Johann van Graan says that the commitment and desire of Alfie Barbeary’s ball-carrying reminds him of Duane Vermeulen and CJ Stander, two back-rowers who have been gain-line weapons in the Test arena.
The past few years in the Premiership have reaffirmed the truism that, when it comes to winning matches in rugby union, there is more than one way to skin a cat. Back in 2022, as Steve Borthwick guided them to glory, Leicester Tigers leant on kick-pressure as a primary weapon. Their victory in the final inspired Saracens, that season’s runners-up, into a more expansive approach on the way to glory the following year.
Antony cupped his hand to his ear in front of the Coventry fans after Sunday’s penalty shoot out