NM15s teams coaches gave their thoughts to norgesrugby.no about this Saturday NM15s finale.

The team you are coaching played against both Oslo RK and Bergen RK. What are their strenghts and weaknesses, if any?

Sølve Olsen
NTNUi

Sølve: “This is a very hard question! I honestly haven't seen enough of the teams to give a qualified answer about the weaknesses and strength. They are both very experienced sides and the rivalry makes every match between the two special.”

Alex Diessner
Stavanger RK

Alex: “Oslo have experienced players that have played together a lot. They have consistently strong performers this season. They have a strong linout and scrum. They can play a patient game and have a good kicking game. They have strong runners but maybe a lack of flair or change of pace could be what they are missing in a tight final. On the other side, Bergen are a proud and tight group of players. They play hard for their club. they have shown they can come back from behind this season and have good fitness. They have talented players but can the team come together for the final... injuries and players coming in and out this season.”

Sam Hedger
Sunnmøre RK

Sam: “Oslo defense and tackling are very good. And they seem to start games very well at a good pace. However, they are predictable and narrow. Although they are good at what they do, they will hit it up through the forwards and the 10-12 channel all game. One of the Bergen strengths is the speed they have. If they are able to get it out wide they will score tries. Also their depth in squad. However, they start slow and it can take them a while to get going. The first 20 mins are key and I would assume they will be on the back foot for the start. If they can keep Oslo out then it´ll be a close game, once they get going.”

Sølve: “My gut feeling says Oslo in this game. They seem to be a physically superior to Bergen, and they have the depth and experience to adjust to whatever Bergen brings to the capital this saturday.

ORK wins 24 – 10”

Alex: “If bergen can get into them in the first 20 and disrupt, oslo might not be used to having to come from behind...iv not seen them in the trenches this season and that could shock them in the final. but i think the experience and confidence they have should see them come good. i see this as an oslo final to loose. 

I think Oslo by 7 points”

Sam: “My prediction will be an Oslo win. 22-10. With at least 3 yellow cards…..”

Thanks to them for answering our questions. They seem to agree on an Oslo RK victory, but in rugby you never know. Actually, the underdog position may suit well to Bergen players.