Last weekend saw only two games in the tournament, who were supposedly the 3rd to 6th best teams in the competition. However, the Crusaders (4th) hammered the Reds (5th), while the Brumbies scraped by the Cheetahs early on Sunday.
The New Zealanders are getting into championship winning form at just the right time, with Dan Carter and Tom Marshall in particular producing fantastic displays. 38-9 to the Crusaders is a fair reflection of a game in which they dominated. Perhaps teams shouldn't be that dominant at a stage where only title contenders should, in theory, still be involved.
The Brumbies were fortunate to be through, with the Cheetahs missing a few key kicks. Perhaps having Johan Goosen back could have helped the Cheetahs again. They can be happy with their season, and it's even more remarkable when you consider they were down to their 3rd choice outhalf for the majority of the season.
Looking for to next weekend, there are THREE huge games. Three you ask? Yes three.
On Saturday morning, the Crusaders travel to the Chiefs in a mouth watering clash. The Chiefs are considered favourites, but I can't look past the Crusaders are in top form and hammered the Chiefs only three weeks ago 43-15. Liam Messam may have been missing that day, but it remains to be seen if his absence reduces the 28 point deficit.
Later on Saturday, the Brumbies travel to the Bulls. The Bulls will be without Jan Serfontain, who has had a marvelous season, and the Brumbies will fancy their chances, although they will have to improve hugely.
But the game of the week is in Port Elizabeth on Friday night, with the Southern Kings hosting the Lions in the first of a two-legged playoff to see who enters the competition in 2014. This will be a humdinger, and the Lions have some of their loanees back, like Elton Jantjies, who could flourish when allowed to play the expansive rugby the Lions play, and the Stormers didn't.
In the fantasy competition, a huge tactical mistake from Ball Handling Hooker cost him 64 points, by not having Dagg, Stephen Moore, Liam Gill and Johan Sadie, although mistakenly putting Frisby ahead of Genia saved him from losing 6 points.
As it were, with two rounds left, Cillian Hogan's lead has been cut by 25 points, and he leads by 95.
Will it be enough?
Tuesday 23 July 2013
Sunday 21 July 2013
Super Rugby Review : Team of the Ladder Season
Round 20.
Apologies for the delay, but the Irish sunshine demanded attention.
The final round of matches in Super Rugby decided who played who in the qualifiers/ semi's, and their were some great moments.
It's obvious that the Crusaders are coming into form at the right time, while the Rebels produced a stunning comeback after losing at halftime by 31-7. Other picks of the round included a stunning victory for the Force, featuring a massive brain fart from Toomua, and a mauling of the Kings by the Sharks.
Now that the regular season is over, I felt it's necessary to award some of the performances by players that didn't make the playoffs. So here's the team of the season.
15. Ben Smith / Charles Piutau / Israel Folau
By a distance the hardest decision. With the playoff contenders this would have been even harder after Jesse Mogg's fabulous season. Charles Piutau was wonderful, and brought a breathe of fresh air into a Blues side that really needed it, while Ben Smith was a one man show in Dunedin, albeit in a losing side. But because of the switch, and the fact he was still a one man show with more success, I have to give it to Folau over Smith. Knowing full well that I'll change my mind on this fourteen times in the next minute.
14. Frank Halai
Frank was superb, and a competition best of 10 tries shows how well the former 7's specialist is bringing those skills to the 15 man game. Spoken of in terms of All Black selection. Watch this space. Mention too for Kade Poki and Alpati Leiua.
13. Rene Ranger
Ranger was awesome this season. He is finally in a position where he can influence games, whether by scoring tries, "Re-a-RANGERing" people, or by showing he is one of the best centres in the world at the breakdown. Montpeiller are getting a player at the top of his game. Richard Kahui and Tamati Ellison were outstanding, but were injured more often than not. Mention for a similarly effective switch to 13 from Tim Nanai Williams
12. Jean de Villiers
Outside of the playoffs teams, Jean de Villiers had a strong showing at inside centre, but Christian Lealiifano and Jan Serfontein performed better.
11. Julian Savea
Not the greatest season from Savea, and the assault charge seemed to effect him mid season, but he still scored some great tries, and Israel Dagg still has nightmares about the Savea train rolling over him.
Mention for Hosea Gear who like Smith, did well to manage 8 tries in a struggling Highlanders team.
10. Bernard Foley
The main reason why the Waratahs were a joy to watch this year was this man. Foley ran the show at his new position at standoff, making people like Cam Crawford and Israel Folau look good. Michael Cheika has unearthed a gem.
9. Fumiaki Tanaka
Perhaps a little bit of bias here, and it's strange to think that a good few Highlanders feature in this team, but Tanaka was great to watch this season, and it's hard not to have him as a favourite player. Wales discovered how effective he can be when Japan shocked them in the second test this summer. TJ Peranara did well, and a return of 7 tries can't be laughed at.
1. Ben Franks
Away from his brother for the first time, Franks shone at the Hurricanes, finally getting some regular gametime. His 10(0)m try was a sight to behold, and backed that up week in week out with strong performances. Mention for Schalk Ferraria of the Kings, whose defensive hard work lead the way for some historic performances.
2. Ged Robinson
Another tight contest, with Deon Fourie and Bandise Maku impressing. But with Fourie playing well at flanker too, Robinson had more time at hooker to show what he's got, and as the high scoring player in fantasy Super Rugby, he deservedly gets this spot.
3. Angus Ta'avao
It's hard to pick out props, especially tighthead props. James Slipper and Ben Taumiuna have done well, but as part of the playoff teams are discounted. Ta'avao bagged a few tries, and looks to be one for the future.
4. Luke Jones
The Rebels second row are by far their strongest performers. Both Pyle and Jones get through a mountain of work, and both should be closer to Wallaby reckoning. Great seasons for both.
5. Hugh Pyle
See Jones
6. Steven Luatua
What an outstanding breakout year for the 22 year old. Luatua was everywhere on the field, and New Zealand may have their heir apparent to Jerome Kaino's slot as the world's best blindside.
7. Wimpie van der Walt
Everything good about the Kings was epitomised by Wimpie van der Walt. Often running the ball two or three times a move, or tackling up to four times a play, Wan der Walt was tireless in his work, and the Kings would have been hammered as would have been expected much more without him.
8. Scott Higginbotham
Possibly the biggest loss to Australia this year, but after a slow start, "Higgers" showed that he can be a one man team, and all of the best parts about the Rebels this year came through this man. They may have been better without James O'Connor and Kurtley Beale, but Scott Higginbotham takes them to new levels.
Fantasy
A huge performance from Cillian Hogan puts him further clear, and within touching distance of yet another victory. Plenty to play for over the next three weeks though. Other than the top two, only 5th and 6th have yet to be decided with Murray Kinsella battling Peter Corley for the spot.
Apologies for the delay, but the Irish sunshine demanded attention.
The final round of matches in Super Rugby decided who played who in the qualifiers/ semi's, and their were some great moments.
It's obvious that the Crusaders are coming into form at the right time, while the Rebels produced a stunning comeback after losing at halftime by 31-7. Other picks of the round included a stunning victory for the Force, featuring a massive brain fart from Toomua, and a mauling of the Kings by the Sharks.
Now that the regular season is over, I felt it's necessary to award some of the performances by players that didn't make the playoffs. So here's the team of the season.
15. Ben Smith / Charles Piutau / Israel Folau
By a distance the hardest decision. With the playoff contenders this would have been even harder after Jesse Mogg's fabulous season. Charles Piutau was wonderful, and brought a breathe of fresh air into a Blues side that really needed it, while Ben Smith was a one man show in Dunedin, albeit in a losing side. But because of the switch, and the fact he was still a one man show with more success, I have to give it to Folau over Smith. Knowing full well that I'll change my mind on this fourteen times in the next minute.
14. Frank Halai
Frank was superb, and a competition best of 10 tries shows how well the former 7's specialist is bringing those skills to the 15 man game. Spoken of in terms of All Black selection. Watch this space. Mention too for Kade Poki and Alpati Leiua.
13. Rene Ranger
Ranger was awesome this season. He is finally in a position where he can influence games, whether by scoring tries, "Re-a-RANGERing" people, or by showing he is one of the best centres in the world at the breakdown. Montpeiller are getting a player at the top of his game. Richard Kahui and Tamati Ellison were outstanding, but were injured more often than not. Mention for a similarly effective switch to 13 from Tim Nanai Williams
12. Jean de Villiers
Outside of the playoffs teams, Jean de Villiers had a strong showing at inside centre, but Christian Lealiifano and Jan Serfontein performed better.
11. Julian Savea
Not the greatest season from Savea, and the assault charge seemed to effect him mid season, but he still scored some great tries, and Israel Dagg still has nightmares about the Savea train rolling over him.
Mention for Hosea Gear who like Smith, did well to manage 8 tries in a struggling Highlanders team.
10. Bernard Foley
The main reason why the Waratahs were a joy to watch this year was this man. Foley ran the show at his new position at standoff, making people like Cam Crawford and Israel Folau look good. Michael Cheika has unearthed a gem.
9. Fumiaki Tanaka
Perhaps a little bit of bias here, and it's strange to think that a good few Highlanders feature in this team, but Tanaka was great to watch this season, and it's hard not to have him as a favourite player. Wales discovered how effective he can be when Japan shocked them in the second test this summer. TJ Peranara did well, and a return of 7 tries can't be laughed at.
1. Ben Franks
Away from his brother for the first time, Franks shone at the Hurricanes, finally getting some regular gametime. His 10(0)m try was a sight to behold, and backed that up week in week out with strong performances. Mention for Schalk Ferraria of the Kings, whose defensive hard work lead the way for some historic performances.
2. Ged Robinson
Another tight contest, with Deon Fourie and Bandise Maku impressing. But with Fourie playing well at flanker too, Robinson had more time at hooker to show what he's got, and as the high scoring player in fantasy Super Rugby, he deservedly gets this spot.
3. Angus Ta'avao
It's hard to pick out props, especially tighthead props. James Slipper and Ben Taumiuna have done well, but as part of the playoff teams are discounted. Ta'avao bagged a few tries, and looks to be one for the future.
4. Luke Jones
The Rebels second row are by far their strongest performers. Both Pyle and Jones get through a mountain of work, and both should be closer to Wallaby reckoning. Great seasons for both.
5. Hugh Pyle
See Jones
6. Steven Luatua
What an outstanding breakout year for the 22 year old. Luatua was everywhere on the field, and New Zealand may have their heir apparent to Jerome Kaino's slot as the world's best blindside.
7. Wimpie van der Walt
Everything good about the Kings was epitomised by Wimpie van der Walt. Often running the ball two or three times a move, or tackling up to four times a play, Wan der Walt was tireless in his work, and the Kings would have been hammered as would have been expected much more without him.
8. Scott Higginbotham
Possibly the biggest loss to Australia this year, but after a slow start, "Higgers" showed that he can be a one man team, and all of the best parts about the Rebels this year came through this man. They may have been better without James O'Connor and Kurtley Beale, but Scott Higginbotham takes them to new levels.
Fantasy
A huge performance from Cillian Hogan puts him further clear, and within touching distance of yet another victory. Plenty to play for over the next three weeks though. Other than the top two, only 5th and 6th have yet to be decided with Murray Kinsella battling Peter Corley for the spot.
Thursday 11 July 2013
Super Rugby Review Round 19
With only one more week to go, a lot of things were decided this week, amongst all the excitement, there was a 93 point game to feature before the Lions won the third test.
Crusaders 43 - 15 Chiefs
The Crusaders showed they are a champion side, putting in the performance against one of the competition contenders that keeps them in the hunt for first place in New Zealand. That they are still in the hunt after playing quite poorly, and now are coming into form should spread fear into the other playoff teams.
Hurricanes 44 - Highlanders
What a game. This showed both the best and worst of the Highlanders this season, after they raced into a healthy lead, only to squander it, then race back into a commanding lead, only to nearly squander it again, all while their poor discipline rendered it's ugly head yet again. The highlights are a must watch.
Crusaders 43 - 15 Chiefs
The Crusaders showed they are a champion side, putting in the performance against one of the competition contenders that keeps them in the hunt for first place in New Zealand. That they are still in the hunt after playing quite poorly, and now are coming into form should spread fear into the other playoff teams.
What a game. This showed both the best and worst of the Highlanders this season, after they raced into a healthy lead, only to squander it, then race back into a commanding lead, only to nearly squander it again, all while their poor discipline rendered it's ugly head yet again. The highlights are a must watch.
Cheetahs 34 - 13 Blues
This result confirmed that the Cheetahs made the most of their spectacular season by reaching the playoffs for the first time, while simultaneously consigning the Blues to nearly-rans. It was a much improved season from them, but it won't count for much. Ball Handling Hooker will be cheering on the Cheetahs in the playoffs.
Southern Kings 12- 24 Stormers
This result was consigned to not matter after the Cheetahs result as both teams now have nothing to play for. The Kings will play the Lions in a relegation playoff soon, while the Stormers will finish outside the playoffs and lose a lot of their top players like Joe Pietersen and Bryan Habana.
Bulls 20 -19 Sharks
A late charge from the Bulls kept them atop the ladder, in what could be an important position. A solitary point will confirm them as home semi-finalists, while finishing top means that they will host the final, should they get there.
Key games next week:
With only the order of the playoff contenders to change, these are the games that will affect standings;
Crusaders - Hurricanes - Expect the Crusaders to win, probably with 5 points.
Blues - Chiefs - Expect a narrow Chiefs vicotry giving them 1st in NZ.
Waratahs - Reds - I think the Tahs could sneak this one while the Reds are without Genia and Horwill
Force - Brumbies - Brumbies to win, possible bonus point
Stormers - Bulls - Bulls to win by a multiple of 3.
Probable playoffs:
1. Bulls v ( Brumbies v Reds)
2. Chiefs v ( Crusaders v Cheetahs)
Fantasy.
Another spectacular week brought Cillian Hogan 98 points clear of Ball Handling Hooker in the race for first place, with only 4 weeks to go. While Garbhan is 260 points behind, and will be fighting with Connacht Man for 3rd.
Head to Head league.
With 8 points the difference between 1st and 2nd, and the difference between 2nd and 3rd, it's likely to remain that way. the battle for 3rd, 4th and 5th will go on between the Weshties, Les Mecs and Multiple Scoregasms.
Monday 8 July 2013
Ref Report: Greystones 7's
A Guest post from Cillian Hogan
Up to this weekend just gone, I had never attended a sevens event in any capacity and I was delighted to receive an invite to referee in the inaugural Greystones 7's. I was very keen to test myself in the shortened version of our game and jumped at the opportunity.
Tournament KO was penned in for 1:30. With the third and final Lions test starting at 11:05 it became a very easy decision to watch the match in Greystones' clubhouse. I arrived at 10:45 and proceeded to watch an appropriate amount of match build up while meeting with and chatting to many familiar faces from around the province. Despite one or two technical issues with the projector during the opening minutes we all got to see the match until the result was beyond doubt.
With five or so minutes left in the Lions game we (the referees) left to get changed and then met up with the ref coordinator where our tournament jerseys were handed out and we were split into teams of three to look after the three pitches the matches were to be played on. There were two pitches for eight mens teams (one pitch for each group of four) and one pitch for the women. I was placed on pitch one in front of the clubhouse. We then had a brief chat about the sevens specific laws, the need for accuracy at the breakdown and we were then told who'd be in the middle for the first matches.
I had hoped for a gentle ease into the day but I got the nod and was up first for the game between pre-tournament favourites The Wild Geese and UCD. Having never had proper touch judges before I felt compelled to have a bit of a prematch brief stating the usual instructions that I had been told when running the line for Ulster Bank League games. "Your primary job is to rule on matters of touch and touch in-goal” and “if there's any foul play put out your flag and I'll lead the chat at the next break but keep up with play as touch is still your primary task." I also added that as this was my first time with touchies I'd probably forget about them so if they had anything for me just shout. The game itself went off without a hitch despite both teams wearing blue, with The Wild Geese winning reasonably comfortably while UCD acquitted themselves very well. I was blowing hard enough at half time and the instructions from my touch judges were to watch the offsides during set piece. I felt much better at full time having got over the initial shock from the pace of the game. I submitted the match score card to the pitch coordinator and we were on to next match.
For the next few games I ran the line which was enjoyable being able to primarily watch the action with a few sprints intermittently down the sideline. A bad injury on the women's pitch (which required an ambulance) allowed us to take our time with the schedule as we were aiming for the playoffs of both the men's and women's tournaments to be played in order on pitch one. The heat was a bigger factor during the day than I had anticipated and Greystones were great at providing a hydration station for the officials stocked with plenty of water and red bull.
There was plenty of chopping and changing with who was doing which match during the course for the day but my next game in the middle was between The Wild Geese and Trinity. I was feeling physically comfortable in this game at half time and received some small positional advice from my touch judges. The game at this stage was very close with Trinity playing very well if relying a little heavily on individual efforts, while The Wild Geese we poor in the first half by their standards. The second half was going fine with The Geese scoring a good few tries but about halfway in I had a pretty bad blunder. The Geese were in possession when I had got in the way of play and like most times when a ref gets into a spot of bother it usually gets worse. I tried to get out of the way by sprinting through a gap in Trinity's defense but this just allowed the ball carrier to follow me through before he got a pass away. At that stage my back was to the ball and I was unable to see it. The Geese then got the ball wider still and were in. Thankfully I blew it up as my own mistake, apologised to both teams and restarted with a scrum to the team in possession. I was annoyed with myself for the big error but knew there was no point dwelling on it. Neither team had been disadvantaged by it once I’d called it back but it never looks good and gives the impression of incompetence.
We had a break after this match as the group stages were over and this gave us a chance for a burger, to rehydrate and a rest. Some would say the rest was needed but I felt it was an opportunity to seize up and that's just what happened. My own liquids intake for the day had been poorly managed and when it came to restarting with the finals I found it quite hard to get loose and going again.
I was given the second semi-final of the cup in the knockout stages which was personally very pleasing and I felt rewarded for what I thought had been a strong day overall from me with the whistle. The match was between two of Greystones' entries. One side was made up of their U21s squad while the other was consisted of senior players. The game started with a very quick pace to it which benefited the younger lads as they scored a terrifically finished try in the early minutes. While attacking on the left hand side of the pitch they kicked deep into the 22. The defensive player was shepherding the ball over the try-line for a 22 dropout when the chasing player managed to dive and stretch, beating the defender to the grounding. It happened in a flash and I can safely say that had I been a bit lazy and not chased the kick hard myself, I would not have been able to make the call. The young lads built their scores early and it wasn't until the second half that the senior team were able to get back into the game. This was my best game of the day. The Greystones U21 team won the match and continued onto the final.
The day itself was a great occasion to be part of. A lot of stalls were in Dr. Hickey Park selling sweets and cakes etc. There were bouncing castles (for children), there was music played on the PA system and we were fortunate to get the weather that we did. I'd like to thank the organisers and volunteers form Greystones RFC for running a great event, for giving the referees their full support throughout the day and making sure we wanted for nothing.
Congratulations to Railway (women’s plate winners) Blackrock (women's cup winners), Trinity (men's plate winners) and The Wild Geese (men's cup winners)
While this was my first sevens tournament I certainly hope it's not my last.
Tournament KO was penned in for 1:30. With the third and final Lions test starting at 11:05 it became a very easy decision to watch the match in Greystones' clubhouse. I arrived at 10:45 and proceeded to watch an appropriate amount of match build up while meeting with and chatting to many familiar faces from around the province. Despite one or two technical issues with the projector during the opening minutes we all got to see the match until the result was beyond doubt.
With five or so minutes left in the Lions game we (the referees) left to get changed and then met up with the ref coordinator where our tournament jerseys were handed out and we were split into teams of three to look after the three pitches the matches were to be played on. There were two pitches for eight mens teams (one pitch for each group of four) and one pitch for the women. I was placed on pitch one in front of the clubhouse. We then had a brief chat about the sevens specific laws, the need for accuracy at the breakdown and we were then told who'd be in the middle for the first matches.
I had hoped for a gentle ease into the day but I got the nod and was up first for the game between pre-tournament favourites The Wild Geese and UCD. Having never had proper touch judges before I felt compelled to have a bit of a prematch brief stating the usual instructions that I had been told when running the line for Ulster Bank League games. "Your primary job is to rule on matters of touch and touch in-goal” and “if there's any foul play put out your flag and I'll lead the chat at the next break but keep up with play as touch is still your primary task." I also added that as this was my first time with touchies I'd probably forget about them so if they had anything for me just shout. The game itself went off without a hitch despite both teams wearing blue, with The Wild Geese winning reasonably comfortably while UCD acquitted themselves very well. I was blowing hard enough at half time and the instructions from my touch judges were to watch the offsides during set piece. I felt much better at full time having got over the initial shock from the pace of the game. I submitted the match score card to the pitch coordinator and we were on to next match.
For the next few games I ran the line which was enjoyable being able to primarily watch the action with a few sprints intermittently down the sideline. A bad injury on the women's pitch (which required an ambulance) allowed us to take our time with the schedule as we were aiming for the playoffs of both the men's and women's tournaments to be played in order on pitch one. The heat was a bigger factor during the day than I had anticipated and Greystones were great at providing a hydration station for the officials stocked with plenty of water and red bull.
There was plenty of chopping and changing with who was doing which match during the course for the day but my next game in the middle was between The Wild Geese and Trinity. I was feeling physically comfortable in this game at half time and received some small positional advice from my touch judges. The game at this stage was very close with Trinity playing very well if relying a little heavily on individual efforts, while The Wild Geese we poor in the first half by their standards. The second half was going fine with The Geese scoring a good few tries but about halfway in I had a pretty bad blunder. The Geese were in possession when I had got in the way of play and like most times when a ref gets into a spot of bother it usually gets worse. I tried to get out of the way by sprinting through a gap in Trinity's defense but this just allowed the ball carrier to follow me through before he got a pass away. At that stage my back was to the ball and I was unable to see it. The Geese then got the ball wider still and were in. Thankfully I blew it up as my own mistake, apologised to both teams and restarted with a scrum to the team in possession. I was annoyed with myself for the big error but knew there was no point dwelling on it. Neither team had been disadvantaged by it once I’d called it back but it never looks good and gives the impression of incompetence.
We had a break after this match as the group stages were over and this gave us a chance for a burger, to rehydrate and a rest. Some would say the rest was needed but I felt it was an opportunity to seize up and that's just what happened. My own liquids intake for the day had been poorly managed and when it came to restarting with the finals I found it quite hard to get loose and going again.
I was given the second semi-final of the cup in the knockout stages which was personally very pleasing and I felt rewarded for what I thought had been a strong day overall from me with the whistle. The match was between two of Greystones' entries. One side was made up of their U21s squad while the other was consisted of senior players. The game started with a very quick pace to it which benefited the younger lads as they scored a terrifically finished try in the early minutes. While attacking on the left hand side of the pitch they kicked deep into the 22. The defensive player was shepherding the ball over the try-line for a 22 dropout when the chasing player managed to dive and stretch, beating the defender to the grounding. It happened in a flash and I can safely say that had I been a bit lazy and not chased the kick hard myself, I would not have been able to make the call. The young lads built their scores early and it wasn't until the second half that the senior team were able to get back into the game. This was my best game of the day. The Greystones U21 team won the match and continued onto the final.
The day itself was a great occasion to be part of. A lot of stalls were in Dr. Hickey Park selling sweets and cakes etc. There were bouncing castles (for children), there was music played on the PA system and we were fortunate to get the weather that we did. I'd like to thank the organisers and volunteers form Greystones RFC for running a great event, for giving the referees their full support throughout the day and making sure we wanted for nothing.
Congratulations to Railway (women’s plate winners) Blackrock (women's cup winners), Trinity (men's plate winners) and The Wild Geese (men's cup winners)
While this was my first sevens tournament I certainly hope it's not my last.
Wednesday 3 July 2013
Gatland has got it wrong.
Warren Gatland has made several changes to his 23 man squad for the final series decider against Australia on Saturday.
Nearly all of the decisions he made is wrong.
First off, Alex Corbisiero has been reinstated into the starting lineup. Correct call by Rowntree. Corbisiero was a positive influence in the first test, and is by a distance the best scrummager left in the squad. That Mako Vunipola is the backup is probably an ok call, given the impact he brings. He has had a good tour, and wasn't too bad last week aside from the early scrums.
Hibbard for Tom Youngs is a further attempt to dominate the scrum. Possibly a good call, but Hibbard's lineout throwing has been terrible, so I'm marking this one down as wrong.
Next changes are in the backrow, where Sean O'Brien comes in at 7, and Toby Faletau replaces Jamie Heaslip at 8. This are two stupid calls. First off, Sean O'Brien is not a 7. His ball carrying and his presence means he should be there, but at blindside. He is decent at the breakdown, but decent won't be good enough against George Smith. Especially with no help given that Heaslip, O'Driscoll, Rory Best and Dan Cole are not selected, their replacements don't effect the breakdown at all. Furthermore, Healy and O'Connell aren't around to help O'Brien, who will be massacred. Tipuric should be starting, and ably assisted by O'Brien from 6, and Heaslip from 8.
Phillips to come back in at scrumhalf wouldn't usually be a bad decision, except that he is out of form and short of fitness. Green tinted glasses on, Conor Murray has been the form scrumhalf, and that is reflected in his selection on the bench ahead of Youngs. Does Philips deserve to be there?
Gatland's excuse for dropping O'Driscoll was that Roberts gives more. But O'Driscoll isn't being replaced by Roberts, as Roberts is playing 12. Jon Davies is lucky to be in the squad. As the third best outside centre in the squad, how Gatland can justify his selection over Manu Tuilagi, never mind O'Driscoll is beyond me. See below for Davies's qualities.
On the bench, Gatland has gone for Richie Gray as the token Scot, who is still out of form, and Manu Tuilagi. What Alex Cuthbert did to Gatland is mystifying. From being dropped from the XV after scoring a try, to being dropped altogether after being left on the bench is crazy. Manu Tuilagi for all his impact and qualities leaves a huge gap in the back three if something goes wrong.
Finally, for the captain, Gatland has made another clanger. Alun Wyn Jones has only captained Wales once. For a new captain to come into one of the biggest games in rugby is bizzare. Just ask Jamie Heaslip how difficult it is. He is usually a fired up player, and as Paul O'Connell knows, dealing with Romain Poite as fired up as Alun Wyn gets is going to be nigh on impossible.
The Lions could still snatch this, but with no help at the breakdown, it won't matter who the centres are, they will get less ball than last week. Gatland you've gotten this wrong.
Nearly all of the decisions he made is wrong.
First off, Alex Corbisiero has been reinstated into the starting lineup. Correct call by Rowntree. Corbisiero was a positive influence in the first test, and is by a distance the best scrummager left in the squad. That Mako Vunipola is the backup is probably an ok call, given the impact he brings. He has had a good tour, and wasn't too bad last week aside from the early scrums.
Hibbard for Tom Youngs is a further attempt to dominate the scrum. Possibly a good call, but Hibbard's lineout throwing has been terrible, so I'm marking this one down as wrong.
Next changes are in the backrow, where Sean O'Brien comes in at 7, and Toby Faletau replaces Jamie Heaslip at 8. This are two stupid calls. First off, Sean O'Brien is not a 7. His ball carrying and his presence means he should be there, but at blindside. He is decent at the breakdown, but decent won't be good enough against George Smith. Especially with no help given that Heaslip, O'Driscoll, Rory Best and Dan Cole are not selected, their replacements don't effect the breakdown at all. Furthermore, Healy and O'Connell aren't around to help O'Brien, who will be massacred. Tipuric should be starting, and ably assisted by O'Brien from 6, and Heaslip from 8.
Phillips to come back in at scrumhalf wouldn't usually be a bad decision, except that he is out of form and short of fitness. Green tinted glasses on, Conor Murray has been the form scrumhalf, and that is reflected in his selection on the bench ahead of Youngs. Does Philips deserve to be there?
Gatland's excuse for dropping O'Driscoll was that Roberts gives more. But O'Driscoll isn't being replaced by Roberts, as Roberts is playing 12. Jon Davies is lucky to be in the squad. As the third best outside centre in the squad, how Gatland can justify his selection over Manu Tuilagi, never mind O'Driscoll is beyond me. See below for Davies's qualities.
Finally, for the captain, Gatland has made another clanger. Alun Wyn Jones has only captained Wales once. For a new captain to come into one of the biggest games in rugby is bizzare. Just ask Jamie Heaslip how difficult it is. He is usually a fired up player, and as Paul O'Connell knows, dealing with Romain Poite as fired up as Alun Wyn gets is going to be nigh on impossible.
The Lions could still snatch this, but with no help at the breakdown, it won't matter who the centres are, they will get less ball than last week. Gatland you've gotten this wrong.
Monday 1 July 2013
Super Rugby Review Round 18
Super Rugby was back with a vengeance this week, with some outrageous tries and funny moments. If you missed my take on the season so far watch it here.
Round 18.
Chiefs 34 - 22 Hurricanes
A hugely impressive performance from the Chiefs, and their unheralded pack in particular. They seemed to have unearthed another performer in Matt Vant Leven who dominated from no.8 putting in 17 tackles, two linebreaks, one steal and a try.
Highlanders 12 - 40 Crusaders
What a game this was. It had everything, from a red card, to a sumptious offload from Tamati Ellison for Ben Smith's try, to a coast to coast try at the death for Telusa Veainu. And yet Dan Carter put on a masterclass with 25 points, a try, a try assist, two linebreaks, one linebreak created, 5 tackle busts, 2 offloads and ten tackles.
With the news that Richie McCaw will feature for the Crusaders before the end of the season, this has been a great week for the men from Canterbury.
Sharks 22 - 20 Blues
A last minute try put the Blues in a dangerous position with the playoffs only 2 games away. Frank Halai's two tries weren't enough, while Anthony Boric was outstanding for the Blues with 26 tackles, while finding time for a linebreak and two offloads too. Riaan Viljoen with the match winning try.
Bulls 48 - 18 Southern Kings
The Bulls hammered the Kings, and it's now certain that the Kings will face the Lions in the South African relegation match. Jan Serfontein with the pick of the Bulls tries, after some quick thinking by Ndugane from an errant restart from the Kings
Stormers 28 - 3 Cheetahs
A hugely dissapointing show from the Cheetahs, who were done a favour by the Sharks earlier. Deon Fourie and Siya Kolisi had huge games, which meant that the Cheetahs never settled, and players like Willie le Roux were unable to continue from impressive showings with the Springboks.
What this means:
The Bulls and Chiefs guaranteed that they will feature in the playoffs, with the Bulls ensuring that they will finish first in South Africa, while a hugely unlikely collapse is the only thing that can deny the Chiefs top spot in New Zealand.
In the race for the playoffs, the Hurricanes and the Waratahs are now definitely out, while both the Sharks and the Stormers are making late charges.
Next week's Cheetahs v Blues will be a huge game, especially now that Chris Noakes and Piri Weepu will take no part after injuries.
Both the Stormers and the Sharks need to win all remaining games and hope the Blues beat the Cheetahs, then the Blues lose the following week. This will free up one slot for them to capitalise on. Both teams play the Kings and the Bulls in their remaining games.
By virtue of the Blues loss, and their next fixture against the Cheetahs, the Reds have also qualified for the playoffs. The Blues are the only remaining side outside of the playoffs that can go ahead of them, but for that to happen, the Cheetahs would be unable to go ahead of the Reds.
Table
Chiefs (q) 61
Bulls (Q) 59
Brumbies (q) 59
Reds (q) 54
Crusaders 51
Cheetahs 46 (with a bye to come)
Blues 44
Sharks 42
Stormers 42
Key fixtures
Round 19
Crusaders v Chiefs
Cheetahs v Blues
Kings v Stormers
Bulls v Sharks
Round 20
Crusaders v Hurricanes
Blues v Chiefs
Waratahs v Reds
Force v Brumbies
Sharks v Kings
Stormers v Bulls
Only two games left in the calendar do not have qualification hopes riding on them so far.
Fantasy
It was a significant period in the fantasy game, with a clear emergence of a top two. Poseidon's Belvedere with 489 points edges ahead of Ball Handling Hooker by 15 points. From there, there is a gap of 109 back to Garbhan Hogan, who isn't out of it, then a further 214 points back to Connacht Man who probably has 4th spot tied up at this stage.
In the head to head, Poseidon's Belvedere still has an 8 point lead, to second, and a 16 point lead to 3rd.
Results
Round 18.
Chiefs 34 - 22 Hurricanes
A hugely impressive performance from the Chiefs, and their unheralded pack in particular. They seemed to have unearthed another performer in Matt Vant Leven who dominated from no.8 putting in 17 tackles, two linebreaks, one steal and a try.
Highlanders 12 - 40 Crusaders
What a game this was. It had everything, from a red card, to a sumptious offload from Tamati Ellison for Ben Smith's try, to a coast to coast try at the death for Telusa Veainu. And yet Dan Carter put on a masterclass with 25 points, a try, a try assist, two linebreaks, one linebreak created, 5 tackle busts, 2 offloads and ten tackles.
With the news that Richie McCaw will feature for the Crusaders before the end of the season, this has been a great week for the men from Canterbury.
A last minute try put the Blues in a dangerous position with the playoffs only 2 games away. Frank Halai's two tries weren't enough, while Anthony Boric was outstanding for the Blues with 26 tackles, while finding time for a linebreak and two offloads too. Riaan Viljoen with the match winning try.
Bulls 48 - 18 Southern Kings
The Bulls hammered the Kings, and it's now certain that the Kings will face the Lions in the South African relegation match. Jan Serfontein with the pick of the Bulls tries, after some quick thinking by Ndugane from an errant restart from the Kings
Stormers 28 - 3 Cheetahs
A hugely dissapointing show from the Cheetahs, who were done a favour by the Sharks earlier. Deon Fourie and Siya Kolisi had huge games, which meant that the Cheetahs never settled, and players like Willie le Roux were unable to continue from impressive showings with the Springboks.
What this means:
The Bulls and Chiefs guaranteed that they will feature in the playoffs, with the Bulls ensuring that they will finish first in South Africa, while a hugely unlikely collapse is the only thing that can deny the Chiefs top spot in New Zealand.
In the race for the playoffs, the Hurricanes and the Waratahs are now definitely out, while both the Sharks and the Stormers are making late charges.
Next week's Cheetahs v Blues will be a huge game, especially now that Chris Noakes and Piri Weepu will take no part after injuries.
Both the Stormers and the Sharks need to win all remaining games and hope the Blues beat the Cheetahs, then the Blues lose the following week. This will free up one slot for them to capitalise on. Both teams play the Kings and the Bulls in their remaining games.
By virtue of the Blues loss, and their next fixture against the Cheetahs, the Reds have also qualified for the playoffs. The Blues are the only remaining side outside of the playoffs that can go ahead of them, but for that to happen, the Cheetahs would be unable to go ahead of the Reds.
Table
Chiefs (q) 61
Bulls (Q) 59
Brumbies (q) 59
Reds (q) 54
Crusaders 51
Cheetahs 46 (with a bye to come)
Blues 44
Sharks 42
Stormers 42
Key fixtures
Round 19
Crusaders v Chiefs
Cheetahs v Blues
Kings v Stormers
Bulls v Sharks
Round 20
Crusaders v Hurricanes
Blues v Chiefs
Waratahs v Reds
Force v Brumbies
Sharks v Kings
Stormers v Bulls
Only two games left in the calendar do not have qualification hopes riding on them so far.
Fantasy
It was a significant period in the fantasy game, with a clear emergence of a top two. Poseidon's Belvedere with 489 points edges ahead of Ball Handling Hooker by 15 points. From there, there is a gap of 109 back to Garbhan Hogan, who isn't out of it, then a further 214 points back to Connacht Man who probably has 4th spot tied up at this stage.
In the head to head, Poseidon's Belvedere still has an 8 point lead, to second, and a 16 point lead to 3rd.
Results
| Ball Handling Hooker | 322 - 115 | Les Mecs |
| GlasUlstermanNSW | 326 - 489 | Poseidon's Belvedere |
| Multiple Scoregasms | 473 - 245 | Average |
| The Weshties | 260 - 256 | Ireland's Answer |
Fixtures
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