Officials are taking high tackles very seriously this season
A controversial red card to Leicester Lock Will Spencer following his high tackle on Wasps hooker Tommy Taylor sent social media into split opinions. This season officials are being more vigilant to player welfare given the injuries within the sport and the possible effects those injuries can have in later life, especially those related to the head and neck area.
Of course, every referee will interpret situations differently but the ultimate decision with the high and dangerous tackles is all to do with player welfare and safety. All players have a due diligence to protect their opposite player and if red cards, regardless of how controversial helps towards player safety then I’m all for it.
Gloucester had a game of two halves
It was great to see Gloucester back to winning ways at Kingsholm last weekend against Bristol. But their match was certainly one of two halves with them scoring 22 unanswered points in the second half. Their competition of Bristol tested them in the first forty and showed promise, but Gloucester ran away with the spoils after the break.
Although this is a fantastic win for Gloucester, their competitors didn’t give them much of a test and it will be very interesting to see how they perform away from home this weekend away from home when they travel to Saracens.
Harlequins starting to fall behind
A home defeat to Bath in a game where Quins were second best in every aspect is bringing back memories from previous seasons. Their front-line defence was poor and let Bath take opportunities that were far too easy. A nine-try game should be full of energy and enthusiasm but Harlequins looked like they really lacked any sort of spark, and as they tried to take the lead at the end it was too little too late
Something that head coach Paul Gustard was all too aware of following the final whistle.
Bath, on the other hand, did look very good and were the complete opposite of Harlequins in all aspects of the game.
Elliot Daly looks comfortable in the 15 shirt
In front of the Richo Arena crowd and England head coach, Eddie Jones, Elliot Daly gave the England boss something to think about following his performance in the full-back position.
Not a flawless performance, but one that raises questions as to whether he could fit into the position if Mike Brown wasn’t available.
It’s apparent that Daly will feature in the England team but exactly where still raises some questions.
Daly is a fantastic utility back and with him being able to slot a penalty from the half-way line is an asset to any side.
Exeter still look unbeatable
I love watching Exeter play at the moment, they are very aware of what they need to do and execute it extremely well.
Jack Nowell graced their field for the first time this season following his injury to his ankle that he sustained over the summer.
Their whole team are playing some beautiful rugby this season and all appear so in-tune with each other.
Harry Williams could soon be Dan Cole’s competition for the England shirt following his strong performance at the weekend.
Rob Baxter’s men have won all of their first three fixtures of the season, something that they have achieved before and quite honestly I can’t see them losing anytime soon.
The Openside 
Great summary Katy………………..what did you think of the South African performance?
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