Chiefs U18s side to face Bath
By Alfie Martin
2/2/18
Exeter Chiefs Under-18s will be looking to build on their recent 38-10 win over Bristol when they play host to rivals Bath in their latest Premiership Under-18s League fixture at Tregye on Saturday (2pm).
With two wins from their opening three fixtures, the sole blot on the copybook was an away defeat at Gloucester, but the Chiefs have impressed many and hopes are high they can continue their good form in the Duchy this weekend.
Coach Gareth Elliott has been encouraged by what he has seen from his side, particularly their showing last time out.
“We are looking to carry on the momentum from the second half against Bristol, where we showed some really expansive, but clinical play,” said Elliott. “The squad is developing week to week and it's really positive to see them put what we are doing on the training field onto the pitch in these matches.
“The benefits they have gained from training with the senior squad over the last two weeks are immeasurable, because it's such a benefit for us as an academy to be able to give that experience to the players.”
He added: “We are focusing on ourselves and what we are able to bring to the game on Saturday, we know that if we turn up with a clarity in how we want to perform, then we will be able to play some exciting rugby.
“There are a few changes to the side, and it's great that there is competition for places. It's also good to be playing in Cornwall for a change up, and allow fans of the club and the academy to come and see us in Truro.”
Changes in personnel to the side that beat Bristol see Francesco Scardimaglia come into the centre for Robbie Weeks; James Tait starts at scrum-half ahead of Sam Maunder, Dan Lilley gets the nod at full-back in place of James Tucker, while up front Ollie Andrews comes into the front-row for Henry Trudgill.
Exeter’s back-row remains unchanged and see try-scorers Flynn Elworthy and Richard Capstick pack down alongside No.8 Rus Tuima, who says he is looking forward to his latest run-out for the Chiefs.
“As a team, we’ve put focus on our set-piece in training, and we’ve focused on our physicality around the breakdown. On Saturday, we need to be clinical and precise around the set piece.”
Tight-head prop Alfie Petch has also praised his team-mates for their hard work during the preparation stages of this contest.
“We’ve had lots to look at and lots to work on in training, especially since the Bristol game two weeks ago. [The game] was a very narrow win, and all the boys are keen to make improvements. Defensively all the boys have been keen to improve.
“This game is definitely going to be more of a team effort. We’ve all played college rugby, so we’re used to playing on pitches like the one at Tregye. It’s how we like to play rugby. We want to bring Bath down here and play on our terms in conditions that we’re used to.”
Chiefs have made few changes to their lineup, with James Tait adopting the scrum-half position. Oliver Andrews will take to the stage in the No.1 shirt, as Alfie Petch is shifted to the tight-head position. Francesco Scardimaglia will hope to show his skill in the back centres alongside Luke Flack, as Dan Lilley starts at fullback.
CHIEFS UNDER-18s SIDE TO FACE BATH
1 Ollie Andrews
2 Will Ridout
3 Alfie Petch
4 Lewis Pearson
5 Joseph Parker-Cook
6 Flynn Elworthy
7 Rich Capstick
8 Rus Tuima
9 James Tait
10 Olly Toomey
11 Archie Hill
12 Luke Flack
13 Francesco Scardimaglia
14 Kian Atkinson
15 Dan Lilley
16 Harvey Dunn
17 Henry Trudgill
18 Elliot Salt
19 Jake Clemson
20 Cory Teague
21 Sam Maunder
22 Robbie Weeks
23 Devon Jewsbury
Spectator Information / Parking Arrangements
All supporters must park at the Tregye Campus, Truro (TR3 6GN), which will be signposted and there will be staff directing traffic. It is a ten-minute walk to the pitch from the parking at Tregye Campus.
Entry is free but all spectators are reminded to stay behind the ropes at all times. There will be a refreshments trailer on site serving hot drinks and hot food.