Rugby News, Analysis, History, Schedule, Rumours
There was no luck involved as Ireland rugby beat the New Zealand side although, the ‘blarney stone’ can naturally assist the national team’s success. A second win on home soil for the men in emerald green. Celebrating all weekend; to be sure, as Ireland defeated the All Blacks for a historic third time since 2016. […] READ MORE
Ireland’s two recently qualified New Zealanders, James Lowe and Jamison Gibson-Park, have made an immediate impact for Andy Farrell’s team leading into the England v Ireland fixture this weekend. Add to that established midfielder Bundee Aki, and the ‘kiwi trio’ are a major threat to England’s perceived place in the Autumn Nations Cup tournament. Not […] READ MORE
Munster finally put an end to their Leinster voodoo, defeating the European and Pro14 champions at Thomond Park, thanks to a 16 point haul from Joey Carbery. It was a game that will not be remembered for the rugby entirely though, but rather, ill-discipline which spoiled the opening half. The visitors trying to unsettle the hosts, […] READ MORE
A debilitating case of rheumatoid arthritis has also been a key contributor to the early move towards the lucrative European rugby market for James Lowe. His condition is worsening, so similar in the choices for any sports person (or any individual) he had to make a life/career decision in March. READ MORE
Two of the Chiefs senior men stood out from the rest – once again – to reaffirm just how big a loss they will be in the future. Those two men are halfback Tawera Kerr-Barlow, and winger James Lowe. One an All Black, and the other desperately unlucky not to feature under Steve Hansen’s regime. […] READ MORE
With more players taking up lucrative overseas contracts, the mid-season player movements from NZ Rugby seem to be more distraction, than good for the game READ MORE
Can it be countered? To a degree yes - 'keep the ball in the tight forwards'. But across an 80 minute match, countless occasions may be more fallible to an intercept try--although, the best ones seem to be unplanned. And that is sport in a nutshell. Unpredictable, beautiful but also, incorrigible. READ MORE
The Chiefs always looked the more composed side when the big moments came. A better executed set play was a big difference maker for the Chiefs, and it provided Hika Elliot his ninth try in Super Rugby. James Lowe was gifted two tries from intercepts, and in the end, the Highlanders never dotted over the line themselves. READ MORE
Michael Pulman is a contributor for Last Word On Rugby and writes regular content with a New Zealand focus. Beginning as a blogger on his own and through various other platforms, Mike has gone on to become a genuine sports reporter, covering NZ Rugby and all competitions domestic, and Internationally, as well as Cricket.