Although they have lost two of their first three games, this is going to be their first home game of the season, |
Everybody turned up for training and were looking good. |
However, it is still a very competitive side and one which we will have to work hard against to get the right result. |
I have asked the players to perform well as individuals, well in their units and well as a collective team. We want to win this game. |
I was very impressed by the boys' commitment to the sport. |
I would now like to face them on a dry day at Vicarage Road on a good surface where we will be able to move the ball about. |
I'm just glad that all the boys came back fit and well from Ireland duty. |
In addition some players came in here to-day and did well and that offers me more options for later in the season when I'm going to be short some of my squad. |
It is unfortunate news for Kieran but I hope to have him back for the Biarritz game, |
It will be a big game against a side playing the best rugby in the league, |
Justin will be out for another two weeks at least, and Saturday is just too soon for Paul, |
Matt would have played in the last two games if he hadn't been injured. |
Overall the performance was extremely disappointing, |
Ten minutes into the second half, when we drew level, we were ideally placed, but they finished the stronger while we were guilty of making silly mistakes at crucial stages and that's a luxury you cannot afford at this level. |
We gave them a 19-0 lead the last time we met and came back to win, so we know they are a very good side with quality backs and a good pack of forwards - but we have prepared well. |