And there’s a good reason for that. We have a Chance Card, a Get Out of Jail Free Card. Quite seriously, as I’ve said elsewhere, all I want to see is an improvement over the remainder of the season. If there is more, all to the good, but I’d be happy with general improvement.
We came into this pandemic in possibly the very worst position we could be in. Seven senior fixtures lost on the bounce. Clearly some huge problems in the back room that were having a serious impact and an eerily silent response when questions were asked.
But that’s behind us and now we move forward. A brand new set up. Not just coaching, but a new commercial director in Alex Brown, a new team manager in Sam Raven and Lance Bradley stepping up to CEO. There are still lots of unanswered questions but no point in banging that drum anymore. We’ve passed that moment. I still have one or two concerns, as I have no doubt everyone one of us has. We’re incredibly light in the second row, at Full Back and at Fly half so I think GS has some very interesting selection challenges ahead, because we sort of have “cover” in those positions. 36 at Fly Half, Sharples & Banners at FB. But what about Lock? George knows what is needed there so I expect some interesting selections, especially if injuries occur, which are highly likely in this foreshortened season. I certainly think Clarke & Polledri could step up. As the Premiership moves on and belts are tightened yet further I expect development of “utility” players across the field.
Clearly, we all want to see a massive improvement on the last few weeks prior to the pandemic but I’d prefer to see risks taken as well, seriously mix things up a bit. To find what we’re good at and what needs development. We’re safe from relegation so that’s not an issue. There is an argument that we should aim for top 6 to get Champions Cup qualification and I can see the logic in that but my preference would be for steady growth as all the elements start coming together working toward becoming a cohesive unit that can maintain a long running campaign to remain at the top of English Rugby.
We’ve been here before of course, but not with quite such a huge clear out in one go. I am quietly confident that we have turned a corner but GS and this team must now be left alone to do their work. He certainly talks the talk. Now let’s see the walk.
winnyssite 