Aviva Prem Player Watch

It was a busy day of action in the Aviva Premiership with 4 games taking place this afternoon. The biggest talking points of the day were Harlequins shock win over Saracens & Wasps winning away to Northampton Saints. We take a look at 3 players who stood out from these two games today and why they impressed.

Tim Swiel

The young out-half ran the game well and didn’t shirk responsibility when Danny Care went off injured in the second half. He converted all but one of his kicks at goal which took Harlequins into an early lead which they were able to defend throughout the rest of the game. Swiel was unlucky to miss the kick which he did. The ball swerved right at the last moment to hit the post and go wide. This young talent is looking more and more comfortable filling Nick Evans boots and could be a real prospect to play international rugby in the coming years.

Alex Goode

Goode was the shining light in an otherwise lacklustre Saracens performance today. He was always a threat on the counter attack and in open play for the Harlequins defence. Danny Care started the game box kicking frequently to Goode but had to revert to other tactics after the fullback broke through his defensive line on a couple of occasions early on. Goode also was always aware at the back for his Saracens side. He cleaned up on multiple occasions after intelligent kicks were put in by the opposition. A good all-around performance by the English international.

Jimmy Gopperth

Gopperth carried well in the first half and distributed well at second receiver. In the second half he stepped in as fly half when Cipriani was forced off. He commanded the game well and kept the scoreboard ticking over throughout with a 100% kicking record to add to his try. Gopperth is becoming one of the real leaders on the pitch for Wasps' this season leading with some impressive performances.