Lions not giving up over Mostert move
GLOUCESTER’S win against Worcester Warriors was built largely from a commanding forward performance that provided front foot ball, enabling their exciting back line to execute some well worked tries. Owen Williams had a good game at inside centre; he distributed well when required, stood in the 10 position, making distribution decisions which allowed Cipriani more freedom and time to pick his passes as only he can. Williams is also not afraid to carry hard into traffic to get across the gain line required, allowing the forwards to get around the corner quicker and in a positive manner; this was highlighted with the Freddie Clarke try.
It will be interesting moving forward if Ackermann thinks Williams is the answer at inside centre.
Out wider Gloucester has a proven skilled operator in Charlie Sharples with the winger having scored nine tries already this season.
Benefiting from the attacking style of the Cherry & Whites, Sharples’ try scoring antics has in recent weeks been over looked by the emergence of the other wing Ollie Thorley who has scored some eye catching tries to launch his career in the Premiership.
Not only does he score tries but he chases every kick as if his life depended on it. This energy to work hard without the ball will stand him in good stead moving forward, impressing Ackermann and of course representative coaches in due course.
This latest Gloucester victory was built on forward platform, one where the lineout worked perfectly, and the scrum was adequate.
To make this happen you must have a hooker who can perform his forward duties accurately. Gloucester hooker James Hanson has been a great signing, after first arriving from Melbourne Reds on a short-term contract he has settled really well, abrasive in the loose, making positives carries, and solid in the tight exchanges.
He has an eye for a try as demonstrated with his well-worked try, created by a smart pass from Ben Morgan round the front of the lineout.
Gloucester’s timely return to winning ways was crucial, keeping them in the top four.
Below the top four the Premiership table looks very congested, where a couple of losses could see one of seven sides who could potentially move to the bottom.
This week European rugby returns with Gloucester again returning to Sandy Park to play Exeter Chiefs.
The challenge could not be greater for Gloucester, with all the Chief ’s internationals returning to bolster a very good side.
To make their next step on their progression journey Gloucester must take a big scalp away from home, their will be no better time to start than this weekend.