Rugby News, Analysis, History, Schedule, Rumours
With the first test squad announcement, the main focus was heavily aimed at head coach Warren Gatland’s key calls. Figurehead players such as George North, Leigh Halfpenny and Sam Warburton were ‘headlined’ to be chosen by the Kiwi-born coach, despite their performances varying in quality to their positional counterparts. Last Word on Rugby analyze the […] READ MORE
As expected the All Blacks fortress that is Eden Park delivered once again, as Steve Hansen’s side ran out 30-15 winners over the Lions. it proved true, with the All Blacks just too good for the Lions, who entered this match with high expectations. Ironically the Lions conducted themselves very well, and will be pleased with […] READ MORE
While the execution let the side down in the end; in the opening attacking play, and in the middle of the second half, this Lions team showed the glimpses that everyone knew they possessed. Quality players, good motivation and combined strength. But with mixed messages issued from the coaches box, it had a counter-intuitive affect. READ MORE
Being thrashed by the Auld Enemy raises serious questions about England’s finishers. Eddie Jones’ side come away from BT Murrayfield without even a losing bonus point after a demoralising 25 – 13 beating. The Scots may have had sore heads the following day but none will be worse than that of the England Head Coach. […] READ MORE
Showing the sort of steely resolve and tremendous footballing abilities we have come to expect, the reigning European Champions overcame the desperate passion and additional neutrals’ support of Clermont Auvergne to ensure that Saracens are still on course for the ‘Double Double’. What an occasion it was. This was Northern Hemisphere club rugby at its […] READ MORE
With this week's Lions squad announcement asking some questions around inclusion, Jim Hamilton thinks he knows the reason for Joe Launchbury's omission. READ MORE
England are approaching the upcoming series of Autumn Internationals with a depleted squad stripped of a number of positional first choices and in some cases 2nd and 3rd picks also. England Rugby Squad Injuries No Excuse According to Eddie Jones The injury list includes James Haskell, George Kruis, Maro Itoje, Courtney Lawes, Jack Clifford, Sam […] READ MORE
A father of 4, I split my time between writing about Rugby & Wine. My writing influences are Steve James & Michael Atherton and I lament the dying art of the true correspondent.