Rob Simmons should return to competition with Clermont to face Bath (Sunday, 6:30 p.m.). The Australian second row reacted in particular to the new rule put in place this weekend: if a throw is not straight but the opponent does not contest it in the air, the game continues.
Rob, what state of mind are you in before the return of the Champions Cup and this trip to Bath?
We are preparing for a huge match, like every week in fact (laughs). The challenge for us will be to raise the bar to the level of this competition. We also want to test ourselves there.
Was ASM’s victory in Vannes necessary in people’s minds after the misstep suffered against Montpellier?
Effectively. Over the last month, we managed to string together several good performances, notably at Leinster or La Rochelle, and against Montpellier we were not happy with our production. So after three defeats, it was very important for us to win again.
You played three seasons at London Irish (2020-2023), how do you judge the evolution of the English championship?
When I was there I literally saw the level of the Premiership getting tighter. When I arrived at the Irish, there were four teams really above the rest, whereas today the championship has become much more compact. Eight teams can claim the title, there are also much fewer matches so that must be taken into account.
What is your analysis of Bath’s season, Premiership leader but without a win after two Champions Cup matches?
As you said, we approach them as a top team, they are first in their championship and I remember that already last season they sent a lot of play. In the videos that we watched this week, this trend was once again confirmed. At the same time, when you see the names of the players they are lining up (he breathes)… We expect a rough match, especially for us forwards.
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Which players do you fear?
There is no one in particular, their system is quite effective. In some ways they resemble a French team, notably with their use of mauls. And behind, their three-quarters are very fast.
What is your view on this very special stadium at the Recreation Ground in Bath?
It’s something to do as a career! In the summer the stadium transforms to host cricket matches, I also remember that there are always very humid conditions there.
From this weekend a new rule will be introduced: in the event of an incorrect throw, if the throw has not been contested by the opposing team, the game can continue. What do you think?
When I saw this new rule, I didn’t like it (laughs), but I still want to see it. Even if opposing teams don’t jump, they can sometimes force the attacking teams to not throw straight. But we kept telling ourselves all week that if we jumped, the opponent absolutely had to throw straight…
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You have extended your contract for an additional season at Clermont. What do you like here?
I like ASM, the stadium, the supporters. They are very passionate about Clermont. My family loves living here too, I get a bit of the Australian feel at times, so it’s perfect for me.
You came close to beating two European giants (Leinster and La Rochelle) in recent weeks. What are you missing to get through this milestone?
Precision and work. It’s not original, but it’s the reality today! We haven’t played a perfect game yet this season, but the guys are doing everything they can to improve every week!
