Well round three finished with a few great games and on field events that should keep us talking for a while. First of all though, I must give a thumbs up to John Mitchell about whom I have made a few comments on this blog. This week he has owned up and apologized for the poor performances of the Western Force so far in the competition. While not actually acknowledging his role, at least he has fronted to a certain extent. However John, don’t forget that you are coach and now we’ll see if you deserve to keep the position by actually doing something about it. Click here for the story on that.
The team that has generated the most comments on this blog finally managed to cast off the hoodoo and down the mighty Reds in Brisbane, keeping the luckless Reds winless from their first three home games of season 2006. This week they are off to Hamilton where the resurgent Chiefs get to play their first home game of the season. Click here of a match report from New Zealand on the game against the Blues.
My two cents worth on the game is that the Blues were pretty lucky that the Reds inexperience let them sneak in the win with the last penalty. I am sure that Blues Bugger and the other Blues fans will take the win, however I don’t think that there is much confidence to be had from it. After all, the Reds are not exactly strong contenders. Their inability to score tries after the first lucky try, and follow up strong effort from Doug Howlett on the wing must be cause for concern. However, Nucifora has proven that he can do it, and Troy Flavell also came back to Super 14 well, with plenty of claret in the game. Coincidence? I think not! Click here for an Aussie perspective on the game.
Elsewhere the Bulls bought the Tahs down a peg or two by giving them a beating in the Republic, although it might be said that the Bulls came off second best in the beating department after Matt Dunning and Elsom threw a fair few punches during the match. I suspect that Dunning was told that there wasn’t enough boerwurst for him at the after match. The poor leading contender for this year coveted Billy Bunter look-a-like prize fell for it and lashed out at the merciless villain. So, more suspensions, and clearly there is no place for that sort of thing in today’s game…BUT WASN’T IT GREAT TO SEE AND HOW MANY TIMES HAVE WE SEEN IT REPLAYED ON THE NEWS SINCE! I DISAGREE, CLEARLY THERE IS A PLACE FOR THIS IN TODAY’S GAME. Click here for a report from Australia.
Lastly, the Highlanders scored a victory against the Cheetahs in the 77th minute of the game making it a closely fought game. Perhaps the Cheetahs will not be the easy beats that everyone was expecting. A South African surprise (and this time it has nothing to do with an upset stomach). Click here for a match report from the Republic.
Hope you all enjoyed the round as much as I did. Looking forward to round four, and check for a few posts at the end of this week looking ahead to the coming round. Bring it on!
Monday, February 27, 2006
Saturday, February 25, 2006
Hiss and a Roar in the First Half of Round Three
Things kicked off in round three with a real hiss and a roar last night in Wellington at the cake tin. The hiss was the sound of the air escaping from the Cats’ inflated chests after last week’s effort to win against the Chiefs with a man having been sent off. They started well, matching the ‘canes try with a try and a penalty of their own to be ahead in the approach to half time.
However, it wasn’t to be their night. Lome Fa’atau pulled off a brilliant re-gather from a fairly aimless kick to canter down the sidelines untouched for a converted try as the last act of the first half. He was also instrumental in producing a freakish try at the end of the game where, unless my ears deceived me, the ref had in fact blown his whistle before the ball was grounded by the young All Black fullback, Toeava under the sticks.
Both of these players seem to be coming of age and the Hurricanes might be a team to be reckoned with this season. Can they cast off the hoodoo of years gone by and actually go on to win a semi-final or final? My guess is that they would be boxing well above their weight to win against the Crusaders. The final try of the game was awarded and that denied the Cats a bonus point, and gave the Hurricanes their third bonus point in as many weeks. It seems to me that this franchise is going places this season, and they may have justified the shorts odds being given for their home victory. Click here for a full match report.
Also last night the Force took on the Chiefs at Subiaco stadium. It seems from that game that the Force are going to be the cellar dwellers this year, joined possibly by the Blues it would seem from comments on this blog. 26-9 was the final score line in yet another unimpressive performance from the Force. At least the Chiefs managed to clock up the one win during the tour and they will be looking forward to a few home games that they can use to gage their performance by. They will be greatly heartened by the performance of the All Black trio in the side. At last Muliaina, Sivivatu, and Anesi came together with pace and class to score some good tries for the Chiefs.
The Force, on the other hand, has yet another loss to dissect. Fortunately their coach is fairly used to this sort of activity from his previous career. I read with interest his comments on the game, and was left wondering why he seems to be able to pinpoint what is wrong with his side with such accuracy and venom, however he doesn’t seem to be able to change what his team is doing. Surely this is what he is there for? To coach the players, the imprint on them a game plan that should address the issues he has identified that lead to such poor results? I thought this was how you produced a better side and made a contribution. I guess not, perhaps he just needed the job. Does Australian Rugby really need John Mitchell though? For a full match report, and Mitchell’s comments, click here.
And the final game last night was a torrid struggle between two teams, both of whom have been accused of cheating in the lead up to the game. Gregan of the Brumbies was accused of delaying the feed of the scrum so that his props could settle and bore in on their opponents, to compensate for their lack of size and strength. De Wet Barry was of course rather famously named as the dirtiest player by a survey of Australian players the week before when they met the Tahs. Doubtless that fair appraisal of his form still stung a bit this week.
In any event we have our first draw of the season. A draw, once famously described by a former New Zealand test match rugby player as being “like kissing your sister”, is nothing to crow about, nor is it anything to get too depressed over. I can’t say that I ever kissed my sister (I don’t have one) but I would imagine that it is nothing like a draw at all. To get any points when your team is over in republic is good, however I would’ve thought that the Brumbies ought to have done better out of this game. They should have won and they can feel as if they have let one slip by. Then again, it is better than a loss. Just. Click here for the full match report.
In an example of innovative coaching and totally surprising moves, it appears that the Reds may be planning to bait Troy Flavell on his return to the Blues against the Reds in Brisbane this evening. Hold the front page. New Zealand’s bad boy, who spent most of his career suspended, makes his return from Japan and is set to enter the mix tonight. Is he what the Blues need to get some go forward? He will certainly add that bit of fear in the opposition players who take the field and end up on the wrong side of the ruck. This is a game that each team has to win if they are to have any chance of making the play offs at all. For more on that story click here.
The other mismatch, no chance game of the round apart from the Cats vs the Hurricanes takes place in Invercargill this weekend. Surely the Crusaders at home in true Southern Country will tear the Sharks apart. The hype surrounding this game is pretty muted, however for a glimpse of what is coming out of New Zealand click here. Even with turncoat Tony Brown playing for the Sharks, they will have their work cut out for them. I may refer to him as a turncoat, but lets face it, in the professional era these guys have to make a living and that means playing for whomever will pay you. Good on him, and no great loss to the game in New Zealand. Taking a second rate, yesterday’s second best man, cast off player from New Zealand is a poor reflection on the state of the game in South Africa. How come they don’t have any great first fives to choose from amongst their own players. For more on this story click here.
Enjoy Round three, more tomorrow. And thanks for those comments on the games, I’ll keep an eye out for some more tonight, following the latest Blues debacle, I mean game!
However, it wasn’t to be their night. Lome Fa’atau pulled off a brilliant re-gather from a fairly aimless kick to canter down the sidelines untouched for a converted try as the last act of the first half. He was also instrumental in producing a freakish try at the end of the game where, unless my ears deceived me, the ref had in fact blown his whistle before the ball was grounded by the young All Black fullback, Toeava under the sticks.
Both of these players seem to be coming of age and the Hurricanes might be a team to be reckoned with this season. Can they cast off the hoodoo of years gone by and actually go on to win a semi-final or final? My guess is that they would be boxing well above their weight to win against the Crusaders. The final try of the game was awarded and that denied the Cats a bonus point, and gave the Hurricanes their third bonus point in as many weeks. It seems to me that this franchise is going places this season, and they may have justified the shorts odds being given for their home victory. Click here for a full match report.
Also last night the Force took on the Chiefs at Subiaco stadium. It seems from that game that the Force are going to be the cellar dwellers this year, joined possibly by the Blues it would seem from comments on this blog. 26-9 was the final score line in yet another unimpressive performance from the Force. At least the Chiefs managed to clock up the one win during the tour and they will be looking forward to a few home games that they can use to gage their performance by. They will be greatly heartened by the performance of the All Black trio in the side. At last Muliaina, Sivivatu, and Anesi came together with pace and class to score some good tries for the Chiefs.
The Force, on the other hand, has yet another loss to dissect. Fortunately their coach is fairly used to this sort of activity from his previous career. I read with interest his comments on the game, and was left wondering why he seems to be able to pinpoint what is wrong with his side with such accuracy and venom, however he doesn’t seem to be able to change what his team is doing. Surely this is what he is there for? To coach the players, the imprint on them a game plan that should address the issues he has identified that lead to such poor results? I thought this was how you produced a better side and made a contribution. I guess not, perhaps he just needed the job. Does Australian Rugby really need John Mitchell though? For a full match report, and Mitchell’s comments, click here.
And the final game last night was a torrid struggle between two teams, both of whom have been accused of cheating in the lead up to the game. Gregan of the Brumbies was accused of delaying the feed of the scrum so that his props could settle and bore in on their opponents, to compensate for their lack of size and strength. De Wet Barry was of course rather famously named as the dirtiest player by a survey of Australian players the week before when they met the Tahs. Doubtless that fair appraisal of his form still stung a bit this week.
In any event we have our first draw of the season. A draw, once famously described by a former New Zealand test match rugby player as being “like kissing your sister”, is nothing to crow about, nor is it anything to get too depressed over. I can’t say that I ever kissed my sister (I don’t have one) but I would imagine that it is nothing like a draw at all. To get any points when your team is over in republic is good, however I would’ve thought that the Brumbies ought to have done better out of this game. They should have won and they can feel as if they have let one slip by. Then again, it is better than a loss. Just. Click here for the full match report.
In an example of innovative coaching and totally surprising moves, it appears that the Reds may be planning to bait Troy Flavell on his return to the Blues against the Reds in Brisbane this evening. Hold the front page. New Zealand’s bad boy, who spent most of his career suspended, makes his return from Japan and is set to enter the mix tonight. Is he what the Blues need to get some go forward? He will certainly add that bit of fear in the opposition players who take the field and end up on the wrong side of the ruck. This is a game that each team has to win if they are to have any chance of making the play offs at all. For more on that story click here.
The other mismatch, no chance game of the round apart from the Cats vs the Hurricanes takes place in Invercargill this weekend. Surely the Crusaders at home in true Southern Country will tear the Sharks apart. The hype surrounding this game is pretty muted, however for a glimpse of what is coming out of New Zealand click here. Even with turncoat Tony Brown playing for the Sharks, they will have their work cut out for them. I may refer to him as a turncoat, but lets face it, in the professional era these guys have to make a living and that means playing for whomever will pay you. Good on him, and no great loss to the game in New Zealand. Taking a second rate, yesterday’s second best man, cast off player from New Zealand is a poor reflection on the state of the game in South Africa. How come they don’t have any great first fives to choose from amongst their own players. For more on this story click here.
Enjoy Round three, more tomorrow. And thanks for those comments on the games, I’ll keep an eye out for some more tonight, following the latest Blues debacle, I mean game!
Monday, February 20, 2006
Sailor Lets Fly A Technicolour Yawn
Another suspension for the 2006 season, and this time for what happened off the field! Yet again we see misbehaviour in the Republic getting stars into trouble. You have got to wonder why this happens in South Africa most of the time, and why team management haven’t put a stop to it? Click here for the latest on the Sailor story.
It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to work out that the public relations team have been working overtime fine tuning Sailor’s apologies and statements of remorse. My reading of it is that they must have a QC on the payroll, or perhaps Sailor has had previous experiences that he has learned from….
However, you’ve got to wonder what these guys think that they are doing going out in hostile territory getting caned. The Republic has a history of firey receptions for overseas players and you’d think these guys would learn a thing or two, like discretion and safety in numbers. I wonder if there are some attractions to going out that don’t get published quite as frequently as other altercations? Doubtless there are.
Be that as it may, team management is culpable in these cases as well. These players are traveling the road in the course of their employment. It is important that the players aren’t left to their own vices just because they may not be taking the field the next day, or are out celebrating a win. Get your act together Warratahs, you can’t just leave these guys on their own. Get some handlers or minders for the players instead of just leaving them at the mercy of whatever clown wants to have a crack.
I’d have to say that in the scheme of things it doesn’t sound too bad. Where I live that sort of carry on happens every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday night outside the taverns in town – and when it is just a push to the ground and a bit of a spew it usually means that the people are mates having a laugh. Anyways, he’s suspended, fined, and now looking at having his past used against him (surely unfair having been punished for that event previously).
It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to work out that the public relations team have been working overtime fine tuning Sailor’s apologies and statements of remorse. My reading of it is that they must have a QC on the payroll, or perhaps Sailor has had previous experiences that he has learned from….
However, you’ve got to wonder what these guys think that they are doing going out in hostile territory getting caned. The Republic has a history of firey receptions for overseas players and you’d think these guys would learn a thing or two, like discretion and safety in numbers. I wonder if there are some attractions to going out that don’t get published quite as frequently as other altercations? Doubtless there are.
Be that as it may, team management is culpable in these cases as well. These players are traveling the road in the course of their employment. It is important that the players aren’t left to their own vices just because they may not be taking the field the next day, or are out celebrating a win. Get your act together Warratahs, you can’t just leave these guys on their own. Get some handlers or minders for the players instead of just leaving them at the mercy of whatever clown wants to have a crack.
I’d have to say that in the scheme of things it doesn’t sound too bad. Where I live that sort of carry on happens every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday night outside the taverns in town – and when it is just a push to the ground and a bit of a spew it usually means that the people are mates having a laugh. Anyways, he’s suspended, fined, and now looking at having his past used against him (surely unfair having been punished for that event previously).
Sunday, February 19, 2006
Round Three Shocks!
Round three ends with a Sunday lacking in any footy. I hate it when you have a whole day and there isn’t even one game to watch. How else is one supposed to overdose on heavily salted deep fried snack treats, and imbibe altogether to much of the amber liquid? Please administrators of the game, don’t do this to your watching faithful. With three countries in the competition and three very different time zones there should be a game on each day of the weekend including a great line up on Friday night.
First up the Hurricanes demolish to Force in New Zealand. No question that it was always going to end this way, however there is cause for concern that Conrad Smith may have suffered a broken leg. The Hurricanes are riding high after their second successive bonus point win in the competition, leaving them second only to the Crusaders at the end of Round Two. The game failed to excite, and the long periods without score must’ve perplexed the crowd. However, this appears to be a consequence of the professional era with teams doing just enough to win. Some of the easiest points of the weekend predicting this one, and for a full match report click here.
Back to the Blues who have generated so much comment on the blog so far, the Southern men interpret their first win of the competition. An ‘analysis’ or as near as you’ll get to it from Otago, can be read here. Some good comment on how the Highlanders managed to tough out a win against the flashy boys from the north whom all seem to agree have their minds elsewhere. However, the Southern men will be less than impressed that the first suspension of the competition involves flanker Craig Newby, suspended for a high shot. Click here for the scoop on that. Suspensions are part of the game and the Highlanders ought to be able to cope with it.
A suspension for that in the context of the kicking the Colonel’s best mate, Sione Lauaki, got at the weekend when being welcomed to South Africa by some of the locals. Fair enough to beat the rap if you weren’t involved, but that does raise the question of who was responsible for the low shot? In any event, being caught on the wrong side of the ruck should carry consequences for players and perhaps it will happen a bit less often and we’ll see more good clean ball being fed to the backs this season because of it. Click here for the basis of the decision according to the South African press. Click here for more on the game.
Another ‘shock’ of the weekend was the Brumbies 27-21 win of the Bulls at home. As we’ve seen previously on this blog, the Bulls have had the hopes of a nation pinned on them in the competition. And, they choke at home. Last season they were cellar dwellers having been on the road in the first half of the competition, and then strung together 6 or 7 wins on the trot at home. Not to be this year I’m afraid boys, you’ll have to do better than that against the likes of Gregan and co. Looks like all the preparation against the crafty Bill Young went astray! Click here for the full report from Aussie, and here for the match report from South Africa.
Although not such an allegedly shocking result as the one above, what was remarkable about the Reds Crusaders match from Brisbane was that it took until the 68th minute for the Crusaders to take it away and seal the deal with a bonus point win over the Reds. Two second half collapses in as many weeks for the Reds leave me wondering what has happened to their conditioning and fitness training. The boiler room atmosphere of out of this world humidity and heat used to be a problem for the visiting sides playing the Reds, not the home team. Apart from this the Reds showed some ticker in this game, but fell apart when the Crusaders lifted the tempo to secure the bonus point win to put them at the top of the table. In season gone by the Crusaders would’ve lost this match as part of their usual slow start to the season and I think we are beginning to see the emergence of the strongest team to claim the Championship this year. Click here for Aussie comment on the game, and here for the comment from New Zealand.
Elsewhere, New South Wales grab a win on the road. Not an unexpected result I would suggest, the Warratahs seem to have things together and after the win against the Reds and are riding high early on in the competition. Two strong second half performances in a row leaves them as contenders to make a push for the finals this year if they can keep the momentum going. I think that they will struggle against the stronger of the New Zealand sides this year, and I don’t see the necessary improvements they needed to make to beat the Crusaders, but maybe that will come out of they can develop their play during the competition. Click here for a full match report from Australia, and here for a match report from the South African perspective.
The final upset of the round sees the new Cheetahs outfit devour the Sharks by a whole point! I guess that the feline newcomers like devouring fish! At least the new boys have been able to get off the mark and it couldn’t have been against a nicer team. Take that Percy! I am guessing that the beef in the front row helped, as did the inspiration of previous antagonism between coach and departed players. Unfortunately the margin does not give much cause for optimism, but at least they wont be winless this year. Click here for comment from South Africa on the result, and here for comment from New Zealand.
The standings after round two are quite interesting. Of note are that the Blues, touted as contenders this season in the pre comp hype, are second to last on points differential, and have yet to get an actual point in the competition (perhaps they need to get the point of the game which is to win on the field, and then develop a celebrity reputation or cult following, not the other way around). Even the lowly Reds and Chiefs are ahead of the Blues as each team has been able to muster at least a bonus point. The top four in the competition are, as expected two New Zealand teams, being the Crusaders and the Hurricanes. The other two teams are from Australia, being the Brumbies and the Warratahs. Again this is not unexpected. The Africans will need to pull finger to get themselves into contention for a final in this competition. Check out the results from Round two and the standings here.
Friday, February 17, 2006
Blues Lose to the Mighty Highlanders
Well, Round two begins with an upset of sorts…certainly upsetting to those fans of the Blues out there. A popular topic for this blog this season will be the woeful performance of the Blues this season as I would expect it to continue. The Blues lack a strategy, and the ability to play hard footy for anything more than the first twenty minutes of the game. They go down 25-13 to a hard worked, and well played win to the men in tartan…I wonder if Blues Bugger actually was on to something.
It was encouraging to see Ryan play so well at lock and begin to put some pressure on the clown…sorry, I mean Ali Williams, his supposed All Black senior team mate. I wonder how much longer that will continue to be the case. Well done to the Tartan terrors from the South, a well deserved victory, although clearly this is at best a mediocre Blues team. For more on the game click here.
Contrary to the general lack of enthusiasm, or rather lack of reasons to be enthusiastic about the Auckland Blues, the South Africans seem pretty upbeat about the chances of their teams this weekend. This is particularly the case for the teams against confident after being well treated in Round one of the competition. Click here to read more on the optimistic appraisal of the South African teams this weekend. I’d have to say that some of it is justified too.
Want to see how the ‘experts’ are doing in Super 14? Check out the records of those Australian so called ‘aficionados of the game’ here. These selections might help some of you with your virtual super 14 predictions, but if you need to look here, you already are in need of help.
Enjoy the rest of the round, and remember, it is still early days, but with two losses in a row, the Blues at least are going to have to fight hard for every bonus point from here on in to take part in the finals. In my opinion, that is too much to expect from this second rate team.
Thursday, February 16, 2006
Round Two from the Front Row
Battle of the Big Men in Round Two
Round two is getting underway this weekend and, in contrast to years gone by where flashy back moves and lightning pace have featured in build up, this week the big boys are featuring in at least two games. First up there is the clash of the All Black front rows between Otago and the Blues at Carisbrook. For those fans of the tough stuff up front and the big men battling it out, this is a game not to be missed.
We’ve got Carl Hayman up against his All Black team mate Tony Woodcock. Also we have the two All Blacks hookers against each other, Anton Oliver and Keven Mealamu. Rounding out the battle we have John Afoa and Saimone Taumoepeau in the mix for the Blues. Wow, this should be potent stuff, and may come down to the locking combinations backing the big men up. Woodcock made comments during the week about the Hurricanes not engaging at scrum time and pulling back from the hit, but this weekend it should be a good old fashioned tussle. Click here for more.
Continuing on in a similar vein, the Aussies are focusing on Bill Young in the lead up to the game between the Bulls and the Brumbies. A crafty prop if ever there was one, Mr Young has, just quietly, been carving up the opposition for years in spite of his somewhat diminutive stature when compared with likes of man mountain du Randt and his compatriots. But, clearly size isn’t everything in the front row as Mr Young can attest to. This game should be an interesting one with the Bulls coming in as favourites. Not surprising really given their string of wins and the end of last season. Click here for more.
The Cheetahs also line up against the Sharks playing at home this weekend. The Cheetahs are going to struggle this year, but one man who is looking forward to return (although it sounds like he’d like to be back amongst the BBQs of his former home town is Mr Ollie le Roux. A true Billy Bunter look-a-like if ever there was one. He can cast aside the demons of his struggle with former Waikato half back, come mediocre coach in South Africa, Kevin Putt. Putt had the audacity to suggest that le Roux was a bit on the unfit side and the falling out began there. Read what le Roux has to say about that and the game this weekend, here. Continuing on that game is yet another article devoted to the big men claiming that the Cheetahs forward pack is ‘very intelligent’. Ummmmm, not so sure how many of those boys would be able to explain what a slide rule is for, however the sure can maul. Good to see that coming back into the game, however these guys have a long way to go. Click here for that story.
Elsewhere the Hurricanes announce their team to play Force. Nothing of any great note that we haven’t covered already before. Missing Umaga could be important, but surely even the Hurricanes can’t fail to dispose of the Force. Click here to see the team that was named. Also, Richie McCaw pays a compliment to his absent opponent for the clash against the Reds. The Reds are cannon fodder in this game I am afraid. Too many injuries and far to under skilled to topple these guys. Click here to read about it.
The even present Eddie Jones who as failed to fade from the scene because of his sacking, turns it on in the public comment department. This time he has, in my opinion really put his finger on something worth commenting on. He’s come out and said that the amount of stoppage time is ruining the game at international level. I think he’s right, and he should know as the coach of one team that is forever holding up the game to get a rest, do up the shoes, or put in a contact lens. I say, if the player who is down is not in the way of the game, it should go on provided that there is no danger to any player by continuing. Click here to see what he has to say about it all.
Well, I can’t wait for Round Two to begin. Good luck to you all, and to all your teams. Don’t forget to get your picks in for the virtual super 14 competition and score a few. Bring on the battle of the Big Men!
Round two is getting underway this weekend and, in contrast to years gone by where flashy back moves and lightning pace have featured in build up, this week the big boys are featuring in at least two games. First up there is the clash of the All Black front rows between Otago and the Blues at Carisbrook. For those fans of the tough stuff up front and the big men battling it out, this is a game not to be missed.
We’ve got Carl Hayman up against his All Black team mate Tony Woodcock. Also we have the two All Blacks hookers against each other, Anton Oliver and Keven Mealamu. Rounding out the battle we have John Afoa and Saimone Taumoepeau in the mix for the Blues. Wow, this should be potent stuff, and may come down to the locking combinations backing the big men up. Woodcock made comments during the week about the Hurricanes not engaging at scrum time and pulling back from the hit, but this weekend it should be a good old fashioned tussle. Click here for more.
Continuing on in a similar vein, the Aussies are focusing on Bill Young in the lead up to the game between the Bulls and the Brumbies. A crafty prop if ever there was one, Mr Young has, just quietly, been carving up the opposition for years in spite of his somewhat diminutive stature when compared with likes of man mountain du Randt and his compatriots. But, clearly size isn’t everything in the front row as Mr Young can attest to. This game should be an interesting one with the Bulls coming in as favourites. Not surprising really given their string of wins and the end of last season. Click here for more.
The Cheetahs also line up against the Sharks playing at home this weekend. The Cheetahs are going to struggle this year, but one man who is looking forward to return (although it sounds like he’d like to be back amongst the BBQs of his former home town is Mr Ollie le Roux. A true Billy Bunter look-a-like if ever there was one. He can cast aside the demons of his struggle with former Waikato half back, come mediocre coach in South Africa, Kevin Putt. Putt had the audacity to suggest that le Roux was a bit on the unfit side and the falling out began there. Read what le Roux has to say about that and the game this weekend, here. Continuing on that game is yet another article devoted to the big men claiming that the Cheetahs forward pack is ‘very intelligent’. Ummmmm, not so sure how many of those boys would be able to explain what a slide rule is for, however the sure can maul. Good to see that coming back into the game, however these guys have a long way to go. Click here for that story.
Elsewhere the Hurricanes announce their team to play Force. Nothing of any great note that we haven’t covered already before. Missing Umaga could be important, but surely even the Hurricanes can’t fail to dispose of the Force. Click here to see the team that was named. Also, Richie McCaw pays a compliment to his absent opponent for the clash against the Reds. The Reds are cannon fodder in this game I am afraid. Too many injuries and far to under skilled to topple these guys. Click here to read about it.
The even present Eddie Jones who as failed to fade from the scene because of his sacking, turns it on in the public comment department. This time he has, in my opinion really put his finger on something worth commenting on. He’s come out and said that the amount of stoppage time is ruining the game at international level. I think he’s right, and he should know as the coach of one team that is forever holding up the game to get a rest, do up the shoes, or put in a contact lens. I say, if the player who is down is not in the way of the game, it should go on provided that there is no danger to any player by continuing. Click here to see what he has to say about it all.
Well, I can’t wait for Round Two to begin. Good luck to you all, and to all your teams. Don’t forget to get your picks in for the virtual super 14 competition and score a few. Bring on the battle of the Big Men!
Tuesday, February 14, 2006
ROUND TWO MIDWEEK
ROUND TWO FOR ME AND FOR YOU
Okay, so we’re midweek into round two and the action is hotting up. This weekend the Chiefs run up against the so called ‘hapless’ Cats. With rain lashing Joburg, it looks like the advantages of having a massive forward pack are starting to be come apparent to the Chiefs. It’ll be interesting if the weather keeps up and the Chiefs play the Cats on a wet track. Could be another tight loss for the Chiefs coming up…or will the Cats continue with their woeful form of recent seasons? Read here for more.
Perhaps this could be a luckless season for the Blues too. Poor old Ben Atiga has been in the wars injuring himself at the gym and being out for three weeks because of it. An injury to the face what is more, and in that franchise, that seems to be the most important factor for the players at the moment. Seems that he will be back in three weeks, but when heading off to the so called ‘House of Pain’ to take on the Highlanders this weekend, Auckland could’ve done with his services. Read here for more on that.
Straight out of the history books, Leon McDonald reveals that he is something of a fan of former US President, Richard Nixon. ‘I am not a crook’ declared Nixon just before resigning in the face of impeachment, and Leon’s rejoinder to that about his actions at the weekend sound equally plausible. It was clearly a ‘cynical’ foul as the Australians are so found of dubbing this kind of behaviour, but let’s face it, a penalty try it should’ve been. But, on this blog we don’t cry over spilt milk. Leon got away with it, and good on him. But don’t blame anyone except the officials when we get this type of play in the game we love. If you want an open flowing game, you have to reprimand teams that positively prevent players from scoring by breaking the rules. Read more on that here.
The Hurricanes fresh from their ‘upset’ win against the Blues are nursing a few injuries. One of the most up and down teams from New Zealand in the history if the Super 12, this franchise is hoping, no must have, a better season this year with all the effort they have put in to getting a decent forward pack in front of their awesome back line. It is crucial for them to win this weekend against the newcomers, the Force in New Plymouth this weekend. An injury to skipper Tana Umaga must cause concern amongst supporters of that team. Read here for more.
However, Hurricanes supporters need not worry. The Force have clearly reaped the benefits of John Mitchell’s experience with the All Blacks. Fava, the best player by far for the Force in their opening match (and Australian representative in the Commonwelath Games sevens team) has been suspended for being pissed at training, or at least showing the signs of a hard night or weekend before he turned up by failing a breath test. All the public relations jargon is being used on this with Fava ‘copping it on the chin’ and being very accepting of the decision. Be that as it may, it still seems that his commitment is questionable, not to mention the discipline within the team as a whole. This seems pretty foolish behaviour when they are headed to New Zealand to take on the Hurricanes and need every good player they can muster. I’d say that the Hurricanes should be favourites for this game. Read here for more on that.
The Brumbies are gearing up for their game against the Bulls this weekend and the coach is planning, yet again, to give Gregan’s understudy game time against what appears to be the best South African team this year. This game should be a beauty with strong players in each team, and the promise of some stars in action on both sides. Gregan must be wondering what more he has to do, and apparently some in Australia think the answer is ‘more running’. Well, in response to that, the main job of a half back is to serve the back line, occasionally providing the opposition with cause to hesitate to guard against the quick dart. True, that is lacking in his game, but his service is second to none. I think it would be a mistake to take him off against the Bulls this weekend, blood the new guy on some weaker teams at home I say. Read more about that here.
And last but not least, it appears that the South Africans again are focusing on the right issues to help them get back to competitiveness on the international scene. I’ll be the first to admit that a kiss on the Rugby field is pretty unusual, well, during the game anyways, but really, questioning the sexuality of the players seem a little misdirected. Read here for more.
Until next time, have a good week and I for one am looking forward to this weekend’s games. Bring it on!
Okay, so we’re midweek into round two and the action is hotting up. This weekend the Chiefs run up against the so called ‘hapless’ Cats. With rain lashing Joburg, it looks like the advantages of having a massive forward pack are starting to be come apparent to the Chiefs. It’ll be interesting if the weather keeps up and the Chiefs play the Cats on a wet track. Could be another tight loss for the Chiefs coming up…or will the Cats continue with their woeful form of recent seasons? Read here for more.
Perhaps this could be a luckless season for the Blues too. Poor old Ben Atiga has been in the wars injuring himself at the gym and being out for three weeks because of it. An injury to the face what is more, and in that franchise, that seems to be the most important factor for the players at the moment. Seems that he will be back in three weeks, but when heading off to the so called ‘House of Pain’ to take on the Highlanders this weekend, Auckland could’ve done with his services. Read here for more on that.
Straight out of the history books, Leon McDonald reveals that he is something of a fan of former US President, Richard Nixon. ‘I am not a crook’ declared Nixon just before resigning in the face of impeachment, and Leon’s rejoinder to that about his actions at the weekend sound equally plausible. It was clearly a ‘cynical’ foul as the Australians are so found of dubbing this kind of behaviour, but let’s face it, a penalty try it should’ve been. But, on this blog we don’t cry over spilt milk. Leon got away with it, and good on him. But don’t blame anyone except the officials when we get this type of play in the game we love. If you want an open flowing game, you have to reprimand teams that positively prevent players from scoring by breaking the rules. Read more on that here.
The Hurricanes fresh from their ‘upset’ win against the Blues are nursing a few injuries. One of the most up and down teams from New Zealand in the history if the Super 12, this franchise is hoping, no must have, a better season this year with all the effort they have put in to getting a decent forward pack in front of their awesome back line. It is crucial for them to win this weekend against the newcomers, the Force in New Plymouth this weekend. An injury to skipper Tana Umaga must cause concern amongst supporters of that team. Read here for more.
However, Hurricanes supporters need not worry. The Force have clearly reaped the benefits of John Mitchell’s experience with the All Blacks. Fava, the best player by far for the Force in their opening match (and Australian representative in the Commonwelath Games sevens team) has been suspended for being pissed at training, or at least showing the signs of a hard night or weekend before he turned up by failing a breath test. All the public relations jargon is being used on this with Fava ‘copping it on the chin’ and being very accepting of the decision. Be that as it may, it still seems that his commitment is questionable, not to mention the discipline within the team as a whole. This seems pretty foolish behaviour when they are headed to New Zealand to take on the Hurricanes and need every good player they can muster. I’d say that the Hurricanes should be favourites for this game. Read here for more on that.
The Brumbies are gearing up for their game against the Bulls this weekend and the coach is planning, yet again, to give Gregan’s understudy game time against what appears to be the best South African team this year. This game should be a beauty with strong players in each team, and the promise of some stars in action on both sides. Gregan must be wondering what more he has to do, and apparently some in Australia think the answer is ‘more running’. Well, in response to that, the main job of a half back is to serve the back line, occasionally providing the opposition with cause to hesitate to guard against the quick dart. True, that is lacking in his game, but his service is second to none. I think it would be a mistake to take him off against the Bulls this weekend, blood the new guy on some weaker teams at home I say. Read more about that here.
And last but not least, it appears that the South Africans again are focusing on the right issues to help them get back to competitiveness on the international scene. I’ll be the first to admit that a kiss on the Rugby field is pretty unusual, well, during the game anyways, but really, questioning the sexuality of the players seem a little misdirected. Read here for more.
Until next time, have a good week and I for one am looking forward to this weekend’s games. Bring it on!
Sunday, February 12, 2006
Chiefs Lose!
Chief’s Loss Rounds Out The First Weekend’s Clashes
Well, the last game of the weekend was ground out this morning in the Republic. Despite a strong start, the Chief’s couldn’t quite cut the mustard, but the big man Sione Lauaki certainly gave it a decent nudge with the opening try. No backwards steps from that man, and we hope to see more of him in Super 14 this year, and of course the tri-nations after that. It’s always difficult to win away from home, and the Chiefs can’t read to much into their first loss. At least they have one of their many away games out of the way early on, although they may rue the fact that they couldn’t get a bonus point on this one. Read here for more.
The Sharks of course have their first win and can take some heart from it. Montgomerey played well, nabbing two tries in the first half, and kicking a boatload of points to take the game in the second. Well done Percy (shame about the name, but hey, give credit where it is due). For a break down on the game, read here.
The last game of the weekend, certainly the last one that I will be covering anyways, was the Cats against the Stormers, and well, didn’t the Cats play more like kittens in this one. 23-12 was a bit flattering and they never really looked like doing it. Seems to me that they are in for another long season and they will struggle for the rest of the competition. Nothing new in that for them I suppose. Read here for more on the game.
The Stormers on the other hand have managed a win, but didn’t look too impressive while doing so. I believe that they will struggle on the road like most of the African teams tend to do in this competition.
So, from the first round of Super 14 there were a few surprises. I hope that most of you have signed up for the virtual super 14 competition. I’m starting mid way down the pack after the first week, although I am pleased to say that some of my mates have started much worse than I have. Hard to pick the first round, and congratulations to those of you that have. However, now that we’ve seen what the teams have to offer we are better placed for next week. During the week we’ll look at some of the matches that are coming up and look at comment on who is going to triumph in the coming round two.
Finally, I have to say how much I enjoyed being able to watch first class Rugby action again from the World’s greatest rugby competition. It was scintillating stuff and there were some fierce encounters. Bring on the next round…
Well, the last game of the weekend was ground out this morning in the Republic. Despite a strong start, the Chief’s couldn’t quite cut the mustard, but the big man Sione Lauaki certainly gave it a decent nudge with the opening try. No backwards steps from that man, and we hope to see more of him in Super 14 this year, and of course the tri-nations after that. It’s always difficult to win away from home, and the Chiefs can’t read to much into their first loss. At least they have one of their many away games out of the way early on, although they may rue the fact that they couldn’t get a bonus point on this one. Read here for more.
The Sharks of course have their first win and can take some heart from it. Montgomerey played well, nabbing two tries in the first half, and kicking a boatload of points to take the game in the second. Well done Percy (shame about the name, but hey, give credit where it is due). For a break down on the game, read here.
The last game of the weekend, certainly the last one that I will be covering anyways, was the Cats against the Stormers, and well, didn’t the Cats play more like kittens in this one. 23-12 was a bit flattering and they never really looked like doing it. Seems to me that they are in for another long season and they will struggle for the rest of the competition. Nothing new in that for them I suppose. Read here for more on the game.
The Stormers on the other hand have managed a win, but didn’t look too impressive while doing so. I believe that they will struggle on the road like most of the African teams tend to do in this competition.
So, from the first round of Super 14 there were a few surprises. I hope that most of you have signed up for the virtual super 14 competition. I’m starting mid way down the pack after the first week, although I am pleased to say that some of my mates have started much worse than I have. Hard to pick the first round, and congratulations to those of you that have. However, now that we’ve seen what the teams have to offer we are better placed for next week. During the week we’ll look at some of the matches that are coming up and look at comment on who is going to triumph in the coming round two.
Finally, I have to say how much I enjoyed being able to watch first class Rugby action again from the World’s greatest rugby competition. It was scintillating stuff and there were some fierce encounters. Bring on the next round…
Saturday, February 11, 2006
AND THE HITS JUST KEEP ON COMING IN ROUND ONE!!!!
Two more games under our belts this weekend. First up, the Crusaders took on the Highlanders at Jade Stadium (they really need to do something about that name). It was a pretty tight game until the second half when the Crusdaers ran away with it. A crucial decision in the second half cost the Highlanders dearly, and didn't Anton Oliver have plenty to say about it at the end of the game. Clearly they were about to score a try, and any foul did prevent that from happening. I think that he was right, but there isn't any point in getting all teary eyed about it. The Highlnaders did well in what was always going to be a tough game. The Crusaders hav eatoned for last years loss in the semi-final of the domestic NPC competition to hand Auckland the Championship. For a full match report, read here.
It was a hotly contested match, and Greg Somerville made an impact int eh second half, the way that most ageing props tend to...yes, he put in the cheap shots. It will be interesting to see if anything is made of it, but I doubt that he will be made to answer for it. He is cunning, in a master yoda like way that only players at the end of their careers are capable of. I'm sure that he wont get away with that sort of thing against the other teams....
Also teh Warratahs down the Reds, although it was a less than comprehensive victory. Their first win against the Reds at home in the professional era (still an amazing stat if you ask me, the Reds have been woeful in professional rugby, clearly the Warratahs haven't been much better). The Reds played well, and did well to come up only four points short. Their season, although opening with a loss, is still salvageable and they may prove tough at home. Howver, they tend to raise themselves for their traditional rivals and it is my pick that they will continue t struggle at home. The young man didn't embarrass himself and it looks like this could be the start of something big for the new first five.
The Warratahs struggled to over-come the hoodoo, but did it for the first time at Suncorp stadium. However, their play was patchy, and they were clearly effected by the pre-match hype. Wendell's interaction with the crowd distracted him and while he made a few runs, he didn't undertake the main job of winger, and Tuqiri failed to score when the line was wide open for him. For a full match report read here.
At least it did prove to be a match with feeling. While there wasn't much scoring action, fans can't really question the commitment of the teams and their willingness to take each other one. Phil Waugh left the field for running repairs and the claret flowed thick and fast. Read the full story here to catch up on the action.
Another couple of good games for the weekend, enjoy the rest of the weekends action when the Sharks take on the Chiefs in the Republic.
Oh yeah, and bad luck Blues Bugger, looks like the men in tartan have a loss to start the season, and a bit more work to do yet. However, they did look better than previous years and may still yet be a force to be reckoned with. Keep the comments coming.
It was a hotly contested match, and Greg Somerville made an impact int eh second half, the way that most ageing props tend to...yes, he put in the cheap shots. It will be interesting to see if anything is made of it, but I doubt that he will be made to answer for it. He is cunning, in a master yoda like way that only players at the end of their careers are capable of. I'm sure that he wont get away with that sort of thing against the other teams....
Also teh Warratahs down the Reds, although it was a less than comprehensive victory. Their first win against the Reds at home in the professional era (still an amazing stat if you ask me, the Reds have been woeful in professional rugby, clearly the Warratahs haven't been much better). The Reds played well, and did well to come up only four points short. Their season, although opening with a loss, is still salvageable and they may prove tough at home. Howver, they tend to raise themselves for their traditional rivals and it is my pick that they will continue t struggle at home. The young man didn't embarrass himself and it looks like this could be the start of something big for the new first five.
The Warratahs struggled to over-come the hoodoo, but did it for the first time at Suncorp stadium. However, their play was patchy, and they were clearly effected by the pre-match hype. Wendell's interaction with the crowd distracted him and while he made a few runs, he didn't undertake the main job of winger, and Tuqiri failed to score when the line was wide open for him. For a full match report read here.
At least it did prove to be a match with feeling. While there wasn't much scoring action, fans can't really question the commitment of the teams and their willingness to take each other one. Phil Waugh left the field for running repairs and the claret flowed thick and fast. Read the full story here to catch up on the action.
Another couple of good games for the weekend, enjoy the rest of the weekends action when the Sharks take on the Chiefs in the Republic.
Oh yeah, and bad luck Blues Bugger, looks like the men in tartan have a loss to start the season, and a bit more work to do yet. However, they did look better than previous years and may still yet be a force to be reckoned with. Keep the comments coming.
Opening Salvos Fired in Round One
The mighty Hurricanes down the woeful Blues outfit that simply failed to turn up for the second half. After what was a fairly promising beginning, Auckland slumped to a shameful defeat on Eden Park following allowing five easy tries to be scored against them by a hungry Hurricanes side. Can the 'canes go on from here and maintain their first good win for 2006. And what of the Blues? Should they pack up and move the franchise to Hokitika? Seems like there may be a few too many players in that franchise that take their positions and status as New Zealand's top team for granted.
But well done to the 'canes, they've started with a hiss and a roar getting maximum points and I hope that they continue for the rest of the season. They proven once again that a good big man, will beat a good small man every time. Daniel Braid really needs to get on teh protein powder or something. It was good to see the North Harbgour number 8 stand up and be counted, failing to be intimidated by the reputation of Jerry Collins. Read here for a full match report and here for comment from the Dominion Post out of Wellington, NZ for what they have to say about it.
The Brumbies weather the Force and with a couple of tries in the second half, spoil the new franchises dreams. No doubt there will be plenty of comment over the next few days praising John Mitchell's analysis of his team, however they came up short against a team that must be on the way down if international performances are anything to go by. A predictable match, possibly a little closer than expected. The Brumbies were never going to lose and have posted their first win of the season, although they couldn'tget the bonus point. Read here for a full match report and here for comment from New Zealand.
The Bulls whom we read earlier were carrying the hopes of the nation do not disappoint in their opening match against the new comers to the competition, the Cheetahs. Not much of a game, too much kicking, and too much of that was inaccurate to say the least. The Bulls, if they are to do well will need to lift their game when they come up against some serious opposition. Cheetahs look like they will be fighting it out for the wooden spoon with the Force. Read here for a full match report.
For a complete wrap of the scores so far, check it out here. 2 predicatble results so far, with the exception of the highly rated Blues slumping to a woeful defeat on Eden Park. Does this vindicate the decision of Mills to head to the Chiefs? Who knows, it is still early days yet and if any of the first round losers can turn it around, the Blues should be able to do it. The problem is, that in past season when an early loss is suffered they tend to do poorly.
Well, that's it for now. Watch for more comment on today's matches later on. Enjoy the weekend, and isn't great to be able to watch some high class, good quality Ruby again?!!! Bring it on, can't get enough!
But well done to the 'canes, they've started with a hiss and a roar getting maximum points and I hope that they continue for the rest of the season. They proven once again that a good big man, will beat a good small man every time. Daniel Braid really needs to get on teh protein powder or something. It was good to see the North Harbgour number 8 stand up and be counted, failing to be intimidated by the reputation of Jerry Collins. Read here for a full match report and here for comment from the Dominion Post out of Wellington, NZ for what they have to say about it.
The Brumbies weather the Force and with a couple of tries in the second half, spoil the new franchises dreams. No doubt there will be plenty of comment over the next few days praising John Mitchell's analysis of his team, however they came up short against a team that must be on the way down if international performances are anything to go by. A predictable match, possibly a little closer than expected. The Brumbies were never going to lose and have posted their first win of the season, although they couldn'tget the bonus point. Read here for a full match report and here for comment from New Zealand.
The Bulls whom we read earlier were carrying the hopes of the nation do not disappoint in their opening match against the new comers to the competition, the Cheetahs. Not much of a game, too much kicking, and too much of that was inaccurate to say the least. The Bulls, if they are to do well will need to lift their game when they come up against some serious opposition. Cheetahs look like they will be fighting it out for the wooden spoon with the Force. Read here for a full match report.
For a complete wrap of the scores so far, check it out here. 2 predicatble results so far, with the exception of the highly rated Blues slumping to a woeful defeat on Eden Park. Does this vindicate the decision of Mills to head to the Chiefs? Who knows, it is still early days yet and if any of the first round losers can turn it around, the Blues should be able to do it. The problem is, that in past season when an early loss is suffered they tend to do poorly.
Well, that's it for now. Watch for more comment on today's matches later on. Enjoy the weekend, and isn't great to be able to watch some high class, good quality Ruby again?!!! Bring it on, can't get enough!
Wednesday, February 08, 2006
Okay,
The first game of the season, the Blues vs the Hurricanes from Eden Park on Friday evening (NZ time) is fast appoaching. The teams have now been named with Kevin Senio getting the nod ahead of the luckless Steve Devine. Click here to check that out. This should be a real cracker to kick the season off. You'd have to rank the Blues as favourites playing at home, but they've had trouble with Wellington in recent years and this is a strong Hurricanes side with 13 internationals. I wonder if David Nucifora will show the sameforward thinking that he used with the Brumbies...and didn't it cost him dearly there! Last seasons Wallabies performances certainly proved him right.
The Chiefs have chosen to spurn the traditional warm South African welcome for New Zealand teams when they arrived for their game against the Sharks. Even without Roger Randle in the team these days, who could blame them. It seems that if anything is going to wrong with a touring New Zealand team, it is going to happen while they are touring the Republic. Coincidence? I think not. However, at least management appear to have finally wisened up to this statistical anomaly and are taking steps to prevent issues from arising in future. Check out that story here.
Avoiding the limelight is a good move and check out the predicted reception for the behemouth, Sione Lauaki. That man is a mountain, and I bet anything he is on a first name basis with Colonel Sanders, or at least customer of the year for 2004-2005, and the frontrunner to take it away again this year. Check out the comment from South Africa on him here. I pity the fool that tries anything on with that guy, I'm sure that he can look after himself.
Meanwhile in the Republic they appear to be pretty realistic about their chances this season. The Bulls have been named as the team to carry the hopes of the nation, and based on previous years performances, you'd have to say that was a fair appraisal. For the full story click here.
The local derby from Brisbane is shaping up to be quite a game, at least if it can live up to the hype. I fear that this may not be the case as the Reds seem to be clutching at straws. Good luck to young Berrick Barnes I say, but straight into your first Super 14 game from Rugby League is a big ask. Read what he has to say about it here. It does look a bit like the Red's talent scouts might have been caught napping and now that young man is given a chance...or thrown to the lions.
The pre-game hype for that game continues with Wendell entering the fray in a very low key, public relations coached manner. A good shot on Chris Handy works its way in there, however for a bit of a chuckle. Wendell got a nice reception at the airport from the local media and assured everyone that he was just there to play footy and that's what he would concentrate on. Read here for more. And for more actual information on the game, which seems to be getting overlooked in all the hype, have a look here.
The local derbyfrom New Zealand is shaping up as being a game worth watching. If ever the Highlanders would want to play the Crusaders, it is at the beginning of the season where they tend to perform badly. This is always a good game as there is plenty of feeling between the teams being located right next door to each other. Click here for a story on the game and here for a story on a possible upset win to the Highlanders.
Out West things are warming up for new coach John Mitchell. He offers his assessment of injury reports from the Brumbies camp and comments about his team in general. It was interesting to read his predicted year of struggle for the team in its first Super 14. An honest assessment of the situation, but also self serving in some ways. At least they can't say he lead them to expect that they wouold win...something he may have done in the past. Click here for the full story.
Well, after all that I am counting the moments until kick off. Catch all the action and comment here. See you all tomorrow with a new post.
The first game of the season, the Blues vs the Hurricanes from Eden Park on Friday evening (NZ time) is fast appoaching. The teams have now been named with Kevin Senio getting the nod ahead of the luckless Steve Devine. Click here to check that out. This should be a real cracker to kick the season off. You'd have to rank the Blues as favourites playing at home, but they've had trouble with Wellington in recent years and this is a strong Hurricanes side with 13 internationals. I wonder if David Nucifora will show the sameforward thinking that he used with the Brumbies...and didn't it cost him dearly there! Last seasons Wallabies performances certainly proved him right.
The Chiefs have chosen to spurn the traditional warm South African welcome for New Zealand teams when they arrived for their game against the Sharks. Even without Roger Randle in the team these days, who could blame them. It seems that if anything is going to wrong with a touring New Zealand team, it is going to happen while they are touring the Republic. Coincidence? I think not. However, at least management appear to have finally wisened up to this statistical anomaly and are taking steps to prevent issues from arising in future. Check out that story here.
Avoiding the limelight is a good move and check out the predicted reception for the behemouth, Sione Lauaki. That man is a mountain, and I bet anything he is on a first name basis with Colonel Sanders, or at least customer of the year for 2004-2005, and the frontrunner to take it away again this year. Check out the comment from South Africa on him here. I pity the fool that tries anything on with that guy, I'm sure that he can look after himself.
Meanwhile in the Republic they appear to be pretty realistic about their chances this season. The Bulls have been named as the team to carry the hopes of the nation, and based on previous years performances, you'd have to say that was a fair appraisal. For the full story click here.
The local derby from Brisbane is shaping up to be quite a game, at least if it can live up to the hype. I fear that this may not be the case as the Reds seem to be clutching at straws. Good luck to young Berrick Barnes I say, but straight into your first Super 14 game from Rugby League is a big ask. Read what he has to say about it here. It does look a bit like the Red's talent scouts might have been caught napping and now that young man is given a chance...or thrown to the lions.
The pre-game hype for that game continues with Wendell entering the fray in a very low key, public relations coached manner. A good shot on Chris Handy works its way in there, however for a bit of a chuckle. Wendell got a nice reception at the airport from the local media and assured everyone that he was just there to play footy and that's what he would concentrate on. Read here for more. And for more actual information on the game, which seems to be getting overlooked in all the hype, have a look here.
The local derbyfrom New Zealand is shaping up as being a game worth watching. If ever the Highlanders would want to play the Crusaders, it is at the beginning of the season where they tend to perform badly. This is always a good game as there is plenty of feeling between the teams being located right next door to each other. Click here for a story on the game and here for a story on a possible upset win to the Highlanders.
Out West things are warming up for new coach John Mitchell. He offers his assessment of injury reports from the Brumbies camp and comments about his team in general. It was interesting to read his predicted year of struggle for the team in its first Super 14. An honest assessment of the situation, but also self serving in some ways. At least they can't say he lead them to expect that they wouold win...something he may have done in the past. Click here for the full story.
Well, after all that I am counting the moments until kick off. Catch all the action and comment here. See you all tomorrow with a new post.
Tuesday, February 07, 2006
Alright,
I've found a pretty decent site that sets out the teams taking part in the Super 14 and features their draws and that sort of information. Click here to follow your favourite team and check out all their games. This kind of information is great near the end of the season as often you lose track of which team has played which. I expect that this will particularly be the case this year with the extended competition.
The posturing has begun in earnest now for Super 14 season 2006. The gloves are off, and the Aussies in particular are really getting into the name calling and player bashing in anticipation of the weekend's clashes. The traditional rivalry between the Reds and the Warratahs is in full swing as the teams shape up to take each otehr on this weekend. Wendell Sailor is bearing the brunt of a few tasteless jokes that the Australians do so well. Apparently some in the rugby fraternity will never tire of jokes questioning the sexuality of various players... Click here for more.
So far the response from the 'boys in blue' has been somewhat muted, at least in the media anyway. Let's see what they can prodce on the field. They've named the team for the weekend and with all but one of the forward pack being a wallaby, you'd have to say that they were odds on to take out the game against the Reds for the second time in their history (now isn't that a strange statistic). Check out the team here
Peter Fitzsimons offers soem comments on the prospects of the Force and Australian Rugby in general. Normally fairly witty, Fitzsimons continues on in his usual vein of reminiscing about days gone by and reveling in former acts of violence on the field that the touch judges and video replays are largely banishing to the record books. However, with Troy Flavell back in action, anything could happen this year! Click here for more.
From Kiwi land we have a few interesting comments from the most vilified captain of the All Blacks in recent times, Reuben Thorne. Thorne, one of the more successful captains in Super 12 history will be looking to recaputre that winning form from last year from the lads. Check out what he has to say here.
I'm not a Crusaders fan, and I think it is boring when the same team wins over and over again. However, it aint hard to see why they keep doing so well when their talent scouts get players like this for them each year. I expect to see good things from Tanerau Latimer, if not this season then certainkly in years to come. Click here to read all about it.
This week the Sharks take on the Chiefs. The coach of the Sharks is promising surprises in the team that he will anounce, however as per usual it seems this forward thinking approach is a matter of necessity rather than invention and dynamism. The absence of Tony Brown, Former Otago man and All Black, rather than a coherent, consistent, and planned change of coaching tactics is more likely to be responsible here. Click here to read more. Jamie Nutbrown appears to be in for another season of playing second fiddle now he has moved to the Chiefs and will play behind Byron Kelleher. However, bearing in mind how hard Byron plays the game, he is likely to suffer injury and allow Nutbrown to have a crack. After years playing behind Justin Marshall at Canterbury, Nutbrown should be used to this role. Check out what he has to say here.
And finally for today, the age old problem of the status of international sevens presents itself again as the commonwealth games hove into view. The contest between paying Super 14 franchises and national honours rears its head again, but at least in this case New Zealand chances of a gold medal appear to have been enhanced by allowing the best of teh Super 14 players to be able to be picked by the coach. Good luck boys. Click here to read more.
I hope that you enjoy the material and I'm looking forward to bringing more interesting links your way tomorrow. I'll also publish my e-mail address for this site so that you can let me know what you're thinking about the blog and how things are going. Roll on the weekend, wooooo hoooo! Big hits, scintillating back line movements, and hard graft up front are going to be back. I can't wait for kick off Super 14 2006.
I've found a pretty decent site that sets out the teams taking part in the Super 14 and features their draws and that sort of information. Click here to follow your favourite team and check out all their games. This kind of information is great near the end of the season as often you lose track of which team has played which. I expect that this will particularly be the case this year with the extended competition.
The posturing has begun in earnest now for Super 14 season 2006. The gloves are off, and the Aussies in particular are really getting into the name calling and player bashing in anticipation of the weekend's clashes. The traditional rivalry between the Reds and the Warratahs is in full swing as the teams shape up to take each otehr on this weekend. Wendell Sailor is bearing the brunt of a few tasteless jokes that the Australians do so well. Apparently some in the rugby fraternity will never tire of jokes questioning the sexuality of various players... Click here for more.
So far the response from the 'boys in blue' has been somewhat muted, at least in the media anyway. Let's see what they can prodce on the field. They've named the team for the weekend and with all but one of the forward pack being a wallaby, you'd have to say that they were odds on to take out the game against the Reds for the second time in their history (now isn't that a strange statistic). Check out the team here
Peter Fitzsimons offers soem comments on the prospects of the Force and Australian Rugby in general. Normally fairly witty, Fitzsimons continues on in his usual vein of reminiscing about days gone by and reveling in former acts of violence on the field that the touch judges and video replays are largely banishing to the record books. However, with Troy Flavell back in action, anything could happen this year! Click here for more.
From Kiwi land we have a few interesting comments from the most vilified captain of the All Blacks in recent times, Reuben Thorne. Thorne, one of the more successful captains in Super 12 history will be looking to recaputre that winning form from last year from the lads. Check out what he has to say here.
I'm not a Crusaders fan, and I think it is boring when the same team wins over and over again. However, it aint hard to see why they keep doing so well when their talent scouts get players like this for them each year. I expect to see good things from Tanerau Latimer, if not this season then certainkly in years to come. Click here to read all about it.
This week the Sharks take on the Chiefs. The coach of the Sharks is promising surprises in the team that he will anounce, however as per usual it seems this forward thinking approach is a matter of necessity rather than invention and dynamism. The absence of Tony Brown, Former Otago man and All Black, rather than a coherent, consistent, and planned change of coaching tactics is more likely to be responsible here. Click here to read more. Jamie Nutbrown appears to be in for another season of playing second fiddle now he has moved to the Chiefs and will play behind Byron Kelleher. However, bearing in mind how hard Byron plays the game, he is likely to suffer injury and allow Nutbrown to have a crack. After years playing behind Justin Marshall at Canterbury, Nutbrown should be used to this role. Check out what he has to say here.
And finally for today, the age old problem of the status of international sevens presents itself again as the commonwealth games hove into view. The contest between paying Super 14 franchises and national honours rears its head again, but at least in this case New Zealand chances of a gold medal appear to have been enhanced by allowing the best of teh Super 14 players to be able to be picked by the coach. Good luck boys. Click here to read more.
I hope that you enjoy the material and I'm looking forward to bringing more interesting links your way tomorrow. I'll also publish my e-mail address for this site so that you can let me know what you're thinking about the blog and how things are going. Roll on the weekend, wooooo hoooo! Big hits, scintillating back line movements, and hard graft up front are going to be back. I can't wait for kick off Super 14 2006.
Monday, February 06, 2006
Okay folks, I've been taking a look around the net and have found a few articles that should start to warm you up for the season that kicks off this Friday, 10 February 2006 in New Zealand with the Auckland Blues up against the Wellington Huricanes on the hallowed turf of Eden Park. It's been a long time coming and at last we'll get to see our favourite teams in action again. Guaranteed to be some big hits in that game, which has always been a cracker since the Super 12 first kicked off professional rugby.
And haven't the comments been coming thick and fast this week about the Super 14. The Tahs not using numbers and switching to players initials instead. "Hold the front page" some innovation. SANZAR of course takes excetption and demands that they revert back to numbers only. Perhaps they should concentrate of the real issue and instead of the initials do something about that ridiculous name...no wonder they lost the final last year. The Tahs...sounds like a bunch of people who say thank you in the colloquial manner far to often. I still can't believe that they managed to sneak into the final last year. Still, they never had a chance.
However, check out the full stories below. For those that are keen, the entire draw is set out below so you can keep a track of all the action. There are even some keen punters making predictions this early on. Most seem to rate the New Zealand teams as coming out first and second, however those boys will be spending a lot more time on the road this year with the additional Aussie and South African teams. However, on past performance you can't really look past the lads from New Zealand.
The South Africans are at it again. Shooting themselves in the foot with more infighting and backtracking on the innovative and startlingly uncharacteristically forward looking plan of having a relegation system for their Super 14 teams. It was too good to be true, and the rest of us can be thankful that incentive is beign removed from their rugby again. Also, for an interesting spin on their rugby, check out the quota arrangements made for black players in the Super 14.
Well, that's about it for today. Click on the links and see what you think. Don't forget to register for the virtual super 14 and have some fun making your predictions for the games. Bring on Friday, I can't wait for kick off. I'll be bringing you comment and links to all the action. Don't forget, give me your comments and I'll make sure that they are posted on this blog provided that they aren't obscene or illegal or just plain boring advertising.
Enjoy the Super 14 and I'll be seeing you back here again soon...
Predictions this early on?
And more of the same bold talk
Season draw.
The reason the South Africans continue to struggle in the competition
The legacy of history on South African rugby
One of the best players in Aussie rugby...and the Reds let him go!
Does SANZAR need a reason to exist or what? Coach McKenzie makes a splash.
And haven't the comments been coming thick and fast this week about the Super 14. The Tahs not using numbers and switching to players initials instead. "Hold the front page" some innovation. SANZAR of course takes excetption and demands that they revert back to numbers only. Perhaps they should concentrate of the real issue and instead of the initials do something about that ridiculous name...no wonder they lost the final last year. The Tahs...sounds like a bunch of people who say thank you in the colloquial manner far to often. I still can't believe that they managed to sneak into the final last year. Still, they never had a chance.
However, check out the full stories below. For those that are keen, the entire draw is set out below so you can keep a track of all the action. There are even some keen punters making predictions this early on. Most seem to rate the New Zealand teams as coming out first and second, however those boys will be spending a lot more time on the road this year with the additional Aussie and South African teams. However, on past performance you can't really look past the lads from New Zealand.
The South Africans are at it again. Shooting themselves in the foot with more infighting and backtracking on the innovative and startlingly uncharacteristically forward looking plan of having a relegation system for their Super 14 teams. It was too good to be true, and the rest of us can be thankful that incentive is beign removed from their rugby again. Also, for an interesting spin on their rugby, check out the quota arrangements made for black players in the Super 14.
Well, that's about it for today. Click on the links and see what you think. Don't forget to register for the virtual super 14 and have some fun making your predictions for the games. Bring on Friday, I can't wait for kick off. I'll be bringing you comment and links to all the action. Don't forget, give me your comments and I'll make sure that they are posted on this blog provided that they aren't obscene or illegal or just plain boring advertising.
Enjoy the Super 14 and I'll be seeing you back here again soon...
Predictions this early on?
And more of the same bold talk
Season draw.
The reason the South Africans continue to struggle in the competition
The legacy of history on South African rugby
One of the best players in Aussie rugby...and the Reds let him go!
Does SANZAR need a reason to exist or what? Coach McKenzie makes a splash.
Sunday, February 05, 2006
Hi folks,
I'm in the final stages of setting up the blog at the moment. I apologise for the delay, I know that kick off is only a few days away now (at last), and that you'll be chompin at the bit to get into it. This should be a great season and I'm looking forward to getting this blog up and running for all you Super 14 fans out there.
Check back in a day or so and this site will be up and running.
In the meantime, click on the links to join up with the 'fantasy rugby' competition run out of New Zealand for the Super 14, or get a general run down on the competition from wikipedia.
Bring it on!
The Chief.
I'm in the final stages of setting up the blog at the moment. I apologise for the delay, I know that kick off is only a few days away now (at last), and that you'll be chompin at the bit to get into it. This should be a great season and I'm looking forward to getting this blog up and running for all you Super 14 fans out there.
Check back in a day or so and this site will be up and running.
In the meantime, click on the links to join up with the 'fantasy rugby' competition run out of New Zealand for the Super 14, or get a general run down on the competition from wikipedia.
Bring it on!
The Chief.
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