The Rugby Pod

   Providing rugby fans with audio coverage of live games, commentary, podcasts and interviews. For fans, by fans. Get in touch to contribute!  

[therugbypod]

Player In The Pod - Rob Kearney

The Rugby Pod sat down with Rob Kearney following Ireland’s impressive November International Series. We spoke with the Leinster fullback about finally ending the All Black hoodoo, Joe Schmidt, the implementation of Bonus Points in the 6 Nations, Conor McGregor & what the future holds for Ireland’s last line of defence.

Rob Kearney is an ambassador for Optimum Nutrition 

Rob, first things first. New Zealand in Chicago. The best win of your career?

Yeah, I think it has to be. Certainly, top 3. I’ve been lucky enough to be part of some awesome occasions through my career including the Grand Slam in Cardiff, but beating the All Blacks is something I’ve been trying to do for a long time now. It was top of my list of things to still achieve in my career, so to get it done in Chicago and have my family there to celebrate, was a dream come through.

Did you give O’Driscoll a bit of stick about retiring a couple of years too early?

To be fair, he was one the first to text and congratulate me. He was delighted for us. I’m sure he would have liked to be out there with us, like most ex internationals who have played against the All Blacks. But like everyone, he was just so happy we’d finally broken the hunch. It was a long time coming.

It’s been a great year for Irish Sport, with Conor Mcgregor also making waves in UFC.

I follow him and his career closely. It’s incredible what he’s done for Irish Sport, what he’s done for UFC, but the most fascinating thing is how he has done it. He’s given everyone an absolute lesson in terms of sports marketing, self-promotion and branding. All those things are a lot stronger in an individual sport, and you could never do it in a team sport, but his story has been fascinating and a joy to watch.

Joe Schmidt is getting the best out of you personally and Ireland. What’s his secret?

Good question, I guess it’s that exact secret which makes him one of the best coaches in the world. His big thing is an incredible attention to detail. He always puts a very good game plan together. It’s never over complicated and there’s real clarity about exactly we need to execute and achieve. He also makes sure there’s plenty of competition and I think that drives everyone and gets the best out of us. I’ve been working with Joe for 7 years now, and I think you’ll struggle to find a better coach anywhere in the world.

He brought in 9 new caps over the November internationals. Who impressed you behind the scenes?

The same guys who impressed on the pitch to be honest. If you’re not delivering in training and in the gym, you rarely see it on the pitch. Players like Josh van der Flier, Garry Ringrose and Joey Carberry have made big impressions. Particularly over the last year, Josh and Garry have taken international rugby by storm and are very exciting prospects.

Any initiations for all the new cap?

There were so many of them and we flew out the day after the All Blacks game so we didn’t get a chance! The initiations of 10 years ago have been tamed down a bit unfortunately. My one was over in Buenos Aires, and involved an Argentinian drink I don’t ever want to see, taste or smell again.

Looking towards the Six Nations, Bonus Points will be added to this season’s tournament. Is that the right move?

The jury is out on it. I would hate to see a team not win a Championship because of weather conditions. It’s without doubt more difficult to win games and score 4 tries in heavy rain, so there will be times when weather affects games and that would be my only concern. Hopefully it makes games more exciting. You’re going to see more attacking rugby which is obviously what you want.

England are back to their best and seem to have that pomp & arrogant streak of the Martin Johnson era. What have you made of their new look squad under Jones?

I think Lancaster built a very strong base and Jones has come in and put the icing on the cake. They have a very strong backbone in the pack, which is where their strength lies. Billy Vuniploa will be a big loss over for them during the six nations, but they’ve got so many other stars and are rightly favourites for the Six Nations.

Lancaster is working with you at Leinster – What has he brought to the team?

He’s getting on really well. He’s a superb coach and above all, he has strong values which is very important to me. He’s changed our defensive structure a huge amount and upped our line speed and made us a much more comfortable team without the ball. Attack wise, he’s added a few elements to our phase play and is working closely with Girv on our power plays and first phase ball.

What do you get up to outside of Rugby and what are your longer-term ambitions?

I’m involved with a couple of bars with Jamie Heaslip, Sean O’Brien and my younger brother Dave which is good fun. I also helped set up a recruitment company with a pal from school, Andrew Lynch, called Mason Alexander. But ultimately, I want to play for as long as I can. My body will have a huge say in this, but I’m very happy at Leinster and I love living in Dublin. I have two more years on my contract, and that will bring me up to 18 months from a World Cup in Japan, so who knows, but at the moment, I’m hungry for more!

‘Rob Kearney is an ambassador for Optimum Nutrition, the world’s leading trusted sports nutrition partner. Optimum Nutrition has been setting the Gold Standard for more than 30 years, providing quality products for everyone from everyday gym goers to elite athletes. Read more at www.onacademy.co.uk’

Interview with Fred Culazzo for The Rugby Pod – www.TheRugbyPod.com 

[therugbypod]

Aviva Premiership Review - Round Eight

Shorn of its international players, but still packing a mighty fine punch, the Aviva Premiership was back on the scene this weekend. I fully appreciate the amount of rugby that was flying your way, so maybe you missed the goings on of Round 8 in England’s top flight. Here’s a quick low down, then you can get back to working out which game Jaco Peyper was watching. 

Bath beat beleaguered Bristol by a score. Not much in this, Bath jumped back to the head of the table (temporarily) and Bristol gave a much better account of themselves than whence they last played in this league. Only one try in it; it proved the difference. They gave ‘man of the match’ to a prop forward (Nathan Catt); ‘nuff said. Taulupe Faletau played 55 minutes, although Matt Garvey and Rhys Priestland both limped off. Bristol snaffled a bonus point but that first win still eludes like Frank Abagnale (Catch Me If You Can - come on, keep up).

Exeter’s trip to Newcastle was longer than any Leonardo Di Caprio film and the result was a bit like ‘Titanic’. I mean, sure, you knew what was going to happen but how they did it was still impressive. The Chiefs achieved what no other team has done this season; scoring four tries and carrying home the bonus point win from Kingston Park. An early gift of a try from Newcastle helped them on their way and that, plus a large amount of indiscipline, had Dean Richards snarling. Exeter up to fifth, Falcons slip to tenth.

Problems persist at Saints, and whilst Northampton notched up a ‘W' at Worcester, few fans left Sixways satisfied. Stephen Myler’s boot bagged all of the visitors points as an injury ravaged Warriors conceded an eye-catching eighteen penalties (to Saints’ six). Jamie Shillcock started at 10 for the home team and he could have been the hero; his long and last-minute penalty kick falling short. Worcester beaten at home for the first time this season (they are seven points clear of Bristol); Saints flatter to deceive in sixth.

Just the one game on Saturday afternoon, nestled in amongst some behemoth Internationals. Gloucester broke their home duck in fine style, dispatching of Wasps through a combination of dogged defence and neatly taken chances. Danny Cipriani’s gaff will make the headlines; with the match neatly poised at 10-11 to Wasps, he miscued his clearance kick into his own scrum half’s head and then failed to gather the bouncing ball, allowing Mark Atkinson and friends to slide through and score. Glaws continued to press and grabbed the bonus point as Charlie Sharples scooped up Willi Heinz’s long, cross field kick. Gloucester suddenly look like quite a good side. The opposite is true of Wasps.

Sunday’s double helping came at you much like a good roast dinner, reassuring and plentiful with not too many surprises. Saracens visited Sale Sharks and Alex Lozowski steered the visitors home with a tidy performance from outside half. Some trusty names also stood out; Brits, Burger and Barrett delivered assured performances that left Sale unable to contend. Sarries return to the top of the table whilst the Sharks slump to seventh.

Leicester were also in dominant mood as they ushered aside Harlequins at Welford Road. Freddie Burns was back at ten and helped move the Leicester pack around the park, and into try scoring positions. 'Quins couldn’t really get going and have won only once away from home in eleven Premiership matches. Tom Croft made a rare appearance, then went off with an injury (natch), while James Horwill made Twitter dry wretch as he perfected the ability to point two different ways with the same hand. Tigers tiptoe up to fourth, Harlequins sink to eighth.

Until next week, fingers crossed (not you, Horwill).

Aviva Premiership Team of the Week - Round 8

15 James Hook (Gloucester), 14 Dean Hammond (Worcester Warriors), 13 Ollie Devoto (Exeter Chiefs), 12 Brad Barritt (Saracens), 11 James Short (Exeter Chiefs), 10 Freddie Burns (Leicester Tigers), 9 Ben Spencer (Saracens)

1 Richard Barrington (Saracens), 2 Richard Hibbard (Gloucester), 3 Kane Palma-Newport (Bath), 4 Ed Slater (Leicester Tigers), 5 Mario Galarza (Gloucester), 6 Tom Ellis (Bath), 7 Brendon O’Connor (Leicester Tigers), 8 Ben Morgan (Gloucester)

Written by Sam Roberts for The Rugby Pod

www.therugbypod.com

www.samrobertsrugby.com

@samrobertsrugby

[therugbypod]

Aviva Premiership Review - Round Seven

Round 7 and the Aviva Premiership was back from its European vacation. And like the Griswalds, it didn’t disappoint. Well, actually, there were some moments that would have had Chevy Chase raising that characteristic eyebrow, but when all was said and done, we found ourselves nodding and smiling in a warm glow of appreciation.

Opening the festivities were Northampton Saints and Gloucester. Two teams who knew a loss could take them a step too close to the canyon. The first half at the Gardens will not live long in the memory and, indeed, showed the fidgety and out of form nature of both sides. The game contained another strange piece of TMO interaction. Having asked for help on a potential double movement for Louis Picamoles' first half score, referee Tom Foley seemed to ignore advice given and gave the Frenchman a contentious try. Gloucester had much of the game and were, in truth, a tad unlucky not to win; their late surge up the field coming to nothing. The final whistle left David Humphreys gazing wistfully into the distance. A Premiership Director of Rugby’s life contains so many what could have beens; the destitution oozed from the Ulsterman. 

Only two games took place on Saturday and it was Saracens that sidled past Leicester with indicative ease. Chris Wyles and Sean Maitland crossed over to round off sweeping Sarries’ moves, and Billy Vunipola rode a Saracens’ maul to add a third; the bonus point score was frustratingly unforthcoming. The match was also notable for the ferocity with which players flung themselves at each other; Michael Rhodes was in a particularly fractious mood. Quite where the form of Ben Youngs is at the moment though, I’m not sure. Or why Freddie Burns doesn’t get a start? Leicester were actually better than some of their recent Premiership performances, that Racing win seems to have put fuel back in the tank, but no one is as good as the men in black at the moment. World Club Challenge anyone? Go on, you know you want to.

Harlequins took on Worcester at the Stoop and the best game of the round was played out. Worcester are a far better side than their table position suggests and they more than contributed to a fine game. Both Willison and Te’o’s scores - each other playing provider - were well constructed and yet only seemed to galvanise ‘Quins further. Danny Care whizzed and popped; Tim Visser showed all his international credentials; and Joe Marchant showed exactly why Eddie Jones has his name in his book. Joe Marler looked as though the bee was back in his bonnet and was relatively lucky to escape a second yellow. Harlequins are settling into a top six side, whether they have enough to break into the top four remains to be seen. Worcester, suffering a long injury list at the moment, are a very enjoyable side to watch. They always seem to be involved in positive games of rugby.

Sunday served up a weighty trio. Three games that won’t get too many likes on Facebook but more than represented the current state of top flight affairs. Newcastle were eventually put away by Wasps but it wasn’t until Cipriani found Gopperth on a switch in the 69th minute that things seemed comfortable. A second score for the former Leinsterman in extra time flattered the home side but a bonus point win was secured. Dean Richards’ men will have been pleased to live with the Coventry outfit for so long; a top half spot does still look within reach.

The same can’t be said for Bristol. They welcomed Sale to Ashton Gate for a game that needed, at the very least, a stirring performance. It was not convergent and the Sharks, with the likes of Mike Haley, Paolo Odogwu and Sam James calling the tune, waltzed through the home defence with amenity. Nearly 15,000 turned up in the recently refurbished and extended stadium to witness a seemingly rudderless home side showing. Will Hurrell, a sole beacon of light for Bristol, proffered post match that individual errors were to blame; you could add that far too many individuals are making them. They kicked the ball away too often and couldn’t hold on to it for longer than three phases. Gavin Henson’s departure after ten minutes (with a shoulder injury) was unfortunate, but cannot be held up as an excuse for their dismal display. Desperate times for the Premiership’s bottom club; when people are using your name in the sentence as London Welsh, you know things are bad. If Andy Robinson makes the end of this week, I’ll be surprised. 

The final game of the weekend was also a crime scene. But on this occasion, it was Bath pilfering the points, and few Exeter fans can have any complaints. It was, again, an arm-wrestle of a contest, with the likes of Matt Garvey and Dave Attwood showing all of their heavyweight class. As only seconds remained on the clock, George Ford’s flat pass found Semesa Rokoduguni and the Fijian-born winger promptly complied, adding Steenson and Woodburn to his long list of defenders beaten. With footwork to rival Ronaldinho, Rocky is making it as difficult as possible for Eddie Jones to ignore him. The Chiefs, however, are victims of their own success says Rob Baxter. They seem to me like a car that has been taken apart and then put back together again; somehow, despite everything being in place, it just doesn’t seem to go as fast. Some tinkering to be done, not a lot, but still.

The Anglo Welsh provides another two week hiatus, the Autumn Internationals a distraction, but we will be back.

Aviva Premiership Team of the Week Round 7

15 Mike Haley (Sale Sharks), 14 Semesa Rokoduguni (Bath), 13 Matt Scott (Gloucester), 12 Winston Stanley (Harlequins), 11 Chris Wyles (Saracens), 10 Jimmy Gopperth (Wasps), 9 Danny Care (Harlequins), 1 Mako Vunipola (Saracens), 2 Elvis Taione (Exeter Chiefs), 3 Dan Cole (Leicester Tigers), 4 Michael Rhodes (Saracens), 5 Dave Attwood (Bath), 6 Matt Garvey (Bath), 7 David Seymour (Sale Sharks), 8 Louis Picamoles (Northampton Saints)

Written by Sam Roberts for The Rugby Pod

www.therugbypod.com

www.samrobertsrugby.com

@samrobertsrugby

[therugbypod]

Player In The Pod - Alex Goode

The Rugby Pod’s Andrew McNair sat down with Saracens & England fullback Alex Goode. Alex is speaking on behalf of Mitsubishi Motors, Official Performance Partner of England Rugby. Mitsubishi Motors is using Intelligent Motion to challenge the team ahead of the Old Mutual Wealth Series through innovative Performance Tests.

Saracens’ dominance was compared to the All-Blacks this week, no mean feat given Hansen’s men have just set yet another record for wins on the trot.

While chatting with Sarries full-back Alex Goode, who epitomises the ruthless efficiency of the European and Premiership championships.

We wanted to kick up some dust on our good friend Jim Hamilton, but were confronted with a response that spoke volumes of Alex’s determination to be the ultimate team player.

What’s the dynamic within the team, and how do you celebrate a big win?

“We certainly pride ourselves on spending a lot of time in and around just after (games) and after training day in day out. These trips away which are brilliant for the practical side because so many of the team have family and kids so we don’t get much time off. You see the success of Alex Lozowski this year, Sean Maitland and Shalk Burger. At the same time the younger guys come on trips and get to know the older guys and allow them to spend time with each other. We really talk about building relationships because we believe that helps on the field. It helps us with our communication, to have an honest talk and be frank. It helps us to respect one another that you’re not going to let each other down because we want to perform at the highest level.”

It’s easy to understand the importance of comradery in a game as physically demanding as Rugby, but big Jim Hamilton is always throwing people under the bus on The Rugby Pod, have you got any stories on him?

“Nah, you can talk about Chris Ashton if you want.” He joked, but went on, “The only thing about Jim is he’s known as ‘Jack story Jim’ because he loves a story, and he never lets the truth get in the way of a good story does Jim. That said I don’t think any of us have seen him train on a Monday or Tuesday this year. He likes to have a good moan and come on the main training days but somehow puts himself out there for the team at the weekends. He’s certainly not one to, as he says, be in the trenches.”

Saracens remain top of the premiership and unbeaten in Europe with many of the supporters sights set on that glorious double again, even if Alex does play it down exclaiming “we’re not getting ahead of ourselves.”

He was quick to point out that taking their eye of the ball for a single game could cost them when they come up against Toulon, Leicester, Clermont and so on.

Andy Goode was very complimentary about Saracens this week. Are there any teams in Europe or the Premiership that worry you?

It’s very nice when people say that (comparing the team to the All Blacks), but we’re very much focusing on ourselves, how we can improve and get better. We’re not getting ahead of ourselves. The All Blacks have been the dominant team for many years now so we’ve a long way to go. We respect everyone we play against, every club in Europe and every club in the Premiership because the quality is that high, you have to. We spend a lot of time on our preparation, making sure we analyse and respect the opposition we play against but there comes a point when we go ‘we’re a bloody good side’ and we’ve got a lot of strength in depth as well and we’ve got to use that.

We see players like Mako Vunipola who’s incredibly strong, but has the ability to play quick ball and keep the attack alive. How important is it to have a team packed full of all-rounders?

I think we pride ourselves on adaptability and being able to change your game plan but also we’ve really developed our attacking shape and made everyone a part of that. It’s a 15 man game, you’ve seen over the years the All Blacks have got some of the best ball handlers in the world and other teams haven’t found suit as much. We believe in everyone having their strengths and weaknesses but at the same time we’ve really taken our game to another level in that sense. We can still get a lot better but having people like Mako Vunipola, our second row with George, Jim and Maro who can pass and offload, these are massive strengths. We bring in the hookers like Jamie George and Schalk Brits who years gone by they didn’t exist so we’re very blessed and lucky to have those kind of guys at the club.

As the conversation drew to a close, Alex loosened up and it was great to see the man behind the professional exterior, before uttering the words every journalist dreads, “off the record.”

Nevertheless, we’ll catch up with him again soon enough were you may get more details. And believe you me, rugby story telling time can be just as ruthless as the boys at Allianz Park.

[therugbypod]

Win £100 worth of training kit, courtesy of Canterbury

Yahoo Sport & The Rugby Pod have teamed up with Canterbury to offer you the chance to win £100 worth of product from the new Canterbury Autumn Winter 2016 training range!

Details on the prize below, and to view the full range of products in Canterbury’s AW16 training range, visit www.canterbury.com

For your chance to win, simply answer the following question: As players, what was the heaviest weight Andy Goode & Jim Hamilton ever played at? 

a) 98kg & 120kg

b) 102kg & 135kg

c) 106kg & 135kg

d) 110kg & 139kg

The Answer can be found on this week’s Rugby Pod around the 37.40 minute mark: http://bit.ly/2di0YFP

Send your answer, along with your name & clothing size (top and bottoms) [email protected] to arrive by Friday 14th October 4pm

PRIZE & T&C’s

Designed using a selection of innovative technologies, the range will appeal to an active audience who value comfort and technical excellence when training throughout the harsh winter months.

The new season training range features three innovative fabric technologies; THERMOREG, VAPODRI and VAPOSHIELD.

Thermoreg technology is designed to keep the elements at bay and encourage thermal regulation, making the brand’s crew tops, tapered pants and hoodies perfect for those cold training sessions on the field.

Vapodri is prominent throughout the collection of technical tees and track pants, helping to draw moisture away from the body, maintaining a core temperature during even the toughest of workouts.

Vaposhield benefits include water resistance and quick dry to improve performance, making them perfect for a cold, wet training session.

T&C’s

Winner will be chosen at random by The Rugby PodSizes limited to M-XLEntries from UK & Ireland only

Closing date for entries - Friday 14th October 4pm.

[therugbypod]

The Rugby Pod's Aviva Picks - Week 6

Jack Pitt reveals the Pod's Picks for week 6 of the Aviva Premiership.

Matt Banahan – I may just put him in next week before the game’s even played as he is on fire at the moment. Thunderous in defence and he is running some gorgeous lines, he got up to the half century mark of tries this week. At this rate he will reach a century by season end.

Adam Jones – To step in late and play brilliantly is one thing, but to do it on the opposite side of the scrum you're usually on is something else. He ate Kieran Brookes alive, and that is no mean feat. Jones hasn't played since the death of his Mother in August, but he showed why Harlequins signed him at the weekend, he was superb.

Ross Moriarty – In a rather glum season for Gloucester so far, Moriarty has been the one Gloucester constant. He is growing into a real force, he will surely be a wildcard under “Gatlands law” in the autumn and I wouldn't object to him going with the Lions in the summer, either.

Telusa Veainu – This man scored a try of the season contender at the weekend, it was that good. However, he isn't in this prestigious weekly group just for that, he has been a dark horse so far this season in terms of his performances. His attacking prowess puts Leicester on the front foot more often than not and he is an asset they would struggle without.

Alex Lozowski – Lozowski capped off a week where he was included in England's EPS squad with a very solid performance yesterday, both going forward and defensively. It is difficult to see him surpassing Ford and Farrell, but should injury strike he looks more than capable of doing the business on the big stage.

Written for www.TheRugbyPod.com by Jack Pitt

[therugbypod]

Aviva Premiership Review - Round Six

Boom! Round 6 in your face! What a week: we started with a Club v Country row, got sidetracked with one of the world’s best players getting embroiled in a doping allegation, and ended up with another cracking weekend of Aviva Premiership rugby. Quite the ride. Let’s have a quick roll through the rise and fall, picking out the talking points as we go.

Friday nights at the Recreation Ground in Bath are always pretty special and under the lights Sale Sharks were chopped up and made into soup. George Ford wielded the sharpest of knives and holes were punctured all over the park. Matt Banahan shone like a beacon (I told you he was good weeks ago!) and a record crowd of 14,000 hooped and hollered the Bath boys home. Josh Beaumont basked briefly but the Sharks looked like they’d left a fair chunk of their game plan on the bus. Steve Diamond bemoaned a comfy hotel in a post match interview; “We won’t stay over next time”. They should try the Waterside Travelodge; those beds were awful.

Newcastle entertained winless Bristol on Saturday and the first forty played out like Andy Robinson’s worst nightmare. Jack Tovey threw a hugely speculative pass inside for Juan Pablo Socino to intercept and the tone was set. Further tries from Will Welch and Joel Hodgson (who had one of his better games) built a 19-0 lead at half time. Injuries had hit the home side’s backline and in the second period, miscommunication and maybe a little complacency let Bristol back in. First substitute Jon Fisher rolled over and then Mitch Eadie strolled in after some neat build up play. The telling blow was not forthcoming however and the home side held on for the win. Bristol picked up a bonus point and, in truth, Falcons will kick themselves for not getting their own. Newcastle up into the top half of the table, cue some North East nose bleeds.

Leicester dumped their defensive coach in the week and set about Worcester Warriors at Welford Road with renewed vigour. But the Sixways men are a tough nut to crack and it wasn’t until late on that Leicester got the bonus point win they were after. The stand out moment was Telusa Veainu’s solo try; the pinball wizard beat umpteen defenders, twenty seven away fans and the bloke selling programmes to score an absolute pearler. No Ben Youngs, Dan Cole or Mike Williams for Leicester (apparently they don’t like judo either) but Matt Toomua is on his way. Tigers into the top four, Warriors slip worryingly back towards the bottom.

There was no comfort to be taken from the 27-all at Sandy Park as Exeter Chiefs and Gloucester played out another Premiership draw on Saturday afternoon. A furious last quarter of an hour from the hosts allowed them to salvage three points from a game in which, in many ways, they’d been outplayed. Gloucester left with just two points and despite some obvious positives, there is a glaring inability to close out games. It was an unusual match, made weirder by a refereeing apology. James Hook had stepped on the touchline in the build up to one of Gloucester’s tries. Greg Garner shrugged his shoulders contritely as he watched it on the big screen after the conversion had been taken. Gloucester still lowly on the table, Chiefs just outside the top four.

Digging themselves out of a basement battle were Harlequins, whose Stoop form appears top drawer. Invited on by a Northampton side who seemed only to want to kick the ball away, the back three of Tim Visser, Mike Brown and Marland Yarde needed no second invitation. They returned every ball with interest and even though Alofa Alofa’s try was the only one, Quins' endeavour was there for all to see. So was some loose head heroics. Adam Jones was called into unusual action as both Joe Marler then Mark Lambert went down injured (the former in the warm up). Normally a tight head, the tight curled Welshman sprung to the home side’s rescue and by the end was winning scrummages on his own. Saints didn’t look at the races and certainly champion sprinter George North was woefully underused; an odd decision considering his galloping form. Harlequins up to 8th, Saints a point and place behind them.

The game of the weekend was supposed to be at Allianz Park as Saracens took on Wasps. And whilst the visitors sprinkled some fairy dust early on (Bassett’s try was especially easy on the eye), Saracens have the in-game ability to become an omnipresent, inexorable force. It’s like watching a boa constrictor slowly remove all the breath from an animal’s lungs and then patiently, and unattractively, swallow the being whole. It’s impressive, don’t get me wrong, but watching Wasps digested in this manner leaves you with a faint sense of inevitability. Perhaps the big black clouds gathering in the distance at the game’s conclusion made me feel this way. We head into a European break with the Barnet boys leapfrogging the Coventry outfit into top spot. There remains little doubt: Saracen’s reign will be tough to stop.

Aviva Premiership Team of the Week - Round 6

15 Telusa Veainu (Leicester Tigers), 14 Marland Yarde (Harlequins), 13 Jonathan Joseph (Bath), 12 Matt Banahan (Bath), 11 Ian Whitten (Exeter Chiefs) ,10 Danny Cipriani (Wasps), 9 Kahn Fotuali’i (Bath)

1 Mako Vunipola (Saracens)/Adam Jones (Harlequins), 2 Jamie George (Saracens), 3 Kyle Sinckler (Harlequins), 4 Graham Kitchener (Leicester Tigers), 5 Maro Itoje (Saracens), 6 Mark Wilson (Newcastle Falcons), 7 Jacob Rowan (Gloucester), 8 Lachlan MacCaffrey (Leicester Tigers)

Written by Sam Roberts for The Rugby Pod

www.therugbypod.com

www.samrobertsrugby.com

@samrobertsrugby

[therugbypod]

The Rugby Pod’s Premiership Picks - Week 5

The Rugby Pod’s Jack Pitt identifies some of the star performers from this weekend’s Aviva Premiership actions.

Louis Picamoles

The French star is already making waves in the Shire, and it’s clear to see from his performances why he has a high price tag. He instantly puts Northampton on the front foot and his tackling is ferocious. He has played every game so far this season, a rest will be needed soon and it will be interesting to see how Northampton cope without him.

Tom Dunn

His first Premiership start and Dunn was outstanding. His work rate is incredible and he was everywhere on the pitch. There is stiff competition for the two shirt at Bath, but he isn’t doing his chances any harm with performances like we saw over the weekend.

Will Addison

This guy was great in Sale’s win over Leicester and has had a strong start to the season. A player that can play across the back line, his running lines this season have been impressive. At only 24, he has a lot of time to learn and grow. He could be a real asset to the Sharks going forward. A note for Cameron Neild who was also excellent at the weekend.

Nathan Hughes

Back to his best this weekend, Guy Thompson’s form this season has put him in the shadows but Hughes should never be ignored. He was impressive going forward and thunderous in defence. His fellow England counterpart Sam Jones was also impressive this weekend, the Wasps back row is the envy of many.

Wynand Olivier

A consistent performer so far this season and scored the crucial try at the weekend. Worcester will need the key men like him to step up to the plate in the coming weeks to ensure they get points on the board, his defensive prowess and attacking ability should stand him in good stead.

Written by Jack Pitt for www.TheRugbyPod.com

[therugbypod]

Aviva Premiership Review - Round Five

Week five of the Aviva Premiership and the hits just keep on coming. Some of the games became ‘purist’ affairs, with defences elbowing their way towards the front, sitting down and blocking everyone’s view but, conversely, we also saw a genuine contender for try of the season (Hutchinson for Saints). But let’s leave that ’til last. Here are the talking points for that water cooler moment you share with your rugby loving boss.

Bath travelled to Gloucester and the West Country duo produced the sort of dire match you take your mates to, having spent the whole week telling them just what a good sport rugby is. Gloucester’s defence smothered Bath’s attacking intent and then, when it was their turn to attack, turned the pillow on themselves. Laidlaw couldn’t hit the proverbial barn door early on and despite all of their tackling, there are just too many fundamental errors for Gloucester. Bath exploited space (and one missed tackle) down the left hand touchline to score both their tries and the influential John Afoa limping off rubbed a fine pinch of salt into the derby wound. Bath win ugly and the Cherry and Whites are starting to turn in on themselves; senior ex-players are taking to twitter to air their grievances. Tick tock goes Humphreys’ crocodile…

Talking of forever young, let’s head up to the AJ Bell where Mike Phillips rolled back the years to open Sale Sharks’ account against Leicester. The try kick started a first half that scintillated; Peter Betham struck back with a neat double for the Tigers, and then Sale winger Paolo Odogwu hot-stepped his way over against the club he left in the summer. Jonny Leota grabbed a Sharks' third to sneak the home side in front at the break but the second half didn’t live up to the first. Much of that was due to resolute work from Sale’s defence but the Tigers couldn’t get going. Cockerill bemoaned defensive lapses (it’s the third time this season they’ve shipped thirty plus points) but they really didn’t look a threat in the second forty. A second half Halani Aulika try meant Steve Diamond’s men gobbled up all five points, they head to Bath next; Leicester go home to face Worcester.

Also leaving with a full compliment of points, but perhaps slightly less surprisingly, were Saracens. The went down to Ashton Gate and blew away Bristol whose nilling is a deafening confirmation of the struggle they face this season. Two well taken tries from Alex Lozowski complemented this week’s England call up, Wyles snaffled a neat one, and George Kruis rounded off a solid team performance with a score of his own. There’s not a huge amount of nice things to say about Bristol this week, so I won’t. Andy Robinson’s men go up to Kingston Park next week; people are starting to whisper phrases like ‘must win’. 

Speaking of Newcastle, their Sunday afternoon bromance with Worcester was somewhat awkward but ultimately handed the Warriors a long over due win. Sixways will have seen better matches but very few home fans will care. Their pack did a job on the Falcons’ scrummage and their younger backs continue to sizzle when given the chance. Newcastle will feel aggrieved about a call on a forward pass that would have seen Will Welch in but too many simple mistakes are being made. The Falcons couldn’t build on last weekend’s Kingsholm heroics but, really, next Saturday, they should be too strong for Bristol.

Wasps held onto their unbeaten record, opening up last week’s watertight Harlequins with ease. Such is the pace and power they can attack with, the Ricoh Arena outfit can make sides look a little silly. In truth, ‘Quins started well and were in touch at half time but the home side possess a couple more gears than most and many of their tries are worthy of their own highlight reel. Dan Robson rounded off a beauty and Guy Thompson and Sam Jones continue to impress in the best back row in the country. Three late scores, including one for Kyle Eastmond meant the Coventry side were well out of sight by the end and ‘Quins find themselves second from bottom in the table. Saracens at the Allianz next weekend for Dai Young’s men; I need you all present and correct for that one please.

Our final call is at the Gardens, as Northampton clawed their way back to seal a memorable victory over Exeter. The Chiefs started in double quick time; a really well furnished Olly Woodburn try and two Gareth Steenson penalties had the visitors thirteen nil up in as many minutes. But back roared Northampton and, to be precise, George North. Having rounded off a neat move for his team’s first score, the Wales winger regathered the restart and jumped on his horse. Galloping through and around the Chiefs’ defence (this is sounding like a Western) he’d cleared the sixty metre mark before firing the ball inside to Nic Groom, who in turn found Rory Hutchinson. Saints sucked on an orange one point to the good, and two penalties apiece in the second half (one heart in mouth effort from Harry Mallinder) meant that that was how the score stayed. Exeter lose again, Saints triumph at home for the first time this season; they are away at the Stoop next week, Exeter are at home to Gloucester.

Team of the Week

15 Jamie Shillcock (Worcester Warriors) 14 Paolo Odogwu (Sale Sharks)1 3 Elliot Daly (Wasps) 12 Matt Banahan (Bath) 11 George North (Northampton Saints) 10 Alex Lozowski (Saracens) 9 Kahn Fotuali’i (Bath)

1 Val Rapava Ruskin (Worcester Warriors) 2 Ashley Johnson (Wasps) 3 John Afoa (Gloucester) 4 Courtney Lawes (Northampton Saints) 5 George Kruis (Saracens) 6 Cameron Neild (Sale Sharks) 7 Schalk Burger (Saracens) 8 Louis Picamoles (Northampton Saints)

Written by Sam Roberts for The Rugby Pod

www.samrobertsrugby.com

www.therugbypod.com

@samrobertsrugby @therugbypod

[therugbypod]

Living The Dream - Sevens Star - Dan Norton

The Rugby Pod met up with Olympic silver medalist & England Rugby Sevens legend, Dan Norton, during a recent trip to Singapore. Dan was helping out with UFIT’s Education & Rugby camps, run by Ex Gloucester & England international, James Forrester. Full details & Links below:

Dan, first of all congratulations on a Silver medal at the Olympics. Did Rio live up to your expectations?

Absolutely. Growing up as a 9-year-old in Gloucester, I never saw myself competing in the Olympics, not least in Rugby, so to be there representing Great Britain was amazing. Being part of the whole event and mingling with the likes of Mo Farrah and Usian Bolt was a bit surreal, and then to also come away with a medal just made it even better.

I heard you’re actually faster than Bolt over 40m. Did you challenge him to a race?

Everywhere he went he was being mobbed! We would see him in the canteen eating and the minute he stood up people would be all over him, so he would make a run for the exit. So, no we haven’t had a chance to race yet!

Looking at the Sevens World Series, it seems like a dream job. Travelling to some of the best cities in the world, playing the game you love?

It’s a pretty special and amazing job. It’s kind of like Formula 1, just not as much money, or as many girls! But it’s incredible, we get to play in front of 30-40k people in each of these different cities and we also get to explore, socialise and have fun. Having said that, it’s also a lot of hard work. We’re training at such high intensity and pushing each other extremely hard. Ultimately though, it is a dream job and I definitely can’t complain!

You travel with the other teams, stay in the same hotels, play and socialise with them, how does that work?

There’s a lot of engagement between players both on and off the pitch. Pre-tournament, it’s like a game of chess. It’s strictly business, and there’s a certain amount of animal pride around the place. But afterwards, everyone loosens up, you go out for a few beers and have a laugh. There are always a few egos walking around the place, but it’s all good fun and everyone tends to get on well.

We do a Podcast with Andy Goode & Jim Hamilton and Andy in particular is very much of the opinion that a beer is an absolute necessary in terms of team building. How do you bond as a team?

Haha, I’m sure he does! But yes, it definitely it helps. With GB we had players coming together in a very short space of time, so after our first tournament in Russia, we went out for a session. That breaks down barriers a lot quicker and any awkward conversations are done away with outside the Kebab shop. It’s a great way to bond, but ultimately training is so important. Sevens is unforgiving and there’s nowhere to hide out there. Your only as good as your weakest player, so we push each other in training and that helps with the bonding

Who’s your toughest opponent in the World Series?

The Fijians are just Incredible athletes. As you probably saw, we were blown away in the Olympic final by them. On their day, they are untouchable. They play a brand of rugby that everyone loves to watch and players would love to emulate, but they don’t all have the same skill-sets. Generally, everyone is over 6 foot, fit strong and fast, so it makes the game very hard and there are no weak teams out there.

You started off as a Union Player. Would you ever consider returning to the 15-man game?

I’m very open to playing both. Sevens improves your skills immensely and for a young player it’s an incredible learning curve. You act as a play maker, try scorer, tackler, winning turn overs, everything. I did thoroughly enjoy 15’s, but sevens is moving forward so quickly. We will have another Olympics 2020, but there’s a World Cup in two years in the U.S as well as commonwealth games on the Gold Coast. These are all amazing sporting events. Sevens is on a wave at the moment and I’m really enjoying it. I’m happy where I am, but then again, not ruling anything out for the future.

Finally, what Sevens Series City is your favourite destination?

Las Vegas, just for being Las Vegas, is an awesome tournament. Vancouver is an also a great city and I really enjoyed it there, so they would be my top two. The joy is going to different climates, different cultures, cuisines and nights out. We get to see the best cities in the world and that’s why Sevens is so special and enjoyable. Sometimes, when we’re in the Southern hemisphere in February, you turn on the premiership and it’s driving rain, a mud bath. Lots of mauls, up and unders etc. I’m not into that. I prefer the beautiful game, getting the ball into my hands and trying to score tries, so Sevens.

Thanks to James Forrester & UFIT for arranging the interview. For more information, you can visit: www.ufit.com.sg/education 

UFIT Sports Education A specialist division of UFIT. Delivering internationally recognised certifications. Ranging from personal training to strength courses. www.ufit.com.sg/kids-camps

Written by Fred Culazzo for www.TheRugbyPod.com

[therugbypod]

The Rugby Pod’s Premiership Picks week 4

Jack Pitt rounds up week 4 of the Aviva Premiership with this week’s Rugby Pod Picks:

Ryan Edwards – Hardly got a sniff in the Championship, but has been ever present so far this season and he has not looked out of place at all. His pace is on par with other wingers in the Premiership and he doesn’t shy away from a tackle. If you can watch his try assist from Friday night, do so, it was mesmeric.

Val Rapava-Ruskin – For a prop to be top of the Premiership turnover stats, that’s something special and this man is just that. Worcester need to tie him down ASAP. He is immensely mobile, a good scrummager and defensively sound. This man has been by far Worcester’s best player this season and has grown ten-fold within the Warriors environment.

Jamie Roberts – He was a defensive stalwart in the win over Saracens on the weekend and literally tackled himself into the ground for 80 mins. Harlequins looked the complete team on the weekend and showcased the talent they have. This man was at the centre of it. Some have questioned his attacking prowess, but with talented 13’s outside him it looks to be no issue in a Harlequins shirt.

Guy Thompson – In the form of his life and was keeping Nathan Hughes out of the team at the start of the season, but for a back row shift at the weekend. He has enviable pace, good hands and reads the game excellently. The lines he has run so far this season put all of the centres in the league to shame, great stuff.

Brendon O’ Connor – Mike Williams was Leicester’s best player on the weekend, but you cannot ignore O’ Connor’s support play and work at the break down. His try was an example of the former and his turnover count was near the top of the stats at the weekend. He is English qualified and would be handy for the red rose no doubt.

Matt Banahan – Mr consistent for Bath all of last year and so far this year. He is dependable, adaptable and Bath through and through. Why he doesn’t have more England caps astounds me, but if he can stay fit he is a crucial cog in Bath’s game and helping them get back to the top four.

Written by Jack Pitt for www.TheRugbyPod.com

[therugbypod]

Aviva Premiership Review - Round Four

There are few certainties in sport. Fewer still in the Aviva Premiership. As we rounded our fourth lap of a twenty two week campaign, previous givens were being taken back. Let’s look at some of the talking points. But let’s do it in reverse, starting with Sunday afternoon’s matchup.

Bath travelled to Welford Road to face a previously misfiring Leicester side and yet, despite their positions on the table, you always felt the Tigers would win this one. And so it started; Mike Williams stealing line out ball, Peter Betham accelerating though a midfield gap and Telusa Veainu finding a supreme offload for Brendon O’Connor to finish. Semesa Rokoduguni briefly tapped at Eddie Jones’ window with an excellent solo try but the remainder of the game showed what we’d been missing these past few weeks. The Tigers pulled it all together and pushed aside a Bath outfit in every area of the park. Richard Cockerill was smiling in post match interview, despite the news that Manu Tuilagi would spend more time on the sidelines recovering from his groin injury. 6-8 weeks is the prognosis, although with Matt Toomua to come in and a back line operating so efficiently, you could make a case for this being less of an issue than at first thought.

Saturday had four games that simultaneously kicked off at 3pm. Many eyes were on The Stoop as Harlequins entertained the preseason favourites for a second successive title, Saracens. Still without Owen Farrell, the Barnet outfit were never allowed to get going and it was Tim Visser who scored first, stepping into the Saracens line to poach the ball and gallop in under the posts. Two Tim Swiel penalties bookended that score and a few moments later the South African fly half sent out a wonderfully long, looping, left-handed pass, which produced try scoring space for Charlie Walker to exploit. The home side headed into the break 17-0 up; their lovestruck fans blinking at each other in disbelief. Saracens did reply via a neat Richard Wigglesworth try just after the break but the physical effort from Quins was monumental. Scuffles broke out with regularity as the home side took the battle to their guests; the pack often getting some retaliation in first. Saints had attempted to beat up Sarries last weekend but had gotten carried away; players had been sent to the bin; here was just the right measure of fight. Cheered on by their giddy fans, the South West London barricades withheld a late onslaught and as the full time whistle blew, the Twickenham air was rarefied and very happy.

Over at Kingsholm, the Newcastle Falcons found their hosts in charitable mood. In the last few years, these two sides have cooked up a try fest when brought together and after an opening salvo of a score a piece, many would have thought this encounter was heading in the same direction. But Gloucester are quite the enigma, able to served up woeful and wonderful with unnerving ease and in the second half they coughed up possession and field position on too many occasions; the boot of Kiwi Mike Delany and a smart, short-sided try for Alex Tait saw the visitors amass an unsurpassable total. The dropping of Greig Laidlaw to the bench will have surprised a few after his heroics last week; his final penalty could only rescue a losing bonus point for the Cherry and Whites. I can’t imagine David Humphreys has too many chances left. If you can find a bookies offering odds on P45 handouts, the Ulsterman could be a good bet.

Wasps met up with a spirited Northampton Saints at Franklin’s Gardens and once again the hosts gave away far more than they should. A beautifully worked move saw George North scamper in for Saints with less than five minutes on the clock, but after that, it was all about what Northampton couldn’t do. At one stage, having pinned Wasps back, they failed to find the crucial pass and when Danny Cipriani lurched into gear down the right hand side, you suddenly thought Wasps could mean business. A neat kick and regather from the former Sale man found his mates inside him and Jimmy Gopperth sprinted home from 40 yards. Saints continued to press after the break, Tom Kessell squeezing over from close range to make it a one point game, but it was Wasps who dealt the killer blow. Dan Robson sniped around a midfield ruck and his chip over the fullback saw Ken Pisi trip the visiting scrum half. Josh Bassett piled through to pounce on the bouncing ball and the Northampton Samoan was shown a yellow card. Wasps, it seems, still have too much sting for any opposition. One moment to consider: Ben Foden rolled around like Ronaldo after Nathan Hughes’ marginally late hit, no doubt trying to eek out a yellow card. But later in the game, as Foden tackled Christian Wade in the air, the Wasps winger adjusted himself mid flight and landed on his feet, sparing any potential punishment. I know which approach I prefer. So do you Ben, deep down.

The game of the weekend was arguably at Sixways. Worcester showed real class to build a healthy lead but ultimately, and no doubt frustratingly for all involved with the club, they weren’t able to close the deal. After an early Sale Sharks and Will Addison double, Jamie Shillcock bagged a tidy brace and Perry Humphreys took his record to three tries in three games. The pick of the scores fell to the Worcester fullback Shillcock: set free by Cooper Vuna, the academy product still had a lot to do but pinned his ears back and trusted his pace. He was playing U18 rugby at scrum-half last season; in a short time, he has come a lovely long way. But the Sharks never know they’re beaten and, thanks to some serious forward organisation and ballast, as well as tries from Neil Briggs and Halani Aulika, they levelled the scores with minutes to spare and condemned Worcester to their second draw in three weeks. The biggest losers of the afternoon were Bristol. Both sides claimed three points and more space was put between themselves and the Premiership’s bottom club.

Which is where we go last: Bristol were at home in the opening fixture of the weekend. Friday night at Ashton Gate saw Exeter come knocking and the home support was left in no doubt as to just what sort of competition they’d got themselves into. Olly Woodburn and Thomas Waldrom grabbed a pair of tries each and although Bristol only just missed out on a fourth try themselves, the performance will have Andy Robinson and his management team looking nervously towards knocks at the door this week. Exeter have propelled themselves up the table and now appear very much like last year’s side. They also look a much better side with Gareth Steenson at 10. Social Media was crawling with opinions condemning Bristol to the drop. And we’re only four weeks in. Certainties in Aviva Premiership rugby? There are very few.

Round 5 Fixtures

Bristol v Saracens

Northampton Saints vs Exeter Chiefs

Sale Sharks vs Leicester Tigers

Gloucester v Bath

Wasps v Harlequins

Worcester Warriors v Newcastle Falcons

Aviva Premiership Team of the Week (Round 4)

15 Alex Goode (Saracens), 14 Olly Woodburn (Exeter Chiefs), 13 Peter Betham (Leicester Tigers), 12 Jamie Roberts (Harlequins), 11 George North (Northampton Saints), 10 Danny Cipriani (Wasps), 9 Jonny Arr (Worcester)

1 Alec Hepburn (Exeter Chiefs), 2 Neil Briggs (Sale Sharks), 3 Kieran Brookes (Northampton Saints), 4 George Merrick (Harlequins), 5 James Horwill (Harlequins), 6 Mike Williams (Leicester Tigers) , 7 Will Welch (Newcastle), 8 Guy Thompson (Wasps)

Written by Sam Roberts for The Rugby Pod

www.samrobertsrugby.com

www.therugbypod.com

@samrobertsrugby @therugbypod

[therugbypod]

The Rugby Pod’s Premiership Picks

Round three of the Aviva Premiership is done and Jack Pitt has selected the star performers of the week:

Greig Laidlaw – The Scot has landed 16 of his first 16 kicks in the Premiership this year, the record is 22 from Mark Van Gisbergen in the 2005/6 season. In an unpredictable Gloucester side he has been a constant, always leading from the front. He has also formed a nice partnership with young Billy Burns. The win on Friday could be the spark Gloucester need to kick start their season.

Tom Homer – This man has had a chance for some game time with Anthony Watson’s injury and was retained at full back on Saturday, where he was outstanding. Defensively sound and never afraid to run with the ball, he is everything you need in a full back. If he maintains this form he is un-droppable, there was talk of a move back to London Irish, but on this form he will be an asset to Bath this season.

Kahn Fotualii – At 34, he is aging like a fine wine and was superb on Saturday, marshalling Bath to Victory. The energy he adds from nine is unparalleled and he really puts Bath on the front foot. With Will Homer up and coming, there is no better mentor for the young man.

Schalk Burger – Physical and abrasive, he is a like for like replacement for Jacques Burger who retired last season. He was sensational on the weekend and is a wonderful ball player for a seven. He worked in perfect tandem with the Saracens back row to give Saracens the edge over the ball, which helped them get the win.

Elliot Daly – A quiet start to the season for Daly came to an end when he announced himself on Sunday. I could have picked 5 or 6 Wasps players, but Daly was the pick of the bunch with his vision and his pace in attack. When Eastmond came on, they formed a potent partnership too. A hat tip to Alex Rieder however, who was equally excellent on the weekend.

Mike Fitzgerald – A big move to Tigers in the summer and he has settled in really well. It was a hard fought win on Sunday for Leicester and they didn’t make it easy, but Fitzgerald’s nitty gritty work was invaluable. The Tigers are spoilt for back row options and this man compliments the position really well.

Written by Jack Pitt for www.TheRugbyPod.com

[therugbypod]

Aviva Premiership Review - Round Three

Week three of the Aviva Premiership and the gifts just keep on coming. So much rugby, so many tries, red and yellow cards, and maybe even a citing. Pay attention as we whistle through it; there was many a talking point. First up, the Friday fare; Sale took on Gloucester and within fifteen minutes we were all ordering a second pint and settling in for a try fest. Sam James was looking tidy and Billy Burns was picking holes like a bored teenager. It didn’t quite materialise, Gloucester built a lead and then strangled the game (rather novel for them of late) and I was left with a somewhat unnerving and difficult to answer question - why wouldn’t Greig Laidlaw be a good choice as Lions scrum half? Some Cherry and White fans certainly think so.

To Saturday and something a little romantic down in Bath. Leroy Houston touched down with his old mates and was straight back out on to the pitch, such are the Rec’s back row problems. And the party atmosphere seemed to send Bath off in the wrong direction. Worcester popped balloons with a first half lead and looked good for it. Jamie Shillcock, a Worcester debutant, having a hand in both tries. But a canny Ford operation in the second forty put pay to any West Country worry; Bath romped home, Houston himself amongst the scorers, the love flowing freely. And I tell you who is playing really well at the moment: Matt Banahan. Stick that in your England pipe.

To Allianz Park and Saracens pushed hard in an ill tempered game. Northampton took the scrap to the champions but ultimately couldn’t live with the speed and togetherness of Barnet’s boys. Alex Waller seeing yellow for a rather daft upending of Jamie George but most contentiously, Waller was then involved with Ashton. The Splasher turning Gnasher as gum shield bore down on the prop’s forearm. My guess is the former Saints winger got a large amount of ‘chat’ throughout the afternoon; still, you can’t let ‘em see you’re rattled. One for the commissioner me thinks; Ashy loves a suit and tie.

Saturday’s final instalment: Exeter v Harlequins. Bottom of the table Chiefs had to relight their fires and did so through a neat combination of forward grunt and sublime handling. Luke Cowan Dickie bagged a hat-trick thanks to two rolling mauls and an overthrown ‘Quins line out. And then the try of the weekend. Citizen Watches usually run a competition but I’ll tell you the winner now - Lachie Turner finished off a nigh length of the field effort for the Chiefs, go and have a look at it online; the backhander from Olly Woodburn is so good FIFA have been in touch to offer him a high ranking position. ‘Quins rallied late on but you do kinda worry about them; just not enough firepower.

Something Wasps have in the bucket load. Bristol visited the Ricoh only to ricochet around the hoardings and take a lot of restarts. To think that the Coventry outfit still have Beale and Le Roux to add to their back line makes you think things might be a tad unfair. The game possessed a somewhat unusual try to boot. Cipriani’s cross field kick bounced into the corner flag and then back in field; Wade and defender flew past it allowing Elliot Daly to swoop in and dot down. Wasps didn’t need that sort of luck. But they got it anyway. Bristol will need to put this result to one side. A late rally showed they can produce rugby of their own. They will have other fish to fry.

In the final game, Leicester travelled up to Newcastle for some late September sun and, in truth, returned mighty lucky to have claimed a win. The standout moment coming late on when the Falcons not only butchered a good try scoring opportunity (by not giving a massive Fijian the ball) but allowed Joel Hodgson to try a drop kick. Fifteen yards out and right in front of the posts, Hodgson inexplicably pulled it wide. It was the stuff of nightmares. Leicester won when they shouldn’t have (we all know they’ll be top four come April.)

Next week’s fixtures:

Bristol Rugby v Exeter Chiefs

Gloucester Rugby v Newcastle Falcons

Harlequins v Saracens

Northampton Saints v Wasps

Worcester Warriors v Sale Sharks

Leicester Tigers v Bath Rugby

Team of the Week 15 Lachie Turner (Exeter Chiefs) 14 Olly Woodburn (Exeter Chiefs) 13 Elliot Daly (Wasps) 12 Juan Pablo Socino (Newcastle) 11 Christian Wade (Wasps) 10 George Ford (Bath) 9 Greig Laidlaw (Gloucester)

1 Jake Cooper Woolley (Wasps) 2 Luke Cowan Dickie (Exeter Chiefs) 3 Henry Thomas (Bath) 4 Mike Fitzgerald (Leicester) 5 Matt Symons (Wasps) 6 Michael Rhodes (Saracens) 7 Schalk Burger (Saracens) 8 Leroy Houston (Bath)

Written by Sam Roberts for The Rugby Pod

www.samrobertsrugby.com

www.therugbypod.com

@samrobertsrugby

[therugbypod]

Aviva Premiership - Preview

Bath v Worcester – Bath are back!! At least for this week. A ruthless dispatching of a poor Newcastle brought back some pleasant memories for the Rec. A single swallow does not make a summer and Bath will expect to back up this performance against the wobbling Warriors. There were some bright spots for Worcester last week and if it hadn’t been for a debatable Red card they would have had their first win of the season. Worcester’s set piece was especially impressive and if they can set the platform the finishing from Vuna and Humphreys (oosh what a try) will get them on the board. On the other hand Ford’s quality lifts Bath to a level Worcester won’t cope with and Rokoduguni is our early shout for a Lions bolter, you heard it here first. Bath by 15 points.

Exeter vs Harlequins – Exeter will look to bounce back from only their second home defeat in two years against a Harlequins side that have been struggling for rhythm so far this season. The main question for Exeter is whether to revert to the security that Steenson brings or persist with the potential of Slade. Steenson’s ability to move their pack around the pitch would be perfectly suited to beating Harlequins. Quins conceded yet more tries and penalties from the driving maul and this Achilles heel was Exeter’s main strength of last year. More of the same from Kingston as Harlequins, at times, look frankly indifferent. The talent of players such as Clifford, Roberts, Robshaw etc is not in question yet in club colours there is a familiar fragility to this Quins team. Exeter should comfortably return to winning ways, by 10 points or more.

Saracens v Northampton – If the prospect of two top four contenders slugging it out isn’t enough to get you to tune in just think about Billy vs Louis, if they collide Allianz Park’s temporary stands may collapse. Saracens look supremely comfortable in any situation, defending superbly, controlling territory and finishing clinically. Meanwhile with Myler back at 10 Saint’s look far surer in their game plan and created far more against Bristol. Saint’s have had success at Allianz Park in the past by physically matching them and getting round the outside of the Saracens press (think Champions Cup quarter final last year). However, with the form Saracens are in, with the ‘Italian’ Lozowski fitting in seamlessly, the safe money is on Saracens continuing their unbeaten run. Saracens by 10.

Wasps v Bristol – Being loath to read too much into a season after two weeks is just a sensible thing to do. However, Wasps’ early form makes this particular match look fairly clear cut, and despite a spirited, and not unimpressive, start to premiership life, Bristol will undoubtedly struggle in this fixture. With Eastmond fit, the question hangs over Cipriani, but it was the pack led by Launchbury that were the key to their first win at Welford since 2008. Combined with Pisi and friends’ propensity to cough the ball up (joint highest turnovers and highest penalties conceded), the amount of tackles the impressive Lam has made will have to be through the roof to keep this tight. Watch out for Young jnr vs Robinson jnr in the back row, we know who we would back in a battle of the seniors. Wasps’ bonus point win at home, and watch for the inevitable Wade on Varndell, apprentice becomes master, matchup.

Newcastle v Tigers – On the back of two performances that were well below par, and that’s being kind, both of these sides have not just points to prove, but seasons to kick start. Oh to be a fly on the wall around Oval Park this week, as the Tigers will try to put right the lack of accuracy, and, most shockingly, physicality that gave Wasps their impressive win. Equally Newcastle were roundly played off the park by Bath, but will remember their victory in this fixture last season. You have to back Cockerill to get the Tigers’ quality showing, but Newcastle’s opening win will give them confidence that the comforts of home can bring success. The return of Barrow and Veainu should boost the grunt and guile of the Tigers, while having been bullied last week (by Richard’s own admission) Welch will want to put himself about, and hope the boys follow. Tigers by two scores (they do have a terrible record on plastic though….).

Written by Rory Wood &  Sam Duke Wallace for www.TheRugbyPod.com

[therugbypod]

Wallabies - Green Shoots of Recovery

The Wallabies picked up their first win of the year on Saturday with a hard fought 23-17 win against South Africa in Brisbane. It certainly wasn’t a classic but it was a much needed win for Cheika and his men. There are lots of questions that are still to be answered but there were the green shoots of recovery starting to show through that provide a small sense of optimism.

Reece Hodge is one of those shoots. His strong, direct running was exactly what was required from a backline that had faltered since the turn of the year. Every time he got the ball he looked to make a positive contribution with it. The confidence clearly coursing through him after his break out year in Super Rugby has transferred itself onto the International stage. Along with his attack, he defended at 12 and did it well. There was a bone crunching hit midway through the second half on Juan De Jongh that showed he is a force to be reckoned with.

There were back line moves! Well at least during the first half there were. Dummy runners, lines being run off Quade Cooper, options all over the place. This is what has been lacking all year from the Wallabies play. Cooper was able to bring Israel Folau into the game a lot earlier, exactly what is needed. He is the most potent attacking force in the backline, the ball needs to get into his hands as early as possible. As the game wore on, the adventure of the Aussies lessened but that comes from confidence. It has been a while since they have won a game and they knew they needed to do just that. The South Africans gave them every opportunity to take points at crucial times which they did and that got the Wallabies over the line.

The partnership of Kane Douglas and Adam Coleman looks like it could bear fruit. Up against, arguably the second best pairing in world rugby of Lood De Jager and Eben Etzebeth, they matched them toe-to-toe. Whilst I am certainly not saying that these players are not skilled, they are not in the samae category of player as Brodie Retallick or Sam Whitelock at the moment. Douglas and Coleman need game time together to create the understanding that exists in the best second row partnerships in World Rugby, should they get it then there will be a very solid foundation that they Wallaby pack can build upon.

Bernard Foley had a much better game at 12. His kicking at goal was the difference between the sides and he took his try well. Behind a pack that had a much stronger foothold in the game and with a backline that had options in every move they ran, he had a lot more time to probe or pick a pass. I still don’t believe this is the way to go forward though. Reece Hodge defended at 12, pushing Foley out to the wing. What would happen should the Wallabies win quick turnover ball Hodge won’t have trained much in the 12 channel. Also, this was South Africa, not New Zealand nor England. In my view they are one of the most poorly run sides in World Rugby. With the talent at their disposal they should be really up there with the best teams in the world.

Instead they elect to try and carry on to bully teams around the park with sheer size and brutality. The Lions showed this season that a fast, attacking game plan can work, so why do they try and do something completely different at International level? That is another discussion.

After their performance for 55 minutes in New Zealand on Saturday, the Argentinians will not be fearing facing the Aussies. If Australia an continue the rugby they were playing in fits and starts in the first 40 minutes against the Boks then they should be ok, if they allow the Pumas to get a roll on then this win maybe perceived as a false dawn.

Written by Rob Seltzer for www.TheRugbyPod.com 

[therugbypod]

Aviva Premiership Review - Round Two

No two weeks are the same in the Aviva Premiership. Ask Dan Mugford, or indeed Gloucester. Sale’s Mugford steered his last minute penalty villainously wide last week, allowing Newcastle a precious home win. This week, as the Sharks coped well with an ill disciplined Harlequins side, Mugford was the hero; stepping in for AJ MacGinty at the last minute, the former Nottingham fly half kicked 14 out of the Sharks’ 19 points. Quins’ only real consolation came in the form of a Chris Robshaw try, and even though they are as rare as rocking horse excrement, the Twickenham clan left with little else. Luamanu picked up a late red for a no arms tackle, but I’m guessing that’s not what John Kingston wanted from his trip to the North West. Exeter next for the boys from the Stoop.

Gloucester gave away a lead on the opening weekend. This Friday, however, they fought their way back to a battling draw at Sixways against Worcester. Gloucester are able to produce really good games of rugby, but getting a ‘W’ against their name seems a little trickier. The match produced some lovely tries; Henry Purdy’s late score in the corner for Gloucester was offload-tastic and Warrior Perry Humphreys also took his opportunity well: having come on for Ben Te’o, who himself had scored a good try, Humphreys notched up an absolute worldie from inside his own half. Alafoti Fa’osaliva’s red card had people talking and knocked Worcester onto the back foot; Gloucester surging back to level the scores. After opening round defeats, I suggested that both these teams would need to bounce back. They did, sort of; a draw seemed just about the right result. Gloucester take on a savvy Sale operation next Friday night. Will be interesting to see what the last two weeks has taught them.

Of course, no two Prem seasons are the same. Just ask Bath, or indeed Exeter. The boys from the Recreation Ground have refound their mojo. They ran in eight tries as Newcastle failed to contain the high tempo, hard running West Countrymen. Goneva’s yellow card for swatting the ball dead certainly opened the floodgates but even with a full compliment back on the pitch, the Falcons had little response. Todd Blackadder has moved in double quick time to instil the sort of belief now on show; Ford was finding runners, Joseph was bobbing and weaving like Sugar Ray, and the forwards completely outmuscled a competent Newcastle outfit. Worcester come to the Rec next weekend, could be tasty.

Exeter have endured the toughest couple of opening fixtures the committee could muster. Perhaps their heroics last season have resulted in some blazer wearing aficionado wanting to put them in their place. After succumbing to Wasps in Coventry last weekend, Saracens came a-knocking on the Devon door. Well, I say knocking. They barged in, had a party and broke rather a large amount of crockery. The Chiefs were not at their best, they lost key players to injury and have an outside half in Henry Slade surprisingly lacking confidence. But take nothing from Sarries. They are the Premiership bench mark. The game was also of note for two rather interesting refereeing decisions. JP Doyle yellow carding Richard Wigglesworth after the TMO had ruled his trip on Slade to be ok; replays on the stadium screen had Doyle overruling his TV watching friend. The other intervention also provoked debate. Doyle spoke to captain Brad Barritt and asked that Saracens not revere a good piece of play: Jim Hamilton had won a turnover and the ‘Wolf Pack’ huddled in to the congratulate their Alpha Scotsman. I wonder what other celebrations might be on a referee’s hitlist? “Go on, ten minutes in the bin, I saw your dab. This isn’t MTV, you know.”

Wasps haven’t won at Welford Road since 2008 and in a belter of a game, Jimmy Gopperth once again proved the difference. His indifferent kicking display was offset by an ebullience with ball in hand that had the Cov faithful purring. Gopperth’s quick thinking saw Wade in for his first of the season and late on, more rugby nouse: wriggling over off the back of a maul, the Kiwi, and most of the Ricoh, were hollering with delight. Leicester had tried to come from behind again and, in truth, almost made it; Freddie Burns looked hot enough to scald but the visitors possessed just about enough cold water at the end. Quite the derby; Leicester will have hated relinquishing their home record so quickly. Almost as much as seeing Manu sidelined again: groin trouble for Tuilagi. If Tigers are to challenge this year, you feel they will need him back and firing.

Speaking of which, Northampton found their bullets against an unfortunate Bristol. Myler moved the Saints pack around the park and the likes of Picamoles and North found the try line. It was by no means vintage, something doesn’t seem quite right for the Saints at the moment, but you’ll take five points away from home any day of the week. Bristol were not the same side that worried Quins at HQ. Without the creativity of Henson, and a first half in which they seemed a little starstruck, Bristol are better than the scoreline suggested. Andy Robinson was once again puzzling over how refs see things in the Premiership; both of Ken Pisi’s feet were in touch as he crossed over for Northampton’s third but by then, the game was somewhat gone; Bristol had made too many mistakes of their own. Saints have to go to Allianz Park next weekend, Bristol travel to Wasps. Things, in the Aviva Premiership, will only get tougher.

Team of the week

15 Alex Goode (Saracens)

14 Semesa Rokoduguni (Bath)

13 Jonathan Joseph (Bath)

12 Jimmy Gopperth (Wasps)

11 Paolo Odogwu (Sale Sharks)

10 Freddie Burns (Leicester Tigers)

9 Kahn Fotuali’i (Bath)

1 Val Rapava Ruskin (Worcester)

2 Dylan Hartley (Northampton Saints)

3 John Afoa (Gloucester)

4 Dave Attwood (Bath)

5 Ed Slater (Leicester Tigers)

6 Sam Jones (Wasps)

7 Marco Mama (Worcester)

8 Billy Vunipola (Saracens)

Written by Sam Roberts for The Rugby pod

www.samrobertsrugby.com

www.therugbypod.com

@samrobertsrugby