Refreshed side in better shape for Chiefs face-off
Todd Blackadder believes the selection decision which attracted so much comment has given Bath Rugby the best possible chance of toppling Exeter Chiefs on Friday night. The director of rugby and his coaching team made 13 changes to the starting line-up for the defeat at Saracens, plus five forwards on the bench who hadn’t played for the first team this season. They ended up losing 50-27 at Allianz Park before Blackadder stood by the decision to refresh some players and blood others. He is now confident the benefits can be reaped against the Chiefs, followed by Toulouse and Wasps in the Champions Cup. “It’s taken the fatigue out of the week,” he said. “Because players were rested it meant we could do a bit more in training Monday, and on Tuesday there was still a spring in their step. “I think it was worth it for every single reason and we’ve had plenty of time to prepare well for Exeter. “These decisions are not made on the spur of the moment, we look well beyond with the planning. “The only way we can judge ourselves is by looking back and we can only really do that after the next month.” Regardless of the pros and cons, what it does mean is that Bath have had plenty of selection options. Ross Batty is available having made his injury comeback for Bath United along with Cooper Vuna, who is back to bolster the backs. Francois Louw is away with South Africa preparing to take on the All Blacks, but Sam Underhill is fit and raring to go after a shoulder “stinger”. “Selection admitted Blackadder. “Sometimes it’s not just about the right players, it’s about the right dynamic. “Who’s the best impact off the bench? We’re having those conversations now, which is just fantastic. “When I look at the loose forwards it’s a question of who do we leave out because they’re all playing so positively. “They’re more of a unit than an individual, which is really pleasing.” The Chiefs – who have 24 points out of 25 and are unbeaten this season – have narrowly beaten Bath on their last two trips to the Rec. “They always start well so we’ve got to match that,” Blackadder recalled. “The type of game they play, they’re always trying to bend us round edges, always trying to shape us. For us, it’s a massive defensive effort at home. “We’re well and truly prepared, really excited and our players know what’s at stake. “We need to show our quality. We just want the players to go out there, unleash and enjoy what they’re doing.” On Friday night the Swift Half at the Rec will be transformed into a Bavarian Bier Haus for Oktoberfest. There will be an oompah band called The Jager Maestros, the Clifton Sausage stall will be serving Bratwurst sausages and Thatchers mulled cider. After the game, the first 100 supporters showing their match/season ticket on the door at Walcot House will receive a free drink. It is part of the new ‘Friday Night Club’ themed experiences in the Swift Half when Bath have home Friday night fixtures.