Electric Robson sparks Wasps’ demolition job
WASPS scrum-half Dan Robson’s latest majestic, Test-class performance propelled his side to a home Premiership semi-final on the back of another try spree. While the magnitude of this result was something of a red herring as the Chiefs were far from full strength, Lee Blackett’s side ensured they go into the play-offs with thunderous momentum. From the depths of 10th place when the new head coach took charge in February, this victory was Wasps’ 11th in their last 12 league games — and a 12th bonus-point win.
Robson ignited this Ricoh Arena rout with a demonstration of the supreme repertoire which should, by rights, earn the 28-year-old a chance to add to his meagre tally of two England caps. The scrum-half scored a try and ran the show. He was alert and electric — finding gaps and terrorising Exeter with his canny kicking game.
Blackett said: ‘He was really good again today. I am really pleased with Dan, he is playing really well. He’s one of our key guys.’ Asked about his international prospects, the Wasps head coach added: ‘I don’t think he is a million miles away, he is almost there. He has put himself up for selection. ‘He is pivotal to how well we are playing. He has put his hand up and it’s now up to Eddie Jones.’ But the transformation of the Coventry-based club has been a collective effort. Once again, they were slick in attack and aggressive in defence — as epitomised by one monstrous midfield hit by ex-All Black centre Malakai Fekitoa. The Wasps forwards again showcased their handling prowess and thrived at the breakdown, even without poacher-in-chief Jack Willis. Blackett can scarcely believe how everything has fallen into place since he took over the team built by Dai Young.
‘It has been incredible,’ he said. ‘Sometimes you feel like you are going to wake up. It feels a bit of a dream at times because of just how well it has gone. We are proud of where we are, but there is still a big job to be done.’ Rob Baxter, Exeter’s director of rugby, spoke of how this six-try mauling would serve as a ‘slap in the face’ for his young players. He also paid tribute to the victors and fellow home semi-finalists, saying: ‘They look like they’re enjoying themselves. I always say that the teams I hate playing the most are the ones who look comfortable, are enjoying themselves and having fun, because they tend to play the best rugby. Wasps are doing that.’