Maynard encouraged by Coventry's fighting spirit

RUGBY director Phil Maynard is happy that Coventry’s battling display in Saturday’s 40-15 British & Irish Cup defeat at Bristol has given him a few more headaches. A side showing ten changes from the midweek starting line-up against Doncaster gave Bristol plenty to think about, particularly in a dominant first-half, with a number of players pressing their claims for a regular place.

“It was a lot better performance all round,” said Maynard, “and it has given us a few things to think about in selection.

“I thought we were about there with our best combination, but the lads who stepped in did really well and there were some very good performances.

“Aaron Carpenter had the best game he has played for us all season, no question, and both second rows played well.

“I was definitely more encouraged by it and if it has created a headache, it is a more positive one.

“In the first half we played some of the best rugby we have produced all year, and although we seem to be able to conjure up lots of ways to lose by 25 or 30 points, I think the scoreline did flatter Bristol.”

* Coventry and Birmingham & Solihull will appear before an RFU disciplinary panel on Thursday to answer disrepute charges.

Both clubs have charged with an offence of conduct prejudicial to the interests of the RFU and the game relating to a mass brawl during the closing stages of their Championship game at the Butts Park Arena on February 5.

The hearing is set for the Coventry M6 Holiday inn Hotel.