BATH utility back Tom Homer is looking to grab his chance in the side during this year’s Six Nations tournament.

With a host of Bath players away representing their countries, it is the perfect time for players like Homer, who are not first-team regulars, to make an impression on director of rugby Todd Blackadder.

While the likes of George Ford will be kicking off their campaign at Twickenham against France, Homer and his team-mates will play a dead rubber in the Anglo Welsh Cup at Newcastle Falcons tomorrow (3pm).

Last Friday’s 17-17 draw with Gloucester was enough to end the club’s hopes in that competition but Homer said the performance left room for optimism heading into this weekend.

And with their Premiership campaign restarting at home to Northampton Saints six days later, Homer knows there is no time to let up and they must prepare for a trip to Kingston Park like any other game.

“It is disappointing to be out of that competition but I’m pretty proud of the team’s performance,” he said. “I’m pretty gutted to have drawn at the death but considering the conditions, I thought the boys put in an exceptional performance.

“It was good, attacking rugby and we played smart but it was gutting to lose our lead at the end.

“If you can execute your basics in those conditions then it is definitely possible, and your kicking game and stuff comes into account.

“We’re out of the competition but it is a good chance to keep momentum going heading back into the Premiership. Newcastle isn’t an easy place to go and win, like we found out earlier on in the season.”

As mentioned, Bath will have a depleted squad heading north with no fewer than seven players on international duty and Homer is keen to get some vital playing time during the six-week competition.

“It’s an opportunity for some players, who maybe haven’t played as much, to get some minutes under their belt,” he added.

“It’s important for us going forward to put in a good performance and to come away with a win.

“There’s a lot of competition in all positions. It’s good for every player to have that, you don’t want to get too comfortable.

“There will be a few players away in the coming weeks with the Six Nations but the players will no doubt step up and do well for the club.”