Fair result after a fair hearing
WHILE we were naturally delighted with the outcome of the RFU hearing this week, it’s nice to prepare for tomorrow’s Challenge Cup trip to Rovigo knowing we can concentrate on matters on the field again.
A suspended ban, together with an apology to referee David Rose, was our initial recommendation to the RFU to solving the issue, but that was refused and we found ourselves in front of a disciplinary panel.
All I want to do is coach, but the hearing did at least did give the club a chance to raise a few relevant issues and put some points across. It was pleasing also to see those points noted, but that’s a matter for another day.
Also this week, Martin Johnson named his 32-man elite performance squad for the Six Nations, and I wasn’t surprised really to see the names of Alex Goode and Noah Cato omitted. I’ve spoken to Martin and I think the way he is developing these young lads through the Saxons is the right approach and these guys, plus the likes of Andy Saull and Brad Barritt, know they need to hang tight, relax and wait for their chance to come.
Indeed, they only need look to Rhys Gill as proof. He has been fantastic for us this season and fully deserves his first call-up for the Wales squad.
Keep an eye out for a number of new signings to be announced at Saracens this week – mainly in the pack but also one in the back row. The club have been extremely supportive of what I am trying to do here, I’ve been granted my every wish.
First though, we must focus on a bonus point win at Rovigo. It won’t be easy but it’s a good test for us.