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Chris Jack scores within a minute on Western Province debut

noreply@blogger.com (RD) — Sun, 12 Jul 2009 19:10:00 +0000

All Black lock Chris Jack scored a debut try for Western Province in the Currie Cup after no less than 22 seconds as his new team beat the Shark 29-15 at Newlands on Saturday.

Jack joined Western Province following two years with Saracens in England, bringing a wealth of experience to the Cape Town based side with his 67 test caps for New Zealand, as well as nine years with the Crusaders.

His considerable bulk will also go a long way towards beefing up the traditionally weak Province forward pack, and he will partner former Lions lock Anton Van Zyl.

"For us as coaches he's been brilliant," said WP assistant coach Robbie Fleck.

"The way Chris has settled in to the side after three days of training has been phenomenal, he's been the ultimate professional."

"When I first met him he was as quiet as a churchmouse," admitted Fleck.

"But when we got him on the training paddock there was this transformation to this guy that was talking and communicating, and everything that came out of his mouth made perfect sense, and everyone understood straight away why he's the player that he is.

"He's a man of few words, but a man of action."

He was all action shortly after kickoff as he got himself in the game instantly, charging down a Rory Kockott attempted clearance kick before gathering and diving over in the corner unchallenged.

Not a brilliant try by any means, but a great start to his Currie Cup and Western Province career, which we think New Zealand and Saracens fans might appreciate seeing. We'll keep tabs on his progress throughout the season.

Time: 0:46

Midweek Madness - The Brussow Bounce

noreply@blogger.com (RD) — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 19:07:00 +0000

We've come across a pretty ridiculous, but fairly entertaining video for you today from the third test of the epic Lions vs Springboks series that concluded in Johannesburg on the weekend.

Young Heinrich Brussow was a thorn in the Lions side since their meeting with the Cheetahs, a match in which he single handedly got the home side back in the match by dominating at the breakdown.

His rise to the top has been rapid, and with injury and disciplinary problems from Schalk Burger, the youngster from Bloemfontein has take his opportunity with open arms and now looks set to be in the Springbok fold for many years to come.

As a genuine fetcher, Brussow, one of the smaller forwards in world rugby, realises that his game is pushed to the limit of the law.

"It's a fine line a fetcher has to walk - you have to be bold but you have to be careful, especially with three points against you a possibility if you transgress. You walk a tightrope.

"Slowing ball down is one of the keys to success in Test rugby because it gives your defensive line more time to get organised.

"At the same time, if I can turn over their ball, we have a superb backline that is very dangerous on the counter-attack. So if I give the guys an opportunity on both counts I will have done my job."

Funnily enough it was the Lions' Welsh fetcher supreme Martyn Williams who was slowing down the ball in the third test, as he got it lodged between his legs, preventing the Boks from taking a quick tap.

Brussow got frustrated, then literally manhandled Williams as he tried to shake the ball loose as if he were dusting off an old rug. The comical incident led to this crazy video, and a move we've named the Brussow Bounce. Don't try this at home.

Discussion Point: It seems that these days players get away with a helluva lot by preventing a side from taking a quick tap when a penalty or free kick is awarded. Should referees be stricter in governing this offence, or is it just part of the game?

Time: 01:33

The School of Hard Knocks - The Final

noreply@blogger.com (RD) — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 13:07:00 +0000

The much anticipated final of the School of Hard Knocks is finally here. Will Greenwood and Scott Quinnell have sculpted a group of troubled youths into a hardened rugby team over a period of a few weeks, and their final challenge is upon them.

It’s been quite a ride for the boys, who joined the programme from different backgrounds, all of which were troubled or mislead, and none of which had any previous involvement with rugby.

They’ve had their ups and downs, but they’ve made it to the final hurdle as a changed group of boys as they set out to play against an experienced and well organised team that pushes them to their limits.

Along the journey they’ve not only learnt about rugby, but about themselves as individuals and see that all things are possible through hard work and determination.

They’ve taken a hold of their lives now and look set to be stronger, better, and more focussed than ever as they’ve found a sense of self-worth and togetherness that many of us would have experienced through this great sport.

Everything they’ve learned has come down to this one final test, as they run out together to have the time of their lives and see if they can put everything they’ve learnt into practice in this, the final episode of The School of Hard Knocks 2009.

The final episode is 43 minutes long, so they're split into 5 different parts. It's well worth the watch, so enjoy. Apologies for the audio sync error on the first part. The rest are fine.

British & Irish Lions tour - Scrum Safari 3

noreply@blogger.com (RD) — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 12:28:00 +0000

The 2009 British & Irish Lions tour of South Africa will forever be remembered as one of the toughest in the history of the sport. On the field, bruising encounters and tense finishes were the order of the day.

Off the field, plenty of hard work is put in to get to that starting Test side, but there's still time to relax and unwind, which is just as important on a tension filled tour such as this.

On this edition of the BBC's Scrum Safari, we catch up with the Lions players after the second Test of the series, as they attempt to wind down and take their mind off the disappointments of a gruelling tour.

The Lions went on a safari and get quizzed about the Big Five, a question to which most of them fail. We also get a behind the scenes peak at what's on the menu for the players, and then we see the guys back in Johannesburg, heading to the movies for the night.

It's then back to the ever loyal fans, who throughout the tour have been fantastic with their support for their side. Telly Tubbies, Cheerleaders, and Lions, we've seen it all on this tour. Enjoy.

Time: 05:26

Simon Shaw gets a two week suspension following the third Test

noreply@blogger.com (RD) — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 08:05:00 +0000

British & Irish Lions lock Simon Shaw has been suspended for two weeks following the third and final Test against South Africa at Ellis Park on Saturday.

Shaw, who’s had a fantastic tour at the age of 35, clumbsily fell with his knees into the back on Springbok scrumhalf Fourie Du Preez.

Assistant Referee Vinny Munroe recommended a yellow card to Ref Stuart Dickinson. Shaw spent ten minutes on the sideline.

The England second rower appeared before judicial officer Alan Hudson at a hearing on Sunday and was found guilty of dangerous play. Incidentally, Hudson is the same official who was involved in both the Schalk Burger, and Bakkies Botha suspensions.

With the Lions tour over and the domestic season not due to start until August, Shaw’s ban will commence on 9 August and finish on 22 August.

While many will feel that a yellow card was sufficient punishment, Shaw’s dangerous knee into the back caused pain and discomfort to Du Preez, who stayed on but struggled, and was later replaced by Ruan Pienaar.

The precedent seems to have been set, as judiciary officers appear to now be taking the outcome of misdemeanours into account.

:: Related Posts ::
Simon Shaw red carded for knee in back in 2004

Time: 01:28

British & Irish Lions beat the Boks in Johannesburg

noreply@blogger.com (RD) — Sat, 04 Jul 2009 18:02:00 +0000

The British & Irish Lions have ended their 2009 tour of South Africa on a high after convincingly beating the Springboks 28-9 at Ellis Park in the third and final Test.

While the Springboks celebrated winning the series with their dramatic win at Loftus Versfeld last weekend, they treated the third Test as an opportunity to try out different combinations ahead of the Tri Nations. Ten changes were made, and it showed.

The Lions on the other hand made seven changes, many of which were forced by injury. It didn't affect them though as they came out firing with high intensity levels that the Boks struggled to compete with.

Shane Williams broke his drought as he scored two tries that both came from brilliant individual touches, from Jamie Heaslip and Riki Flutey respectively. Ugo Monye scored the Lions third try with an intercept as the Boks went searching for points.

"It's a satisfaction but a secondary satisfaction because we came here to win the series. It will be my last Lions involvement. I'd like to thank the players, they've been outstanding to a man," said Lions coach Ian McGeechan.

Springbok captain John Smit said: "We had a wonderful series but would have loved to complete a whitewash so we're disappointed. We just were not in the right frame of mind. The Lions wanted a victory and they succeeded."

"But if you had to said to me the series would have been 2-1 beforehand, I would have taken it. The Lions series was always going to be our priority this year and it’s been an amazing experience. To win a series, for me, is right up there with the World Cup."

White Armbands

The Springboks took to the field with white armbands that had the word 'Justice' on them as a protest over the two week suspension of Bakkies Botha for a charge into a ruck last weekend.

Piet Heymans, chief executive of the South African Players' Association, explained.

"The Springbok players all feel for Bakkies as he will miss this memorable final test against the British and Irish Lions," Heymans wrote on the SARPA website.

"Over an extended period of time numerous other players have charged into rucks without binding but were either not penalized at all or received only a penalty. Bakkies hit a ruck just before this one in question in a similar style and was not penalized. Coaches are coaching players to hit rucks in this manner and therefore this is a major cause of apprehension."

Lions forwards coach Warren Gatland agreed. “We thought it was a tough decision, we had no issue with Bakkies. He has a history in the past of not using his arms, but on this occasion there was no problem.”

Time: 09:57

The British & Irish Lions

noreply@blogger.com (RD) — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 07:46:00 +0000

On Saturday we witnessed one of the greatest games ever to be played in Lions rugby history. It was an epic Test match that had drama from start to finish. The series is decided as a contest, but the British & Irish Lions live on, and still have plenty to prove as they must live up to those who fought before them.

We were hoping to post this brilliant video when the series was nicely poised at 1-1, adding to the excitement and build up towards the deciding Test at Ellis Park.

Instead, we're going to see if the Lions can redeem themselves by coming back and proving that they're worthy of wearing the famous red jerseys, and can indeed beat the World Champions in their own backyard.

The concept of the British & Irish Lions is steeped in history and tradition as legends of the game have represented four nations to join as one, and take on the the best from the south, every four years.

The task itself is of epic proportions, but to be chosen as a Lion remains the ultimate honour for any player from England, Ireland, Scotland or Wales.

This awesome video gives you a great feel for what the Lions is all about as we relive some of the greatest moments from past tours, as well as hear words from legends who've proudly been associated with the Lions.

In terms of a tour result, going down 2-1 certainly looks better than 3-0. Will the Lions be able to pick themselves up for this dead rubber on Saturday, gaining further respect and admiration by doing so? There's a few new faces on both sides, all of which have plenty to prove. We should be in for another classic encounter.

Time: 06:06

Springbok team:
Zane Kirchner, Odwa Ndungane, Jaque Fourie, Wynand Olivier, Jongi Nokwe, Morne Steyn, Fourie du Preez, Ryan Kankowski, Juan Smith, Heinrich Brussow, Victor Matfield, Johann Muller, John Smit, Chilliboy Ralepelle, Tendai Mtawarira
Replacements: Bismarck du Plessis, Gurthro Steenkamp, Deon Carstens, Steven Sykes, Pierre Spies, Ruan Pienaar, Francois Steyn

British & Irish Lions team:
Rob Kearney, Ugo Monye, Tommy Bowe, Riki Flutey, Shane Williams, Stephen Jones, Mike Phillips, Jamie Heaslip, Martyn Williams, Joe Worsley, Paul O'Connell, Simon Shaw, Phil Vickery, Matthew Rees, Andrew Sheridan
Replacements: Ross Ford, John Hayes, Alun Wyn Jones, David Wallace, Tom Croft, Harry Ellis, James Hook

Plays of the Month for June 2009

noreply@blogger.com (RD) — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 18:02:00 +0000

The month of June was jam-packed with international rugby action as Test matches took centre stage across the globe, with all the major sides either starting, or finishing their rugby seasons.

For the rugby fans, it's been a treat with big games every weekend and plenty to talk about. The good, the bad, the the fugly.

The British & Irish Lions tour has commanded most of the attention, as the Springboks managed to take the series 2-0. Unfortunately the series so far has been marred by some below par refereeing, and a few below the belt incidents. One match left though. Could go either way.

The All Blacks had a case of the blues as the French arrived in New Zealand with cock in hand, surprising them in the first Test. The AB's came back nicely though, to square the series 1-1. They went on to beat Italy, but are looking a little concerned ahead of the Tri Nations.

The Wallabies blew away a star studded Barbarians side in Sydney, then brushed aside the Italians who had an Aussie or two of their own. The French lacked gas in the tank when they travelled to Ausland, but had one of their better tours in recent times. The Wallaby backline are looking like they could be a potent force this season.

All in all it's been really entertaining, but has made it difficult to predict how the upcoming Tri Nations is going to pan out. One thing is for sure though, the month of June won't be forgotten any time soon. Let's hope July provides as much fun and enjoyment for us all.

Time: 04:28
Credit: The Rugby Club

Top players reflect on their greatest achievements

noreply@blogger.com (RD) — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 07:52:00 +0000

We’ve got an insightful clip for you today that features some of the top players and coaches in the game discussing their greatest achievements in rugby, and in life.

For the majority of players, winning a major tournament would be the ultimate in satisfaction and happiness. It’s the culmination of a lifetime of hard work, time, and effort to get there.

But despite the professional era which at times sees players being treated like robots by the media and fans, they’re human after all. These guys have goals and ambitions off the pitch that many of us can also relate to.

For some their greatest achievements revolve around loved ones, national selection, or even just a special time in their life.

The players featured are from all different walks of life, who have made it to the top and achieved greatness on the field, and personal happiness off it.

We hear from Brian O’Driscoll, John Smit, Will Greenwood, Shane Williams, Justin Marshall, Keith Wood, and Mils Muliana to name a few.

Time: 02:48
Credit: IRB's Total Rugby

New Zealand u20's beat England u20's to win the Junior World Championship

noreply@blogger.com (RD) — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 10:31:00 +0000

Last weekend the New Zealand Under-20 side set the standard in junior rugby as they put on a highly impressive display against a strong England side at the Junior World Championship in Tokyo. New Zealand won the Final 44-28.

As always, the pool of talent in New Zealand runs deep as these youngsters showed that despite the senior All Blacks not having the most enjoyable time at the moment, the near future looks promising.

Scoring seven quality tries, the Baby Blacks secured the trophy with Junior World Player of the Year Aaron Cruden playing a part in most of them. Super 14 players such as Zac Guildford and Winston Stanley also contributed with quality play.

Leading 25-14 at halftime, the game was finely balanced with the well groomed and determined England side possibly having a chance of getting back into it.

Three minutes into the second half the Kiwi side scored again, which basically put the game beyond England, despite scoring a consolation try.

Some of these tries scored by the juniors are phenomenal. The support play, fifteen man rugby, and pure class shown at such a young age are something to behold.

Congrats to both sides who performed really well throughout the tournament, entertaining the enthusiastic Japanese crowds and no doubt contributing towards the continued growth of the game in that region.

Time: 05:43

Peter De Villiers speaks out on Schalk Burger, rugby, and of course, ballet

noreply@blogger.com (RD) — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 09:49:00 +0000

Controversial Springbok coach Peter De Villiers has yet again come out with some puzzling views on the recent second Test in the British & Irish Lions series.

De Villiers, who often baffles journalists with his strange analogies and generally confusing approach to the media, came out saying that he didn't think the Schalk Burger eye-gouge incident was worthy of a sending off at all.

Yesterday in at a press conference in Johannesburg, De Villiers once again faced the media, and once again defended Burger, adament that his actions werent deliberate. He also went on to suggest that if you can't appreciate rugby as a contact sport, you should take up ballet.

"I'm telling you, I watched the TV footage and I'm not saying anything otherwise I will go against everything we decided as a team. I watched the TV footage and I am still convinced there was nothing that he did on purpose. For Schalk himself when he watched it, he was like: 'Oh my!'. But he never meant to go to anybody's eye," De Villiers stressed.

When asked if he thinks the Burger incident overshadowed a historic win, De Villiers lit up.

"You know what, 29 years we've waited for this grrrreat occasion. 29 years! And we are going into the third Test with the series sealed. We are the winners of the British and Irish Lions series, and we are happy about it. This country can now rejoice and be positive for the next twelve years. So I would love the Lions supporters to honour the fact that we won this thing.

"It was tough and the hardest Test series I have seen in a long time. We came back from a a poor start and I never thought we would be able to do that, because this is a brilliant Lions team that we are up against," he said.

Apology

Late on Monday he cleared up what he had said about the incident, apologising for the misconception and explaining that he made his comments based on what he knows of Burger the player, not on what occurred.

"It was never my intention to suggest that I condone foul play. That is the last thing I would ever do and I apologise for that impression," he said.

SARU president Oregan Hoskins made an official apology: "We would like to apologise to the rugby community for the erroneous impression that acts of foul play are in any way condoned by South African rugby."

Is PDV barking mad, or just misunderstood and really bad at working with the media?

Time: 02:28

Sergio Parisse suspended for eight weeks for eye-gouge

noreply@blogger.com (RD) — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 12:41:00 +0000

Italian captain Sergio Parisse has been suspended for eight weeks after an eye-gouging incident during his teams 27-6 loss to New Zealand on Saturday.

Parisse was cited after TV replays showed that he made contact with the eyes of All Black lock Isaac Ross in the second half.

He appeared before a IRB judicial officer in Christchurch and was punished following television footage and reports from the match referee and linesmen.

They found that he had not acted intentionally, but deemed his actions to be reckless. He was charged with the lower range offence, which carries a recommended sentence of 12 weeks.

It was reduced to eight weeks because of mitigating circumstances, as they noted that the initial contact with Ross had been on his cheek, before the hand slipped to the eye, causing only brief contact.

Ross was also unharmed, which helped Parisse’s cause, as did the fact that in 65 Test matches, he’s never been yellow or red carded.

Parisse’s suspension will be delayed until the start of the Italian club season. He will be eligible to resume playing in late September.

Lets hear your thoughts
This is second suspension of the weekend for eye-gouging. Is the punishment for this offence too lenient, or is 8 to 12 weeks fair?

Time: 01:15
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Bakkies Botha suspended for two weeks after injuring Adam Jones

noreply@blogger.com (RD) — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 08:46:00 +0000

Springbok lock Bakkies Botha has been banned for two weeks after being found guilty of 'dangerous charging' on Adam Jones, an incident that left the British & Irish Lions prop with a dislocated shoulder.

Botha will now miss the third and final Test next weekend, as will Jones, who left the field at the time, with the injury requiring surgery.

Both Botha and Schalk Burger attended a hearing in Pretoria on Sunday night, which resulted in the two week suspension for Botha, and 8 weeks for Burger after his first minute of the Test eye gouge on wing Luke Fitzgerald.

While there has been plenty of talk about dirty tactics, former England captain and British & Irish Lion Will Carling has come out in defence of the Springboks.

"When all is said and done though, South Africa won the test and with that the series and have proved that they are one, if not 'the', strongest team in the World at the moment," Carling wrote on his website.

"Did the Boks cheat, were they just thugs?" Carling continued, " No, not in my mind. If Burger gouged that is inexcusable and the referee should have sent him off there and then. But apart from that, what else did they do that was thuggery? It was hard for sure, bloody hard, but isn't that Test rugby? Botha's illegal challenge on Jones? well what about BOD's illegal tackle? It is swings and roundabouts and the Boks have always been a very very physical side. It is nothing new," he said.

"The Lions can and should be proud of what they have achieved in throwing four 'teams' together in a matter of weeks and secondly the Boks are a bloody good, tough side, with many great players and great characters, and they should not be branded thugs, or cheats. They have won the test series, and congratulations to them."

Lets hear your thoughts
Worthy of a two week suspension, or was it a legal clear out with an unfortunate injury? Also what do you think of what Carling had to say?

Time: 01:03
Please note: Keep things clean and respectful, or your comments will be removed. Random Anonymous comments will also be deleted, so use a name rather.

The Wallabies defeat the French in Sydney

noreply@blogger.com (RD) — Sun, 28 Jun 2009 19:12:00 +0000

Sydney was the venue on Saturday as the Wallabies hosted France in a once off Test match that resulted in the hosts coming out convincing winners, 22-6.

Star flyhalf Matt Giteau ran the show as he scored all the points for the home side as they stretched their dominance over France to four consecutive victories.

France, on a tough tour that saw them facing the All Blacks two weeks in a row, were surely fatigued as they struggled to break the Wallabies unrelenting defence.

Australia on the other hand, came into the match relatively fresh after convincing wins over the Barbarians and Italy.

Giteau scored the only try of the match, which he converted. He also slotted a handy five penalties, which helped the Aussies pull away in the second half after leading 10-3 at halftime.

"It's been a solid month for us and it's good background for us and that was better than a solid performance," coach Robbie Deans said.

"There were elements there that we've been working on, our defence was obvious and it was a full team effort, everyone got into the game and added something."

French coach Marc Lievremont wasn’t pleased with the way their tour has ended.

"We are very disappointed about the end of our tour and it was a very good Australian team that showed us a real level."

"They had a better start than us and everything we did wrong we paid for it. The Wallabies scored very quickly and we were very undisciplined.

"Our players were very courageous but after two very hard games against the All Blacks it was probably one game too many for us tonight."

Time: 04:34

All Blacks disappointed after low-scoring win over Italy

noreply@blogger.com (RD) — Sun, 28 Jun 2009 11:57:00 +0000

New Zealand put in an unconvincing display as they beat Italy 27-6 at Lancaster Park in Christchurch on Saturday. It was the lowest NZ score against the Italians in their last ten matches, and the first time they’ve failed to score more than fifty points.

Joe Rokocoko, Isaac Ross, and George Whitelock crossed for tries with Luke McAllister adding three conversions and two penalties. Australian born Italian fullback Luke Mclean scored the points for his side with a penalty in each half.

The All Blacks will have been hoping for a better performance ahead of the upcoming Tri Nations, but struggled to find their rhythm and tried too hard at times.

"We put a lot of pressure on ourselves by trying to run it from everywhere and that probably reflected in the score at halftime," said captain Mils Muliaina

"There were a lot of opportunities there but we just didn't execute and it's very disappointing."

Italian coach Nick Mallet was happy with the way his side performed, and satisfied with the outcome of the three Test tour.

"Everything has to be taken into perspective. Italy is a small rugby nation...and to come on a tour like this, Australia, Australia, New Zealand, and to concede just an average of 30 points in each game is a fantastic effort," he said.

"I'm incredibly proud of them. The coaching staff were very happy with the way we hung in there.

"It was a dry night, dry ball and a very good attacking New Zealand side. We got beaten by 70 points in the World Cup so we had a lot of pride to get back.

"Conceding 13 points in the first half and 14 in the second, I'm very happy with that."

Time: 05:14

Last minute penalty wins epic contest, and series, for the Springboks at Loftus

noreply@blogger.com (RD) — Sat, 27 Jun 2009 15:39:00 +0000

A last minute penalty from the darling of Loftus, Morne Steyn, decided the fate of the 2009 British & Irish Lions as they went down 28-25 to the Springboks in Pretoria in an epic contest. The Springboks win the series, 2-0.

It was a thrilling Test match that served up plenty of ferocity and quality play from both sides. The Lions led up until the 74th minute, with a win looking on the cards.

They had scored early through Rob Kearney while Schalk Burger was in the sin bin for what was described by the assistant referee as a clear eye gouge. The try was converted by Stephen Jones, who also kicked two penalties and a drop goal.

JP Peterson scored off the back of a lineout for the Boks, but it was the Lions who led at half time after having a large majority of the possession for the second week running.

The Springboks fought back in the second half though, scoring through Bryan Habana and Jaque Fourie, both of which were coolly converted by replacement flyhalf Morne Steyn.

A courageous late penalty from Jones, who looked like he had just badly injured his leg, took the match to 25-25, with a draw on the cards.

As the Boks pushed closer into drop goal territory, they hastily had a shot from far out. The ball was kicked down field, then hoofed back, before Ronan O’Gara launched an up and under.

O’Gara himself chased, but took Fourie Du Preez out in the air, earning the home side a shot at the win from within their own half.

Morne Steyn stepped forward and landed the kick of his life under immense pressure, winning the game for the Springboks and helping to secure the series win.

Time: 09:47

British & Irish Lions fans on tour - Scrum Safari

noreply@blogger.com (RD) — Sat, 27 Jun 2009 12:00:00 +0000

An estimated 30 000 British & Irish Lions fans will squeeze into Loftus Versfeld this afternoon for the second Test against the hosts, the Springboks. While it's predominantly a rugby tour, for those fans, it's been a holiday like no other.

Touring South Africa is a great experience, with or without rugby. Obviously going with a whole hoard of rugby supporters, all following the same side, makes it that much more enjoyable.

Fancy dress has been rife, as the red tide of Lions supporters washed into Durban last week dressed in all sorts of atire. From full military uniforms with white pith helmets, to super hero get-up, they've made an effort to have a laugh and keep the spirits high. Some have even taken to wearing the local Zulu outfits, complete with shields.

A bottle of beer was never far off either, often shared with South African fans while standing around a braai (barbecue).

The atmosphere has been great, with the experience of being on a Lions tour being second to none. No matter what's happened on the pitch, these men and ladies have enjoyed every minute of their time in the country.

This great feature from the BBC shows us the side of a rugby tour that we dont often get to see, as they show us what goes on behind the scenes with the fans as they move around the country.

Time: 06:14
Note: Thanks to the BBC.

Mathieu Bastareaud admits he lied about being assaulted in New Zealand

noreply@blogger.com (RD) — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 14:20:00 +0000

Young French centre Mathieu Bastareaud, who initially made claims that he’d been attacked by between four and five men in Wellington on the weekend, has now changed his story and admitted that he actually lied about what actually happened.

Bastareaud sustained several facial injuries in New Zealand after a night out, with his original story being that he got them from a racial attack by a group of thugs on the streets of Wellington. It has now been revealed, that they actually came from a drunken fall.

He suffered a broken eye socket, facial cuts, and severe bruising. The ‘attack’ was such an embarrassment for the country ahead of the 2011 World Cup, that the New Zealand Prime Minister even issued a written apology, along with the mayor of Wellington.

He is now back in France, where he came clean about the story. Mayor Kerry Prendergast is furious, especially as it seems that he wasn’t alone in the cover up.

"There were other players involved, the team doctor was involved, the coach (was involved) because he got sent back so quickly. This is wider than just one player and I think we need an apology.

"My understanding is that other players knew about it, so we can’t just say that this is one player. Clearly the doctor who did the stitching and the fact that he was sent back... other people knew."

Security footage has shown him returning to his hotel uninjured with four other people, at 5:22am. He's said that he made up the story to avoid getting in trouble with the French RFU.

"On Saturday evening, I returned to the hotel after having drunk too much," he said.

"I fell in my bedroom and scarred my cheekbone on the table in the room. I was ashamed and panicked and I thought I would be sent packing by the team management.

"I told the original story because I thought it would be believed, but given the coverage it has subsequently received I thought it would be better to tell the truth."

We’re yet to find out what kind of punishment the 20 year old Stade Francais player will receive. Perhaps the shame and worldwide criticism he'll face is enough at this stage.

Time: 04:45

Stirling Mortlock hit on Sonny Bill Williams - Thats the way the big boys do it

noreply@blogger.com (RD) — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 09:57:00 +0000

We've had a number of requests for this bone-jarring hit from the Barbarians match against the Wallabies in Sydney a few weeks back.

As always, Sonny Bill Williams making an appearance in a big rugby union match was surrounded by hype and speculation. Many people questioned his ability, and he no doubt was a prized target for the opposition players.

Stirling Mortlock chopped the League superstar down to size early on with this great tackle.

At the end of the match Sonny Bill apparently thanked Mortlock for the sore ribs, to which the Wallaby captain replied "That's the way the big boys do it. "

"He seems like a good bloke and a very funny character," Williams said later. "But I'd love to come back here in a few years' time and show him how I do it."

"I know I am going to have my critics and they are going to come out and bag me but I know that there is definitely a lot of improvement in my game and hopefully in another 10 months you will see a different player."

"I knew there was a lot of pressure on me and I knew that a lot of people wanted to see me get pumped but that's cool," he said.

Williams did show a few touches of class, even getting the better of Mortlock on a couple of occasions, but it was the Aussie center who came out on top overall.

:: Related Posts ::
The Wallabies crush the Barbarians in Sydney

Time: 01:03

Lions legends Gareth Edwards and Gavin Hastings discuss the Second Test

noreply@blogger.com (RD) — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 14:55:00 +0000

The British & Irish Lions head to Pretoria on Saturday to take on the Springboks in the second Test of the series following the 21-26 loss in Durban last weekend.

The Lions came back well but came up short, despite a frantic last 10 minutes. There were plenty of positives to be taken from the match though, so they’ll want to build on that at Loftus.

Lions legends Gareth Edwards and Gavin Hastings have a wealth of Test Match rugby between them, so they got together to discuss the upcoming match, and reflect on what can be taken from the previous test.

The big question on everyone's mind if if the Lions can actually win the match at altitude, in front of the passionate Loftus Versfeld crowd. The atmosphere will be intense, but if they can overcome that and level up the series, it’s all to play for at Ellis Park the following weekend.

Edwards and Hastings touch on, amongst other things, the turning points from the match in Durban, the lethal looking combination of Roberts and O’Driscoll, and the precision that is needed to take down the Boks.

Time: 09:20

Kenyan rugby and Safari Sevens tournament growing in popularity

noreply@blogger.com (RD) — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 06:52:00 +0000

Kenyan rugby has come on in leaps and bounds of late, as the national Sevens side have proven to be giant killers on this years IRB World Sevens Series circuit. With wins over the best in the business, the Tusker Safari Sevens was the perfect homecoming for the side that has done a great deal for rugby back home.

With the sensational Collins Injera leading the way as top try scorer, Kenya have gone from being a minnow of the game, to finishing sixth on the IRB Sevens circuit for the season.

Together with captain Humphrey Kayange, Injera was nominated for IRB Sevens Player of the Year, the first time Kenya has been represented on the list in the tournaments 10 year history.

In Nairobi this past weekend, a crowd of 10 000 gathered to watch their heroes in action as they took on invitational sides that represented twelve different nations.

Kenya lifted the trophy for the second year in a row after they beat South Africa’s second string Sevens side, the Emerging Springboks, 40-19 in the final.

With the tournament's growth in popularity, and the sport of rugby reaching new fans, there is now talk of adding Nairobi to the IRB Sevens Circuit.

The Safari Sevens has been running for 14 years now, and while it was originally a development tournament, it’s now served that purpose and is ready to welcome the bigger sides in world rugby. This would have a great effect for the sport, as well as the local population.

With the sport of Sevens on the rise globally and fans flocking to exotic destinations to follow their sides in action, surely the Kenyan Safari Sevens needs to be looked at as a permanent IRB series fixture?

Who could deny the appeal of travelling to Nairobi for a weekend of sun, party atmosphere, and above all, top quality Sevens rugby. Mark it down in your calenders for next year.

Time: 02:41

Scrum on the Beach this summer

noreply@blogger.com (RD) — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 11:27:00 +0000

As we saw in Cape Town, it’s winter down south with pretty chilly conditions for rugby being seen at Newlands, as well as Canberra and Dunedin recently. The good news for those of you up north is, it’s summertime.

O2 are once again putting on their Scrum on the Beach festival, which is essentially a big rugby beach party where you can have a crack at playing rugby in the sand, amongst other things.

There are plenty of prizes, giveaways, and you’ll stand a chance of playing with some of England’s stars. Test your skills in the O2 Play Zone, compete on Batak Duel competition stations, pick up rugby freebies, have a beer, eat ice cream, and grab some autographs.

England players will be on the lookout for the teams with the most flair, and if you’re chosen, you’ll get to play at Twickenham in a tournament.

Where is it being held?
* Essex Martello Bay Clacton-on-Sea 4 July, 11-6pm
* Great Yarmouth Marine Parade 11 July, 11-6:30pm
* Southport Ainsdale Beach 18 July, 10-5:30pm
* Bournemouth Boscombe Beach 25 July, 10-7pm
* Dorset Weymouth Beach 1 August, 10-6:30pm
* Newcastle Tynemouth Longsands Beach 8-9 August, 10-4pm
* Lincolnshire Skegness Beach 15 August, 10-5pm
* Newquay Lusty Glaze Beach 28 August, 12-7pm
* Newquay Lusty Glaze Beach 29-30 August, 12-11pm

It’s a great event with plenty of fun for all, so if you can, get on down. This fun promotional video shows us top players Paul Sackey, Danny Care, Ben Foden, Lewis Moody, and Delon Armitage all trying their hand at beach rugby.

Time: 01:23
Note: For more info, checkout the official website here.

Emerging Springboks snatch a dramatic draw against the British & Irish Lions

noreply@blogger.com (RD) — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 19:21:00 +0000

The British & Irish Lions suffered their first non-Test hiccup in Cape Town earlier tonight as they drew with the Emerging Springboks after a frantic last minute of rugby in atrocious conditions.

Keith Earls, playing at fullback, scored the first and only try for the Lions as the rain pelted down on a soaked Newlands. Despite the weather, roughly 40 000 turned out to see the match, adding further fuel to the argument that the devout Cape fans should have been afforded a Test match.

Running the ball in those conditions proved challenging, but the Lions tried when they could, as they looked to have an edge in the first half after Earls' nicely taken try.

It was confrontational and tight, with the Lions leading 13-6 and looking as though they'd come away with another midweek win after James Hook slotted a penalty three minutes from time.

The Emerging Boks were awarded a penalty and Earl Rose kicked for the corner, which led to a really well worked lineout move. The ball was recycled, and replacement Willem De Waal spun it out wide to another replacement, wing Danwell Demas, who dived over for a great try.

The conversion was from the touchline as the rain poured down once again, but being the seasoned professional that he is, De Waal kept his nerve and slotted the kick beautifully, earning the home side a memorable 13-13 draw.

Time: 05:02
Note: This clip includes an interview with Willem De Waal from after the match.

Ireland A beat the England Saxons to win the Churchill Cup

noreply@blogger.com (RD) — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 09:37:00 +0000

Ireland A won the Churchill Cup tournament with a convincing 49-22 final victory over England Saxons in Denver, Colorado this past weekend.

In the sweltering heat, Declan Kidneys side ran in six tries in total after they led 20-12 at halftime after Devon Toner and Isaac Boss crossed in the first half.

Sean Cronin increased Irealand’s lead just 24 seconds into the second half, followed by Felix Jones, Johne Murphy, and John Muldoon all notching up tries.

Jonathan Sexton kicked three penalties, slotted a drop goal, and converted three tries for the Irish, with Fergus McFadden converting another two.

The try of the match came when Jones collected a high ball superbly before bursting away, feeding McFadden, who then found Murphy.

Ben Woods and Tom Varndell scored for the Saxons, who also had four penalties kicked by Steven Myler. The Varndell try was a late consolation, but it was the Irish who had all to celebrate as they picked up the title of Churchill Cup winners for 2009.

Time: 07:27

Stick Phil Vickery on the wing - Great prop try from 2002

noreply@blogger.com (RD) — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 07:05:00 +0000

Since the weekend's Test between the British & Irish Lions and the Springboks in Durban, Phil Vickery has had his reputation diminished slightly as he took a mauling in the scrum. On the wing, Ugo Monye has suffered a similar fate following his lack of finishing.

The pieces of the puzzle now fit, and after seeing this try from 2002, it all makes sense – stick big Phil out on the wing. With finishing like this, you can’t go wrong.

It was May 2002 and the Zurich Premiership (as it was known then) Quarter Final between Gloucester and Newcastle at Kingsholm.

The home side, Gloucester, scored nine tries as they romped to an emphatic 60-9 victory, scoring some fantastic tries, but none more memorable than this great effort from their captain courageous, Phil Vickery.

Some superb lead up play from the scintillating James Simpson-Daniel allowed Vickery to be released on the left wing. Showing the Shed his impression of a top class left winger, the big guy fended off the attention of Gareth McClure, then ran over Liam Botham as he dived over for a quality try.

He’s had a long and illustrious career, so it would be a shame for the 33 year old to be remembered for what happened at the hands of The Beast last Saturday.

This try sheds a little light on the situation, and there’s no doubt that Vickers would have easily finished both those chances that Monye had.

The Lions play the Emerging Springboks in Cape Town later today. Take a look at our Fixtures page for upcoming matches, as well as links to highlights from the rest of the tour.

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Prop Trevor Woodman scores an incredible try

Time: 02:37