It’s must-win time Bristol defeat puts pressure on to clinch a play-off place
GENERALLY, in any game, a good start is key, setting the tone, building momentum, getting the referee on your side, influencing the crowd, and most of instilling confidence in the players.
But Gloucester’s latest Premiership game against fiercest rivals Bristol, saw the Cherry and Whites behind by 17 points after 11 minutes.
The home side started like they played most of last season when they were riding high at the top of the table - quick, accurate, dominating the ruck area.
Gloucester was in shellshock mode they did not touch the ball.
But Gloucester this season have tenacity, under Lewis Ludlow’s captaincy and to their credit they did not panic.
They re-grouped and after 30 minutes played they led 21-17 in what was quite a remarkable turnaround.
When in doubt get the ball to Louis Rees-zammit, who created a wonderful try for Charlie Chapman.
He then picked fantastic inside line to score unopposed, the third try was scored by player of the match Chris Harris, who had a terrific game, both in attack and defence.
The second half was as frantic as the first without both sides truly stamping their authority on the game.
Gloucester had numerous chances to ensure the victory, crucially though their most potent attacking weapon the line-out drive, but it was not as accurate or dynamic as it has been throughout the season.
This will be a concern for George Skivington and his coaching team.
Teams would course analysed the Gloucester line-out there is now a bigger focus on stopping their very impressive drive.
Coupled with this is how they defend a lineout drive, which has come under some scrutiny of late, with tries being conceded.
I have no doubt Skivington will have an answer to the growing pains of his creation and the drive will once again be a weapon.
The game latterly became a bit of a mess with no control being afforded to any side, a yellow card and red for Bristol did not help, but it made a fascinating watch.
With Gloucester nudging in front with four minutes to go you thought they had done enough but with the nature of this game the drama continued with a late, late try for Bristol to snatch victory.
It was a commendable victory for the Bristolians who have only pride to play for this season, something the Pat Lam and the Bears will not be happy about considering the squad that has been assembled.
But where does this leave Gloucester? The week started well for Gloucester with five points being awarded to them after Worcester Warriors failed to field a team in professional game (I only thought that happened in the community game).
The race for a top four finish is going to be extremely tight.
Gloucester have to play Bath, Harlequins and Saracens.
The Bath game at home this weekend is a must win, and with Bath sitting bottom of the table five points must be gained.
The Quins and Sarries games will be intriguing as both clubs are going to make top three, and their selection choice could come into play.
Will players be rested, or will they keep playing to retain form?
You cannot just look at the Gloucester’s fixtures as clubs in the top eight play each other.
Potentially there are six clubs fighting for that fourth spot, which makes the Premiership so exciting.
Gloucester must concentrate on just the next game as all the permutations mean nothing if you do not just win your next game.
It will be extremely hard for Gloucester to make the top four, but the beauty of Gloucester is you can never write this group off, but fundamentals of the Gloucester game must be totally on point when under extreme scrutiny.
If that can be achieved, they have a chance. It’s going to be fascinating.