The Rugby Thread [Archive] - Page 2 - Soccer Fans Network Forums

Rompip

08-16-2005, 07:26 PM

Anyone here support the Australian NRL?
I unfortunately have close to no access to NRL (I have seen AFL Aussie rules but I assume youre talking about Rugby League.)

South Africa has no rugby league sides/coverage. The only time I ever see anything to do with league is when I watch Sky sports, and then Its only news clips. I think SA must be the only rugby power that has absolutely no RLeague teams. This is a pity because when one looks at the calibre of backline players that come out of League I think it would really help strengthen our rugby (SA has not had a truly world class backline since our re admission to international sport.)

When I see the amazing skills and pace of guys like Sailor, Tuqiri, Robinson, Rogers etc I realise how League can be so popular.

GiorgioII

08-16-2005, 07:51 PM

Rompip

08-17-2005, 07:10 AM

I just cannot get as excited by League. It is less exciting due to less aspects of the game(line-outs, rucks etc etc). Robinson, Tuqiri, Rogers and Sailor are all good players but all are slightly flawed, with Rogers and Tuqiri perhaps the most complete, although Sailor is coming on leaps and bounds. But when Andy Farrell is likely to be England's Number 8 or Inside Centre(they are yet to decide which of these highly different positions he is better suited to) I know that League has had too much of an influence on our game.
I guess League has never really happened in SA because of our rugby tradition. Rugby here is first and foremost about forwards' power and physical domination, and everything else after that is a bonus. League doesnt use a contestable scrum, its more like a restart than a contest. Any game without forward play would be yawned at here. I still wouldn't mind watching some of it though.

GiorgioII

08-17-2005, 05:27 PM

The Aussie team for this weekends' showdown looks very weak. Flately at 10 is going to make life difficult for themselves, I think the Boks will win by 10.

Rompip

08-17-2005, 09:09 PM

The Aussie team for this weekends' showdown looks very weak. Flately at 10 is going to make life difficult for themselves, I think the Boks will win by 10.
It is a very weak team to be fielding in a Tri Nations test match. The one thing that may have been a blessing in disguise for Oz over the last decade, their lack of depth (resulting in consistent selection and combinations), is proving to be a nasty headache. Of the modern day powers Aus have by far the fewest number of top class (union) players and with the injury crisis they face at the moment it might prove to be Eddie Jones's waterloo (YIPPEEEEEE!!!!!)

What baffles me is that he has DROPPED George Smith!!!???

GiorgioII

08-17-2005, 09:14 PM

What baffles me is that he has DROPPED George Smith!!!???

Oh well it is their loss, it is definitely a strange decision. I think Eddie's time as Coach is coming to an end somehow :lever: .

GiorgioII

08-20-2005, 09:00 PM

The Boks won again, although it was less deserved than in previous games. Monty's kicking was not as good and cost the team 13 points whilst the lock combination failed to produce the same form away from home as they do at home. Perhaps the most crucial point though is that the Boks still have collected no bonus points and will probably pay the price :sad: .

1. Du Randt 7/10 - A top scrummaging game(as ever) and a few bulloching runs to accompany it. He looked to be struggling with an injury though as the game progressed.
2. Smit 6.5/10 - Less of an inspiration as in the last few games. He harassed around the edges of the breakdown which was superb and as usual his line-out throwing was pin-point. Needs to gain more control over his occasionally unwrily troops.
3. Van der Linde 6.5/10 - A solid all round game from him as he outscrummaged the experienced Billy Young. Did some nice bits in the loose as well.
4. Botha 6/10 - His schyzophrina caught up with him again!! A colossal player in Bokke land but invisible away from home. Having said that he was perfect on his own ball in the line-out. It was a shame that he could not have made some more steals and tackled so many opponents as he did last time around.
5. Matfield 6.5/10 - A good game with one good line-out steal and solid on his own ball. Little impact elsewhere though.
6. Burger 7/10 - Gave away quite a lot of penalties but served well as a good linking man between forwards and backs. He made less of an impact at the breakdown than usual though, which was a little dissapointing.
7. Smith 8/10 - Tackled his way through more players than anyone else(although I haven't actually seen the official stats :lol: ), carried the ball well and acted as a good tail-jumper. We are starting to see the emergence of a world class player.
8. Van Niekerk 6.5/10 - I felt he was a little quiet to be honest. He was bought down too easily compared to how many tackles he usually breaks. Hope to see better next time out.

9. Januarie 6/10 - I have always been a fan of him because of the pressure that he puts on the opponents in the early stages of a game. But he didn't have that effect today and there are still question marks over his service.
10. Pretorius 7/10 - Has good vision and that was evident today from his kicking and passing game. He also had one or two quite good runs. Despite the missed tackle on Turinui that cost the Boks a try he tackled loads and does not deserve to be dropped.
11. Habana 8/10 - Two fantastic tries that showd how much pace he really has. Surely he could have been a 100m sprinter? Was more involved all over the park than usual and can be very pleased with his game.
12. De Villiers 6.5/10 - Some uncharacteristic knock-ons and was not as lively with the ball in hand.
13. Fourie 7/10 - Rock solid in defence and a few nice runs as well. Great stuff.
14. Paulse 6.5/10 - Unlucky with the yellow card and had some nice kicks as ever. I don't think his defence or attacking instincts are up to scratch though for a team that hopes to win the WC in 2007. What happened to Willemse?
15. Montgomery 7/10 - Some great kicks, some awful ones, some good decisions, some awful ones. A mixture from the veteran here today....

I don't know if the Boks can win next week.... I hope they do, but I have my doubts....

Rompip

08-21-2005, 07:22 PM

That was a bit close. Either team could have won. Australia played well for a team absolutely racked by injuries. I am certain that NZ in NZ is going to be way too strong for Jake's men.

The thing that really worries me is that the Boks have only been able to build one try up this entire Tri Nations. Winning by a couple of points through intercept tries is not going to suffice come 2007 World Cup. Jake also seems to rely on this rush defence thing too much. I hope he has alternative plans because it's only a matter of time b4 someone figures out adequate and consistent counters to it.

Watch NZ beat us and the Aussies with bonus points to take the Tri Nations.

Rompip

08-21-2005, 07:27 PM

I am loving your ratings Giorgio. I find it hard to fault them. I have personally not yet seen a rating by you that I would differ on by more than a point. Not Yet.... :)

GiorgioII

08-22-2005, 09:29 AM

I betted on SA in SFN Betting, but my head is telling me for the first time in this tournament that they are going to get beaten in Dunedin. I wouldn't be too worried about the rush defence, it is an effective way of stopping teams that have pace out wide. The only way it can be exploited is if the inside backs pick off the forwards who make up the defensive line and manage to glide on through. However the Springboks are lucky in that their tight 5 forwards such as Smit, Matfield, Botha and Van der Linde are especially mobile for their size. Basically I think that the defensive pattern is working well and should still be in tact come 2007.

You are right about the Boks lack of ability to build up tries though. Perhaps when Paulse leaves and a more talented, powerful back comes in that will change. It often takes just one new player with a bit more talent than the previous one to spark the whole back line, margins are everything.

White now has to decide which of Fourie or De Villiers to play on the wing and which of Joubert or Barry to call up as he cannot replace a suspended player from outside the squad. I was thinking maybe he could put Jaco Van der Westhuyzen at 15 and move Monty to the wing but Percy lacks the pace that he used to have. I guess De Villiers will have to go ont he wing and I personally would call up Barry. Even though JVDW did superbly after coming on for Pretorius I really hope that White doesn't make that change to the starting line-up.

9. Du Preez
10. Pretorius
11. Habana
12. Barry
13. Fourie
14. De Villiers
15. Monty

That is the best backline to combat the Kiwis.... :evil:

Rompip

08-24-2005, 06:03 AM

Most of the speculation here is pointing White picking Barry at IC and moving De Villiers to the wing.

GiorgioII

08-24-2005, 09:33 AM

Yea I've changed my mind again though. I don't think White should break up that brilliant midfield pairing. Without De Villiers there will be a real lack of creativity in the backs, where the crucial decisions need to be made. I would keep it as it is and move Joubert to 14. Can he play there? I think so.... :question:

GiorgioII

08-24-2005, 09:49 AM

Here we are then:

15 Percy Montgomery, 14 Jean de Villiers, 13 Jaque Fourie, 12 De Wet Barry, 11 Bryan Habana, 10 André Pretorius, 9 Ricky Januarie, 8 Joe van Niekerk, 7 Juan Smith, 6 Schalk Burger, 5 Victor Matfield, 4 Bakkies Botha, 3 CJ van der Linde, 2 John Smit (captain), 1 Os du Randt.
Replacements: 16 Hanyani Shimange, 17 Eddie Andrews, 18 Albert van den Berg, 19 Jacques Cronjé, 20 Fourie du Preez, 21 Jaco van der Westhuyzen, 22 Marius Joubert.

Du Preez should be in there......other than that I guess he has got it right :rolleyes: .

GiorgioII

08-26-2005, 03:45 PM

The Boks will win this, if they can get the following things correct:

1. They don't give Macdonald any space at 10. He is a good player but is a rookie at 10 and will need all the space he can get. Deny him this space and you deny the All Blacks outside backs.

2. Burger and co to match McCaw and Collins at the breakdown.

3. Line-out supremacy

4. Not too many infringements.

Rompip

08-26-2005, 10:01 PM

Rompip

08-26-2005, 10:07 PM

This Springbok team is turning out to be quite a good team. But I dont think they (or anyone else in the world) are quite good enough to beat NZ in NZ (at the "house of pain" in Dunedin on top of it!!!!)

I reckon NZ by 7. :worried:

GiorgioII

08-27-2005, 11:48 AM

Well it turnet out to be the All Blacks by 4. The Boks were so poor in the first half but I felt that they really played much better in the second half. I think though that after this tournament there should be some changes for the future at 10, 14 and 15.

Ratings:

1. Du Randt 6/10 - Was uninvolved really and looked to be struggling to keep up with the game. Although it was his opposite number Hayman who was giving away the penalties in the scrum, he was actually outscrumagged by the All Black Number 3.
2. Smit 6.5/10 - Generally uninspirational. He got around the park quite well and made a few good tackles, but his throwing was off colour and didn't look himself.
3. Van der Linde 6/10 - Held up his side of the scrum well but was unable to do much else around the pitch.
4. Botha 7/10 - Was the Boks main man in the line-outs and did a sterling job. He can hold his head up high despite a few missed tackles.
5. Matfield 6.5/10 - Was my main candidate for IRB player of the year before this game. His battle with Jack in the lineouts was a classic but he got turned over on one occasion. He missed a crucial tackle on Rococoko for the All Blacks third try and did not make as much of an effort around the pitch as I think he could have done.
6. Burger 7/10 - To carry on after such a horrific facial injury was just testament to what a character he is. He made some amazing tackles but then also missed some relatively simple ones. He has the desire and strength but I think he needs to work on his technique a bit to save himself from getting hurt. He was good at the breakdown but perhaps not as dangerous as usual. A strong game though.
7. Smith 6/10 - He dummied and ran himself with a 3 man overlap outside him. I counted a few missed tackles which is rare for a player of his quality. He just seemed uninterested at times really. Ran around the pitch with enthusiasm without making much of an impact.
8. Van Niekerk 6.5/10 - Did the same as his back row companion by spurning the overlap on his left shoulder and going for the line himself. I barely noticed him apart from some good stuff at the back of the scrums.

9. Januarie 7.5/10 - Poor service in crucial areas ultimately cost the Boks the game. But he also one them two tries with his usual harassing. He made more sniping runs than usual and was hungry for the ball as ever. Great stuff.
10. Pretorius 6/10 - I have been a big fan of his in the past but today in the first half he was poor. He decided to kick it when it was clear he was going to get charged down and his defence was not very solid. Perhaps even more worringly his tactical kicking which is usually so good was not so today. Maybe another option is needed here.
11. Habana 7/10 - Great in defence and always looking for the interception. He took his try well and burned the All Blacks for pace. The Boks need to look at getting him more involved off set piece moves.
12. Barry 6.5/10 - Did well in defence apart from giving away the penalty. But he is uninspiring in attack. He just runs straight and is not even that powerful as a tackle breaker.
13. Fourie 7/10 - Tackled ferociously and did very well when given the ball in attack. Ran a good support line for Januarie to take his try well. Will hopefully be a key component of this side for years to come.
14. De Villiers 6.5/10 - Clearly he is better at 12 and although he did his best in defence his opposite man always was a little too strong for him, although he did throw his body on the line on many occasions. Did little good in attack.
15. Montgomery 6.5/10 - Some marvelous kicks into the corner but some poor ones as well. Was very weak in defence and under the high ball. His goalkicking was sound. He is knocking on now and a new option here is needed.
21. Van der Westhuyzen 7/10 - Did wonderfully after coming on with his kicks into the corner and his lovely flat passes. White now faces a dilemma - VDW or Pretorius? I say neither :lol: .

Rompip

08-28-2005, 06:49 PM

White now faces a dilemma - VDW or Pretorius? I say neither :lol: .
I would tend to agree :D . Pretorius is better IMO. But there are no flyhalves in SA that stand out from the rest.

Morne Steyn (Bulls) and Willem de Waal (Free State) are about the best of the rest.

GiorgioII

08-28-2005, 10:31 PM

Rompip

08-29-2005, 09:46 PM

I use De Waal on Rugby 2005 because his tactical kicking is awesome, but of what I have seen, he is average in real life. I would be interested to see this Steyn guy. You have been singing his praises for quite some time now, is he fit at the moment? As in the only Bulls game I saw it was Tsimba at 10(also quite a good player). I guess Pretorius is the better of the two current options. What would your Bok team be now?
Tsimba is a good running/attacking flyhalf. Unfortunately he plays test rugby for Zimbabwe and is not eligible to play for RSA.

Steyn is good. He is only 20 so he is still a bit too young to be playing at test level. He has a lot to work on as well. His Goalkicking is too inconsistent. But he really gets the backline moving and he is solid in defence.

MY bok team?!?!?! It would have quite a few players (esp. in the front row) that aren't even in the squad. I have had too eat my words re: guys like Percy this year, but I still believe Jake is selecting a 22 that is quite some way off our strongest.

My Bok 15...
FB: Jacques Fourie (this is his preferred position)
W: Bryan Habana
OC: JP Nel
IC: Jean De Villiers
W: John Mametsa
FH: Andre Pretorius
SH: Fourie Du Preez
8: Jacques Cronje (My man Anton Leonard has decided to retire at the end of the year:()
F: Schalk Burger
F: Pedrie Wannenburg
L: Victor Matfield (C)
L: Bakkies Botha
P: Richard Bands
H: Gary Botha
P: Guthro Steenkamp (Hard to leave Os out but he is no longer our best loosehead)

Rompip

08-29-2005, 09:59 PM

BTW: Anton Leonard won his 50th captaincy cap for the Bulls on Saturday. In the 50 matches he has captained the Bulls (including Super12) they have won 42 drawn 2 lost 6.

GiorgioII

08-29-2005, 10:15 PM

I would have Van Niekerk ahead of Cronjé. Cronje is more powerful but VN has a better all round ball game and is a ferocious ball carrier as well. I don't know how you can leave Smit out of your team, but perhaps I will change my mind when I see Botha. I saw him make a brief appearance for the Barbarians at Twickenham against the All Blacks but I can't remember much :D . Mametsa is a good winger but I'm not sure if he will be good at test level, let's wait and see. I would like to see Russel at 15 again and keep the centre partnership as it is for now.... :smoking: ......

Rompip

08-30-2005, 08:07 PM

Smit is widely regarded as only the 3rd or 4th best hooker in SA. When he was selected as captain last year there was an outcry here because Gary Botha, Danie Coetzee and Schalk Brits(Lions) were playing far better rugby than him.

Smit is a terrible line out thrower. He is also not as good as Brits in open play, and his leadership can be questioned. He is powerful but thats about it.

That being said, he has had a good tri nations.

He made headlines here this afternoon because he's been accused of making a racial slur to a nightclub bouncer in Oz.

GiorgioII

08-30-2005, 08:11 PM

I thought his line-out throwing was great this year, but I guess he has been greatly aided by having Matfield and Botha to aim for. I heard about the racism thing.....it's a shame if he actually behaved in the way it was mentioned.

PS> Why is it that Shimange is also ahead of those hookers?

Rompip

08-30-2005, 08:28 PM

PS> Why is it that Shimange is also ahead of those hookers?
SARU has to implement what is called a quota system. Across all team sports in SA (and some individual sports too) teams across all levels (pro amateur and junior) are required to field a certain number of black/coloured players.

In SA rugby at provincial (currie cup) / super12 level the requirement is currently 3 black players at all times on the pitch.

At Springbok level Jake is trying his best to satisfy the ANC's (the ruling party) ongoing demands for more black players at the highest level. As a result a player like Shimange who is not test standard is 2nd to John Smit, 'officially'

GiorgioII

08-30-2005, 08:33 PM

Ah ok. What do you think will happen if Smit is found guilty? Will he lose the captaincy and his place in the team or not?

Rompip

08-30-2005, 08:38 PM

It's really tough to tell. IF he is guilty he will more than likely be dropped from the bok squad. That type of thing is taken very seriously here.

Let's wait and see what happens. As much as I think he doesn't deserve to be in the Bok squad, It would be terrible if he ends up being left out for something like this. He really seems like a decent guy so It is quite surprising to hear of this.

Rompip

08-30-2005, 08:43 PM

Rompip

08-30-2005, 08:46 PM

What happened to FAJA? Is he just taking a break due to the NH summer non-rugby season?

FAJA

08-30-2005, 11:08 PM

What happened to FAJA? Is he just taking a break due to the NH summer non-rugby season?

I am reading the thread, but I know very little about SA rugby and as I can't get sky to watch the matches I don't have a great deal to say.

Rompip

08-31-2005, 10:25 AM

What about historical things in rugby. I'm sure you guys must know quite a bit about English/Welsh rugby history. I know there aren't enough guys in this thread to have any in depth commentary on rugby history, but its an idea.

I wouldn't mind this because then I could brag about how the Springboks were the greatest rugby side in the 20th century :rockon: :ronaldo:

GiorgioII

08-31-2005, 08:30 PM

Giorgio, I just had a look at your public profile and saw that you have an interest in weightlifting.
Jacques Cronje can bench 170kgs! (I don't know number of reps but can find out)

Do you perhaps know of a site that gives info on stuff like weights lifted/ beep test times/ 40m times/ 100m times for sportsmen (any sports?)

No I don't but Andy Sheridan is thought to be able to do 200 plus KG!!

My interest is only really a side-interest to my Rugby. Basically I lift weights to gain strength. What position do you play, if you play?

Rompip

09-01-2005, 12:09 AM

I played club rugby for a season at wing and a bit of res (for varsity) rugby at lock/flank.

Unfortunately the high school I went to was a soccer school so I never really got a chance to play a helluva lot and I've been too lazy the last 2years to play. I am hoping to get back into club rugby next year again, (if I can get myself into shape!!! :ronaldo: )

Yourself Giorgio?

GiorgioII

09-01-2005, 08:16 PM

Rompip

09-03-2005, 07:47 AM

Aus-NZ 2day.
The whole of SA is supporting Aus (never thought that would happen!). If Aus win we get the tri nations.)
It's ironic that SA won the tri nations last year by getting more bonus points, than the others, and that may be the reason we won't win it this year. If I have to be completely honest I am not overly impressed with the Boks this year. They have been a lucky side in so much as they have really been living off the opponents mistakes. That may be considered a skill, but I doubt it is a skill that can be consistently used in order to win a WC.

Any way, I think NZ will have to much for Aus at home.
Aus have really been hampered by injuries this year. They will be playing Rogers at flyhalf!!!

NZ by 12

GiorgioII

09-03-2005, 12:14 PM

NZ won.

Now we have the Autumn Internationals to look forward to :D . Dallaglio may be coming out of retirement for England. I was never a big fan of his, but in all honesty we are missing a player like him and his leadership qualities would do us the world of good. I still think that when England have their full strength team out on the pitch with no injuries we can challenge any team in the world....and I have applied for tickets to all three of the England games in November....I can't afford all three though so hopefully I am not given them to all :lol: .

1. Sheridan
2. Thompson
3. White/Stevens
4. Shaw
5. Palmer
6. Corry/Worsley
7. Moody
8. Dallaglio(C)

9. Dawson/Ellis
10. Hodgson
11. Monye
12. Tindall
13. Smith
14. Cueto
15. Lewsey

I would really like to see that team given a good go against the Wallabies, All Blacks and Samoa :) .

Rompip

09-03-2005, 08:22 PM

Rompip

09-03-2005, 08:27 PM

Looked at the side you have put forward Giorgio...
I just can't help but feel that the current England is nowhere near the Eng 2001/2/3 squad.

That period of English rugby was sublime.
The 2003 England WC team has to go down as one of the greatest rugby teams ever.

R U optimistic England will rebuild in time for 2007?

I personally think u guys need a new coach.

Rompip

09-03-2005, 08:35 PM

On THAT WC team, I am far from an England fan, in all sports (except Eng vs Aus in cricket !!!!).

But that team was AWESOME. They just commanded respect and admiration.
Johnson has to be considered the greatest forward of the professional era.

Rompip

09-03-2005, 08:50 PM

My World 15 (professional era 1996-present)

FB: C.Cullen (NZ)
W: J.Wilson (NZ)
C: J.Guscott (Eng)
C: T.Horan (Aus)
W: J.Roff (Aus)
FH: A.Mehrtens (NZ)
SH: J. vd Westhuizen (RSA)
P: Os.Du Rand (RSA)
H: K.Wood (Ire)
P: E.McKenzie (Aus)
L: M.Johnson (Eng)
L: J.Eales (Aus)
F: N.Back (Eng)
F: J.Kronfeld (NZ)
8: L.Dallaglio (Eng)

Aus=4 Eng=4 NZ=5 RSA=2 Ire=1..........(NO Frenchmen!!! :shocked: )

GiorgioII

09-03-2005, 08:58 PM

I don't recognise some of those (I recognise almost but I haven't seen them in action)
I have always rated Dallaglio. He brings a lot to a team, and especially a young relatively inexperienced England team like this one.

Greenwood??? I am a big fan of his, he is so powerful.

If Greenwood is in the team I will stop watching England play and I really do mean it :D . He is way past his best and was appalling for the Lions when he played(how he made the squad when he was injured all year is beyond me ;) ). Tindall and Smith is definitely the way forward. Ollie Smith would have taken over for BOD at 13 for the Lions and Tindall would have been 12 ahead of Henson in my book if injury hadn't intervened. If you want power in a centre then Tindall is way ahead of Greenwood :sad: .

FAJA

09-03-2005, 10:15 PM

Greenwood??? I am a big fan of his, he is so powerful.

Greenwood was great for the 2003 team era but since then he's gone down dramatically. If anyone recalls the 2004 six nations match between England and France (A match I remember most for Vickery's monsterous tackle on Magne which incidently probably hurt him just as much) the change in the England team after Greenwood was replaced with Catt was unbelievable. I don't think he's ever really regained his form and certainly shouldn't have gone on the Lions tour (along with some other players I could mention). I think that the centre partnership should either be Tindall/Smith or Tindall/Abbott with Hodgson at flyhalf however that is a slight gamble on goalkicking (although Tindall didn't do badly goalkicking against Aus last Autumn, in fact I think he's the only player who has a 100% international goalkicking record so far :D).

I think what England needs to do to build for 2007 is to replace the head coach, Andy Robinson is just attempting to follow on from Woodward and seems to have no new ideas. It's also necessary to experiment with other players in the senior squad such as Simpson-Daniel, Garvey, Erinle etc. as well as players who need to get match fitness BEFORE they're put back into international duty, Wilkinson is the most obvious example of this but I would also like to see Phil Vickery back.

GiorgioII

09-04-2005, 08:55 AM

Yea, good points FAJA, I guess you're relieved to see that we are finally discussing something other than South African Rugby!!

In terms of goalkicking I think Tindall could turn out to be a long-term solution there. Andy Robinson deserves a bit more time as head-coach. I am not very optimistic and deep down in my heart I would just love it if MJ came in and took over, but it's not going to happen so we need to hope that Robinson can change our style and get the players working well again.

My world XV (96/7/8 ish - present)

1. Du Randt
2. Wood
3. Leonard
4. Johnson
5. Eales
6. Hill
7. Kronfeld
8. Skinstad

9. Galthie
10. Wilkinson
11. Lomu
12. Guscott
13. BOD
14. C.Williams
15. Cullen

Rompip

09-04-2005, 09:47 PM

My world XV (96/7/8 ish - present)

1. Du Randt
2. Wood
3. Leonard
4. Johnson
5. Eales
6. Hill
7. Kronfeld
8. Skinstad

9. Galthie
10. Wilkinson
11. Lomu
12. Guscott
13. BOD
14. C.Williams
15. Cullen
Nice team.
Some guys are beyond questioning... Wood, Eales, Johnson, Cullen
I would disagree quite strongly on Skinstad. He never really lived up to the hype IMO.
The flyhalf choice was tuff for me. No doubt Wilkinson is a great, but I think the fact that Mehrtens was the dominant flyhalf for close on a decade just gives him the edge. (Wilkinson would probably make most alltime world xv's by the time he retires though. I think the guy is a genius. Up there with Naas Botha :star: )
Chester was good but I never really thought of him as world class.

GiorgioII

09-05-2005, 08:44 AM

I changed my mind about Wilko actually. I think that Larkham would probably be my favourite 10 that I have seen regularly since I began watching Rugby.

FAJA

09-05-2005, 02:04 PM

I agree with Rompip. I think Mehrtens would probably edge the flyhalf position. To be honest I'm not really a great fan of Larkham and I'm not entirely sure why.

GiorgioII

09-06-2005, 09:39 AM

Rompip, your Bulls prop, Lensing has joined my team, Leeds :lol: . I will now be able to see if he is as good as you have been saying.

This is what I love about Rugby, there is something going on all year round. I am already really excited about the Autumn Internationals. I think that the All Blacks are going to find things much more difficult than against the Lions, particularly at Lansdowne Road and the Millenium Stadium.

Rompip

09-06-2005, 08:15 PM

Rompip, your Bulls prop, Lensing has joined my team, Leeds :lol: . I will now be able to see if he is as good as you have been saying.
Lucky Leeds! Trust me, this guy is something else. He is easily the most powerful scrummager in world rugby. He has been shunting opposing loosehead props for the last year or two. I certainly hope he's only going there for the SA off season!!!

This is what I love about Rugby, there is something going on all year round. I am already really excited about the Autumn Internationals. I think that the All Blacks are going to find things much more difficult than against the Lions, particularly at Lansdowne Road and the Millenium Stadium.
Being away from home is a major hurdle in all sports. I think there may be a few surprises in (your) Autumn/Winter. Not only are they away from, but the SHemisphere sides are coming off an extremely gruelling Tri-Nations. Its much the same as when the NHemi's sides come here in May/June

FAJA

09-07-2005, 02:03 PM

RIP Ettienne Botha, Centre for the Bulls, killed in a car crash this morning http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/rugby_union/4221802.stm

GiorgioII

09-07-2005, 03:20 PM

RIP Ettienne Botha, Centre for the Bulls, killed in a car crash this morning http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/rugby_union/4221802.stm

I saw this guy play a few times and he was really good and I know how Rompip felt about his abilities. I am in shock, this is such a bad loss for the game and for rugby all across the globe, not just in South Africa. RIP.

Rompip

09-07-2005, 09:20 PM

RIP Ettiene.
What a pity. He was 26yrs old, with a bright future in rugby. Has been one of the best backs in SA the last couple of the seasons, top try scorer for last years Currie Cup and a real gentleman.

He died in a car accident early this morning.
The incident has left all South African rugby fans feeling down :sad: .
He will be missed by the Bulls and SA rugby.

GiorgioII

09-10-2005, 06:37 PM

I don't know what to do. Do we continue with this thread or not? It kind of feels innapropriate doesn't it? What a tragedy......gone but never forgotten :sad:

I spotted some new talent today whilst watching the Leicester - Wasps game. Tom Rees the Wasps flanker scored two sizzling tries and looks like England's future No.7 and then he broke his leg :D .

Rompip

09-11-2005, 11:05 AM

Rompip

09-11-2005, 11:16 AM

I don't know what to do. Do we continue with this thread or not? It kind of feels innapropriate doesn't it? What a tragedy......gone but never forgotten :sad:
There have been surprisingly few rumours coming out re his death.
A friend of mine who works for the South African Police Service says his blood was tested and he had no traces of alcohol. He wasn't known to be a big partier/drinker so this is beleivable. Apparently he was out at a club/bar with Habana and a few other bulls players till late at night, gave a girl a lift to her place and fell asleep behind the wheel on his back to his home.

This is pretty much hearsay but the no blood Alcohol thing is true.

I don't think there is much more to say about it. We all know he (ettiene Botha) was an excellent player, and a gentleman.

GiorgioII

09-11-2005, 11:27 AM

Who's your pick to win the premiership? I only get to see a bit of Rnglish club rugby on magazine shows like World of Rugby, so I don't really know the ins and outs of the scene. I saw a show that tipped Bath to win.

My team is Leicester.

Bath have lost their two opening games. They have a decent forward pack with Grewcock, Stevens and Borthwick, but nothing going on behind it, and to add to that the forwards have been shit this season. I personally would love Leeds to win it, but the title is going to Wasps or Leicester, although Sale are in with a chance.

I'm going to England - Samoa at Twickenham :D .

I don't think there would have been any reason for Botha to be killed or that he was drunk or anything. I guess it was just a really unfortunate accident, that hopefully will never be repeated. If World Rugby is to lose someone as talented as him then that would just be tragic.

FAJA

09-12-2005, 09:14 PM

Who's your pick to win the premiership?

I personally think it's going to again be a contest between Leicester and Wasps with Wasps coming out on top again. I don't think Bath is going to win, certainly not on current form as they've now lost to Bristol and Northampton and are sitting second from bottom. (Actually it's quite amusing that Bristol have only just been promoted and they're currently at the top, would be funny if they won :D ).

I'm always praying that Gloucester will do better though :rolleyes: , especially now they have a better kicker in Mercier than they did before (and I'm quite happy at the moment because they beat Sale.)

Do we continue with this thread or not? It kind of feels innapropriate doesn't it?

My thoughts exactly, I think we should continue the thread though. It's a great shame that the accident happened but I guess its just one of those things, perhaps a moment of lost concentration at just the wrong time leading to a tragic accident.

Rompip

09-17-2005, 09:21 AM

This afternoon is Bulls vs. Western Province.

This is easily the most competitive and highest standard non test-level fixture in world rugby.

These two sides have dominated the Currie Cup for over 100 years. (Bulls were formerly known as Northern Transvaal)

It is on at the same time as the Chelsea-Charlton match today, but if you have access to this match I recommend watching it.

Bakkies; Matfield; Habana (bulls)
De Villiers; Burger; De Wet Barry (WP)

Should be a cracker.

GiorgioII

09-17-2005, 02:18 PM

If it is on Sky Sports then I will watch it...although I have relatives over( :rolleyes: ). You are right it should be a classic.

GiorgioII

09-17-2005, 07:46 PM

How pathetic were Western Province? Very. It is true the Bulls put them under huge pressure but I think we could have expected more from a team of such talent. Mametsma was good when he came on, Du Preez, Wannenburg, Burger and Houugard were the others to stand out for me. How come the Bulls had two Number 13's? Have they retired the 12 in respect of Ettienne?

Rompip

09-18-2005, 09:30 PM

GiorgioII

09-19-2005, 08:13 PM

What did you think of Lensing?

Johan Roets also had a cracker.

The Bulls are playing two 13's for the rest of the season out of respect for Ettiene.

Lensing was good, I was impressed with a few of his runs as well as his scrummaging. Roets - I don't know how I could forget him, he was superb, the Bok 15 for sure ;) .

Rompip

09-22-2005, 06:32 PM

There was a headline in todays news here that English rugby is going thru a "Civil War"!!!

Apparently the RFU wants to contract the 30 best English players and the Clubs are taking exception. (At least thats how I understand it)

This is how it's done here and I think Aus and NZ as well. Both sides have valid arguments.

I can't say I feel strongly for either side of the argument, but I'd like to think that playing for one's country would always be more important than for a club/province. And one way of ensuring that is for the National union to contract a player. I'd hate to see Rugby go the way of soccer where the clubs dictate terms, but I think there must be some way to counter that without having to confuse the whole setup.

Anyway, It's not for me to decide :)

GiorgioII

09-22-2005, 07:13 PM

Centrally contracting players would be a great idea. However the RFU and Andy Robinson seem to have a very distorted idea of who the best players are....

Brian O'Driscoll is likely to take a break from playing for Ireland at the end of this season to go and play in France. Ireland centrally contract players and he has only one more year to go with them and says 'he wants to experience a new culture :worried: .

Rompip

09-24-2005, 08:45 AM

Centrally contracting players would be a great idea. However the RFU and Andy Robinson seem to have a very distorted idea of who the best players are....
Thats the problem with contracting to a National Rugby Union. There will always be debate as to who the top 30 players are. Form would also play a big part in that.

Brian O'Driscoll is likely to take a break from playing for Ireland at the end of this season to go and play in France. Ireland centrally contract players and he has only one more year to go with them and says 'he wants to experience a new culture :worried:
That is really disturbing to hear :faint2: . I hope it doesn't end up becoming a trend. SA players often go overseas to play, but they are normally fringe players or older players looking for a nice retirement package.

FAJA

09-24-2005, 02:07 PM

Centrally contracting players would be a great idea. However the RFU and Andy Robinson seem to have a very distorted idea of who the best players are....

I read something by Rob Andrew (obviously he is going to be biased but he did make a good point) in which he said that the key problem with centrally contracting players is that it reduces the need for clubs to produce top quality players because they know that as soon as they do, these players would be lost to them through central contracts. It also causes a problem becuase, unlike say the Irish provinces the English clubs are not owned by the RFU and therefore can't order the clubs to do anything.

Brian O'Driscoll is likely to take a break from playing for Ireland at the end of this season to go and play in France. Ireland centrally contract players and he has only one more year to go with them and says 'he wants to experience a new culture :worried: .

I don't think that's going to be a major problem for Ireland to be honest, they should find a way around it. The Welsh have players playing in France and they seem to be able to get them back for most internationals.

GiorgioII

09-25-2005, 11:00 AM

Jason Robinson has retired for England. He deserves a lot of thanks after everything that he has done for us and for a while he was the best full back in the world by some margin. However, in recent times he has struggled a bit and it now allows Van Gisbergen to come in and make the full back spot his own...I don't care if he is an All Black :D .

Rompip

09-25-2005, 07:24 PM

GiorgioII

09-27-2005, 08:11 PM

Van Gisbergen is a goal kicking full back. He is never going to rip defences apart although he does possess speed but he is defensively immaculate. I guess a bit like Percy Montgomery but better in defence and under the high ball :lol: . He just equalled Wilko's record for most succesful kicks in the GP in a row(28) and plays for Wasps.

I've only seen Roets the once, they come across as quite different players :D . But with Van Gisbergen at 15 it would allow Hodgson to run the show at 10 without the pressure of having to take the kicks.

Today Andy Robinson named his 30 man squad for the autumn internationals.

England Squad:

Backs: Iain Balshaw (Leeds Tykes), Mark Van Gisbergen (London Wasps), James Simpson-Daniel (Gloucester), Mark Cueto (Sale Sharks), Josh Lewsey (London Wasps), Stuart Abbott (London Wasps), Mike Tindall (Gloucester), Jamie Noon (Newcastle Falcons), Ollie Smith (Leicester Tigers), Charlie Hodgson (Sale Sharks), Andy Goode (Leicester Tigers), Matt Dawson (London Wasps), Harry Ellis (Leicester Tigers), Peter Richards (Gloucester).

Forwards: Andy Sheridan (Sale Sharks), Perry Freshwater (Perpignan), Phil Vickery (Gloucester), Matt Stevens (Bath), Steve Thompson (Northampton Saints), Lee Mears (Bath), Simon Shaw (London Wasps), Danny Grewcock (Bath), Alex Brown (Gloucester), Tom Palmer (Leeds Tykes), Martin Corry (Leicester Tigers, captain), Chris Jones (Sale Sharks), Lewis Moody (Leicester Tigers), Pat Sanderson (Worcester Warriors), Joe Worsley (London Wasps), James Forrester (Gloucester).

Stand-by players (who will not train with the squad): Graham Rowntree (Leicester Tigers), Andy Titterrell (Sale Sharks), Julian White, (Leicester Tigers), Louis Deacon (Leicester Tigers), Steve Borthwick (Bath), Andy Hazell (Gloucester), Olly Barkley (Bath), Mathew Tait (Newcastle Falcons), Tom Voyce (London Wasps), Dan Scarbrough (Saracens).

He has generally got it spot on but the exclusion of Tom Rees, even from the stand by players is just the greatest crime of the season :smash: . I feel like getting out an axe and chopping down Robbo. It is just that big a crime. The guy has got the X-Factor why not use him? :sick:

FAJA

09-28-2005, 12:06 AM

He has generally got it spot on but the exclusion of Tom Rees, even from the stand by players is just the greatest crime of the season :smash: . I feel like getting out an axe and chopping down Robbo. It is just that big a crime. The guy has got the X-Factor why not use him? :sick:

Because Rees is injured, although there are other players in the squad who are injured as well but that's the excuse that's been given. Although it does leave the squad a little thin at openside flanker with the only genuine one being Sanderson. I'm guessing that AR will probably stick with the 6.Worsely 7.Moody 8.Corry option which is a shame really.

I'm just glad to see that Robinson has finally decided to get rid of some of the old guard and especially glad that he hasn't put Wilkinson in just for the hell of it. Although i'm not too keen one one or two selections, the first being Goode as he seemed to have a bit of a short temper during the Churchill cup and the second being Vickery (surprisingly) because he hasn't played much in a while.

As for Van Gisbergen, it gives England a reliable goalkicker during the absence of Wilkinson (which if his current bad luck continues may be permanent) and as you said allows Hodgson to play without the pressure of kicking (although what are the odds that AR would give Hodgson the kicking duties anyway? :faint2: ) but it creates issues in the backline. Obviously Van Gisbergen would go to fullback which means that Lewsey will probably take up one of the wing spots which leaves a dilemma as to who takes the other one, Cueto, JSD or (outside chance) Balshaw.

Rompip

09-29-2005, 05:28 AM

The players nominated for the World Player of the year:

Tana Umaga (NZ/Wellington)
Dan Carter (NZ/Canterbury)
Richie McCaw (NZ/Canterbury)
Victor Matfield (SA/Bulls)
Bryan Habana (SA/Bulls)

My heart says Matfield, my head says Carter.

In the junior nominations the Bulls have 3 of the 9 different nominations (Kuun, Rallapele, Molefe)

ema_scg

09-29-2005, 05:46 AM

FAJA

09-29-2005, 01:10 PM

GiorgioII

09-29-2005, 07:38 PM

Rees will be back soon and Moody hasn't played any club rugby at all this season. Rees is just amazing he has to be picked. Also another choice that I am all for is putting Lewsey in the centre. He needs to be given a central role to influence the game. I am a big fan of both Noon and Tindall(Noon has started the season brilliantly) but maybe having Lewsey in the midfield would give us a bit more umph.

However the sensible back line is:

9. Ellis
10. Hodgson
11. Lewsey
12. Tindall
13. Noon
14. Cueto
15. Van Gisbergen

IRB Player of the Year: Carter is so overrated. He did destroy The Lions but his defensive frailties were exposed by SA and Aus, in fact I think McCallister is a better player. The award should go to Matfield or maybe Umaga.

FAJA

09-30-2005, 10:42 PM

However the sensible back line is:

9. Ellis
10. Hodgson
11. Lewsey
12. Tindall
13. Noon
14. Cueto
15. Van Gisbergen

IRB Player of the Year: Carter is so overrated. He did destroy The Lions but his defensive frailties were exposed by SA and Aus, in fact I think McCallister is a better player. The award should go to Matfield or maybe Umaga.

IMO Ellis isn't the same player when he's playing for England and I think maybe AR should at least try Richards there just to see, although Richards would probably end up being more like a 9th forward than Ellis seeing as he's nearly 10Kg heavier (and an inch shorter) so it depends on the gameplan.

As for outside centre, I would prefer Smith to Noon.

Aside from that, The Dragons just beat Leicester 24-15 in the first round of the Powergen cup. The one I'm most interested in tomorrow is Gloucester Vs the Ospreys which looking at the squads I think Gloucester should win quite comfortably, whether they will or not is a different matter.

On the subject of IRB player, deserved or not I still think it will go to Carter simply because of the fact he demolished the Lions and something like that tends to overshadow any frailties which may have been exposed.

Also, apparently Jonah Lomu has signed on to play for 3 months with the Cardiff Blues.

GiorgioII

10-01-2005, 08:57 PM

I am a big fan of Smith but I watched Newcastle - Northampton last weekend and Noon just tore them to pieces.

Was the Powergen Cup game on today on TV at all? Will the Gloucester game be shown tomorrow?

FAJA

10-01-2005, 10:26 PM

Gloucester Vs Ospreys was on today on BBC1 at 2:30pm, Gloucester won it 23-7, here is the scoring summary

Gloucester: (13) 23:
Tries: Simpson-Daniel, Paul
Cons: Mercier 2
Pens: Mercier 3
Ospreys: (7) 7:
Tries: Tandy
Con: M Jones

Here is the link to the summary article http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/rugby_union/english/4283568.stm# you should also be able to find the link to the highlights there as well.

To be honest it wasn't a particularly inspiring game, the error and penalty count was far too high and the first half was (as Guscott put it) a tale of two half backs, Spice for the Ospreys and Mercier for Gloucester. In the last 10 mins there must have been at least 8 scrums and overall it was an extremely bad performance by the Ospreys.

I hope the standard increases as at the moment it's all the rugby I have access to (i'm currently typing this message with an ice pack strapped to my knee :sad: )

Rompip

10-08-2005, 09:35 AM

GiorgioII

10-08-2005, 09:40 AM

I see Umaga has said he's not going to play all the tests in the NZ end of year tour.
Wonder who'll captain?

The Bulls are on a roll here. They are annihilating opponents in every facet of the game. They will walk the Currie Cup this year and Heyneke is building a powerful reserve squad with a view to next years New Super14.
I think they will win the Super14 quite easily next year. This side is starting to build a winning culture and is already being viewed as "unbeatable" by some of the local media. I would say they will develop into the worlds greatest side since professionalism. (England 2000-2003 and Canterbury S12 over the last 6 yrs being the benchmark)

All they need now is a top class flyhalf (ANDRE PRETORIOUS PLEASE) and they'll be unstoppable. :D

They are bringing back the Northern Transvaal Glory Years!!!

Umaga is not coming to Britain? That is a shame. I was hoping that BOD would be fit in time for a rematch. I think that McCaw will take over the captaincy. He is the long-term skipper anyway after Umaga retires. I guess Henry will just do what he did last year and leave a few big names at home in a bid to blood some of the youngsters.

The Bulls did look amazing when I have watched them. However to say that they will walk the Super 14 could be a little bit over the top :lol: . I know that they have a very strong side but the Crusaders are also very strong still and they will provide some stern opposition. I thought you preferred your Morgan Steyn to Pretorious anyway? :tongue:

Rompip

10-09-2005, 06:33 AM

Umaga is not coming to Britain? That is a shame. I was hoping that BOD would be fit in time for a rematch.
Umaga will go to Britain. He just said that he would not play every test match. Graham Henry has subsequently said that no All Black will play more than 2, maybe 3 of the tests. I think he's trying to avoid someone getting a serious injury.

The Bulls did look amazing when I have watched them. However to say that they will walk the Super 14 could be a little bit over the top :lol: . I know that they have a very strong side but the Crusaders are also very strong still and they will provide some stern opposition. I thought you preferred your Morgan Steyn to Pretorious anyway? :tongue:
(Morne) Steyn is a really good young flyhalf. But he is still very young. If any team wants to be regarded as world class they need a world class flyhalf who is at the top of his game. Pretorious is the closest thing SA has to a world class flyhalf. Steyn needs 3 or 4 years still.
Heyneke Meyer seems content to stick with Hougaard and Steyn though.
My biggest concern is Anton Leonard's retirement at the end of the season. Although Gary Botha and Victor Matfield are reagarded as leaders/captains a man like Anton is hard to replace.

GiorgioII

10-09-2005, 06:04 PM

Umaga will go to Britain. He just said that he would not play every test match. Graham Henry has subsequently said that no All Black will play more than 2, maybe 3 of the tests. I think he's trying to avoid someone getting a serious injury.

(Morne) Steyn is a really good young flyhalf. But he is still very young. If any team wants to be regarded as world class they need a world class flyhalf who is at the top of his game. Pretorious is the closest thing SA has to a world class flyhalf. Steyn needs 3 or 4 years still.
Heyneke Meyer seems content to stick with Hougaard and Steyn though.
My biggest concern is Anton Leonard's retirement at the end of the season. Although Gary Botha and Victor Matfield are reagarded as leaders/captains a man like Anton is hard to replace.

No doubt it will be the game against Scotland that Umaga is rested for :D . I am looking forward to the Autumn Internationals so much. It is a bit of a bitch that England matches are on at the same time as Ireland's games...I guess I will have to get someone to tape the Irish for me :rolleyes: .

I watched Llanelli vs. Newcastle today and it was brilliant to see Wilkinson put in a good performance. Althhough I would prefer to have Hodgson as England's 10 I will be glad if we can also have Wilko competing.

I was unaware of Leonard's forthcoming retirement and I am sad to hear of that :sad: . I am sure that the Bulls will be fine as Wannenburg and Cronjé are brilliant back row forwards...they just need a third now to replace Anton. I wish Lensing would hurry up in getting to Leeds, we're doing horribly at the moment :D .

Rompip

10-09-2005, 08:17 PM

I watched Llanelli vs. Newcastle today and it was brilliant to see Wilkinson put in a good performance. Althhough I would prefer to have Hodgson as England's 10 I will be glad if we can also have Wilko competing.
I am glad to hear that. I am a HUGE Wilkinson fan.

I was unaware of Leonard's forthcoming retirement and I am sad to hear of that :sad: . I am sure that the Bulls will be fine as Wannenburg and Cronjé are brilliant back row forwards...they just need a third now to replace Anton. I wish Lensing would hurry up in getting to Leeds, we're doing horribly at the moment :D
The Bulls will have no trouble replacing Leonard as a player, but as a leader he is truly special.
Danie Rossouw will probably come in as a flanker with Cronje moving to 8.
They also have the very impressive Johan Wasserman (the man is a tackling machine, he dominates the tackles made category in every match he plays)
and recently capped Springbok Tim Dlulane.
And then there's Ruan Vermeulen (very physical and strong) and IRB U21 player of the year nominee Derick Kuun (haven't seen much of him but is highly rated in the local press).

FAJA

10-09-2005, 09:46 PM

I watched Llanelli vs. Newcastle today and it was brilliant to see Wilkinson put in a good performance. Althhough I would prefer to have Hodgson as England's 10 I will be glad if we can also have Wilko competing..

I was quite surprised to see him play as well as he did actually, considering the problems he's had but I definately don't think he's back to his normal self yet (the 2 missed kicks) and I also think he made a bad decision at the end taking the ball into contact and losing it when he could have easily kicked a drop goal to win the game.

What did you think of the Scarlets' hooker sqandering two easy tries? (not that I really need to ask)

GiorgioII

10-10-2005, 08:16 PM

I was quite surprised to see him play as well as he did actually, considering the problems he's had but I definately don't think he's back to his normal self yet (the 2 missed kicks) and I also think he made a bad decision at the end taking the ball into contact and losing it when he could have easily kicked a drop goal to win the game.

What did you think of the Scarlets' hooker sqandering two easy tries? (not that I really need to ask)

I don't think the Scarlets hooker missing two tries was all that important as he put one over and had a very strong game....after all it didn't effect the final result :D .

GiorgioII

10-14-2005, 10:51 PM

I've just finished watching a farce of a match between Leicester and Newcastle, finishing 16-16. Leicester won the match because they got two points from a conversion that didn't go through the posts :D . Wilko played well, although was targetted and tackled late on at least three occasions and looked like he was injured at one point. Matt Burke was superb for the Falcons...

Rompip, is it the Curry Cup Semis tomorrow? I'll be watching dude...and good luck to the Bulls, not that you will need it....although maybe they will be shocked just like Canterbury were by Otago earlier on today :lol: .

Rompip

10-15-2005, 10:06 AM

Rompip, is it the Curry Cup Semis tomorrow? I'll be watching dude...and good luck to the Bulls, not that you will need it....although maybe they will be shocked just like Canterbury were by Otago earlier on today :lol: .
Yep
WP vs Free State
Bulls vs Lions

WP vs Cheetahs will be tight. I reckon the Free Staters stronger pack will win the day for them. Schalk Burger vs Juan Smith could be really interesting.

The Bulls at Loftus are something to behold. Watch Roets (15); Olivier (12); THE loose trio ;) and Lensing for the Bulls
On the Lions side Pretorius, Jacques Fourie, and Wikus Van Heerden (c) should be good.
The Lions will miss Januarie big time.

GiorgioII

10-16-2005, 02:32 PM

I missed it yesterday so I am going to watch it delayed now.

What has happened to Januarie?

FAJA

10-17-2005, 04:54 PM

Rompip

10-18-2005, 08:20 PM

Januarie is out till February (Scuse the "pun" :ronaldo: ) I don't know what his injury is.

Anton Leonard picked up a bad knock when he scored vs Lions. He has apparently torn a shoulder muscle, and is said to have a 40% chance of making this weekends Currie Cup final. If he misses it, it would be a huge pity, as he has said that he will retire this season.

I saw that one of Englands loose forwards is injured for upto 6 weeks (cant remember who). Might throw the cat amongst the pigeons re: your loose trio options FAJA :boink:

Rompip

10-20-2005, 07:56 PM

FAJA

10-20-2005, 08:24 PM

English prop White :boxing: got a ban for punching in a premiership match, 8 weeks I think.

Referee Steve Walsh also got a ban (22 weeks) for comments he made during a match to Rees. If any of you guys know what was said could you please post, should be entertaining.

I thought Walsh was being banned for verbally abusing Shane Horgan on the Lions tour but I can't find out what he said, all any article seems to say is "verbal abuse". Although either way I gather that this is not the first time he's been suspended, didn't he also have an *ahem* "disagreement" with one of the England staff during the world cup, I think Dave Reddin.

Julian White was suspended for 8 weeks after his fight with Andy Perry (who got 4 weeks) in the Newcastle Leicester GP match

Rompip

10-21-2005, 09:08 PM

I thought Walsh was being banned for verbally abusing Shane Horgan on the Lions tour but I can't find out what he said, all any article seems to say is "verbal abuse".
You're probably right FAJA.

Rompip

10-21-2005, 09:13 PM

Currie Cup final tomorrow!!!
The Bulls will win, although I have a feeling it might be closer than a lot of people think.
Free State have been playing well this season and troubled the Bulls pack last time they played each other.

NPC also... I haven't really seen much NPC (New Zealand provincial rugby) this year other than highlights. I'd go with Otago.

GiorgioII

10-22-2005, 11:14 AM

Looks like Worsley won't be in the England squad for the Autumn Internationals. How do you think it's going to change how the squad is made up? (although personally I don't think he should start even if he was fit) There are a couple of options.

1. Move Corry to 6 and bring in Forrester.
2. Bring in Chris Jones from Sale.
3. Start Pat Sanderson at 7 and move Moody to 6.
4. Recall Dallaglio and move Corry to 6.
5. Bring in Andy Beattie.
6. Move Moody to 6 and bring in Rees.

Which one is the best option (methinks option 6)

The best option is clearly to play with number 6. However I doubt Robinson is that courageous. I think we can expect to see Corry at 6, Moody at 7 and Dallaglio at 8......

I also thought that Walsh's comments were directed at Shane Horgan rather than Tom Rees..... :llama:

I watched an entertaining game last night between Sale and Munster in the opener of the Heineken cup with the final score being 24-13. Munster battled away and Foley and Horan played superbly in the pack as did the two lock forwards O'Driscoll and O'Callaghan. But in the end the tactical kicking of Hodgson and Cueto coupled with the tackle breaking runs made by Chabal and Sheridan were too much for the Irishmen. Today I have a lot of Rugby lined up on the TV:

13:00 - Settle Down for Leeds - Cardiff, Open up the Buds :smoking: .
17:10 - Leinster vs. Bath - Should be a good game.
20:30 - Currie Cup Final.

Tomorrow:

13:00 - London Wasps - Edinburgh
15:00 - Ospreys - Stade Francais
17:00 - Toulouse - Clermont Auvergne

Tomorrow's games though may be disrupted as I have friends of my sisters coming over...... :worried:

I'm going to be tired after all that :ronaldo: .

Rompip

10-23-2005, 10:46 AM

OH SHIT!
The Bulls got beaten at Loftus in the Currie Cup final. I can not believe it.
The Bulls were looking in control for most of the match, until Leonard went off then it all went to pieces. Habana got sin binned for a high tackle (a very poor decision IMO). Then the Cheetahs made the most of their opportunities and took control of the match from the Bulls. The Cheetahs were hungry for the victory and fought back extremely well to cause a major upset.

Rassie Erasmus as coach deserves special mention. The former bok flank has been coaching the Cheetahs for 6 months (his entire coaching "career"!!!) and won one the worlds premiere rugby tournaments. The way he hoodwinked the Bulls and the whole of SA into thinking Os Du Randt wouldnt play was a stroke of Genius. Os had a major impact on the match.

This Cheetahs outfit will go far in the Super14, they're the only side this year to beat the Bulls in Pretoria (including the likes of Canterbury! The Sharks won at Loftus but that match was played by a Bulls "C" team). I still believe that the Bulls are one of the top teams around, and a loss like this has a lot to teach them.

Well done Cheetahs.

GiorgioII

10-23-2005, 07:23 PM

Shit they were 22-12 up when I turned off. I saw Habana get sin-binned. Which Super 14 team do The Cheetahs make up? I am sorry about that mate ;) .

The Heineken Cup has been good so far with Cardiff beating Leeds, Toulouse running rings around Llanelli and Leinster go down to Bath, being the games that I have seen. Players of the round(that I have seen):

Sheridan, Horan, O'Callaghan, O'Driscoll, Chabal, Parks, Maka, Elissalde, Dabou(Toulouse No.10 not sure on spelling), Jauzion, Fritz, Poitrenaud

I see Jantjes has been recalled to the Bok squad after a 4 year absence...will he take Monty's place? If the Boks had a bit more penetration from deep they would be formidable...

FAJA

10-23-2005, 08:12 PM

I've been really quite surprised by some of the Heineken Cup results so far, Edinburgh beating Wasps, the Ospreys beating Stade Francais and Saracens somehow managing to sink Biarritz.

Rompip

10-24-2005, 02:39 PM

I've been really quite surprised by some of the Heineken Cup results so far, Edinburgh beating Wasps, the Ospreys beating Stade Francais and Saracens somehow managing to sink Biarritz.
Stade Francais losing to the Ospreys :faint2: !!!

Rompip

10-24-2005, 02:46 PM

Shit they were 22-12 up when I turned off. I saw Habana get sin-binned. Which Super 14 team do The Cheetahs make up? I am sorry about that mate ;) .
They were part of the Cats (with the Lions). The Cats were meant to be a sort of "super" team but just never seemed to gel. Now with The expansion to Super14 the Cheetahs and Lions will field their own sides. Of the SA contingent I expect it to go as follows: Bulls; Lions; Cheetahs; Province; Sharks. Bulls Lions and Cheetahs all have realistic S14 semi final chances.

I see Jantjes has been recalled to the Bok squad after a 4 year absence...will he take Monty's place? If the Boks had a bit more penetration from deep they would be formidable...
Jantjes has been amazing this year. Jake wants to play him on the wing however, with Paulse being injured. I still think Roets should be Bok full back.
Monty will keep his place.

Rompip

10-24-2005, 07:44 PM

Pedrie Wannenburg is out of the Bok squad with an injury. White has named Wikus Van Heerden as replacement. Wikus has been very good season the past 2 seasons and has a lot of leadership skill. (he's the captain of the Lions). With Anton Leonards retirement I rate Wikus as the best captain in SA rugby.

FAJA

10-24-2005, 08:20 PM

With Anton Leonards retirement I rate Wikus as the best captain in SA rugby.

Who's actually going to be the captain in the Autumn? Do you know if it'll be Smit again or someone else?

GiorgioII

10-25-2005, 09:27 AM

Who's actually going to be the captain in the Autumn? Do you know if it'll be Smit again or someone else?

Yeah, I'm pretty sure White confirmed it will be Smit.

Jantjes on the wing? Has he ever played there before? I've always considered him as a full back and a full back only..

Rompip

10-27-2005, 07:17 AM

Yeah, I'm pretty sure White confirmed it will be Smit.

Jantjes on the wing? Has he ever played there before? I've always considered him as a full back and a full back only..
Smit is captain (unfortunately). He was also voted SA players player of the year, maybe these players know something I don't.

Jantjes has played wing and Outside Centre before.
I rate him at full back though. He is better than Percy there.

GiorgioII

10-27-2005, 10:14 PM

Rompip

10-28-2005, 07:39 PM

Robinson has named his 30 man England squad for the clash with Australia. No Rees, Dallaglio or Simpson-Daniel, instead opting for Hazell and Cohen( :worried: ). I guess the exprience with Tait last year has put him off taking risk.... :D
I heard that Cohen has been playing well?
I am glad to see Castegneide back for France, I've always liked his play.

GiorgioII

10-28-2005, 08:15 PM

Cohen is a limited player. Simpson-Daniel offers much more creativity and would be in my team ahead of him any day of the week. Castaignede has fought off the injuries and is doing really well, France are building a very strong team, Toulouse are tearing apart all in their path and will be the building block of the NT. If possible Rompip watch the Toulouse vs. Wasps game on Sunday, it will be a classic :) , and watch out for Rees if he comes on :D .

GiorgioII

10-29-2005, 07:12 PM

I watched Sale brush aside The Dragons in Wales last night under the calm influence of Hodgson at 10. He is full of confidence at the moment and is beginning to look like the world class talent that his talent has always promised. I am glad to have him in the England team currently.

Stade Francais then beat Leicester 12-6 in a really boring match.......

Ulster then fought really bravely against Biarritz away from home. Ireland are my second favourite team and I was worried that with an ageing pack they were going to struggle, but this young Ulster team will provide much new talent. Trimble at 12 looks like the perfect foil for BOD or D'Arcy with several forwards looking a good bet for future selection. It was a brilliant game.

Tomorrow's the big day though.....watch it Rompip!! :lol:

Rompip

10-29-2005, 07:31 PM

I watched the first half of Stade Francais - Leicester. It was not really eye candy, so I watched my Spurs ruin a good chance to get a win over the Gunners. (Brian Liebenberg, the Stade Francais/France centre was my next door neighbour for 10yrs!)

I know the Toulouse Wasps match is being shown here, but unfortunately I have just started writing my Varsity exams so I will more likely be studying. (3 exams in 4 days next week :frusty:

GiorgioII

10-30-2005, 10:07 AM

Rompip

10-30-2005, 12:27 PM

WOW!! That is interesting. I knew he had South African backgrounds...what sort of a guy is he?

Good luck with your exams. I've got a load of work to get through, but the Toulouse vs Wasps game is not going to be one to miss, see if you can catch the highlights later :) .
I didn't really know him all that well. He is a bit older than me and went to boarding school. I know his dad and youngest brother Trevor well. They're a nice family.

Thanks for the Luck.

GiorgioII

11-04-2005, 07:41 PM

Wales vs. New Zealand - NZ by 15
France vs. Australia - France by 5-10

Those are my predictions, unfortunately I can only watch the Wales one. If Wales were able to put out their full strength team with the likes of Shanklin, Parker, Henson, Peel, R.Jones, M.Williams and G.Jenkins I would say the All Blacks by 5, but without that lot their chances look dim. They will probably battle for around 20mins before being blown away. To be honest the welsh centre partnership of Sweeney and Taylor looks slow and weak in comparison with Umaga and Smith......

Rompip

11-05-2005, 06:07 AM

GiorgioII

11-05-2005, 10:04 AM

Saw highlights of Toulouse-Wasps. Looked okay. Van Gisbergen looks decent. I am very impressed by the standard of club rugby in Europe. It has improved a hell of a lot. Sides like Toulouse would hold their own in an NPC or Currie Cup quite easily nowadays.

You forgot Argentina vs Boks Giorgio :tongue: !
I agree with your other predictions. (Although the SH sides are gonna be exhausted on this tour.)

SA to win by 5

Toulouse vs Wasps was quite a poor game to be honest and it was not one of Van Gisbergen's best. His form hasn't been that great lately and it is quite well documented that he will only be on the bench next week versus the Wallabies.

I think Toulouse would more than hold their own to be honest. Their side is littered with French national side players and they were also missing perhaps their most talented youngster Beniot Baby when they took on Wasps. I suppose a better example of their humungeous talent would have been the win over Llanelli. Their win over Wasps I would say is only abut 60% of what they have to offer....they are an exceptional team.

Yea sorry for forgettin the Boks match...I don't think I can watch that one either..... :yell: . I will go for Boks by 5 as well but the Pumas are turning into a bloody good team and beat France last year as well as drawing with the Lions...

Mirko Mandic

11-05-2005, 10:42 AM

Any one here like League ?

if so, how did Andrew Johns do at Worthington ?
(I watch the NRL(aussie rugby League) and the Super 12(now 14))

Rompip

11-05-2005, 10:53 AM

Any one here like League ?

if so, how did Andrew Johns do at Worthington ?
(I watch the NRL(aussie rugby League) and the Super 12(now 14))
We dont get 2 see any league here in SA. It looks real exciting

FAJA

11-05-2005, 09:05 PM

Wales vs. New Zealand - NZ by 15
France vs. Australia - France by 5-10

Looks like you were quite a way out on the Wales/NZ prediction there. To be honest i'm not sure what can be said, Wales just seemed to give up on what served them so well in the 6 nations, I suppose that's what you get when you're missing 6 starters but I would have still expected the Welsh to do better. That said, the All Blacks looked a class apart from any team that's likely to be put against them on this tour already and they still looked as if they could play better.

Anyone think any of Ireland, England or Scotland can beat them at the moment? I don't think Ireland and England will lose by as much (however, what would be amusing to see would be if they beat Ireland and England then lost to Scotland).

GiorgioII

11-06-2005, 12:02 PM

Wales were demolished it was as simple as that. Duncan Jones, Jonathan Thomas and Gareth Thomas played like boys amongst men, but 3 men cannot stand up in any way to 15 monsters. The All Blacks ran through the game like a training session. The only positive is that it made the Lions look not quite so bad :D .

In answer to your question I have an answer. Ireland will win next week and England could win. I just have this gut feeling. The Millenium Stadium is a wide pitch, well suited to the All Blacks expansive game. Landsdowne Road is a completely different prospect. O'Sullivan needs to get his selection right though and go for Trimble at 12 to give them a bit more penetration. But if he can come in and do well and the two props(in my opinion should be Horan and Best not Hayes and Corrigan) hold up the scrum, maybe, just maybe they can do it. We all know what they did to the Boks last year(let's not get into that old debate about O'Gara's try :lol: ) but the Irish are a formidable opponent at home. Kick to the corners and challenge the line-out. That would be my gameplan cos O'Gara is one of the best in the business at that. Ireland by 2 :lol: .

England could do it as well, but lack the necessary fighting instinctives which is a mighty shame.

France also disposed of the Wallabies without too much strain. Michalak was beautiful, Jauzion magnificent and Nyanga looks like a world class player already......right now they look like the team along with the Springboks who could challenge the New Zealanders in 2007. Great stuff.

FAJA

11-06-2005, 01:57 PM

I suppose the thing with England and Ireland is that they both tend to produce a much better set of forwards than Wales traditionally do so I suppose it could be possible for them to win by using the forwards especially seeing as the only time the All Blacks looked uncomfortable against Wales was with the rolling maul, something both England and Ireland have down to a fine art (assuming they can best Chris Jack to win their own lineout ball). I don't expect to see too many tries coming with that kind of play though and while Ireland will be able to cope like that because of O'Gara and (if necessary) Humphries as well, I don't hold much confidence that Hodgson can dominate an international match with the boot.

GiorgioII

11-06-2005, 06:32 PM

Hodgson's tactical kicking has been really good actually so far in the Heineken Cup which is only a short way away from being international standard. However the All Blacks are a different proposition. I don't think England's gameplan needs to be quite as limited as the All Blacks though. Borthwick and Grewcock in my mind will present less of a challenge on Jack's ball than O'Kelly and O'Callaghan and therefore we should not rely on a 'corners' game too much. However for the Irish it is their only option in my mind.

GiorgioII

11-06-2005, 06:36 PM

England: 15 Josh Lewsey (London Wasps), 14 Mark Cueto (Sale Sharks), 13 Jamie Noon (Newcastle Falcons), 12 Mike Tindall (Gloucester), 11 Ben Cohen (Northampton Saints), 10 Charlie Hodgson (Sale Sharks), 9 Matt Dawson (London Wasps), 8 Martin Corry (Leicester Tigers, captain), 7 Lewis Moody (Leicester Tigers), 6 Pat Sanderson (Worcester Warriors), 5 Danny Grewcock (Bath), 4 Steve Borthwick (Bath), 3 Phil Vickery (Gloucester), 2 Steve Thompson (Northampton Saints), 1 Andrew Sheridan (Sale Sharks) .
Replacements: 16 Lee Mears (Bath), 17 Matt Stevens (Bath), 18 Louis Deacon (Leicester Tigers), 19 Chris Jones (Sale Sharks), 20 Harry Ellis (Leicester Tigers), 21 Olly Barkley (Bath), 22 Mark van Gisbergen (London Wasps)

It is a pretty solid team although perhaps Van Gisbergen would have been a better option at 15 with Lewsey going to the Wing ahead of Cohen. However, Lewsey has much more influence on a game from the full back role and I am quite content with the line-up. I think Moody will be 6 and Sanderson 7 though, but will wear opposite shirts...I think :rolleyes: .

FAJA

11-06-2005, 07:29 PM

hmm, a couple of things I feel are a little wrong there. Firstly, from that it seems pretty obvious what the game plan is. I think Vickery probably should have been given longer before being put back into the England side and Tindall hasn't been particularly impressive for Gloucester.

Why the hell is AR playing the only natural openside at blindside? Moody is great, almost worth having in the team just for his restart gathering but he isn't a natural openside. Actually though I think there was talk at some point of just having left and right flankers instead of open and blind.

Apart from that I'm fairly happy with it as well, I certainly think that they should be able to beat Australia, especially the way Australia have been playing recently (I notice AR is making up for his mistake last year against Australia by having two backup kickers on the bench :rolleyes: )

GiorgioII

11-07-2005, 08:48 PM

To be honest man for man in the backs and the back row the Wallabies are stronger. Hopefully though the added value of home advantage, a stronger front 5 and perhaps more confidence and expectancy will sneek us through :smoking: .

Ese_Guy

11-08-2005, 06:56 PM

http://msn.foxsports.com/id/5058904_7_1.jpg
Men in black
The New Zealand All Blacks perform the Haka before the Wales rugby test at the Millenniun Stadium in Cardiff, Wales.

GiorgioII

11-08-2005, 07:12 PM

Just seen the Ireland team to face the All Blacks at the weekend and all I can say is I am no longer predicting an Irish win :lol: . No Trimble, with Horgan in the Centre :sad: .

Ese_Guy

11-08-2005, 07:17 PM

Somewhat funny . . .

http://msn.foxsports.com/id/5043452_7_1.jpg
Gravity dictates...
Mark Van Gisbergen of the London Wasps is tackled by Frederic Michalak of Toulouse during their Heineken Cup Pool Six match at The Causeway Stadium on October 30, 2005 in High Wycombe, England.
(Richard Heathcote/Getty Images)

FAJA

11-08-2005, 11:38 PM

That used to happen to me a lot until I put on some weight (2.5 stone extra to be precise) and it bloody hurts when you hit the floor.

And Giorgio, to be fair to me the Irish lineup looks like it's made for the game we suspected they would play although why O'Sullivan persists in selecting Hayes is beyond me. The lineout set up looks strong and they have O'Gara to kick the corners. Also the New Zealand lineup doesn't look nearly as strong as the one against Wales, no Carter, Umaga or Kelleher (as suspected) and Jack, Hayman and Muliaina on the bench (although that makes little difference as McDonald is playing). However I doubt Ireland will win anyway, it's too much to ask that they could pull of their first ever win against the All Blacks with the kind of squads the countries have at the moment, unless of course Ireland get a lucky break like they did last year against South Africa (incidently I don't think there was anything wrong with that try, certainly O'Gara wasn't at fault seeing as he only did what the referee allowed him to)

Rompip

11-09-2005, 07:06 PM

WOW! New Zealand are incredible. They have won a test sries vs. the Lions, a Tri-Nations and should take the Grand Slam with ease. ALL IN ONE YEAR!

South Africa were disappointing vs Argentina. It looks like the Argentineans realised that an effective counter to Jake's rush defence is to not spread the ball wide. As a result the attacking team isn't perpetually behind the advantage line. A polished side the France / New Zealand must have been happy to see that. One thing the Boks have that no one can match right now is their scrum. They shoved the Pumas "bajada" (8 man shove) all over the pitch.

France are looking good as well.

Rompip

11-11-2005, 06:30 PM

Eng-Aus. England have selected a massive side. The NH are beginning to select larger sides, obviously to counter the physical size of AB's and Boks etc.
I think England are gonna be too good for a weak Aus team led by an slower, older Gregan.

England by 7

Ire-NZ. Umaga won't be playing, with McCaw as captain. NZ seem to be rotating their squad after many of these players have had one helluva long season (S12; Lions Tour; NPC; Tri Nations and now an attempted "Grand Slam" tour (cant be called a Grand Slam till they have won it)). I was really keen to see Umaga go head to head with Bo'D. I think there has been so much talk about them off the pitch that Henry might be shielding Tana (I doubt 15 Irishmen spurred on by 40000+ Irishmen at Lansdowne Road would be too accommodating towards him.)

NZ by 10

GiorgioII

11-11-2005, 07:32 PM

Yeah I agree with Rompip's predictions. It is a shame though that the games are on at the same time, meaning that I can't watch them both. England should take the Wallabies by 5. The All Blacks, despite my earlier predictions, should beat Ireland with some ease, down to the fact that EOS has left out Trimble and Best behind Hayes and Horgan, who are both massive hindrances IMO :D .

FAJA

11-11-2005, 08:12 PM

It is a shame though that the games are on at the same time, meaning that I can't watch them both.

Due to a distinct lack of sky TV I don't have that dilemma

FAJA

11-12-2005, 04:21 PM

Awesome display by New Zealand but Ireland also let down by poor decision making and handling skills (and Nonu's great defensive display holding Horgan over the line).

Still, they did marginally better than Wales last week, they actually managed to score a try and to be honest should have scored more (including one within the first 5 minutes) but I was surprised by their tactics. I would have thought they would kick the corners and use the rolling maul from the lineouts but they put width on it.

How's England's pack looking against Australia? The only way England are going to be able to beat New Zealand is by slowing the game down and using any forward advantage they have.

BarcaSEL

11-12-2005, 06:17 PM

wooooo we beat the aussies! :director: :D

Rompip

11-12-2005, 06:25 PM

How's England's pack looking against Australia? The only way England are going to be able to beat New Zealand is by slowing the game down and using any forward advantage they have.
I watched the England match, they beat Aus 26-16. The scoreline is flattering to the Ozzies.

England's pack were absolutely dominant. Sheridan had a blinder. Thompson was also good. They out scrummed and out mauled the Aussies.
Moody impressed me a lot as did Corry. Looks like Robinson has something to build from there.
They literally scrummed the Aussies into submission after Baxter was sin binned and Dunning left the pitch injured as a direct result of Sheridans incredible scrumming. That having been said, Australia's tight five is one of the worst in the world at test level, so It should be a real challenge for ur guys vs the All Blacks.

Hodgson looks very good at flyhalf (had to leave the field injured early in the 2nd half) and has improved immensely since I last saw him. Tindall and Cueto also look good.
This English team is MASSIVE. It looked like 14 Gridiron players out there (Dawson the exception :ronaldo: ) They will provide a really stern test in physical terms for the All Blacks.
But the All Blacks are the best. They can match England in scrums and mauls (only just) but are superior in every other facet. We might be watching one the greatest performances by a side in a season from this All Black outfit.

FAJA

11-12-2005, 07:41 PM

But the All Blacks are the best. They can match England in scrums and mauls (only just) but are superior in every other facet. We might be watching one the greatest performances by a side in a season from this All Black outfit.

Do you think that England may possibly be able to pull off a win in a similar way to what South Africa did in the Tri-nations?

GiorgioII

11-12-2005, 09:51 PM

A great result, well summed up by Rompip. I don't think England quite have the required belief to stun the All Blacks. They beat the Wallabies easily, but currently and perhaps rightly so, everyone considers the Kiwis to be superhumans.

Giorgio's ratings:

1. Sheridan 8/10 - He had a massive game. A few good carries and he also demonstrated his worth as an excellent lifter in the line-outs. However it was his scrummaging that really caught the eye and the Aussies had no response.
2. Thompson 7.5/10 - Carried well and I also noticed a few good little bits from him when on the deck. His line-out throwing looked better and he got around the park well.
3. Vickery 7/10 - It was nice to see him back in an England shirt. Of course his scrummaging was strong, a nice re-introduction to the international scene in that department. He worked hard around the pitch, his extra mobility getting him in the team ahead of White and Stevens etc.
4. Borthwick 6.5/10 - He didn't do anything outstanding, but when called upon he did well in the line-outs and carried the ball quite well. Should retain his place.
5. Grewcock 7/10 - He didn't let down those that have witnessed his stunning form in the Guiness Premiership this season. He carried the ball very well and seems a bit more dynamic, though as solid as ever, in the line-outs.
6. Sanderson 7/10 - He had a very good game and tackled strongly across the park. I don't think he is ever going to be the greatest ball winner for a number 7(yeah I know he wore 6 :lol: ), but he contributed well. Good effort.....but I think there are more dangerous options to face up to the might of the All Blacks.
7. Moody 7/10 - His chasing from kick-offs, tackling, work at the breakdown and charge-downs were all evident as usual again today. His sin-binning also saved a certain try.....good stuff.
8. Corry 6.5/10 - He dropped the ball in crucial positions earlier on before responding well in the second half. He instructed the troops well and his leadership can never be faulted. A real heir to the irreplacable MJ.

9. Dawson 6/10 - England's worst player on the pitch. He kicked away perfectly good ball and didn't look snappy at the rucks. His service wasn't very good either. Dissapointing. The bite of Ellis could be needed more next weekend.
10. Hodgson 7.5/10 - A very good game from him with three try saving tackles. His tactical kicking and goal kicking was almost spot on and his flat-line passing was good. I hope his injury isn't too serious.
11. Cohen 7/10 - A good return to the international scene. He took his try well and used his strength and power to fend off tackles when cutting off his wing. Could have been used more often.
12. Tindall 6.5/10 - I didn't think he was as good as Rompip thought. I saw him miss more tackles than usual for the Iron Mike of old. That said he made some good runs over the game line and defended for the main part well.
13. Noon 6.5/10 - Like his partner in midfield he is never going to be the most dynamic, but ran hard and fast and tackled anything that came his way.
14. Cueto 7.5/10 - A very good game capped off with a very good try. He runs fast and is stronger than he was this time last season. He is turning into a very accomplished player.
15. Lewsey 6.5/10 - Having spent so long away from rugby at 15 he looked a little shaky. He didn't particularly create much in attack, although there were sporadic moment, and his defence was worryingly shaky for someone of his quality.

I'll watch the Irish match tomorrow(highlights).

Rompip

11-13-2005, 05:49 AM

Do you think that England may possibly be able to pull off a win in a similar way to what South Africa did in the Tri-nations?
I doubt it. New Zealand used a poor game plan vs SA in Cape Town. Once it became obvious that game plan wasn't working, the All Blacks stuck to it and tried it even more. I think they learnt plenty in that test match. SA's rush defence won that, and I can't see England putting to much pressure on NZ when NZ are spreading it wide.

GiorgioII

11-15-2005, 07:30 PM

The All Blacks announced their team today and it is pretty much what you would expect. However the selection of Sivivatu and Howlett ahead of Gear and Rokocoko is slightly relieving. They are the worst of the 4 and give us a bit more hope.....NZ by 5.

FAJA

11-17-2005, 09:03 PM

On a note unrelated to the Autumn internationals, the 2011 world cup has been given to New Zealand. I really think the IRB has missed a golden opportunity here to give the game more worldwide coverage and it also means annoying match times.

Back on the topic in hand, my predictions (a new thing for me)

England Vs New Zealand: 16-28 (However, I'm happy to be wrong here if England win)
Wales Vs South Africa: 12-25
Ireland Vs Australia: 15-13 (I have a feeling but i'm probably wrong)

Rompip

11-18-2005, 06:19 PM

However the selection of Sivivatu and Howlett ahead of Gear and Rokocoko is slightly relieving. They are the worst of the 4
I agree. Howlett is not as good as he was 2yrs ago.
Gear has turned it up a notch.
I do think Sivivatu is also very good, but Rokocoko is better.

Rompip

11-18-2005, 06:25 PM

On a note unrelated to the Autumn internationals, the 2011 world cup has been given to New Zealand. I really think the IRB has missed a golden opportunity here to give the game more worldwide coverage and it also means annoying match times.
DAMN!!! Oh well. SA rugby administration has been absolutely nothing but shambolic for the last decade, so the IRB were probably right in voting us (SA) out in the first round. I am glad a rugby country got it, but I do think the IRB missed an opportunity to grow the game in Japan. (Although I can't ever see Japan taking fully to rugby, the Japanese aren't physically suited to it.)

Back on the topic in hand, my predictions (a new thing for me)

England Vs New Zealand: 16-28 (However, I'm happy to be wrong here if England win)
Wales Vs South Africa: 12-25
Ireland Vs Australia: 15-13 (I have a feeling but i'm probably wrong)

Spot On. I think Ireland may win by more than 5.

GiorgioII

11-18-2005, 07:00 PM

I was very dissapointed to hear that Japan missed out on a chance to take Rugby and make it global :shocked: .

As for tomorrows matches I will be watching the England - NZ game and Wales - South Africa, whilst I hope to tape the Ireland game. I don't think Ireland will win though and if they do I would be surprised if it is by any more than 3 points. The Wallabies still have a fantastic back line and like Australia the Irish can't scrummage(Best is a good scrummager but EOS picks Hayes instead :D ).....but then again the Irish back line looks strong also and have a better line-out, should be a good game.

Rompip, who is this 6ft 3 guy you are playing at 10? :yuck:

FAJA

11-19-2005, 12:12 PM

DAMN!!! Oh well. SA rugby administration has been absolutely nothing but shambolic for the last decade, so the IRB were probably right in voting us (SA) out in the first round. I am glad a rugby country got it, but I do think the IRB missed an opportunity to grow the game in Japan. (Although I can't ever see Japan taking fully to rugby, the Japanese aren't physically suited to it.)

South Africa would have been good for me as well seeing as it's on the same or a similar time zone as the UK. As for Japan, I was surprised to find that apparently Rugby can attract up to 60,000 fans which isn't bad for a very minor Rugby playing nation. I agree that they probably aren't physically suited for it, certainly for forwards but they have produced some good players in the backs, an example, Daisuke Ohata, he's not big but he's very very quick and has apparently scored 49 tries in 49 matches.

GiorgioII

11-19-2005, 07:10 PM

England battled really well against the Kiwis but in the end were lacking a lot behind the scrum. Hopefully next week against Samoa we can try out some more creativity in that department. I know that certain sectors of the media were demanding a win, but a loss by 4 points is quite some achievement and the players should be reasonabely pleased.

1. Sheridan 6.5/10 - Didn't have nearly the same effect as he had in the scrum last week and was less influential around the park. I still don't think he should have been subbed though.
2. Thompson 7/10 - He had another strong game. He carried the ball very well and did some good work at the breakdown as well. His throwing was as usual a little off colour but a good performance.
3. Vickery 6.5/10 - Had a good game but less of an impact when compared to his effort last week. The scrum was also under pressure on his side.
4. Borthwick 7.5/10 - A very good game. He did well in the line-out, carried well and did his fair share at the rucks. Has emerged from the shadows as a key man for England.
5. Grewcock 7/10 - Strong ball carrying as you would expect but lost his head a few times. An influential leader though.
6. Sanderson 8/10 - A magnificent game from him. He runs well and did some good scrapping on the deck. I am not sure if he is a permanent solution for us in the back row but he did his duties very well.
7. Moody 6.5/10 - I am a big fan of his but he really needs to stop his high penalty count. I am not sure what he thinks killing the ball will achieve when we are not in dangerous positions. Chased and tackled well though.
8. Corry 7/10 - A good and inspirational leader. He carried the ball well and was solid at the base of the scrum. I am confident that he can lead us through to WC as decent contenders.

9. Dawson 7/10 - At times his service was very slow and poor, but he tackled well and charged down the kick which ultimately led to the try. His experience is much needed, but whether he is the best 9 is a completely different question.
10. Hodgson 7/10 - A fine goalkicking performance and he ran play well. His passing was again good, but made to look worse than it was due to the lack of skill outside him.
11. Cohen 7/10 - Solid in defence and good in attack. I guess maybe I was wrong about him.
12. Tindall 7/10 - A bit better than last week but his lack of creativity drives me wild :sick: .
13. Noon 6.5/10 - Very quiet. Defended well but is not powerful enough or quick enough for a 13.
14. Cueto 7/10 - Another sharp game. He kicked and ran very well as well as defending brilliantly.
15. Lewsey 6.5/10 - Solid under the high ball and defended well. He wasn't used enough though.

I then saw the Boks game against Wales. Ratings(No comments, lack of time :D ).

1. Sephaka 6.5/10
2. Smit 6.5/10
3. Van der Linde 7.5/10
4. Botha 8/10
5. Matfield 7.5/10
6. Burger 7/10
7. Smith 8/10
8. Cronje 7.5/10

9. Claasens 6.5/10
10. Bosman 7/10
11. Habana 8/10
12. De Villiers 8/10
13. Fourie 7/10
14. Jantjes 7/10
15. Montgomery 7/10

GiorgioII

11-19-2005, 07:11 PM

Latham's try for the Wallabies was a ***king beauty...surely the best 15 in the world :shocked: .

FAJA

11-19-2005, 07:35 PM

See, I told you my predictions would be wrong :lol: . Ireland performed a lot better than against New Zealand and really should have scored at the very least 1 more try but were again let down by stupid mistakes.

Is Montgomery the most inconsistent kicker in world Rugby? When Bosman took the conversion for Jantjes' try it looked like he slipped and he still managed to get it but Montgomery was frankly terrible in terms of his goalkicking throughout, from hand was good though. However a good win for South Africa, Wales having much the same problems as Ireland.

So the only thing standing between New Zealand and the grand slam is Scotland. It should be a mere formality for them but it would be amusing if New Zealand got through everyone else only to lose to Scotland in the final game.

GiorgioII

11-20-2005, 02:00 PM

Montgomery, like a lot of his Bok companions only really seem to fire in the games that really matter....

Rompip

11-21-2005, 07:48 PM

Rompip, who is this 6ft 3 guy you are playing at 10? :yuck:
He is 6'4 ;) Meyer Bosman. No one really knows what he's like, he played only 1 match for the cheetahs in the currie cup, and got a national cap!!! He doesn't look bad, might be real prospect.

England are looking a lot better. I think Robinson will have a powerful team peaking at the right time (WC - 2007). They really competed well against an amazing New Zealand side.

Didn't see the oz game.

South Africa did not look good. The upcoming match vs France could be a very tight affair. I would not be surprised to see France beat us by more than 7.

Rompip

11-21-2005, 07:54 PM

So the only thing standing between New Zealand and the grand slam is Scotland. It should be a mere formality for them but it would be amusing if New Zealand got through everyone else only to lose to Scotland in the final game.
Wouldn't that be hilarious!!! :Pound:

GiorgioII

11-21-2005, 08:04 PM

South Africa did not look good. The upcoming match vs France could be a very tight affair. I would not be surprised to see France beat us by more than 7.

I'm not sure. It is going to be a very tough one to predict. Both teams are very good when they get into their stride, but the French have been playing good stuff lately and are possibly slight favourites.

GiorgioII

11-22-2005, 06:45 PM

Backs: Olly Barkley (Bath), Ben Cohen (Northampton), Mark Cueto (Sale Sharks), Matt Dawson (Wasps), Harry Ellis (Leicester), Josh Lewsey (Wasps), Charlie Hodgson (Sale Sharks), Jamie Noon (Newcastle), Peter Richards (Gloucester), James Simpson-Daniel (Gloucester), Mike Tindall (Gloucester), Mark van Gisbergen (Wasps), Tom Varndell (Leicester), Tom Voyce (Wasps).

Forwards: Steve Borthwick (Bath), Martin Corry (Leicester, captain), Louis Deacon (Leicester), Perry Freshwater (Perpignan), Jamie Forrester (Gloucester), Danny Grewcock (Bath), Andy Hazell (Gloucester), Chris Jones (Sale Sharks), Lee Mears (Bath), Lewis Moody (Leicester), Pat Sanderson (Worcester), Simon Shaw (Wasps), Andrew Sheridan (Sale Sharks), Matt Stevens (Bath), Steve Thompson (Northampton), Phil Vickery (Gloucester).

That is the squad to face Samoa which I will be viewing live(I will take some pics :D ). I think we need to try out first choice combinations in certain areas along with some different options in other positions.

15. Van Gisbergen
14. Voyce
13. Simpson-Daniel
1