Wales v Fiji, 1 October

by **George Carlin** Sun Sep 27, 2015 6:58 am

First topic message reminder :

Wales v Fiji, 1 October - Page 3 Wales_12

WALES v FIJI
1 October 2015
KO: 16:45
Millennium Stadium, Cardiff

Live on [tbc]

Referee: John Lacey (Ireland)
Touch judges: Jérôme Garcès (France) & Mathieu Raynal (France)
Television match official: George Ayoub (Australia)

A. Head to Head

10 Played 10
8 Won 1
1 Drawn 1
1 Lost 8
306 Points 132

B. Recent Form

15 November 2014
Millennium Stadium, Cardiff
17 – 13 to Wales

2 October 2011
Waikato Stadium, Hamilton, New Zealand
66 – 0 to Wales

19 November 2010
Millennium Stadium, Cardiff
16 – 16 Draw

29 September 2007
Stade de la Beaujoire, Nantes, France
34 – 38 to Fiji

11 November 2005
Millennium Stadium, Cardiff
11 – 10 to Wales

9 November 2002
Millennium Stadium, Cardiff
58 – 14 to Wales

C. Teams

WALES
Wales v Fiji, 1 October - Page 3 Amybet10

Wales v Fiji, 1 October - Page 3 Amybet10

Matthew Morgan, Alex Cuthbert, Tyler Morgan, Jamie Roberts, George North, Dan Biggar, Gareth Davies; Taulupe Faletau, Sam Warburton (captain), Dan Lydiate, Alun-Wyn Jones, Bradley Davies, Tomas Francis, Scott Baldwin, Gethin Jenkins.

Reserves: Ken Owens, Aaron Jarvis, Samson Lee, Luke Charteris, Justin Tipuric, Lloyd Williams, Rhys Priestland, James Hook.

FIJI
Wales v Fiji, 1 October - Page 3 Paulin10

Wales v Fiji, 1 October - Page 3 Paulin10

Metuisela Talebula, Timoci Nagusa, Vereniki Goneva, Lepani Botia, Asaeli Tikoirotuma, Ben Volavola, Nemia Kenatale; Netani Talei, Akapusi Qera (captain), Dominiko Waqaniburotu, Leone Nakarawa, Tevita Cavubati, Manasa Saulo, Sunia Koto, Campese Ma'afu.

Reserves: Viliame Veikoso, Peni Ravia, Leeroy Atalifo, Nemia Soqeta, Malakai Ravulo, Henry Seniloli, Joshua Matavesi, Kini Murimurivalu.

by wales606 Mon Sep 28, 2015 3:18 pm

LordDowlais wrote:
wales606 wrote:So what about this backline?

10. Rhys Preistland
11. Matthew Morgan
12. Dan Biggar
13. James Hook
14. Rhys Patchell
15. Gareth Anscombe

I can't see an issue with that...

Wow 6 no 10's. What about Jason Tovey at scrum half as well ?

Does Tovey have experience at 9? The only one there who hasn't played in that position is Patchell, but i'm sure he has the pace to play on the wing

by majesticimperialman Mon Sep 28, 2015 3:39 pm

mikey_dragon wrote:
majesticimperialman wrote:I honestly think that this is a big task for Wales, what with the injuries and a short turn around most of the players that played against England will have too play against Fiji.

I am not saying that Wales cannot win this game, but Fiji will be well rested and put in 2 tough games against England and Australia. They will be well and truly up for this, they will not wan't to go out of the pool with out claiming at least 1 scalp.

Your predictions have been all but right so far though Madge. FYI, Wales are ranked second and Fiji are ranked tenth. Wales are two from two. Fiji are zero from two, and those two losses were quite convincing. Fiji will get their scalp when they face off against Uruguay.

I was not trying to predict the out come of the game. I was just saying that with all the injuries that Wales have and a short turn around, most of the team that played on saturday will have too play on thursday.

Fiji will have had more rest time than Wales so in theory should be fitter than Wales. and it could be hard for Wales.

And what the hell does Wales be ranked 2 in the world have any thing to do with this game?

by LordDowlais Mon Sep 28, 2015 3:46 pm

majesticimperialman wrote:And what the hell does Wales be ranked 2 in the world have any thing to do with this game?

Nothing.

But it is nice to keep reminding ourselves. At best, at least it annoys you.

1
(1)
New Zealand
NZL
92.89
2
(4)
Wales
WAL
87.31
3
(2)
Australia
AUS
86.75
4
(5)
Ireland
IRE
84.40
5
(6)
South Africa
RSA
82.66
6
(3)
England
ENG
82.35
7
(7)
France
FRA
81.12
8
(8)
Argentina
ARG
79.66
9
(12)
Scotland
SCO
79.05
10
(9)
Fiji
FJI
76.96
VIEW FULL RANKINGS

Read more at http://www.worldrugby.org/rankings#UoLAFkR7PGUv0rCt.99

by majesticimperialman Mon Sep 28, 2015 3:50 pm

LordDowlais wrote:
majesticimperialman wrote:And what the hell does Wales be ranked 2 in the world have any thing to do with this game?

Nothing.

But it is nice to keep reminding ourselves. At best, at least it annoys you.

1
(1)
New Zealand
NZL
92.89
2
(4)
Wales
WAL
87.31
3
(2)
Australia
AUS
86.75
4
(5)
Ireland
IRE
84.40
5
(6)
South Africa
RSA
82.66
6
(3)
England
ENG
82.35
7
(7)
France
FRA
81.12
8
(8)
Argentina
ARG
79.66
9
(12)
Scotland
SCO
79.05
10
(9)
Fiji
FJI
76.96
VIEW FULL RANKINGS

Read more at http://www.worldrugby.org/rankings#UoLAFkR7PGUv0rCt.99

You are right it annoys me. But i would just like to make this point "ENJOY IT" why you can. Because as we all know it will not last long. :h

by wales606 Mon Sep 28, 2015 4:22 pm

Hook and Anscombe have been called up

Liam Williams will not be considered for the Fiji game

by LordDowlais Mon Sep 28, 2015 4:30 pm

wales606 wrote:Hook and Anscombe have been called up

Liam Williams will not be considered for the Fiji game

Two very able replacements. I would suspect Hook is cover for the center and Anscombe is cover for fullback.

For Thursday I would like to see the following back line:-

9 - Gareth Davies
10 - Dan Biggar
11 - George North
12 - Jamie Roberts
13 - James Hook
14 - Alex Cuthbert
15 - Gareth Anscombe

by Shifty Mon Sep 28, 2015 4:36 pm

Excellent replacements, no reason not have have total confidence in both players.

by GavinDragon Mon Sep 28, 2015 4:37 pm

majesticimperialman wrote:
LordDowlais wrote:
majesticimperialman wrote:And what the hell does Wales be ranked 2 in the world have any thing to do with this game?

Nothing.

But it is nice to keep reminding ourselves. At best, at least it annoys you.

1
(1)
New Zealand
NZL
92.89
2
(4)
Wales
WAL
87.31
3
(2)
Australia
AUS
86.75
4
(5)
Ireland
IRE
84.40
5
(6)
South Africa
RSA
82.66
6
(3)
England
ENG
82.35
7
(7)
France
FRA
81.12
8
(8)
Argentina
ARG
79.66
9
(12)
Scotland
SCO
79.05
10
(9)
Fiji
FJI
76.96
VIEW FULL RANKINGS

Read more at http://www.worldrugby.org/rankings#UoLAFkR7PGUv0rCt.99

You are right it annoys me. But i would just like to make this point "ENJOY IT" why you can. Because as we all know it will not last long. :h

We should be third not second. We have not beaten Australia in ten. We have, however, beaten 4th 5th and 6th in our last meeting

by LordDowlais Mon Sep 28, 2015 4:38 pm

Shifty wrote:Excellent replacements, no reason not have have total confidence in both players.

I agree. Now lets just make sure Hook does not give these lot any interceptions. Shocked

by wales606 Mon Sep 28, 2015 4:38 pm

LordDowlais wrote:
wales606 wrote:Hook and Anscombe have been called up

Liam Williams will not be considered for the Fiji game

Two very able replacements. I would suspect Hook is cover for the center and Anscombe is cover for fullback.

For Thursday I would like to see the following back line:-

9 - Gareth Davies
10 - Dan Biggar
11 - George North
12 - Jamie Roberts
13 - James Hook
14 - Alex Cuthbert
15 - Gareth Anscombe

Probably what I would go for, although I suspect Gatland will show some faith in the players who have been in camp the whole time, and Tyler Morgan will start (although I think Anscombe will start as he was ahead of Morgan before injury)

by wales606 Mon Sep 28, 2015 4:39 pm

GavinDragon wrote:
majesticimperialman wrote:
LordDowlais wrote:
majesticimperialman wrote:And what the hell does Wales be ranked 2 in the world have any thing to do with this game?

Nothing.

But it is nice to keep reminding ourselves. At best, at least it annoys you.

1
(1)
New Zealand
NZL
92.89
2
(4)
Wales
WAL
87.31
3
(2)
Australia
AUS
86.75
4
(5)
Ireland
IRE
84.40
5
(6)
South Africa
RSA
82.66
6
(3)
England
ENG
82.35
7
(7)
France
FRA
81.12
8
(8)
Argentina
ARG
79.66
9
(12)
Scotland
SCO
79.05
10
(9)
Fiji
FJI
76.96
VIEW FULL RANKINGS

Read more at http://www.worldrugby.org/rankings#UoLAFkR7PGUv0rCt.99

You are right it annoys me. But i would just like to make this point "ENJOY IT" why you can. Because as we all know it will not last long. :h

We should be third not second. We have not beaten Australia in ten. We have, however, beaten 4th 5th and 6th in our last meeting

And in a couple of weeks, we can add 3rd to that list Very Happy

by Guest Mon Sep 28, 2015 4:41 pm

wales606 wrote:Hook and Anscombe have been called up

Liam Williams will not be considered for the Fiji game

As I predicted for those two. I guess Aled Brew's phone was off.

by LordDowlais Mon Sep 28, 2015 4:45 pm

Risca Rev wrote:I guess Aled Brew's phone was off.

I was racking my brain thinking of a replacement winger. Who would you suggest playing out on the wing if North is to be moved to center ? Which I very much doubt now that Anscombe has been drafted in, obviously he is not injured anymore.

by Guest Mon Sep 28, 2015 4:46 pm

So Howley has said North will not play 13 on Thursday.

Fairly happy we aren't facing Nadolo too

by maestegmafia Mon Sep 28, 2015 4:52 pm

Although Nadolo is a unit he hasn't been the most impressive Fijian back this tournament.

I'm sure the newcomers will be bursting to get on the pitch and prove their worth.

by mikey_dragon Mon Sep 28, 2015 5:02 pm

majesticimperialman wrote:
mikey_dragon wrote:
majesticimperialman wrote:I honestly think that this is a big task for Wales, what with the injuries and a short turn around most of the players that played against England will have too play against Fiji.

I am not saying that Wales cannot win this game, but Fiji will be well rested and put in 2 tough games against England and Australia. They will be well and truly up for this, they will not wan't to go out of the pool with out claiming at least 1 scalp.

Your predictions have been all but right so far though Madge. FYI, Wales are ranked second and Fiji are ranked tenth. Wales are two from two. Fiji are zero from two, and those two losses were quite convincing. Fiji will get their scalp when they face off against Uruguay.

I was not trying to predict the out come of the game. I was just saying that with all the injuries that Wales have and a short turn around, most of the team that played on saturday will have too play on thursday.

Fiji will have had more rest time than Wales so in theory should be fitter than Wales. and it could be hard for Wales.

And what the hell does Wales be ranked 2 in the world have any thing to do with this game?

Was that your only point? Because for us rugby viewers that was pretty basic knowledge. Wales have shown in recent weeks that they are fit and able. We also had a shorter turn around before the England game, and won. We can deal with another short turnaround against a weaker team and then have a week off.

Second ranked team Vs tenth ranked team, it's a no-brainer who the victor will be. It won't be the team who have lost two from two and have nothing left to play for in this tournament.

by mikey_dragon Mon Sep 28, 2015 5:04 pm

Relieved that Nadolo is out. So bearing all this in mind, here is the team I think we should put out:
Jenkins, Baldwin, Lee, AWJ, Charteris, Lydiate, Warburton, Faletau;
Davies, Biggar, North, Roberts, Morgan, Cuthbert, Priestland.
Replacements: Owens, Jarvis, Francis, B.Davies, Tipuric, Williams, Anscombe, M.Morgan/Hook.

by majesticimperialman Mon Sep 28, 2015 5:08 pm

mikey_dragon wrote:
majesticimperialman wrote:
mikey_dragon wrote:
majesticimperialman wrote:I honestly think that this is a big task for Wales, what with the injuries and a short turn around most of the players that played against England will have too play against Fiji.

I am not saying that Wales cannot win this game, but Fiji will be well rested and put in 2 tough games against England and Australia. They will be well and truly up for this, they will not wan't to go out of the pool with out claiming at least 1 scalp.

Your predictions have been all but right so far though Madge. FYI, Wales are ranked second and Fiji are ranked tenth. Wales are two from two. Fiji are zero from two, and those two losses were quite convincing. Fiji will get their scalp when they face off against Uruguay.

I was not trying to predict the out come of the game. I was just saying that with all the injuries that Wales have and a short turn around, most of the team that played on saturday will have too play on thursday.

Fiji will have had more rest time than Wales so in theory should be fitter than Wales. and it could be hard for Wales.

And what the hell does Wales be ranked 2 in the world have any thing to do with this game?

Was that you're only point? Because for us rugby viewers that was pretty basic knowledge. Wales have shown in recent weeks that they are fit and able. We also had a shorter turn around before the England game, and won. We can deal with another short turnaround against a weaker team and then have a week off.

Second ranked team Vs tenth ranked team, it's a no-brainer who the victor will be. It won't be the team who have lost two from two and have nothing left to play for in this tournament.

It's a no brainer who will win? Headscratch

A lot of Fans thought the same thing, that it will be a no brainer that South Africa will beat Japan. Oh wait they did not beat Japan did they. Erm

by mikey_dragon Mon Sep 28, 2015 5:57 pm

majesticimperialman wrote:
mikey_dragon wrote:
majesticimperialman wrote:
mikey_dragon wrote:
majesticimperialman wrote:I honestly think that this is a big task for Wales, what with the injuries and a short turn around most of the players that played against England will have too play against Fiji.

I am not saying that Wales cannot win this game, but Fiji will be well rested and put in 2 tough games against England and Australia. They will be well and truly up for this, they will not wan't to go out of the pool with out claiming at least 1 scalp.

Your predictions have been all but right so far though Madge. FYI, Wales are ranked second and Fiji are ranked tenth. Wales are two from two. Fiji are zero from two, and those two losses were quite convincing. Fiji will get their scalp when they face off against Uruguay.

I was not trying to predict the out come of the game. I was just saying that with all the injuries that Wales have and a short turn around, most of the team that played on saturday will have too play on thursday.

Fiji will have had more rest time than Wales so in theory should be fitter than Wales. and it could be hard for Wales.

And what the hell does Wales be ranked 2 in the world have any thing to do with this game?

Was that you're only point? Because for us rugby viewers that was pretty basic knowledge. Wales have shown in recent weeks that they are fit and able. We also had a shorter turn around before the England game, and won. We can deal with another short turnaround against a weaker team and then have a week off.

Second ranked team Vs tenth ranked team, it's a no-brainer who the victor will be. It won't be the team who have lost two from two and have nothing left to play for in this tournament.

It's a no brainer who will win? A lot of Fans thought the same thing, that it will be a no brainer that South Africa will beat Japan. Oh wait they did not beat Japan did they.

Yes for me it is. Yeah that was an upset but I don't see how it is relevant to this fixture? If you want to bet against the favourites for this upcoming game then I suggest you make it clear, but also bear in mind you don't have a good track record as of late Very Happy

.

by Shifty Mon Sep 28, 2015 6:19 pm

Cmon guys, Wales have beaten Ireland in Dublin, England at Twickenham within their last 4 games have a little faith. Fiji havent beaten anyone of note since us in 2007 Shocked

by No9 Mon Sep 28, 2015 7:01 pm

For TRACK record.. check this post.. https://www.606v2.com/t60685-rwc-2015-its-the-cloud-and-not-cloud-9

quote from it...

No9 wrote:Hey guys I think this computer model may have something you know... I based my predictions on that model and not doing too bad so far...

sportform wrote:offload leads after the first series of games at the Rugby World Cup courtesy of calling the New Zealand 26-16 Argentina game correct. chris_501 also called that game correct while No9 had the France 32-10 Italy game spot on. Still 40 games to go through and plenty of more tougher games to call.

Overall Leaderboard
1 offload 243 pts
2 chris_501 238 pts
3 No9 223 pts
4 bedfordwelsh 200 pts
5 maestegmafia 199 pts
6 LondonTiger 197 pts
7= GavinDragon 196 pts
7= flyhalffactory 196 pts
9= screamingaddabs 193 pts
9= Breadvan 193 pts
11= rainbow-warrior 191 pts
11= alive555 191 pts
13= InjuredYetAgain 189 pts
13= BamBam 189 pts
13= hugehandoff 189 pts
16= RDW-Scotland 188 pts
16= QuickBall 188 pts
16= Ineffable 188 pts
16= LordDowlais 188 pts
20 Weegie Wizard 187 pts
21 SecretFly 185 pts
22= eirebilly 183 pts
22= Beshocked 183 pts
22= whocares 183 pts
25 demosthenes 182 pts
26 TattieSconesRRN 180 pts
27 stub 179 pts
28= NeilyBroon 178 pts
28= Exiledinborders 178 pts
30= GunGerms 177 pts
30= tigertattie 177 pts
32= TightHEAD 176 pts
32= RubyGuby 176 pts
34= Bathman_in_London 175 pts
34= The Loaded Dog 175 pts
34= Majestic83 175 pts
37 bsando 173 pts
38 Biltong 172 pts
39 Otagolad 171 pts
40 sportform 168 pts
41 BMBiker 167 pts
42 donglewood 166 pts
43= Wi11 161 pts
43= nobbled 161 pts
45 Gwlad 150 pts
46 Duty281 147 pts
47 rodders 128 pts

also so far from "this round" my predictions being...

No9 wrote:Pool A
Australia 28 - 15 Fiji - Only 2 points out
England 23 - 26 Wales - Right result, correct score difference
Australia 67 - 3 Uruguay - Only 2 points out

Pool B
Scotland 28 - 18 Japan
South Africa 22 - 10 Samoa
Scotland 28 - 23 USA

Pool C
New Zealand 89 - 3 Namibia
Argentina 38 - 22 Georgia
Tonga 20 - 12 Namibia

Pool D
France 38 - 9 Romania - Again only 2 out
Italy 23 - 20 Canada - Another just 2 points out
Ireland 57 - 3 Romania

So anyone change their mind... The Computer says YES!!!

I reckon this computer model isn't that far wrong.. Lets hope the results going forward are correct, because at least its showing England progressing..

... and the computer says

Wales 35 - 20 Fiji - with a BP

and if interested, its giving

England 28 - 23 Australia - with losing BP for Aus, No BP for Eng

taking us right up to the wire...

with the final weekend being

Computer prediction.:

by Guest Mon Sep 28, 2015 7:30 pm

Is there any point in them actually playing? I'd just go with the computer prediction!

by kingjohn7 Mon Sep 28, 2015 8:04 pm

Anyone think we can/should rest Dan Biggar this game? I know its a big game but Priestland looked alright when he came on and Biggar gets through a lot of work and from here on out will basically have to play every minute.

by maestegmafia Mon Sep 28, 2015 8:07 pm

Griff wrote:Is there any point in them actually playing? I'd just go with the computer prediction!

Even if that computer is spot on, I am as nervous as ever..!

Such a tough pool.

by mikey_dragon Mon Sep 28, 2015 8:20 pm

kingjohn7 wrote:Anyone think we can/should rest Dan Biggar this game? I know its a big game but Priestland looked alright when he came on and Biggar gets through a lot of work and from here on out will basically have to play every minute.

God no.

by maestegmafia Mon Sep 28, 2015 8:23 pm

kingjohn7 wrote:Anyone think we can/should rest Dan Biggar this game? I know its a big game but Priestland looked alright when he came on and Biggar gets through a lot of work and from here on out will basically have to play every minute.

Yes I think Biggar should rest..! Gareth Davies too.

But I think Gats wants to keep them on a role

by SecretFly Mon Sep 28, 2015 8:29 pm

Play him first. See how the game is going - then take him off early.
But don't risk not picking him, because in a real way, he's become a central Leader. No game is guaranteed and it's too late to say you can risk losing one to cut down the risk of injury to Biggar.

by Shifty Mon Sep 28, 2015 8:31 pm

Can anyone actually show me a good video of Nadolo doing something?
Yes he's tall and bloody heavy but so is Matt Banahan, is he really that special?

by Guest Mon Sep 28, 2015 8:31 pm

I think the tactic seems to be that Fiji is the big one, put out the first choice, score as much as possible and hopefully get 5 points, and then what will be will be against Aus as it's unlikely that we will beat them. If we tried to put our eggs in the Aus basket we could end up getting very little from the Fiji game with a 3rd string bandaged up team and very probably get little or nothing from the Aus game either. So maybe they're hoping for 5 points v Fiji and possibly one or two v Aus = 6 or 7, vs sending out a weakened team v Fiji and getting maybe 4 or less and then still losing v Aus as we always do and only getting 1 or 2 = 5 or 6 points. Maybe a bit defeatist or maybe hedging their bets?

by SecretFly Mon Sep 28, 2015 8:39 pm

Shifty wrote: Can anyone actually show me a good video of Nadolo doing something?
Yes he's tall and bloody heavy but so is Matt Banahan, is he really that special?

I think he might be one of these guys that pop up and get the usual "De NEW LOMU" tag thrown at them.

Gotta say..................... (deep intake of breath) ............. I have a similar feeling about old SBW. Yes, he's big, fast, athletic and has that offload that people love to go bananas about. Yes, his offloads might kill your team off in any five minute period. But I still don't know why I feel he's oversold, over-promoted and that God Damned Offload of his is over-used!!!!

by No9 Mon Sep 28, 2015 8:40 pm

Shifty wrote:Can anyone actually show me a good video of Nadolo doing something?
Yes he's tall and bloody heavy but so is Matt Banahan, is he really that special?

We dont have to face him this time

Rugby World Cup 2015: Wales 'happy' at Nemani Nadolo match ban (http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/rugby-union/34385298)

... although I dont like that word in this context...

BBC wrote:
Fly-half Rhys Priestland says Wales were "happy" to learn giant Fiji wing Nemani Nadolo is out of their World Cup clash on Thursday after being suspended for a tip tackle against Australia.

Nadolo denied the offence and can appeal against the decision.

But as news of 6ft 4in, 20st Nadolo's ban reached the Wales camp, Priestland said: "There's a few happy boys down in the team room.

I mean, does anyone else think this is well out of context... Inferring something that was said in what seems jest...

by Guest Mon Sep 28, 2015 8:47 pm

I think it's just a turn of phrase. "There's a few boys happy that they will not have him running at them" is perhaps the intended meaning, and I think that's fine.

by No9 Mon Sep 28, 2015 8:50 pm

Yes I agree Griff.. My comment wasn't really about what Priestland said, but more about how the BBC reporter turned it into a Headline inferring that the Welsh camp are Happy that Nadolo has a ban..

My point is a journo making something out of nothing.. and making the Welsh camp look unsporting..

by kingjohn7 Mon Sep 28, 2015 9:00 pm

Griff wrote:I think the tactic seems to be that Fiji is the big one, put out the first choice, score as much as possible and hopefully get 5 points, and then what will be will be against Aus as it's unlikely that we will beat them. If we tried to put our eggs in the Aus basket we could end up getting very little from the Fiji game with a 3rd string bandaged up team and very probably get little or nothing from the Aus game either. So maybe they're hoping for 5 points v Fiji and possibly one or two v Aus = 6 or 7, vs sending out a weakened team v Fiji and getting maybe 4 or less and then still losing v Aus as we always do and only getting 1 or 2 = 5 or 6 points. Maybe a bit defeatist or maybe hedging their bets?

Yeah, can understand that but just doesnt feel right to me. I doubt we will beat Aus but think we should be planning like we will. Is playing to just qualify from the group good enough, not to me. If we did qualify and then lost in quarters then so be it, would be a good achievement but shouldnt be the 'plan'.
I agree Biggar is a real leader but that makes a case for being rested no? Fiji are a good side, but will most likely be the weakest side we face from here on out. If we are to win, then most would agree(?) it will be in the forwards, so really we need our backs t just not lose it(ok I realise I just invited a load of Priestland bashing).
Biggar is one of our key players but also has the least "protection". North is a winger and so less involved. We have 3 able scrum halves. Backrow, we have Tips in the mix and also Falatau seems super human with recovery/fitness. 2nd row we have decent options and front rows generally only play half anyway, plus Gethin(no matter what anyone says, he is a big game player still) is similar to Falatau. In a big game at "crunch" time, obviously we wouldnt want to lose anyone but only Biggar going off would feel catastrophic.

by Guest Mon Sep 28, 2015 9:09 pm

No9 wrote:Yes I agree Griff.. My comment wasn't really about what Priestland said, but more about how the BBC reporter turned it into a Headline inferring that the Welsh camp are Happy that Nadolo has a ban..

My point is a journo making something out of nothing.. and making the Welsh camp look unsporting..

Yeah, definitely journos trying to encourage more clicks with nonsense headlines.

by Guest Mon Sep 28, 2015 9:19 pm

kingjohn7 wrote:
Griff wrote:I think the tactic seems to be that Fiji is the big one, put out the first choice, score as much as possible and hopefully get 5 points, and then what will be will be against Aus as it's unlikely that we will beat them. If we tried to put our eggs in the Aus basket we could end up getting very little from the Fiji game with a 3rd string bandaged up team and very probably get little or nothing from the Aus game either. So maybe they're hoping for 5 points v Fiji and possibly one or two v Aus = 6 or 7, vs sending out a weakened team v Fiji and getting maybe 4 or less and then still losing v Aus as we always do and only getting 1 or 2 = 5 or 6 points. Maybe a bit defeatist or maybe hedging their bets?

Yeah, can understand that but just doesnt feel right to me. I doubt we will beat Aus but think we should be planning like we will. Is playing to just qualify from the group good enough, not to me. If we did qualify and then lost in quarters then so be it, would be a good achievement but shouldnt be the 'plan'.
I agree Biggar is a real leader but that makes a case for being rested no? Fiji are a good side, but will most likely be the weakest side we face from here on out. If we are to win, then most would agree(?) it will be in the forwards, so really we need our backs t just not lose it(ok I realise I just invited a load of Priestland bashing).
Biggar is one of our key players but also has the least "protection". North is a winger and so less involved. We have 3 able scrum halves. Backrow, we have Tips in the mix and also Falatau seems super human with recovery/fitness. 2nd row we have decent options and front rows generally only play half anyway, plus Gethin(no matter what anyone says, he is a big game player still) is similar to Falatau. In a big game at "crunch" time, obviously we wouldnt want to lose anyone but only Biggar going off would feel catastrophic.

Let me rephrase my point a little: I think the Wales management want to go into the Aus game in the strongest position possible, which means doing as well as possible against Fiji, and which in turn is much more likely if we put out a strong team against Fiji. What we don't want is the very real possibility of drawing/losing against Fiji because we've rotated the team in readiness for Aus and then needing a bonus point win against Aus as that would be near impossible. So I don't think the management plan to lose against Aus. Rather, they just don't want to be chasing things when we face them. This Fiji team is not poor like in 2011. Didn't the much vaunted Aus backs only score one backs try against them? We need to respect them, put out the big guns and try to go into the Aus game on a high.

by Seagultaf Mon Sep 28, 2015 9:36 pm

Griff wrote:
No9 wrote:Yes I agree Griff.. My comment wasn't really about what Priestland said, but more about how the BBC reporter turned it into a Headline inferring that the Welsh camp are Happy that Nadolo has a ban..

My point is a journo making something out of nothing.. and making the Welsh camp look unsporting..

Yeah, definitely journos trying to encourage more clicks with nonsense headlines.

English journalist trying to motivate Fiji to get a result to keep England in the tournament. Getting desperate aren't they?

by flyhalffactory Mon Sep 28, 2015 9:46 pm

100% agree. Wales need to have 5pts against. The pressure will be on both Australia and England on Saturday. Its then a win-win for Wales, if Australia win then England out and Wales through, if England beat Australia but dont get a WBP and Oz dont get a LBP which is both likely in both respects, then they will have to beat Wales not just with a WBP but stop them getting a LBP.

Wales have to put their strongest 15 out to start and their strongest bench.... and get 5 pts.

by wales606 Mon Sep 28, 2015 9:49 pm

Griff wrote:
kingjohn7 wrote:
Griff wrote:I think the tactic seems to be that Fiji is the big one, put out the first choice, score as much as possible and hopefully get 5 points, and then what will be will be against Aus as it's unlikely that we will beat them. If we tried to put our eggs in the Aus basket we could end up getting very little from the Fiji game with a 3rd string bandaged up team and very probably get little or nothing from the Aus game either. So maybe they're hoping for 5 points v Fiji and possibly one or two v Aus = 6 or 7, vs sending out a weakened team v Fiji and getting maybe 4 or less and then still losing v Aus as we always do and only getting 1 or 2 = 5 or 6 points. Maybe a bit defeatist or maybe hedging their bets?

Yeah, can understand that but just doesnt feel right to me. I doubt we will beat Aus but think we should be planning like we will. Is playing to just qualify from the group good enough, not to me. If we did qualify and then lost in quarters then so be it, would be a good achievement but shouldnt be the 'plan'.
I agree Biggar is a real leader but that makes a case for being rested no? Fiji are a good side, but will most likely be the weakest side we face from here on out. If we are to win, then most would agree(?) it will be in the forwards, so really we need our backs t just not lose it(ok I realise I just invited a load of Priestland bashing).
Biggar is one of our key players but also has the least "protection". North is a winger and so less involved. We have 3 able scrum halves. Backrow, we have Tips in the mix and also Falatau seems super human with recovery/fitness. 2nd row we have decent options and front rows generally only play half anyway, plus Gethin(no matter what anyone says, he is a big game player still) is similar to Falatau. In a big game at "crunch" time, obviously we wouldnt want to lose anyone but only Biggar going off would feel catastrophic.

Let me rephrase my point a little: I think the Wales management want to go into the Aus game in the strongest position possible, which means doing as well as possible against Fiji, and which in turn is much more likely if we put out a strong team against Fiji. What we don't want is the very real possibility of drawing/losing against Fiji because we've rotated the team in readiness for Aus and then needing a bonus point win against Aus as that would be near impossible. So I don't think the management plan to lose against Aus. Rather, they just don't want to be chasing things when we face them. This Fiji team is not poor like in 2011. Didn't the much vaunted Aus backs only score one backs try against them? We need to respect them, put out the big guns and try to go into the Aus game on a high.

We also have a 10 day turnaround after the Fiji game, so everyone should be recovered and ready to fire against Aus.

I hope we play our best team against Fiji, although I guess there is some wiggle room in the forwards with Owens, Charteris and Tipuric all good enough to start or bench without losing any quality.

by flyhalffactory Mon Sep 28, 2015 10:34 pm

100% agree. Wales need to have 5pts against. The pressure will be on both Australia and England on Saturday. Its then a win-win for Wales, if Australia win then England out and Wales through, if England beat Australia but dont get a WBP and Oz dont get a LBP which is both likely in both respects, then they will have to beat Wales not just with a WBP but stop them getting a LBP.

Wales have to put their strongest 15 out to start and their strongest bench.... and get 5 pts.

by mikey_dragon Mon Sep 28, 2015 10:43 pm

As I said earlier, I think we could see something along the lines of
Jenkins, Baldwin, Lee, AWJ, Charteris, Lydiate, Warburton, Faletau;
Davies, Biggar, North, Roberts, Morgan, Cuthbert, Priestland.
Replacements: Owens, Jarvis, Francis, B.Davies, Tipuric, Williams, Anscombe, M.Morgan/Hook. It pretty much picks itself. I don't think we'll see any major or wholesale changes at this stage. Only two remaining games until the KO stages.

by kingjohn7 Mon Sep 28, 2015 10:49 pm

Griff Im not saying I disagree with you. I know you werent saying we were planning on losing to Aus either. I just meant if you look as winning the tournament as a whole, maybe a few tactical risks might be needed.

by emack2 Tue Sep 29, 2015 1:08 am

Wales need a bonus point win versus Fiji Gareth Anscombe and James Hook added to
the Squad.Both very good players then its down to beating Australia if they can. England
will have an opposed training run versus Uruguay.
Hard to judge Aus form from Uruguay game there even a softer touch than Namibia.

by maestegmafia Tue Sep 29, 2015 5:40 am

emack2 wrote:Wales need a bonus point win versus Fiji Gareth Anscombe and James Hook added to
the Squad.Both very good players then its down to beating Australia if they can. England
will have an opposed training run versus Uruguay.
Hard to judge Aus form from Uruguay game there even a softer touch than Namibia.

Uruguay are getting an easier win in every game, they look absolutely shattered. Which is a worry because if this does come down to points then England will have a very very easy last game.

Gatland's aim from the start has been to win every match, we will definitely qualify then, and will likely have the confidence to go a long way in the knock out stages.

The win in Twickenham will be a massive confidence boost to the whole squad. Just think how well we did after winning there in the 05 and 08 six nations.

All teams need confidence, but a bit more luck with regards to not getting anymore injuries would be great.

by wales606 Tue Sep 29, 2015 7:47 am

maestegmafia wrote:
emack2 wrote:Wales need a bonus point win versus Fiji Gareth Anscombe and James Hook added to
the Squad.Both very good players then its down to beating Australia if they can. England
will have an opposed training run versus Uruguay.
Hard to judge Aus form from Uruguay game there even a softer touch than Namibia.

Uruguay are getting an easier win in every game, they look absolutely shattered. Which is a worry because if this does come down to points then England will have a very very easy last game.

Gatland's aim from the start has been to win every match, we will definitely qualify then, and will likely have the confidence to go a long way in the knock out stages.

The win in Twickenham will be a massive confidence boost to the whole squad. Just think how well we did after winning there in the 05 and 08 six nations.

All teams need confidence, but a bit more luck with regards to not getting anymore injuries would be great.

Yeah, really we need to win all our games.

If we do, then we have a 1/4 final against Scotland (when was the last time we lost to Scotland?) then a semi final against Ireland/France/Argentina all of whom we beat in our last meeting.

by bedfordwelsh Tue Sep 29, 2015 8:36 am

wales606 wrote:Hook and Anscombe have been called up

Liam Williams will not be considered for the Fiji game

Agree with the call ups but are we not a bit short of wingers now?

Howley has already said we will pick our strongest side available so I see very few changes other than injuries from Saturday

by bedfordwelsh Tue Sep 29, 2015 11:13 am

Side announced,

Jenkins Baldwin Francis
AWJ Davies
Lydiate Faletau Warburton

Davies Biggar
North Roberts T Morgan Cuthbert

M Morgan

Jarvis Owens Lee Charteris Tipruic Ll Williams Pristland Hook

Good strong side we need to wing the game fist and foremost, am still a bit surprised they carrying James' injury

by MarcusHalberstram Tue Sep 29, 2015 11:20 am

Couple of surprises, but whatever... 12 of the same players having to line up against Fiji with such a tight turnaround is a massive task, so I think we just need to throw our support 100% behind the boys on Thursday. COME ON WALES!!!

by Shifty Tue Sep 29, 2015 11:22 am

Yeah good side, they'll start with Matthew Morgan at full back if things aren't working out they will probably switch to Priestland or Hook.

I don't think a 5 day turn around is that big to be honest, it's not that unusual in modern rugby.

by Guest Tue Sep 29, 2015 11:23 am

My preference as stated earlier would have been for Hook at 13 over Tyler Morgan and Anscombe at FB over Matthew Morgan. However, in hindsight I can see that from a coaching point of view Gats would want to be loyal to the players already called up ahead of Hook and Anscombe, otherwise you'd have to question why these two were not called up earlier. So I get the Tyler Morgan inclusion. Just hope it's not a step too far too soon. Wishing him the best of luck though.

Francis needs to improve from last week. Didn't really notice hime around the pitch and he seemed to struggle at scrum time a bit. Well, the whole front row did. Gats has a habit of giving a poorly performing unit a second chance in the next game, so I think that's what he's doing here.I still think there's enough experience and firepower in the backs to cause problems and get points, even with our injury crisis. The 2nd and back row looks powerful too. My question marks are over the front row, 2 Morgans and Cuthbert so it will be their chance to prove the doubters wrong.

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