NZ Sports Life

Central Otago Rugby Report Round 9

2012-06-04T20:06:00.001+12:00

By Rhys Chamberlain courtesy of the Otago Daily Times.

Arrowtown retained its spot at the top of the Central Otago rugby standings after a comprehensive win over Maniototo 27-7 at Ranfurly on Saturday afternoon.

It was a torrid affair with both sides matching up physically during the first half where only penalties could be collected, Arrowtown’s Kane Dodds kicking four before the halftime break. Neither side really looked like crossing the line in the first half apart from an intercept by Arrowtown wing Tyne Schofield who ran 60 metres but was cut down before the line.

The visitors started strongly in the second half with a try to fullback Dodds who collected the last pass after some quick hands and crossed in the corner to extend Arrowtown’s lead to 17-0. But Maniototo hit straight back after a botched kick off and Charlie Hore managed to smash over the line. But that was the only points Maniototo could muster as Arrowtown hit back with another try, this time to strong no. 8 Eddie Sefo who had an excellent game with ball in hand. Dodds kicked his fifth penalty to put the game out of reach and finish with 22 points for the game and the man-of –the –match award.

Second placed Clyde-Earnscleugh continued its good form wih 34-10 win over Cromwell at the Clyde Domain.

It was a much-improved performance from a young Cromwell side who managed to battle up front and keep the score to 17-0 at halftime. French wing Ludovic Badey managed a try in the first half for Clyde –Earnscleugh and halfback Jai Baxter got across for the first of his two tries.

In the second half the home side broke away slightly with Baxter crossing for his second and mid-fielders Sam Gibbens and Josh Papuni also getting on the score sheet. Fullback Shane Excel had a good day with the boot kicking a penalty and converting three of the five tries. Clayton Peeti and Andrew Drummond were the try scorers for Cromwell.

White Horse Cup holder Wakatipu received a scare from Matakanui Combined at Omakau on Friday night eventually getting the win 35-27.

With a couple of players out with injury, Matakanui took it to the visitors and made tackles along with using the ball. Lock Andrew Kerr managed a try in the first half for the home side to keep it close at halftime, Wakatipu with the edge 19-10 thanks to first half tries from wings Mark Te Whaiti and Tony Farley and flanker Marcus Balchin.

While Wakatipu notched up another couple of tries to Danny King and Sol Frew, so did Matakanui. First five-eighth Stu Melville continued his good form by crossing for a try along with centre Matt Wilson and wing Troy Taylor. Wakatipu only sealed the win in the final few minutes with a late try.

In the other game of round 9, Upper Clutha got its season back on track with a big win over Alexandra 36-17.

Alexandra did manage three tries however, those going to Dave Lilley, Jayden McKay and Lance Davies.

More rugby reading here.

Wakatipu takes Cup: Central Otago Rugby Report Round 8

Rugby: All Blacks squad to play Ireland

2012-06-03T23:39:00.000+12:00

Backs: Israel Dagg, Ben Smith, Julian Savea, Zac Guildford, Hosea Gear, Ma'a Nonu, Conrad Smith, Sonny Bill Williams, Tamati Ellison, Dan Carter, Beauden Barrett, Aaron Cruden, Aaron Smith, Piri Weepu

Forwards: Kieran Read, Richie McCaw (captain), Victor Vito, Adam Thomson, Sam Cane, Luke Romano, Ali Williams, Sam Whitelock, Brodie Retallick, Andrew Hore, Keven Mealamu, Wyatt Crockett, Ben Franks, Owen Franks, Ben Tameifuna, Tony Woodcock

NBA: Heat thump Celtics in Game 1

2012-05-29T16:38:00.002+12:00

Wade and James.

LeBron James had 32 points and 13 rebounds while buddy Dwyane Wade chipped in with 22 points and seven assists to lead the Miami Heat to a 93-79 game 1 Eastern Conference Finals victory over the Boston Celtics in Miami today.

In a game where the Heat never trailed, the closet the Celtics came was 46-46 at halftime before the home side won the third quarter 26-15 on the back of a great defensive effort which kept the Celtics to just 39% shooting in the game.

Kevin Garnett top-scored for Boston with 23 points to go along with 10 rebounds but he failed to receive any help from the other Celtics stars, Paul Pierce and Ray Allen combining for just 18 points. Star guard Rajon Rondo managed 16 points and seven assists.

Game 2 is at the American Airlines Arena in Miami on Thursday (NZ time).

- Rhys Chamberlain

More NBA reading here.

NBA: Spurs steal Game 1 of West Finals

2012-05-28T20:13:00.002+12:00

Manu Ginobili had 26 points
in game 1 of the West Finals.

The San Antonio Spurs won their 19th consecutive game and surprised many by stunning the Oklahoma City Thunder 101-98 at the AT & T Center in San Antonio today.

Manu Ginobili led the Spurs with 26 points off the bench while Tony Parker, who finished 5th in MVP voting this season, added 18 points and six assists. The third member of San Antonio's 'big three' completed a great game with a double double including 16 points and 11 rebounds. Kevin Durant also had a double double with 27 points and 10 boards for the Thunder but could only get off two shots from the floor in the fourth.

The visitors had a nine point lead 71- 62 heading into the fourth before Ginobili didn't miss in the final quarter scoring 11 points. Rookie defensive specialist Kawhi Leonard was moved to guard the 2012 scoring champ Durant in the fourth resulting in the lack of production from the 6'10 forward. Leonard also chipped in with seven points in the quarter.

Game 2 between the Spurs and Thunder is on Wednesday (NZ time) while the Miami Heat and the Boston Celtics play game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals tomorrow afternoon in Miami.

- Rhys Chamberlain

More NBA reading here.

NBA: Lakers should have been better

Wakatipu takes Cup: Central Otago Rugby Report Round 8

2012-05-28T19:41:00.000+12:00

By Rhys Chamberlain courtesy of the Otago Daily Times.

The partying continued long into the night on Saturday evening after a classy Wakatipu defeated Maniototo 28-17 to win the White Horse Cup for the first time in four long years.

A good band of visiting supporters was on hand to witness the feat and they weren’t disappointed as both teams put on a show. In the first half the visitors flew out to an 18-11 lead thanks to a Maniototo sin bin and a scintillating Danny King try. The flying centre put on a step and blew by his defender to score untouched before setting up the next with another break, Brad Robertson the benefactor this time. By the time Fullback Tony Farley had added a conversion and two penalties the signs were ominous for the home side despite a James Becker try and two Charlie Hore penalty goals.

With a multitude of possession in favour of Maniototo and huge pressure on Wakatipu at scrum time, it closed the gap to just one with 10 minutes to play, Hore kicking two more penalties to make it 18-17. Earlier the home side could possibly have had the lead after captain Regan Pearce was binned for a high tackle but Hore’s radar was off and he missed a number of shots at goal. Farley kicked another penalty before popping up at a ruck with 3 minutes to play and scampering 40 metres to score and seal the match for the visitors. Farley had a fine match as did second five-eighth Nathan Reid and openside flank Marcus Balchin but it was the pace and skill of King that made the difference on the day.

Wakatipu will need to defend the White Horse Cup in just two other matches to have its name engraved on it for 2012, the first a tough encounter with Clyde-Earnscleugh in two weeks time.

At the Clyde Domian, the home side just held on to beat rival Alexandra 17-14.

The visitors had most of the ball but were unable to turn it into points when it counted. JB Reeves opened up the scoring for Clyde-Earnscleugh with a try midway through the first half finishing an excellent period of play by the home side. Alexandra countered with two penalty goals, one to regular kicker Hamish Peters and the other to first five-eighth Michael Paulin. Shane Excel kicked two goals of his own to give the home side a slender 11-6 lead at the break.

In the second half it was more of the same from both sides, neither able to break the shackles. Captain Shane Harrex crossed for Alexandra and Paulin kicked another penalty but Excel’s boot would prove the difference as he kicked two more to give the home side a gritty three point win. Angus Gibbens had a good match at hooker for the Clyde-Earnscleugh while Blair van der Voort was once again in outstanding form for Alexandra.

At Omakau, Matakanui Combined was overwhelmed by competition leader Arrowtown 57-7.

Arrowtown scored nine tries in the game, hooker Nathan Pullar grabbing a double in his 100^th game for the club. Fullback Dan Eyles also ran in two tries and by halftime the score was 30-0.

One defensive lapse early in the second half allowed Matakanui first five-eighth Stu Melville to score the home sides only try of the game. Other try-scorers for the visitors were halfback Josh Brazier, wings Matt Ryan and Izzy Nayaloga, no. 8 Ben Chisholm and first five-eighth Dylan Fletcher. Lock Hayden Youngman had a huge game to claim the man-of-the-match award.

At Anderson Park in Cromwell, Upper Clutha had its second win of the season beating the home side 25-11.

The match was a messy one with both sides making mistakes and turning over possession. Upper Clutha halfback Jared Cunningham got the scoring underway with a try followed by a Byron Clarke penalty. Cromwell kept the match close with a try to no. 8 Matt Reid and the first of two penalties to Lyndon Buchannan making the score 8-5 at halftime.

Upper Clutha pulled away in the second half with two more tries, George Reid and captain Nick Thompson each getting on the score sheet.

More rugby reading here.

Central Otago Rugby Report Round 7

NBA: Lakers should have been better

2012-05-27T12:52:00.001+12:00

Andrew Bynum battles for the rebound while
Metta World Peace watches on.

Let's talk about the Lakers for a minute or so.

Looking at the roster they have this year, they really should have taken down a young, but most definitely talented, Oklahoma City Thunder team. I think if you asked Kobe right now what he thought about the the 2011-2012 Los Angeles Lakers season, he would say it was a failure. And he would be right.

On paper the Lakers roster is strong. It reads like this: Bynum, Gasol, World Peace, Bryant, Sessions along with Blake and Barnes off the bench. That's a formidable lineup on paper. They should be able to overcome any team. So what's the problem? The only thing I can think of that it's the wrong mix of personalities.

I think Bynum needs put in his place and I'm not sure if Kobe can do that because I don't think Bynum respects him enough. Kobe has called him out a number of times and nobody likes that, least of all a 24 year old rising star. If Phil Jackson was still coaching I don't think Bynum would be having all of these problems. That's not to say Mike Brown is not a good coach but his personality doesn't seem equipped to handle some big egos amongst this Lakers team. A young coach having to try and work with Kobe, Bynum and World Peace is a tough ask.

Metta is another guy you have to wonder about. It's hard to forget about his history and he plays hard but does he fit with the other players on the team? In fact, which team would he fit best into? Not the Lakers.

Trades are inevitable I would think.

- Rhys Chamberlain

More NBA reading here.

NBA: LeBron wins MVP for third time

Rugby: Central Otago Topp Cup Squads 2012

2012-05-21T19:16:00.000+12:00

The Central Otago sides to play South Otago at Alexandra on Queens Birthday Monday are:

Premier
Backs: Shane Excel (Clyde-Earnscleugh), Matt Ryan (Arrowtown), Danny King (Wakatipu), Mark Te Whaiti (Wakatipu), Nathan Reid (Wakatipu), Regan Pearce (Wakatipu), Michael Paulin (Alexandra), Dylan Fletcher (Arrowtown), Richard Stevens (Wakatipu), Brendan Cairns (Upper Clutha).

Forwards: Corey Crosbie (captain, Clyde-Earnscleugh), Marcus Balchin (Wakatipu), AJ Paton (Maniototo), Ben Chisholm (Arrowtown), Aiden Winter (Arrowtown), John Morrison (Arrowtown), Justin Carney (Upper Clutha), Daniel Dodds (Arrowtown), Tim O'Neill (Maniototo), Matt Wilson (Alexandra), Vaughn Dowling (Maniototo), Angus Gibbens (Clyde-Earnscleugh), Charles Crutchly (Maniototo). Coach: Paul Dougherty, Dave Hunter. Manager: Lindsay Breen.

Development
Backs: Daniel Eyles (Arrowtown), Willie Clouston (Matakanui Combined), Kane Dodds (Arrowtown), Kurt Checketts (Clyde-Earnscleugh), Luke Robinson (Clyde-Earnscleugh), Stu Melville (Matakanui Combined), Steve Hore (captain, Matakanui Combined), Josh Brazier (Arrowtown).

Forwards: Nathan Huddleston (Maniototo), Shane Harrex (Alexandra), Blair van der Voort (Alexandra), Cruz Kingi (Roxburgh), Jake Lawrence (Wakatipu), Scott Sharpen (Maniototo), Mike Harvey (Clyde-Earnscleugh), David Ryans (Alexandra), Matt Ropoama (Arrowtown), Christian Park (Maniototo), Tom Hudson (Upper Clutha), Reuben O'Connell (Clyde-Earnscleugh), Dave Weir (Alexandra). Coach: Sam Gibbens. Manager: Jim Page.

More rugby reading here.

Central Otago Rugby Report Round 7

2012-05-21T17:55:00.000+12:00

By Rhys Chamberlain courtesy of the Otago Daily Times

Clyde-Earnscleugh caused major ripples amongst the clubs in Central Otago rugby over the weekend when it thumped White Horse Cup holder and last years champion Maniototo 39-11 at the Clyde Domain on Saturday afternoon.

The home side scored five tries to one in the win including two to former Cromwell and Upper Clutha mid-fielder Sam Gibbens who was the man-of-the-match with an excellent all-round game. Maniototo had no answer to Clyde-Earnscleugh’s solid kicking game and potent counter attack and by halftime the game was pretty much in the bag at 24-6. Wing Kurt Checketts grabbed yet another try on the wing for Clyde while flanker Reuben O’Connell and halfback Jai Baxter also crossed the line. Fullback Shane Excel kicked two penalty goals and added four conversions in the win.

For Maniototo, James Becker scored a consolation try into the second half with two penalties to Charlie Hore the only points for the visitors in the first.

Wakatipu also managed a bigger win than most expected, humbling Alexandra 45-12 in Queenstown.

Mark Te Whaiti was once again the star bagging a double out wide but fullback Tony Farley wasn’t to be upstaged grabbing two himself and kicking two penalty goals. It wasn’t just the backs taking the credit for the win as Wakatipu’s forward pack had an excellent game at set piece and at ruck time giving clean ball for its backs to work with. Three other tries were scored for the home side, openside Marcus Blachin, halfback Richie Stevens and Sol Frew all getting on the scoresheet.

Alexandra did manage two tries in the game with wing Lucas Muir and halfback Simon Williams scoring. Irish hooker David Weir was the visiting side’s best player on the day.

In another upset, Matakanui Combined snatched an 8-5 win from Upper Clutha at Omakau with a try to Stu Melville sealing it with two minutes to play.

In an error-ridden affair, both sides made things hard for themselves and as a consequence the home side held just a 3-0 lead by halftime. Halfback Brendan Cairns scored for Upper Clutha midway through the second half to give the visitors the lead and with two minutes left they should have held on. But a pick and go close to its own line led to a turnover and after a couple of phases, Melville crossed to win the match.

At Cromwell, the home side was thumped 62-7 by competition leaders Arrowtown who were awarded the accolade of winners of the first round.

The visitors scored 10 tries in the win including a hatrick to man-of-the-match Ben Chisholm at no. 8 and two to first five-eighth Dylan Fletcher. Other try scorers were hooker Matt Ropoama, halfback Josh Brazier, prop Doug Kotuhi, wing Dan Eyles and fullback Kane Dodds. Fletcher also kicked six conversions.

Cromwell scored under the posts from a botched scrum, flanker Sam Manson reaping the reward.

More rugby reading here.

Central Otago Rugby Report Round 6

Rugby: 2012 ITM Cup Schedule

2012-05-19T11:28:00.000+12:00

Week 1
23 Aug	Hawke's Bay v Auckland	Napier	7:35 pm	0-0

24 Aug	Manawatu v Wellington	PalmerstonN	6:05 pm	0-0

24 Aug	Tasman v Canterbury	Nelson	8:05 pm	0-0

25 Aug	BOP v Taranaki	Mt Maunganui	2:35 pm	0-0

25 Aug	Otago v Northland	Dunedin	4:35 pm	0-0

26 Aug	North Harbour v Waikato	Albany	2:35 pm	0-0

26 Aug	Counties Man v Southland	Pukekohe	4:35 pm	0-0

Week 2
28 Aug	Wellington v Hawke's Bay	Wellington	7:35 pm	0-0

29 Aug	Canterbury v Auckland	Christchurch	7:35 pm	0-0

Week 3
30 Aug	BOP v Otago	Rotorua	7:35 pm	0-0

31 Aug	Hawke's Bay v Counties Man	Napier	7:35 pm	0-0

01 Sep	Canterbury v N Harbour	Christchurch	2:35 pm	0-0

01 Sep	Waikato v Northland	Hamilton	5:35 pm	0-0

01 Sep	Taranaki v Tasman	NPlymouth	7:35 pm	0-0

02 Sep	Auckland v Manawatu	Auckland	2:35 pm	0-0

02 Sep	Wellington v Southland	Wellington	4:35 pm	0-0

Week 4
04 Sep	N Harbour v Counties Man	Albany	7:35 pm	0-0

05 Sep	Northland v Manawatu	Whangarei	7:35 pm	0-0

Week 5
06 Sep	Southland v Otago	Invercargill	7:35 pm	0-0

07 Sep	Taranaki v Hawke's Bay	NPlymouth	6:05 pm	0-0

07 Sep	Counties Man v Bay of Plenty	Pukekohe	8:05 pm	0-0

08 Sep	Auckland v Waikato	Auckland	2:35 pm	0-0

08 Sep	Canterbury v Wellington	Christchurch	4:35 pm	0-0

09 Sep	Manawatu v Tasman	PalmerstonN	12:35 pm	0-0

09 Sep	Northland v N Harbour	Whangarei	4:35 pm	0-0

Week 6
11 Sep	Waikato v Bay of Plenty	Hamilton	7:35 pm	0-0

12 Sep	Tasman v Southland	Blenheim	7:35 pm	0-0

Week 7
13 Sep	N Harbour v Manawatu	Albany	7:35 pm	0-0

14 Sep	Bay of Plenty v Auckland	Rotorua	6:05 pm	0-0

14 Sep	Counties Man v Otago	Pukekohe	8:05 pm	0-0

15 Sep	Taranaki v Canterbury	NPlymouth	2:35 pm	0-0

15 Sep	Wellington v Waikato	Wellington	4:35 pm	0-0

16 Sep	Tasman v Northland	Blenheim	2:35 pm	0-0

16 Sep	Southland v Hawke's Bay	Invercargill	4:35 pm	0-0

Week 8
18 Sep	Otago v N Harbour	Dunedin	7:35 pm	0-0

19 Sep	Auckland v Taranaki	Auckland	7:35 pm	0-0

Week 9
20 Sep	Manawatu v Counties Man	PalmerstonN	7:35 pm	0-0

21 Sep	Hawke's Bay v Bay of Plenty	Napier	7:35 pm	0-0

22 Sep	N Harbour v Southland	Albany	2:35 pm	0-0

22 Sep	Auckland v Wellington	Auckland	5:35 pm	0-0

22 Sep	Northland v Taranaki	Whangarei	7:35 pm	0-0

23 Sep	Waikato v Canterbury	Hamilton	2:35 pm	0-0

23 Sep	Otago v Tasman	Dunedin	4:35 pm	0-0

Week 10
25 Sep	Bay of Plenty v Wellington	Mt Maunganui	7:35 pm	0-0

26 Sep	Southland v Northland	Invercargill	7:35 pm	0-0

Week 11
27 Sep	Waikato v Tasman	Hamilton	7:35 pm	0-0

28 Sep	Auckland v Counties Man	Auckland	7:35 pm	0-0

29 Sep	Taranaki v Manawatu	NPlymouth	2:35 pm	0-0

29 Sep	Wellington v N Harbour	Wellington	5:35 pm	0-0

29 Sep	Hawke's Bay v Otago	Napier	7:35 pm	0-0

30 Sep	Canterbury v Southland	Christchurch	2:35 pm	0-0

30 Sep	Bay of Plenty v Northland	Mt Maunganui	4:35 pm	0-0

Week 12
02 Oct	Manawatu v Otago	PalmerstonN	7:35 pm	0-0

03 Oct	Taranaki v Waikato	NPlymouth	7:35 pm	0-0

Week 13
04 Oct	Tasman v Bay of Plenty	Nelson	7:35 pm	0-0

05 Oct	Northland v Canterbury	Whangarei	7:35 pm	0-0

06 Oct	Manawatu v Hawke's Bay	PalmerstonN	2:35 pm	0-0

06 Oct	Counties Man v Waikato	Pukekohe	5:35 pm	0-0

06 Oct	Otago v Wellington	Dunedin	7:35 pm	0-0

07 Oct	Southland v Taranaki	Invercargill	2:35 pm	0-0

07 Oct	N Harbour v Auckland	Albany	4:35 pm	0-0

Week 14
09 Oct	Counties Man v Tasman	Pukekohe	7:35 pm	0-0

10 Oct	Hawke's Bay v Canterbury	Napier	7:35 pm	0-0

Week 15
11 Oct	Otago v Auckland	Dunedin	7:35 pm	0-0

12 Oct	Southland v Manawatu	Invercargill	7:35 pm	0-0

13 Oct	Northland v Counties Man	Whangarei	2:35 pm	0-0

13 Oct	Waikato v Hawke's Bay	Hamilton	5:35 pm	0-0

13 Oct	Tasman v N Harbour	Nelson	7:35 pm	0-0

14 Oct	Wellington v Taranaki	Wellington	2:35 pm	0-0

14 Oct	Canterbury v Bay of Plenty	Christchurch	4:35 pm	0-0

Week 16
19 Oct	ITM Cup P'ship Semifinal 1	TBA	7:35 pm	0-0

20 Oct	ITM Cup C'ship Semifinal 1	TBA	2:05 pm	0-0

20 Oct	ITM Cup C'ship Semifinal 2	TBA	4:35 pm	0-0

20 Oct	ITM Cup P'ship Semifinal 2	TBA	7:05 pm	0-0

Week 17
26 Oct	ITM Cup C'ship Final	TBA	7:35 pm	0-0

27 Oct	ITM Cup P'ship Final	TBA	7:35 pm	0-0

More rugby reading here.

Rugby: First All Blacks squad of 2012 announced

Thanks to itmcup.co.nz.

Rugby: Alexandra's rise surprises no-one

2012-05-18T18:02:00.000+12:00

By Rhys Chamberlain courtesy of the Otago Daily Times.

Alexandra Rugby Football Club’s meteoric rise from perennial cellar dweller to potential semi-finalist has surprised no one that’s been around Central Otago rugby for the past few years but the speed at which the club has done it, has.

In 2008 a feared Alexandra went from holding the White Horse Cup to finishing near the bottom of the competition thanks to a host of regular veterans leaving the club for a variety of reasons and being replaced by some very raw young players. But in just two years the proud club, with those youngsters now more experienced, clawed back, and has proved it is a worthy top four contender and it’s easy to see why.

Speaking to coach Ian Fraser over the past couple of years and then in the few weeks gone this season, his enthusiasm and belief in his players has been evident and it has paid off as his side has started the season with a three win three loss record. It knocked off last year’s semi-finalist Upper Clutha (23-7), pushed fierce rival Clyde-Earnscleugh (14-19) and 2011 competition winners Maniototo (5-10) close and led frontrunners Arrowtown at halftime last weekend (5-3). Along the way it beat Matakanui Combined (14-10) and Cromwell (34-0). The resurgence is down to a number of things. The core of the side from the last few years has been retained and a couple of older players, such as prop Lance Davies and captain Shane Harrex have provided the leadership. The side is strong in its set piece and its defensive patterns are excellent. The players have also have a real physicallity about them and a never-say-die attitude that has been their greatest asset. Look for Alexandra to push Wakatipu all the way in Queenstown this weekend and continue its march towards a place in the top four.

Other matches this weekend sees Maniototo travel to Clyde, Upper Clutha at Omakau against Matakanui and Arrowtown at Cromwell.

More rugby reading here.

Central Otago Rugby Report Round 6

2012-05-14T19:09:00.001+12:00

By Rhys Chamberlain courtesy of the Otago Daily Times.

Clyde-Earnscleugh confirmed its standing as one of the teams to beat in the Central Otago premier rugby competition this year with a clinical 43-5 win over Matakanui Combined at Omakau on Friday evening.

The matched was shifted to Friday earlier in the week because of a referee shortage in the area. The visitors got off to a fast start with a Shane Excel penalty goal in the first minute and then piled on three first half tries, those going to No. 8 Elliot McKinnell, centre Luke Robinson and wing Kurt Checketts who notched up his fourth try for the season.

In the second half the momentum stayed with Clyde-Earnscleugh and it continued to pile on the points scoring three more tries. Lock Mike Harvey, blindside flank Reuben O’Connell and hooker Angus Gibbens all crossed the line. Matakanui managed a consolation try to Willie Clouston late in the game.

At Jack Reid Park in Arrowtown, Alexandra continued to enhance its reputation as a tough defensive side going down 29-13 to the home side after leading 5-3 at the halftime break.

Arrowtown was blessed with an enormous amount of possession in the first half but had to settle for a penalty goal to first five-eighth Dylan Fletcher after being unable to cross the line on a number of occasions. Prop Lance Davies managed to give Alexandra the lead at halftime with a try from close range.

The second half was a different story as Arrowtown was given the hard word at halftime. Hooker Nathan Pullar put the home side ahead in much the same way as Davies had for Alexandra before openside Blair van der Voort locked the scores at 10-10 midway through the half. But the visitors eventually tired and Pullar grabbed his second while veteran loosie Dan Iosefo, out of retirement, also scored. Fletcher then finished the match after swooping on a loose Alexandra carry and scampering 60 metres to score. Prop Matt Ropoama was Arrowtown’s man-of-the-match playing another fine game while van der Voort was Alexandra’s best.

At Wanaka, Maniototo grabbed another win beating Upper Clutha 16-7.

The much wasn’t much of a spectacle with Maniototo fielding 11 forwards, including regular No. 8 Ryan Dowling at first five-eighth for the second half because of a multitude of injuries in its backline. With 11 forwards on the park, the match was tighter than usual and not a lot of ball saw the Maniototo backline. The only points the visitors could muster was a Charlie Hore penalty goal allowing Upper Clutha to have the lead at halftime 7-3 thanks to a converted try to prop Nick Thompson.

The second half played out much the same way as the first, through the forwards for both sides. Upper Clutha matched up well but was unable to stop Hore from scoring an excellent try, converting it, and then kicking two more goals to ensure the win.

At Anderson Park in Cromwell, the home side was flogged 63-0 by a rampant Wakatipu.

More rugby reading here.

Central Otago Rugby Report Round 5

Rugby: First All Blacks squad of 2012 announced

2012-05-14T08:24:00.000+12:00

The first All Blacks squad of the year has been announced with new coach Steve Hansen picking eleven new-comers and 21 players surviving from last years World Cup squad. The 35 man squad will be trimmed to 30 for the upcoming three test series agianst Ireland starting June 3rd. The squad is:

Charlie Faumuina, Ma'a Nonu, Keven Mealamu, Piri Weepu, Ali Williams, Tony Woodcock, Sam Cane, Aaron Cruden, Richard Kahui, Tawera Kerr-Barlow, Brodie Retallick, Ben Tameifuna, Sonny Bill Williams, Beauden Barrett, Cory Jane, Julian Savea, Brad Shields, Conrad Smith, Victor Vito, Daniel Carter, Wyatt Crockett, Israel Dagg, Andy Ellis, Ben Franks, Owen Franks, Richie McCaw, Kieran Read, Luke Romano, Luke Whitelock, Samuel Whitelock., Tamati Ellison, Andrew Hore, Aaron Smith, Ben Smith, Adam Thomson.

- Rhys Chamberlain

More rugby reading here.

NBA: LeBron wins MVP for third time

2012-05-12T11:12:00.002+12:00

Miami's Lebron James has been named the 2011-2012 season MVP for the third time since his career began in 2003 according to the Associated Press. He joins an elite group of players to win the award three times led by Kareem Abdul Jabbar who won the award an unprecedented six times.

James averaged 27.1 points per game which was third for the season behind Kevin Durant (OKC) and Kobe Bryant (LAL), 7.9 rebounds and 6.2 assists.

- Rhys Chamberlain

More NBA reading here.

NBA: Chandler is Defensive Player of Year

Super Rugby: Lam made a scapegoat of Blues failings

2012-05-12T10:54:00.002+12:00

Pat Lam. Photo: theblues.co.nz

I have to say that Pat Lam has been made a scapegoat of a Blues organisation that has imploded I feel, from the outside in. You can tell every time that Lam fronts the cameras that what he speaks is sincere and honest and I feel a little sorry for the guy. He has taken the full brunt of a 2 win, 9 loss season so far and no one else has yet been made accountable.

If you take a look at the guy's record you can see that he is a more than capable coach, a real thinker of the game and a person who cares for the teams he coaches and the guys who play under him. You only had to watch the reaction of Lam's dumping by a teary-eyed captain Keven Mealamu to reiterate that last last point. In a four year stint with the Blues, Lam has amassed a 25 win, 29 loss record which is nothing to write home about but take out this season's record and it makes for better reading, 23-20.

Andy Dalton and his Blues board had to do something I suppose and Lam, the coach, was the obvious choice as if often the case in any poorly performing sports team. For me though, the veteran players and All Blacks in the Blues squad need some accountability for not standing up all season long. Ma'a Nonu and Piri Weepu have had horror seasons, especially Weepu who showed up after the World Cup with a definite hangover and a real sense of lethargy not to mention being the most out of shape that I have ever seen him. Nonu was the same to a lesser extent and you could tell by his body language. The ever unpredictable Rene Ranger needs to be given the flick and with regard to him I recall a quote by All Blacks legend Colin Meads to a local high school constituency recently. Meads said that "there was no substitute for hard work and that a decent haircut certainly helps", or something along those lines. Time to ply your trade overseas Rene. Ali Williams has been disappointing also and if it wasn't for a lack of quality locks in New Zealand at the moment, he wouldn't make the All Blacks this season.

A win over the Lions last night in an less than enthralling bottom of the table Super Rugby encounter in no way fixed the problems of the Blues franchise this season. But as is the pride and humility of the man, Lam will battle it out to the end of the season as the Blues coach when many others would have packed up and walked away long ago.

- Rhys Chamberlain

More rugby reading here.

Super Rugby: Aaron Smith - Highlanders unsung hero

Central Otago Rugby Report Round 5

2012-05-07T21:09:00.000+12:00

By Rhys Chamberlain courtesy of the Otago Daily Times.

It was duck shooting weekend again, which caused headaches for a number of coaches in Central Otago rugby circles over the weekend with plenty of players choosing opening weekend over rugby.

However, Maniototo and Matakanui Combined played their match on Friday afternoon at Ranfurly to avoid the clash, Maniototo retaining the White Horse Cup 37-6 over their neighbours.

The match was typically rugged in the opening stanza, Charlie Hore’s boot keeping Maniototo ahead going into the halftime break with 3 penalty goals. James Becker crossed the line after an excellent back movement from set play resulting in the only try of the first half. Matakanui first five-eighth Stu Melville kept his side in touch with a couple of penalty goals of his own.

Into the second half the home side managed to break away scoring three more tries and not allowing Matakanui any more points. Hore, Jeremy Lewthwaite and no. 8 Ryan Dowling all got their names on the score sheet to ensure a second straight defense of the White Horse Cup.

Arrowtown and Wakatipu played one of their most important matches of the season when they faced off at Queenstown, Arrowtown getting the win over the home side 32-15.

It was a dogged first half with neither side giving an inch and none wanting to concede points. However, first five-eighth Dylan Fletcher banged over a 45 metre penalty goal midway through the first half to record the first points and a short time later wing Mark Te Whaiti added a goal of his own. The rest of the half was played in the middle of the park with neither side looking like scoring a try. Fletcher kicked another goal on halftime to give Arrowtown the lead 6-3 at the break.

After the break Arrowtown’s work through its forwards paid dividends as it scored four tries. Prop Ed Spence, a rarity on the score sheet, barged over from a botched Wakatipu lineout and then wing Tyne Schofield finished a nice move in the corner. The home side countered through Te Whaiti from the resulting kick off, his try coming after a couple of missed tackles. After fullback Kane Dodds went over, Wakatipu hit back through a break out wide, centre Nathan Reid touching down. Captain and man-of-the-match Aiden Winter finished the game off scoring a well-deserved try.

Te Whaiti was once again showed good form with the little ball he received for Wakatipu, as did openside flank Marcus Balchin while hooker Matthew Ropoama was one to shine for the visitors.

Clyde-Earnscleugh earned itself a bonus point when it met Upper Clutha in Wanaka on Saturday afternoon winning the match 38-22.

Both sides tried to use the ball, which resulted in a scrappy opening half with a high error rate. Despite the errors, Clyde was able to open up an 11 point lead by halftime 19-8 thanks to three tries, openside Hamish Wright, fullback Shane Excel and wing Kurt Checketts the benefactors. Upper Clutha kept in touch with a try to hooker Mike Boyd and penalty goal to first five-eighth Byron Clarke.

The visitors then went on to score three more tries in the second half, pivot Ryan Edgerton, halfback Jai Baxter and no. 8 Cory Crosbie all crossing the line. But Upper Clutha wasn’t done and kept in touch right up until the final 10 minutes when a couple of tackling errors allowed those tries. It did score two more tries of its own, those going to prop Mike Templeton and lock Dan West.

Crosbie was the visitors man of the match while no. 8 Tom Hudson, usually a prop, had a fine game for the home side.

Alexandra and Cromwell elected to play its duck shooting weekend match on Thursday night under the lights in Cromwell, Alexandra winning 34-0.

Alexandra’s game plan to use the ball against a struggling Cromwell paid off as it scored five tries in the match; lock Dave Reinds bagging a double. Cromwell fought hard and was only down 14-0 at the break but couldn’t stem the flow of points in the second half. Alexandra scored three more tries in the second half to put the home side away, Shane Harrex, Simon Williams and Michael Paulin all dotting down.

Williams was in sublime form at halfback for the visitors, his wiry frame getting it done around the fringes and ensuring good ball for his backs.

More rugby reading here.

Central Otago Rugby Report Round 4

NBA: Chandler is Defensive Player of Year

2012-05-03T21:59:00.000+12:00

New York Knicks' centre Tyson Chandler has been named the NBA's Defensive Player of the Year after receiving 311 points from 121 sportscasters from around the USA and Canada. The 311 points included 45 first place votes and was 17 points more than second placed Serge Ibaka from the Oklahoma City Thunder. It is the first time in Knicks franchise history that a player has won the award.

Chandler stopped a three year winning streak by Orlando's Dwight Howard who finished third in voting this year. Chandler was a key component in the Dallas Mavericks championship run last year before he left for New York.

*San Antonio Spurs coach Greg Popovich was named Coach of the Year.

- Rhys Chamberlain

More basketball reading here.

NBA: 2011-2012 Playoffs Preview and Predictions

Central Otago Rugby Report Round 4

2012-04-30T18:42:00.003+12:00

By Rhys Chamberlain courtesy of the Otago Daily Times

Alexandra put together its best game in recent memory when it went down to defending champion Maniototo by just 5 points at Molyneux Park on Saturday afternoon.

The match was played at a fast pace throughout and defense from both sides was impressive. Alexandra managed to score through one of the match’s only line breaks, centre Sam Cant finishing the movement. Cam Gray was Maniototo’s first half try-scorer and the conversion by Charlie Hore was the only thing separating the teams at halftime.

The second half saw a solitary penalty goal to Hore, the only other scoring play.

At Jack Reid Park in Arrowtown, the home side confirmed its place at the top of the standings after downing a previously unbeaten Clyde-Earnscleugh 20-7.

It was a fast start for the home side who scored a try in the first two minutes from a line out right on the Clyde-Earnscleugh goal line. Number 8 Eddie Sefo was the recipient after the ball fell right into his hands and he fell over the line. Arrowtown then scored again 10 minutes later after a lineout drive saw openside flanker Lee Murray cross. At 14-0 down, Clyde-Earnscleugh made a break out wide after a turnover and fullback Shane Excel scored to keep the visitors in touch. Dylan Fletcher kicked a penalty just before the break to give Arrowtown a 17-7 lead at halftime.

The second half tightened up and was riddled with mistakes as both sides blew a number of try scoring opportunities. The only points came from a second Fletcher penalty goal early in the half.

Wakatipu registered a large win over a struggling Upper Clutha side at Queenstown 37-7.

Despite Upper Clutha having a multitude of possession in the match, Wakatipu managed six tries in the win, wing Mark Te Whaiti continuing his outstanding form by scoring his second hat trick of the season and extending his try tally to eight for the year. Two of those tries came from long-range interceptions against the run of play.

At halftime Upper Clutha was still in touch just 18-0 down, but the home side ran in three more tries, centre Danny King, blindside Sol Frew and fullback Craig Buchannan all getting their names on the score sheet. First five-eighth Byron Clarke nabbed a consolation try in the second half for the visitors.

At Cromwell, Matakanui Combined recorded its first win of the season over the home side 32-5.

Sam O’Callaghan had a fine game for the home side scoring its only try.

More rugby reading here.

Matakanui Combined celebrates milestone

NBA: Rose out of playoffs with torn ACL

2012-04-29T18:46:00.002+12:00

Derrick Rose out for the season with a knee
injury.

Chicago Bulls star and reigning league MVP Derrick Rose is out for the season after tearing the ACL in his knee in a game one 103-91 win over the Philidelphia 76ers today.

The injury comes after Rose missed 27 of 66 games in the regular season and caps off a horror run for one of the NBA's brightest stars. He sustained the injury on a drive to the basket in a layup attempt with 1:20 left in the final quarter. Rose had 23 points before the injury. It means the much anticipated Bulls/Heat Eastern Conference finals match-up will most likely not take place unless the Bulls can rally without their star point guard.

*The New York Knicks also lost a key player after being blown out 100-67 in its game one match up against Miami. Rookie shooting guard Iman Shumpert suffered the same injury as Rose and is also out for the remainder of the season.

- Rhys Chamberlain

NBA: 2011-2012 Playoffs Preview and Predictions

2012-04-28T11:33:00.001+12:00

With the NBA Playoffs tipping into action from tomorrow, NZ Sports Life editor Rhys Chamberlain makes his predictions.

Western Conference

I have to say that this years NBA Playoffs pose many unanswered questions and no certainties of advancing into the second round possibly with the exception of a sweep by the Spurs over Utah.

However, the rest of the West is tight. Number two Oklahoma City should have the wood on last seasons champion Dallas Mavericks but only because Tyson Chandler is no longer anchoring the defense in Dallas. It still has all of its offensive weapons in finals MVP Dirk Nowitzki, Jason Terry, Jason Kidd and Shawn Marion but as is often said, 'defense wins matches.' With Chandler now plying his trade in New York, the Thunder should get that match-up in seven games.

The Lakers possibly have an easier draw than others in the West taking on the Denver Nuggets but the Nuggets didn't make the playoffs by default. Many thought the franchise would struggle once Carmelo Anthony was traded to the Knicks but to its credit, the team lacking a genuine star has played well. In saying that the Lakers, on the back of Kobe and a resurgent Andrew Bynum, should take the series in five.

The Clippers and Memphis is tough to pick. Memphis was the surprise package of last years first round when it knocked out the number one Spurs. But I don't think they have the same chemistry they possessed last year. Zack Randolph hasn't had as big an impact as he did last year and he will need to be the 'go to guy' to advance past the Clips. However, "lob city" is in a little trouble with Chris Paul nursing a groin strain and Blake Griffin shooting just 54% from the foul line, a place he finds himself at a lot. In fact between he and DeAndre Jordan, the Grizzlies might adopt a 'hack-a-shaq' ploy when the game is on the line. Los Angeles Clippers in seven.

Eastern Conference

The East is not quite as jammed up as the West and a little easier to predict. The Bulls, providing phenom Derrick Rose is healthy, will sweep the Sixers and advance without too much trouble. However, Rose has missed 27 of 66 games this season so his health is of paramount importance to a Chicago win. I like the Bulls team chemistry and defensive intensity.

The Heat and the Knicks is not a forgone conclusion but I have Miami getting past a Knicks side which seems to finally have found its swagger in the final few regular season matches on the back of Carmelo Anthony's scoring. The problem is the rest of the pieces in New York, namely Amar'e Stoudemire who hasn't really found his role alongside Carmelo. He doesn't get as many touches and has looked out of sorts scoring just 9 points in the Knicks final regular season encounter. The 'big three' should get it done in five.

Indiana and Orlando is simple. If Dwight doesn't play (which he won't because of back surgery) the Pacers will win. In fact it won't even go seven games.

Here is my boldest prediction of this years playoffs...the Atlanta Hawks will knock out the Boston Celtics in the first round. The original 'big three' (Pierce, Garnett, Allen) are looking old and tired. The Hawks will get past them in seven games with All-Stars Josh Smith and Joe Johnson leading the way. By default almost, Boston is the fourth seed despite two other teams having a better record. This all because the Celtics placed first in their division. Not right.
Note: This prediction has nothing to do with my severe dislike of the Celtics!

Winner of the 2011-2012 NBA Championship: Miami Heat from Oklahoma City Thunder in seven.

More NBA reading here.

Matakanui Combined celebrates milestone

2012-04-28T10:34:00.000+12:00

By Rhys Chamberlain courtesy of the Otago Daily Times.

There was a significant event in Central Otago rugby last weekend when Matakanui Combined celebrated its 125^th anniversary of rugby in the Omakau district. Approximately 250 people turned out for an anniversary dinner and to listen to guest speaker Phil Gifford after games from children’s teams, a golden oldies selection, and the Premier side.

Photo: facebook.com

The club-started way back in 1887 as the Matakanui Rugby Club along with teams from Becks from 1925 and Valley from 1958 before the Matakanui and Valley clubs combined in 1971. Finally in 1991, all teams in the area combined resulting in the proud Matakanui Combined club we have in Central Otago today.

And proud club it is. Currently teams from the Matakanui area have held the White Horse Cup, arguably the most important cup in Central Otago rugby, more than any other club. It has produced a number of All Blacks including Bevan Wilson, Lester Harvey, Bruce Duncan, Alan Duncan and its most recent in Crusaders lock Tom Donnelly. It has also boasted some names now enshrined in Matakanui rugby history including Naylor, Flannery and Clouston. Most of these legendary names can still be found in one team or another within the club today.

It is testament to the community and the club that it has sustained a premier side for this long as numbers in recent times have dwindled and its topside has struggled. This weekend it takes on Cromwell who in turn celebrates its 125^th jubilee next year. Matakanui Combined might well get its first win of the young season against Cromwell who has also struggled in the past couple of years. Whether or not a win comes Matakanui’s way this weekend, it is sure to be a cracker of a match at Cromwell.

Other matches in round 4 of the competition sees Alexandra at home to White Horse Cup holders Maniototo, Upper Clutha at Wakatipu and the only unbeaten side thus far, Clyde-Earnscleugh, at Arrowtown.

More rugby reading here.

Rugby: Plenty of history behind cup

Super Rugby: Aaron Smith - Highlanders unsung hero

Basketball: Breakers repeat, win ANBL

2012-04-24T21:51:00.002+12:00

The New Zealand Breakers have beaten the Perth Wildcats 79-73 at Vector Arena to win their second title in as many years.

Finals MVP CJ Bruton.
Photo: nbl.com.au

The match was tight right throughout, the biggest lead coming in the third quarter, just 7 points to the Breakers. As the final period rolled around, once again up stepped the most clutch player in the league in CJ Bruton who, with 1:20 left in the match, hit a huge three pointer after the Breakers had turned over the ball and let the Perth Wildcats have a chance. They were down just four before that shot. The Wildcats then cut it back to four with an easy basket at the other end before Bruton stepped up and hit another dagger from downtown with just 50 seconds left to play. An injured Thomas Abercrombie then stepped up and provided a huge LeBron-like block at the other end on Shawn Redhage essentially quelling Perth's chances. Bruton then went to the line to knock down a couple of free throws to ice the game.

The Breakers became just the fifth team in ANBL history to win back to back titles while Bruton collected his fifth championship ring becoming only the third player in history to do that. Fittingly Bruton was named the 2011-2012 Finals MVP. There were other contenders for the MVP award in Gary Wilkinson who had 28 points in game two and 23 tonight. Mika Vukona also had a huge series especially on the boards (7 tonight) and Cedric Jackson, although indifferent tonight, was a key guy with 11 assists.

For the 9257 screaming fans at Vector Arena, it was pure bliss.

- Rhys Chamberlain

More basketball reading here.

Basketball: Breakers time is now

2012-04-24T17:33:00.000+12:00

Gary Wilkinson.

The New Zealand Breakers have a chance to do what no other New Zealand based team in an Australian competition has done before, win a championship for the second time in as many years. In fact, the Breakers still remain the only New Zealand based team to win an Australian championship in any sport. The closest any other team has come is the New Zealand Warriors rugby league team who has made the NRL grand final twice, once in 2002 and again in 2011, subsequently losing.

It shapes to be a fantastic final game against the Perth Wildcats with the Breakers taking game one in overtime and then Perth making amends at home by one point. It is sure to be close no matter the outcome and you can bet it will be chippy. Breakers centre Gary Wilkinson has garnered most of the attention from the opposition with his "celebrating" being labelled arrogant by some in Perth circles, namely head coach Rob Beverage. But to Wilkinson's credit, he hasn't let the talk get to him and put on a good showing in both games to back-up his celebrations.

But it's not just Wilkinson that needs attention from the Wildcats. CJ Bruton has really shown his worth in the playoffs, stepping up in the absence of Thomas Abercrombie and hitting some huge shots, the most important of those the game winner in the first match of the finals series. He and American import Cedric Jackson are vital cogs in a very smooth Breakers machine and you can bet close attention will be paid to both players.

Let's not forget however that Perth did win game two as the Breakers squandered an 11 point halftime lead with some silly plays at crucial times. Players like Kevin Lisch and Jesse Wagstaff have been hot and cold in the series but have hit the shots when they counted and the pair really hurt the Breakers in the final period of game two.

Whatever happens tonight, you can be sure it will be action packed, high intensity and have plenty of chat on the court. Let's hope an ice-cool Bruton puts the finishing touches to a fantastic ANBL finals series.

- Rhys Chamberlain

More basketball reading here.

Basketball: Breakers drop game 2 in Perth

Basketball: Bruton steps up, Breakers steal overtime win

Basketball: Breakers drop game 2 in Perth

2012-04-21T09:51:00.000+12:00

Gary Wilkinson.

The New Zealand Breakers have dropped game 2 of the ANBL finals to the Perth Wildcats 87-86 in Perth. Clutch Breakers guard CJ Bruton, who won game 1 in overtime last week, again had the chance to win the match, his teardrop in the lane blocked by former Breaker Shaun Redhage with time up on the clock.

The loss forces a deciding game 3 on Tuesday evening at Vector Arena in Auckland to see if the Breakers can back up their championship winning efforts from last season.

The Breakers relinquished a second quarter 11 point lead in the third after shooting 65% from the field and controlling the tempo of the game throughout. A series of turnovers and a freakish tip-in let the Wildcats go up by one with a minute to play and there the score stayed.

Gary Wilkinson was on his game right throughout scoring 28 points and Bruton 20 in the loss, Bruton again proving a threat from behind the three point line knocking down some key baskets to keep the Breakers ahead. But the Wildcats fought back with league MVP Kevin Lisch scoring 15, Matthew Knight 13 and Jessie Wagstaff 12 in a less than methodical win. It was guilty of taking tough shots from behind the arc where they finished up one for 17 from three. But a plethora of turnovers and struggles from the free throw line eventually worked against the Breakers as it gave up a game in which most will agree, it should have won.

- Rhys Chamberlain

More basketball reading here.

Basketball: Bruton steps up, Breakers steal overtime win

Rugby: Plenty of history behind cup

2012-04-20T13:59:00.003+12:00

The Whitehorse Cup. Photo: facebook.com

By Rhys Chamberlain courtesy of the Otago Daily Times.

For the winner its joy and ecstasy, for the loser pain and anguish. That’s the reality of playing for New Zealand’s second oldest rugby trophy in the White Horse Cup, played for in Central Otago with every home game the holder plays since 1925. This emotion was clearly evident this past Saturday as Maniototo players rejoiced and Arrowtown players dropped to their haunches upon the final whistle.

After three years in its trophy cabinet, Arrowtown relinquished the coveted piece of silverware to a stoic Maniototo who has held every other cup in the region for the past two seasons but had not had the chance for a White Horse Cup challenge. In past years if this had been the case, what was termed a “special challenge” may have been sought. This meant that anyone who had not had a chance to play for the Cup could request a match to try and nab it. According to a few of the stalwarts around the region, the season ended up going into the month of September sometimes thanks to all of these challenges. But after the “special challenge” was scrapped a few years ago, teams have had to wait their turn and that’s just what Maniototo did, graciously as well. They may have had a case that because they have been the best side in Central Otago for the past two years, they deserved a challenge. But nothing like that was ever brought up and, deservingly, they took their chance this past Saturday overcoming a 17-point deficit to win it. The challenge now for the Maggots is to retain it. Its first challenge comes this week from a struggling Cromwell side, which, until 2007, had not held the Cup since 1932. It grabbed it for a brief period again in 2010 and will be looking at nothing else but bringing it home again this weekend.

More rugby reading here.

Central Otago Rugby Report Round 2

Rugby League: New Zealand team to play Australia

2012-04-18T19:18:00.000+12:00

The Kiwis side to play Australia on Friday evening at Mt Smart Stadium, Auckland is:

Kiwis captain Benji Marshall.
Photo: wikipedia.org

Gerard Beale (Broncos), Adam Blair (Tigers), Jesse Bromwich (Storm), Nathan Fien (Dragons), Alex Glenn (Broncos), Josh Hoffman (Broncos), Shaun Johnson (Warriors), Shaun Kenny-Dowall (Roosters), Issac Luke (Rabbitohs), Simon Mannering (Warriors), Benji Marshall (Tigers), Ben Matulino( Warriors), Sam McKendry (Panthers), Jason Nightingale (Dragons), Frank Pritchard (Bulldogs), Jeremy Smith (Sharks), Jason Taumalolo (Cowboys), Manu Vatuvei (Warriors), Jared Waerea-Hargreaves (Roosters).