Wounded Lions loose Welsh magic

After World War 3 broke out at Loftus Versfeld in the form of the second test between the British and Irish Lions and the Springboks, the Lions were left with an injury list that could shatter the continuity of their first team.

Both Welsh front rowers Gethin Jenkins and Adam Jones will withdraw from the side after undergoing major surgery. Jenkins broke his cheek bone in a collision with Brian Habana. Jones received a dislocated shoulder courtesy of Bakkie's Botha at ruck time. With his first choice props out of the contention, McGeechan has told the press that he will not be calling for reinforcements but rather put his faith in the four other "world class" props on tour. While Andrew Sheridan and John Hayes may be up for the task and will probably be the Lions first choice, Tim Payne lacks big match experience and Phil Vickery is just a terrible prop (the world cup winner was taken apart by a no.8 converted to a prop, the beast and a hooker converted to a prop, John Smit). The lions will pray that there are no more injuries at scrum time in the third test after the Boks proved how dangerous they are from the set-piece with trys by Habana and Pieterson off a scrum and line out respectively.

British and Irish Lions Injury List:

G. Jenkins - Broken Cheek Bone. (out)
A. Jones - Dislocated Shoulder. (out)
B. O'Driscoll - Concussion. (out)
J. Roberts - Arm.
T. Bowe - Elbow.
R. O'Gara - Cut Above the Eye.

The Lions medical team told the press that these players will be monitored over the week and everything will be done to make them ready to play on Saturday at Ellis Park.

Lets hope the replacements will take their opportunities next week and provide a game as entertaining as the last.

MM

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"I'll Stand by you"...Schalk

Bok coach Peter de Villiers has told the press that he will "stand by" Schalk Burger after he was handed an 8 week suspension by the IRB citing commissioner for "an act not in the spirit of the game"(Not mentioning the eye gouging in the official review). This may be a hint from the Springbok camp that they wish to appeal the decision which will see the Springbok flanker missing the entire of the Tri-Nations. Well good luck, as much as this journalist loves and respects Burger, he feels that the actions fit the sentence.

Johann Muller to replace banned Bakkies and injured Bekker

After Bakkies Botha's suspect citing for clearing a ruck in the dominant style that he has used his whole career and a knee injury to Andres Bekker, Boks coach Peter de Villiers has called up one of the hard men of SA rugby to pack down with Matfeild in the final test. This being Johann Muller, he has no lack of experience being a world cup winner and having captained the Boks briefly in 2007. The mains issue is that Muller is a natural no.5 Lock (the same as Matfeild) and this may cause some instability against a powerful Lions scrum (if they have any good replacements to the 3 injured lions props). Dannie Russouw would be the natural player to take Botha's place as he has spent time at no.4 at the Bulls during Super Rugby matches, but after Brian O'Driscoll unceremoniously took him out in the second test with no attempt at a tackle (for which he should have been cited) the two players were left to recover on the side lines.

Muller is a great abasador to SA rugby and will no doubt make South Africa proud this weekend facing up to the wounded Lions.

MM

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Lions vs Springboks Second Test: Boks bury 12 year long hoodoo

In an emotional roller coaster of a match, the Springboks triumph over the Lions in one or the most tense and exciting games we have ever witnessed. The field, resembling a battle ground with the. wounded lions hanging their heads as Morne' Steyn slotted a superb penalty from 55 meters out to seal the match and series 2-0 for South Africa.

Schalks' fiftieth test match appearance was tarnished in the first 32 seconds of the match as he was sin binned for eye gouging winger Luke Fitzgerald. There was a case for a red card but luckily for the Boks he got away with a 10 minute rest. Don't expect to see him in the third test or in first match of the Tri-Nations. The Lions started the game well with all the work that the put in over the last 6 weeks finally falling into place, leading by 10-0 in the first ten minutes. Their scrummaging had seen a vast improvement, but after 60 minutes the ref had no choice but to turn to uncontested scrums due to lions injuries. Lions showed good cohesion and where hitting the gaps far better than their opponent. The Springboks set piece was heavily dominant, which calls the question to why they favoured the aerial route as a posed to taking the ball into contact. The Boks line outs functioned well, the first of their tries coming off the top from Matfield and with a stroke of genius from du Preez, released J.P Peterson to score. Final score at half time was Lions 16, Springboks 8.

According to Bok captain John Smit, there were some “harsh” words said in the dressing room at half time, this must have sunk in as they came out firing. In contrast to last weeks test (Boks winning 26-21) the home side dominated scoring 17 points to a lions 9. Substitutions hailed for both teams with Lions Jenkins, A.Jones, Roberts and O'Driscoll (all injured) were replaced by Sheridan, O'Gara, Williams and A.W. Jones. The home side lost de Villiers to injury and subbed Botha, Smith and Pienaar (who missed 3 kicks at goal) for Bekker, Rossouw and Fourie. Rossouw was knocked out by a dangerous tackle from O'Driscoll which took them both out of the game. Then came on Brussow who matched his good work last week with great work in the rucks setting up the Springboks for the win. The last twenty minutes was too much for any Bok or Lions supporter to handle. Habana crossed the line with an incredible individual try leaving 4 defenders out to dry. This got the Boks going, but then Bekker gave away a penalty in front of the posts to allow S. Jones to extend the their lead to 22-18. Then Fourie crossed the line after a great set piece move from the Springboks to put them in the lead for the first time in the game (25-22).
Just as you thought this game could not get any better, Jones landed a penalty kick to tie the game 25-25. The rugby gods could not except a draw and the bookies where saved when, in the 79th minute Ronan O'Gara, in a moment of madness tackled du Preez in the air. This set up the rookie and home boy Morne' Steyn to cement his place in rugby history by kicking a 54 meter penalty to win the match and series. What a boitjie.

In his interview after the game Springbok Captain John Smit said: “we just keep finding wins in some dark corners” then the interview asked if it was because of “good leadership” to which John respond without hesitance; “no, good players”. This Boks side have now won every available tournament to them under captain Smit, this surely making him the best Springboks captain in history, if not the best captain in the history of rugby.

To all the Springbok players, savour this moment, you have made history. To all the Springbok supporters, breathe out and sip your beer, you have been a part of the greatest side our country has ever witnessed.

Much Lovies

MM and sgr

xoxox

Watch Lions second test against South Africa live!

go to:

www.justin.tv

Rugby Window Team

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Australia vs France: A celebration of running rugby.

What a game to watch, both these teams at the top of their games, Australia coming off a series win over the Italians and the French a win ova the All-Blacks. The style as was to be expected was a whirlwind of running rugby, both teams making significant meters every time they get the ball.
The Wallabies scrum however is still an issue, Baxter gave away a penalty for going straight down in the 13th minute. Giteau lead the Wallabies back line with cross feild kicks and a superb try fed to him by Mortlock, Turner and Barnes. Great team try. Beauxis scored the first points for France after a late tackle on the French fullback by George Smith. Barnes kicking was not great tin the first half, with miss-directed high balls and a kick that went out on the full and gave the French a good attacking opportunity.

The second half started with as much speed and ferocity. Giteau slotted 2 penalties in the first 5 minutes for an offside interception no12 and then for holding on by Heymans in almost the same spot. Score 16-3. The French couldnt quite get into top gear in the second half giving away penalty after penalty. Beauxis went off injured in 49th minute and replaced by Mas. Australia's poor kicking out of hand continued into the second half with penalties not going out and grubber kicks going straight into the opposition. Ashley-Cooper impressed with his workload, constantly looking to take on the French defense. In the end it seemed that it was one game too far for the star studded French team, after 11 months of matches including victories over England, Wales and New Zealand.

Final Score: Aus:22 -France 6
(Half time score: Aus: 10 France: 3)

Rassie Erusmus take note of the Ausies gameplan, this is how the Stormers need to play their rugby.


MM

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Brave Assurri fall short against unconvincing All-Blacks

A proud and brave Italian team with two loses on tour lined up against the mighty All-Blacks this morning. New Zealand did not end their Tri-nations build up on a high note, while they got the win it was only by a margin of 27-6. The Italian team, boosted by the return of the iconic Mauro Bergamasco, held the All-Blacks to an outrageously low total. While the Azzurri have a lot to be proud of, the All-Blacks where unconvincing. The only stand out players on for New Zealand side where Rokocoko (2 trys) and Ross (1 try), they put their hands up for All-black selection but the rest of the 15 need alot of work.

Final score: 27-6

MM

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Harry Ellis drops the ball...

Tommy Bowe wrote in his column for Irish Times that Harry Ellis, the Leicester Tigers second choice scrum half, England second choice scrum half and of course we must not forget the new Lions second choice scrum half, let the team down by asking a South African "why is Nelson Mandela famous? is it because the founded South Africa". Wow, what a goon. That is all i wanted to say! lol

Peace

MM

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Let me tell you the future

Well my wish didn't completely come true, but i'll be damned. I wrote an article a few weeks ago about Jake White and the Golden Lions and here is a little something that has just developed.

Click here for the full article

written by Keo.co.za

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Anything is possible

When it gets cold, you can go inside or you can put a jacket on. Which will the Lion's choose? They ended off well against the Boks, forget about the first 50 minutes, the mental edge will be with the Lions come Saturday afternoon. If they (the Lions) can pick up where they left off last Saturday then they could pull it off...and then we're off to Ellis Park for the “final”. The Boks will have this pressure added to a very demanding public, an interesting coach and the knowledge that because of 12 years ago: defeat is NOT and option. As usual there is nothing to loose forthe underdogs and almost nothing to gain for the champs, because if they beat them then everyone will say “we were supposed to beat them, big whoop!”.

Altitude will play a factor in the game and so will home support. That being said we saw more red than green last Saturday, MM covered that, I don't wanna talk about it, but the Boks will still be very very strong. They will have found their groove and the psychological boost of having Schalk Burger back could take them to the same unstoppable rugby we saw from the Bulls in the back end of the Super 14. Ruan's kicking is on song, Steyn will be better (safer) at the back and Habbana will be back to his best. Why they persist with Jacobs is a South African problem, one we cannot comprehend, but expect Jaque Fourie earlier than last week and De Villiers to stay on the field. The Springbok side chosen is almost as strong as it gets and on paper they should crush the Lions, but rugby is a funny game and the bounce of the oval ball very unpredictable.

Up front the Lions will have to show more aggression, especially in stopping the rolling mauls (Simon Shaw brought in for just that reason), in the scrums they need a complete overhaul. The tight five picked for this match, with an all Welsh front row, should fare better against the Beast. The irony of course being that it was the Springbok scrum, with a hooker playing tighthead, that would be weak and crumble under the weight of quality Northern Hemisphere rugby. Last Saturday's game showed that it is in the backs that the Lions have the edge, or maybe just the time spent together on all the warm up games has helped them gel better than the relatively new combinations of the Boks. Jean DE Villiers assures us that it was rustiness that let the Lions back into the game and that the defense this week will be better. is hard to see how it will get better when you have a player with an injured shoulder (which also happens to be the part of the body you tackle with) going in to contact half-heartedly. Roberts and O'Driscoll will be the danger men, if there is to be an upset it will revolve around them. The forwards just need to find parity to unleash these two quality players and its up to Bakkies Botha and the returned Schalk Burger to stop them.

One hopes we see more running rugby from the Springbok back three, but don;t count on it. They will probablyplay for territory again and only run from their opponents half. Ruan Pienaar will bee looking to build on his impressive start last weekend and the fans are just hoping that he will blossom into a world class flyhalf and someone who could help secure a third Tri-nations trophy for South Africa.

The kick-off is at 3pm CAT up at Loftus in Pretoria. I hope that if you are'nt going to the match you will be watching on the T.V or stream it live to your laptop. Peace be to you and your family. Enjoy.

Sgr

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Zangqa in car accident

Vuyo Zangqa, one of the stars of the 2008/09 IRB World Sevens Series Champion Springbok Sevens team, is recuperating at his home in East London after undergoing surgery following a car accident in Gauteng a few weeks ago.

Zangqa, who turns 28 on Friday, suffered serious facial injuries in the accident. After two operations, medical doctors were able to save his left eye, but were not sure whether the fleet-footed Sevens maestro would regain sight in that eye.

Paul Treu, coach of the Springbok Sevens, gave the assurance that SA Rugby, the national sevens team and he himself would make sure Zangqa is properly looked after following the accident.

"This was such an unfortunate accident, which made us all realise how unpredictable life can be," said Treu.

"We will leave no stone unturned to help Vuyo with all the support he needs. He's been one of us for three seasons and deserves nothing less."

Andy Marinos, acting Managing Director of SA Rugby, said Zangqa's accident shook the rugby community in South Africa and abroad.

"From when we contracted Vuyo for the first time almost four years ago, we always knew he would make it on the highest stage and this season he showed why he is regarded as one of the best Sevens players in the world," said Marinos.

"Vuyo's accident is a massive setback, not only for Paul and the Sevens team, but for everyone involved in SA Rugby. He is in our thoughts and prayers.

"From our side, we will assist Vuyo in any way possible to ensure a full and speedy recovery. We are glad his eye could be saved and would be monitoring his progress. Hopefully he will regain full sight in the eye again."

Gavin Swanepoel, the Springbok Sevens team's life coach, will travel to East London on Thursday to support Zangqa.

written by: super sport

Lions ticket prices cloud Springbok support

For 12 long years South African’s of all ages, genders and races have waited for the opportunity to watch the Springboks take their revenge on the British and Irish Lions live. However, in order to hold a Test match between the world champs and the Lions, stadiums had to agree to sell 40% of their seats to Lions supporters. (This is the main reason why their was no Test at Newlands Stadium in Cape Town) The ticket prices are also extortionately highly priced, on Average £95 (R1114) which is almost three times the price of a Tri-Nations match.

If you have ever been to a rugby match at any level in the Rainbow Nation you will understand its importance to our community. In no other place do peoples of all colours, creeds and financial backgrounds stand as one, in one stadium, united under the only two colours that really matter Green and Gold. Top Lawyers and Bankers sit next too Plumbers and Garden boys and for that 80minutes they are brothers. So why I ask have the prices been set so that only the upper class can enjoy the game that brought our great nation together. Horrifically, the British and Irish RFU have stated that they had no say in the ticket prices for this tour; rather that SA Rugby set the prices. However SA Rugby may have learned their lesson as last weeks test at ABSA Park in Durban was not sold out, as this is the most important tournament bar the World Cup you would think people would pay more than usual tickets, but these prices are outrageous. We are not a rich country and SA Rugby has just segregated our rugby community for the first time in decades they should be ashamed. Last week we saw half the stadium packed out in Red, almost out weighing the home support. While I’m all for bringing out the tourist support and showing them a great time, the people who fill the stands of the “Shark Tank” (ABSA stadium Durban), Loftus Versfeld and Ellis Park week after week to support their respective Vodacom cup, Currie cup, Super 14 teams and of course the Boks themselves deserve to be at these games. END OF STORY.

MM

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Lions player banned for dangerous tackle (ironic isn't it)

Scotsman Nathan Hines has been handed a week ban after his dangerous tackle on opposite number Wilhelm Steenkamp during yesterday’s midweek match against the Emerging Springboks (ending in a 13-13 draw).

While the tackle was not seen by the on-field referees it was flagged up last night during the IRB match review, Hines was handed his citing this morning by Commissioner Steve Hinds. This means that he will not be available for selection for the second test at Loftus on Saturday (not that he would have been in the mix). He has 24 hours to appeal the decision.

MM

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Call it a draw

They call it the great leveller, that no matter who you play the conditions are so bad that you could pull of a win. The weather in Cape Town last night lived up to expectation and ruined what was supposed to be feast of running rugby, both side having something to prove to national selectors. But it wasn't to be as the rain and wind of the Cape of Storms decided to to come watch the spectacle. Both side started with a flurry of errors and it was evident that there was to be no expansive play. The Gary Owen was used throughout the match and the bounce of a slippery ball decide the outcome. The lions looked good as there forwards dominated against a team that hadn't played together before , but the hosts traditionally strong defense kept the Lions out on all occasions bar one; the individual brilliance of Keith Earls showing us that maybe he does belongs at this level, but that he has a lot more work too do.

The Emerging Boks began to find some rhythm and momentum as the players starting finding each other, the scrum got better and the general ball retention picked up; the middle forty belonged the hosts. It seemed as though all hope was lost until Willem De Waal came on, shifting Rose to fullback, and took the game by minerals and used his educated boot to put SA into great positions. After ten minutes of racing up and down the pitch as the game, despite the weather, began to open up and it was De Waal again who floated a long pass, after sustained pressure, to the flying Danwell Demas, after the whistle, to set up a most exiting finish. De Waal calmly slotted the kick through the uprights, from about as close to the touchline one can get without sitting on the lap of an ice cream vendor (A wafer to make your boyfriend steiffer?) in the stands.

The crowd went wild. It was as if the Boks had won the game, the draw being the best result a non-test team has recorded on this tour. Great games from Duane Vermulen and Jano Vermaak, not to mention the improved performance of Earl Rose. On the tourists side Earls was the danger man, as well Harry Ellis, who could find himself on the bench this Saturday, but other than them it was more like a regiment of red clones doing their job, but no one catching the eye.

13 -13 it ended. The great leveller, levelling it our exactly. The tourists will learn nothing from this except that they have the best players playing on Saturday. 1-0 in the test...i fear this weekend might just be a cracker!

sgr

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How will the Boks get their "Spring" back?

After last weekends pathetic second half performance to scrape a win against the Lions, it is clear that the Springboks have a lot of work to do in order to get their match fitness back up to scratch.
So we turn to our resident sport scientist for information on what the Boks may do to get back on top for next week. He broke it down into three main areas of work for the squad in camp this week, these are Recovery, Fitness and Acclimatization.

Recovery:
-Ice Bath's: The team would have enjoyed a brisk ice bath session first thing Sunday morning to help provide relief for their battered bodies.
- Recovery exercises: The Boks will have light bicycle and spinning sessions to help recovery while exercising.
- Physio: Players will see the resident Physio's to help work out any aches and pains so that they are at physical peak for the match on Saturday.

Fitness and Training:
- They will not work too hard on fitness as they will have to trust the work they did in training camp to get them through the match on Saturday.
- Match fitness will only come through game time, an area the Lions have a massive advantage.
- Fitness sessions may be held on Tuesday and maybe lightly on Wednesday.
- They may have a light weight session on Wednesday, but just for maintenance.
- They will not do fitness training on Thursday or Friday as they will aim to peak physically on Saturday afternoon.

Acclimatization:
- As their training camp was held at altitude they will have no problem acclimatizing to Pretoria's height above sea level.

So a big thanks to out resident sport scientists Mr P for some good insight into what the Bokke could be doing this week. Lets hope that they boys will be back to their best this weekend.

(Match build up to the second test in Pretoria starts at 1pm on Sky Sports 1)

MM

Caught on candid camera...lmao

Hurricane rookie's dad dies

New Zealand's win in the world under-20 rugby championship has been tinged with sadness by the death of the father of star back Zac Guildford.

It is understood Robert Guildford died in the grandstands while watching the final in Tokyo where New Zealand scored seven tries to beat England 44-28.

Zac Guildford scored two of those tries on the wing as he claimed his second world title with the national under-20s.

He is a Hawke's Bay and Hurricanes representative.

His father Robert is a former Wairarapa Bush player who took great delight in his son's progress that included making the trip to Japan for this latest tournament.

Zac Guildford became the youngest ever Hurricanes player when he was selected as an 18-year-old for the 2008 season.

He is a former Napier Boys' High School pupil and New Zealand schools representative.

Hawke's Bay rugby officials expressed their sadness.

Stuff.co.nz

g with c: from the rugby window family

So, Who is the Beast?

For the last year or so the cries of "BEAST" every time Tendai Mtawarira carried the ball into contact (and often through or around contact) has been son ominous with both Natal Sharks and South African Rugby. It seems that no matter where in the world he is, Twickenham, Christ Church or back at ABSA stadium in Durban, the crowd go wild when he gets the ball. The Beast recently opened the eyes of the world by destroying the "raging bull" Phil Vickery at scrum time, but not many people know the remarkable story of Tendai "the Beast" Mtawarira.

It all started 23 years ago in Harare, Zimbabwe where he was born to a "middle class" family along with his beloved brother Brian. Tendai was somewhat troubled in his youth, unbelievably being expelled from his pre-school. His mother Bertha always encouraged Tendai to go to church and be an active member in the Christian community. By the age of 16 however his brothers influence on him took hold. Brain Mtawarira was a good sportsman and student while at school and encouraged his younger brother to follow in his footsteps tutoring him in both maths and rugby. This helped him earn a scholarship to Peterhouse (one of the top schools in Zim) at the age of 17. He went on to achieve A grades in Maths at A-Level. In his final year at Peterhouse he went on a school rugby tour to Durban to play against some of the local schools. By the grace of god some of the Natal Sharks coaching staff where in attendance for one of his games and soon afterwards he was approached by Barry Angus (Sharks conditioning coach at the time). Tendai had grown up as a Sharks supporter so it was a dream come true when he was offered a place at the Sharks academy, he was just 18 years old. He accepted the offer and began his 36 hour bus journey to Durban (only an hour and a half flight, but his family could not afford it at the time). During his time in the academy he also completed a university degree in Cape Town. The Beast got his name while playing no.8 at the Sharks academy for his immense size and speed. However he was soon told by Dick Muir (Sharks coach at the time, now a Boks coach) that he would not make it as an "eighth man" and that he was more suited at loose head prop because of his size. This was devastating for the Beast but after speaking to his family minister he decided to take Muir's advice and switch to the front row. He injured his knee in his first game at loose head and was out of the game for 3 months. Doctors apparently told him that he would be able to run in 8 weeks but the man-mountain couldn't even jog after 10 weeks. His church then invited him to pray with the congregation for his knee, later that afternoon he was running perfectly. Whether by divine power or psychological impact he was able to run, you cannot deny how amazing that was. He marks that as a key milestone in his spiritual journey. He spent hour after hour practicing his technique and it soon became obvious to the sharks coaches that this boy was a natural. A year later, Muir included the Beast in his Sharks training squad, unbelievable seen as he had never packed down at no.1 before that. By 2007 he was a regular in the Sharks Super14 team and in 2008 made his international debut against Wales.

And so began the reign of the BEAST, a name that is already so close to every Springbok rugby fans heart and a name that will live on in history as a true testament to the Zimbabwean warriors that came before him.

MM

Rose gets his chance at flyhalf

Earl Rose, one of the most talked about rugby players for quite a while now. is eventually getting a crack at the lions, and it's in the position Springbok coach Peter De Villiers (and he) feel he is best suited to. Rose didn't get much game time at all (be it flyhalf or fullback) in the Super 14, so a rusty player, out of form slots into the most vital position on the field (sorry second; Mr Vickery tighthead is the most important position) inside Morgan Newman who has played a handful of games for the Stormers and he is supposed to win a place in the test side? The odds seem heavily stacked against them, but maybe, like the tourists, he can rise above expectation and shock us all by putting in a match winning performance. If this performance involves defense he is surely to lose, however if we by some miracle see running rugby at a soggy Newlands tomorrow night he might just prove us wrong.

The rest of the team field are basically the best of the rest from the Super 14. The exclusion and inclusion of Peter Grant and Willem De Waal respectively is one that doesn't reward form -or even potential. Players getting a second crack at the tourists include: Deon van Rensburg, Morgan Newman, Bjorn Basson, Jano Vermaak, Duane Vermeulen, Jean Deysel, Steven Sykes, Wian du Preez, Tiaan Liebenberg, Jauques Botes, Willem de Waal, and Danwel Demas. These are some quality players who would make most Northern Hemisphere Test teams and have already had a look at what the Lions have to offer. The captaincy of Dewald Potgieter will be interesting to watch. A rising star in South African rugby and still very young, Potgieter will want to show thee world that maybe he's the next Schalk Burger.

The Lions team is comprised of the usual midweekers. The convict Earls gets another start on a tour he maybe never should have been on, Delon Armitage or maybe a bone to Chris Patterson for all his hard work, would have suited the tourists better. Andy Powell who hasn't made the impact everyone thought he would, barring the bone shattering hit on Duane Vermulen, will pack down behind the scrum and we are sure to see him run from the base. O'Gara takes the consolation prise of a Lions captaincy over a starting birth for the test team and one feels this is his chance to prove his worth and I'm sure so does he. The battle of the flyhalfs will either make or break the spectacle of this game. Shane who? Starts on the wing and we are yet to see him make one telling impact in the tour. It baffles the mind to think he was the best player (voted so by the IRB) in the world last year and this year he'd have trouble stepping your gran with the bad hip. Harry Ellis has looked good, but no one will oust Philips at the moment. The bench looks a little like the bench for the test matches; the inbetweeners who will always be on standby, but actually will go away from a 10 match tour without a heap of game time.

And so i say to all you fans out there. Who will? I don't know. Who deserves to win? You know. And who always wins? Rugby! peace

sgr

Weekend Results:

Internationals 20th June 2009

New Zealand 14 - France 10
Australia 34 - Italy 12
South Africa 26 - B&I Lions 21

Far too close for the Champs

This was a game that never should have been this close. South Africa steamrolled the British for an hour then replaced the players who were driving the rig, killing all their momentum and when they took Smit (the captain) off every Springbok fan had their hearts in their throats as the final whistle was blown. Tactically from the coaching point of view (and they admit this) it was not a great performance.

The game seemed to be sown up with the Springboks 19 point ahead. Most of these points coming from the near perfect boot of Ruan Pienaar who showed everyone that his kicking game is world class, he even seemed to surprise the tourists, who were expected him to be rusty and wayward. The SA forwards climbed in early on and the pressure showed when Vickery, who was being tortured in the scrums by Tendai “the beast” Mtawariwa, continually infringed at the set piece. The beast had an awesome game and showed the world that the South African scrum is not to be taken lightly.

Staying with the forwards, it was O'Connell's best performance on tour both as a player and as a captain. After SA made too many substitutions too early he sniffed his chance and got his boys going. The chief destroyer being Jaimie Roberts who was given too much room all afternoon. It must be said however that for their first try the apparently injured Adrian Jacobs showed no effort in what should have been a regulation tackle and saved the home side a little embarrassment. In fact the lions third try came from another piece of shocking defending by Andries Bekker; these guys have been out of rugby for quite some time and it definitely showed. The smart choice would be to swap Jaque Fourie for Jacobs as he posses an all round better game and is probably more equipped to deal with the size of Roberts. Tommy Bowe, who was the talk of the town a week ago was no where to be seen, being outshone by Habbana who got through an enormous amount of defensive work.

The South Africans kicked everything and we never got a chance to see what the abckline could do, wit all respect to the Lions, this will not suffice in a competition like the Tri-nations, where the competition will punish you if you give them 60% possession, like the boks gave the Lions today.

The Lions showed great heart to fight back and will take many positives out of the loss, however it is the Springboks who will have shaken off the rust and come out twice as good in the next game (which is also at altitude).

Pierre Spies never lived up to Superman hype, but in a game where there was almost no running attack from the Boks who would ever expect Spies to feature; a player like Schalk Burger was sorely missed, as the tight grafting and defensive game is his bread and butter.


And so we look forward to next weekend at Loftus the home of the Super 14 champions. If the Boks win they win the series, if the Lions win, we have one helluva “final” the next Saturday at Ellis Park. Whom ever you support, next week is going to be huge, so please don't miss it!

sgr

R1140 for a British and Irish Lions Test Match tickets

Here is an article I found. Can Lions tickets be worth this much?

Dan Retief

"Johannesburg - R14.24 a minute or R1 140 for the full 80 minutes. That’s what it’s going to cost the average rugby fan to watch the British and Irish Lions play the Springboks in three Tests in South Africa next year. This was the shock awaiting fans when SA Rugby on Wednesday revealed how supporters can acquire tickets for a tour that is already stirring up keen anticipation and which will arguably one of the most significant sports events yet staged in South Africa."

full article here

Bosch triumph at last

It's been a long wait, but finally Rondebosch have beaten Bishops.

Rondebosch 16 - Bishops 10

For more info on schools rugby go to http://www.keo.co.za/category/schools-derby/

remember to click on the ads to support the blog. thanks, sgr

First Test Preview...some thoughts

Much has been spoken about the upcoming test series. The visitors, winning 6 from 6, causing the British media, in their usual fashion, to hail their team as world-beaters. They fail, however, to look at the facts and do proper analyses on the strength and skill of the current crop of Springboks. The only world class player in the Lions side, someone who will go down in history as one of the great players is their second in command Brian O’Driscoll, but even his star has waned lately, the epitome of this came when he was hunted down against the Golden Lions. With their only truly classy player over the hill already it is going to take a committed team effort from the visitors and it is this quality that the hosts need to find, and quickly! They (the Bokke) might posses star footballers like Fourie Du Preez, Victor Matfield and Bryan Habbana, who have all played at the very highest level for a long time now. Their confidence at an all time high with Currie Cup, Super 14, Tri-Nations and World Cup trophies in their cabinets; over confidence and a lack of cohesion being the only things standing in the way of a 3-0 whitewash.

But how can the Lions win? And I do believe they have a chance; coach always told me its just 15 men against 15 men…simple. I believe teams that take on SA physically usually just end up tiring themselves out the exception here being the New Zealanders and to a far lesser extent a fired up French pack. Australia have beaten SA on many occasions, not by dominating us, but by playing quicker and smarter rugby than us. Sa likes to play slowly; our bull’s style of play is suited to patience and territory. When teams like Australia run the ball and use clever inside passes they have a 50/50 chance of beating the Boks. Warning: even if you play expansively you might not win. By this I mean that taking on the Boks physically is silly for the lions but running the ball and playing quickly could lead to an upset win or a loss by 50 points, high risk high reward. If they choose to play it tight South Africa will grind them into dust in the first half and blow them away like cremated lion ashes in the wind The odds are stacked in SA’s favour and this is why they must produce the goods.

It’s been twelve long years and everyone involved in SA rugby remembers who won the last game. We can’t call it revenge. That is simply a headline, a hollow piece of rhetoric used to sell newspapers. The Boks have to win because anything else just isn’t good enough for the calibre of layers we have playing in the country at the moment. In terms of history we are under pressure to reposition ourselves as the pinnacle of world rugby. If you want something in life you have to take it, it doesn’t matter what you deserve, what matters is getting out there and scoring more points than the opposition, playing to your potential and not accepting anything except your best. The next 80 minutes become the most important thing in the world. Because once you win, no matter how much pain you went through, 50 years from now, a thousand years from now no one could ever dispute the fact that you will always be a Lion tamer or a Springbok hunter.

And so as the whistle blows for the start of a game every Springbok fan has been waiting 12 years for be assured that the first hit, the first ruck, the first scrum and the first run will be history in the making and set the tone for what promises the be a feast of high class rugby…enjoy!

sgr

Derby Time

It's that time of the year again when the greatest rivalry in Cape Town schools history is resumed. For more than a hundred years Rondebosch Boy's High School and Bishops (Diocesans College) have battled head to head for the pride of being the number one in Cape Town. No matter the rankings, no matter the previous results, this is the only game that matters.

After many years of domination by Rondebosch, Bishops have become almost unstoppable and Bosch wins are few and far between (which makes them so great). The Last game they won was back in 2004 where the visitors came from behind to win one of the most exciting and dramatic school boy games of all time (22-26) on the same field as the venue on Saturday. Both team have been strong this year, beating some formidable opponents from the generally superior Afrikaans skools. But as i said before that all comes to naught when the derby games come around.

This is the first fixture between the two teams this year and it is shaping to be cracker (hope the weather holds out). What i know for sure is that the support for both sides will be out of this world and the intensity of the game rivaling that of a test match. Watch out for the Bobo's and Fleck's of the future!

The game precedes the Springbok's first test against the lions, so if your anywhere in the world or in space and have an Internet connection there is no way you will want to miss these two epic clashes. See you on the field!

Altius et Latius!

sgr

Springbok team to face British and Irish Lions

The Springbok team for the first Test against the British & Irish Lions is (Test caps in brackets):

15. Frans Steyn (27)
14. JP Pietersen (24)
13. Adi Jacobs (21)
12. Jean de Villiers (46)
11. Bryan Habana (46)
10. Ruan Pienaar (27)
9. Fourie du Preez (43)
8. Pierre Spies (19)
7. Juan Smith (54)
6. Heinrich Brüssow (1)
5. Victor Matfield (80)
4. Bakkies Botha (55)
3. John Smit (81) – captain
2. Bismarck du Plessis (21)
1. Tendai Mtawarira (10)

Replacements:
16. Gurthrö Steenkamp (20)
17. Deon Carstens (7)
18. Andries Bekker (13)
19. Danie Rossouw (36)
20. Ricky Januarie (34)
21. Jaque Fourie (42)
22. Morné Steyn (uncapped)

Results: midweek

16 June 09

Southern Kings 8 - B&I Lions 20

Summed Up in 5: Lions v Southern Kings XV

Lions:

1) Keith Earls played well as Fullback.
2) Gave away 13 penalties, most at the breakdown.
3) No real "fetcher", Worsley was ineffective.
4) Andy Powell ineffective at No.8.
5) Worked well to grind out two tries and a win against a strong King XV.

Southern Kings VX

1) Massively Physical
2) Weak at scrumtime.
3) Mbiyozo, Human and Hougaard were immense.
4) Brilliant tackling and winning turn overs at the breakdowns.
5) Well lead by Derrick Kuun.
6) (Yes they were so good we gave them at 6th point) The Southern Kings XV are one step closer to securing a Super Rugby Franchise.

Player Ratings: British and Irish Lions v Southern Kings XV

1.A. Sheridan 7 ...................................... Y. Engels 5
2.R. Ford 5 ............................................. D. Kuun (cpt) 7
3.E. Murray N.I ..................................... Vermulen 4
4.S. Shaw 6 ........................................... R. Skeate 5
5.D. O'Callaghan (cpt) 5......................... Wentzel 5
6.N. Hinds 4 ........................................... S. Tybilika 5
7.J. Worsley 5 ......................................... M. Mbiyozo 9
8.A. Powell 5 .......................................... Nel 7
9.M. Blair 6 ............................................ Hougaard 6
10.J. Hook NI (injury) .............................. J. van der Westhuisen 6 (yellow carded)
11.G. D'Arcy 3 ......................................... Turner 4
12.R. Flutey 3 ........................................... D. Barry 7
13.L. Fitzgerald 2 ..................................... F. Welsh 7
14.U. Monye 6 ......................................... W. Human 8
15.K. Earls 5 ............................................ Mangweni 6

Subs:

16.M. Rees 5 ............................................ Du Preez 5
17.A. Jones 6 ........................................... Greyling 5
18.T. Croft N.I ......................................... Payi N.I
19.D. Wallace N.I .................................... van Schalkvyk 4
20.H. Ellis N.I ......................................... Fowels 5
21.R. O' Gara .......................................... Q. Fortuin N.I
22.S. Williams N.I .................................. Z. Stick 5
Total: 82 ......................................... Total: 107

10: Perfect Game
7: Good Game
5: Average Game
3: Poor Game
0: Detrimental to the Team
N.I: No Influence

Only cos it's Tuesday

It's the beginning of the week which calls for a celebration!

Get your bets in

My preference is ladbrokes.com, but there are many out there to choose from. Here are some online betting odds for the up coming series...spin the wheel

ladbrokes
Great Odds
William Hill
888sport
Betfair

First testmatch:

Bokke 1/3
Draw 20/1
B&I Lions 9/4

Handicap is SA (-7), Lions (+7)
10/11

Fatboy official name for prop says Smit

‘I suppose it also helps that I’ve thrown a few lineout balls to Victor and Bakkies in my time. That has allowed the management to put another fatboy on the bench [the reserves bench includes two props in Deon Carstens and Gurthro Steenkamp].’ - John Smit

extra, extra, read all about it!

result: Kings win

...now before you go correcting me let me speak! The Kings spearheaded (no pun intended) by Mpho Mbiyozo won their way into the hearts of every South African. The fire and passion shown by a group of men assembled in 5 days, coming from as far as England and Japan, must surely now be the death knell to all those who oppose supporting Eastern Cape rugby. They have a beautiful stadium decked out with the rainbow colours of 35 000 vocal fans, mothers, girlfriends and that one security guard who secretly watches the game. For the 4 trillionth zim dollar, i mean time, we were shown how strong our rugby players are and that they always put up a show. All they (Kings) need now is the financial backing (even in these hard times) as well as hard working individuals who can use this money to pay dividends of the sleeping giant of Springbok rugby. Imagine a pool of players twice the size without losing any quality.

detailed analyses to follow:

The Golden Age of African rugby

If the Springboks beat the lions 3-0 can any one argue that this is not the mightiest we have ever been. The Springboks are the World Champions with a recent first ever victory at the House of Pain, The Bulls have won the Super 14 for the second time in three years, absolutely annihilating the best there was to offer (The Chief from Waikato) 61 -7 in the final after finishing top of the log and to add to this our Sevens side winning the IRB world series, not to mention our baby boks looking very solid in this years competition; all this whilst many top players have moved overseas to follow the money river. Note that all our players picked for the first test are playing locally, like wise with Australia and New Zealand (yet Southern Hemisphere reigns supreme). We have the largest audience in the world, because every time a South African is on show i.e. the rabble bunch picked to face the lions in their first tour match nearly pulled one over the best England, Ireland, Wales and Scotland put together (how much money do you think they earn?).

If you look at how much money SA rugby must be making it begs the question: why not help put other African countries on the map? There is no excuse for not including Kenya and Namibia in the First division of the Currie Cup; the Namibians will always put up a good fight and I'm sure we'd see some breathtaking running rugby from a well drilled Kenyan side (who have done so well in thee Sevens format).

Would it then not be the golden age of African rugby? But where do you think the money is going? Where does all the money in SA sport go? I ask you that!

So crazy it just might work...?

This is the last chance for the "no names" from South Africa to pull an upset against the lions becasue from then on in nothing but a South African victory will be tolerated. The public form the republic have been waiting twelve long years for retribution. Some call it revenge, others call it righting the wrongs of the past, but what is for certain is that neither side can take anything from twelve years ago, this is a new tour, new players and a vastly different game.

Back to the King's match: The lions have picked arguably their worst side of the tour so far which will be led by Doncha O'Callaghan who has little to no leadership experience. The Lions strength could ultimately be their downfall in this match as their rigid and predictable style of play although designed to close out matches could work against them when facing an unstructered team like the Kings. They boast a host of ex-springboks and quality Currie cup and Super 14 players. De Wet Barry makes a welcome return to SA rugby as well as the mercurial (slightly mal) Jaco Vd Westhuizen, a player who, at his peak, was one of the most exciting and devisating running fullbacks to come oout of South Africa. His short lived, but succesful career at flyhalf was nullifed by his return to Japan where his rugby suffeered and he failed to regain the form that saw him win 32 caps for the bokke.

Here is a list of the Kings players and their experience: Southern Kings: 15 Tiger Mangweni (Super 14, currie cup winner), 14 Wylie Human (Super 14), 13 Frikkie Welsh (Super 14), 12 De Wet Barry (Springbok - 39 caps), 11 Rayno Benjamin (Super 14, SA sevens), 10 Jaco van der Westhuyzen (Springbok - 32 caps), 9 Francois Hougaard (Super 14), 8 Darron Nel (Super 14) 7 Solly Tyibilika (Springbok - 8 caps), 6 Mpo Mbiyoso (SA Sevens), 5 Ross Skeate (Super 14), 4 Marco Wentzel Super 14), 3 Ruan Vermeulen (Super 14), 2 Derick Küun (Super 14 winner), 1 Jaco Engels (Super 14 winner).
Replacements: Simon Westraadt, Kevin Buys, Lungelo Payi, Heinrich Stride, Josh Fowles, Mzandile Stick (SA Sevens), Elger Watts, Bevin Fortuin (Springbok - 2 caps), Henry Grimes, Michael Coetzee.

Summed Up in 5: Lions v Western Province

LIONS:
1.Good Scrum
2.Good Finishing (3 Try's)
3.Poor Rucking
4.Poor Effort from a group of “Elite” international rugby players.
5.Poor fly half selection. (S. Jones played his way out of Test contention)

WESTERN PROVINCE:
1.Good Performance which brought back WP pride.
2.Good use of Conditions. (selection of W. de Waal as Fly Half)
3.Great Fitness.
4.Youngsters and Vodacom Cup players picked up their game to international standard.
5.Poor scrummaging.

Player Ratings: British and Irish Lions v Western Province

Lions:...............................Western Province:

1.A. Sheridan: 7 ................. W. Blaau: 6
2.M. Rees: 6 ...................... T. Liedenberg: 4
3.P. Vickery(cpt): 5 .............. B. Harris: 4
4.D. O'callaghan: 6 ............... M. Muller: 7
5.N. Hines: 6 .................... A. van Zyle: 6
6.J. Worsley: 5 .................. P. Louw: 6
7.M. Williams: 5 .................. D. Vermeulen: 7
8.A. Powell: 5 .................... L. Watson(cpt): 6
9.H. Ellis: 5 ..................... D. Duvenhage: 6
10.S. Jones: 2 ................... W. de Waal: 8
11.U. Monye: 6 ................... G. Bobo: 7
12.R. Flutey: 5 .................. P. Grant: 5
13.K. Earls: 5 ................... M. Newman: 6
14.T. Bowe: 8 .................... T. Chavhanga: 5
15.R. Kearney: 7 .................. J.Pietersen: 2

Subs:
16.R. Ford: 5 .................... H. Shimange: N.I
17.E. Murray: 5 .................. J.D. Moller: 0(gave away crutial penalty)
18.S. Shaw: N.I ................. D.K. Steenkamp: N.I
19.T. Croft: N.I .................. Z. Jordaan: N.I
20.S. Williams(Blair Injury) ..... C. Hoffman: N.I
21.J. Hook(match winning penalty).. JJ. Engelbrecht: N.I
22.G. D'Arcy: N.I ................ G. Aplon: 6

Total: 84 ....................... Total: 85


Scoring:

10: Perfect Game.
7: Good Overall Game.
5: Average Game.
3: Poor Game.
O: Detrimental to the Team.

Weekend Results 13 June 2009

New Zealand 22 - France 27
Australia 31 - Italy 8
Argentina 24 - Englannd 22
Western Province 23 - B&I Lions 26

Cheap 2009 Lions tour tickets

hi guys
Here are some websites that you may be able to find cheap lions test tickets, also the averts to the right of this blog often sell Lions tour tickets.

http://www.lionstour.com/

http://www.viagogo.co.uk/Sports-Tickets/Rugby-Union/British-and-Irish-Lions-Tour-Tickets?affiliateID=49&pcid=PSNOBRGOOUKBriti48046-000099&gclid=CO3utLe9ipsCFd4B4wodsQK7pw

http://www.topseats.co.uk/

http://www.medwaytravel.co.uk/Leisure+Travel/Holiday+Types/Culture+Hobby+Oberammergau+and+Pilgrimages/Lions+Tour+of+South+Africa

hope you find some last minute deals!!

MM

WP nearly rain on Lions parade

Western Province 23 - Lions 26

"having four more points would have made the occasion even better", these were the words of Western Province captain Luke Watson. In a game that could have gone either way right up until the last minute the home side full of young talent and no names put up a committed performance that wasn't seen by the Golden Lions or the Sharks. It was especially the defense that made the game so tight and enjoyable to watch coupled with the wet weather which was definitely an equalizer. Without their Springboks it was never going to happen, but with four more points it would have. Martin Muller got stuck into the rucks and jumped superbly, showing that all you need is the right attitude to succeed whilst the old hand Gcobani Bobo worked tirelessly on and off the ball, also using his experience to keep the backline calm and in control. But the stand out for Province was the man who failed to fire in the Super 14 Willem De Waal. His kicking game (which was on song) was perfect for not only the conditions but also for the European style of rugby that was on show. Super 14 this was not, it was more like trench warfare and the quality of the soldiers on the Lions side eventually endured and a brilliant kick from Hook, who seems a more exciting option than Jones or O'Gara, sent the visitors three points clear with five minutes to play

The scrums were a bit f a nightmare, more is expected of JD Moller and the penalty he gave away in the end was unacceptable from a person who is paid huge amounts of money to specifically do that one job. The rucks were pretty even and the Lions recycling is definitely one of their strengths, but the malls and collisions were all one way traffic, WP knocking the Lions back in the tackle so often you forgot which direction the teams were playing in. They also counteracted the Lions rolling mauls superbly, something a monster pack like the springboks should take note of; if you have the right body position and push as a team the Lions maul looks quite impotent. That said the visitors just had too much all round class for the hosts and what could have been the upset of the tour was always a bit of a prayer in the wind for die hard WP fans.

Another superb performance by Tommy Bowe seemed to make the difference. A definite starter in the Test he ran a great line and produced a good finish for his try. His best moment however, was setting up Monye for the second score as he broke tackles with ease and floated a neat pass over the defender. He was also solid under the high ball and has a more than adequate kicking game making him one of the few players on the Lions tour who comes anywhere close to the Springboks superstars like Fourie Du Preez, Bryan Habbana and Victor Matfield, players who perform at the highest standard week in and week out, almost always making the difference in every game they play.

Again i will complain about the lack of springboks in the provincial teams and after reading an article by Dan Reteif it became clear to me that rugby is a business and nothing else, the last great amateur sport is gone and for this I shed a tear. No longer do we see rugby for rugby sake and the lions tour was supposed the be the last of the great tours, unfortunately it hasn't been so great thus far. Australia take note; play your wallabies in the provincial games or don't play them at all, stop insulting the rugby community with B teams!

With one more warm up match before the first test South African fans can only hold thumbs for a miracle next week when a pick-a-mix team from around the country and even further will have the last opportunity at putting one over the Lions. I must just say that the Kings side, on paper, seem a better outfit than any other that has faced the Lions so far, but we will have to see if they can pull together and form into a cohesive team. I am surprised and saddened by the absence of Akona Ndungane, a player who toiled so hard for the champion bulls and a great son of Eastern Cape rugby, but hasn't been given a shot at the Lions, SA Rugby catch a wake up please. sgr

Watch Rugby Live! Online Streaming

Don't miss a minute of the action. From anywhere in the world; as long as you have a laptop or pc with internet conection you can log onto Justin TV and watch your favourite rugby teams playing for free. All major matches: Lions Tour, Tri-Nations, Six Nations, Super 14 and Currie Cup and even the minor games Varsity Cup, Vodacom Cup and the Heineken Cup.

http://www.justin.tv/

Weekend Fixtures

13 June: Internationals

New Zealand v France 09:35*

Australia v Italy 11:30*

Western Province v B&I Lions 15:00*

Argentina v England 21:00*

*All times CAT (central African Time)

Preview: Western Province vs B&I Lions

The unbeaten Lions now move onto Cape Town to take on Western Province in the fifth fixture of the 2009 Lions tour of South Africa. The Lions struggled to a victory against the Cheetahs, who missed a match winning drop goal last weekend (26-24), But bounced back well to beat a woeful, Springbok starved, Sharks Team on Wednesday. (39-3)

The Stormers (the Super 14 franchise associated with Western Province)were placed 5th in the 2008 Super 14 but under achieved in 2009 ending the season in 10th place. Province will no doubt have have to play their best rugby to topple a now confident Lions outfit. Like the Sharks, Western Province will be missing key players through injury and Springboks selection:

Missing Springboks:
Jean de Villiers (Province Captain), Schalk Burger, Ricky Januarie and Andries Bekker.

Injury List:
Conrad Jantjies, Brian Mujati, Adriaan Fondse, Sireli Naqelevuki, Dylan des Fountain and Hilton Lobberts.

Controversial Province captain Luke Watson, along with Super 14 star Duane Vermeulen will be keen to battle the lions at the breakdown, an area they have been struggling with throughout the tour. The Lions will want to continue their good form at scrum time and it will be a real challenge for Province to front up in this area. The Province pack is a real mix of youthful exuberance and experience. Wicus Blaau, the promising young prop , now with a full season of Super rugby behind him, will be eager to test himself against Lions captain Phil Vickery.

For Western Province to pull an historic victory out of the bag they will have to replicate the strong defense that they showed during the Super 14. The Stormers ended the season with a top 5 defensive record. They will also have to take the opportunities when they come, with a strong back line we could see some exciting attacks. Over the last 4 matches the Lions have shown that they consistantly make silly errors and if Province can capitalize on a couple of these they may just be able to provide the first upset of the tour.

Forwads Battles:
Duane Vermeulen vs Martyn Williams: Vermeulen was the stand out player for the Stormers this season and would have been disappointed not to be in the Springbok squad. He will be despirate to prove himself on the international level against the Welsh veteran.

Backs Battles:
Peter Grant (Top Right)vs Riki Flutey: The Springbok Grant will be seething after being left out of both the Springboks and the Emerging Springboks, his consistency for both Province and the Stormers will no dout shine through against the Lions. However Flutey is a formidable opponent will Super rugby experience playing for the Hurricanes. This battle at center will definitely be one to watch.

Teams:

WESTERN PROVINCE: 15 Joe Pietersen, 14 Tonderai Chavhanga, 13 Morgan Newman, 12 Peter Grant, 11 Gobani Bobo, 10 Willem de Waal, 9 Dewaldt Duvenhage, 8 Luke Watson(Cpt), 7 Duane Vermeulen, 6 Pieter Louw, Anton van Zyle, 4 Martin Muller, 3 Brok Harris, 2 Tiaan Liebenberg, 1 Wicus Blaauw.
REPLACEMENTS: 16 Hanyani Shimange, 17 JD Moller, 18 De Kock Steenkamp, 19 Zandre Jordaan, 20 Conrad Hoffmann, 21 JJ Engelbrecht, 22 Gio Aplon.

British and Irish Lions: 15 Rob Kearney, 14 Tommy Bowe, 13 Keith Earls, 12 Riki Flutey, 11 Ugo Monye, 10 Stephen Jones, 9 Harry Ellis, 8 Andy Powell, 7 Martyn Williams, 6 Joe Worsley, 5 Nathan Hines, 4 Donnocha O'Callaghan, 3 Phil Vickery(Cpt), 2 Matthew Rees, 1 Andrew Sheridan.
Replacements: 16 Ross Ford, 17 Euan Murry, 18 Simon Shaw, 19 Tom Croft, 20 Mike Blair, 21 James Hook, 22 Gordan D'Arcy

Betting Odds:

Ladbrokes.com:

Western Province win: 5/1
Draw: 22/1
Lions win: 1/9

MM

Thug Vickery named as captain of Lions

The thuggish england world cup winner Phil Vickery has been named as Lions captain for tomorrows "warm up" game against Western Province in Cape town.

It is surprising to read that coach Ian McGeechan chose the former england captain to lead the Lions as a "just reward for a thoroughly professional player". Vickery was yellow carded against the Sharks on Wednesday just minutes after being brought onto the field for foul play and was forced watch the remainder of the match from the sidelines. (luckily his seat was still nice and warm for him)The northern hemisphere often label the Springboks as "dirty" players for their massively physical style of rugby, but they overlook their own thugs. Vickery failed as captain of England in the past and has no skill at this position for his club London Wasps. Why then has McGeechan chosen this player over the likes of Martyn Williams who captained Wales from 2002 to 2005, the culmination of which was a Grand Slam Six Nations victory for Wales. The simple answer to that would be, that McGeechan and Vickery are big chums who work together at London Wasps. Surely a captain should be chosen on his ability and composure. Vickery is in the twighlight of his career and is probably the weekest of the front row forwards on tour. Looking through the list of current successful international captain's we see the likes of John Smit (South Africa), Richie McCaw (New Zealand), Ryan Jones (Wales) and Brian o'Driscol (Ireland); all of whom carry themselves well on the field. They set examples to their team with their ability, attitude and composure.The easily frustrated Vickey however has a history of loosing his temper and cheating (his infamous citing after tripping an USA center Paul Emerick during a tight pool match at the RWC 2007), if he starts loosing at scrum time get ready to see some dirty play. Selecting Vickery as captain could sully the name of the British and Irish Lions as he will no doubt be an embarrassment to these four great rugby nations.

MM