Halfway and we're
Chiefs
By Moorsman
December 26 2014
We've reached the half way point in this season's AP and Chief's report says?
Half Way There
Half Way there and the Chiefs have 33 points, are 4th in the Premiership as well as topping both their European and LV cup groups. Not a bad place to be from a long time supporters point of view. I remember looking at the stats when we gained promotion and working out that given a 'normal' season 32 points should make us safe. So that's OK then we are safe!! But what about the high and low points of this season. Well I can't see too many low times from the season so far but I suppose another defeat to Bath doesn't exactly fill me with glee. Although they arein a Rich vein of form and looking like they'll be a force to deal with in the coming seasons.
That only leaves me me to give my opinion of the low point and I'll plump (especially for you Pirate) for the defeat to Tigers.
This might seem an odd choice but we really should have nailed the victory having done all the hard work. As for the high point, well I'm spoilt for choice with some great performances to choose from. However I've got to choose one and it's the win over Sarries for me. It may seem strange to choose a match where we failed to score a try but for me this marked a seed change in Exeter Chiefs rugby. It showed a steely resolve and ability to play to a pragmatic, very controlled style of rugby to ensure a win. I love to watch our free flowing, off loading game but in previous seasons this has been our undoing. The Chiefs are still a work in progress and I'm convinced we are ahead of plan but what an exciting club to follow.
Part two begins with the visit of the Cherry and Whites and the possibility of a first sell out at the enlarged Sandy Park. I can't wait.....
If you do not already have an account Click here to Register.
I do however have to ask whether we push for retention of our LV title (not my preferred option) and/or Challenge Cup progress utilising the squad we have in addition to concentrating on the league. I know the AP is the priority but I wonder if we'll see a few more of the academy/dual reg lads getting LV game time and perhaps 1st team squad members making up a significant number of the European team? I'd hate to be in a coach's position.
I also wonder how much impact the weather is going to have over the next couple of months. Our pack doesn't seem as dominant in a number of areas as it has been over the last few years.
I calculate that we will need around 60 points to make the top 6 which will take some doing but we are capable. A proviso is, in concurrence with Boston Chief, we leave the LV to a development/reserve team. I do not feel that we are a top 4 side as yet but that will come sooner rather than later.
Promising not to ramble on so much next time !
League is priority, has to be. LV and Europe are bonuses and a good opportunity to play Academy/,Fringe players.
However, I think the game prior to return to a league game we should have our strongest XV involved at some point in the second half.
I was one of those who would have been happy with a top 6 spot this season and am still thinking that way. Being in the top 4 has been excellent but I'm still not sure we are quite good enough just yet. Still enjoying the journey.
Time for a pipe of Old Toby!
We must get back to winning ways this weekend and maybe set up a win away against LIrish!
The 16th man must turn up this weekend!
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2014:12:31:17:11:02 by ExTeddChief.