Yeah damn you Scotland. We're going to have relationship issues if you continue on in that fashion.
In theory they had a damn good chance of beating the English. But the English looked well organised, and even had a backline. The Scottish forwards didn't seem to dominate or control the ball as well as hoped.
France looked great, for about 15mins, then lacked leadership and focus. And were very lucky to beat Italy.
Wales v Ireland was, by far, the best game. I still maintain that the Irish play very boring rugby, sure they do it well, but it's very predictable. Wales seemed to get through with minimal injuries, which is a win for them. The draw was probably a fair result.
This weeks predictions.
France v Ireland - err, again depends how the french play. No leadership could be an issue again, and I don't like their half back / first five combo (based on last weeks lineup), so I may go for, slightly, Ireland.
Wales v Scotland - As much as I'd like to see Scotland win, I'll pick Wales for this one. Probably by 5 or more. They've got more game breakers who are firing at the moment.
England v Italy - Should be an interesting tussle up front, but I suspect England by 10+.
Showing posts with label Rugby. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Rugby. Show all posts
11 February 2016
5 February 2016
2016 6 Nations
The six nations kicks off this weekend. So I get a number of rugby games to swear and point and laugh at. Most of this will consist of: FFS not one of the ruck, again.
Picks this year? I'm still favouring Scotland and Wales. This year with a little more justification than normal.
England
Eddie looks like he wants to bring some solidity to the English, which means dull dead forward play. Expect a lot of wandering mauls and bash up the middle. I think Ed has realised their backs don't have the confidence or ability to play quickly, which reflects their weakness at halfback and first five (flyhalf). I think they're dead in the water, the press will hype them but that's all it will be, Eddie however is good at playing the long game so in a year or so...
Position: 4th, 3rd optimistically
Ireland
More dull uninspiring play from a team of also-rans. I dunno, I just find it all a bit predictable, there's hope in the team, but haven't seen much that could create an exciting game.
Position: 3 or 4
Italy
I think wooden spoon this year.
Position 6, unless France are appalling...
France
yeah your guess is as good as mine. Potential winners of the competition, or utter crap. They have the players, but whether they get picked and then perform make picking winning lotto numbers seem easy. If they get their half back and first five firing, they'll clean up.
Position: 1,2 or 5.
Wales
I don't think there's too many of them injured/dead going into the tournament, so assuming WazzaG has lined up 45-60 men (knowing their ability to break, literally) there's a good chance he'll get through the next few weeks without Shane Howarth's granny being called up. The enthusiasm is great, the tackling on the wrong side - not so much, unless you're aiming for concussion, in which case, top marks lads.
Position: 1 or 2
Scotland
Had a great world cup, very unlikely not to get further. But they play as a team - without too many outstanding stars. I like what Vern has done, and the speed of the backs is good - with good ball coming through from the forwards. Should be more belief that they can hang on to win games now, so I'm optimistic. I don't think they'll win, but they will avoid the wooden spoon, potentially getting in the top 2 or 3. I'm pondering backing them (with moolah) for the Calcutta cup this weekend.
Position: 2 or 3.
Picks this year? I'm still favouring Scotland and Wales. This year with a little more justification than normal.
England
Eddie looks like he wants to bring some solidity to the English, which means dull dead forward play. Expect a lot of wandering mauls and bash up the middle. I think Ed has realised their backs don't have the confidence or ability to play quickly, which reflects their weakness at halfback and first five (flyhalf). I think they're dead in the water, the press will hype them but that's all it will be, Eddie however is good at playing the long game so in a year or so...
Position: 4th, 3rd optimistically
Ireland
More dull uninspiring play from a team of also-rans. I dunno, I just find it all a bit predictable, there's hope in the team, but haven't seen much that could create an exciting game.
Position: 3 or 4
Italy
I think wooden spoon this year.
Position 6, unless France are appalling...
France
yeah your guess is as good as mine. Potential winners of the competition, or utter crap. They have the players, but whether they get picked and then perform make picking winning lotto numbers seem easy. If they get their half back and first five firing, they'll clean up.
Position: 1,2 or 5.
Wales
I don't think there's too many of them injured/dead going into the tournament, so assuming WazzaG has lined up 45-60 men (knowing their ability to break, literally) there's a good chance he'll get through the next few weeks without Shane Howarth's granny being called up. The enthusiasm is great, the tackling on the wrong side - not so much, unless you're aiming for concussion, in which case, top marks lads.
Position: 1 or 2
Scotland
Had a great world cup, very unlikely not to get further. But they play as a team - without too many outstanding stars. I like what Vern has done, and the speed of the backs is good - with good ball coming through from the forwards. Should be more belief that they can hang on to win games now, so I'm optimistic. I don't think they'll win, but they will avoid the wooden spoon, potentially getting in the top 2 or 3. I'm pondering backing them (with moolah) for the Calcutta cup this weekend.
Position: 2 or 3.
6 September 2015
Rugby World Cup Predictions
We're two weeks out from the world cup that matters. None of those flouncy eat biting hair product dependent round ball twats.
I thought I'd throw out my predictions for those getting out of the first round. Although obviously my first prediction is that I'll be drinking some beer. [where some is a number between lots and ummm lost count].
Pool A: Australia, England, Wales, Fiji, Uruguay
Pool of death. And if I were an England supporter I'd be getting pretty concerned... I suspect Fiji will come last, but there's a good chance they'll damage a few of the opposition quite badly. So that's worth watching. I haven't watched Uruguay since, probably, the last world cup - so Fiji may fancy their chances there. But for those going through, Australia (probably topping the pool) and Wales. As a team Wales haven't gelled yet, but the signs have been looking very good and they're very well conditioned. Go Wazza.... I also get pissed off reading the 'rebirth of english rugby' commentaries every time they win a match, so would be fine seeing them get kicked out at this stage.
Pool B: South Africa, Samoa, Japan, Scotland, USA
Interesting pool for position 2. Obviously SA will top the pool, but all the others have a reasonable chance to come second. USA have come on a lot in the last 4 years, Japan have their ring-ins, Samoa suffer from not playing as a team that often, but their players are experienced, and Scotland appear to be peaking at the right time. They should have won against France last night, but lacked the ability to shut the game down, but as a team without huge stars (although the Gray brothers, Denton, and Cussitor are damn good) they're a good bet for the dark horse. (*)
Pool C: NZ, Argentina, Tonga, Georgia, Namibia
NZ to top the pool, and probably Argentina for second. Georgia looked OK last time I saw them, but I can't see them troubling Argentina who now have the four nations game experience.
Pool D: France, Ireland, Italy, Canada, Romania
France to top, they're looking very good - and appear to have settled on a line-up that includes Michalek (which is unfortunate for everyone else). Sadly I expect Ireland to take the second spot. I find them very boring, but they do the basics well, and keep winning. I'd like Canada to go through :)
So them's me picks. Nothing too controversial there, except for England.
(*) yes I'm biased due to the quantity of the national product I consume
I thought I'd throw out my predictions for those getting out of the first round. Although obviously my first prediction is that I'll be drinking some beer. [where some is a number between lots and ummm lost count].
Pool A: Australia, England, Wales, Fiji, Uruguay
Pool of death. And if I were an England supporter I'd be getting pretty concerned... I suspect Fiji will come last, but there's a good chance they'll damage a few of the opposition quite badly. So that's worth watching. I haven't watched Uruguay since, probably, the last world cup - so Fiji may fancy their chances there. But for those going through, Australia (probably topping the pool) and Wales. As a team Wales haven't gelled yet, but the signs have been looking very good and they're very well conditioned. Go Wazza.... I also get pissed off reading the 'rebirth of english rugby' commentaries every time they win a match, so would be fine seeing them get kicked out at this stage.
Pool B: South Africa, Samoa, Japan, Scotland, USA
Interesting pool for position 2. Obviously SA will top the pool, but all the others have a reasonable chance to come second. USA have come on a lot in the last 4 years, Japan have their ring-ins, Samoa suffer from not playing as a team that often, but their players are experienced, and Scotland appear to be peaking at the right time. They should have won against France last night, but lacked the ability to shut the game down, but as a team without huge stars (although the Gray brothers, Denton, and Cussitor are damn good) they're a good bet for the dark horse. (*)
Pool C: NZ, Argentina, Tonga, Georgia, Namibia
NZ to top the pool, and probably Argentina for second. Georgia looked OK last time I saw them, but I can't see them troubling Argentina who now have the four nations game experience.
Pool D: France, Ireland, Italy, Canada, Romania
France to top, they're looking very good - and appear to have settled on a line-up that includes Michalek (which is unfortunate for everyone else). Sadly I expect Ireland to take the second spot. I find them very boring, but they do the basics well, and keep winning. I'd like Canada to go through :)
So them's me picks. Nothing too controversial there, except for England.
(*) yes I'm biased due to the quantity of the national product I consume
17 August 2014
The Premier League
Yes, let's take a moment to reflect on this. I'm posting on football. This has been prompted by the season kicking off yesterday, and my general disinterest, verging on hatred, of it.
I'm not against football, indeed I follow the Bundesliga and try to watch as much of the World Cup as I can. Facts which seem to surprise work colleagues who are well aware of my dedicated passion for rugby, any rugby, well ok, any rugby that's not the dire English game.
So why the dislike for the Premier League? I used to watch it religiously on Sunday lunchtime, so what's changed? I think it's all tied to the money and the stupidity of the performers.
Unlike most sports who are desperate to get punters through the gates to fund the team, the Premier League doesn't need punters. Their money is made through TV sponsorship and related merchandising sales. Sure having a strong fan base is probably good for image, but with the astronomical sums paid for TV rights, whatever gate takings make they are still effectively loose change. Therefore the clubs don't need to care, and so can charge whatever they want knowing their prodcut will sell - and if it doesn't, meh, who cares. Still got the monies coming in.
Therefore the clubs can afford to buy in the best talent (I'd prefer the word, twats, but eh), to ensure success. This is an approach that i think causes the biggest problems for the English game. There's no shared experience for the game as they spend all their time playing with bought in players. This differs from the German, Dutch, Belgian etc experience who play with national team members more often. A situation very similar to rugby (especially NZ) selection policies where foreign based players are ineligible for national selection. That creates more value for the product (All Blacks) and ensures a strong local game. But with the greater money on offer for English football, that becomes irrelevant. Yeah ok, chicken and egg, TV or bought in players, but the end result is the same. The most marketed football league in the world.
Then the players themselves. It seems to me that the Premier league suffers from celebrity-itis. A bunch of overpaid people who kick a small ball around, held up as the pinnacle of sporting achievement in a culture which apparently values that.
Sure rugby players are recognised, idolised even, but they've grown up in the communities (or at least the same country) and so have some level of shared value system - and currently are not paid the astronomical amounts that footballers are, so appear to be more grounded. That might also be a reflection of having the crap kicked out of you in rucks/scrums makes it very hard to maintain a lofty position...
It seems that paying your players that much, takes the power from the team/manager and down to the individual. Which maybe socialist (except with the amount they're paid), but doesn't make much business sense as the bargaining position is too skewed.
I can't see it happening but the following could help:
I'm not against football, indeed I follow the Bundesliga and try to watch as much of the World Cup as I can. Facts which seem to surprise work colleagues who are well aware of my dedicated passion for rugby, any rugby, well ok, any rugby that's not the dire English game.
So why the dislike for the Premier League? I used to watch it religiously on Sunday lunchtime, so what's changed? I think it's all tied to the money and the stupidity of the performers.
Unlike most sports who are desperate to get punters through the gates to fund the team, the Premier League doesn't need punters. Their money is made through TV sponsorship and related merchandising sales. Sure having a strong fan base is probably good for image, but with the astronomical sums paid for TV rights, whatever gate takings make they are still effectively loose change. Therefore the clubs don't need to care, and so can charge whatever they want knowing their prodcut will sell - and if it doesn't, meh, who cares. Still got the monies coming in.
Therefore the clubs can afford to buy in the best talent (I'd prefer the word, twats, but eh), to ensure success. This is an approach that i think causes the biggest problems for the English game. There's no shared experience for the game as they spend all their time playing with bought in players. This differs from the German, Dutch, Belgian etc experience who play with national team members more often. A situation very similar to rugby (especially NZ) selection policies where foreign based players are ineligible for national selection. That creates more value for the product (All Blacks) and ensures a strong local game. But with the greater money on offer for English football, that becomes irrelevant. Yeah ok, chicken and egg, TV or bought in players, but the end result is the same. The most marketed football league in the world.
Then the players themselves. It seems to me that the Premier league suffers from celebrity-itis. A bunch of overpaid people who kick a small ball around, held up as the pinnacle of sporting achievement in a culture which apparently values that.
Sure rugby players are recognised, idolised even, but they've grown up in the communities (or at least the same country) and so have some level of shared value system - and currently are not paid the astronomical amounts that footballers are, so appear to be more grounded. That might also be a reflection of having the crap kicked out of you in rucks/scrums makes it very hard to maintain a lofty position...
It seems that paying your players that much, takes the power from the team/manager and down to the individual. Which maybe socialist (except with the amount they're paid), but doesn't make much business sense as the bargaining position is too skewed.
I can't see it happening but the following could help:
- reduce pay to players
- focus on club, not individual
- reduce numbers of foreign players - cap?
All seems quite similar to how southern hemisphere rugby works, whereas the English game seems to follow the football, without the astronomical pay. Meaning the players dictate to the national organisation, which is not in the national teams best interest.
Which leads me back to the Bundesliga, the game play appears quicker, there's more focus on the football - less on appearance and dives - and although there are international stars there, they don't have the name recognition (or at least don't to me), as the premier league eejits.
And, apparently tickets are much cheaper.
But back to rugby for me.
30 January 2014
6 nations 2014 predictions
I do have another whisky tasting report to put up, but that can wait since the 6 nations kicks off this weekend. And I feel I need to inflict my views on this on you.
Scotland
Last year was (another) rebuilding year for Scotland. I thought they made progress as a team under Scott, and without any major stars they seem to play better as a team than some others. I'm also encouraged that Stuart Hogg is back in as fullback.
I'd like to think that this year those last minute defeats will be turned around, but then again I've been supporting Wellington for years and live in a state of constant optimism which is continually dashed by reality.
Should beat Italy, and maybe Ireland. So let's say position 4 or 5. In my world, they'll come 2.
France
Bugger all idea, they'll have a blinder game and decide 'eh bof, we proved how good we are last week, no need to continue like that'. And therefore go on to lose to Italy. An incredible number of players will go through the team, and there is unlikely to be a halfback/first-five combination that sticks for more than one game. There will be fighting, and potentially intervention from Hollande - to distract from his current infidelity problems. Position 2 or 3.
England
The papers will claim this is the year that England deliver on their potential. This will be true, except their potential will be significantly lower than the papers are expecting. This will be a cause of considerable mirth for the other five nations, and indeed most of the rugby playing universe. Huzzah. I would like to see Chris Ashton make a tit of himself, and predict that Owen will once again fail to deliver at international level.
Position 3 or 4.
Ireland
Getting old as a team, and showing no real creative spark. Some flashes of brilliance, but generally playing old style rugby, badly. I find them really boring to watch, and hopefully the other teams have figured there's not much in the way of creativity from Ireland. They will be hyped tho', on the basis they almost beat the All Blacks (hahahahahahahahahah).
Position 4 or 5.
Italy
Actually getting better, and have claimed a few unexpected scalps in recent years. But no real change in position so 5-6.
Wales
Even hamstrung by injuries, they should still be strong enough to beat everyone else. Their injury toll is horrendous, and their inability to manage the club side is going to affect the team in the next few years, but this year - should be still be ok. Actually the injuries appear largely self inflicted, watching their tackling suggests an enthusiastic puppy dog diving in, and unfortunately getting their head on the wrong side - leading to the concussions that dog (heheh) the team. Having said that, their front row is superb, and the demolition job they did on England last year was very very sexy. It was so beautifully it should be used as a training video for how tight head and loose head props should work, truly a masterclass. I am, however, upset that WazzaG hasn't caught on as the media reference for Warren G.
Position 1.
Scotland
Last year was (another) rebuilding year for Scotland. I thought they made progress as a team under Scott, and without any major stars they seem to play better as a team than some others. I'm also encouraged that Stuart Hogg is back in as fullback.
I'd like to think that this year those last minute defeats will be turned around, but then again I've been supporting Wellington for years and live in a state of constant optimism which is continually dashed by reality.
Should beat Italy, and maybe Ireland. So let's say position 4 or 5. In my world, they'll come 2.
France
Bugger all idea, they'll have a blinder game and decide 'eh bof, we proved how good we are last week, no need to continue like that'. And therefore go on to lose to Italy. An incredible number of players will go through the team, and there is unlikely to be a halfback/first-five combination that sticks for more than one game. There will be fighting, and potentially intervention from Hollande - to distract from his current infidelity problems. Position 2 or 3.
England
The papers will claim this is the year that England deliver on their potential. This will be true, except their potential will be significantly lower than the papers are expecting. This will be a cause of considerable mirth for the other five nations, and indeed most of the rugby playing universe. Huzzah. I would like to see Chris Ashton make a tit of himself, and predict that Owen will once again fail to deliver at international level.
Position 3 or 4.
Ireland
Getting old as a team, and showing no real creative spark. Some flashes of brilliance, but generally playing old style rugby, badly. I find them really boring to watch, and hopefully the other teams have figured there's not much in the way of creativity from Ireland. They will be hyped tho', on the basis they almost beat the All Blacks (hahahahahahahahahah).
Position 4 or 5.
Italy
Actually getting better, and have claimed a few unexpected scalps in recent years. But no real change in position so 5-6.
Wales
Even hamstrung by injuries, they should still be strong enough to beat everyone else. Their injury toll is horrendous, and their inability to manage the club side is going to affect the team in the next few years, but this year - should be still be ok. Actually the injuries appear largely self inflicted, watching their tackling suggests an enthusiastic puppy dog diving in, and unfortunately getting their head on the wrong side - leading to the concussions that dog (heheh) the team. Having said that, their front row is superb, and the demolition job they did on England last year was very very sexy. It was so beautifully it should be used as a training video for how tight head and loose head props should work, truly a masterclass. I am, however, upset that WazzaG hasn't caught on as the media reference for Warren G.
Position 1.
9 February 2013
6 nation week 2
Pah. Stupid pointless exercise picking anything.
Wales look crap, and they've lost their captain for this week. Ireland looked better than expected with B O'D, and England looked quite good. And that really hurts saying.
So this week, pointless as it may be.
Scotland v Italy : Should be close this one. I'd like to back Scotland, but given Italy's effort last week? A draw would be good, but in a fit of stupidity, Scotland by 5.
Wales v France : France should have this. But again, could be very very close. France by 3.
England v Ireland : England by 12. I don't think Ireland can deliver again.
Wales look crap, and they've lost their captain for this week. Ireland looked better than expected with B O'D, and England looked quite good. And that really hurts saying.
So this week, pointless as it may be.
Scotland v Italy : Should be close this one. I'd like to back Scotland, but given Italy's effort last week? A draw would be good, but in a fit of stupidity, Scotland by 5.
Wales v France : France should have this. But again, could be very very close. France by 3.
England v Ireland : England by 12. I don't think Ireland can deliver again.
2 February 2013
6 nations and Art Gallery surprises!
News articles
Art Gallery is unwitting host to treasure hunt I love this. I suspect it's all a hoax, but cool way to get people to a gallery - especially as the gallery has no idea...
6 nations preview
And so the roller coaster of northern hemisphere rugby rolls around, the 6 nations kicks off today. The English are, as usual, crowing about how good they'll be this season, based on their win over the all blacks. All of the other losses last year appear to have faded into obscurity, the win over the world champions is all that counts.
Wales are looking like they'll have to draft in shane howarth's legendary grandmother, probably at prop.
Scotland will once again be strong contenders to win the championship…oh who am i kidding, but at least their new coach appears to have a sense of humour.
Italy will pick up a win somewhere, and generally challenge more than expected.
Ireland, if they continue how they played at the world cup, and last 6 nations, are bereft of ideas and could, given their injuries, come near the end.
France is also rebuilding, a polite way of saying they're as disorganised and confusing as ever.
So my picks? 1) France / Scotland (evidence I'm on drugs) 2) England 3) Wales 4) Scotland 5) Italy 6) Ireland.
Todays games:
Wales v Ireland Quite an interesting game, Wales are stripped of players and seem to be suffering a crisis in their rugby support structure. Ireland are boring. Wales by 6.
England v Scotland Damn I'd like the Scots to shove one up the English. Realistically I'm not hopeful. England by 12. [drug prediction: Scotland by 3]
Italy v France Italy will be leading halftime, France by 15 at full-time.
15 November 2012
Autumn Internationals Wk1 and 2
Autumn Internationals Week 1 and Week 2 predictions
This time before the matches kick off. Radical or wot?!
Italy v Tonga 28 - 23 my pick, italy by 10
I don't think anyone watched it, really, why would you? Close, suggesting either Tonga have improved (unlikely) or Italy are worse than I thought (probable). What we can take from this, potentially the ABs will break 100 this weekend. Italy may score a couple of penalties, maybe a try, but if they break double figures, it'll be a win for them.
Aus v France 6 - 33 my pick France by 3-5
Notable for the fight, actually I say that as that's all I've seen of the match. I thought about watching it, but decided my hair care routine was more important. France, the team who came 2nd in the World Cup, turned up - rather than France, the 15 men on a pitch as they've no-where else to go. And so the Aussies went down, like a roo to an 18 wheeler. Result!
Wales v Argentina 12 - 26 my pick Wales by 5-10
The match fitness of the Puma's came through. Wales looked kinda lost, and the two tries by the Puma's were straight out of the Southern Hemisphere playbook. Comments by the UK press focussing on the forwards had given away that they didn't know much about the Puma's, and my pick that the backs were going to be very competitive with the Welsh was proven true.
Scotland v All Blacks 22 - 51 my pick NZ by 20+
The Scots turned up to play, indeed if they play like that in the 6 nations they would make the top 2 or 3. But they won't. I'm getting used to that, makes me homesick as a Wgtn supporter…
The speed of the All Black ball use highlighted the difference between the Northern and Southern hemisphere teams, quick clearing of ruck, maul and scrum ball gives the backs more time to demonstrate their skills. Scotland did well, but were ultimately the victim of poor defence giving away three tries in quick succession, ruining any chance they had of holding the mighty blackness.
It's not looking good for other 6 nation teams…
England v Fiji 54 - 12 my pick, Eng by 20+
England were on a hiding to nothing here. They beat the Fijians by a significant margin, as they should, but really they didn't look very good. And they're a professional team, Fiji come together for these matches from all over the world, with little time to develop combinations. This shows with their lack of structure in defence and attack. A continual problem with Fiji 15 a-side teams.
England, contrary to the English press, are not looking good. Their turnover ball is slow, the backs don't seem very organised, and the forwards seem back to the lumbering best. Ok, possibly not quite as bad as in the past, but certainly not as fast and skilled as other countries. England's buy-in of other country off casts is paying off, or rather Leicester's purchase policy as a feeder team for England, is paying off.
Ireland v South Africa 12 - 16 my pick SA by 10-15
Ireland, since the last 6 nations, and through the World Cup, have looked tired and uncreative. I suggest a kidney transplant.
I never said it was a good joke.
South Africa are not looking much better, but they were quicker. And that's always going to pay off. Dull and boring game, which Ireland did not deserve to win, and honestly, never looked like winning.
--
This weekend….
Wales v Samoa
Wales have rolled the changes, over the half the team, following last weeks game - and resulting from (mainly) injuries.
Samoa will hit hard, but I don't think they've got the structure to compete for 80 minutes. I also suspect the Welsh are fitter.
Wales by 10.
Italy v NZ
Pasta eaters will be on the field looking like smurfs. That's about as positive as it gets.
NZ by 60+
England v Australia
Could be the most interesting of the games this weekend. Aussie are playing like crap, and should be pretty embarrassed by their surrender to the cheese eaters. This should hopefully make them go out and take it to the English.
I suspect the English will win. But in the spirit of grumpiness, I'll stick my neck out and say:
Aus by 5.
Scotland v SA
If Scotland play as they did against the ABs they should win (presuming they tighten their defensive holes). Sth Afr are not looking very quick or creative at the moment, and Scots do have some world class players at the moment.
Scotland by 7.
France v Argentina
Good France turning up twice? It's possible, but unlikely. I also think the Puma's are still underrated by the press here, so I'm going for:
Argentina by 3-7.
10 November 2012
Rugby Autumn International Series
Bit late, but well, it's not like that's a surprise.
Wales v Argentina
this should be the best of the matches. I suspect the UK press has underestimated the Pumas, and their emphasis on the Puma scrum suggests they haven't seen much of their recent play. The logical money should be on Wales, although their tight 5 have been, as usual, decimated by injury. What might be more of a factor is that Argentina are battle hardened from the Aus/NZ/SA/Arg series, whereas this is the first Welsh test for awhile.
I would expect the Welsh fitness to be higher, as thats something they do focus on, so the clincher is likely to be Welsh discipline - they do give away a lot of penalties, and the Pumas have good kickers.
Pick: Wales by 5-10.
England v Fiji
The press has been trumpeting a new beginning to English rugby, as they do every year, and every year howls of derision are heard outside of the RFU. Stuart Lancaster does seem to have a clue on how to meld a team, and the complete restructure of the RFU does hold out some hope. Having said that, if they don't beat Fiji convincingly then Lancaster maybe following the house of L last King (Henry VI).
Pick: England by 20.
Ireland v SA
Not the best season for SA, but unless Ireland have found some fresh ideas and new blood, SA should still win this. The lack of tighthead props in Ireland has been dramatically exposed with a new boy, from NZ, being parachuted in - of the four major Irish rugby teams, three have foreign tightheads, and the only local boy is injured. Heh heh.
Pick: SA by 10-15.
Italy v Tonga
Couldn't care less.
Pick: Pasta eaters by 10
France v Aussie
Could be an interesting game, not sure if it's on TV tho'. France could play very well, and Aussie are not having a great time of it. So it should be close. The French provincial teams are playing well, so I think I'd back the French.
Pick: cheese eating surrender monkeys by 3-5.
Scotland v NZ
Scotland haven't beaten NZ in 107 years of rugby. This weekend will not change that. The potential exists in the Scottish team as their players are good, and play well as a team - mainly as they're drawn from the Glasgow and Edinburgh Euro teams so know each other well. NZ are on a blinder, and are probably playing better now than they did during the world cup, new blood is performing well (that is not a twilight reference), and I'll try to avoid bringing it up on Tues.
Pick: NZ by 20+.
Love, B
Wales v Argentina
this should be the best of the matches. I suspect the UK press has underestimated the Pumas, and their emphasis on the Puma scrum suggests they haven't seen much of their recent play. The logical money should be on Wales, although their tight 5 have been, as usual, decimated by injury. What might be more of a factor is that Argentina are battle hardened from the Aus/NZ/SA/Arg series, whereas this is the first Welsh test for awhile.
I would expect the Welsh fitness to be higher, as thats something they do focus on, so the clincher is likely to be Welsh discipline - they do give away a lot of penalties, and the Pumas have good kickers.
Pick: Wales by 5-10.
England v Fiji
The press has been trumpeting a new beginning to English rugby, as they do every year, and every year howls of derision are heard outside of the RFU. Stuart Lancaster does seem to have a clue on how to meld a team, and the complete restructure of the RFU does hold out some hope. Having said that, if they don't beat Fiji convincingly then Lancaster maybe following the house of L last King (Henry VI).
Pick: England by 20.
Ireland v SA
Not the best season for SA, but unless Ireland have found some fresh ideas and new blood, SA should still win this. The lack of tighthead props in Ireland has been dramatically exposed with a new boy, from NZ, being parachuted in - of the four major Irish rugby teams, three have foreign tightheads, and the only local boy is injured. Heh heh.
Pick: SA by 10-15.
Italy v Tonga
Couldn't care less.
Pick: Pasta eaters by 10
France v Aussie
Could be an interesting game, not sure if it's on TV tho'. France could play very well, and Aussie are not having a great time of it. So it should be close. The French provincial teams are playing well, so I think I'd back the French.
Pick: cheese eating surrender monkeys by 3-5.
Scotland v NZ
Scotland haven't beaten NZ in 107 years of rugby. This weekend will not change that. The potential exists in the Scottish team as their players are good, and play well as a team - mainly as they're drawn from the Glasgow and Edinburgh Euro teams so know each other well. NZ are on a blinder, and are probably playing better now than they did during the world cup, new blood is performing well (that is not a twilight reference), and I'll try to avoid bringing it up on Tues.
Pick: NZ by 20+.
Love, B
23 March 2012
6 nations : final round and summary
The final round of 6 nations fell on the day when we were heading down to London for the David Hockney exhibition, so watching the games was iPlayer that evening and Sunday morning.
Italy v Scotland
The wooden spoon, and in the context of this years games, loser for the downtrow. Scotland looked abysmal, doing all the bad stuff they've become specialists in - ball dropping, fumbled passes, general confusion at ruck time. Italy were made to look good by comparison. Actually Italy didn't play too badly at all. This may herald the end of the scottish coach, Andy Robinson hasn't had the best results from a team who, potentially, could do quite well. If they mastered the basics, and had a bit of belief there's quite a good team lurking in there.
Wales v France
This was for the grand slam (Wales already having won the triple crown). In the time honoured fashion, the erratic French team turned up. It wasn't a pretty game, although in places the French looked good with some creative use of the backline. But Wales deserved to win this.
England v Ireland
heh and played on St Patricks Day too. As I've mentioned, the Irish team is looking old and bereft of ideas. This was clearly demonstrated as England, who are looking a more organised unit, ripped the Irish.
I'm not convinced over Stuart Lancaster's experience, but he has fashioned an interesting attacking, young (for England) team. They haven't been tested by a good team - Wales were playing very badly when they beat them - but they look good. And it would be a foolish English RU if they overlooked Lancaster. I'm not sure he needs an assistant coach, as has been suggested as a role for Nick Mallett (Italy and SthAfr).
Overall, quite a dull tournament. Wales deserved to win, even if they played badly a lot of the time. Wazza Gatland (I'm determined this will catch on) should have a productive few years with the team.
I don't understand the love of the up and under kick. 8 times out of 10, it goes to the opposition with no chasers and is essentially useless. And yet it's used all the time over here. Stupid.
The ball handling skills are also poor, which probably explains why the speed of passes and backline moves appear slow. It all seems laboured in the backline, and no-one really hits the line at pace - or more accurately, at pace on the angle.
I think that's tied in with the lack of vision at first-five/half-back, most attack is one off the ruck. Which is quite easy to defend against, hence the smash up, ruck, smash up etc appearance of most games.
The end of year tour by NZ could be a bit messy for the locals...
Italy v Scotland
The wooden spoon, and in the context of this years games, loser for the downtrow. Scotland looked abysmal, doing all the bad stuff they've become specialists in - ball dropping, fumbled passes, general confusion at ruck time. Italy were made to look good by comparison. Actually Italy didn't play too badly at all. This may herald the end of the scottish coach, Andy Robinson hasn't had the best results from a team who, potentially, could do quite well. If they mastered the basics, and had a bit of belief there's quite a good team lurking in there.
Wales v France
This was for the grand slam (Wales already having won the triple crown). In the time honoured fashion, the erratic French team turned up. It wasn't a pretty game, although in places the French looked good with some creative use of the backline. But Wales deserved to win this.
England v Ireland
heh and played on St Patricks Day too. As I've mentioned, the Irish team is looking old and bereft of ideas. This was clearly demonstrated as England, who are looking a more organised unit, ripped the Irish.
I'm not convinced over Stuart Lancaster's experience, but he has fashioned an interesting attacking, young (for England) team. They haven't been tested by a good team - Wales were playing very badly when they beat them - but they look good. And it would be a foolish English RU if they overlooked Lancaster. I'm not sure he needs an assistant coach, as has been suggested as a role for Nick Mallett (Italy and SthAfr).
Overall, quite a dull tournament. Wales deserved to win, even if they played badly a lot of the time. Wazza Gatland (I'm determined this will catch on) should have a productive few years with the team.
I don't understand the love of the up and under kick. 8 times out of 10, it goes to the opposition with no chasers and is essentially useless. And yet it's used all the time over here. Stupid.
The ball handling skills are also poor, which probably explains why the speed of passes and backline moves appear slow. It all seems laboured in the backline, and no-one really hits the line at pace - or more accurately, at pace on the angle.
I think that's tied in with the lack of vision at first-five/half-back, most attack is one off the ruck. Which is quite easy to defend against, hence the smash up, ruck, smash up etc appearance of most games.
The end of year tour by NZ could be a bit messy for the locals...
12 March 2012
6 Nations : Week 4 - maybe?
Honestly, I have no idea what week this is. Let's just call it four.
This past weekends games ranged from disappointing to annoying. Which maybe a good summary of the 6 nations.
Scotland v Ireland
I'm sure the Scots will mark this one off as another growing experience, or somesuch. But honestly, the amount of growing and learning experiences they've had over the last 2 years and their inability to catch the ball at vital times, y'know, by the tryline, suggests an ability to learn slightly less than a well concussed heavy weight boxer.
Contrary to other games, which they should have won, this one they probably deserved to lose. I realise there are qualifiers there, mainly as I think Ireland are very over-rated team. They are getting old, and it shows.
Stand out for me was Richie Gray.
Wales v Italy
Wales cocked this up royally. Sure the Italians are improving, and should have beaten England a couple of weeks ago, but the Welsh were playing very very well. They didn't in this game. In fact, they looked rubbish, very little go forward ball, and general confusion in their backline.
Final scoreline flattered them, but I suspect Warren Gatland wasn't holding back.
Speaking of Wazza, I love his pre-match interviews, it's so obvious he doesn't want to be there, and every curt response ends with an unspoken 'now fuck off'. Go on, watch the next one, it's hilarious...
England v France
Supporting France appears akin to supporting Wellington. I'd picked the French to be 1 or 2 in the 6 nations this year, and generally it started well.
But whatever team turned up on Sunday, really wasn't convinced winning was something they wanted to do. Useless bastards. I think I yelled at them as much as I do when watching Scotland. FFS.
So for a match they should/could have won, they managed to piss around, look confused and directionless, and only pull out the good stuff with 15mins left. FFS.
All of which is making Lancaster's bid for England coach look better by the day. I have to admit he's done amazing things to turn the team around, and they now have a backline that catches, runs, and scores tries. Slightly concerning from my perspective. I think as a team, it's too early to be saying they've got a good one, but the signs are there. They haven't been pushed hard yet in the 6 nations, and Wales were playing badly when they almost lost to the England (rather than England almost winning).
I don't think there's the toughness in the team yet, but sadly it appears to be growing.
This brings up a provisional team for the Lions this year, to be coached by Wazza. So here's my not really thought out picks:
England
Matt banahan; manu tuilagi (tho i think he doesn't have the skills yet); ben foden; ben youngs; owen farrell;
Ireland
tommy bowe; jamie heaslip; -def not Sexton
Wales
entire frontrow; luke charteris; faletau; halfpenny; hook; north; priestland; jamie roberts; sam warburton (probable captain); lydiate; -- yes ok, most of the welsh team.
Scotland
richie gray; david denton (maybe, he seemed quite good...); lamont;
Now, I haven't gone through and worked out if this actually selects a complete team. All I've done is flick through the teams and listed those I've thought are playing well.
B
This past weekends games ranged from disappointing to annoying. Which maybe a good summary of the 6 nations.
Scotland v Ireland
I'm sure the Scots will mark this one off as another growing experience, or somesuch. But honestly, the amount of growing and learning experiences they've had over the last 2 years and their inability to catch the ball at vital times, y'know, by the tryline, suggests an ability to learn slightly less than a well concussed heavy weight boxer.
Contrary to other games, which they should have won, this one they probably deserved to lose. I realise there are qualifiers there, mainly as I think Ireland are very over-rated team. They are getting old, and it shows.
Stand out for me was Richie Gray.
Wales v Italy
Wales cocked this up royally. Sure the Italians are improving, and should have beaten England a couple of weeks ago, but the Welsh were playing very very well. They didn't in this game. In fact, they looked rubbish, very little go forward ball, and general confusion in their backline.
Final scoreline flattered them, but I suspect Warren Gatland wasn't holding back.
Speaking of Wazza, I love his pre-match interviews, it's so obvious he doesn't want to be there, and every curt response ends with an unspoken 'now fuck off'. Go on, watch the next one, it's hilarious...
England v France
Supporting France appears akin to supporting Wellington. I'd picked the French to be 1 or 2 in the 6 nations this year, and generally it started well.
But whatever team turned up on Sunday, really wasn't convinced winning was something they wanted to do. Useless bastards. I think I yelled at them as much as I do when watching Scotland. FFS.
So for a match they should/could have won, they managed to piss around, look confused and directionless, and only pull out the good stuff with 15mins left. FFS.
All of which is making Lancaster's bid for England coach look better by the day. I have to admit he's done amazing things to turn the team around, and they now have a backline that catches, runs, and scores tries. Slightly concerning from my perspective. I think as a team, it's too early to be saying they've got a good one, but the signs are there. They haven't been pushed hard yet in the 6 nations, and Wales were playing badly when they almost lost to the England (rather than England almost winning).
I don't think there's the toughness in the team yet, but sadly it appears to be growing.
This brings up a provisional team for the Lions this year, to be coached by Wazza. So here's my not really thought out picks:
England
Matt banahan; manu tuilagi (tho i think he doesn't have the skills yet); ben foden; ben youngs; owen farrell;
Ireland
tommy bowe; jamie heaslip; -def not Sexton
Wales
entire frontrow; luke charteris; faletau; halfpenny; hook; north; priestland; jamie roberts; sam warburton (probable captain); lydiate; -- yes ok, most of the welsh team.
Scotland
richie gray; david denton (maybe, he seemed quite good...); lamont;
Now, I haven't gone through and worked out if this actually selects a complete team. All I've done is flick through the teams and listed those I've thought are playing well.
B
11 February 2012
6 nations week1
currently on a train, so missing todays games of week2. will try and catch up tomorrow...
Anyway week1 summary:
France v Italy
the French played well enough to confirm their status as tournament frontrunners. Italy looked better than expected, and demonstrated some inventiveness, but the French played well as a team - and looked like they were enjoying it. distinctly different to the RWC and Lievrement's reign.
they were, mostly, consistent and looked to be playing good attacking rugby that wasn't affected too badly by brain meltdowns of the sort we all know and love from the french rugby teams. Still placing france as top of the 6 nations, but Italy may be looking at a 4-5 position.
Wales v Ireland
Ireland looked distinctly overrated. Wales, without their first choice frontrow, looked dominant, attacking, and their backs were very very sharp (and large, George North is a hugely talented monster, NZ should buy him - I'm sure his grandmother was born in NZ...).
Although all the pundits are talking up Ireland, I'm going to say they will be mid-low (3-5) int he final rankings. Wales are the only team who can beat France.
England v Scotland
FFS. For a team who had so much ball, how many times could one bunch of idiots drop it when there's a chance of scoring. Line-breaks, good running, all let down by basic errors of ball handling and badly organised rucks/mauls. Fckn Scotland. Dan Parks had a shocker, and has gone back to retirement. Normally a superb place kicker, things were not going his way. It seems unfair to blame him for the result, since the rest of the teams inability to do anything well certainly didn't help.
England looked better than normal, and appeared to have forwards who thought the ball should go to the backs. Weird. Lancaster seems to be working some kinda of magic to the team, so either sense will prevail with the English Rugby Union and he'll be out on his arse, or a miracle of stone-rolling proportions will occur, and he'll get the permanent job. Of course if he does, no-one in the RFU will support him, and they'll undermine every decision. So either way, business as usual.
B
Anyway week1 summary:
France v Italy
the French played well enough to confirm their status as tournament frontrunners. Italy looked better than expected, and demonstrated some inventiveness, but the French played well as a team - and looked like they were enjoying it. distinctly different to the RWC and Lievrement's reign.
they were, mostly, consistent and looked to be playing good attacking rugby that wasn't affected too badly by brain meltdowns of the sort we all know and love from the french rugby teams. Still placing france as top of the 6 nations, but Italy may be looking at a 4-5 position.
Wales v Ireland
Ireland looked distinctly overrated. Wales, without their first choice frontrow, looked dominant, attacking, and their backs were very very sharp (and large, George North is a hugely talented monster, NZ should buy him - I'm sure his grandmother was born in NZ...).
Although all the pundits are talking up Ireland, I'm going to say they will be mid-low (3-5) int he final rankings. Wales are the only team who can beat France.
England v Scotland
FFS. For a team who had so much ball, how many times could one bunch of idiots drop it when there's a chance of scoring. Line-breaks, good running, all let down by basic errors of ball handling and badly organised rucks/mauls. Fckn Scotland. Dan Parks had a shocker, and has gone back to retirement. Normally a superb place kicker, things were not going his way. It seems unfair to blame him for the result, since the rest of the teams inability to do anything well certainly didn't help.
England looked better than normal, and appeared to have forwards who thought the ball should go to the backs. Weird. Lancaster seems to be working some kinda of magic to the team, so either sense will prevail with the English Rugby Union and he'll be out on his arse, or a miracle of stone-rolling proportions will occur, and he'll get the permanent job. Of course if he does, no-one in the RFU will support him, and they'll undermine every decision. So either way, business as usual.
B
4 February 2012
6 nations, predictions
better get some predictions in for the 2012 season before kick off - which is about 40 mins away.
England
After the amusement of the World Cup there's been a bit of a clear-out. In English minds this should lead to a fresh committment for the national team. In reality, it's likely to lead to a confused team unsure whether to specialise in defence or attack. I suspect they'll end up in no mans land and lack leadership for the close matches.
Position: 3-4
Ireland
Not looking good at the moment. I'm sure someone will say never underestimate the Irish, but on current form, never overestimate the Irish would be better.
Position: 4-5
Wales
There's a belief in Welsh rugby which has been missing for sometime. Warren Gatland has both national fever and injuries (5 first choice players at last count) to combat. They looked good in the RWC with a good blend of experience and youth. Presuming they can cope with the injuries, they could do quite well.
Position: 1-3
Scotland
I like the country. I like the national drink. And so I tend to be blinded to the inherent problems of the Scottish rugby team, they remind me of supporting Wellington - erratic, and unlikely to go the distance. A few retirements won't have helped for experience, but maybe a fresh approach could help?
Position: 4-6
Italy
With the unstable nature of the other teams this year, this maybe the year Italy don't get the wooden spoon. Who knows. Hard to pick, with Nick Mallet being kicked out as coach, it's an open book...and remember the Italians did beat France in last years 6 nations...
Position: 5-6
France
Who the hell knows. Really, any position is entirely achievable by the French. They were crap in RWC, until the final, without a coach. I'm going to presume they've got a plan, and organisation (of course I'm not laughing here).
Position: 1-2
Yeah I'm hedging here. Oh well, kick off in 20 mins with Italy v France. Then later Scotland v England. Brilliant.
me
England
After the amusement of the World Cup there's been a bit of a clear-out. In English minds this should lead to a fresh committment for the national team. In reality, it's likely to lead to a confused team unsure whether to specialise in defence or attack. I suspect they'll end up in no mans land and lack leadership for the close matches.
Position: 3-4
Ireland
Not looking good at the moment. I'm sure someone will say never underestimate the Irish, but on current form, never overestimate the Irish would be better.
Position: 4-5
Wales
There's a belief in Welsh rugby which has been missing for sometime. Warren Gatland has both national fever and injuries (5 first choice players at last count) to combat. They looked good in the RWC with a good blend of experience and youth. Presuming they can cope with the injuries, they could do quite well.
Position: 1-3
Scotland
I like the country. I like the national drink. And so I tend to be blinded to the inherent problems of the Scottish rugby team, they remind me of supporting Wellington - erratic, and unlikely to go the distance. A few retirements won't have helped for experience, but maybe a fresh approach could help?
Position: 4-6
Italy
With the unstable nature of the other teams this year, this maybe the year Italy don't get the wooden spoon. Who knows. Hard to pick, with Nick Mallet being kicked out as coach, it's an open book...and remember the Italians did beat France in last years 6 nations...
Position: 5-6
France
Who the hell knows. Really, any position is entirely achievable by the French. They were crap in RWC, until the final, without a coach. I'm going to presume they've got a plan, and organisation (of course I'm not laughing here).
Position: 1-2
Yeah I'm hedging here. Oh well, kick off in 20 mins with Italy v France. Then later Scotland v England. Brilliant.
me
19 March 2011
6 nations - final round pt3
France v Wales
If Wales win by 28 points they win the 6 nations. Just to add a little spice. And that's in addition to marc livremont's continuing feud with the French rugby public.
Fifteen minutes in, and it's become clear that random France have turned up. Wales are playing with structure and purpose, France are doing 'stuff'. Most of which isn't coming off for them. However they do look good in broken play, probably the only team in the 6 nations who has. Especially the pairing of Parra and Trinh-Duc, who for my money, have been the best half/fly combo.
Very scrappy game so far, and the French 'plan' of broken play meets 7 a-side is throwing the Welsh who are showing poor ball control.
So a very scrappy loose first half, with the French in the lead, probably deservedly, but still all over the place.
Second half, and the French are playing more as a team, and certainly look better than the Welsh. Again, a French side that could have won the 6 nations. Had they turned up more often. Some empathy as a Wgtn supporter there !
Basically the Welsh had no clue what they were doing. Is it time for a cleanout of coaching staff? they may have won games this season, but have never looked convincing doing it.
Overall, not a good 6nations. My picks weren't good, but in retrospect, I'd probably have chosen them anyway. I think the French could be very good, or indifferent at the World Cup, England will be overrated, Ireland a darkhorse, Wales should stay home, Italy could be OK, and Scotland may surprise. Maybe, although I'll admit it's unlikely, but there is a good team in there somewhere.
Ciao!
If Wales win by 28 points they win the 6 nations. Just to add a little spice. And that's in addition to marc livremont's continuing feud with the French rugby public.
Fifteen minutes in, and it's become clear that random France have turned up. Wales are playing with structure and purpose, France are doing 'stuff'. Most of which isn't coming off for them. However they do look good in broken play, probably the only team in the 6 nations who has. Especially the pairing of Parra and Trinh-Duc, who for my money, have been the best half/fly combo.
Very scrappy game so far, and the French 'plan' of broken play meets 7 a-side is throwing the Welsh who are showing poor ball control.
So a very scrappy loose first half, with the French in the lead, probably deservedly, but still all over the place.
Second half, and the French are playing more as a team, and certainly look better than the Welsh. Again, a French side that could have won the 6 nations. Had they turned up more often. Some empathy as a Wgtn supporter there !
Basically the Welsh had no clue what they were doing. Is it time for a cleanout of coaching staff? they may have won games this season, but have never looked convincing doing it.
Overall, not a good 6nations. My picks weren't good, but in retrospect, I'd probably have chosen them anyway. I think the French could be very good, or indifferent at the World Cup, England will be overrated, Ireland a darkhorse, Wales should stay home, Italy could be OK, and Scotland may surprise. Maybe, although I'll admit it's unlikely, but there is a good team in there somewhere.
Ciao!
6 nations - final round pt2
England v Ireland
The Irish anthem seems designed for drunk people. I respect that. As near as I can make out it consists of mumble mumble Ireland Ireland mumble mumble Ireland Ireland.
Hmmm the ref in this game is policing the 10m rule. Would be nice to see that continue. Ireland have definitely come to play, and are rattling the English.
My beer appears to be evaporating too, probably something to do with the weird brightness outside. it's something the bible never warned me about, acts of god include beer evaporation, guess that was in the lost 5 commandments...(bible committee wanted it on one side of a4, something had to give).
Ok, that was a great game. Thoroughly enjoyable, fast, Ireland were very committed and deserved to win - it's the game ireland have been threatening but never quite delivered. England finally met an opponent who took it to them. This is what I've been looking for, and I'm now reasonably convinced that England are not half as good as the press have been making them out to be. Lack of leadership and focus was evident in the team. Something Keith Wood put his finger on after the match.
O'D had a blinder, but standout, and deserving Man ofthe Match, was Sexton. Certainly played himself into first choice 1/5 for Ireland.
England looked a lot better when Wilkinson came on, he provided more structure, something Flood was missing.
Have to admit, I'm very happy with that result :)
B
The Irish anthem seems designed for drunk people. I respect that. As near as I can make out it consists of mumble mumble Ireland Ireland mumble mumble Ireland Ireland
Hmmm the ref in this game is policing the 10m rule. Would be nice to see that continue. Ireland have definitely come to play, and are rattling the English.
My beer appears to be evaporating too, probably something to do with the weird brightness outside. it's something the bible never warned me about, acts of god include beer evaporation, guess that was in the lost 5 commandments...(bible committee wanted it on one side of a4, something had to give).
Ok, that was a great game. Thoroughly enjoyable, fast, Ireland were very committed and deserved to win - it's the game ireland have been threatening but never quite delivered. England finally met an opponent who took it to them. This is what I've been looking for, and I'm now reasonably convinced that England are not half as good as the press have been making them out to be. Lack of leadership and focus was evident in the team. Something Keith Wood put his finger on after the match.
O'D had a blinder, but standout, and deserving Man ofthe Match, was Sexton. Certainly played himself into first choice 1/5 for Ireland.
England looked a lot better when Wilkinson came on, he provided more structure, something Flood was missing.
Have to admit, I'm very happy with that result :)
B
6 nations - final round pt1
I watched the 'Canes v Blues game this morning (stupid 630am kickoff on a Saturday) which I had the feeling would be the best of the four games I had planned. Sadly the 'Canes didn't manage a win, but the game was fast, flowed well etc.
Scotland v Italy
the 6 nations is a much slower game. There's a massive reliance on one off the ruck and short passes, which seems to be caused by a very loose interpretation of the 10m rule, meaning the defence is up very quick and flat. All sides are using floating defence well so even if they threw it out quickly, it may not actually open any gaps.
What isn't happening are runners hitting the line at pace, or using alternative lines to attack the line. This means a floating/drifting defence will always get across. Watching the Super15 this morning really emphasised the differences here.
First half; Scotland's lineout has looked good, although they've been unable to get over the tryline. Italy have had shown a well organised defence, and some flair on attack. The 8-6 lead to Italy seems about right.
Second Half; a more focussed performance by Scotland produced two tries. Particularly good performances by Lamont and Gray seemed to lift the team. Having said that, the last quarter has fizzled out. Both teams seem out on their feet, with neither having a lot of structure.
Scotland, eventually, deserved the win.
more soon.
Scotland v Italy
the 6 nations is a much slower game. There's a massive reliance on one off the ruck and short passes, which seems to be caused by a very loose interpretation of the 10m rule, meaning the defence is up very quick and flat. All sides are using floating defence well so even if they threw it out quickly, it may not actually open any gaps.
What isn't happening are runners hitting the line at pace, or using alternative lines to attack the line. This means a floating/drifting defence will always get across. Watching the Super15 this morning really emphasised the differences here.
First half; Scotland's lineout has looked good, although they've been unable to get over the tryline. Italy have had shown a well organised defence, and some flair on attack. The 8-6 lead to Italy seems about right.
Second Half; a more focussed performance by Scotland produced two tries. Particularly good performances by Lamont and Gray seemed to lift the team. Having said that, the last quarter has fizzled out. Both teams seem out on their feet, with neither having a lot of structure.
Scotland, eventually, deserved the win.
more soon.
16 March 2011
6 nations - penultimate round
Ok, so it's a few days late.
This round, on paper, promised little. Unfortunately illness had struck the house, so alternative options were limited.
Italy v France
Spirited defence, and better ball control by the Italians kept them in the game. Not really sure what happened to the French, there were flashes of brilliance, but overall the forwards never really delivered a platform for Parra et al to attack from. Nothing very flashy by the Italians, but as mentioned, holding onto the ball makes a huge difference.
The Italians deserved to win, and without a recognised kicker, probably made it harder for themselves. Yay Nick Mallett.
Wales v Ireland
Dull game. Very very dull. Neither team looked good, with the Welsh being sneaky enough to get away with blatant cheating (Richie would be proud). Neither will be a threat at world cup, the Irish are getting too old, and the Welsh have no organisation. Far too much kicking the ball away in the hope that the opposition will make a mistake. Again, you can't score with the ball. No, that's not a euphemism.
England v Scotland
I've well and truely given up on my, now over optimistic, support of Scotland. One of the commentators put their finger on it, a good team playing badly. But today, they played with more cohesion, and were equal to the increasingly well organised English team. Good commitment by the Scots forwards, including ball retention, meant that although they were starved of possession they weren't wasting it.
England are still confusing me, sure they are winning, and winning ugly - which is the sign of a good team, one who can change their style and still grind out victories. But they don't appear to have come across a good team playing well (France came close). They maybe a threat come world cup, but I'm not sure. I'd watched the 'Canes game on Sat morning, and what struck me was the hand speed, something that's still missing from the Northern Hemisphere game.
B
This round, on paper, promised little. Unfortunately illness had struck the house, so alternative options were limited.
Italy v France
Spirited defence, and better ball control by the Italians kept them in the game. Not really sure what happened to the French, there were flashes of brilliance, but overall the forwards never really delivered a platform for Parra et al to attack from. Nothing very flashy by the Italians, but as mentioned, holding onto the ball makes a huge difference.
The Italians deserved to win, and without a recognised kicker, probably made it harder for themselves. Yay Nick Mallett.
Wales v Ireland
Dull game. Very very dull. Neither team looked good, with the Welsh being sneaky enough to get away with blatant cheating (Richie would be proud). Neither will be a threat at world cup, the Irish are getting too old, and the Welsh have no organisation. Far too much kicking the ball away in the hope that the opposition will make a mistake. Again, you can't score with the ball. No, that's not a euphemism.
England v Scotland
I've well and truely given up on my, now over optimistic, support of Scotland. One of the commentators put their finger on it, a good team playing badly. But today, they played with more cohesion, and were equal to the increasingly well organised English team. Good commitment by the Scots forwards, including ball retention, meant that although they were starved of possession they weren't wasting it.
England are still confusing me, sure they are winning, and winning ugly - which is the sign of a good team, one who can change their style and still grind out victories. But they don't appear to have come across a good team playing well (France came close). They maybe a threat come world cup, but I'm not sure. I'd watched the 'Canes game on Sat morning, and what struck me was the hand speed, something that's still missing from the Northern Hemisphere game.
B
19 February 2011
Live rugby!!!
For a change of scene, I went to a live match as I'd reached a point where I desperately needed to see some live sport. And so I found myself at the Leicester Tigers v London Wasps game at the Tigers home ground. The ground itself is very tight (few metres from stand to pitch), so it's quite intimate. There's a new stand, which is nice, but the others remind me of smaller stadiums in NZ, I would guess 20,000 capacity? But the ground was full, and apparently that's common for the Tigers. So no complaints there. Audience was into it, although slightly weird from what I was used to. Total (and I mean total) silence during kicks, even the opposition. And very polite.
So the game, first half was good. Leicester were lucky in the first quarter to get an intercept try, the ball was thrown around a bit, and good retention at ruck and maul time. The first-five's traded penalties, and the one further try meant the Tigers went to the break with a reasonably deserved lead.
Second half was dire. Poor retention, and no imagination by either team. The backline moves were telegraphed, and simply involved shovelling it along and running sideways, so the sliding defence by both sides quashed all attacks. There was a desperate need for someone to run the angles, and someone needs to smack the northern hemisphere around the head for the continuing use of badly done 'chip' kicks. I don't think any came off today, so they simply gave the ball away. Kicks within play were poor by both teams.
I enjoyed the first half, but got increasingly frustrated in the second. This struck me as funny given we had (from NZ and/or Samoa) the following players:
Tigers Scott Hamilton; the many Tuilagi's; Thomas Waldrom; Craig Newby
Wasps Riki Flutey;
there may have been a couple of others, oh and Steve Kefu (from Aussie).
Felt like a bad Div1 (NZ) or reasonable Div2 game. This wasn't helped by the colours, Wasps wear Wellington (although hoops), and Tigers wear something similar to Manawatu
Love, your roving rugger reporter.
So the game, first half was good. Leicester were lucky in the first quarter to get an intercept try, the ball was thrown around a bit, and good retention at ruck and maul time. The first-five's traded penalties, and the one further try meant the Tigers went to the break with a reasonably deserved lead.
Second half was dire. Poor retention, and no imagination by either team. The backline moves were telegraphed, and simply involved shovelling it along and running sideways, so the sliding defence by both sides quashed all attacks. There was a desperate need for someone to run the angles, and someone needs to smack the northern hemisphere around the head for the continuing use of badly done 'chip' kicks. I don't think any came off today, so they simply gave the ball away. Kicks within play were poor by both teams.
I enjoyed the first half, but got increasingly frustrated in the second. This struck me as funny given we had (from NZ and/or Samoa) the following players:
Tigers Scott Hamilton; the many Tuilagi's; Thomas Waldrom; Craig Newby
Wasps Riki Flutey;
there may have been a couple of others, oh and Steve Kefu (from Aussie).
Felt like a bad Div1 (NZ) or reasonable Div2 game. This wasn't helped by the colours, Wasps wear Wellington (although hoops), and Tigers wear something similar to Manawatu
Love, your roving rugger reporter.
16 February 2011
6 nations round 2pt2
The French get a bad rap for many things. And so, with a sense of surprise (as an atheist) I have to say 'Thank God for the French'.
the France/Ireland game was excellent. both sides were evenly matched and prepared to throw the ball around, and keep hold of it in tackles. I know, shocking. Interestingly there were far fewer scrums than in other matches, which certainly helped the speed of the game. The French first five/halfback combination is excellent, very fast, and because of that getting the ball out wide worked well. But to their credit, the Irish combo did the same. Ryan O'Gara is an excellent sub for the last few minutes, but shouldn't be their first choice.
What was interesting, and from a WorldCup perspective, worrying, is the ability of the French to weather the storm, hang in, and then start building an attack from scratch. Their response when they got the ball was reminiscent of the All Blacks in speed - the first half, where Ireland had the greater percentage of possession and territory reminded me of the Tri-Nations. The French seemed to be able to score from anywhere.
I'm not convinced that England are the team to beat. I stand by the French winning the 6 nations.
the France/Ireland game was excellent. both sides were evenly matched and prepared to throw the ball around, and keep hold of it in tackles. I know, shocking. Interestingly there were far fewer scrums than in other matches, which certainly helped the speed of the game. The French first five/halfback combination is excellent, very fast, and because of that getting the ball out wide worked well. But to their credit, the Irish combo did the same. Ryan O'Gara is an excellent sub for the last few minutes, but shouldn't be their first choice.
What was interesting, and from a WorldCup perspective, worrying, is the ability of the French to weather the storm, hang in, and then start building an attack from scratch. Their response when they got the ball was reminiscent of the All Blacks in speed - the first half, where Ireland had the greater percentage of possession and territory reminded me of the Tri-Nations. The French seemed to be able to score from anywhere.
I'm not convinced that England are the team to beat. I stand by the French winning the 6 nations.
12 February 2011
6 nations - round 2pt1
England v Italy
Italy didn't front up, unlike last week when they pushed Ireland. This means one of: England are very good, Ireland are very bad, or Italy are erratic. So complete was the Italian collapse, that it was difficult to tell how good the English performance was. The platform provided by the forwards was solid, and the backs, Chris Ashton in particular, were slick. There were too many holes in the Italian defence, which meant the English one of the ruck approach worked. Commentators were all over the English, claiming the continuing renaissance of English rugby. I'm still not convinced. And I don't think they have grand slam potential.
Scotland v Wales
Wales started strongly, with reasonably quick turnover at ruck time, even if they didn't use width. The Welsh changed their first-five, a decision that has seemingly rejuvenated what has looked a very poor team. Scotland are not doing themselves any favours with poor ball retention during rucks and mauls, which is not the way to dominate a game.
The second half was scrappy, and I think a lot of Scotland's woes came from their very slow halfback. Admittedly he didn't get a decent platform from the forwards, but his decision making was far too slow. That meant he had to use one of the ruck, anything wider and it would be begging for an intercept. It's not pretty to watch, and they are really missing the injured chris cusitor.
The game was crap, poor control by both teams and neither forward pack stood up. Neither team deserved to win.
On this performance, Scotland don't look like they are progressing from last years development. Wales, scratching out the win, may take heart - but really, they shouldn't.
I want to reiterate my confusion concerning the cross-field kick. Why? For every 10 attempts, it comes off once. Sure it looks great when it does, but every other time, all you're doing is kicking away possession. And yet, it's so prevalent in Northern Hemisphere rugby. Again, why?
The only winner of the day? beer. It promised much and delivered.
Italy didn't front up, unlike last week when they pushed Ireland. This means one of: England are very good, Ireland are very bad, or Italy are erratic. So complete was the Italian collapse, that it was difficult to tell how good the English performance was. The platform provided by the forwards was solid, and the backs, Chris Ashton in particular, were slick. There were too many holes in the Italian defence, which meant the English one of the ruck approach worked. Commentators were all over the English, claiming the continuing renaissance of English rugby. I'm still not convinced. And I don't think they have grand slam potential.
Scotland v Wales
Wales started strongly, with reasonably quick turnover at ruck time, even if they didn't use width. The Welsh changed their first-five, a decision that has seemingly rejuvenated what has looked a very poor team. Scotland are not doing themselves any favours with poor ball retention during rucks and mauls, which is not the way to dominate a game.
The second half was scrappy, and I think a lot of Scotland's woes came from their very slow halfback. Admittedly he didn't get a decent platform from the forwards, but his decision making was far too slow. That meant he had to use one of the ruck, anything wider and it would be begging for an intercept. It's not pretty to watch, and they are really missing the injured chris cusitor.
The game was crap, poor control by both teams and neither forward pack stood up. Neither team deserved to win.
On this performance, Scotland don't look like they are progressing from last years development. Wales, scratching out the win, may take heart - but really, they shouldn't.
I want to reiterate my confusion concerning the cross-field kick. Why? For every 10 attempts, it comes off once. Sure it looks great when it does, but every other time, all you're doing is kicking away possession. And yet, it's so prevalent in Northern Hemisphere rugby. Again, why?
The only winner of the day? beer. It promised much and delivered.
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