One more ‘free hit’, then improvements have to come
IT’S worth remembering that the last time these two sides met – back in January at Welford Road – Tigers were victorious 31-18.
The way the rest of the season has gone provides a stark contrast, with Bristol still in with a chance of the Premiership play-offs and a European final to look forward to, while the Tigers are attempting to avoid going down in history as the club that avoided the drop because Saracens were caught cheating. While there is always hope, the team selections – Bristol with a “mixed” team and a strong bench and the Tigers with a determinedly development look – meant that realistic fans were dreaming of some form of bonus point and a spirited performance, rather than the possibility of an away win.
As we’ve seen so many times, the Tigers stayed in the game for about 20 minutes, but then the home team began to assert themselves and go away with the game.
There are still too many things to worry about in the performances so far. The difference in selection clearly left the Tigers in difficulties from the start, but the way the pack was overpowered was of concern.
Bristol are quick and inventive, but are not noted for the strength of their forwards, tending to favour athleticism and speed over bulk and power.
The one element of the game that Tigers have managed well over the last couple of years, the scrum, is also beginning to creak. It may be, of course, that Boris Stankovich no longer has as much time with his charges because of the well-judged need to shore up other areas (improved lineout is an obvious positive) but such a loss of technique is of concern. Freddie Steward continues to impress, although in all honesty he’s probably too good for those around him. Zack Henry again proved himself a reasonable deputy to George Ford.
The long stint for Jack van Poortvliet probably augers well for his ongoing career.
The Tigers’ best ally in keeping the score down was, in all honesty, the torrential rain in Bristol.
There is one more “free hit” for Steve Borthwick with the ‘Quins game to come this season. After that, and a very short pre-season before the next one starts almost immediately, matches and results will really matter. Hopefully he has learnt enough, and there is a lot of very quick improvement to come.
The Tigers’ best ally in keeping the score down was, in all honesty, the torrential rain in Bristol