Aviva Premiership Round Thirteen

 
 

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Sale Sharks vs Gloucester Rugby
Location - AJ Bell Stadium
Light Rain, 7 Degrees, 20mph Southerly Winds

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Sale Sharks
Manager – SJE

01. Marcos Ayerza	09. Kieran Marmion
02. David Paice	10. Beauden Barrett
03. Davit Zirakishvilli
04. Kane Douglas	11. Craig Gilroy
05. Brodie Retalick	12. Kyle Eastmond
06. Fulgence Quedragao	13. George Pisi
07. Matt Kvesic	14. Semesa Rokoduguni
08. Alex Tulou	15. Jared Payne

16. Vasil Kakovin 17. Tommy Taylor 18. Phil Swainston 19. Christian Day 20. Tom Savage 21. Calum Braley 22. JJ Hanrahan 23. Nick Abendanon

We will play the game in the opposition half with an intelligent kicking game. When there we will play a fast paced, high intensity offloading game looking to create space for our halfbacks and to get our back three onto the ball as much possible.

- Use the scrum as a platform. Good technical front row capable of building a platform for Tulou to carry from..

- Attack from the lineout. Five genuine jumping options allows us to mix it up and really use the lineout as an attacking platform. Look to get the ball to Barrett and Eastmond with space outside. 

- Target the opposition lineout with Quedragao jumping at the front and Retalick marshalling the middle to pick off oppositions throws. Barrett & Eastmond will relish attacking an unset defence. 

- Look to mix up play. Barrett & Eastmond to interchange at first receiver and change the point of attack. Marmion provides a threat snipping around the base.

- Get the back three involved. Roko, Gilroy and Payne all to run lines looking for the inside ball or offload to get in behind the opposition defence.

- Hit the breakdown hard. Look to our dynamic front five to clear the ruck and allow the likes of Kvesic & Quedragao to really attack the breakdown.

- Straight line blitz defence focusing on a quick line speed to isolate the ball carrier before the gain line. Quedragao will defend on Eastmonds shoulder to double up and also be first on the scene at the breakdown. Care to sweep in behind to cover chips and grubbers.

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Gloucester

1 Steenkamp
2 Strauss
3 Figallo
4 Gray
5 Robson
6 Croft
7 Salvi
8 Dickinson
9 Genia
10 Carter
11 Gear
12 Juan de Jongh
13 kuridrani
14 Charlie Walker
15 Israel Folau
16 Wood
17 George
18 Ousthuizen
19 Stookes
20 Galan
21 Robson
22 Cipriani
23 Banahan


Glos tactics

In greasy quite windy conditions it is all about playing the conditions and having the right players in those key 2,8,9,10 positions. Benches also play a huge role in these more attritional games


Forwards win matches and we have picked a huge front 5 with Wc players to do the grunt and set the tone

Set pieces

We will be looking to really put the heat on them at scrum time with figallo, Strauss and co aiming to at worst disrupt the scrum but at best take ball against the head.

On our own ball we will be aiming to anchor the scrum most times and give Genia an easy ride. In more attacking positions we will be looking to utilise a wheel to enable us the best attacking opportunity.


Line out

With there being a lot of kicking in this game the line out will be key. Croft gray Robson Dickinson is a stellar like up and will look to steal lots of Paice throws.

On our own ball we will vary catch and drive and off the top. Strauss has probably the best darts in world rugby and in 20mph winds you need his accuracy. We see our forward bench as far superior so these sapping line out drives will serve to drain sale.

General forwards

Aim of the game is getting front foot ball to allow the key players to dominate tempo and field position. We
Have lots of heavy ball carriers and will be doing lots of carrying close to the ruck. Particularly when against the wind where keep ball is all important.

We will commit numbers to the break down as we have lots of big quick int ass players. Salvi will be looking t to dominate Kvesic who is having a tough season.

We will be playing at full tilt knowing we have proven class off the bench in the forwards. In greasy conditions ball presentation and looking after it is key.

Backs

With forward generating great ball the backs need to use it right. In these conditions the 8,9,10 link is key and we have the right players in these conditions.

With the wind Carter will be kicking a lot more. He will look to push them back and play the corners and territory game. Knowing we have great line out jumpers and Strauss to throw will enable us to hopefully won the territory game. When in the right position on the field then we will look to play. We have wc backs and the ability to vary it. We can hit kuridrani hard and straighten or look to push it through the hands. Our back 3 has pace trickery and power

Against the wind it's required to run it more and advance down the pitch a get right field positions.  Here the forwards will take it on and Genia will
Move it the moment we get front foot ball.

Cross kick will be utilised with gear and folau to the fore. The up and under will also be tried.

We will operate a blitz with Genia sweeping.

Key points

2,8,9,10 axis we are better
Really target their 9,10 axis
Lineout options and Strauss throw give us line out edge
Bench options to take game away from sale

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Worcester Warriors vs Leicester Tigers
Location - Sixways Stadium
Light Rain Showers, 8 Degrees, 24 mph Southerly Winds

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1 Tendai Mtawrira
2 Dave Ward
3 BJ Botha
4 Mouritz Botha
5 Johann Muller
6 Danie Russouw
7 Shane Jennings
8 Thomas Waldrom
9 Michael Classens
10 Remi Tales
11 Mark Cueto
12 Maxime Mermoz
13 Casey Laulala
14 Sailosi Tagicakibau
15 Delon Armitage

16 Nathan Catt
17 Matthew Rees
18 Brian Mujati
19 James Hudson
20 Phil Dowson
21 Tawera Kerr Barlow
22 Olly Barkley
23 Tom Casson

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Leicester Tigers
Manager – LukeLovesLuka

01. Andrew Sheridan	09. Kahn Fotuali'i
02. Stephen Moore	10. Jonny Wilkinson (k)
03. Cencus Johnston
04. Nathan Hines	11. Ugo Monye
05. James Horwill (c)	12. Tamati Ellison
06. Sean O'Brien	13. Rene Ranger
07. Jacques Burger	14. Drew Mitchell
08. Ernst Joubert	15. Pat Lambie

16. Harry Thacker 17. Harry Rudkin 18. Neale Farthing 19. Kearnan Myall 20. Joe van Niekerk 21. Micky Young 22. Dominic Waldouck 23. Sitiveni Sivivatu

Tactics:

In wet conditions we will play to our strengths and play a game built around our intelligent HB's controlling the game and the power and strength of our side.

- Attack at all scrums with our huge pack - Johnston and Sheridan to look to really get into the opposition. Lots of scrums in wet weather and an area we will look to target if winning.

- Attack at all lineouts. Use Hines or Joubert at the front and Horwill off the top as our three key options.
Shortened lineouts with Burger in midfield as crash or decoy option.

- Put serious pressure on Ward's throws with Hines at the front on all Worcs throws.

- Gigantic pack made up of massive line-breakers, used in the tight to tire down the Worcs defence. The likes of SOB, Burger, Hines, Moore and Horwill to be used to target the Worcs 10 channel.

- Target the breakdown - huge emphasis on our work at the breakdown today and we will always look to turnover possession. With Burger and SOB on the flanks, we feel our breakdown play could be crucial today.

- No overly ambitious passing - In wet conditions we will either look to kick to gain territory or look to keep ball in hand and take it through the middle.

- In rain we will target Tales all game with Burger and SOB breathing down his neck at every opportunity. Big runners through his channel - looking to win the Wilko vs Tales contest.

- We will look to employ a blitz defence, focusing on a quick line speed to hit the ball carrier before he gets to the gainline. We have aggressive forwards to carry out this instruction. Fotuali to sweep behind with an eye on short kicks.

- Wilkinson to kick all penalties.

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Bath Rugby vs Newcastle Falcons
Location - The Rec
Heavy Rain Showers, 8 Degrees, 25mph South Westerly Winds

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Bath Rugby
Manager – inthefastlane

01. James Slipper	09. Fourie Du Preez
02. Agustin Creevy	10. Rhys Patchell
03. Ben Tameifuma
04. Luke Romano	11. Hallan Amos
05. Sam Whitelock	12. Anthony Allen
06. Jerome Kaino	13. Joel Tomkins
07. Liam Gill	14. Rob Miller
08. James Haskell	15. Chris Pennell

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16. Mikey Haywood 17. Carl Rimmer 18. Charlie Faumuania 19. Graham Kitchener 20.  Jordan Crane 21. Richard Wigglesworth 22. Sam Hill 23. Ashley Beck

I
Overall: Look to play flowing rugby with Patchell pulling the strings. We have a mobile, dynamic pack and will be hoping for a set-piece and open play advantage.

Scrum: Set the scrum quickly and try to exert pressure on the Newcastle

Lineout: Whitelock calling the line out. Romano, Haskell and Kaino options. Look to get up into the air quickly and down for a quick maul

Breakdown: Not looking to be over committed at the breakdown but if a turnover is possible then be aggressive. Gill will be supported Haskell and Slipper at the breakdown

Defence: Banana Blitz Defence looking to put pressure on Cruden. FDP to sweep in behind.

FDP will control our backs. Him and Patchell will play what they see and put the rest of the back line in strong positions. We have strong runners who can get over the gainline throughout the side with a very dynamic pack and a big back line. The back line is highly physical and will look to create gaps and mismatches

Subs: look to keep a high tempo

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Newcastle Falcons

Manager – Driver

01.Matt Mullen	09.Ben Youngs
02.Dane Coles	10.Aaron Cruden (K)
03.Paul Doran Jones
04.Ed Slater	11.Cory Jane
05.Juandre Kruger	12.Jean De Villers
06.Juan Smith	13.Adam Ashley Cooper
07.Richie McCaw	14.Charles Pitatau
08.Kieron Read (C)	15.James O'Connor

16.Darren Dawiduik 17.Soana Tonga'uhia 18.Scott Wilson 19.Ali Williams 20.Dave Ewers 21.Dave Lewis 22.Henry Slade 23.Charlie Sharples


Newcastle Falcons enter this game with a territorial based game plan and have clever heads in the key jerseys of 2 , 5, 8 , 9 , 10 and 15 all with fantastic rugby brains and who know who to win games when the skys open up. 


First and formost ball retention is key out there and we'll ensure we get through it with the forwards keeping it tight and supporting each other in the pick and drives to gain the small yards to start with. Curden and JOC will use there boots to put us in the right areas of the pitch and kick the ball in behind the Bath wings especially Miller who is making his first start on the wing in this game.


Kruger will look to attack the Bath lineout with vengeance and steal or disrupt ball.


Team set for weather - big front 5 , powerful back row , good intelligent half backs , solid defenders in midfield and interchangeable back 3.

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Exeter Chiefs vs Northampton Saints
Location - Sandy Park
Heavy Rain, 8 Degrees, 31 mph South Westerly Winds

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Exeter Chiefs 

Manager – Fluxy

01. Logovii Mulipola	09. Morgan Parra (k)
02. Rob Webber (c)	10. Toby Flood
03. James Johnstone
04. Brad Thorn	11. Tom Varndell
05. Geoff Parling	12. Eamonn Sheridan
06. Liam Messam	13. Marcelo Bosch
07. Sam Jones	14. Matt Tait
08. Nick Williams	15. Juan Martin Hernandez

16. Jack Yeandle 17. Richard Barrington 18. Davit Kubriashvili 19. Patricio Albacete 20. Semisi Taulava 21. Hadyn Thomas 22. Stephen Myler 23. Zac Guildford

Key Points

• Win the toss and look to start playing Southwards at Sandy Park, playing into the wind in the first half and use the carriers to make ground. Kick more in second half when the wind is actually with us geographically and Saints won't want to kick it back. 
  
• Target the halfbacks in the slippery conditions. Simpson and Ford can be thrown off their games easily and get caught up in little scraps, this will hurt Saints game plan.
  
• Some new faces, but they only have to worry about doing their own job. For example JJ just needs to anchor the scrum
  
• Parra will kick all points available, he can kick from within their half, so this indicates that Saints should be wary of giving away penalties.
  
• Play a simple game in the slippery conditions.
  

Game plan

A few close games in the pasts weeks means that the we are carrying some real momentum into games and believing that we can beat anyway at the moment. 
Selected a physically strong side to compete with the physicality of the Saints side. With the conditions looking likely to prevent any quick rugby out wide and increase the chances of mistakes, we will implement a simple territorial game and look to be playing with the ball within the opposition 22. 
Every time we are in the opposition 22 we will look to at least leave with the three points to keep the score board ticking over and to build a lead. 
Simple set-piece game which we look to dominate our own ball, and contest every opposition put in. The pack that has been selected is mobile and strong around the park, especially in the tackle, on the floor and ball in hand. 

Attack

• JJ won't have much in the way of competition from Sona who isn't the greatest technical prop and will just attempt to overpower JJ.
  
• Parling will lead the line out and look to set rolling mauls to keep hold of possession and make wasps give away penalties. Look to set the maul first then drive, and try to keep resetting the maul. 
  
• Williams will look to make runs at Ford and exploit the lack of size, as these conditions Williams excels in.
  
• Pack filled big carriers to provide a number of options in the tight exchanges. Look to keep moving the point of attack with clever offloads and forward interplay. Look for forward pods outside the third guard in the line to really stretch their defences and get over the gain line to create momentum.
  
• Look to flood the breakdown and clear out bodies, to keep ball clean so that the halfbacks can dictate the game. (Eg AB's or Eng vs AB 2012 style) Doesn't mean we need to play an out and out seven if the whole side chips in at the breakdown
  
• All backs possess a clever kicking games and are decent under high ball in the wet. We will look to peg Saints back in their 22, and throw in the odd high bomb to fall outside the 22 to create the opportunity to gain a scrum.
  

Defence

• We will use a Blitz drift line in defence to cut down Ford's options and push him inside towards our back-row.
  
• Parra to sweep behind the defensive line, and to counter any loose kicks or turnover ball - either by quickly shipping it wide to the back three, or kicking in behind their back three.
  
• The whole pack is mobile and capable of getting over the ball at the breakdown. Look to powerfully clear opponents out of the ruck, and use the strong tackling to keep chopping down the Saints runners.
  
• If we kick in behind their back-line or back three, we look to at least make them have to turn into an advancing black line which will not allow the receiver time to make decision or escape with clean ball. Every kick to be chased, the kick is as only as good as the chase.
  
• Back three players are adept in the air and will look to mark the ball to perhaps draw a penalty from a late tackle. 
  

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Northampton Saints
Manager Dammit Chris

01. Sona Taumalolo	09. Joe Simpson
02. Tatafu Polota-Nau	10. George Ford(k)
03. Carl Hayman
04. Dean Mumm	11. Jamie Elliott
05. Calum Clark(c)	12. Matt Giteau
06. Steven Luatua	13. Manu Tuilagi
07. Sam Cane	14. Julian Savea
08. Manu Samoa	15. Ben Foden

Substitutes: 16. Scott Spurling 17. Danny Hobbs-Awoyemi 18. David Pocock 19. Rhys Ruddock 20. Nicola Matawalu 21. Oliver Deveto 22. Christian Wade 23. Ben Afeaki

Tactics: Weather conditions will see Saints adopt a very aggressive and physical approach to the game, looking to force errors and mistakes from Exeter. The pack has a lot of tough ball carriers and we look to win the gainline battle and the collisions, work through the phases and give Simpson, Ford and Giteau a platform to put kicks in behind Tait and Varndell and keep Exeter pinned deep within their own half.

There are a number of areas we aim to exploit - James Johnson joined Exeter this week and has had no time to gel with his team, so this will be a huge benefit in the set piece. Sheridan is in the same boat and we will send Giteau, Tuilagi and Savea down his defensive channel all game. We will look to exploit both Tait and Varndell with a tactical kicking game from our 9/10/12 combination.  

Setpiece: Very simple lineout call in the conditions, will use ball to start mauls and work through the phases here and get forward momentum. Clark and Manoa to pressurise Exeter throw ins. Solid scrum, where we will look to target the lack of familiarity between Johnson and his teammates.

Breakdown/Backrow: An area we aim to exploit with Sam Cane and will aim to secure penalties - Exeter do not have a breakdown specialist, while we have Cane and Clark and then will bring on Ruddock and Pocock.

Possession/Territory: Pack to give Ford/Giteau the platform to dictate the territory battle. We want to play in areas where all mistakes by Exeter can be turned into 3 points.

Attack the Gainline/Win Collisions: Picked a pack that is full of strong ball carriers to get us over the gainline and put Exeter on backfoot - Taumalolo, TPN, Mumm, Clark, Luatua and Manoa all strong carriers. In the conditions if we can get forward momentum penalties will stack up and will keep the scoreboard ticking over. Will send runners down Sheridan's channel and exploit defence.

Defence Aggressive blitz defence, big hitters and aim to force handling errors and get at the Exeter halfbacks. Simpson to sweep behind defensive line.

Key selection points: Stong pack that is vital for away games
Win the collisions and gainline battle - whole pack big ball carriers.
Good control in terms of tactical kicking with Ford and Giteau
In good form
Try and exploit two new players in Exeter lineup, Johnson and Sheridan and target Tait and Varndell with kicking game.

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Harlequins vs London Wasps
Location - AJ Bell Stadium
Heavy Rain Showers, 9 Degrees, 22mph South Westerly Winds

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Harlequins
Manager – Steven_Sharks

01.Tony Woodcock	09. Karl Dickson
02.Gary Botha	10.Quade Cooper
03.John Afoa
04.Bakkies Botha	11.Topsy Ojo
05.Steve Borthwick (c)	12. Jan Serfontein
06. Jamie Gibson	13.Jonathan Joseph
07.Michael Hooper	14.Frank Halai
08.Nick Easter	15. Luke Morahan

16.Rob Buchanan 17. Ben Franks 18. Kieran Brookes 19. Pieter Steph Du Toit 20. George Kruis 21. Luke McGrath 22.Freddie Burns 23. Ben Tapuai
Tactics

- look to play the conditions with Cooper and Serfontein putting us into the corner and use our lineout to really target the Wasps throw with Borthwick, Botha, Gibson and Easter really looking to dominate this aspect of the game.

- When we have posession in the Wasps half look to keep the ball tight until there is a clear and obvious gap in the outside channels. Look for Dickson and Cooper to feed runners at pace looking to target away from the fringes where Wasps defence is less populated. Ensure our carriers carry the ball with support so as to gain quick ruck ball. Look to get Jan Serfontein running at Camille Lopez.

- At the breakdown really look to get Hooper and Gibson into positions where they can gain the turnover or penalty. When this isn't on look to one or two players to ensure that the Wasps 9 has to work to get the ball from the back of the ruck in tough conditions. On our own ball look to effectively use no more than 3 or 4 men to secure quick possession.

- In defence look to employ a quick linespeed which is built from the ruck out to drift as we have a very quick set of outside backs and the condition will make expansive play a difficult task. When we can look to double up in the tackle in order to win the collision and then target the ball.

- Key to this game is aggression in the contact and winning the collisions and the battles at the gain line and setpiece. We feel we have the players equipped to do this. Also our extra experience upfront holds us in good stead for what will be a forward dominated game.

- Use our bench as and when is suited depending on the game situation.

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London Wasps
Manager  Ozzy3213

01. Alex Corbisiero	09. Aaron Smith
02. Bismarck du Plessis	10. Camille Lopez
03. David Wilson
04. Sitaleki Timani	11. Bryan Habana
05. Romain Millo-Chluski	12. Christian Leallifano
06. Tom Johnson	13. JJ Englebrecht
07. Steffon Armitage	14. Marland Yarde
08. Duane Vermeulen	15. Gareth Anscombe

16. Rob Hawkins 17. Steven Kitschoff 18. Frans Malherbe 19. George Skivington 20. Luke Wallace 21.Nathan Fowles 22. Pat McCabe 23. Anthony Watson

Basic Game Plan
In wet conditions we will be looking to play a territorial game, utilising the boots of Lopez, Lealiifano and Anscombe to play in Quins territory or force them to play from deep.  When in Quins territory we will look to carry close to the ruck and suck defenders in, only going wide when it is absolutely on to do so.  We will play percentage rugby in the poor conditions.  Our intention is to utilize our strengths, which are top kicking games in the backs, and then power and pace to strike within the Quins 22.

In defence, as always we will be running a blitz defence.  Our focus will be on the gainline collisions and driving back in the tackle.  Line speed and no dog-legs will be key components for us.  Smith will sweep in behind the defensive line to counter any chips/grubbers.

Specifics

• Lineout.  On our ball in the main we will go safe throwing to the front or middle and looking to maul and suck in defenders to create space.  Defensively we will get the athletic Tom Johnson up at the front forcing Quins to take risks and throw long.
  
• Target Cooper.  In poor conditions we will send big carriers down Cooper’s channel and force him to defend.
  
• Breakdown.  When we carry in, we will flood the breakdown rucking well past the ball to free it up quickly and go again.  In defence, if we have made a passive tackle and the carrier has momentum we will not overcommit, but will maintain a strong defensive line.  If we win the collision and knock the carrier back we will look to get the second man in hard over the ball to turn it over.  Key for us is being selective.
  
• Attacking Play.  We will play in the right areas, using the boots of Farrell, Lealiifano and Anscombe to ensure we dominate the territorial battle.  We will put the ball into the corners time and time again and force Quins either into a kicking battle or to run from deep.
  

Key Points

• Weather.  The weather will be a key factor.  In poor conditions territory will be key, and we have selected a backline with strong kicking games at 10, 12 and 15. None of Quins 11 to 15 are known for having a decent kicking game.
  
• Pack Power.  Man for man we are bigger and heavier in the pack, and with our 10, 12 and 15 putting us in the right areas, we can dominate Quins in the tight and use the maul to good effect.
  

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Saracens vs London Irish
Location - Allianz Park
Heavy Rain Showers, 8 Degrees, 22mph South Westerly Winds

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Saracens
Manager – Pooly

01. Alex Waller	09. Luke Burgess
02. Keven Mealamu	10. Tom Taylor
03. Jannie Du Plessis
04. Julian Pierre	11. Miles Benjamin
05. Louis Deacon	12. Ryan Crotty
06. Carl Fearns	13. George Lowe
07. George Smith(c)	14. Chris Ashton
08. Chris Masoe	15. Lee Byrne

16. Chris Whitehead  17. Max Lahiff  18. Clement Ric 19. Rob Simmons  20. Brad Shields 21. Nick White  22. Gareth Steenson  23. Adam Thompstone

Tactics:

- Target opposition front 5, look to get upper hand in contact and get a platform from there
- Target Lindsay’s throw all game. Kick for the corners and put pressure on line out ball
- Target set piece, with 2 athletic locks in engine room look to get advantage in scrum
- HOME ADVANTAGE KEY - Really tough to beat and front 5 to dominate

General - We've selected a team packed with power and physicality and will look to dominate the contact and get over the gain line. We'll be playing a high tempo physical game from the off, look to smash the opposition back and get into the rucks/maul's and drive through. We'll look to tie the opposition in and then get at their backline, more so in the their half. Look to keep it tight in the forward pack and grind through work.

Scrum - Look to get a platform from the off with a strong scrummaging unit. Strong front 5 with big locks will look for the big push once the ball is in and drive the opposition back. Our LH and Hooker will look to target TH and try to get between him and Hooker to allow TH to work on LH If no weakness seen will use as restart.

Line out - Look to play it safe and use the rolling maul to good effect. Our big pack should have a lot of joy here and will tie in the opposition defence. We'll look to contest on opp throw especially when sub get on the pitch as we feel we can really pressure him.

Defence - High intensity and big hits, looking to drive past the ball player. Huge physical pack that can look to dominate the collision and breakdown allowing Smith etc a chance to slow down/steal ball. Scrum half to sweep behind the defensive line.

Attack - Keep things simple in our own half then look to unleash backs in opp territory. Scrum half to inject pace from the breakdown and have Lowe on his shoulder. Huge carrying backrow to get us over the gain line after front 5 set a platform.

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London Irish

01. Wyatt Crockett	09. Ruan Pienaar
02. Tom Lindsay	10. Nick Evans (k)
03. Matt Stevens
04. Nick Kennedy	11. JSD
05. Stuart Hooper	12. Luke McAlister
06. Mamuka Gorgodze	13. Conrad Smith
07. Will Fraser	14. Nick Cummins
08. Scott Higginbotham	15. Niall Morris

16. Hika Elliot 17. Antoine Guillamon 18. Tom Smallbone. 19. Matt Garvey 20. Ed Jackson 21. Rory Kockott 22. J.P Pietersen 23. Henry Trinder



Tactics:


SET PIECE
We have picked a scrummaging pack in wet conditions and gorgodze and higginbotham will provide grunt. We have four lineout jumpers and will keep it simple today.

BREAKDOWN
looking to control our BREAKDOWN and give piennar time on the ball. Fraser will only compete if available but we will aim to fan out.

HALF BACKS
controlled ball with good tactical players looking to use the conditions to their advantage, they will start with a tight game for three phases then spread.

ATTACK
controlled with strong runners and will look for simple passes and our back three cutting back on inside shoulder at times.

DEFENCE
controlled and hard hitting. Look to snag 9 to stop quick ball, any high balls will be secured and kicked back into space or off the park, if it's on we run.

BENCH
strong impact and further control.

OVERALL
Tight game initially and play for territory in these conditions, take the points when available but back ourselves if it's on. We are in great form having lost once this year!

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Team sheet deadlines apply this week guys as we are back to league action.

Home teams to be named by midnight on Tuesday
Away teams to be named by midnight on Wednesday

Mark

Harlequins
Manager – Steven_Sharks

01.Tony Woodcock	09. Karl Dickson
02.Gary Botha	10.Quade Cooper
03.John Afoa
04.Bakkies Botha	11.Topsy Ojo
05.Steve Borthwick (c)	12. Jan Serfontein
06. Jamie Gibson	13.Jonathan Joseph
07.Michael Hooper	14.Frank Halai
08.Nick Easter	15. Luke Morahan

16.Rob Buchanan 17. Ben Franks 18. Kieran Brookes 19. Pieter Steph Du Toit 20. George Kruis 21. Luke McGrath 22.Freddie Burns 23. Ben Tapuai
Tactics

- look to play the conditions with Cooper and Serfontein putting us into the corner and use our lineout to really target the Wasps throw with Borthwick, Botha, Gibson and Easter really looking to dominate this aspect of the game.

- When we have posession in the Wasps half look to keep the ball tight until there is a clear and obvious gap in the outside channels. Look for Dickson and Cooper to feed runners at pace looking to target away from the fringes where Wasps defence is less populated. Ensure our carriers carry the ball with support so as to gain quick ruck ball. Look to get Jan Serfontein running at Camille Lopez.

- At the breakdown really look to get Hooper and Gibson into positions where they can gain the turnover or penalty. When this isn't on look to one or two players to ensure that the Wasps 9 has to work to get the ball from the back of the ruck in tough conditions. On our own ball look to effectively use no more than 3 or 4 men to secure quick possession.

- In defence look to employ a quick linespeed which is built from the ruck out to drift as we have a very quick set of outside backs and the condition will make expansive play a difficult task. When we can look to double up in the tackle in order to win the collision and then target the ball.

- Key to this game is aggression in the contact and winning the collisions and the battles at the gain line and setpiece. We feel we have the players equipped to do this. Also our extra experience upfront holds us in good stead for what will be a forward dominated game.

- Use our bench as and when is suited depending on the game situation.

Saracens
Manager – Pooly

01. Alex Waller	09. Luke Burgess
02. Keven Mealamu	10. Tom Taylor
03. Jannie Du Plessis
04. Julian Pierre	11. Miles Benjamin
05. Louis Deacon	12. Ryan Crotty
06. Carl Fearns	13. George Lowe
07. George Smith(c)	14. Chris Ashton
08. Chris Masoe	15. Lee Byrne

16. Chris Whitehead  17. Max Lahiff  18. Clement Ric 19. Rob Simmons  20. Brad Shields 21. Nick White  22. Gareth Steenson  23. Adam Thompstone

Tactics:

- Target opposition front 5, look to get upper hand in contact and get a platform from there
- Target Lindsay’s throw all game. Kick for the corners and put pressure on line out ball
- Target set piece, with 2 athletic locks in engine room look to get advantage in scrum
- HOME ADVANTAGE KEY - Really tough to beat and front 5 to dominate

General - We've selected a team packed with power and physicality and will look to dominate the contact and get over the gain line. We'll be playing a high tempo physical game from the off, look to smash the opposition back and get into the rucks/maul's and drive through. We'll look to tie the opposition in and then get at their backline, more so in the their half. Look to keep it tight in the forward pack and grind through work.

Scrum - Look to get a platform from the off with a strong scrummaging unit. Strong front 5 with big locks will look for the big push once the ball is in and drive the opposition back. Our LH and Hooker will look to target TH and try to get between him and Hooker to allow TH to work on LH If no weakness seen will use as restart.

Line out - Look to play it safe and use the rolling maul to good effect. Our big pack should have a lot of joy here and will tie in the opposition defence. We'll look to contest on opp throw especially when sub get on the pitch as we feel we can really pressure him.

Defence - High intensity and big hits, looking to drive past the ball player. Huge physical pack that can look to dominate the collision and breakdown allowing Smith etc a chance to slow down/steal ball. Scrum half to sweep behind the defensive line.

Attack - Keep things simple in our own half then look to unleash backs in opp territory. Scrum half to inject pace from the breakdown and have Lowe on his shoulder. Huge carrying backrow to get us over the gain line after front 5 set a platform.

Northampton Saints
Manager Dammit Chris

01. Sona Taumalolo	09. Joe Simpson
02. Tatafu Polota-Nau	10. George Ford(k)
03. Carl Hayman
04. Dean Mumm	11. Jamie Elliott
05. Calum Clark(c)	12. Matt Giteau
06. Steven Luatua	13. Manu Tuilagi
07. Sam Cane	14. Julian Savea
08. Manu Samoa	15. Ben Foden

Substitutes: 16. Scott Spurling 17. Danny Hobbs-Awoyemi 18. David Pocock 19. Rhys Ruddock 20. Nicola Matawalu 21. Oliver Deveto 22. Christian Wade 23. Ben Afeaki

Tactics: Weather conditions will see Saints adopt a very aggressive and physical approach to the game, looking to force errors and mistakes from Exeter. The pack has a lot of tough ball carriers and we look to win the gainline battle and the collisions, work through the phases and give Simpson, Ford and Giteau a platform to put kicks in behind Tait and Varndell and keep Exeter pinned deep within their own half.

There are a number of areas we aim to exploit - James Johnson joined Exeter this week and has had no time to gel with his team, so this will be a huge benefit in the set piece. Sheridan is in the same boat and we will send Giteau, Tuilagi and Savea down his defensive channel all game. We will look to exploit both Tait and Varndell with a tactical kicking game from our 9/10/12 combination.  

Setpiece: Very simple lineout call in the conditions, will use ball to start mauls and work through the phases here and get forward momentum. Clark and Manoa to pressurise Exeter throw ins. Solid scrum, where we will look to target the lack of familiarity between Johnson and his teammates.

Breakdown/Backrow: An area we aim to exploit with Sam Cane and will aim to secure penalties - Exeter do not have a breakdown specialist, while we have Cane and Clark and then will bring on Ruddock and Pocock.

Possession/Territory: Pack to give Ford/Giteau the platform to dictate the territory battle. We want to play in areas where all mistakes by Exeter can be turned into 3 points.

Attack the Gainline/Win Collisions: Picked a pack that is full of strong ball carriers to get us over the gainline and put Exeter on backfoot - Taumalolo, TPN, Mumm, Clark, Luatua and Manoa all strong carriers. In the conditions if we can get forward momentum penalties will stack up and will keep the scoreboard ticking over. Will send runners down Sheridan's channel and exploit defence.

Defence Aggressive blitz defence, big hitters and aim to force handling errors and get at the Exeter halfbacks. Simpson to sweep behind defensive line.

Key selection points: Stong pack that is vital for away games
Win the collisions and gainline battle - whole pack big ball carriers.
Good control in terms of tactical kicking with Ford and Giteau
In good form
Try and exploit two new players in Exeter lineup, Johnson and Sheridan and target Tait and Varndell with kicking game.

Sale Sharks
Manager – SJE

01. Marcos Ayerza	09. Kieran Marmion
02. David Paice	10. Beauden Barrett
03. Davit Zirakishvilli
04. Kane Douglas	11. Craig Gilroy
05. Brodie Retalick	12. Kyle Eastmond
06. Fulgence Quedragao	13. George Pisi
07. Matt Kvesic	14. Semesa Rokoduguni
08. Alex Tulou	15. Jared Payne

16. Vasil Kakovin 17. Tommy Taylor 18. Phil Swainston 19. Christian Day 20. Tom Savage 21. Calum Braley 22. JJ Hanrahan 23. Nick Abendanon

We will play the game in the opposition half with an intelligent kicking game. When there we will play a fast paced, high intensity offloading game looking to create space for our halfbacks and to get our back three onto the ball as much possible.

- Use the scrum as a platform. Good technical front row capable of building a platform for Tulou to carry from..

- Attack from the lineout. Five genuine jumping options allows us to mix it up and really use the lineout as an attacking platform. Look to get the ball to Barrett and Eastmond with space outside. 

- Target the opposition lineout with Quedragao jumping at the front and Retalick marshalling the middle to pick off oppositions throws. Barrett & Eastmond will relish attacking an unset defence. 

- Look to mix up play. Barrett & Eastmond to interchange at first receiver and change the point of attack. Marmion provides a threat snipping around the base.

- Get the back three involved. Roko, Gilroy and Payne all to run lines looking for the inside ball or offload to get in behind the opposition defence.

- Hit the breakdown hard. Look to our dynamic front five to clear the ruck and allow the likes of Kvesic & Quedragao to really attack the breakdown.

- Straight line blitz defence focusing on a quick line speed to isolate the ball carrier before the gain line. Quedragao will defend on Eastmonds shoulder to double up and also be first on the scene at the breakdown. Care to sweep in behind to cover chips and grubbers.

Exeter Chiefs 

Manager – Fluxy

01. Logovii Mulipola	09. Morgan Parra (k)
02. Rob Webber (c)	10. Toby Flood
03. James Johnstone
04. Brad Thorn	11. Tom Varndell
05. Geoff Parling	12. Eamonn Sheridan
06. Liam Messam	13. Marcelo Bosch
07. Sam Jones	14. Matt Tait
08. Nick Williams	15. Juan Martin Hernandez

16. Jack Yeandle 17. Richard Barrington 18. Davit Kubriashvili 19. Patricio Albacete 20. Semisi Taulava 21. Hadyn Thomas 22. Stephen Myler 23. Zac Guildford

Key Points

• Win the toss and look to start playing Southwards at Sandy Park, playing into the wind in the first half and use the carriers to make ground. Kick more in second half when the wind is actually with us geographically and Saints won't want to kick it back. 
  
• Target the halfbacks in the slippery conditions. Simpson and Ford can be thrown off their games easily and get caught up in little scraps, this will hurt Saints game plan.
  
• Some new faces, but they only have to worry about doing their own job. For example JJ just needs to anchor the scrum
  
• Parra will kick all points available, he can kick from within their half, so this indicates that Saints should be wary of giving away penalties.
  
• Play a simple game in the slippery conditions.
  

Game plan

A few close games in the pasts weeks means that the we are carrying some real momentum into games and believing that we can beat anyway at the moment. 
Selected a physically strong side to compete with the physicality of the Saints side. With the conditions looking likely to prevent any quick rugby out wide and increase the chances of mistakes, we will implement a simple territorial game and look to be playing with the ball within the opposition 22. 
Every time we are in the opposition 22 we will look to at least leave with the three points to keep the score board ticking over and to build a lead. 
Simple set-piece game which we look to dominate our own ball, and contest every opposition put in. The pack that has been selected is mobile and strong around the park, especially in the tackle, on the floor and ball in hand. 

Attack

• JJ won't have much in the way of competition from Sona who isn't the greatest technical prop and will just attempt to overpower JJ.
  
• Parling will lead the line out and look to set rolling mauls to keep hold of possession and make wasps give away penalties. Look to set the maul first then drive, and try to keep resetting the maul. 
  
• Williams will look to make runs at Ford and exploit the lack of size, as these conditions Williams excels in.
  
• Pack filled big carriers to provide a number of options in the tight exchanges. Look to keep moving the point of attack with clever offloads and forward interplay. Look for forward pods outside the third guard in the line to really stretch their defences and get over the gain line to create momentum.
  
• Look to flood the breakdown and clear out bodies, to keep ball clean so that the halfbacks can dictate the game. (Eg AB's or Eng vs AB 2012 style) Doesn't mean we need to play an out and out seven if the whole side chips in at the breakdown
  
• All backs possess a clever kicking games and are decent under high ball in the wet. We will look to peg Saints back in their 22, and throw in the odd high bomb to fall outside the 22 to create the opportunity to gain a scrum.
  

Defence

• We will use a Blitz drift line in defence to cut down Ford's options and push him inside towards our back-row.
  
• Parra to sweep behind the defensive line, and to counter any loose kicks or turnover ball - either by quickly shipping it wide to the back three, or kicking in behind their back three.
  
• The whole pack is mobile and capable of getting over the ball at the breakdown. Look to powerfully clear opponents out of the ruck, and use the strong tackling to keep chopping down the Saints runners.
  
• If we kick in behind their back-line or back three, we look to at least make them have to turn into an advancing black line which will not allow the receiver time to make decision or escape with clean ball. Every kick to be chased, the kick is as only as good as the chase.
  
• Back three players are adept in the air and will look to mark the ball to perhaps draw a penalty from a late tackle. 
  

Just done the weather for this week - enjoy!

Bath Rugby
Manager – inthefastlane

01. James Slipper	09. Fourie Du Preez
02. Agustin Creevy	10. Rhys Patchell
03. Ben Tameifuma
04. Luke Romano	11. Hallan Amos
05. Sam Whitelock	12. Anthony Allen
06. Jerome Kaino	13. Joel Tomkins
07. Liam Gill	14. Rob Miller
08. James Haskell	15. Chris Pennell

|
16. Mikey Haywood 17. Carl Rimmer 18. Charlie Faumuania 19. Graham Kitchener 20.  Jordan Crane 21. Richard Wigglesworth 22. Sam Hill 23. Ashley Beck

I
Overall: Look to play flowing rugby with Patchell pulling the strings. We have a mobile, dynamic pack and will be hoping for a set-piece and open play advantage.

Scrum: Set the scrum quickly and try to exert pressure on the Newcastle

Lineout: Whitelock calling the line out. Romano, Haskell and Kaino options. Look to get up into the air quickly and down for a quick maul

Breakdown: Not looking to be over committed at the breakdown but if a turnover is possible then be aggressive. Gill will be supported Haskell and Slipper at the breakdown

Defence: Banana Blitz Defence looking to put pressure on Cruden. FDP to sweep in behind.

FDP will control our backs. Him and Patchell will play what they see and put the rest of the back line in strong positions. We have strong runners who can get over the gainline throughout the side with a very dynamic pack and a big back line. The back line is highly physical and will look to create gaps and mismatches

Subs: look to keep a high tempo

1 Tendai Mtawrira
2 Dave Ward
3 BJ Botha
4 Mouritz Botha
5 Johann Muller
6 Danie Russouw
7 Shane Jennings
8 Thomas Waldrom
9 Michael Classens
10 Remi Tales
11 Mark Cueto
12 Maxime Mermoz
13 Casey Laulala
14 Sailosi Tagicakibau
15 Delon Armitage

16 Nathan Catt
17 Matthew Rees
18 Brian Mujati
19 James Hudson
20 Phil Dowson
21 Tawera Kerr Barlow
22 Olly Barkley
23 Tom Casson

01. Wyatt Crockett	09. Ruan Pienaar
02. Tom Lindsay	10. Nick Evans (k)
03. Matt Stevens
04. Nick Kennedy	11. JSD
05. Stuart Hooper	12. Luke McAlister
06. Mamuka Gorgodze	13. Conrad Smith
07. Will Fraser	14. Nick Cummins
08. Scott Higginbotham	15. Niall Morris

16. Hika Elliot 17. Antoine Guillamon 18. Tom Smallbone. 19. Matt Garvey 20. Ed Jackson 21. Rory Kockott 22. J.P Pietersen 23. Henry Trinder



Tactics:


SET PIECE
We have picked a scrummaging pack in wet conditions and gorgodze and higginbotham will provide grunt. We have four lineout jumpers and will keep it simple today.

BREAKDOWN
looking to control our BREAKDOWN and give piennar time on the ball. Fraser will only compete if available but we will aim to fan out.

HALF BACKS
controlled ball with good tactical players looking to use the conditions to their advantage, they will start with a tight game for three phases then spread.

ATTACK
controlled with strong runners and will look for simple passes and our back three cutting back on inside shoulder at times.

DEFENCE
controlled and hard hitting. Look to snag 9 to stop quick ball, any high balls will be secured and kicked back into space or off the park, if it's on we run.

BENCH
strong impact and further control.

OVERALL
Tight game initially and play for territory in these conditions, take the points when available but back ourselves if it's on. We are in great form having lost once this year!

London Wasps
Manager  Ozzy3213

01. Alex Corbisiero	09. Aaron Smith
02. Bismarck du Plessis	10. Camille Lopez
03. David Wilson
04. Sitaleki Timani	11. Bryan Habana
05. Romain Millo-Chluski	12. Christian Leallifano
06. Tom Johnson	13. JJ Englebrecht
07. Steffon Armitage	14. Marland Yarde
08. Duane Vermeulen ©	15. Gareth Anscombe

16. Rob Hawkins 17. Steven Kitschoff 18. Frans Malherbe 19. George Skivington 20. Luke Wallace 21.Nathan Fowles 22. Pat McCabe 23. Anthony Watson

Basic Game Plan
In wet conditions we will be looking to play a territorial game, utilising the boots of Lopez, Lealiifano and Anscombe to play in Quins territory or force them to play from deep.  When in Quins territory we will look to carry close to the ruck and suck defenders in, only going wide when it is absolutely on to do so.  We will play percentage rugby in the poor conditions.  Our intention is to utilize our strengths, which are top kicking games in the backs, and then power and pace to strike within the Quins 22.

In defence, as always we will be running a blitz defence.  Our focus will be on the gainline collisions and driving back in the tackle.  Line speed and no dog-legs will be key components for us.  Smith will sweep in behind the defensive line to counter any chips/grubbers.

Specifics

• Lineout.  On our ball in the main we will go safe throwing to the front or middle and looking to maul and suck in defenders to create space.  Defensively we will get the athletic Tom Johnson up at the front forcing Quins to take risks and throw long.
  
• Target Cooper.  In poor conditions we will send big carriers down Cooper’s channel and force him to defend.
  
• Breakdown.  When we carry in, we will flood the breakdown rucking well past the ball to free it up quickly and go again.  In defence, if we have made a passive tackle and the carrier has momentum we will not overcommit, but will maintain a strong defensive line.  If we win the collision and knock the carrier back we will look to get the second man in hard over the ball to turn it over.  Key for us is being selective.
  
• Attacking Play.  We will play in the right areas, using the boots of Farrell, Lealiifano and Anscombe to ensure we dominate the territorial battle.  We will put the ball into the corners time and time again and force Quins either into a kicking battle or to run from deep.
  

Key Points

• Weather.  The weather will be a key factor.  In poor conditions territory will be key, and we have selected a backline with strong kicking games at 10, 12 and 15. None of Quins 11 to 15 are known for having a decent kicking game.
  
• Pack Power.  Man for man we are bigger and heavier in the pack, and with our 10, 12 and 15 putting us in the right areas, we can dominate Quins in the tight and use the maul to good effect.
  

Leicester Tigers have named their side to play Worcester Warriors this week.

Tigers have made 14 changes to the side that beat Bath 27-21 last week and played Harlequins the week before, with captain James Horwill the only player to continue in the shirt.
In contrast Worcester have 8 players starting this week who battled against Exeter last week, and all 15 played the week before against Sale.

Rene Ranger is back in the Tigers shirt, 7 months after leaving in the deal that saw Mike Brown arrive at Tigers. Ranger played for Tigers in the AP Final last year, where they defeated Harlequins. New signings Joe van Niekerk and Sitiveni Sivivatu take their place on the bench, looking for their first league appearances for the club.


Leicester Tigers
Manager – LukeLovesLuka

01. Andrew Sheridan	09. Kahn Fotuali'i
02. Stephen Moore	10. Jonny Wilkinson (k)
03. Cencus Johnston
04. Nathan Hines	11. Ugo Monye
05. James Horwill (c)	12. Tamati Ellison
06. Sean O'Brien	13. Rene Ranger
07. Jacques Burger	14. Drew Mitchell
08. Ernst Joubert	15. Pat Lambie

16. Harry Thacker 17. Harry Rudkin 18. Neale Farthing 19. Kearnan Myall 20. Joe van Niekerk 21. Micky Young 22. Dominic Waldouck 23. Sitiveni Sivivatu

Tactics:

In wet conditions we will play to our strengths and play a game built around our intelligent HB's controlling the game and the power and strength of our side.

- Attack at all scrums with our huge pack - Johnston and Sheridan to look to really get into the opposition. Lots of scrums in wet weather and an area we will look to target if winning.

- Attack at all lineouts. Use Hines or Joubert at the front and Horwill off the top as our three key options.
Shortened lineouts with Burger in midfield as crash or decoy option.

- Put serious pressure on Ward's throws with Hines at the front on all Worcs throws.

- Gigantic pack made up of massive line-breakers, used in the tight to tire down the Worcs defence. The likes of SOB, Burger, Hines, Moore and Horwill to be used to target the Worcs 10 channel.

- Target the breakdown - huge emphasis on our work at the breakdown today and we will always look to turnover possession. With Burger and SOB on the flanks, we feel our breakdown play could be crucial today.

- No overly ambitious passing - In wet conditions we will either look to kick to gain territory or look to keep ball in hand and take it through the middle.

- In rain we will target Tales all game with Burger and SOB breathing down his neck at every opportunity. Big runners through his channel - looking to win the Wilko vs Tales contest.

- We will look to employ a blitz defence, focusing on a quick line speed to hit the ball carrier before he gets to the gainline. We have aggressive forwards to carry out this instruction. Fotuali to sweep behind with an eye on short kicks.

- Wilkinson to kick all penalties.

Glos


1 Steenkamp
2 Strauss
3 Figallo
4 Gray
5 Robson
6 Croft
7 Salvi
8 Dickinson
9 Genia
10 Carter
11 Gear
12 Juan de Jongh
13 kuridrani
14 Charlie Walker
15 Israel Folau
16 Wood
17 George
18 Ousthuizen
19 Stookes
20 Galan
21 Robson
22 Cipriani
23 Banahan


Glos tactics

In greasy quite windy conditions it is all about playing the conditions and having the right players in those key 2,8,9,10 positions. Benches also play a huge role in these more attritional games


Forwards win matches and we have picked a huge front 5 with Wc players to do the grunt and set the tone

Set pieces

We will be looking to really put the heat on them at scrum time with figallo, Strauss and co aiming to at worst disrupt the scrum but at best take ball against the head.

On our own ball we will be aiming to anchor the scrum most times and give Genia an easy ride. In more attacking positions we will be looking to utilise a wheel to enable us the best attacking opportunity.


Line out

With there being a lot of kicking in this game the line out will be key. Croft gray Robson Dickinson is a stellar like up and will look to steal lots of Paice throws.

On our own ball we will vary catch and drive and off the top. Strauss has probably the best darts in world rugby and in 20mph winds you need his accuracy. We see our forward bench as far superior so these sapping line out drives will serve to drain sale.

General forwards

Aim of the game is getting front foot ball to allow the key players to dominate tempo and field position. We
Have lots of heavy ball carriers and will be doing lots of carrying close to the ruck. Particularly when against the wind where keep ball is all important.

We will commit numbers to the break down as we have lots of big quick int ass players. Salvi will be looking t to dominate Kvesic who is having a tough season.

We will be playing at full tilt knowing we have proven class off the bench in the forwards. In greasy conditions ball presentation and looking after it is key.

Backs

With forward generating great ball the backs need to use it right. In these conditions the 8,9,10 link is key and we have the right players in these conditions.

With the wind Carter will be kicking a lot more. He will look to push them back and play the corners and territory game. Knowing we have great line out jumpers and Strauss to throw will enable us to hopefully won the territory game. When in the right position on the field then we will look to play. We have wc backs and the ability to vary it. We can hit kuridrani hard and straighten or look to push it through the hands. Our back 3 has pace trickery and power

Against the wind it's required to run it more and advance down the pitch a get right field positions. Here the forwards will take it on and Genia will
Move it the moment we get front foot ball.

Cross kick will be utilised with gear and folau to the fore. The up and under will also be tried.

We will operate a blitz with Genia sweeping.

Key points

2,8,9,10 axis we are better
Really target their 9,10 axis
Lineout options and Strauss throw give us line out edge
Bench options to take game away from sale

SJE Amended my side slightly. Hope that's ok?

No worries Matt   

Gray on the Scotland bench matt?

Not even picked luke

Not even picked luke

Updated the OP, assuming everyone is alright, but if anyone spots anything let me know

Just for those reading Petes tactics they have Lopez at 10, not Farrell.

Auto pilot when typing! Doh!!!

I'm always doing it! Need to give myse;f every chance

Sale 21 - 24  Gloucester

As units I prefer the Gloucester front 5 but their isn't much in it at all. The scrum edges to Sale with the lineouts pretty even with a few more turnovers for Gloucester. Both packs have strong players in the loose and the gainline will be fiercely contested.

At half back their is a gulf in class with Genia and Carter really dominating in this area and this has a big impact on the game. Not a great deal in the midfields with both sets of wings struggling a litte with the kicks behind them.

Gloucester have the stronger bench to close out what I think is a big win.

Worcester 21 - 25 Leicester

This would have been an exceptionally close game had we some Worcester tactics as it is a very well set up side. Leicester are strong as usual.  

Bath 25 - 23Newcastle

Good strong front 5 for Bath who win that particular battle but the rest of the game is much closer. The Newcastle back row is top class but Smith and McCaw are not at the top of their games. At half back the conditions undoubtedly favour Du Preez and Patchells giant boots. Two physical midfields and in Pennell and Miller Bath have to excellent full backs in their side which suits the conditions. It is a great battle with a Falcons side packed with star quality but I feel Bath's advantage upfront and their dominace in the kicking battle (along with Patchell's monster boot off the tee) see bath gain a huge win.

Exeter 24 -  23 Northampton

Think Exeter will control things upfront here and they are set up to win the game from their with good controlling half back, powerful centres and two full backs in their back three. Saints are dangerous and have exciting players in their back line but at home and with good experience in the right areas they should win this one.

Saracens 20 - 20 London Irish

Good contest upfront with Saracens getting the nudge at the scrum but Irish much stronger at the lineout. In the loose their is nothing in the packs. A gulf in class at half back with Irish much stronger in both positions. I think Byrne is a key player in these conditions with other players in both back 3's not the best in these conditions. I think the breakdown will be key and think Saracens will control this area with 3 good breakdown exponents. It's a tough one but I'm not sure that outside of the quality half backs Irish have enough to win against a tough Saracens outfit.
Hope to finish the last two explanations prior to 3 tomorrow.

Sale 22-24 Glos
In wet conditions the Sale front 5 could get an advantage against fair weather players. Both backrows set out well. Glos bring more control at half backs to release their outside backs and a very strong bench here. Both lineouts will go well, think Glos will get the edge with tactical kicks and Folau running back Sales kicks.

Warriors 14-22 Tigers
No tactics hurst Warriors. A mobile Warriors pack but Tigers pack is built for poor conditions. Good control from both at half back but think Tigers will be more dangerous out wide. Tigers target 10 well with two big hitters who will intimidate, strong running and a tight gameplan gives a good win.

Bath 20-21 Falcons
Bath take the advantage in the front 5. Falcons backrow are good but do like the Bath backrow in these conditions with strong carriers. One a piece at half back, Falcons bring more experience to the outside backs but Bath have some good in form players here. Good benches from both. Flowing rugby from Bath isn't going to work today and that is a big split up in the tactics. Falcons play the territory but not sure how much good, quick ball they will get, just have enough here to steal the win after Bath's tactical errors, big shame.

Chiefs 20-20 Saints
Two huge packs battling it out here today. One a piece again at half back but prefer Chiefs as pairing. Think Saints could do well outside but hard to rate some of their players with injury and little game time. Good benches from both. Chiefs set out well keeping it simple and playing quite a tight game, Saints doing the same and targeting the right areas. Can't see either team getting a firm grip on this game, will be a messy match.

Quins 20-23 Wasps
Quins strong up front but Wasps match them man for man and will be a really good battle here. Half backs even here and feel both teams can make good damage out wide with direct runners, feel Wasps have a bit more of a carrying game from their backrow. Both sides targeting the territory right here and think that Wasps could bring a bit more today and a better carrying game.

Sale 23-26 Gloucester
Warriors 17-23 Tigers
Exeter 24-22 Saints
Quins 23-26 Wasps
Sarries. 21-17 Irish

Sale Sharks 16 - 18 Gloucester
A real ding dong affair up front with the Sharks matching the glaws forwards blow for blow. However I do see the Glos back row imposing themselves on the game around the park in their own ways. Glos also have the control in the backs especially 9-12 where they also have dashes of world class players. Sale make this a hard game at home, but Glos will nick this game. 

Worcester Warriors 18 - 23 Leicester Tigers


Warriors are decent through out, They lack a slight game plan, but have some decent players to make a game of it at home. However Tigers have a potent physical pack and will get the some real go forward ball. This will allow Fotuali and Wilko time to boss the game and put Ranger and Ellison into space to wreak havoc and give Tigers the win. 

Bath Rugby 17 - 20 Newcastle Falcons


Bath have a strong pack and get in amongst the Falcons pack. But Falcons have a class back row and can get the better of the bath unit. I just feel that the Bath lads in the line out are decent but aren't quite as explosive as the Falcons lads. And I question slightly trying to play a flowing game in such conditions for Bath. I can understand keeping up tempo in the game but not much in the way of plan for forwards outside the set piece. With parity up front Bath have the chance to attack, but are out matched by their opponents. Tough game for Bath and feel that they can just hang on to a losing bonus point. 

Harlequins 18 - 22 London Wasps


Both sides are set out well, as per usual to their managers. I see the front fives being about evens, with maybe a better line out from quins but a slightly better carrying and scrummaging wasps pack. I do like the game plans and both will work, but I just feel that quins lack the kicking quality of wasps which lets them down in a kicking contest. Not to take away from Quins ability to run the ball back, but in the conditions you can't return every ball with a run and unfortunately miss Kearney's footballing ability. Close game but Wasps will choke the life out this one for the win. 

Saracens 24 - 22 London Irish


Decent battle up front with Sarries imposing a real physical edge in the breakdown play. This sets them up well and provides time and space for their backs in open play. I think there is more control however form the Irish backs and especially their halfbacks. A real tough in the end of the game, with Pienaar keeping the score board ticking over for Irish and Taylor just behind for Sarries. But at home sarries have a little more impact in their bench and Steenson will secure a famous home win with his reliable boot.

Sale Sharks 17 Gloucester 18
Worcester Warriors 16 Leicester Tigers 17
Bath Rugby 19 Newcastle Falcons 19
Exeter Chiefs 23 Northampton Saints 22
Saracens 22 London Irish 21

Sale 22 - 23 Gloucester
Bath 20 - 19 Newcastle
Exeter 21 - 20 Saints
Quins 24 - 25 Wasps
Sarries 20 - 19 Irish

Worcester 21-25 Leicester
Lack of tactics hurt. Think Kahn and Wilko take this close game. Not sure on the Ellison ranger pairing in anyway

Bath 18-18 falcons

Can't split in anyway. Fantastic bath second row and both great backrows.

Halfbacks to bath in these conditions. Falcons have just enough about them to snatch a draw at death. Not
A game for the likes of cruden and JOC to shine

Sale Sharks 24 - 28 Gloucester
Really don't want to be playing Gloucester during the 6Nations - have such a strong team and can really hammer teams in the 2,8,9 and 10 shirts. SJE tactics keep the game close and they still have a lot of players that can cause Gloucester defensive problems.

Worcester Warriors 18 - 22 Leicester Tigers
Didnt see any tactics for Warriors. Tigers still have a very strong pack, which is vital for away wins and can see them grinding out the win.

Bath Rugby 21 - 21 Newcastle Falcons
Really tight game, Bath make a slight error in tactics due to the conditions but have so much power in the forwards and can see a good front five advantage for them. They will be able to get a lot of possession. Falcons backrow is a top unit, but again conditions tough for their backthree.

Quins 19-21 Wasps
Like Gloucester, Wasps are anothe team you want to avoid and the conditions are ideally suited for Pete's pack - great control at halfback too will see them get a win.

Saracens 15 - 13 London Irish
So dififcult to split - main difference for me is that I can just see Sarries getting more quality ball from the set piece due to Lindsay's throwing - the Irish backrow will really cause problems though and game will be close.

Exeter 21-20 saints

Saints as ever struggle during 6nations. I suffer likewise during RC. Exeter better suited to the conditions with the likes
Of thorn webber etc to the fore. Saints backrow is good but does not suit the conditions. Saints have more class but exeter better set out and take a win

Quins 19-20 Wasps

Fantastic battle. Packs pretty even all over. Think wasps have a better kicking game at 9,10,12 and that sees them win an epic

Sale 21-19 Gloucester

Sale edge pack and set piece. Gloucester on top at halfback but Sale slightly stronger in the centres. Real tough one this, Sale at home tough to beat and need to get on top in pack to win away.

Worcester 18-22 Leicester

Really nothing in this one. Two good packs with solid options. Worcester lack of tactics cost them the win at home.

Bath 17-17 Newcastle

Bath shade set piece and front 5 but Newcastle step up in back row. Similar story in half backs but FdP good for conditions. Strong back lines for both. Newcastle centres strong but Bath strong defence and like back 3 kicking options. Newcastle slightly better game plan but home advantage and strong front 5 keep them in it.

Exeter 19-19 Northampton

Big line out edge to Exeter but too many debuts will really hinder them. On paper a scrum advantage to Exeter but will take unit time to gel. Simpson will struggle in conditions but like Saints centres. Exeter better side and suit conditions but can see them struggling with so many new guys.

Harlequins 18-16 Wasps

Good game. Quins shade the pack ever so slightly and can just get an edge in set pieces. 1 a piece in half backs and backlines close. Really tight again but Quins at home and set piece can see them through.

Sarries 15-15 Irish

Struggled to score this. Pretty even all over. Lineout so important in these conditions but so is a kicking game. Lindsay let's down Irish but pienaar and Evans rescue the draw

RESULTS:

Sale Sharks 22 (T:2 P:4)
Gloucester 26 (T:2 C:2 P:4)

Worcester Warriors 18 (P:6)
Leicester Tigers 27 (T:2 C:1 P:5)

Bath 20 (T:2 C:2 P:2)
Newcastle Falcons 22 (T:2 P:4)

Exeter Chiefs 24 (T:2 C:1 P:4)
Northampton Saints 21 (T:2 C:1 P:3)

Harlequins 21 (T:2 C:1 P:3)
London Wasps 25* (T:3 C:2 P:2)

Saracens 22 (T:2 P:4)
London Irish 18 (P:6)

* Wasps fined 2 league points for injured players (Wilson & Leallifano)

BONUS:

Full: Fluxy, Matt, Steve, Prop, Chris, SJE & Pooly
Score: CJB, Luke & Pete
Fined: Driver (Late) & Nick

My second league win!

Big win that!

Happy with that win.

Love sacks!

Hasn't worked out too bad Pete, I doubt you'd have got the win without those two playing.

2pts gained I say

Steve, I can only apologise for having 2 ineligibles in my team mate. Just not on top of things with this game at the moment and thought that injuries were over with as we were into the 6 Nations.

It's fine mate. I know it wasn't deliberate. I only noticed after panicking myself that Woodcock was still injured!

Pooly, my expletive wasn't for dropping 2 points mate. You know me, I've always been a stickler for the rules on here, and am annoyed with myself having inadvertently broken them.

Yea I know, just saying you could have lost and had 2 pts deducted. If you're going to mess up its good to win