RC Toulon v Saracens Preview
Old foes meet again
By saracensfan62
April 3 2025
Well well well, we find ourselves at the Mayol again. A renowned rugby temple, there is no doubt that the atmosphere on Saturday will match the quality of rugby on display. It’s fair to say this fixture has a huge history, with us losing to Toulon for 2 consecutive years back in 2013 and 2014 (the Heineken cup semi final and final respectively) only to then bounce back and get our revenge in 2016 with that amazing 31-23 win. Our latest encounter came in the challenge cup, with a 25-16 loss in what was nonetheless an incredible match which was on a knife-edge for the majority. If we are to take the win this weekend, we will need to be on it – both physically and psychologically.
Toulon – a European powerhouse on the up?
There is no doubt Toulon have been one of the major European powerhouses in recent times. Whilst their Heineken cup record is indeed impressive, with titles coming in 2013 vs Clermont, 2014 vs Saracens and 2015 vs Clermont again, their Top14 record is poor. Out of 5 finals made, they have only won 1 of them, perhaps opting instead to focus on Europe. They currently sit in 3rd place in the Top14 on 64 points and will definitely be involved in the title challenge this year, unless something goes badly wrong for them.
Toulon present a huge threat not only in attack, but physically too. They topped their group with notable victories over DHL Stormers, Glasgow Warriors, and Harlequins, showcasing their strength in the pool stages. Not only do Toulon possess an electric backline, featuring players such as Melvin Jaminet, Gabin Villiere, Leicester Fainga'anuku, Dan Biggar and Ben White, but they also can dominate in the power game. Dany Priso, Lewis Ludlam, David Ribbans and Kyle Sinckler (the latter 3 all ex-English internationals) could feature. Toulon are certainly a team who enjoy a formidable home record at Stade Félix Mayol.
I expect the strategy of Toulon will align with their traditional strengths:
- Dominant Forward Play: With powerful forwards, they will aim to control set-pieces and gain an advantage in scrums and lineouts. It’ll be interesting to see how our scrum and lineout holds up without the likes of Jamie George, Maro, Earl, TW etc.
- Physicality in Contact Areas: focusing on winning collisions and maintaining possession through aggressive rucking and mauling.
- Utilizing Key Players: The inclusion of Kyle Sinckler adds experience and skill to the front row, enhancing scrummaging and open-play capabilities.
By asserting dominance in these areas, I expect Toulon to dictate the tempo of the game and apply continuous pressure on Saracens, whose defence will likely have to be on red alert for the vast majority of the match to prevent Toulon’s lethal backline from capitalising.
Sarries – bouncing back
This weekend is going to look a little different for us. In years gone by we would go full throttle for the champions cup. In past years, we also had a longer rest period between the 6N and the knockouts of the champions cup. I believe that the lack of significant rest weeks between the end of the 6N, prem and Europe is detrimental to players’ welfare and wellbeing. Transitioning from the 6N to playing against teams like Toulon, Leinster, Toulouse etc in the knockouts, essentially like facing an international standard side in a club jersey could worsen our injury situation which is already looking quite concerning as it is. Bravo to the coaching team for making this bold call. This decision I’m sure was not taken lightly and made with great care. I have also seen a Guardian article concerning the Harlequins DoR Danny Wilson who stated that Harlequins would “never disrespect the Champions Cup by naming a second-string team in a knockout match”. For the sake of keeping this report purely focused on the rugby, I do not want to comment on this. Please feel free to search it up and read if you’re interested.
Down to our strategy and gameplay. I expect we will try to focus on:
- Robust Defensive Structure: Employing a well-organized defensive line with minimal commitment to breakdowns, allowing for a strong and aggressive blitz defense.
- Territorial Kicking Game: Utilizing tactical kicking to gain field position and force Toulon into playing from deep within their half. The major problem with this is Dan Biggar, perhaps (aerially) one of the best fly halves in the world who could force our relatively small backline into catching high balls. The kick-chase has been a large problem this year for us.
- Capitalizing on Turnovers: Leveraging opportunities from opposition mistakes to launch counter-attacks and create scoring chances. Missing the likes of Willis and Earl will make this task tougher, however we are in good stead with the likes of JMG still ready.
The last time we faced Toulon, we completely fell apart at the breakdown. Gabin Villiere made a ridiculous number of turnovers (some in our 22, which really should not be happening) allowing Toulon to put penalty after penalty on the scoresheet or into the corner and score. This time around, we must recognise this danger and attempt to nullify the threat as soon as possible.
Given how many we are missing due to standdown periods and injuries, I still feel we can put out a very strong squad with a healthy mixture of youth and experience capable of at least giving Toulon a good challenge. Having the European experience of Goodey will be extremely beneficial, especially to the younger chaps who may be slightly spooked by the ferocity of the ‘Pilou Pilou’ chant and the cauldron-like atmosphere.
My predicted lineup for the match is below. Please feel free to comment or if you see a mistake (ie if a player is injured) let me know!
Predicted Lineup
- Rhys Carre
- Theo Dan
- Marco Riccioni
- Nick Isiekwe
- Hugh Tizard
- Theo McFarland
- Andy O-C
- JMG
- IvZ
- Fergus Burke
- Tobias Elliott
- Nick Tompkins
- Olly Hartley
- Angus Hall
- Alex Goode
- James Hadfield
- Eroni Mawi
- Alec Clarey
- Harry Wilson
- Nathan Michelow
- Charlie Bracken
- Louis Johnson
- Josh Hallett
RC Toulon v Saracens Preview
Posted by: TheSaracens.com (IP Logged)
Date: 04/04/2025 00:21
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Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2025:04:21:18:08:53 by Darraghgirl.
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Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2025:04:21:18:08:53 by Darraghgirl.
Re: RC Toulon v Saracens Preview
Posted by: saracensfan62 (IP Logged)
Date: 04/04/2025 00:24
Just wanted to apologise for the mishap regarding loads of copies of the same piece appearing on the site. Technical error at my end. I've deleted the others so please comment on this one.
Sorry!
Sorry!
Re: RC Toulon v Saracens Preview
Posted by: The Bard (IP Logged)
Date: 04/04/2025 09:55
Would think there’s no chance of Toby Knight or Brantingham being fit, far more likely to see Michelow, Eke and either Mawi or Crean at 17.
Re: RC Toulon v Saracens Preview
Posted by: TommyKentish (IP Logged)
Date: 04/04/2025 11:14
I’m hoping Earl is in the squad as he’s only played 30 mins of rugby since the 6 nations.
Re: RC Toulon v Saracens Preview
Posted by: saracensfan62 (IP Logged)
Date: 04/04/2025 11:28
Amended it, Bard. Thank you. Wasn't sure what injury Brantingham picked up at the Showdown to be honest. We will miss him and Knight, both great young players.
Re: RC Toulon v Saracens Preview
Posted by: saracensfan62 (IP Logged)
Date: 04/04/2025 11:29
TK, I'm not sure regarding Earl. Fingers x'd he will be allowed to play but I err on the side of caution to be honest.
Re: RC Toulon v Saracens Preview
Posted by: tpr's headmistress (IP Logged)
Date: 04/04/2025 12:49
Saracens Men team to play RC Toulon:
1 Eroni Mawi
2 Theo Dan
3 Marco Riccioni
4 Nick Isiekwe
5 Hugh Tizard
6 Theo McFarland
7 Juan Martin Gonzalez
8 Andy Onyeama-Christie
9 Ivan van Zyl (c)
10 Fergus Burke
11 Angus Hall
12 Olly Hartley
13 Nick Tompkins
14 Tobias Elliott
15 Alex Goode
Replacements:
16 James Hadfield
17 Rhys Carre
18 Harvey Beaton
19 Harry Wilson
20 Nathan Michelow
21 Gareth Simpson
22 Louie Johnson
23 Brandon Jackson
1 Eroni Mawi
2 Theo Dan
3 Marco Riccioni
4 Nick Isiekwe
5 Hugh Tizard
6 Theo McFarland
7 Juan Martin Gonzalez
8 Andy Onyeama-Christie
9 Ivan van Zyl (c)
10 Fergus Burke
11 Angus Hall
12 Olly Hartley
13 Nick Tompkins
14 Tobias Elliott
15 Alex Goode
Replacements:
16 James Hadfield
17 Rhys Carre
18 Harvey Beaton
19 Harry Wilson
20 Nathan Michelow
21 Gareth Simpson
22 Louie Johnson
23 Brandon Jackson
Re: RC Toulon v Saracens Preview
Posted by: Surbiton Sarries (IP Logged)
Date: 04/04/2025 13:00
Referee: Nika Amashukeli (GEO)
ARs: Ben Whitehouse (WAL) & Chris Busby (IRE)
TMO: Olly Hodges (IRE)
ARs: Ben Whitehouse (WAL) & Chris Busby (IRE)
TMO: Olly Hodges (IRE)
Re: RC Toulon v Saracens Preview
Posted by: TommyKentish (IP Logged)
Date: 04/04/2025 16:22
3 starting backs who could be mainstays in our backline for years to come, this will be great experience for them one way or another.
Re: RC Toulon v Saracens Preview
Posted by: Strangelove (IP Logged)
Date: 04/04/2025 16:54
I think that’s a fair side considering the lack of England players, little Theo aside. Be interesting to see if we can continue the positive gameplan of last week. That’s a mobile back row, although lacking some bulk.
Good luck guys
Good luck guys
Re: RC Toulon v Saracens Preview
Posted by: Surbiton Sarries (IP Logged)
Date: 04/04/2025 17:05
Toulon: Jaminet; Wainiqolo, Fainga'anuku, Sinzelle, Villiere; Garbisi, White; Gros, Baubigny, Sinckler, Halagahu, Ribbans (capt), Ludlam, Abadie, Isa.
Replacements: Lucchesi, Priso, Gigashvili, Alainu'uese, Le Corvec, Serin, Domon, Tuicuvu.
Replacements: Lucchesi, Priso, Gigashvili, Alainu'uese, Le Corvec, Serin, Domon, Tuicuvu.
Re: RC Toulon v Saracens Preview
Posted by: PaulHerox (IP Logged)
Date: 04/04/2025 17:05
Given we have so far lost games we really should have won in this competition I have had a little flutter that we might do the reverse here or nab a draw.
We're still massive underwolves but the price has come in a lot in the last five hours.
Amashukeli as referee is a huge plus.
No doubting Toulon's quality but that's a good team we've put out. Great backrow and I hope that the coaches are backing our 9 and 10 to play a bit more again.
I'm interested to see Beaton, presumably Clarey is injured. Having to start Riccioni is a slight concern given his shift last week. I hope we're still looking for a proper second/rotating TH choice for next season as I'm not sure I see that being Street.
Good to see a 5/3 bench.
Do we know how bad Lozowski's injury was last week. Hartley/Tompkins could be auditioning for a run in the Premiership if he's out a while.
Given this is a bit of a no lose scenario I'd have liked to see Hadfield starting as he's a much better set piece hooker than Dan, Elliott at FB with Jackson on the wing and Goode at 23.
Hopefully Dan and Goode repay the coaches faith.
We're still massive underwolves but the price has come in a lot in the last five hours.
Amashukeli as referee is a huge plus.
No doubting Toulon's quality but that's a good team we've put out. Great backrow and I hope that the coaches are backing our 9 and 10 to play a bit more again.
I'm interested to see Beaton, presumably Clarey is injured. Having to start Riccioni is a slight concern given his shift last week. I hope we're still looking for a proper second/rotating TH choice for next season as I'm not sure I see that being Street.
Good to see a 5/3 bench.
Do we know how bad Lozowski's injury was last week. Hartley/Tompkins could be auditioning for a run in the Premiership if he's out a while.
Given this is a bit of a no lose scenario I'd have liked to see Hadfield starting as he's a much better set piece hooker than Dan, Elliott at FB with Jackson on the wing and Goode at 23.
Hopefully Dan and Goode repay the coaches faith.
Re: RC Toulon v Saracens Preview
Posted by: PaulHerox (IP Logged)
Date: 05/04/2025 11:13
I appreciate that Northampton Saints didn't play a vintage or full strength Clermont side but I'd suggest how they played is exactly the type of rugby we should be embracing with our squad.
Playing at tempo, keeping the ball off the floor and away from the breakdown by utilising our excellent backs and forwards handling and inter-linking skills.
It would allow our heavier carriers to be more effective as they wouldn't simply be battering the door down but would be carrying against back-pedalling opposition. The our centres ability as distributers over carriers becomes a big positive in getting the ball wider when the chances appear.
I appreciate there are counters to this style of play and we would adapt to those too but looking at the impact of Mitchell and Pollock in creating that speed of play we have a handful of BackRow forwards alone that could play like that let alone the wider squad.
It made me really excited for the team we have and what they could do.
I wonder how we'll play later. I'm looking forward to finding out how it went and how we fared.
Playing at tempo, keeping the ball off the floor and away from the breakdown by utilising our excellent backs and forwards handling and inter-linking skills.
It would allow our heavier carriers to be more effective as they wouldn't simply be battering the door down but would be carrying against back-pedalling opposition. The our centres ability as distributers over carriers becomes a big positive in getting the ball wider when the chances appear.
I appreciate there are counters to this style of play and we would adapt to those too but looking at the impact of Mitchell and Pollock in creating that speed of play we have a handful of BackRow forwards alone that could play like that let alone the wider squad.
It made me really excited for the team we have and what they could do.
I wonder how we'll play later. I'm looking forward to finding out how it went and how we fared.
Re: RC Toulon v Saracens Preview
Posted by: Supporting Saracens for over 55 years. (IP Logged)
Date: 05/04/2025 12:42
Where can I get shares in JMG?
Supporting Saracens for over 55 years.
Supporting Saracens for over 55 years.
Re: RC Toulon v Saracens Preview
Posted by: ComeOnSarries (IP Logged)
Date: 05/04/2025 13:05
Whilst I still don’t think we will win, to go into half time with the score 35 to 27 in our favour is pretty bloody amazing. JMG and Theo Dan have been immense but there have been so many strong performances. Great experience for the likes of Angus, Tobias and Olly in our back division
Re: RC Toulon v Saracens Preview
Posted by: Nosher1979 (IP Logged)
Date: 05/04/2025 13:37
Quote:ComeOnSarries
Whilst I still don’t think we will win, to go into half time with the score 35 to 27 in our favour is pretty bloody amazing. JMG and Theo Dan have been immense but there have been so many strong performances. Great experience for the likes of Angus, Tobias and Olly in our back division
Well said, the experience of a game like this will cement the future. It’s been a great game so far.
Re: RC Toulon v Saracens Preview
Posted by: wolfgangvonb77 (IP Logged)
Date: 05/04/2025 13:38
What I don't get is why the commentary is pro the French team, im sure that doesn't happen with other English teams when they cover them!!!
Re: RC Toulon v Saracens Preview
Posted by: Nosher1979 (IP Logged)
Date: 05/04/2025 13:44
Quote:wolfgangvonb77
What I don't get is why the commentary is pro the French team, im sure that doesn't happen with other English teams when they cover them!!!
To be fair they were all gushing over the 3 times champions Sarries when we were romping in scores in the first 30 minutes
Re: RC Toulon v Saracens Preview
Posted by: ICantBelieveItsNotBartyII (IP Logged)
Date: 05/04/2025 14:08
Quite an unusual thing really, we've conceded 70 points but I'm oddly proud of the performance. The fight and intensity we showed is what's gone completely missing at key times this season. If we can build on that over the course of the rest of the league season we'll do alright.
Re: RC Toulon v Saracens Preview
Posted by: Nosher1979 (IP Logged)
Date: 05/04/2025 14:16
Quote:ICantBelieveItsNotBartyII
Quite an unusual thing really, we've conceded 70 points but I'm oddly proud of the performance. The fight and intensity we showed is what's gone completely missing at key times this season. If we can build on that over the course of the rest of the league season we'll do alright.
Yes, well said.
Re: RC Toulon v Saracens Preview
Posted by: Harrow Sarrie (IP Logged)
Date: 05/04/2025 15:23
Quote:Nosher1979Quote:ICantBelieveItsNotBartyII
Quite an unusual thing really, we've conceded 70 points but I'm oddly proud of the performance. The fight and intensity we showed is what's gone completely missing at key times this season. If we can build on that over the course of the rest of the league season we'll do alright.
Yes, well said.
+1
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2025:04:05:15:24:15 by Harrow Sarrie.
Re: RC Toulon v Saracens Preview
Posted by: PaulHerox (IP Logged)
Date: 05/04/2025 15:41
Well I succumbed and watched the game. My £20 bet is with the bookmakers.
Other than getting it about as wrong as possible re Dan (solid set piece) and Hadley (lineout issues although not helped by his catchers) I found it a frustrating watch even in the better first half.
I'm not sure what is worse that we don't learn from our failures or that we don't learn from our successes?
Everything positive from the first 30-ish? was about us playing at speed and not letting the opposition settle.
Even then we had less than 25% quick ball and Van-Zyl was doing his habitual job of dithering at the based whilst options ran onto empty air where a pass should be going.
When he sped up we looked really dangerous and as said Dan, JMG, even Van-Zyl running a lovely support line, looked sharp.
We just revert to the mean far too quickly and it comes from Van-Zyl far too often. Given he's a big leader in camp it's almost impossible to feel that isn't how the coaches want him playing.
I think it's too easy to view this game as "we did well considering" rather than "we threw away a chance to really deliver"
I didn't agree with the narrative from the pundits that Toulon didn't turn up in the first half. I believe they couldn't cope with the speed and them we totally let them off the hook with missed chances for a couple of easy trys and kicking to them in space and getting cut open.
This could easily have been a one score game with a little better execution and much better game smarts.
The only inescapable bit was their bench front row which duly marmalised ours.
From that point on we were fighting very much into the wind and yet we gifted them three trys through giving them easy ball to attack in space.
The positives are for some young players getting experience and a few stand-outs in Dan (excepting not using support when in space a bit too often) JMG, McF and a few others.
I know we were missing some big names but the reality is we would have played the same, as we've seen most of the season, had they been picked.
We'd still play with one of the slowest ruck speeds and still kick possession to dangerous opposition backs under little pressure.
Shaw isn't the Head Coach for me I'm afraid. He seems incapable of fixing the issues and game after game we make the same mistakes whilst not building on the positives.
I don't expect any change though which means a continued managed decline. A real shame.
Other than getting it about as wrong as possible re Dan (solid set piece) and Hadley (lineout issues although not helped by his catchers) I found it a frustrating watch even in the better first half.
I'm not sure what is worse that we don't learn from our failures or that we don't learn from our successes?
Everything positive from the first 30-ish? was about us playing at speed and not letting the opposition settle.
Even then we had less than 25% quick ball and Van-Zyl was doing his habitual job of dithering at the based whilst options ran onto empty air where a pass should be going.
When he sped up we looked really dangerous and as said Dan, JMG, even Van-Zyl running a lovely support line, looked sharp.
We just revert to the mean far too quickly and it comes from Van-Zyl far too often. Given he's a big leader in camp it's almost impossible to feel that isn't how the coaches want him playing.
I think it's too easy to view this game as "we did well considering" rather than "we threw away a chance to really deliver"
I didn't agree with the narrative from the pundits that Toulon didn't turn up in the first half. I believe they couldn't cope with the speed and them we totally let them off the hook with missed chances for a couple of easy trys and kicking to them in space and getting cut open.
This could easily have been a one score game with a little better execution and much better game smarts.
The only inescapable bit was their bench front row which duly marmalised ours.
From that point on we were fighting very much into the wind and yet we gifted them three trys through giving them easy ball to attack in space.
The positives are for some young players getting experience and a few stand-outs in Dan (excepting not using support when in space a bit too often) JMG, McF and a few others.
I know we were missing some big names but the reality is we would have played the same, as we've seen most of the season, had they been picked.
We'd still play with one of the slowest ruck speeds and still kick possession to dangerous opposition backs under little pressure.
Shaw isn't the Head Coach for me I'm afraid. He seems incapable of fixing the issues and game after game we make the same mistakes whilst not building on the positives.
I don't expect any change though which means a continued managed decline. A real shame.
Re: RC Toulon v Saracens Preview
Posted by: PaulHerox (IP Logged)
Date: 05/04/2025 15:44
Quote:ICantBelieveItsNotBartyII
Quite an unusual thing really, we've conceded 70 points but I'm oddly proud of the performance. The fight and intensity we showed is what's gone completely missing at key times this season. If we can build on that over the course of the rest of the league season we'll do alright.
But we showed it for about 30 minutes of an 80 minute game Barty. Is that really enough?
Re: RC Toulon v Saracens Preview
Posted by: PaulHerox (IP Logged)
Date: 05/04/2025 15:50
On a connected note we keep hearing about how well the English players in France are doing.
Both Ludlam and Sinckler looked unfit and ineffective and despite the pundits bigging Ribbans up the lineout and being bumped by Hartley on the carry aside I thought he was pretty quiet.
Both Ludlam and Sinckler looked unfit and ineffective and despite the pundits bigging Ribbans up the lineout and being bumped by Hartley on the carry aside I thought he was pretty quiet.
Re: RC Toulon v Saracens Preview
Posted by: ComeOnSarries (IP Logged)
Date: 05/04/2025 16:37
The simple truth is that no English club has the depth of resources to compete with some of the big French clubs and Leinster. We might get the occasional upset but to compete on a level playing field simply isn’t possible. Just look at Quins being embarrassed by Leinster as I write this.
Re: RC Toulon v Saracens Preview
Posted by: ninjafez (IP Logged)
Date: 05/04/2025 16:43
62-0, quins didn't even lay a hand on, despite all that chat during the week about our team.
Ninjafez - supporting Sarries and cleaning their signs since 2006!
Ninjafez - supporting Sarries and cleaning their signs since 2006!
Re: RC Toulon v Saracens Preview
Posted by: Brown Bottle (IP Logged)
Date: 05/04/2025 17:05
Quote:ninjafez
62-0, quins didn't even lay a hand on, despite all that chat during the week about our team.
To be fair I'd say our fans (Quins) weren't too happy with Wilson's comments on the whole. And that was before our game today.
BB
Re: RC Toulon v Saracens Preview
Posted by: gerry1 (IP Logged)
Date: 05/04/2025 17:16
Considering the game was played in the cauldron of Stade de mayol we did remarkably well against a massive and speedy opposition. There was no way in which we could have prevented several of their tries which were scored by applying brute force. Despite the loss there were more positives than negatives in our performance. The first half was a delight to watch, the handling was superb and we took our tries well, our youngsters held up well and Dan threw of his throwing problems against Leicester with aplomb and showed of his dynamic running. The performance sets us up well for the run in
Re: RC Toulon v Saracens Preview
Posted by: TommyKentish (IP Logged)
Date: 05/04/2025 17:26
Quote:ICantBelieveItsNotBartyII
Quite an unusual thing really, we've conceded 70 points but I'm oddly proud of the performance. The fight and intensity we showed is what's gone completely missing at key times this season. If we can build on that over the course of the rest of the league season we'll do alright.
Absolutely agreed Barty. We punched ourselves after a brilliant start and when Toulon are bringing on guys like Serin and the enormous number 19 we were always going to struggle to keep the performance up. Great experience for the young lads and some big performances. I do think we need to look at our defence and that’s not just based on today but all season we’ve been shooting up and making it very easy for teams to get around the edge. Much like England we need to temper the rush and drift a bit more.
Re: RC Toulon v Saracens Preview
Posted by: PaulHerox (IP Logged)
Date: 05/04/2025 17:39
ComeOnSarries there's obviously truth in that but the disparity in cap isn't what's causing our self-sabotaging ruck speed, indifferent attack, preference for kicking ball away, etc
These are all things well in our control.
Perhaps they shouldn't have sent a weakened team to Leinster but rather that strong one that beat us in the Showdown.
These are all things well in our control.
Quote:ninjafez
62-0, quins didn't even lay a hand on, despite all that chat during the week about our team.
Perhaps they shouldn't have sent a weakened team to Leinster but rather that strong one that beat us in the Showdown.
Re: RC Toulon v Saracens Preview
Posted by: Brown Bottle (IP Logged)
Date: 05/04/2025 18:25
Quote:PaulHerox
...
Perhaps they shouldn't have sent a weakened team to Leinster but rather that strong one that beat us in the Showdown.
Ahh... We knew you struggled against weak opposition after the Castres game.
BB
Re: RC Toulon v Saracens Preview
Posted by: Darraghgirl (IP Logged)
Date: 05/04/2025 18:50
The difference was in the bench -theirs were internationals, ours were RFU championship players but still really proud of the guys and what an entertaining game
Re: RC Toulon v Saracens Preview
Posted by: #wolfpack1 (IP Logged)
Date: 05/04/2025 18:53
Hard to be disappointed with the effort and/or intent today.
Ultimately we were massively over powered by a very good team. We’re a mid table premiership team, they’re at the top of the Top14. To score 6 tries is a good return. We just couldn’t live with their power in the carry or at the breakdown - lucky for us there’s not team remotely that powerful in the premiership.
We’ve shown better intent in the last two games than we have previously this season. IVZ needs to concentrate on keeping his tempo high because he can still let it drop - but imo we’re starting to move in the right direction. We need to keep at it and not revert.
Ultimately we were massively over powered by a very good team. We’re a mid table premiership team, they’re at the top of the Top14. To score 6 tries is a good return. We just couldn’t live with their power in the carry or at the breakdown - lucky for us there’s not team remotely that powerful in the premiership.
We’ve shown better intent in the last two games than we have previously this season. IVZ needs to concentrate on keeping his tempo high because he can still let it drop - but imo we’re starting to move in the right direction. We need to keep at it and not revert.
Re: RC Toulon v Saracens Preview
Posted by: The Bard (IP Logged)
Date: 05/04/2025 21:49
Ribbans was very prominent throughout, the massive number 19 and their replacement front row settled the match.
We had Christie, Isiekwe and big Theo with not much game time in their legs and they just ran out of steam. Probably the best Toulon team I’ve seen ball in hand.
Incredible atmosphere around the ground, I reckon they could give Toulouse a decent test next week.
We had Christie, Isiekwe and big Theo with not much game time in their legs and they just ran out of steam. Probably the best Toulon team I’ve seen ball in hand.
Incredible atmosphere around the ground, I reckon they could give Toulouse a decent test next week.
Re: RC Toulon v Saracens Preview
Posted by: ICantBelieveItsNotBartyII (IP Logged)
Date: 06/04/2025 08:42
Quote:PaulHeroxQuote:ICantBelieveItsNotBartyII
Quite an unusual thing really, we've conceded 70 points but I'm oddly proud of the performance. The fight and intensity we showed is what's gone completely missing at key times this season. If we can build on that over the course of the rest of the league season we'll do alright.
But we showed it for about 30 minutes of an 80 minute game Barty. Is that really enough?
As others have alluded to, context is important. French rugby is in great health with extra millions of salary space, and Toulon were able to raise their game with a stacked bench while we were bringing on promising players but ultimately ones still earning their trade at championship level. Despite that, with ten minutes left of the match, there were only two scores in it.
Worth saying too, if our England internationals were playing and this was the result, I wouldn't be proud at all, as we'd probably be bringing on the likes of Dan, Isiekwe, Christie etc. to match Toulon's physicality.
Re: RC Toulon v Saracens Preview
Posted by: TommyKentish (IP Logged)
Date: 06/04/2025 09:27
Comments from Smally, fully agree espcially with the generation coming through at u20s:
“I remember going to Toulouse in 2016 for a pool match and the stadium was half-empty,” he said. “We won with a bonus point pretty easily and Toulouse, who had been a force, weren’t a force then, but have become a force again. Their big thing was committing to promoting from within, they were going to bring through their own players.”
“English rugby has got piles of young players coming through who need to be given opportunities and time. Investing in youth, everybody being patient with the youth, rather than just grabbing players from overseas is ultimately what is going to make the difference.”
“I remember going to Toulouse in 2016 for a pool match and the stadium was half-empty,” he said. “We won with a bonus point pretty easily and Toulouse, who had been a force, weren’t a force then, but have become a force again. Their big thing was committing to promoting from within, they were going to bring through their own players.”
“English rugby has got piles of young players coming through who need to be given opportunities and time. Investing in youth, everybody being patient with the youth, rather than just grabbing players from overseas is ultimately what is going to make the difference.”
Re: RC Toulon v Saracens Preview
Posted by: #wolfpack1 (IP Logged)
Date: 06/04/2025 10:01
Small but important point from yesterday - Burke 100% from the tee (I think)
Re: RC Toulon v Saracens Preview
Posted by: samgibbo (IP Logged)
Date: 06/04/2025 10:11
Proud of the lads and the way they fronted up. Blown away in the second half by the depth of the Toulon squad. Plenty to work on but plenty of positives to take. Our England boys might have narrowed the deficit but I still don’t think we’d have won with them.
Id much rather we spend next season building the confidence of the younger guys in the Challenge Cup but appreciate Maro, Earl and Co want to be playing the best of the best….
Id much rather we spend next season building the confidence of the younger guys in the Challenge Cup but appreciate Maro, Earl and Co want to be playing the best of the best….
Re: RC Toulon v Saracens Preview
Posted by: PaulHerox (IP Logged)
Date: 06/04/2025 13:08
Quote:gerry1
There was no way in which we could have prevented several of their tries which were scored by applying brute force.
We could literally have not given away two incredibly daft penalties that gave them field position for two trys and when our players were knackered in the last twenty I don't think it's too strong to suggest it wasn't the brightest idea in the world to kick long with no chase to their back three.
Maybe they'd have scored other ways but we literally loaded the gun for them on multiple occasions.
Quote:gerry1
Despite the loss there were more positives than negatives in our performance.
I'm stunned that anyone thinks that and yet I appreciate they do from comments above and McCall.
I appreciate there's a difference between his comments for public consumption and what he might say behind closed doors but I've found his comments after this and the Quins losses tough to agree with.
There is an expression that goes along the lines of "don't pee on me and tell me it's raining" and that's how I increasingly feels re Saracens. The issues aren't a mystery and yet week after week our coaching team seems surprised that defaulting to the same has yielded the same result.
Of course there were positives both in gaining experience and also in the play from several players but for me there's too much allowance given for what isn't going right and our acceptance of it rather than actively doing something about it.
We could have been right in this game and that we weren't on the day wasn't about their budget or our missing players as much as how we chose to play the game and our execution.
Re: RC Toulon v Saracens Preview
Posted by: Supporting Saracens for over 55 years. (IP Logged)
Date: 06/04/2025 15:29
Quote:The issues aren't a mystery and yet week after week our coaching team seems surprised that defaulting to the same has yielded the same result.[/quote]
Mark M has a 73% win rate in all competitions. Anyone dissatisfied is welcome to try and find someone with a better track record and I would definitely encourage them to do so.
Supporting Saracens for over 55 years.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2025:04:06:15:39:05 by Supporting Saracens for over 55 years. .
Mark M has a 73% win rate in all competitions. Anyone dissatisfied is welcome to try and find someone with a better track record and I would definitely encourage them to do so.
Supporting Saracens for over 55 years.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2025:04:06:15:39:05 by Supporting Saracens for over 55 years. .
Re: RC Toulon v Saracens Preview
Posted by: ICantBelieveItsNotBartyII (IP Logged)
Date: 06/04/2025 16:13
Quote:PaulHerox
there's too much allowance given for what isn't going right and our acceptance of it rather than actively doing something about it.
We could have been right in this game and that we weren't on the day wasn't about their budget or our missing players as much as how we chose to play the game and our execution.
The Quins game (despite Castres, Newcastle, Bath etc.) was the rock bottom for me and I really don't think there's anyone accepting it or that they're not doing something about it. But change doesn't happen in the space of a couple of weeks. We saw in the close win over Tigers, and for a good chunk of the game against a mighty Toulon team, that the changes we want are being worked on.
I know you're unhappy about the slowness/box kicking game but its very difficult to play a fast paced attacking game when you're being run over physically at ruck time and it takes a huge effort just to secure the ball.
Re: RC Toulon v Saracens Preview
Posted by: PaulHerox (IP Logged)
Date: 06/04/2025 17:23
As always Barty very reasonable points. I'm less convinced that the changes are being worked on there's a rather large body of work over the last 18 months that we're just repeating the same mistakes but accept that any change does take time.
You're absolutely right and if that's what we were talking about I'd agree but the pattern we are seeing over and over again is us taking the tempo out of the game when we have good ball as well as the circumstances you describe.
It's not a reaction to playing off the back foot or having the ruck disrupted but a conscious decision to slow play and I find it absolutely bewildering.
In that first 30 we saw the huge positive impact of Van-Zyl playing quickly but also missed chances to keep that tempo up as he reverted to slowing play.
I'm not talking about when he had a lack of options or a prescribed box-kick was coming but when the ability to play quick to players coming onto the ball and instead he slows play, lets the defense settle then sends a pass to a static forward.
I'm yet to find someone who can explain what purpose this serves and if it wasn't what the coaches wanted Van-Zyl wouldn't start at 9 or be a senior leader within the team.
I genuinely believe that focusing on quicker ruck speed is one of the "easiest" ways for us to improve and suits the squad we actually have whether that's Burkes threat at the line, our distributing rather than direct options at centre or our lighter but quick and very skilful backrowers.
It isn't a panacea but we have seen repeatedly that when we try to lift the tempo we are rewarded. When we slow it down and play without the ball we struggle.
Quote:ICantBelieveItsNotBartyII
its very difficult to play a fast paced attacking game when you're being run over physically at ruck time and it takes a huge effort just to secure the ball.
You're absolutely right and if that's what we were talking about I'd agree but the pattern we are seeing over and over again is us taking the tempo out of the game when we have good ball as well as the circumstances you describe.
It's not a reaction to playing off the back foot or having the ruck disrupted but a conscious decision to slow play and I find it absolutely bewildering.
In that first 30 we saw the huge positive impact of Van-Zyl playing quickly but also missed chances to keep that tempo up as he reverted to slowing play.
I'm not talking about when he had a lack of options or a prescribed box-kick was coming but when the ability to play quick to players coming onto the ball and instead he slows play, lets the defense settle then sends a pass to a static forward.
I'm yet to find someone who can explain what purpose this serves and if it wasn't what the coaches wanted Van-Zyl wouldn't start at 9 or be a senior leader within the team.
I genuinely believe that focusing on quicker ruck speed is one of the "easiest" ways for us to improve and suits the squad we actually have whether that's Burkes threat at the line, our distributing rather than direct options at centre or our lighter but quick and very skilful backrowers.
It isn't a panacea but we have seen repeatedly that when we try to lift the tempo we are rewarded. When we slow it down and play without the ball we struggle.
Re: RC Toulon v Saracens Preview
Posted by: PaulHerox (IP Logged)
Date: 06/04/2025 17:28
Well done to Sanderson and Sale.
The depth and quality of the Top14 showing in the second half of the game again but they showed really well in the first half in particular.
I don't think the referee was bad but they got nothing from him and a couple of very dodgy calls that set up field position for Toulouse trys. Would have been great if that third Sale try had been legit.
The depth and quality of the Top14 showing in the second half of the game again but they showed really well in the first half in particular.
I don't think the referee was bad but they got nothing from him and a couple of very dodgy calls that set up field position for Toulouse trys. Would have been great if that third Sale try had been legit.
Re: RC Toulon v Saracens Preview
Posted by: ComeOnSarries (IP Logged)
Date: 06/04/2025 17:33
Whilst I didn’t watch the game I see that Sale vs Toulouse took the same shape as our game. The English club ahead at half time and then beaten comprehensively in the second half. Again I think the main learning is that to progress in the Champions Cup you really do need 23 top class players (15 is simply not enough). Obviously to have 23 fit and available you need a good number more quality players in your squad. The English game is constrained by lack of income and they have agreed to a salary cap so squads have to be kept smaller with less depth in quality. The days of us having the likes of Will Skelton on the bench are sadly behind us!
I can see Northampton winning at home in their quarter final to make a semi but they will not make the final which will probably be Leinster against the winner of Toulon vs Toulouse. Calling the winner of the final is a far more difficult task!
I can see Northampton winning at home in their quarter final to make a semi but they will not make the final which will probably be Leinster against the winner of Toulon vs Toulouse. Calling the winner of the final is a far more difficult task!
Re: RC Toulon v Saracens Preview
Posted by: nicsue (IP Logged)
Date: 06/04/2025 17:45
Quote:PaulHeroxQuote:gerry1
There was no way in which we could have prevented several of their tries which were scored by applying brute force.
We could literally have not given away two incredibly daft penalties that gave them field position for two trys and when our players were knackered in the last twenty I don't think it's too strong to suggest it wasn't the brightest idea in the world to kick long with no chase to their back three.
Just maybe at that point in the game our players had neither the spare capacity physically or mentally to do anything else.
I do find all of your posts just recently relentlessly negative every which way. If you really think Mark McCall et al are doing such a bad job please do write to them directly and give them the benefit of your vastly superior knowledge, as you see it. Perhaps it will get it off your chest and stop bothering us here.
Re: RC Toulon v Saracens Preview
Posted by: PaulHerox (IP Logged)
Date: 06/04/2025 18:07
Fair point about negativity. Apologies.
Re: RC Toulon v Saracens Preview
Posted by: ICantBelieveItsNotBartyII (IP Logged)
Date: 06/04/2025 18:57
A bit of an overreaction Nicsue. Would agree Paul's general tone over the last couple of months is pretty negative, but then salary cap aside its probably the most prolonged period of inconsistent/bad performances in a decade plus so some negativity is pretty justified and frustration understandable even if I/we don't agree on all points made. The whole point of a forum is sharing and discussing opinion, if we all thought the same it would be a dull place.
Re: RC Toulon v Saracens Preview
Posted by: Stonexjim (IP Logged)
Date: 06/04/2025 21:32
For me Paul has been largely 100% correct up until this point.
Whilst the second half was disappointing, there were many many good things to like about this weekend. I was worried after Leicester, and with a second ish team away, that we’d revert to type of the last few seasons. Literally couldn’t have been more wrong.
I’ve been a very negative person in the last few months, rightly so in my opinion. I leave France tomorrow optimistic. I think we’ll finish outside the top 4 this year. For me, 5th and maybe 6th wouldn’t be a disaster, providing we continue to build on the positives of the last two games.
Whilst the second half was disappointing, there were many many good things to like about this weekend. I was worried after Leicester, and with a second ish team away, that we’d revert to type of the last few seasons. Literally couldn’t have been more wrong.
I’ve been a very negative person in the last few months, rightly so in my opinion. I leave France tomorrow optimistic. I think we’ll finish outside the top 4 this year. For me, 5th and maybe 6th wouldn’t be a disaster, providing we continue to build on the positives of the last two games.
Re: RC Toulon v Saracens Preview
Posted by: ninjafez (IP Logged)
Date: 06/04/2025 22:12
to borrow an sports american-isum, "it is, what it is" our season is now going to trend a bit like the ladies where we need to win every game to the semis and we won't even be playing at home but yeah, quins was a wake up call for the players. its luck that we happen to be mostly playing our rivals to then leap above them if we do everything right, and perhaps bath end up doing a Sarries on us and sending out a youth team at the end to get us in.
Ninjafez - supporting Sarries and cleaning their signs since 2006!
Ninjafez - supporting Sarries and cleaning their signs since 2006!
Re: RC Toulon v Saracens Preview
Posted by: The Bard (IP Logged)
Date: 06/04/2025 22:14
Our playing style has changed massively the last two games. But I’ve never seen us lose the physical battle as comprehensively as we did yesterday, I think even our full team would have struggled to contain them. Normally Toulon would use their bulk to get a lead and then close up shop, but our blistering start prompted a savage response . I really hope we learn the harsh lessons whilst building the very many positives from our attacking play.
It was great to see Theo Dan back to his best.
It was great to see Theo Dan back to his best.
Re: RC Toulon v Saracens Preview
Posted by: #wolfpack1 (IP Logged)
Date: 07/04/2025 08:42
Quote:ICantBelieveItsNotBartyII
We saw in the close win over Tigers, and for a good chunk of the game against a mighty Toulon team, that the changes we want are being worked on.
I agree.
The key now is we keep doing it. I’d far rather we finished 5th or 6th and kept building on what we saw v Tigers and Toulon, than reverted to type to grind out some wins and sneak 4th.
This weekend showed that you can cope with the French sides when they are “off” for about 30 mins, but not for much longer than that. Toulon, Toulouse and UBB were well sub par this weekend and ended up comfortable victors in each of their games.
Right now isn’t the time to be concerned about our lack of physicality or lack of carrying (other than the brilliant Theo Dan). I think we need to keep focusing on tempo (IVZ still lets this drop, ball movement and ruck speed. Forget about how to compete in Europe - this has gone for the time being.
Re: RC Toulon v Saracens Preview
Posted by: saracensfan62 (IP Logged)
Date: 07/04/2025 10:47
Agree regarding Paul's comments, however there is always a silver lining behind every cloud. We are seeing the emergence of several exceptional young players (Dan, Hartley, Elliott etc) who will form the backbone of Saracens in the years to come. They need experiences like these to learn.
Re: RC Toulon v Saracens Preview
Posted by: gerry1 (IP Logged)
Date: 07/04/2025 12:13
it was good to see Fergus nail all his kicks, should give him the confidence to replace Loz as the principal kicker. I thought he played well, his defence was pretty solid and demonstrated his eye for a gap
Re: RC Toulon v Saracens Preview
Posted by: TommyKentish (IP Logged)
Date: 07/04/2025 12:49
I agree with a lot of the above, huge positives to take from the last few matches after a real low against Quins. Some of the attacking stuff has been great and the energy to play for each other so pleasing. Very proud of the reaction in general since Quins.
I still think we need to look at the rush defence though. It is way too easy for teams to get around us currently and it is a massive energy sapper. I quite liked it at the start as it was a throw back to when I started watching in 2015 but the laws have changed and pretty much the only team who can run is effectively seem to be SA with their absolutely rapid wingers (one of the reasons I’d like to see Bracken, he’s got real gas). I suspect it came from the England players who enjoyed it last year but we don’t have the personnel to implement it right now and it takes a lot of work. Tigers didn’t really have the backline to get round us but Toulon and Quins did, so we need to adapt. Particularly with Glaws coming up.
I still think we need to look at the rush defence though. It is way too easy for teams to get around us currently and it is a massive energy sapper. I quite liked it at the start as it was a throw back to when I started watching in 2015 but the laws have changed and pretty much the only team who can run is effectively seem to be SA with their absolutely rapid wingers (one of the reasons I’d like to see Bracken, he’s got real gas). I suspect it came from the England players who enjoyed it last year but we don’t have the personnel to implement it right now and it takes a lot of work. Tigers didn’t really have the backline to get round us but Toulon and Quins did, so we need to adapt. Particularly with Glaws coming up.
Re: RC Toulon v Saracens Preview
Posted by: PaulHerox (IP Logged)
Date: 07/04/2025 13:15
Lots of good posts and points above.
I think I get too easily distracted into what we aren't doing and have maybe lost sight of what we are.
There are lots of positives:
The FrontRow and scrum in particular seems to be going very well under Webber.
We have the elements for one of the best attacking and defending lineouts in the League.
Tom Willis is a generational talent and we have a core of very talented and experienced players.
They are supplemented by some real live-wires coming through age-grade and the Academy.
Recent games have seen glimpses of "Prime" McFarland and JMG.
We have the Leagues top try-scoring 10 in Burke.
We have shown we don't lack the skills or personnel to expand the ambition of our game.
We're still in with a shot of the Top4.
I think I get too easily distracted into what we aren't doing and have maybe lost sight of what we are.
There are lots of positives:
The FrontRow and scrum in particular seems to be going very well under Webber.
We have the elements for one of the best attacking and defending lineouts in the League.
Tom Willis is a generational talent and we have a core of very talented and experienced players.
They are supplemented by some real live-wires coming through age-grade and the Academy.
Recent games have seen glimpses of "Prime" McFarland and JMG.
We have the Leagues top try-scoring 10 in Burke.
We have shown we don't lack the skills or personnel to expand the ambition of our game.
We're still in with a shot of the Top4.
Re: RC Toulon v Saracens Preview
Posted by: Eurosarrie (IP Logged)
Date: 07/04/2025 19:19
I am still smiling from my trip to Toulon and whilst i understand the concerns expressed above with some of the tactics (inability to maintain speed of distribution, one dimensional rush defense, etc.) the biggest take-away from Saturday was that it was a fantastic event, played in the greatest rugby (family) spirit and all fans from both sides were treated to a spectacle of exciting rugby. It was by far the best experience i have had on the road with Sarries and I've been a fan for overs 25 years.
Toulon fans and all the local were simply fabulous.
I truly believe this game will enable all the Sarries players and staff to use the energy, enthusiasm (clearly on show by all the team on Saturday) to generate the team coherence necessary for us to actually achieve something in this our "transition" season. A 4th place is in our control and i for one will be cheering this magnificent team on to achieve this goal.
We should all be very proud of what was on show in Toulon both in terms of the team's achievement and how well we supporters were celebrated too!
Toulon fans and all the local were simply fabulous.
I truly believe this game will enable all the Sarries players and staff to use the energy, enthusiasm (clearly on show by all the team on Saturday) to generate the team coherence necessary for us to actually achieve something in this our "transition" season. A 4th place is in our control and i for one will be cheering this magnificent team on to achieve this goal.
We should all be very proud of what was on show in Toulon both in terms of the team's achievement and how well we supporters were celebrated too!
Re: RC Toulon v Saracens Preview
Posted by: Toga (IP Logged)
Date: 07/04/2025 19:53
Those calling for big changes (and getting rid of MM would be the biggest change the club could make) need to suggest who they would like to replace him and why they think they would improve the club.
If McCall became available because he left, or Saracens let him go, I can guarantee you that he'd have clubs, provinces and countries from every corner of the rugby world queuing up to offer him a job. He's hugely regarded in professional rugby and his pedigree is unquestionable. Saracens are winners because of their togetherness and spirit. In short, the players give a toss about the shirt and that comes from being a tight group. McCall is the catalyst for that. And it's priceless. You can't learn it on an RFU course or from a book, or a life coach. It's just the way he's put together - he's authentic and players love that. You can't fake it and keep it sustainable, just look at grifters like Eddie Jones, they always get found out.
If McCall became available because he left, or Saracens let him go, I can guarantee you that he'd have clubs, provinces and countries from every corner of the rugby world queuing up to offer him a job. He's hugely regarded in professional rugby and his pedigree is unquestionable. Saracens are winners because of their togetherness and spirit. In short, the players give a toss about the shirt and that comes from being a tight group. McCall is the catalyst for that. And it's priceless. You can't learn it on an RFU course or from a book, or a life coach. It's just the way he's put together - he's authentic and players love that. You can't fake it and keep it sustainable, just look at grifters like Eddie Jones, they always get found out.
Re: RC Toulon v Saracens Preview
Posted by: TommyKentish (IP Logged)
Date: 07/04/2025 20:51
I can’t believe any Sarries fan would call for Smally to go. I’m more worried that his contract apparently runs out this year. Add to that losing Morrow and still no CEO there’s more than enough change.
Euro Sarrie that sounds awesome, I’ve wanted to do an away trip to France for ages, this certainly encourages me!
Euro Sarrie that sounds awesome, I’ve wanted to do an away trip to France for ages, this certainly encourages me!
Re: RC Toulon v Saracens Preview
Posted by: ComeOnSarries (IP Logged)
Date: 08/04/2025 09:52
Great to hear that the supporter experience was so positive. The French, outside Paris, can be very hospitable indeed! I don’t travel to away games so often now but over the years I have collected some great memories from away fixtures. Castle Grim on a Friday night is a bit different!
Re: RC Toulon v Saracens Preview
Posted by: PaulHerox (IP Logged)
Date: 09/04/2025 10:21
Quote:ninjafez
... our season is now going to trend a bit like the ladies where we need to win every game to the semis and we won't even be playing at home ... its luck that we happen to be mostly playing our rivals to then leap above them if we do everything right, and perhaps bath end up doing a Sarries on us and sending out a youth team at the end to get us in.
I was looking at the run-in over the weekend and it is at least very much in our hands right now.
6th place currently and two points off 4th.
5 games and 25 potential points left available with the following fixtures ahead:
Gloucester at Home
Sale Away
Falcons at Home
Saints Away
Bath at Home
Last season 11 wins and 56 points got us 4th last season.
We're 4 wins and 17 points off that and given how tight things are wins could be important if the table is tied.
I can't work out all the combinations but almost certainly need 4 wins from 5 for Top4.
We've a fairly strong vested interest in both Gloucester and Bath going full bore this weekend and knocking lumps out of each other ahead of Gloucester's visit.
Saints going all the way to the Champions Cup Final would mean they maybe rested players ahead of the Final but that feels like quite a stretch although I think they will beat Castres.
Lastly Bath resting in the last game although I think that will be minimal as they'll be cautious about going into a SemiFinal cold.
Can we do it. Its going to be interesting.
Re: RC Toulon v Saracens Preview
Posted by: TommyKentish (IP Logged)
Date: 09/04/2025 17:05
It’s a fascinating run in (Bath excepted) next weekend alone has:
Sarries v Gloucester
Quins v Sale
Bristol v Tigers
So positions 2-7 playing each other.
Obviously the home matches are must wins. I can’t remember the last time we beat Sale away but it doesn’t seem to happen often, Saints away might be more attainable if they don’t have much to play for by then but I’m sure they’ll want to spoil our season!
Sarries v Gloucester
Quins v Sale
Bristol v Tigers
So positions 2-7 playing each other.
Obviously the home matches are must wins. I can’t remember the last time we beat Sale away but it doesn’t seem to happen often, Saints away might be more attainable if they don’t have much to play for by then but I’m sure they’ll want to spoil our season!
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