London Irish didn't enjoy too much festive cheer over the holiday season, losing heavily to Bath and then in the dying minutes conceding two tries to Wasps. Barry Everitt continues to be a pivotal figure for the club at outhalf, Justin Bishop is playing regularly on the wing, while promising youngster Declan Danaher has been getting some game time alongside Eddie Halvey, though the latter has not started as many games recently. Conor O'Shea and Kieron Dawson are both long-term injury casualties.

Kevin Maggs continues to be inspirational with Bath, their latest success a victory over Saracens. Maggs' form suggests that he will be a front runner for international honours come February. Paul Wallace started at tighthead for Saracens, was replaced by Julian White and then reappeared 14 minutes later to come on for loosehead David Flatman.