CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH


Louw: return?
By P G Tips
November 20 2019

Bath’s quest to revive their European ambitions begins away to “city slickers” Harlequins on Saturday. Both sides lost in the opening round, although Bath’s losing bonus point against Ulster gives them the slightest edge in Pool 3. Little separates the clubs over the past two seasons.  Points difference placed Quins higher in the Premiership last season while Bath now lie 2 points above Quins in 9th. Both teams will hope to be boosted by World Cup returners, so who looks likely to triumph this weekend?  

The “city slickers” tag dates from the days when many of their players worked in merchant banking or the professions. That image was robustly corrected in the early 90s with a fearsome pack. Leonard, Moore, Ackford, Skinner and Winterbottom did not fit the pin-stripe stereotype (at least on the pitch) even if Quins coach Dick Best, explaining absences from training ironically remarked “sale at Harrods: good snow in Val D’Isere: all valid reasons.” The men from the Stoop have had a roller coaster ride through the professional era, relegation and “Bloodgate” preceding their Premiership triumph in 2012. The years since saw a steady decline until Paul Gustard took over as DOR last season, bringing a harder edge to their game and once again giving the lie to their old nickname.

 

Success at the top European table has eluded Harlequins, although their Challenge Cup credentials are strong- winners in 2001,2004 and 2011, plus runners up in 2016. This year’s edition will be a tough challenge on their home patch, especially if their returning World Cup props – “bad boys” Marler & Sinckler are starters. Other danger men to look out for are the three discarded England veterans, Robshaw,Care and Brown looking for a “last hurrah”, Dombrandt and the ever improving centre Marchant. At their best last season, Quins produced a dynamic game, keeping the ball alive, driving purposefully up the middle then releasing the ball wide swiftly to dangerous wings. They may have been heavily beaten at Clermont last weekend, but that is the fate of most visitors to the Stade Marcel Michelin. What Quins will take cheer from are the three tries they notched there. Bath, undone by carelessness against Ulster, will need to be on their guard.

 

Bath may feel  hard done by in last week’s single point defeat. The bounce of a ball, play continuing around injured players, foul play unpunished, all contributed to a sense of frustration. However, having enjoyed the majority of possession but lacked midfield penetration, they must look first to their own faults for the cause of their downfall. For all their huff and puff they seldom looked like manufacturing a try. When they did, one was a gem from set piece, the other, a desperate last attempt, thwarted by an extremely clever defensive act.

 

More of the continuity of possession will be required against Quins- meaning the strongest possible back row and hopefully a return to action for Francois Louw. The lineout needs to be better controlled, while the midfield needs more variety to penetrate closer to the breakdown and create early space for the wings.  With McConnochie, Joseph, Cokanasiga and Watson to call on, this game is crying out for an attacking mindset, like the first 50 minutes of last year’s Premiership fixture at The Stoop. If they are to win, and get their European campaign back on the road it is Bath who will need to be the slicker team.

 

Possible Teams:

Obano, Dunn, Stuart, Ewels (C), Stooke , Ellis, Underhill, Mercer.

Chudley, Priestland. McConnochie, Roberts, Joseph, Cokanasiga. Burns

Replacements: Boyce, Walker, Judge, McNally, Louw. Cook, Willison, Watson.

 

Harlequins:

Marler, Elia, Sinckler, Symons, Young, Robshaw, Evans, Dombrandt,. Care, Smith. Ibitoye, Saili, Marchant, Murley. Brown.

Replacements: Garcia Botta, Baldwin, Lambert, Cavabuti, Lawday, Landajo, Campagnaro, Chisholm.

 

CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: Comeonmylovers.co.uk (IP Logged)
Date: 20/11/2019 08:31

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Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 2019:11:26:18:38:29 by P G Tips.

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH
Posted by: BathMatt53 (IP Logged)
Date: 20/11/2019 08:58

I would love Burns to start at 10 with Watson at 15 for this one - see if they can get this backline unlocked.

[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH
Posted by: Optimist (IP Logged)
Date: 20/11/2019 09:02

I really hope Louw is available - he and Underhill could do a passable imitation of England's back-row set up. Alternatively, he could give Mercer a rest. Zach is in danger of running and battering himself into an early retirement. He's heading for the full 'mummy' (Egyptian rather than Dearest) look, and we're only a quarter of the way through the season.

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH
Posted by: BathMatt53 (IP Logged)
Date: 20/11/2019 09:15

Ref: Frank Murphy (Ireland)
Assis Ref 1: Stuart Gaffikin (Ireland)
Assis Ref 2: Eddie Hogan O'Connell (Ireland)
TMO: Olly Hodges (Ireland)

[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH
Posted by: Ali1969 (IP Logged)
Date: 20/11/2019 15:05

Irish officials (Sm124) Both our record and their performances (Irish officials) has been absolutely shocking to say the least and from what I saw last week I am not filled with any optimism.

I am sure Zach will be rested but alas not until TF is fit and raring to go - I know Louw has played for the Boks at 8 but he is not a natural and we lose a lot of his qualities.... Personally I have been really impressed with Mike Williams as a 6, he seems to have discovered his Mojo again and is the presence and force we have been missing in that position for a long time.

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH
Posted by: P G Tips (IP Logged)
Date: 20/11/2019 15:22

He may have to miss this week Ali- HIA last Saturday.

PG

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH
Posted by: gaz59 (IP Logged)
Date: 21/11/2019 15:04

This will probably get a thread of its own but hey, what timing!?!

[www.quins.co.uk]

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH
Posted by: gaz59 (IP Logged)
Date: 21/11/2019 15:09

Bizarre stuff from Marler but hilarious and no horse sh*t

[www.balls.ie]

Hopefully Quins got the cart in front of that horse and the horse has now bolted

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH
Posted by: Old Bath Tub (IP Logged)
Date: 21/11/2019 15:47

Quote:
gaz59
Bizarre stuff from Marler but hilarious and no horse sh*t
[www.balls.ie]

Hopefully Quins got the cart in front of that horse and the horse has now bolted

I think you'll find the Horse Sh#t all over the pitch on Saturday (Sm100)

Adopted Player 2018/19 Ross Batty
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"AN OUNCE OF ACTION IS WORTH A TON OF THEORY"
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Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH
Posted by: Awp (IP Logged)
Date: 21/11/2019 17:11

Think Zac is out, hopefully Faletau is back as was back in training..... if not I guess its Francois at 8.

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH
Posted by: terracehugger (IP Logged)
Date: 21/11/2019 18:05

Why worry who plays at 11/13/14/15 when we have an impenetrable blockage at 12, and a 9 whose sole purpose is to continually kick away possession.
Burns must play 10 to, at least, give us some modicum of hope.

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH
Posted by: BathMatt53 (IP Logged)
Date: 21/11/2019 18:28

Chudley has been OK this year to be fair. He has passed a lot more and run a lot more.

[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH
Posted by: TG Kesmo (IP Logged)
Date: 21/11/2019 20:14

Chudley has been better in the attacking half. In defence he is still glacially slow at setting up box kicks and usually does not put them in a contestable position and therefore ends up turning over possession. We need to improve our exit strategy or at least the speed of same.

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH
Posted by: Bath Hammer (IP Logged)
Date: 22/11/2019 08:14

We will lose a lot without Mercer, though he must be carrying a few bumps & bruises. The trouble is that without Faletau we have no-one to break through effectively & take opportunities. We have to win this to have any chance of progression. Maybe the rolling maul can return.

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH
Posted by: dr.bath1865 (IP Logged)
Date: 22/11/2019 08:44

Quins have been mixed this season, sounding good one week and not so great the next (like us, I suppose!). I must admit I haven't seen much of their play, apart from some of their game v Clermont, where they showed plenty of fight but, unsurprisingly, were always pressured and on the back foot.

Are they a team we can get on top of in the set piece? I see they've a few injuries in the backs, including Tapuai, so wondering what we might be up against.

Hopefully JC and AW will be back to bolster the backline. Given how well played Freddie played at the Stoop last year, I'd be tempted to go AW at 15 with Fred at 10.

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH
Posted by: shipwrecked (IP Logged)
Date: 22/11/2019 09:04

Quote:
Awp24975
Think Zac is out, hopefully Faletau is back as was back in training..... if not I guess its Francois at 8.

Is Zac out as a result of the' invisible' no arms tackle in the final play? If so that would be even more irritating. (Sm31)

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Tyler Offiah

Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH
Posted by: OutsideBath (IP Logged)
Date: 22/11/2019 09:45

I'd rather team selection was based upon the more important upcoming Sarries game than the Quins game.

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH
Posted by: Awp (IP Logged)
Date: 22/11/2019 10:37

Quote:
shipwrecked
Quote:
Awp24975
Think Zac is out, hopefully Faletau is back as was back in training..... if not I guess its Francois at 8.

Is Zac out as a result of the' invisible' no arms tackle in the final play? If so that would be even more irritating. (Sm31)

Not sure, but was in a knee brace two days ago so if hes fit then he heals very quickly. Hopefully just precautionary and nothing too serious.

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH
Posted by: Optimist (IP Logged)
Date: 22/11/2019 10:40

Zach's knee did appear to take a nasty turn in that final tackle. Hope he hasn't done ligament damage.

I'd like to see us going all out to win this game and would prioritise it ahead of Sarries. If we lose this we are as near as dammit out of the HC and we could pick accordingly down the line based on that. If we lose to Sarries it is one game out of 22 and there is time and opportunity to make up for that. And - as a general rule - i don't think you can assess the importance of the next game but one until you've played the next game.

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH
Posted by: B4thB4ck (IP Logged)
Date: 22/11/2019 11:21

I think Zac's knee was hurt in the first half, you might remember he took a low pass that was going behind him, turned to catch and pass on then was tackled late whilst crouched stationary and facing the wrong way. The right leg was badly twisted but he carried on.

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH
Posted by: Awp (IP Logged)
Date: 22/11/2019 11:48

Quote:
B4thB4ck
I think Zac's knee was hurt in the first half, you might remember he took a low pass that was going behind him, turned to catch and pass on then was tackled late whilst crouched stationary and facing the wrong way. The right leg was badly twisted but he carried on.

Was his left knee braced.

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH
Posted by: B4thB4ck (IP Logged)
Date: 22/11/2019 11:54

Quote:
Awp24975
Quote:
B4thB4ck
I think Zac's knee was hurt in the first half, you might remember he took a low pass that was going behind him, turned to catch and pass on then was tackled late whilst crouched stationary and facing the wrong way. The right leg was badly twisted but he carried on.

Was his left knee braced.

Oh no they've strapped the wrong knee...physios eh?

Ok thanks, that makes it worse then.

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH
Posted by: BathMatt53 (IP Logged)
Date: 22/11/2019 11:59

BATH RUGBY TEAM TO FACE HARLEQUINS

15. Anthony Watson
14. Semesa Rokoduguni
13. Jonathan Joseph
12. Max Wright
11. Ruaridh McConnochie

10. Freddie Burns
9. Chris Cook

1. Lewis Boyce
2. Jack Walker
3. Christian Judge
4. Josh McNally
5. Charlie Ewels (c)
6. Elliott Stooke
7. Josh Bayliss
8. Francois Louw

Replacements

16. Tom Dunn
17. Beno Obano
18. Will Stuart
19. Matt Garvey
20. Rhys Davies
21. Will Chudley
22. Rhys Priestland
23. Jamie Roberts

Looks like they listened! Watson and Freddie in. Front row rotated (due a rest tbf). Louw back.

COYB!!

[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2019:11:22:12:01:23 by BathMatt53.

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH
Posted by: BathMatt53 (IP Logged)
Date: 22/11/2019 12:02

Harlequins Starting XV:

1 Joe Marler (193)
2 Elia Elia (43)
3 Will Collier (158)
4 Stephan Lewies (5)
5 Matt Symons (31) (VC)
6 Chris Robshaw (281) (Captain)
7 Will Evans (7)
8 Tom Lawday (6)

9 Danny Care (263) (VC)
10 Marcus Smith (66)

11 Cadan Murley (21)
12 James Lang (54)
13 Michele Campagnaro (2)
14 Ross Chisholm (108)
15 Mike Brown (326)

Game Changers:

16 George Head (0)
17 Santiago Garcia Botta (6)
18 Simon Kerrod (9)
19 Tevita Cavubati (2)
20 Semi Kunatani (12)
21 Niall Saunders (10)
22 Paul Lasike (10)
23 Gabriel Ibitoye (27)

[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2019:11:22:12:03:01 by BathMatt53.

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH
Posted by: P G Tips (IP Logged)
Date: 22/11/2019 12:03

Good to see Watson back. I understand that Cokanasiga is injured.
We also look stretched in back row- hope Sam is merely rested, not "carrying a knock".

PG

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH
Posted by: hemington (IP Logged)
Date: 22/11/2019 12:04

No Underhill - rest or injury?
No JC - rest?
Great to see Garvs on bench - let's hope he can get back to the player he was a couple of years ago
Is Ellis crocked?

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH
Posted by: Optimist (IP Logged)
Date: 22/11/2019 12:06

'Game Changers' - what an absolutely awful euphemism that is. Their job is to 'change the game' - well you wouldn't want to change anything if it's going ok. So the implication is that the starters have stuffed up and your job is to come on and rescue it.

They are f***ing subs.

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH
Posted by: ballsout (IP Logged)
Date: 22/11/2019 12:19

Re: the "Game Changers" thing, Quins are annoying like that. They had two bear mascots and they introduced a third (!), a female bear, because of that tedious "representation".

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH
Posted by: Pharaohbob (IP Logged)
Date: 22/11/2019 12:21

Good to see the dependables back together

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH
Posted by: Optimist (IP Logged)
Date: 22/11/2019 12:21

I can't say I particularly mind their mascots being so enormously diverse that 100% as opposed to 50% of the world's population is reflected.

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH
Posted by: Pharaohbob (IP Logged)
Date: 22/11/2019 12:22

Good to see the dependables back together

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: Rawce (IP Logged)
Date: 22/11/2019 13:18

ballsout in tragic snowflake shocker!

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH
Posted by: Old Bath Tub (IP Logged)
Date: 22/11/2019 14:48

Quote:
P G Tips
Good to see Watson back. I understand that Cokanasiga is injured.
We also look stretched in back row- hope Sam is merely rested, not "carrying a knock".

PG
Seems like JC injury with England (Knee) could be long term - bad news, scant details on the Offy

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Adopted Player 2024/25 Max Ojomoh

"AN OUNCE OF ACTION IS WORTH A TON OF THEORY"
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Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: BathMatt53 (IP Logged)
Date: 22/11/2019 14:53

Yes it doesn't sound great OBT

[www.bathrugby.com]

Joe is a phenomenal talent and a powerful athlete, and we must manage him very carefully in the coming months to allow for the issues he has come back from Japan with to begin to be resolved.

Very dad news also for Henry Thomas - I wonder if we will see him in a Bath shirt again with his contract up at the end of this season. He tore his ACL before and needed a couple of ops.

[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: Rawce (IP Logged)
Date: 22/11/2019 15:01

Ouch, with all those on long term rehab, I'm assuming we're considering our options for injury cover? That reads like Mercer is in the same bracket as Henry and Joe?

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: P G Tips (IP Logged)
Date: 22/11/2019 15:04

Race

We are. Off quote:
"An update will be provided with regards to any cover that may be required for each position once the Club understand the availability of players within the market in conjunction with current squad depth."

PG

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH
Posted by: ChippenhamRoman (IP Logged)
Date: 22/11/2019 15:27

Quote:
BathMatt53
Harlequins Starting XV:
1 Joe Marler (193)
2 Elia Elia (43)
3 Will Collier (158)
4 Stephan Lewies (5)
5 Matt Symons (31) (VC)
6 Chris Robshaw (281) (Captain)
7 Will Evans (7)
8 Tom Lawday (6)

9 Danny Care (263) (VC)
10 Marcus Smith (66)

11 Cadan Murley (21)
12 James Lang (54)
13 Michele Campagnaro (2)
14 Ross Chisholm (108)
15 Mike Brown (326)

Game Changers:

16 George Head (0)
17 Santiago Garcia Botta (6)
18 Simon Kerrod (9)
19 Tevita Cavubati (2)
20 Semi Kunatani (12)
21 Niall Saunders (10)
22 Paul Lasike (10)
23 Gabriel Ibitoye (27)

Game changers, thats even more pretentious than Finishers.

How about Replacements or Substitutes?

J

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: ChippenhamRoman (IP Logged)
Date: 22/11/2019 15:29

Quote:
BathMatt53
Yes it doesn't sound great OBT
[www.bathrugby.com]

Joe is a phenomenal talent and a powerful athlete, and we must manage him very carefully in the coming months to allow for the issues he has come back from Japan with to begin to be resolved.

Very dad news also for Henry Thomas - I wonder if we will see him in a Bath shirt again with his contract up at the end of this season. He tore his ACL before and needed a couple of ops.

Another player goes away with England and comes back broken. Brilliant.

J

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH
Posted by: hemington (IP Logged)
Date: 22/11/2019 15:52

It speaks of issues not issue he returned with.

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: Bath Hammer (IP Logged)
Date: 22/11/2019 22:19

[quote ChippenhamRoman][quote BathMatt53]Yes it doesn't sound great OBT

[www.bathrugby.com]

Joe is a phenomenal talent and a powerful athlete, and we must manage him very carefully in the coming months to allow for the issues he has come back from Japan with to begin to be resolved.

Another player goes away with England and comes back broken. Brilliant.
J[/quote]

Did he come off injured in one of the matches he played in. I dont recall that being the case which must mean it happened in training AGAIN.

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: Beer Belly (IP Logged)
Date: 23/11/2019 14:46

Quote:
Bath Hammer
Did he come off injured in one of the matches he played in.

He only played against USA.

When I say only, he was only on for the full 80 minutes and only scored two tries!

Cheers! (Sm63)

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH
Posted by: OutsideBath (IP Logged)
Date: 23/11/2019 15:00

England's record of looking after players (in particular Bath players) whilst on International duty isn't great. Player health needs to be higher up the agenda for the England setup.

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: Bath Hammer (IP Logged)
Date: 23/11/2019 16:00

Was there no way we could have retained Adam Hastings. Mind you he wasnt at all appreciated on here. I thought he had massive promise & it has been proved to be the case.

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: shipwrecked (IP Logged)
Date: 23/11/2019 16:11

Quote:
Bath Hammer
Was there no way we could have retained Adam Hastings. Mind you he wasnt at all appreciated on here. I thought he had massive promise & it has been proved to be the case.

Have to agree BH but he wanted to be in Scotland, not a big surprise really. The club can't do much about that in all honesty.

https://i.ibb.co/YTDNDCdd/Tyler-Offiah-185.jpg

Tyler Offiah

Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: BathMatt53 (IP Logged)
Date: 23/11/2019 16:21

He wouldnt have had the game time at Bath anyway so he would have gone the way of Jennings (Brett Heron?) and others IMO. Going back to Scotland was definitely the right decision for him and from what I understood at the time there wasnt much discussion to be had?

Good player now though, agreed.

[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: Old Bath Tub (IP Logged)
Date: 23/11/2019 17:43

Not a good start in the scrum, 2 penalties against Boyce already now 4 in the first 8 mins.
6-0 down (Sm136)

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Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: CoochieCoo (IP Logged)
Date: 23/11/2019 17:43

Not a good start 6-0

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: BathMatt53 (IP Logged)
Date: 23/11/2019 17:45

Wow, Im not sure Ive seen a worse start to a game for a long time than the first 10 mins for Boyce. 3 pens already, 2 identical in the scrum and one not rolling?

Bath also need to realise when a maul isnt going there. Watson and Roko must be getting cold - has Burns touched the ball?

[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: Old Bath Tub (IP Logged)
Date: 23/11/2019 17:48

Another penalty 9-0 somebody needs to get a grip !

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Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: BathMatt53 (IP Logged)
Date: 23/11/2019 17:49

Death by Stupid penalties

[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: OutsideBath (IP Logged)
Date: 23/11/2019 17:54

So much for Hooper and his dominant pack strategy!

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: ken_jnr (IP Logged)
Date: 23/11/2019 17:55

No green shoots so far really. Easy to defend as we have no penetration and easy to attack because our discipline is poor.

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: Old Bath Tub (IP Logged)
Date: 23/11/2019 18:00

Wonder why pundits/ commentators never have much positive to say about Bath ? Oh Wait .......

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Adopted Player 2022/23 Gabriel Hamer-Webb
Adopted Player 2023/24 Tom Carr-Smith
Adopted Player 2024/25 Max Ojomoh

"AN OUNCE OF ACTION IS WORTH A TON OF THEORY"
FRIEDRICH ENGELS

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: Old Bath Tub (IP Logged)
Date: 23/11/2019 18:00

Can we blame the weather ?

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Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: Bath Hammer (IP Logged)
Date: 23/11/2019 18:01

Hatley has really made a difference on his return -not (Sm141)



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2019:11:23:18:02:12 by Bath Hammer.

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: BathMatt53 (IP Logged)
Date: 23/11/2019 18:06

Quote:
Old Bath Tub
Wonder why pundits/ commentators never have much positive to say about Bath ? Oh Wait .......

Ugo shouldnt be commentating tbh. Players shouldnt cover the teams they played with and have such close ties with, its stands out a mile.

[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: Old Bath Tub (IP Logged)
Date: 23/11/2019 18:11

And another scrum penalty - this is getting ridiculous !

Adopted Player 2018/19 Ross Batty
Adopted Player 2019/20 Jack Davies
Adopted Player 2020/21 Cam Redpath
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Adopted Player 2022/23 Gabriel Hamer-Webb
Adopted Player 2023/24 Tom Carr-Smith
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Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: Toast and Marmite (IP Logged)
Date: 23/11/2019 18:14

Just seen replay from Refs side - really cant see how he gave it to Quinns that time

’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: Bath Hammer (IP Logged)
Date: 23/11/2019 18:15

Ive got a dim recollection that a similar situation occurred a number of years ago at home against Quinns when we our discipline was similarly dire & it was death by penalties.

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: Old Bath Tub (IP Logged)
Date: 23/11/2019 18:19

Half time, lucky to have nil, a very poor display.
Carry on like this and it will be another early Europe exit on the cards , come on boys sort it !

Adopted Player 2018/19 Ross Batty
Adopted Player 2019/20 Jack Davies
Adopted Player 2020/21 Cam Redpath
Adopted Player 2021/22 Darren Atkins
Adopted Player 2022/23 Gabriel Hamer-Webb
Adopted Player 2023/24 Tom Carr-Smith
Adopted Player 2024/25 Max Ojomoh

"AN OUNCE OF ACTION IS WORTH A TON OF THEORY"
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Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: Dorset Boy (IP Logged)
Date: 23/11/2019 18:20

Dire first half of rugby.
Not looking good for us, marginally better for Quins.

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: ilovebathtime (IP Logged)
Date: 23/11/2019 18:28

I don't think I can remember seeing a less effective Bath performance so far. I guess we are at least not that far behind, and surely we can't be so bad in the second half?

I think we need to change the front row pretty early on in the second half

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: ballsout (IP Logged)
Date: 23/11/2019 18:28

Feel like people say this every month but that was probably the worst 40 mins from Bath in a decade.

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: BathMatt53 (IP Logged)
Date: 23/11/2019 18:35

Lucky to get 0 tbh

[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: Old Bath Tub (IP Logged)
Date: 23/11/2019 18:36

Guess what ? Another penalty

Adopted Player 2018/19 Ross Batty
Adopted Player 2019/20 Jack Davies
Adopted Player 2020/21 Cam Redpath
Adopted Player 2021/22 Darren Atkins
Adopted Player 2022/23 Gabriel Hamer-Webb
Adopted Player 2023/24 Tom Carr-Smith
Adopted Player 2024/25 Max Ojomoh

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Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: Old Bath Tub (IP Logged)
Date: 23/11/2019 18:38

Danny Care taking ages at every breakdown

Adopted Player 2018/19 Ross Batty
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Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: Old Bath Tub (IP Logged)
Date: 23/11/2019 18:41

Quote:
Old Bath Tub
Guess what ? Another penalty

And another , this is beyond dire

Adopted Player 2018/19 Ross Batty
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Adopted Player 2020/21 Cam Redpath
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Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: Old Bath Tub (IP Logged)
Date: 23/11/2019 18:45

12-0 more penalties yellow cards next

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Adopted Player 2024/25 Max Ojomoh

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Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: ken_jnr (IP Logged)
Date: 23/11/2019 18:46

Quote:
ilovebathtime
I don't think I can remember seeing a less effective Bath performance so far. I guess we are at least not that far behind, and surely we can't be so bad in the second half

Our boys are making you eat these words so far!

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: Dorset Boy (IP Logged)
Date: 23/11/2019 18:46

Smart by Quins, subtle dummies at the breakdown which the ref is letting them do, and we are falling for it.

Is that Bath's first penalty of the match?

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: Old Bath Tub (IP Logged)
Date: 23/11/2019 18:46

Good grief weve got a penalty !

Adopted Player 2018/19 Ross Batty
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Adopted Player 2020/21 Cam Redpath
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Adopted Player 2022/23 Gabriel Hamer-Webb
Adopted Player 2023/24 Tom Carr-Smith
Adopted Player 2024/25 Max Ojomoh

"AN OUNCE OF ACTION IS WORTH A TON OF THEORY"
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Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: Dorset Boy (IP Logged)
Date: 23/11/2019 18:47

According to commentary, yes.
How can a side not be penalised in 51 mins of rugby?

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: supermarinematt (IP Logged)
Date: 23/11/2019 18:47

This is such bad rugby from us. The forwards, which have been our strength this season so far, have got no foot hold and the backs are as ineffective as they have been. Our discipline is not good either ... On the whole a game to forget so far

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: CoochieCoo (IP Logged)
Date: 23/11/2019 18:48

Front row changed 12-3



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2019:11:23:18:48:48 by CoochieCoo.

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: OutsideBath (IP Logged)
Date: 23/11/2019 18:50

I've just realised what the problem is, our coaches didn't travel with the team today.

If they were at the ground they'd have done something about our standard of play.

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: ken_jnr (IP Logged)
Date: 23/11/2019 18:52

More front foot ball now, looking sharper.

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: Old Bath Tub (IP Logged)
Date: 23/11/2019 18:54

Before the game Mr Hooper said or words to the effect of Weve had a really good week in training and identified what we need to do beat Harlequins so what happened Stuart ?

Adopted Player 2018/19 Ross Batty
Adopted Player 2019/20 Jack Davies
Adopted Player 2020/21 Cam Redpath
Adopted Player 2021/22 Darren Atkins
Adopted Player 2022/23 Gabriel Hamer-Webb
Adopted Player 2023/24 Tom Carr-Smith
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Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: Old Bath Tub (IP Logged)
Date: 23/11/2019 18:57

Matt Garvey on for Charlie Ewells doesnt look good

Adopted Player 2018/19 Ross Batty
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Adopted Player 2020/21 Cam Redpath
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Adopted Player 2022/23 Gabriel Hamer-Webb
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Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: BathMatt53 (IP Logged)
Date: 23/11/2019 18:59

Different game with the first choice front row on

[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: Old Bath Tub (IP Logged)
Date: 23/11/2019 19:01

Quote:
BathMatt53
Different game with the first choice front row on

Which makes you think why didnt they start ?

Adopted Player 2018/19 Ross Batty
Adopted Player 2019/20 Jack Davies
Adopted Player 2020/21 Cam Redpath
Adopted Player 2021/22 Darren Atkins
Adopted Player 2022/23 Gabriel Hamer-Webb
Adopted Player 2023/24 Tom Carr-Smith
Adopted Player 2024/25 Max Ojomoh

"AN OUNCE OF ACTION IS WORTH A TON OF THEORY"
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Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: Old Bath Tub (IP Logged)
Date: 23/11/2019 19:03

Another Penalty are we going for the record ?

Adopted Player 2018/19 Ross Batty
Adopted Player 2019/20 Jack Davies
Adopted Player 2020/21 Cam Redpath
Adopted Player 2021/22 Darren Atkins
Adopted Player 2022/23 Gabriel Hamer-Webb
Adopted Player 2023/24 Tom Carr-Smith
Adopted Player 2024/25 Max Ojomoh

"AN OUNCE OF ACTION IS WORTH A TON OF THEORY"
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Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: Old Bath Tub (IP Logged)
Date: 23/11/2019 19:08

Scrum penalty for ..........Bath !

Adopted Player 2018/19 Ross Batty
Adopted Player 2019/20 Jack Davies
Adopted Player 2020/21 Cam Redpath
Adopted Player 2021/22 Darren Atkins
Adopted Player 2022/23 Gabriel Hamer-Webb
Adopted Player 2023/24 Tom Carr-Smith
Adopted Player 2024/25 Max Ojomoh

"AN OUNCE OF ACTION IS WORTH A TON OF THEORY"
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Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: Dorset Boy (IP Logged)
Date: 23/11/2019 19:13

Ref really badly suckered by Joe Marler - top refs shouldn't fall for something so blatant.
Gives 3 to Quins - thanks ref.

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: Old Bath Tub (IP Logged)
Date: 23/11/2019 19:13

Oh dear 15-6

Adopted Player 2018/19 Ross Batty
Adopted Player 2019/20 Jack Davies
Adopted Player 2020/21 Cam Redpath
Adopted Player 2021/22 Darren Atkins
Adopted Player 2022/23 Gabriel Hamer-Webb
Adopted Player 2023/24 Tom Carr-Smith
Adopted Player 2024/25 Max Ojomoh

"AN OUNCE OF ACTION IS WORTH A TON OF THEORY"
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Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: supermarinematt (IP Logged)
Date: 23/11/2019 19:14

That's game over

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: Dorset Boy (IP Logged)
Date: 23/11/2019 19:15

Bad hit on Watson.
Player knows Watson is falling, but Quins 2 stays high deliberately.
Yellow given.

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: Old Bath Tub (IP Logged)
Date: 23/11/2019 19:16

Quote:
supermarinematt
That's game over

And Europe for another year (Sm136)

Adopted Player 2018/19 Ross Batty
Adopted Player 2019/20 Jack Davies
Adopted Player 2020/21 Cam Redpath
Adopted Player 2021/22 Darren Atkins
Adopted Player 2022/23 Gabriel Hamer-Webb
Adopted Player 2023/24 Tom Carr-Smith
Adopted Player 2024/25 Max Ojomoh

"AN OUNCE OF ACTION IS WORTH A TON OF THEORY"
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Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: Dorset Boy (IP Logged)
Date: 23/11/2019 19:22

Poor game.
Poor performance.
Poor result.

Still no win in the yellow jerseys?

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: BathMatt53 (IP Logged)
Date: 23/11/2019 19:23

We sneaked into Europe again so thats no surprise given our seeding. Its the manner of it which grates a bit.

Boyce et al havent done themselves any favours at all - Obano, Dunn and Stewart are well in front of the race now.

[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: Old Bath Tub (IP Logged)
Date: 23/11/2019 19:23

Well Stuart, over to you for the cr&p. excuses.(Sm105)

Adopted Player 2018/19 Ross Batty
Adopted Player 2019/20 Jack Davies
Adopted Player 2020/21 Cam Redpath
Adopted Player 2021/22 Darren Atkins
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Adopted Player 2023/24 Tom Carr-Smith
Adopted Player 2024/25 Max Ojomoh

"AN OUNCE OF ACTION IS WORTH A TON OF THEORY"
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Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: Huew (IP Logged)
Date: 23/11/2019 19:24

That really was an awful performance, almost matched by the Ref but not quite. Add in injuries to Ewels and Watson and it truly is a night to forget.

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: OutsideBath (IP Logged)
Date: 23/11/2019 19:26

Anyone still think that our work experience DOR is the right man for the job?

Come to think of it what is our attack coach actually doing?

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: seb (IP Logged)
Date: 23/11/2019 19:27

A key problem is that too many of our players lack basic skills and therefore make too many errors. - knock ons, poor passes, poor decision making under pressure. The best players have those core skills and therefore the error count is significantly less - simple really!

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: Dorset Boy (IP Logged)
Date: 23/11/2019 19:29

Ugo suggested in commentary that on average we lose possession after 5 phases.....

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: supermarinematt (IP Logged)
Date: 23/11/2019 19:30

Quote:
OutsideBath
Come to think of it what is our attack coach actually doing?

No idea, but since he took over we have been nothing short of uninspired, lacking ideas, creativity and absolutely impotent in the backs.

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: Old Bath Tub (IP Logged)
Date: 23/11/2019 19:32

Quote:
OutsideBath
Anyone still think that our work experience DOR is the right man for the job?
Come to think of it what is our attack coach actually doing?

Dont worry theyll have it all sorted for next weeks visit of the Champion Cheats ......not. (Sm100)

Adopted Player 2018/19 Ross Batty
Adopted Player 2019/20 Jack Davies
Adopted Player 2020/21 Cam Redpath
Adopted Player 2021/22 Darren Atkins
Adopted Player 2022/23 Gabriel Hamer-Webb
Adopted Player 2023/24 Tom Carr-Smith
Adopted Player 2024/25 Max Ojomoh

"AN OUNCE OF ACTION IS WORTH A TON OF THEORY"
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Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: Bath Hammer (IP Logged)
Date: 23/11/2019 19:32

All very depressing, especially as a West Ham supporter (Sm147) I wonder if a 35 point cushion will be sufficient to save us from the drop, especially as our players are dropping like 9 pins as normal.

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: OutsideBath (IP Logged)
Date: 23/11/2019 19:39

Quote:
Old Bath Tub
Quote:
OutsideBath
Anyone still think that our work experience DOR is the right man for the job?
Come to think of it what is our attack coach actually doing?

Dont worry theyll have it all sorted for next weeks visit of the Champion Cheats ......not. (Sm100)

You old cynic, Hooper will no doubt say weve had a really good week in training and identified what we need to do beat Saracens.

However this will be followed by the inevitable loss.

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: ken_jnr (IP Logged)
Date: 23/11/2019 19:40

Hooper said before the game he was looking forward to us scoring as many points as possible. 9 points was as many as possible apparently.

That game was a great advert for Super Rugby.

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: Bath Hammer (IP Logged)
Date: 23/11/2019 19:43

...



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2019:11:23:19:43:58 by Bath Hammer.

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: ballsout (IP Logged)
Date: 23/11/2019 19:48

1. Get this season over with
2. Try and finish at least 11th
3. Get rid of Hooper, get rid of Rock, get rid of Broncon, get rid of Dempsey, send Lilley elsewhere for a few years
4. Employ a competent coaching team
5. Start fresh

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: hasta (IP Logged)
Date: 23/11/2019 19:52

We have worse attacking patterns than my 4yo's rugby rats who don't even play rugby.

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: Bathovalballer (IP Logged)
Date: 23/11/2019 19:57

Absolute fantastic game Bath. Loved the way giving Quins such an easy game physically and tactically. So generous with penalties and our handling as ever so good that we will never wear out our hands handling the ball. Gosh isn't Garvey so good, especially carrying the ball? Not.

So many questions to ask. Why play our second front row in a game we had to win? They were up against probably the best scrummaging loose head in the Northern Hemisphere. Has Boyce ever learnt to scrummage and when is Batty going to retain his rightful position over the Academy standard lightweight Walker? McNally does what?

Why no Ellis, Underhill and Chudley or Fox? Why play wingers like McConnaghie and Rokodiguni when we can never pass the ball to them. But of course due to our generous soft hearted forwards, especially in the first half, we are incapable of winning possession going forward.

Wonderful planning by Hoops and the team. Selection spot on to help Quins get the points. Quins didn't win the game, more we gifted it to them.

Never mind we can rest up Ewels, Watson and Joseph now that they are injured. Just think of the games of scrabble they can have with Mercer, Cokadesigna, Faletau, Catt and Thomas and pass the loofer at the Spa?

Such excitement and they don't even have to trouble themselves by getting dirty at the Rec.

Just think we have the underpaid, underperforming Sarries at the Rec under lights next week. Just in time to add to the Christmas Market celebrations! Can't wait for us to add to their celebrations!

Adopted player 2020/21 Beno 'the Transformer' Obano


Adopted player 2019/20 Jonathan 'JJ' Joseph.The Jink Joseph.
Adopted player 2018/19 Adopted player 2018/19 Semesa 'The Rock' Rokoduguni

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: Ali1969 (IP Logged)
Date: 23/11/2019 20:05

Another 80+ minutes of gritty dire one dimensional rugby with more injuries to deal with can anyone tell me what is our try count this season??

What on earth is going on with the coaching we claim to have one of the most attacking backlines in Premiership but from what I have seen so far this season we look stagnate and clueless.

In all probability Europe is over we need to concentrate on staying in the Premiership because it certainly is not a given on our performances this season..

Real issues for Hoops to sort out..

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: ballsout (IP Logged)
Date: 23/11/2019 20:12

Club is a shambles, one day people will start to believe me.

Yet another competition we're out of after a couple of games, same old, same old.

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: dannyf2 (IP Logged)
Date: 23/11/2019 20:31

Being a Bath fan is a frustrating business isn't it

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: sid the seagull (IP Logged)
Date: 23/11/2019 20:42

We could have and should have won that game. Quins nothing really special there.
Some shockingly bad referee blindness eg multiple Quins ruck knock ons, Chris Cook stroll in to the line - exactly what was wrong with that? However, I accept that to get some of those decisions you have to portray dominance to whatever Sir has the whistle.

FLAP

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: Bathovalballer (IP Logged)
Date: 23/11/2019 20:47

Our DoR obviously believes he is doing a good job and has managed to date to hood wink Tarquin (not difficult on the rugby front} and Bruce who has played the game to a decent standard. However, no opposition sides believe he is as they all refuse to roll over and have their tummies tickled as he obviously thinks his charges deserve after all the planning and input of his team, including internationally experienced coaches like Hatley and the long standing Dempsey.

I would settle for 11th this season, in the hope we can find someone, anyone who can get a team full of international experience and talent, with a first class training facility, playing winning, skillful rugby able to perform basic skills consistently to a high level. That means removing the present so called coaching team and instilling a real desire and wanting to perform at the highest level. All of which is way above and beyond the present management. I would even put up with Mr Diamond who is not my favourite person but I believe he would certainly put some steel and back bone into Bath's squad and wouldn't tolerate any under performance. Possibly Cockerell would be my choice if he was free.

I can only dream as long as Tarquin and the number crunchers are running the show.

Adopted player 2020/21 Beno 'the Transformer' Obano


Adopted player 2019/20 Jonathan 'JJ' Joseph.The Jink Joseph.
Adopted player 2018/19 Adopted player 2018/19 Semesa 'The Rock' Rokoduguni

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: Trawling (IP Logged)
Date: 23/11/2019 21:07

Wibble

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: Bath Hammer (IP Logged)
Date: 23/11/2019 21:35

What is it about the way we play that leads to such a ridiculous number of injuries? England in the World Cup hardly had an injury throughout the tournament. We lose several players in each game. Most of our internationals are already crocked plus a whole host of other players, several out for the whole season. We started the season with supposed strength in depth in the props. We now have two pairs only & the second pair evidently struggled today. Losing a couple of players each week will soon leave us down to the bare bones. The one are in which had seemed to have improved massively, the front five, have disappointed in the last couple of matches in conditions that should suit us. We seem to have gone backwards with the arrival of Neil Hatley after so much promise. Has he been tampering? One wonders. We are rapidly running out of players and means of winning matches.

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: ballsout (IP Logged)
Date: 23/11/2019 21:38

Quote:
sid the seagull
We could have and should have won that game. Quins nothing really special there.

WTF. What game were you watching. We offered pretty much nothing all game.

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: shipwrecked (IP Logged)
Date: 23/11/2019 21:46

The injury situation is just weird, definitely needs looking at, in fairness to Hatley I wouldn't expect to see a change after 2 weeks but that was dire!
I was hopeful of better but time is running out I expected a top half team by Christmas. I wonder if the club has set similar goals?

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Tyler Offiah

Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: West Stand Quin (IP Logged)
Date: 23/11/2019 22:02

Sorry for the intrusion but was interested seeing the away view of the game.

The weather was awful and hence no team could rely on going wide.
Very much a game where the home team had an advantage, if it was at The Rec Bath would have won, it was just that sort of game / day. Quins were more threatening team but made handling errors and Bath attack was shut down quite quickly. Teams relied on kicks and luck of bouncing ball favoured Quins a little bit more, nothing to do with skill just one of those things.

Quins def benefitted by having Lang in the centres, having another 10 on the pitch int he Henry slade role gave another kicking option which on a day where territory was key perhaps was the difference.

Neither team was going to go 80m let alone 40m to score a try

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: ballsout (IP Logged)
Date: 23/11/2019 22:21

Quote:
Old Bath Tub
Danny Care taking ages at every breakdown

And yet not ONCE did we put any pressure on his famously useless box-kicks. Not once.

Likewise restarting miles deep and putting zero pressure on teams. Every game the same negative strategy. Who needs to restart and try to win it back in filthy conditions eh.



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2019:11:23:22:23:22 by ballsout.

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: dr.bath1865 (IP Logged)
Date: 23/11/2019 22:40

Complete rubbish. Quins marginally less bad.

It feels like we lost the game tonight as soon as the team was picked. Sure, the weather forecast was for a fairer evening, but why have Priestland and Roberts on the bench? Marcus Smith was built for Roberts to run at him. Im not saying wed have cantered to victory with our ex-Welsh internationals in tandem, but at least wed have had a clear plan. We also missed anyone in the back five of the scrum who can carry, although I thought Bayliss tried manfully.

Out of Europe. Ah well. Bet we beat Saracens on Friday!

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: sid the seagull (IP Logged)
Date: 23/11/2019 23:34

Ballsidiot I said Quins werent that special.
Disagree?
Given our players we should have won.
Please proceed to gnaw your vitals.

HOP

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: joethefanatic (IP Logged)
Date: 24/11/2019 00:13

My word, that was bad. Two poor teams, @#$%& weather and a guessing ref. We did not deserve to win and our habit of not waking up until the game is almost gone is deeply concerning. Plus we had Ruaridh and Roko and neither got a pass all night. Why bother having them on the pitch? And now we are free to concentrate on the league. JJ looks crocked and I really hope Anthony is OK. All in all very disappointing..

... IMHO, of course.

Now in Honolulu

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: Bath Hammer (IP Logged)
Date: 24/11/2019 01:31

Quote:
joethefanatic
My word, that was bad. Two poor teams, @#$%& weather and a guessing ref. We did not deserve to win and our habit of not waking up until the game is almost gone is deeply concerning. Plus we had Ruaridh and Roko and neither got a pass all night. Why bother having them on the pitch? And now we are free to concentrate on the league. JJ looks crocked and I really hope Anthony is OK. All in all very disappointing..

This is a regular thing when the going is heavy so why dont the wingers play differently & come in from their wings more, though they have to be alert defensively.of course.

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: ballsout (IP Logged)
Date: 24/11/2019 02:18

Quote:
sid the seagull
Ballsidiot

Coming from a man pretending to be a seagull, without a clue about rugby?

Quote:
I said Quins werent that special.
Disagree?

No, you said "We could have and should have won that game". Now you're shifting the goalposts to say given the teams on paper we should have won? That's been the same story for years. What else is new.

We offered nothing and given the penalty count (was it 8-0 after 50 minutes?) I'm amazed we managed a LBP.

Quote:
dr.bath1865
Out of Europe. Ah well. Bet we beat Saracens on Friday!

It would be typical but I'd be very surprised if we did. It's probably the worst time to play Sarries. They'll come out all guns blazing and will be desperate for the win.

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: Bathovalballer (IP Logged)
Date: 24/11/2019 02:30

With a scratch team including walking wounded.

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Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: TG Kesmo (IP Logged)
Date: 24/11/2019 08:29

Ok we were awful the conditions were awful life is awful. Eeyore has decided who to blame, because it is always someones fault. Not suggested any ideas for improvement other than getting rid of the coach and half the team.
Again it seems to be suggested that somehow the injuries are someone at Baths fault have you watched any other team this year? Did you watch last week our opposition lost 2 before half time and most of their subs were injury related. If you look at the forces involved and factor in wet conditions people are going to get injured.
Do I have any magic solutions? No because if there were any someone with a lot more rugby nous than me would have thought of them. Do new coaches need time? yes. are some fans patient?no.
Will I continue to support Bath? yes. Can I continue on this forum? Undecided if there was more reasoned discussion maybe.

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: fat lock (IP Logged)
Date: 24/11/2019 08:32

Watching Bath is all too predictably dull and tedious.
I didn't bother yesterday - you just knew what the outcome was going to be.

I'm probably slightly odd in that I watch for entertainment. I can get that entertainment from a tight 5 arm wrestle or from flowing backs moves.
Watching Bath doesn't deliver me entertainment - infact it hasn't for a few years now. (Ever since MF left really)
For a while I could put up with 90% of games being dire for the hope of the odd exciting game. Now that hope is extinguished.
Add to that a background of cheating which appears to be semi accepted by the authorities, and I've realised I've got quite a lot of other things to do on Saturdays.

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: terracehugger (IP Logged)
Date: 24/11/2019 08:57

Im afraid Hooper looks to be completely out of his depth and out of touch, along with the bulk of his coaching colleagues.
Poor basic skills and a lack of on-field vision is quickly becoming our recognised dna.
Our fundamental player problem is that we have an ineffective 9/10/12 axis no matter who we play in those positions, and until that is remedied, the remainder of our stellar back line will be feeding off the occasional crumb.

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: warrenball (IP Logged)
Date: 24/11/2019 09:03

Fat lock, agree 100%, I enjoy watching rugby, I just happen to watch at Bath, but although I support Bath and shout for them I am not a footie style fan. Whilst I enjoy a good forward battle and appreciate the effort put in by most players, effort on its own is not good enough, there has to be some thought involved from club which goes further than just trying to stop the opposition scoring and trying not to lose by too many points so we can still deceive ourselves into thinking we are moving forward. This safety first rugby may be seen as the best route to try to get results to justify the clubs's recruitment policy, but it is death by a thousand cuts and will just put off many people who enjoy watching good rugby.

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: Deckchair (IP Logged)
Date: 24/11/2019 09:28

The conditions were ropey but we have to adapt. Ultimately, we didn't hold on to the ball and we were not disciplined, the penalty count was 13-3 and it's difficult to win games playing like that.
We got ourselves in decent positions in the second half but coughed up pressure by giving the ball away.

See, I could be director of rugby too. All you have to do is simply report, not repair. And certainly not regret, or any of that silly rallying nonsense. I could do that. I couldn't be any worse, and I'll do it for half a Hoop wedge and I'll even bring my own track suit. Anyone have Brucie's mobile?



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2019:11:24:09:32:36 by Deckchair.

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: CoochieCoo (IP Logged)
Date: 24/11/2019 09:34

It was a very poor performance (not helped by the conditions) and the starting front row struggled. I am no expert on what happens at scrum time but Marler was instrumental in most of the scrum pens against us. It is my belief that Bath are slow starters and we always seem to be in catch up mode. The change of the front row put us on the front foot but in those conditions it was a big ask to turn the match around.

I believe we should start with our strongest side.

Another big factor is discipline the score there was 3-13! The same happened at Bristol so here is a big factor for the coaches to earn their bread,

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: Bathovalballer (IP Logged)
Date: 24/11/2019 09:36

But Deckchair you will need to be schooled in smoozing one-eyed gormless speak when talking to the press to do the job properly. I am sure you are better than that! As it is you already have worked out where we are going wrong-unlike our present highly paid, expert {ha ha} coaching team.

I think you could be the Messiah we have been seeking for the past 8 years or so. Hope so anyway.

I will contact BnG to see if the Old Prostates RFC have any contact details for Bruce as I believe he is the club's Royal Patron. At least they can always be relied upon for a good party to raise the spirits even after another dismal defeat.

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Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2019:11:24:09:43:20 by Bathovalballer.

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: CoochieCoo (IP Logged)
Date: 24/11/2019 09:44

Quote:
CoochieCoo
It was a very poor performance (not helped by the conditions) and the starting front row struggled. I am no expert on what happens at scrum time but Marler was instrumental in most of the scrum pens against us. It is my belief that Bath are slow starters and we always seem to be in catch up mode. The change of the front row put us on the front foot but in those conditions it was a big ask to turn the match around.
I believe we should start with our strongest side.

Another big factor is discipline the score there was 3-13! The same happened at Bristol so here is a big factor for the coaches to earn their bread,

Just like to add that I heard on the TV that Hats was in deep conversation with the ref at half time and was joined by Toby Booth. So clearly interpretation was being sought.

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: Bathovalballer (IP Logged)
Date: 24/11/2019 09:57

When I played the game, a team would learn how the ref applied the rules and you adapted accordingly. Apparently our over coached fluffy stars are unable to think for themselves and do the same. Why?

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Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: ballsout (IP Logged)
Date: 24/11/2019 10:05

Forget 9, 10, 12, forget Judge and Boyce bizarelly becoming poor players in a Bath shirt, forget our discipline issues...

I don't understand how coaches haven't remedied our pathetic ball retention issues yet. It was 30 minutes before we had one carry ffs. And then one pass later, Burns (of course) wastes that much needed possession with a cross field kick directly into touch. Great work.

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: gaz59 (IP Logged)
Date: 24/11/2019 10:52

From the KO the game looked lost

Quins kick off high, long hang time, into lights, rain and into space for two Bath players to collide with Quins player in chase. Knock on, scrum, penalty, quins score

Bath ko, deep and flat, no chase and straight into arms of single Quins player to set up easy exit

Didn't get any better from there

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: ballsout (IP Logged)
Date: 24/11/2019 11:18

Quote:
gaz59
Bath ko, deep and flat, no chase and straight into arms of single Quins player to set up easy exit

That's been our strategy all season. Restart long, same place every time, putting teams under barely any pressure. Awful.

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: TG Kesmo (IP Logged)
Date: 24/11/2019 12:14

Re the penalty count at scrum time. Our starting front row did not cover themselves in glory. Maybe this is where Mr Hatley earns his crust. Getting on the wrong side of the ref happened yesterday and against Bristol. There must be something to be identified and worked on.

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: shipwrecked (IP Logged)
Date: 24/11/2019 12:33

Quote:
TG Kesmo
Re the penalty count at scrum time. Our starting front row did not cover themselves in glory. Maybe this is where Mr Hatley earns his crust. Getting on the wrong side of the ref happened yesterday and against Bristol. There must be something to be identified and worked on.

+1 Priority

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Tyler Offiah

Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: abendanon-anon-anon (IP Logged)
Date: 24/11/2019 13:20

Quote:
gaz59
From the KO the game looked lost
Quins kick off high, long hang time, into lights, rain and into space for two Bath players to collide with Quins player in chase. Knock on, scrum, penalty, quins score

Bath ko, deep and flat, no chase and straight into arms of single Quins player to set up easy exit

Didn't get any better from there

My thoughts exactly. Priestland kicks the ball long but so much higher allowing time for Roko or Brew to challenge.
You could tell after just 5 mins we were going to lose - and I think the players did too.
One thing for me is Joseph's body language - he just doesn't seem to want the ball and doesn't interact with the rest of the back line. Strange

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: Old Bath Tub (IP Logged)
Date: 24/11/2019 13:25

Quote:
Deckchair

See, I could be director of rugby too. All you have to do is simply report, not repair. And certainly not regret, or any of that silly rallying nonsense. I could do that. I couldn't be any worse, and I'll do it for half a Hoop wedge and I'll even bring my own track suit. Anyone have Brucie's mobile?

I agree on post match interviews , for me Stuart Hoopers explanations for defeats almost always come across as so blas , Im sure he does care but imho he doesnt seem to come across that he does, as you say just reporting. (Sm128)

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Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: fat lock (IP Logged)
Date: 24/11/2019 13:33

Quote:
abendanon-anon-anon
One thing for me is Joseph's body language - he just doesn't seem to want the ball and doesn't interact with the rest of the back line. Strange

I wonder how much longer he and Ant will stay
Done the world cup thing - got to a final, won't get much better than that
Play for fun? - not much of that at Bath that I can see
Time to look towards life after rugby whilst at the top of their games ?- Sarries or France for money
Time for a new challenge ?- AW often talks about wanting to try American Football

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: ballsout (IP Logged)
Date: 24/11/2019 14:46

You'd think they'd both want to win a trophy at club level, no chance of that here. I was delighted but very surprised when they renewed.

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: seatonian (IP Logged)
Date: 24/11/2019 15:38

There is something inherently wrong with our great club. With the talent available we should be performing to a high level. We need a Head Coach to come in and crack the whip and to get the best out of our attacking back line. There is no evidence of coordinated attacking moves just bish bash and hope for the best. With our long term injury situation we need at least a couple of players to come in as cover. Players with guile and grit. I am sure that there are some southern hemisphere players out there who would fit the bill. I also feel that players who sustain an injury in a match should be pulled off at once and not be expected to play on and make the injury worse and become long term.

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: recman (IP Logged)
Date: 24/11/2019 17:28

While watching the Saracens-Ospreys game the commentator remarked how Ospreys were currently going through a bad patch, at a low ebb, but will certainly come back stronger in a season or two, as these things go in cycles. It struck me that this law of cycles doesn't seem to apply to Bath. We have been stuck in a rut for years and years, and seem completely incapable of finding any way out of it (with the obvious exception of the Mike Ford season, which is looking more and more like a huge anomaly).

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: CoochieCoo (IP Logged)
Date: 24/11/2019 17:36

Post hidden BO repetitive insinuation.

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: Bath Supporter Jack (IP Logged)
Date: 25/11/2019 19:36

It is very disappointing as we have all expressed above.

Why don't we try and break the mould and stop playing the same predictable rugby which leads to narrow defeats and occasionally narrow wins.

Why don't we try playing like we did in the last few minutes against Ulster..........but start playing like that.

Not unlike the way Japan played which even if we lose it will be fun!

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: ballsout (IP Logged)
Date: 26/11/2019 01:26

Quote:
Bath Supporter Jack
Not unlike the way Japan played which even if we lose it will be fun!

We can barely make four passes before kicking or losing the ball. Japan's entire game is based on great basics, incredible handling and the ability to keep the ball alive. Bath are the antithesis of that.

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: JFPC (IP Logged)
Date: 26/11/2019 09:52

Quote:
ballsout
Quote:
Bath Supporter Jack
Not unlike the way Japan played which even if we lose it will be fun!

We can barely make four passes before kicking or losing the ball. Japan's entire game is based on great basics, incredible handling and the ability to keep the ball alive. Bath are the antithesis of that.

F*ck me but you come across as a miserable git at the best of times. Am I mistaken? Are you really a happy go lucky, glass half full chap? I hope so for your sake, the persona you portray on here must be the sorriest individual I have ever had the misfortune to interact with.

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Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: Bath Supporter Jack (IP Logged)
Date: 26/11/2019 10:35

Ballsout

Let's aspire to be rather more than we are!

As you will recall in the last few minutes against Ulster we put a whole number of phases together.........let's try and do that more.

Personally I would like to see rather more ambition and less just running at the nearest person and more running towards or indeed creating gaps.

Three consecutive offloads and you create havoc in the opposition!

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: ballsout (IP Logged)
Date: 26/11/2019 10:53

I've forgotten what an offload from Bath looks like. Or a line break (0 against Bristol and Quins). The frustration is the players are capable of putting phases together, but usually only when they have to, like at the end of the Ulster game. It's why we're often nilled at half time or concede a try early: the on field attitude is so lazy it's only when the game is there to be won, suddenly the team wake up. Happened against Exeter, and Gloucester away when Glos scored 4 tries in 25 minutes. It took a red card against Saints to finally spring the players into action and win that game.

Re: CITY SLICKERS: HARLEQUINS v BATH & TEAMS ARE UP
Posted by: Old Bath Tub (IP Logged)
Date: 26/11/2019 19:47

Quote:
recman
While watching the Saracens-Ospreys game the commentator remarked how Ospreys were currently going through a bad patch, at a low ebb, but will certainly come back stronger in a season or two, as these things go in cycles. It struck me that this law of cycles doesn't seem to apply to Bath. We have been stuck in a rut for years and years, and seem completely incapable of finding any way out of it (with the obvious exception of the Mike Ford season, which is looking more and more like a huge anomaly).

Ospreys coach Allen Clark GONE according to BBC reports !

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