Final preview

(Image from BBC Sport)

After 44 days, 47 games, 2230 points including 260 tries, it all comes down to eighty minutes of hard fought World Cup Rugby.

For New Zealand, the weight of a nation to whom rugby is a religion, is firmly on their shoulders. The All Blacks have so much to gain but just as much, if not more to lose. The heart-ache of 2007 will be stuck firmly in the minds of every All Black player and supporter, knowing full well that if things don’t quite go to plan, the murmuring echoes of ‘chokers’ will become fully fledged screams before too long. Never has a group of players deserved to be World Champions more than this current crop of All Blacks, but as they well know, in the harsh environment of international sport, you must earn everything.

France in contrast, are major underdogs. In fact, underdog doesn’t really cut it, the press in New Zealand have been discussing not who will win, but by how many the All Blacks will destroy their opponents. France could be the worst side to ever appear in a World Cup final, based purely on their performances so far, they may well be. For les bleus, it depends entirely on which side gets off of the coach; if it is the error ridden, self-destructing group of individuals that turned up to play Tonga, this final could be the most one-sided affair in the tournaments’ history. But if the exciting and passionate unit that played in Cardiff four years ago turns up, ready to take this monumental challenge head-on, we could be in for an incredible finale to one of the greatest RWCs of all time.

A lot once again, depends on young Aaron Cruden. Two strong performances from the young fly-half have propelled him on to rugby’s biggest stage and all eyes will be on the Crusaders man, come Sunday. As always, Richie McCaw will also have a major say on the outcome of this game; the New Zealand captain has urged his side to seize their opportunity and McCaw will thrive on leading his team into battle.

Will it be 80 minutes or another four years for New Zealand? Can the French cause one of the biggest upsets in rugby history? Whichever way it goes, we’re in for a fantastic finish to the 2011 Rugby World Cup.

Round-Up: Third place play-off

With this blog I have reached 1000 hits for the Tournament. But on to the more important stuff…

Wales 18-21 Australia

Had you offered Warren Gatland and his side a fourth place finish at the start of the tournament; you may well have very little left of your once useful arms. But as the Welsh depart New Zealand just outside the medals, you can’t help but feel a sense of disappointment.

Their third place play-off with Australia summed up the whole World Cup for Wales, close, but not close enough. When this group of players look back at the 2011 World Cup, they may rue the number of kicks at goal that were missed along the way.

Tries from Berrick Barnes and Ben McCalman, a Barnes drop-goal and eight points from the boot of James O’Connor were enough to earn Australia the bronze medal, in a game that wasn’t quite as close as the score line suggests.

Shane Williams scored a try early in the second half to give Wales the lead, but they failed to build upon this and were unable to replicate the potent attacking form that had been present throughout the tournament.

The game was scrappy, very short on quality and a bit of an anti-climax; with both sets of player’s still nursing semi-final heartbreak. But the match was somewhat marred by a sickening knee injury to Quade Cooper, which is likely to side-line him for around six months. As the Wallaby fly-half looked for a gap in the defence, his knee buckled beneath him and he fell awkwardly. He returned later to collect his medal with a brace around his knee and supported by crutches, it could be a while before we see him back on the rugby pitch.

With time running out and the Wallabies comfortably leading, Wales had the last say as a swift handling move led to Leigh Halfpenny scoring out wide. Stephen Jones converted but it was to be the final act of the game.

Wales can leave New Zealand with their heads held high, despite the obvious disappointment and dreams of what might have been. But once this feeling subsides, the players and staff will feel proud of their achievements and look forward to a new era of Welsh rugby. 

In many people’s minds, they are no doubts as to who will start the 2012 Six Nations as favourites.

Talking Points: Day 40

Moral high ground: Warren Gatland has admitted that his coaching team did discuss the possibility of faking an injury to a front-row forward in order to force uncontested scrums, minimising the disadvantage caused by the red card. But Gatland went on to say that in his opinion, it would have been morally wrong.

Quade and seek: Another poor performance from Australia’s Quade Cooper during Sunday’s semi-final with New Zealand has heightened question marks over the Wallaby fly-half’s ability to perform in the big games.

Deja-vu: France coach Marc Lievremont has labelled a number of his players ‘spoilt brats’ after they ignored a direct order not to go out following their semi-final victory over Wales.

Harsh: Wales’ captain Sam Warburton has been given a three-week suspension following his controversial red card for a dangerous tackle against France. 

Semi-final round-up: AB's march on...

Wales’ epic World Cup journey was brought to a controversial end on Saturday as captain Sam Warburton was sent off for a dangerous tackle during their 9-8 defeat to France.

Eighteen minutes in to the semi-final clash in Auckland, France’s Vincent Clerc took a short pass from Dimitri Yachvili. As the winger accelerated on to the ball he was met by the ferocious frame of the Wales captain. As Warburton hit Clerc around the waist and wrapped his arms around the tackle, Clerc was taken off of his feet in what looked to be a textbook tackle. But as he drove through the hit, Clerc began to turn over, causing the Welshman to release the player in mid-air. Had Warburton not dropped him, he would have driven the player into the ground, potentially causing serious injury. Referee Alain Rouland wasted no time in issuing the red card, to the disbelief of the players. 

The decision to red card Sam Warburton for a ‘dangerous tackle’ surprised everyone and should have ended the match as a contest. But France’s inconsistency returned and they failed to offer any threat to the fourteen man Welsh defence.

Three penalties from Yachvili were all they could muster, and when Mike Phillips surged through a gap to score Wales’ only try, one of the great World Cup upsets looked to be on the cards. But a 50 metre shot at goal from Leigh Halfpenny was as close as they got; the full-backs valiant effort fell inches short and France held on to reach this weekends’ final.

The second semi-final was anything but close as a rampant All Black’s crushed Australia to go a step closer to ending their 24 year wait. There were few signs of choking this time round, barely a cough in fact as New Zealand’s fluent attack and resolute defence blow away their trans-Tasman rivals.

Ma’a Nonu’s first half try put them in control following a strong break from the impressive Israel Dagg; a sure contender for player of the tournament. New Zealand remained in control for the full eighty minutes and twelve points from Piri Weepu and a drop-goal from Aaron Cruden sealed a famous victory for Graham Henry’s men.

The match had been billed as a battle of the open-sides; the old master V the young pretender. Despite all the hype surrounding David Pocock, it was Richie McCaw who came out on top in this particular battle. The AB’s captain was inspirational in his defensive work, with several vital turnovers and a number of important tackles; including a sure try-saver metres from the New Zealand line.

Pantomime villain Quade Cooper had another night to forget as he was evidently targeted by a pumped New Zealand side. The Wallabies’ number ten set the tone for his quiet night by putting his opening restart straight out on the full. As the All Blacks continued to vent their physicality towards the Kiwi-born fly-half, the mistakes became more frequent. A few kicks out on the full as well as some dodgy decisions rounded off a poor display from Cooper.

The current New Zealand side contains some old heads who won’t get another shot at World Cup glory; the likes of McCaw, Thorn, Ali Williams and Kevin Mealamu will be looking to end their World Cup careers on the highest of highs, with a win on home soil this weekend. On recent performances and the topsy-turvy nature of the opposition, it would take a brave, no, stupid person 

to bet against them.

Talking points: Day 35

Manu overboard: Just when we thought England’s WC campaign couldn’t get any worse, one of the few positives to come out of the tournament, Manu Tuilagi, decided to go for a dip in the Auckland Harbour; resulting in arrest and a hefty fine.

Cloning Pocock: New Zealand have dismissed reports that flanker Matt Todd, was brought into the camp to play the role of David Pocock during training. The AB’s prepare for their semi-final clash against the Wallabies knowing that the Australian open-side will pose the biggest threat.

Yash and Grab: Dimitri Yachvili is fit to start against Wales in Saturday’s semi-final after shaking off a thigh injury. France have called up Jean-Marc Doussain as cover.

Hooking on gas: James Hook will replace the injured Rhys Priestland at fly-half in Saturdays’ semi-final. Priestland hasn’t been able to train all week due to a shoulder injury sustained against Ireland.

Semi-final preview

Wales v France, Eden Park, Auckland, Saturday, KO 0900 (BST)

Wales: Odds to win WC 5/1

Key man: Sam Warburton

Wales’ growth and development this year could not have been better planned. Warren Gatland’s men have shown how simple a game rugby can be; they have been well drilled, superbly organised and solid in defence. In Sam Warburton they possess an inspirational leader, with the ability to rally his troops around hi m and lead them into battle. This tournament could be just the beginning for this group of fresh, young players. As England arrive home and begin to plan a clear out of the dead wood, Wales are only beginning their journey to a potentially long term dominance of northern hemisphere rugby.

France: Odds to win WC 8/1

Key man: Imanol Harinordoquy

Two weeks is a very long time in sport, especially French sport. Les Bleus have been showing off the extremities of their Jekyll and Hyde character throughout the tournament, none as impressive of their resurgent performance against England in Auckland last weekend. As bad as England were in the first half, France looked fresh, sharp and inspired by a brand new energy and ambition. There is no doubting the ability of this immensely talented group of players; however, their mental frailty will provide encouragement to an already confident Welsh outfit.  If the cockerel crows, France could well be in a very strong position to upset the odds and win the 2011 RWC.  

Tournament Talk prediction: France to upset the odds with another impressive performance. Wales’ time will come, possibly in 2015, but this time round, I think France will be back in Auckland next weekend.

New Zealand v Australia, Eden Park, Auckland, Sunday, KO 0900 (BST)

New Zealand: Odds to win WC 4/7

Key man: Whoever is selected at 10, big shoes to fill in the absence of Dan Carter. Aaron Cruden, who impressed from the bench last week is likely to start but the All Blacks have called up Stephen Donald as back-up.

The events of the last year in New Zealand would make a World Cup triumph as close to a fairy-tale as you are likely to get in rugby. The earthquakes in Christchurch may have destroyed a city, but they united a nation. An All Blacks World Cup win would be a perfect tribute to the victims of the earthquakes and Richie McCaw’s men look in prime position to overcome the mental obstacles that have prevented them in the past. The crunch semi-final clash with Australia is likely to be decided at the breakdown, with much emphasis being put on the battle of the number sevens. Master of the art Richie McCaw will come up against the young pretender, David Pocock, looking to remove the AB’s captain from his position as top dog at open-side. Aaron Cruden, or whoever is selected at fly-half will be under enormous pressure to emulate Dan Carter as well as possible. New Zealand will be wary of a dogged Australian side, whose defensive display against South Africa was mighty impressive, the AB’s will have to work hard to break down their trans-Tasman rivals.

Australia: Odds to win WC 9/2

Key man: David Pocock

27% territory and minimum position in a quarter-final would normally result in a trip home, but somehow Australia managed to withstand immense pressure to book their place in the semi-final. With much talk about their oppositions ‘choking’ habit, Australia will be looking to exploit any obvious weaknesses, most notably, the lack of an experienced fly-half. They will also have concerns about their own number 10; Quade Cooper has yet to set the tournament alight and is beginning to adopt the reputation as a ‘hider’ in the big games. There is no escaping the fact that David Pocock will play a massive part in any potential Wallaby success. His incredible strength and immovability at the ruck will provide the Wallabies with a great opportunity to spoil AB possession. But the Aussies will need to offer more going forward than they did against South Africa; a repeat of last weeks’ statistics is almost certain to result in defeat for Robbie Deans’ men.

Tournament Talk prediction: The script is written for New Zealand to win the 2011 RWC and I think they will have too much for this Australia side. The days of ‘choking’ are well and truly over and it is time for the All Blacks to register their four year dominance over the rugby world with a first WC in 24 years. 

Quarter-final round-up

Resurrections, resilience and back-row master-classes. The quarter-finals of the 2011 RWC had it all.

The French rose from the dead to defeat a lifeless England 16-12 in Auckland. The French performance was quite extraordinary following last weeks’ humiliation by Tonga. First half tries from Vincent Clerc and Maxime Medard gave France a 16-0 lead at half-time and despite a spirited fight back after the break, England were let down by a sloppy defensive display and lack of invention during a disappointing first half.

Wales’ must now be considered as a serious threat to the tournament’s favourites after an impressive and passionate display against Ireland. Shane Williams scored Wales’ opening try but Ireland’s Keith Earls replied shortly after the break. Further scores from Mike Phillips and Jonathan Davies settled the battle of Britain and sent Wales into the semi-finals, where they will face a rejuvenated France. Sam Warburton demonstrated just why he is being talked about as one of the worlds’ best open-sides’ with a powerful captains’ performance.   The Welsh look in prime condition both physically and skill-wise and now have a fantastic opportunity to reach their first World Cup final.

 Australia fought their way to a remarkable win against a dominant South African side. The Springboks had 76% of the territory and the majority of possession but still find themselves on their way home tomorrow. Wallabies’ captain James Horwill scored the games’ only try following a turn-over on the 

South Africa twenty-two.  David Pocock was instrumental in Australia’s win with an incredible number of turn-overs and tackles. The Zimbabwe born flanker is being touted as the best in the world in his position, taking over from New Zealand’s Richie McCaw.

New Zealand survived an early scare to run out comfortable winners against Argentina in Auckland. Tries from Keiran Read and Brad Thorn plus twenty-three points from the boot of Piri Weepu edged the All Blacks a step closer to shedding an unwanted 24-year ‘chokers’ tag. It wasn’t the most convincing display from the tournament favourites, but it was enough to overcome a brave Argentinian side, who have proved that they can hold their own against the world’s best ahead of their first year in the expanded Tri-Nations next year. New Zealand’s Aaron Cruden performed admirably after being introduced early on, following an injury to Colin Slade. The twenty-two year old may well have played his way into contention for a starting place in next weeks’ semi-final showdown with Australia.

Probably not the semi-final line-up many would have predicted prior to the tournament; but an exciting one nonetheless.  Despite Dan Carter’s absence, New Zealand are still favourites to win on home soil, however, any one of the four remaining sides could realistically lift the Webb Ellis Cup. 

Now it gets serious: QF preview

No more second chances, no opportunity to rectify defeat, just good, hard fought knock-out rugby. This is all that awaits us.

The 2011 Rugby World Cup has been thrilling and we’re only just half way through. We’ve had upsets, shocks and plenty of near misses. But taking this into account, the teams that were expected to make their way out of the group stages all managed to do so, but not without the odd fright.

England secured their quarter final place with a hard fought win over a homebound Scotland. Andy Robinson’s men once again failed to score a try against tier one opposition, which has ultimately been their downfall at this years’ competition. A late Chris Ashton try was enough to see England to a 16-12 win against the old enemy. England will face a France side who are edging ever closer to self-destruct mode. A shock defeat to Tonga together with an unhappy camp have put the French in a less than ideal position heading into the business end of the tournament.

Ireland’s crushing of Italy has set up a mouth-watering battle of Britain quarter-final against an ever improving Wales. The Irish look to be re-discovering their best form, kick-started by their historical win against Australia which saw them top the group. But Wales are not to be written off, even though they go into the knockout stages as slight underdogs, they are certainly capable of competing with the very best in the world.

Ireland’s surprise victory over Australia sent the much fancied Aussies into the tougher side of the draw. They will now face a South Africa side in sublime form, looking to defend their world champion status. But Australia, possessing an array of talent in all positions will certainly fancy their chances of knocking the ‘Boks off of their perch.

A Dan Carter-less All Blacks will face Argentina as they search for a first World Cup win in over a decade. A lot of responsibility will fall on to the inexperienced shoulders of Colin Slade as he looks to step into the shoes of one of New Zealand’s greatest ever players.

With plenty of rugby left to play, the competition is wide open. The favourites are likely to come from the Southern hemisphere but who would bet against a European side stealing the limelight once again. Not me.

Tournament Talk Semi-Final predictions:

Ireland v England

South Africa v New Zealand

Pacific poachers have no right to slate England.

When England named their first training squad for the World Cup it provoked a mixture of reactions in the rugby world. English supporters were excited by the selection of Manu Tuilagi and keen to see how he would fit into England’s solid midfield. European nations talked up the chances of the Six Nations champions in New Zealand after a strong showing (minus the Ireland game) during the competition.

But Southern Hemisphere reactions were far different. Ignoring any recent success, they centred their attention towards the number of players in the England squad that had been born elsewhere. Waldrom, Flutey, Tuilagi and Hartley were all picked out as ‘foreigners’ and many said that England were now relying on foreign imports to strengthen their squad.

Oh how hypocritical. The Kiwis and Australians of all people should keep well hushed on this topic, for the simple reason that they have picked ‘foreigners’ in their rugby sides for a number of years, and have done so in a way that is far more damaging to the game than England selecting Waldrom and co.

Sivivatu: Fiji. Rokocoko: Fiji, Muliaina: Samoa, Toeava: Samoa. Catch my drift? And that’s just New Zealand. Australia used the pace and power of the Fijian winger Loti Tuqiri for a number of years, oh and Quade Cooper, the rising star of Australian rugby; he was born in New Zealand.

The difference between England selecting the likes of Waldrom, Hartley and Flutey and the Trans-Tasman nations picking the players mentioned above (minus Cooper) is a very important one. Waldrom and co. have tried their hand in New Zealand; they didn’t make the grade at the top level. So the fact that they’re now qualified and playing for England through residency is in no way damaging New Zealand rugby; they will not be missed.

But Sivivatu, Rokocoko, Muliaina and Toeava would have been incredible assets to Fijian and Samoan rugby. Imagine a Fiji side with two of the All Blacks’ all-time top try scorers running riot in the backline, or a Samoan side with Mils Muliainia linking up with Toeava at the back. Dare I say that these two nations may well be a lot closer to breaking into rugby’s top tier than they are today?

So before these comments are made, I urge the relevant offenders to take a good, hard look into their own garden before they criticise someone else’s. After all, it’s not England that scout the Pacific, hand-picking the best of the bunch, they simply take the left overs when they’re offered.

I don’t have an issue with players representing an adopted country; in the modern world people travel and may not necessarily have much of a say in where they are brought up. But I do resent the constant barrage of ill-informed criticism that has been branded England’s way in the past few years, right across the sporting spectrum.

One thing’s for sure; whoever wins this World Cup will care little for the birthplace of their players. The Webb Ellis Cup will receive all of the attention.

Talking Points: Day 19

Ball bother: England are waiting to find out if they will be punished for Jonny Wilkinson attempting to change the ball for a conversion during the group game with Romania.

Back up: Thomas Waldrom has officially been added to England’s squad as a replacement for Andrew Sheridan. The kiwi-born number eight is available for selection against Scotland this weekend.

Odds on Ashton: Chris Ashton is still the bookies favourite to be top try scorer during the World Cup. The Northampton wing is at 11/4 with Vincent Clerc his closest competition at 9/2.

Tuilagi to remain a Tiger: Manu Tuilagi has played down reports he is set to swap the Aviva Premiership for the Super 15. England’s rising star says that he hopes to play in many World Cups for his adopted country.

Room for improvement: All Blacks’ Coach Graham Henry has rated his sides’ recent exploits as ‘8 out of 10’ in the group stages. New Zealand have been in exhilarating form so far but Henry says they can still improve…gulp. 

Talking Points: Day 14

Hail Habana: Bryan Habana set a new South African try scoring record as he scored his 37^th international try for the Springboks. The record breaking score came during his sides 87-0 demolition of Namibia.

Tweet or sour: Samoa’s Eliota Fuimaono-Sapolu landed himself in hot water following an angry rant which he posted on Twitter. The Gloucester centre accused the IRB of ‘unfair treatment’ regarding his sides three day break between games, in comparison to Wales’ week off.

Parra to the people: France have named scrum-half Morgan Parra at Fly-half for their crunch game with the All Blacks on Saturday. Francois Trinh-Duc drops to the bench despite Parra having less than forty minutes experience in the number ten shirt in his international career.

Ronan to continue: Ronan O’Gara has said that his comments following their win over Australia have been misunderstood. It had been reported that the Irish fly-half would retire at the end of tournament following his comments in a post-match interview.

Want to know why the All Blacks are so good? Have a read of this fantastic BBC blog by Ben Dirs. http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/bendirs/2011/09/chasing_the_all_black_dream.html

Round-Up: Day 10-14

Surprise results were well and truly absent from the second round of games as the tournaments giants marched on towards the knock-out stages.

England remain unbeaten in the group stages, despite another below-par performance against Georgia. Two tries apiece for Chris Ashton and Shontayne Hape helped England to a 41-10.

The performance was certainly an improvement on the opening game, but the theme of indiscipline at the breakdown remained, preventing England from reaching anything close to their best.

There were glimpses of it however, Hape’s second try followed some good phase play and was finished in clinical style by the London Irish centre.

Manu Tuilagi burst through untouched to score under the posts early in the second half; the Samoan born centre now has three tries in four international appearances. Chris Ashton’s timely return to form was capped by his trademark ‘Ash Splash,’ and will provide the management with encouragement as they build towards the Tournaments latter stages.

But England will know that they have plenty to work on if they are to reach anywhere close to the heights of 2003. But two wins out of two is all that matters for the Johno’s men, with the stronger performances, hopefully just around the corner. The Six Nations campaign showed that the big performance is in there and is likely to appear as soon as the penalty count is reduced.

Wales got their World Cup up and running with a 17-10 victory over Samoa; Shane Williams scored the only try of the game with just fifteen minutes remaining to boost Wales’ chances of making it into the quarter-finals. James Hook and Rhys Priestland added two penalties each to cap a good performance against a strong Samoan outfit.

Vincent Clerc scored a superb hat-trick as France overcame a resilient Canada 46-19. The Canadians trailed by only nine points at the break and looked to be pushing the French all the way. However, France’s class overpowered Canada in the latter stages as they secured a comfortable bonus point win.

Italy scored nine tries in a resounding 53-17 win against Russia. Giulio Tonialatti and Tommasso Benvenuti scored twice each as the Italians cruised to a bonus point win.

Tonga secured their first win of the tournament with a 31-18 victory over Japan. The south sea islanders scored three tries and Kurt Morath kicked 16 points to keep hopes of a quarter-final place alive, however slim.

Reigning champions South Africa romped to an 87-0 destruction of Namibia. The Springboks scored twelve unanswered tries as they trounced the African minnows. Bryan Habana set a new try scoring record for South Africa as he crossed for his 37^th international try.

In BOD we trust...

The World Cup is the biggest stage in any sport, the pinnacle of a players’ career, the birthplace of legends. You don’t have to win the World Cup to acquire legendary status, but you must leave your mark. Players of the calibre of Lomu, Campese, Gregan and Piennar have all engraved their legacy into the minds of even the most naive of rugby supporters. But what about the players that don’t carry a World Cup legacy? Does this deduct from their reputation or even put into question their greatness?

Brian O’ Driscoll is one of these players. Seen by many as the greatest outside centre of his generation, but yet to eclipse the World Cup in the way that others previously have, but why?

The main reason for his lack of dominance on rugby’s biggest stage is probably down to the mass underachievement of Ireland as a rugby nation. A weakness at World Cups has been characterised by a phobia of the southern hemisphere; up until their recent win over Australia, Ireland had failed to beat a southern hemisphere side on home soil for a number of years.

The Emerald Isle’s lack of success at World Cups has bamboozled many, especially after so many mercurial Six Nations’ campaigns. O’ Driscoll has nothing more to prove in the Six Nations. He holds the record for the most tries in the competition with 26 and with at least one more campaign left in him, no one would bet against him extending his tally.

But he may not play another World Cup. In fact, the 2011 competition is very likely to be his last crack at the Webb Ellis trophy. And while Ireland aren’t expected to win it, their potential amounts to much greater than their three consecutive quarter final exits. This is BOD’s last shot at cracking rugby’s biggest challenge and he’ll be looking to push the boundaries, especially with a quarter final against Wales pencilled in.

So has O’ Driscoll’s nationality held him back from becoming one of the games’ all-time greats? What if he’d been born in New Zealand? Plying his trade alongside the likes of Carter and Spencer, running lines off of Umaga and feeding Doug Howlett; his name would be unforgettable.

The All Black’s recent WC record suggests that he may still be without a winner’s medal, but his reputation would be perched on top of Mount Cook.

BOD has oozed class for all 113 of his international caps; proving to be an inspirational leader as well as the complete number 13. His impact on the 2001 Lions’ Tour of Australia made it clear that a star had been born; his mazy run through the Wallaby defence to score under the posts was certainly a message to the world and he has continued to build upon that.

Unfortunately, the stage fright of one nation is preventing the boy from Clontarf from entering an elite group. In thirty years’ time, will people be talking about BOD as one of the greatest players of all time? I don’t think they will. As disappointing as it is, the Leinster man is probably only one dominant World Cup away from carving his own rugby legacy.

But there’s still time, a favourable draw has put Ireland in a great position to make their first semi-final for some time, and, who knows, Brian O’Driscoll could yet get his hands on the Webb Ellis trophy.

After all, it would be just the luck of the Irish. 

Talking Points: Day 8/9

Sonny Bill-Winger: Graham Henry had hinted that SBW may be used in other positions in the All Black backline; his appearance on the wing during NZ’s thirteen try win over Japan will be strike fear into the rest of the competition.

Irish eyes smiling: Ireland’s win was their first against Australia in World Cup history and blows the draw wide open. We all knew that Ireland had a performance in them, but few expected them to come out on top against the Wallabies.

Moody returns: Lewis Moody returns to captain England in their group stage encounter with Georgia tomorrow morning. England have made eight changes to the side that started against Argentina, with Toby Flood starting at fly-half.

Geographical draw: Ireland’s win over Australia has given the potential quarter final draw a geographical divide. Barring any shock results, Ireland will face Wales/Samoa with England playing France. New Zealand will play Argentina with South Africa facing Australia to complete a northern-southern 

hemisphere divide. 

Round-Up: Day 6-9

Well how about that? Today is the day the World Cup was blown wide open, thanks to an inspired performance from a gutsy and passionate Irish side. Their 15-6 victory over Australia was far from pretty, but all that matters to 

Declan Kidney’s men is the end result; and what a result it was.

It was a try-less encounter, but what it lacked in five-pointers it made up for in drama and physical tenacity. Two penalties apiece for Sexton and O’Gara together with a Sexton drop-goal were enough to cause the competitions' biggest upset so far and put the Emerald Isle in poll position to top the group and avoid the likes of South Africa and New Zealand in the quarter finals.

The normally so fluent Australian side could only muster two James O’Connor penalties, and were far from their normal clinical selves; the Wallabies had many opportunities to create try scoring chances, but impatience proved to be their downfall as they forced the play in the final third. Quade Cooper was quiet and his loose reverse pass in the dying minutes; intercepted by Tommy Bowe summed up the Australian’s overall performance. O’Connor made good ground to haul the winger down metres short, but Ireland had the territory they required to close out the game and earn their first World Cup win over Australia.

In the earlier games, South Africa and Argentina both recorded confortable wins over weaker opposition. The Springboks beat Fiji 49-3, scoring six tries from six different scorers. Argentina got off the mark in the tournament with a 43-8 win over Romania.

Earlier in the week, a hat-trick from Alessana Tuilagi powered Samoa to a 49-12 victory over Namibia. The South-sea islanders looked sharp and clinical and could yet prove to be Wales’ undoing when the sides meet tomorrow in Hamilton.

Canada caused an upset as they beat Tonga 25-20, scoring three tries in the process. A try from Phil Mackenzie eight minutes from time proved to be the winning score as the Canadians secured a famous win.

Scotland secured their second win of the group stage as they struggled to victory over Georgia in Invercargill. In one of the most unattractive games of rugby you are ever likely to see, Dan Parks kicked all of the Scots points to keep their unbeaten record intact. Georgia continued to build on their ever growing reputation in the rugby world with a fighting performance.

New Zealand scored thirteen tries as they hammered Japan 83-7 in Hamilton. Richard Kahui and Sonny Bill-Williams scored twice each and fly-half Colin Slade scored 25 points in a convincing group stage win.

Finally, the USA made sure Russia’s World Cup debut ended in defeat as they ground out a 13-7 win in New Plymouth. Scrum Half Mike Petri scored the games’ only try with Chris Wyles adding two penalties and a conversion.  

Keep up to date with the RWC on Tournament Talk. Become a follower to receive updates from the blog by clicking on the option in the side bar. 

Talking Points: Day 7

Bungees, Bars and…Dwarves?  The RFU have defended the England managements’ decision to allow the squad to take part in a bungee jump during their time-off. The team also went out to a bar to unwind after a gruelling week of training. Can’t see why it has caused a stir, everyone is allowed to let their hair down at some point. Oh yeah, and dwarf throwing? Nope I haven’t got a clue either.

SheriGone: Andrew Sheridan will play no further part in the World Cup after injuring his shoulder. He will fly home in the next few days.

Contepomi KO: Felipe Contepomi is also out of the tournament after failing to recover from a rib injury sustained against England.

McCaw misery: NZ captain Richie McCaw will have to wait to win his 100^th cap after being ruled out of the game against Japan with a calf strain. Dan Carter will also miss the game with a back injury.

Rise of the minnow

Just a week into the RWC and already trends have begun to emerge. As expected the southern hemisphere giants have made strong starts to the group stages and you'd be a fool to look any further than the Tri-Nations as your WC winner. 

But the other noticeable trend was rather unexpected, but it would appear that the once vast gap between the first and second tier nations is now being shunted closer together. Games that would, in the past, have been a walkover have been transformed into battling test matches in which the stronger sides have to grate and grind out a result.

The first example of this closing of the gap came in Scotland’s opening encounter with Romania. The powerful Romanian pack caused the Scots some serious problems up front and their opening try was a prime example of this early physical dominance; Mihaita Lazar crashed his way over following a bulldozing rolling maul. Danielli saved the blushes for Scotland with two late tries, but the Romanians had laid down a marker. Their tenacity in the forwards will make them hard to beat in the duration of the tournament.

The USA also put in a strong performance against Ireland and more recently, Scotland were once again involved when Georgia ran them close in Invercargill. You could be forgiven for citing the Scots as the common denominator in this ‘rise of the minnows,’ but it has been noted throughout that the number of walk-overs continues to diminish.  

Let us compare a few of the so-called ‘minnows’ results from 2007 to 2011.

2007

Scotland 42-0 Romania

Australia 91-0 Japan

France 64-7 Georgia

2011

Scotland 34-24 Romania

France 47-21 Japan

Scotland 15-6 Georgia

This is a clear indication that the days of cricket scores are gone; every game is now a battle, a real tussle for dominance. Now and again there will be a big total scored, most likely during this tournament there will be at least one thrashing. But even then, the bigger sides will have to work hard for their points, much in the way New Zealand had to during the second half against Tonga.

It puts world rugby in a very healthy state and continues to add to the reputation and popularity of the world’s greatest game. As long as England don’t get caught up in a major upset, long may the rise of the minnows continue.

Talking Points: Day 3

Denied: James Hook’s penalty appeared to go over but was disallowed by the officials. Had the referee referred it to the TMO, Wales may have come away with a famous victory.

Classy Cooper: Quade Cooper put in an entertaining and creative performance against Italy, setting up three of the Australians’ four tries.

Drought over: Ireland ended their three match losing streak with a victory over a very average USA side. Brian O’Driscoll has admitted that his side need ti improve when they face the much fancied Aussies this weekend.

Warrior Warburton: Wales’ captain Sam Warburton put in a man of the match performance against World champions South Africa. The open-side flanker was later described as a ‘pain’ by Springbok captain Smit. 

Straight from the training ground: Digby Ioane’s try against Italy demonstrated why the Wallabies are so dangerous. A perfectly executed set piece move put the Red’s winger in under the posts. Have a watch for yourself: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LYURnww7vGA. 

Scroll down for a round-up of the games from Day 3 of the RWC, or click HOME. 

Day 3 round up

Day three of the RWC saw southern hemisphere giants Australia and South Africa both record victories over their northern hemisphere opponents.

Australia were convincing winners against Italy in Taranaki. Tries from Alexander, Ashley-Cooper, O’Connor and Digby Ioane powered the Wallabies to a comfortable 32-6 victory. Quade Cooper kicked two penalties and provided three assists in a very accomplished individual showing.

Two tries from Tommy Bowe helped Ireland to their first win of the tournament against the USA. Rory Best also crossed for O’Driscoll’s men in a scrappy and error-ridden performance. The wet weather conditions didn't help proceedings but Ireland have work to do before they face Australia at the weekend.

In the reasonably timed kick-off, a late Francois Houggard try broke Welsh hearts as South Africa snuck a 17-16 win over Wales. The Boks took an early lead through Frans Steyn’s first half try, but Wales struck back with a try from number eight, Toby Faletau; his first International try.

Wales put up a worthy fight and on another day, may have walked away with the win, but the 2007 Champions held on to record an important victory. However, James Hook and his teammates can feel hard done by after a penalty by the full-back was judged to have gone narrowly wide. To the naked eye, the kick appeared to go over but the touch judges ruled it out, much to the disapproval of many.

The early pace is certainly being set by the southern hemisphere giants. Although, England, Ireland, Scotland and France all won their first game, the Tri-Nations sides have looked sharp, confident and clinical. England will be desperate to top their group in order to avoid the mighty All Blacks in the quarter finals.

Check out the ‘Team of the week’ from the opening round of matches and have your say on who should be in it. 

Talking Points: Day 1 & 2

Star Man: New Zealand’s Richard Kahui was instrumental in the AB’s curtain raiser victory over Tonga. The winger scored twice and was heavily involved during the build up to three others.

Fiji’s First: Fiji wing Vereniki Goneva crossed the line four times to become the first Fijian to score a World Cup hat-trick in their game against Namibia.

Goal kicking glitch: Jonny Wilkinson and Dan Carter were both out of sorts with their goal kicking in the opening games; Wilkinson missed five penalty attempts.

Bulky Back-line: The All Blacks fielded a starting backline with an average weight of 98.7kgs, that’s 15 stone 7lb in old money. Staggering.

Group C Banana Skins: Both England and Scotland narrowly avoided defeat to teams that they were expected to beat. From that showing, the Argies’ will be handful for Scotland, possibly too much. 

Scroll down or click HOME to read the Day 1 & 2 Round-ups...

Round-Up: Day 1 & 2

And they’re off…

The RWC returned with a bang on Friday night as the hosts New Zealand kicked off proceedings with a convincing 41-10 win over a battling Tonga. The All Blacks were quickly into their stride and two tries each from Israel Dagg and the very impressive Richard Kahui helped the tournament favourites to a comfortable win. Dan Carter had an off night with the boot by his very high standards, but he certainly wasn’t alone in opening days of the tournament. More on that later.

A late try from replacement scrum-half Ben Youngs proved decisive as a sloppy and mistake ridden England fought off an injury hit Argentina to win 13-9 in Dunedin.

England’s first game of the tournament was far from a walk in the park. In fact, it was more of a crawl through a warzone as they came up against a motivated and physical Argentinian side.

The South Americans dominated the early possession and a Felipe Contepomi penalty gave them an early lead. But it was to be Contepomi’s last meaningful act in the game as he was forced off with a rib injury. Outside centre Gonzalo Tiesi followed soon after; feeling the full force of a dubiously late hit from Courtney Lawes.

But it was a game off missed chances with both sides’ frequently floundering opportunities to put points on the board. Between them, the sides missed ten shots at goal with England’s Wilkinson missing five penalties in total. It was a very uncharacteristic performance with the boot from the normally so reliable fly-half.

England’s discipline was their downfall with eight penalties being conceded in an error-ridden first half. Referee Bryce Lawrence finally lost his temper with the frequent infringements at the breakdown and sent Dan Cole to the sin-bin just before the break.

The Six Nations champions struggled to find the magic they had demonstrated during a successful build-up period and continued to force the play, leading to an unprecedented number of turnovers. Ben Foden broke the line mid-way through the first half, but that was as close as the 2007 finalists came during the first forty minutes.

The Argentinians continued in their brutal defensive manner and had the opportunities to cross the line themselves. Some weak first-up tackling allowed wingers Agulla and Camacho to carry the ball fifty metres downfield before being hauled down by the covering defence.

But with thirteen minutes left on the clock, Ben Youngs found a gap around the fringes of the ruck and accelerated in under the posts. It was England’s first real sign of quick-ball and the Leicester number nine showed just why Martin Johnson was so keen to have him on the plane down under.

It was dull and rusty, but most importantly it was a win. Johno’s boys are off to a winning start in New Zealand and with the rust now under the carpet, the Sweet Chariot can swing on to bigger and better things, hopefully.

For those of you that were fast asleep and couldn’t wake yourself up to watch Fiji take on Namibia; you missed the best game of the day. Fiji wing Vereniki Goneva crossed the line four times to become the first Fijian to score a World Cup hat-trick and in doing so, helped his side to a 49-25 win against rank outsiders Namibia.

Seventeen points from the boot of Dimitri Yachvili guided France to a comfortable victory over Japan. The French scored six tries and survived a late Japanese comeback before eventually running out winners 47-21.

Two late Simon Danielli tries saved Scotland’s blushes as a resolute Romanian side pushed them all the way. With twelve minutes remaining, Romania led 24-21, but couldn’t hold on; Scotland won 34-24.

Follow the RWC on Tournament Talk for all the news, views and opinions you need.