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Exeter Chiefs feature in the Times - Graeme Simmonds

Exeter Chiefs are the team everybody wanted to beat the drop last year , they played some fantastic 10 man rugby and picked up some monster wins , but this season has seen a slow start

The Chiefs have struggled to put it blunt. There we are struggled followed by a full stop , surely that’s the chiefs start summed up? Ask anybody with in an ears shot of EX2 7NN if Exeter will beat the drop and the answer is yes. None so much more than Simon Shaw , the brute lock made the journey to Exeter in the summer from London Wasps and has said that he would of left by now if Exeter were looking like going down. Exeter are a underdog club , they thrive under pressure last year they beat the likes of Leicester ,Leeds , Northampton , Quins and London Wasps at home but didn’t get the first win till mid November so there’s not really any worry in the squad and were looking forward to hosting Gloucester this weekend

So be warned Gloucester , the Devon destroyer joined this week by the Clermont colossal in the engine room are waiting and ready for what is set to be game of the season.

High Scoring Leicester Give Fans Their Money's Worth

Leicester Tigers have started the season with a bang when it comes to tries. The League Table tells you they are the highest try scorers in the league with 22 tries in 7 games. A look through the list of try scorers tells you they have had 15 different try scorers in those 7 league games. Injured Clement Poitrenaud currently leads the tally at Tigers with 4 tries, backed up by Topsy Ojo, Isa Nacewa, Florian Fritz and Ernst Joubert who each have 2 tries apiece, and a further 10 players who have gone over once.

Added to that, Leicester also have the second best defensive record in terms of tries conceded, with 15 tries against in those 7 games, a record only bettered by Saracens so far this term. An average over the 9 games in all competitions of 29.55 points tells you Leicester are well worth their admission fee this year, and are treating their fans to some great games.

But Tigers still find themselves slightly off the pace at the top of the table, currently occupying the final playoff spot, and 9 points off current leaders Newcastle Falcons. It remains to be seen whether they can better last year's final placing of 6th, but if the stats are anything to go by, you wouldn't bet against them at this stage. Their game against London Irish at Welford Road this week, who themselves have scored 19 tries in 7 games, might be the game not to miss for the neutral this weekend.

IRISH LOOKING TO END WELFORD RUN

London Irish travel to Welford Road this weekend in high spirits and confident of ending Leicester Tigers impressive home run, according to manager stnick. Unbeaten in their last five games, Irish are starting to build momentum after a slow start to the season.

'We started poorly, there's no denying that, but we have won our last two league games and our last two LV games and have that spark back. We missed a lot of players during the World Cup but some players really impressed me like Sireli (Naqalevuki) and Keegan (Daniel) which is why they have continued to feature in the side despite some of the bigger names returning. Welford is always a tough place to go, but we have that momentum now and we fully believe we can win this one. Our scrum was immense against Bath and we will look for that dominance again this week. You have to beat Leicester upfront if you are to have any chance of winning, so that is what our aim is, get on top upfront and let our backs score the points. We have a great backline with bags of pace and power and given the platform they will score tries.'

Irish have recalled Sailosi Tagicakibau, Mouritz Botha, George Stowers, Bjorn Basson and Juan Martin Hernandez for the clash at Leicester, with Keegan Daniel, Dean Mumm, J.P Pieterson, Julien Dupuy and Paul Sackey dropping out. All Black Sonny Bill Williams also returns, but has to settle for a spot on the bench.

Leicester Tigers 'A' side beat Roslyn Park 42 - 15 in a one sided match at Roehampton.

01. Dan Murphy
02. Tom Youngs (1T)
03. Jason Hobson
04. Tom Denton
05. Dan Vickerman
06. Tom Armes
07. Matt Everard
08. Jordan Crane (c)

09. Scott Mathie
10. Dave Walder (3P, 4C)
11. Tom Biggs (1T)
12. Florian Fritz (1T)
13. Tim Molenaar
14. Rupeni Caucaunibuca (1T)
15. Mark van Gisbergen

16. Ryan Bower
17. Marc Jones
18. James Thraves
19. Pascal Pape
20. James Horwill
21. Joe Srokowski
22. Joe Cobden (1P)
23. Vincent Clerc (1T)

Tigers fielded a number of exciting yougnsters, including Tom Youngs who went over for a try, flanker Matt Everard and young half backs Joe Srokowski and Joe Cobden. The match also saw a return to the Tigers shirt for World Cup players Dan Vickerman, Pascal Pape, James Horwill and winger Vincent Clerc, who continued his rich vein of form when he went over for the final try of the game.

Attwood joins Saracens on Loan

Many in the media had been questioning why Dave Attwood had not been a regular fixture in the Northampton Saints side post World Cup and it became a lot clearer yesterday afternoon when Dave Attwood annnounced that he would be joining Saracens on loan until the new year.

"Saints and Sarries have always had a good relationship and quite a few players have switched clubs over the last few years - since Sheri and Dave Wilson left the club we'd been a bit short on front row cover, and I want to get some more game time under my belt, so the deal works out for everyone and I will enjoy watching Sarries in the Heineken Cup and then hooking up with them in training".

The move sees Matt Mullan and exciting young prospect George Kruis signing for Saints on loan until the end of January.

In other news, Jamie Elliot the England u20 wing scored four tries in an excellent display for Northampton 'A' as they demolished Bristol 67-9 at Franklins Gardens.

Saints to run out youngsters against Rovigo

It has emerged that Northampton Saints are expected to give game time to a host of young players against Rovigo next weekend with Henry Thomas, Mikey Haywood, Joe Launchbury, Calum Clark, Christian Wade and Jamie Elliot all expected to start.

Expected team:

1. Matt Stevens
2. Mikey Haywood
3. Henry Thomas
4. Bradley Davies
5. Patricio Albacete
6. Joe Launchbury
7. Liam Messam
8. Sergio Parisse
9. Joe Simpson
10. Danny Cipriani
11. Christian Wade
12. Matt Giteau
13. Manu Tuilagi
14. Jamie Elliot
15. Leigh Halfpenny

Tigers in Top Form for Trip to Gloucester

Leicester Tigers go into this week's game against Gloucester in scintillating form. Tigers have won 6 of their last 7 games, beating sides such as Harlequins, London Irish, Glasgow Warriors and Gloucester themselves - Tigers dispatched this week's opponents 32-23 only a few weeks ago.

In those 7 games, Tigers have averaged a staggering 33.6 points per game, with Topsy Ojo leading the try scoring charts.


Manager LukeLovesLuka said:

yes things are looking really good. We've been playing great rugby of late, and scoring a lot of points. I think we have scored more than 30 points in all but one of our last seven games. Confidence is high right throughout the squad, and competition for places is very strong right now.

Away to Gloucester is always a tough game, but we're more than ready for the challenge. We beat them comfortably a few weeks ago - they had the likes of Bakkies Botha, Palmer, Ferris and Schalk Burger in their pack then - so we certainly don't fear them.

It has all the makings for a great game of rugby, that's for sure. And we'll be doing our best to come home with the win.

Quins A smash Esher

The Quins 2nd string went try crazy on a inexperienced but physical Esher side this week at the Stoop. braces from Chilsholm, Gibson, Wallace and Edgerley gave Quins a flying first 60 and then a quick fire hattrick from sub Jack Clifford was the higlight of the last 20 mins.

1. Aston Croall
2. Rob Buchanan
3. Leo Halavatau
4. Sam Twomney
5. Charlie Matthews
6. Jamie Gibson
7. Luke Wallace
8. Sam Jones
9. Charlie Mulchrone
10. Sam Stuart
11. Sam Edgerley
12. Ross Chisholm
13. Chris Elder
14. Maddison Hughes
15. Olly Lindsey-Hague

16. Olly Hayes
17. Will Collier
18. Kyle Sinckler
19. George Merrick
20. Joe Trayfoot
21. Jack Clifford
22. Ryan Glynn
23. Alex Cheeseman

Exeter Chiefs team announced for Toulon

1.Alisdair Dickinson
2.John Smit
3.Hoani Tui
4.Flip Van Der Merwe
5.Juilian Pierre
6.Declan Danahar
7.Lewis Moody
8.Nick Easter
9.Byron Kelleher
10.Colin Slade
11.Iain Balshaw
12.Adam Powell
13.George Pisi
14.Horace Aguella
15.Ben Blair

Exeter Chiefs new signings impress in 'A' team outing

Exeter Chiefs unvailed the signing's of Wyatt Crockett , Nick Easter , Mike Tindall , Rory Clegg and Damian Varley along with the loan addition of Flip Van Der Merwe they all featured in this evenings 'A' team fixture against England Counties ahead of there games against Irish provinces Ulster Ravens and Leinster 'B'. Several Chiefs are being loaned out to the counties side for valuble match experience.

Exeter came away with a convincing 72 - 12 win.

1.Kieron Davies* (Wyatt Crockett)
2.Damian Varley
3.Matt Beaumont *
4.Tommy Hayes (c)
5.Flip Van Der Merwe (Michael Stupple*)
6.Dave Ewers
7.Marty Holah*
8.Aaron Carpenter* (Nick Easter)

9.Sebastian Tulli
10.Henry Slade* (Rory Clegg)
11.Seb Visser*
12.Adam Powell (Mike Tindall)
13.Regan King (c)
14.Horace Aguella
15.Luke Arscott

Saints Wanderers continue to Waltz

For the fourth week in a row ths Saints 'A' team ran in fifty points as they waltzed through a Cornish Pirates team 53-6. It is envisaged that the majority will feature in a rejigged team away at Bayonne this weekend. Christian Wade stole the show scoring a hattrick to enhance his first team prospects.

1. Zak Taulafo
2. Mike Haywood
3. Bob Baker
4. James Craig
5. Ali Williams
6. Joe Launchberry
7. Calum Clark
8. Ryan Kankowski
9. Sam Harrison
10. Danny Cipriani
11. Christian Wade
12. Joel Tomkins
13. Tomassi Benvenutti
14. Jamie Elliot
15. Rory Lamont

Quins Under 23's struggle past Touring Lions

The Harlequins under 23 side managed to scrape past a talented Golden Lions 'A' side this week at Rosslyn Park. The Lions were without their main men but still had some talented youngsters on show and were unlucky not to take the spoils as two late tries against the run of play saw Quins take the spoils.

1. Will Collier
2. Rob Buchanan
3. Kyle Sinckler
4. Sam Twomney
5. Charlie Matthews
6. Jamie Gibson (c)
7. Luke Wallace
8. Sam Jones
9. Charlie Mulchrone
10. Henry Pyrgos
11. Sam Edgerley
12. Ross Chisholm
13. Chris Elder
14. Luke Morahan
15. Olly Lindsey-Hague

16. Olly Hayes
17. Daryl Marfo
18. George Merrick
19. Joe Trayfoot
20. Ryan Glynn
21. Sam Stuart
22. Maddison Hughes

Early scores from Jones and Twomney were cancelled out by the boot of the Lions fly half to make the half time score 12 - 15 to the Lions. 2nd half tries from Morahan (2) and 3 from a talented Lions 13 left the left 10 minutes looking on a knife edge but interceptions by Chisholm and a kick chase from replacement Maddison Hughes gave Quins a hard fought victory.

Crucial Time for Tigers

Leicester Tigers manager LukeLoveLuka has spoken ahead of a crucial period in which they face a double header with Leinster, away trips to Worcester and Exeter, and homes games against Sale and Wasps.

LukeLoveLuka said "between now and mid February is for me the season defining period for us. We are in a strong position after the World Cup period (Tigers are currently in the playoff places), but we need to really push on over the winter period.

Some terrific Heineken Cup games await us, none less than the double header with Leinster, and then we have some crucial league games - home games against Sale and Wasps who we are fighting for places with, and away games to Exeter and Worcester that we have to look to win.

The squad is in great shape - we have just brough in Andrew Sheridan to give us some more options at loosehead. Of course, as with all teams, it is dependant on injuries - we got hit really hard last time, with the likes of Sebastian (Bruno), Yannick (Jauzion), Clement (Poitrenaud) and Dan (Cole) all out for quite a while.

Myself and the coaching staff are really excited about the next couple of months, as are all the players - they know a good run will leave us in good shape come the end of the season."

Exeter Chiefs Announce Coaching Reshuffle

Exeter Chiefs have announced a coaching reshuffle within the club with some coaches being removed from there positions and replaced with others.

INS

Nick Mallet
Guy Novas
Stuart Lancaster
Hugh Vyvyan
Ben Blair (player coach)
John Smit (Player coach)

Outs

Brendon Venter (South Africa U20s)
Barny Allen (Released)
Stephen Larkham (Melbourne Rebels)
Chris Latham (Queensland Reds)
Aaron Mauger

---

The new coaching structure sees Driver removed from his role as head coach and promoted to the new role of club manager which will see him take charge of a new team who will compete in the British and Irish cup aswell as the main team.

Club Overview

Club Manager: Driver
Head Coach : Guy Novas
Attack coachs : Stuart Lancaster , Rob Howley
Kicking coach: Ben Blair
Head Forwards Coachs: Nick Mallet , Graham Rowntree
Assitant Forwards coachs: John Smit , Hugh Vyvyan
Academy manager and head of player recruitment: Dusty Hare and Dave Nucifaro

ASHTON AND FODEN TO LEAVE SAINTS IN NEAR FUTURE?

Dewi Morris guest writes for The Times

Nothampton Saints duo Chris Ashton and Ben Foden look set to open up contract nagoitations with other clubs as England's interm manager Stuart Lancaster has said anyone who wishes to be considered for England must be in a top 6 club at Christmas. Weight was added to the claims that Ashton and Foden might leave following the pair having a late night out ahead of the Leicester Tigers fixture.

Manager Chris had reportedly threatened to drop the pair but the squad had been finalised with the referee and wasn't allowed to be altered that close to kick off.

Toulouse bosses is set to fly into Heathrow to meet Foden in a near by hotel to discuss a move to the European power house. Harlequins , Sale and Leicester are also monitoring his availibility.

Chris Ashton was seen leaving Saracen's St.Albans training ground this morning alongside Saracens and England coach Andy Farrell which has added fire to the England rumours.

Chris is going to love that lol...

Quins A Start New Year with a fine win at Birmingham Solihull

The Harlequins development side began it's new year with an impressive 54 - 16 win.

1. Matias Aguero
2. Fabio Ongaro
3. Kieran Brookes
4. Erik Lund
5. Tom Donnelly
6. Jamie Gibson
7. Luke Wallace
8. Richie Vernon
9. Tomas O'Leary
10. Rory Clegg
11. Peter Hynes
12. Gonzalo Canale
13. Anthony Faainga
14. Joe Rokocoko
15. Cedric Heymans

The game ended up one sided as Quins gave a lot of fringe players a run out in preparation for their expected involvement in the upcoming Heiniken Cup and LV Cup games.

You played a game in 2 hours with a new 10!!!!!!

I'm senseing some tapping up

If he'd been here longer it'd have been 100

Exeter United claim win over Ulster Ravens

Exeter United picked up there first win in the Plymouth festival of rugby in a tournament featuring Plymouth Albion , Ulster Ravens and La Rochella. The Exeter team is skippered by former All Black Marty Holah and coached by Dave Nucifaro.

Exeter 35 Ulster Ravens 12

1.Kieren Davies
2.Neil Clark
3.Hoani Tui
4.Tommy Hayes
5.Johnnie Beattie
6.Dave Ewers
7.Marty Holah (c)
8.Aaron Carpenter

9.Sebastian Tullie
10.Henry Slade
11.Mike Canty
12.Jake Arnott
13.Sam Hill
14.Adam Thompstone
15.Seb Visser

T: Visser , Arnott , Thompstone (2) , Hayes
C:H Slade (5)

Form From Heaven for Tigers

Leicester Tigers find themselves currently on a run of form that has taken them to 3rd place in the league, a tie against Toulouse in the latter stages of the Heineken Cup, and within reach of the latter stages of the of the LV Cup.

Tigers have won 14 of their last 16 games, with losses away to Gloucester and Sale the only blemishes on a run that stretches back to September.

Tigers victories include away wins at the likes of Quins, Leinster and Glasgow, with home wins against the likes of Gloucester, Sale, London Irish, Quins, Saints and Leinster.

Tigers are preparing for a LV Cup game against league leaders Newcastle, and an away trip to bottom of the league Exeter. Manager LukeLovesLuka is desperate to maintain his team's rich vein of form:

"Winning breeds winning. Right throughout the sqaud we are confident, focused and determined. We have used nearly all of our squad over the last few months - everyone knows their worth to the team, no more so than in the upcoming period with us losing a few to the Six Nations tournament.

We want to progress in all competitions, so want to beat Newcatle next week, and then we need to go to Exeter and come away with a win if we want to keep the chase on Newcastle in the league."

Saints target two cups

Northampton Saints manager Dammit Chris signalled his intention for the green and black to compete for two trophies this season, with the Amlin and LV Cups the priority.

'We had a bad start to the season with the Autumn Internationals taking away a lot of our team and we've opted to test out some of our younger players during the season to give them some much needed experience for the future.

At home in the final group game of the LV Cup this weekend gives us a chance to show the Franklins Gardens faithful that we can go one further than last year and bring back a trophy - I've picked a team that is going to go out and attack Wasps and put them under pressure from the outset.

We are going to look to score tries and build on last weeks excellent draw away to Bath, I am not sure how many teams have actually come away from there with any points recently, so its given the boys a huge lift'.

01. Matt Mullan 09. Joe Simpson
02. Rob Webber 10. Matt Giteau
03. Carl Hayman
04. Ali Williams 11. Siti Siviatu
05. Courtney Lawes (c) 12. Jean de Villiers
06. Dan Lydiate 13. Manu Tuilagi
07. Calum Clark 14. Elliot Daly
08. Liam Messam 15. Danny Cipriani (k)


16. Haywood 17. Domingo 18. Thomas 19. Launcbury 20. Qera 21. Harrison 22. Tomkins 23. Claasens.

This is where it gets interesting - Driver

Speaking to The Rugby Paper's Nick Cain , Exeter Chiefs director of rugby Driver laid out his sides ambition for the rest of the season

NC:First and foremost are Exeter Chiefs going to be a premiership side next season?

MD: 'We're staying up and we're staying up whether it's by grinding out 1 point wins or 50 point thrillers , we will be a Aviva Premiership side next season and nobody from Newcastle Falcons to Worcester Warriors are going to stop us , There's a can do spirit in the camp and we are all backing our selves to beat the drop. I'm not going to deny that it isn't our minds because it is and we thrive in a competitive and challenging environment and you'll see the best of Exeter Chiefs is yet to come'

NC: Do you think you need any more additions to the squad to stay up?

MD: That's a tough question to answer because i have total and utter faith in the players i have here and they share the same faith among each other but i wouldn't pass up the chance to sign Richie McCaw or Dan Carter for a few buttons.

NC: The confidence you seem to have in your team is admirable and that must surely reflect off on them?

MD: Of course it does Nick , these guys not only have confidence in there own skills and abilities but would work there socks off for each other and the club.

NC: And finally is there even the slightest chance of relegation.

MD: No , end of.

Tigers Call on Saffers in Time of Need

Leciester Tigers have brought in two South African International scrum halves as they find themselves short.

Michael Claassens and Neil de Kock have been brought in from Wasps and Irish respectively until the end of the Six Nations tournament on 17th March.

Tigers find themselves short on 9's after Dimitri Yachvili and Chris Cusiter were announced as starting scrum halves for France and Scotland respectively, and Micky Young was banned for 8 weeks, leaving Tigers with only one senior 9 in their squad.

Manager LukeLovesLuka said "we've been left a bit short at 9, with 2 internationals both being selected, and that ban on Micky (Young) that was so unexpected. It left us only Scott (Mathie) as our only scrummie, so we had to move to bring in some experience.

To be able to bring in both Michael and Neil is a great boost to the side. Both are full internationals, and two excellent 9's that will work well with how we like to play. Neil is on the bench this week vs Newcastle, and Michael will feature next week against Exeter.

I can't wait to see what they will bring to our side."

3 IT'S THE MAGIC NUMBER

Down at Adams Park this week Exeter Chiefs fell victim to a very talented and determined London Wasps side but returned home with a smile knowing that there's only 3 points in the relegation battle and a win at home against Bath this week will take them off the bottom.

'We're competitive as we have been all season and now were picking up points on the road which a lot of teams don't do and were in a prime position to take 4 points at home this weekend'

FLY HALF DILEMMA FOR IRISH

London Irish boss stnick has spoken of his selection problems for this weeks crunch game against Northampton Saints. At fly half, Daniel Bowden, Butch James and Juan Martin Hernandez are all competing for the number 10 shirt. Bowden has been a regular for most of the season whilst James and Hernandez struggled for fitness, but now all 3 are fighting fit, which one to select is becoming harder each week for stnick. At outside centre, there is also big competition with Gonzalo Tiesi, Mathieu Bastereaud and new signing Conrad Smith vying for the shirt, whilst JP Pieterson is also now an option after impressing in training and friendlies in the 13 shirt.

Quins A beat Students.

The Quins 2nd string got a comfortable 55 - 6 win against the Loughborough Students side. Quins know they need all there players fresh for this difficult run in and their whole squad need to be fit and firing. A hattrick for Johann Sadie and 2 tries for Riss Chisholm were the stars for Quins who were satisfied with the performance.

1. Aston Croall
2. Olly Hayes
3. Ruardrih Murphy
4. Erik Lund
5. Charlie Matthews
6. Jamie Gibson
7. Michael Hooper
8. Sam Jones
9. Jano Vermaak (C)
10. Rory Clegg
11. Cedric Heymans
12. Anthony Faainga
13. Johann Sadie
14. Peter Hynes
15. Ross Chisholm

16. Rob Buchanan
17. Kieran Brookes
18. George Merrick
19. Jack Clifford
20. Charlie Mulchrone
21. Freddie Burns
22. Yoann Huget

Exeter announce squad to travel to Poland over next 2 weeks

The Exeter Chiefs today announced a 39 man squad to travel to Poland and play competitive fixtures against the Poland National side (10/3/12) and a French Barbarians side (13/3/12) in Plock's Stadion Wojska Polskiego. Whilst in Poland the Chiefs will take full advantage of the cryogenic systems which the Welsh national side has taken full advantage of in the past year.

Exeter Chiefs squad

Damian Varley , John Smith , Neil Clark , Efion Lewis-Roberts , Wyatt Crockett , Brett Sturgess , Ben Alexander , Davit Zirkashvilli , Hoani Tui , James Hudson , Simon Shaw , Flip Van Der Merwe , Juilian Pierre , Declan Danahar , Lewis Moody , Shane Jennings , David Wallace , Ben Skirving , Nick Easter , Johnnie Beattie , Jimmy Cowen , Haydn Thomas , Juinior Polliuegga , Colin Slade , Derrick Houghard , Mike Tindall , Adam Powell , George Pisi , Chris Bell , Luke Fitzgerald , Iain Balshaw , Lachie Turner , Vasily Artemyev , Horace Aguella , Matt Smith , Lee Byrne , Ben Blair , Seb Visser.


Team to play Poland

1.Brett Sturgess 2.Neil Clark (c) 3.Hoani Tui 4.Simon Shaw 5.James Hudson 6.Declan Danahar 7.Dave Wallace 8.Johnnie Beattie 9.Juinior Polliuegga 10.Derrick Houghard 11.Seb Visser 12.Matt Smith 13.Chris Bell 14.Lachie Turner 15.Ben Blair


French Barbarians team to play Exeter Chiefs

1.Daan Human (Toulouse) 2.Semisi Telefoni (Agen & Tonga) 3.John Schwalger (Agen & New Zealand) 4.Pat O'Connor (Agen & Quantas Wallabies) 5.Troy Flavell (Bayonne) 6.Sione Lauaki (Bayonne & New Zealand) 7.Jean Bouilhou (Toulouse & France) 8.Shaun Sowerby (Toulouse) 9.Jean-Marc Doussain (Toulouse & France) 10.Nicolas Laharrague (Perpignan & France) 11.Julien Candelon (Perpignan & France) 12.Gavin Williams (Samoa & Clermount) 13.Seremaia Bai (Fiji & Castres) 14.Paul Williams (Samoa & Stade Francais) 15.Martin Rodriguez (Argintina & Stade Francais)


Exeter Chiefs team to play French Barbarians

1.Wyatt Crockett 2.Damian Varley 3.Ben Alexander 4.Flip Van Der Merwe 5.Juilian Pierre 6.Ben Skirving 7.Lewis Moody 8.Nick Easter 9.Jimmy Cowen 10.Colin Slade 11.Luke Fitzgerald 12.Mike Tindall 13.George Pisi 14.Horace Aguella 15.Lee Byrne

With the two weekends of LV action, Falcons travel to France to take on a midweek T14 select side to keep the competitive streak for the season run in.

Falcons:

1. Rodrigo Roncero
2. Marius Tincu
3. Owen Franks
4. Ed Slater
5. Juandre Kruger
6. Juan Smith(c)
7. Heinrich Brussow
8. Duane Vermuelen

9. Sarel Pretorious
10. Nick Evans

11. Drew Mitchell
12. James O'Connor
13. Jaques Fourie
14. Ben Smith
15. Fran Steyn

16. Tom Lindsay
17. Craig Mitchell
18. Alex Waller
19. Paul O'Connell
20. Richie McCaw
21. Jonny Arr
22. Toby Flood
23. Adam Ashley-Cooper

Driver pays tribute to Mad Dog

Shock waves were sent through my office door on Wednesday morning in Poland as Lewis Moody came in and asked for a quite word. At first i thought nothing of it as i have a open door policy and respect the thoughts of my senior players more than anything.

Lewis simply came in and said 'I think it's time i call it a day' , obviously we were disappointed to here about it as Lewis was a real warrior on the pitch but he's body by his own admission was held together by glue.

Exeter only played one fixture in Poland due to the withdrawl of the French Baa Baas so Exeter were left with a 60 - 3 win against Poland. How ever a game vs Irish giants Leinster has been arranged behind closed doors and will allow valuble game time for new players such as Lee Mears , Joe Launchberry , Nick McLeod and Damian Traille.


Exeter Chiefs to play Leinster at home after French Barbarians withdrew due to player release issues.



1.Wyatt Crockett - Nathan White
2.Lee Mears - Tom Sexton
3.Ben Alexander - Heinke van der Merwe
4.Joe Launchberry - Damian Browne
5.James Hudson - Devin Toner
6.Declan Danahar - Kevin McGlouchlan
7.Dave Wallace (c) - Rhys Rudduck (c)
8.Ben Skirving - Dominic Ryan

9.Haydn Thomas - John Cooney
10.Nick McLeod - Matt Berquist
11.Luke Fitzgerald - Shane Horgan
12.Damian Traille - Brendon Mcken
13.George Pisi - Eion O'Malley
14.Vasily Artymyev - Fionn Carr
15.Luke Arscott - Dave Kearney

Tigers to Chop and Change

Leicester Tigers manager LukeLovesLuka has admitted the side he has named to play Northampton Saints in the Anglo-Welsh CUp final this weekend will be very different from the one expected to play London Irish next week.

Tigers currently occupy the last playoff place in the league, and LukeLovesLuka seems keen on getting that vital last spot to keep his side in with a chance for the league title.

He said "the challenge of having such a strong squad is your ability to use it effectively. We play Saints in a cup final this week, then go to London Irish in what is a massive game, then entertain Worcester at Welford Road.

The games are coming thick and fast. The likelihood is that not many of the boys named to face Saints will start at Irish - we're monotoring fatigue and strength closely this season. We're 4th in the league, in the final of the LV Cup and in the quarter finals of the Heineken Cup.

So players can't expect to play each week. It keeps players fresh, compeition helathy and a positive atmosphere through the squad. There is a lot of rugby to be played yet this season, and we're more than ready."

Saints march to LV Final

Although their league form has burnt hot and cold this season the same cannot be said for Saints' performances in cup competitions, having brushed aside a tough home game against Sarries last weekend and having waltzed into the last eight of the Amlin.

'It's been a frustrating season overall, very disjointed and has stopped us putting a good run of results together in the league - we never really recovered from the World Cup if I am honest" stated Saints Manager Dammit Chris.

"We are capable of big performances, but have suffered some key injuries and have had to rely over heavily on some of our youngsters to step up and play for us - Elliot Daly, Julian Savea, Joe Launchbury and Henry Thomas have been brilliant and each will play some part in the final.

Youth has got us this far and it is our policy to continue giving them chances - Christian Wade, Jackson Wray and George Ford are all out gaining first team experience at the moment and big Joe will be off to Exeter after this weekend for the same.

Next season will be a lot better for us and the best way to prepare for that is to win our first trophy as a team this weekend - the conditions look perfect for us and we are ready for the battle with our old foes."

Saints LV Final Squad

Forwards Whitehead, Haywood, Taulafo, Thomas, Domingo, Mullan, Hayman, Albecete, Clark, Lawes, Launchbury, Messam, Kankowski, Lapandy, Abbott, Vunipola

Backs Lamont, Siviatu, Savea, Daly, Hopper, Cipriani, Giteau, Simpson, Harrison, de Villiers, Bleyendaal, Elliot, Geraghty.

IRISH PREPARE FOR SBW BLOW WITH MAC SIGNING

London Irish have acted quickly following strong reports that Sonny Bill Williams is set to return to Rugby League, by signing talented inside centre Luke McAllister from London Wasps. Whilst nothing is confirmed about the future of SBW, stnick admitted that he has yet to sign a new contract with the club despite an offer being made, fuelling reports that he has agreed a deal to return to Rugby League.
McAllisters arrival see's the departure of fellow Kiwi Daniel Bowden and England lock Mouritz Botha. Stuart Hooper will join the Exiles as part of the deal. Both players could be in the match day sqaud to face Leicester Tigers after a weeks training with the club.

BATTLE FOR PLAYOFFS AND EUROPE HOTS UP

With 4 league games to play there is a real battle for 4th place and the remaining Heineken cup places in the AP.

The League table currently stands as

04 - Leicester Tigers 18 10 0 8 489 440 51 41 +49 9 49
--------------------------- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- ---
05 - Harlequins 18 10 2 6 447 450 41 41 -3 4 48
06 - Sale Sharks 18 9 1 8 446 429 44 38 +17 8 46
--------------------------- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- ---
07 - London Irish 18 8 2 8 478 444 52 46 +34 10 46
08 - Bath Rugby 18 10 0 8 439 454 42 47 -15 3 43

and the fixtures which remain for each of these sides are

Leicester - Worcester (H), Toulouse (H), Northampton (A), Harlequins (A), Potentially Saracens or Newcastle (A), Bath (H).

Harlequins - Saracens (A), Wasps (H), Leicester (H), Sale (A)

Sale - Newcastle (A), London Irish (H), Bath (H), Gloucester (A), Potentially Gloucester or ASM Clermont (A), Harlequins (H).

London Irish - Exeter (A), Sale (A), Saracens (H), Worcester (A), Potentially Gloucester or ASM Clermont (A), Gloucester (H).

Bath - Northampton (H), Cardiff (H), Sale (A), Wasps (H), Potentially Wasps or Leinster (A), Leicester (A).

What is evident is that no side has an easy run in and that Try Bonus Points and Losing Bonus Points will be absolutely vital as will winning your home games. It is perhaps Sale which have the toughest run in out of the 5 candidates but it really is up for grabs.

Gonna go all the way. No easy run ins.

Thought Irish could be favourites, with the bottom two away, but then saw they had Sarries and Gloucester at home...

Easy........

Saints eye second trophy

The mood in Northampton has certainly picked up over the last four weeks, with three wins over Saracens, Leicester and Wasps and an impressive eleven tries scored over that period.

With their first trophy secured a fortnight ago and Heineken Cup rugby secured in the process, the pressure has been lifted and Saints put on one of the best attacking displays of the season last week against Wasps, with tries from Giteau, Siviatu, Webber and Albacete.

They also appeared to have solved their goal kicking crisis, with a near faultless display from Leigh Halfpenny.

Saints Manager, Dammit Chris, stated "the lads have given their all this season, we've been playing some great rugby but at times lady luck just hasn't been on our side.

The change in weather has played a massive factor, we've been able to play a really expansive game of rugby and our pack has been a big factor now that we arent having to spend so much time scrummaging.

For Bath this week we are certainly looking to give Sergio (Parisse) and Dan Lydiate a run out and I think we will be partnering Weslie (Fofana) and Manu (Tuliagi) in the midfield - we are going out to win as many games as we can and are certainly looking to keep this momentum going forward into the Amlin quarter finals.

We've got some games where we can really shape the top 6 of the league and play both Exeter and Worcester too - we'd obviously love to be pushing for a top 4 spot, but to win the LV Cup and still be in the Amlin is a pleasing end to the season."

Saints expected team to play Bath 1. Mullan 2. Webber 3. Hayman 4. Albacete 5. Lawes 6. Lawes 7. Lapandy 8. Parisse 9. Phillips 10. Cipriani 11. Siviatu 12. Fofana 13. Tuilagi 14. Daly 15. Halfpenny.

Saints News in Brief

Launchbury returns. Joe Launcbury is expected to be recalled by Saints tomorrow so that he can feature on the bench away at Bath. The expected suspension for Callum Clark has forced Dammit Chris' hand.

Beauxis back to France? It is widely expected that Lionel Beauxis will return to France at the end of this season, with a move to Stade Francais or Toulouse most likely.

Pacific Islander Mulipola to become a Saint next season? It is widely expected that Saints are looking to strengthen their front row options for next season and it appears that Mulipola could be high on their list.

Saints continue to impress
Fresh on the back of an impressive away win at Bath, Saints are looking to continue their run of good form in the Quarter Final of the Amlin Cup against Stade Francais this weekend.

"Our good form has definitely coincided with the better weather and allowed us to play some great expansive rugby" stated Dammit Chris, who continued "to travel to Bath and come away with a win and four tries was one of the highlights of the season for us, it certainly bodes well for this week's game against Stade.

We are going to make a few changes to the team, as some of the team haven't had a week off since the beginning of the Six Nations, like Patricio (Albacete) and Matt Giteau - they are both huge players for us and we'll need them fresh for the league matches as we want to go unbeaten for the rest of the season".

The Northampton Herald are reporting that Saints will play the following team against Stade Francais this weekend.

1. Matthew Mullan
2. Rob Webber
3. Carl Hayman
4. Bradley Davies
5. Courtney Lawes
6. Liam Messam
7. Sam Cane
8. Sergio Parisse
9. Mike Phillips
10. Danny Cipriani
11. Julian Savea
12. Weslie Fofana
13. Manu Tuilagi
14. Max Evans
15. Leigh Halfpenny

16. Chris Whitehead 17. Matt Stevens 18. Joe Launchbury 19. Billy Vunipola 20. Sam Harrison 21. Tyler Bleyendaal 22. Elliot Daly

QUINS ENJOY WEEK OFF

Quins boss Steven Sharks has expressed how the disappointment of a poor Heiniken Cup campaign has disappeared now that his side is well rested for a crucial 3 game period. Quins face Wasps and Leicester at home and then head to what could be a winner takes all clash at Sale and Steven_Sharks is hoping that fresh legs will prove vital for Quins in what are 3 cup finals.

'At the time we were gutted to crash out of the HC seemingly without a fight, but now that is looking to be a blessing in disguise whilst we are in a battle for a possible play off spot and a Heiniken Cup place for next season. We need to be fresh and a less congested fixture list could prove to be vital for us'

Quins continue to build for next season

Quins have today announced that Wallaby international Beau Robinson and former Wasps hooker Joe Ward will join them next season from Bath. Robinson, 25, was at Quins on loan during the World Cup and was an intergalactic part of Quins excellent early season form. Quins will say goodbye to David Seymour and Chris Brooker.

Robinson and Ward join Tom Wood and George Kruis in playing for Harlequins next season.

Northampton Saints 38 - 22 Stade Francais

Northampton Saints scored five tries against a well drilled and determined Stade Francais team in an often one sided contest to reach the semi finals of the Amlin Cup for the first time in the club's history.

Tries from Julian Savea, Liam Messam and Danny Cipriani saw Saints race into a 22-9 lead at halftime, and an early Manu Tuilagi try saw Dammit Chris make wholesale changes to the lineup with Mikey Haywood, Joe Launchbury, Sam Harrison and Elliot Daly all entering the fray.

Stade came back into the game in the final twenty minutes with two tries from the excellent Djbril Camara, but Leigh Halfpenny's boot and a forty metre break by Joe Launchbury saw Saints maintain their lead.

In the post-match interview Dammit Chris had this to say about the game,

"We are playing some great stuff at the moment, we set the scene early with some crushing hits and I thought Jean de Villiers was the star of the show for us, setting up two tries and getting over the gainline time and time again.

When we got our fourth try I wanted to give some of our youngsters experience in European knockout rugby and it did change the tempo of the game a little and allowed Stade to come back at us. The boys were brilliant though, Joe Launchbury was fantastic and I was pleased for him when he got his first try for the club.

We've now got some interesting selection headaches for the game next week at home to Leicester - it is always a crunch game and I was delighted that we were able to give guys like Albacete, Giteau and Sivi Siviatu a week off - and for Parisse, Phillips and Tuilagi to play just 45minutes against Stade.

It's going to be a bone crunching game, hopefully without incident and where we will only be speaking about the rugby post match."

It is expected that Northampton Saints will name the following team:

1. Matthew Mullan
2. Rob Webber
3. Carl Hayman
4. Bradley Davies/Patricio Albacete
5. Courtney Lawes
6. Joe Launchbury
7. Alexander Lapandry
8. Sergio Parisse
9. Mike Phillips
10. Matt Giteau
11. Siti Siviatu
12. Jean de Villiers/Weslie Fofana
13. Manu Tuilagi
14. Max Evans
15. Leigh Halfpenny

Saints build momentum for European glory

Northampton Saints have continued their excellent run of form by beating fierce rivals Leicester Tigers in a pulsating game at Franklin Gardens, scoring another four tries.

Sergio Parisse was the inspiration behind the victory as the Italian captain consistently broke over the gainline and his offloading game caused Tigers problems from the first minute.

Tries from Liam Messam, Sivi Siviatu and Joe Launchbury all came from Parisse breaks before a sublime individual effort from Weslie Fofana wrapped up the bonus point with twenty minutes to play.

It is expected that Dammit Chris will rest several key players in the Aviva Premiership match away to Exeter next week with an eye on securing a final place in the Amlin Cup. The Northampton Herald is reporting that the following team will be named for the trip to Exeter:

1. Thomas Domingo
2. Chris Whitehead
3. Matt Stevens
4. Bradley Davies
5. Patricio Albacete
6. Joe Launchbury
7. Alexander Lapandy
8. Liam Messam
9. Mike Phillips
10. Danny Cipriani
11. Julian Savea
12. Jean de Villiers
13. Max Evans
14. Tomassi Benvenutti
15. Ben Foden

It is expected that Sergio Parisse, Liam Gill, Matt Giteau, Weslie Fofana will be named on the bench.

Members of the press wondered what Saints manager Dammit Chris had been drinking after not knowing who his teams try scorers were in this weekends match....


Northampton Saints 30 Leicester Tigers 25
Tries: Messam, Fofana. Sivivatu, Launchbury : Nacewa
Cons: Halfpenny 2 : Yachvilli
Pens: Halfpenny 2 : Yachvilli 6

Have no idea what you are talking about Pete...no idea at all, ahem.

Saints eye second final spot
After securing their eighth victory in a row Northampton Saints have started eyeing a place in the Amlin Cup final, but will first have to overcome a strong Exeter team in what could well be awful conditions come the weekend.

The match promises to be very different from last week when Saints emerged 30-19 winners, securing a try scoring bonus point in the process. Exeter were squeezed out of the game and Saints aggressive defence led by Dan Lydiate in the pack and Jean de Villiers in the backs limited the home team to a single try.

Saints have made five changes to the starting lineup, which sees the rested Matt Mullan, Patricio Albacete, Matt Giteau and Weslie Fofana return and a full debut given to Julian Salvi. SAints have also gone for a 6-2 split of forwards to backs on the bench, giving a strong indication of where Dammit Chris believes the game will be won or lost.

Former Saints player Matt Dawson said that he was confident that Saints would progress to the final in this tricky tie and highlighted four key areas where they could get an advantage:

(i) Ball carriers - 'Over the last few weeks Saints have really started to hurt teams with their ball carriers in both the pack and backline - it gets them over the gainline and on the front foot - with the likes of Davies, Messam, Stevens and Launchbury on the bench they are going to really test the Exeter defence this weekend'.

(ii) Defence - 'The change in Saints fortunes this season is completely linked to the signing of Dan Lydiate, his defensive play has been nothing short of incredible and this has helped life all of the Saints team - the pack stop opposition getting over the gainline and the midfield of Fofana and Tuilagi just doesnt take a backward step. The power in the tackle area forces teams into mistakes and last week Exeter just couldnt get over the gainline'.

(iii) Back three - 'in Halfpenny and Foden Saints have two of the safest hands in wet conditions and this will feed the whole team with confidence. Expect them both to sit fairly deep and wait for O'Gara's kicks - you can also see Balshaw being targeted by Saints in a similar fashion, one of the most gifted attacking players, but in heavy rain I know who I'd want in my back three'.

(iv) The pack - 'Exeter are a strong, physical unit and Saints will need parity upfront here to try and get them on the front foot - I do give a slight advantage to the home team here, but Saints have rested Mullan, Albacete and Salvi and that will be a huge factor. They can also bring on some top, top replacements in the second half and that is going to be vital.

I really cant see this being an eye pleasing game, but Saints should just about edge it, especially when Halfpenny can punish any Exeter infringement within the Exeter half with three points.

Saracens on the trophy trail.

Saracens head coach Ozzy3213 spoke this morning of his pride in his teams performance after a 27-16 win over Toulouse saw them claim a first Heineken Cup final place.

"It was a massive performance from the boys, and we are delighted with making the final this time around. last seasons semi final defeat was a bitter pill to swallow, so to make it through this time against a team of the calibre of Toulouse is fantastic.

That is all now firmly on the back burner though, as we have a final Premiership fixture against Exeter Chiefs to prepare for this week, with a semi final the following week, most likely against Gloucester, although as of yet it is unclear if it will be at Vicarage Road or Kingsholm.

That makes this weeks game vitally important for us, as we have never lost a knockout match at Vicarage in my time here, so we would ideally like to be playing at home. We have 3 games guaranteed left this season, with a potential for a 4th, and these 4 matches will ultimately define whether or not this season is a success or failure.

Our form is good at this crucial stage of the season, the squad has been rotated well and everyone is now fit and ready to play. It will be tough leaving players out this week, and those who do get the jerseys know that they need to perform to keep them for the semi final the following week.

We want to win both trophies that we are still in the hunt for, and will be going all out to make that possible over the next four weeks."

Saints eye pefect end to Season
Northampton Herald

It has certainly been a season of two halves for Northampton Saints, prior to 2012 they couldn't buy a win and were languishing agonisingly close to the foot of the Aviva Premiership. Now they are playing some breathtaking rugby and pundits are putting this down to two key signings made during the 6Nations - Dan Lydiate and Weslie Fofana.

Lydiate is Saints defensive lynchpin, his tackling stops opposition attackers from getting over the gainline and is slowing down teams attacks time and time again. Previously they have a lot more go forward and attack with Rocky Elsom, but Lydiate is pushing himself as a key candidate for the Saints captaincy next year.

Weslie Fofana has forced himself ahead of Jean de Villiers in the Saints midfield and has instantly gelled with Manu Tuilagi to form a potent attack'just 8 games - this is largely down to Fofana's impact and he seems to have brought the best out of Matt Giteau.

The two will be absolutely key to giving Saints a perfect end to the season with a home game against Worcester and then the Amlin Cup Final against Bath - if either team stands a chance then they simply have to work out a way to stop the impact of Lydiate and Fofana.

In other Saints news it has emerged that Matthew Tait has joined the club from London Irish with Shane Geraghty moving in the opposite direction. Saints Manager, Dammit Chris, had this to say -

"Shane has always shown great work ethic in tranining, but we were just unable to get him the game time he deserved, especially with the form of Fofana and de Villiers in the 12 shirt, and Gits and Cips for the 10. With George Ford's emergence this year on loan to Wasps we want to make sure he gets some game time - so for us the best thing to do was to sadly let Shane leave.

In return we've managed to sign Matthew Tait, who I've admired for a long time - he's versatility will prove absolutely key for us next year, and hopefully we'll provide him with that platform to force himself back into the England reckoning".

Exeter Chiefs end of season dinner and awards

Exeter Chiefs rounded off a disappointing season with there annual end of season awards at Sandy Park. The evening was hosted by former Chiefs Rob Baxter and comedian Lee Mack. Exeter local band Coldplay provided the entertainment in the build up to the awards which was attended by managers of all the other AP clubs as a sign of goodwill from Exeter Chiefs.

Exeter have refused to confirm stories of Pooly throwing his mash at Chris and Chris retaliating by throwing Tom Rees at him who is now injured for 8 months. Prop however was confirmed to have racked up a bar tab of up to £3000 he was last seen signing i will survive with Morne Steyn and Craig Newby before breaking into bread of heaven.


Exeter Chiefs coach's player of the year sponsered by south west tele communications

Shane Jennings - First name on the teamsheet when available.

Exeter Chiefs supporters player of the year in association with Panasonic

Ronan O'Gara - single handedly kept Exeter in some games.

Exeter Chiefs player's player of the year in association with Samurai

Lee Byrne - back to his 09 form and been a rock at the back!

QUINS END OF SEASON AWARDS

Harlequins rounded off there season a week earlier than they would have liked with the awards dinner. The awards up for grabs were Player of the Year, Young Player of the year, English player of the year and Overseas' player of the year. At Quins one player cannot win two awards.

Player of the Year

Rob Kearney - The Irishman has been a rock at the back for Quins and this has been noted by other's in this league. He is the world's best under the high ball and is a brilliant counter attacker. Has a long future are Harlequins. Sam Warburton a close 2nd.

Young Player of the Year

Jonathan Joseph - On of the most talented young players in world rugby according to Steven_Sharks, and someone who has a huge future for Quins and England. Runs some of the best lines around and has a unbelievably low error count. Can make even the best defender look like a fool. Jamie Gibson came in 2nd place.

English Player of the Year

George Skivington - A great servant who has decided to move on for next season, but has been in great form ad has played a lot of rugby due to the EQ limits in the AP. Will be a huge success at Saracens next season. Lee Dickson a close 2nd.

Overseas Player of the Year

Rhys Priestland - arrived here in the managers mind to be a 3rd choice 10 and occasional 15. Has became a key man in a key position who is just as comfortable standing flat as he is pulling the strings with his considerable boot. Jerome Thion a close second.

Saints aim for Cup Double: Northampton Herald

Northampton Saints are planning to end the season in style by winning their second cup of the season in a fortnights time against a strong Bath team. The squad are currently training in Portugal ahead of the Amlin Cup Final and appear to be in confident mood.

"Our backline has clicked tremendously well over the last two months and all the hard work at the start of the season has really come good. We did struggle at times early on, loads of dropped balls, near misses and it sapped the lads confidence - we let in a lot of tries and were all but bottom of the league" - said Alex King, Saints Attack Coach.

"The signing of Weslie (Fofana) was a key moment for us, he's brought the best out of Gits and Manu and I think its now 32 tries in 8 games for us - we've got the momentum going now and in good conditions we know we can score tries and with Halfpenny's boots we will always go toe to toe with any opposition in terms of penalties.

The Bath game is going to be absolutely huge, they have such a fantastic backrow unit and their carrying is just frightening - we'll be doing a lot of work around how we can stop the threat of guys like O'Brien, who has been one of the best players in the AP this season - at the same time we're hoping that we'll be causing their defence coach some sleepless nights as we will certainly be running the ball against them"

In other Saints news it has been reported that both Alexander Lapandy and Lionel Beauxis are close to agreeing deals to leave the club. It is rumoured that Ryan Kankowski and Jackson Wray could also be leaving.