Chiefs BP win keeps things interesting.......
Moorsman
By Moorsman
March 8 2009
Chief 5 point win puts them 8 points behind Leeds with a game in hand as the leaders come unstuck at Donny...
Match Review
Exeter Chiefs 40 Manchester 5
The Chiefs scored six tries to manchester's one and pocketed the bonus point in what was a far from commanding performance. It's a strange thing but yesterday's play reminded me of the performance against Esher. This may have something to do with the player selection, which featured several players who have had little game time this season. With suggestions that the squad will be reduced next season a few of these players can be excused for feeling pretty nervous.
But back to the game....which to be fair saw Manchester play a decent game. Their backs looked to have good pace, handled the ball well and defended well for long periods of time. The thing they appeared to lack was someone to run a different angle or straighten the line. It was just too easy for the Chiefs to drift and defend. Having said that the Chiefs had plenty of backs willing to run different lines but too often in isolation. But they still managed to score 6 tries with Paul Mckenzie and Tom Bedford covering acres of ground to get any opportunity they could to get over the try line. It's great to know they'll both be at Sandy Park next season. I think Pete Drewett needs to make sure Richard Bolt is also signed up soon. OK, he was only on for a few minutes but he got the back line moving really well and took his chance to get on the score sheet. The pack had a 'steady' day but lacked spark although Richie Baxter was in the mood for some big carries and Chris Budgen seemed to enjoy himself punching holes in the Manchester defence.
The biggest cheer of the day? That was reserved for the tannoy announcement of the score from Doncaster. It was only just the loudest cheer as Tom Bedford's solo try from inside his own half had the Sandy Park crowd on their feet.
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Ed Lewsey? Not sure if he is the right man for the 9 position.
Bentos? Is his heart really in it? Has he had too much free time? Maybe he was trying too hard, but I didn't see his old flair. Can't really see him being a real replacement for Dan or Lewis!
I must admit I spent a lot of time watching for updates on the Donny site as I watched the game.
We're still in the hands of others, but if we concentrate on doing what we have to do, ie win the remaining games with BP's, and suceed in that goal, a sell out crowd will be at SP on April 25th watching a crunch game against Donny, and with eyes 'n ears to the internet, waiting for scores from Brickfields. Then it definitely won't be over until the fat lady sings.
With the league now being so much closer, I cannot see the RFU allowing anyone to play any outstanding games after 25th April as some have intimated.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2009:03:08:19:52:55 by 3 wheels on my wagon.