Friday 28 February 2014

Super 15 rugby union: Waikato Chiefs v Otago Highlanders, live streaming ...

Get all of the latest information and watch every tackle and try here live.


Where: Waikato Stadium


When: 06.35 (GMT)



Watch live: Click here to watch on NowTV from Sky!


The Chiefs have named their team to play the Highlanders in their first home match of the Super Rugby season with Mahonri Schwalger returning to the starting line up.


Following the Chiefs 10-18 victory over the Crusaders in Christchurch last week the Chiefs coaches have stuck with their policy of giving players a start when depth prevails.


This process sees Pauliasi Manu start at loosehead prop and Jamie Mackintosh move to the replacements bench and Mahonri Schwalger will make his long awaited return to rugby since sitting out the 2013 ITM Cup.


Lock Matt Symons and flanker Nick Crosswell come into the starting line-up, joined by Tanerau Latimer with Liam Messam moving into the No 8 spot.


Tawera Kerr-Barlow has recovered from a rolled ankle to start at halfback and the back line remains the same.


After blooding in seven new Chiefs last week, including five Super Rugby debutants, the Chiefs will increase that number with Liam Squire having his chance to make his debut off the bench.


The new additions to the replacements this week are hooker Rhys Marshall, prop Josh Hohneck and Tevita Koloamatangi.


Chiefs Coach Dave Rennie said, “I was really impressed with the passion and the physicality that the Highlanders played with last week. I really felt they out muscled and out enthused the Blues, so it will be another entertaining New Zealand derby match on Saturday night.”


Highlanders’ Head Coach, Jamie Joseph has been forced into making four changes to the team that beat the Blues for this weekend’s match.


Brad Thorn was injured in last week’s clash with the Blues and is unavailable due to a rib injury for weeks so Jarrad Hoeata moves into the tighthead lock.


Joe Wheeler who is returning from a compound fracture in his finger starts in the loosehead lock position and John Hardie is back in the starting XV.


Joseph has shuffled the backline to cover injured winger Patrick Osborne sees Malakai Fekitoa move to the left wing and Winston Stanley into centre.


This will be Stanley’s debut for the Highlanders after playing for the Western force in 2012 and 2013.


Brayden Mitchell and Matias Diaz move into the front row reserve positions with Trent Renata coming onto the bench as well.


Chiefs


1. Pauliasi Manu, 2. Mahonri Schwalger, 3. Ben Tameifuna ,4. Michael Fitzgerald, 5. Matt Symons, 6. Nick Crosswell, 7. Tanerau Latimer , 8. Liam Messam, 9. Tawera Kerr-Barlow, 10. Aaron Cruden (c), 11. Asaeli Tikoirotuma, 12. Charlie Ngatai , 13. Robbie Fruean,14. Tim Nanai-Williams , 15. Mils Muliaina


Highlanders


1 – Kane Hames , 2 – Liam Coltman , 3 – Chris King , 4 – Jarrad Hoeata , 5 – Joe Wheeler , 6 – Gareth Evans , 7 – John Hardie , 8 – Nasi Manu (co-captain) , 9 – Aaron Smith , 10 – Lima Sopoaga , 11 – Malakai Fekitoa , 12 – Shaun Treeby , 13 – Winston Stanley, 14 – Richard Buckman , 15 – Ben Smith (co-captain)


Replacements : 16 – Brayden Mitchell, 17 – Matias Diaz, 18 – Craig Millar, 19 – Josh Bekhuis, 20 – Shane Christie, 21 – Fumiaki Tanaka, 22 – Trent Renata, 23 – Phil Burleigh


Replacements :16. Rhys Marshall, 17. Jamie Mackintosh, 18. Josh Hohneck, 19. Tevita Koloamatangi, 20. Liam Squire, 21. Brad Webber ,22. Andrew Horrell, 23. James Lowe







Super 15 rugby union: Waikato Chiefs v Otago Highlanders, live streaming ...

Rugby League - Widnes win it late on

Joe Mellor and Rhys Hanbury scored in the closing minutes at the Select Security Stadium as the Giants, last season’s League Leaders’ Shield winners, surrendered a strong position for a second game in succession.


Last week they still claimed a point against Hull KR but there was no reprieve as the Vikings hit back from 10-0 and 20-12 down.


Tries from Jermaine McGillvary and Leroy Cudjoe got the Giants off to a fine start and Eorl Crabtree put them back on control after Hanbury and debutant Paul Clough responded.


The opening try came after 10 minutes when Vikings full-back Hanbury spilled a Danny Brough kick and McGillvary pounced to touch down.


Widnes responded well but another mistake proved costly as Cudjoe intercepted a Danny Craven pass and sprinted 80 metres for a Brough-converted try under the posts.


It seemed the Giants were in firm control but, having surrendered a 24-6 advantage against Hull KR, Paul Anderson’s men switched off again.


Hanbury made amends for his earlier error as he collected the ball and side-stepped his way through the defence to score from close range just after the half-hour.


In the closing moments of the first period, the Vikings then declined a kickable penalty in search of another try.


The gamble paid off as Clough, who joined the club on loan from St Helens earlier in February, crashed over from a metre after Stefan Marsh and Craven had both been stopped just short.


With another new signing in Danny Tickle converting both Vikings scores, the visitors had an unexpected two-point lead at the break.


The Giants made a stronger start to the second half with powerful prop Crabtree coming to the fore, winning a penalty and then crashing over from close range to put his side back ahead.


Brough converted but missed the target from a 40-metre penalty moments later.


He put that right by landing two more penalties – the first after Willie Isa was placed on report for a high tackle on Kyle Wood – but Huddersfield could not convert that 20-12 lead into a winning score.


Widnes kept pushing with Phil Joseph knocking on when well placed and a Mellor kick almost creating an opening.


Their perseverance paid off as pressure forced a handling error from Chris Bailey and Mellor nipped in to score under the posts.


The momentum was with them and they remarkably snatched the lead after Jack Owens appeared to have been halted in a three-man tackle in the left corner.


The ball came out and Hanbury touched down in the melee, although there appeared to be some confusion over the scorer with Owens initially credited.


Huddersfield rallied in the last minute to try to salvage the game but Widnes held firm.




Rugby League - Widnes win it late on

Rugby League - Powell"s pleased to have options

Winger Richard Owen scored a hat-trick of tries on his first appearance of the campaign as the Tigers triumphed 30-10 at Craven Park to go joint top of the table after three rounds.


The Tigers’ impressive start to the season has been masterminded by half-backs Marc Sneyd and Liam Finn, who have stepped into the breach created by Chase’s departure to Salford.


Sneyd kicked five goals from five attempts and orchestrated the play alongside Finn, who blotted his copybook by being sin-binned for foul play just before half-time.


Castleford coach Daryl Powell said: ” The biggest question I’ve been asked was where our points were going to come from and I said probably from all over because we’ve a lot of good players.


“Liam Finn has been an outstanding player in the Championship for a fair while.


“He’s a calm head, he knows where he wants to pick defences off and I think his execution has been excellent.


“His kicking game is pretty tidy and he’s been tough defensively. Everyone has a pop at him but I thought he was great again tonight.


“I thought he was unlucky to be sin-binned. I didn’t see an awful lot in that.”


Owen applied the finishing touches to Castleford’s superb kicking and offload game to justify his selection ahead of Kirk Dixon.


“Kirk Dixon has been playing really well but we’ve a squad in which some of the players are close to each other in terms of their ability and the form they showed in pre-season,” Powell said.


“I thought Richard deserved an opportunity to play. He played well and I’ve got to pick a team next week. They’re the difficult decisions you want.


“It was a great performance from everyone out there. I thought defensively we were superb. We got put under a lot of pressure.


“I don’t think our game management was the best it could have been but we’ve got a group of people who are working so hard for each other defensively.


“I thought when we got in good field position we looked like we were going to score pretty much every time we got there. We just didn’t get there that often.”


Hull KR opened the scoring with prop forward James Green’s 12th-minute try but they generally lacked the creativity to make full use of their lion’s share of possession.


“Cas were way too good,” admitted Rovers coach Craig Sandercock. “They are playing really good footie.


“We had a lot of opportunities but we keep letting teams off the hook. Our execution is nowhere near where it should be at this time of year.”


Already without front row pair Michael Weyman and Justin Poore through suspension, the Robins lost Jamie Langley before kick-off and Jonny Walker with a knee injury after 17 minutes.


Langley, who was concussed at Huddersfield last Sunday, was cleared by Rovers’ medical staff but prevented from playing by a directive from the Rugby Football League, who have clamped down on the issue this year.


“We thought we had a strong case because straight after the game at Huddersfield he had absolutely no symptons of concussion,” Sandercock said.


“Hopefully it will be enforced for every other club. I’m really big on player welfare myself. There is no way I’d let one of my players play with the slightest doubt.”




Rugby League - Powell"s pleased to have options

Sochi silver medallist Elana Meyers joins US rugby sevens Olympic squad

An American Sochi silver medalist, Elana Meyers, will return to the US Olympic Training Centre (OTC) in Chula Vista, California to target a place at the 2016 Rio summer Games. Meyers was named on Friday in an 18-woman USA rugby sevens training squad.


Meyers, who took silver in the women’s bobsleigh with the summer and winter medallist Lauryn Williams, was approached by coach Ric Suggitt before she travelled to Russia. Already a double Olympic medallist, having taken bobsleigh bronze in Vancouver in 2010, she will initially attend the OTC as a rugby player on a one-month contract. Rugby sevens will make its Olympic debut in Rio.


“Elana and her fiancé Nic [Taylor] were training for the Olympic bobsleigh team,” said Suggitt, “and they were in Chula Vista. So we’d seen them and talked a little bit. They came down to practice and watched and Elana threw a ball around with a couple of players and said she was interested.


“So I said, ‘You’ve got some bigger fish to fry right now. You go concentrate on winning a medal at the Olympics and once that’s done I’ll hold a spot for you and we’ll give it a one-month trial to see how you do.”


Another multi-sport athlete, the junior ice hockey and soccer international Leyla Kelter, was also named in the women’s squad.


Suggitt continued: “With Elana we see the same thing [as with Kelter]: we’ve seen her train and she’s got a good attitude. She’s demonstrated that around the Olympic Training Centre every time I saw her. Obviously we know she’s determined and a good athlete.


“Whatever she puts her mind to she can do, so I think if everything goes the way it’s gone for her in the past we’ll see her around for a long time.”


Revisions and additions to the men’s OTC sevens squad were also announced on Friday. Carlin Isles, the former college footballer and national-level sprinter who has become known as the fastest rugby player in the world, has left the centre to join the Glasgow Warriors in Scotland – subject to his gaining a visa. He will still be available to coach Matt Hawkins as the HSBC World Sevens Series continues.


Hawkins has recalled another crossover athlete, Thretton Palamo. Capped by the Eagles’ 15-a-side team at the 2007 Rugby World Cup in France, he subsequently played football as a defensive end for the University of Utah.


“Thretton obviously has put on a little more weight to be bigger and stronger for football,” said Hawkins, “so that’s one of the things we’ll have to manage – to get him back to where he needs to be.”


Article source: http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/rabodirect-pro12/ulster-rugby-tommy-bowe-back-on-team-for-newport-gwent-dragons-clash-at-ravenhill-30047351.html


Sochi silver medallist Elana Meyers joins US rugby sevens Olympic squad

Ulster Rugby prepare for a tough test against Gwent Dragons


Call up: Callum Black gets chance to impress against Dragons

– 28 February 2014



With Ulster sitting third in the table and things hastening towards the time of year when sheep and goats are separated in terms of those in the hunt for silverware, Ulster’s ability to include international players is a huge boost to their prospects.


While the inclusion of Tommy Bowe is, quite rightly, the story that has had everyone talking since yesterday lunch-time, when Mark Anscombe unveiled his match-day 23, the availability of two more of his fellow-Ireland internationals is no less significant.


Out-half Paddy Jackson and lock/back row forward Iain Henderson are the pair in question, Ireland coach Joe Schmidt having decided that they required game-time following limited participation thus far in the RBS 6 Nations.


Bowe and Jackson are two of four Irish internationals in tonight’s Ulster back line, the others being centre pair Luke Marshall and Darren Cave.


Kiwi full-back Jared Payne will be playing for Ireland as from November by which stage he will be Irish-qualified, while South African scrum-half Ruan Pienaar has made 74 Test appearances for the Springboks.


All of that means Ireland Under-20 wing Rory Scholes, will be in very good company tonight when he makes his first start as an Ulster senior.


Centre Stuart McCloskey (21), a member of the Hughes Insurance Ulster Academy, will earn his first Ulster cap if deployed from the bench.


There is one change to the front row which started in Treviso on Sunday, with Callum Black named at loose-head ahead of Tom Court. Henderson’s recall sees him pack down alongside Johann Muller, while the back row is unchanged.


Black said: “I think that if I can keep getting more game time, that will make me perform better. I’d just like to get some starts and then put a run of games together so that I can show them what I’m about.”


While he and London Irish-bound Court have spent the season vying for supremacy, there is no animosity.


“I think the competition is good for both of us,” Black said. “Tom and I get on pretty well outside rugby, too, so I think both of us benefit from pushing each other.


“Whoever gets the start, we help each other out in training leading up to that game. Whether it’s him on the bench or me on the bench we help one another out during the week.


“And then, whichever of us is coming on tries to make an impact in the last 20 minutes of the game. That’s the way we’ve been doing it and it has been working.”


He is expecting another tough test tonight, courtesy of the least successful and glamorous of the four Welsh regions. The Dragons are to Wales what Connacht are to Ireland – fourth in the pecking order with few big names.


Even so, Black warned against under-estimating them.


“This is going to be a hard game,” he forecast. “The way Dragons went last week against Glasgow means they’re going to be very confident. They’re not missing anyone really as a result of international calls so they won’t be without too many. They’re a very well organised team well used to playing together week in, week out, so we’re really going to have to be on the money.”



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Tommy Bowe returns for Ulster tonight

More in Ulster (3 of 20 articles)


Tommy Bowe returns ahead of decisive games Read More


Article source: http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/rabodirect-pro12/ulster-rugby-tommy-bowe-back-on-team-for-newport-gwent-dragons-clash-at-ravenhill-30047351.html


Ulster Rugby prepare for a tough test against Gwent Dragons

Now FG lines up ex-rugby star Shane Byrne


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Former Irish Rugby international, Shane Byrne. Picture: Collins, Dublin
Former Irish Rugby international, Shane Byrne. Picture: Collins, Dublin

– Updated 28 February 2014 02:36 AM


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Former Ireland rugby star Shane Byrne is being lined up by Fine Gael to run in the local elections, the Irish Independent has learned.


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Mr Byrne has been offered a place on the party ticket in Wicklow and is considering whether to enter politics.


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Sources have indicated the former Leinster hooker may be tempted to run for Fine Gael after it was confirmed that sitting Wicklow TD Simon Harris is to enter the race for a European seat.The father of two could potentially be selected to defend Mr Harris’s seat in a subsequent by-election.


The Irish Independent understands that Mr Byrne held a meeting with party figures in recent days and is mulling over his options.


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He is the second high-profile sportsperson to be approached by Fine Gael in a matter of weeks, after Olympic silver medallist Kenneth Egan was confirmed as a local election candidate in the Clondalkin ward in west Dublin.


“Shane would be ideal for us, he’s got a big profile and seems like he is interested in getting into politics,” a party source told the Irish Independent.


Mr Byrne is well known in the south of the county in particular, where he has operated a waste collection business for several years.


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However, local sources pointed out that the 42-year-old has links to Fianna Fail and was approached by the party to run in the last general election.


Fine Gael raised eyebrows earlier this month after it formally declared Mr Egan as a candidate in the South Dublin County Council election. Some party figures say they are opposed to approaching individuals based solely on their profiles.


“It seems like all Fine Gael cares about is putting bums on council seats, regardless of who they are and what baggage their come with,” one party TD said.


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Mr Byrne did not return calls last night.



Irish Independent


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Article source: http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/rabodirect-pro12/ulster-rugby-tommy-bowe-back-on-team-for-newport-gwent-dragons-clash-at-ravenhill-30047351.html


Now FG lines up ex-rugby star Shane Byrne

Ten races exclusively live on Sky Sports F1 in 2014

semesa rokoduguni bath v saracens


Bath’s Semesa Rokoduguni is bundled into touch


david strettle


David Strettle: Scored Saracens’ second try




Saracens all but ended Bath’s ambitions of a top-two finish in the Aviva Premiership with a ruthless examination of the third-placed side’s credentials.


Sarries were the last side to win a league match at the Recreation Ground – a similarly conclusive 22-0 victory in December 2012 – and the visitors seldom looked under pressure here in winning 23-10.


Flanker Jacques Burger was at his destructive best in the loose, until he was sin-binned for one illegal tackle too many, while Alex Goode stepped up at short notice to control the game at fly-half.


Goode landed two penalties, two conversions and a drop-goal in a near faultless performance after Charlie Hodgson pulled out during the warm-up, feeling unwell.


Bath had won 12 home matches and were unbeaten home or away in all competitions since the New Year – but starved of any useful possession for long periods, there was precious little time or space for their backs to shine.


After a frenetic opening, with both sides spreading the ball wide, Saracens conceded two penalties in quick succession but escaped punishment.


George Ford kicked a 19th minute goal from short range but the lead was short-lived as Bath conceded a line-out from the restart and when Paul James was penalised at the maul, Goode landed an equalising penalty.


Back came Bath and Peter Stringer thought he had scored from a quickly taken line-out by Matt Banahan but the TMO ruled the throw had been forward.


Saracens grabbed the first try on 31 minutes as Goode created an opening for Tomkins and Duncan Taylor to set Chris Wyles free on the left for a try which Goode converted.


Landmark


Bath’s poise again deserted them when they lost possession in the Saracens 22. Taylor hacked on, Ollie Devoto fumbled and Brad Barritt kicked across field for David Strettle to mark his 100th appearance with a simple try. Goode’s conversion sent his side in at the break with a 17-3 lead.


Bath brought on a specialist openside in Guy Mercer for Alafoti Fa’osiliva in an effort to even up the breakdown contest but then lost Stringer to an illegal tackle on Burger.


Banahan was forced into touch at the corner but Bath lacked a cutting edge against the uncompromising Saracens defence and Goode stretched the lead to 20-3 with a drop-goal on 56 minutes.


After Burger was shown the yellow card in the 66th minute for a high tackle on Anthony Watson, Bath battled their way over the line but without convincing the officials Leroy Houston had managed to touch down.


Eventually however their scrum earned a 72nd minute penalty try and Ford chipped over the conversion.


Instead of then going back upfield in search of at least a losing bonus point, Bath conceded another penalty to Goode.


With two minutes remaining Wyles became the second Saracens player to see a yellow card for an illegal tackle when he barged replacement wing Semesa Rokoduguni into touch – but by then the match had been decided.


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Article source: http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/rabodirect-pro12/ulster-rugby-tommy-bowe-back-on-team-for-newport-gwent-dragons-clash-at-ravenhill-30047351.html


Ten races exclusively live on Sky Sports F1 in 2014

Rugby Union: Who would be in the frame for a Lions tour spot?



Comments (0)


Yes, I know there isn’t a British Irish Lions tour this year, but that doesn’t mean we can’t have abit of fun selecting our hypothetical squads from the early rounds of Six Nations matches.


In this edition, we will look at the forwards, and as an ex fly half, I expect many people may disagree with my selections, on the basis of a lack of knowledge, owing to my reluctance to go anywhere near rucks or mauls during my playing career!


The original 37 man Lions squad contained 21 forwards and 16 backs, although it was acknowledged that an extra back should have been taken so we will go with 17 backs.


Props (6)


Given that Alex Corbisiero has missed the tournament with injury, he cannot be included, although he would almost certainly have been otherwise.


The scrummages of England, Wales and Scotland have all been questioned at various times during this Six Nations with only Ireland being generally solid at all times. Cian Healy has developed into a solid scrummager and his strong all round carrying game gets him the nod, along with the late developing but under rated Mike Ross, who enjoyed a strong scrummaging game against England.


Gethin Jenkins was everywhere against France, and generally held up scrummage wise against France, so his all round game gets him into the squad along side his Welsh colleague Adam Jones. The hair bear bunch tight head has struggled somewhat with the new scrummage engagement but seems to be adapting, and a solid tight head is the bedrock of any team, so he gets in.


The previous Lions tour threw up a wildcard selection in the front row in the form of Matt Stevens, but I don’t really see any bolters, young or old this time, although the Irish props Martin Moore and Jack McGrath have made good impressions when they’ve replaced he starters in the second half. England’s Henry Thomas also has potential but needs to gain experience which he may struggle to get behind Dan Cole (when restored to fitness) and the under rated David Wilson.


The aforementioned Dan Cole would make this squad, although questions remain over his scrummaging. He’s dynamic around the park and prominent at the breakdown so gets in. That leaves one more position, and neither of the Scottish props have done anything to merit consideration which leaves Joe Marler and Mako Vunipola. Like the Lions and England coaches, I love the idea of using Vunipola off the bench in the second half, so he would round out my selection of props.


Hookers


The form hooker of the tournament so far has been Dylan Hartley, who finally appears to have decided to concentrate on his game rather than get distracted or sent off. He is a shoe in, and would be Test hooker at this stage.


Not far behind comes Richard Hibbard, who was as strong and mobile as ever against France, after the disappointment in Dublin. He is a battering ram of a man and will give plenty of go forward to this squad.


Despite a disastrous Lions tour last year, Rory Best seems to have refound his form and gets the nod over Tom Youngs, whose lineout throwing is still too much of a concern as he falls behind Hartley in the England pecking order.


Second Row


The outstanding second row of the tournament so far has been Courtney Lawes, whose magnificent lineout work and thunderous presence around the park make him a certainty. Likewise the work rate and sheer doggedness of his partner Joe Launchbury is the perfect complement to Lawes and he has matured significantly as a player this year.


Both Paul O’Connell and Alan Wyn Jones have missed games through injury this year, and there replacements Dan Tuohy and Jake Ball showed great potential, but you’d be hard pressed not to include the old stagers. In O’Connell’s case he was heroic against Wales and Wyn Jones’s work rate against Italy, and even Ireland was outstanding, aligned to his leadership abilities.


The final locking berth is a close call as Ireland’s Devin Toner has been solid and Jim Hamilton continues to try and rise above the mire in Scotland, but I like Luke Charteris who always seems to play well for Wales and his athleticism would be an ideal complement to the strengths of the other locks in the party.


Back Row


The best blind side by a country mile so far has been Peter O’Mahony of Ireland who has been a turnover machine and is a beast in the contact areas. He would walk into the Test team at the moment.  Dan Lydiate returned to something approaching his best last weekend, but England’s Tom Wood is an unsung hero with his work in the dark arts and his versatility gets him the nod over the Welshman.


Although not a classic ’7′, Chris Robshaw has been outstanding for England and he has grown as a player, highlighted by his lovely inside ball to Mike Brown in the Ireland game, so he gets in. Last years Lions skipper Sam Warburton was anonymous against Ireland but was everywhere against France and he deserves his place, as he comes back to form and fitness.


The competition for places at number 8 is intense and I’m going to include all three of Taulupe Faletau, Jamie Heaslip and the mountainous Billy Vunipola. All 3 have hit the heights at times, particularly Vunipola and Faletau whose combination of brains and brawn is an irresistible mix.


So, that’s the forwards picked and the squad is:


G Jenkins (Wales), A Jones (Wales), D Cole (England), M Ross (Ireland), C Healy (Ireland), M Vunipola (England), D Hartley (England), R Hibbard (Wales), R Best (Ireland), C Lawes (England), P O’Connell (Ireland), J Launchbury (England), A Wyn Jones (Wales), L Charteris (Wales), P O’Mahony (Ireland), T Wood (England), C Robshaw (England), S Warburton (Wales), T Faletau (Wales), J Heaslip (Ireland), B Vunipola (England)


So there we go. 8 English, 7 Welsh, 6 Irish and no Scots (who can’t really complain about that). Next time, it’s the backs!


Written By: Tony Wheat, former player and Director of Rugby, Longton RUFC


Follow Tony: Twitter @TonyJWheat 


Follow Longton RUFC: Blog | Twitter | Facebook 



Article source: http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/rabodirect-pro12/ulster-rugby-tommy-bowe-back-on-team-for-newport-gwent-dragons-clash-at-ravenhill-30047351.html


Rugby Union: Who would be in the frame for a Lions tour spot?

Super Rugby: A late try sealed an unlikely victory for Stormers

cory jane


Cory Jane: Scored one of two Hurricanes’ tries


Stormers flanker Deon Fourie


Deon Fourie’s last-gasp try gave Stormers victory




The Stormers were forced to come from behind to claim a 19-18 victory over the Hurricanes in a tense Super Rugby clash at Newlands on Friday.


Demetri Catrakilis converted Deon Fourie’s 77th-minute try as the Stormers bounced back from a humiliating defeat in Jo’burg last week to snatch an unconvincing but nevertheless precious win before heading overseas.


It was hard justice on a Hurricanes side that outscored their hosts two tries to one and seemed to have done enough to take a rare win from their visit to the Republic.


The opening 40 minutes, characterised by a series of wasted chances by the Stormers, came to an end with the Hurricanes leading 12-6.


The home side had enjoyed the lion’s share of both territory and possession for 35 minutes but contrived to make errors at vital times.


By contrast, the Canes took their chances clinically, striking twice just before half time via tries from wings Julian Savea and Cory Jane.


It was the stuff of nightmares for the Stormers faithful, who were forced to witness a similar spectacle after the break until a rolling maul in the dying moments pulled the game from the fire.


The hosts cruised to 6-0 lead by the end of the first quarter with fly-half Catrakilis slotting two penalties as the Capetonians built off a platform of their dominant scrum and powerful rolling maul.


But there would be no further points before the interval for the hosts, who either took the wrong options – such as overcooked chips – fumbled or froze when space was created out wide.


Tails up


The Hurricanes simply bided their time, and then landed two sucker punches. First Conrad Smith set his team up with some midfield magic before Savea latched onto a deft grubber kick from TJ Perenara into space down the left.


Beauden Barrett added the extras to give the New Zealanders the lead for the first time and, with their tails up, the second try was soon to follow.


After a penalty was kicked into touch, Hadleigh Parkes kicked to Jane on the opposite touchline, where the veteran All Black scooped a low catch and slid over.


Barrett’s conversion attempt was wide, but the Hurricanes headed to the changing rooms with a lead and a spring in their step.


Catrakilis and Barrett traded penalties to leave the Hurricanes in front at 15-9 going into the final quarter.


Catrakilis cut the deficit to just three points with 15 minutes to play, setting up a nailbiting finish.


Barrett replied in kind soon afterward however, restoring the six-point gap and forcing the Stormers to look for a try in the dying minutes.


Twice captain Jean de Villiers chose to go for the corner and his faith in his pack paid off as the blue-clad heavies rumbled over, much to the delight of the home crowd.


Catrakilis split the uprights with the conversion before the Stormers defence held firm for the remaining two minutes.


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Article source: http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/rabodirect-pro12/ulster-rugby-tommy-bowe-back-on-team-for-newport-gwent-dragons-clash-at-ravenhill-30047351.html


Super Rugby: A late try sealed an unlikely victory for Stormers

Premiership rugby: Sun and Times subscribers get online and mobile clips

Sun and Times publisher News UK has snapped up the online and mobile clip rights to Aviva Premiership rugby, bolstering its online sports content following its aquisition of Premier League and Champions Leage football rights.


News UK, which also publishes the Sunday Times, has agreed a deal with Aviva Premiership Rugby after the rights were released by BT Sport, which has an exclusive TV deal.


It will show the clips across the Sun, Times and Sunday Times mobile and online offerings until June 2017.


The deals kicks off immediately with the first clips shown from Friday evening’s encounter between Bath and Saracens. The clips will be available within three hours of the matches finishing.


Mike Darcey, the News UK chief executive, said: “The partnership with Aviva Premiership Rugby significantly strengthens our offering to loyal subscribers of our world-renowned titles. Passion for rugby is shared across members of the Sun, Times and Sunday Times and we are delighted to take our post-match clips packages beyond football for the first time.”


Premiership Rugby’s commercial director, Dominic Hayes, said: “Aviva Premiership Rugby is growing every season and this partnership brings the league to a brand new platform. This new deal brings a really compelling online offering for the Sun, Times and Sunday Times subscribers.”


News UK believes that sports content will help drive subscription numbers to its three UK news sites, which are behind paywalls. In January 2013 it acquired Premier League rights , beating off a challenge from BSkyB, and has subsequently acquired Champions League and Europa League rights.


BT is the current holder of the Aviva Premiership rugby TV rights, which it snatched from BSkyB in September 2012.


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Ulster Rugby fans raging over tickets "snub" for Heineken Cup clash


Ulster Rugby fans watching Heiniken Cup Final at the Botanic Inn, Belfast in 2012
Ulster Rugby fans watching Heiniken Cup Final at the Botanic Inn, Belfast in 2012

– 28 February 2014



Ulster Rugby fans are furious about missing out on tickets for the province’s biggest clash of the season after none went on general sale.


Supporters looking forward to the crunch Heineken Cup quarter-final against Saracens at Ravenhill on Saturday, April 5 were expecting tickets to go on sale today.


But their hopes were dashed after a statement on the official website informed fans not a single ticket would be be sold to the general public – even though Ravenhill will have an increased capacity of 17,000.


A breakdown on the website said that 8,850 had already gone to Ulster season ticket holders and Ulster supporters’ groups.


A further 1,000 were sold to new season ticket holders for 2014-15. Saracens have taken their full allocation of a quarter of all seats, and a further 3,000 tickets will go to the competition organisers and contracted sponsors.


All of that means that many ordinary fans hoping to attend the big game have been left disappointed.


Following the announcement, Ulster Rugby’s social media sites were inundated with messages from angry fans.


Peter Lowry, a student who had booked flights to return home for the game, said: “Countless students throughout Britain travel to away games and even home games. But despite this extensive financial outlay, those fans pretty much have no hope of being at the quarter-finals.”


Clive McLaughlin wrote: “Cheers Ulster. You only want fans who have money. I’d love to buy a season ticket, but I’ve a wife and kid to keep. I haven’t missed a game on telly for three years – but Ulster just want the cash.”


David Gourley added: “Absolutely raging that not a single ticket was released to the general public. I fully understand season ticket holders getting preference, but three options and 3,000 tickets to sponsors is very unfair.”


A spokesperson for Ulster Rugby said supporters had been given plenty of notice about the criteria for getting tickets since the draw was made.


He said they had been made aware that a general sale would only occur if tickets were not taken up.


QUOTES


“I’m more than disappointed that Ulster Rugby have left it so late to tell us there will be no tickets for those of us who aren’t season ticket holders.”
- Roy Ferguson, Rathfriland


“Deservedly first shout goes to season ticket holders, but 3,000 to sponsors in a ground of 17,000?! Come on…”
- Jonathan Drennan, TCD


“Not a season ticket holder as I live in Scotland, but have planned to go home for that weekend. Very disappointing!”
- Jan Holmes, Larne



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Cup of joy: Ulster have enjoyed their Heineken Cup experience

More in Heineken Cup (2 of 20 articles)


Progress made on format for Heineken Cup Read More



Ulster Rugby fans raging over tickets "snub" for Heineken Cup clash

Rugby club slapped with £1000 fine as match referees have their underpants ...



Comments (5)


A rugby club has been disciplined after three referees had their underpants ripped off by players and members following a game.


The officials were surrounded and had their underwear forcibly removed – while they were still wearing their trousers – at the Aylestone St James RFC clubhouse, in Scraptoft.


One victim told the Rugby Football Union, which investigated the incident, that he found the experience “humiliating and embarrassing,” and felt “ashamed” about what had happened.


The RFU carried out a disciplinary hearing and found the club guilty of misconduct. It ordered Aylestone St James, which is nicknamed Jimmies and plays in the Midlands Three East (North) league, to pay £1,000 to a charity and £150 compensation to each official. It also ruled that the club will be docked 15 points next season.


The RFU held the disciplinary hearing after the referees complained about the incident, which happened after Jimmies played Grimsby on November 3 last year.


The hearing in Coventry on December 4 heard how the referees, from the Durham and Northumberland society, had travelled in one car to officiate at separate games. A statement of the facts from the hearing read: “The Aylestone St James game passed without incident but after the game the referee had a few drinks with the team.


“He described the post-game happenings as fairly normal and had no problem engaging in banter and a few drinks with the players. He then had his boxer shorts removed without his consent by numerous players.”


The disciplinary hearing was told the club had a “tradition of people not wearing underwear” after a particular time of day. The referee then sent a text to the other two referees who arrived at the clubhouse in Covert Lane, Scraptoft.


“They were welcomed and drink was purchased for them,” the statement read. “Then, after approximately five minutes or so, they were surrounded and informed about the rule of no underwear.


“They then had their underwear removed despite them not wishing to partake or consent to such action.”


The referees left the clubhouse and immediately reported the matter to the Durham and Northumberland referees’ society.


The report added: “One referee stated in an e-mail to the RFU that he endured 12 hours of some discomfort and pain and some shock. He also felt humiliated. He was in a state of disbelief to an extent that he felt ashamed and found the experience humiliating and embarrassing. The day after the incident he even considered whether or not he wished to continue as a referee.”


Jimmies treasurer Richard Hickson told the hearing the club had a long-standing tradition of people not wearing underwear after a specific time of the day. He said the club, which admitted the allegations, deeply regretted that the referees were subjected to discomfort and humiliation.


The report stated that the club was “known for its hospitality and friendliness towards visiting clubs and officials”, was “highly regarded in the community” and “known for its fair play and sportsmanship”.


“The club had never been before the constituent body for any non-playing disciplinary conduct,” it added.


Finding the club guilty of misconduct, the RFU said: “The visiting referees had been subjected to a humiliating and degrading act, namely the forcible removal of their underwear without their trousers being removed.


“They had their underwear/boxer shorts ripped off. This was physical assault. They all felt humiliated and degraded. The panel accepted the club was contrite and had taken the matter very seriously.


“The panel was mindful of the RFU’s core values, which include respect and discipline, and, while some horseplay and barroom activities do take place, there is a line beyond which clubs and players should not cross.


“On this occasion, the players crossed the line, and subjected the referees to a humiliating experience which showed a lack of respect and self-discipline.”


The act of removing a person’s underwear while they are still wearing trousers is often called “debagging” or giving a “flying wedgie”.




Rugby club slapped with £1000 fine as match referees have their underpants ...

Former England rugby international Brian Moore criticised for reading comment ...

Moore was co-hosting Thursday’s Alan Brazil Breakfast Show when the Scottish FA released the ghastly new pink and yellow kit. Scrolling through comments left on an article on Scotland newspaper website the Daily Record, Moore read the transphobic slur live on-air which drew criticism from Twitter users.


Scotland’s pink and yellow strip gets mixed reaction

“I’ve just been looking through some of the tartan army comments on The Daily Record. One said, ‘It’ll suit the tranny army’, which is quite interesting,” said Moore.



 


Despite the views not being Moore’s own, a TalkSPORT spokesman told gay news service Pinknews.co.uk: “Brian Moore was reading a comment on a Daily Record article about the new Scotland kit, not expressing his own view. However, TalkSPORT would like to apologise for any offence caused.”


One Twitter user expressed their disgust at Moore’s words being broadcast on the airwaves.



Moore has a long rivalry with the Scottish on the pitch, having faced the Celt a total of 10 times during his eight-year international career – winning eight with a draw and a loss completing his record.


The kit, which will be worn by Scotland for their 2016 European Championships qualification campaign, drew a mixed reception from fans north of the border.


A spokesman for the West of Scotland Tartan Army was quoted by the Mirror, giving his take on the reaction: “There’s mixed reviews of the strip and it has completely divided opinion.”



Former England rugby international Brian Moore criticised for reading comment ...

Club fined £1575 for ripping off officials" underwear


England



Aylestone St James rugby club have been fined £1575 after three officials complained they had their underwear “forcibly removed” after a match in November.



The incident occurred after Aylestone St James’ game against Grimsby in the club house when players targeted the officials as they were not adhering to the club’s tradition that patrons should not wear underwear.



The lengthy RFU judgement says three officials had their “underwear/boxer shorts ripped off whilst they were wearing their trousers”.



One official claimed “he endured some 12 hours of some discomfort and pain and some shock”. The club said they were “very sorry”.


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Club fined £1575 for ripping off officials" underwear

Scotland away kit: Brian Moore, the former England rugby international ...

Moore was co-hosting Thursday’s Alan Brazil Breakfast Show when the Scottish FA released the ghastly new pink and yellow kit. Scrolling through comments left on an article on Scotland newspaper website the Daily Record, Moore read the transphobic slur live on-air which drew criticism from Twitter users.


Scotland’s pink and yellow strip gets mixed reaction

“I’ve just been looking through some of the tartan army comments on The Daily Record. One said, ‘It’ll suit the tranny army’, which is quite interesting,” said Moore.



 


Despite the views not being Moore’s own, a TalkSPORT spokesman told gay news service Pinknews.co.uk: “Brian Moore was reading a comment on a Daily Record article about the new Scotland kit, not expressing his own view. However, TalkSPORT would like to apologise for any offence caused.”


One Twitter user expressed their disgust at Moore’s words being broadcast on the airwaves.



Moore has a long rivalry with the Scottish on the pitch, having faced the Celt a total of 10 times during his eight-year international career – winning eight with a draw and a loss completing his record.


The kit, which will be worn by Scotland for their 2016 European Championships qualification campaign, drew a mixed reception from fans north of the border.


A spokesman for the West of Scotland Tartan Army was quoted by the Mirror, giving his take on the reaction: “There’s mixed reviews of the strip and it has completely divided opinion.”



Scotland away kit: Brian Moore, the former England rugby international ...

Injury update on Irish rugby team to face Italy

ireland v england

There are four injures worries for the Irish rugby team to face Italy on Saturday week.


Brian O’Driscoll

Brian continues to recuperate and took part in on-field rugby activity today in Belfast but did his conditioning work off-feet to facilitate his continuing recovery.


Peter O’Mahony

Peter’s hamstring strain is improving.  It is hoped that he will commence running over the weekend.


Johnny Sexton

The Ireland Medical Team have had a Consultant Hand Specialist review Johnny and his scans.


The ligament damage sustained does not warrant surgery and if Johnny continues his current rate of improvement we would be confident that he will be available for selection against Italy.


Andrew Trimble

Andrew took a knock to his knee during the training session in Belfast today and was withdrawn from the session as a precaution.  Initial review revealed no immediate concerns and he will be reviewed again tomorrow.




Comments



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The Rugby Club: They may have lost to England but Ireland are still favourites ...

With two rounds left there is a four-way fight for the Six Nations title with Ireland, England Wales and France all equal on four points.


Ireland suffered their first defeat in the tournament when they lost to England while Wales bounced back from their disappointment in Dublin to soundly beat a poor France in Cardiff.


In the penultimate round England will be looking for the Triple Crown when they host Wales at Twickenham, who are looking for an unprecedented third title in a row.


Scotland got their first win of the tournament over Italy and will head to France hoping that Les Bleus are still in disarray. Ireland will be looking for a big score against Italy in Dublin as this year it could all well come down to points difference!


Ieuan Evans is delighted that Wales are back in the mix but the former Wales winger still believes that Ireland will clinch the title.


“Ireland have a pretty healthy points difference over everyone else,” said Evans on The Rugby Club, ” and still have Italy to come and also a French side who look rudderless – they have no idea where the ball is going or what to do with it.


“Ireland will be hurting after that loss against England but I still think they have enough quality to take advantage of this points difference that they have.


“Ireland kicked an awful lot of ball against England, which was puzzling. It took them until the second half to look for the inside pass. England were relatively comfortable with them going wide, wide, wide all the time. Ireland really missed Sean O’Brien who takes the slow ball so well. But they still have enough to beat Italy and to go and win in France.”


As a neutral, Wallaby legend Michael Lynagh has thoroughly enjoyed the tournament so far and is looking forward to where it takes us next.


“It’s been fascinating really, the whole unpredictability has been great,” added Lynagh on The Rugby Club.


“Ireland have been pretty strong and consistent in their performances – as have England, who were unfortunate to lose that game against France.


“France have been all over the place; they were woeful against Wales, but that is just like them. They played terribly in World Cup a couple of years ago but got to the final and should have won the thing! I can’t see that happening here but I could see that it could because France are like that.


“I like what England are doing and I think they have progressed a lot from last year. The team seems a lot settled, but I am going to throw this out there. At the end of the day Stuart Lancaster was saying how proud he was and that is great, but let’s just look at it for what it was – a three-point win over Ireland at home. England should be expecting that every time they go out at home.


“They should not have to say to the crowd ‘get behind us’; they are in England, it should happen automatically. The team are doing really well to build that up and they are heading in the right direction.


“In that England game towards the end you had two senior players in Brian O’Driscoll and Jonathan Sexton who, while overall they played pretty well, in that crucial time let the team down a little bit. They could have controlled things, calmed things down and slowed it all down. It was too frenetic at the end.”


Sound defence


Greenwood agrees with Lynagh but says that the mistakes were forced by England’s defence.


“I have never seen Sexton kick the ball away so much so badly and Brian threw some bad passes,” he said. “That comes back to Andy Farrell’s defence system – often led by his son Owen, which just swamps you. They just keep on coming and they are so hungry to just make the hit and they can force the error.


“However I think Ireland are a really good side and I have for awhile. Last year they played three games in a swimming pool which didn’t help their game under their previous coach.


“Now they have got Joe Schmidt who understands the tactical nuances of the different sides they play against. Schmidt is aware that he is probably short of a couple of players. He would love a couple of dynamic finishers. Dave Carney and Andrew Trimble are sound, solid players, but somewhere in your back three you just need to add something.


“I have always believed that they would win the Championship on points difference. I think they will pan Italy and go to Paris and turn them over too. England was a good win but Ireland are still my favourites.”



The Rugby Club: They may have lost to England but Ireland are still favourites ...

Rugby League - Briers set for Australia trip

The former Welsh international, who has been appointed as coach of the Wolves’ Under-19s will spend three weeks Down Under visiting several NRL clubs during the early part of the new season to gain an insight into their coaching philosophies.


“I’m going to be looking at coaching techniques, the way teams are run and hopefully bring something back to help me with my coaching,” Briers said.


“I’m really looking forward to it. It’s something I always planned to do when I eventually retired . It will be an invaluable experience for me and I thank the club for the opportunity.”


During his stay, Briers will spend a week with coaching guru Wayne Bennett, the former Kangaroos boss who is now in charge of Newcastle.


That was the path trodden by former Wigan star Shaun Edwards when he opted to take up coaching after bringing his playing career to end.




Rugby League - Briers set for Australia trip

Hull KR

Team news for Friday night’s Super League clash between Hull KR and Castleford Tigers.



Hull KR v Castleford. Click here to bet.




  • Josh Hodgson: In good form for Rovers



  • Early pace-setters Castleford have to re-write history if they are take the points from their trip to Hull KR on Friday.


    The West Yorkshire club have lost on each of their last seven visits to the KC Lightfoot Stadium, but this time they can go into the game with confidence after starting the campaign with back-to-back wins.


    Tigers’ coach Daryl Powell is again without former Rovers star Jake Webster, who got injured at his old club, though the centre is close to a return to action.


    Otherwise, Powell has to make just one enforced change to the squad that thrashed Catalan last weekend. Full-back Jordan Tansey, victim of a high tackle by the subsequently-suspended Julian Bousquet, misses out as a result. Jamie Ellis has been drafted in to replace the former-Leeds player.


    Similarly, Robins boss Craig Sandercock has made a single enforced change to his 19-man squad as his team seek their first win of the season.


    Last week’s memorable comeback at Huddersfield resulted in a 24-24 draw to get Hull KR off the mark with a point, but feisty forward Justin Poore was again found guilty of throwing more than just his weight around. The former Wildcats prop was suspended for one match after being found guilty of punching in an incident involving Giants’ centre Joe Wardle.


    The Robins coughed up plenty of ball in the opening 40 minutes of the stalemate with Huddersfield and Sandercock says that will need to change on Friday evening.


    “I think we turned the ball over a little bit too much in the first half last week and we need to respect possession more,” he said. “The other thing you have to do against good sides is take your opportunities when they come along because if you don’t, it can come back to haunt you.


    “We dropped the ball over the line three times against Huddersfield and that’s something we need to improve on. Last week showed us how rugby league can be sometimes in as much that one minute you’re dropping the ball over the opposition line and then the next, the other team are down the other end scoring themselves. We were really disappointed as we believed we had an opportunity to win that game.”


    Graeme Horne, who was absent in that game due to an abductor injury, is fit again and returns to replace Poore. Mick Weyman will also sit this one out as he completes a two-match ban.


    Sandercock has called for his team to play for 80 minutes this week after being outplayed in one half of each of their games so far. Much will depend on in-form stand-off Travis Burns, while Josh Hodgson has also impressed, but with eight new players on board the Robins are taking time to get their combinations together.


    Both clubs won their respective home fixtures in last year’s Super League season, but Rovers have recorded twice as many wins (eight) as their opponents in the head-to-head during the Summer era. They can also take some comfort from history with the knowledge that Castleford have not won on any visit to east Hull since a 16-12 success in the Regal Trophy, as long ago as November, 1993.


    Tigers: Dixon, Shenton, Carney, Dorn, Sneyd, Lynch, Milner, Huby, Millington, Hauraki, Clark, Holmes, Mariano, Wheeldon, Ellis, Owen, Channing, Fleming, Finn.


    Rovers: Burns, Carlile, Caro, Cockayne, Costigan, Cox, Eden, Green, Hall, J.Hodgson, Horne, Keating, Langley, Larroyer, Lovegrove, Salter, A.Walker, J.Walker, Welham.


    You can follow all the action from the KC Lightfoot Stadium as the Hull Kingston Rovers entertain Castleford Tigers live on Sky Sports 1HD from 7:30pm on Friday.





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Hull KR

Yeoman Ben Morgan takes his England guard

For Morgan, the No8 whose chance will come at Twickenham next Sunday as the nearest thing to a like-for-like replacement for the injured Billy Vunipola, this was never as confusing as it sounds, never a case of “opting for” England. He was and is a yeoman Englishman, end of story.


But the fact remains that ever since his affiliation became clear, Wales have been champions. Morgan was born in Bristol and raised in Dursley, but there are numerous English-born members of the Wales squad, of whom Jake Ball is only the latest.


How about George North, Alex Cuthbert, Jonathan Davies, Dan Lydiate, Taulupe Falatau – 2013 Lions all, sons of King’s Lynn, Gloucester, Solihull, Salford and Tofua respectively? Why, Cuthbert and Morgan could almost be neighbours.


“No regrets at all,” said Morgan. “I was playing in Wales but I am English. It would be false to say I regretted playing for my country.


“But my time playing for the Scarlets was absolutely crucial for me. They picked me up and gave me an opportunity. Without that I wouldn’t be here today.”


Morgan, 25, went home to Gloucester in 2012 in the knowledge that England coach Stuart Lancaster would not persist in picking him if he stayed outside the English system. By the start of the 2013 Six Nations he was Lancaster’s clear No8 preference.


Article source: http://www.express.co.uk/sport/rugbyunion/415202/Injury-forces-Thomas-to-retire


Yeoman Ben Morgan takes his England guard

Super 15 rugby union scores: Auckland Blues beat Canterbury Crusaders 35-24

Perennial  champions in competition left in last place.


The Auckland Blues staged a stunning comeback in a 35-24 win over the Canterbury Crusaders Friday, leaving the seven-time champions at the foot of the Super 15 ladder.


The Blues looked down and out as they trailed 17-3 after 30 minutes but rattled the Crusaders with two tries either side of half-time to run away with the game and claim a bonus point.



Both sides were desperate to make amends for disappointing losses in their opening games but Crusaders captain Kieran Read said his players failed to maintain their intensity after a good start.


“You’ve got to keep your foot on the throat when you’re up 17-3,” he said.


“(The Blues) are a quality side and if you give them opportunities they’ll take them.”


Read said while the Crusaders would look to improve their execution against the Western Stormers next week, they were not hitting the panic button after failing in their first two games.


“We were in the same position last year, it’s important that we rebuild and look towards next week,” he said.


Hooker Corey Flynn scored the opening try for the Crusaders after 14 minutes, with Colin Slade adding a second on the 30-minute mark.


Wingers Frank Halai and Tevita Li then hit back for the Blues, notching a try apiece within 90 seconds of each other to change the complexion of the game.


“A few players had individual moments of brilliance and it was awesome to get the momentum… we tried to catch the Crusaders off guard,” said Blues fly-half Simon Hickey, who potted six of seven goal attempts on his Super 15 debut.


George Moala and Jackson Willison continued the onslaught after half-time in front of an ecstatic Eden Park crowd, taking the score out to 32-17.


Ryan Crotty pulled a try back for the Crusaders with nine minutes to go but the lead created by the Blues’ potent backline proved too much.



Article source: http://www.express.co.uk/sport/rugbyunion/415202/Injury-forces-Thomas-to-retire


Super 15 rugby union scores: Auckland Blues beat Canterbury Crusaders 35-24

Farrell in clear over ticket sale

The RFU has looked into the circumstances that led to the £70 ticket for Saturday’s 13-10 RBS 6 Nations victory over Ireland being bought on Viagogo for £440.


Although the investigation is continuing, the RFU has already concluded that Farrell should not be punished.


“Owen Farrell has been absolved of any responsibility for the ticket issued under his name getting into the hands of a secondary ticketing operator and as such is cleared of any wrongdoing. He will therefore not face any sanction,” an RFU spokesman said.


“Owen is a young man of the utmost integrity and no blame can be attached to him in this matter.


“Enquiries continue as to the circumstances whereby this ticket was sold above face value, contravening the terms and conditions of sale.”


The RFU’s decision to clear Farrell has removed an unwanted distraction as the British and Irish Lions half-back continues preparations for the visit of Wales to Twickenham on March 9.


England remain in Six Nations title contention with Farrell an influential figure in their bid to win a first Championship crown under head coach Stuart Lancaster.


The RFU takes a dim view of tickets being sold by third parties and launched a crackdown on black market sales in 2009.


Had the outcome of the investigation decided that Farrell acted erroneously, he could have seen his ticket allocation suspended or received an official warning.


It is thought that Farrell gave the ticket to a friend in good faith with no intention of it being re-sold, before a series of events led to it appearing on Viagogo.


England flanker James Haskell had his allocation suspended for three matches following a similar incident five years ago.


As a result of the same clampdown on the resale of matchday tickets at Twickenham, the RFU also punished a number of clubs and individuals.


In 2012 the RFU secured a landmark judgment in its long-standing dispute with Viagogo, one of the biggest secondary ticket brokers, following an 18-month legal battle.


It defeated Viagogo in the supreme court on the issue of ownership of ticketing rights, policy and pricing.


Article source: http://www.express.co.uk/sport/rugbyunion/415202/Injury-forces-Thomas-to-retire


Farrell in clear over ticket sale

Thursday 27 February 2014

Mark Smith on Dissent In Rugby

It is not often in rugby a Frenchman can take the moral high ground, but national coach Philippe Saint-Andre pulled it off this week by dropping star player Louis Picamoles.


The Toulouse No 8 has been terrorising defences at club and international level for years now, but went beyond the pale in Cardiff last Friday.


Sin-binned for a run-of-the-mill indiscretion at a midfield ruck during his Side’s Six Nations loss to Wales, the barnstorming back-rower was promptly sent to the sin-bin by Irish referee Alain Rolland.


Were that not bad enough, as he trudged to the touch-line the player turned round to sarcastically applaud the official – repeating the gesture for good measure.


It was the precise brand of petulance with which football is well-acquainted, but rugby union has thankfully kept to the margins.


Picamoles’ actions were beamed right into the living rooms of sports fans right around the world, and there was no sign the game was going to offer anything in the way of official disciplinary action.


Step forward Monsieur Saint-Andre, the ex-Montferrand flyer who consigned Picamoles to the naughty step by dropping him from next weekend’s game against Scotland.


“Certain attitudes have no place whatsoever in our sport,” said the French coach.


“Respect is the foundation of our values,” he added.


“It is important to send a signal to all players who have the privilege of wearing the jersey, and remind them it imposes duties and obligations.”


With his side one of four countries currently tied at the top of the Six Nations table it is a massive call to have made, but it is without doubt the right one.


Rugby has for too long been in denial about the gradual erosion of respect, smugly lording it over their round-ball counterparts without actually keeping their own house properly in order.


Although I did have to chuckle at France’s decision to recall Morgan Parra.


The Clermont scrum-half was last weekend red-carded for head-butting Montpellier wing Rene Ranger in a domestic club game, an action which sparked an all-in brawl.


Former France coach Bernard Laporte, now in charge of a mega-money squad at Toulon, is currently serving a 13-week touchline ban for his outburst against referee Laurent Cardona following a recent club defeat.


“I cannot support him refereeing us any more, he robs us every time,” said Laporte. “It was not that that decision was hopeless, he was hopeless all game.


“He is always hopeless. I cannot put up any more with this kind of incompetent referee coming in and controlling my emotions.”


Far from a heat-of-the-moment outburst, he added a few days later: “Cardona tries to make friends with me, but he can stick his text messages up his a***.”


All of this from a former French government sports minister, proving that Saint-Andre’s gesture this week might well be the exception, rather than the rule.


Article source: http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/news/rugby-o-39-shea-best-team-lost-211622008--spt.html


Mark Smith on Dissent In Rugby

Super Rugby: Rebels v Cheetahs match preview

Naka Drotske Cheetahs training CC 2013


Naka Drotske: Cheetahs head coach has named an unchanged line-up to face the Rebels following the win over the Bulls last time


Sean McMahon rebels training


Sean McMahon: Impressed enough in the pre-season to earn a starting berth for the Rebels




Coach Tony McGahan has named rookie flank Sean McMahon as one of eight new faces in the Rebels team to face the Cheetahs.


Three players will have the opportunity to taste Super Rugby action for the first time, with Ben Meehan and Max Lahiff also being named on the bench for the Melbourne team’s first game of the 2014 Super Rugby season.


The 19-year-old McMahon, Australia’s youngest-ever Sevens representative, has played only a handful of 15-man games in the past two years but impressed enough in the pre-season to earn a starting berth.


Alongside the debutants, All Black Tamati Ellison will make his first appearance for the Rebels in Super Rugby joining two-time Super Rugby winner and former Chiefs prop Toby Smith, while former Waratah Tom Kingston, former Crusader Steve Fuala and former Brumby Colby Fainga’a are named on the bench.



McMahon said he felt a cluster of emotions when he first heard the news he was going to start.


“I was a bit stunned, a bit nervous, there were lots of different emotions, but mainly I was excited,” he said.


“I’m really happy to be in the run-on side, so I can get straight in and get a feel for it. I just want to contribute to a strong first-up performance, and go from there.”


Childhood dream


For scrum-half Ben Meehan, tasting some of the action would represent the realisation of a childhood dream.


“I’m very, very excited to be named in the 23,” said Meehan.


“I’ve always wanted to play professional rugby, and I just want to do my family proud.


“I’m so pumped to run out at AAMI Park in front of a packed Melbourne Crowd, and I’m sure the atmosphere will be electric.”


For the visitors, Cheetahs head coach Naka Drotske has name an unchanged line-up to face the Rebels.


The Cheetahs arrive in Australia full of confidence after securing their first ever Super Rugby victory over the Bulls last weekend.


They go into the clash with a perfect 3-0 record over the Rebels having won their previous encounters 34-16 (2013), 33-26 (2012) and 41-21 (2011).


Melbourne Rebels: 15 Jason Woodward, 14 Lachlan Mitchell, 13 Tamati Ellison, 12 Mitch Inman, 11 Tom English, 10 Bryce Hegarty, 9 Luke Burgess, 8 Scott Higginbotham, 7 Scott Fuglistaller, 6 Sean McMahon, 5 Luke Jones, 4 Hugh Pyle, 3 Laurie Weeks, 2 Pat Leafa, 1 Toby Smith.
Replacements: 16 Steve Fualau, 17 Max Lahiff, 18 Paul Alo-Emile, 19 Cadeyrn Neville, 20 Colby Fainga’a, 21 Ben Meehan, 22 Angus Roberts, 23 Tom Kingston.


Cheetahs 15 Willie le Roux, 14 Cornal Hendricks, 13 Johann Sadie, 12 Francois Venter , 11 Raymond Rhule, 10 Johan Goosen, 9 Shaun Venter, 8 Philip van der Walt, 7 Lappies Labuschagne, 6 Boom Prinsloo, 5 Francois Uys, 4 Lodewyk de Jager, 3 Coenie Oosthuizen, 2 Adriaan Strauss, 1 Caylib Oosthuizen. Replacement: 16 Ryno Barnes, 17 Trevor Nyakane, 18 Max van Dyk, 19 Ligtoring Landman, 20 Jean Cook, 21 Sarel Pretorius, 22 Elgar Watts, 23 Hennie Daniller.



Article source: http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/news/rugby-o-39-shea-best-team-lost-211622008--spt.html


Super Rugby: Rebels v Cheetahs match preview

Olly Barkley: Glad to be in Wales after "challenging" French test

Former England international Olly Barkley knows better than anyone that not everything that glitters in French rugby is gold.


The former Bath and Gloucester fly-half has just pitched his tent at the Scarlets for the rest of the season after two eventful campaigns in France.



Olly Barkley



I am loving being back here and being part of a professional set-up, with a good medical team and a more professional way of doing things, compared to what occasionally is the case in France


Olly Barkley (Scarlets)



While Welsh rugby is in the grip of an unprecedented exodus of players across the English Channel, Barkley’s experience is a salutary warning to any player thinking life is a bed of roses in French rugby’s Top 14.


“You can bet your bottom dollar it is going to be a big challenge, regardless of where you are going to play,” he said.


“I think you have to embrace it and try to make the most of of it because if you don’t you will miss out.


“It’s not better or worse, it’s just different how they do things [in France].”


The 23-times capped England international


signed a four-month deal with the Scarlets in February


after he left Grenoble a year early because he did not share the same “rugby concept” as the club’s director of rugby Fabrice Landreau.


Challenging times


Barkley takes care to choose his words when he talks about his experience at Racing Metro, where he played 10 games, and Grenoble, where he left after only five games in February.


The 32-year-old,


who joined Racing Metro from Bath as injury cover


– a “medical joker” in French rugby parlance – during September 2012, admits playing in France did not match his hopes and expectations.


“Things weren’t really working out as I wanted them to work out at Grenoble,” said Barkley.


“It wasn’t really the environment I was led to believe was going to materialise – that is the most diplomatic way of saying it.


Wales squad players in France




Jamie Roberts (Racing Metro)


James Hook (Perpignan)


Mike Phillips (Racing Metro).


Luke Charteris (Perpignan)


Dan Lydiate (Racing Metro)


On their way next season


Jonathan Davies (Clermont)


Leigh Halfpenny (Toulon)



“I felt after a year and a half in France, where I really enjoyed myself and learned an awful lot… it was definitely the most challenging 18 months of my career.


“You have to integrate into another language, way of playing, another culture and the way they do things which is very different to the way we do things in Anglo-Saxon Britain.”


Welsh rugby’s player drain has gone from a trickle, when


Gareth Thomas


and


Stephen Jones


left for Toulouse and Clermont Auvergne respectively, to a steady stream over the last few seasons.


Now French rugby is a magnet for world-class players from across the globe, who are all attracted by the big pay-cheques on offer and the chance to test themselves in the most unforgiving league on the planet.


In fact three current Welsh internationals, centre


Jamie Roberts, flanker Dan Lydiate


and scrum-half


Mike Phillips,


play for Barkley’s former club Racing Metro.


Culture and language


Barkley left Racing to make way for Ireland and British and Irish Lions fly-half Jonny Sexton –


who has expressed reservations about his move


– and is not surprised Roberts and Lydiate, in particular, have needed a period of adjustment to life in France.


“You go out there and it’s going to be challenge because there are so many barriers to jump over before you can begin to think about playing well,” said Barkley.




Ireland


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Ireland’s Jonny Sexton admits to doubts in France ahead of Six Nations




“You have to adjust to the style of life out there which is very different, the people, the culture and the language.


“There is definitely an adjustment period – you can see that with the way players are playing at the moment.


“If you can get through the adjustment period, you can really benefit because the league is very different to here and is very unstructured and perhaps not as organised.


“Some players will enjoy that, and some will find that hard work.”


So what can Jonathan Davies, the Wales and Lions centre, currently a team-mate of Barkley’s in Llanelli and who will join Clermont in the summer, expect on the field?


“We are far more organised over here and we like to be far more organised about how we approach a defence and break it down,” said Barkley.


“I think the French see it as a weakness if you cannot play off the cuff and you cannot adjust to what is in front of you.


“There is more than one way to skin a cat, but that is their approach.”


Professional set-up


Barkley, who made his England debut against the USA as a 19-year-old in 2001 before he had played a full senior game of rugby, may have returned to the UK but, despite offers from clubs in England and France, has found himself in Wales.


While Welsh rugby may be in the grip of a


row between the Welsh Rugby Union and the Welsh regions


about the player drain and funding, Barkley is clearly impressed with his new surroundings at Parc y Scarlets.


“I am loving being back here and being part of a professional set-up, with a good medical team and a more professional way of doing things, compared to what occasionally is the case in France,” said Barkley.


“[I was impressed] with the facilities, the team and the coaches, who I heard very good things about from people I spoke to, and I have always enjoyed watching the Scarlets play when they throw the ball around.


“It is just another challenge, another opportunity and I know what the Premiership is about and I hadn’t played in the Pro12 before and I felt it was something I would like to take on.”


Barkley says he has “nothing organised or set in stone” after his stint with the Scarlets comes to an end in May.


But what it is like as an Englishman in Wales as both nations gear up for the Six Nations clash at Twickenham on 8 March.


“I think the boys have picked up on the fact I am half-Welsh, so that has been at a minimum,” said Barkley.


“My mum was born in Newport, so I have a lot of cousins in Newport, who I had a bit of banter with when I signed here.”


Article source: http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/news/rugby-o-39-shea-best-team-lost-211622008--spt.html


Olly Barkley: Glad to be in Wales after "challenging" French test