20th Gathering of Edinburgh and Glasgow Discussion

by Hazel Sapling Mon 04 Jun 2018, 11:19 am

First topic message reminder :

Edinburgh Squad

LH's: Schoeman, Dell, Marfo, Sutherland
Hookers: McInally, Ford, Fenton, Cherry
TH's: Nel, Berghan, McCallum, Ceccarelli
Second Row: Gilchrist, Toolis, McKenzie, Carmichael, Hunter-Hill
Back Row: Barclay, Hamilton, Crosbie; Watson, Ritchie; Bradbury, Mata, Miller, Nayalo

SH's: Pyrgos, Fowles, Kennedy, Shiel
FH's: Hickey, VDW, McLelland, Baggott
Centres: Scott, Socino, Bennett, Dean, Johnstone, G Taylor
Back 3: Fife, VDM, Hoyland, Brown, Graham; Kinghorn

Forward Total: 26
- Internationals: 16 (14 Scots, 1 Italian, 1 Fijian)
- NSQ: 4 (1 of whom is a project)
- Under 25 (as of September 1st, 2018): 7 (2 capped)
Backs Total: 20
- Internationals: 8 (Socino lone non-Scot)
- NSQ: 4 (2 projects)
- Under 25 (as of September 1st, 2018): 10 (2 capped)

Total: 46

Glasgow Squad

LH's: Bhatti, Allan, Kebble
Hookers: Brown, Turner, Stewart, Bryce
TH's: Fagerson, Nuka, Rae, Nicol
Second Row: Gray, Swinson, Cummings, McDonald, Brian, Peterson, Davidson
Back-Row: M Fagerson, Harley; Gibbins, Smith, Fusaro; Wilson, Ashe, Tameilau, Flockhart

SH's: Price, G Horne,Frisby, Mata, Baletto
FH's: Horne, Hastings, Jackson
Centres: Dunbar, H Jones, Johnson, Dunbar, Grigg, P Kelly
Back 3: Seymour, VDM, L Jones, Masaga, Tagive, Hughes, Beattie, Nairn; Hogg, Thomson

Forward Total: 27
- Internationals: 15 (12 Scots, 2 Americans, 1 Tongan)
- NSQ: 6 (2 projects)
- Under 25 (as of September 1st, 2018): 11 (4 capped, both projects)
Backs Total: 24
- Internationals: 14 (10 Scots, 1 Fijian, 1 Kiwi, 1 Canadian, 1 Aussie)
- NSQ: 4 (No projects if Thomson is already tied to SA)
- Under 25 (as of September 1st, 2018): 8 (1 capped)

Total: 51

Overall: 97 players
- Internationals: 53 (43 Scots)
- NSQ: 19 (5 projects)
- Under 25: 36 (9 capped)

by **RDW** Mon 13 Aug 2018, 8:01 pm

Apparently Callum McClellan has left Edinburgh and gone back to Rugby league - supposedly he didn't enjoy union so much.

He looked promising for the under 20s but to be fair he was very unlikely to play for Edinburgh this season.

by funnyExiledScot Mon 13 Aug 2018, 9:27 pm

Never heard of him! Good luck with League!

Am having a season ticket dilemma. To buy or not to buy? Biggest plus for me would be having the right to reserve a space in the new stadium. Quite like that idea.

by **RDW** Mon 13 Aug 2018, 9:30 pm

He played in the under 20s this year - looked promising and scored a fantastic solo try. Rugby league background but moved to union for the under 20s and was aligned to Edinburgh.

https://youtu.be/r8dAg2_bFxA

Got to say if I was still living in Edinburgh I'd be tempted by a ST - certainly next season with the new stadium.

by funnyExiledScot Mon 13 Aug 2018, 9:38 pm

Good clip, not sure he's as good as Mike Penn though...

I think I'll go for it. Biggest concern is that I'll jinx the team. Last time I had a season ticket was when Mike Coman was one of our better players!

by funnyExiledScot Mon 13 Aug 2018, 9:40 pm

I suppose the real pity is that the bloke was wearing a 10 jersey and SQ. An endangered species at Edinburgh.

by EWT Spoons Tue 14 Aug 2018, 8:10 am

ST is incredible value for Edinburgh this year. I took advantage of the free u16 ticket, in the foolish hope I can convince my daughter (who has absolutely no interest in rugby) to come along.

With regards to McClelland, shame he's gone back to league, I think he might have got a wee bit of game time this season. Nothing massive, but there are a lot of games and I think he might have got a shot off the bench. He looks like he could have been a real talent, but if his heart wasn't in it, then fair enough.

by **RDW** Tue 14 Aug 2018, 8:34 am

Apparently ST holders are going to get a discount with Premier Sports, who will be showing all of Edinburgh and Glasgow's games.

Although saying that you'll probably be at half of the games anyway...

by EWT Spoons Tue 14 Aug 2018, 8:41 am

Yeah saw that, end of this week there will be some kind of announcement apparently.

by **NeilyBroon** Tue 14 Aug 2018, 9:21 am

Shame about Mclelland, thought he was a real prospect but his happiness is more important, especially so young.

Guess that means VdW, Hickey and Baggott will be fighting out the 10 spot. Hopefully Baggott comes good, as we really could do with another SQ 10 in the club set up, otherwise we'll be hoping that Meatball will be first choice 10 in a premiership winning Worcester side, managed by Solomons...

by EWT Spoons Tue 14 Aug 2018, 9:48 am

For Edinburgh I guess given we will have Hickey, VDM, Baggot and Socino (who can cover 10) we should be ok this season. Far better than we have been in years to be fair. Still would have been nice to see McClelland come through.

I hadn't realised that Baggot is only SQ through residency, so there is a chance that South Africa will swoop in for him. Seems unlikely, but you never know.

by TheMildlyFranticLlama Tue 14 Aug 2018, 9:50 am

On Mclelland I recall being told at that time he moved that I was being harsh for saying it was a waste of time and that league converts almost never work out. After looking like I may have to eat my words when he seemed to be showing some promise I can now bask in the glory of having been proved right.

League converts - waste of time. For one reason or another they don't work out, and aren't worth the vain hope that they'll be the next Jason Robinson

by **NeilyBroon** Tue 14 Aug 2018, 9:56 am

TheMildlyFranticLlama wrote:On Mclelland I recall being told at that time he moved that I was being harsh for saying it was a waste of time and that league converts almost never work out. After looking like I may have to eat my words when he seemed to be showing some promise I can now bask in the glory of having been proved right.

League converts - waste of time. For one reason or another they don't work out, and aren't worth the vain hope that they'll be the next Jason Robinson

They miss the chips and gravy followed by an eccles cake post-match.

by **George Carlin** Tue 14 Aug 2018, 9:58 am

If I lived anywhere near the stadium, I would definitely get an Edinburgh season ticket.

Try and sit behind Cockerill's enclosure and throw raw meat at him to placate him during a game.

by tigertattie Tue 14 Aug 2018, 10:09 am

I'm still laughing at the launch of the new kit with Cockers being one of the models.

Could you imagine BVC doing that? I think not!

I don't know whether to be happy or worried about the amount of Cocker's focused activity that is going on at Edinburgh at the moment. In one way it's great that everything seems to be getting built around him. It's almost becoming his club and he does what he wants and then everything is on him. It's his ethos, his culture, his way.

On the flip side though, what happens if the club gets built on the foundations of Cockers but then in two seasons time Cockers wanders off to pastures new. Does everything he built up around him fall down?

Is he building a long term foundation for the club or is he building his own little empire?

by Hazel Sapling Tue 14 Aug 2018, 12:05 pm

Really disappointed to see McLelland go back to League. He looked a real prospect in the u20's. Probably would have been fighting with VDW for the back-up spot at Edinburgh. Is Baggott any good?

As for Cockerill, he was brought up by Leicester rugby and he maintained that level until they started playing through the backs. Whether it is long term depends on the next coach. Recent examples:

- Lineen set the forwards up and Toonie took them to the next level. Whether Rennie is any good will be determined in 12 months (barring an injury crisis that may be out of his hands)

- Solomons did ok and Hodge blew it up within a year

In football (JPip, avert your eyes), Charlton are the classic example with Alan Curbishly. Man Utd might be another one going from Fergie to a series of boring football teams

by EWT Spoons Tue 14 Aug 2018, 12:28 pm

Hazel Sapling wrote:Really disappointed to see McLelland go back to League. He looked a real prospect in the u20's. Probably would have been fighting with VDW for the back-up spot at Edinburgh. Is Baggott any good?

He's barely played for Edinburgh, he got a run out in a couple of preseason games last season and looked ok, but was still in the academy. This is probably his breakthrough season. However I would be surprised if we see a lot of him this year.

As for Cockerill, he was brought up by Leicester rugby and he maintained that level until they started playing through the backs. Whether it is long term depends on the next coach. Recent examples:
I don't think we need to worry about Cockers jumping ship any time soon, he's not exactly been nomadic as a coach. In interviews previously he called out this would be a long term (5+ years) project and he would like to be involved in it, he's also moved his family up and resettled them here, which again suggests he's planning on being here for the long haul. I can't see him moving on for a good few years at least. In terms of next coach, I would hope that one of the coaches currently at the club are being developed to be the long term successor and learning from Cockers.

- Lineen set the forwards up and Toonie took them to the next level. Whether Rennie is any good will be determined in 12 months (barring an injury crisis that may be out of his hands)

- Solomons did ok and Hodge blew it up within a year
Think you are being really generous with your rating of Solly. We were flirting with the bottom of the table each season under his tenure. I would say he was poor

In football (JPip, avert your eyes), Charlton are the classic example with Alan Curbishly. Man Utd might be another one going from Fergie to a series of boring football teams

by **RDW** Tue 14 Aug 2018, 12:31 pm

Things were bloody awful under Solomons - yes he inherited a mess but he spent a fortune on journeyman NSQ players, made us play a horrible style of game and got very little success from it. He set back Edinburgh for years.

Despite all that we still manged to beat Glasgow a few times - that's not overly difficult these days to be fair!

by **RDW** Tue 14 Aug 2018, 12:39 pm

Al Dickinson has announced his retirement - no surprise to anyone but it's a shame his career fizzled out this way, with years on the treatment table not playing.

by EWT Spoons Tue 14 Aug 2018, 12:41 pm

Alistair Dickinson has retired from pro rugby. Taking up a coaching role with the FOSROC Scottish rugby academy

EDIT - beat me to it RDW

by **RDW** Tue 14 Aug 2018, 1:24 pm

Edinburgh centurion and Scotland international prop, Alasdair Dickinson, has today announced his retirement from rugby to take up a coaching position with the Fosroc Scottish Rugby Academy.

Dickinson, 34, signed for Edinburgh in 2004 after turning out for local side Heriot’s and went onto make 120 appearances for the club during two spells in the capital.

An astute scrummager and ferocious ball carrier, Dickinson will be remembered fondly for his unyielding commitment to the Edinburgh jersey.

The 58-times capped internationalist will transition into the academy set-up with the opportunity to specialise in the scrum and contact area

Speaking following today’s announcement, the former loosehead, said: “It has obviously been a tough decision but when you’re getting a bit older, your body makes the decision for you.

“For me, my body just couldn’t keep up with the demands of the professional game and I believe it’s now a good time to call it a day.

“There’s been loads of good memories along the way but it’s not just the games, there’s great pre-seasons, training and socials with the squad. I’ll definitely miss those moments with my teammates.

“To take up a position with the Fosroc Scottish Rugby Academy is a great opportunity for me.

“It’s the natural progression to transition from playing to coaching and I’ve been really fortunate to have been offered this role. I can’t wait to get started and it’s definitely going to be a great test.”

Born in Dundee, Dickinson joined Edinburgh as an apprentice in 2004, and went onto surpass 50 appearances in an Edinburgh shirt before joining English Premiership outfit Gloucester in 2007.

The prop made his international debut against New Zealand at BT Murrayfield in the 2007 World Cup, before making an appearance from the bench during Scotland’s famous 15-9 Calcutta Cup victory over England in March 2008.

As Dickinson’s international credentials continued to flourish, the prop would make the move at club level to Premiership rivals Sale Sharks.

In the summer of 2013, following two seasons at the AJ Bell Stadium, the prop returned north of the border to rejoin Edinburgh on a one-year-deal.

He earned his 100th cap for the club in the European Challenge Cup win over FC Grenoble in November 2015, and reached the half-century cap mark for Scotland in the Rugby World Cup 2015 clash against South Africa at St James’ Park, Newcastle.

by funnyExiledScot Tue 14 Aug 2018, 3:31 pm

Sad to see Dickinson fizzle out like that. He was a player that just seemed to get better and better. Thankfully it's a position of strength for Edinburgh. Sutherland is solid, Marfo looked strong last season and Dell is a Lion (snigger). Still, a fully fit Dickinson would have been my first choice for Edinburgh and Scotland this season, and I hope he takes well to coaching.

I bought my season ticket...

by **RDW** Tue 14 Aug 2018, 3:33 pm

funnyExiledScot wrote:Sad to see Dickinson fizzle out like that. He was a player that just seemed to get better and better. Thankfully it's a position of strength for Edinburgh. Sutherland is solid, Marfo looked strong last season and Dell is a Lion (snigger). Still, a fully fit Dickinson would have been my first choice for Edinburgh and Scotland this season, and I hope he takes well to coaching.

I bought my season ticket...

20th Gathering of Edinburgh and Glasgow Discussion - Page 12 Private%20Frazer%20we're%20doomed.jpg-5642

by EWT Spoons Wed 15 Aug 2018, 12:54 pm

Bloody hell, do you folks ever look at some of the other threads on this site? I just thought I'd have a glance at the prem sport chat, and it's bedlam, folk having a go at each other all over the place.

Over a tv channel (I may have missed the bulk of the arguments), it's mad.

by **RDW** Wed 15 Aug 2018, 1:26 pm

It is worse for those trying to police it! Rolling Eyes

by EWT Spoons Wed 15 Aug 2018, 1:29 pm

Ha! Yeah I don't envy you that role. Can't believe how quickly some of these discussions just lead to flat out insults and bickering.

by **George Carlin** Wed 15 Aug 2018, 1:30 pm

EWT Spoons wrote:Bloody hell, do you folks ever look at some of the other threads on this site? I just thought I've have a glance at the prem sport chat, and it's bedlam, folk having a go at each other all over the place.

Over a tv channel (I may have missed the bulk of the arguments), it's mad.

I find it hard enough to look at the rugby threads.

I have changed since I started modding here and which co-incided with the time that I had two toddlers. There are direct parallels. Now I just leave them to sort it out amongst themselves unless there are tears and/or someone is about to be seriously injured.

by EWT Spoons Wed 15 Aug 2018, 1:32 pm

George Carlin wrote:
EWT Spoons wrote:Bloody hell, do you folks ever look at some of the other threads on this site? I just thought I've have a glance at the prem sport chat, and it's bedlam, folk having a go at each other all over the place.

Over a tv channel (I may have missed the bulk of the arguments), it's mad.
I find it hard enough to look at the rugby threads.

I have changed since I started modding here and which co-incided with the time that I had two toddlers. There are direct parallels. Now I just leave them to sort it out amongst themselves unless there are tears and/or someone is about to be seriously injured.

Sorry it was the rugby thread, the one about Premier Sport picking up the pro14. Realise I wasn't clear on that one.

Like your approach GC, in theory they are all adults (folk here not your toddlers) so should be able to sort it out themselves....

by **BigGee** Wed 15 Aug 2018, 4:33 pm

Glasgow squad for Perth

Posted by Editor on August 15, 2018 02:06 PM | No comments | Print | E-mail author

Rory Hughes starts for Warriors

Glasgow Warriors Head Coach Dave Rennie has named a 30-man extended squad to take on Harlequins in the Famous Grouse Pre-Season Challenge at North Inch, Perth this Saturday (ko 2.00pm)

Australian international Nick Frisby makes his first appearance in a Warriors jersey - the 25-year-old starts at scrum-half alongside Brandon Thomson.

Lelia Masaga starts on one wing with former Harlequin Robbie Nairn named on the other. Scotland international Rory Hughes completes the back three wearing number 15.

Patrick Kelly and Sam Johnson complete the backline, combining in midfield.

Scotland International Jonny Gray starts in the engine room alongside Scott Cummings. New Academy graduate Bruce Flockhart joins Chris Fusaro and Matt Smith in the back-row.

Up front, Oli Kebble and D'arcy Rae start either side of James Malcolm.

There are seven internationals among the replacements including USA's Greg Peterson and Fiji's Nikola Matawalu.

Alex Allan, Robert Harley, Adam Hastings, Alex Dunbar and Ruaridh Jackson are the Scotland internationals named on the bench.

Currie Chieftans' Joe Reynolds is also included having spent time training with the Warriors during pre-season.

Glasgow Warriors Head Coach Dave Rennie said: "Our selection reflects us trying to give the guys who have been training since day one of pre-season an opportunity to showcase their ability against a good Quins side.

"It's a squad full of good young men who have worked really hard and we're looking forward to seeing them under a bit of heat.

"We've had a couple of international guys who didn't tour in since the beginning and we were keen to give Jonny a run before round one. More guys will come in next week against Northampton.

"It'll be exciting for the supporters to see Nick Frisby too, he's a good man who has fitted in really well. It's a good opportunity for him to show everyone what he can do in front of what promises to be a really good crowd in Perth."

Glasgow Warriors team to play Harlequins in the Famous Grouse Pre-Season Challenge at North Inch, Perth - Saturday 18 August, 2.00pm.

1 Oli Kebble
2 James Malcolm
3 D'arcy Rae
4 Scott Cummings
5 Jonny Gray
6 Bruce Flockhart
7 Chris Fusaro
8 Matt Smith

9 Nick Frisby
10 Brandon Thomson

11 Lelia Masaga
12 Patrick Kelly
13 Sam Johnson
14 Robbie Nairn

15 Rory Hughes

Replacements

Kevin Bryce, Grant Stewart, Alex Allan, Adam Nicol, Greg Peterson, Robert Harley, Tom Gordon, Kaleem Barreto, Adam Hastings, Ratu Tagive, Stafford McDowall, Alex Dunbar, Nikola Matawalu, Joe Reynolds and Ruaridh Jackson

Glasgow squad for the first pre season hit out against Quins in Perth on Saturday.

Reasonably strong team, with JG getting an early season run out, which will hopefully show us he has benefitted from a full pre season.

Nice to see Nairn and Massaga on the team sheet, it will be good to see what they can do, as well as Rory Hughes back from injury. Flockhart gets his chance as well following his return from France, hopefully a good few kilos bigger than when he went away.

There is also a guy in the squad, Joe Reynolds, who I have never heard of, plays for Currie appartently. They must see something in him.

by **NeilyBroon** Thu 16 Aug 2018, 8:34 am

BigGee wrote:Glasgow squad for Perth

Posted by Editor on August 15, 2018 02:06 PM | No comments | Print | E-mail author

Rory Hughes starts for Warriors

Glasgow Warriors Head Coach Dave Rennie has named a 30-man extended squad to take on Harlequins in the Famous Grouse Pre-Season Challenge at North Inch, Perth this Saturday (ko 2.00pm)

Australian international Nick Frisby makes his first appearance in a Warriors jersey - the 25-year-old starts at scrum-half alongside Brandon Thomson.

Lelia Masaga starts on one wing with former Harlequin Robbie Nairn named on the other. Scotland international Rory Hughes completes the back three wearing number 15.

Patrick Kelly and Sam Johnson complete the backline, combining in midfield.

Scotland International Jonny Gray starts in the engine room alongside Scott Cummings. New Academy graduate Bruce Flockhart joins Chris Fusaro and Matt Smith in the back-row.

Up front, Oli Kebble and D'arcy Rae start either side of James Malcolm.

There are seven internationals among the replacements including USA's Greg Peterson and Fiji's Nikola Matawalu.

Alex Allan, Robert Harley, Adam Hastings, Alex Dunbar and Ruaridh Jackson are the Scotland internationals named on the bench.

Currie Chieftans' Joe Reynolds is also included having spent time training with the Warriors during pre-season.

Glasgow Warriors Head Coach Dave Rennie said: "Our selection reflects us trying to give the guys who have been training since day one of pre-season an opportunity to showcase their ability against a good Quins side.

"It's a squad full of good young men who have worked really hard and we're looking forward to seeing them under a bit of heat.

"We've had a couple of international guys who didn't tour in since the beginning and we were keen to give Jonny a run before round one. More guys will come in next week against Northampton.

"It'll be exciting for the supporters to see Nick Frisby too, he's a good man who has fitted in really well. It's a good opportunity for him to show everyone what he can do in front of what promises to be a really good crowd in Perth."

Glasgow Warriors team to play Harlequins in the Famous Grouse Pre-Season Challenge at North Inch, Perth - Saturday 18 August, 2.00pm.

1 Oli Kebble
2 James Malcolm
3 D'arcy Rae
4 Scott Cummings
5 Jonny Gray
6 Bruce Flockhart
7 Chris Fusaro
8 Matt Smith

9 Nick Frisby
10 Brandon Thomson

11 Lelia Masaga
12 Patrick Kelly
13 Sam Johnson
14 Robbie Nairn

15 Rory Hughes

Replacements

Kevin Bryce, Grant Stewart, Alex Allan, Adam Nicol, Greg Peterson, Robert Harley, Tom Gordon, Kaleem Barreto, Adam Hastings, Ratu Tagive, Stafford McDowall, Alex Dunbar, Nikola Matawalu, Joe Reynolds and Ruaridh Jackson

Glasgow squad for the first pre season hit out against Quins in Perth on Saturday.

Reasonably strong team, with JG getting an early season run out, which will hopefully show us he has benefitted from a full pre season.

Nice to see Nairn and Massaga on the team sheet, it will be good to see what they can do, as well as Rory Hughes back from injury. Flockhart gets his chance as well following his return from France, hopefully a good few kilos bigger than when he went away.

There is also a guy in the squad, Joe Reynolds, who I have never heard of, plays for Currie appartently. They must see something in him.

Interesting he's gone for Thomson starting, do we reckon rotation prior to the real season starting?

If Rory Hughes can get a good run of form this season that'd certainly be helpful. I don't rate him highly but he's very much like Sean Lamont was, a solid lump who clearly cares about how the team plays and I'd take him over McGuigan as an option for Scotland any day. Not sure about Nairn, haven't seen enough of him to really make a judgement.

Good to see Paddy Kelly get a run out, it'd really help us to have another option in the centres as they keep dropping like flies. Obviously taking it all with a pinch of salt as this will be a formal knock-about but it'd be nice to see if Rennie's systems will start to come into play. A good measure of where Glasgow are training-wise.

by **RDW** Thu 16 Aug 2018, 8:36 am

Anyone going to watch the friendlies this weekend?

Edinburgh will likely have a lot of the new boys out - will be good to hear how they get on.

by funnyExiledScot Thu 16 Aug 2018, 8:46 am

I would but am going to see a puppy. We're finally getting a dog. Pedigree, obviously, and none of this rescue dog nonsense.

Mrs fES has vetoed Toonie, Dozer, Tait, Blade, Chunk, Schlong and McCoist as possible dog names....

by **RDW** Thu 16 Aug 2018, 8:52 am

What type of dog are you going for?

If you get a pug please call him Jimbo Very Happy

by **George Carlin** Thu 16 Aug 2018, 9:10 am

funnyExiledScot wrote:I would but am going to see a puppy. We're finally getting a dog. Pedigree, obviously, and none of this rescue dog nonsense.

Mrs fES has vetoed Toonie, Dozer, Tait, Blade, Chunk, Schlong and McCoist as possible dog names....

If it's a vote, then I would plump for Doggy McDogface.

Much depends on its temperament and appearance, I think.

- if the dog is terrified of people approaching it, then you have to call him 'Visser';
- if it's an ugly little thing or eats a hell of a lot, then 'Jacobson';
- if it's very old, then 'Solomons';
- if it's angry, then 'Cockers';
- if it's unnecessarily violent, then 'Wilson';
- if it keeps crapping on its own bed, then 'Cipriani';
- if it's potentially world class, then 'Rennie'.

by EWT Spoons Thu 16 Aug 2018, 9:44 am

RDW_Scotland wrote:Anyone going to watch the friendlies this weekend?

Edinburgh will likely have a lot of the new boys out - will be good to hear how they get on.

I'm going to the Edinburgh vs Bath game. However, I'll be bringing my 7 year old daughter, who has no interest in rugby (YET!), so the chances of me seeing much of the game is slim. Will post some chat here if I catch anything worth calling out.

I'm also going to newcastle next week (without my daughter) so will hopefully be in a better position to watch more of the game

by EWT Spoons Thu 16 Aug 2018, 9:47 am

Not sure if anyone listens to the warriors podcast, but Robbie Nairn was interviewed and from the sound of things the lad is a machine. Will be interesting to see how he gets on for Glasgow this year. Also Horne (jnr) is the fittest man alive from the sound of things.

For Glasgow fans it's probably worth a listen, or if like me you are just interested in Scottish rugby.

by jimbopip Thu 16 Aug 2018, 10:00 am

https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.thepoke.co.uk%2F2018%2F08%2F15%2Ffurious-thread-boozy-treat-even-delightful-twist%2F&h=AT0xirZt5L3uUBADh7AiUDl2Z9BAsV3AUQhAFTrWMEW7LkneT7HXyNcDVxhm9HM1WxOp3BS3YwwRarLIT2xEbzVB2o7dKOg3P5jnVoSu_N_5bzVO41g6yNotf1LTyRQJZkce6Woro3-SofzoPu4KPSEC2ixzS5NPHHMnmA

I hope I have mastered the interweb and pasted the link correctly. Wink

If you ever imagined Schiz watching FES ordering drinks then it probably played out like this. Laugh

A pug called Jimbo. Erm

A great title for my fist novel, methinks.

Mr Spoons, if you are in Noocassel, give the Bru a shout. He is always good company and he might allow you to walk around the Hagia Sophia and gaze in wonder. Take sandwiches as you will be walking awhile.

I think I'll take Pipetto up to Northampton. He is getting far too serious about his football and needs to be reminded about real sport. A back row of Batman-Fagerson- Cully getting stuck into some English barstewards should remind him of the Corinthian spirit. I know the Corinthians were a football side and all public school types but yu know what I mean.

by **RDW** Thu 16 Aug 2018, 10:09 am

That's brilliant. What a douche.

by St John The Enforcer Thu 16 Aug 2018, 10:26 am

Excellent stuff.

This is probably a better way of linking it though.

https://twitter.com/Mowgzilla/status/1029045954236821506

by tigertattie Thu 16 Aug 2018, 10:42 am

St John The Enforcer wrote:Excellent stuff.

This is probably a better way of linking it though.

https://twitter.com/Mowgzilla/status/1029045954236821506

so much to say, so little time to say it!

1. Flatcap and his mates were like the hooray Henry bunch I experienced last week
2. I made one post about their Muppet ways then went about my business. This boy needs some serious anger management therapy if he was so irate with the toffs that his whole night was spent tweeting about it!
3. If he hated the place so much. Just leave!
4. How much change did you actually get FES?
5. A puppy at FES towers is surely going to be called Jeeves

by jimbopip Thu 16 Aug 2018, 12:05 pm

Speaking of insufferable Muppet in public houses....

apparently Danny Cipriani decided to reach over the bar and leave with two bottles of vodka without paying a very minor misdemeanour on a pre-season jolly

when security were called refused to pay and became aggressive leading to the constabulary being summonsed we're now descending into stupid boorish behaviour when an older/ experienced team mate should have had a word. Oh wait he is older and more experienced

arguing with and becoming violent with the police, assualtinf a female police officer full blown Neddish behaviour and an embarrassment to his team mates, club andsentient beings walking upright everywhere

As he was led away crying out, "These wrists are gold, loosen the cuffs" Achieves peak pillockdom. His next public appearance will be buying drinks at a Brewdog in Edinburgh during the Festival.

by Welly Thu 16 Aug 2018, 12:06 pm

Edinburgh team to face Bath in pre-season in partnership with Principal & Prosper at Meggetland Sports Complex this Friday 17 August (kick-off 7.30pm)
15. Tom Brown
14. Jack Blain
13. James Johnstone
12. Matt Scott
11. Duhan van der Merwe
10. Simon Hickey
9. Sean Kennedy
1. Pierre Schoeman
2. Stuart McInally CAPTAIN
3. Murray McCallum
4. Jamie Hodgson
5. Ben Toolis
6. Jamie Ritchie
7. Hamish Watson
8. Bill Mata
Replacements: Rory Sutherland, David Cherry, Jack Stanley, Darryl Marfo, Pietro Ceccarelli, Ross Ford, Callum Hunter-Hill, Callum Atkinson, Charlie Shiel, Henry Pyrgos, Jason Baggott, Chris Dean, Dougie Fife, George Taylor, Mark Bennett, Juan Pablo Socino, Rufus McLean, Senitiki Nayalo, Luke Hamilton and Mungo Mason.

Seems Edinburgh have signed or giving a trail to young Jack Stanley excellent young Prop with some pretty terrible injury luck.

by **RDW** Thu 16 Aug 2018, 12:11 pm

Pretty mad team selection there! No idea who Jack Blain is. Jamie Hodgson played in the under 20s this year so is obviously being given a chance. A few other unknowns on the bench too.

Surprised McInally is starting, but I suspect everyone will only get 30-40 minutes max so it doesn't really matter if he's starting.

by EWT Spoons Thu 16 Aug 2018, 12:12 pm

Very interesting team there. Lot of youngsters being given a run out. Last season Jason Baggot got a run out in the preseason friendlies and that was the last time we saw him. Will be interesting if any of the academy lads here can push for a place in the team.

by **RDW** Thu 16 Aug 2018, 12:14 pm

Head Coach Richard Cockerill has named a 35-man squad ahead of tomorrow night’s pre-season encounter with English Premiership side Bath - which is being staged in partnership with main club sponsor Prinicpal & Prosper - at the city’s Meggetland Sports Complex (Friday 17 August, kick-off 7.30pm).

The match is the very first opportunity for fans to see the 2018/19 Edinburgh squad in action, and tickets are still available priced at just £10 for adults and £5 for U18s. Supporters can buy in advance from edinburghrugby.org and a limited number will also be available at the gate.

Club centurion Tom Brown makes a return to action following a nine-month injury layoff and features in a back-three alongside last season’s top try-scorer, Duhan van der Merwe, and Fosroc Academy prospect Jack Blain.

Returning Scotland international centre Matt Scott gets the nod in midfield alongside James Johnstone, whilst former New Zealand U20 captain Simon Hickey partners scrum-half Sean Kennedy at half-back.

Fresh from captaining Scotland’s Summer Tour to The Americas, Stuart McInally is named at hooker and will pack down alongside Murray McCallum and South African loosehead Pierre Schoeman.

In the engine room, Ben Toolis is partnered by Scotland U20 and Watsonians’ Jamie Hodgson, whilst the back-row features Jamie Ritchie, Bill Mata and Hamish Watson - with the latter making a return to action for the first time since April.

Scotland internationalists Dougie Fife, Mark Bennett, Henry Pyrgos, Luke Hamilton, Ross Ford, Darryl Marfo and Rory Sutherland are all named amongst the replacements.

Summer signings David Cherry, Juan Pablo Socino, Senitiki Nayalo and Pietero Ceccarelli are also set to feature.

On his selection, Cockerill, said: “The squad have been working hard all pre-season and we’re really looking forward to getting some game time against a strong Bath outfit.

“We’ve selected a sizeable squad and with competition for places across the board it will be a great chance for us to evaluate all positional battles.

“There’s only two-weeks to go until our first Guinness PRO14 game against Ospreys, so this match gives us an opportunity to see where everyone is at from a conditioning point of view, and how ready they are for what is set to be an intense start to the league campaign.”

If you've still to buy your tickets for tomorrow night's pre-season clash, visit our ticketing site now to book online!

Edinburgh team to face Bath in pre-season in partnership with Principal & Prosper at Meggetland Sports Complex this Friday 17 August (kick-off 7.30pm)

15. Tom Brown

14. Jack Blain

13. James Johnstone

12. Matt Scott

11. Duhan van der Merwe

10. Simon Hickey

9. Sean Kennedy

1. Pierre Schoeman

2. Stuart McInally CAPTAIN

3. Murray McCallum

4. Jamie Hodgson

5. Ben Toolis

6. Jamie Ritchie

7. Hamish Watson

8. Bill Mata

Replacements: Rory Sutherland, David Cherry, Jack Stanley, Darryl Marfo, Pietro Ceccarelli, Ross Ford, Callum Hunter-Hill, Callum Atkinson, Charlie Shiel, Henry Pyrgos, Jason Baggott, Chris Dean, Dougie Fife, George Taylor, Mark Bennett, Juan Pablo Socino, Rufus McLean, Senitiki Nayalo, Luke Hamilton and Mungo Mason.

by EWT Spoons Thu 16 Aug 2018, 12:31 pm

Based on the team, I assume Cockers isn't taking this game that seriously.

by EWT Spoons Thu 16 Aug 2018, 12:47 pm

I know nothing of Jack Stanley, but if this is the same lad, here is a story from about 3 years ago when he was 18/19

Young Gun: Jack Stanley – Exeter prop

Rugby paper wrote:Schoolboy Jack Stanley knew he was going to pack down alongside grown men when he made his debut for Taunton three weeks ago but he was not expecting to replace someone 30 years older than him.

The tighthead, 18, was called from the bench against Old Elthamians to take over from former Plymouth Albion forward Marc Manton who is still turning out in National League Two South at the age of 48.

Stanley is part of the Exeter academy while his dual-registration with the Titans allows him to acquire vital experience.

But it was not his first taste of senior rugby as the 6ft, 130kg (20st 6lb) prop made his first team debut against Gloucester in the LV=Cup in November while being involved in the A-League.

“I was just about to turn 18 for that game against Old Elthamians so it was pretty surreal to be honest,” he told The Rugby Paper. “Mants is going great, to be fair, and seeing youngsters coming through is pushing him on.

“I’m really enjoying it at Taunton. They have a lot of experienced players and I always come back to Exeter with something to improve about my game.

“Playing with grown men is different than at school. I can’t just turn up and expect to dominate people so I often take five minutes before the game to make sure I’m in the right state of mind to play senior rugby.

“I’ve had a bit of experience already but I remember being petrified going into my first scrum at training during pre-season. I gave everything I had and it went ok so I just kept going from that. I’m working a lot on conditioning with Rob Beddard to make sure I’m ready for senior rugby.”

Stanley started playing at Helston RFC, aged 7, before switching to football two years later. But at 12, he returned to rugby, joining Penzance Pirates and he hasn’t looked back since. Selection for England South U16s at the Wellington Festival put him on Exeter’s radar.

He is now training full-time with the first team and learning to be far more than just an old-school scrummaging tighthead.

He said: “I didn’t know anything about the Chiefs when they approached me. I went for a couple of training sessions and it kicked on from there. I ended up playing for England U16s that year and then officially joined the Chiefs.

“Props used to be all about scrummaging, back in the day, but it’s not the case now and the Chiefs’ coaching staff drill that into your head all week.

“There is always something to do on the pitch whether it’s carrying, tackling or just making sure you’re holding the defensive line.

“If I find myself doing nothing I know I’m doing something wrong.

“It’d be great to get involved in the LV=Cup again.

“I’m also hoping to make the tour to South Africa with England U18s after missing out last summer.

“It’d be another great experience to scrummage against South Africans who tend to be pretty big.”

by funnyExiledScot Thu 16 Aug 2018, 1:38 pm

A few points:

1. Edinburgh team looks patchy, a few first teamers mingled with kids. Who knew we had a player called Mungo...

2. I also hate that Brewdog bar. I've been once, and everyone was so authentic and individual that they had identical clothes, hair styles and beards. I was in my suit, reason being that I have a job, and like alcohol too much to waste time going home and getting changed. This Hipster nonsense needs to stop, or at least they can select another drink to ruin, and leave craft beer well alone. Spiced rum, or something hideous.

3. I like the suggestions for the dog. It's a cocker. In all honesty Mini-fES will probably name it Moana or Cinderella (despite him being a boy).

by EWT Spoons Thu 16 Aug 2018, 1:46 pm

funnyExiledScot wrote:A few points:

1. Edinburgh team looks patchy, a few first teamers mingled with kids. Who knew we had a player called Mungo...

2. I also hate that Brewdog bar. I've been once, and everyone was so authentic and individual that they had identical clothes, hair styles and beards. I was in my suit, reason being that I have a job, and like alcohol too much to waste time going home and getting changed. This Hipster nonsense needs to stop, or at least they can select another drink to ruin, and leave craft beer well alone. Spiced rum, or something hideous.

3. I like the suggestions for the dog. It's a cocker. In all honesty Mini-fES will probably name it Moana or Cinderella (despite him being a boy).

Does seem like there is a really obvious name, given the name of the breed

by EWT Spoons Thu 16 Aug 2018, 1:49 pm

looks like Bath are taking this game slightly more seriously, certainly a lot more of their first team involved:

Bath Rugby wrote:Bath Rugby have named their squad to face Edinburgh Rugby tomorrow evening at Meggetland Sports Complex, kick-off 19:30.

Will Chudley, who arrived from Exeter Chiefs in the summer will make his debut at scrum-half, with fellow new arrivals Joe Cokanasiga, Jamie Roberts and Jackson Willison named among the replacements.

Chudley will link up with Freddie Burns in the half-back partnership, with Max Clark and Max Wright lining up at inside and outside centre respectively.

There’s a welcome return to action for Semesa Rokoduguni, who starts on the right wing, with Jack Wilson on the other flank and Darren Atkins occupying the full-back position.

Nathan Catt marks his comeback at loosehead, where he will feature alongside Anthony Perenise and Jack Walker in the front row.

Captain Matt Garvey and Dave Attwood make up a physical second row pairing, with Tom Ellis, Josh Bayliss and Zach Mercer completing an exciting back row trio.

Rhys Priestland, Taulupe Faletau and Sam Underhill are among those who will look to make an impact from the replacements, as Bath Rugby kick-off their pre-season campaign.

Director of Rugby, Todd Blackadder, said: “The guys have worked extremely hard, it’ll be nice for them to now play a game of rugby, they are definitely ready for it. Edinburgh will be a good opening fixture as we will have to turn up mentally on Friday, in order to get a game under the belt before we face Bristol in the premiership in a couple of weeks. We’re building now which is the most exciting part”.

Bath Rugby team to face Edinburgh Rugby

15. Darren Atkins

14. Semesa Rokoduguni

13. Max Wright

12. Max Clark

11. Jack Wilson

10. Freddie Burns

9. Will Chudley

1. Nathan Catt

2. Jack Walker

3. Anthony Perenise

4. Matt Garvey (c)

5. Dave Attwood

6. Tom Ellis

7. Josh Bayliss

8. Zach Mercer

Replacements:

16. Michael van Vuuren

17. Will Vaughan

18. Sam Nixon

19. Victor Delmas

20. Elliott Stooke

21. Levi Douglas

22. Miles Reid

23. Sam Underhill

24. Taulupe Faletau

25. Max Green

26. Chris Cook

27. Rhys Priestland

28. Jamie Roberts

29. Jackson Willison

30. Joe Cokanasiga

by Tramptastic Thu 16 Aug 2018, 1:54 pm

funnyExiledScot wrote:A few points:

1. Edinburgh team looks patchy, a few first teamers mingled with kids. Who knew we had a player called Mungo...

2. I also hate that Brewdog bar. I've been once, and everyone was so authentic and individual that they had identical clothes, hair styles and beards. I was in my suit, reason being that I have a job, and like alcohol too much to waste time going home and getting changed. This Hipster nonsense needs to stop, or at least they can select another drink to ruin, and leave craft beer well alone. Spiced rum, or something hideous.

3. I like the suggestions for the dog. It's a cocker. In all honesty Mini-fES will probably name it Moana or Cinderella (despite him being a boy).

With regards to point 2.

We live in a golden age where craft beer is EVERYWHERE and burger quality in Edinburgh has shot through the roof. The rise of the hipster has give the beer industry a shot in the arm. No longer do i have to put up with Tennants and no longer is Kronenberg considered a "good" beer. Now I can easily find Isle of Arran Blonde in every supermarket or Ossian Gold. Yes, you have to put up with the Brewdog "Punk" (Trademarked, they also sued someone for being "Punk"), BUT before hand all we had was rubbish.

Hipsters are fashionable to hate but godd*mn beer and burgers are good

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