My one big wish was that we employed a coach who could attract other quality coaches - done (almost - still need an attack coach) - take the dressing room with him - done - not afraid to axe players not up to it - done (but still more to do) - attract players who he wants to fit in with his game plan - jury still out for me (will see who is coming in for TL). He has done a brilliant job so far and would go up further in my eyes if he can get De Bruin to stay but can't see that happening, or persuade Kruis to join. I also like the fact that he is prepared to really change tack when things are not right.
After recent performances, I feel JVP, McP, Hayes and Clare have all moved up the pecking order - WW, Van Wyk and Henry have moved down - don't want them to go but there are better options for us when everyone is fit.
I am very impressed and looking forward to the next few weeks
In a short space of time we have gone from mediocre relegation prospects with a large hastily purchase squad. to a leaner hungry gnarly outfit. A team which is at least competing in every game and if we are losing its by fine margins.
To a team that has reached a Final in a European competition, who we know will compete and not just be there for a good day out.
I agree we are not the finished article. SB has said as much. But the Journey is well underway and I would not be surprised if we
added a trophy to our cabinet in May.
I'd have taken that in Aug 2019 and Aug 2020
wellstiger wrote: ↑Sun May 02, 2021 12:21 pm
To a team that has reached a Final in a European competition, who we know will compete and not just be there for a good day out.
I agree we are not the finished article. SB has said as much. But the Journey is well underway and I would not be surprised if we
added a trophy to our cabinet in May.
I'd have taken that in Aug 2019 and Aug 2020
Way, way, WAY ahead of myself but I doubly hope we do come up with the goods to win it on the 21st because I also hope this is our last chance to win this particular competition. Beginning of the season I'd have said top 6 next season was a bit of a stretch but maybe not...
No, not that one!
Remember, whatever you do to the smallest of the backs you do to his prop, and you can't avoid the rucks and mauls forever...
I know you don't like it when I boo him but how else will he know he's wrong?
Crofty, I believe top 8 qualification confirmed. So, after winning the cup, we can concentrate on establishing familiarity among players, establishing flexible partnerships and making sure all players are comfortable slotting in. Really forging team bonds!
Old Hob wrote: ↑Sun May 02, 2021 1:38 pm
Crofty, I believe top 8 qualification confirmed. So, after winning the cup, we can concentrate on establishing familiarity among players, establishing flexible partnerships and making sure all players are comfortable slotting in. Really forging team bonds!
If we win the Cup we qualify for the top tournament next year just through that. It's the qualification next year for 2023 that would, in that situation, become the one dependent upon league position and who knows what number get through, it seems to be different every year.
No, not that one!
Remember, whatever you do to the smallest of the backs you do to his prop, and you can't avoid the rucks and mauls forever...
I know you don't like it when I boo him but how else will he know he's wrong?
ourla wrote: ↑Sun May 02, 2021 9:18 pm
I don't think Borthwick will let standards drop even if we have nothing to play for.
As he's said many times we have become used to losing and we need to get used to winning.
The off season is the chance to rest and take stock.
I don't think SB's standards have been met yet. Hanro's interview gives a bit of an insight to what SB delivers and the Tigers (they would agree) are still some way off where they need to be, going soft against Quins, giving away the games with Bath and Saints. SB turned down a Lions role for the sake of the Tigers, so after a bit of a rest I would expect the squad to equally dedicated and Oval Park to be busier than ever with a few new faces. It is looking good. The Cup Final + the home game against the Bears will be a good test to see where the club is at. I have a warm feeling about the way things are progressing and I haven't peed my pants either!!
Whoever said "one person cannot change the world' never ate undercooked bat
ourla wrote: ↑Sun May 02, 2021 9:18 pm
I don't think Borthwick will let standards drop even if we have nothing to play for.
As he's said many times we have become used to losing and we need to get used to winning.
The off season is the chance to rest and take stock.
I don't think SB's standards have been met yet. Hanro's interview gives a bit of an insight to what SB delivers and the Tigers (they would agree) are still some way off where they need to be, going soft against Quins, giving away the games with Bath and Saints. SB turned down a Lions role for the sake of the Tigers, so after a bit of a rest I would expect the squad to equally dedicated and Oval Park to be busier than ever with a few new faces. It is looking good. The Cup Final + the home game against the Bears will be a good test to see where the club is at. I have a warm feeling about the way things are progressing and I haven't peed my pants either!!
Speaking of which a very good interview.
For me really is a natural captain.
ourla wrote: ↑Sun May 02, 2021 9:18 pm
I don't think Borthwick will let standards drop even if we have nothing to play for.
As he's said many times we have become used to losing and we need to get used to winning.
The off season is the chance to rest and take stock.
I don't think SB's standards have been met yet. Hanro's interview gives a bit of an insight to what SB delivers and the Tigers (they would agree) are still some way off where they need to be, going soft against Quins, giving away the games with Bath and Saints. SB turned down a Lions role for the sake of the Tigers, so after a bit of a rest I would expect the squad to equally dedicated and Oval Park to be busier than ever with a few new faces. It is looking good. The Cup Final + the home game against the Bears will be a good test to see where the club is at. I have a warm feeling about the way things are progressing and I haven't peed my pants either!!
Speaking of which a very good interview.
For me really is a natural captain.
Agreed.
Formerly of Burbaaage (not Inkleh), now up north at uni
It is clear to all who care to look that he is doing a great job and that progress is being made. Those who complained about his use of young player at the end of last season have had to eat their words and yes, it is a journey.
We may or may not win on Friday but the fact that we are in the final is a great achievement in itself. Our league position gets stronger and we are beginning to win games which a few months ago would have been considered unlikely. WR is again becoming a venue other teams fear and with the return of spectators this will only get better.
Next season a top 4 finish is for the first time in many years looking achievable. SB's appointment is the best decision the Board have made in a long time.
Life can be unpredictable, so eat your pudding first!