So......here we go again!
By Jehovah’s Sandals
November 18 2020
Back to business of defending the Gallagher Premiership Title
Friday night we travel to The Stoop to play Quins in the first game of which looks like being a crowd less start to the season.
it's been a very short turnaround and we have a few boys missing so the opportunity beckons for a couple of youngsters to stake a claim.
Obviously being Champions comes with a target, Double winners comes with a huge one.
I foresee a very long and hard season ahead with many a twist and turn. It's going to take a monumental effort to emulate last seasons triumph.
I won't right us off but realistically I feel the highs of last seasons end will have taken a lot out of the boys and it will be interesting to see how we go early doors.
There seems to be some light at the end of tunnel regarding vaccines, however, I believe it's still gonna be a while till we can get some supporters back.
Stay safe
Come on EX!
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Presumably the second row will be Jannes and Don which leaves you with Sean Lonsdale at 7 to go with Dave Ewers and Sam S at 6 and 8.
I am looking for Richard Capstick and Rus Tuima to stake claims in the back row and to see who is the second choice 9 with SHC away. Will Stu Townsend nail it down or will Sam Maunder break through?
As a bolter i would like to see Joe Snow get some first XV game time as well.
Fascinating season ahead and not the nailed on certainties that the second half of last season was for sure
On the playing front I think Will Witty will play quite a few games in the second row and at some stage Josh Hodge will be playing at 15. With matches every week it is going to be really tough. I worry most if Joe Simmonds has an injury - we no longer have a Steeno type as a backup! I assume Aaron Hinkley who looked really promising is long term injured with his knee.
Joe Snow I hope gets the chance, he is a powerful lad for his position which could add a different aspect to play. Plenty of talent in the pack like Witty so only fullback I’m a bit concerned about as Jack is out.
Sale: lost Manu Tuilagi and Lood de Jäger through injury but with South Africa not involved in the Nations Cup they should get off to a good start.
Bristol: Without Earl, Malians Sheedy and Radrada will Test there squad depth.
Wasps: Form team at the end of last season
Bath: Lost a number of internationals and need a back up 10.
Cannot see any of the remaining seven pushing for top four!
Quote:cornwallchief
I worry most if Joe Simmonds has an injury - we no longer have a Steeno type as a backup! I assume Aaron Hinkley who looked really promising is long term injured with his knee.
Well, Harvey Skinner's on the bench for tomorrow...