A great champion's bitter defeat

After a hard-fought battle, the loss was a bitter end of the tournament for this great champion.

Leinster and Harlequins repeating Nucifora's mistakes

No Blues side has possibly ever been stronger than 2008 Blues. To their already fearsome forward pack, the signing of star first five Nick Evans from the Highlanders drew a very pleasant perspective for their 2008 Super 14 campaing. Evans, alongside with Rokocoko, Nacewa, Tuitavake, Toeava and Wulf formed a promising line-up.

The fact that the Blues did not even reach the last 4 despite an outstanding start with 15 points during their first three games suggests a big question mark over the former Blues head coach David Nucifora.

The quality was undoubtedly there. But apparent lack of form of Toeava first and Nick Evans afterwards, injuries to Evans, Rokocoko and Nacewa and strange tactical decissions like those of switching Nacewa and Evans eventually lead to a bitter 6th position for the Blues.

Possibly the strangest decission that Nucifora took was switching Evans to fullback and Nacewa to first five eighths. What was the point of it? Nacewa spent 2007 playing at first five for the Blues while at the same time he said that his favourite position was wing. 2008 saw him trying at fullback while the number 10 was automatically given to Evans.

Why switch them? Is not Nacewa better fullback than Evans? Is not Evans possibly one of the two best first five in the world?

It amazed me last week during Heineken Cup to see again Nick Evans playing at 15 for the 'Quins while Nacewa wore the Leinster 10 jersey.

People taking care for these two sides, don't you have enough money to sign whoever you want? There is no excuse if you lack a better 10 than Nacewa and there is no possible reason that I can envisage for switching Evans to 15.

Well, not entirely true; there's one, but he's playing for Perpignan this season.

Super 14: Warm up

Super 14 is closer and closer. This is a selection of news related to Super 14.

• Refereeing politics change: The time when a referee for a match was chosen based on the nationality is over. SANZAR will start naming referees based on merit, regardless of the nationality.
• Saracens to play a match against the Stormers (the same weekend, although two days before, Saracens will have played their ECC game against Mont de Marsan in France) at Newlands.
• Warm-up matches for the weekend: Blues - Hurricanes; Chiefs - Highlanders; Stormers - Saracens; Crusaders - Force; Sharks- Cheetahs; Waratahs - Reds.
• Brumbies have just signed rookie Matt Toomua, to fill in the first five position. (So confident were they that Giteau was coming back)

Latest News: Michalak is a halfback

French head coach Marc Lievrèmont has reportedly said:

"For me, Fred is more of a scrumhalf but he currently plays at first five at Toulouse and for me, in that position, he's behind guys like Lionel Beauxis and David Skrela at the moment"

Queer coaching decissions

Harlequins have specialized this season at come-back. Against Leicester, Stade de France and many others, their will and their cool heads have taken them to important scores. It must be said that Nick Evans has often been the executing weapon of a Quins side who never give up.

Against Ulster, things looked pretty much the same when, after trailing 12-0 at halftime, the Harlequins recovered to trail only 16-10 with 10 minutes to go and a very kickable penalty for the english side.

"16-13 and 10 minutes to get possession and have another score" I said to myself.

But then the english coach (Dean Richards) decided he had enough of good results and he wanted to risk everything. Malone in for Evans.

Pardon?????????????????

I mean, Malone has not played a single minute, Evans is your specialist and you are close to it... What's going so wrong to change everything?

Nevermind, Malone kicks to goal and misses. Five minutes later, a kick of his is intercepted and Ulster Scores. Game over. 21-10.

It will not be published anywhere, as Stade de France has lost today and the Harlequins are already classified, having a 6-point advantage with one game to go.

Justin Marshall signs for the Saracens

It seems his fight with Montpellier is over and he's been released to sign for the english club. Justin Marshall will be then, if my reckoning isn't wrong, the first kiwi to have played in all four top european competitions: Magners, Top 14, Guinness and Heineken Cup.

Not a bad feat for a player who has consistently been an outstanding performer at his position for over a decade.

But clearly, Marshall's situation at the french club and his change to Saracens does mean something's not going right for him.

What is it?

Maybe 12 years at the highest level are too much.

Maybe... could it be time for Justin Marshall to start thinking about putting an end to his career?

Northern hemisphere competitions

So, less than one month to kick the Super 14 and here I am watching a few games of the northern hemisphere competitions, which is not that bad, really. What can be said about the four top competitions?

Top 14: This is a matter of 3 teams. And, unlike rugby in the south, in the north the presence of Carter won't change anything. The title is meant to got to Toulouse, mark my words, with Stade Français coming close at the second place. Ever since watching them at the Heineken Cup I like Clermont Auvergne more than any other french team. Worth to watch a game.

Guiness Premiership: The best thing that has happened to this league this season in Nick Evans. However, much like in the french case, a player won't change anything and I don't see anyone able to prevent Bath, Gloucester or Irish to get the trophy. I would very much like to see the Quins or the Saracens trying, though.

Magners League: Ospreys? Munster? Leinster? This is by a lot, the less predictable competition. Munster, as strong as they are, are not consistent enough to grant them the championship, although they are hot favourites. But the Ospreys have gathered a strong side, beware.

Heinken Cup. Just 4 rounds have been played and all is to be decided yet, in the Top european championship. This year, the bets should go on to french teams, specially Toulouse, but Munster, Irish or Gloucester also look very strong. Beware with the Quins, they have not beaten Stade Français twice for nothing.

My bets are on:

Top 14: Toulouse

Guinness: Bath

Magners: Ospreys

Heineken Cup: Toulouse.

Cipriani: Enough is enough

I liked this guy one year ago. He looked like a real promise, a project of a player. A good player. But we have been fed Cipriani for breakfast, Cipriani for lunch and Cipriani for tea, dinner, supper and even during slumb.

And the guy does not deserve it!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

He cannot behave, he cannot kick, he cannot lead England and he simply WILL NEVER BE a good rugby player.

The last news from him is that he might be better looking for some aid for his kicking in the NFL.

Oh, please, do not make me laugh. Hundreds of players in South Africa and New Zealand are just younger, better and no one pays any attention to them. They make it their own way and no whole country will give them any advise for him to eventually become the fucking national hero. Much unlike Cipriani.

He's only 21 and he's already burnt out.

Please, do not talk to me about Cipriani again unless he scores a hat trick against the Springboks or the All Blacks. I just can't stand it.

All Blacks only lose, they never win

Happy new year to you all.

Now that I have finally filled in a facebook profile, I've it clear: I prefer losing my time here, writing stupid things about rugby, as I always do, than writing stupid things anywhere else.

And to kick 2009 off in fashion, my first thought; about the All Blacks, of course, what else?

Outside New Zealand, the history of the All Blacks is built upon a hundred years long list of defeats.

Indeed.

Have any doubts about it?

Let me remind you which memorable AB's games you have in mind.

1905. Wales defeated the All Blacks 3-0 in their first match-up in what eventually came up to be the only defeat of the "Originals" tour (34 wins and a single loss)

1936. Obolensky scored two tries in the first defeat of the All Blacks against England 13-0.

1973. Barbarians - All Blacks. The game that any POM (and POM-lovers) recall as the best game of rugby ever played.

1978. Munster defeat the All Blacks 12-0. The only reason for irish (any irish) to still play rugby, according to many, Monsieur Rugbycan included.

2007. France 20 - All Blacks 18. Choke. Choke. Choke. Choke. Choker.

*Sigh*

If you happen to be a southerner, or by any chance you know anything about real rugby, sorry, I mean southern-hemisphere rugby, your ideas about the All Blacks might well be truly different. You will surely remember 2000's thrilling end of the Tri-Nations tournament, when a tank disguised of left wing called Jonah Lomu scored the decissive try in injury time to give the All Blacks the game against the Wallabies, the BC and the 3N. Or you might recall Gregan's tackle on Jeff Wilson or maybe his famous "4 more years, boys" or perhaps the last-gasp try at the House of Pain last June that gave the Springboks their first win in New Zealand (first ever at Carisbrook, Dunedin) in 5 years. But then, you will agree with me, we are a minority.

For the rest of the world, the history of the All Blacks is built upon defeats, much like those of chessplayer Jose Raúl Capablanca or tennis player Roger Federer, individuals whose victories were deemed normal and whose defeats were always first-page news.

Stop it

It has happened again.

Adam Thomson is the one who has not been able to behave. And he is not guiltier than many others.

I am seriously considering changing my 2009 Highlanders allegiance if nothing changes or this goes on.

Please stop it.

Heineken Cup hangover

Ironically, the day that Daniel Carter started his season in the northern hemisphere, the best player of the day was in another match.

If you ask me why I like Evans so much, why I consider him most unfortunate for the focus always being on the cantabrian (not that I don't like him a lot), just watch the (at times) best first five in the world in action.

Dan Carter at Perpignan

If we are to pay attention to all that speak about rugby, the 7-month sabbatical that Daniel Carter is taking in Perpignan is going to change the face of rugby world.

You can see it in most blogs and newspapers' webs. They are all awaiting the kick-off of the first Carter's game for Perpignan (against Leicester Tigers).

Is it deserved? Can Carter bring the first title to a club that has always been there but never crossed the goal line in first position? It is not going to be easy for the man from Canterbury. The biggest thing of the northern hemisphere rugby is that there are thousands of competitors; it is true at domestic competitions, but especially at the global competitions such as the Heineken Cup. I am no clairvoyant and therefore, I cannot tell the future. But I find Carter has what is needed; Carter could be the man, yes. No matter how difficult it can be, he has got it, and will take Perpignan, if not to the heavens of the Heineken Cup, to be the reference team in Europe, and of course, in France.

The never-ending stare and the game that witnessed two hakas

The never-ending stare


The game that witnessed two hakas

Dan Carter at home

You know I like to from time to time post something less relevant. This time is about Dan Carter. Do you know why is he one of the best kickers?



I wonder if his house in Perpignan does have one of these.

A last word on the November Tour

There is one last thing I would like to say about the November tour.

The prospect of facing the All Blacks has led to a lot of addo in every country, a lot of talking about the haka, about the kiwi arrogance and a lot of media talking up the chances of any national side or talking down the greatness of an All Blacks team that had a lot to prove after a horrendous World Cup Campaign.

The plain truth is that every national side is under pressure when playing the All Blacks at home.

On the other hand, the best game of the tour has not been a test. Munster, by heart, by will, have undoubtedly been the best opposition the All Blacks have faced. No pressure at all for Munster when playing the All Blacks, and a great privilege for the players. And even nowadays, when players are paid millions to play rugby, passion and will are the most dreadful weapons. Wayne Smith, All Blacks backs coach said it best: "We have seen teams go out and just about die for a cause on this tour. I have never seen a team like Munster so beaten up after a game."

A good reason for longer tours, is it not?

My 2009 super 14 franchise

So sorry, but I couldn't stand watching yesterday games at the HC. I tried to watch the Stade Français vs Harlequins and it was boring. But afterwards I made a major mistake in the Leicester Tigers vs Perpignan. Horrible.

Therefore I turn back again my face to southern rugby and I am chosing my franchise for the 2009 Super 14.

Last year I picked both Hurricanes and Blues. The Hurricanes did well, but the Blues were simply too irregular after a bludgeoning start and despite a wonderful last rounds.

This year, I am switching totally my allegiance. I will, as usual, cheer all kiwi sides, but my priorities will be on the southernmost side of the country. This season I will follow the Highlanders.

I feel that, given the current status of New Zealand rugby, the great improvers of this 2009 will be the Highlanders and that's why I want to be the first to say: I already foresaw it!!!!

So, go Highlanders!!!!!!!!!!!

News Salad

Here you have a brief mix of the relevant news in the last hours

• The Wallabies beat the BaaBaas 18-11: Take this as an example of what Deans' teams do when it matters most. These wallabies have talent on the pool and will grow up quicker than any other nation during 2009
• Carl Hayman is keen to stay in England: So rumours that he could be coming back to NZ should not be heard. Should they?
• The Pacific Islanders want to join in the 3N: Yeah, they have got almost the same chance than I have of being included.
• Leon MacDonald shall play next season: This is the best news of the month. Too bad Julian Huxley won't be playing, too.
• Johnson' project is a long-term on: When did Brian Ashton know his was a short-term one?
• George Gregan is still the best aussie scrumhalf: (no printed source, but just watch the game)
  

All Blacks vs Irish and British Lions

November tour players and ratings: New Zealand

Outside backs

Mils Muliaina: He's in the form of his life. 10/10

Isaia Toeava: As a fullback, much better than elsewhere. 8/10

Cory Jane: Promising, but not enough game time to tell.

Anthony Tuitavake: Improving, a regular in the All Blacks from now on. 7/10

Hosea Gear: Needs more test time but still, not enough games to tell.

Joe Rokocoko: He's taking his time. 7/10

Sitiveni Sivivatu: Much better under the high ball. 8/10

Midfield

Richard Kahui: He's been excellent, even tired as he was. 8/10

Conrad Smith: Outstanding. Always the best choice. 9/10

Ma'a Nonu: The player of the tour. 10/10

Halfbacks

Stephen Donald: Work in progress. But needs to improve. 7/10

Dan Carter: At his best. 9/10

Jimmy Cowan: One good and one bad, but I like him. 7/10

Piri Weepu: The same can be said about him. Much better as a replacement. 7/10

Andy Ellis: Not enough games to tell.

Third Row

Liam Messam: Not much time, but he was unbelievable in the number 8 jersey. 8/10

Kieran Read: He has moved past Thomson. Excellent choice by Henry. 8/10

Adam Thomson: How did he manage to get there? 6/10

Scott Waldrom: He needs more game time. 6/10

Jerome Kaino: Getting more and more consistent after every game. 8/10

Richie McCaw: As good as ever. 8/10

Rodney So'oialo: The silent worker. I like him more than ever. Always winning meters in his runs. 8/10

Second Row

Jason Eaton: Needs more game time. Not enough games to tell

Ross Filipo: Not enough games to tell.

Anthony Boric: Outstanding against Wales. 8/10

Brad Thorn: A bit tired, but a force. 8/10

Ali Williams: Superb: 9/10

First Row

Neemia Tialata: the best option at scrum-time. 8/10

John Afoa: the best running prop in the world (with permission of Tony Woodcock). Just needs a bit more consistency at the scrum. 8/10

Ben Franks: Not enough games to tell.

Corey Flynn: Too bad he got injured again.

Keven Mealamu: More than a decent cover. Hore or Mealamu? Cannot tell. 9/10

Jamie Mackintosh: The young giant gets better and better. Give him more time. 7/10

Tony Woodcock: He was called Myth and showed he's the best 1 in the world. Please, keep calling him names. 10/10

November tests

Now the tours are over. With fourteen games played (NZ 4, AUS 4, SA 3, ARG 3), eleven of them have been wins for the southern teams and just three wins have been chalked up by the northerners (FRA-ARG, IRE-ARG, WAL-AUS).

Actually, France should have beaten Australia, too, and only Skrela's erratic kicking saved the aussies.

Leaving the aussies apart, both NZ and SA have fared too high for the Home Nations. They have not got the resources to match either of the big two. Nor will they for long years. Only Wales and Ireland seemed able to give them a game but they are still behind. Of course, England and France are different and they have the pool to build a brand new generation of players but, will they find the right men? I don't like Lievremont or Johnson, to begin with.

Australia is, to my eyes, building some depth that was lost after 2007, and their below par performance during this tour is less relevant as much of Deans work shall produce results not sooner than 2009. Deans has worked hard in order to find a competent forward pack, and when he ticks that box, Australia will be as strong as the other two (at the very least).

Argentina is in a highly unenviable position. They have been the admiration of rugby world for long years but after 2007 they need to replace some players and still be on top. This is what makes the difference between an outstanding generation of players and a rugby legacy.