Sean Everitt Reflects on Edinburgh’s 50-33 Victory Over Benetton

Edinburgh head coach Sean Everitt shared his thoughts following the team’s 50-33 win against Benetton. He expressed satisfaction with the outcome, stating, “We didn’t get the win that we thought we’d get in the first half, so that suited us.” Everitt highlighted the team’s improved offensive precision, noting, “We certainly were more accurate in our execution as far as our attack was concerned.” He conveyed pride in the team’s scoring achievement, adding, “I’m proud of the guys in the the way they put 50 points on against a good Treviso team.” However, he also acknowledged an area of concern: “Disappointed in the fact that we didn’t hold them out for longer periods when they were in our 22.” He commended the team’s effort in challenging conditions, remarking, “But to score three tries into a gale-force wind like this, it’s credit to the boys and the urgency that they showed on the pitch.” Everitt elaborated on the team’s performance, stating, “What we can control is how we played and I was pleased how we played probably for the first 33 minutes. Probably got a little bit loose late in that first half.” He reflected on a missed opportunity but remained positive about the overall result: “Could have probably got another try at the end there, but I’m not going to be too critical of that. A second-half performance into a wind like this and to walk away with a win and 50 points, I’m extremely happy.” The coach outlined their strategic approach, emphasizing the importance of “holding on to the ball, defending well and forcing an error.” He also pointed out their advantage in the scrum: “We did have a dominant scrum.” Everitt explained their tactical goal: “We knew that if we got penalties and were able to keep them in their 22, it would be very difficult for them to play.” He concluded this point by stating, “From there, what we were hoping for is to build scoreboard pressure. What that does is it stops them from keeping as much as they would like to, which means that they’d have to keep the ball in hand. But I thought we did well and obviously to get the 50 points is what puts a cherry on the cake.” Regarding Jamie Ritchie, Everitt offered high praise: “He’s really playing good rugby and he wears his heart on his sleeve. The way he’s been playing is credit to his relentlessness in trying to become a regular in the Scottish jersey again. He always does well for his team, he’s a proud Edinburgh man and thoroughly deserved his player of the match award.” Looking ahead, Everitt commented on their next fixture against Gloucester, noting the result of another match: “Gloucester beat Northampton today, so it’s not going to be an easy game down there.” He also addressed Edinburgh’s away form, stating, “We’ve been struggling away from home and it’s time for us to build some consistency in winning away.”