Director of Rugby Alan Solomons spoke to the media today ahead of Saturday’s first Gallagher Premiership match of the season at Sixways against Wasps (kick-off 3pm).
Here’s what he had to say:
Pre-season
- It’s been a long one but this is what we’ve been working towards.
- It was important to get everyone that was fit some game-time and there’ll be more opportunities in coming weeks with Warriors and Cavaliers matches.
Wasps
- They will be a big challenge. Every game this season in the Premiership will be a massive challenge.
- There are no easy Saturday afternoons.
- Wasps are a good side with some talented individuals so we know they’ll be a tough side to beat.
- They have some players missing but they have plenty of strength in depth.
- It’s important for us to focus on consistency of performance and the results will take care of themselves if we get the performance right.
Injury news
- Isaac Miller is out with a fractured collarbone.
- Scott van Breda has a shoulder problem and will be missing for a few weeks.
- Jamie Shillcock had a knock to his knee so he’ll be out for a couple of weeks.
- Ethan Waller is not far away from a return.
- Bryce Heem is back in training.
- Will Butler has had an operation on his elbow and is expected back around December time.
Starting at home
- Starting at home is good for all involved – the players, staff and supporters.
- It’s important to get off to a good start.
- We have a heavy block of six Premiership games to get started and the competition will be fierce.
Scott van Breda
- He has played all across the backline and he’s a good kicker both from the tee and from hand.
Jamie Shillcock
- He will challenge for the ten jersey but he has the ability to play at 15. It’s good to have that versatility.
Goal-kicking
- We have five players who can kick including all our fly-halves and both Chris Pennell and Scott van Breda.