Saints v Toulon - 15th December 2023 - Teams Up
By Saint Ted
December 14 2023
This is the saints v Toulon match day thread
Who: Northampton Saints v Toulon
Where: Franklins Gardens
When: Friday 15th December 2023; 20:00
How do I watch: TNT 1
Tickets: Direct from Saints
Matchday Info: Guide to the gardens
Saints take: Saints O'ffy
Officials:
Referee: Craig Evans (Wal)
Assistant referees: Gwyn Morris and Ben Breakspear (Wal)
TMO: Ben Whitehouse (Wal)
| Northampton Saints | Toulon | |
| George Furbank (c) | 15 | M. Jaminet |
| Tom Seabrook | 14 | L. Fainga'anuku |
| Tommy Freeman | 13 | S. Tuicuvu |
| Tom Litchfield | 12 | J. Sinzelle |
| George Hendy | 11 | G. Villiere |
| Fin Smith | 10 | E. Herve |
| Alex Mitchell | 9 | B. White |
| Ethan Waller | 1 | D. Priso |
| Curtis Langdon | 2 | J. Singleton |
| Trevor Davison | 3 | K. Brookes |
| Temo Mayanavanua | 4 | M. Halagahu |
| Alex Moon | 5 | D. Ribbans |
| Courtney Lawes | 6 | E. Abadie |
| Tom Pearson | 7 | C. Ollivon © |
| Sam Graham | 8 | S. Tolofua |
| Replacements: | ||
| Sam Matavesi | 16 | C. Tolofua |
| Tarek Haffar | 17 | JB. Gros |
| Paul Hill | 18 | E. Setiano |
| Tom Lockett | 19 | A. Warion |
| Juarno Augustus | 20 | M. Le Corvec |
| Tom James | 21 | J. Danglot |
| Charlie Savala | 22 | M. Smaili |
| Ollie Sleightholme | 23 | J. Wainiqolo |
Not available for selection:
Matthew Arden, Alex Coles, Will Glister, Rory Hutchinson, Emmanuel Iyogun, Lewis Ludlam, Joel Matavesi, Burger Odendaal, James Ramm and Alex Waller.
Saints v Toulon - 15th December 2023 - Teams Up
Posted by: Marching On (IP Logged)
Date: 14/12/2023 12:06
What do you think? You can have your say by posting below.
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Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2023:12:20:09:30:03 by Saint Ted.
If you do not already have an account Click here to Register.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2023:12:20:09:30:03 by Saint Ted.
Re: Saints v Toulon - 15th December 2023 - Teams Up
Posted by: tigersimon (IP Logged)
Date: 14/12/2023 12:13
Ethan v Brookes interesting!
Re: Saints v Toulon - 15th December 2023 - Teams Up
Posted by: St Stokey. (IP Logged)
Date: 14/12/2023 12:29
Will be nice to see some 'old boys' back in Brookes and Ribbans.
Hopefully Dingwall is just rested, but a big shout to the development of Litchfield.
It would be interesting to see Savala, but I fear that we're only seeing him on the bench whilst we're short of numbers in the backs
Hopefully Dingwall is just rested, but a big shout to the development of Litchfield.
It would be interesting to see Savala, but I fear that we're only seeing him on the bench whilst we're short of numbers in the backs
Re: Saints v Toulon - 15th December 2023 - Teams Up
Posted by: Walks11 (IP Logged)
Date: 14/12/2023 12:37
Quote:St Stokey.
Will be nice to see some 'old boys' back in Brookes and Ribbans.
Hopefully Dingwall is just rested, but a big shout to the development of Litchfield.
It would be interesting to see Savala, but I fear that we're only seeing him on the bench whilst we're short of numbers in the backs
Dingwall not listed as injured so hopefully just a rest. It’s a very young and inexperienced back line, Furbank and Mitchell the elder statesmen. Freeman has done well at 13 and Litchfield has impressed when given the opportunity too
Re: Saints v Toulon - 15th December 2023 - Teams Up
Posted by: Thrupp artist (IP Logged)
Date: 14/12/2023 12:59
Good that Juarno is fit enough to be named on bench
Re: Saints v Toulon - 15th December 2023 - Teams Up
Posted by: Dave Jackson (IP Logged)
Date: 14/12/2023 13:07
No Dan for them, not sure if that is a good or bad thing for us
Must admit do not know much about some of that Toulon side
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2023:12:14:13:17:05 by Dave Jackson.
Must admit do not know much about some of that Toulon side
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2023:12:14:13:17:05 by Dave Jackson.
Re: Saints v Toulon - 15th December 2023 - Teams Up
Posted by: St Stokey. (IP Logged)
Date: 14/12/2023 13:14
In our favour is that they've not put an entire 23 of internationals out!
Re: Saints v Toulon - 15th December 2023 - Teams Up
Posted by: Awaywin (IP Logged)
Date: 14/12/2023 15:56
Great to see Augustus on the bench. This will be a real marker for our progress, can't wait for it!
Re: Saints v Toulon - 15th December 2023 - Teams Up
Posted by: white lion (IP Logged)
Date: 14/12/2023 15:58
The official website says 'there is space for Chunya Munga on the subs bench' . Some confusion here.
Re: Saints v Toulon - 15th December 2023 - Teams Up
Posted by: Chris Hoddle (IP Logged)
Date: 14/12/2023 17:58
White Lion
They may have updated the site as it doesn't appear to suggest this any more.
They may have updated the site as it doesn't appear to suggest this any more.
Re: Saints v Toulon - 15th December 2023 - Teams Up
Posted by: Chris Hoddle (IP Logged)
Date: 14/12/2023 19:00
This new format will make it all very close. As I can see, if the knockout stages were decided now we would have an away game at Bulls? Just shows how important those bonus points are. Lets hope this team can secure at least 4 points?
Re: Saints v Toulon - 15th December 2023 - Teams Up
Posted by: Dave Jackson (IP Logged)
Date: 15/12/2023 09:18
Quote:Chris Hoddle
This new format will make it all very close. As I can see, if the knockout stages were decided now we would have an away game at Bulls? Just shows how important those bonus points are. Lets hope this team can secure at least 4 points?
Not sure how you work that out as we are one of the 4 group toppers at the moment so would get a home match. Staying top of the group however will be a massive challenge
Re: Saints v Toulon - 15th December 2023 - Teams Up
Posted by: Chris Hoddle (IP Logged)
Date: 15/12/2023 09:32
Dave,
it goes on the record of all of those that qualify. There are 8 teams with either 5 league points or a better match points difference. Well that's how I read it. Will obviously change after 4 games but illustrates how important league points, especially bonus points are.
it goes on the record of all of those that qualify. There are 8 teams with either 5 league points or a better match points difference. Well that's how I read it. Will obviously change after 4 games but illustrates how important league points, especially bonus points are.
Re: Saints v Toulon - 15th December 2023 - Teams Up
Posted by: Saint Ted (IP Logged)
Date: 15/12/2023 10:03
I thought the same as you Chris, seems it's not the case....
From EPC Rugby
Round of 16
2.6 The four highest-ranked clubs in each pool will qualify for the Round of 16. All clubs will thereafter be ranked in descending order based firstly on their ranking in their pool and subsequently on the number of match points they have accumulated, to create an overall ranking from 1 to 16.
The pool winners will be ranked 1 to 4, the second-placed clubs will be ranked 5 to 8, the third-placed clubs will be ranked 9 to 12, and the fourth-placed clubs will be ranked 13 to 16. The Round of 16 will thereafter be played over one match as follows:
R16 1: Number 1-ranked club v Number 16-ranked club
R16 2: Number 2-ranked club v Number 15-ranked club
R16 3: Number 3-ranked club v Number 14-ranked club
R16 4: Number 4-ranked club v Number 13-ranked club
R16 5: Number 5-ranked club v Number 12-ranked club
R16 6: Number 6-ranked club v Number 11-ranked club
R16 7: Number 7-ranked club v Number 10-ranked club
R16 8: Number 8-ranked club v Number 9-ranked club
NB The clubs ranked numbers 1 to 8 will have home advantage in the Round of 16.
The clubs ranked fifth in each of the pools will qualify for the Round of 16 of the EPCR Challenge Cup.
So if I've read it correctly the seedings are as follows and we would play Munster at home (based on the first round, obviously a long way to go)
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2023:12:15:10:06:13 by Saint Ted.
From EPC Rugby
Round of 16
2.6 The four highest-ranked clubs in each pool will qualify for the Round of 16. All clubs will thereafter be ranked in descending order based firstly on their ranking in their pool and subsequently on the number of match points they have accumulated, to create an overall ranking from 1 to 16.
The pool winners will be ranked 1 to 4, the second-placed clubs will be ranked 5 to 8, the third-placed clubs will be ranked 9 to 12, and the fourth-placed clubs will be ranked 13 to 16. The Round of 16 will thereafter be played over one match as follows:
R16 1: Number 1-ranked club v Number 16-ranked club
R16 2: Number 2-ranked club v Number 15-ranked club
R16 3: Number 3-ranked club v Number 14-ranked club
R16 4: Number 4-ranked club v Number 13-ranked club
R16 5: Number 5-ranked club v Number 12-ranked club
R16 6: Number 6-ranked club v Number 11-ranked club
R16 7: Number 7-ranked club v Number 10-ranked club
R16 8: Number 8-ranked club v Number 9-ranked club
NB The clubs ranked numbers 1 to 8 will have home advantage in the Round of 16.
The clubs ranked fifth in each of the pools will qualify for the Round of 16 of the EPCR Challenge Cup.
So if I've read it correctly the seedings are as follows and we would play Munster at home (based on the first round, obviously a long way to go)
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2023:12:15:10:06:13 by Saint Ted.
Re: Saints v Toulon - 15th December 2023 - Teams Up
Posted by: St Stokey. (IP Logged)
Date: 15/12/2023 10:07
Edit:
No point in duplicating Ted post.
As a group topper, we would get a home game in last 16, regardless of points compared to other groups. I think we'd be ranked 4th at the moment based on points & points difference and I think we'd end up playing Munster or Bayonne in the Round of 16.
In the highly unlikely event that things ended up with this situation, I don't know how Munster & Bayonne would be decided; same points, same points difference, same bonus points.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2023:12:15:10:10:59 by St Stokey..
No point in duplicating Ted post.
As a group topper, we would get a home game in last 16, regardless of points compared to other groups. I think we'd be ranked 4th at the moment based on points & points difference and I think we'd end up playing Munster or Bayonne in the Round of 16.
In the highly unlikely event that things ended up with this situation, I don't know how Munster & Bayonne would be decided; same points, same points difference, same bonus points.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2023:12:15:10:10:59 by St Stokey..
Re: Saints v Toulon - 15th December 2023 - Teams Up
Posted by: Saint Ted (IP Logged)
Date: 15/12/2023 10:08
snap!
Re: Saints v Toulon - 15th December 2023 - Teams Up
Posted by: Chris Hoddle (IP Logged)
Date: 15/12/2023 10:11
Thanks Ted.
Does make it clear. I based mine on a report I read that clearly did not have all the facts!
Does make it clear. I based mine on a report I read that clearly did not have all the facts!
Re: Saints v Toulon - 15th December 2023 - Teams Up
Posted by: OldMarovian (IP Logged)
Date: 15/12/2023 10:21
Good luck.
Abject would be harsh but their performance against Chiefs was surprising for such a "storied" club.
Be good to show Ribbans that the grass isn't always greener,
Abject would be harsh but their performance against Chiefs was surprising for such a "storied" club.
Be good to show Ribbans that the grass isn't always greener,
Re: Saints v Toulon - 15th December 2023 - Teams Up
Posted by: Deesaint (IP Logged)
Date: 15/12/2023 13:26
Quote:OldMarovian
Good luck.
Be good to show Ribbans that the grass isn't always greener,
Mmm
So Toulon lose by a few points
Ribbans flies home tomorrow
Looks out the window of the plane on landing to see clear blue sky and temperatures mid 60s,
Wonders whether to put the roof down on his new porche
Checks his bank account to find he has more noughts than he can handle
Another 2.5 years of his contract
Thinks I may go for a walk on the beach tomorrow
Do you really feel he is thinking
Where did it go wrong 😂
Re: Saints v Toulon - 15th December 2023 - Teams Up
Posted by: LeicesterSaint (IP Logged)
Date: 15/12/2023 13:30
Just as well, don't think he'd fit in a Porsche with the roof closed!
He's a competitive animal in the prime of his career, don't get me wrong the money will have played a part but he'll also want to win things (not that losing one group game undermines that even if it does happen!).
He's a competitive animal in the prime of his career, don't get me wrong the money will have played a part but he'll also want to win things (not that losing one group game undermines that even if it does happen!).
Re: Saints v Toulon - 15th December 2023 - Teams Up
Posted by: Saint Maul (IP Logged)
Date: 15/12/2023 13:39
Given Toulon’s repeated poaching or targeting of Saints players, it gives added weight to wanting to beat them tonight. COYS!!!
I suspect if Ludlam hasn’t signed for Toulon yet that Toulon coaches will be trying to use the face to face opportunity to speak with Ludlam whilst they are over. If Biggar has highlighted any other gems to them, they may try to meet those players too.
I suspect if Ludlam hasn’t signed for Toulon yet that Toulon coaches will be trying to use the face to face opportunity to speak with Ludlam whilst they are over. If Biggar has highlighted any other gems to them, they may try to meet those players too.
Re: Saints v Toulon - 15th December 2023 - Teams Up
Posted by: St Stokey. (IP Logged)
Date: 15/12/2023 14:46
I'm sure he'll have a lovely old time... just as long as he doesn't annoy Mad Mourad!
Re: Saints v Toulon - 15th December 2023 - Teams Up
Posted by: OldMarovian (IP Logged)
Date: 15/12/2023 14:57
Deesaint as you say I expect he would "survive" the loss 
Still be good to give it to him though.
Still be good to give it to him though.
Re: Saints v Toulon - 15th December 2023 - Teams Up
Posted by: Harpole Saint (IP Logged)
Date: 15/12/2023 15:10
I hope everyone is in a very festive mood tonight to debut; the fields are green the skies are blue the river nene goes winding through…
Re: Saints v Toulon - 15th December 2023 - Teams Up
Posted by: NGSB (IP Logged)
Date: 15/12/2023 16:58
Only one game played so pointless speculating about the knockout stages - tonight is a must win as is the Bayonne game.
Re: Saints v Toulon - 15th December 2023 - Teams Up
Posted by: tigersimon (IP Logged)
Date: 15/12/2023 19:47
Just been an interview with Freeman & Dingwall on TNT.
Freeman called Dingwall the “M1” two hard shoulders. Dingwall replied “not this week”! Maybe the reason he is not playing tonight.
Freeman called Dingwall the “M1” two hard shoulders. Dingwall replied “not this week”! Maybe the reason he is not playing tonight.
Re: Saints v Toulon - 15th December 2023 - Teams Up
Posted by: tigersimon (IP Logged)
Date: 15/12/2023 20:13
Is that 2 penalties Ethan has given away already?
Re: Saints v Toulon - 15th December 2023 - Teams Up
Posted by: Saint Gordo (IP Logged)
Date: 15/12/2023 20:19
That's a big outside centre that Toulon has
Re: Saints v Toulon - 15th December 2023 - Teams Up
Posted by: OldMarovian (IP Logged)
Date: 15/12/2023 21:51
This has been such a fun game to watch. Really great stuff Saints. Please hold on!!
enjoy your weekends!
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2023:12:15:21:52:50 by OldMarovian.
enjoy your weekends!Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2023:12:15:21:52:50 by OldMarovian.
Re: Saints v Toulon - 15th December 2023 - Teams Up
Posted by: Sir Hector (IP Logged)
Date: 15/12/2023 21:58
Squeaky bum time at the end! But, as was the case when we were in our pomp, you just had a feeling we’d nick it with the final play. Great result!
Re: Saints v Toulon - 15th December 2023 - Teams Up
Posted by: Saint Gordo (IP Logged)
Date: 15/12/2023 21:59
Quote:Done and will do! Not how I expected the game to end, but we takes them as they come.OldMarovian
This has been such a fun game to watch. Really great stuff Saints. Please hold on!!
Re: Saints v Toulon - 15th December 2023 - Teams Up
Posted by: tigersimon (IP Logged)
Date: 15/12/2023 22:00
Good game to watch.
Hope the injuries are not too serious 🤞
Hope the injuries are not too serious 🤞
Re: Saints v Toulon - 15th December 2023 - Teams Up
Posted by: AlexC (IP Logged)
Date: 15/12/2023 22:00
Phew, injuries really caused saints issues in the second half but those yellow cards for Toulon tipped the score. Great grit from the players today, first half we could have taken more points really. Hope Smith can get a little more accurate goal kicking next time.
Re: Saints v Toulon - 15th December 2023 - Teams Up
Posted by: AlexC (IP Logged)
Date: 15/12/2023 22:03
Hoping the injuries aren’t too serious but too many limping off. Wonder if it is happening with the more aggressive defence we are playing?
Re: Saints v Toulon - 15th December 2023 - Teams Up
Posted by: Santiago (IP Logged)
Date: 15/12/2023 22:07
Garside and Cousins in next week?
Re: Saints v Toulon - 15th December 2023 - Teams Up
Posted by: Sir Hector (IP Logged)
Date: 15/12/2023 22:20
We should have Hutch, ingers and Odendal available so Freemo can cover one wing. Fingers crossed one of Slights/Seabrook and Hendy is ok.
Re: Saints v Toulon - 15th December 2023 - Teams Up
Posted by: TringSaint (IP Logged)
Date: 15/12/2023 22:49
Is this a reemergence of the saints of old who didn’t know when they were beaten?
Great effort lads!
9/10 in Europe is a dream start!
Great effort lads!
9/10 in Europe is a dream start!
Re: Saints v Toulon - 15th December 2023 - Teams Up
Posted by: Walks11 (IP Logged)
Date: 15/12/2023 23:01
In contrast to the last few seasons I really had a feeling we’d Nick it at the death rather than the other way round. Great performance, Toulon nullified for the most part, defence again excellent
Re: Saints v Toulon - 15th December 2023 - Teams Up
Posted by: Stockers (IP Logged)
Date: 15/12/2023 23:10
It's great to see the mindset of the current group of players. It says confidence, trust in the coaches and the game plan. A new belief in the defence plan whilst maintaining an attacking strategy. And with such a relatively young group of players, one cannot fail to be optimistic.
And Courtney was just amazing again!
And Courtney was just amazing again!
Re: Saints v Toulon - 15th December 2023 - Teams Up
Posted by: sternie (IP Logged)
Date: 15/12/2023 23:28
Courtney has the freedom of the town so can shepherd his sheep through the centre and we should allow to graze them on Franklins Gardens as he certainly owns that turf every time he steps on it.
What a great man we can't let him go!
What a great man we can't let him go!
Re: Saints v Toulon - 15th December 2023 - Teams Up
Posted by: Saint Maul (IP Logged)
Date: 16/12/2023 00:03
I really don’t like Toulon. So victory against them tastes that much sweeter.
Injuries are mounting though. Some didn’t look good.
Injuries are mounting though. Some didn’t look good.
Re: Saints v Toulon - 15th December 2023 - Teams Up
Posted by: Deesaint (IP Logged)
Date: 16/12/2023 08:14
Friday night games
And particularly winning in such a tense second half
Leading to a few celebratory beers
Definitely not conducive to feeling so good this morning
I thought our back row Lawes Pearson and Graham were exceptional
Really stood up to Toulon and stifled them
Graham has been an exceptional signing
Fingers crossed for the injuries
And particularly winning in such a tense second half
Leading to a few celebratory beers
Definitely not conducive to feeling so good this morning
I thought our back row Lawes Pearson and Graham were exceptional
Really stood up to Toulon and stifled them
Graham has been an exceptional signing
Fingers crossed for the injuries
Re: Saints v Toulon - 15th December 2023 - Teams Up
Posted by: Saint Maul (IP Logged)
Date: 16/12/2023 08:34
Looks like we have been put at an unfair disadvantage in the way the Cup pool games are configured. In our pool we have 2 home games and 3 away games whilst 3 other teams in our pool will get 3 home games and only 2 away games. Hardly a fair way of deciding who tops a pool.
If we end up with an away last 16 because of this it would feel decidedly unjust.
If we end up with an away last 16 because of this it would feel decidedly unjust.
Re: Saints v Toulon - 15th December 2023 - Teams Up
Posted by: tigersimon (IP Logged)
Date: 16/12/2023 08:49
Quote:Saint Maul
Looks like we have been put at an unfair disadvantage in the way the Cup pool games are configured. In our pool we have 2 home games and 3 away games whilst 3 other teams in our pool will get 3 home games and only 2 away games. Hardly a fair way of deciding who tops a pool.
If we end up with an away last 16 because of this it would feel decidedly unjust.
?
Each team plays four games in the pool stage, two Home two Away. Saints don’t play Exeter in the champions cup.
Top 4 in each pool go into Round of 16.
Re: Saints v Toulon - 15th December 2023 - Teams Up
Posted by: NGSB (IP Logged)
Date: 16/12/2023 08:56
I note that Dan Biggar was there last night - hope he didn’t have a pocketful of contracts in his overcoat !
Re: Saints v Toulon - 15th December 2023 - Teams Up
Posted by: Saint Gordo (IP Logged)
Date: 16/12/2023 09:10
This was an interesting game. Saints seemed to still have a little of that frenetic attack which I think caused some attacking errors. The halftime score should have been higher.
On the other hand, when Toulon committed those two yellows, and how often does one see two yellows on the same play, Saints were inside their 22 and may well have scored regardless. Toulon started to look like they were sucking wind and Saints were marshalling themselves for the final few minutes.
Now it's big decision time: Do Saints put out the clear first team for the next Euro Rugby match? And, given the number of guys are playing well now, do we know our best team from 1 through 23?
On the other hand, when Toulon committed those two yellows, and how often does one see two yellows on the same play, Saints were inside their 22 and may well have scored regardless. Toulon started to look like they were sucking wind and Saints were marshalling themselves for the final few minutes.
Now it's big decision time: Do Saints put out the clear first team for the next Euro Rugby match? And, given the number of guys are playing well now, do we know our best team from 1 through 23?
Re: Saints v Toulon - 15th December 2023 - Teams Up
Posted by: Saint Maul (IP Logged)
Date: 16/12/2023 09:13
Quote:tigersimonQuote:Saint Maul
Looks like we have been put at an unfair disadvantage in the way the Cup pool games are configured. In our pool we have 2 home games and 3 away games whilst 3 other teams in our pool will get 3 home games and only 2 away games. Hardly a fair way of deciding who tops a pool.
If we end up with an away last 16 because of this it would feel decidedly unjust.
?
Each team plays four games in the pool stage, two Home two Away. Saints don’t play Exeter in the champions cup.
Top 4 in each pool go into Round of 16.
My mistake. Exeter are in our pool and we are playing them just before Bayonne and Munster. But it’s a Premiership game. So I guess the format is we each don’t play a team in our pool. Possibly the team from the same league?
Re: Saints v Toulon - 15th December 2023 - Teams Up
Posted by: Push Over (IP Logged)
Date: 16/12/2023 09:46
Great win.
As well as Sam Graham, I also think we have a really good signing in Curtis Langdon.
Bit worried still if Ethan is going to be starting loosehead.
Thought the referee had an exceptional game, a lot would have bottled the second yellow and also didn’t take the scrum at face value.
Toulon were walking around and not pushing straight.
As well as Sam Graham, I also think we have a really good signing in Curtis Langdon.
Bit worried still if Ethan is going to be starting loosehead.
Thought the referee had an exceptional game, a lot would have bottled the second yellow and also didn’t take the scrum at face value.
Toulon were walking around and not pushing straight.
Re: Saints v Toulon - 15th December 2023 - Teams Up
Posted by: Dave Jackson (IP Logged)
Date: 16/12/2023 09:55
Quote:Push Over
Great win.
As well as Sam Graham, I also think we have a really good signing in Curtis Langdon.
Bit worried still if Ethan is going to be starting loosehead.
Thought the referee had an exceptional game, a lot would have bottled the second yellow and also didn’t take the scrum at face value.
Toulon were walking around and not pushing straight.
Furbs showed exceptional captaincy in making sure that the Ref/TmO look at both incidents in a professional way. Unlike tbe RCT Captain who was questioning decisions. Nit just with captaincy but as a team as much stronger in the thinking space and adapting to how the game was playing, for example when Toulon struggling with line out throws we kicked it off the pitch at times rather than keeping it in play
Re: Saints v Toulon - 15th December 2023 - Teams Up
Posted by: tigersimon (IP Logged)
Date: 16/12/2023 10:15
[u][/u]
Easily done with Saints having a game against Exeter (which I didn’t realise!) in the league in the right time period for Europe.
Correct. Tigers don’t play Sale, Stade v La Rochelle don’t play each other etc in the Champions Cup.
Quote:Saint MaulQuote:tigersimonQuote:Saint Maul
Looks like we have been put at an unfair disadvantage in the way the Cup pool games are configured. In our pool we have 2 home games and 3 away games whilst 3 other teams in our pool will get 3 home games and only 2 away games. Hardly a fair way of deciding who tops a pool.
If we end up with an away last 16 because of this it would feel decidedly unjust.
?
Each team plays four games in the pool stage, two Home two Away. Saints don’t play Exeter in the champions cup.
Top 4 in each pool go into Round of 16.
My mistake. Exeter are in our pool and we are playing them just before Bayonne and Munster. But it’s a Premiership game. So I guess the format is we each don’t play a team in our pool. Possibly the team from the same league?
Easily done with Saints having a game against Exeter (which I didn’t realise!) in the league in the right time period for Europe.
Correct. Tigers don’t play Sale, Stade v La Rochelle don’t play each other etc in the Champions Cup.
Re: Saints v Toulon - 15th December 2023 - Teams Up
Posted by: Saint Maul (IP Logged)
Date: 16/12/2023 11:20
Sublime skills moment of the match. The ref says ball is out and the Mitchell has to evade a Toulon player step back and kicks the ball for a 50/22 throw to Saints. I also thought Mitchell’s fitness has improved to go the full 80 and not dropping off. Though our more pragmatic game plan helps.
Re: Saints v Toulon - 15th December 2023 - Teams Up
Posted by: NobbyClarke (IP Logged)
Date: 16/12/2023 15:39
Furbs showed exceptional captaincy in making sure that the Ref/TmO look at both incidents in a professional way. Unlike tbe RCT Captain who was questioning decisions. Nit just with captaincy but as a team as much stronger in the thinking space and adapting to how the game was playing, for example when Toulon struggling with line out throws we kicked it off the pitch at times rather than keeping it in play[/quote]
Agreed, the mantle of captaincy sits easily on his shoulders and seems to have brought a maturity and "lead by example" to his game. With no disrespect to Courtney who has been amazing, Furbs is not far behind and is really leaving his mark this season.. More to come we hope!
Agreed, the mantle of captaincy sits easily on his shoulders and seems to have brought a maturity and "lead by example" to his game. With no disrespect to Courtney who has been amazing, Furbs is not far behind and is really leaving his mark this season.. More to come we hope!
Re: Saints v Toulon - 15th December 2023 - Teams Up
Posted by: Saint Gordo (IP Logged)
Date: 16/12/2023 19:09
I agree Furbank had a marvelous game and seemed to lead the team well. I think, however, it is easier to be a leader when the team has one of the most effective and respected players in Rugby at the moment in Courtney Lawes. I don't say that to denigrate Furbank in any way. Just that having Lawes on the pitch would make anyone's job a lot easier. And he leads as much by example, by manner, and words. And we also have Ludlum who has also been effective as captain and a leader. And is a terrific player, to boot.
I think a team becomes more effective with a strong captain group from different ages and points in their careers. All good for Saints.
I think a team becomes more effective with a strong captain group from different ages and points in their careers. All good for Saints.
Re: Saints v Toulon - 15th December 2023 - Teams Up
Posted by: ramseysaint (IP Logged)
Date: 16/12/2023 21:21
No-one has said it but to me this was better than the Munster win.
I didn't have a season ticket back then but I was lucky enough to get a ticket in the corner of the south/Churches stand surrounded by Munster supporters but the best place to see Geherty score.
With the injuries we had and to win this match it's definitely one I'll never forget.
I didn't have a season ticket back then but I was lucky enough to get a ticket in the corner of the south/Churches stand surrounded by Munster supporters but the best place to see Geherty score.
With the injuries we had and to win this match it's definitely one I'll never forget.
Re: Saints v Toulon - 15th December 2023 - Teams Up
Posted by: Walks11 (IP Logged)
Date: 17/12/2023 11:07
Does anyone know if there is a way to watch the full game including pre & post match analysis without having BT Sport? I was watching in pub and couldn’t hear what was being said 😬
Re: Saints v Toulon - 15th December 2023 - Teams Up
Posted by: Santiago (IP Logged)
Date: 17/12/2023 11:48
BT Sport is obsolete - it's now TNT on Discovery+
Re: Saints v Toulon - 15th December 2023 - Teams Up
Posted by: Walks11 (IP Logged)
Date: 17/12/2023 12:18
Quote:Santiago
BT Sport is obsolete - it's now TNT on Discovery+
Whatever it’s called.. I refuse to subscribe to BT sport now TNT so my question still stands is there anywhere that runs full game with analysis a day or so later without having to pay
Re: Saints v Toulon - 15th December 2023 - Teams Up
Posted by: Santiago (IP Logged)
Date: 17/12/2023 14:37
You want something for nothing. The broadcasters will only pay the clubs if you pay the broadcasters.
Re: Saints v Toulon - 15th December 2023 - Teams Up
Posted by: Walks11 (IP Logged)
Date: 17/12/2023 15:13
Quote:Santiago
You want something for nothing. The broadcasters will only pay the clubs if you pay the broadcasters.
Not really, I didn’t say I wanted it live for free. I can get highlights and extended highlights for free via the European rugby site, so it’s not a great leap to then want to hear what the pundits were saying a day or so later.
To be Frank, you are being a d!€k which again to be honest is not unusual for quite a number on here. If you don’t have anything constructive to say other than being argumentative bu££er off
Re: Saints v Toulon - 15th December 2023 - Teams Up
Posted by: Sir Hector (IP Logged)
Date: 17/12/2023 17:06
Well I have to say that the competition’s bubbling up nicely with some very interesting results across the pools and a far more open championship than would have been predicted, thus far at least. Saints and Exeter lloking strong and there’s even the outside possibility that our final game will be a dead rubber if Munster lose at Toulon and we beat Bayonne at the gardens! I have to say that not even the most optimistic would have predicted that!
Re: Saints v Toulon - 15th December 2023 - Teams Up
Posted by: Chris Hoddle (IP Logged)
Date: 17/12/2023 17:24
Hector
A bonus point win against Bayonne would make the Munster game a dead rubber?
A bonus point win against Bayonne would make the Munster game a dead rubber?
Re: Saints v Toulon - 15th December 2023 - Teams Up
Posted by: NGSB (IP Logged)
Date: 17/12/2023 18:19
Rugby24.net has full game for free the day after.
Re: Saints v Toulon - 15th December 2023 - Teams Up
Posted by: St Stokey. (IP Logged)
Date: 17/12/2023 19:00
Could do with Exeter losing their next match whilst we win ours to ensure that we top the group.
Re: Saints v Toulon - 15th December 2023 - Teams Up
Posted by: Always2Hopeful (IP Logged)
Date: 18/12/2023 13:07
Quote:Push Over
Great win.
As well as Sam Graham, I also think we have a really good signing in Curtis Langdon. .
Here Here - Curtis Langdon has been immense this year.. he is a pain at the breakdown, tackles like a demon and is generally ‘all action’
I would go so far as to say he could be on the radar for England - he certainly deserves a crack!
Re: Saints v Toulon - 15th December 2023 - Teams Up
Posted by: Saint Maul (IP Logged)
Date: 18/12/2023 13:38
Quote:Always2HopefulQuote:Push Over
Great win.
As well as Sam Graham, I also think we have a really good signing in Curtis Langdon. .
Here Here - Curtis Langdon has been immense this year.. he is a pain at the breakdown, tackles like a demon and is generally ‘all action’
I would go so far as to say he could be on the radar for England - he certainly deserves a crack!
Definitely first choice hooker for Saints for me. He is a right pain to play against. Most Premiership sides have signed some gems from the 3 clubs that went out of business and we are seeing that in the improved Premiership performances in the European Cup (12 Premiership team wins from 16 games compared to 5 wins for the French and 6 for the URC). Fewer games probably helps too for focusing energies on Europe.
Curtis was mentioned by the TNT commentators in the Exeter game as a contender for hooker for England, along with the young Exeter hooker, George and Cowan-Dickie. Plus there is Dan and Walker that were not mentioned.
Re: Saints v Toulon - 15th December 2023 - Teams Up
Posted by: Saint Maul (IP Logged)
Date: 18/12/2023 13:43
Mind Toulouse looked a different class v Quins compared to any of the other teams I’ve seen play in Europe this year - the likes of Leinster and La Rochelle aren’t playing that well, which opens up chances for teams like Saints.
Re: Saints v Toulon - 15th December 2023 - Teams Up
Posted by: tigersimon (IP Logged)
Date: 18/12/2023 13:56
My 4 hookers for the wider England 6N squad would be George, Dan, Langdon and Riley.
Walker was obviously never trusted by SB and time to move on from LCD (but would call him up if anything happened to George.
Walker was obviously never trusted by SB and time to move on from LCD (but would call him up if anything happened to George.
Re: Saints v Toulon - 15th December 2023 - Teams Up
Posted by: OldMarovian (IP Logged)
Date: 18/12/2023 16:39
Frost (ex Wasps) now Chiefs is who I think you mean St Maul.
This weekend in a losing Quins performance was the first time for a while I think Walker looked quite good.
Agree that brutal as it has been for the supporters of those three clubs the League has definitely improved in quality through the concentration of talent.
Hopefully the 10 survive the coming seasons as below that number if begins to look increasingly unworkable.
This weekend in a losing Quins performance was the first time for a while I think Walker looked quite good.
Agree that brutal as it has been for the supporters of those three clubs the League has definitely improved in quality through the concentration of talent.
Hopefully the 10 survive the coming seasons as below that number if begins to look increasingly unworkable.
Re: Saints v Toulon - 15th December 2023 - Teams Up
Posted by: tigersimon (IP Logged)
Date: 18/12/2023 17:32
James cited, potentially missing another back!
Re: Saints v Toulon - 15th December 2023 - Teams Up
Posted by: St Stokey. (IP Logged)
Date: 18/12/2023 18:53
Quote:tigersimon
James cited, potentially missing another back!
I don't remember an incident where this was even mentioned.
See what happens when we start winning again? The establishment gets scared so we get handicapped.*
Re: Saints v Toulon - 15th December 2023 - Teams Up
Posted by: FommyTreeman (IP Logged)
Date: 18/12/2023 21:07
Reported as "accused of striking Toulon scrum-half Ben White with his head in the 70th minute their match at Franklin’s Gardens"
I've rewatched and there is no contact between the two in the 70th minute. James puts in a big shot on White in the 69th minute down the left wing just before Jaminet's drop goal. James appeared to get his head in the wrong place. He might've anticipated that White would step towards touch but White appeared to straighten for contact. James' head appeared to strike him on the body as part of the tackle. Both went into touch leaving the frame but James was back on pitch quickly suggesting there were no afters. White stayed down for a couple of phases.
I've never seen a tackle like this be identified as foul play let alone cited.. we shall see.
I've rewatched and there is no contact between the two in the 70th minute. James puts in a big shot on White in the 69th minute down the left wing just before Jaminet's drop goal. James appeared to get his head in the wrong place. He might've anticipated that White would step towards touch but White appeared to straighten for contact. James' head appeared to strike him on the body as part of the tackle. Both went into touch leaving the frame but James was back on pitch quickly suggesting there were no afters. White stayed down for a couple of phases.
I've never seen a tackle like this be identified as foul play let alone cited.. we shall see.
Re: Saints v Toulon - 15th December 2023 - Teams Up
Posted by: Saint Ted (IP Logged)
Date: 18/12/2023 21:20
The incident isn’t in any of the broadcast video so you won’t find it.
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