BATH RUGBY: Peter perfect for Heathcote (From Wiltshire Times)

BATH RUGBY: Peter perfect for Heathcote

2:00pm Friday 1st March 2013 in Sport News By Owen Houlihan

YOUNG Bath fly-half Tom Heathcote has hailed the influence of veteran scrum-half Peter Stringer on his own game, but is hoping he can frustrate another international player over the coming weeks.

Scotland A ace Heathcote kicked 13 points in last week’s defeat at Northampton, having also made an impact in substitute appearances against Worcester and London Irish in previous weeks where he paired up with 98-times capped Ireland man Stringer.

The 21-year-old has trained with the Scotland Six Nations squad in recent weeks and is relishing the experience of playing alongside the on-loan Munster man.

“It’s awesome, I grew up watching him (Stringer) on television and he’s got a wealth of experience from years playing at international level,’’ said Heathcote “He’s very intelligent and a good leader. He has been a big help in the last few weeks.

“That experience inside you always helps. It’s the same with (Michael (Claassens). How he makes decisions is very valuable.’’ With World Cup winner Stephen Donald nursing a rib injury, the responsibilities of the number 10 shirt look likely to fall on Heathcote’s shoulders for the time being.

He added: “I’m happy to have been getting the starts. I want to perform well and try and push to keep starting for as long as possible.

“I’m pretty happy with how I’ve been playing and just want to keep that momentum going.

“When Stephen’s back, the coaches will have a decision and I hope to make that as difficult as possible.

“Once you’ve got the shirt for a few games, you don’t want to give it up. Guys are pushing hard in training and that’s a good thing for the squad.’’

NEWS FROM BATH'S CLASH WITH GLOUCESTER TONIGHT AT WILTSHIRETIMES.CO.UK/SPORT

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