The final countdown…..

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Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 2025:03:20:15:57:41 by hasta.

Thanks Devonport Lad.

I think Bath will stick to the same selection principles- development squad with a leaven of experience.

a 23 something like last week:
Cordwell, Dunn, Verden, Richards (Capt), Moloney, Green, Staddon, Barbeary. Carr-Smith, Donoghue. McConnochie, Ojomoh, Butt, Cokanasiga. Emmens.
Subs: van Wyk, Spandler, Griffin, Cuckson, Reid, Le Roux, Bailey (if fit, otherwise Hennessy), Coetzee.

PG

Nice write up, excitement starting to kick in now.

I think/hope it'll go more like the Quins game with the full bore bomb squad, so TdT/Beno/Pepper off the bench in addition to those above would be great.

Would feel more confident with TdG at 15 over Emens, but think PG has the starting 15.

As Tom Dunn mentioned post match, the short turn around will massively effect the team selection. Hoping for a strong one and a trophy first mentality.

Fortunately, the Glaws game is on the Sunday, so it's a standard one week turnaround.

[quote hasta]Fortunately, the Glaws game is on the Sunday, so it's a standard one week turnaround.[/quote

It is, but if the game was on Friday like it was meant to be Bath would have 2 more days to prepare for the Gloucester game . Really gets my goat that Exeter can't play on a Friday due to a joke of an excuse. They should have been made to forfeit home advantage and to play the game at the Rec.

Francis In fairness to Ex I think the decision is not theirs but the Emergency Services

Widcombe Garçon



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2025:03:14:08:21:52 by Widcombe boy.

Quote:

Widcombe boy
Francis In fairness to Ex I think the decision is not there’s but the Emergency Services

Yes, I realise that, but I know a bit about traffic in that neck of the woods and it makes no sense especially as you can't drive your car to the ground anyway.
Saracens too enjoy the absence of Friday night games, again a joke, shoppers aren't prevented from entering Brent Cross shopping centre just down the road, why are Saracens excused?

'Just down the road' - Brent Cross is 3 miles down the road and the M1 is between it and the StoneX.

Looking forward to this one can see us staying loyal to the spirit of the cup and the players who got us here, however you cannot ignore they will be facing a Exeter 1st team bar Vintcent, Slade and Jenkins.

So perhaps:

Cordwell, Dunn, Verden, Richards, Moloney, Green, Barbeary, Stadden, TCS, Donoghue, RMC, Cam Redpath, Hennesey, Joe C, Tom DG.

Reps:

Spandler, TDT/Van Wyk, Griffin, Cuckson, Coetzee, Reid, Le Roux, Max O (Be surprised if they risk Bailey)

If Bailey is fit, I'd start him at 10 and move Donoghue to 15.

Donoghue has done incredibly well at 10 but he looked comfortable and dangerous in broken field in the early rounds at 15. I'd love to see him there again, as the confidence gained from playing at 10, versus top opposition, should allow him to really shine in a slightly less pivotal position. So I'd go:

TCS, Bailey, RMC, Butt, Mojo, Joe C, Donoghue
Le Roux, Redpath

2024/25 adoptee: Guy Pepper

I'm not sure that bringing Bailey (or any player) back after a layoff straight into 10 and a final works. Most need a game or two to get up to speed. I think I'd do the opposite, leave Donoghue at 10 where he has played with TCS and put Bailey in at 15.
In regards to Exeter first team, they went full on in the semi and only just beat Ealing so whoever we met would be about the same. As with every game it will be decided up front and clearly it a big test for Ewan Richards who is massively motivated. As mentioned elsewhere it hard to believe he is only 22 having emerged in the Hooper era, wow that seems ages ago!


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

Agree with everyone else's thinking on this.

For me the squad largely picks itself.

Big debate is centre- 4 great options - mojo/ redpath/ hennessey/ butt who are all available. I would go mojo/ hennessey personally.

Tempting to have beno and tdt on bench but I would wrap them in cotton wool and griffin needs the game time.

I do hear you sw, but I just think that a 80-90% 'up to speed' Bailey, who has a heck of a lot of top flight experience, is still a better option in a final, vs an experienced side playing at home, than a hugely talented but extremely green, Donoghue.

And experience counts in a final, which is why I would take the risk and stack the bench with Obano and TDT etc. At home, with their biggest available guns playing, Exeter may make a fast start. So it's important that we've enough nous in the squad to keep the young guys on track for the full 80 minutes.

2024/25 adoptee: Guy Pepper



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2025:03:14:10:48:58 by dr.bath1865.

Thing is we don't pick the team Doc so were are basically irrelevant!


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

Quote:

shipwrecked
Thing is we don't pick the team Doc so were are basically irrelevant!

How right you are SW, but maybe they consult this forum for advice… 😎

I’m hoping the coaches are more focussed on next week and don’t take any risks with potential starters against Glos.

This weekend's officials

Referee: Sara Cox

Assistant Referees: Harry Walbaum and Richard Gordon

TMO: Anthony Woodthorpe

PG

Sure they won't take any risks with landy.

Don't have loads of depth at 10.

Knock to finn tomorrow and a full hammy tear for landy and we are in big probs for the run in.

Quote:

P G Tips
This weekend's officials
Referee: Sara Cox

Assistant Referees: Harry Walbaum and Richard Gordon

TMO: Anthony Woodthorpe

PG

That's good news. Sara Cox is technically excellent and also referees with empathy IMO and Anthony Woodthorpe will be a good TMO.

[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]

Quote:

BathMatt53

Quote:

P G Tips
This weekend's officials
Referee: Sara Cox

Assistant Referees: Harry Walbaum and Richard Gordon

TMO: Anthony Woodthorpe

PG

That's good news. Sara Cox is technically excellent and also referees with empathy IMO and Anthony Woodthorpe will be a good TMO.

I'm not sure of the technical abilities of Aimee Barrett-Theron but I absolutely loved this interaction in the England v Wales U20 game that left Finn Carnduff and Harri Ackerman speechless after a scuffle on the pitch. A real mum type slap down!

[www.rugbyworld.com]#


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

Team up. Strong bench.

Bath Rugby: 15 Austin Emens, 14 Joe Cokanasiga, 13 Cameron Redpath, 12 Will Butt, 11 Ruaridh McConnochie, 10 Ciaran Donoghue, 9 Tom Carr-Smith; 1 Arthur Cordwell, 2 Jasper Spandler, 3 Kieran Verden, 4 Will Jeanes, 5 Ewan Richards ©, 6 Arthur Green, 7 Ethan Staddon, 8 Alfie Barbeary.

Replacements: 16 Tom Dunn, 17 Beno Obano, 18 Thomas Du Toit, 19 Miles Reid, 20 Guy Pepper, 21 Louis Schreuder, 22 Max Ojomoh, 23 Jaco Coetzee

PG

And the Chiefs

Exeter Chiefs: 15 Tommy Wyatt, 14 Paul Brown-Bampoe, 13 Joe Hawkins, 12 Tamati Tua, 11 Josh Hodge, 10 Harvey Skinner, 9 Stu Townsend; 1 Scott Sio, 2 Jack Yeandle (c), 3 Josh Iosefa-Scott, 4 Franco Molina, 5 Christ Tshiunza, 6 Ethan Roots, 7 Jacques Vermeulen, 8 Greg Fisilau

Replacements: 16 Dan Frost, 17 Kwenzo Blose, 18 Marcus Street, 19 Lewis Pearson, 20 Richard Capstick, 21 Tom Cairns, 22 Will Haydon-Wood, 23 Will Rigg

PG

Feel a little for Hennessey, but that looks like a good selection balancing youth and experience.

Go well lads...most importantly ENJOY YOURSELVES! What a fantastic opportunity for them to show what they are made of / capable of.

COYB.

[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]

As some will have heard me say before, I really rate Will Jeanes and am not at all surprised he has replaced Harvey Cuckson at lock.


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

Will Butt and Cam Redpath against, Tamati Tua and Joe Hawkins great centre match up, Hawkins going to Scarlets next year as well.


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

Wonder with this selection and Englands, Are specialist second rows becoming unfashionable as bench options?

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.

Quote:

P G Tips
Team up. Strong bench.
Bath Rugby: 15 Austin Emens, 14 Joe Cokanasiga, 13 Cameron Redpath, 12 Will Butt, 11 Ruaridh McConnochie, 10 Ciaran Donoghue, 9 Tom Carr-Smith; 1 Arthur Cordwell, 2 Jasper Spandler, 3 Kieran Verden, 4 Will Jeanes, 5 Ewan Richards ©, 6 Arthur Green, 7 Ethan Staddon, 8 Alfie Barbeary.

Replacements: 16 Tom Dunn, 17 Beno Obano, 18 Thomas Du Toit, 19 Miles Reid, 20 Guy Pepper, 21 Louis Schreuder, 22 Max Ojomoh, 23 Jaco Coetzee

PG

Very happy with that - certainly in the spirit of the team I was hoping for, and only a bit of tinkering away from the actual names I suggested If anything, they've gone slightly weaker than I was!

Pity not to see Hennessey involved though.

A man who cannot change his mind, cannot change anything

RAEBURN SHIELD



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2025:03:14:12:26:56 by Which Tyler.

Quote:

copester
Wonder with this selection and Englands, Are specialist second rows becoming unfashionable as bench options?

Exeter have Lewis Pearson on the bench as a specialist lock but it's an interesting point.


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

Both team's seemed to have picked starting XV's in keeping with their approach to the comp. Us going mainly with the players that got us here and developing the younger members of the squad. Exeter going full bore!

Irrespective of the result well done Robbo and the squad for getting to the final and giving the more younger and fringe players a chance to shine and enhance their reputations and highlighting how well the academy have produced players.

"It's all right, Andy! It's just bolognaise!"

Will Jeanes - a new name to me?

Surprised TDG not in at 15, but also pleased that the youngsters that have played throughout the PRC are still starting!

Quote:

tigersimon
Will Jeanes - a new name to me?
Surprised TDG not in at 15, but also pleased that the youngsters that have played throughout the PRC are still starting!

Age 21, 6' 7", 17 stone plays regular University rugby but was injured earlier in his (young) career. Not flashy or fast but does the basics very well and has been improving game on game this season. A just reward for hard work.


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

...and brother of Tom who was England U18s with TDG many moons ago (Tom unfortunately retired early due to knee injuries).

[www.bathrugby.com]

[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]

Thanks SW & Matt 👍

If we were not in international season we could, injury permitting have selected a pack of Ioan Emmanuel (Wales), Kepu Tuipolotu (England) Billy Sela (England), Ewan Richards (England), Harvey Cuckson (England) Arthur Green, George Timmins (England), Ethan Staddon.

Subs: Will Jeanes, Guy Pepper.Archie Griffin (Wales), Jasper Spandler.

So what you might say, well they are ALL 22 or under!


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

I really rate Sara and really pleased she is reffing the match. Always find her strong in her decisions and clear getting her message across. At least she won’t get lost finding the ground coming from Exmouth (I understand ) and having played for Exeter in her younger days, amongst other teams.

All the pressure on full bore Chiefs then.
Like Quins game if we are in it at half time then it’s game on. Great for our young pathway players.

Agree HJ

A very good ref.

PG

Excellent selection and just about mirrors the squad for the Harlequins quarter final.

Disappointed to see TDT, Barbeary, Jaco, Beno and Miles playing in this game. Makes me nervous about player fitness for Glos next week which really matters.

Pretty much exactly the squad I would have picked, although prob would have found room for Hennessey and maybe Griffin.
Not too stressed risking some first teamers either, especially off the bench - that game after the Autumn vs Ex at the Rec it felt like we were really rusty, so hopefully this mitigates against that. Gloucester won't have played in anger since the end of Jan so do think a bit of match fitness will be really valuable, as well as maximising our chances in this game

Good squad - like the approach of letting development players start and having big guns on the bench.

I get the risk of injury to senior pros but that could happen any time and there is equally a risk of players coming in under-cooked.

I know Exeter need confidence but Exeter development players must see little point in this competition.

Pleased with our selection tho a shame for hennessey.

Amazing experience for this bunch of players and this cup comp will serve the whole squad well for the future.

At least exeter stopped short of recalling jenkins from Wales and insisting they couldn't raise a team without dispensation to play slade (tho they may have tried both)- I jest, each to their own!

I fear we will lose, maybe heavily but proud of the boys whatever. If we are vaguely in it at half time then will get v interesting!

Quote:

Charlieboa1
I fear we will lose, maybe heavily but proud of the boys whatever. If we are vaguely in it at half time then will get v interesting!

If they do win it will be a massive boost for the club whose development players will have basically beaten a Premiership side. Its fascinating really can a team of young rugby players beat a collection of good players?

I do fear though that physical size might decide this.


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

Agreed CharlieBoa, irrespective of the result we have added significant additional depth to our squad. Throw in U20 internationals and our future looks bright.

Quote:

Never In Doubt
Agreed CharlieBoa, irrespective of the result we have added significant additional depth to our squad. Throw in U20 internationals and our future looks bright.

Which is what I was implying in the post above, I actually think it looks better than bright when you look at that list!


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

I don't blame either team for their selections but the sooner the PRC is turned into a competition for younger/Academy players alone the better.

It's devalued by clubs stacking their teams with Premiership first choice players whether that's through the competition or for the Finals alone.

It's hard to see who really benefits from that approach especially at the expense of genuinely developing the clubs younger players.

Quote:

shipwrecked

Quote:

Charlieboa1
I fear we will lose, maybe heavily but proud of the boys whatever. If we are vaguely in it at half time then will get v interesting!

If they do win it will be a massive boost for the club whose development players will have basically beaten a Premiership side. Its fascinating really can a team of young rugby players beat a collection of good players?

I do fear though that physical size might decide this.

Agreed. Front 5 is basically a 4th string at best except richards but cordwell and verden are big boys in their mid 20s now who have been around the block.

Assume malony is injured- bit of a miss I think to help out the young guys

Quote:

PaulHerox
I don't blame either team for their selections but the sooner the PRC is turned into a competition for younger/Academy players alone the better.
It's devalued by clubs stacking their teams with Premiership first choice players whether that's through the competition or for the Finals alone.

It's hard to see who really benefits from that approach especially at the expense of genuinely developing the clubs younger players.

Whilst I agree with that fundamental principle there is a huge benefit in having some first choice players in the team. Experience, technique, game management can all be passed on. I think what you need is a quota of development players as a core. Had Exeter not decided in the earlier rounds to ignore the development aspect I think Andy Robinson would have stuck with young players, he has already stated that was his intention at the start of the competition.


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

According to JvG we’ve given 49 players game time in this competition. I’d say that’s well within the spirit of. Development competition.

Think we have played blinder tbh. Maxed the games for the squad.

Lots of much needed game time for young guys and fringe players, plus keeping some big guns ticking over.

I have huge amount of time for richards so would love us to win for him to be captain of a cup winning team

Making it a purely dev competition while the u20s 6 nations is going on is also a bit off.

Also if the senior players who aren’t internationals are excluded that’s a long time for them not to play and then be expected to be in form when the prem returns.

Given the comments above......49 players used.......obviously no full or U20 internationals that is a lot of players to keep involved, and happy when we "just" have a Premiership game every week!!

BSJ, I think some of the U20s played in some of the earlier rounds. I seem to remember Kepu Tuipolotu pulling up trees at some point and there may have been others.

Of the U20s, Kepu, Vilikesa and Charlie all played their part in the PRC
As for how many players - I can name 54 of them, not 49

A man who cannot change his mind, cannot change anything

RAEBURN SHIELD

Oh yes Devonport Lad I forgot that the competition started "last year"!!!!

Safe travels to those going to Sandy Park and enjoy the game.

This is a bit like the Wales v England u20s game, (NOT the senior game), in that we have to beat a bigger more physical opponent for about 60 till the reinforcements arrive. Perfectly doable but I hope we use the same tactics, I.e. tackle super low and don't make it an upper body strength battle.
As Wales showed we can win this but it's going to be really hard.


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

Obviously hope Bath win, hope the travelling fans have a good day out but most important no injuries to 1st team players.. 🤞

Very much more sandy than park.

14-7 25min in: Looking good.

BATH supporter since 1975

Adopted players:
2015/6 Tom Homer
2016/7 Matt Banahan
2017/8 Jeff Williams
2018/9 Victor Delmas
2019/20 Semesa Rokoduguni
2020/21 Will Stuart

Concerning for Coka getting up there.

ETA: Definitely not looking good

Presumably Butt to wing, Max and Cam in midfield?

A man who cannot change his mind, cannot change anything

RAEBURN SHIELD



Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 2025:03:16:12:29:13 by Which Tyler.

Nope, looks like keeping it simple, and Max straight to the wing

A man who cannot change his mind, cannot change anything

RAEBURN SHIELD



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2025:03:16:13:10:15 by Which Tyler.

17-14 Half time. Very happy with the lead and the bomb squad to come. Just hope big Joe coming off was precautionary.

BATH supporter since 1975

Adopted players:
2015/6 Tom Homer
2016/7 Matt Banahan
2017/8 Jeff Williams
2018/9 Victor Delmas
2019/20 Semesa Rokoduguni
2020/21 Will Stuart

Great half. Well done the young lads. Scrum rock solid. Back row everywhere, especially Barbeary in the carry. Jeanes putting in a huge shift.

A long way to go but, with the subs we’ve got, and the wind at our backs, hopefully we’ve enough in the tank. Just need to play in the right half… and not kick the ball dead in goal too often!

Allez allez allez.

2024/25 adoptee: Guy Pepper

Didn't look great for Joe. Very good game from Alfie so far. Donaghue getting hit and hit and getting back up again

I think I’d prefer to have Max Strarongo in the centres and Butt on the wing. That said, Butt in the centres has contributed to a couple of decent breaks. Barbeary a revelation. How you can brush Tshiunza onto his back is incredible. But also Green going strong and the front row holding the vastly more experienced Exeter front row during the scrums is encouraging. Looks like the bomb squad have been deployed though, so Exeter should have made more hay whilst the sun shined. Hoping Big Joe is just a knock and he’s wisely off to min the damage and max the rest.

Missed the start of 2nd half - is that all of Bath's sub.s?

A man who cannot change his mind, cannot change anything

RAEBURN SHIELD

This pitch looks a knee breaker

Coetzee and Schreuder still to be deployed.

Yeh pitch looks horrid. Would love us to kick it in the air for the next 25 minutes and just get through this.

COYB.

2024/25 adoptee: Guy Pepper

The boy Dunn good!

PG

Dunny! Never has man deserved a try more.

Also, ref has been great. But someone needs to send this TMO a bottle of aftershave- nice intervention for us on Yeandle decision.

2024/25 adoptee: Guy Pepper

Quote:

dr.bath1865
Dunny! Never has man deserved a try more.
Also, ref has been great. But someone needs to send this TMO a bottle of aftershave- nice intervention for us on Yeandle decision.

more grateful for the foot in touch to pull back an Ex try - that was a good spot.
The pull back was clear and obvious, a different ref would have given the PT, but I've no problem with yellow only

A man who cannot change his mind, cannot change anything

RAEBURN SHIELD

Yes boyyysss!!!

He's only gone and Dunn it!

A man who cannot change his mind, cannot change anything

RAEBURN SHIELD



Edited 3 time(s). Last edit at 2025:03:16:13:36:37 by Which Tyler.

Unreal. Made up. Jeez, how far have Exeter fallen?

This is such fun.

Well done the young guns in the first half. Our dominance now built on the foundation set by Spandler and Jeanes and Green.

Love Ewan Richards’ nose. Love it.

2024/25 adoptee: Guy Pepper

Joyous stuff

Hard to imagine the mood at Farleigh could get any more buoyant, but suspect this will take it to new heights

Dunn for MOTM IMO
ETA: not that I can complain about Captain Fantastic getting it. Certainly deserved over the campaign

A man who cannot change his mind, cannot change anything

RAEBURN SHIELD



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2025:03:16:13:44:43 by Which Tyler.

Richards MOTM. Great choice both for his performance today but also the standards he has set throughout this completion.

EWAN RICHARDS BLUE BLACK AND WHITE ARMY

2024/25 adoptee: Guy Pepper

This has been so much fun to watch! Bet Jacco's stats are looking good too!!

The treble is still on.

Congratulations! Far too long since you've had some silverware.

Yes! V proud of that performance. Delighted for everyone but especially Richards, Staddon and the other younger players who have been ever present throughout the campaign. Dunny and the club stalwarts too. Fantastic. Need to make sure this is the first of several trophies for this squad.

Quote:

hasta
The treble is still on.

Ha ha - had a quiet little bet on as to how quickly you'd say that!

So - will they parade it after the Glaws game next week?

Quote:

dr.bath1865
Richards MOTM. Great choice both for his performance today but also the standards he has set throughout this completion.
EWAN RICHARDS BLUE BLACK AND WHITE ARMY

Absolutely agree.
Also big shout out to Tom Dunn, TCS, Alfie & Bruce Craig!!

PG

Anyone know where we put the trophy cabinet?
We didn't leave it in the loft when we left Lambridge did we?

A man who cannot change his mind, cannot change anything

RAEBURN SHIELD

Exceptional performance; especially from the starting pack, who were mostly development players, up against a pack including 4 senior internationals.

Top quality performance and extremely well managed and coached through the tournament.

I hope this gets TCS into the starting 23 and we should have so much more faith in our depth. Hope Joe C is ok.

Excellent well done all.

Little bit worried about losing another strike player for the prem run-in with Coka’s knee. But otherwise that competition couldn’t have gone much better.
Donoghue will have gained a lot of confidence and experience with those few games at 10 and looked a threat. Starting front row holding their own in the scrums was really significant I think.

And 48 is an appropriate score for a final (an old but memorable reference!)

The Kevin withey final as I know it shadders!

A great afternoon.
Hats off to the pack in the first half, didn't give a millimetre in the scrums, and to go in with the lead at HT into the wind was very impressive.
Donaghue has grown so much in the last few weeks, he's really calm and has great hand and feet, and is also really committed in defence.
31-0 second half!

Lovely!

Great effort and wonderful result, very pleased

Well played boys great win set up by a brilliant 1st half performance, just hope the injury to big Joe C not too bad.

Congrats to Donoghue, his development has been remarkable but also hoping Sam Harris makes a rapid comeback; but for injury he would have been out there today.

ExeterFan
16/03/2025 13:50
Congratulations! Far too long since you've had some silverware.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thank you Ex Fan. As a man of Exmoor, I hope that Chiefs can push on next season. A strong Exeter is good for the league.

Awesome performance and result. Ahead at half time with 7 of our pack academy/2nd team and coped brilliantly against a much more experienced Exeter pack.
Well done lads and a great boost for the squad
So pleased for Dunny
Let’s hope we can get the Prem this season 🇪🇪

Widcombe Garçon



Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 2025:03:16:16:11:54 by Widcombe boy.

Fan-tastic result well done to all involved !

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

Great day out, 2008 was a long time ago!!

My favourite moment was JVG insisting afterwards that all the players families came in for a giant group photo with the trophy - the culture he leads at the club really is showing, with happier players and these performances 😁

Staggering to think that Exeter won the Champions Cup 5 years ago. They have imploded ever since. Outside of Brown-Bampoe they never looked dangerous in the backs and their starting pack was nullified by our development players.

Great achievement by this squad & huge development benefits for the younger/academy players. However, we’ve now lost Joe C in addition to Olly which will hamper our principal aim of winning the Premiership. The European Challenge Cup is a further risk. That concerns me.

In my opinion, there’s no ‘however’ about it- cos we’ve won a trophy for the first time in 17 years!

JCok looked in fine spirits at the end- and McCon, who was superb today and throughout this tournament, will step up. Butt also looked every inch the gain line breaker that can cover for Lawrence.

This trophy proves the depth we have across the board. Not ideal, but every team will pick up knocks. I’m confident we’ve the squad - and the spirit, buoyed by the fun bus home tonight - to cope.

2024/25 adoptee: Guy Pepper

Wow, brilliant performance but for me it has been Ewan Richards' leadership but Ciaran Donaghue wasn't even on the radar 6 weeks ago, closes his channel despite being targeted, kicks his goals but has a go on his own so you can't ignore him and makes time and space for those outside him.
With TCS inside him they held it all together.
Never been to Sandy Park before but to win it there is just fantastic. Not a great location for a rugby pitch, cold and windy but well worth the trip. Good to see Landy on the pitch as well.
Weirdly with Landy still not fit we could see Ciaran Donaghue in the Prem, he is now our back up 10.


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

Quote:

Never In Doubt
Staggering to think that Exeter won the Champions Cup 5 years ago. They have imploded ever since. Outside of Brown-Bampoe they never looked dangerous in the backs and their starting pack was nullified by our development players.

In fairness they dismantled that squad (Perhaps to survive ? )

Widcombe Garçon

When it mattered the strength and depth of the Bath squad prevailed over strong Quins, Falcons and Chiefs teams. The experience gained in these 3 games for the likes of Richards, Green, Staddon, etc, etc will be very useful for the Challenge Cup games and if called upon the Premiership squads. The parts played by Barbeary, Dunn, Du Toit etc etc have ensured they remain "matchfit" during a time when no games can cause players to go stale. Farleigh will be buzzing next week on the back of this result. Mixed experiences for the returning internationals and those rested and those injured but the plan for the Premiership Cup has been a major success for Andy Robinson and the team. The 49 players used provided a great balance of development and experience and it was plain to see what it meant to the players from both camps. Quite what they will be thinking in Exeter, God only knows, we should have been tested more by a nearly first choice team but let's not take anything away from a fabulous success enjoyed by an impressive number of Bath faithful in the Devon sunshine.

Watching today I saw a team oozing maturity and confidence. Young players at ease in their own skins and never panicking.

In Verden, Green, Jeanes, Staddon, Richards, etc. the future is very rosy if we can hold on to them and keep them content until the likes of Maloney, Ewels and so on hang up their boots.

I’m very proud of the performance today. Fingers crossed that’s the first of many pots coming our way.

Says quite a lot about Ewan Richards when he breaks his nose on Jasper Spandlers head who goes off for an HIA then comes back on when Will Jeanes went of with a leg injury. We also have to remember we did this without Kepu Tuipolotu, Billy Sela, Ioan Emmanuel, Jack Woods, Connor Treacy and George Timmins all away on u20 international duty.


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



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2025:03:16:23:49:09 by shipwrecked.

Well done lads. Too many to mention but that the young lads were there at the end and still excelling is a pretty exciting feeling.

I take my hat off to Andy Robinson and JVG who managed to win this cup whilst giving many, many minutes to the younger players.

It would have been all to easy to load the team for the final but by staying faithful to the players who played against, say, Ampthill, was of great benefit to the future health of the squad.

I am not worried about the odd injury here and there........we have great strength in depth and may well have to use it over the rest of the season!

What a brilliant performance and result from all the players involved across the tournament. With the England, Bath and Newcastle United results (and 2 cups) it has probably been the most successful sporting weekend as a supporter I have ever had in my whole life...hoping I won't wake up and find it was all a dream.

[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]

Such an impressive performance from the whole squad, I still can't get over how well our young guns managed Exeter's full bore side.

A few players I think are worth singling out.

Cordwell/Verden - Arguably our 4th/5th choice props, yet they didn't give an inch up against Sio (74 cap international) and Iosefa-Scott (who Baxter recently talked up as a future England international, which seems pretty delusional to me). Whilst TdT, Stuart, and Obano will get the headlines for fronting a dominant scrum, the fact Stevie Scott has coached our lesser known props into solid first team scrummagers is immensely impressive. Also to think Verden was released by the club in the summer and started the season at Taunton, yet now he's been a valuable part of Bath's first trophy winning side in over a decade is a great story.

Richards/Staddon - The heartbeat of this side, and both brought absolutely tireless energy to every game in the competition. Whilst I probably would have liked JvG to have given Richards more minutes over the past few seasons, you can't argue with the way he's matured as a player, and is clearly working exceptionally hard on the training ground, as he seems to be such a well rounded forward now. Staddon has been a revelation and it's so good to see him get a string of games together after an injury ravaged few years. Whilst we've got so many good backrowers in the squad, I do feel he offers something a little bit different as he's such a good line out option. I wouldn't bat an eyelid at either of these 2 being included in a league squad.

Donoghue - I'm not sure anyone bar the most avid Bath fans had ever heard of him prior to this competition, but he's proven to be a classy operator at both fullback and fly half. He has really posed an interesting question to the coaching staff, as his performances could see him rise up the pecking order at the expense of more well known names. Losing Harris to a season ending injury seemed significant at the time, but I'd actually say I've felt much more assured when Donoghue has been in the side, so having him available to back up TdG, Orlando and Finn makes me feel a lot more confident in our options at 10/15.

McConnochie - The elder statesman of the campaign! I think a few of us thought he might be past it at this point but he's looked dangerous in every appearance and offered invaluable experience in a squad full of youngsters. There's talk that he may be off at the end of the season, which may well be the right decision for all involved, but with Joe going down at the weekend, we might require his services for the back end of the Premiership, and his performances in the cup have proven that he would be a dependable option.

Finally, a word on our opponents. I feel a lot of sympathy for their fans, as their side seems to be caught in a bit of a negative feedback loop much like we experienced a few seasons back. They look bereft of confidence or cohesion, and it's very difficult to win rugby games when you combine that with a highly limited game plan. That being said, I've been very critical of how their coaches have approached this competition, largely ignoring the developmental purpose of the cup, and instead believing that beating up Championship/academy sides with their first team is the way to breed success within the club. They put all their eggs in winning this competition, sacrificing any long term benefit they'd get from giving the next generation of players valuable game time to hopefully develop into the next Slade/Nowell/Cowan-Dickie/Simmonds. So whilst I'm undoubtedly biased, I do feel like it was appropriate that the team that actually participated in the spirit of the competition ended up lifting the trophy.

Long post over! Well done Bath!

I echo the comments anbove about the pitch. Looked as if they hadn’t watered it for a couple of weeks and was probably horrible to play on.

Wow we've waited a heck of along time for that. Well done to all concerned.



No need to be nit picky re. Exeter btw. They do not have the infinite financial resources which back 'us' here at Bath, but do have loyal and fanatical support, just as we have done over the decade or so since we won anything. Tough times for their management and Club.

Great post BBB and I agree with everything you have written.

Happy to see Donoghue start to appear for the last 20 minutes of games......once we are sure we have won!!

Quote:

boozeboozebooze
Such an impressive performance from the whole squad, I still can't get over how well our young guns managed Exeter's full bore side.
A few players I think are worth singling out.

Cordwell/Verden - Arguably our 4th/5th choice props, yet they didn't give an inch up against Sio (74 cap international) and Iosefa-Scott (who Baxter recently talked up as a future England international, which seems pretty delusional to me). Whilst TdT, Stuart, and Obano will get the headlines for fronting a dominant scrum, the fact Stevie Scott has coached our lesser known props into solid first team scrummagers is immensely impressive. Also to think Verden was released by the club in the summer and started the season at Taunton, yet now he's been a valuable part of Bath's first trophy winning side in over a decade is a great story.

Richards/Staddon - The heartbeat of this side, and both brought absolutely tireless energy to every game in the competition. Whilst I probably would have liked JvG to have given Richards more minutes over the past few seasons, you can't argue with the way he's matured as a player, and is clearly working exceptionally hard on the training ground, as he seems to be such a well rounded forward now. Staddon has been a revelation and it's so good to see him get a string of games together after an injury ravaged few years. Whilst we've got so many good backrowers in the squad, I do feel he offers something a little bit different as he's such a good line out option. I wouldn't bat an eyelid at either of these 2 being included in a league squad.

Donoghue - I'm not sure anyone bar the most avid Bath fans had ever heard of him prior to this competition, but he's proven to be a classy operator at both fullback and fly half. He has really posed an interesting question to the coaching staff, as his performances could see him rise up the pecking order at the expense of more well known names. Losing Harris to a season ending injury seemed significant at the time, but I'd actually say I've felt much more assured when Donoghue has been in the side, so having him available to back up TdG, Orlando and Finn makes me feel a lot more confident in our options at 10/15.

McConnochie - The elder statesman of the campaign! I think a few of us thought he might be past it at this point but he's looked dangerous in every appearance and offered invaluable experience in a squad full of youngsters. There's talk that he may be off at the end of the season, which may well be the right decision for all involved, but with Joe going down at the weekend, we might require his services for the back end of the Premiership, and his performances in the cup have proven that he would be a dependable option.

Finally, a word on our opponents. I feel a lot of sympathy for their fans, as their side seems to be caught in a bit of a negative feedback loop much like we experienced a few seasons back. They look bereft of confidence or cohesion, and it's very difficult to win rugby games when you combine that with a highly limited game plan. That being said, I've been very critical of how their coaches have approached this competition, largely ignoring the developmental purpose of the cup, and instead believing that beating up Championship/academy sides with their first team is the way to breed success within the club. They put all their eggs in winning this competition, sacrificing any long term benefit they'd get from giving the next generation of players valuable game time to hopefully develop into the next Slade/Nowell/Cowan-Dickie/Simmonds. So whilst I'm undoubtedly biased, I do feel like it was appropriate that the team that actually participated in the spirit of the competition ended up lifting the trophy.

Long post over! Well done Bath!

Very well articulated and I agree with all of this. I should add that the obvious factor that has changed is the culture of the organisation and deserves a special mention. This was epitomised by the "family" photo taken after the game which I believe JvG initiated. JvG should take a lot of praise for this but also a mention to the higher echelons of the club who appear to have given him free reign to stamp his mark in contrast to the rumours of over interference historically. Well done to all and what a fantastic day at Sandy Park.

Quote:

BathMan in Oxford
Very well articulated and I agree with all of this. I should add that the obvious factor that has changed is the culture of the organisation and deserves a special mention. This was epitomised by the "family" photo taken after the game which I believe JvG initiated. JvG should take a lot of praise for this but also a mention to the higher echelons of the club who appear to have given him free reign to stamp his mark in contrast to the rumours of over interference historically. Well done to all and what a fantastic day at Sandy Park.

Totally agree, the cultural shift has played a role in all the successes the club's achieved in the past few seasons.

I'd almost say it's Sarries-esque from when they were in their pomp. I remember occasions where they'd turn up to matches with a string of relatively unknown players, but there was such an ingrained belief in the team and the gameplan that they'd be super competitive against whoever the opposition was.

Absolutely- the development of a culture has been absolute integral. You can have the world's shiniest players, but if they don't believe in what they're doing, or want to tackle for the bloke next to them, it won't work. As said, the family photo, with Robbo's grandson running in to join, was special.

It's not the Prem trophy, or even the diet-Euro Cup, but I think what this win shows is that Bruce's millions are only part of our recent success. Sure, we get stick for 'buying' success, and the salary cap jibes, but I don't think you'd get the performance, from man 1 to 49, if they weren't, firstly, being really well coached from the 1sts all the way through to the academy and, second, believing in the mission, the deeper why, the train's destination, or what have you.

Credit for both must go, primarily, to JvG but also to the coaches and staff that he's brought in, Andy Robinson especially.

2024/25 adoptee: Guy Pepper

Quote:

dr.bath1865
Credit for both must go, primarily, to JvG but also to the coaches and staff that he's brought in, Andy Robinson especially.

You have to. think that the development of Arthur Green, Ethan Staddon, Ewan Richards and probably George Timmins is down to Robbo, Green can't be far behind Barbeary and Coetzee now.


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

Fantastic result and so pleased for all concerned. We played good attractive rugby throughout the tournament and I echo the thoughts of others in saying that I was really pleased that we continued with largely younger players in the final and didn't simply play a 1st xv. Of course we had some big guns on the bench but our starting xv were magnificent.
A word about the ref who I also thought had a great day. She was consistent in her decision making, seemed to have real empathy with the players when explaining things, was prepared to listen to the TMO and change her decision if there was proof but let the game flow as well.
As an aside, does anyone have any news about Will Muir's injury and whether he is likely to be fit this coming weekend?

Muir did his hamstring at the same time as Pepper who featured at the weekend. The last update I saw said he would miss "the remainder of January".

Hopefully that implies availability soon.

PG

Quote:

bathwickboy
A word about the ref who I also thought had a great day. She was consistent in her decision making, seemed to have real empathy with the players when explaining things, was prepared to listen to the TMO and change her decision if there was proof but let the game flow as well.

She was also quite willing to put herself in the middle of (admittedly minor) scraps and physically separate players, which you don't often see male refs do. The players responded pretty well to it I thought - probably calming down more quickly than they otherwise might.

Quote:

bathwickboy
As an aside, does anyone have any news about Will Muir's injury and whether he is likely to be fit this coming weekend?

The club posted this on 31st January.



"Will Muir and Guy Pepper sustained hamstring injuries against Northampton. They are now both back up and running and will resume team training in the next couple of weeks."

So given Guy featured at the weekend, there's a good chance Will is available for Gloucester.

It's also a cruel reminder of what awful luck Sam Harris has had, his comeback from a long term injury was 17th Jan, club eager to get him back involved during the Prem Cup, then season over by 2nd Feb.

[www.somersetlive.co.uk]

New COML forum banner looks tidy!

[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]

Banner looks great....but already a bit out of date......Richards doesn't have a broken nose!

Quote:

Bath Supporter Jack
Banner looks great....but already a bit out of date......Richards doesn't have a broken nose!

Considered that BSJ but decided it was too scary and off-putting! We're trying to grow the game after all and it was friendly fire.


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

We're back! I didn't realise that Exeter have won the Prem Cup three times already so it was definitely our turn. Nothing else to say that hasn't already been well articulated above but just wanted to comment on the day itself....

Did anyone else who attended come away thinking how good the matchday experience is at The Rec compared to that? Couldn't park anywhere close and P&R an utter shambles, not much in way of food to choose from and forget astroturf...pitch was a dustbowl - not surprised we saw a few injuries. I know it's not perfect and we're in dire need of an update, but sometimes it takes an away day to appreciate what we have got!

Well said Barfboy.

PG

Quote:

Barfboy
We're back! I didn't realise that Exeter have won the Prem Cup three times already so it was definitely our turn. Nothing else to say that hasn't already been well articulated above but just wanted to comment on the day itself....
Did anyone else who attended come away thinking how good the matchday experience is at The Rec compared to that? Couldn't park anywhere close and P&R an utter shambles, not much in way of food to choose from and forget astroturf...pitch was a dustbowl - not surprised we saw a few injuries. I know it's not perfect and we're in dire need of an update, but sometimes it takes an away day to appreciate what we have got!

Ditto, I'm not sure the Exeter pitch is synthetic though, I thought it was Desso, but then that's synthetic I guess, it was awful and seemed to have no give at all.


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

Quote:

Barfboy
Did anyone else who attended come away thinking how good the matchday experience is at The Rec compared to that? Couldn't park anywhere close and P&R an utter shambles, not much in way of food to choose from and forget astroturf...pitch was a dustbowl - not surprised we saw a few injuries. I know it's not perfect and we're in dire need of an update, but sometimes it takes an away day to appreciate what we have got!

Perhaps those who are arguing Bath should up sticks and build an out of town stadium should take a trip down the M5 and see what that they'd actually be getting...

Quote:

boozeboozebooze
Perhaps those who are arguing Bath should up sticks and build an out of town stadium should take a trip down the M5 and see what that they'd actually be getting...

Who is arguing that? Nobody that actually watches rugby that I know of...its just those who don't want it at the Rec and so don't care what the experience would be anywhere else.

[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]

Quote:

shipwrecked

Quote:

Barfboy
We're back! I didn't realise that Exeter have won the Prem Cup three times already so it was definitely our turn. Nothing else to say that hasn't already been well articulated above but just wanted to comment on the day itself....
Did anyone else who attended come away thinking how good the matchday experience is at The Rec compared to that? Couldn't park anywhere close and P&R an utter shambles, not much in way of food to choose from and forget astroturf...pitch was a dustbowl - not surprised we saw a few injuries. I know it's not perfect and we're in dire need of an update, but sometimes it takes an away day to appreciate what we have got!

Ditto, I'm not sure the Exeter pitch is synthetic though, I thought it was Desso, but then that's synthetic I guess, it was awful and seemed to have no give at all.

My message could've been clearer. Meant that people (rightly) moan about synthetic but that that - presumably all-natural grass - pitch was awful. Again, we're lucky to have had the funds available to stitch The Rec. It's always in tip-top condition these days, not a mud bath like it used to be.

Quote:

Barfboy

Quote:

shipwrecked

Quote:

Barfboy
We're back! I didn't realise that Exeter have won the Prem Cup three times already so it was definitely our turn. Nothing else to say that hasn't already been well articulated above but just wanted to comment on the day itself....
Did anyone else who attended come away thinking how good the matchday experience is at The Rec compared to that? Couldn't park anywhere close and P&R an utter shambles, not much in way of food to choose from and forget astroturf...pitch was a dustbowl - not surprised we saw a few injuries. I know it's not perfect and we're in dire need of an update, but sometimes it takes an away day to appreciate what we have got!

Ditto, I'm not sure the Exeter pitch is synthetic though, I thought it was Desso, but then that's synthetic I guess, it was awful and seemed to have no give at all.

My message could've been clearer. Meant that people (rightly) moan about synthetic but that that - presumably all-natural grass - pitch was awful. Again, we're lucky to have had the funds available to stitch The Rec. It's always in tip-top condition these days, not a mud bath like it used to be.

Defo agree, a cold, windy day and parking a mare, I parked on the industrial estate but its a fair walk. Frankly I couldn't have cared a less if it was a 5 mile walk after the result.


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

Quote:

Barfboy
My message could've been clearer. Meant that people (rightly) moan about synthetic but that that - presumably all-natural grass - pitch was awful. Again, we're lucky to have had the funds available to stitch The Rec. It's always in tip-top condition these days, not a mud bath like it used to be.

Yes agreed. IMO grass pitch is better than a plastic pitch when it's in good condition, but clearly the selling point of a plastic one is that it is consistent throughout the season.

When grass stadia are used for concerts and the like they just get trashed. I seem to remember that the Tigers pitch was basically a beach after a concert a few years ago. I have no idea what Sandy (no pun intended) Park has been used for recently - surely that wasn't all just the result of a couple of rugby games in wet weather?

The Rec pitch has been beautiful since it was re-laid / drained but part of that must be the intermittent use.

[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]

Barfboy 101% agree

Normally I pick people up for a stupid thing like 101% but in this case I am going to cut myself some slack!

I suspect that like the pitch at the Stoop, the groundstaff cut the grass way too short at the wrong time of the year at Sandy Park. Both pitches are in a shocking state.

Quote:

Bath Supporter Jack
I take my hat off to Andy Robinson and JVG who managed to win this cup whilst giving many, many minutes to the younger players.
It would have been all to easy to load the team for the final but by staying faithful to the players who played against, say, Ampthill, was of great benefit to the future health of the squad.

I make it 26 different try scorers among the 49 players who turned out during the tournament. Testament to the style of play as well as depth of resources employed.

PG

A friend of mine who was at Exeter said that the Bath crowd were disappointed that the players did not round to the crowd after the match........was there a reason for this???

Also said that Exeter were only going to open half the ground but the demand from Bath meant they had to increase the capacity

[www.bbc.co.uk]

Long-serving Exeter Chiefs head coach Ali Hepher has been removed from his role at the Premiership strugglers "with immediate effect" and replaced by Rob Hunter.

Exeter said Hepher will step back to oversee the team's backs and attack strategy until the end of the season, before switching to a role in the club's academy.

Looks like the final was the last straw for Ali.

[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]

I think Exeter have suffered from lack of quality halfbacks, exacerbated by playing Hodge at fullback. Exeter were at their best when their kicking game was able to get them territory

Quote:

by
I think Exeter have suffered from lack of quality halfbacks, exacerbated by playing Hodge at fullback. Exeter were at their best when their kicking game was able to get them territory

I know that they lost a load of experience but they haven't been getting enough out of the talent they have (such as the Welsh centres). Looks like they have made a few good signings so with soe coaching changes may be back in the mix next season.

[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]

Quite a fall from grace for Exeter and Hepher. He was talked about as England's next attack coach not too long ago. A shame to see but is perhaps more to do with survival and finances than anything else. Good to see them signing some good players for next season. If they can combine their young guns with experienced additions, they'll be alright and could well be competitive again. Biggest thing in their favour always I think is that a trip to Sandy Park, given the wind etc, is always a very tough and far away away trip.

I think that's a very astute observation, by. Why oh why they ever let Joe Simmonds go in the prime of his career, as their Euro Cup winning captain, is beyond me. Whatever he was demanding wage wise, it would have been worth it, surely.

2024/25 adoptee: Guy Pepper

Quote:

dr.bath1865
Why oh why they ever let Joe Simmonds go in the prime of his career, as their Euro Cup winning captain, is beyond me. Whatever he was demanding wage wise, it would have been worth it, surely.

[www.exeterchiefs.co.uk]

Exeter said it themselves:

He was one of a host of long-serving players to leave Sandy Park this summer due to the new lower £5m salary cap.

I would be interested to know who their marquee is. Josh Iosefa-Scott or Scott Sio presumably?

[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]

Quote:

Bath Supporter Jack
A friend of mine who was at Exeter said that the Bath crowd were disappointed that the players did not round to the crowd after the match........was there a reason for this???
Also said that Exeter were only going to open half the ground but the demand from Bath meant they had to increase the capacity

I've seen quite a few photos on X of fans and players together with the trophy

I think he was talking about the whole squad coming round as a group.....

Maybe something will happen at the Rec.....after the game