LEICESTER TIGERS v SARACENS: post match related comment here


By The Saracens
March 28 2025

A big talking point ahead of this game is the huge difference in form. Leicester are coming into this match having nilled their bitter east-midlands rivals Northampton 33-0 in their own ‘back gardens’ so to speak, whereas sarries put in (barring the first 20 minutes or so) a very underwhelming performance against Quins and didn’t take a single point from their big day out at Spurs. Both teams will no doubt be going through struggles with the mandatory rest period for internationals. Given Leicester have to travel away to Glasgow and us to Toulon in the champions cup, I very much doubt Leicester would prioritise the champions cup where an away win is unlikely and they will likely choose to rest their internationals then. The same I reckon ill be true for us. The Mayol is a fierce place to play at the best of times and, even if we do win, the result of that will be an away trip to the other team with Tou in their name – Toulouse. That is unless Munster can pull off a miracle and beat them at the Ernest Wallon. Put quite simply, this game for us is a must win. We sit 7th but remarkably only 2 points off the play-off spots. With another loss this weekend with 0BP’s, we could fall 5 points (or more) away from the playoffs with only a handful of games left.

Leicester – physicality and brute force

Leicester have had a topsy turvy old season. From getting absolutely obliterated by Toulouse, to then hammering Northampton twice. Its fair to say they have come out fighting at the business end of the season and were hugely impressive vs Northampton recently. The hugely noticeable factors were as follows:

-Forwards battle – Leicester outclassed Northampton’s forwards in nearly all aspects of the game. The only noticeable exception to this was Henry Pollocl, but then need I say anymore when he’s concerned?
Their lineout and scrum were far superior (often winning penalties off the latter), their carries were far more dominant and I noticed Northampton falling off a lot of tackles, highly unusual given how good their defence was last season under new defence coach Lee Radford. Van Poortvliet’s try and Crackell’s try really showed how dreadful the defence was - no guards around the breakdown, falling off pretty simple tackles and doglegs in the line. Schoolboy stuff. Pollard’s organisation of the Leicester defence was immaculate, compared to Fin Smith, who (despite his amazing performances in the 6N) looked distinctly average.
The bench for Leicester is a key factor too, with very senior and experienced players like Ben Youngs and Dan Cole ready to come on and steady the ship if necessary. Leicester’s vast selection of experienced players vs our relatively young pack and backline (except Goodey of course) will be interesting to watch on Sunday.

-Battle of the 10’s – Handre Pollard vs Fergus Burke. Two highly talented tens with quite  different styles. Handré Pollard thrives in a structured, tactical, and physically dominant style of rugby, which aligns well with the traditional Springbok game plan. His strengths suit a territory-based, forward-dominated, and kick-heavy approach. He is nearly 100kg so is quite a physically imposing fly half too. He thrives under pressure, often adopting a sort-of ‘Iceman’ role in the Springbok team (the 2023 SF vs England springs to mind). In stark contrast, Fergus Burke’s goal kicking has been average at best this season and the kicking duties are often taken on by Alex Lozowski.Burke isbest suited to an up-tempo, attacking style of rugby that emphasizes quick ball movement and dynamic play. He has scored 5 tries in the premiership this season and does bring attacking flair to the backline. It will be fascinating to see which fly half will thrive more this weekend. The weather is set to be a mild 12 degrees with the chance of rain and a gentle breeze. Interesting conditions.

 

Saracens – what’s going on with the Men in Black?

Well, I didn’t think I would be writing this preview lamenting on a pretty woeful display at the Showdown last weekend. We will need to significantly improve the attack to stand any chance of penetrating tigers defence and sort out the breakdown. Without the breakdown threat of Earl, we looked so shoddy and conceded multiple penalties due to holding on (the turnover near the Quins try line saved them the match in my opinion). Leicester have players like Tommy Reffell, Olly Crcknell and Liebenberg who could eat us alive at the breakdown if an improvement isn’t made. As soon as JG2 and Tizard went off, the lineout went to pot. Not entirely sure why that happened given we have some of the classiest lineout operators in the country (Itoje, Isiekwe, McFarland etc).
The biggest issue I feel stemmed more from the game management rather than individual performances. The 6/2 split failed miserably with Gareth Simpson having to play on the wing and Andy Onyeama-Christie taking the role at centre when Tompkins had to go for a HIA due to insufficient cover on the bench. Despite the 6/2 split, our forwards still got beaten in the 2nd half and the substitutions had next to no impact at all. The centre partnership looked (yet again) ineffective and didn’t cause many issues for the quins midfield. I do wish we would see more of Olly Hartley – he brings so much to the table in terms of physicality and brute strength.
It looked very much like we thought we could just cruise to a victory by the time half time came. The last 20 mins of the first half was distinctly average (Quins dominated and probably should’ve scored) and the players seemed happy to just trot off down the tunnel! There was no intent in the 2nd half and I cannot remember one point in the match where we looked remotely threatening. This must change ahead of the Leicester game. I fear the Arsenal habit of bottling leads is creeping into the side – it’s happened 4 times so far this season.

Key Players to Watch:

Leicester will aim to leverage their home advantage and maintain their winning momentum against a Saracens side seeking redemption after recent setbacks. The Tigers' structured, forward-dominated playstyle, complemented by Pollard's tactical acumen, will test Saracens' defensive organization. Conversely, Saracens will need to address their second-half vulnerabilities and find ways to reignite their attacking prowess to challenge Leicester's defense, something I feel we haven’t done enough lately.

Conclusion

I reiterate what was said earlier – this is a must win! Enjoy Welford Road all those going – I will likely take my spot in the Crumbie terrace among the Leicester faithful. A lone sarries voice amongst the roar of the Tigers!

 

Updated team

1. Mawi
2. George
3. Balmain
4. Itoje
5. Isiekwe
6. McFarland
7. JMG
8. Willis
9. IvZ
10. Burke
11. Hall
12. Tompkins
13. Loz
14. Elliott
15. Daly
16. Dan
17. Carre
18. Riccioni
19. Isiekwe
20. Onyeama-Christie
21. Earl
22.Simpson
23. Goodey

Not happy with the 6/2 split to be honest. I am shocked to see so many internationals (i thought we'd rest a few) and go full noise vs Toulon, despite the low chance of pulling off the win at the Mayol.

LEICESTER TIGERS v SARACENS: post match related comment here
Posted by: TheSaracens.com (IP Logged)
Date: 28/03/2025 13:34

Not sure what happened to the original article which seems to have disappeared along with any comments!
Anyway I have republished and will merge with the thread on team selection



Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 2025:04:04:16:54:55 by Darraghgirl.

The teams
Posted by: tigerburnie (IP Logged)
Date: 28/03/2025 11:58

You
Saracens

1 Eroni Mawi
2 Jamie George
3 Fraser Balmain
4 Maro Itoje (c)
5 Hugh Tizard
6 Theo McFarland
7 Juan Martin Gonzalez
8 Tom Willis
9 Ivan van Zyl
10 Fergus Burke
11 Angus Hall
12 Nick Tompkins
13 Alex Lozowski
14 Tobias Elliott
15 Elliot Daly

Replacements:

16 Theo Dan
17 Rhys Carre
18 Marco Riccioni
19 Nick Isiekwe
20 Andy Onyeama-Christie
21 Ben Earl
22 Gareth Simpson
23 Alex Goode

Re: The teams
Posted by: tigerburnie (IP Logged)
Date: 28/03/2025 11:58

Us
15 Freddie Steward [102]

14 Adam Radwan [3]

13 Solomone Kata [35]

12 Joseph Woodward [24]

11 Ollie Hassell-Collins [39]

10 Handré Pollard [45]

9 Jack van Poortvliet [87]

1 Nicky Smith [15]

2 Julián Montoya [70]

3 Joe Heyes [155]

4 Cameron Henderson [56]

5 Ollie Chessum [61]

6 Hanro Liebenberg [123]

7 Tommy Reffell [129]

8 Olly Cracknell [58]



REPLACEMENTS

16 Charlie Clare [115]

17 James Whitcombe [65]

18 Dan Cole [336]

19 Harry Wells [214]

20 Emeka Ilione [39]

21 Ben Youngs [329]

22 Jamie Shillcock [44]

23 Izaia Perese [12]

Re: Leicester Tigers v Saracens Preview
Posted by: TommyKentish (IP Logged)
Date: 25/03/2025 19:39

Although it might be beneficial I just can’t see Smally doing anything but going full noise in a European knockout. Therefore I imagine Maro gets a rest for Tigers and Earl in. I don’t know exactly what the rules are but it may mean Jamie, Willis and Daly stood down too unless there is a consideration for minutes played across the 6Ns as opposed to matchday involvements.

I feel for Dan as I think he needs minutes to get his throwing confidence back but being a non-playing member of the England squad his season is rather disrupted his rhythm. It happened during the Newcastle game. Same with Loz’a kicking. For the former we could do with some trick lineout plays that we started with earlier in the season and what Quins did rather effectively against us with short throws, non-jumpers and long overthrows, which cleverly nullified Theo M and JMG threats. Teams are clearly targeting Dan’s throwing so let’s protect the lad a bit.

Unfortunately I don’t have a huge amount of hope for this after what Tigers did to Saints but hopefully we can nick a point or two. I’d like to see some changes to the backline but I won’t hold my breath.

Re: Leicester Tigers v Saracens Preview
Posted by: tigerburnie (IP Logged)
Date: 25/03/2025 19:56

I think the Tigers were better prepared after the lay off, the game against a useful Munster side, got Tigers in front match wise, hoping we can carry that forward, there is an air about the place that we haven't seen since winning the title under Borthwick and co, I get the feeling Cheika intends to get the lads right to see out his short tenure, so quietly confident here. He says he wants Tigers to win the league, so I don't think we will be resting any that are fully fit.

Re: Leicester Tigers v Saracens Preview
Posted by: PaulHerox (IP Logged)
Date: 25/03/2025 20:38

"the turnover near the Quins try line saved them the match in my opinion"

I think it was a turning point too and showed the value of playing the referee by Quins.

Evan first turn-over in the game was a thing of beauty. Straight onto the ball, text book stuff and possession conceded by Saracens.
Thereafter and in response to more aggressive and urgent clears from Saracens he started "trawling" and the referee let him get away with it. That's what secured him that turnover and yet by the Law he could easily have been carded for cynically and illegally slowing the ball especially given the state of the defence after the break and the Saracens numbers to the right?

I won't be watching v Tigers.
DitryBertie who seems very clued in suggested we are resting for Tigers and going full strength against Toulon.
The stupidity (I'm sorry RogerG that's what it is to me despite all their experience) of our coaching set up in prioritising the European Competition this season has been mind numbing. To watch it's continuation is too much for me.

Of course if we beat Tigers with the PRC team that beat Quins and then our full team roll over Toulon away I will look incredibly stupid. To be honest nothing would please me more than to be wrong.

Unfortunately I can't see beyond two losses coming up and have lost faith in the direction this team is being taken.
I've mentioned before I have the horrible feeling this team and coaching ticket is treading water till the return of Farrell.
That potentially means not only more of the same this season but also next.
That would be a heart-breaking waste of potential.

Re: Leicester Tigers v Saracens Preview
Posted by: saracensfan62 (IP Logged)
Date: 26/03/2025 08:16

Forgot to add my predicted team:

1. Mawi
2. Dan
3. Riccioni
4. Isiekwe
5. Tizard
6. JMG
7. Earl
8. Michelow
9. IvZ
10. Burke
11. Elliott
12. Tompkins
13. Loz
14. L Williams
15. Goodey

I reckon we will choose to rest a couple of internationals (ie JG2, Itoje, Daly, Willis) ahead of the toulon game, but still put out a very strong team capable of the win at Welford Road. Come on sarries

Re: Leicester Tigers v Saracens Preview
Posted by: TommyKentish (IP Logged)
Date: 26/03/2025 08:25

Williams had surgery recently so I don’t think he’s available, maybe Jackson on the wing? Also Tompkins might be out with the HIA so Hallett or Hartley in the centres.

Re: Leicester Tigers v Saracens Preview
Posted by: #wolfpack1 (IP Logged)
Date: 26/03/2025 09:45

Quote:
saracensfan62
Forgot to add my predicted team:
1. Mawi
2. Dan
3. Riccioni
4. Isiekwe
5. Tizard
6. JMG
7. Earl
8. Michelow
9. IvZ
10. Burke
11. Elliott
12. Tompkins
13. Loz
14. L Williams
15. Goodey

I reckon we will choose to rest a couple of internationals (ie JG2, Itoje, Daly, Willis) ahead of the toulon game, but still put out a very strong team capable of the win at Welford Road. Come on sarries

Suspect this is broadly right assuming Tompkins recovers from his low danger head collision. Sanjay won’t play - he had surgery not long ago.

An outfit like this would, however, make my heart sink.

Surely we need to think about the future and have some accountability for the poor performances of the last 2 seasons. And it has been 2 seasons - it’s only now those Cassandras of us who have been banging on about this for ages are now being recognised as being on to something.

We have a chronic lack of physicality in the backs and a worse lack of pace. The team above (which I agree looks fairly likely based on the coaches reluctance / refusal to change things around) does nothing to address that. Why do we assume that suddenly Goode, Loz, Tompkins etc will develop a turn of speed or defence busting power they haven’t had for a long time?

After every miserable defeat (and we haven’t just been pipped here or there - they’re nasty depressing losses) we go “oh yeah things need to change.” If a team like that is selected, what are those things?

Re: Leicester Tigers v Saracens Preview
Posted by: The Bard (IP Logged)
Date: 26/03/2025 12:39

I would expect us to go with the bulk of Carre and Balmain in the front row if fit. Cinti has to play if fit.
Still yet to see that big Theo and JMG are a balanced pair of flankers.
Massive call from the coaches as to whether we play Jamie G and Tom W this week.

Re: Leicester Tigers v Saracens Preview
Posted by: PaulHerox (IP Logged)
Date: 26/03/2025 12:59

Quote:
#wolfpack1
... we go “oh yeah things need to change.” If a team like that is selected, what are those things?

The thing is wolfpack1 changing personnel is largely swapping chairs on the Titanic whilst we fail to address that we're sinking.

The best performances this season have tended to be against fully loaded opposition with us similarly loaded.

Those performances have by and large been strong pack performances with the VanZyl, Burke, Tompkins, Lozo, Daly backs "spine"
There have been odd games with Goode at 10 and Hallett or Cinti in the centres but against:
Glaws away, Sale at home, Bears away, Saints at home, Bears at home.
The above has generally been the team that has given us good performances and wins and it's largely been in combination with, for us, good ruck speed 40%+ 0-3 sec

For balance we were fully loaded at Falcons with IVZ, B, T, L, D and a 68% 0-3 sec ruck speed and were just mind-numbingly awful so it isn't a cure all.

It isn't the players it's the plan.

Re Tigers rest Tom Willis. I made the mistake of watching the Quins game again and the only plus was he was absolutely phenomenal. Our best player by a distance.
Give him the rest he needs after the 6N. In he and Carre we have two players we have suddenly become very reliant on.

Re: Leicester Tigers v Saracens Preview
Posted by: #wolfpack1 (IP Logged)
Date: 26/03/2025 13:06

Respectfully disagree Paul (whilst also being frustrated with the box kicking, hacking away turnover ball and the incessant grubbers).

We have very little pace and very little dynamism in our “first choice” backline imo. We can chuck the ball around all we like, but if you’re too slow (like we are) and/or too small (like we are) you ain’t gonna get very far.

Re: Leicester Tigers v Saracens Preview
Posted by: PaulHerox (IP Logged)
Date: 26/03/2025 15:51

I guess there are different ways to look at it wolfpack1.

I'm positive we would we benefit from Andre Esterhuizen at 12 and Le Bip-bip on the wing however we played and yet in the absence of those options I don't think we are lost without those type of players.

Too often our players take the ball static with defence set.
If you're Esterhuizen that's manageable but still not ideal.
For a player like Tompkins even though he punches way above his weight it's a pretty thankless task. Lozowski has a similar issue in getting little actual ball to distribute so how do we know what he adds.

Both trys v Quins came from unstructured play with skilful players playing what was in front of them and trusting their team mates to be on the right page. Obviously you can't run an attack on solely that basis but it shows the ability is there and on both occasions we cut Quins open backing it.
Structure can work too but it looks more like a straight-jacket than a comfort-blanket for the players right now.

Burke can be a threat in attack like Farrell never was or could be but he needs to be empowered to be that player. VanZyl can likewise play with pace that will stretch and test the defence. On the basis that our pack mostly gives us a decent platform this season those 9 and 10 positions are where the change needs to start and for me those players are comfortably capable of doing so.

What type of players you think would make a difference. Would a Lawrence at 13 change things for us. I'm not sure. How is his kickchase. Would a Freeman on the wing. Possibly as his kickchase is good. there's a theme her I'm sure you can spot!

Re: Leicester Tigers v Saracens Preview
Posted by: Stopsy (IP Logged)
Date: 27/03/2025 16:40

Many thanks for the preview. All the doom and gloom above makes me nervous

Re: Leicester Tigers v Saracens Preview
Posted by: Sarriebone (IP Logged)
Date: 27/03/2025 17:14

Saw a stat this morning that in terms of points difference we're -196 compared to this point last season...

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GnCUO7YWcAAWt4L?format=jpg&name=large

Re: Leicester Tigers v Saracens Preview
Posted by: tpr's headmistress (IP Logged)
Date: 28/03/2025 11:57

Saracens Men team to play Leicester Tigers:

1 Eroni Mawi
2 Jamie George
3 Fraser Balmain
4 Maro Itoje (c)
5 Hugh Tizard
6 Theo McFarland
7 Juan Martin Gonzalez
8 Tom Willis
9 Ivan van Zyl
10 Fergus Burke
11 Angus Hall
12 Nick Tompkins
13 Alex Lozowski
14 Tobias Elliott
15 Elliot Daly

Replacements:

16 Theo Dan
17 Rhys Carre
18 Marco Riccioni
19 Nick Isiekwe
20 Andy Onyeama-Christie
21 Ben Earl
22 Gareth Simpson
23 Alex Goode

Re: Leicester Tigers v Saracens Preview
Posted by: Strangelove (IP Logged)
Date: 28/03/2025 12:01

Learnt nothing from last week! Whilst good to see Angus, Ben and Rhys, a 6/2 split on bench with no pace, same centres and probably same kick chase plan does not bode well. Be surprised if we get anything out of it.

Re: Leicester Tigers v Saracens Preview
Posted by: MarkCol7 (IP Logged)
Date: 28/03/2025 12:04

Seems like the internationals will be rested next week in Toulon then

Re: The teams
Posted by: tigerburnie (IP Logged)
Date: 28/03/2025 12:25

Not surprised you have gone full fat really, neither of us look like winning the Euro cup on current form, so bragging rites in the league it is.

Re: The teams
Posted by: tigersimon (IP Logged)
Date: 28/03/2025 12:25

Cinti injured?

Re: The teams
Posted by: ComeOnSarries (IP Logged)
Date: 28/03/2025 13:16

I am pleased with the team selection as it correctly prioritises the Premiership over Europe. I genuinely can’t believe that we will play as badly this week as last and so I am actually expecting a closely fought game between two evenly balanced squads. We actually have a stronger bench this week than last with the likes of Carre and Earl back in the mix. Leicester are slight favourites but only slight and we often play our best in that scenario - this year we have been particularly pants when we have been the clear favourites!

Re: The teams
Posted by: saracensfan62 (IP Logged)
Date: 28/03/2025 13:35

Would be amazed if we could pull of the win to be honest. The backline (Hall, Daly and Elliott aside) have been poor of late and following this incessant kick chase game plan just has not worked. Our forwards I expect are shattered from the 6N and a tough game against Quins. I think we'll be lucky to pick up 1 or 2 BP from this one. Our record at Welford Road is poor too.

Re: LEICESTER TIGERS v SARACENS: post match related comment here
Posted by: JimG (IP Logged)
Date: 28/03/2025 14:38

Why would our forwards be shattered? Mawi, Balmain, McFarland, Tizzard and JMG (and Dan) haven't been playing much. Willis played some but not all of the 6N and certainly didn't pay the full 80 in any of the games. Jamie generally plays 50 mins a game max these days. Ben had last week off. The rest of the bench also haven't played although some of them are coming back from injury which is likely to be a fitness challenge I guess. Maro is the exception but he is a special case and clearly is just content to play forever!

I am also not optimistic either but it's not because I think we are tired - more that we have been playing terrible rugby for the majority of the season. Really surprised that we gone 6-2 with Goode as the lone outfield back again. There seems to be no accountability for poor performance and I am going to be mightily annoyed if we serve up the same tired game plan again. Please also give the tee to Burke.

Re: The teams
Posted by: Sarriebone (IP Logged)
Date: 28/03/2025 14:44

Quote:
tigersimon
Cinti injured?

Last update was end of Jan:

Lucio Cinti

Will be out for around six weeks after injuring his hamstring against Munster.

Re: LEICESTER TIGERS v SARACENS: post match related comment here
Posted by: #wolfpack1 (IP Logged)
Date: 28/03/2025 15:53

Quote:
JimG
Why would our forwards be shattered? Mawi, Balmain, McFarland, Tizzard and JMG (and Dan) haven't been playing much. Willis played some but not all of the 6N and certainly didn't pay the full 80 in any of the games. Jamie generally plays 50 mins a game max these days. Ben had last week off. The rest of the bench also haven't played although some of them are coming back from injury which is likely to be a fitness challenge I guess. Maro is the exception but he is a special case and clearly is just content to play forever!
I am also not optimistic either but it's not because I think we are tired - more that we have been playing terrible rugby for the majority of the season. Really surprised that we gone 6-2 with Goode as the lone outfield back again. There seems to be no accountability for poor performance and I am going to be mightily annoyed if we serve up the same tired game plan again. Please also give the tee to Burke.

Seconded

Re: LEICESTER TIGERS v SARACENS: post match related comment here
Posted by: PaulHerox (IP Logged)
Date: 28/03/2025 16:40

That chart from RIL is brutally illustrative of our decline and whilst the Bath game will have weighted it I'm not sure it will have done so more than last seasons opening debacle away at Exeter.

On a positive note I am pleased that we have gone full strength for this game against a resurgent Tigers.

I'm not as down as some on our midfield combination and to be honest I think if you'd have given me that 23 for the opening game of the season I think I'd have been both thrilled and excited about how we could play.
I guess there's still that potential.

With no disrespect to young Hall does his selection maybe suggest that we are in a bit of a last man standing situation re backs. If that's the case then the 6/2 bench becomes understandable.
If we have the likes of Hartley or Johnson available then I'm less convinced given the obvious issues last week.

Good luck to the team.
I hope they can get the type of result that a 23 of that quality deserves whether that's a hard fought loss or a great win.

Re: LEICESTER TIGERS v SARACENS: post match related comment here
Posted by: tigerburnie (IP Logged)
Date: 28/03/2025 16:42

Breaking news...........................................Freddie Burns has been added to the bench to come on later in the game.........................................................(Sm100)

Re: LEICESTER TIGERS v SARACENS: post match related comment here
Posted by: PaulHerox (IP Logged)
Date: 28/03/2025 16:48

I'm surprised he hasn't been sounded out for the Tigers Head Coach role.
He's as responsible for your last bit of Silverware as Wriggle and Borthwick.

Re: LEICESTER TIGERS v SARACENS: post match related comment here
Posted by: nedrichards (IP Logged)
Date: 28/03/2025 17:32

Ben Earl is covering the centers surely?

Re: LEICESTER TIGERS v SARACENS: post match related comment here
Posted by: TommyKentish (IP Logged)
Date: 28/03/2025 17:47

Quote:
tigerburnie
Breaking news...........................................Freddie Burns has been added to the bench to come on later in the game.........................................................(Sm100)

He might be the only 10 you haven’t been linked with for next season!

Re: LEICESTER TIGERS v SARACENS: post match related comment here
Posted by: The Bard (IP Logged)
Date: 28/03/2025 18:15

Hallett, Johnson, Bracken and Jackson starting for Ampthill tomorrow so clearly some choices have been made

Re: LEICESTER TIGERS v SARACENS: post match related comment here
Posted by: tigerburnie (IP Logged)
Date: 28/03/2025 19:10

Quote:
TommyKentish
Quote:
tigerburnie
Breaking news...........................................Freddie Burns has been added to the bench to come on later in the game.........................................................(Sm100)

He might be the only 10 you haven’t been linked with for next season!
One of my all time favourite all time Tigers 10's, great bloke.

Re: The teams
Posted by: Nosher1979 (IP Logged)
Date: 29/03/2025 10:50

Quote:
Sarriebone
Quote:
tigersimon
Cinti injured?

Last update was end of Jan:

Lucio Cinti

Will be out for around six weeks after injuring his hamstring against Munster.

My son and I were at the friendly against Edinburgh and he pulled up in front of us as he made a break down the line after a kick ahead; my boy looked at me and said ‘’he looks like he’s f****d his Hammy again’’. Our medic came to him and he was certainly in great pain.

Re: LEICESTER TIGERS v SARACENS: post match related comment here
Posted by: Strangelove (IP Logged)
Date: 29/03/2025 16:37

At least we have a decent Sit for tomorrow…Luke Pearce.

Currently watching Bath v Quins - great game, Bath irresistible, threats everywhere, creative centres, quick ruck speed and passing from 9 - Quins doing well considering and their young 10 is a find. Sarries are so far behind the benchmark in this League and it shows the work that needs doing to get to that level and exceed it, if we ever want to compete/ set the benchmark again. Looking forward to Glos/Bears later, that’ll also be interesting to see where we are.

Re: LEICESTER TIGERS v SARACENS: post match related comment here
Posted by: PaulHerox (IP Logged)
Date: 29/03/2025 17:23

I honestly think Bath have been pretty clunky for much of this season given how much better their squad is than most in the League but when they're on it they look irresistible.

The rugby they play is hardly reinventing the wheel just good basics from strong set piece and when the space opens up they have the players to take advantage of it.
Most importantly they have a game that suits the players and even with small changes of personnel between games they are all on the same page.

I don't think the League will be a procession but they are the clear favourites and it will probably take a team like Sale or Bears at their best to beat them in a Final.

The degree to which they bottled the European Cup given the strength of their squad is disappointing but given they've been so long without proper silverware I get prioritising the Premiership.

Comparing our squad to theirs I'd guess they're spending close to £600K more at 9 and 10 and comfortably north of £1M more in the 6 that make up their starting and bench front row.
They're certainly managing the cap well.

Re: LEICESTER TIGERS v SARACENS: post match related comment here
Posted by: The Bard (IP Logged)
Date: 29/03/2025 18:05

Think that’s putting it very diplomatically! At our best we had 18 top rank players. With a lower cap they have over 20 yet still found some money down the back of the sofa to bring in Carreras and Arundell?????

Re: LEICESTER TIGERS v SARACENS: post match related comment here
Posted by: Strangelove (IP Logged)
Date: 30/03/2025 08:40

Quote:
The Bard
Think that’s putting it very diplomatically! At our best we had 18 top rank players. With a lower cap they have over 20 yet still found some money down the back of the sofa to bring in Carreras and Arundell?????

Yes, they have recruited well and continue to do so. Not that we are in a place to question their use of the salary cap!

Great Glos v Bears game too, all out attack and intent. Defence won’t win games and titles on its own nowadays, you have to be able to score tries. I think we need to be prepared for a longer transition period of being able to compete for titles again, maybe 5 years? And I don’t mind if that is the case (being a season ticket holder since 1998 I remember the many many dark days), as long as I can see we are making progress towards that transition with picking the players on form rather than loyalty and have a game plan that suits the players and one that evolves.

Not expecting anything from this game, just looking forward to seeing what Angus can do at this level. Good luck boys.

Re: LEICESTER TIGERS v SARACENS: post match related comment here
Posted by: Roger G (IP Logged)
Date: 30/03/2025 10:08

Quote:
Strangelove
Yes, they have recruited well and continue to do so. Not that we are in a place to question their use of the salary cap!
Great Glos v Bears game too, all out attack and intent. Defence won’t win games and titles on its own nowadays, you have to be able to score tries. I think we need to be prepared for a longer transition period of being able to compete for titles again, maybe 5 years? And I don’t mind if that is the case (being a season ticket holder since 1998 I remember the many many dark days), as long as I can see we are making progress towards that transition with picking the players on form rather than loyalty and have a game plan that suits the players and one that evolves.

Not expecting anything from this game, just looking forward to seeing what Angus can do at this level. Good luck boys.

Agreed.

Re: LEICESTER TIGERS v SARACENS: post match related comment here
Posted by: AP (IP Logged)
Date: 30/03/2025 13:00

May be five years to be in the mix in Europe but three years to at least be in the Premiership final. Our senior players don't have much more time than that!

Successful hills are here to stay
Everything must be this way
Gentle streets where people play
Welcome to the Soft Parade

🌻🌻🌻

Re: LEICESTER TIGERS v SARACENS: post match related comment here
Posted by: Sarriebone (IP Logged)
Date: 30/03/2025 15:58

Here we go again...

Re: LEICESTER TIGERS v SARACENS: post match related comment here
Posted by: Sarriebone (IP Logged)
Date: 30/03/2025 16:42

Hard work, but it's a win... 22-29

Re: LEICESTER TIGERS v SARACENS: post match related comment here
Posted by: nedrichards (IP Logged)
Date: 30/03/2025 16:42

Best performance all season. Top game all round.

Re: LEICESTER TIGERS v SARACENS: post match related comment here
Posted by: Supporting Saracens for over 55 years. (IP Logged)
Date: 30/03/2025 16:43

A great sound - the Leicester crowd booing when they lose.

Supporting Saracens for over 55 years.

Re: LEICESTER TIGERS v SARACENS: post match related comment here
Posted by: Stumpy7780 (IP Logged)
Date: 30/03/2025 16:44

Having said they were spineless last week, they really showed grit and determination this week. Where has this team been all season?

Re: LEICESTER TIGERS v SARACENS: post match related comment here
Posted by: Stopsy (IP Logged)
Date: 30/03/2025 16:48

Congratulations Saracens, a well deserved win, neither side looked accurate but we were sloppy at times.

Re: LEICESTER TIGERS v SARACENS: post match related comment here
Posted by: Static (IP Logged)
Date: 30/03/2025 16:50

Did not really expect that after last week, although I did expect the better effort. A great win, which really makes the end of season interesting. Other than Bath there are a lot of teams that could get to the playoffs. Carre was huge when he came on. Not seen our scrum look so string for a while. Theo will be working with Jamie on throwing in though. Too many line outs lost at the end.

Just hope those injuries are not too bad. Neither looked good.

Re: LEICESTER TIGERS v SARACENS: post match related comment here
Posted by: Strangelove (IP Logged)
Date: 30/03/2025 16:51

Even if we had lost, I would have been pleased with the way we showed up and fought after last week’s surrender. Well played lads, too many good performances to single out, enjoy the beers.

Good to hear from McCall that they are concentrating on Prem not Europe and that they decided that during 6N.

Re: LEICESTER TIGERS v SARACENS: post match related comment here
Posted by: siNBin (IP Logged)
Date: 30/03/2025 17:31

I have loved being part of the Saracens family for 30 years. The roller coaster of the last 8 days are wild.

Re: LEICESTER TIGERS v SARACENS: post match related comment here
Posted by: TommyKentish (IP Logged)
Date: 30/03/2025 17:31

Echoing the above, did not see that coming! We do have a high ceiling when we put everything together, the key is doing it consistently. Massive win in terms of the league and the Gloucester match is another really big one coming up in a few weeks. Put Maro in the cryo chamber until then, the man deserves his rest!

Re: LEICESTER TIGERS v SARACENS: post match related comment here
Posted by: Sarriebone (IP Logged)
Date: 30/03/2025 17:33

TNT saying potentially Achilles for Loz

Re: LEICESTER TIGERS v SARACENS: post match related comment here
Posted by: Strangelove (IP Logged)
Date: 30/03/2025 18:08

Be interesting to see stats, to me it appeared we kicked it less than normal - perhaps due to wind or their potent back 3. When we did put it through hands it was so much quicker than normal. Let’s keep that going for the run in, 2 away matches (Sale and an out of sorts Saints), 3 home including Bath when hopefully they will rest players as I am sure they will already have qualified for a home semi - we could need a result in that match if we put ourselves in a position over the next 4 league games.

Re: LEICESTER TIGERS v SARACENS: post match related comment here
Posted by: ComeOnSarries (IP Logged)
Date: 30/03/2025 18:54

I was very much hoping for such a performance but was still surprised by just how much better we actually passed the ball than last week! There were lots of stand out performances but I thought Maro was excellent making such a nuisance of himself and Carre came on and gave us the edge in the scrum. I thought Fergus had his best game for the club and on debut Angus made a couple of very useful contributions. The only negatives were a couple of injuries and Theo’s line out throwing but bringing 5 points back with us from Welford Road and deservedly so is a great result indeed. Means we are still very much interested in the play-offs and it is still just possible that 2nd place is achievable. Failing that 3rd would be a lot better than 4th!

Re: LEICESTER TIGERS v SARACENS: post match related comment here
Posted by: OTsarrie (IP Logged)
Date: 30/03/2025 19:02

I agree with all of the above , but no-one so far has mentioned Marco Riccioni - to play 80 minutes at tight head against two good Leicester looseheads is one heck of a performance ….I hope he can be persuaded to stay …and Tom Willis would again have been my man of the match- he is phenomenal !

Re: LEICESTER TIGERS v SARACENS: post match related comment here
Posted by: Strangelove (IP Logged)
Date: 30/03/2025 19:11

Quote:
OTsarrie
I agree with all of the above , but no-one so far has mentioned Marco Riccioni - to play 80 minutes at tight head against two good Leicester looseheads is one heck of a performance ….I hope he can be persuaded to stay …and Tom Willis would again have been my man of the match- he is phenomenal !

Agree with both those points.!

Re: LEICESTER TIGERS v SARACENS: post match related comment here
Posted by: Stopsy (IP Logged)
Date: 30/03/2025 19:17

Well done to Riccione but in particular to Carre, surely such a destructive performance must warrant a start?
Your attack was so much more incisive than ours.

Re: LEICESTER TIGERS v SARACENS: post match related comment here
Posted by: #wolfpack1 (IP Logged)
Date: 30/03/2025 19:33

Much more to like in that game.. At least we were trying to play which is all we’ve been asking for.

Still alive in the competition, but still feel we need to go unbeaten in the Premiership for the rest of the season.

Shadow side going to Toulon next week - absolutely no one will care about the result provided that we continue to try to play.

Re: LEICESTER TIGERS v SARACENS: post match related comment here
Posted by: ComeOnSarries (IP Logged)
Date: 30/03/2025 19:53

Two other observations from the TV coverage. One was that I thought Mark McCall looked a lot more animated than usual in his reactions to events on the field. Perhaps a sign that the pressure has been building on the coaching team as well? The other point was that Austin Healey is still fairly biased in favour of Tigers in his observations on what he sees!

Re: LEICESTER TIGERS v SARACENS: post match related comment here
Posted by: #wolfpack1 (IP Logged)
Date: 30/03/2025 20:11

Agree with that. Never seen Smally react quite so much to things through the game.

Also, Fergus looks so so much better when he’s allowed to run around.

Re: LEICESTER TIGERS v SARACENS: post match related comment here
Posted by: The Bard (IP Logged)
Date: 30/03/2025 20:13

Phenomenal effort from the guys. Carre immense when he came on. Winning a scrum penalty on their put in down in coffin corner possibly the highlight of the season. Big worry is the lineout. The time wasting was probably counter productive as we lost focus on just winning clean ball.
Surprised we weren’t challenged in the air by Steward after last week’s evidence.

Re: LEICESTER TIGERS v SARACENS: post match related comment here
Posted by: darktagnan (IP Logged)
Date: 30/03/2025 20:27

I must confess after last week's disappointment I was dreading this game. Delighted that my fears were unjustified. By no means perfect, but we really took it to Leicester & fought tooth & nail. Some obvious workons in the lineout & at the breakdown, but so much better overall & worthy winners. Lots of running effort & offloading & so much better for it.

Re: LEICESTER TIGERS v SARACENS: post match related comment here
Posted by: MarkCol7 (IP Logged)
Date: 30/03/2025 21:38

A much better performance, having a strong stable scrum makes such a difference, seems like Carre is especially beneficial to this
Van Zyl yet again with a poor showing, we seriously need to have a scrum half coming in next season

Re: LEICESTER TIGERS v SARACENS: post match related comment here
Posted by: TommyKentish (IP Logged)
Date: 30/03/2025 21:40

Quote:
Stopsy
Well done to Riccione but in particular to Carre, surely such a destructive performance must warrant a start?
Your attack was so much more incisive than ours.

He’s working his way back from injury but was starting before that. Interesting that he came on before half time in a tactical change though.

Re: LEICESTER TIGERS v SARACENS: post match related comment here
Posted by: OTsarrie (IP Logged)
Date: 30/03/2025 23:27

Commentary said he was taken off so if necessary he could come on as tight head if Marco didn’t last 80 minutes …dont’t know if that is true though…

Re: LEICESTER TIGERS v SARACENS: post match related comment here
Posted by: OTsarrie (IP Logged)
Date: 31/03/2025 07:38

Mawi that is….

Re: LEICESTER TIGERS v SARACENS: post match related comment here
Posted by: The Bard (IP Logged)
Date: 31/03/2025 08:46

Would make sense. Noticed Sam Crean warming up so obviously recalled from Ulster following Brantinghams injury

Re: LEICESTER TIGERS v SARACENS: post match related comment here
Posted by: Happy Sarrie (IP Logged)
Date: 31/03/2025 09:23

I too was dreading this game after the Show Up last week but how things change and seeing MMC so animated was fantastic - stuff matters! Theo's try at the death was a horror show for Leicester - imagine this board had it been in reverse...

Re: LEICESTER TIGERS v SARACENS: post match related comment here
Posted by: The Bard (IP Logged)
Date: 31/03/2025 10:24

We were lucky none of our last 10 lineouts were in our 22…

Re: LEICESTER TIGERS v SARACENS: post match related comment here
Posted by: PaulHerox (IP Logged)
Date: 31/03/2025 13:15

I've not seen the game but the result is all one could ask for and the noises above are positive.

Good luck to the team that travels to Toulon. Right call from the coaches and maybe they can channel some of the spirit our PRC team showed against Quins XV/23.

Looking ahead Gloucester will be a different animal based on their current form.
There could be interesting selections in the backs too.

Re: LEICESTER TIGERS v SARACENS: post match related comment here
Posted by: TommyKentish (IP Logged)
Date: 02/04/2025 07:24

Some of the BTS clips released by the club are pretty cool, the social media team are really starting to hit their stride

[www.instagram.com]

[www.instagram.com]

Re: LEICESTER TIGERS v SARACENS: post match related comment here
Posted by: JimG (IP Logged)
Date: 02/04/2025 09:28

Well, I guess Maro is more of a leader by example sort of captain!

Catching up with the game and happy to proved wrong as I was sure we would get beaten. Much better performance although noticeably we did keep the ball in hand much more rather than booting it away constantly. We have definitely missed Carre who was as excellent as he has been all season and good to see Ricioni coming back into his best form. Well played Angus Hall as well.

Re: LEICESTER TIGERS v SARACENS: post match related comment here
Posted by: Sarakene (IP Logged)
Date: 02/04/2025 11:57

I'm assuming that you didn't see the instagram post of the team talk. You don't have to shout and swear to get attention and motivation. In fact doing what Maro does in today's manic world should be seen as a positive advantage. What is not inspiring about the simple statement (without profanity) , " The time is now boys"?

Re: LEICESTER TIGERS v SARACENS: post match related comment here
Posted by: TommyKentish (IP Logged)
Date: 02/04/2025 16:00

I’m sure there are plenty of others who can do the screaming and shouting, Maro has his own style which seems to be working for him.

Goto: Forum List•Message List•Search•
  • Log In
    • Sorry, only registered users may post in this forum.
    We record all IP addresses on the Sportnetwork message boards which may be required by the authorities in case of defamatory or abusive comment. We seek to monitor the Message Boards at regular intervals. We do not associate Sportnetwork with any of the comments and do not take responsibility for any statements or opinions expressed on the Message Boards. If you have any cause for concern over any material posted here please let us know as soon as possible by e-mailing abuse@sportnetwork.net