Leicester Tigers v Saracens Premiership Cup Preview
Last time out...
By saracensfan62
September 7 2025
Good evening all. This preview will be a fairly short and sweet one regarding next weekend's Premiership Cup opener against the Leicester Tigers at Welford Road.
Our premiership cup campaign begins on Saturday 13th September at Welford Road with a trip to face the Leicester Tigers. Recent fixtures against the Tigers in the 24-25 campaign were a mixed bag – a loss at the StoneX in October last year, followed by a very narrow win at Welford Road characterised by a series of Leicester mistakes rather than Saracens excellence. Following Leicester’s hammering of Nottingham and our victory in South Africa to a 2nd string Hollywoodbets Sharks side, this match up could be an interesting one. What with an increasing proportion of our matchday squad consisting of young-guns rather than the ‘old reliables’, we may see a 23 resembling that of future Premiership and even Champions Cup games. While early in the season, this match sets the tone for the pool. A win here gives momentum in the initial phase; a loss could put immediate pressure on future cup campaigns.
For Saracens, the Sharks game was a match of 2 halves, not mathematically. We can all agree that the first half was very poor, but after around 50-55 minutes, we saw major improvements. It seemed once many of the replacements came on, especially Charlie+Jack Bracken, the team sparked into life. Olamide Sodeke was an enormous positive, as was newbie Noah Caluori. Nathan Michelow led the pack well at Number8 and Tompkins as captain. I expect we would need to play similar to how we played in the last 25-30 minutes of that Sharks game to stand any chance of beating the Tigers on their home turf. Known for strong squad rotation and backing youth, we often showcase talent with an eye to both development and results. This clash could see early glimpses of players aiming to push for senior roles.
Leicester, well what we’ve seen so far was positive – a crushing victory against Nottingham Rugby. The team that featured against Nottingham featured a few usual starters, like Olly Cracknell, Ollie Hassell-Collins, Charlie Clare and Hanro Liebenberg. Tigers are now under the management of Geoff Parling, following the departure of Michael Cheika at the end of last season. I expect Parling to emphasize forward structure, lineout precision, and retaining club tradition merged with innovative patterns. I expect new players such as Jamie Blamire, Billy Searle, Orlando Bailey and James O’Connor to feature. It’ll be interesting to watch Tigers kicking game, especially since a new fly half/ves will be coming to Leicester.
I expect this to be a cracker of a match and to all those who make the trip, cheer loud for the team.
The side I expect to travel to Welford Road is:
1. Rhys Carre
2. James Hadfield
3. Marco Riccioni
4. Olamide Sodeke
5. Hugh Tizard
6. Harry Wilson
7. Toby Knight
8. Nathan Michelow
9. Ivan van-Zyl
10. Louie Johnson
11. Rotimi Segun
12. Olly Hartley
13. Nick Tompkins
14. Tobias Elliott
15. Jack Bracken
16. Samson Adejimi
17. Phil Brantingham
18. Tietie Tuimauga
19. Kennedy Sylvester
20. Reggie Hammick
21. Charlie Bracken
22. Fergus Burke
23. Noah Calouri
Leicester Tigers v Saracens Premiership Cup Preview
Posted by: TheSaracens.com (IP Logged)
Date: 07/09/2025 21:52
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Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2025:09:28:17:46:21 by Darraghgirl.
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Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2025:09:28:17:46:21 by Darraghgirl.
Re: Leicester Tigers v Saracens Premiership Cup Preview
Posted by: saracensfan62 (IP Logged)
Date: 07/09/2025 21:55
Feel free to start your own discussions regarding the match below 
It was a close call as to who would start at 9 but I think Bracken's impact off the bench could be a key factor in this match, and IvZ has the ability to control the game a little more effectively.
It was a close call as to who would start at 9 but I think Bracken's impact off the bench could be a key factor in this match, and IvZ has the ability to control the game a little more effectively.Re: Leicester Tigers v Saracens Premiership Cup Preview
Posted by: jimfitz12 (IP Logged)
Date: 08/09/2025 08:33
Great report!
I would be surprised if we didn't see one or two of the England boys start to feature in this one (although they might hold them back for the Saints game at home). Might also see a return from injury for a few of the boys, like Malins and Knight. I would go with something like the below;
1. Rhys Carre
2. James Hadfield
3. Marco Riccioni
4. Olamide Sodeke
5. Hugh Tizard
6. Harry Wilson
7. Toby Knight
8. Nathan Michelow
9. Ivan van-Zyl
10. Fergus Burke
11. Rotimi Segun
12. Olly Hartley
13. Nick Tompkins
14. Tobias Elliott
15. Jack Bracken
16. Samson Adejimi / Theo Dan?
17. Phil Brantingham
18. Tietie Tuimauga
19. Nick Isikewe
20. Andy OC
21. Charlie Bracken
22. Owen Farrell
23. Max Mallins
I would be surprised if we didn't see one or two of the England boys start to feature in this one (although they might hold them back for the Saints game at home). Might also see a return from injury for a few of the boys, like Malins and Knight. I would go with something like the below;
1. Rhys Carre
2. James Hadfield
3. Marco Riccioni
4. Olamide Sodeke
5. Hugh Tizard
6. Harry Wilson
7. Toby Knight
8. Nathan Michelow
9. Ivan van-Zyl
10. Fergus Burke
11. Rotimi Segun
12. Olly Hartley
13. Nick Tompkins
14. Tobias Elliott
15. Jack Bracken
16. Samson Adejimi / Theo Dan?
17. Phil Brantingham
18. Tietie Tuimauga
19. Nick Isikewe
20. Andy OC
21. Charlie Bracken
22. Owen Farrell
23. Max Mallins
Re: Leicester Tigers v Saracens Premiership Cup Preview
Posted by: saracensfan62 (IP Logged)
Date: 08/09/2025 11:38
Jimfitz, thank you! The reason I have omitted a lot of last seasons startersis because those who featured in both the Lions and England tour(I believe) cannot play under mandatory standdown regs. Nick, Theo D and Big Tom can't play in this match. Those who played in the Lions won't be featuring until at least the end of this month, maybe even not till October. JG2, Maro, Owen Faz, Earl etc. As for Andy OC and Max, I reckon we'll save them for the Saints game at StoneX.
Re: Leicester Tigers v Saracens Premiership Cup Preview
Posted by: PaulHerox (IP Logged)
Date: 08/09/2025 12:36
I've not seen the Tigers game but their confidence in what seems to have been a fluid professional performance would be in marked contrast to what we saw from Saracens for most of the past game.
It's always hard to balance giving players experience v putting in a bit of extra quality to try and bolster a relatively young team. Johnson struggled last game aside from his excellent kicking at sticks but I'd hope to see him backed again.
I'd pair Sodeke with whoever he's most likely to play in the PRC games once the full squad is back.
I'm really encourage with what I've heard and seen from both Tirrel and Goode on the videos but the first game suggests much of that isn't actually making it's way onto the field. Last season especially towards the end the youngsters played with a freedom alien to our senior team.
I'd hope whoever is sticking their beak in leaves the Academy/Young player coaches to it.
It's always hard to balance giving players experience v putting in a bit of extra quality to try and bolster a relatively young team. Johnson struggled last game aside from his excellent kicking at sticks but I'd hope to see him backed again.
I'd pair Sodeke with whoever he's most likely to play in the PRC games once the full squad is back.
I'm really encourage with what I've heard and seen from both Tirrel and Goode on the videos but the first game suggests much of that isn't actually making it's way onto the field. Last season especially towards the end the youngsters played with a freedom alien to our senior team.
I'd hope whoever is sticking their beak in leaves the Academy/Young player coaches to it.
Re: Leicester Tigers v Saracens Premiership Cup Preview
Posted by: jimfitz12 (IP Logged)
Date: 08/09/2025 12:55
Quote:saracensfan62
Jimfitz, thank you! The reason I have omitted a lot of last seasons startersis because those who featured in both the Lions and England tour(I believe) cannot play under mandatory standdown regs. Nick, Theo D and Big Tom can't play in this match. Those who played in the Lions won't be featuring until at least the end of this month, maybe even not till October. JG2, Maro, Owen Faz, Earl etc. As for Andy OC and Max, I reckon we'll save them for the Saints game at StoneX.
When it comes to the England boys, it is very much case by case. Nick I hasn't played a minute of rugby in a good while, so would be very surprised if he was under the same guidance as the other. Lions, you are correct with early October, however Faz is the exception here. He is free to play from now, it's just whether we choose to play him. He has a long break / time off due to rest of injuries before the tour, so was noted in a press interview saying the rules didn't apply to him and he was starting before the others.
Re: Leicester Tigers v Saracens Premiership Cup Preview
Posted by: The Bard (IP Logged)
Date: 08/09/2025 12:57
Suspect we’ll save Carre and Riccioni until next week. Reckon Beaton or Clarey rotating with Street on the tight head with the Samoan lad and Brantingham at loose head.
What’s the deal with Nick I? Hasn’t played on England tour or South African friendly.
What’s the deal with Nick I? Hasn’t played on England tour or South African friendly.
Re: Leicester Tigers v Saracens Premiership Cup Preview
Posted by: jimfitz12 (IP Logged)
Date: 08/09/2025 12:58
Quote:PaulHerox
I've not seen the Tigers game but their confidence in what seems to have been a fluid professional performance would be in marked contrast to what we saw from Saracens for most of the past game.
It's always hard to balance giving players experience v putting in a bit of extra quality to try and bolster a relatively young team. Johnson struggled last game aside from his excellent kicking at sticks but I'd hope to see him backed again.
I'd pair Sodeke with whoever he's most likely to play in the PRC games once the full squad is back.
I'm really encourage with what I've heard and seen from both Tirrel and Goode on the videos but the first game suggests much of that isn't actually making it's way onto the field. Last season especially towards the end the youngsters played with a freedom alien to our senior team.
I'd hope whoever is sticking their beak in leaves the Academy/Young player coaches to it.
Jesus it was the first game!! Given them a break for god sake. Takes a while to get patterns and flow going, particularly with a new backs coach. They started off by chucking the ball around, and then spent most of the first half defending and on the back foot, so kicking was inevitable. Once we started clicking we looked great. Didn't think the negativity would start this early, even for you Paul!
Re: Leicester Tigers v Saracens Premiership Cup Preview
Posted by: PaulHerox (IP Logged)
Date: 08/09/2025 14:15
Quote:The Bard
What’s the deal with Nick I? Hasn’t played on England tour or South African friendly.
Hopefully we see him sooner rather than later. Quality player and keep hoping he can channel the very top level of his game which I think is considerable.
I'm honestly not sure how we get the best out of him but every once in a while he has an incredible game that reminds you that he can be top level. To be fair his "normal" games are very good with massive workrate.
Re: Leicester Tigers v Saracens Premiership Cup Preview
Posted by: tigerburnie (IP Logged)
Date: 08/09/2025 17:23
There's every likelihood that James O'Conner will be playing for the Wallabies as Lynagh is injured.
Re: Leicester Tigers v Saracens Premiership Cup Preview
Posted by: TommyKentish (IP Logged)
Date: 08/09/2025 18:39
Lynagh has been cleared of concussion, hamstring might still rule him out though.
Re: Leicester Tigers v Saracens Premiership Cup Preview
Posted by: saracensfan62 (IP Logged)
Date: 09/09/2025 15:14
Good point concerning Nick, he may feature then with Wilson moving to the bench. We may see Cam Hutchninson (the injury cover for all our missing centres right now) but I must admit I'd prefer to see Olly Hartley as he is the future and could be a star for us
Re: Leicester Tigers v Saracens Premiership Cup Preview
Posted by: #wolfpack1 (IP Logged)
Date: 09/09/2025 17:03
This is a big season for Hartley imo. I think he needs to show he can have positive impacts on games from 12, rather than just look like he should be having positive impacts on games.
It would be a very odd decision to play Hutchinson ahead of him in these fixtures.
I’d like to see Sodeke as much as possible. He outplayed Tizard on Friday afternoon, and I suspect our scrum will benefit from the additional weight. He looked like he was hungry to have a positive influence on things. I think Tizard and Isikwe could benefit from being put under a bit of pressure for the second lock / bench slot, as neither have found best form for several seasons in my view.
It would be a very odd decision to play Hutchinson ahead of him in these fixtures.
I’d like to see Sodeke as much as possible. He outplayed Tizard on Friday afternoon, and I suspect our scrum will benefit from the additional weight. He looked like he was hungry to have a positive influence on things. I think Tizard and Isikwe could benefit from being put under a bit of pressure for the second lock / bench slot, as neither have found best form for several seasons in my view.
Re: Leicester Tigers v Saracens Premiership Cup Preview
Posted by: PaulHerox (IP Logged)
Date: 10/09/2025 00:29
Quote:#wolfpack1
Sodeke ... outplayed Tizard on Friday afternoon, and I suspect our scrum will benefit from the additional weight. He looked like he was hungry to have a positive influence on things.
+1
Re: Leicester Tigers v Saracens Premiership Cup Preview
Posted by: TommyKentish (IP Logged)
Date: 10/09/2025 12:45
Quote:saracensfan62
Good point concerning Nick, he may feature then with Wilson moving to the bench. We may see Cam Hutchninson (the injury cover for all our missing centres right now) but I must admit I'd prefer to see Olly Hartley as he is the future and could be a star for us
If not Hartley then I’d rather see Oscar Wilson over a short term loan player.
Re: Leicester Tigers v Saracens Premiership Cup Preview
Posted by: tigersimon (IP Logged)
Date: 10/09/2025 15:22
Searle and a few of our 2nd rows were missing against Nottingham. Would have expected Wells, T.Manz, L.Chessum, & new signing Thompson to have been involved if fit.
Radwan was also missing but since emerged he became a Dad at the weekend so that explains his absence.
Radwan was also missing but since emerged he became a Dad at the weekend so that explains his absence.
Re: Leicester Tigers v Saracens Premiership Cup Preview
Posted by: The Bard (IP Logged)
Date: 10/09/2025 15:35
The fact Hartley didn’t play in SA suggests he’s injured. I know he wasn’t being picked at the end of last season but I can’t believe he would be completely out of favour now.
Re: Leicester Tigers v Saracens Premiership Cup Preview
Posted by: PaulHerox (IP Logged)
Date: 11/09/2025 08:11
I'm not always great with recognising the younger players but I'm pretty sure Hartley was doing tackling drills in one of the clubs videos recently TheBard so maybe he just had a knock or maybe I'm mistaken.
Re: Leicester Tigers v Saracens Premiership Cup Preview
Posted by: ComeOnSarries (IP Logged)
Date: 11/09/2025 14:16
I am somewhat guessing but given that Sharks could only field a 2nd XV on the Friday afternoon I think Sarries also deliberately avoided picking some of the bigger name players to make it more a development game with a couple of experienced players mixed in. So I don’t read too much into players not being available or selected. For example Owen Farrell was there and was available to play but for good reasons was not selected.
Re: Leicester Tigers v Saracens Premiership Cup Preview
Posted by: nicsue (IP Logged)
Date: 11/09/2025 23:41
Does anyone know if we can watch it anywhere?
Re: Leicester Tigers v Saracens Premiership Cup Preview
Posted by: Stopsy (IP Logged)
Date: 12/09/2025 09:08
Many thanks for the preview. I hope we don’t get mismatched selections in this competition. Have a good season all.
Re: Leicester Tigers v Saracens Premiership Cup Preview
Posted by: PaulHerox (IP Logged)
Date: 12/09/2025 10:00
Looks like the game will be available on TNT/Discovery at 3pm on Saturday.
Equally showing games today so I guess if you can see those you will be good for tomorrow.
To you too Stopsy.
Equally showing games today so I guess if you can see those you will be good for tomorrow.
To you too Stopsy.
Re: Leicester Tigers v Saracens Premiership Cup Preview
Posted by: tpr's headmistress (IP Logged)
Date: 12/09/2025 10:48
Saturday schedule quotes
Bath Rugby v Exeter Chiefs
Sat 20th September 2025
15:05
Rugby Union
Premiership Rugby Cup
TNT Sports 1/TNT Sports Ultimate/Discovery+
Doesn't mean the Saracens game won't be on a 'red button' channel.
Bath Rugby v Exeter Chiefs
Sat 20th September 2025
15:05
Rugby Union
Premiership Rugby Cup
TNT Sports 1/TNT Sports Ultimate/Discovery+
Doesn't mean the Saracens game won't be on a 'red button' channel.
Re: Leicester Tigers v Saracens Premiership Cup Preview
Posted by: PaulHerox (IP Logged)
Date: 12/09/2025 11:13
I think the question was about this weekends PRC game tpr's headmistress.
I'm pretty sure TNTs commitment was that all Prem games would be available every week although some on "red button" (equivalent no-main channel) as you say.
I don't think that this applies to the PRC games but I may be wrong.
I'm pretty sure TNTs commitment was that all Prem games would be available every week although some on "red button" (equivalent no-main channel) as you say.
I don't think that this applies to the PRC games but I may be wrong.
Re: Leicester Tigers v Saracens Premiership Cup Preview
Posted by: nedrichards (IP Logged)
Date: 12/09/2025 11:18
yeah, it's 'selected PRC games from each round'
Re: Leicester Tigers v Saracens Premiership Cup Preview
Posted by: Sarriebone (IP Logged)
Date: 12/09/2025 11:57
Team's up
Players Unavailable:
Eroni Mawi, Phil Brantingham, Theo Dan, Jamie George, Alec Clarey, Vilikesa Nairau, Nick Isiekwe, Maro Itoje, Theo McFarland, Andy Onyeama-Christie, Juan Martin Gonzalez, Ben Earl, Max Eke, Toby Knight, Tom Willis, Fergus Burke, Owen Farrell, Angus Hall, Olly Hartley, Alex Lozowski, Sam Spink, Elliot Daly, Lucio Cinti, Tobias Elliott.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2025:09:12:12:07:11 by Sarriebone.
Players Unavailable:
Eroni Mawi, Phil Brantingham, Theo Dan, Jamie George, Alec Clarey, Vilikesa Nairau, Nick Isiekwe, Maro Itoje, Theo McFarland, Andy Onyeama-Christie, Juan Martin Gonzalez, Ben Earl, Max Eke, Toby Knight, Tom Willis, Fergus Burke, Owen Farrell, Angus Hall, Olly Hartley, Alex Lozowski, Sam Spink, Elliot Daly, Lucio Cinti, Tobias Elliott.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2025:09:12:12:07:11 by Sarriebone.
Re: Leicester Tigers v Saracens Premiership Cup Preview
Posted by: Sarriebone (IP Logged)
Date: 12/09/2025 11:58
Tigers team
Re: Leicester Tigers v Saracens Premiership Cup Preview
Posted by: tpr's headmistress (IP Logged)
Date: 12/09/2025 12:02
Quote:PaulHerox
I think the question was about this weekends PRC game tpr's headmistress.
I'm pretty sure TNTs commitment was that all Prem games would be available every week although some on "red button" (equivalent no-main channel) as you say.
I don't think that this applies to the PRC games but I may be wrong.
I didn't illustrate tonight's game as you'd already done it.
Newcastle v Harlequins
Tonight
Fri 12th September 2025
19:45
Rugby Union
Premiership Rugby Cup
TNT Sports 1/TNT Sports Ultimate/Discovery+
Where's the match forthcoming schedule TV schedule
No doubt this may change though.
Re: Leicester Tigers v Saracens Premiership Cup Preview
Posted by: TommyKentish (IP Logged)
Date: 12/09/2025 12:03
Bracken bros starting together 😍
That’s a mighty fine back 3! Sodeke at 6 seems odd considering he’s taller than both locks but I sssume they’ll be interchangeable. First game back, very excited! No if only there were a way to watch it…
That’s a mighty fine back 3! Sodeke at 6 seems odd considering he’s taller than both locks but I sssume they’ll be interchangeable. First game back, very excited! No if only there were a way to watch it…
Re: Leicester Tigers v Saracens Premiership Cup Preview
Posted by: jimfitz12 (IP Logged)
Date: 12/09/2025 12:07
The players unavailable list looks pretty ugly....
Eroni Mawi, Phil Brantingham, Theo Dan, Jamie George, Alec Clarey, Vilikesa Nairau, Nick Isiekwe, Maro Itoje, Theo McFarland, Andy Onyeama-Christie, Juan Martin Gonzalez, Ben Earl, Max Eke, Toby Knight, Tom Willis, Fergus Burke, Owen Farrell, Angus Hall, Olly Hartley, Alex Lozowski, Sam Spink, Elliot Daly, Lucio Cinti, Tobias Elliott.
Eroni Mawi, Phil Brantingham, Theo Dan, Jamie George, Alec Clarey, Vilikesa Nairau, Nick Isiekwe, Maro Itoje, Theo McFarland, Andy Onyeama-Christie, Juan Martin Gonzalez, Ben Earl, Max Eke, Toby Knight, Tom Willis, Fergus Burke, Owen Farrell, Angus Hall, Olly Hartley, Alex Lozowski, Sam Spink, Elliot Daly, Lucio Cinti, Tobias Elliott.
Re: Leicester Tigers v Saracens Premiership Cup Preview
Posted by: #wolfpack1 (IP Logged)
Date: 12/09/2025 12:11
This is a very positive selection for tomorrow.
Re: Leicester Tigers v Saracens Premiership Cup Preview
Posted by: The Bard (IP Logged)
Date: 12/09/2025 12:17
Quote:Particularly considering some of those guys played last week so must be new injuriesjimfitz12
The players unavailable list looks pretty ugly....
Eroni Mawi, Phil Brantingham, Theo Dan, Jamie George, Alec Clarey, Vilikesa Nairau, Nick Isiekwe, Maro Itoje, Theo McFarland, Andy Onyeama-Christie, Juan Martin Gonzalez, Ben Earl, Max Eke, Toby Knight, Tom Willis, Fergus Burke, Owen Farrell, Angus Hall, Olly Hartley, Alex Lozowski, Sam Spink, Elliot Daly, Lucio Cinti, Tobias Elliott.
Re: Leicester Tigers v Saracens Premiership Cup Preview
Posted by: dirtybertie (IP Logged)
Date: 12/09/2025 12:22
It’s a 6 day turnaround for nexts week game DONT read too much in the players missing. There is a plan in place for the start of the season.
Re: Leicester Tigers v Saracens Premiership Cup Preview
Posted by: tigersimon (IP Logged)
Date: 12/09/2025 12:25
O. Chessum, L. Chessum, G. Martin, C. Henderson, N. Smith, T. Haffar, J. Heyes, T. Kofe, H. Wells, T. Reffell, F. Carnduff, JVP, JOC, B. Searle, S. Kata, F. Steward
Tigers don’t publish N/A lists but think the above are the main members of the squad missing!
Tigers don’t publish N/A lists but think the above are the main members of the squad missing!
Re: Leicester Tigers v Saracens Premiership Cup Preview
Posted by: #wolfpack1 (IP Logged)
Date: 12/09/2025 12:26
Quote:dirtybertie
It’s a 6 day turnaround for nexts week game DONT read too much in the players missing. There is a plan in place for the start of the season.
I hope it involves a lot of the players who are selected for tomorrow. The Brackens and Sodeke in particular.
It’s a positive, forward looking selection and I hope they enjoy what is a free hit against a very strong Tigers outfit
Re: Leicester Tigers v Saracens Premiership Cup Preview
Posted by: Sara'sman (IP Logged)
Date: 12/09/2025 14:55
From WT's "Pecking Order" Lists:
us: 4/6, 5/7, 4/5, 2/5 ….. starting XV: 2.27 ….. squad: 2.39
them: 7/7, 5/6, 2/6, 1/4 ….. starting XV: 1.80 ….. squad: 2.30
where
x/y represents numbers in XV/23 of 1st choice, 2nd choice, 3rd choice, 4th choice
then the average "pecking position" for the XV and 23
us: 4/6, 5/7, 4/5, 2/5 ….. starting XV: 2.27 ….. squad: 2.39
them: 7/7, 5/6, 2/6, 1/4 ….. starting XV: 1.80 ….. squad: 2.30
where
x/y represents numbers in XV/23 of 1st choice, 2nd choice, 3rd choice, 4th choice
then the average "pecking position" for the XV and 23
Re: Leicester Tigers v Saracens Premiership Cup Preview
Posted by: PaulHerox (IP Logged)
Date: 12/09/2025 15:30
Great to see "The Tribe" were talking out of their behinds re Street and he is available and on the bench.
I really like the look of that team and it will be fascinating to see how they are allowed to play.
Stick Elliott at FB and Cinti at 13, maybe Hartley at 12 and that 9-15 shows you what a special bunch we will have on our hands in the near future. As selected it looks good and it's great to see Malins back at FullBack.
Perese is a very good 13 and as long as he doesn't get himself sent off he and Woodward will be a handful and a good test of the Hutchison and Tompkins partnership.
I suspect that Tigers will be a tougher test of our scrum and I'll be interested to see how we go on the basis we've picked what I think is almost certainly our starting Loosehead/Tighthead combination. Like others 4 and 6 make no sense that way around. Maybe it's just numbers, if not it seems odd to say the least.
Tigers at Welford Rd will always be formidable and I am sure under Parlings tutelage the set-piece and scrum in particular will be good even with Blamires somewhat wayward throwing. Their backrow looks quality and every time I've seen "Dr" Ilione he seems to be having a game defining moment.
I'm really looking forward to this one and hope the weather holds off. Good luck to the team.
My apologies I thought you'd misread but it was me who did that.
I really like the look of that team and it will be fascinating to see how they are allowed to play.
Stick Elliott at FB and Cinti at 13, maybe Hartley at 12 and that 9-15 shows you what a special bunch we will have on our hands in the near future. As selected it looks good and it's great to see Malins back at FullBack.
Perese is a very good 13 and as long as he doesn't get himself sent off he and Woodward will be a handful and a good test of the Hutchison and Tompkins partnership.
I suspect that Tigers will be a tougher test of our scrum and I'll be interested to see how we go on the basis we've picked what I think is almost certainly our starting Loosehead/Tighthead combination. Like others 4 and 6 make no sense that way around. Maybe it's just numbers, if not it seems odd to say the least.
Tigers at Welford Rd will always be formidable and I am sure under Parlings tutelage the set-piece and scrum in particular will be good even with Blamires somewhat wayward throwing. Their backrow looks quality and every time I've seen "Dr" Ilione he seems to be having a game defining moment.
I'm really looking forward to this one and hope the weather holds off. Good luck to the team.
Quote:tpr's headmistress
I didn't illustrate tonight's game as you'd already done it
My apologies I thought you'd misread but it was me who did that.
Re: Leicester Tigers v Saracens Premiership Cup Preview
Posted by: tigersimon (IP Logged)
Date: 13/09/2025 06:14
A real coming of age day for our 3rd choice LH AVDF up against Riccioni!
Our 2nd row is some what depleted with no Martin, Henderson, Chessum x 2 or Wells. Let’s hope Blamire’s 🎯 are on target.
Interesting selection at FB in OHC, as far as I can tell he has never started at 15, whereas GHW has!
Safe travels to anyone coming up to MWWR and hopefully it’s a good game.
Our 2nd row is some what depleted with no Martin, Henderson, Chessum x 2 or Wells. Let’s hope Blamire’s 🎯 are on target.
Interesting selection at FB in OHC, as far as I can tell he has never started at 15, whereas GHW has!
Safe travels to anyone coming up to MWWR and hopefully it’s a good game.
Re: Leicester Tigers v Saracens Premiership Cup Preview
Posted by: 1876-Fez (IP Logged)
Date: 13/09/2025 15:25
Re: Leicester Tigers v Saracens Premiership Cup Preview
Posted by: ComeOnSarries (IP Logged)
Date: 13/09/2025 15:45
Radio coverage is a bit intermittent but considerably better than nothing. Sounds like we have dominated field position but have lacked some final penetration. However we still have our noses in front at half time
Re: Leicester Tigers v Saracens Premiership Cup Preview
Posted by: Toga (IP Logged)
Date: 13/09/2025 15:53
The commentary on BBC Radio Leicester is laughably biased. Even hilarious sometimes although unintentionally.
Re: Leicester Tigers v Saracens Premiership Cup Preview
Posted by: #wolfpack1 (IP Logged)
Date: 13/09/2025 16:23
Can anyone advise how (if?) we’re trying to attack?
Re: Leicester Tigers v Saracens Premiership Cup Preview
Posted by: PaulHerox (IP Logged)
Date: 13/09/2025 16:44
I couldn't get a stable Radio commentary and gave up.
The little I heard said we were attacking nicely then Tizard knocked on.
Well done to Tigers but given our front row, decent pack and exciting backs the score looks like a disappointing return but I'd appreciate the view of anyone who could actually listen to the coverage.
On the plus side I've been watching Canada instead. If Austerberry can bring back that Canada attack we'll pack the StoneX for the Women's games. So intelligent, so quick and a great combination of skill and power. De Goede is a menace around the breakdown. Any little break and she's gone. Great stuff.
The little I heard said we were attacking nicely then Tizard knocked on.
Well done to Tigers but given our front row, decent pack and exciting backs the score looks like a disappointing return but I'd appreciate the view of anyone who could actually listen to the coverage.
On the plus side I've been watching Canada instead. If Austerberry can bring back that Canada attack we'll pack the StoneX for the Women's games. So intelligent, so quick and a great combination of skill and power. De Goede is a menace around the breakdown. Any little break and she's gone. Great stuff.
Re: Leicester Tigers v Saracens Premiership Cup Preview
Posted by: gerry1 (IP Logged)
Date: 13/09/2025 18:40
Amazed that the Fish describes 27 to 7 as a 'close' defeat
Re: Leicester Tigers v Saracens Premiership Cup Preview
Posted by: ComeOnSarries (IP Logged)
Date: 13/09/2025 19:06
Quote:gerry1
Amazed that the Fish describes 27 to 7 as a 'close' defeat
It wasn’t close as it was 4 tries to 1 but the score was only 20-7 as their kicker missed 5 kicks!
Our line out sounded pretty woeful and we simply couldn’t stop their maul.
Re: Leicester Tigers v Saracens Premiership Cup Preview
Posted by: #wolfpack1 (IP Logged)
Date: 13/09/2025 20:16
I don’t think a terrible line out and poor maul defence isn’t something to worry about at this stage.
More concerning was the number of Twitter updates which said something like “nearly a brilliant cross field kick but not quite” or “X couldn’t quite get on the end of an amazing grubber kick.”
Was anyone at the game who can confirm whether we tried to play rugby, or did we revert to the “attacking box kicking on the opposition 22” tactics of the past two seasons?
More concerning was the number of Twitter updates which said something like “nearly a brilliant cross field kick but not quite” or “X couldn’t quite get on the end of an amazing grubber kick.”
Was anyone at the game who can confirm whether we tried to play rugby, or did we revert to the “attacking box kicking on the opposition 22” tactics of the past two seasons?
Re: Leicester Tigers v Saracens Premiership Cup Preview
Posted by: The Bard (IP Logged)
Date: 13/09/2025 20:57
I was there. Totally dominated possession in first 30 minutes with umpteen penalties but losing 6 of the first 8 lineouts generally stopped our progress. Scrum totally on top first half. We were trying to play a bit but very static. Max was very rusty. We did repel their first two mauls but the third one squeezed away and went over.
Bailey kicking was awful, missed everything.
Half time we replaced props which clearly showed. They had two more mauls which went over pretty easily and one back line move.
We still had a good few chances but failed to execute. Both wings looked sharp but decision making not the best at times.
Bailey kicking was awful, missed everything.
Half time we replaced props which clearly showed. They had two more mauls which went over pretty easily and one back line move.
We still had a good few chances but failed to execute. Both wings looked sharp but decision making not the best at times.
Re: Leicester Tigers v Saracens Premiership Cup Preview
Posted by: #wolfpack1 (IP Logged)
Date: 13/09/2025 21:51
Thanks Bard.
Being static is something we’ve struggled with for several seasons.
Decision making and failure to execute is fine as long as we fashioned the chances in the first place. Last season we really struggled to create a chance, so we didn’t even have the opportunity to fail to execute it - so maybe there’s a little progress there?
Looking forward to Friday.
It’s been a long summer.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2025:09:13:21:51:53 by #wolfpack1.
Being static is something we’ve struggled with for several seasons.
Decision making and failure to execute is fine as long as we fashioned the chances in the first place. Last season we really struggled to create a chance, so we didn’t even have the opportunity to fail to execute it - so maybe there’s a little progress there?
Looking forward to Friday.
It’s been a long summer.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2025:09:13:21:51:53 by #wolfpack1.
Re: Leicester Tigers v Saracens Premiership Cup Preview
Posted by: PaulHerox (IP Logged)
Date: 13/09/2025 22:14
Caught up with a friend who was at the game who said that it was pretty awful.
Still kicking away too much ball and still somewhat directionless. He said there were glimpses but far too little whilst we had the upper hand.
The reality is it was a very young team but then so was Tigers.
He said that we did try to play a bit but execution was lacking and decision-making was poor.
In contrast Tigers basically played no width, basic rugby route one stuff that we struggled to deal with especially once we started making subs.
The reality is that these players will learn from this experience and maybe we expected too much from some of our bright young things but I'm pretty confident we've a bunch who will get there.
Fewer excuses for the more senior players not showing up though.
Still kicking away too much ball and still somewhat directionless. He said there were glimpses but far too little whilst we had the upper hand.
The reality is it was a very young team but then so was Tigers.
He said that we did try to play a bit but execution was lacking and decision-making was poor.
In contrast Tigers basically played no width, basic rugby route one stuff that we struggled to deal with especially once we started making subs.
The reality is that these players will learn from this experience and maybe we expected too much from some of our bright young things but I'm pretty confident we've a bunch who will get there.
Fewer excuses for the more senior players not showing up though.
Re: Leicester Tigers v Saracens Premiership Cup Preview
Posted by: The Bard (IP Logged)
Date: 14/09/2025 17:24
Even though our attack wasn’t great at times, it was far better than Tigers was. Far fewer handling errors from us.
We did well physically defensively and scrambled well on the occasions they got the ball wide.
We did well physically defensively and scrambled well on the occasions they got the ball wide.
Re: Leicester Tigers v Saracens Premiership Cup Preview
Posted by: TonyTaff (IP Logged)
Date: 19/09/2025 10:24
Ah, grown-up discourse! The fish has a report aimed at the kindergarten.
It's a long time since Sports network paid anything!
It's a long time since Sports network paid anything!
Re: Leicester Tigers v Saracens Premiership Cup Preview
Posted by: ICantBelieveItsNotBartyII (IP Logged)
Date: 20/09/2025 17:36
Deleted, answered about last week thinking it was this week!
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2025:09:20:18:18:16 by ICantBelieveItsNotBartyII.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2025:09:20:18:18:16 by ICantBelieveItsNotBartyII.
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