Posted by The Opposition View returns this week as Edinburgh fan @EdinBruRugby offers his thoughts on the squad during the World Cup, summer signings, Richard Cockerill and this weekend’s game against Cardiff Blues at the Arms Park.
How disappointing was it to finish last season with two losses and ultimately finish 5th in your Conference last season, missing out on the play-offs by six points?
It wasn’t the last two games that cost us. We were chasing points right from the start of the season when those close games that were falling the right way the previous season just kept slipping away at the end.
We then just didn’t compete during the international windows, as we were not used to losing so many players. Playing very well in the Heineken Champions Cup then meant any chance of catching up was with very tired legs. We got what we deserved.
Obviously you’ve been hit hard by international call-ups, but recruitment of overseas players available during this period of the season appears to have been good. What sort of impact will the World Cup have on Edinburgh?
As mentioned, one of our issues last season was the inability to cope without all our frontline players available during the international breaks, so it looks like the priority over summer was to improve the quality for these periods. The fixture list has been relatively kind to us so fingers crossed we should be still in the hunt when the players start returning.
Which summer signing are you particularly looking forward to seeing this season?
The player I’m expecting to have the most impact on us this season will be Nic Groom. Too much was expected from Henry Pyrgos last season and his deputies didn’t get a look in. I expect these two to fight it out for the starting spot. Competition will keep them both on their toes, particularly with Charlie Shiel nipping at their ankles.
What are the aims for the season as a whole?
Playoff spot has to be our aim. From there, who knows? Need to sort out our away form to do that mind!
Richard Cockerill has been in charge for two seasons, has he completely won over Edinburgh supporters in that time?
Coach Cockers won us all over in no time! Even when our tactics were questioned last season, I’ve yet to hear him being blamed.
Finally, what is your prediction for Saturday’s game?
From what I saw of Cardiff Blues last weekend you looked pretty useful. You also appear to have some sort of hex over us. I’m predicting a narrow home win…
Thanks again to @EdinBruRugby for his insights ahead of what should be a good game between the capital cities on Saturday evening.
Cardiff Rugby Life 