Topic: The new season in the Aviva Premiership

[Rik]

After three rounds, we seem to be getting an indication that it's going to be an interesting season. Saints are topping the table after some convincing play (though why they don't get a better kicker defeats me). New boys Exeter are up in an impressive fifth place, while Tigers have registered just one win and are 7th. Leeds are already looking to be struggling. Still, it is early days, and the internationals will help some of the clubs make up ground.

It should be an exciting season though.

[Baz]

exter in the premiership?? Saints topping the table?

who are the tigers??   you lost me now Rik



 

[Rik]

We're talking rugby here, Baz, Saints are Northampton, Tigers are Leicester (last year's champions). Exeter came up from National 1 this season, so have started really well.

[sam]

I lost interest when all the good players moved to France...

[Rik]

I think that there's some really good players here, Sam, especially at clubs like Tigers and Saints, who have always developed their own talent.

[sam]

true, will be good to see them in the national setup...

[Rik]

If Johnson can be persuaded to use them.

[sam]

indeed, something says not.

[Rik]

I've been disappointed in him. I think the RFU was daft to appoint him with no coaching experience, but on top of that, he left the coaching team which has had us floundering since 2003 in place. If ever there was a time for a new broom, that was it. As it is, I hear moans from clubs and players that England duties 'spoil' them, in fitness and technique.

[sam]

doesnt sound right does, it surely going to the national team should mean the best coaching and the clubs should be happy!

[Rik]

They're not though, Sam, and you tend to hear it from a lot of the top teams. I've long since believed John Wells is simply not up to the job, and I wonder where he has friends suitably placed in the RFU.