
They will get stronger, but it is our task to show their progress is so far just a loadof Red Bull!😀
PG
PG
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH
Posted by: OutsideBath (IP Logged)
Date: 19/12/2025 10:48
The league is such that no result is a foregone conclusion so will no doubt be a tricky game.
Biggest concern is getting yet more injuries as a result of their pitch.
Biggest concern is getting yet more injuries as a result of their pitch.
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH
Posted by: theredseat (IP Logged)
Date: 19/12/2025 11:52
Bath Rugby: 1 Francois van Wyk, 2 Dan Frost, 3 Archie Griffin, 4 Ewan Richards, 5 Ross Molony, 6 Josh Bayliss, 7 Ethan Staddon, 8 Miles Reid ©, 9 Tom Carr-Smith, 10 Santi Carreras, 11 Louie Hennessey, 12 Will Butt, 13 Chris Harris, 14 Joe Cokanasiga, 15 Tom de Glanville
Replacements: 16 Tom Dunn, 17 Beno Obano, 18 Thomas du Toit, 19 Ted Hill, 20 Sam Underhill, 21 Ben Spencer, 22 Cameron Redpath, 23 Alfie Barbeary
15 Ethan Grayson, 14 Oli Spencer, 13 Alex Hearle, 12 Sammy Arnold, 11 Elliott Obatoyinbo, 10 Brett Connon, 9 Simón Benítez Cruz; 1 Adam Brocklebank, 2 George McGuigan (captain), 3 Murray McCallum, 4 Oscar Usher, 5 Seb de Chaves, 6 Ollie Leatherbarrow, 7 Tom Christie, 8 Amanaki Mafi.
Replacements: 16 Ollie Fletcher, 17 Connor Hancock, 18 Richard Palframan, 19 Finn Baker, 20 Tom Gordon, 21 James Elliott, 22 Boeta Chamberlain, 23 Max Clark.
Replacements: 16 Tom Dunn, 17 Beno Obano, 18 Thomas du Toit, 19 Ted Hill, 20 Sam Underhill, 21 Ben Spencer, 22 Cameron Redpath, 23 Alfie Barbeary
15 Ethan Grayson, 14 Oli Spencer, 13 Alex Hearle, 12 Sammy Arnold, 11 Elliott Obatoyinbo, 10 Brett Connon, 9 Simón Benítez Cruz; 1 Adam Brocklebank, 2 George McGuigan (captain), 3 Murray McCallum, 4 Oscar Usher, 5 Seb de Chaves, 6 Ollie Leatherbarrow, 7 Tom Christie, 8 Amanaki Mafi.
Replacements: 16 Ollie Fletcher, 17 Connor Hancock, 18 Richard Palframan, 19 Finn Baker, 20 Tom Gordon, 21 James Elliott, 22 Boeta Chamberlain, 23 Max Clark.
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH
Posted by: theredseat (IP Logged)
Date: 19/12/2025 11:53
Hard to imagine there's been a stronger bench named in a Prem match than that
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: P G Tips (IP Logged)
Date: 19/12/2025 12:01
Expect Red Bulls to play much of their game off Benitez Cruz & the back row.
PG
PG
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH
Posted by: Barfboy (IP Logged)
Date: 19/12/2025 12:04
Contender for strongest ever bench. Full bomb. Like it.
TCS up against an international 9 for second week in a row. Be another good test for him (with security of Spenny off bench).
Should have enough over the 80. COYB
TCS up against an international 9 for second week in a row. Be another good test for him (with security of Spenny off bench).
Should have enough over the 80. COYB
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH
Posted by: A.M 180 (IP Logged)
Date: 19/12/2025 12:37
There should be more than enough in that 23 to see past a side who have been very poor this season
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: hasta (IP Logged)
Date: 19/12/2025 13:05
That bench is pornographic.
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: gaz59 (IP Logged)
Date: 19/12/2025 13:26
Quote:hasta
That bench is pornographic.
Bench Porn is definitely a term I am going to nick, thank you hasta
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: dr.bath1865 (IP Logged)
Date: 19/12/2025 13:33
Love the fact that the likes of Staddon, Butt, Griffen, TCS, and Hennessey come in and I'm in many respects more excited to see what they can do versus the big guns. A rotated squad a couple of years ago had me hoping for the game to be cancelled (which it sometimes was during Covid).
Shame not to have Diamond's usual pre match team talk... but still think the squad will have enough in the tank to get the job done and keep us top of the tree come Christmas. Would be fun if Sarries beat Exe, and Harlequins could play like that they did last weekend and beat Briz. Away wins for Gloucester and Sale might be too much to ask but you never know in this league.
Hoping for 5 points and we move on with a well rested squad to the big one on the 27th v Saints!
2024/25 adoptee: Guy Pepper
Shame not to have Diamond's usual pre match team talk... but still think the squad will have enough in the tank to get the job done and keep us top of the tree come Christmas. Would be fun if Sarries beat Exe, and Harlequins could play like that they did last weekend and beat Briz. Away wins for Gloucester and Sale might be too much to ask but you never know in this league.
Hoping for 5 points and we move on with a well rested squad to the big one on the 27th v Saints!
2024/25 adoptee: Guy Pepper
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: Kidney Stone (IP Logged)
Date: 19/12/2025 15:20
Looking forward to seeing Griffin against Brocklebank.
Is there 23, the same Max Clarke, previously of our parish? He of flowing locks.
Is there 23, the same Max Clarke, previously of our parish? He of flowing locks.
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: Woodpecker (IP Logged)
Date: 19/12/2025 15:36
Excited to see Santi at 10
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: dcsh (IP Logged)
Date: 19/12/2025 15:42
Quote:Yes, he arrived there mid last season.Kidney Stone
Looking forward to seeing Griffin against Brocklebank.
Is there 23, the same Max Clarke, previously of our parish? He of flowing locks.
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: OutsideBath (IP Logged)
Date: 19/12/2025 16:26
Quote:Woodpecker
Excited to see Santi at 10
Agreed, his skills seem wasted at FB.
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: Susanne (IP Logged)
Date: 19/12/2025 16:53
On our way to Bristol airport to fly up for the match, and very excited by that squad. I'd not be looking forward to facing that bench, especially if we throw them all on at once like last week (although I suspect it'll be more judicious/tactical this time).
And a Lindisfarne gig tomorrow night - great weekend ahead!
And a Lindisfarne gig tomorrow night - great weekend ahead!
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: Treble (IP Logged)
Date: 19/12/2025 17:00
Quote:Susanne
On our way to Bristol airport to fly up for the match, and very excited by that squad. I'd not be looking forward to facing that bench, especially if we throw them all on at once like last week (although I suspect it'll be more judicious/tactical this time).
And a Lindisfarne gig tomorrow night - great weekend ahead!
Saw Lindisfarne in Lancashire recently, it was a great gig. I'd forgotten how many great songs there are in their catalogue. Never been to the RB's stadium but hoping for a spring fixture in future to combine it with a golf trip. Have a good one 🇪🇪
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: hemington (IP Logged)
Date: 19/12/2025 17:01
Hope you're not suggesting to someone to meet me on the corner, we can swing together and then run for home. Enjoy - that'll be a great concert.
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: Susanne (IP Logged)
Date: 19/12/2025 17:34
Quote:hemington
Hope you're not suggesting to someone to meet me on the corner, we can swing together and then run for home. Enjoy - that'll be a great concert.
Just bringing cmonbath back to his Geordie roots - Lindisfarne Christmas party in City Hall's an iconic gig, and, despite being married 30+years I've never been there! Home of much of his mispent youth
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: tigersimon (IP Logged)
Date: 19/12/2025 17:36
Presumably Arundell, Ewels, Finn, Ojomoh rested
Stuart, Pepper, Lawrence, Coetzee on the injured list.
Quinn Roux?
Stuart, Pepper, Lawrence, Coetzee on the injured list.
Quinn Roux?
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: BathRob (IP Logged)
Date: 19/12/2025 17:45
Finn on holiday skiing at the moment - Great use of the wider squad and oh that bench!
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: Widcombe boy (IP Logged)
Date: 19/12/2025 18:25
Quote:SusanneQuote:hemington
Hope you're not suggesting to someone to meet me on the corner, we can swing together and then run for home. Enjoy - that'll be a great concert.
Just bringing cmonbath back to his Geordie roots - Lindisfarne Christmas party in City Hall's an iconic gig, and, despite being married 30+years I've never been there! Home of much of his mispent youth
That will be a special concert Susanne . Only one original in the band now. Alan Hull’s son in law absolutely nails the vocals. Have great weekend
Widcombe Garçon
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: SJS (IP Logged)
Date: 19/12/2025 18:29
Quote:Kidney Stone
Looking forward to seeing Griffin against Brocklebank.
Is there 23, the same Max Clarke, previously of our parish? He of flowing locks.
Also Amanaki Mafi, who if memory serves left after punching either another player or one of the physios at Farleigh…
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: Francis Allen (IP Logged)
Date: 19/12/2025 19:35
Quote:Susanne
On our way to Bristol airport to fly up for the match, and very excited by that squad. I'd not be looking forward to facing that bench, especially if we throw them all on at once like last week (although I suspect it'll be more judicious/tactical this time).
And a Lindisfarne gig tomorrow night - great weekend ahead!
Sounds like a great weekend, really jealous, always enjoyed my Newcastle away trips. Fun City personified with friendly folk. Hopefully no Fog on the Tyne to spoil the view. I'm Sorry Susanne I can't make it, oops, that was The Kinks? I can see it being a tough first half but if we can be outscoring them at 60 minutes the impact players should get an easy ride, they will all be needed fit for the 27th.
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: Mike the Taxi (IP Logged)
Date: 19/12/2025 19:53
Quote:Francis AllenQuote:Susanne
On our way to Bristol airport to fly up for the match, and very excited by that squad. I'd not be looking forward to facing that bench, especially if we throw them all on at once like last week (although I suspect it'll be more judicious/tactical this time).
And a Lindisfarne gig tomorrow night - great weekend ahead!
Sounds like a great weekend, really jealous, always enjoyed my Newcastle away trips. Fun City personified with friendly folk. Hopefully no Fog on the Tyne to spoil the view. I'm Sorry Susanne I can't make it, oops, that was The Kinks? I can see it being a tough first half but if we can be outscoring them at 60 minutes the impact players should get an easy ride, they will all be needed fit for the 27th.
The Hollies
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: Optimist (IP Logged)
Date: 19/12/2025 21:22
Quote:BathRob
Finn on holiday skiing!
Oh god - I wish I hadn’t read that.
We need a Bath own brand for our bomb/Pom squad. If it’s not already, then I guess the wrecking crew’ll do?
-
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: hasta (IP Logged)
Date: 19/12/2025 21:42
Bath bomb. From last season.
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: Bath Supporter Jack (IP Logged)
Date: 19/12/2025 23:21
Sounds a great weekend Susanne!
Hope the rugby is as good as the concert will be!
Hope the rugby is as good as the concert will be!
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: Charlieboa1 (IP Logged)
Date: 20/12/2025 02:28
Agree drbath that'd it's exciting to see how the tringe guys go.
Our management of the likes of kepu, sela, green, hennessey as young prospects has been great over the last few seasons.
Give them targeted games they know they are likely to be involved in but not expecting them to back it up yet week to week to week.
Also managed to get plenty of gsnes into 3rd and 4th choice senior players like griffin, richards, staddon, TCS, butt.
As you say we can now rotate without fear of a definite loss.
Our management of the likes of kepu, sela, green, hennessey as young prospects has been great over the last few seasons.
Give them targeted games they know they are likely to be involved in but not expecting them to back it up yet week to week to week.
Also managed to get plenty of gsnes into 3rd and 4th choice senior players like griffin, richards, staddon, TCS, butt.
As you say we can now rotate without fear of a definite loss.
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: Charlieboa1 (IP Logged)
Date: 20/12/2025 02:32
Quote:tigersimon
Presumably Arundell, Ewels, Finn, Ojomoh rested
Stuart, Pepper, Lawrence, Coetzee on the injured list.
Quinn Roux?
Hopefully just a well earnt rest for quinn given his importance to us.
Always happy to see ewan get a start.
Hoping the 4 rested plus pepper and lawrence will be in the mix for a fully loaded squad to play saints next week.
No idea which backrowers will get the nod!
Liking the delicious to give tcs another go and think he will enjoy playing with santi.
Hennessey on wing is interesting, not many options but great opp for him.
Bench is fairly ludicrous
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: BucksBBandW (IP Logged)
Date: 20/12/2025 11:20
The bench obviously speaks for itself, but seems a nice balance of starters between experience and blending in some younger players - Staddon, Hennessey are hardly complete novices either. Good to see TCS get the start, really important he gets more experience and responsibility at this level. Always good to see Richards get an opportunity to start too. Bit nervous about Finn being off skiing though!
Tom de Glanville - Adopted player 2024-5
Tom de Glanville - Adopted player 2024-5
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: Dorset Boy (IP Logged)
Date: 20/12/2025 11:49
It's very, very unusual for a pro sportsman to be allowed to go skiing.
And it's now Christmas week so plenty of@#$%&skiers who think they can ski like Michela Shriffin flying down the slopes too...
And it's now Christmas week so plenty of@#$%&skiers who think they can ski like Michela Shriffin flying down the slopes too...
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: BathRob (IP Logged)
Date: 20/12/2025 17:48
In fairness there’s no proof of Finn on skis, but he’s certainly on holiday in a ski resort with his family - what’s the worst that could happen? 😉
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: A.M 180 (IP Logged)
Date: 20/12/2025 20:15
I think from his wife's posts, they are safely back home!
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: Bath Supporter Jack (IP Logged)
Date: 21/12/2025 09:54
Phew!!
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: Susanne (IP Logged)
Date: 21/12/2025 14:25
Looking like a reasonable turn out for the BBW at Kingston Park. If the boys play as well today as Lindisfarne did last night we're in for a fun afternoon
Just did the teams - apparently our replacement tight head is Thomas du Toi - gone French and pish
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2025:12:21:14:42:39 by Susanne.
Just did the teams - apparently our replacement tight head is Thomas du Toi - gone French and pish
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2025:12:21:14:42:39 by Susanne.
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: Toast and Marmite (IP Logged)
Date: 21/12/2025 14:46
Really looking forward to watching Santi at Ten
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: Toast and Marmite (IP Logged)
Date: 21/12/2025 14:51
Poor first up tackles. Looks like the usual 20 minutes to warm up
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: Toast and Marmite (IP Logged)
Date: 21/12/2025 15:00
Or maybe just ten minutes
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: bathwickboy (IP Logged)
Date: 21/12/2025 15:05
Does someone need to put some money in the electric meter as the flood lights are really poor?
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: Toast and Marmite (IP Logged)
Date: 21/12/2025 15:14
Think Hennessy too keen..couple of soft penalties from him now
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: Toast and Marmite (IP Logged)
Date: 21/12/2025 15:15
…which has now cost us
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: Toast and Marmite (IP Logged)
Date: 21/12/2025 15:20
Good grief do we need music in every single break in play
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: Toast and Marmite (IP Logged)
Date: 21/12/2025 15:22
Good carry from Griffin.
Liking the ref - telling the players what he expects
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Liking the ref - telling the players what he expects
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: Toast and Marmite (IP Logged)
Date: 21/12/2025 15:25
Ugi spot on about our soft penalties allowing Newcastle in
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: A.M 180 (IP Logged)
Date: 21/12/2025 15:31
Quote:Yes discipline in the last few games has been a bit reminiscent of JVGs first season in charge.Toast and Marmite
Ugi spot on about our soft penalties allowing Newcastle in
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: Toast and Marmite (IP Logged)
Date: 21/12/2025 15:32
Been really poor under the high ball, particularly in supporting the catcher.
Need an injection of energy because this isn’t great so far
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Need an injection of energy because this isn’t great so far
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: Maeght (IP Logged)
Date: 21/12/2025 15:32
Listening on the radio. Newcastle commentators seem to think they are playing against Bath's full strength team.
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: Rokobilly (IP Logged)
Date: 21/12/2025 15:32
Quote:Toast and Marmite
Ugi spot on about our soft penalties allowing Newcastle in
Agree. If we smarten up, keep discipline and improve exits we will be fine. Bomb coming on at 55 minutes?
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: Dorset Boy (IP Logged)
Date: 21/12/2025 15:32
Bit of a frustrating half, not helped by Newcastle playing so, so slowly beween breakdowns in play, and the annoying musak.
Still 3 tries is a positive and the scrums have actually stayed up
Still 3 tries is a positive and the scrums have actually stayed up
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: BeatsWorking (IP Logged)
Date: 21/12/2025 15:34
Currently sat in a storm sheltered bar in the French Alpes (no sign of Finn btw). What a tackle by Joe at the end of the first half there! Oof!
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: A.M 180 (IP Logged)
Date: 21/12/2025 15:39
Raining there now
That probably suits our bench
That probably suits our bench
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: OutsideBath (IP Logged)
Date: 21/12/2025 15:40
Just seen the HT score, not very impressive.
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: Toast and Marmite (IP Logged)
Date: 21/12/2025 15:43
I suspect I am preaching to the choir but by god I hate 4G pitches
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: OutsideBath (IP Logged)
Date: 21/12/2025 15:52
Quote:Toast and Marmite
I suspect I am preaching to the choir but by god I hate 4G pitches
+1
No place for them in top level sport.
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: Toast and Marmite (IP Logged)
Date: 21/12/2025 15:56
I will pay good money for any Bath fan at the ground to go and snip the power to their tannoy system
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: Mike the Taxi (IP Logged)
Date: 21/12/2025 16:00
Try bonus point!
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2025:12:21:16:01:49 by Mike the Taxi.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2025:12:21:16:01:49 by Mike the Taxi.
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: Maeght (IP Logged)
Date: 21/12/2025 16:11
Swapped to Radio Bristol and they seem to have given up actually commentating on the game.
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: Maeght (IP Logged)
Date: 21/12/2025 16:15
Quote:Toast and Marmite
I will pay good money for any Bath fan at the ground to go and snip the power to their tannoy system
All the music playing is ridiculous.
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: Toast and Marmite (IP Logged)
Date: 21/12/2025 16:25
Loving the ref
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: A.M 180 (IP Logged)
Date: 21/12/2025 16:37
I mean, just a solid job all round in the 2nd half
Not sure you can 'impress' against such weak opposition but I honestly don't have much to complain about, expect maybe injury concern around Richards?
Not sure you can 'impress' against such weak opposition but I honestly don't have much to complain about, expect maybe injury concern around Richards?
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: Rokobilly (IP Logged)
Date: 21/12/2025 16:38
Thought the ref was excellent too. Predictable result - tight first half, very one sided second. Loved the Spencer try. Obviously easier to play from deep when you are 20 points up but the awareness and ambition was great to see.
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: OutsideBath (IP Logged)
Date: 21/12/2025 16:46
Score suggests it was much more like it in the second half so job done.. 👍🍺
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: Dorset Boy (IP Logged)
Date: 21/12/2025 17:05
Hamish Smales did a really good job.
Fingers crossed Ewan's ankle is OK, he had a really solid game.
I thought TCS might have had 70 minutes rather than 55.
Nice to be top at Christmas for the third year in a row.
Fingers crossed Ewan's ankle is OK, he had a really solid game.
I thought TCS might have had 70 minutes rather than 55.
Nice to be top at Christmas for the third year in a row.
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: Dorset Boy (IP Logged)
Date: 21/12/2025 17:09
Most points scored and second best defence (Exeter;s is the meanest)
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: Optimist (IP Logged)
Date: 21/12/2025 17:27
Quote:Dorset Boy
I thought TCS might have had 70 minutes rather than 55.
Agreed. I’d like to have seen as many as possible of the fringe players given as long as possible, given the scoreline at 50 mins, and the safety net of the bench. Learning how to close games out is an important skill to learn too.
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: Francis Allen (IP Logged)
Date: 21/12/2025 17:35
Great post match interview from Sam Underhill. A fine insight into what is expected of every squad member. Today's win was testament to the way JVG is managing the season.
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: OutsideBath (IP Logged)
Date: 21/12/2025 17:43
BBC reporting that our first half display was disjointed. Any thoughts from anyone who watched the game?
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: Mini Maximus (IP Logged)
Date: 21/12/2025 17:46
That wasn't out most convincing performance, but we'll take 50 points on the road with heavy rotation any day.
A few things that caught my eye...
1. Kicking game, especially in the first half, wasn't great. I expect someone will find a stat that contradicts this, but I think we get a better return when we carry up the middle and then go wide
2. Frost had his best game in a Bath shirt – his lineout darts were good and it wasn't as clean when Dunny came on
3. TCS can be a bit cautious getting the ball away from the ruck – that extra 0.5 seconds matters at elite level. Hopefully he'll get faster as he gets more game time/experience.
4. Spencer's try was the slickest our backline has looked this season – you obviously have to earn the right to go wide, but I think we could back ourselves more from deep
A few things that caught my eye...
1. Kicking game, especially in the first half, wasn't great. I expect someone will find a stat that contradicts this, but I think we get a better return when we carry up the middle and then go wide
2. Frost had his best game in a Bath shirt – his lineout darts were good and it wasn't as clean when Dunny came on
3. TCS can be a bit cautious getting the ball away from the ruck – that extra 0.5 seconds matters at elite level. Hopefully he'll get faster as he gets more game time/experience.
4. Spencer's try was the slickest our backline has looked this season – you obviously have to earn the right to go wide, but I think we could back ourselves more from deep
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: gaz59 (IP Logged)
Date: 21/12/2025 17:57
Quote:OutsideBath
BBC reporting that our first half display was disjointed. Any thoughts from anyone who watched the game?
it was a fairly ropey first 20 mins
Two separate errors to gift turnover and Connor put in two deep return kicks that took wicked bounce on that orible pitch to catch out our defence but their chase was very good to give them two tries
Didn't make same mistakes after that and some of our attack was irrepressible and impressive
Have to say that Mafi was very good for the time he was on
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: Susanne (IP Logged)
Date: 21/12/2025 18:17
Quote:Francis Allen
Great post match interview from Sam Underhill. A fine insight into what is expected of every squad member. Today's win was testament to the way JVG is managing the season.
Anyone got a link to that?
Agree about the ref - he was clearly taking no nonsense from the start but was happy to let the players get on with the game. Only problem for me was that ref link at Kingston Park had ref and commentary on the same channel.
And as for the PA/music - if you thought it was bad on TV, you should have tried it sitting under a speaker 😱
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: A.M 180 (IP Logged)
Date: 21/12/2025 18:37
Seems like impeccable timing for our next two games to be against the clubs immediately below us, and at home
If we're going to continue with the high ball approach, we have to be on the money against Saints because they showed at the Gardens last season how easy they can open us up when we give them space in the middle of the park
If we're going to continue with the high ball approach, we have to be on the money against Saints because they showed at the Gardens last season how easy they can open us up when we give them space in the middle of the park
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: View from the North (IP Logged)
Date: 21/12/2025 18:40
On way back North after my ‘local fixture’ for Bath.
Once we stopped giving away silly penalties and dropping balls there was really only one result.
The last 30 had Cam Redpath at 10 and SC on the wing on first phase attack. Lot of fluidity in positioning thereafter between phases in attack and defence and conversations when on first phase defence. TdG on left wing at points.
No disrespect to Newcastle but I expect they were using this as a live opportunity to try a ‘what if FR gets injured in a match’ scenario, and SC is not on the pitch. Bench was like a bulldozer, and Newcastle were out on their feet.
And yes, the music was ridiculously regular when ‘time off’ was called, and ridiculously loud, but it seems to be going that way, unfortunately.
Over 10,000 there so a good day for the coffers at KP on what was a pretty grim afternoon weather-wise.
Once we stopped giving away silly penalties and dropping balls there was really only one result.
The last 30 had Cam Redpath at 10 and SC on the wing on first phase attack. Lot of fluidity in positioning thereafter between phases in attack and defence and conversations when on first phase defence. TdG on left wing at points.
No disrespect to Newcastle but I expect they were using this as a live opportunity to try a ‘what if FR gets injured in a match’ scenario, and SC is not on the pitch. Bench was like a bulldozer, and Newcastle were out on their feet.
And yes, the music was ridiculously regular when ‘time off’ was called, and ridiculously loud, but it seems to be going that way, unfortunately.
Over 10,000 there so a good day for the coffers at KP on what was a pretty grim afternoon weather-wise.
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: BathMatt53 (IP Logged)
Date: 21/12/2025 19:53
Excellent result. Scrum looked solid and lineoout also generally went well. A couple of the Bath tries looked forward to my eyes but it wouldn't have made a difference to the end result. Look forward to Newcastle being competitive in the Prem once again in the next season or 2. Good run out for the wider squad and hope that not too many of them picked up knocks.
Merry Christmas one and all!
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Merry Christmas one and all!
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: Bath Supporter Jack (IP Logged)
Date: 21/12/2025 21:42
Brilliant interview with Sam Underhill very articulate and clear...
I thought TCS kicking was better.....than last time out
I thought TCS kicking was better.....than last time out
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: gaz59 (IP Logged)
Date: 21/12/2025 21:55
[quote Bath Supporter Jack]Brilliant interview with Sam Underhill very articulate and clear...
/quote]
It was so good, wasn't it
/quote]
It was so good, wasn't it
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: theredseat (IP Logged)
Date: 21/12/2025 21:59
I think sometimes you just need to go and get a job done and today was one of those days. First period was pretty messy but we never looked in great trouble and the max points always seemed on the cards
On to the next one which is a big one so hopefully we have everyone we need unscathed and ready to take on Saints
On to the next one which is a big one so hopefully we have everyone we need unscathed and ready to take on Saints
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: gaz59 (IP Logged)
Date: 21/12/2025 22:11
Quote:View from the North
On way back North after my ‘local fixture’ for Bath.
The last 30 had Cam Redpath at 10 and SC on the wing on first phase attack.
Are you really sure on that one? 🤔🤣
I'm watching it for second time and Santi sure ain't out the wing
For example on 65 mins it is Carreras that takes it from Spencer from the breakdown after a lineout steal. He feeds Underhill for a barnstorming run
Cam is way behind the play
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: hasta (IP Logged)
Date: 21/12/2025 22:36
Quote:SusanneQuote:Francis Allen
Great post match interview from Sam Underhill. A fine insight into what is expected of every squad member. Today's win was testament to the way JVG is managing the season.
Anyone got a link to that?
Agree about the ref - he was clearly taking no nonsense from the start but was happy to let the players get on with the game. Only problem for me was that ref link at Kingston Park had ref and commentary on the same channel.
And as for the PA/music - if you thought it was bad on TV, you should have tried it sitting under a speaker 😱
If you go to the match on the Discovery plus app it's right at the end. Well worth seeking out.
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: CoochieCoo (IP Logged)
Date: 21/12/2025 23:07
Spencer’s try was after 7 passes from our 22. Wonderful exhibition rugby.
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: Charlieboa1 (IP Logged)
Date: 22/12/2025 06:02
Quote:gaz59Quote:View from the North
On way back North after my ‘local fixture’ for Bath.
The last 30 had Cam Redpath at 10 and SC on the wing on first phase attack.
Are you really sure on that one? 🤔🤣
I'm watching it for second time and Santi sure ain't out the wing
For example on 65 mins it is Carreras that takes it from Spencer from the breakdown after a lineout steal. He feeds Underhill for a barnstorming run
Cam is way behind the play
Wasn't it redpath at 10, santi at 15 and tdg on the wing?
Looked all quite fluid tbf so not too sure it mattered!
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: Charlieboa1 (IP Logged)
Date: 22/12/2025 06:06
Good win from a largely second string team.
Agree with the commentators that newcastle may need a few seasons to be up there challenging but we shall see.
Hope richards is OK, another nearly try for him after similar in toulon- some athlete!
Imagine the likes of roux, ewels, pepper (if fit), finn, lawrence (if fit), arundell will come back in for saints.
Pleased for dan frost- best game back with us
Agree with the commentators that newcastle may need a few seasons to be up there challenging but we shall see.
Hope richards is OK, another nearly try for him after similar in toulon- some athlete!
Imagine the likes of roux, ewels, pepper (if fit), finn, lawrence (if fit), arundell will come back in for saints.
Pleased for dan frost- best game back with us
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: copester (IP Logged)
Date: 22/12/2025 07:17
Quote:Charlieboa1
Good win from a largely second string team.
Agree with the commentators that newcastle may need a few seasons to be up there challenging but we shall see.
Hope richards is OK, another nearly try for him after similar in toulon- some athlete!
Imagine the likes of roux, ewels, pepper (if fit), finn, lawrence (if fit), arundell will come back in for saints.
Pleased for dan frost- best game back with us
Agree about Frost, infact the starting front row all had good games. Again Miles Reid excellent. The next 2 weeks will be interesting. The styles of Saints and Chiefs couldnt be wider. Im sure JVG will pick squads with this in mind.
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: Shadders (IP Logged)
Date: 22/12/2025 07:40
Sam Underhill auditioning for a future pundit role, but I suspect he’s got higher expectations when he retires - perhaps he’s just giving himself options!
Funny how just a few insights articulated well makes such an interview stand out. Do the players (from all teams) get coached to just give the same statements (“it wasn’t me, it was the boys” stuff).
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2025:12:22:09:51:50 by Shadders.
Funny how just a few insights articulated well makes such an interview stand out. Do the players (from all teams) get coached to just give the same statements (“it wasn’t me, it was the boys” stuff).
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2025:12:22:09:51:50 by Shadders.
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: BathRob (IP Logged)
Date: 22/12/2025 09:10
A word for Louis Hennessy as well IMO - he gave a daft penalty away which speaks to his years, but some of the runs he made were excellent, he always looked for work, and was visible throughout which is a big compliment. He’s got to iron out a few things, but he’s going to be some player at wing or centre!
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: joethefanatic (IP Logged)
Date: 22/12/2025 09:16
Finally watched the match (its been a long day of family parties). Not the most convincing display ever but we scored 50 points (which seems a strange thing to say) but that length of the field try was an absolute peach. Up with that sort of thing. But we are going to have to play a lot better than that to beat Saints. I thought Santi played well in conditions that really didn't suit his strengths, TdG was excellent and Staddon and Richards are looking increasingly at home in the Prem but...
My MotM - Moe. Everything, everywhere, all of the time. A total nause - just what you want from your 8 on a cold, foggy evening at Kingston Park.
A word for the ref. Good. No nonsense, made the right decisions in good time without unnecessary TMO referrals and didn't take any back chat. Hamish Smales is maturing into a very effective ref.
... IMHO, of course.
Now in Honolulu
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2025:12:22:09:22:47 by joethefanatic.
My MotM - Moe. Everything, everywhere, all of the time. A total nause - just what you want from your 8 on a cold, foggy evening at Kingston Park.
A word for the ref. Good. No nonsense, made the right decisions in good time without unnecessary TMO referrals and didn't take any back chat. Hamish Smales is maturing into a very effective ref.
... IMHO, of course.
Now in Honolulu
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2025:12:22:09:22:47 by joethefanatic.
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: tigersimon (IP Logged)
Date: 22/12/2025 09:42
I find myself agreeing with Monye - send for the men in white coats!!
Hamish calls back Cruz for not taking the quick penalty from the mark (he was close to it) but every kicker steals 4/5 yards!!
If you want exciting play let it go, if it’s close or penalise the kickers for not taking it from the mark!
Swales irritates me!!
Hamish calls back Cruz for not taking the quick penalty from the mark (he was close to it) but every kicker steals 4/5 yards!!
If you want exciting play let it go, if it’s close or penalise the kickers for not taking it from the mark!
Swales irritates me!!
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: Dorset Boy (IP Logged)
Date: 22/12/2025 09:50
Cruz was well in front of the mark, that's the issue.
If he was behind the mark then you and Ugo would have a point.
I do think the ARs should knock a few metres off where the ball goes into touch when the kickers steal a few metres though.
If he was behind the mark then you and Ugo would have a point.
I do think the ARs should knock a few metres off where the ball goes into touch when the kickers steal a few metres though.
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: tigersimon (IP Logged)
Date: 22/12/2025 10:06
Quote:Dorset Boy
Cruz was well in front of the mark, that's the issue.
If he was behind the mark then you and Ugo would have a point.
I do think the ARs should knock a few metres off where the ball goes into touch when the kickers steal a few metres though.
Without rewatching was he that far in front?
Then compare to how much yardage kickers steal!
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: dr.bath1865 (IP Logged)
Date: 22/12/2025 10:40
Really enjoyed that performance. Ok, first 40 we might have been a tad disjointed, but I thought Newc were good and very aggressive. I can see them beating a team or two by the end of the season, especially if they can add a couple more players like the 7 and 9.
We were very clinical in the second half. I love the cliches- the 'stick to our process' stuff. Underhill was almost laughing in his interview at how boring it sounds but the way we play is so effective, with now 30 players slotting into the on-field XV. I thought lesser-sung guys like VV, Bayliss, Harris, TDG put in near faultless performances.
Anyone else fast forwarded on the replay this morning to the moment of the match when... JVG unleashed the WHOLE bench? Never re-watched substitutions before but seeing us deploy the bomb squad or whatever (it's "the bench" according to Underhill!) is so cool. It sums up what Bruce and JVG have been building these past few years. Bristol are threatening, Leicester and Sarries hard to beat, Saints quality and classy side, Exeter a bit on unknown... but none of them have that firepower.
2024/25 adoptee: Guy Pepper
We were very clinical in the second half. I love the cliches- the 'stick to our process' stuff. Underhill was almost laughing in his interview at how boring it sounds but the way we play is so effective, with now 30 players slotting into the on-field XV. I thought lesser-sung guys like VV, Bayliss, Harris, TDG put in near faultless performances.
Anyone else fast forwarded on the replay this morning to the moment of the match when... JVG unleashed the WHOLE bench? Never re-watched substitutions before but seeing us deploy the bomb squad or whatever (it's "the bench" according to Underhill!) is so cool. It sums up what Bruce and JVG have been building these past few years. Bristol are threatening, Leicester and Sarries hard to beat, Saints quality and classy side, Exeter a bit on unknown... but none of them have that firepower.
2024/25 adoptee: Guy Pepper
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: Dorset Boy (IP Logged)
Date: 22/12/2025 11:10
I thought he was in front of the referee at the time.
It's also a dynamic situation as opposed to a static one with the kick to touch.
Steal 3 metres with a quick tap, when are the defence allowed to smash you?
It is annoying it the referee calls them back because they've taken the tap 3m to the side of the mark I agree.
It's also a dynamic situation as opposed to a static one with the kick to touch.
Steal 3 metres with a quick tap, when are the defence allowed to smash you?
It is annoying it the referee calls them back because they've taken the tap 3m to the side of the mark I agree.
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: BathMatt53 (IP Logged)
Date: 22/12/2025 11:27
Quote:tigersimon
Without rewatching was he that far in front?
Then compare to how much yardage kickers steal!
'Two wrongs' etc.
As a (now former) ref 2 things really annoyed me because they were so simple for the player to get right and so obviously going to be seen. I always got a few of these in early...
1) Not taking on (or within a 1 or 2m) of the mark - in front is obviously worse than behind;
2) Related to that is players not giving the ball back:
20.15 The opposing team may not do anything to delay the kick or obstruct the kicker, including intentionally taking, throwing or kicking the ball out of reach of the team awarded the penalty.
If you want a quicker game, then make the attacker take it at the right spot, but start penalising teams if the penalised team does something to delay the taking of the pen.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: Bath Hammer (IP Logged)
Date: 22/12/2025 11:30
Quote:dr.bath1865
Really enjoyed that performance. Ok, first 40 we might have been a tad disjointed, but I thought Newc were good and very aggressive. I can see them beating a team or two by the end of the season, especially if they can add a couple more players like the 7 and 9.
We were very clinical in the second half. I love the cliches- the 'stick to our process' stuff. Underhill was almost laughing in his interview at how boring it sounds but the way we play is so effective, with now 30 players slotting into the on-field XV. I thought lesser-sung guys like VV, Bayliss, Harris, TDG put in near faultless performances.
Anyone else fast forwarded on the replay this morning to the moment of the match when... JVG unleashed the WHOLE bench? Never re-watched substitutions before but seeing us deploy the bomb squad or whatever (it's "the bench" according to Underhill!) is so cool. It sums up what Bruce and JVG have been building these past few years. Bristol are threatening, Leicester and Sarries hard to beat, Saints quality and classy side, Exeter a bit on unknown... but none of them have that firepower.
I don’t want to sound boring but isn’t it safer to leave one player on the bench to cover a potential injury as they were quite early substitutions.
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: BathMatt53 (IP Logged)
Date: 22/12/2025 11:51
Quote:Bath Hammer
I don’t want to sound boring but isn’t it safer to leave one player on the bench to cover a potential injury as they were quite early substitutions.
Given that the result wasn't really in doubt I guess they wanted to try it, but yes a (non head) injury or two and it would have been interesting. They won't be doing it against Saints I'm sure.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: dr.bath1865 (IP Logged)
Date: 22/12/2025 12:19
Yeh I don't think we'd do it in the semi or final, but it was a statement, and an experiment, like the 7-1 bench. We rely on Spencer for SO much, but I think another reason why TCS only tends to play less than 5 minutes is to provide that insurance policy when we unload 5, 6 or 7 of our bench in one go.
I also thought Underhill's comment that in many respects it's easier to make an impact from the bench when you come on as a unit was interesting. Swapping Staddon for Underhill means Underhill feels he needs to go and make a big impact. But swapping 5/6 forwards for 5/6 forwards feels like almost the start of a new match. Of course, you need the squad depth of SA or Bath to do it properly, but swapping units seems to maximise impact both in terms of phycology and game play.
2024/25 adoptee: Guy Pepper
I also thought Underhill's comment that in many respects it's easier to make an impact from the bench when you come on as a unit was interesting. Swapping Staddon for Underhill means Underhill feels he needs to go and make a big impact. But swapping 5/6 forwards for 5/6 forwards feels like almost the start of a new match. Of course, you need the squad depth of SA or Bath to do it properly, but swapping units seems to maximise impact both in terms of phycology and game play.
2024/25 adoptee: Guy Pepper
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: Mike the Taxi (IP Logged)
Date: 22/12/2025 13:22
Player Ratings :- [www.somersetlive.co.uk]
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: Woodpecker (IP Logged)
Date: 22/12/2025 13:26
Quote:Mike the Taxi
Player Ratings :- [www.somersetlive.co.uk]
Bath Rugby player ratings from Newcastle Falcons win - 'Taking his opportunity'
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: Rawce (IP Logged)
Date: 22/12/2025 21:48
Quote:This. Newcastle deserve a lot of credit for the way they dominated the number of 22 visits in the first half. Only a few were daft penalties from us. When they start converting those chances, the wins will come.dr.bath1865
Really enjoyed that performance. Ok, first 40 we might have been a tad disjointed, but I thought Newc were good and very aggressive. I can see them beating a team or two by the end of the season, especially if they can add a couple more players like the 7 and 9. .
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: gaz59 (IP Logged)
Date: 23/12/2025 11:50
Quote:Mike the Taxi
Player Ratings :- [www.somersetlive.co.uk]
Interesting that most of those ratings have been upgraded by 1 since I first saw the article. Apart from TCS who is still a 6 that I reckon is harsh. He didn't do anything wrong that I saw and his distribution was pretty quick and accurate. Obviously he is not at Ben's level but still, for me, that was a sound 7 performance
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: bathwickboy (IP Logged)
Date: 23/12/2025 13:48
Just curious from a logistics standpoint for this fixture far from home, do the side fly up to Newcastle on a charter flight or maybe there are scheduled flights from Bristol, or do they make the long journey by coach with necessary hotel stays?
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: Bath Supporter Jack (IP Logged)
Date: 23/12/2025 16:05
I think Newcastle were better and more together than I expected in the last quarter of the season they are going to come together even more.
I am glad we have got the away fixture out of the way.
They may still be bottom at the end of the season but they will pick up points
I am glad we have got the away fixture out of the way.
They may still be bottom at the end of the season but they will pick up points
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: Francis Allen (IP Logged)
Date: 23/12/2025 16:47
Quote:bathwickboy
Just curious from a logistics standpoint for this fixture far from home, do the side fly up to Newcastle on a charter flight or maybe there are scheduled flights from Bristol, or do they make the long journey by coach with necessary hotel stays?
There are scheduled flights from Bristol although not on most Saturdays. I've flown them before on the morning of the game but not seen any of the team, presumable they go a day earlier or use a charter. Unless you drive up and back the same day which I did once, most trips involve an overnight stay. I once caught a midnight National Express back to Bristol changing at Birmingham but it took 10 hours. The flights are much cheaper than the train fares and are the best option in my opinion. I would recommend Newcastle for an away trip, great hospitality, enjoyable City.
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: BathMatt53 (IP Logged)
Date: 10/06/2026 11:05
Quote:OutsideBathQuote:Toast and Marmite
I suspect I am preaching to the choir but by god I hate 4G pitches
+1
No place for them in top level sport.
Interesting article here:
[www.planetrugby.com]
The argument that the technology is fixed has run out of road. From 17 October 2031, the European Union’s REACH regulation prohibits the sale of granular polymer infill containing microplastics for synthetic sports surfaces. Existing pitches can complete their working life, but no new synthetic surface installed across the EU after October 2031 will use the rubber-tyre crumb that has been the industry standard since the 1990s...
....The black-tyre crumb that sits in the surfaces at Saracens and Newcastle is no longer the only option, no longer the best one, and from October 2031 will not be a buyable option for new installations across European rugby’s principal markets.
I see from the NRB site that Kingston Park is currently being relaid so presumably thats with one of these next gen plastic pitch surfaces.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: shipwrecked (IP Logged)
Date: 10/06/2026 11:26
Quote:BathMatt53Quote:OutsideBathQuote:Toast and Marmite
I suspect I am preaching to the choir but by god I hate 4G pitches
+1
No place for them in top level sport.
Interesting article here:
[www.planetrugby.com]
The argument that the technology is fixed has run out of road. From 17 October 2031, the European Union’s REACH regulation prohibits the sale of granular polymer infill containing microplastics for synthetic sports surfaces. Existing pitches can complete their working life, but no new synthetic surface installed across the EU after October 2031 will use the rubber-tyre crumb that has been the industry standard since the 1990s...
....The black-tyre crumb that sits in the surfaces at Saracens and Newcastle is no longer the only option, no longer the best one, and from October 2031 will not be a buyable option for new installations across European rugby’s principal markets.
I see from the NRB site that Kingston Park is currently being relaid so presumably thats with one of these next gen plastic pitch surfaces.
Interesting that Tom Willis’ departure from Saracens seems to be partly driven by their pitch. Surely NRB would want the best pitch available? On another note, why would any rugby player want to go to club that has a reason for a synthetic pitch being that it has to accommodate frozen ground?
Wouldn't you just install a hybrid pitch with underground heating if money were no object.
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: Dan Wiley (IP Logged)
Date: 10/06/2026 11:27
I don't think it will change much. They'll have to rip them up in about 10 years anyway but I think they are already looking at organic replacements, they cost a bit more (about £100k) but for a pro club I can't see that being a barrier.
I've mixed opinion on them. The ideal would be to have a Twickenham-esk advanced grass surface. I can see that's not possible everywhere including pro clubs.
I like the foibles of a grassroots level grass pitch, but in a prop game should that still exist? I feel like for a pro game you should be trying to get as close to this idealized surfaces as possible.
For grassroot rugby I can see why they are a godsend, at least in terms of allowing play to continue. Can a grassroots clubs afford the £400k rather than £300k that the replacement will cost? If I'm honest I'm not sure how clubs will find the £300k so I guess it will be through some form of external funding regardless.
I've mixed opinion on them. The ideal would be to have a Twickenham-esk advanced grass surface. I can see that's not possible everywhere including pro clubs.
I like the foibles of a grassroots level grass pitch, but in a prop game should that still exist? I feel like for a pro game you should be trying to get as close to this idealized surfaces as possible.
For grassroot rugby I can see why they are a godsend, at least in terms of allowing play to continue. Can a grassroots clubs afford the £400k rather than £300k that the replacement will cost? If I'm honest I'm not sure how clubs will find the £300k so I guess it will be through some form of external funding regardless.
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: BathMatt53 (IP Logged)
Date: 10/06/2026 12:08
Quote:Dan Wiley
The ideal would be to have a Twickenham-esk advanced grass surface. I can see that's not possible everywhere including pro clubs.
Doesn't the Rec have a Desso GrassMaster pitch (the same as HQ) these days?
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: BathMatt53 (IP Logged)
Date: 10/06/2026 12:10
Quote:Dan Wiley
I don't think it will change much. They'll have to rip them up in about 10 years anyway but I think they are already looking at organic replacements, they cost a bit more (about £100k) but for a pro club I can't see that being a barrier.
I've mixed opinion on them. The ideal would be to have a Twickenham-esk advanced grass surface. I can see that's not possible everywhere including pro clubs.
I like the foibles of a grassroots level grass pitch, but in a prop game should that still exist? I feel like for a pro game you should be trying to get as close to this idealized surfaces as possible.
For grassroot rugby I can see why they are a godsend, at least in terms of allowing play to continue. Can a grassroots clubs afford the £400k rather than £300k that the replacement will cost? If I'm honest I'm not sure how clubs will find the £300k so I guess it will be through some form of external funding regardless.
Yes most (all?) of the plastic pitches around this area are either installed and owned by the RFU (for 20 years?) like Chppenham, North Bristol, Bernadettes, Hornets etc. or funded by developers (like Dings swanky facility I think but may be wrong).
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: shipwrecked (IP Logged)
Date: 10/06/2026 12:32
Pretty sure Dings is grass Matt.
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: BathMatt53 (IP Logged)
Date: 10/06/2026 12:52
Quote:shipwrecked
Pretty sure Dings is grass Matt.
They have a grass pitch around the back but the main one in the stands at Shaftesbury Park is plastic (I watched my sons play on it in recent years).
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: WasBBWBaaBaa (IP Logged)
Date: 10/06/2026 13:07
I don't think it will change much. They'll have to rip them up in about 10 years anyway but I think they are already looking at organic replacements, they cost a bit more (about £100k) but for a pro club I can't see that being a barrier.
I've mixed opinion on them. The ideal would be to have a Twickenham-esk advanced grass surface. I can see that's not possible everywhere including pro clubs.
I like the foibles of a grassroots level grass pitch, but in a prop game should that still exist? I feel like for a pro game you should be trying to get as close to this idealized surfaces as possible.
For grassroot rugby I can see why they are a godsend, at least in terms of allowing play to continue. Can a grassroots clubs afford the £400k rather than £300k that the replacement will cost? If I'm honest I'm not sure how clubs will find the £300k so I guess it will be through some form of external funding regardless.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
For what its worth - I really dislike them !
At grassroots level they are brilliant for all-weather training, but when you visit a club which has grass in good condition next to one of those pitches, and the grass is never used despite being available.........
Sadly visiting players always return home with extra grazes and knocks.
I've mixed opinion on them. The ideal would be to have a Twickenham-esk advanced grass surface. I can see that's not possible everywhere including pro clubs.
I like the foibles of a grassroots level grass pitch, but in a prop game should that still exist? I feel like for a pro game you should be trying to get as close to this idealized surfaces as possible.
For grassroot rugby I can see why they are a godsend, at least in terms of allowing play to continue. Can a grassroots clubs afford the £400k rather than £300k that the replacement will cost? If I'm honest I'm not sure how clubs will find the £300k so I guess it will be through some form of external funding regardless.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
For what its worth - I really dislike them !
At grassroots level they are brilliant for all-weather training, but when you visit a club which has grass in good condition next to one of those pitches, and the grass is never used despite being available.........
Sadly visiting players always return home with extra grazes and knocks.
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: Dan Wiley (IP Logged)
Date: 10/06/2026 13:09
Dings definitely have an AGP, but I think you're right it isn't an RFU one. Don't the RFU ones become the clubs problem/asset after that 20 years? So they'll have to fund he next generation of pitch if required.
If the rec is Desso then it doesn't hold up as well HQ, though better than it has in the past, I suspect because of the amount of rugby and the amount of water, and less money spent on it. I believe the RFU spend about £500k on the surface at Twickenham each year. If we're doing that, get and AGP and spend that every ten years.
If the rec is Desso then it doesn't hold up as well HQ, though better than it has in the past, I suspect because of the amount of rugby and the amount of water, and less money spent on it. I believe the RFU spend about £500k on the surface at Twickenham each year. If we're doing that, get and AGP and spend that every ten years.
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: BathMatt53 (IP Logged)
Date: 10/06/2026 13:16
Quote:Dan Wiley
Don't the RFU ones become the clubs problem/asset after that 20 years? So they'll have to fund he next generation of pitch if required.
Yes thats what I understood having looked at them in the past.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: Dan Wiley (IP Logged)
Date: 10/06/2026 13:35
Quote:WasBBWBaaBaa
For what its worth - I really dislike them !
Is it just the injuries or is it more than that?
I like a rugby pitch with character, but I don't hate ones that don't have it or are perfectly kept through whatever means. I think fairly low level injuries are a factor, and I'd say infections seem to be the worst of it. Otherwise, in terms of injury, would I rather play on grass? Nov-Feb, definitely. Sept, April, May definitely not. March and October it depends on the weather.
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: BathMatt53 (IP Logged)
Date: 10/06/2026 13:50
Quote:Dan Wiley
[ I'd say infections seem to be the worst of it.
Yes the burns which weep, stick you to the bedsheets and take quite a while to heal, are pretty unpleasant.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: WasBBWBaaBaa (IP Logged)
Date: 10/06/2026 14:47
"Yes the burns which weep, stick you to the bedsheets and take quite a while to heal, are pretty unpleasant."
Exactly that Matt!
Exactly that Matt!
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: shipwrecked (IP Logged)
Date: 10/06/2026 18:44
Quote:BathMatt53Quote:Dan Wiley
[ I'd say infections seem to be the worst of it.
Yes the burns which weep, stick you to the bedsheets and take quite a while to heal, are pretty unpleasant.
Quote:WasBBWBaaBaa
"Yes the burns which weep, stick you to the bedsheets and take quite a while to heal, are pretty unpleasant."
Exactly that Matt!
I've got scars on both knees the size of golf balls from those pitches, plus I made the mistake of playing with nylon track suit bottoms thinking they would protect my knees, slid into the corner flat out and they melted onto my knees! Needed local anaesthetic to get my track suit bottoms off!
I hate them!!!!
Re: RED BULLS & BANANA SKINS: NEWCASTLE V BATH. Team Up
Posted by: Dan Wiley (IP Logged)
Date: 11/06/2026 08:32
On a 3G surface? Wearing skins i usually find gives decent protection, i dont think I've seen any injuries as a result of them? i appreciate not everyone wants to wear them but it's a choice.
I find playing contact rugby on them less of a problem, it seems like you go to ground and stick rather than slide, i guess there's usually a lot more weight involved. Maybe you're just more aware you're going to hit the ground a lot. Football and touch it feels like you go to ground rarely but when you do you're trying to slide.
I find playing contact rugby on them less of a problem, it seems like you go to ground and stick rather than slide, i guess there's usually a lot more weight involved. Maybe you're just more aware you're going to hit the ground a lot. Football and touch it feels like you go to ground rarely but when you do you're trying to slide.
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