Showing posts with label Rugby World Cup. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Rugby World Cup. Show all posts
Saturday, 10 August 2019
Monday, 15 September 2008
All Blacks beat the Wallabies to retain the Bledisloe and Tri-nations in 2008
One good thing to come out of the All Blacks losing that infamous day in Cardiff last year is that I really don’t get so amped now about whether we win or lose. In fact, when the All Blacks fell to South Africa and Australia in the early stages of the Tri-Nations this year, I was disappointed yes, but not devastated. Maybe I’m growing up?
Still, I was pretty happy on Saturday night when the All Blacks managed to come back from the pit of defeat and then hang on by a grimy fingernail against a spirited Wallabies side. (So happy I managed to spill four pints of beer in one single arm movement of whooping joy much to my cohorts chagrin).
It was a great test match and everyone (down in the SH anyway) seems to be calling it a triumph for the new ELVS. One thing’s for sure – for a rugby final – which this definitely was, it certainly had it all.
The match could not have been more different to the World Cup final played by England and South Africa last year. For a start it had risk and adventure and huge pace. The winner was decided through the amount of tries scored, not by the amount of (boring) penalty and drop kicks. Imagine a Rugby World Cup final with seven tries scored? Impossible (especially if the English rugby team has anything to do with it).
So the All Blacks are number one again. Even Daniel Carter in a moment of uncharacteristic joy may have signalled so too as he crossed the line for the decisive try that was to end the Wallabies’ hopes of Bledisloe glory. I’ve actually never seen him smile so much after the game. In fact I have never seen so many All Blacks so unstaunch in celebration. An indication if ever there was how sweet this success was after the lows of the earlier tests this year and the valley of woe in Cardiff.
For a match report read Matt's @ Green and Gold Rugby
Still, I was pretty happy on Saturday night when the All Blacks managed to come back from the pit of defeat and then hang on by a grimy fingernail against a spirited Wallabies side. (So happy I managed to spill four pints of beer in one single arm movement of whooping joy much to my cohorts chagrin).
It was a great test match and everyone (down in the SH anyway) seems to be calling it a triumph for the new ELVS. One thing’s for sure – for a rugby final – which this definitely was, it certainly had it all.
The match could not have been more different to the World Cup final played by England and South Africa last year. For a start it had risk and adventure and huge pace. The winner was decided through the amount of tries scored, not by the amount of (boring) penalty and drop kicks. Imagine a Rugby World Cup final with seven tries scored? Impossible (especially if the English rugby team has anything to do with it).
So the All Blacks are number one again. Even Daniel Carter in a moment of uncharacteristic joy may have signalled so too as he crossed the line for the decisive try that was to end the Wallabies’ hopes of Bledisloe glory. I’ve actually never seen him smile so much after the game. In fact I have never seen so many All Blacks so unstaunch in celebration. An indication if ever there was how sweet this success was after the lows of the earlier tests this year and the valley of woe in Cardiff.
For a match report read Matt's @ Green and Gold Rugby
Sunday, 14 October 2007
England Through To The 2007 Rugby World Cup Final
England 14 - France 9
There comes moments in sport where you just sit in shock, absolutely flabbergasted by the outcome. Four weeks ago when England could not even score a single point against South Africa, I did not in my wildest dreams imagine that today we would be sitting here, talking about the courageousness of Brian Ashton's men making it through these last few games. But they have - on brute strength, calm belief, experienced old heads, a passionate forward pack and a man that is one of the superheros of the modern era in rugby.
France and England were evenly matched today. But after the French threw everything at the All Black kitchen sink last weekend they lacked the extra fizz to convert their huge territorial advantage into points. Although this game had intensity it was in large parts an aerial ping pong display where the boot ruled. And everybody knows that if it comes down to the boot, then the team with Jonny Wilkinson will probably prevail.
England surprised the French by climbing on board early with an opportunist Josh Lewsey try off a French fumble from the kick off. This proved to be the only try of the test as as both sides closed down for a more physical encounter - exchanging penalties, kicking for field position and occasionally having a go at each other's line.
The old adage of the team who scores first in the second half will win did not come home to roost this time for Bernard Laporte's men. After Lionel Beauxis kicked his third penalty to take the lead 9-5, England ground their way back into the game. At around the 73rd minute, Wilkinson nailed a penalty after the ever inspiring Jason Robinson suffered a head high tackle and the balance of power shifted between the two teams. In every match there comes a moment where you just know who will be walking home the victor. For me this was England's moment. Wilkinson put the nail into the coffin in the dying minutes with a trademark drop goal and the 30,000 English spectators roared.
I haven't been kind to England (because they have been rubbish these last four years) but tonight I have nothing but admiration for a team that has been so low in the past. They showed incredible spirit, self belief and they deserve to be in the final. They have come back from the depths of despair, have been in tatters after their period with Andy Robinson, have suffered injuries to key players and have often looked like a team that has been walking around on antidepressants. Key credit has to lie with their humble coach Brian Ashton, their battling spirit, their crunching forwards, their old heads (Mike Catt, Jason Robinson take a bow) and of course their main man, Jonny. The guy represents everything good about rugby.
England beat Australia in extra-time to win the last World Cup final in 2003 and by beating France, they join Australia as the only countries to play in three World Cup finals and two in succession. Well done Engerland.
There comes moments in sport where you just sit in shock, absolutely flabbergasted by the outcome. Four weeks ago when England could not even score a single point against South Africa, I did not in my wildest dreams imagine that today we would be sitting here, talking about the courageousness of Brian Ashton's men making it through these last few games. But they have - on brute strength, calm belief, experienced old heads, a passionate forward pack and a man that is one of the superheros of the modern era in rugby.
France and England were evenly matched today. But after the French threw everything at the All Black kitchen sink last weekend they lacked the extra fizz to convert their huge territorial advantage into points. Although this game had intensity it was in large parts an aerial ping pong display where the boot ruled. And everybody knows that if it comes down to the boot, then the team with Jonny Wilkinson will probably prevail.
England surprised the French by climbing on board early with an opportunist Josh Lewsey try off a French fumble from the kick off. This proved to be the only try of the test as as both sides closed down for a more physical encounter - exchanging penalties, kicking for field position and occasionally having a go at each other's line.
The old adage of the team who scores first in the second half will win did not come home to roost this time for Bernard Laporte's men. After Lionel Beauxis kicked his third penalty to take the lead 9-5, England ground their way back into the game. At around the 73rd minute, Wilkinson nailed a penalty after the ever inspiring Jason Robinson suffered a head high tackle and the balance of power shifted between the two teams. In every match there comes a moment where you just know who will be walking home the victor. For me this was England's moment. Wilkinson put the nail into the coffin in the dying minutes with a trademark drop goal and the 30,000 English spectators roared.
I haven't been kind to England (because they have been rubbish these last four years) but tonight I have nothing but admiration for a team that has been so low in the past. They showed incredible spirit, self belief and they deserve to be in the final. They have come back from the depths of despair, have been in tatters after their period with Andy Robinson, have suffered injuries to key players and have often looked like a team that has been walking around on antidepressants. Key credit has to lie with their humble coach Brian Ashton, their battling spirit, their crunching forwards, their old heads (Mike Catt, Jason Robinson take a bow) and of course their main man, Jonny. The guy represents everything good about rugby.
England beat Australia in extra-time to win the last World Cup final in 2003 and by beating France, they join Australia as the only countries to play in three World Cup finals and two in succession. Well done Engerland.
Sunday, 30 September 2007
Fiji V Wales: The Best Game Of The Rugby World Cup
Fiji 38 - Wales 34
This game will go down as one of the greatest rugby matches of all time. You would be hard pressed to find anyone who could not have been transfixed by a test that swung to and fro in each team's favour. Nobody really thought Fiji would score such an upset, even after an amazing first 30 where they racked up three tries in nine minutes (the best of the trio, Delasau chasing down - gazelle like - his own kick into the goal area and benefiting from a lucky bounce at full stretch that evaded both Welsh defenders).
Up until this point, Wales were panicking and it showed in their poor decision making and error rate. It also didn't help that both their kickers were having an off night. Stephen Jones seemed to achieve the impossble by hitting the uprights on three different occasions when going for goal. But with the first half nearly up, Wales began to strike back and added some magic of their own to this stunning test match.
The Welsh had it over the Fijians at scrum time, but as is beginning to show in this tournament, having a strong scrum doesn't necessarily win you the big ones (ABs take note). Fiji losing momentum also lost a player to the sinbin before the first half was up and going into the second, Wales began to claw back the deficit. They scored two tries which were quite simply, beautiful. One was a Shane Williams solo effort with his characteristic side step and speed carving up the Fijian defence. His swan dive as he crossed the line perhaps wasn't called for as Wales at this stage were still 12 point down and as it came to pass, a tad premature to start the celebrations.
The rest of the match was a tug of war with both sides gaining ascendancy in patches. It was nail biting stuff but with Nicky Little kicking well for Fiji they managed to keep the scoreboard ticking over, even though the Welsh outscored the Fijians 5 tries to 4. In the 73rd minute it finally looked like it would be over for Mosese Rauluni's men when Martyn Williams snatched an intercept off a loose Little pass and ran to the posts. But it wasn't over and against all odds, Fiji came back with the final try resulting from a Delasau run and a Fijian forward surge on adrenaline that saw the ball cross the Welsh line, and in the process break a million hearts in the valleys.
As Gareth Jenkins said in a very gracious post match interview: This was an incredible game of rugby that entertained the crowd and will be talked about in years to come. Both teams can hold their heads high.
This game will go down as one of the greatest rugby matches of all time. You would be hard pressed to find anyone who could not have been transfixed by a test that swung to and fro in each team's favour. Nobody really thought Fiji would score such an upset, even after an amazing first 30 where they racked up three tries in nine minutes (the best of the trio, Delasau chasing down - gazelle like - his own kick into the goal area and benefiting from a lucky bounce at full stretch that evaded both Welsh defenders).
Up until this point, Wales were panicking and it showed in their poor decision making and error rate. It also didn't help that both their kickers were having an off night. Stephen Jones seemed to achieve the impossble by hitting the uprights on three different occasions when going for goal. But with the first half nearly up, Wales began to strike back and added some magic of their own to this stunning test match.
The Welsh had it over the Fijians at scrum time, but as is beginning to show in this tournament, having a strong scrum doesn't necessarily win you the big ones (ABs take note). Fiji losing momentum also lost a player to the sinbin before the first half was up and going into the second, Wales began to claw back the deficit. They scored two tries which were quite simply, beautiful. One was a Shane Williams solo effort with his characteristic side step and speed carving up the Fijian defence. His swan dive as he crossed the line perhaps wasn't called for as Wales at this stage were still 12 point down and as it came to pass, a tad premature to start the celebrations.
The rest of the match was a tug of war with both sides gaining ascendancy in patches. It was nail biting stuff but with Nicky Little kicking well for Fiji they managed to keep the scoreboard ticking over, even though the Welsh outscored the Fijians 5 tries to 4. In the 73rd minute it finally looked like it would be over for Mosese Rauluni's men when Martyn Williams snatched an intercept off a loose Little pass and ran to the posts. But it wasn't over and against all odds, Fiji came back with the final try resulting from a Delasau run and a Fijian forward surge on adrenaline that saw the ball cross the Welsh line, and in the process break a million hearts in the valleys.
As Gareth Jenkins said in a very gracious post match interview: This was an incredible game of rugby that entertained the crowd and will be talked about in years to come. Both teams can hold their heads high.
Saturday, 29 September 2007
Daniel Carter Injured
The nightmares of four million New Zealanders have come home to roost. Daniel Carter has injured his calf muscle (scream) and is looking in doubt for the quarterfinal against what is looking like the French (strangulated cry). No doubt there will be much wailing and gnashing of teeth in the next few days. Many reports and news bulletins on the state of Dan's kicking leg; muscle tightness flowcharts, swelling updates and general dithering about where we're going to go from here.
One of the things that drives me crazy about the media is that they would have you believe that there are only four worthy All Blacks in the team (Carter, McCaw, Hayman and Muliaina) and the rest of them are just a hotch-potch to make up numbers. Yes Carter's injury is a slight set back but Nick Evans is a more than worthy replacement. And it takes more than a man to create a winning team (although some may argue Jonny Wilkinson did pretty well for England in 2003).
One of the things that drives me crazy about the media is that they would have you believe that there are only four worthy All Blacks in the team (Carter, McCaw, Hayman and Muliaina) and the rest of them are just a hotch-potch to make up numbers. Yes Carter's injury is a slight set back but Nick Evans is a more than worthy replacement. And it takes more than a man to create a winning team (although some may argue Jonny Wilkinson did pretty well for England in 2003).
Monday, 24 September 2007
Rugby World Cup: New Zealand V Scotland
Scotland 0 - All Blacks 40
If this was five years ago, an All Black scoreline of 40 to O against the Scots would be a cherished moment. However, we’ve come to expect an awful lot of Henry’s All Blacks in the last few years and instead of jubilation there is a general feeling of disquiet that the New Zealanders have still not bought their A-game to this tournament.
The largest problem was the amount of turnover ball and unforced errors committed by the New Zealanders. The All Blacks play a high risk game but their handling constantly let them down, (with a few perpetrators in particular more guilty than others). Oh yes, their scrum was strong and their lineout not too bad, but they struggled for large amounts of the game to capitalise into points their forward superiority. Worrying.
Also disturbing was the lack of attack. The All Blacks were content to take the ball up inwardly, often excluding a backline that stood extremely flat. We didn’t get an opportunity to see the centre combination of Smith and McAlister work because the ball hardly ever went wide. When it did, rest assured there was a handling error to bring along a break in play.
This shouldn’t take away from a Scottish defence that was committed and got right into New Zealand faces a la Springbok style. The Scots played often to the edge of the law and managed to disrupt a kiwi team that seemed under-energised – content to force things in all the wrong places.
There is some anger at Frank Hadden too and his omission of star players to face the All Blacks. Not only did it temper down the spectacle on home turf at Murrayfield for the Scottish faithful(and kiwi fans); but it sent a message out to his own team that they are not good enough to win against the All Blacks. This isn’t a message that a top tier international rugby team should make in public. Fake it if you must, but don’t back down from a challenge. No matter how much you feel like moaning you haven’t got enough turnaround time between games.
For ruggerblogger player ratings - please go here. For match report: scrumbag
If this was five years ago, an All Black scoreline of 40 to O against the Scots would be a cherished moment. However, we’ve come to expect an awful lot of Henry’s All Blacks in the last few years and instead of jubilation there is a general feeling of disquiet that the New Zealanders have still not bought their A-game to this tournament.
The largest problem was the amount of turnover ball and unforced errors committed by the New Zealanders. The All Blacks play a high risk game but their handling constantly let them down, (with a few perpetrators in particular more guilty than others). Oh yes, their scrum was strong and their lineout not too bad, but they struggled for large amounts of the game to capitalise into points their forward superiority. Worrying.
Also disturbing was the lack of attack. The All Blacks were content to take the ball up inwardly, often excluding a backline that stood extremely flat. We didn’t get an opportunity to see the centre combination of Smith and McAlister work because the ball hardly ever went wide. When it did, rest assured there was a handling error to bring along a break in play.
This shouldn’t take away from a Scottish defence that was committed and got right into New Zealand faces a la Springbok style. The Scots played often to the edge of the law and managed to disrupt a kiwi team that seemed under-energised – content to force things in all the wrong places.
There is some anger at Frank Hadden too and his omission of star players to face the All Blacks. Not only did it temper down the spectacle on home turf at Murrayfield for the Scottish faithful(and kiwi fans); but it sent a message out to his own team that they are not good enough to win against the All Blacks. This isn’t a message that a top tier international rugby team should make in public. Fake it if you must, but don’t back down from a challenge. No matter how much you feel like moaning you haven’t got enough turnaround time between games.
For ruggerblogger player ratings - please go here. For match report: scrumbag
Saturday, 22 September 2007
Rugby World Cup: Ireland pasted by triumphant France
France 25 - Ireland 3
It seems the luck of the Irish has finally run out. In a lacklustre display against a hungry French team they were reduced to just three points off a Ronan O'Gara drop goal. From here, it was bleak for Brian O'Driscoll's men. The big question is who is the most disappointing of the Super 6 in the Northern Hemisphere? England or Ireland? And was France that good or was it just that Ireland were completely abysmal?
Back again tomorrow for match analysis of South Africa V Tonga and England V Samoa. My heart says PI but my head thinks England can't play worse than last week and the South Africans are hitting gears like there's no tomorrow. We shall see.
For now now, I leave you with a scrumbag exclusive and the Wallabies ploy for derailing an All Black campaign (if either team makes it as far as a semi, that is). Ka kite.
It seems the luck of the Irish has finally run out. In a lacklustre display against a hungry French team they were reduced to just three points off a Ronan O'Gara drop goal. From here, it was bleak for Brian O'Driscoll's men. The big question is who is the most disappointing of the Super 6 in the Northern Hemisphere? England or Ireland? And was France that good or was it just that Ireland were completely abysmal?
Back again tomorrow for match analysis of South Africa V Tonga and England V Samoa. My heart says PI but my head thinks England can't play worse than last week and the South Africans are hitting gears like there's no tomorrow. We shall see.
For now now, I leave you with a scrumbag exclusive and the Wallabies ploy for derailing an All Black campaign (if either team makes it as far as a semi, that is). Ka kite.
Wednesday, 19 September 2007
Rugby World Cup: McCaw, Wales, Chabal And The Web
Apart from Scotland beating Romania there isn’t much to report rugby wise today so here a few bits to browse:
Jed of Alternative Rugby Fame has set up a Facebook site to ‘Save the Wales’ against the might of the Japan Cherry Blossoms in the next couple of days. If you love Wales or love watching Wales struggle (and that would just be mean); join Jed’s campaign to support the hapless Dragons on their quest to overthrowing Japan plus any possible breach of international (rugby) convention.
It was only a matter of time before the traditional war of words kicked off again between Stephen Jones and whatever smuck would rise to the bait (this time Jim Kayes pre-empting things at the Dom) with regards to the often perceived poaching of the pacific Islanders by the NZRFU. This debate has to be the most pointless, hypocritical and boring rugby argument since Tana-gate. Both sides need to call it a day and move on.
Richie McCaw has temporarily halted the All Black brawn drain and has signed to stay in New Zealand for another year – or three. I actually thought he had done this about two months ago, but I guess they’ve got to keep on churning out news stories somehow. Especially considering Bernard Laporte hasn’t spat the dummy for at least a week.
The UK Independent has an interesting online Rugby World Cup game. Alas – it never seems to work. I'd be interested to hear from anyone that has got it up and running. In the meantime, here are a couple of good free online games to have a punt at.
Now for something completely gratuitous: Sebastien Chabal. He is an oft searched for figure in the google engines so to increase my hits (a mere pittance at the mo) here is a profile and picture for all those dedicated Chabalists out there who hunger for news of the glamour boy of France (this excludes the Namibians who don’t seem too keen on him at the moment).
Jed of Alternative Rugby Fame has set up a Facebook site to ‘Save the Wales’ against the might of the Japan Cherry Blossoms in the next couple of days. If you love Wales or love watching Wales struggle (and that would just be mean); join Jed’s campaign to support the hapless Dragons on their quest to overthrowing Japan plus any possible breach of international (rugby) convention.
It was only a matter of time before the traditional war of words kicked off again between Stephen Jones and whatever smuck would rise to the bait (this time Jim Kayes pre-empting things at the Dom) with regards to the often perceived poaching of the pacific Islanders by the NZRFU. This debate has to be the most pointless, hypocritical and boring rugby argument since Tana-gate. Both sides need to call it a day and move on.
Richie McCaw has temporarily halted the All Black brawn drain and has signed to stay in New Zealand for another year – or three. I actually thought he had done this about two months ago, but I guess they’ve got to keep on churning out news stories somehow. Especially considering Bernard Laporte hasn’t spat the dummy for at least a week.
The UK Independent has an interesting online Rugby World Cup game. Alas – it never seems to work. I'd be interested to hear from anyone that has got it up and running. In the meantime, here are a couple of good free online games to have a punt at.
Now for something completely gratuitous: Sebastien Chabal. He is an oft searched for figure in the google engines so to increase my hits (a mere pittance at the mo) here is a profile and picture for all those dedicated Chabalists out there who hunger for news of the glamour boy of France (this excludes the Namibians who don’t seem too keen on him at the moment).
Thursday, 13 September 2007
Tonga V US Eagles
Tonga 25 USA 15
When Tonga plays we can all expect a bit of crunch. And The Eagles didn’t disappoint either. It was a competitive match and even though Tonga started strongly, the Eagles matched them for possession and territory as the game wore in. The Tongans didn’t help themselves by some wayward kicking but managed to stay ahead of the spirited US who did well to pick themselves up so soon after their game against England in the weekend.
Fiji 35 Japan 31
I wish I could have managed to stay up for this one. It sounded like a stunner. Both teams can play that attractive running style of rugby and it would have been a nail biter for the Cherry Blossom and Fijian supporters. Poor old JK.
Italy 24 Romania 18
This was another unexpectedly close match, with the Romanians taking the Azzurri to the wire. Good on those Romanians god damn it. What has happened to Italy though? They showed so much promise in the Six Nations (ok, they didn’t win the wooden spoon for a change but that’s promising, surely?) I only saw the last twenty of this match and definitely the worst feature of this was some geriatric British commentator who moaned continually about the standard of the match and how boring it was. A lot like the sound of his voice, I thought.
When Tonga plays we can all expect a bit of crunch. And The Eagles didn’t disappoint either. It was a competitive match and even though Tonga started strongly, the Eagles matched them for possession and territory as the game wore in. The Tongans didn’t help themselves by some wayward kicking but managed to stay ahead of the spirited US who did well to pick themselves up so soon after their game against England in the weekend.
Fiji 35 Japan 31
I wish I could have managed to stay up for this one. It sounded like a stunner. Both teams can play that attractive running style of rugby and it would have been a nail biter for the Cherry Blossom and Fijian supporters. Poor old JK.
Italy 24 Romania 18
This was another unexpectedly close match, with the Romanians taking the Azzurri to the wire. Good on those Romanians god damn it. What has happened to Italy though? They showed so much promise in the Six Nations (ok, they didn’t win the wooden spoon for a change but that’s promising, surely?) I only saw the last twenty of this match and definitely the worst feature of this was some geriatric British commentator who moaned continually about the standard of the match and how boring it was. A lot like the sound of his voice, I thought.
Monday, 10 September 2007
Ireland 32 – Namibia 17
I was pleasantly surprised to receive a couple of lovely comments from a generous person (I have a suspicion s/he may be from Ireland) in my inbox today. He was inspired to leave some highly original remarks about New Zealand being a nation of sheepshaggers in reply to a couple of my recent posts implying that the Irish rugby team were on the decline. Well my dear friend ‘Muttoneater’, I’m afraid to say that after Ireland’s average performance against an impassioned Namibia side today, it appears my gloomy comments about your team may have some element of truth in them.
Eddie O’Sullivan and his men need to do something and fast to pick up their World Cup campaign as it looks very much at this stage on current form that they are the main contenders for elimination in Pool D –before the quarter finals even kick off. I hope this is not the case. I am a huge fan of the Irish and would hate to see them out of the competition, especially considering they have been one of the top teams in world rugby for the last few years.
Eddie O’Sullivan and his men need to do something and fast to pick up their World Cup campaign as it looks very much at this stage on current form that they are the main contenders for elimination in Pool D –before the quarter finals even kick off. I hope this is not the case. I am a huge fan of the Irish and would hate to see them out of the competition, especially considering they have been one of the top teams in world rugby for the last few years.
Sunday, 9 September 2007
Rugby World Cup: England, USA, Australia and the Cherry Blossoms
England 28 - USA 10
There must have been moments in the USA England test where the current world cup holders wondered just who the rugby minnow was supposed to be of these two teams. I didn't see this match but by all accounts The Eagles gave Brian Ashton's men a good run for their money. A quick skim of the British media concludes my investigations that England must have been quite dismal: "England were slow, clueless, imprecise and boring." and 'England were diabolical' suggest that poor old England didn't quite live up to their pre-match hype. Again.
Australia 91 - Japan 3
Australia scored 13 tries to none against John Kirwan's Japan although the Wallabies didn't have it all their own way with the Cherry Blossoms holding them to 23-3 at half time. A major blip for the Australians is the potential loss of one of their key backs, Mark Gerrard to a serious sounding knee injury. Gerrard is quite simply, a brilliant player. Losing him would be a major blow to the Wallaby campaign.
There must have been moments in the USA England test where the current world cup holders wondered just who the rugby minnow was supposed to be of these two teams. I didn't see this match but by all accounts The Eagles gave Brian Ashton's men a good run for their money. A quick skim of the British media concludes my investigations that England must have been quite dismal: "England were slow, clueless, imprecise and boring." and 'England were diabolical' suggest that poor old England didn't quite live up to their pre-match hype. Again.
Australia 91 - Japan 3
Australia scored 13 tries to none against John Kirwan's Japan although the Wallabies didn't have it all their own way with the Cherry Blossoms holding them to 23-3 at half time. A major blip for the Australians is the potential loss of one of their key backs, Mark Gerrard to a serious sounding knee injury. Gerrard is quite simply, a brilliant player. Losing him would be a major blow to the Wallaby campaign.
Saturday, 8 September 2007
Argentina France
France 12 - Argentina 17
Bernard Laporte must be fuming! This morning (NZ time), 15 plucky Argentinians turned up and rained on France's opening ceremony parade by playing a game of tenacious defence and passion.
If the old cliche about Les Bleus: 'you never know which French team will turn up' is true - then certainly the French D team were out in force last night. I thought France were particularly let down by poor handling, nerves and lack of game plan. This probably wasn't helped by a very average first five combination of Mignoni and Skrela (surely Laporte can find someone better than these haphazard 'generals')? Their slow decision making and sloppy skills let down an entire backline that had limited chances to get in front of the gain line or produce any kind of flow.
In contrast - Argentina had it all over the French from explosiveness to backchat. Half back Augustin Pichot and fly half Juan Martin Hernandez out thought their opposites and directed the game fearlessly. Rallying their troops to never give up; Contempori slotted goal after goal in the first half, and a stunning breakaway try (the only one of the match) by Igancio Corleto must mean Los Pumas surely fancy their chances as this Rugby World Cup tournament begins.
For Match Report and Stats - check out Matt @ Green and Gold Rugby.
Bernard Laporte must be fuming! This morning (NZ time), 15 plucky Argentinians turned up and rained on France's opening ceremony parade by playing a game of tenacious defence and passion.
If the old cliche about Les Bleus: 'you never know which French team will turn up' is true - then certainly the French D team were out in force last night. I thought France were particularly let down by poor handling, nerves and lack of game plan. This probably wasn't helped by a very average first five combination of Mignoni and Skrela (surely Laporte can find someone better than these haphazard 'generals')? Their slow decision making and sloppy skills let down an entire backline that had limited chances to get in front of the gain line or produce any kind of flow.
In contrast - Argentina had it all over the French from explosiveness to backchat. Half back Augustin Pichot and fly half Juan Martin Hernandez out thought their opposites and directed the game fearlessly. Rallying their troops to never give up; Contempori slotted goal after goal in the first half, and a stunning breakaway try (the only one of the match) by Igancio Corleto must mean Los Pumas surely fancy their chances as this Rugby World Cup tournament begins.
For Match Report and Stats - check out Matt @ Green and Gold Rugby.
Friday, 7 September 2007
Rugby World Cup: New Zealand V Italy
As is often the case, the All Blacks and Azzurri are drawn to play each other in their opening match of this Rugby World Cup tournament. This could be both a good omen - think 1987 and John Kirwan’s spectacular try which will remain forever famous in the YouTube archives. Or alternatively not so good - 2003 where the Italians were thrashed by a ruthless All Black outfit with a peerless All Black backline inspired through the likes of Carlos Spencer and Joe Rokocoko. Unfortunately, this was the match that Tana Umaga was injured. And from here the wheels started to slowly come off the 2003 All Black campaign; letting the likes of Jonny Wilkinson’s boot and Stirling Mortlock’s cunning in.
My pick is New Zealand to win by at least 25. I could be hopeful. I could be misguided. In fact, I have my eyepatch on for sure now. Let’s just hope history does and doesn’t repeat itself (if you’re an All Black fan that is).
My pick is New Zealand to win by at least 25. I could be hopeful. I could be misguided. In fact, I have my eyepatch on for sure now. Let’s just hope history does and doesn’t repeat itself (if you’re an All Black fan that is).
Rugby World Cup: Four More Years
Finally the ‘four more years’ of George Gregan’s taunts have come to pass. Four more years ends in less than 24 hours time when the Rugby World Cup kicks off in Saint-Denis tomorrow. The first test could be one of ‘the’ games of the tournament: France V Argentina. France on paper should cruise through but Argentina have been building a formidable pack and are seen as real dark horses. Could the Pumas be France’s first hiccup? (I not so secretly hope so).
Wednesday, 5 September 2007
Rugby World Cup Blogwatch: 3 Days To Go
The quiet before the storm. As office workers world wide start rolling out their Rugby World Cup sweepstakes, the traditional pre-match rugby reports start trawling out with the same old mundane rugby ‘news’ when there isn’t any rugby to watch:
Robinson and Wilkinson injured … again. Who will be the centre All Black pairing? The All Blacks resort to astrology and technology to end their twenty year curse. The English, Scottish and Azzurri are all hopeful. The French even more so; and the Portuguese not at all. The Cherry Blossoms (a most unrugby name for a team if ever there was one) are quaking in their boots about their first match with the Wallabies. The Tongan rugby team have shocked Bournemouth locals with the amount of food consumed during a gentle pub lunch. Steven Larkham doesn’t have a home to go now that Edinburgh has been bought out (and is rather worried). Plus, the Springboks are threatening to unleash a haka of their own (the mind truly boggles).
In the blogosphere, MiramarMike continues with a great blogwatch round up (which I have shamelessly drawn inspiration from). Total Flanker surmises that the Canterbury rugby brand is a lucky one and the Irish, Wallabies, Scottish and Springboks should have it over the lycra clad pretty boys with their scientifically enhanced shirts, sweaty ions and all (even if the Canterbury brand does mean those hardened Aussies and South Africans are wearing kiwis on their chests). Allez les Noir – my pals in the action have a good list of World Cup songs (particularly if you’re an All Black supporter) to get everyone in the spirit.
Roll on Saturday.
Robinson and Wilkinson injured … again. Who will be the centre All Black pairing? The All Blacks resort to astrology and technology to end their twenty year curse. The English, Scottish and Azzurri are all hopeful. The French even more so; and the Portuguese not at all. The Cherry Blossoms (a most unrugby name for a team if ever there was one) are quaking in their boots about their first match with the Wallabies. The Tongan rugby team have shocked Bournemouth locals with the amount of food consumed during a gentle pub lunch. Steven Larkham doesn’t have a home to go now that Edinburgh has been bought out (and is rather worried). Plus, the Springboks are threatening to unleash a haka of their own (the mind truly boggles).
In the blogosphere, MiramarMike continues with a great blogwatch round up (which I have shamelessly drawn inspiration from). Total Flanker surmises that the Canterbury rugby brand is a lucky one and the Irish, Wallabies, Scottish and Springboks should have it over the lycra clad pretty boys with their scientifically enhanced shirts, sweaty ions and all (even if the Canterbury brand does mean those hardened Aussies and South Africans are wearing kiwis on their chests). Allez les Noir – my pals in the action have a good list of World Cup songs (particularly if you’re an All Black supporter) to get everyone in the spirit.
Roll on Saturday.
Monday, 3 September 2007
Keith Robinson - had his day with the All Blacks?
I think the All Black lock Keith Robinson is a great rugby player. When he is fit that is. But for big stretches of time (let’s face it, three years and nine months out of four) he is often sidelined because of injury. No matter how much mongrel he has in him (a term the New Zealand public lovingly shower on their toughest stars), the guy doesn’t have much mongrel when it comes to ankles, hamstrings and back complaints. More like new born puppy dog going in for a hip operation.
He is out now and due to miss the two opening matches of the Rugby World Cup because of another injury sustained in training. Which means the All Blacks start the tournament a player short. It is all very well to put faith in him but I don’t see him lasting the tournament (let's face it, he didn’t even last a warm up session before the second test against France in Wellington). Time maybe to start thinking about calling in the reserves, and sadly admitting that Keith has had his day. Brilliance is all very good on the rugby field. But it isn’t much use when you’re sat on the sideline with your leg in a cast looking swish in an Adidas tracksuit.
He is out now and due to miss the two opening matches of the Rugby World Cup because of another injury sustained in training. Which means the All Blacks start the tournament a player short. It is all very well to put faith in him but I don’t see him lasting the tournament (let's face it, he didn’t even last a warm up session before the second test against France in Wellington). Time maybe to start thinking about calling in the reserves, and sadly admitting that Keith has had his day. Brilliance is all very good on the rugby field. But it isn’t much use when you’re sat on the sideline with your leg in a cast looking swish in an Adidas tracksuit.
Saturday, 1 September 2007
Doug Howlett signs with Munster
It is official. Thousands of women the length and width of New Zealand will be switching off their television sets next year when the All Blacks next play. The reason? Doug Howlett, the man who has inspired even the most uninterested female to watch rugby, has signed a two year contract to join Munster in Ireland. Which means no more Auckland Blues and no more All Blacks plus many broken hearts in his wake.
I realised Howlett's appeal when I sat watching an AB test in a pub in Amsterdam a couple of years ago. There was a small crowd of locals cooing his name. Actually - I realised his international appeal before then, but obviously my suspicions were now confirmed. Howlett has been a faithful servant to the NZRFU and a player that has always shown a great amount of dignity as well. You would never see Doug in a scrap (it would ruin his lovely locks after all), or backchat a ref. But mostly, Doug has been a scintillating finisher. Good luck Doug. New Zealand's loss is Munster's gain.
UPDATE: Doug gets in trouble for some late night tap dancing
UPDATE: For news of Doug's wedding
I realised Howlett's appeal when I sat watching an AB test in a pub in Amsterdam a couple of years ago. There was a small crowd of locals cooing his name. Actually - I realised his international appeal before then, but obviously my suspicions were now confirmed. Howlett has been a faithful servant to the NZRFU and a player that has always shown a great amount of dignity as well. You would never see Doug in a scrap (it would ruin his lovely locks after all), or backchat a ref. But mostly, Doug has been a scintillating finisher. Good luck Doug. New Zealand's loss is Munster's gain.
UPDATE: Doug gets in trouble for some late night tap dancing
UPDATE: For news of Doug's wedding
Friday, 31 August 2007
Rugby World Cup: Downloads and Team Profiles
Are you worried you’re not completely up with the goings on with the Rugby World Cup? Then check out these downloads. Get a Rugby World Cup countdown widget (the image can be changed), excel spreadsheets to update as the scores come in, dates to your outlook calendar and for NZ rugby fans: the Rugby World Cup TV3 schedule (thanks MiramarMike for this).
If you’re still sitting on the fence and you’re not sure who you want to support as we head into the final week’s countdown, take a peek at ruggerblogger’s Rugby World Cup Team profiles. I’ve still got a few to add to the collection but if you’re interesting in reading about the Springbok chances, the Wallaby woes, Scotland's steel, the weak link of England or the chiropractor of Samoa, then here is where it’s at. Happy downloading.
If you’re still sitting on the fence and you’re not sure who you want to support as we head into the final week’s countdown, take a peek at ruggerblogger’s Rugby World Cup Team profiles. I’ve still got a few to add to the collection but if you’re interesting in reading about the Springbok chances, the Wallaby woes, Scotland's steel, the weak link of England or the chiropractor of Samoa, then here is where it’s at. Happy downloading.
Thursday, 30 August 2007
Rugby World Cup Finalists....
I’m as one eyed as the next New Zealander and I think that the All Blacks will reach the final. (translation, I pray they will be in the final). The question is – who will be the other team to make it for the last dance on 22 October? After the poor showing of Ireland in the last couple of Rugby World Cup friendlies, people have all but written them off. But are they really that bad? Will the Pumas and Les Bleus string them alive - or is this just wishful thinking for some people? Meanwhile, as much as everyone has dissed the English, there is something about them that might suggest they’re coming into form. (Ok, there is nothing to suggest that at the moment but I don’t like being mean).
Meanwhile the Southern Hemisphere media is (some might say arrogantly) consumed with the fact that France and the Tri Nations teams are the only true challengers. The question is – out of France, South Africa and Australia – who will be the team to make the final? Will France blow a gasket; South Africa a punch and Stirling a forward pass? Which one of these teams is guaranteed a spot in Rugby World Cup history?
Meanwhile the Southern Hemisphere media is (some might say arrogantly) consumed with the fact that France and the Tri Nations teams are the only true challengers. The question is – out of France, South Africa and Australia – who will be the team to make the final? Will France blow a gasket; South Africa a punch and Stirling a forward pass? Which one of these teams is guaranteed a spot in Rugby World Cup history?
Friday, 24 August 2007
Rage against the All Black machine
In the meantime, the All Blacks Rugby World Cup campaign is gathering apace – that is, gathering critics left, right and centre apace. McQueen, Latham and Rob Andrew have all taken a pot shot at the men in black this week, criticising them for being one dimensional etc. Laporte is calling them cheats (yawn) and the latest comes from good old Phil Kearns. Apparently the All Blacks are ‘worried’. The great orator himself believes ‘they’ve peaked too soon’. Oooh, now THAT is breaking news.
The only question is – who will next emerge from the dressing room with arms swinging, taking aim at Richie and his hapless, one dimensional motley crew. No doubt Wales, Ireland, Argentina and Scotland will be getting their ducks in line. Eddie Jones, nestled in the bosom of the Springbok camp, has been quiet for about a whole three days and is also overdue for a rant. Odds are on too for Sir Clive to pop his little shiny head up through the parapet and make a few snivelling sounds. And that great pie eater of the UK Sunday Times, aka Stephen ‘the All Blacks are a bunch of meanies and nobody likes them’ Jones, will no doubt enjoy a few blats out soon at the boys in black.
The only question is – who will next emerge from the dressing room with arms swinging, taking aim at Richie and his hapless, one dimensional motley crew. No doubt Wales, Ireland, Argentina and Scotland will be getting their ducks in line. Eddie Jones, nestled in the bosom of the Springbok camp, has been quiet for about a whole three days and is also overdue for a rant. Odds are on too for Sir Clive to pop his little shiny head up through the parapet and make a few snivelling sounds. And that great pie eater of the UK Sunday Times, aka Stephen ‘the All Blacks are a bunch of meanies and nobody likes them’ Jones, will no doubt enjoy a few blats out soon at the boys in black.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)