Director of Rugby Alan Solomons spoke to the press today ahead of Sunday’s Aviva Premiership clash with London Irish at the Madejski Stadium (kick-off 1pm).
Here’s what he had to say:
Gloucester performance
- Backing up our win over Exeter Chiefs was important.
- It was also important to produce a good performance in front of our home fans.
- The first-half was a really good balance in both defence and attack. We managed the game well.
- The second-half lost a bit of rhythm as lineouts didn’t operate as well as they could have but it was a gritty, determined defensive display which was really pleasing.
Defence
- We made 233 tackles against Exeter and another 216 against Gloucester.
- The players are taking great pride in their defence and it’s really positive to see.
London Irish
- It’s a very big game and it’ll be a challenge. It’s important for both teams.
- The nature of the occasion means it’s going to be tough from the off.
- They’re a determined team and give a good account of themselves when they play. They were good against Northampton and they have some decent players.
Confidence
- Confidence within the camp is certainly boosted after a couple of wins.
- But everything is performance-focused and we must continue to try and perform to the best of our ability from week to week.
Alafoti Faosiliva
- He had one of his best games for Warriors last weekend.
- He is a physical, powerful carrier and in collision you can see his strength and explosiveness.
Isaac Miller
- He is a good, young player who’s been starting a lot of games for London Scottish and has a leadership role, having captained them.
- He will be an ideal fit at Sixways and he has lots of potential.
Michael Heaney
- I watched him for Doncaster Knights a couple of times and he is a really good game manager.
- His former club Ulster speak very highly of him.
- He has a good head on his shoulders, he has a good understanding of the game and kicks well.
Players making the step up from the Championship
- You only have to look as far as players like Darren Barry to see how players can make the move to the Premiership from the Championship and succeed.
2018/19 squad
- I’m happy with how things are shaping up. We have strength in depth and a good blend of experience and youth.
Josh Adams
- I’m disappointed for him that he hasn’t been selected for Wales but we’re always delighted to have him at Warriors.
- He has recently played on two of the biggest stages in world rugby – Twickenham and the Principality Stadium.
Selection/team news
- I’m positive that Sam Lewis will be available. He has gone through the return-to-play protocol.
- I’m also positive that Francois Hougaard and Will Spencer will be fit for the weekend.
- Josh Adams will be available for selection.