"They've got a hard edge" – Gloucester coach George Skivington ready for toughened up Harlequins

12/20/2024 03:51 AM

Gloucester boss George Skivington is aware of the different style Harlequins are approaching this season with a "battle" expected on Friday night.

Quins travel to Kingsholm to kick off the festive period of Premiership fixtures in a game that has been close the last few years however Skivington is prepared for a more complete Harlequins side than ones he has faced before.

"Both teams are trying to move the ball and score tries but Quins have really honed in on their set piece and physicality in defence the last two seasons.

"It's always a tough game between us, and it has gone one way or another for the last couple of seasons," added the head coach.

"They've got a hard edge to what they are doing now… so I expect it to be another tough battle like we've had for the last sort of four games."

The Cherry and Whites made a raft of changes last weekend as a squad travelled to the west coast of France to play Vannes, a decision Skivington is hoping sets him up nicely for tomorrow evening.

"I think it's always a double edged sword.

"Our hand was forced because we are on a six day turnaround and we knew we would be getting back late on Sunday, so we had to be smart as we would have four days until you're playing again",said the former England A head coach.

"I don't think it will do us any harm, we have rested before.

"I don't think the (DHL) Stormers gave them the physical [challenge] as if a fully loaded would've gone but it still wasn't not physical.

"There's pros and cons to both, either you've been playing or you get a bit of rest and you are a bit fresher."

The post “They’ve got a hard edge” – Gloucester coach George Skivington ready for toughened up Harlequins appeared first on Ruck.