News: AP: Northampton Saints vs Saracens - Match Preview
By St Bugsy Baron
October 25 2012
After coming up short in Heineken Cup action in France last week, Northampton Saints return to Aviva Premiership duties this Saturday (at 3pm!) and welcome Saracens to Franklin's Gardens for an eagerly awaited encounter. Making his debut writing for COYSDC, St Bugsy Baron takes a look ahead to the match.
NORTHAMPTON SAINTS vs SARACENS
AP: Saturday, 27th October 2012 - 3pm
FRANKLIN'S GARDENS, NORTHAMPTON
MATCH PREVIEW
So after our European sabbatical of the last two weeks it’s back once more to the bread and butter of the Aviva Premiership on Saturday at the Gardens, and the visit of our good friends from North London, Saracens.
In recent seasons a somewhat healthy rivalry has built up between the two clubs and outside the blood and thunder of the East Midlands derby games it is perhaps the clashes against Sarries that most Saints supporters look forward too. Perhaps even more so in future when Saturdays visitors move from their current location(s) to their own proper rugby club, the state of the art Allianz Park, a few miles from their spiritual Bramley Road home, early next year.
It is the latest innovation for the club that has in recent years always tried to do things a little differently and whilst some may turn their noses up at their attempts to build their brand, even being referred to as ‘rugby-yobs’ in certain circles, you do have to admit they are a breath of fresh air rather than a thorn in the side of the establishment even if some of their publicity stunts are not to every traditionalists tastes.
It would be foolish however to suggest they are not anything but a huge success in the modern game. Under the tutelage of CEO Edward Griffiths not only has that brand moved into the mainstream but under a steady stream of coaches a team has been built that has not only secured silverware but must be counted as serious contenders on all competitive fronts be that domestically or on the continent, though I have to say given their musical outpourings over the last couple of years I think Eurovision might well be out their reach.
And what a squad it is they have to pick from. Shoe horned into the constraints of the limits placed on the English game they have an array of talent from both home and abroad and have strength in depth in just about every position allowing almost seamless rotation, and then some. Though like Saints and Tigers in recent seasons they, along with Quins, will find that squad strongly tested come the international period starting in two weeks when they may supply a hefty number to Stuart Lancasters Autumn collection.
But enough of lavishing praise on the opposition as perhaps this week is one to put all thoughts of rotation out of selectors minds. This will be one for the ‘elite’. Both sides know that in the final reckonings of the season either could well be in the shake up and to steal a march now, however small and however early it might be in the season, could prove crucial come playoff time. A quick glance at the table will tell you a win for the home side puts a game and a half distance in place on their opponents, for the visitors the victory could see them leapfrog to the top of the table. Its all to play for.
Whilst some pundits will tell you the war of attrition that is the Aviva Premiership is all about the fear of relegation, it is equally true at the top of the table. There may be a long way to go but that table also tells you that all bar Sale adrift at the bottom all eleven other clubs are within a couple of good wins of knocking on the playoff door whilst others currently enjoying lofty success could drop down the table.
For that reason I fully expect, with allowances to fitness and form, both clubs to start with their first choices across the board. This isn’t one for experimentation nor to start with a lesser light hoping things will pan out via a strong bench, by then it could be too late. Sarries do have the luxury of a home game against Wasps and an extra days rest next week, for us its one of those big ones at Welford Road, no quarter asked, no quarter given. A loss in both could see us in mid table by early November and therefore suspect it will be both barrels, kitchen sink, taps and all, thrown at Saracens, and especially their flyhalf, on Saturday.
As for those selections well I know we all have our personal preferences and I will leave you to make your own and ponder endlessly over strengths weaknesses and supposed match ups. Given previous encounters however it could be a day all that goes out the window.
Suffice to say in those selections for the opposition that could well mean a return of the prodigal son and former northern cheeky chappie of this parish, Chris Ashton. His manner of leaving, whichever person ‘in the know’ you happened to listen too, is all water under the bridge now so lets give him a warm welcome back. So it’s once a Saint and all that, though don’t of course cut him any leeway under a high ball, he won’t be cutting any for us if he gets a sniff of the line.
And so for the day itself. Well the current weather forecast shows a fine bright day but perhaps with the first bites of winter. With an unprecedented 3pm Saturday kick-off against top opposition (it’ll never catch on!) the ground will be as near as, if not, sold out. The crowd will no doubt swelled by good numbers of the colourful followers of the visitors who always add to the occasion, the Fez-Boys, the vast majority of whom always enjoy visits to the Gardens. It has all the makings of a good one!
What’s that? A prediction you want? Well given how Saracens have been blasting all before them in Europe and, despite our league position, how disjointed we have been playing so far this campaign, and in all truth have yet to put in a convincing 80 minute performance, a neutral might well not look any further then the visitors to go away with the spoils. Indeed on the face of it it could be an uphill struggle at the Gardens for Saints. The bookmakers have it pretty much even stevens but I have a sneaking suspicion it is the kind of day we might just nick this one and travel to Leicester still ruling the roost.
See you all Saturday!
In recent seasons a somewhat healthy rivalry has built up between the two clubs and outside the blood and thunder of the East Midlands derby games it is perhaps the clashes against Sarries that most Saints supporters look forward too. Perhaps even more so in future when Saturdays visitors move from their current location(s) to their own proper rugby club, the state of the art Allianz Park, a few miles from their spiritual Bramley Road home, early next year.
It is the latest innovation for the club that has in recent years always tried to do things a little differently and whilst some may turn their noses up at their attempts to build their brand, even being referred to as ‘rugby-yobs’ in certain circles, you do have to admit they are a breath of fresh air rather than a thorn in the side of the establishment even if some of their publicity stunts are not to every traditionalists tastes.
It would be foolish however to suggest they are not anything but a huge success in the modern game. Under the tutelage of CEO Edward Griffiths not only has that brand moved into the mainstream but under a steady stream of coaches a team has been built that has not only secured silverware but must be counted as serious contenders on all competitive fronts be that domestically or on the continent, though I have to say given their musical outpourings over the last couple of years I think Eurovision might well be out their reach.
And what a squad it is they have to pick from. Shoe horned into the constraints of the limits placed on the English game they have an array of talent from both home and abroad and have strength in depth in just about every position allowing almost seamless rotation, and then some. Though like Saints and Tigers in recent seasons they, along with Quins, will find that squad strongly tested come the international period starting in two weeks when they may supply a hefty number to Stuart Lancasters Autumn collection.
But enough of lavishing praise on the opposition as perhaps this week is one to put all thoughts of rotation out of selectors minds. This will be one for the ‘elite’. Both sides know that in the final reckonings of the season either could well be in the shake up and to steal a march now, however small and however early it might be in the season, could prove crucial come playoff time. A quick glance at the table will tell you a win for the home side puts a game and a half distance in place on their opponents, for the visitors the victory could see them leapfrog to the top of the table. Its all to play for.
Whilst some pundits will tell you the war of attrition that is the Aviva Premiership is all about the fear of relegation, it is equally true at the top of the table. There may be a long way to go but that table also tells you that all bar Sale adrift at the bottom all eleven other clubs are within a couple of good wins of knocking on the playoff door whilst others currently enjoying lofty success could drop down the table.
For that reason I fully expect, with allowances to fitness and form, both clubs to start with their first choices across the board. This isn’t one for experimentation nor to start with a lesser light hoping things will pan out via a strong bench, by then it could be too late. Sarries do have the luxury of a home game against Wasps and an extra days rest next week, for us its one of those big ones at Welford Road, no quarter asked, no quarter given. A loss in both could see us in mid table by early November and therefore suspect it will be both barrels, kitchen sink, taps and all, thrown at Saracens, and especially their flyhalf, on Saturday.
As for those selections well I know we all have our personal preferences and I will leave you to make your own and ponder endlessly over strengths weaknesses and supposed match ups. Given previous encounters however it could be a day all that goes out the window.
Suffice to say in those selections for the opposition that could well mean a return of the prodigal son and former northern cheeky chappie of this parish, Chris Ashton. His manner of leaving, whichever person ‘in the know’ you happened to listen too, is all water under the bridge now so lets give him a warm welcome back. So it’s once a Saint and all that, though don’t of course cut him any leeway under a high ball, he won’t be cutting any for us if he gets a sniff of the line.
And so for the day itself. Well the current weather forecast shows a fine bright day but perhaps with the first bites of winter. With an unprecedented 3pm Saturday kick-off against top opposition (it’ll never catch on!) the ground will be as near as, if not, sold out. The crowd will no doubt swelled by good numbers of the colourful followers of the visitors who always add to the occasion, the Fez-Boys, the vast majority of whom always enjoy visits to the Gardens. It has all the makings of a good one!
What’s that? A prediction you want? Well given how Saracens have been blasting all before them in Europe and, despite our league position, how disjointed we have been playing so far this campaign, and in all truth have yet to put in a convincing 80 minute performance, a neutral might well not look any further then the visitors to go away with the spoils. Indeed on the face of it it could be an uphill struggle at the Gardens for Saints. The bookmakers have it pretty much even stevens but I have a sneaking suspicion it is the kind of day we might just nick this one and travel to Leicester still ruling the roost.
See you all Saturday!
#rugbyunited St Bugsy Baron
News: AP: Northampton Saints vs Saracens - Match Preview
Posted by: ComeOnYouSaints.com (IP Logged)
Date: 25/10/2012 14:59
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Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2012:10:25:14:59:38 by Phil..
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Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2012:10:25:14:59:38 by Phil..
Re: News: AP: Northampton Saints vs Saracens - Match Preview
Posted by: St George (IP Logged)
Date: 25/10/2012 15:05
Excellent preview thanks
Re: News: AP: Northampton Saints vs Saracens - Match Preview
Posted by: StBleach (IP Logged)
Date: 25/10/2012 15:23
nice job Bugsy - cannt share your "we might just nick it" comment, without our first choice fullback and a weakness on the wing we may struggle in the Autumn sun shine. Hope Im wrong.
Re: News: AP: Northampton Saints vs Saracens - Match Preview
Posted by: To Mega Therion (IP Logged)
Date: 25/10/2012 16:06
Good stuff.
Who removed my H.R. Giger picture?
Who removed my H.R. Giger picture?
Re: News: AP: Northampton Saints vs Saracens - Match Preview
Posted by: Saint Tim (IP Logged)
Date: 25/10/2012 16:25
Well done Bugsy - now where is Blousey?
“Those who desire to give up freedom in order to gain security will not have, nor do they deserve, either one.”
Benjamin Franklin
Tetleys Block F E143
“Those who desire to give up freedom in order to gain security will not have, nor do they deserve, either one.”
Benjamin Franklin
Tetleys Block F E143
Re: News: AP: Northampton Saints vs Saracens - Match Preview
Posted by: JO'G (IP Logged)
Date: 25/10/2012 17:39
excellent preview thanks
I don't supose anyone knows if there are going to be tickets on the door on Saturday as I'm not sure if I can get to the game by public transport (car borrowed by the missus for a weekend away)
I don't supose anyone knows if there are going to be tickets on the door on Saturday as I'm not sure if I can get to the game by public transport (car borrowed by the missus for a weekend away)
Re: News: AP: Northampton Saints vs Saracens - Match Preview
Posted by: ChrisG (IP Logged)
Date: 25/10/2012 17:41
Couple of hundred left was the last word Jeremy
Re: News: AP: Northampton Saints vs Saracens - Match Preview
Posted by: RugbyBiker (IP Logged)
Date: 25/10/2012 17:58
Congratulations, a most excellent preview!
Re: News: AP: Northampton Saints vs Saracens - Match Preview
Posted by: The Bard (IP Logged)
Date: 25/10/2012 18:09
Good preview, but come on you surely are favourites, hope our guys haven't forgot the battering we took in the first 20 minutes last season. I still have memories of your guys being thrown raw meat and smashing tackle bags a few moments before kick-off, while we were enjoying a nice cup of tea in the warm dressing room!
Re: News: AP: Northampton Saints vs Saracens - Match Preview
Posted by: saracens4life (IP Logged)
Date: 25/10/2012 18:09
Thanks Bugsy - as you can tell, we appreciate your kind treatment of our club 
And I liked this as well
See y'all on Saturday
And I liked this as well
Quote:an uphill struggle at the Gardens
See y'all on Saturday
Re: News: AP: Northampton Saints vs Saracens - Match Preview
Posted by: Saint Tim (IP Logged)
Date: 25/10/2012 18:33
S4L I think I owe you a pint. You will find me easily on Saturday - I will be the one in Green Black and Gold.
Seriously pm me if you are coming.
“Those who desire to give up freedom in order to gain security will not have, nor do they deserve, either one.”
Benjamin Franklin
Tetleys Block F E143
Seriously pm me if you are coming.
“Those who desire to give up freedom in order to gain security will not have, nor do they deserve, either one.”
Benjamin Franklin
Tetleys Block F E143
Re: News: AP: Northampton Saints vs Saracens - Match Preview
Posted by: ChrisG (IP Logged)
Date: 25/10/2012 19:11
Great preview Mr Baron, you're clearly a very clever bloke!
Re: News: AP: Northampton Saints vs Saracens - Match Preview
Posted by: oxonsarrie (IP Logged)
Date: 25/10/2012 19:23
Good fair summery of the game for Saturday. We look forward to our trips to FG and hopefully another pork roll before the game so we dont watch on an empty tum.
Interesting game for both teams and all to play for.
Heres to good weather and a sporting game
Interesting game for both teams and all to play for.
Heres to good weather and a sporting game
Re: News: AP: Northampton Saints vs Saracens - Match Preview
Posted by: Howlin (IP Logged)
Date: 25/10/2012 19:38
Very professional preview. Whetted the appetite quite nicely. Sadly on current form Sarries are favourites. But a home record and top of the pile league position to protect should provide sufficient motivation to chnage the form book. COYS.
Saint til I die
Saint til I die
Re: News: AP: Northampton Saints vs Saracens - Match Preview
Posted by: Robby Richmond (IP Logged)
Date: 25/10/2012 21:08
Good stuff! A very good read
Re: News: AP: Northampton Saints vs Saracens - Match Preview
Posted by: St.Rich Joe, Niamh and Sam's Dad (IP Logged)
Date: 25/10/2012 21:18
Re: News: AP: Northampton Saints vs Saracens - Match Preview
Posted by: Waldo (IP Logged)
Date: 25/10/2012 21:37
A most objective preview - nice work fella .
Re: News: AP: Northampton Saints vs Saracens - Match Preview
Posted by: Squawker2 (IP Logged)
Date: 25/10/2012 22:27
As an invading Sarries fan I must say that was an excellent objective review
I would say that you are the favourites but I would, of course, have Sarries to win by a nose
Shame it's not on telly so I have no chance to see you there
Allez les Noirs
I would say that you are the favourites but I would, of course, have Sarries to win by a nose
Shame it's not on telly so I have no chance to see you there
Allez les Noirs
Re: News: AP: Northampton Saints vs Saracens - Match Preview
Posted by: BarnetSarrie (IP Logged)
Date: 25/10/2012 23:26
I'd love to be able to say we actually were the favourites - but it's a home tie for y'all - and you are the ones sitting pretty at the top of the table! There's a good reason for that!
Anyway - an excellent preview - it really set the tone for the latest of our usual testing encounters -
Anyway - an excellent preview - it really set the tone for the latest of our usual testing encounters -
Re: News: AP: Northampton Saints vs Saracens - Match Preview
Posted by: Neville (IP Logged)
Date: 26/10/2012 08:36
If the game is as evenly balanced as that excellent review, it will be a cracker.
Nev the Sarrieman
Nev the Sarrieman
Re: News: AP: Northampton Saints vs Saracens - Match Preview
Posted by: derbyshire fan (IP Logged)
Date: 26/10/2012 13:28
see - we can all play nicely together!!
Re: News: AP: Northampton Saints vs Saracens - Match Preview
Posted by: ChrisG (IP Logged)
Date: 26/10/2012 20:08
Hmmmmmm, St Bugsy Baron is an anagram of 'A St Rugby Snob'
Re: News: AP: Northampton Saints vs Saracens - Match Preview
Posted by: St Marlowe (IP Logged)
Date: 26/10/2012 23:03
Perhaps it merits a second read by those who consider it objective
"A little knowledge is exactly that`"
"A little knowledge is exactly that`"
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