The Wheel of rugby turns - Promotion and Relgation

Recently, and by recently, I mean yesterday, there have been reports in the Telegraph about the next meeting between the Premiership stakeholders and what the main topic on the docket is to be. In December, the theory was, because of some shouting by a certain chairman, that the topic would be the salary cap, and scrapping it entirely. If we recall, this was followed immediately by rumours that two clubs were being investigated for spending beyond the salary cap. These noises very quickly went away, and now we have another theory. 

Eliminating the promotion and relegation and ring fence the Premiership. 

What a terrible idea. The whole promotion and relegation keeps the Premiership exciting all season. If we seal the clubs, even with expansion, very quickly we would lose the tight knit nature of the league. Look where we are now! 7 games left, and the gap between second placed Bath and seventh place Wasps is just four points. The gap between Gloucester and London Irish is twelve points, and yes, we have an outlier in bottom place. London Welsh might be an argument against relegation, but my counter for that is the Exeter Chiefs. Look where they are now! They are developing players that are within the England set up, they're beating the top clubs and fighting hard for a top four spot. Their academy is one of the best, and they are here to stay. Who knows when we will discover the next Exeter? 

London Welsh may have been a failure this year, but I think that is more to do with their treatment of their team, rather than their excuse about money. Ok, the funding is unfair. The newly promoted team gets about £2 million less than their established counterparts, but when you send out 25 players who got you promoted and bring in another 25, you not only irritate every player who ever wore the shirt in that season, but you seriously disrupt the flow of the team.

I'm all for expanding the Premiership. It will make the season last longer, and it'll make the bottom third even more exciting. However, if we keep the current format, we need to change something. I think I have an idea. Scrap the Championships play-offs. They keep the team's going two weeks longer than the Premiership, meaning their pre-season is caught up by the delayed holiday for the players. The Championship is a great breeding ground to blood players, give them competitive game time. Chris Pennell is a fabulous example of a man who has thrived so much, he's still in the England set up. It should remain as competitive as it is, but not at the expense of the player welfare.

So how about this? We get rid of the Championship play offs. We instead offer a financial incentive for the top four places, and for the team who comes first, give them an ultimate prize. Let them play off against the bottom placed Premiership team. At Twickenham. On the day of the Final. Give them a taste of what the Premiership has to offer. An 82000 audience, from all across the rugby world. Give the teams a clear message: if you want to be at the top table, you better goddamn fight for it. It's the same message we gave Wasps in the European Champions Cup, and they have proven themselves to be contenders. We have the Home of English Rugby, so let's use it. Neutral ground, we open the home up, we let these two teams go at it hammer and tongs to fight to be in the Premiership. We need promotion and relegation in our league. It sets us apart from the Super 15, but we do need to amend something to extend the longevity of our players. Rest weekends or a restructure of the league to move our internationals. But that, I think, is a story for another time.

Aviva Premiership Under 18 League Finals Day. Game 3 of 3.Northampton vs Saracens

So we come to the final game of the day, Saracens, the hosts, against Northampton Saints, the defending Champions. A mid-season friendly between these two saw Saracens the victors, but how much can be drawn from this clash? Both squads are shy a couple of players away with injury, with Harry Mallinder one of the immediate names to stand out as absent. A quick name check, Saints 22, James Grayson is the son of former Northampton legend, Paul Grayson. This league likes to see the sons and brothers of Premiership players come into their own.

No love will be lost between these two sides over the years, and the knowledge that the two Premiership finalists are at it again in a final, albeit with a lower average age. Both teams start things off with a stand off, not wanting to be the first to break from their huddles. Morris trots out from the changing room a lot later than everyone else, to the bemusement of his team, and Northampton prepare to kick off.

Northampton secure the possession and this game looks already to be a feisty encounter. Saints are penalised for holding on in the ruck, and Saracens clear to touch. First lineout to the men in black. Sarries win it, and Saints are penalised again, this time for not rolling away. Patton takes a quick tap, but as he runs towards the retreating Northampton men, his support passes find touch. The Saints clear, but it finds touch straight away, bringing them back on the defensive. Saracens run hard and fast, breaking through the lines with clever passes from Moody and Gilham letting Wadleton run through unopposed to score the try. A kick from out wide is slotted by Malins, making the score 7-0 to the home side.

Again, Saints secure at the restart and warn Saracens that they will not be messed with. Loose hands from the back of the scrum find touch, but a Saracens knock on gives the Saints a scrum. A sniping run from Segun gets the Saints on the front foot, and from there, quick hands to the fullback gives Furbank the try. This time, the wide conversion is Saints but Haldane kicks it wide.

Saracens try to secure the possession at the restart, but the ball runs into touch for a Northampton lineout. Saints clear, but a powerful run from Eveleigh puts Saints back into their half. A fancy kick dummy from Haldane, then some quick feet from McKibbin comes to naught as the Saints are hit with a big tackle, giving the Saracens the put in. Malins attacks the line, but a Northampton tackler doesn’t release. The hosts point to the posts and Malins kicks the goal. 10-5, Saracens lead.

Saracens try to clear from the restart kick but Walker is offside, failing to retreat despite warnings. Saints take it quickly and charge to the line. Saracens try to intercept but the ball is knocked on, giving advantage as the Saints press on. The grounding is held up though, and a Saints scrum 5m out takes place. The scrum is won, and the ball is kept tight, going wider to the backs before being slowed down by the defensive efforts. However, a beautiful dummy from Richardson forces the defensive line to rush up, leaving the dogleg for him to snipe in for the try. Haldane misses the conversion, so 10-10 the score.

The handling errors are slipping into the game again, as they have all afternoon as the Saracens knock on, leading to a Saints scrum. Segun shows his pace again, and sprints ahead, though he becomes isolated and the ball is dislodged from his hands. Malins clears from the back of the scrum and it fades into touch for a Northampton lineout. The moves off the lineout work well for Northampton, but a pass from Furbank to Shaw goes wildly forward, setting up a Saracens scrum. Malins dummies and picks the gap, chipping ahead. However, he’s caught in the process and goes down, giving a penalty for the Saracens on the 5m line. They opt to scrum and Patton picks and goes from the base. Saracens work the line but Malins hits the ground as he drops the ball, turning it over to a Northampton scrum. Northampton are forced into a substitute, Haldane off for Grayson. Northampton hook it back and pass it out to McKibbin, who holds onto it, forcing a penalty. Malins converts it comfortably, the score now 13-10.

As the rain falls harder than it has all day, Saracens enter a ruck from the side, and Saints kick to touch, clearly wanting the try points more than to just keep level. The lineout is won, and Saracens infringe again, this time, not releasing the player. Grayson points at the posts this time, a much closer shot, and knocks it over. 13-13 now.

Through the middle of a midfield ruck, Wadleton darts through, but gets brought down. Saracens are forced into phase play, looking for opportunities to attack and exploit the holes in the defence of Northampton. The Saints force the turn over, but lose it again to the Saracens who are attacking right back at them. Saints eventually win the penalty for a Saracens player not releasing. We stop for an injury and it looks a serious one as the stretcher is wheeled out. The referee blows for half time and play comes to a stop.

An unfortunate injury to Adams brings on Hughes, as well as Moody substituted for Munday, and play restarts. Saints set up a driving maul and make up ground.  A clearing kick bounces over the deadball line, but advantage was being played, so Saints still maintain possession and take a lineout in the Sarries 22. The maul is difficult for the saints but Segun darts for the line, only to be held up short. The Saints look to go wide, but butcher a 3 on 1 overlap. McKibbin keeps running the ball into contact, but a kick into the space finds only the deadball line. Shortly the Saints have another penalty after the 22 drop out, and go for the lineout, deep in the 22. The ball is cleared and the Saints push into the Saracens half again. Northampton lose possession, and Saracens gain no advantage, so a scrum on the Saracens 10m line. Saracens make use of the possession, but get penalised. From the penalty, Grayson kicks a glorious touch-finder deep in the Sarries 22. Sub King for Lester.

Saints have another penalty, the count building now, and Grayson shoots the goal. 13-16 to the defending champions.

 Scrappy play from both sides in the now relatively heavy rain, and Saints look the stronger, forcing penalties of the Saracens defenders. Patton and another player come off for Lennon and Ramsey.

Saints set a driving maul from a lineout and have a free play, but a forward pass brings them back for a penalty attempt at goal. Grayson dutifully slots the kick, and brings the score to 13-19.

The tight play favours the Saints, and they turn over ball quick rapidly. However, the common issues of handling problems have persisted all day, and a Saints knock on gives Saracens the attacking play. A later penalty gives them the attacking lineout on the 5m line, but Saints defend it, until even the backs swarm in to push the maul forward and the try is awarded. Who to, we don’t know, but Malins lines up the kick. It looks good … BUT hits the crossbar! Saracens 18 – 19 Northampton. Try is awarded to Walker.

The play continues to be scrappy, and a Saracens boxkick to touch from Lennon goes straight out. The depressing sound of an air horn blows across the field, sounding much like a mournful cow. Saints attack and look dangerous, but Cox gets isolated and turned over. The ball gets chipped back to Saints, but after four phases, the knock on comes.

Subs: Dickinson Earl for Longhurst and Moon for Trinder. Byrne and Painter come on for Eveleigh and Jeannot.

Saracens clear from the scrum, and Northampton attack the lines. A kick from Grayson goes into touch directly, coming back for the Saracens lineout on the halfway line.

Another penalty against the Saints gives a lineout on the 22, with Sarries substituting Earl and Brownhill for Hughes and Brooks. The attack from the lineout pushes the Sarries just over the 22, but a knock on in play gives a chance for Saints to regroup. Although the ball is won, a midfield knock on by Hamilton gives the ball back to Saracens.

Saracens pressure the line, moving the defence first left and then right, allowing Grayson to dive in the corner. 

The conversion is missed, but the score is now 23-19 to the home side.

Saints substitute again, emptying the bench, Cox and Hamilton, for Marmion and T. Segun.

Saints turn over from Saracens open play, and rush at the lines, running hard and hitting the home side in the fringes, working left and right. Saints are forced to slow phase play but changing lines with the speed of R. Segun. But a knock on by Cardall brings proceedings to a close.

The champions of the Aviva Premiership Under 18 League are Saracens, winning with the score of 23 to 19.

Saracens Malins has been playing a blinder today, as has R. Segun. The running lines of both players and the kicking game of Malins, combined with the out and out pace of Segun put both of them make it to the Ones to Watch list.

As a super bonus for getting this far, I have the match reaction from both Mark Hopley and Donald Barrell HERE!

Aviva Premiership Under 18 League Finals Day. Game 2 of 3. Bath vs Leicester

Our second offering for the day features Bath against Leicester, in an old rivalry which surely has been passed down by the senior members of the club. Leicester have reverted to the old ways, and gone with letters on their shirts instead of the common number system. Mixed reactions on social media about this, mostly in favour. Particularly for me, since it's easy to write down a different system for different teams!

 Bath kick off through the boot of Waters, and Leicester fail to take it cleanly. Bath win the scrum, but Leicester counter well, winning a penalty as Hastings fails to release the ball.

Leicester’s Odogwu has some real pace, and rushes down the wing. An off load to Galletly, then onto Hills starts the next phase well, but is fumbled in the tackle. Leicester take a later lineout and both teams look to assert some dominance early on. A knock on by Bath in the midfield stops play for a scrum, as we notice Giordan Murphy running about with a Hydration bib on. Leicester’s Thacker is down, so we take a breather. Bath appear to have some dominance at scrum time, but Leicester pick the ball up to go blind. Bath win the lineout, but are turned over as Thacker rips the ball out of his opposite man’s hands. A cross field kick to the winger and he takes some stopping. The ball makes it back to Thacker; he spots a gap and runs in for the try! Sutton misses the conversion so the score remains 5-0 to Leicester. The younger brother of Harry and son of Troy (both hookers) is not looking out of place in this game so far.

A second try for Thacker is ruled out as the last pass to him goes forward, but our referee was playing advantage for a side entry at the driving maul against Bath, so we go for the lineout. Nearly won by Leicester, but a knock on by the receiver means a Bath scrum right against their posts. The pass to B10 goes forward along the ground, so Leicester have the put in 5m out. Leicester are far more frantic to attack the line, and Bath struggle to defend the gaps. Thacker nearly runs in again, but he passes to the waiting arms of no-one into touch. Bath clear their lines and the Leicester backs literally run into each other to get the ball. Bath are forced to a sub, Vecchio’s coming on for Blackmore. Restarting with a Bath penalty for a side entry. Leicester’s backs are putting immense pressure on their Bath counterparts, forcing Hastings to juggle a ball he could have easily called a mark for. The rain is coming down harder though, so we may see a change in playing styles later on.

Leicester’s forwards are still showing signs of dominance, pushing back Bath with rucks and mauls pressuring their defence. An eventual penalty for a high tackle brings play to a stop and Leicester aim for touch. The driving maul that follows on from the lineout gets a second drive and powers over the line for Hills to score. Converted by Sutton, now 12-0 to Leicester.

Leicester don’t want to give up their pressure and attack for all their might. A loose pass finds its way back into Bath hands, but an isolated player leads to a turn over. Leicester keep attacking until a penalty comes to the tigers. Bath’s captain, Bayliss, gets a talking to, and Leicester opt for the points on offer. Now 15-0 to the Tigers, and boy is it soggy here now!

Bath are forced into another sub, Smith on for Ransom after another injury. Leicester now in Bath’s 22 are trying to drive on with a rolling maul, but Bath are not going down easy. A later phase of play is interrupted by Bath using their hands at the ruck, and Worth kicks to the corner. Lineout goes well, and Leicester clear wide, getting the ball to Odogwu who scores the third try for the Tigers. The conversion goes wide, so the score remains 20-0.

Rees looks to be attempting to run through like Rokogunduni, and the Bath patience is rewarded with a penalty.  Far more Bath supporters here in Barnet, but happy to watch their boys run towards the Tigers line. Having said that, poor hands and a slow pass means Odoguwu is able to snipe the ball, rushing under the posts for his second. Sutton takes the conversion, so the score now 27-0 to Leicester.  

Scrums are far less frequent during this game as, both teams seem to want to run the advantage instead, but the handling errors are creeping in just before half time. Our half time score Leicester 27: Bath 0

Leicester have made a sub at half time, Duffield, appearing to be playing as a fly-half. Leicester are keen to press home their advantage, scoring another try through the power of the forwards and the hands of Sutton, who dutifully converts his own try. 34-0

Leicester fail to take the restart cleanly and Bath have the put in for the scrum. Famous last words just before half time about handling errors.

Bath win the scrum and kick for territory deep in the 22. Leicester clear after winning the lineout but a stray Bath hand means the Tigers take possession again.

Despite a Leicester shove on the scrum, Bath take it away and Waters runs through the gap. Isolated, he attempts a chip through, but is charged down. Leicester kick it back but are penalised for pushing a man out the way. Bath sub Shrestha and MacKenzie for Dabell and Kelly respectively as the lineout takes place.

Leicester win the lineout through a knock on by Bath, and push back up field, turning over the Bath men, running some fabulous lines, leading to a try by Poole. Sutton shoots just inside the right hand post and scores. 41-0. Bath sub Oghre and Martin on for Morris-Mean and Graham.

Frost takes a quick penalty and attacks Leicester, gaining advantage as he’s tackled by an offside player. Bath kick to touch and Leicester make subs whilst we wait. Duffield goes off for Simmons, with his arm in a sling. Bath win the lineout and set the driving maul. Speedy hands off the back pass out to Frost to score, and Waters converts. 41-7 

Bath are keen to avenge the scoreline, and seem to be challenging far harder at rucks and mauls. The handling, however, is still causing some problems from both sides, as the ball is spilt into touch. Leicester’s lineout is won, but a penalty for playing on the floor gives it back to Bath. Bath now have a lineout 7m out of the Leicester try line. The lineout works well for them, and after a long ruck, the ball fizzes out wide, for Rees to score a try. Conversion taken but missed by 22. 41-12 to Leicester.

Leicester sub Harvey and Evitt for Grimes and Green, though I’m not sure who is on for who.

Leicester find some extra ferocity and attack the Bath defences, looking to make back some points. Worth receives a pass at his boot and drops it, though advantage was being played, so no damage done. The kick is aimed to touch for another lineout, this time 10m out of the Bath try line. Bath defend well, and eventually turn it over, breaking towards the 10m line, before being pushed into touch.

Leicester force another lineout further down field, and go long, but the ball goes loose in the back, cleared by Bath for a third lineout in as many  minutes for Leicester. It goes too long and open, Bath kick it into the arms of Yawayawa, who runs it and feeds it through his backs. The breakdown gets turned but Bath knock on, letting Leicester put into the scrum. A free kick lets Leicester attack immediately, until the defence of Bath brings a maul and the game to a stop.

Full time score Bath 12 – Leicester 41. Our third place team for the Under 18 league is Leicester Tigers. Congratulations to them!

Ones to watch – Charlie Thacker. He has a family name rich in Tiger blood, but he has the potential to be his own man, devastating when he gains his last few inches and gets his first stripe. Watch out for this boy, the cub has claws!

Listen to Brett Deacon's post match reaction here!

Aviva Premiership Under 18 League Finals Day. Game 1 of 3. Exeter vs Gloucester

Gloucester Vs Exeter

1pm kick-off – 5^th/6^th play off

Our first match from Allianz Park comes as the 5^th and 6^th place play off. The way the Under 18 league works is a two conference system, split by north and south. Our top three teams play against the team in the other conference as a play off, leaving the league as competitive as possible, right to the end. As such, Exeter will play Gloucester, Leicester against Bath and the champions, Northampton, will play Saracens in a repeat of last year’s Premiership final. One flaw for the timings is the Under 18’s international season plays in parallel, so some of the international stars, like Harry Mallinder, are away, giving some of the understudies a chance to show off under the spotlight.

The Northern conference:

1. Northampton Saints
2. Leicester Tigers
3. Gloucester
4. Newcastle Falcons
5. Worcester Warriors
6. Sale Sharks
7. Yorkshire Carnigie

The Southern conference:

1. Saracens
2. Bath
3. Exeter
4. Wasps
5. London Irish
6. Harlequins
7. Bristol

As a special treat for you all, I have attached a link to a post-match interview on all three of these match reports, teamed with the pictures I’ve taken as the day went on. Each match has the winning team’s coach giving his reaction to the game. I also like to write my match to help you visualise the match, so I’ve written it as play went on.

Our first game is Gloucester vs Exeter, and having just watched the toss, Exeter will kick off towards the southern end of Allianz Park. The pitch conditions are… well they’re identical for all three matches with the 4G pitch ready for action and not showing any signs of the wear and tear you’d expect after a colossal Premiership clash. The weather may play a part as the day goes on, but for now, the sun is hiding behind a cloud and light rain is intermittently falling.

But for the last round of games, these two teams would have been playing in the next match for the 3^rd and 4^th place, but such is the way with competitive rugby, it all changes in the blink of an eye.

A fairly empty Allianz Park on a Monday lunchtime kick off, but we’re looking forward to watching what these two teams can do. These first 70 minutes will set the tone.

KO goes loose, covered by Lloyd-Jones, cleared by Dee. LO to Exeter on the half way line.

Knock On by Exeter gives the first scrum to Gloucester. Serville loses his footing, scrum reset.

A few early handling errors from Gloucester, Exeter are making them pay. No advantage for a knock on goes back to an Exeter scrum. A strong Exeter shove and Matthews powers through, but after some phases, Exeter knock on, for another Gloucester scrum. Penalty for Exeter at scrum time as Serville slips his bind to the arm, and pulls his opposite man down. McFarlane lines up the shot and the dink of the outside post signifies the miss.

Matthews showing some real pace and footwork, as does Tyler, as they combine to gain 50 yards. Sadly a high pass to Janes goes forward just outside the Gloucester 22. Serville is struggling to support his own weight, and the scrum is turned over. As Exeter press, Gloucester come offside, so advantage played until the ball is dropped. Exeter opt for the LO this time, 8m out.

Exeter look to be pressing their advantage, but after a long string of phases, Gloucester make them nervous, eventually forcing a penalty. Good defence from the Cherry and Whites. 

Gloucester win the LO through Reynolds, who runs through a gap. Exeter intercept the pass but are offside, so penalty to Gloucester and a first shot at goal. Like his opposite man, the shot is missed by Dee.

Exeter are showing some real pace early on, and slick handling, plus a knock on by Gloucester push them up field. Another scrum though as Exeter knock on near Gloucester’s 10metre line. Rain is still falling on the teams, as a Gloucester free kick pushes them forward. Even further when Exeter are not 10.

Gloucester push on, but an injury to Maunder stops play. Fox comes on in his place as a blood sub.

Gloucester LO and the Cherry and Whites explode along the right wing (From where I’m sitting) Thornley and Tonks combining nicely, but a knock on in the last pass goes loose for a Chiefs scrum. A poor pass from Fox forces McFarlane to make a right footed punt into touch to clear his lines. The LO is not straight, so Chiefs opt to scrum. After Exeter successfully clear the lines, Gloucester attack  before a charged kick is forced to touch. Chiefs attack from the lineout and push on towards the Gloucester try line.

Try! Matthews scores the opening points, brushing off three tacklers in the process. Great show of power, but little favours for Fox, who misses his conversion.

Loose hands and a slippery ball are doing no favours for the backs today. Exeter are hording the possession but keep dropping it, allowing Gloucester chances to counter. Unfortunately for Gloucester, the issues goes both ways and a dominant Exeter scrum is not helping them.

Free kick given to the Cherries and they advance, pushing the Chiefs to defensive positions. Unfortunately, the defenders stray offside and Gloucester opt to kick at goal. Dee has a short run up, but neatly punts it over the line.

After the restart, Gloucester show some slick hands, including a “between the legs” pass by Creed. Thorley and Barbarinsa push on, gaining 50m, but the pass between Barbarinsa and his support goes forward, giving the ball back to the Chiefs.

The change for Exeter is looking more permanent by the minute. Only 15 minutes are allowed to sort a blood sub, and he’s been on for a while.

Barbarinsa shows some slippery movements, but gets caught on the Exeter 22, knocking on for his troubles. Appearing to be in some pain, he stays down as Exeter attempt to attack the reduced team. A high pass stops a potential over lap and the ball gets worked into touch. The lineout is taken by Chiefs and after some speculative play, Matthews knocks on under the high ball, ending the first half. 5-3, Exeter lead.

Second half, Gloucester seem to have been given a good pep talk, as they press on to a 5m lineout. Exeter clear their lines though, and a race is on. Gloucester win it and attempt to push back up field. Few changes for Exeter are noted. Papp and Putt are on the field, Bayet and McFarlane are absent. Gloucester are unchanged. A kick to touch goes straight out for Exeter, so Gloucester take the driving maul at the lineout. It’s held up however, so Exeter take the scrum, a real battle for the forwards today.

Exeter fail to release, and Dee lines up his kick, duly slotting it between the posts.  5-6 to the Cherry and Whites. Brown comes on for Matthews, possibly for a PSCA, he looks a little woozy.

Off the back of a scrum, Creed forces his way through a gap, taking two Chiefs with him. Front rows combine well, with Mullis and Serville breaking down the mid field. Barbarinsa looks to be away at an intercept, but advantage is being played for Gloucester. Walker is subbed on for Lloyd-Jones.

Gloucester’s scrum looks to be stronger, and they advance out wide through the backs. A forward pass ends the play, just as they looked to score. Sub – Churcher on for Bassett. We pause as Exeter’s Chapman comes on for the injured Tyler, and slots in on the right wing.

A charge down from Gloucester has pushed the Chiefs into a lineout deep in their 22. A second clearing kick gets touched in flight, and the Chiefs take another lineout. Safe subs on for Reynolds.

Gloucester seem to have fixed their first half scrum woes, but not their handling skills, as a lovely passage of play is stopped by yet another knock on. Chiefs clear their lines, and Gloucester kick directly into touch. Lineout won by Chiefs, and they press on, until a Gloucester falls off his feet at the ruck.

Flowing rugby is few and far between today, but both Chiefs and Gloucester string phases together until Gloucester infringe at a ruck, allowing a kick at goal for Putt. 8-6 to the Chiefs in an entertainingly tight game.  

Spoke too soon about the scrum issues, as Gloucester slip on the pitch. Chiefs eventually win the scrum, and Sixton presses for the line, only to be stopped by a pair of Gloucester defenders who are offside. Putt happily kicks the points, widening the gap between the two sides. Exeter 11, Gloucester 6.

Shortly after the restart, Gloucester are penalised for handling in the ruck. From just inside their half, Exeter’s captain confidently points at the posts. No pressure for young Putt, though it drops short of the posts, and the counterattack is on. Gloucester’s forwards and backs working well together to advance, but another handling error gives the ball back to the Chiefs, before it’s cleared away. The lineout throw from Gloucester is not straight, so the Chiefs take the scrum. Old style scrummaging, as it turns out as it’s hooked back, and the Chiefs attack again.

Safe takes the ball off the back of the scrum, and rushes up field, before a chip ahead shows his all-round skills.

A series of phases passes the ball back and forth, but a chip by Gloucester kicks to touch, and our referee blows for full time, and Exeter celebrate their win over the Cherry and Whites 11-6. The game hasn’t been one for the ages, but the cold and wet weather will have ensured that flowing play would have been difficult. Congratulations however to Exeter Chiefs, our Under 18 5^th place winners.

Listen to the reaction of Exeter's forwards coach, Sam Walton here!

Now, one final thought.

The Premiership does not give out a man of the match award, or at least one that is announced to the public. So for each of these games, I have selected at least one player from each game to be one to watch in the future.

Ones to watch:

Terrance Barbarinsa - His out and out pace, small body and nimble footwork remind me of Christian Wade. As young as he is, he’ll be a big part of Gloucester’s game play if he can break through the ranks.

Declan Matthews -  His barrelling runs and strengths put him in a similar league as Billy Vunipola and Samu Manoa. Expect big things from this young man.

Northampton Saints Vs Wasps LV round 4 review

For the first time today, I entered Franklins Garden’s and headed not to my usual seat in S block, but along to the media room. I had been invited to watch the LV cup fixture between the Saints and Wasps from up on the media bench. To say I was excited would be understated. Not least because the fixture had somewhat of a derby feel. The first fixture between the Saints and Wasps since their move to Coventry, and since the defeat at Adam’s park back in September, gave birth to a new Midlands derby. Hopefully, we will come to love these fixtures as we do the East Midlands derby, and today was the first step towards that. When last these two teams met at the Gardens, Wasps had one eye on their European Champions Cup knock outs, and fielded a weakened team, who summarily were beaten senseless by the Saints who were aiming for a home semi-final.

This time around, both teams were hoping for a semi-final in a different competition. It was a must win for both teams, with a full dependence on the Cardiff v Leicester fixture deciding the fate of the other team in their pool. A win by Cardiff would have eliminated the Saints, and similarly, Leicester’s victory would have ruled out Wasps. The planning gods seemed to conspire against today’s fixture as the second Cardiff fixture of the weekend started half an hour before the Northampton kick off.

Now, bare with me through this. I have experimented with a style of match reporting. And sadly, I could not include the post match interviews I was privy to in this post, however, they will come soon! Promise!!

 The team sheet revealed a debut for Ahsee Tuala, the latest fullback called into Northampton ranks, and much excitement around the big man was expected. Seen here taking a ball during warm up, he looked like he was fired up and ready to commit to the cause.

  

A mixed experience squad for both sides had a stronger bench, ready to make an impact when they were needed. Just prior to kick off, a murmur went around the crowd about the half time score from Cardiff. Leicester were 9-15 up against the Blues, but this fact was not communicated to the players. They knew they had a job to do, and the other results were out of their hands.

The pitch conditions were relatively dry, but very cold and soft underfoot. The grass was also cut very short, but the squads seemed reasonably comfortable to go ahead.

Throughout the match, I made notes according to a timeline as the game played out, mostly due to the cold freezing my right hand!

Wasps kicked off, straight down the throat of Tuala. The Samoan’s first touch was to clear the ball fifty meters into touch, much to the satisfaction of the crowd.

1: Wasps took the lineout, but referee Steve Lee penalised the Saints for pulling the arm in the air. Lozowski cleared to touch and a second lineout took place, settling into a driving maul. Wasps targeted the midfield to attack, but a Varndell knock on brought the attack to a halt.

3: Northampton’s scrum showed the teachings from the England camp, with Corbisiero showing the “Tower of Power” excellently.

4: Wasps penalty. As I was praising Corbs, he was spotted to be driving at an angle and penalised by Lee.

5: Lozowski has no hesitation in taking the points and slots the penalty easily. 0-3

As Olver restarts, the Wasps knock on, and the ball is recovered by Fotuali’i. A phase of attacking play is disrupted as Olver slipped and the ball goes loose backwards.

6: The ensuing ruck is cleared by a Fotuali’I box kick into touch. However the Saints steal the ball from the following lineout.

7: TRY for the Saints, and on debut, Tuala dots down in the corner. A series of clever running lines and fancy footwork from Stephenson, followed by a cheeky offload led to Tuala’s first try with his second touch.

8: Olver converts from the corner, bringing the score to 7-3

11: A passage of midfield play runs smoothly, a cry of crossing goes up. Lee ignores the calls though, as the infringement made not material effect to the game. As Wasps attack, solid Northampton defence eventually force a knock on from Wasps. Immediately before the scrum, Wasps substitute.  Bassett and Yapp leave the field, replaced by Eastwell and McIntyre respectively.

12: Northampton win the scrum and a game of kick tennis follows. Eventually, Tuala clears forward, the ball claimed by K. Pisi. But Wasps force the ball into touch.

13: Wasps in their own line out, and Thompson demonstrates his power, smashing through the midfield. The ball is cleared to the Northampton 10m line, won by the Saints.

16: Varndell tries to make some barnstorming runs, but K. Pisi covers him well. An eventual penalty for Wasps is given for sealing off the ball, but the kick fails to find touch and bounces into the in goal area. Saints take a 22 drop out.

18: A Wasps line out frees up Varndell to run around K. Pisi, forcing himself towards the try line. His break is ended by a chip ahead covered well by Elliott, and cleared by Fotuali’i. Another Wasps line out is passed out to Varndell, who offloads to Lindsay. His clear run down field gains Wasps 30 metres and Wasps look dangerous.

20: Another penalty for Wasps, following an offside infringement from Denman, offers easy points for Lozowski to kick. 7-6

21: Pressure from the restart force Wasps to knock on, and the Saints attack with advantage. The attack ends with a penalty for the Saints for an offside infringement. The penalty is taken from a similar spot as the penalty Lozowski just scored. Olver converts the points, the score is now 10-6.

24: As play resumes, an eventual box kick from Fotuali’i goes directly into touch, giving Wasps the lineout on the halfway line. During yet another injury time, I notice Dia Young and Andy Goode further along my bench looking stoic as ever.

25: Wasps win the lineout and set the driving maul. A penalty is given to Wasps as a Saints player runs in from the side, resulting in a kick to the corner.

26: Before the lineout, Corbisiero is substituted for Waller. The Lion appears to be limping but nothing is confirmed as of yet.

28: Wasps gain a penalty as Ryder doesn’t release his player after a tackle, and Lozowski kicks to touch.

I managed to capture a passage of play on video around the 30th minute, so I think I'd rather show you than talk about it.

32: Northampton take a penalty after a Wasps scrum is penalised for standing up under pressure. The lineout is taken on the halfway line, but Craig, on return from a long injury layoff, fumbles backwards, picked up by Wasps.

34: Another scrum penalty to Northampton after McIntyre is spotted not driving straight. Olver clears for a lineout in Wasps 22.

36: TRY Northampton. Dowson scores after a well worked move, with some lovely running lines leading the way. Olver converts, the score now 17-6.

Alex Waller trots onto the pitch as waterboy for the day, encouraging his brother and his teammates.

37: A restart to Fotuali’I pushes for a lineout, and referee Lee seems to be impatient with Wasps taking their time to join the lineout.

38: Wasps on the attack again, but Varndell’s long miss-pass finds only touch. Dickinson takes the lineout and offloads to Fotuali’i. His box kick pushes Wasps back, and a knock on, followed by a half volley, gains 10 metres for the Saints. Daly tries to clear and his kick finds Pisi, who runs it back into the midfield.

40: Wasps apply pressure, but eventually concede the penalty. Saints kick to touch and the teams run into the warmth of the changing rooms.

Halftime and the score is 17-6 to Northampton. The news next to me is the Cardiff/Leicester score stands at 9-27. As it stands, the Saints would qualify for the knock outs.

As time ticks on during the half time, the Tigers score further, all but guaranteeing the semi-finals for Northampton. If they do make the semis, the Saints will certainly be playing away.

40: Teams are back out, and the match resumes, with Olver kicking to start. The ball bounces on, and eventually crosses the line, giving a 22 drop out for Wasps.

41: A second Olver kick ends up bouncing over the goal line, but this time goes all the way, and goes back for a scrum on the Wasps 10metre line.

43: Two restarts later, and the Saints win the scrum against the head. They go wide, and push for the line. A ruck in the 22 presents the ball for Fotuali’i, who kicks over the top to be gathered by Elliott. He dives over the line, and gives the Saints a welcome gap from the Wasps. Olver moves the advertising boards to line up his kick from outwide, not helped by Elliott not going in field. The kick goes wide and the score stands at 22-6.

46: A passage of play leading to Pisi kicking the ball out to touch shows that both teams are still willing to play and contest. One Wasps lineout is stolen by Dowson, then a second (immediately after the kick) leads to a knock on. Northampton’s scrum is so dominant, another penalty comes for the men in green. Olver clears for touch, and a lineout near the Wasps 5 metre line puts them under pressure.

48: TRY Northampton. The lineout is taken cleanly, and a blistering run from Waldouck ends just shy of the try line. However, Fotuali’i is far quicker than any Wasps defender and darts over the line to score.  Olver’s conversion nips over, the score now 29-6.

50: Wasps ring the changes, switching Lindsay, Taylor and Rowlands for Festuccia, Cooper-Woolley and Myall.

52: After some more excellent ball skills from Tuala, Myall demonstrates his strength and pushes through the Saints defensive line, gaining 40 metres.

53: News breaks from the chap next to me that the Tigers have won, gaining a home semi-final. Simultaneously, this eliminates Wasps from contention. The Saints subs start to strip off, but the defence is needed first off to protect the line. Four phases of play, and the defence pays off as Fotuali’i intercepts, breaking away with Pisi in hot pursuit. The play is broken by Denman entering a ruck from the side, so Wasps kick to touch.

54: Saints sub Williams and Craig for Haywood and Woolford. Both players have had a great game and will be expected to play a part for Saints next week against London Irish. The Wasps lineout leads to a strong attack, but a try saving tackle by Waldouck must frustrate the men in Yellow.

55: Varndell appears livid as a four on two overlap goes unnoticed by Jackson. Had it been noticed, Varndell would have been certainly been in for the try.

56: A Wasps knock on leads to a Northampton scrum as both teams substitute again. For the Saints, Ma’afu and Nutley come on for Denman and Harrison, whilst Wasps bring on Hughes for Miller, with Lozowski going to fullback. A light rain starts to fall, as the Saints put into the scrum. A few resets later and Dickinson darts out the back.

59: Elliott knocks on the air and the ball runs into touch. Wasps opt for the lineout, but another penalty following the lineout to Wasps ends any Northampton attack. In the break, Northampton bring on Day and G Pisi for Fotuali’i and Stephenson, both of which have shown their skill today.

60: A Saints lineout near the 5 metre line turns into a rolling maul, which is stopped by Wasps then turned over for a scrum. Wasps gain a free kick for an early engage from the Saints, but opt for the scrum again. Gash takes a seat as Wasps bring on Walsh. The next scrum results in a penalty for Wasps as Waller is penalised for his driving angle. Wasps kick to the corner.

64: The lineout is won by Wasps and they go on the attack. Another penalty for Wasps is given for a Saints player falling off his feet. The next lineout is won by Wasps and they set the maul. It drops to ground, and Hughes spots a dogleg in the Saints defence, he charges through, and gains significant ground. Wasps attempt to kick ahead, but Dickinson pretends he is a basketballer and stretches to pinch the ball.

67: Myall shows his strength again as he darts through a gap, but as he is tackled, he drops the ball, and Waldouck clears to touch.

69: Both teams empty their benches, bringing on Hooley for Olver and Hughes for Young.

70: Varndell demonstrates his experience and speed, targeting the overlap on the Saints right wing. However, a try saving tackle from Day slides him into touch. Dickinson wins the lineout, but the play breaks down scrappily, eventually cleared by Day.

71: Pressure from the Saints forces a knock on by Wasps, leading to a free kick as the Wasps front row infringe. Opting for the scrum, Saints win the penalty as Cooper-Woolley collapses. The lineout is taken 10 metres out. Woolford takes the ball cleanly, and Saints have advantage. No advantage is gained, and Saints kick to the corner for a lineout.

75: The resulting lineout is taken by Ryder and sets up a maul. Unfortunately, Haywood fumbles forward at the back, so the scrum goes to Wasps. It is cleared from the back, and Northampton win the following lineout. However the ball is turned over in the loose but the Saints force the Coventry men backwards and into touch.

77: Wasps steal the lineout, but a pass to Varndell goes forward. Saints win the scrum and go wide, but get penalised for not releasing the ball. Wasps go for the lineout as we go into the last minute.

79: N. Hughes wins the ball at the lineout, but a clash of heads stops play as Dowson goes down. He gets back to his feet though, and Wasps put into the scrum. However, as the game goes into the last play, Saints defence knocks the ball out of Wasps hands, ending the game.

Final score: Northampton 29 – 6 Wasps.

The Man of the Match goes to Khan Fotuali’I for his clever kicking, interception, and his quick thinking to score the try, but it could easily have been given to Ahsee Tuala. His debut was stunning, endearing himself to the fans very quickly with his big kicking boot and his early try.

  Samoan Strength Shine for Saints 

Now, having seen the Saracens fixture against Exeter, the Saints will now go away to Allianz Park for their semi-final, a reversal of last year’s LV cup semi-final, and the same line up as last year’s final. 

5 Things We Learnt in the Wolfhounds V Saxons game

Five things we have learnt from the Wolfhounds v Saxons game.

A game for the ages this was not. A cold and wet encounter in Cork made for a slow, stodgy fixture between the A sides of England and Ireland. There are some key things that we have learnt in the eighty minutes or so that were played. I've picked out my top five things we have learnt, and here they are.

1. Ireland uses their second string far better than England. 

Ireland had a far greater mix of experience in their squad. With fully capped players of D'Arcy, Madigan, and O'Brien, to name but a few, the general feeling is Ireland were testing their players to see if they were ready to control the game during the Six Nations. I've spoken before about how the Saxons system needs to be changed. Madigan is likely to step into the 10 jersey when the Six Nations kick off, and the test gives the Irish selectors an idea of what he can do for the team until Sexton gets back off of the medical bench. Meanwhile England have two completely different squads, and only when injury demands it do the players move between one or the other. You see players slip down and climb up between selections but actually, what does it accomplish? A far better system would be to expand the training squad to forty and allow some of the fringe players, the Cipriani's and the Wigglesworth's in the squad, to play and state a claim. That way, they get to see everyone at once, train together, test combinations. 

There should be more games too for the A teams. During the LV cup is a perfect time to trial a Saxons group. A fixture in the winter and one in the summer against the Barbarians is ludicrous, so why not use the LV weekends to test the Saxons against some of paths Premierships best? At least Ireland are experimenting to prepare for the Six Nations, whilst England are putting a mixture of youth and experience in a development squad. Lee Dickson at 29 is getting on, and should be at a point where he is either in the full squad or let to one side in favour of blooding the younger players, looking ahead to beyond this World Cup.

2. When the "feeding" is policed correctly, the scrums actually complete.

On the topic of Dickson, where has the sudden penalising of feeding come from? Yes, a few occasions where it did happen, the referee penalised it, but he did not watch it consistently, which therefore annoyed the players. To do it on the first scrum is madness. The progression to full penalty is correct, but unless every feed is watched and measured against the movement of the scrum, what is the point? The big success story was that the scrums did not collapse until late into the second half. Whilst the policing of the feed wasn't always correct, the engagement process was policed correctly and that stopped it going down. A scrum feed being penalised was startling, but seeing a scrum complete was more wonderful to watch. It's a positive step forward. 

3. Burgess isn't ready.

"Saxons win as Burgess debuts." A headline on a rugby website. Why?! If anyone watched the game, they would have seen Burgess actually was completely ineffective. D'Arcy completely nullified any impact he could have made and his handling skills were poor. To get around him in some instances, Slade went for a loop pass to Daly. Pennell seemed to be getting himself out of position to act as a second receiver throughout the game. The hype about Burgess may be based on a fine athlete but a rugby union player he is not. He was compared to Ashton, and that is very different. Ashton had a full season in the Championship with Northampton before he started at Premiership level, and then he had a couple of seasons before he started at international level. Burgess has been rushed, and it is not deserved. It's not fair to him either, I think he'll watch the game back and be fully aware he was not ready. Yes, it's his ninth game of Union and we shouldn't judge him with the same level as the other players. With the sane brush, it's his ninth game of union! What possible reason is there for him to be in the Saxons when there are so many good players who would quite reasonably be miffed that they couldn't show off because of the hype for one man. He's also been called into train for two days with England. Absolutely no justification unless the RFU have put some money into Burgess to bring him across. I would not say for a moment that that is the case, but it seems strange to bring him into the mix for England, citing his rugby education as the reason. Why not leave him at Bath to play in the LV cup? Let him get some club form together, then think about the international scene. I think the World Cup will come too soon for him.

4. Doors not closed on Pennell, and for good reason.

One of the shining stars of Worcester's terrible season was Chris Pennell. He was nominated for  player of the season, and he remains loyal to his club. He surely had a ton of loan offers but he opted to stay at Worcester. The tour of New Zealand let the England coaches see what he can do, even if it was a cameo for the A side against the Crusaders. He threw himself into the game, scored a decent try, and gave Lancaster his number. His call up to the Saxons showed how he can be used and is still one of the best full backs in the business. His position of loyalty will not be lost on Lancaster, and so the door remains open for him. His showing in this game was a welcome surprise to those who don't look at the championship very often. His dedication to the cause had him as a second receiver on both sides of Slade to give the option and cover for Burgess. His kicking option is useful and he has a great turn of pace, and his handling isn't bad either. With Foden injured and Watson acting as a winger, he rises up the pecking order for fullbacks. Watch out for this one. 

5. Slade and Daly can spark England's midfield.

These two players were electric. Daly's kicking cannon and Slade's versatility to cover centre and fly half mean they would be welcome additions to the England team. And with the centre injuries and Farrell's knee, Slade has been summoned up. Any further injuries would see Daly joining the squad as well, and it certainly would be helpful to have a man who can knock the ball over from anywhere in the 60 or so metres. His running lines are sublime, but his biggest fault in the match was not looking to pass to Yarde, who would have almost certainly scored. The point is, Slade dictated the game cleverly and used his backs effectively, despite his tender years, and shares with Daly a versatility that may hamper them in some teams but means they thrive in their Premiership clubs. They slot into whatever role they are needed and they stand out when they do.

So here's to a fabulous Six Nations!