April 08, 2006

Glasgow players get a kick where it matters

Posted by Editor on April 8, 2006 02:21 AM | No comments | Print | E-mail author

John Barclay starts at blindside for Glasgow
Sean Lineen wants his players to do their talking on the field when Glasgow take on Ospreys later today.

If the recent changes at Glasgow, which saw Hugh Campbell being cut from the head coach job and Sean brought in to replace him, achieve nothing else, it has given the players a kick where it matters.

So says the new man in charge: "The players really want to make a statement. They know what has happened and that a lot of it is their fault," Sean said in The Times. "It is about time they did their talking on the field.

"The training has been exceptional, with energy and enthusiasm. They are having a bit of fun but have also been left in no uncertain terms what they have to do."

Sean has shaken up the side, switching Hefin O'Hare, the Welshman in their ranks, from wing to outside centre, introducing James Eddie, the Scotland Under 21 lock, to the pack and bringing back John Barclay in what he describes as an 'all action' back row in which every member of the unit has senior experience as an openside.

Speaking about moving Hefin to centre, Sean said: "We have to get the best use out of him, he is a fantastic trainer, has a really good attitude, runs good lines and I think he can do a good job there. He has a lot of energy, his work rate is strong and he has that league pedigree."

Sean is upbeat about his remodelled back row. "I'm excited by it. I like John Barclay, he was knocked out for the Under 21s putting in some massive hits, so he is pretty fearless. It is an interesting blend with Donnie Macfadyen there as well."

Sean issued captain Jon Petrie with a thinly-veiled warning but also offered his support. "He is under no illusions he needs a big game. He has been strong on the captaincy front holding it together in difficult circumstances but now he has to has to step up to the plate and lead by example. I am sure he will."

Sean also admits there will be changes in the long term. "You want to bring in fresh players but also say to the ones you feel have not been playing in the right positions or have not been given a chance: 'right impress me'. You have to excite the players, persuade them that you are not standing still."

Comments

Add a comment to this article