Pat Lam has previewed Bristol Bears’ return to PREM Rugby action this weekend and confirmed that his three international players, including England prop Ellis Genge, will not be involved against Leicester Tigers.
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Bristol often hit form in the latter part of the season when conditions improve. That trend looks set to continue, with dry weather expected to favour their attacking, free flowing style of play.
“Traditionally this is the best time, when we look historically we win more games in this area, but that’s history. What we have learnt from that is around our mindset, the improvement on our skills, we put a huge emphasis on the three weeks on building the fundamentals.
“I’ve been really pleased with the work that we put in, we’ve lost a few key players again but that’s the story of our season.”
Lam also spoke about reintegrating players following the Six Nations, with Ellis Genge, Tom Jordan and Louis Rees-Zammit all involved for their respective countries.
“It’s less challenging at this stage as far as our game goes, because the boys know it well. That’s why we’ve all got to choose one out of the next three weeks, I’ve been there as a player at international level and it’s not just the physical load, it’s the mental load.
“So I believe, just get away and be with your loved ones and then as they come back, we’ll get a fresher, better version of those three players.”
All three are scheduled to have at least one week off during this period after playing in every Six Nations match. Lam confirmed they will sit out this weekend, with a return expected next week for the Big Day Out.
Leicester Tigers come into the game in strong form after an impressive Premiership Rugby Cup campaign, where they secured a convincing final win over Exeter Chiefs to claim their first silverware of the season.
“They’ve been playing really good rugby, there’s their DNA but Geoff has done a great job. Billy (Searle) used to be here and he’s on fire, Tom (Whiteley) used to be here and he’s playing really well but as a team they’ve certainly got confidence and understanding on how they want to play.”
With third facing fourth in the final match of the round, Lam expects a high quality encounter.
“Last game of the round, it’s going to be a cracker, third against fourth.”
