Barry Davies signs new Coventry deal...
By Brian Dick, Coventry Telegraph.
April 16 2014
For next season's assault on title
Coventry have re-signed former Wales international Barry Davies as they build a squad they hope will challenge for the National One title next season.
The ex-Ospreys and Brive full-back, who signed from Jersey last summer, has agreed to play on for one more year and becomes the tenth player to commit for next term.
And he does so having made his first start in seven weeks in Saturday’s heartbreaking defeat to Doncaster, albeit for only the first 40 minutes.
The 32-year-old was injured setting up Will Hurrell’s try just before half-time although there is not thought to be any serious damage.
His retention is a boost to Coventry who have looked a different team when Davies has been on the pitch.
His long-range goal-kicking gave them a 20-17 win over Richmond in February and his kicking from hand, pace and lines of running are those of a player who has played at the highest level.
His experience has also proved invaluable and Davies has much to offer Scott Morgan’s coaching set-up as they look to mount a serious promotion challenge next term.
“When he’s been available Barry has been an influential player for us this season and we’re delighted he’ll be with us next season too,” said rugby director Phil Maynard. “Any side in this league would love to have a player of his class and pedigree in their squad and it’s gratifying that he shares our vision of taking Coventry forward.”
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He maybe in the twilight of his playing career but his experience and knowledge could be so useful, particularly to the development of the club, most particularly the players, towards seriously gunning for promotion next season.
May I suggest that signing Barry is a real coup for next season?
I trust his experience will be used.
The only thing I would say is whilst I completely agree with his signing his fitness this year has meant a lack of consistency paying, which has meant a lack of consistency with selection at the FB position, which then has had a knock on effect at centre as its generally been cliffie who's gone back to FB.
Would we rather have a player slightly not as good at FB for 100% of the games, or a player of undoubted better quality for 50% of the games? Tough one..
I agree this last season during the pre season training sessions Barry was giving a lot of input into the training sessions, I am sure this can be seen from this seasons improvement, a position in the coaching squad should be made, and that is not taking away the important part Pete G has done for the first team and the Henley developement squad.
Been polishing the crystal ball?
Luck plays a part - perhaps he's due some?
Quote:Nige H
Hi kimbo..Of course i dont know he wont play in every game next season, but you have to make assesments and opinions based on what i see.. And this season he hasnt done well injury wise, and they dont seem to be seeious injuries, moreso the niggly injuries that occurs as the body gets older!
As kimbo should know
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2014:04:25:02:08:15 by Mick Shaw.
Quote:Kimbo
My body is a temple....
Shirley not!