Rugby World Cup Thread

[chipdawg]

Wow that was some game. Congrats to the Scos that was some effort from Samoa.

Thrilling stuff. A shout out to Australia's 13-man defence in the 2nd half too, which was just ridiculous. I never thought I'd be praising Australia's defensive capabilities under pressure a year ago

[Super]

Thrilling stuff. A shout out to Australia's 13-man defence in the 2nd half too, which was just ridiculous. I never thought I'd be praising Australia's defensive capabilities under pressure a year ago

totally agree mate. That was an epic second half yesterday. 

[Super]

Great effort from Ireland today, whatever happens the home nations will come out of this tournament with a lot of credit. Well apart from one obviously! Even that hasn't stopped me enjoying this World Cup so far been some superb games. Yesterday was 2 of the best games you will see.

[cityexile]

Huge effort in the second half from the Irish today. Some injuries that may affect them later on, but suberb today.

[MichaelRobartes]

One of the best performances I've seen us put up. I'm chuffed to bits. Sad way for Paulie to go out but sport can be cruel. 

[cityexile]

'tis indeed. Akways thought Wales and Ireland had the experience to do the best of the Northern sides, but wondered if Ireland still had it in them for such a big performance as they put in today. If they could catch they would have won at a canter!

Such a shame for later that both seem to have lots of injuries. Must have felt like playing at home with the crowd as well. 3 great games this weekend.

[B1ackbird]

Unfortunately cost Ireland dear with injuries...

[MichaelRobartes]

Unfortunately cost Ireland dear with injuries...

One step at a time. O'Brien will be out after that idiotic punch too. Argentina are a good side and could easily beat us at full strength so we'll have to wait and see.

Just feel so bad for Paulie. Sexton, O'Mahony and O'Brien will play in more world cups. He won't. 

[RedRock]

Not a massive fan, but my observation is that we play the run/thump 80's style of rugby, the rest of the world seem to have moved on and play a far more attractive, skillful and positive form of the game involving fast, fluent movement and handling. 

Bit like our international football which tactically and on skill levels is stuck in the dark ages as well. 

[B1ackbird]

Just watching the highlights now, both sides were brutal in defence.

would like to see France beat the Blacks, after being denied a final win by a lenient ref...

[chipdawg]

Not a massive fan, but my observation is that we play the run/thump 80's style of rugby, the rest of the world seem to have moved on and play a far more attractive, skillful and positive form of the game involving fast, fluent movement and handling. 

Bit like our international football which tactically and on skill levels is stuck in the dark ages as well. 

To a certain extent I'd say the opposite is true. England have concentrated on creating a more expansive style of rugby- Joseph, May, Watson and Ford coming in- but have ignored the parts of the game they used to excel at- the scrum, line-out, traditional forward play. A year or two ago we had the best scrum in the world, now it's a mess. Our main issue is probably the break down though, we've been left behind in how it operates in the modern game. You now need probably 2 or 3 break down specialists in your team, I don't think we have one. Lancaster trying to play more expansive rugby should be applauded, but the ignorance of everything else is beyond naive 

[Portland Bill]

Just watching the highlights now, both sides were brutal in defence.

would like to see France beat the Blacks, after being denied a final win by a lenient ref...

Do you not remember Wayne Barnes in the game between the French and AB's, the worst refereeing performance ever!

[Portland Bill]

To a certain extent I'd say the opposite is true. England have concentrated on creating a more expansive style of rugby- Joseph, May, Watson and Ford coming in- but have ignored the parts of the game they used to excel at- the scrum, line-out, traditional forward play. A year or two ago we had the best scrum in the world, now it's a mess. Our main issue is probably the break down though, we've been left behind in how it operates in the modern game. You now need probably 2 or 3 break down specialists in your team, I don't think we have one. Lancaster trying to play more expansive rugby should be applauded, but the ignorance of everything else is beyond naive 

England still go into every scrum thinking it's way of winning a penalty, whereas in reality it's a way of working a set move and going for a try.

Until this mind set changes results won't change.

[chipdawg]

England still go into every scrum thinking it's way of winning a penalty, whereas in reality it's a way of working a set move and going for a try.

Until this mind set changes results won't change.

There was a time when England were capable of winning a penalty from almost every scrum! But I agree with you, it's a bad attitude to have. Marler has turned into the new Adam Jones- couldn't drive straight at a scrum if he was on rails. Problem is, Jones used to get away with it, Marler doesn't. But he keeps doing it anyway

[MichaelRobartes]

Now O'Mahony out for us too. Disaster for Ireland, and for Munster's Super Duper Cup hopes. I thought O'Mahony was our best player before departing yesterday. He's some animal. I'll reiterate  how upsetting it was to see Paulie not even able to get up and walk off under his own steam. That could well be it for him at his age. No way for one of our greatest ever players to bow out.

Henderson to 6, Ryan to second row and Henry to 7 for SOB doesn't weaken our pack too much, but it does drastically weaken our bench.

England still go into every scrum thinking it's way of winning a penalty, whereas in reality it's a way of working a set move and going for a try.

Until this mind set changes results won't change.

Did you hear Brian Moore's show last night, Bill? He was talking about this, looking at the way Japan have used the scrum as a way of restarting play and getting moving - as Ireland did yesterday in the build up to both tries. I couldn't disagree. I don't think it's all as bad for England as some people are making out. However, there is clearly some really muddled thinking in the camp. Having no back three option benching for Aussie, calling up Easter, abandoning their best fly half and playmaker for their most important games in four years, it all adds up. Some of the criticism has been well wide of the mark, I don't think the commitment should be questioned, but (imo) they've a fundamental lack of leadership on the pitch, and combined with the muddled thinking in the coaching box it's hard to win test matches. I'm not sure that Lancaster should be so readily discarded, but the coaching ticket definitely needs a shake up somehow. 

If England can find a hooker, an openside and a captain, that'll be a good base going forward with Robshaw at blindside - a better player than Wood imo.

On his show, Moore was also very critical of France for putting size before all else. They might have (legally) forced Sexton off, but they were a total embarrassment in attack. Once you match their physicality they have nothing to throw at you. When you remember how the French are supposed to play it's really depressing. Then to cap it off a front three of McGrath, Strauss and White marched their vaunted replacement front row backwards at the end. It'd be just like them to come out and beat up NZ, but I just can't see it, they're absolute muck. Once you match their physicality they have nothing. Watching Bastareaud waddle from ruck to ruck like a penguin nursing a turtle's head when his pack don't win any ball is absolutely tragic.

[22A]

I was saddened last night when the commentator stated the head of Rugby USA (or whatever they're called) is drawing up plans for London Irish to play a "home" premiership game in America and he also wants a 6 Nations game to be staged there.

[Portland Bill]

Now O'Mahony out for us too. Disaster for Ireland, and for Munster's Super Duper Cup hopes. I thought O'Mahony was our best player before departing yesterday. He's some animal. I'll reiterate  how upsetting it was to see Paulie not even able to get up and walk off under his own steam. That could well be it for him at his age. No way for one of our greatest ever players to bow out.

Henderson to 6, Ryan to second row and Henry to 7 for SOB doesn't weaken our pack too much, but it does drastically weaken our bench.

Did you hear Brian Moore's show last night, Bill? He was talking about this, looking at the way Japan have used the scrum as a way of restarting play and getting moving - as Ireland did yesterday in the build up to both tries. I couldn't disagree. I don't think it's all as bad for England as some people are making out. However, there is clearly some really muddled thinking in the camp. Having no back three option benching for Aussie, calling up Easter, abandoning their best fly half and playmaker for their most important games in four years, it all adds up. Some of the criticism has been well wide of the mark, I don't think the commitment should be questioned, but (imo) they've a fundamental lack of leadership on the pitch, and combined with the muddled thinking in the coaching box it's hard to win test matches. I'm not sure that Lancaster should be so readily discarded, but the coaching ticket definitely needs a shake up somehow. 

If England can find a hooker, an openside and a captain, that'll be a good base going forward with Robshaw at blindside - a better player than Wood imo.

On his show, Moore was also very critical of France for putting size before all else. They might have (legally) forced Sexton off, but they were a total embarrassment in attack. Once you match their physicality they have nothing to throw at you. When you remember how the French are supposed to play it's really depressing. Then to cap it off a front three of McGrath, Strauss and White marched their vaunted replacement front row backwards at the end. It'd be just like them to come out and beat up NZ, but I just can't see it, they're absolute muck. Once you match their physicality they have nothing. Watching Bastareaud waddle from ruck to ruck like a penguin nursing a turtle's head when his pack don't win any ball is absolutely tragic.

Funnily enough I'm going to listen to Brian Moore's show this evening ( whilst in work!!) on podcast.

Its usually a very good listen, and he talks a lot of sense.

[Super]

Can anyone make a good case for this not being an Aus v NZ final?

[phantom]

I was saddened last night when the commentator stated the head of Rugby USA (or whatever they're called) is drawing up plans for London Irish to play a "home" premiership game in America and he also wants a 6 Nations game to be staged there.

As bad as an NFL team going to be based in the UK

[MichaelRobartes]

Funnily enough I'm going to listen to Brian Moore's show this evening ( whilst in work!!) on podcast.

Its usually a very good listen, and he talks a lot of sense.

It's the only thing worth the proverbial on talkshite. I don't agree with everything Moore says but his reasoning is put clearly and concisely. Many of the criticisms of him are quite baffling as I consider him to be far less one-eyed than many other rugby pundits - including several of the Irish ones. Probably the same complex that pushes Gwlad and that Murdoch-licking gobshite Stephen Jones to direct such bile at the Irish international and provincial sides.

Can anyone make a good case for this not being an Aus v NZ final?

Not logically. But sport isn't logical. I would have felt pretty confident against Aussie with a full team out, but now I'm not so confident. I'd be happy enough to get past Argentina. Stranger things have happened than NZ's French complex rearing its head again. If the French suddenly decide to totally ignore PSA and just play then they could be dangerous.

[Portland Bill]

Can anyone make a good case for this not being an Aus v NZ final?

That looks the logical final, but, Australia have had a real tough few games so far which 'could' take its toll on them.

Ireland looked very good against France, but the Argentine team look very special, so either are more than capable of beating Australia.

NZ have kept a lot back so far, one there day they are unbeatable, but pressure can get to any team.

France were outplayed by Ireland, but you never know which French team will turn up.

South Africa are a dour side imo, very predictable to play against. It's all power with them, Wales can beat them with a good game plan.

If you end up with 'say' Aussie v Ireland and Nz v SA in the semis, they are two games which are hard to call.

I think a lot depends on how teams cope with injuries. It's very exciting though!

[MichaelRobartes]

That looks the logical final, but, Australia have had a real tough few games so far which 'could' take its toll on them.

Ireland looked very good against France, but the Argentine team look very special, so either are more than capable of beating Australia.

NZ have kept a lot back so far, one there day they are unbeatable, but pressure can get to any team.

France were outplayed by Ireland, but you never know which French team will turn up.

South Africa are a dour side imo, very predictable to play against. It's all power with them, Wales can beat them with a good game plan.

If you end up with 'say' Aussie v Ireland and Nz v SA in the semis, they are two games which are hard to call.

I think a lot depends on how teams cope with injuries. It's very exciting though!

I agree about Wales, I think they'll turn the Boks over. If they manage to get parity up front then Biggar can kick them to victory. Having Paul James back is a huge boost. Gethin Jenkins has been great for them over the years, but his goose is cooked as far as the scrum goes, and has been for a while now.

[22A]

Can anyone make a good case for this not being an Aus v NZ final?

That was what was expected in the first tournament. Unfortunately for the organisers, France beat Aus in the semis.

['Orns]

That was what was expected in the first tournament. Unfortunately for the organisers, France beat Aus in the semis.

Beat NZ & Australia? If that happens I'll drink a lovely bottle of red, with some bread and smelly cheese

God, I want the French to win now

[MichaelRobartes]

It's being reported in France that the players have decided to ignore PSA and coach themselves. If true it makes them bloody dangerous! Hopefully Noves will sort them out, it's tragic watching them play like this, although beating them is fun.

[chipdawg]

It's being reported in France that the players have decided to ignore PSA and coach themselves. If true it makes them bloody dangerous! Hopefully Noves will sort them out, it's tragic watching them play like this, although beating them is fun.

When was the last time the French went through a major tournament without it turning into a melodrama?! I agree it potentially makes them a lot more dangerous and a lot less predictable though

[MichaelRobartes]

When was the last time the French went through a major tournament without it turning into a melodrama?! I agree it potentially makes them a lot more dangerous and a lot less predictable though

Surely anything is better than being coached by PSA. But then I'm forgetting Lievremont. They didn't do too bad after ignoring that absolute helmet either...

[chipdawg]

Surely anything is better than being coached by PSA. But then I'm forgetting Lievremont. They didn't do too bad after ignoring that absolute helmet either...

Yeah, the French rugby authorities have a long and rich history of choosing an absolute pup to coach the national side. I think the French could get whomever they like to coach them, just can't see how they'll beat the All Blacks. NZ haven't fired on all cylinders yet, but there just isn't the quality in that French team to beat them- regardless of how they play their rugby. I just hope they become a little more expressive in their rugby for the sake of the spectacle, otherwise NZ will probably just grind them into the dust. At least they've dispensed with Basteraud, the rugby-playing equivalent of a bearded lady at a fair ground: you'll pay some money to see it, but after a minute or two you're a bit creeped out and filled with pity for the poor creature

['Orns]

Yeah, the French rugby authorities have a long and rich history of choosing an absolute pup to coach the national side. I think the French could get whomever they like to coach them, just can't see how they'll beat the All Blacks. NZ haven't fired on all cylinders yet, but there just isn't the quality in that French team to beat them- regardless of how they play their rugby. I just hope they become a little more expressive in their rugby for the sake of the spectacle, otherwise NZ will probably just grind them into the dust. At least they've dispensed with Basteraud, the rugby-playing equivalent of a bearded lady at a fair ground: you'll pay some money to see it, but after a minute or two you're a bit creeped out and filled with pity for the poor creature

That made I chuckle
I just don't see what he's offered them in years. He's a big boy, but that's it. He's got no tricks, he certainly isn't going to scare anyone left in the tournament. Good move by the French, and if they are going to ignore PSA and play it off the cuff - what a game we could be in for. Hope they do

[chipdawg]

That made I chuckleI just don't see what he's offered them in years. He's a big boy, but that's it. He's got no tricks, he certainly isn't going to scare anyone left in the tournament. Good move by the French, and if they are going to ignore PSA and play it off the cuff - what a game we could be in for. Hope they do

The worst thing is, someone must have found this prop-sized kid who can run a bit and rather than thinking "wow, a prop with that mobility will be great" thought "that lad shifts marginally faster than the tectonic movement of the earths crust, we can't waste him in a scrum". Retrograde thinking in my opinion