Rugby News, Analysis, History, Schedule, Rumours
As teams are announced for the second Bledisloe Cup Test match this Saturday night, the list of players includes another 100-cap All Black, in Owen Franks. A name which has been a consistent inclusion for head coach Steve Hansen, the head coach was glowing of the contribution by Owen Franks; as well as his older […] READ MORE
Across all June Internationals, the sport is a 23 man game. Attack minded rugby substitutes are All Blacks weapon of choice, as evident by 2 special players READ MORE
The news from the Super Rugby clash at McLean Park in Napier, was how the 2016 champions wrenched a victory from the jaws of defeat. Ihaia West became the hero, as his last minute conversion kick saw the Hurricanes rugby team escape a ‘Sharks bite’ by a whisker. In an thrilling encounter held in the regions […] READ MORE
With December 31st fast approaching, it is a time to reflect on successes. Those on the rugby field, and from the team here at LWOR. And on behalf of Last Word on Rugby (LWOR) we would like you to enjoy a variety of our First Pick XV articles of 2017. This is not a playing top […] READ MORE
Positive news for the rest of World Rugby: the All Blacks are not as invincible as they once were. With respect, I do not say that lightly. Saturday’s win over the Barbarians at Twickenham showed glimpses of All Black magic but, it highlighted more just how vital certain personnel are to this team. A supposed […] READ MORE
The general consensus is that this past Lions series pitted the two best fly-half’s in the world against each other: Beauden Barrett and Owen Farrell. England’s record equaling run of 18 consecutive victories under Eddie Jones, and New Zealand’s seamless transition of generation since their 2015 Rugby World Cup success, is testament to how adept […] READ MORE
All Blacks head coach Steven Hansen is not averse to handing first caps to players in the most competitive environments. Following the first test victory over the British and Irish Lions, Hansen is ready to thrust Ngani Laumape into the action of the second test on Saturday. Named on the bench in the All Blacks […] READ MORE
But more so, the Barrett men are making the cross-field kick a 'tool of choice' to get quick, and expertly-directed ball out wide. It is deceiving many defenses and putting doubt in their opponents minds. But most of all, it is putting smiles on fans of the Hurricanes; and of all quality rugby union fans faces. READ MORE
The forecast is that teams have been given a 'hurry up' thanks to the Kings. It is not in the bag, and as the Sharks saw, any team can negate your powers. It should see some improved matches in Super Rugby Round 10. We are all looking forward to it. READ MORE
A spot against the Lions would seem a long shot, but a place on the end of year Northern Tour wouldn’t seem too far-fetched. He is a such thrilling prospect for NZ Rugby. And yes, for all the excitement and enthusiasm at present, Ngani Laumape could also be a history maker; no one has yet played rugby league for the Warriors, and then also (probably) played for the All Blacks. My money is on Laumape being the first! READ MORE
Scott MacLean is an active rugby referee in Wellington (NZ), and writes for Last Word On Rugby predominantly from the ‘match officials’ viewpoint.