Gloucester Rugby: Tim Taylor waiting patiently for his turn

THE queue is growing: those within it are fighting to stay orderly.

Tim Taylor believes an increasing number of Gloucester players are edging ever closer to first team chances.

The fly-half admits it is important to strike the right balance between giving the coaches a nudge, and not nagging too hard.

But as long as Gloucester United keep on winning A League matches, that clutch of expectant men will allow their performances to do the talking.

Gloucester's second string saw off Leicester A 38-34 at Kingsholm on Monday night, racking up their third win in as many games.

Extending their 100 per cent record, United shifted top of the A League Northern Division.

A showdown clash with Northampton Wanderers at Kingsholm on October 15 beckons: the winners should now progress to the semi-finals.

Leicester outscored Gloucester five tries to four on Monday night, but United were far from outmuscled.

Scores from Billy Burns, Steph Reynolds and Drew Locke were backed up by a penalty try.

Fly-half Taylor's accurate goal-kicking proved the difference on the scoreboard, the former Leicester Academy man posting three conversions and four penalties.

Richard Thorpe crossed twice, with Javiah Pohe, Henry Purdy and Rob Andrew bagging Leicester's other scores.

Matt Cornwell's three conversions and one penalty meant Leicester came up short – but Gloucester were worthy winners.

Youngsters like Elliott Stooke and Billy Burns, and experienced men like Pete Buxton, Tim Molenaar and Taylor are all impressing in regular A League action.

And Taylor said the challenging horde are ready for the first team – whenever, wherever they might be called upon.

"You have to be patient when you are trying to force your way in," explained the 29-year-old. "It's all about getting the balance right.

"Billy and Freddie have been playing well in my position, and you have to take your hat off to that.

"They've been playing well in my position, we've had a good start to the season so in that situation it's definitely about the balance between showing the coaches you are working hard and that you want a chance, and also staying patient.

"The A League games have been great, and getting that win over Leicester took that forward again.

"It's great to get games: that's the only way to improve.

"The guys have been performing on Saturdays, they've had a great start to the year, and you've got to keep momentum, keep the team going.

"We totally understand what Nigel is doing, and with Rob Thirlby and Andrew Stanley, we're running a good United side.

"The season is so long, there's plenty of games and plenty of opportunities, so I'm sure the boys will get a chance at some point.

"We've just got to keep performing on Monday nights and in training, and pushing hard for that place.

"Playing and winning on Monday nights definitely helps momentum for Saturdays too."

While everyone wants to force themselves into the first team, Taylor said there is no reason why Gloucester's United side cannot chase A League glory.

He added: "In the last few years A League matches were a bit mix and match, but we've got a strong squad now, and we're going into each game really believing we can win.

"So there's no reason why we cannot have a proper crack at this competition.

"The young guys are doing really well, Brad (Field) has been playing brilliantly at nine.

"It makes my life easier when guys like Tim Molenaar get over the gainline and get us on the front foot.

"The pack have been excellent, we're dominating teams in the tight stuff and that's massive."