BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: GUEST,lox
Date: 26 Mar 09 - 12:55 PM

The problem isn't with Tri Nations exclusivity, its to do with Argentinas comparative isolation, combined with the fact that many Argentine players play for french club sides, which has often raised the question of whether they should be admitted to the six nations as their players are in europe for much of the time.

I admire Argentina, especially after the last world cup where they were the only team that gave south Africa a run for their money and arguably the number 2 team of the tournament.

This despite not having "local" competition, as the so called northern and southern hemisphere teams do, to keep them on their toes.

Interesting to note that rugby was brought to Argentina by the Welsh, and in some parts of Patagonia welsh is still spoken.

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: Teribus
Date: 26 Mar 09 - 12:18 PM

The Northern Hemisphere's main tournament has grown in size with the game France came in to make it the five nations in 1910 and then Italy joined to make it the present day Six Nations.

Down in the Southern Hemisphere why haven't Argentina been invited to join the Tri-Nations?? Are the others afraid of a new comer disrupting their clique?? From what I can see it would only do the game good.

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: The Sandman
Date: 25 Mar 09 - 02:21 PM

I said they deserved to win the Grand Slam, did I not.
Ireland were the most consistent side throughout the tournament,so its fair enough they won the Grand Slam.[quote]
I am pleased they have won the grand slam [quote]
IRELAND deserved to win the grand slam,[quote]

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: ard mhacha
Date: 25 Mar 09 - 01:40 PM

Dave it is not me being pathetic more like our record against the big three from way down south, no one is invincible ,true, but those three come pretty close.
Cap`n I don`t for a moment believe Ireland are a great team, all the more reason why they earn the plaudits for the `Grand Slam`,

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: Dave Hanson
Date: 25 Mar 09 - 11:12 AM

ard mhacha, I seem to remember a certain Northern Hemisphere team beating Australia in the world cup a few years ago !!

Don't be so pathetic, no one is invincible.

Dave H

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: The Sandman
Date: 25 Mar 09 - 07:35 AM

Sorry ,Ireland played the greatest Rugby anyone has ever seen,they were the best Grand Slam winners ever,better than Wales when they won it,and would have beaten the all blacks,does that make you happy?.
I dont support any one team,but appreciate good flowing rugby.
if I had a choice of watching a video of Wales winning the grand slam,and Ireland winning the grand slam,I know which I would prefer to watch.
Rugby is a game , it is a sport it is not a war.

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: ard mhacha
Date: 25 Mar 09 - 06:42 AM

Captain Birdseye when referring to the southern hemisphere teams I wasn`t including the San Marinos of the SH such as Tonga, Figi etc, the following stats will show how far ahead the big three OZ,SA and NZ, are over the "home countries2, England v SA 12-18, v NZ 6-25, V 12-17.
Ireland v SA 3-14,v OZ 8-19, v NZ 0-22. Scotland v SA 4-14, v OZ 7-18, V NZ 0-25. Wales v SA 1-21, NZ 3-20, OZ 2-14/

As you can see from the above stats the so called home countries are a long way behind.
As for pointing out to you that Ireland with two tries to nil were the better team against Wales, that is a lost cause, as you know more than all the Rugby scribes and the former players, now TV pundits who without exception, declared declared Ireland the best team against Wales.

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: MartinRyan
Date: 25 Mar 09 - 04:34 AM

You mean he's even scarier than Martin Johnson..... ;>)

regards

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: Dave Hanson
Date: 25 Mar 09 - 04:18 AM

That explains it perfectly, we had better win or that bloody Christy Moore will keep on singing at us.

Dave H

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: MartinRyan
Date: 24 Mar 09 - 06:50 PM

I note from Christy Moore's blog that he's been playing for the Irish team at their training camps ahead of recent matches. Maybe that explains it!

regards

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: GUEST,lox
Date: 24 Mar 09 - 05:20 PM

"very good at spoiling other peoples games and preventing other sides playing"

This simply isn't true and doesn't reflect their style of play.

They won their games with tries and despite poor kicking form from O'Gara.

That on its own spells attacking rugby.

They did not deliberately bog games down as you suggest, but if anything did the opposite, especially against France and Italy.

Before you repeat it, I know you think Ireland were the most consistent and efficient team and therefore the most deserving.

Your other comments are simply inaccurate.

Italy deliberately sabotaged Irelands running game from the off and England thought they might have better luck doing the same thing.

As for stopping other teams playing, captain, thats called good tackling and anticipation.

They didn't do it in a malicious way, but won ball fair and square upfront with a superb display of forward dominance. Their short coming was their over enthusiasm which cost them dear against wales.

I've dealt with all your points above and yet you keep banging the same tired old drum.

You are beginning to sound insincere.

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: goatfell
Date: 24 Mar 09 - 01:44 PM

why can't you agree that the best team won the grnad slam instead of sour grapes

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: The Sandman
Date: 24 Mar 09 - 11:31 AM

aye,but they are consitently bad.
Ireland were efficient,but not very entertaining,very good at spoiling other peoples games and preventing other sides playing.it will put people off watching the game in the end.
and as for these new laws,result sides kick back and forth,just bloody daft.

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: Nigel Parsons
Date: 24 Mar 09 - 09:56 AM

Ireland were the most consistent side throughout the tournament,so its fair enough they won the Grand Slam.

It could be argued that Italy have been the most consistent for several seasons. That is no basis to justify winning the tournament!

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: The Sandman
Date: 24 Mar 09 - 07:22 AM

yes I agree,I was surprised Henson didnt take the last kick.
Ireland were the most consistent side throughout the tournament,so its fair enough they won the Grand Slam.

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: GUEST,lox
Date: 23 Mar 09 - 10:21 PM

Exploiting a defensive weakness - just as Wales aimed to exploit Ronan O'gara's weakness in defence - a tactic which I have defended as intelligent earlier in this thread.

That's how plans of attack are formulated - you identify the opposing teams weaknesses and exploit them.

Wales went for O'Gara and didn't get through.

I don't really count the trip, I think that was a mere flash of stupidity and it didn't have any real intent behind it or O'Gara might have been seriously injured and the welsh player sent off.

The targeting of O'Gara took the form of relentless running at him to burst a hole in the Irish defensive line or create one somewhere else by drawing cover.

O'Driscolls try had nothing to do with kicking over williams.

Granted it might not have been entertaining for you, sorry about that.

And though you may find this incongruous, I will defend both Henson and Jones for their misses on the basis that their kicks were simply too long. Sometimes those kicks go over, but generally they are desperate last ditch efforts that fall short.

Within range, Jones's kicking was exemplary and to his great credit.

He would have been lucky to get that last one over the bar.

If he was a bigger hitter, henson wouldn't have taken the other one, but what henson lacks in accuracy he makes up for with power.

It must have been hard deciding who should take the last kick.

His drop goal was beautiful, as was O'Gara's.

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: The Sandman
Date: 23 Mar 09 - 05:31 PM

Consequently not very entertaining to watch.unless your Irish or Welsh
Wales lost their full back early on, lee byrne,who is an attacking full back to boot and is one of their attacking strengths, the replacement who was not a natural full back,had to fill in.
Ireland then exploited this,by lobbing over Williams[5 foot 9],now if the full back hadnt been injured[how was he injured?]Ireland would not have had that weakness to exploit[another element of luck],although clever tactics by Ireland.
Wales missed one other penalty,JONES was not the kicker it was Henson.
no, it was not very good rugby, but IRELAND deserved to win the grand slam,they were the most consistent side,and they were effecient at stopping others playing,just like England used to be,but not my cup of tea.
bring on the All Blacks,IRELAND wont stop them playing decent Rugby.

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: GUEST,lox
Date: 23 Mar 09 - 02:43 PM

But wales didn't play that way did they.

As for patriotic fervour, I don't think you read my post very well or you would have noticed a distinct refusal to allow this discussion to descend to that level.

You would also have noticed my comments concerning welsh pressure.


Here is an unemotional unpatriotic comparison.


Category A - playmaking.

As a team, Ireland succesfully created two definite try scoring opportunities and one definite drop goal opportunity

As a team, Wales created one definite drop goal opportunity.

(note the word "definite")

Category B - mistakes (creating opportunities for the other team)

As a team, Ireland gave away 6 penalties.

As a team, wales gave away 1 penalty.


Category C - Opportunity conversion into points

O'Driscoll and Bowe's individual strength turned both try scoring opportunities into points, and O'Gara added two points in each case.

O'Gara turned the Drop Goal opportunity into points.

Jones turned 5 out of six penalties into points and the drop goal opportunity.

With the exception of wales drop goal, every points scoring opportunity was either created or gifted by Ireland.

In other words, Ireland totally controlled the shape of the game.

I too love the way that wales play when they are playing well, they have a history of creative players - Gareth edwards - johnathan davies - shane williams etc.

O'Driscoll possesses and exhibits all the same qualities as those players.

And the reason wales didn't play that game was because Ireland didn't let them.

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: The Sandman
Date: 23 Mar 09 - 01:54 PM

no,Australia and Tonga are not better.[australia were beatn by Wales[remember]
Ireland were the most consistent side,and so it was deserved.but it was not very good rugby as a spectacle[unless you are Irish],bit similiar to watching Chelsea play football.
the diffrence between you and I,is that I like to see rugby played in a certain way.
I like the way Wales play,it is more entertaining to watch,I dont normally like England,but against France ,they provided an entertaining spectacle.
as far as I am concerned it is not about winning but how you win.
Ireland were efficient but uninteresting,a bit similar to England when they were at their peak,not my cup of tea.

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: ard mhacha
Date: 23 Mar 09 - 08:33 AM

Birdseye, You don`t have to be Rugby prophet to tell us that any of the southern hemisphere teams are better than the Six Nations, but it IS the Six Nations that this Thread is about so start another on the Rugby merits of either geographical areas.

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: goatfell
Date: 23 Mar 09 - 07:03 AM

I'm glad that Ireland won the grand slam in 61 years but as I always say the best team won on the day.

Great Ireland from a Scot

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: Hrothgar
Date: 23 Mar 09 - 03:35 AM

Still doesn't make up for Ireland's getting dudded in 1972.

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: Victor in Mapperton
Date: 22 Mar 09 - 09:07 PM

All credit has to go to the Irish, they won it fair and square. Well done.

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: GUEST
Date: 22 Mar 09 - 08:00 PM

..and if they didn't, I bet questions would be asked in parliament over here!

Andrea

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: The Sandman
Date: 22 Mar 09 - 06:03 PM

I was watching the game,
you cant take away penalties, they are part of the game,you are allowing your sentiment and patriotic fervour to cloud your vision.
Wales were leading six points to nil first half, first half goes to Wales, Ireland scored 17 Points in the second half,wales scored 9 points,ireland get the second half.
however, to win by two points is not a comprehensive win,neither was their win over England comprehensive.
I am pleased they have won the grand slam,but in the last match they were lucky[it very nearly went the other way],to have to wait till the last minute,and then rely on a penalty falling marginally short,requires a bit of luck.
over all the matches they were the most consistent team,and therefore deserved it.
but none of these teams compares to the All Blacks,the AllBlacks would have wiped the floor with all the six nations teams

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: ard mhacha
Date: 22 Mar 09 - 04:34 PM

Correct assessment Lox, was Birdseye watching the same game, I would rate Martyn Williams as the best player in his position in the Six nations yet he was rarely seen throughout the game, I think this can be taken as an indication of the ferocity of the Irish tackling. From reading the various newspaper reports they were all in agreement that Ireland were the better side

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: GUEST,lox
Date: 22 Mar 09 - 03:43 PM

Gatlin was just trying to shit stir.

He couldn't be expected to understand the relationship and history between Ireland and wales in Rugby union, particularly in the six nations.

Ireland and wales have always loved playing each other, and hold each other high in their affections for each other.

They are probably the only team who could have beaten Ireland that Ireland would have felt no grudge against afterwards.

We compete against each other ferociously on the pitch, but there remains a strong and enduring sense of camaraderie between the two countries.

O'gara was the obvious weak defensive link that was always going to be exploited and every team who play Ireland look for a way to exploit it, and Ireland feature that into their strategy as it has become expected.

O'gara was rattled, and kicked too much from open play which thoroughly got on my nerves for one.

The first time he though about passing - at the start of the second half - Ireland scored a try.

Captain, I fail to see how two tries and a near miss stands as an even match for one fruitless drive for the line.

If Ireland had lost it would have been nothing more than a just punishment for sloppy discipline.

In such circumstances, the team with the better discipline can indeed pat itself on the back for keeping its nerve and restraint, and the team with the sloppy discipline can make no complaints but simply learn their lesson.

However, to call the rugby evenly matched would be very wide of the mark.

Ireland owned the line out, had the slight edge they needed up front and had the killer instinct in the center and on the wing that could capitalize on that slight edge.

Their defence was awesome, to the extent that I don't think Shane Williams had more than one go at running.

Take away the penalties and the score was 17 - 3.

Credit must go to wales for both keeping their nerve and rattling the Irish, thus creating conditions that favoured their kicker, but this is not to be confused with ambitious exciting rugby by any stretch, which is what we have come to expect from wales and what I believe they expect of themselves, but didn't get given the opportunity to play.

Win or lose we love the welsh and we relish competing against them and I would have loved to have been in Cardiff last night whoever won because thats how we roll.

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: The Sandman
Date: 22 Mar 09 - 03:09 PM

Ireland were lucky to win the last match.
I think a draw would have been a fair result.[I am a neutral,I like to see good rugby,the two sides were[imo] evenly matched.
what is really annoying,is that we had to watch four fools[George Hook etc]indulging in Paddywhackery,while waiting[THREE QUARTERS OF AN HOUR] for the Premiership.
Ireland were unbeaten and played well [overall],But the last penalty was very close,and Wales played as well as the Irish ,a very exciting match.

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: ard mhacha
Date: 22 Mar 09 - 12:49 PM

I am pleased you agree with me about O`Gara being foot-tripped, and poor old Gatlin , having his remarks about O`Gara`s lack of heart shoved back in face, didn`t he take his dropped goal well.

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: Nigel Parsons
Date: 22 Mar 09 - 09:58 AM

My comment is in A separate thread

Cheers
Nigel

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: Dave Hanson
Date: 22 Mar 09 - 07:54 AM

If Wales should have been reduced to 14 then so should Ireland for the Irish number 4 who retaliated on behalf of O'Driscoll when it had nothing to do with him.

Dave H

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: ard mhacha
Date: 22 Mar 09 - 06:59 AM

It was worth the wait and the perfect way to do it, you could not have written the script.
A game which should have began with Wales reduced to 14 men for a foot-trip on O`Gara, they were certainly out to get him, but didn`t he come good in the end. O`Driscoll and O`Connell were mighty, it was the perfect reply to Gatlin`s unsporting post match clap trap.

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: Dave Hanson
Date: 22 Mar 09 - 04:50 AM

Congrats to Ireland, a well deserved victory.

Dave H

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: GUEST,lox
Date: 21 Mar 09 - 10:59 PM

I'm not sure Villan, I think this one, on the subject of England v France tops it for sheer humour value:

"France will win resoundingly and with a level of class not seen in these parts for a long time."

At the time I was actually toning myself down, and in general conversation was pronouncing that France would be pushing england all over the pitch and runnng rings around them when they'd finished.




In the meantime,


Ronan O'Gara, you are forgiven.

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: Rasener
Date: 21 Mar 09 - 09:34 PM

Congratulations to the Irish. They deserved to win.

And well done England for pulling back afeter a disastrous start and finishing 2nd. As an Englishman I am proud of you.

Well done France for finishing 3rd.

Who would have believed that the supremo's would finish 4th. Well done Wales for disapointing your fans.

Only disapointment was that Scotland finished below Wales.

Keep at it Italy, its tough to come last, but hey, hopefully you will keep on strengthening over the years.

Quote
Villan:
As I said, if Wales lose they get nothing!
I don't consider second place to be something to aspire to.
There again, I'm not English!

Cheers
Nigel
End of Quote

The quote of the thread and wins the award LOL :-)

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: GUEST,lox
Date: 21 Mar 09 - 07:15 PM

2 Great tries for Ireland.

It would have been a crime if the game had been won with penalties.

As for O'Gara .... well .... all is forgiven X

And credit to wales for keeping up the pressure.

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: GUEST,Diesel
Date: 21 Mar 09 - 06:23 PM

Somehow, I thought this thread would be aired again by now, Maybe too many people out celebrating.... that said - For those in far away lands;

Ireland 17 - 15 Wales

Ireland for the first time in 61 yrs won the 2009 six-nations rugby with a final victory over Wales by the skin of a kick to take the tournamment with a grand-slam.

All credit to Wales - they didn't give up and right up to the last kick, could have taken the game. Congratulations to Wales and thanks for a thrilling match.

But, Thanks to the Irish squad who played out with some determination. Some memories for this win. Thank you !!!


Diesel.

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: mouldy
Date: 18 Mar 09 - 11:55 PM

I'm out here in the Land of the Long White Cloud for the next couple of weeks, and got to see the scoring moments of the England match on the news. (My son doesn't have satellite TV). Made me feel better after hearing that Wales won the Sevens.

If I had got my bum into gear and got down the cake tin for midday yesterday I could have entered a free draw for a ticket to the 2011 final. It's a bit of a walk tho'......

However I plan to be over here then, and camped on any spare bit of floor my son has. They're playing the quarters in Welly.

Andrea

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: Rasener
Date: 18 Mar 09 - 06:17 PM

Indeed Nigel.

Thats what makes it so interesting.

However the Welsh seem to be the people who think they can master the world again at Rugby, so lets see if they can do it. :-) Come on you Irish :-)

I don't think many people expected much out of England. More a desire for them to do well from an English point of view. So come on you English :-)

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: Nigel Parsons
Date: 18 Mar 09 - 03:48 PM

Just as England could still come 5th!

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: Rasener
Date: 18 Mar 09 - 02:41 PM

LOL Don't push it Lox. You might be in third place come Saturday :-)

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: GUEST,lox
Date: 18 Mar 09 - 02:00 PM

Gosh - are England playing scotland?

That must be the support act for the Wales v Ireland match ...



... I'd forgotten they were in the tournament too ...

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: Rasener
Date: 18 Mar 09 - 10:58 AM

Looks like England are unchanged.

It's great beating the French, but beating Scotland would be really nice :-)

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: Phot
Date: 18 Mar 09 - 09:20 AM

Liz, that huge French bloke drives a Smart car!

Wassail!! Chris

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: Rasener
Date: 18 Mar 09 - 06:16 AM

Chris
No
Les

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 18 Mar 09 - 04:19 AM

Am I the only person who, when that huge French bloke goes running down the pitch, hears the theme tune to 'Black Beauty' in their head and see him running in slow motion, with his hair flowing in the wind?

Anyone??



Just me then....
























I suppose I'm the only one who thinks half the French team are troglodytes as well....

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: Phot
Date: 18 Mar 09 - 03:55 AM

Thanks for that Les. Are you going?

Wassail!! Chris

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: Rasener
Date: 17 Mar 09 - 01:18 PM

Phot I thought I would post this link converning that Match. Note it is on May the 2nd.

http://www.armynavymatch.org/

Les

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: Phot
Date: 17 Mar 09 - 12:38 PM

Sorry for the slight thread drift. Is anyone going to the Army V Navy game at Twickers? (5th May)

Wassail!! Chris

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: Rasener
Date: 17 Mar 09 - 11:31 AM

Yes there is that element of extra effort.

Should be a good match

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: Dave Hanson
Date: 17 Mar 09 - 10:45 AM

I don't think England will have an easy match against the Scots, they play their hearts out against England.

Dave H

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: Rasener
Date: 17 Mar 09 - 07:14 AM

Funnily enough, I see the English Womens Cricket team are through to the finals of the world cup.

Maybe if they win, tehy could then play the winners of the Rugby at both games.

Now that might conjure up some thoughts LOL :-)

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: ard mhacha
Date: 17 Mar 09 - 06:51 AM

D`ont mention the Cricket.

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: Rasener
Date: 17 Mar 09 - 04:22 AM

No Dave, just musing the time away, until England play Scotland. :-)
Les

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: Dave Hanson
Date: 17 Mar 09 - 03:46 AM

Ay oop, the supporters of the tarts game have hijacked a RUGBY thread.

Dave H

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: The Sandman
Date: 16 Mar 09 - 07:32 PM

he [O NEILL] would make a great Ireland manage.

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: Rasener
Date: 16 Mar 09 - 06:14 PM

He likes crisps though and makes a lot of money out of it :-)

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: Lox
Date: 16 Mar 09 - 06:10 PM

Oh you mean that talented ambitious intelligent forward who ... erm ... left as soon as the opportunity came to get out of there ...

... actually that isn't entirely fair, if it wasn't for Linekers input of late Leicester would have gone into receivership by now ...

... so you see he isn't that intelligent ...

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: Rasener
Date: 16 Mar 09 - 06:06 PM

Didn't that wonderful center forward who knew how to put the ball in the net play for Leicester?

Was it Gary Lineker

If so, I wish MON would find a young one of him :-)

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: GUEST,lox
Date: 16 Mar 09 - 06:01 PM

One more thing ...

I dream that he'll one day be manager of Ireland.

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: GUEST,lox
Date: 16 Mar 09 - 05:59 PM

Whatever about Celtic, anyone who can put Leicester first in the premiership - even for a week - is obviously blessed with superhuman abilities.

They languished in the lower divisions when he arrived and then they returned there when he left.

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: Rasener
Date: 16 Mar 09 - 04:05 PM

Lox It was friendly banter :-)

MON is a good manager, but if Villa areen't in the Euro Cup next year, he will lose some of the most important players in the squad.

Dick
Celtic isn't a good example. I know this will send the sparks flying, but IMHO Scottish football isn't up to the top level of the Premiership, which is where I want the Villa to be.

I think that when Carew is fit he should be in, not Heskey.

May I say its great to talk about the Villa. Don't get many chances to talk about them living in Lincolnshire :-) No good talking to teh family. They don't like Football. Not quite true, as my Dutch wife was brought up by her father on Ajax. Need I say anymore :-)

Cheers
Les

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: The Sandman
Date: 16 Mar 09 - 03:44 PM

villan,it is much the same scenario as Curbishley at Charlton,now look at Charlton .
O neill is a great manager ,before he came Villa were escaping relegation by the skin of their teeth.
you may have some justified criticism of O Neill,and his use of Heskey,But he needed to enlarge his squad,HESKEY brings experience,he is also a very hard working player,and during his career he has scored a lot of goals,he seemed to be rejuvenated at Wigan,SOo

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: GUEST,lox
Date: 16 Mar 09 - 02:40 PM

he he ...

is that the friendly banter we were talking about ...

Hey Villan - I wouldn't be so quick to moan about O'Neill.

If he wasn't your manager you wouldn't be contenders - it's that simple.

The guy is the best manager in the world.

He brought Leicester city into the premiership and then dragged them right to the top - as in top of the table - as in #1 in his last season there before he went to celtic and peter taylor drove them back down into the abyss.

Heskey owes his liverpool interest to O'Neill and O'Neill knew how to use him when he was at Leicester and thats why he was potentially a great buy for Villa.

Then he reigned untouchable at the top of the scottish premiership with celtic for the duration of his stay.

Villa are my current "team to watch" and have been ever since he took over. They will continue to be until he leaves.

Villa have a fraction of Man U's, Chelsea's or liverpools budget yet they are biting them all up the arse and next year they may win the premiership.

If they don't it won't be the fault of Martyin O'Neill, and when he goes, so will Villa.

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: Rasener
Date: 16 Mar 09 - 12:34 PM

ooooh getting a bit touchy now eh :-)

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: Nigel Parsons
Date: 16 Mar 09 - 11:30 AM

Villan:
As I said, if Wales lose they get nothing!
I don't consider second place to be something to aspire to.
There again, I'm not English!

Cheers
Nigel

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: Rasener
Date: 16 Mar 09 - 11:19 AM

But what if Wales finish 3rd LOL

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: Nigel Parsons
Date: 16 Mar 09 - 10:39 AM

So, to win the championship Wales need to beat Ireland by 13 points next week. (Two converted tries would do it!)
If Wales win by less than 13 points we get the "Triple Crown" but Ireland win the Championship.
If Wales Draw then Ireland win the Championship & Wales get nothing.
If Ireland win then they get the Championship, and their first "Grand Slam" (beating all other teams in the competition) since 1948!

Looks to be an exciting match, with both teams having much to play for!

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: The Sandman
Date: 16 Mar 09 - 10:36 AM

Villan,Villa dont have a big enough squad,or enough money, and rely too much on counter attack.[imo O Neill is agood manager]

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: Den
Date: 16 Mar 09 - 10:27 AM

I watched the Scotland v Ireland game in a pub. Good natured banter between both sets of fans throughout the game. We even had some Scotish pipers. Scotland were good in the first half but Ireland were too much for them in the second. I thought Stringer had a great game. Nice to see O'Gara in some kind of form again. Hopefully that bodes well for next week.

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: Rasener
Date: 16 Mar 09 - 03:53 AM

Well if England beat Scotland and Ireland beat Wales, then England will be in second place, Mike on better points for and against.
That wouldn't be too bad considering their start to this competition.

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: Georgiansilver
Date: 16 Mar 09 - 03:46 AM

England... too much too late.......??? Or what?

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: Rasener
Date: 15 Mar 09 - 05:51 PM

And didn't we give them a right old bollocking

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: Rasener
Date: 15 Mar 09 - 05:51 PM

I have just got in having been out all day.

Thanks Captain Birdseye, I was just about to watch the match, having not heard the score and avaoided all the news. Won't bother now. I predicted quite some time ago that Villa would not finish in the top four, having made Emile heskey the centre forward. MON broke up a winnning team to put Heskey in and they have hardly picked up any points since. It makes me laugh to think he thought the Villa could afford not to bother with the other European Cup. That will serve him right.

Any way the other was to predict that England would beat the French and they did.

Lox you know FA LOL :-)

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: The Sandman
Date: 15 Mar 09 - 05:30 PM

villan is lying doggo,aston villa lost.

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: GUEST,lox
Date: 15 Mar 09 - 04:31 PM

It'll be on ITV - no use if you're in the states I suppose ... my sympathies if you or so afflicted ... though there's bound to be an Irish bar around somewhere ... there's always an Irish bar somewhere ...

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: gnu
Date: 15 Mar 09 - 03:44 PM

WHAT? I have avoided this thread for the reasons I gave early on. I never even went to the website... but I just did, after a buddy told me about some of it.

SOB!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I gotta start calling everyone I know to see if anyone can get any of the games on TV next weekend.

Or maybe I'll buy a satellite dish... grrrrrrrrrrrrr

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: GUEST,lox
Date: 15 Mar 09 - 03:32 PM

I agree with Ards assessment of the Scots.

Not their best team ever by any stretch - gone are the days of Gavin hastings and john jeffreys - but a courageous team re-emerging after a tough time in the widerness with a distinct sheen of valour and promise of better days to come.

As for Wales v Ireland - I daren't predict anything.

My blood vessels will be bursting on the day and it will be hard for me to take my head out from under the cushions for more than two seconds at a time ...

... wales in cardiff for the championship? ...

... nothing comes easy in this world, but some things are definitely harder than others!!!!


Chocolate Armagh - Wearing a Bra!!!!

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: ard mhacha
Date: 15 Mar 09 - 03:08 PM

England destroyed France, it was almost as bad as Waterloo, France came to play attacking Rugby not realising that you also have to defend, it is not often a game is over in the first quarter this one was.
Well done England, Scotland may not stand back and admire they gave Ireland a pounding in the first half, if the Scots they can manage 80 muinutes this time it might be a cracker.

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: GUEST,lox
Date: 15 Mar 09 - 02:56 PM

Look just say it ok ...

... get it over with ...

... you're enjoying making me squirm aren't you ...

... you bastards!


As I watched todays match I told my friend what I had so publicly and confidently predicted online ...

... He found it highly entertaining ...

... God I'm glad I added a disclaimer ...

Villan?

Where are you?

... get your pound of flesh now while its fresh ...


Captain, I hadn't heard any disparaging remarks yet about Englands performance, but I completely agree with you - England played out of their skins and did to france wht I thought the french would do to them.

They totally neutralized the french front line and then cut the rest to shreds with some awesome individual flair.

First half was totally deserved and the game was definitely won by england and not lost by france, who had absolutely no say until it was way too late.

The french might as well have been saying "and another thing" long after having lost the argument.

Well done - and thanks by the way for ensuring that their hopes of winning the championship were well and truly eclipsed.

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: Teribus
Date: 15 Mar 09 - 01:55 PM

Good solid performance by England, very well played in all departments, but something has to be done about the scrums.

Looking forward to next Saturday, I think that if the English play as they did today they will absolutely hammer Scotland. The Wales-Ireland Game will be a belter, far too close to call, although I do hope Ireland get it, they deserve the "Slam" by the quiet effort and discipline they've shown so far in the tournament.

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: The Sandman
Date: 15 Mar 09 - 01:44 PM

England played really well,the best rugby of the tournament.and bigited pricks like George Hook,cant even give credit,but have to make out france played badly.
I am not normelly a fan of the way the English play rugby ,but please give credit where it is due,they played well.

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: Dave Hanson
Date: 15 Mar 09 - 09:33 AM

The Italians put the shits up the Welsh for a while but what a bloody boring game, rugby union at it's worst, and the worst game of the series so far.

Dave H

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: ard mhacha
Date: 15 Mar 09 - 08:18 AM

Ireland have some way to go to be regarded as a good side, I think Wales back to full strength will be their downfall, as for the England v France game can`t wait for this afternoons tank battle, two mighty packs and England watch out for the yellow cards, don`t listen to Martin.

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: Rasener
Date: 15 Mar 09 - 06:46 AM

>>France will win resoundingly and with a level of class not seen in these parts for a long time.

Don't give me too hard a time if I'm proved wrong, but if I was a betting man I'd say that England will play well and hard but still get given a lesson they'll never forget.
<<

Of course we will LOX. Come on England :-)

Its a bugger, I will be collecting my wife and daughter from the airport, so will miss the match and the Villa versus Tottenham match.

The things you do for your beloved ones :-)

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: MartinRyan
Date: 14 Mar 09 - 07:40 PM

Ireland had to work hard alright today. They certainly won't be heading to Cardiff with much in the way of delusions of grandeur. Quiet confidence, maybe...!

Regards

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: Teribus
Date: 14 Mar 09 - 07:15 PM

Well as a Scot I was thorouhghly ashamed of Scotlands performance today, they "won" the first half and came out and refused to play in the second. Clueless is the only word that can describe their performance and I was ashamed of it.

Without any shadow of a doubt the only team that has played consistant rugby and applied themselves to the task in each game to date has been Ireland, and I wish them every success for next week-end, they undoubtedly deserve it.

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: GUEST,lox
Date: 14 Mar 09 - 05:52 PM

Well scotland are indeed continuing to improve aren't they.

They are by no means the best team, but they have been trying to play fair entertaining rugby throughout, and they've put their opponents through their paces.

Italy nearly beat wales!!!!!! Crazy - I was not expecting that one little bit.

Tomorrow is the game I'll be looking forward to.

It will be the game of the tournament and only overshadowed by the wales Ireland match in terms of tournament importance. For those present it will be very exciting.

France will win resoundingly and with a level of class not seen in these parts for a long time.

Don't give me too hard a time if I'm proved wrong, but if I was a betting man I'd say that England will play well and hard but still get given a lesson they'll never forget.

Vive l'Irelande

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: ard mhacha
Date: 06 Mar 09 - 04:53 PM

Lox,Very fair comment.

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: GUEST,lox
Date: 06 Mar 09 - 01:04 PM

Typo - above should read "the Mary McAleese Video" not "thread".

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: GUEST,lox
Date: 06 Mar 09 - 07:29 AM

Well I also checked out the Mary McAleese v Martin Johnson thread and while I am clearly not in the ranks of those who never forgot - being more concerned with the next game - I do agree that he acted inappropriately that day. If an Irish team had done that to the queen it would have sparked total outrage and fury in England.

Had he tried it at croke Park, a more sensitive nerve might have been touched and the England team might have needed assistance from the local Gardai to exit the stadium.

Having said all that, it is clear from his current approach that he isn't the sharpest tool in the box and as such he is on course to make a bit off a laughing stock of himself as a manager. Over here in England the rugby fans I know aren't happy with him at all.

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: ard mhacha
Date: 06 Mar 09 - 05:52 AM

Lox, A Google regarding Martin Johnson`s disciplinary record will enlighten you, he was suspended for 35 days in 2001, in a game against Saracens for stamping, and dropping the knee on fly-half McCrae, breaking McCrae`s ribs, resulting in a long lay-off for McCrae.
He was also suspended for three weeks for punching Scotlands Robbie Russell, it seems poor Robbie`s face took weeks to heal.

Countless time I have seen Johnson in his playing days with Leicester becoming involved in fisticuffs, if there was a fight Johnson was sure to be there throwing his considerable weight about, and you query all of this.
Johnson is not a fit person to be in charge of any team, the England teams record is reflected in their managers attitude and the way he performed on the field.
Ten yellow cards and there could be more to follow.

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: GUEST,lox
Date: 05 Mar 09 - 07:14 PM

kinda sad really.

Its rugby.

When Ireland and England are on the pitch, my blood boils and I yell all sorts of violent advice to the irish team and how they should treat their opponents.

And in the build up I'll goad my english mates and contact my family and we'll talk about giving "it" to them (it doesn't translate as "the match" I hasten to add)

But its all just enthusiasm for a sporting spectacle of brave competition, done in all earnestness and passion and ended with mutual respect.

Ard, you could do with watching the youtube clip of O'Driscolls attitude towards the spear tackle he received in new zealand - then watching the game of last man standing played by the combined teams of the lions and new zealand and look at the grins of all the players taking part.

Last to players standing by the way were o'driscoll and roccococo

rugby is rugby and what happens on the pitch stays on the pitch.

Johnson has never done anything to mark himself out as being any more of a thug than any of his rivals.

My list would begin with the australian who beat up O'Gara and it would descend through a swathe of new zealanders and australians before it got anywhere near him.

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: GUEST
Date: 05 Mar 09 - 05:10 PM

THis name is Jonny Wilkinson
He wears a magic hat
And when he saw the World Cup
He said "we're 'avin' that'
He kicks goals with his left foot
He kicks them with his right
And when he spied the Aussies
He said 'they're not too bright'.

Oh, his name is Martin Johnson
Some say he is a thug
But when he captains England
I'd give him a big hug
He grabs 'em with his right hand
He clouts 'em with his left
And when he saw New Zealand lose
He knew they were bereft

His name is Jason Leonard
He should get a Knighthood
He's bl**dy good at rugby
And can carve a lump of wood
He plays at tight and loose-head
You'll see him on the wing
And when he comes back to the Stoop
Boy, we're gonna sing.

His name is Willy Greenwood
Shaggy to you and me
And when he watches footie
He cheers on Man City
He's good at mathematics
You've seen him count to two
He scores against the Aussies
They are a pile of p**h

His name is Jonny Wilkinson
He wears his magic socks
His kicking is much better
Than the Paddies, Taffs or Jocks
He kicks the ball with both boots
It flies right through the posts
And nicks the Rugby World Cup
Off the moaning Aussie hosts

His name is Jason Robinson
He's known as Billy Whizz
He sprints off down the rugby pitch
He really is the biz
They say we can't score tries
But they talk out of their a*se
'Cos when he gets the ball in space
They'll see he's really fast

His name is Matty Dawson
The mean call him 'wing nut'
He never ceases talking
Oppo wish he would shut up
He is the first-choice scrum-half
He wears the Number Nine
And now we've won the World Cup
You can hear the Aussies whine

His name is Stevie Thompson
He can't throw the ball straight
But it doesn't really matter
As our second row is great
He throws into the line-out
To hit the men who jump
And we have beat the Aussies
And now they have the hump

His name is Jonny Wilkinson
He wears his magic shorts
He plays at 10 for England
Just look how hard he fought
They got past Georgia, Wales and France
Uruguay and the Boks
They wanted that gold trophy
And that's just what they got

His name, it is Ben Cohen
And Sharon thinks he's great
He models Sloggi undies
And makes the ladies faint
Just like his Uncle George now
He has won a World Cup
The Aussies thought they had it
But they just cocked it up.

His name, it is Phil Vickery
He lives down on his farm
And he goes off to work there
With a sheep under each arm
He's always down there in the scrum
He's been around some years
So now he wears a scrum cap
To save his poor torn ears

His name is Lol Dallaglio
He has a foreign name
And when he's back in Wasps' kit
It really is a shame
He cried during the anthem
But he came smiling through
And we have beat the Aussies
Now they are crying too

Oh, Jonny's on the telly
He gives an interview
He says 'we are the champions
We won for me and you'
They said 'is that all you've got?'
He said 'it bl**dy is'
He scored the winning drop goal
The try was Billy Whizz

His name is Danny Luger
He is our sixteenth man
But we know that in Emma
He'll always have a fan
He played for 30 seconds
Which caused a great big fuss
And no surprise, those Aussies,
They had a go at us

His name is Big Ben Kay
He fumbled Dawson's pass
He nearly dropped his medal
It could have been a farce
But England triumphed on the night
The crowd they all went mad
So Ben Kay is a lucky man
He escaped the Pizza ad

His name it is Josh Lewsey
He hit Mat Rogers hard
When England triumphed back in June
In the Aussies' own back yard
Mat used to go out surfing
But now he can't lie flat
But we have little sympathy
He's a whinging Aussie back

His name is Jonny Wilkinson
He wears his magic shirt
His kick, it won the World Cup
For Aussies it must hurt
They said they didn't like us
They taunted us with jokes
Now we can't hear them laughing
'Cos our win has made them choke

His name is Richard Hill
He hasn't played that much
But while he's been out injured
He hasn't lost his touch
He came on in the semis
To help us thrash the French
And sent them back off home to France
With their garlic stench

His name is Michael Tindall
He tackles just for fun
He stops the oppo players
On their attacking runs
With Mike Catt pushing for a place
He's had to learn to kick
He's much better than Campo
Who's a cheating Aussie twit

His name it is Neil Back
He's one of Clive's Dad's Army
The Aussies say they're past it
Their taunts are just quite barmy
They don't know what they're on about
They really are quite lame
We beat them in the World Cup
Oh, what a bl**dy shame!

(Optional)
His name is Harry Windsor
He wears Jonny's old shirt
We saw him in the changing rooms
He really is a flirt
It's not that I am jealous (much)
I'd like to be there too
And if I got just half a chance
I know what I would do

His name, it is Clive Woodward
He is the winning coach
The Aussie press belittled
His so-called dull approach
They tried to wind him up
But Jonny kept on scoring
Shut up you whinging Aussie twits
That's not what we call boring!


Oh, his name is Jonny Wilkinson
He wears his magic pants
And when he kicks the drop goals
The Aussies scream and rant
He scores 'em with his left foot
He scores 'em with his right
And now we've beat the Aussies
'Cos they're . . . . not very good really!

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: ard mhacha
Date: 05 Mar 09 - 02:40 PM

Teribus I confess it would be hard to read your lips as your trousers get in the way.

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: ard mhacha
Date: 05 Mar 09 - 02:36 PM

The BBC reporter Davies certainly didn`t agree with your lip reading prowess, and also on the BBC 24 hours news after the lady give her report the male news reader replied,"does Martin Johnson not realise that people can read lips", He is a thug and always will be.

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: Teribus
Date: 05 Mar 09 - 11:20 AM

Careful ard mhacha your racist bias is getting the better of you again:

"Lots of Irish still regard him as a ill-mannered thug,did you see his gob on BBC TV when his man received a yellow-card for barging into the Irish player, he disagreed with a perfectly good referring decision, he is not a good ambassador for the English."

Picking the bones out of that:

Question: How do you know that his reaction and the look on his "gob" had anything to do about the referree's decision??

You're wrong ard - and you sure as hell can't read lips. His comment had nothing to do with the referree who let's face it basically had no choice but to "yellow card" Cane. Martin Johnson's reaction was directed solely at a player in a pivotal position needlessly getting sent off for the last ten minutes of a game that England came very close to stealing.

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: goatfell
Date: 05 Mar 09 - 10:12 AM

well you did in 1966 russian linesmen and a goal that wasn't but you did win the game and you played all your games at Wembly but what has this got to do with the rugby, we all cheat at somthing or other don't we.

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: MartinRyan
Date: 05 Mar 09 - 08:17 AM

Must say I got the distinct impression Johnson was swearing at least as much at his own players' indiscipline as at the ref's decisions. He knows perfectly well they would have been annhilated but for O'Gara's exceptional off-day!

Regards

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: ard mhacha
Date: 05 Mar 09 - 05:11 AM

It seems from this snippet of a report from the Independent that the English press also regarded his, on the field tactics as the actions of a thug.

"Quite a number of rugby hearties thought this was a splendid demonstration of macho intent before the squashing of the Irish team. But then some of them were questionable witnesses because they also thought it was more or less OK for Johnson to cold-cock the New Zealand captain, Justin Marshall, along with quite a few other thuggish outrages.

Personally, I thought it was pretty bad manners and I could not help thinking of the time England's football captain Bobby Moore went up to collect the World Cup from the Queen. His hands were covered in sweat from his world-beating endeavours. So he wiped them down before shaking hands.

When he was asked about it later, he said he just did not recall the moment. He must have just done it by instinct. He had a lot of great instincts, Bobby Moore. One of the best of them was never to confuse movement for action.

Martin Johnson is a formidable rugby player, of course, and his feat of captaincy and playing could scarcely have been more impressive once the action started. But before that he was not so much a leader as a yob".

This report was mirrored by the rest of the English press in 2003, the English Rugby football Union had apologise to the Irish Rugby Board for his loutish behaviour towards the Irish President.

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: ard mhacha
Date: 05 Mar 09 - 04:51 AM

Lots of Irish still regard him as a ill-mannered thug,did you see his gob on BBC TV when his man received a yellow-card for barging into the Irish player, he disagreed with a perfectly good referring decision, he is not a good ambassador for the English.

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: GUEST,lox
Date: 04 Mar 09 - 08:16 PM

I disagree wholeheartedly with the view above expressed about Martin Johnson.

I don't think he's doing a good job as coach, and I think his tactics have been about short term gain rather than long term development, with the result that half way through the tounament England still don't have a style, unlike france who have developed with a consistent approach over their three games

However, as a player, he was a superb captain as a leader, a playmaker, an individual and as a contributor to his teams success.

I have heard it argued convincingly that his patience and awareness of opportunity was largely responsible for the creation of the opportunity for Johnny Wilkinson to score that famous world cup winning drop goal.

I think his selection as coach was extremely premature and he could have done with a few seasons of club rugby practice, not to mention club rugby testing, before being entrusted with a national side.

Thug he isn't. In fact, as a coach, I would argue he is being a bit of a wimp.

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: Rasener
Date: 04 Mar 09 - 04:25 PM

Boring

A Welsh ref moaning. What can I say

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: ard mhacha
Date: 04 Mar 09 - 01:52 PM

With Martin Johnson in charge of the England side can you expect anything different, he was a thug in his playing days and you can be sure he passes on all that is bad in the game to his team.

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: MikeofNorthumbria
Date: 04 Mar 09 - 06:25 AM

"England are cheats" say some.

"Referees are unfair to England" say others.

Well, it now seems that both factions have a part of the truth. In today's Guardian, Alun Richards, a former international referee who is now a Welsh Rugby Union referee assessor explains why.

He writes: "I do think that there is a case for brandishing yellow cards more often than is generally the case to get the message across that slowing down opposition ball illegally will not be tolerated. We are in the entertainment business and crowds want to see better spectacles…"

Other referees clearly agree with him, and the consequences of this shift in emphasis grow clearer with every international weekend.   While the referees concentrate on penalizing skullduggery at the breakdown, they are missing (or tolerating) forward passes, crooked put-ins, and late tackles. They also seem to ignore defensive lines that are well off-side, and offensive lines that commit blatant obstruction under the guise of deploying decoy runners – sometimes even taking out defenders off the ball to create holes for attackers to run through.

Other national coaches have seen the writing on the wall, and adapted their tactics – they make every effort to stay squeaky-clean at the breakdown, while exploiting leniency in other areas to the limit. England have yet to wise up. End of story.

Wassail!

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: GUEST,lox
Date: 01 Mar 09 - 04:30 PM

All good now thanks.

Still haven't watched the game though yet ...

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: Rasener
Date: 01 Mar 09 - 01:35 PM

Blimey lox, sorry to hear that. I hope things settle down for you and your daughter.

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: GUEST,lox
Date: 01 Mar 09 - 11:07 AM

Thought Scotland did well. They expected Italy to come charging in with their usual aggression and cleverly absorbed it. The best team won.

I haven't seen the Ireland England game yet thanks to a family drama which fortunately went right - involving my daughter, her mother, a dealer, an abduction and some policemen.

Thankfully My daughter and I are back home.

Sounds like the Irish weathered a few punches ... I'll check it out on BBCi player later.

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: goatfell
Date: 01 Mar 09 - 04:23 AM

So Scotland won their game and So did the french and the Irish good on them

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: Gervase
Date: 01 Mar 09 - 04:02 AM

Bloody hell, the English played like a pissed pub side - reckless and boorish. It's as though they'd seen the French the night before and thought they try the same technique, except that they didn't have the grace or skill to carry it off.

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 28 Feb 09 - 05:57 PM

Well I'm allowed to be wrong occasionally

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: Rasener
Date: 28 Feb 09 - 04:01 PM

Yes I did.

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: ard mhacha
Date: 28 Feb 09 - 03:17 PM

Lox, They didn`t think they would be safe with the `troubles` in full swing, the question was later asked why that year?, the great Scotttish player Jim "mighty mouse"McGloughin was disgusted with his fellow Scots, and apologized to the Irish team, never forgotten in Ireland.
Villan did you see the game? had O`Gara kicked up to his standards the Irish would have been out of sight, a very indisciplined English team team, they are on their way to a record yellow card score.

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: Rasener
Date: 28 Feb 09 - 03:17 PM

Wasn't very entertaining, was it.

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: MartinRyan
Date: 28 Feb 09 - 03:01 PM

Mind you the Irish must have crapped their pants when England pulled back to 1 point difference with only a minute to go.

- not half as much as the English when a half-concussed Brian o'Driscoll waltzed through them!

Regards

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: Rasener
Date: 28 Feb 09 - 02:52 PM

Oh ye of little faith Scotland 26 Italy 6

Mind you the Irish must have crapped their pants when England pulled back to 1 point difference with only a minute to go.

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 28 Feb 09 - 08:50 AM

I expect Scotland will lose to Italy again today, just to keep up the tradition established in 2007 and 2008 ;(
I don't think they have beaten any of the other national sides since they joined the competition!
Just us :( :( :(

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: Rasener
Date: 28 Feb 09 - 08:35 AM

I don't thin'k France is all that good, and I think the bubble has burst for Wales.

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: GUEST,lox
Date: 28 Feb 09 - 08:23 AM

Why did Scotland and Wales not go to dublin in 1972?

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: ard mhacha
Date: 28 Feb 09 - 08:19 AM

The World Cup is a long way off, never write off the All-Blacks, as for Ireland too many false dawns. Their best chance of a grand-slam was in 1972 when after beating England and France, the gutless Scots and Welsh sides refused to travel to Dublin, England showed them up that year by playing a friendly fixture in Dublin, and received a five minute standing ovation.

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: GUEST,lox
Date: 28 Feb 09 - 07:41 AM

Hey Chris,

Wales were beaten by one of the hardest french teams that have a graced a rugby pitch in a long time.

Welsh scrummaging and general forward play is not disorganized or flimsy by any stretch of the imagination, but they were given a brutal battering by the french and that was the french strategy from the start - as if they learned something from the Italy v Ireland game.

The best way to upset the favourites is to put them on the back foot physically and shake their confidence, and if you combine that with the strength of Frances talent you get quite a formidable challenge - especially when you add the power and aggression of the appropriately named Bastareaud to that of Chabal.

Frances next great team, forming before our eyes, will be remembered for its tough forwards. I see a team that could potentially dominate in any of the southern hemisphere nations. Watch this space!!

And when they have developed a deeper strategy that allows those same forwards to release the devastating talent of their back row, we will see tries and inventiveness in abundance.

France are my pick for the next world cup.

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: Morticia
Date: 28 Feb 09 - 06:55 AM

Never mind Nigel....Ireland still have a good chance. *G*

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: Phot
Date: 27 Feb 09 - 07:34 PM

Bugger!

Chris

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: GUEST,lox
Date: 27 Feb 09 - 06:33 PM

Well folks ... there you have it!

Never underestimate the French at home!

I don't think I'm going to sleep tonight ...

... will England be as uncooperative with the Irish ...

well here's what Mystic O'Driscoll has to say ...


The teachings of BOD


... why am I not reassured? ...

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: ard mhacha
Date: 20 Feb 09 - 04:47 AM

Arnie, Are you still watching Cricket?,when you can`t beat a second rate Windies side, and England not prepared to take a chance after making a gutless declaration, it is time to go back to the Rugby.

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: goatfell
Date: 19 Feb 09 - 09:58 AM

I don't really care as long as the best team win

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: GUEST,lox
Date: 19 Feb 09 - 07:28 AM

I spent my whole life supporting anyone who played against the English - purely for the sake of tradition you understand - but recently my irrational enmity targeting device has been aimed squarely at the french and I will probably be supporting the English against france ... unless they beat Ireland of course ... in which case the french are forgiven.

The adrenalin is already making me shake a little ...

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: Dave Hanson
Date: 18 Feb 09 - 10:13 AM

I'm English so I support England, I support Scotland against anyone except England and Wales.

Dave H

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: Nigel Parsons
Date: 18 Feb 09 - 08:12 AM

"The English, The English, The English are best.
I wouldn't give tuppence for all of the rest!"
(Flanders & Swann quote, not my personal opinion!)

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: goatfell
Date: 18 Feb 09 - 08:08 AM

I supprt the English because my brother in law and his family are English so there is the reason why

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: goatfell
Date: 18 Feb 09 - 08:01 AM

it's a joke manitas_at_work but you can't take a joke and anyway stop rthis cat fight because I never started it I support England if Scotland, Wales or Irelamd isn't playing sport so away and play with your toys manitas_at_work and leavwe this thread alone unless you have something interesting to say, so call me a liar, and GET A LIFE

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: GUEST,lox
Date: 17 Feb 09 - 12:55 PM

Well Teribus, it seems we should spend more time discussing rugby and less arguing politics.

Being Irish I am of course hoping for the much anticipated 'decider' between us and wales.

I can't help feeling that England haven't quite given up yet though and it would be foolish in the extreme for the Irish to take that game for granted.

Even Scotland have the potential to come together for at least one day in the year.

It's still a long road and if my heart lasts the journey I may yet have to give up all dairy products and start taking beta blockers.

France may also have something with which to surprise wales ...

... the humdinger of the series could yet be France v England.



How will I sleep?!?!?!?!?!?

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: Teribus
Date: 16 Feb 09 - 05:14 PM

I know, Scotland always surprise one of the favoured teams in the tournament, but let's say I'm not holding my breath this year.

It's just so bloody annoying to see them run out time after time and lose because they gift their opposition possession and scoring chances by making errors that you would not expect from a club side 2nd XV.

Really looking forward to Wales v Ireland. I have seen both sides screw the nut and do exactly the same thing against the two sides that were supposed to dominate this competition this year (according to the pundits) Ireland against France and Wales against England. Both brilliant games.

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: Arnie
Date: 16 Feb 09 - 11:36 AM

Never mind England - Strauss has scored 169 against the Windies so I'm watching cricket instead this week.

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: Nigel Parsons
Date: 16 Feb 09 - 11:15 AM

Dave:
I can't see either team approaching the Calcutta Cup with any degree of confidence at present.
But I'll be cheering for the Scots on general principles!

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: Dave Hanson
Date: 16 Feb 09 - 09:31 AM

Teribus, just wait for the Calcutta Cup match to see how well Scotland can play.

Dave H

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: Ref
Date: 16 Feb 09 - 09:14 AM

Appreciate the remarks here in rugby-starved USA. Yes, it's rugby I "ref."

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: Rasener
Date: 16 Feb 09 - 07:28 AM

Are South Africa in it then Vaalie?

Must admit they were brilliant against Australia in the cricket just recently.

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: GUEST,Vaalie
Date: 16 Feb 09 - 06:48 AM

Op die Bokke !

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: GUEST,lox
Date: 15 Feb 09 - 12:22 PM

Sorry - that should have started "Italy v Ireland" ... I think I'm getting ahead of myself ...

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: GUEST,lox
Date: 15 Feb 09 - 12:21 PM

Wales v Ireland

Tough game!!

Italy started as they meant to carry on with a high tackle that Nearly decapitated rob kearney.

They carried on doing their best to unsettle, intimidate, provoke and when that failed, injure their opponents.

Ireland kept their nerve and the last try of the first half and the opener of the second half were devastating "killer insticnt" tries scored from positions where the opportunities were not there for the taking and wre also hard to create due to the intense physicality of Italy's defensive strategy.

One try from an interception says luck, two says an alert team.

The score may flatter to some degree as the game was not beautiful or flowing in any sense, but it does reflect the power of the Irish teams willpower and coherence.

I watched BOD get punched twice in the face only to react by giving his attacker a look and getting on with the job as if he'd been splashed with water. The Italian intent in that instance was definitely to provoke him and throw him off his stride and maybe get him sent off for retaliation.

A tough game but despite the lack of aesthetic merit, I think a superb performance by Ireland and one which signals a rough ride for our other opponents who won't be playing such cynical rugby.

Wales will of course be worthy opponents as will England who made it hard for the welsh to get their result yesterday, but Ireland have made their presence felt in the last two games and have to be serious contenders for this years title.

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: mouldy
Date: 15 Feb 09 - 08:34 AM

Better get the Irish half of me fired up again!

Fully expect the Irish to take the game to the Italians.

Andrea

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: Rasener
Date: 15 Feb 09 - 05:14 AM

Oh dear din't get to see the Wales v England match as I was at the Village Hall preparing for our concert.

Of the excerpts I saw, when I got home (about 2 minutes), I noticed how the English guys let that Welsh bloke through for an easy try.

Anyway, congratulations to Wales.

The Wales v Ireland match should be interesting.

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: Teribus
Date: 14 Feb 09 - 07:15 PM

Well a fine day for Rugby.

Scotland were absolutely abysmal against a team that they could have beaten had Scotland fielded a pack with even a modicum of passion - most border club sides could have done better - congratulations boys you absolutely hammered your opposition in unforced errors - you copmpletely pummeled them in the number of penalties you gave away.

Hadden you've had your day now bugger off and give someone else a chance, you clearly cannot motivate 15 "professional" rugby players to play for their country with any commitment or heart.

Well done Wales, I didn't see all the game but after you went 9 - 0 up I knew that you wouldn't let it slip, didn't doubt it for a moment.

Both France and England out of the "Grand Slam" looks like Wales v Ireland is now the match on which everything hinges - and a word of warning to Wales, Ireland will not go quietly!!

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 14 Feb 09 - 01:22 PM

The Nazi Party had to cancel Dave, due to a shortage of balls I'm told ;)

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: alanabit
Date: 14 Feb 09 - 12:58 PM

England are already nine points adrift, so it looks as if Wales are in the process of administering the usual sound spanking to England, which is what we all expected.

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: mouldy
Date: 14 Feb 09 - 03:49 AM

Being half Irish I do have an option if England go tits-up again! (it makes for a real crisis of allegiance at times!)I don't expect anything more than a total hammering by Wales this afternoon,; however I would love to have a pleasant surprise...

Have just taken out HD so I can see every drop of blood too.

Am off to NZ on 10th March for 4 weeks, so will miss quite a bit. HOWEVER the Super 14 has just kicked off, and I might get a chance to go see the Hurricanes in the cake tin. Shared a plane with them from Auckland last year, and wished I was 30 years younger: Nonu and So'oialo - lust mode engaged!

Andrea

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: Rasener
Date: 14 Feb 09 - 03:45 AM

You must be the only on enot wachting it in Wales SussexCarole. Smart idea going shopping.

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: Dave Hanson
Date: 14 Feb 09 - 03:38 AM

If England were playing the Nazi Party the Scots would cheer for the Nazis.

Dave H

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: paula t
Date: 13 Feb 09 - 07:13 PM

Can't wait for the England v Wales match tomorrow. I just hope England manage to keep a bit of discipline and the breakdown is refereed rather more than it was last week. Players on both sides were blatantly offside on a number of occasions and I spent more time than usual shouting at the telly.
Must remember to have my pre match guiness too. Whenever I don't, England lose.(So I only drink it to be loyal!)

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: SussexCarole
Date: 13 Feb 09 - 05:47 PM

Since living here in Swansea I've worked out that the best days to go shopping are when there's a match!

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: HuwG
Date: 13 Feb 09 - 05:02 PM

Cymru am byth!

I'm only sorry I am too old for the squad (and Gavin Henson is not on paternity leave, for the moment). We can all re-live childhood dreams!

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 13 Feb 09 - 04:24 PM

I have a funny feeling that it can't be downloaded or watched by non UK peeps, Chris.

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: Phot
Date: 13 Feb 09 - 04:12 PM

Try the BBC i-player Gnu, I think all the highlights are there.

Wassail!! Chris

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: Rasener
Date: 13 Feb 09 - 04:10 PM

I think you are right John

I have played cricket on a ground that plays top level rugby and cricket in Wales.
St Helens in Swansea where the great Gary Sobers scored 6 sixes.
I can understand that, as I fielded on that ground at point. I stood on the boundary - it was that short, where Gary Sobers hit most of his sixes.
My memory was walking out to the wicket down those bloody 76 steps and walking back up them having got a quack quack.

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 13 Feb 09 - 03:58 PM

Sounds more like a beach to me Les

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: Rasener
Date: 13 Feb 09 - 03:44 PM

Oh dear that must have been based on my supposedly humerous post. Sorry elfs and Nigel, it was about Rugby.

The joke was that Wales and England are both part of the English Cricket team.

However England Cricket team are in the west indies playing cricket on a pitch that represents a Welsh Rugby Pitch :-)

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Rugby Union)
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 13 Feb 09 - 03:38 PM

They still think football is played in armour Nigel :)

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009 (Cricket matches)
From: Nigel Parsons
Date: 13 Feb 09 - 03:34 PM

Could the very kind mudelf who changed the title to say "Cricket matches" please re-title it "Rugby matches"?
I realise that both are esoteric concepts to those 'across the pond'

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009
From: Leadfingers
Date: 13 Feb 09 - 11:38 AM

I just support ANYONE against the French - So Thanks , Ireland

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009
From: Morticia
Date: 13 Feb 09 - 11:03 AM

I have great hopes for Ireland this year..but then, I do every year

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009
From: manitas_at_work
Date: 13 Feb 09 - 10:20 AM

" England because most of them don't support Scotland, Ireland or Wales "

Of course not! Why on earth should any of them...? I don't see any reason for you to support England either.

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009
From: gnu
Date: 13 Feb 09 - 10:16 AM

Rats! I wonder if there will be any highlights or recaps of the games here at 3AM. We get little, if any, TV coverage here.

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009
From: goatfell
Date: 13 Feb 09 - 08:36 AM

I want Wales to beat England as I'm a Scotsman and I will never support England because most of them don't support Scotland, Ireland or Wales

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009
From: MartinRyan
Date: 13 Feb 09 - 08:33 AM

We Irish have cancelled the recession for the moment and opened a few bottles of euphoria!

Regards

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009
From: Rasener
Date: 13 Feb 09 - 08:22 AM

Come On England

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009
From: A Wandering Minstrel
Date: 13 Feb 09 - 08:16 AM

England won't be gifted as many free tries by the Welsh scrum-half as they got from Bergomasco!

(and I'm a Scotland supporter :-( )

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009
From: Phot
Date: 13 Feb 09 - 08:11 AM

Cymru am byth!

Wassail!! Chris

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009
From: Dave Hanson
Date: 13 Feb 09 - 08:04 AM

England played crap against Italy and still won, they won't get away with it against Wales.

Dave H

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009
From: Rasener
Date: 13 Feb 09 - 08:01 AM

Now now Linda stand up and be counted for England and St George. We English is going to whop em. we are talking about the cricket team aren't we?

Subject: RE: BS: Six Nations 2009
From: Linda Kelly
Date: 13 Feb 09 - 07:48 AM

the way England are playing it's enough to make one swap allegiance!!

Subject: BS: Six Nations 2009
From: Nigel Parsons
Date: 13 Feb 09 - 06:58 AM

The second weekend of the competition approaches. Wins so far for England, Ireland & Wales.
This weekend sees Wales at home to England at the Millennium Stadium.
Six Nations

C'mon Wales
Cymru am byth!

Nigel