We didn't quite click or get into the proverbial fifth gear that is so often spoken about. We were more like we were cruising along the motorway at 60mph wanting to go faster but stuck behind a Sunday driver in the outside lane

This weekend a vast majority of conversations were not about the effects of the credit crunch or the commercial consequences of Christmas but something not quite as influential to our financial lives, the X Factor result.

Richie Pugh agreed emphatically with the judges this time so it made Monday something to cherish.

Onto the game! Coventry threw everything they had at us defensively but we managed to play with real tempo and create a number of opportunities.

We didn't however manage to turn our dominance into points, particularly early on. However, credit to the squad we did not panic, knew that if we carried on creating those chances we would eventually have something tangible to show for our efforts.

We managed to score some tries directly off set-piece which is always pleasing as it is always against the most structured defence.

Afterwards, we were content but knew that we didn't quite click or get into the proverbial fifth gear that is so often spoken about. We were more like we were cruising along the motorway at 60mph wanting to go faster but stuck behind a Sunday driver in the outside lane.

We have a slightly different week this week as there was a game last night for Exeter United. It is an occasion for players returning from injury as well as guys looking to get more rugby under their belts.

The strength of the side was very impressive and could have quite easily been playing on a Saturday, which really does show the strength in depth we are fortunate to have.

It was an entertaining game and a lot of the guys will be glad they came through unscathed.

Richie Pugh's singing has proved to be an acquired taste in the Chiefs camp

This weekend our fixture is Rotherham and evidence as to how they are playing is the 60 points they scored against Newbury last Sunday. It's fair to say they will be bringing down their workman like Northern grit with them but also their ability to score a lot of points.

We are trying to get Richie to audition for the X Factor next year as he has a very individual, unparalleled, catchy voice.

I would describe it as Marmite crossed with peanut butter, topped with half a banana, a small dollop of strawberry jam and a teaspoon of Brazil nut shavings on top. Slightly weird but definitely a market for it.

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