I think the problem is benchmarking the performances by the false dawn we had a couple of years ago - a number of cards fell very nicely for us.
Firstly there was a set up that had grown stale under Dai and both parties needed a change. The ‘new boss’ syndrome kicked in and players were given their heads for a few games and put a few wins together. Next was a long and enforced rest - no training, no games - whilst we went into Covid lockdown. The majority of players came back well rested, fresh and full of energy. Then came the rapid number of games meaning sides were putting out second teams, which seemed to fall nicely for us. At the same time it was Summer, the majority of pitches were dry and fast - ideally suited to our game. In the commentary today they said that the new Quins DoR reviewed their successful season last year and realised they hadn’t played a single game in the rain. When I think back to when Blackett took over I can only remember three games in the rain and we lost all of them - Tigers away, Sale at home and the final itself.
Injuries and leadership have played a big part this season - Launch, Willis, Robson, Cruse, West, Fekitoa are all key players and leaders. But I was worried because I thought we lost an awful lot of senior talent at the end of last season. No complaints that we are looking for cheaper options from the championship and bringing Academy players through, but we’ve lost a lot of grit with it, and one of our big problems over the last couple of seasons has been a drop off in physicality. We get bullied in the scrum and bullied around the park at times.
Umaga has all the ability and heart in the world, but the top two inches aren’t quite there and that’s often the difference between top level and the rest. When Robson is playing he does a bit of thinking for Umaga - bossing the breakdown, moving the backs around and getting the ball to him that extra second earlier, so it’s easier for him to execute. Porter does the opposite and I really hate to say it but don’t rate him as a Premiership 9 - aimless kicking, lack of vision, slow to the breakdown. Incidentally, have our late comebacks in the last two games coincided with Wolstenholme coming on? Not sure but I think he has better vision and speed of pass.
Cash flow is also a problem because we could have done with an additional proven top level Hooker and 12 because they are such important positions, and allowed some rotation. Some players just don’t cut the mustard - Watson for instance. How he starts at 15 over Minozzi I never know.
Then I wonder if Blackett has the right personality for a DoR and the players are buying in to him. He seems too nice a guy, too affable. I can’t see him delivering a rocket or tough love. You need someone who demands respect and also a little bit of fear too. My solution would be Mitchell as Head coach looking after defence, with Blackett as attack coach and then a forwards and scrum coach. Also a big review and potential clear out of the S&C set up to bring in fresh faces there - the injuries in the last couple of years must have more than bad luck in common.