Warriors Director of Rugby Alan Solomons spoke to the media today ahead of the Gallagher Premiership match against Bath Rugby.
Here’s what Alan had to say…
On Saracens away
- We played balanced, constructive rugby in the first half. Our decision-making and execution were good and we scored two good tries.
- In the second half we made some mistakes and each time we were punished.
- But there were a lot of positives to be taken and we showed great character particularly when we defended a five metres lineout around the 72nd minutes and won a turnover.
On Saturday’s home match against Bath
- Everyone is motivated to put in a really good performance against very strong opposition who have struck rich vein of form recently. They have had some good victories since we played them in November.
- It’s a massive challenge and we are looking forward to it. We want to play well at home. We were disappointed with the Northampton game and we would like to have a good game in front of our own supporters.
On Perry Humphreys’ performance at Saracens
- Perry did really well. He’s got electric pace and he defended well.
- We have really good for competition for places in the squad so if someone does fall out through injury we have players who can step up to the mark to come in.
On Ben Te’o’s performance
- He went well with Francois Venter in the middle. It was Ben’s first game with the team this season apart from his appearance as a replacement against Ospreys. He has looked good and sharp in practise.
On Cavaliers’ Premiership Rugby Shield match at Sale Jets on Sunday
- The feedback from Gordon Ross was that the lads did well for the first 60 minutes but then let it slip in the last 20 minutes.
- These matches allow us to have a look at some of our Academy players and also to give some game time to senior players.
On recruitment and retention of players
- Under Premiership Rugby regulations we are not allowed to speak to players from other clubs until January 1.
- That window is now open so clubs will be doing that and we are no different.
- We have done quite a lot of retention of players so far. It’s been a busy time and will continue to be.
Injuries
- Michael Fatialofa has been suffering from a virus which forced him to miss the Saracens match. He hasn’t trained this week but hopefully he will be back on Thursday.
- Nick Schonert has trained all week and should be available on Saturday.
- Josh Adams is still suffering from a tight hamstring.
- Ryan Mills is tracking well and we will see how he is on Thursday.
- Marco Mama trained on Tuesday and he is making nice progress. We will see how he is on Thursday.