IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS
Matavesi: impact?
By P G Tips
January 22 2020
Bath must take a tigerish approach when the Premiership resumes at the Rec on Saturday. Visitors Leicester Tigers started the tournament poorly but have improved in recent matches. A dazzling backs display brought a bonus point win against Bristol in early January, hinting at more to come. Now events beyond the control of either club have changed the dynamics of the tie. So will Tigers’ resurgence continue? Or can Bath gain a home win and build Premiership momentum?
Saracens’ impending relegation has taken the edge of desperation off Leicester’s motivation but should not have blunted it. Even eleventh position is unfamiliar, uncomfortable territory for Tigers players and fans. With Mike Ford as attack coach they will hope to continue their try scoring feats of recent games. Steve Borthwick’s appointment as Head Coach will also have players keen to impress, to press their claims for a regular starting slot and contract security.
Eddie Jones’ England Squad choice will denude both clubs in similar numbers. While Tigers will lose their 4 World Cup backs, they retain Dan Cole, who with Tom Youngs and Greg Bateman will offer a testing challenge to an expected area of strength for Bath. With Dunn and Stuart at the Portugal training camp, Bath will rue the absence of Ross Batty, whose 4-week ban following a red card against Ulster puts pressure on Jack Walker and rookie Tom Doughty. Joseph, Watson and the injured Cokanasiga are missing from Bath’s backline but at least McConnochie should be available and fans will hope for a debut for new signing Josh Matavesi to bring something different to the attack- perhaps in impact from the bench. Taulupe Faletau should also be available, to compensate for the absence of Sam Underhill.
Any selection disruptions come at a delicate time for Bath who have been showing more ambition in attack recently while still lacking consistency and the midfield control to draw the best from a strong strike force out wide. That is why, in this traditional rivalry, attitude matters as much as personnel and preparation. Bath have an excellent record at the Rec against Leicester in recent years, so should look to take the fight to Leicester in all areas.
There is an Indian proverb that “You cannot fight a tiger……unless you are a tiger yourself.” Shakespeare put it another way: “imitate the action of the tiger; stiffen the sinews, summon up the blood, disguise fair nature with hard-favour'd rage.” It is time to take it to the Tigers – with the strength, speed, surprise and ferocity of their namesakes.
Possible Teams:
Bath
Obano, Walker, Judge, McNally, Stooke, Louw (Capt.), Ellis, Faletau. Chudley, Burns. McConnochie, Willison, Wright, Rokodoguni. Homer
Replacements:
Boyce, Doughty, Nixon, Garvey,Williams. Fox, Priestland, Matavesi.
Leicester:
Bateman, Youngs, Cole, Green, Wells, Taufua, Thompson,Kalamafoni. White, Hardwick. Thompstone, Eastmond, Taute, Olowofela. Veianu.
Replacements: Polota –Nau, Gigena, Leatigaga, Spencer, Liebenberg. Simmons, Worth, Viljoen
IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: Comeonmylovers.co.uk (IP Logged)
Date: 22/01/2020 09:54
What do you think? You can have your say by posting below.
If you do not already have an account Click here to Register.
Edited 4 time(s). Last edit at 2020:02:04:19:15:20 by P G Tips.
If you do not already have an account Click here to Register.
Edited 4 time(s). Last edit at 2020:02:04:19:15:20 by P G Tips.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS
Posted by: BathMatt53 (IP Logged)
Date: 22/01/2020 10:44
Good summary as ever PGT.
I think that Priestland and Matavesi will start in place of Burns and Wright (who went off at half time against Ulster).
If it were me and if he's not at the U20s yet, I would also be tempted to play GHW over Rokodoguni (shock, horror) and would have Douglas on the bench ahead of Garvey.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
I think that Priestland and Matavesi will start in place of Burns and Wright (who went off at half time against Ulster).
If it were me and if he's not at the U20s yet, I would also be tempted to play GHW over Rokodoguni (shock, horror) and would have Douglas on the bench ahead of Garvey.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS
Posted by: Old Bath Tub (IP Logged)
Date: 22/01/2020 10:46
Really looking forward to this game ! 
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"
FRIEDRICH ENGELS
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"
FRIEDRICH ENGELS
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS
Posted by: TomReagan (IP Logged)
Date: 22/01/2020 10:55
Matavesi's had nearly a week to famiarise himself with our playbook of backs' moves- that should be more than enough time...
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS
Posted by: Optimist (IP Logged)
Date: 22/01/2020 11:32
I like the fact that 18 of that squad of 23 are England-qualified, on top of the 6 that are supplied to England's 6 Nations squad. Less comfortable is the fact (subject to checking) that only 5-6 are Bath products.
The edge - in fact, the middle and the ends - have been taken off this game by Sarries' antics and the England call-ups. Still has every possibility to be a mini-classic i'd say. Hail McNally - he has been a rock this season, and we've had an awful lot more from him than Bris have had from big Dave.
The edge - in fact, the middle and the ends - have been taken off this game by Sarries' antics and the England call-ups. Still has every possibility to be a mini-classic i'd say. Hail McNally - he has been a rock this season, and we've had an awful lot more from him than Bris have had from big Dave.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS
Posted by: OutsideBath (IP Logged)
Date: 22/01/2020 11:36
With relegation off the agenda there's no excuse for either team to play a boring brand of rugby, anything less than an exciting open game will be disappointing.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS
Posted by: shipwrecked (IP Logged)
Date: 22/01/2020 11:50
Quote:TomReagan
Matavesi's had nearly a week to famiarise himself with our playbook of backs' moves- that should be more than enough time...
There are some that might say 5 minutes is long enough!
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS
Posted by: OutsideBath (IP Logged)
Date: 22/01/2020 11:57
Quote:shipwreckedQuote:TomReagan
Matavesi's had nearly a week to famiarise himself with our playbook of backs' moves- that should be more than enough time...
There are some that might say 5 minutes is long enough!
What play book?
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS
Posted by: Optimist (IP Logged)
Date: 22/01/2020 12:05
Quote:TomReagan
Matavesi's had nearly a week to famiarise himself with our playbook of backs' moves- that should be more than enough time...
V. good that!!
Will he have had time to go and buy some extra padding? Priestland does like to put people into brick-walls.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS
Posted by: Stopsy (IP Logged)
Date: 22/01/2020 12:09
Thanks PGT, I hope we can put in a coherent performance, preferably continuing the upward curve from before Christmas. Looking forward to having rugby to watch/discuss rather than cheating, oh hang on a minute...
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS
Posted by: gaz59 (IP Logged)
Date: 22/01/2020 13:53
Even with their missing England players that is not a bad Tigger line up at all but Obano in great form and our back 5 in the pack should be well on top
If Willison and Matevesi line up together at any point with their offloading skills it would be nonsense to have Priestland inside them to simply send them into a Tigger brick wall and behind gain line
But if that is the line up then their bench forwards have an edge so hoping we are two scores plus in front with 20 to go
If Willison and Matevesi line up together at any point with their offloading skills it would be nonsense to have Priestland inside them to simply send them into a Tigger brick wall and behind gain line
But if that is the line up then their bench forwards have an edge so hoping we are two scores plus in front with 20 to go
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS
Posted by: BathMatt53 (IP Logged)
Date: 22/01/2020 14:34
Quote:gaz59
If Willison and Matevesi line up together at any point with their offloading skills it would be nonsense to have Priestland inside them to simply send them into a Tigger brick wall and behind gain line
Or Freddie who could chip it to their backs to let them have a run at us? This is a game where a lack of 50-50 plays would be handy IMO, RP may not be a risk taker but that suits me fine this weekend.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS
Posted by: Stopsy (IP Logged)
Date: 22/01/2020 15:42
I hope we will have Lavanini, unlikely to see Liebenberg (injured) also not sure on Guy Thompson's fitness. Replacement Tighthead is a toss up between Leatigaga and Heyes.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS
Posted by: Optimist (IP Logged)
Date: 22/01/2020 15:46
The midfield equation has changed considerably with Roberts out of the picture - that instinct to simply send him crashing up isn't an option, and Willison has shown more creativity in the last couple of weeks than JR has shown in a life time. We might even see Willison and Matavesi paired together which would really put the cat amongst the pigeons. They are both pretty physical specimens so it's not as if they are a couple of little ballerinas who can't be sent to the line. I'd love to see Burns given a proper run (with a bit of patience for him to recover some consistency and form) - but i can see Hooper reverting to Priestland - and that may well prove to be the right option. His line-kicking gives us a lot of free metres. And if he just moves the point of creativity out a channel, then there's no reason why we can't start to see a potent back 3 free up a bit.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS
Posted by: BathMatt53 (IP Logged)
Date: 22/01/2020 16:04
Batty suspended for 4 weeks. Far from ideal.
‘Bath Rugby’s Ross Batty has been suspended for four weeks following an independent Disciplinary Hearing in London today (Tuesday, 21 January) arising from his club’s Heineken Champions Cup, Round 6 match against Ulster Rugby.
....
Batty is free to play on Monday, 2 March, and both he and EPCR have the right to appeal the decision.‘
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
‘Bath Rugby’s Ross Batty has been suspended for four weeks following an independent Disciplinary Hearing in London today (Tuesday, 21 January) arising from his club’s Heineken Champions Cup, Round 6 match against Ulster Rugby.
....
Batty is free to play on Monday, 2 March, and both he and EPCR have the right to appeal the decision.‘
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS
Posted by: TomReagan (IP Logged)
Date: 22/01/2020 16:26
Bath Matt, you always know about procedural matters. 4 weeks doesn't take us to March 2nd, in fact it's way beyond it. It means he misses the Bristol game too. He misses 4 prem games-couldn't have come at a worse time. Three 6 Nations games in that period so, being selfish and putting my Bath head on, I'll be hoping George and LCD stay fit.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS
Posted by: Optimist (IP Logged)
Date: 22/01/2020 16:29
For offences such as this, I'd much rather see players fined (heavily), and the money going into an injured players fund or something. Red cards like Batty's are all about changing habits. There is usually no malice - just bad timing, bad habits, carelessness. With squads and front-rows under pressure, it does nobody any good for Batty to be unavailable for 4 weeks. Potentially rushes an under-prepared Academy player into action.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS
Posted by: BathMatt53 (IP Logged)
Date: 22/01/2020 16:47
Quote:TomReagan
Bath Matt, you always know about procedural matters. 4 weeks doesn't take us to March 2nd, in fact it's way beyond it. It means he misses the Bristol game too. He misses 4 prem games-couldn't have come at a worse time. Three 6 Nations games in that period so, being selfish and putting my Bath head on, I'll be hoping George and LCD stay fit.
Taken directly from the Premiership Rugby website TR!
[www.premiershiprugby.com]
I guess its 'meaningful game weeks' or whatever they call it (rather than calendar weeks):
- Leicester Tigers
- Worcester Warriors
- Harlequins
- Bristol Bears
Skelton is also banned for 4 weeks but 'is free to play on Monday, 24 February, and both he and EPCR have the right to appeal the decision.' Sarries have the premiership cup on 7th Feb which is counted I guess.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS
Posted by: TomReagan (IP Logged)
Date: 22/01/2020 17:45
Thanks BathMatt! Figured something on those lines. Perhaps my memory failing me- well I know it is, but on this specific issue- as thought there used to be an element of luck about the number of games missed in a given time period. Pity we didn't qualify for the Mickey Mouse Cup then.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS
Posted by: tigerburnie (IP Logged)
Date: 22/01/2020 18:12
I'd expect Lavanini to be in the 2nd row for Tigers, he's been settling in very nicely for us and Lewis could be on the bench if Wells plays at 6 again.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS
Posted by: ballsout (IP Logged)
Date: 22/01/2020 18:14
What a surprise, Premiership Rugby have scheduled our game against Bristol when all our internationals are away.
At least he might actually get the ball with Priestland. Better than Burns kicking it to Tigers at the first sign of possession and conceding 50 metres at best, a try at worst.
Quote:OptimistQuote:TomReagan
Matavesi's had nearly a week to famiarise himself with our playbook of backs' moves- that should be more than enough time...
V. good that!!
Will he have had time to go and buy some extra padding? Priestland does like to put people into brick-walls.
At least he might actually get the ball with Priestland. Better than Burns kicking it to Tigers at the first sign of possession and conceding 50 metres at best, a try at worst.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS
Posted by: Bath Hammer (IP Logged)
Date: 23/01/2020 01:10
Quote:TomReagan
Matavesi's had nearly a week to famiarise himself with our playbook of backs' moves- that should be more than enough time...
A day or two should be enough for that based on what we generally see.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS
Posted by: Bath Hammer (IP Logged)
Date: 23/01/2020 01:13
Furthermore, how long will we have to wait before he picks up a typical Bath injury?
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS
Posted by: warrenball (IP Logged)
Date: 23/01/2020 12:45
First game for a long time when our backs could look more exciting than the opposition, but it is certain to be a bog and with a wet ball I worry we may decide to stick it up the jumper. I hope we don't, a few years ago I saw a Crusaders game in driving rain and the first handling error came just before half time, so it is possible.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS
Posted by: copester (IP Logged)
Date: 23/01/2020 13:41
See Saints have not picked Biggar and not classed him as injured. Have Wales called the Premiership players in? Could this mean Toby wont play either this weekend?
adopted player, 24/25 Hame Faiva. 23/24 Ted Hill. 22/23 Cam Redpath. 21/22 Max Clark. 20/21 Henry Thomas. 19/20 Max Wright. 18/19 Cooper Vuna.
adopted player, 24/25 Hame Faiva. 23/24 Ted Hill. 22/23 Cam Redpath. 21/22 Max Clark. 20/21 Henry Thomas. 19/20 Max Wright. 18/19 Cooper Vuna.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS
Posted by: Rokobilly (IP Logged)
Date: 23/01/2020 15:49
Toby's definitely been in the Welsh camp this week. Not sure if his release agreement (which we got fined for a year or two back) would apply this weekend or not. As a Welsh supporting Bath fan, I think he needs another match before the 6N so hoping he'll be back at The Rec on Saturday.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS
Posted by: CoochieCoo (IP Logged)
Date: 23/01/2020 21:03
Quote:Rokobilly
Toby's definitely been in the Welsh camp this week. Not sure if his release agreement (which we got fined for a year or two back) would apply this weekend or not. As a Welsh supporting Bath fan, I think he needs another match before the 6N so hoping he'll be back at The Rec on Saturday.
Gather he is available for selection.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS
Posted by: Rokobilly (IP Logged)
Date: 23/01/2020 21:23
Quote:CoochieCooQuote:Rokobilly
Toby's definitely been in the Welsh camp this week. Not sure if his release agreement (which we got fined for a year or two back) would apply this weekend or not. As a Welsh supporting Bath fan, I think he needs another match before the 6N so hoping he'll be back at The Rec on Saturday.
Gather he is available for selection.
Good news CC
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS
Posted by: Old Bath Tub (IP Logged)
Date: 24/01/2020 10:45
Quote:TomReagan
Matavesi's had nearly a week to famiarise himself with our playbook of backs' moves- that should be more than enough time...
I’m going to stick my neck out and predict Josh scoring on Saturday if selected to start , possibly in the first 20. If on the bench the last 20 .
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"
FRIEDRICH ENGELS
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS
Posted by: CoochieCoo (IP Logged)
Date: 24/01/2020 12:03
BATH RUGBY TEAM TO FACE LEICESTER TIGERS:
15. Tom Homer
14. Semesa Rokoduguni
13. Max Wright
12. Jackson Willison
11. Ruaridh McConnochie
10. Rhys Priestland (C)
9. Chris Cook
1. Beno Obano
2. Jack Walker
3. Christian Judge
4. Josh McNally
5. Elliott Stooke
6. Mike Williams
7. Josh Bayliss
8. Taulupe Faletau
Replacements
16. Tom Doughty, 17. Lewis Boyce, 18. Sam Nixon, 19. Matt Garvey, 20. Tom Ellis, 21. Will Chudley, 22. Freddie Burns, 23. Josh Matavesi
15. Tom Homer
14. Semesa Rokoduguni
13. Max Wright
12. Jackson Willison
11. Ruaridh McConnochie
10. Rhys Priestland (C)
9. Chris Cook
1. Beno Obano
2. Jack Walker
3. Christian Judge
4. Josh McNally
5. Elliott Stooke
6. Mike Williams
7. Josh Bayliss
8. Taulupe Faletau
Replacements
16. Tom Doughty, 17. Lewis Boyce, 18. Sam Nixon, 19. Matt Garvey, 20. Tom Ellis, 21. Will Chudley, 22. Freddie Burns, 23. Josh Matavesi
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS
Posted by: Stopsy (IP Logged)
Date: 24/01/2020 12:05
Your visitors:
15 Telusa Veainu
14 Jonah Holmes
13 Jaco Taute
12 Kyle Eastmond
11 Jordan Olowofela
10 Tom Hardwick
9 Ben White
1 Facundo Gigena
2 Tom Youngs (c)
3 Dan Cole
4 Tomás Lavanini
5 Will Spencer
6 Harry Wells
7 Jordan Taufua
8 Sione Kalamafoni
Replacements
16 Tatafu Polota-Nau
17 Greg Bateman
18 Joe Heyes
19 Ifereimi Boladau
20 Tommy Reffell
21 Harry Simmons
22 Noel Reid
23 George Worth
15 Telusa Veainu
14 Jonah Holmes
13 Jaco Taute
12 Kyle Eastmond
11 Jordan Olowofela
10 Tom Hardwick
9 Ben White
1 Facundo Gigena
2 Tom Youngs (c)
3 Dan Cole
4 Tomás Lavanini
5 Will Spencer
6 Harry Wells
7 Jordan Taufua
8 Sione Kalamafoni
Replacements
16 Tatafu Polota-Nau
17 Greg Bateman
18 Joe Heyes
19 Ifereimi Boladau
20 Tommy Reffell
21 Harry Simmons
22 Noel Reid
23 George Worth
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS
Posted by: hemington (IP Logged)
Date: 24/01/2020 12:06
Slug it out for the first 60 then bring a little razzle-dazzle for the last 20?
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Team’s up)
Posted by: Bath Supporter Jack (IP Logged)
Date: 24/01/2020 12:09
Flow injured I assume?
No Fox?
No Fox?
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Team’s up)
Posted by: Bath Hammer (IP Logged)
Date: 24/01/2020 12:16
Expecting more from Cook. Who’s Doughty?
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS
Posted by: shipwrecked (IP Logged)
Date: 24/01/2020 12:19
Tell us about Tom Hardwick Stropsy, is he one to watch out for?
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Team’s up)
Posted by: Rokobilly (IP Logged)
Date: 24/01/2020 12:50
Quote:Bath Hammer
Expecting more from Cook. Who’s Doughty?
According to Wikipedia: "Thomas "Tom" Doughty is an English, Cheshire-based lap steel acoustic guitarist and singer-songwriter, who has released three albums. His style is free-flowing and improvisational, drawing from the blues, folk and jazz-swing standards."
Also our 4th choice hooker who gets a shot because Tom Dunn is with England and Batty's on the naughty step. Am hoping his line out throwing is less free flowing and improvisational than his namesake's guitar playing.
Good luck tomorrow Tom!
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS
Posted by: ballsout (IP Logged)
Date: 24/01/2020 13:03
Quote:shipwrecked
Tell us about Tom Hardwick Stropsy, is he one to watch out for?
Man of the match a few months ago when 14 man Tigers comfortably beat Bath at the Rec in the Prem Cup.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS
Posted by: Stopsy (IP Logged)
Date: 24/01/2020 13:06
Hardwick : Son of the ex England prop Rob, he's come through our academy and played well last season and more so this season. Has a decent boot, distribution and defence but still very raw, particularly in strategic control. Seems to improve with each game though.
Costellow is one to watch in my book (in our academy)
Costellow is one to watch in my book (in our academy)
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS
Posted by: Stopsy (IP Logged)
Date: 24/01/2020 13:07
Thanks for that Ballsout, I'd forgotten that.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Team’s up)
Posted by: BathMatt53 (IP Logged)
Date: 24/01/2020 13:25
Should be a good game. Hope Cookie has worked on his fast and accurate passing. I think that Jackson Willison looks better at 12 than 13 so pleased with that balance.
COYB!!
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
COYB!!
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Team’s up)
Posted by: tigerburnie (IP Logged)
Date: 24/01/2020 13:28
What impressed me in France last week with Hardwick was he never took a backward step, don't recall him missing a tackle and he kept a cool head when Pau started getting physical.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Team’s up)
Posted by: Kidney Stone (IP Logged)
Date: 24/01/2020 22:26
Beno vs Cole will be interesting, as will the TF vs Kalamafoni match up.
Nixon rightly gets the nod as the 18 ahead of Cj.
Could be a good showing. Bath by 2 scores.
Nixon rightly gets the nod as the 18 ahead of Cj.
Could be a good showing. Bath by 2 scores.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Team’s up)
Posted by: ballsout (IP Logged)
Date: 25/01/2020 00:35
Quote:Kidney Stone
Beno vs Cole will be interesting, as will the TF vs Kalamafoni match up.
Nixon rightly gets the nod as the 18 ahead of Cj.
Could be a good showing. Bath by 2 scores.
So very interesting.
Cj, who I'm going to assume is meant to be Chris Judge, is starting.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS
Posted by: ChippenhamRoman (IP Logged)
Date: 25/01/2020 10:43
Quote:ballsoutQuote:shipwrecked
Tell us about Tom Hardwick Stropsy, is he one to watch out for?
Man of the match a few months ago when 14 man Tigers comfortably beat Bath at the Rec in the Prem Cup.
Terrible game that. IIRC Leicester staffed that game a bit more competitively than Bath.
J
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: tigerburnie (IP Logged)
Date: 25/01/2020 11:57
What's the weather like, will it be boggy under foot?
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: Barnoid (IP Logged)
Date: 25/01/2020 12:34
Quote:tigerburnie
What's the weather like, will it be boggy under foot?
Dry and relatively mild overnight. Not much wind and no sign of rain at the moment. The pitch will inevitably be pretty heavy though.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: shipwrecked (IP Logged)
Date: 25/01/2020 15:54
Neither side looking anything like competent! So much for lifting the chains of relegation to produce open free flowing rugby!
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: Bath Hammer (IP Logged)
Date: 25/01/2020 15:57
Leicester are at least keeping possession which we are incapable of doing. Lucky to be leading.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: shipwrecked (IP Logged)
Date: 25/01/2020 16:12
Zac Mercer brilliant addition to the radio commentary on radio Bristol.
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: JFPC (IP Logged)
Date: 25/01/2020 16:12
Zac Mercer's commentary on Radio Bristol is worth listening to!
Adopted player 2019/20 Will Chudley. Weird split household co-parented
player 2020 Josh Matavesi
Adopted player 2019/20 Will Chudley. Weird split household co-parented
player 2020 Josh Matavesi
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: B4thB4ck (IP Logged)
Date: 25/01/2020 16:20
Quote:JFPC
Zac Mercer's commentary on Radio Bristol is worth listening to!
Is he saying where the ball is on the pitch? That would be a novel concept for RB.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: shipwrecked (IP Logged)
Date: 25/01/2020 16:21
Matevesi on, can you imagine the lift Zac Mercer would give if you were on the field with him!
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: supermarinematt (IP Logged)
Date: 25/01/2020 16:35
This is dire. We are horrible yet again today. Far to much kicking and zero creativity
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: Mike the Taxi (IP Logged)
Date: 25/01/2020 16:38
Homer Try! Mercer sounds like we've won the World Cup!
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: Mike the Taxi (IP Logged)
Date: 25/01/2020 16:39
Conversion hits post; Zac distraught!
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: JFPC (IP Logged)
Date: 25/01/2020 16:40
Quote:B4thB4ckQuote:JFPC
Zac Mercer's commentary on Radio Bristol is worth listening to!
Is he saying where the ball is on the pitch? That would be a novel concept for RB.
Normally I'd agree, but he's so good it doesn't matter!
Adopted player 2019/20 Will Chudley. Weird split household co-parented
player 2020 Josh Matavesi
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: Mike the Taxi (IP Logged)
Date: 25/01/2020 16:43
Zac disagreeing a lot with Wayne's decisions, but still refers to him as 'Sir'.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: shipwrecked (IP Logged)
Date: 25/01/2020 16:45
After Barnes misses a third knock on Zac will be giving him serious grief in the bar!
Who cares where the ball is on the pitch by the way!
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2020:01:25:16:50:42 by shipwrecked.
Who cares where the ball is on the pitch by the way!
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2020:01:25:16:50:42 by shipwrecked.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: Mike the Taxi (IP Logged)
Date: 25/01/2020 16:52
Never in Doubt!
COYB!!
FT!
COYB!!
FT!
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: hasta (IP Logged)
Date: 25/01/2020 16:54
Mercer great value on Comms!
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: Optimist (IP Logged)
Date: 25/01/2020 17:00
Quote:hasta
Mercer great value on Comms!
Hilarious - not a commentator - a fan let loose in the commentary box. Blooky brilliant though.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: BathMatt53 (IP Logged)
Date: 25/01/2020 17:26
Pro’s:
Bath won
Con‘s:
Just about everything else!
Hope those who got knocks (including RM before k.o?) are OK
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Bath won
Con‘s:
Just about everything else!
Hope those who got knocks (including RM before k.o?) are OK
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: tigerburnie (IP Logged)
Date: 25/01/2020 17:33
Not seen the game yet, but by all accounts you were least cr@p of two pretty poor sides, makes you wonder what has happened to the two sides that for over a decade were the envy of the land.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: BathMatt53 (IP Logged)
Date: 25/01/2020 17:36
Take 2 average sides and take their best players away for internationals and you end up with a game of below average quality, which is definitely what we just got. I’m not looking forward to the rest of the games in this 6N tbh.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: ballsout (IP Logged)
Date: 25/01/2020 17:58
Two terrible teams playing terrible rugby. Result was meaningless.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: Widcombe boy (IP Logged)
Date: 25/01/2020 18:09
Quote:I'm just happy with the home win thanksballsout
Two terrible teams playing terrible rugby. Result was meaningless.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: shipwrecked (IP Logged)
Date: 25/01/2020 18:10
Quote:ballsout
Two terrible teams playing terrible rugby. Result was meaningless.
Apart from the win and 4 points of course!
And the game stats:
Bath 6th - Played 9, Won 5. Lost 4, Points 21.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: ballsout (IP Logged)
Date: 25/01/2020 18:11
Yaaaaaaayyyyy aren’t Bath great
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: Bathovalballer (IP Logged)
Date: 25/01/2020 18:14
Very poor but we needed that win. In the past we lost tight games so relief to hold on.
Am very worried about knock to TF's right arm. Just hope he is OK. He looked distinctly groggy for last few mknutes before Garvey came on.
Liked what I saw of Matevesi. And Ben O did a good job on Cole. Stooke immense as was McInally in line out. Chudders good Cook very poor. Not much else.
We won hurray!
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
Am very worried about knock to TF's right arm. Just hope he is OK. He looked distinctly groggy for last few mknutes before Garvey came on.
Liked what I saw of Matevesi. And Ben O did a good job on Cole. Stooke immense as was McInally in line out. Chudders good Cook very poor. Not much else.
We won hurray!
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: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: BathMatt53 (IP Logged)
Date: 25/01/2020 18:18
Quote:ballsout
Yaaaaaaayyyyy aren’t Bath great
That’s unlike you BO, you normally say they are rubbish.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS
Posted by: BathMatt53 (IP Logged)
Date: 25/01/2020 18:21
Quote:ballsoutQuote:shipwrecked
Tell us about Tom Hardwick Stropsy, is he one to watch out for?
Man of the match a few months ago when 14 man Tigers comfortably beat Bath at the Rec in the Prem Cup.
He was pretty awful today tbh.
My MoM would have been from Stooke, McNally or Obano.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: ballsout (IP Logged)
Date: 25/01/2020 18:26
Hands like feet McNally?
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: BathMatt53 (IP Logged)
Date: 25/01/2020 18:27
Quote:ballsout
Hands like feet McNally?
Lolz you really are clutching at straws today
Hooper sums up the game pretty fairly I think.
Bath director of rugby Stuart Hooper told BBC Radio Bristol:
"I'm pleased with the four points but no the performance, I'm pleased with winning, that is important but overall the performance was way off where we need to be.
"We let Leicester dictate the tempo of the game, we knew with their forwards that they would slow the game down, and we were getting to their levels rather than those we wanted to set.
"When we had the ball between line-outs, I wanted to see a bit more with ball in hand. We coughed up the ball 11 times, 11 turnovers and all those moments are moments we could have applied pressure and we didn't.
"I'm pleased with the way we scored the try, I thought the effort from the forwards was outstanding and the way the boys closed out the game was really good."
Chudley a massive improvement when he came on. Whats with all the hand flapping and pausing before passing from Cook this season? Box kicking poor too.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2020:01:25:18:29:43 by BathMatt53.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: dannyf2 (IP Logged)
Date: 25/01/2020 18:43
Wow. Possibly the worst advert for premiership rugby ever. We'll take the win, but good grief it was awful.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: Long Term (IP Logged)
Date: 25/01/2020 18:46
Quote:ballsout
Two terrible teams playing terrible rugby. Result was meaningless.
But I thought Bath couldn't close out games and weren't going to win a game this season!
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: Old Bath Tub (IP Logged)
Date: 25/01/2020 18:47
Happy with the win, but soul destroying watching, how many handling errors ........197 ! 
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"
FRIEDRICH ENGELS
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"
FRIEDRICH ENGELS
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: gaz59 (IP Logged)
Date: 25/01/2020 18:47
In fairness Glaws were tripe today as well
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: shipwrecked (IP Logged)
Date: 25/01/2020 18:58
Interesting that Zac Mercer stated that despite the Rec pitch being better than he thought today the calibre of players we have are the kind that thrive on firm fast pitches and we don't get the best from them.
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: ballsout (IP Logged)
Date: 25/01/2020 19:17
BathMatt, you need to look up the definition for clutching at straws. McNally’s hands are terrible. Coughs up so much ball. I mean more than the rest of the side do with comical frequency.
Yep.
Quote:dannyf2
Wow. Possibly the worst advert for premiership rugby ever. We'll take the win, but good grief it was awful.
Yep.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: gaz59 (IP Logged)
Date: 25/01/2020 19:23
Attwood was largely responsible for 3 of glaws penalties and a knock on or two. Depends what you're looking for and you will see it
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: Long Term (IP Logged)
Date: 25/01/2020 19:26
Quote:BO isn't the focus supposed to be on how bad Hooper and the coaching set up is? Attacking individual players is not a good look for your negative agenda!ballsout
BathMatt, you need to look up the definition for clutching at straws. McNally’s hands are terrible. Coughs up so much ball. I mean more than the rest of the side do with comical frequency.Quote:dannyf2
Wow. Possibly the worst advert for premiership rugby ever. We'll take the win, but good grief it was awful.
Yep.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: BathMatt53 (IP Logged)
Date: 25/01/2020 19:29
Of course they aren’t. For example he has been a solid contributor to a lineout that competed 10/10 again this week for starters. He conceded 2 turnovers. He did miss 4 tackles though...overall I think that he has started well at Bath and is a good signing. Makes a lot of carries and there aren’t all going to go perfectly...
...which takes us onto a more positive subject, Walker and Williams made 24 tackles each...Walker missed zero and Williams 1.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
...which takes us onto a more positive subject, Walker and Williams made 24 tackles each...Walker missed zero and Williams 1.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: Optimist (IP Logged)
Date: 25/01/2020 19:42
Wouldn’t want to have been bo’s cat when the final whistle went - his irritation that Bath won is absolutely palpable. Almost as entertaining as Zach’s commentary.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: Trawling (IP Logged)
Date: 25/01/2020 19:59
Some of the views on here are as absurd as they are predictable. Might not have been a late season try fest but it was a long way from terrible. Clearly in the game those people watched, Veainu never carried the ball, there was no great try line defending by either side, no try saving tackle by Burns, no line breaks by Chudley, Priestland or any of the forwards and no great finishing from Tom Homer. Go home, watch the DVD of the 80s side (when we never infringed the spirit of the amateur game obviously) if that's what it takes to make you happy but FFS stop whingeing on here.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2020:01:25:20:00:39 by Trawling.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2020:01:25:20:00:39 by Trawling.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: sid the seagull (IP Logged)
Date: 25/01/2020 20:18
Accepting the irony darling. Trawling, what are you on about?
Literally what was the point of your input?
Oh sorry, the clues’s in the name.
Rest in peace.
PECK
Literally what was the point of your input?
Oh sorry, the clues’s in the name.
Rest in peace.
PECK
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: ballsout (IP Logged)
Date: 25/01/2020 20:20
Yes those things happened. 120 seconds of quality play doesn’t make up for the other 78 minutes of rubbish.
Some of the delusional posts on here are as absurd as they are predictable.
I’ve been supporting a long time, that was the first time I couldn’t care less about who won in the end. It was meaningless. This is easily the worst Bath side since 2003.
Sadly this very rare win will just paper over the cracks as usual, and we’ll just keep stumbling on. Going nowhere, as usual.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2020:01:25:20:27:00 by ballsout.
Some of the delusional posts on here are as absurd as they are predictable.
I’ve been supporting a long time, that was the first time I couldn’t care less about who won in the end. It was meaningless. This is easily the worst Bath side since 2003.
Sadly this very rare win will just paper over the cracks as usual, and we’ll just keep stumbling on. Going nowhere, as usual.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2020:01:25:20:27:00 by ballsout.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: TomReagan (IP Logged)
Date: 25/01/2020 20:22
I thought it was a really poor game. The defence of both sides was excellent, but that is helped by the lack of attacking intent and ideas. Tigerburnie, I think your lot were marginally better, certainly in terms of continuity. (Incidentally, my predictive text comes up with an interesting version of your name!). I guess discipline was a positive for both sides and our set piece was excellent, but all undone as soon as we had to do something with the ball. Both sides box-kicked as a matter of course. Hooper commended the forwards, so I think he shares the view of those who thought that the backs again looked poor. There was no pace/intensity when we had the ball, although Homer's second try was a great individual effort.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: ballsout (IP Logged)
Date: 25/01/2020 20:27
Pub teams have better ball retention than Bath.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: Trawling (IP Logged)
Date: 25/01/2020 20:29
And 5 year olds demonstrate more ability to doubt their own genius than you do.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2020:01:25:20:30:24 by Trawling.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2020:01:25:20:30:24 by Trawling.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: Old Bath Tub (IP Logged)
Date: 25/01/2020 20:32
[quote gaz59]In fairness Glaws were tripe today as well[/quote
Yes, agree with that, just watched the game... Bristol pretty good... you know what I don’t mind where we finish up in the league as long it’s above all our local West Country rivals.... Oh wait ....
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"
FRIEDRICH ENGELS
Yes, agree with that, just watched the game... Bristol pretty good... you know what I don’t mind where we finish up in the league as long it’s above all our local West Country rivals.... Oh wait ....
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"
FRIEDRICH ENGELS
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: Quel Carreleur (IP Logged)
Date: 25/01/2020 20:48
So after all that, let's have a look at a few facts.
6th in the premiership, more wins than losses, only 1 win behind the top 2 teams.
Closer to 4th than 7th.
We now have a few weeks for rest tired bodies and minds (and get Josh up to speed). Then we play Worcester. Whilst the 2 teams immediately above us (by 1 and 2 points) are up against the 2 teams at the top of the table.
We're so terrible that we've got a really good chance to be in the top 4 after round 10, and possibly even 3rd.
People may not like these facts, because of course, were the worst team in the Prem and it's inconceivable that we'll win a single match this season, let alone the 5 we already have (again, it's amazing how every year seems to be the worst ever, and how we're nailed on for relegation every year - regardless of the facts on the ground). But they're still facts, not even spin, just facts.
And then we have some rules about no personal abuse of players, with some posters showing their class with phrases like "feet for hands)
A man who cannot change his mind, cannot change anything
RAEBURN SHIELD
Edited 3 time(s). Last edit at 2020:01:25:20:53:24 by Which Tyler.
6th in the premiership, more wins than losses, only 1 win behind the top 2 teams.
Closer to 4th than 7th.
We now have a few weeks for rest tired bodies and minds (and get Josh up to speed). Then we play Worcester. Whilst the 2 teams immediately above us (by 1 and 2 points) are up against the 2 teams at the top of the table.
We're so terrible that we've got a really good chance to be in the top 4 after round 10, and possibly even 3rd.
People may not like these facts, because of course, were the worst team in the Prem and it's inconceivable that we'll win a single match this season, let alone the 5 we already have (again, it's amazing how every year seems to be the worst ever, and how we're nailed on for relegation every year - regardless of the facts on the ground). But they're still facts, not even spin, just facts.
And then we have some rules about no personal abuse of players, with some posters showing their class with phrases like "feet for hands)
RAEBURN SHIELD
Edited 3 time(s). Last edit at 2020:01:25:20:53:24 by Which Tyler.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: Trawling (IP Logged)
Date: 25/01/2020 20:49
BO you make a lot of noise on here for someone who doesn't care. I'm not saying the current side are up there with the best Bath teams but: just pointing out the errors made doesn't make you a tactical genius; it'll stop hurting when you stop hitting your head against a brick wall; acknowledging that players can be working their a$@es off and still make mistakes would be a step forward.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: OutsideBath (IP Logged)
Date: 25/01/2020 20:53
Well all that really matters is that Bath won, so well done to the players.
However the game was totally devoid of any skill or entertainment, both DOR's should be utterly embarrassed by that. Best thing they could do would be to look up the word entertainment in the dictionary whilst they enjoy their after game pint.
However the game was totally devoid of any skill or entertainment, both DOR's should be utterly embarrassed by that. Best thing they could do would be to look up the word entertainment in the dictionary whilst they enjoy their after game pint.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: TomReagan (IP Logged)
Date: 25/01/2020 21:08
To be fair to the DORs Murphy described the game as 'turgid' and Hooper was not impressed with the performance. Does bring more attention on the cost of match tickets at the Rec for another game that wasn't exactly entertaining, match ticket prices being an issue raised this week on twitter and picked up by Somerset Live.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: ballsout (IP Logged)
Date: 25/01/2020 21:51
Quote:Which Tyler
So after all that, let's have a look at a few facts.
6th in the premiership, more wins than losses, only 1 win behind the top 2 teams.
Closer to 4th than 7th.
We now have a few weeks for rest tired bodies and minds (and get Josh up to speed). Then we play Worcester. Whilst the 2 teams immediately above us (by 1 and 2 points) are up against the 2 teams at the top of the table.
We're so terrible that we've got a really good chance to be in the top 4 after round 10, and possibly even 3rd.
I can do stats too.
We were out of the Prem Cup after just two rounds, followed by 6 losses out of 6 in Europe. Before today's cripple fight we were 2 wins out of the last TEN.
No one is saying we're the worst side in the league, what I'm saying is that after a decade of underachievement, with a side full of quality players, the turgid rugby they're putting out is frankly, shameful.
But sure, keep doing what this message board always does year after year, accentuate the minuscule positives, keep hoping that we'll improve and actually add something of real value to Premiership or European rugby. You'll be waiting a while though.
Quote:TomReagan
To be fair to the DORs Murphy described the game as 'turgid' and Hooper was not impressed with the performance.
Careful, you'll be accused of having an agenda. It was utter rubbish, from both sides. The crowd have given up groaning every time we lose the ball after a pass or two, it happens so often.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: gaz59 (IP Logged)
Date: 25/01/2020 21:56
Ballsout, there are many people who will be deeply and genuinely offended by the term cripple fight
I leave it to you to decide what you do about it
I leave it to you to decide what you do about it
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: Trawling (IP Logged)
Date: 25/01/2020 22:36
You may be angry, you may have reason to be angry but using that phrase in a public forum is clearly inappropriate and offensive.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: BathMatt53 (IP Logged)
Date: 25/01/2020 23:23
Quote:gaz59
Ballsout, there are many people who will be deeply and genuinely offended by the term cripple fight
I leave it to you to decide what you do about it
+1. That’s a line that has been crossed, but sadly no massive surprise considering the tool who crossed it. Then again, to be offensive and get himself noticed is the point isn’t it?
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: Barnoid (IP Logged)
Date: 26/01/2020 00:14
Quote:gaz59
Ballsout, there are many people who will be deeply and genuinely offended by the term cripple fight
I leave it to you to decide what you do about it
Whether bo has valid concerns around how Bath Rugby play the game of rugby or not, this kind of language and attitude reflects badly on him but also on us as fans. I’m not happy to continue to visit and contribute to this site if this is considered acceptable.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: Trawling (IP Logged)
Date: 26/01/2020 00:18
Hello Sid, just spotted yr response to my earlier post. No irony and I changed my user name from Trawler to Trawling a number of years ago because the website had issues with user names and log ins. 10 yrs posting, 40 yrs supporting the team - how about you?
My point is very simple, I was at the game and while it was not great in terms of quality there was lots to enjoy - not least a close win against a traditional opponent. I'm not trying to be clever.
Jog on yourself, smarta$%se!
My point is very simple, I was at the game and while it was not great in terms of quality there was lots to enjoy - not least a close win against a traditional opponent. I'm not trying to be clever.
Jog on yourself, smarta$%se!
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: joethefanatic (IP Logged)
Date: 26/01/2020 00:27
Just watched the game. Well, we won but my word that was poor. Two disrupted teams playing disrupted rugby. Individually, Homer excellent and Beno just immense and the team line defence was good but those are the only compliments I can find. I was timing Cook at the ruck with a calendar and Rhys had one of his poor games from minute 1.
... IMHO, of course.
Now in Honolulu
... IMHO, of course.
Now in Honolulu
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: Bath Hammer (IP Logged)
Date: 26/01/2020 06:21
Quote:joethefanatic
Just watched the game. Well, we won but my word that was poor. Two disrupted teams playing disrupted rugby. Individually, Homer excellent and Beno just immense and the team line defence was good but those are the only compliments I can find. I was timing Cook at the ruck with a calendar and Rhys had one of his poor games from minute 1.
Totally agree. We were second best for most of that game & were very fortunate to win. Our capacity to attack effectively is so restricted by fluffs, insecurities & feeding the opposition it is difficult to watch. That is so regrettable because the players are better than that & their attitude is great but execution HAS to improve.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: Bath Hammer (IP Logged)
Date: 26/01/2020 06:50
Just read through all the comments & as usual there are extremes on both sides. Trawling & Which Tyler seem to have watched the match through rose tinted spectacles & BO as usual over reacting in a negative way. They sort of cancel each other out. Hooper sums it up perfectly & I go along with that which seems to be the majority view. Going forward I would suggest we will lose more than we win playing like that. Leicester, however, didn’t look like a team who are effectively bottom.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: warrenball (IP Logged)
Date: 26/01/2020 08:20
It was a good, bad game. Good that we won and at the end the reaction of our players showed it mattered to them which is important, but the standard of play throughout was poor. Upsides it did not rain, but I spent a good deal of the match talking to my daughter and not really concentrating on the game, it was that type of match where it did not demand your attention.
However it was not alone, the match on Friday was far from a classic and Glos were dreadful. What will be interesting is the game today, with Quins making lots of noise about the unfairness of Saracens I guess they are going to go all out to win well and with Saracens down to a second team it gives them a good chance, but there will be plenty of needle and should not knowing how the Saracens players will view the game it will be an interesting watch
However it was not alone, the match on Friday was far from a classic and Glos were dreadful. What will be interesting is the game today, with Quins making lots of noise about the unfairness of Saracens I guess they are going to go all out to win well and with Saracens down to a second team it gives them a good chance, but there will be plenty of needle and should not knowing how the Saracens players will view the game it will be an interesting watch
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: P G Tips (IP Logged)
Date: 26/01/2020 08:34
Quote:gaz59
Ballsout, there are many people who will be deeply and genuinely offended by the term cripple fight
I leave it to you to decide what you do about it
Just seen this.
I agree.
ballsout-take two weeks cooling off.
PG
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: Shadders (IP Logged)
Date: 26/01/2020 08:47
I’ve only seen the 3 minute highlights, but Burns try-scoring pass to Tom for the 2nd try looked pretty special and deserves some credit - Telegraph state it was Priestland’s pass, which might amuse/frustrate Fred.
How did Matavesi settle in?
As mentioned previously Zach on commentary was entertaining, sounded like he’d been handed a microphone with not even a 5 minute briefing on media behaviour - and it was much the better for it! But perhaps best kept to short cameo appearences for anyone wanting to hear what was actually going on.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2020:01:26:12:39:28 by Shadders.
How did Matavesi settle in?
As mentioned previously Zach on commentary was entertaining, sounded like he’d been handed a microphone with not even a 5 minute briefing on media behaviour - and it was much the better for it! But perhaps best kept to short cameo appearences for anyone wanting to hear what was actually going on.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2020:01:26:12:39:28 by Shadders.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: Beergoggles (IP Logged)
Date: 26/01/2020 08:52
Terrible game between two mediocre teams. I fear this is part due to the effect of losing relegation this season. Neither team will trouble the playoffs at the business end and we’ve also lost the bite in the game resulting from fear of relegation. Two poor teams playing a poor game with no consequences. What a cracking product.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: OutsideBath (IP Logged)
Date: 26/01/2020 09:06
Perhaps the club should put puzzle books on each seat instead of flags to give the fans some entertainment?
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: Bath Hammer (IP Logged)
Date: 26/01/2020 09:07
I don’t think there was any lack of effort whatsoever, just poor execution, and I don’t see how the removal of the fear of relegation had any effect on the proceedings.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: BathMatt53 (IP Logged)
Date: 26/01/2020 09:11
6N call ups clearly did though.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: TomReagan (IP Logged)
Date: 26/01/2020 09:11
Not sure I'd put it down to there being nothing to play for as the commitment on both sides was very good. I also think we have a chance of being top 4, definitely top 6, so there are clear incentives, albeit I'm not suggesting the rugby we're playing merits such ambitions. I'm not sure what I'd put it down to. Fragile minds and lack of confidence seem key factors. Also, the idea that Sarries being relegated will lead to sides being more relaxed and playing more freely-that might become apparent but takes time if, like Bath, you've been playing a very conservative style of rugby for so long and your scrum half has it in his DNA to spend 20 seconds at every ruck surveying the pitch then box kicking away ball we're unable to compete for. Incidentally, how they got three minutes of highlights from that game escapes me!
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: TomReagan (IP Logged)
Date: 26/01/2020 09:14
Nice post OB!
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: Deckchair (IP Logged)
Date: 26/01/2020 09:48
Yes, it was a turgid game, yes our team continues to underwhelm, yes there was little to warm the hearts on a dank and grey day at the Rec. But in all my many years of going to the Rec I have never known the fans to be so quiet and miserable. And so many empty seats - in a Bath V Tigers game for god sake!
Maybe us Bath fans have become as turgid and uninspiring as our rugby. Maybe we should be doing a little more to encourage from the stands.
I took my young granddaughters to their first ever live rugby match at the Rec yesterday and they were the only ones shouting and waving their flags and having fun - an island of enthusiasm in a groaning and moaning fan sea all about. It was their encouragement that got Homer over the line in the dying minutes to secure the win. At least that is what they believe. And I for one am not going to disabuse them. I want to take them again. They were good company.
Maybe us Bath fans have become as turgid and uninspiring as our rugby. Maybe we should be doing a little more to encourage from the stands.
I took my young granddaughters to their first ever live rugby match at the Rec yesterday and they were the only ones shouting and waving their flags and having fun - an island of enthusiasm in a groaning and moaning fan sea all about. It was their encouragement that got Homer over the line in the dying minutes to secure the win. At least that is what they believe. And I for one am not going to disabuse them. I want to take them again. They were good company.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: Rawce (IP Logged)
Date: 26/01/2020 09:50
Quote:Shouldn’t we make it 2 matches as opposed to 2 weeks like the players have to?P G Tips
Just seen this.
I agree.
ballsout-take two weeks cooling off.
PG
A poor game all round really. Considering Leicester are the real bottom team and playing away from home we should have done better. For me they just edged it in terms of playing better but somehow we were more clinical. We must have doubled our try scoring average in that match! It’s just frustrating that when we do create a break there’s rarely any support or we go for the wonder offloads which go forwards and into touch and hand back all the momentum. I guess its a confidence thing.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: Quel Carreleur (IP Logged)
Date: 26/01/2020 10:44
Quote:I don't believe I've commented on the game.Bath Hammer
Just read through all the comments & as usual there are extremes on both sides. Trawling & Which Tyler seem to have watched the match through rose tinted spectacles & BO as usual over reacting in a negative way. They sort of cancel each other out. Hooper sums it up perfectly & I go along with that which seems to be the majority view. Going forward I would suggest we will lose more than we win playing like that. Leicester, however, didn’t look like a team who are effectively bottom.
I made 1 comment, about the table, which was neither positive nor negative.
As opposed to BO's 7 enduringly negative and inflammatory posts - that's balance for you!
RAEBURN SHIELD
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2020:01:26:10:55:04 by Which Tyler.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: Old Bath Tub (IP Logged)
Date: 26/01/2020 11:13
Weather not good for photos but here are some of mine !
Bath v Leicester
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"
FRIEDRICH ENGELS
Bath v Leicester
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"
FRIEDRICH ENGELS
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: TomReagan (IP Logged)
Date: 26/01/2020 11:15
You have a point Deckchair, and I'm glad your grand daughters enjoyed the game. Of course it's easier to be excited when it's all a novelty and, at the risk of doing them a disservice, your grand daughters probably don't know too much about what rugby can be like when played well! It was quiet, but there wasn't too much to get excited about. If it was an occasional occurrence it would be less of an excuse, but there is an air of resignation as we launch another box kick or pass so far behind the gain line that we rapidly lose yards. At one point the blazered guy with the mic, with a guttural roar, called for more support, there was a response of COYB, the scrum collapsed and was reset twice and we went back to our conversations-sorry!
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: bardofavon (IP Logged)
Date: 26/01/2020 13:11
sooner or later bath rugby are going to have to take ownership of the pitch problem. this year- because of all the rain- the quality of the playing surface is disgraceful and is contributing directly to the abysmal standard of entertainment. meanwhile the new stadium build gets pushed back year after year.
bath rugby has to guarantee a better surface than this. if the new build is more than two years away, they have to bite the bullet and lay a new pitch before next season. in the meantime there is a case to be made for refunding the long suffering fans. mcdonald says bath rugby always aims to provide a top quality game day experience. may be he should get a new job at saracens with that kind of honesty.
bath rugby has to guarantee a better surface than this. if the new build is more than two years away, they have to bite the bullet and lay a new pitch before next season. in the meantime there is a case to be made for refunding the long suffering fans. mcdonald says bath rugby always aims to provide a top quality game day experience. may be he should get a new job at saracens with that kind of honesty.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: John Tee (IP Logged)
Date: 26/01/2020 13:25
A grinding and scrappy win....but you cant be on fire every week so take that as a good game to win as it puts top 4 in play.
Ths problem really is that no one has any consistency, Glaws, Saints, Sale... so everyone make small gains this season.
Bristol will feature and the real prize for anyone who can string a run of results together is top 2...
You have to assume Exe will be one of them....but on yesterday's results anyone can target no 2....and include Quins in that.
That makes the league something to play for...
Ths problem really is that no one has any consistency, Glaws, Saints, Sale... so everyone make small gains this season.
Bristol will feature and the real prize for anyone who can string a run of results together is top 2...
You have to assume Exe will be one of them....but on yesterday's results anyone can target no 2....and include Quins in that.
That makes the league something to play for...
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: shipwrecked (IP Logged)
Date: 26/01/2020 13:25
Quote:Mentioned before, Bath can't lay a new pitch under the terms of the current lease, unless the lease renewal changes that.bardofavon
sooner or later bath rugby are going to have to take ownership of the pitch problem. this year- because of all the rain- the quality of the playing surface is disgraceful and is contributing directly to the abysmal standard of entertainment. meanwhile the new stadium build gets pushed back year after year.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: CoochieCoo (IP Logged)
Date: 26/01/2020 13:54
Quote:shipwreckedQuote:Mentioned before, Bath can't lay a new pitch under the terms of the current lease, unless the lease renewal changes that.bardofavon
sooner or later bath rugby are going to have to take ownership of the pitch problem. this year- because of all the rain- the quality of the playing surface is disgraceful and is contributing directly to the abysmal standard of entertainment. meanwhile the new stadium build gets pushed back year after year.
Announcement yesterday from Tarquin that pitch drainage has deteriorated and pitch will be dug up and relaid during the summer. Lease covers this but not change of surface!
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2020:01:26:14:10:04 by CoochieCoo.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: shipwrecked (IP Logged)
Date: 26/01/2020 14:02
Thanks CC, if its Tarquin's idea will he be selling off the turf in commemorative boxes at £49.99 each?
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: P G Tips (IP Logged)
Date: 26/01/2020 15:50
IMHO we missed Charlie Ewels' (often under appreciated) leadership yesterday. The mix of adventure and pragmatism of the wins over Exeter and Northampton would I think have brought a more comfortable margin.
We'd better get used to it. Launchbury's injury may promote Ewels in the 6N queue.
PG
We'd better get used to it. Launchbury's injury may promote Ewels in the 6N queue.
PG
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: recman (IP Logged)
Date: 26/01/2020 15:57
Quote:John Tee
....but you cant be on fire every week
Please tell me that was supposed to be ironic!
It was absolutely dire yesterday.
I notice there’s a bit of an Orwellian push in this and another thread to show that we’re actually not that bad at all, and in fact we’re as good as and almost certainly better than several other sides in the league.
Hmmmm... interesting point of view. In 11 years (a short time for some, I know) of being a season ticket holder, this season and the previous two seasons have been by far the most unenjoyable experiences for me at The Rec, without a shadow of a doubt. I don’t think there will be another.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: Boldangrey (IP Logged)
Date: 26/01/2020 16:24
Quote:P G Tips
IMHO we missed Charlie Ewels' (often under appreciated) leadership yesterday. The mix of adventure and pragmatism of the wins over Exeter and Northampton would I think have brought a more comfortable margin.
We'd better get used to it. Launchbury's injury may promote Ewels in the 6N queue.
PG
+1
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: BathMatt53 (IP Logged)
Date: 26/01/2020 16:24
Bath are 6th so they are better than other teams in the league. Agree the season has been pretty painful watching though and I’m sure you won’t be the only one wondering whether to watch on tv in the warm next season.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: BathMatt53 (IP Logged)
Date: 26/01/2020 17:06
Quote:P G Tips
IMHO we missed Charlie Ewels' (often under appreciated) leadership yesterday. The mix of adventure and pragmatism of the wins over Exeter and Northampton would I think have brought a more comfortable margin.
We'd better get used to it. Launchbury's injury may promote Ewels in the 6N queue.
PG
Missed a jackal too without Louw and Underhill. Walker chopped a few down but nobody went over for the successful turnover which meant tigers had lots of opportunities (but didn’t take most of them).
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: CoochieCoo (IP Logged)
Date: 26/01/2020 17:08
PGT’s title to this thread turned out to be absolutely correct. We did imitate the Tiggers. Sometimes when our opposition is poor we tend to imitate. It was a poor game and it takes two to tango. However we won which was the first criteria of the coaches and the team.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: gaz59 (IP Logged)
Date: 26/01/2020 22:05
Quote:CoochieCoo
PGT’s title to this thread turned out to be absolutely correct. We did imitate the Tiggers. Sometimes when our opposition is poor we tend to imitate. It was a poor game and it takes two to tango. However we won which was the first criteria of the coaches and the team.
+1
Just watched highlights and two cracking tries from us, especially second one with huge miss pass from Freddie and then class finishing from Tom Homer
No doubt the other 75 minutes should have been better but take the win and move on
Well played players and hoops and coaching team to get an important win
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: TomReagan (IP Logged)
Date: 26/01/2020 22:38
Quote:gaz59
Just watched highlights and two cracking tries from us, especially second one with huge miss pass from Freddie and then class finishing from Tom Homer
No doubt the other 75 minutes should have been better but take the win and move on
[/quote
No disrespect intended gaz, but easier to be positive/philosophical when you've not stood watching the other 78 minutes of mind-numbing tedium!
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: gaz59 (IP Logged)
Date: 27/01/2020 15:01
Weird, have just watched the second half and actually thought it was an OK match
We were in control for first 10 minutes then an abysmal challenge by Roko for a decent box kick gave them space to mount a 10 minute period of pressure from which they eventually scored though we held out over 8 minutes of the sin bin
From there we upped the pace of play and the 2 minute of strong forward phases, a neat carry from Rhys with a beauty of a long miss out pass from Burns and a top class finish by Homer was as good a team try as many I've seen this year
Burns' control and kicking was excellent and we were well on top for last 10 minutes to close out the game with Tiggers not even getting into our half
Not a classic for sure but I certainly wouldn't have used words like turgid
We were in control for first 10 minutes then an abysmal challenge by Roko for a decent box kick gave them space to mount a 10 minute period of pressure from which they eventually scored though we held out over 8 minutes of the sin bin
From there we upped the pace of play and the 2 minute of strong forward phases, a neat carry from Rhys with a beauty of a long miss out pass from Burns and a top class finish by Homer was as good a team try as many I've seen this year
Burns' control and kicking was excellent and we were well on top for last 10 minutes to close out the game with Tiggers not even getting into our half
Not a classic for sure but I certainly wouldn't have used words like turgid
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: warrenball (IP Logged)
Date: 27/01/2020 16:40
We were not playing a very good team Gaz, I agree I stayed awake but it was not very inspiring. Exciting near the end while we held out for the win and it was nice to see the relief on the faces of the Bath players, but if Brew had not been injured and Freddy not substituted him I think we may have lost.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: Optimist (IP Logged)
Date: 27/01/2020 16:44
Where can you watch the whole game?
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: BathMatt53 (IP Logged)
Date: 27/01/2020 16:52
It’s on the premiership rugby website (premiership rugby tv)
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: redmix (IP Logged)
Date: 27/01/2020 17:03
Quote:Optimist
Where can you watch the whole game?
Here: link
I've watched the first half, and I found it reasonably entertaining. Bath showed ambition in attack and a solid defence. The mistakes came from that ambitious attack, where a little better execution, or just tempering the ambition a little, would have seen us with a healthier half time lead.
Everyone is entitled to their own opinion on the state of Bath Rugby, but I do feel sometimes that it has become de rigueur to find fault in almost everything about the club. If it's not the coaches, it's the players, if not the players, the playing surface etc. Clearly we are not the dominant force we once were, but we are also not terrible. I think we are on the right path to be one of the top teams in the coming years and I am looking forward to watching it unfold.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: joethefanatic (IP Logged)
Date: 27/01/2020 17:17
Quote:redmixQuote:Optimist
Where can you watch the whole game?
Here: link
I've watched the first half, and I found it reasonably entertaining. Bath showed ambition in attack and a solid defence. The mistakes came from that ambitious attack, where a little better execution, or just tempering the ambition a little, would have seen us with a healthier half time lead.
Everyone is entitled to their own opinion on the state of Bath Rugby, but I do feel sometimes that it has become de rigueur to find fault in almost everything about the club. If it's not the coaches, it's the players, if not the players, the playing surface etc. Clearly we are not the dominant force we once were, but we are also not terrible. I think we are on the right path to be one of the top teams in the coming years and I am looking forward to watching it unfold.
This.
... IMHO, of course.
Now in Honolulu
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: OutsideBath (IP Logged)
Date: 27/01/2020 17:40
Quote:Optimist
Where can you watch the whole game?
You’re better off just sticking with the 3min highlights
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: BathMatt53 (IP Logged)
Date: 27/01/2020 17:51
...or boiling an egg.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: Bath Supporter Jack (IP Logged)
Date: 27/01/2020 18:13
Interesting comments above.
We were missing at least 8 of our best players.
We are fully aware of the weaknesses in the Bath squad...........as an aside given the rumours so are the management team!
I enjoyed the match for the following reasons;
We won..........certainly not a given against an improving Leicester Team
Freddie Burns played well
Rhys Priestland was adequate
Line out performed well
Scrum set piece was OK
Homer played well.........again!
OK Stupid errors...........what was Roko trying to do?
Cooke cannot play fast enough and is not a good enough box kicker which obviously then impacts on poor Priestland (did I really say that)
Chudleigh's arrival did improve things...........but where was Fox?
Aled Brew probably should not have started and would have been better to have had Cook on the wing (he has played there before) Chudleigh start and Fox on the bench.
But for all that in January, with a heavy pitch, and our best players not available, it was OK
I think, but I don't know because I have not seen a replay of the match, that Wayne Barnes may have made some strange decisions............hate to say he certainly did because often what one sees live at the match is not what one sees later on TV!!!!
We were missing at least 8 of our best players.
We are fully aware of the weaknesses in the Bath squad...........as an aside given the rumours so are the management team!
I enjoyed the match for the following reasons;
We won..........certainly not a given against an improving Leicester Team
Freddie Burns played well
Rhys Priestland was adequate
Line out performed well
Scrum set piece was OK
Homer played well.........again!
OK Stupid errors...........what was Roko trying to do?
Cooke cannot play fast enough and is not a good enough box kicker which obviously then impacts on poor Priestland (did I really say that)
Chudleigh's arrival did improve things...........but where was Fox?
Aled Brew probably should not have started and would have been better to have had Cook on the wing (he has played there before) Chudleigh start and Fox on the bench.
But for all that in January, with a heavy pitch, and our best players not available, it was OK
I think, but I don't know because I have not seen a replay of the match, that Wayne Barnes may have made some strange decisions............hate to say he certainly did because often what one sees live at the match is not what one sees later on TV!!!!
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: BathMatt53 (IP Logged)
Date: 27/01/2020 18:37
Odd - why shouldn’t Brew have started and a scrum half started in his place? Brew went off for bang to face didnt he?
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: TG Kesmo (IP Logged)
Date: 27/01/2020 19:04
Brew wasn’t due to start but Ruari had a tight hamstring in the warm up. Brew looked like he had broken his nose certainly not anything to do with his copiously strapped leg.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: hasta (IP Logged)
Date: 27/01/2020 21:06
This might be heresy but... I don't think Roko should be starting. I know GHW is off with the u20s, but if we could bring him back for a bit...
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: BathMatt53 (IP Logged)
Date: 27/01/2020 21:11
Quote:hasta
This might be heresy but... I don't think Roko should be starting. I know GHW is off with the u20s, but if we could bring him back for a bit...
In current form it’s hard to argue with that. Levi Davis also looked good in the little cup games - is he back and fit again if GHW is off with the u20s? Mind you it’s a while until the next game so who knows who will be fit and available by then...
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: Kidney Stone (IP Logged)
Date: 27/01/2020 22:23
Grim game but we won so less unhappy......
Thought that the pack did well, however TF was quiet. He seemed to get Yet another knock to his arm. Hopefully not serious.
JM looked decent, and thought Tommy H did a great job on the wing.
Sat in 7th place does not feel as though it reflects the performances, but we are still in touch.
Thought that the pack did well, however TF was quiet. He seemed to get Yet another knock to his arm. Hopefully not serious.
JM looked decent, and thought Tommy H did a great job on the wing.
Sat in 7th place does not feel as though it reflects the performances, but we are still in touch.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: Bath Supporter Jack (IP Logged)
Date: 27/01/2020 23:27
Sorry I thought Brew went off because of his leg.
Cupboard is a bit bare otherwise on wingers
Cupboard is a bit bare otherwise on wingers
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: sid the seagull (IP Logged)
Date: 28/01/2020 10:42
Hello Mr. Trawling just seen yr response. More or less get yr assessment of game (the ironic one) just couldn’t follow where it was pointed.
In answer to yr question: watched first match 1969 I think. Supported proper since mid 80s. First trip to Twickers 89, YES! Present in Bordeaux. Member of BRFC, then season ticket holder since advent of plc. Why do you ask?
Lastly though am perplexed by your use of the term a$%e as I don’t read hieroglyphics, assume this is a term of sweet endearment and am therefore happy to return the compliment - a$%seface!
PECK
In answer to yr question: watched first match 1969 I think. Supported proper since mid 80s. First trip to Twickers 89, YES! Present in Bordeaux. Member of BRFC, then season ticket holder since advent of plc. Why do you ask?
Lastly though am perplexed by your use of the term a$%e as I don’t read hieroglyphics, assume this is a term of sweet endearment and am therefore happy to return the compliment - a$%seface!
PECK
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: Bath Supporter Jack (IP Logged)
Date: 28/01/2020 12:53
Trawling and Sid........you really are both on the same side.
Just a bit of typed word limitation as opposed to sitting in the snug bar and being able to expand and explain points of dispute/difference
I have read both your posts.
Just a bit of typed word limitation as opposed to sitting in the snug bar and being able to expand and explain points of dispute/difference
I have read both your posts.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: gaz59 (IP Logged)
Date: 28/01/2020 15:55
Quote:BathMatt53Quote:hasta
This might be heresy but... I don't think Roko should be starting. I know GHW is off with the u20s, but if we could bring him back for a bit...
In current form it’s hard to argue with that. Levi Davis also looked good in the little cup games - is he back and fit again if GHW is off with the u20s? Mind you it’s a while until the next game so who knows who will be fit and available by then...
Roko's defence generally looked very suspect and a couple of times, like the high ball 'challenge' he was very poor. Neither did he appear to have a real cutting edge and the amble back out of our 22 to collect a long kick could so easily have cost us valuable points
Not sure what to make of it, perhaps and hopefully it was just an off day but on that performance he would be well down the pecking order for a starting shirt
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: OutsideBath (IP Logged)
Date: 28/01/2020 16:33
Quote:BathMatt53Quote:hasta
This might be heresy but... I don't think Roko should be starting. I know GHW is off with the u20s, but if we could bring him back for a bit...
In current form it’s hard to argue with that. Levi Davis also looked good in the little cup games - is he back and fit again if GHW is off with the u20s? Mind you it’s a while until the next game so who knows who will be fit and available by then...
I'd say Levi Davis has put himself well down the pecking order by deciding to go on a "talent" show instead of playing rugby.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: hasta (IP Logged)
Date: 28/01/2020 16:56
Particularly given how well GHW has played when given a shot in the first XV.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: Trawling (IP Logged)
Date: 28/01/2020 17:43
Double posted, so deleted.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2020:01:28:17:58:28 by Trawling.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2020:01:28:17:58:28 by Trawling.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: Trawling (IP Logged)
Date: 28/01/2020 17:56
Absolutely BSJ, I had loaded both barrels to respond to some of the guff being spouted and hopefully the stray pellets which headed in Sid's direction did no damage!
Was just interested in the context for some of the views. Been supporting since arriving at the university in 1980 - it took a long while for anyone to displace John Horton as my favourite player. Having seen most of the journey the club has been on since the great Anglo-Welsh games, the rise to cup, merit table and league success and on (deliberately not saying down) to where we are now clearly frustrates and annoys some people on here but for me it's the opposite.
Was just interested in the context for some of the views. Been supporting since arriving at the university in 1980 - it took a long while for anyone to displace John Horton as my favourite player. Having seen most of the journey the club has been on since the great Anglo-Welsh games, the rise to cup, merit table and league success and on (deliberately not saying down) to where we are now clearly frustrates and annoys some people on here but for me it's the opposite.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: TomReagan (IP Logged)
Date: 28/01/2020 20:47
I was playing football and rugby during the glory years so only saw us in the Twickenham finals but enjoyed watching us in the late 90's when I first got a season ticket. My mates, all in their mid-50's all followed a similar path. We're not glory-hunters pining for the good old days, recognise that Sarries aside (!) success is cyclical and at the risk of speaking on their behalf, we're just frustrated at the underachievement given the quality of players and the dull style of rugby in the last three seasons. I do still believe however that the years of frustration will one day be worth the wait as the drive, financial backing and commitment within the club are there. With a new stadium...
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: warrenball (IP Logged)
Date: 28/01/2020 23:03
Glory hunters pining for the good old days? I thought glory hunters were recent supporters who joined a successful club, not the few masochistic Bath supporters old enough to remember the glory years!
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: Bath Supporter Jack (IP Logged)
Date: 28/01/2020 23:08
I have only been watching since 2003 having moved here from London in 2000.
I suppose my biggest concern/regret has been as said above that we have played a safety first, and probably rather dull style of rugby.
However I enjoyed parts of the Mike/George Ford era. I generally enjoyed watching the roller coaster experience that was Butch James.
I am genuinely sad that Freddie Burns is leaving because he has the ability not to play by numbers.
I sincerely hope that we will embark on a more adventurous style of rugby.......think Japan in the World Cup or indeed Quinn's against Saracens this Sunday.
I suppose my biggest concern/regret has been as said above that we have played a safety first, and probably rather dull style of rugby.
However I enjoyed parts of the Mike/George Ford era. I generally enjoyed watching the roller coaster experience that was Butch James.
I am genuinely sad that Freddie Burns is leaving because he has the ability not to play by numbers.
I sincerely hope that we will embark on a more adventurous style of rugby.......think Japan in the World Cup or indeed Quinn's against Saracens this Sunday.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: TomReagan (IP Logged)
Date: 28/01/2020 23:59
Quote:You're right Warrenball, not a well-worded post. What I meant was that my reservations about Bath aren't those of someone still living in a bygone era allowing nostalgia to cloud their judgement! I've watched some great rugby from Bath and even more utter dross, but my criticism of recent seasons is not based on any feelings of entitlement (a common accusation from some opposing fans), but rather is based on the conviction that we're not the sum of our parts. My football team are bottom of the Prem and about to be relegated, but I continue to be impressed by what I see as their continued overachievement. Bath, however...!warrenball
Glory hunters pining for the good old days? I thought glory hunters were recent supporters who joined a successful club, not the few masochistic Bath supporters old enough to remember the glory years!
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: Optimist (IP Logged)
Date: 29/01/2020 09:56
'I suppose my biggest concern/regret has been as said above that we have played a safety first, and probably rather dull style of rugby'
My biggest concern is not that we have played a safety-first/dull style of rugby. It's that we have often, including this season, attempted to play 15-man rugby ..... but so ineptly. I'm reluctantly accepting that, in part, our pitch militates against free-flowing rugby. But mostly it's that our ability to play phase 1, 2, 3 knock-on, combined with our space-eating 10/12 combination means that momentum is regularly sapped and that our outside backs only ever get man and ball.
My biggest concern is not that we have played a safety-first/dull style of rugby. It's that we have often, including this season, attempted to play 15-man rugby ..... but so ineptly. I'm reluctantly accepting that, in part, our pitch militates against free-flowing rugby. But mostly it's that our ability to play phase 1, 2, 3 knock-on, combined with our space-eating 10/12 combination means that momentum is regularly sapped and that our outside backs only ever get man and ball.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: Trawling (IP Logged)
Date: 29/01/2020 19:52
It takes a brave coach to really put all the eggs in one playing style basket and a good one to pick a winning style. Over the last few regimes, aside from the Mike Ford diamond, the two most consistent approaches were Knuckles' 10 man rugby and Steve Mehan's play from deep and give it a lash. Our constant 'rebooting' and search for the magic formula has meant constant re-tooling of plan in attack and defence. Hoops has laid some foundations but it needs a wider plan and players developed/recruited to fit. I had less idea when Geech was in charge what we were trying to do than I do now - and he was supposed to be some kind of coaching guru!
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: joethefanatic (IP Logged)
Date: 29/01/2020 20:34
Quote:Trawling
It takes a brave coach to really put all the eggs in one playing style basket and a good one to pick a winning style. Over the last few regimes, aside from the Mike Ford diamond, the two most consistent approaches were Knuckles' 10 man rugby and Steve Mehan's play from deep and give it a lash. Our constant 'rebooting' and search for the magic formula has meant constant re-tooling of plan in attack and defence. Hoops has laid some foundations but it needs a wider plan and players developed/recruited to fit. I had less idea when Geech was in charge what we were trying to do than I do now - and he was supposed to be some kind of coaching guru!
Bu the magic formula changes with the winds. Its depends on what the oppo are doing (the Tigs driving mauls of old, more recently the Salaries kick chase and Exe's million pick'n'drive tries) so you have to evolve. The trick is get ahead of the curve so everyone is adapting to you.
So, your question becomes "what is everybody not doing?" and try to find a formation and players to exploit that. The most effective tactic that I've seen that everyone is not doing at the moment is the "Chris Ashton blind side winger inside trailing line" approach. Maybe we should get Roko, JC4 and Rory practising that.
... IMHO, of course.
Now in Honolulu
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: BathMatt53 (IP Logged)
Date: 29/01/2020 22:59
Woodburn plays that line for Exeter every now and then. In fact I think that he may have scored a try against Bath with it earlier in the season? But Ashton is definitely the master of it, having sat behind and come through on some crazy talented players in France and scoring try after try.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: shipwrecked (IP Logged)
Date: 29/01/2020 23:06
Quote:BathMatt53
Woodburn plays that line for Exeter every now and then. In fact I think that he may have scored a try against Bath with it earlier in the season? But Ashton is definitely the master of it, having sat behind and come through on some crazy talented players in France and scoring try after try.
It would be typical if Olly Woodburn learnt that line at Bath then scored against us with it.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: ballsout (IP Logged)
Date: 30/01/2020 17:00
Quote:CoochieCoo
PGT’s title to this thread turned out to be absolutely correct. We did imitate the Tiggers. Sometimes when our opposition is poor we tend to imitate.
So you're saying we were only poor because the opposition are poor?
Anyone else noticed that week after week the vast majority of Bath matches are dire? I can't remember the last time we contributed to an excellent game of rugby.
It could be your theory is right CC, just the other way around.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: Long Term (IP Logged)
Date: 30/01/2020 17:13
Quote:ballsoutQuote:CoochieCoo
PGT’s title to this thread turned out to be absolutely correct. We did imitate the Tiggers. Sometimes when our opposition is poor we tend to imitate.
So you're saying we were only poor because the opposition are poor?
Anyone else noticed that week after week the vast majority of Bath matches are dire? I can't remember the last time we contributed to an excellent game of rugby.
It could be your theory is right CC, just the other way around.
Thank goodness you are back! varied and interesting conversation had broken out!! Has it really been two weeks?
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2020:01:30:17:17:19 by Long Term.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: Mike the Taxi (IP Logged)
Date: 30/01/2020 17:53
Only 5 days, it seems.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: Trawling (IP Logged)
Date: 30/01/2020 21:36
Wibble
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: Trawling (IP Logged)
Date: 30/01/2020 21:42
Joe, my take would be that the trailing line winger is a tactic, whereas the game plan is a strategy. For all the monetary cheating one of Sarries' strengths is that they have a clear way of playing which newbies can slot into, same with Exe.
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: joethefanatic (IP Logged)
Date: 30/01/2020 23:44
Quote:Trawling
Joe, my take would be that the trailing line winger is a tactic, whereas the game plan is a strategy. For all the monetary cheating one of Sarries' strengths is that they have a clear way of playing which newbies can slot into, same with Exe.
I agree but a successful tactic that forces the opposition to adapt to it means that your wider strategy has room to develop. The Salaries box kick game is a good example. It's not *all* they do but doing it very well allows them to do other things. It'll be interesting to see whether they are able to keep doing it as effectively with a reduced quality squad.
... IMHO, of course.
Now in Honolulu
Re: IMITATE THE TIGER: BATH v LEICESTER TIGERS (Teams’ up)
Posted by: plong (IP Logged)
Date: 31/01/2020 11:57
Quote:joethefanatic
... tactic that forces the opposition to adapt to it means that your wider strategy has room to develop. The Salaries box kick game is a good example. It's not *all* they do but doing it very well allows them to do other things...
...or to reset for next defensive/offensive phase...[Salaricens], or in our case, get ourselves further/deeper into the mire!!!
(Note: I deliberately omitted '...successful...' preceding 'tactic'!)
Adopted Players: All of the little blighters!!!
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2020:01:31:11:57:59 by plong.
Sorry, only registered users may post in this forum.