I didn't think I'd make a post about this, but a lot of people have been getting worked up about it so I thought I might as well.
First off - Deccie has avoided making two decisions in selecting 6 props, so controversy must rain supreme when he finally makes the call tomorrow. Sidenote: What is the wisdom in naming a 33 man squad only to cut it two days later?
The Second row resources are slim anyway, so it's no surprise that Toner is in there as a 4th choice. Odds are he'll be cut anyway so chill out. Henderson and McLaughlin are there covering.
Which is probably the only reason why McLaughlin can be included after not being in the original 39 man squad. How he's ahead of Tommy O'Donnell on merit is beyond me.
Trimble is a harsh call, especially as his physicality might be needed against the Welsh, but I thought he was poor on Friday, and would have been caught out of line if the Saxons could have made the most of it.
It seems illogical to have only 2 scrum halves, but I think that more points to the fact that in Kidney's head there are the top two and then a gap.
Beyond that, It's great to see Dave McSharry involved in a 33 man squad, while it's unlikely he will be in tomorrow's announcement, hopefully he'll get some gametime against Italy or Scotland.
In terms of the 23 man squad, there are 5 main points of interest;
1. Picking the back row; Heaslip and O'Brien are certainties. Deccie isn't a "horses for courses" type selection maker, but I would have Henry in there as Wales are likely to pick Warburton and Tipuric and all skills will be needed on the deck. That said, O'Mahony isn't too shabby on the deck, and the loser will definitely see some game time. With O'Mahony more likely to make an impact off the bench.
2. Picking the back three; Kearney is guaranteed, although his form isn't as good as he can be. 2 from Zebo, Gilroy, Fitzgerald, Earls and McFadden will start as wingers with one on the bench. I wouldn't have Earls anywhere near it, and for positional cover himself or Luke should be involved. Zebo is just off a hat trick, and Gilroy shone in the last Irish game. I get the feeling the McFadden isnt well liked by Kidney anyway. I'd have Zebo and Fitzgerald with Gilroy on the bench, but I think Earls will be involved because not many have realised how bad he is yet.
3. Props; By selecting Kilcoyne and Court and Bent and Fitzpatrick, Kidney has delayed making a decision on the back up props. Tighthead has to be Fitzpatrick based on Bent's awfulness. He hasn't had a lot of game time, but it can only be him. Please. I'm fearful it won't. Otherwise Kilcoyne or Court? I really don't mind, I like Kilcoyne a lot, and have been impressed with Court. I hope both get some time over the competition, but thats a fools wish.
4. Outhalf
Back up to Sexton is an important call. I'm including this because I know there are calls for Jackson to be there instead of Sexton, but to be honest, while I think it shouldn't be O'Gara, I feel it shouldn't be Jackson more. Especially for Wales. I wouldn't feel comfortable with Jackson coming on with a tight game, especially with no Ruan Pienaar to guide him from nine.
Monday, 28 January 2013
Future Irish Options at Outhalf
With Ronan O'Gara's career seemingly winding down, It's time to look at the pretenders to his throne on the bench of the Irish squad.
With the wolfhounds showcasing all three on the pitch at once before the start of the 6 Nations, it seems like a great place to start. I will also look at recent performances from each during the 6 Nations for their province.
Paddy Jackson is the only one of the three that seems to have cemented his place for his provincial side, and therefore seems to be ahead of the other two (rightly or wrongly, it's sound logic).
A clear indicator for how I think they should be ordered came when all of them were on the pitch against the Saxons. Jackson at 10, Keatley at 12 and Madigan at 15. At least in theory, those were the positions that they were meant to play.
Madigan seemed to want to be first receiver, and demanded the ball at every occasion. He also took over kicking to the corner duties. When the chance came to step up and take responsibility came (as would be expected from a ten), Madigan wanted it more than Jackson or Keatley.
In terms of their respective talents, Jackson sits very deep behind the gainline, has a decent eye for a kick to touch, with a respective pass. His goalkicking hasn't been impressive, with Pienaar taking over the duties midway through the season. He seems to have leadership qualities, with captaining the under 20s at last years 6 Nations. Although what was more indicating was the upturn in the 20's fortunes when Jackson didn't feature in the JWC.
Jackson impressed me on his debut. He showed me a lot in open play that I didn't think he was capable of. This makes me a lot more comfortable about him in the future. He deserves to keep his place for the French game.
Madigan is a bit of a flaky character. Ever since I've seen him in schools rugby, I've thought his temperament was poor, he has a habit of choking, and is not a good placekicker. Maybe that's just me being a "little" bias. But he looked the least likely of most academy graduates to make it. I've watched him feature through the years, displaying the poor goalkicking, but not being given a chance in many games to show whether he can handle the pressure now. His attitude has been questioned in the past, in a similiar way to Andrew Conway.
However, this season in particular, Madigan has shown a natural running game, and has one of the most wonderful passes a flyhalf has ever seen. He has a tendency to go for running options that aren't on, but while this is receding, at least he has the cajones to go for it. He has shown a willingness to improve and is capable of some piece of magic - something which Jackson, for all his solidity, doesn't look like doing.
He has shown improvements in goalkicking in recent seasons which is encouraging, but is still behind Keatley, and has shown a significant improvement on defence too.
Ian Keatley however seems the best goalkicker of the three, based on his percentages. Learning under O'Gara means he will learn how to control the game and kick for the corner, but he seems to natural want to run and pass it.
One thing that strikes me about Keatley is that he is very inconsistent. He has games like the one against the Wolfhounds, or when he came on against Edinburgh in round 5 where he is ineffective and has no bearing on the game. He lets other backs come into first receiver too often.
Then when I start to form this opinion of him, he plays like he did against Racing Metro in round 6 (albeit against a poor Racing side), where he was everywhere, creating and pulling defenders each way and was one of Munsters best performers.
He hasn't been getting the opportunites for Munster recently as O'Gara has been battling to remain in the squad and this has counted against him. I fear he may have missed his opportunity as the oldest challenger between these three.Next season will be huge for him and he needs to become Munster's no 1.
Bottom line; Jackson gets most game time, but is limited. He's shown some glimpses of more attacking prowess recently, but needs to work on it and will probably prove me wrong. Keatley is too inconsistent and more likely to be bad than good, and Madigan creates more, but question marks over attitude and bottle.
Madigan seems the best of the three in my mind; but with even younger stars Stuart Olding and JJ Hanrahan coming through, he may not be best for long.
With the wolfhounds showcasing all three on the pitch at once before the start of the 6 Nations, it seems like a great place to start. I will also look at recent performances from each during the 6 Nations for their province.
Paddy Jackson is the only one of the three that seems to have cemented his place for his provincial side, and therefore seems to be ahead of the other two (rightly or wrongly, it's sound logic).
A clear indicator for how I think they should be ordered came when all of them were on the pitch against the Saxons. Jackson at 10, Keatley at 12 and Madigan at 15. At least in theory, those were the positions that they were meant to play.
Madigan seemed to want to be first receiver, and demanded the ball at every occasion. He also took over kicking to the corner duties. When the chance came to step up and take responsibility came (as would be expected from a ten), Madigan wanted it more than Jackson or Keatley.
In terms of their respective talents, Jackson sits very deep behind the gainline, has a decent eye for a kick to touch, with a respective pass. His goalkicking hasn't been impressive, with Pienaar taking over the duties midway through the season. He seems to have leadership qualities, with captaining the under 20s at last years 6 Nations. Although what was more indicating was the upturn in the 20's fortunes when Jackson didn't feature in the JWC.
Jackson impressed me on his debut. He showed me a lot in open play that I didn't think he was capable of. This makes me a lot more comfortable about him in the future. He deserves to keep his place for the French game.
Madigan is a bit of a flaky character. Ever since I've seen him in schools rugby, I've thought his temperament was poor, he has a habit of choking, and is not a good placekicker. Maybe that's just me being a "little" bias. But he looked the least likely of most academy graduates to make it. I've watched him feature through the years, displaying the poor goalkicking, but not being given a chance in many games to show whether he can handle the pressure now. His attitude has been questioned in the past, in a similiar way to Andrew Conway.
However, this season in particular, Madigan has shown a natural running game, and has one of the most wonderful passes a flyhalf has ever seen. He has a tendency to go for running options that aren't on, but while this is receding, at least he has the cajones to go for it. He has shown a willingness to improve and is capable of some piece of magic - something which Jackson, for all his solidity, doesn't look like doing.
He has shown improvements in goalkicking in recent seasons which is encouraging, but is still behind Keatley, and has shown a significant improvement on defence too.
Ian Keatley however seems the best goalkicker of the three, based on his percentages. Learning under O'Gara means he will learn how to control the game and kick for the corner, but he seems to natural want to run and pass it.
Then when I start to form this opinion of him, he plays like he did against Racing Metro in round 6 (albeit against a poor Racing side), where he was everywhere, creating and pulling defenders each way and was one of Munsters best performers.
He hasn't been getting the opportunites for Munster recently as O'Gara has been battling to remain in the squad and this has counted against him. I fear he may have missed his opportunity as the oldest challenger between these three.Next season will be huge for him and he needs to become Munster's no 1.
Bottom line; Jackson gets most game time, but is limited. He's shown some glimpses of more attacking prowess recently, but needs to work on it and will probably prove me wrong. Keatley is too inconsistent and more likely to be bad than good, and Madigan creates more, but question marks over attitude and bottle.
Madigan seems the best of the three in my mind; but with even younger stars Stuart Olding and JJ Hanrahan coming through, he may not be best for long.
Saturday, 26 January 2013
Wolfhounds vs Saxons
It was a strange match last night in the Sportsground. I found it mildly entertaining, but there was only one linebreak for each side.
There wasn't many outstanding performances, but players impressed, especially on defence.
For me, George Ford was man of the match. He was outstanding. You can tell immediately that there is something about him. For a 20 year old to have so much game management, and be able to attack the line when it presents. He's a special talent. I was impressed with him whenever I've seen him, from U 20's games, and it looks like he's stepped up again. I'd put him in the EPS squad now. There is a serious argument for starting him. Now with Farrell and Burns impressing recently, that won't happen. But maybe it should.
More on that in another post I think.
Not many others of the Saxons impressed, mostly because they weren't allowed with some ferocious defending from the Wolfhounds.
I've been critical of Paddy Jackson's tackling in the past, but with each game he looks less and less ROG like in that regard, and Darren Cave coming up on the defensive line quickly and effectively and Dave McSharry tackling like a beast, the Saxons potent backline didn't get a chance to display its class.
Tommy O'Donnell continued his rapid rise, and along with Dave McSharry, were the two most impressive in defence.
Robbie Henshaw looked impressive under a high ball, and seems comfortable at this level, and Luke Fitzgerald edged the battle between himself and Trimble.
The most interesting aspect of the match was the battle of the props, and the outhalfs.
Kilcoyne didn't get much of a chance, and neither did Court really. It was obvious that the directive from the off was a half each, but that was a little unfair on Kilcoyne given that the trouble with Bent meant he didnt have a chance. It's still up for grabs between these two. Hopefully both will get minutes in the 6 Nations.
As for Bent, he is atrocious. But so atrocious that he needs a post all on his own.
What I found most interesting from the game was that Kidney felt the need to have the next 3 out halfs on the field at once. With Jackson not running the game completely, and being outclassed by Ford, Keatley was anonymous when he came on. But Madigan, for all the criticism I have sent his way, seemed to step up and assume responsibility. He was the only one of the three that went looking for work, and nearly produced a try for Henderson. Maybe he was buoyed by the news from earlier about Sexton, but Madigan looked to me to be the best of the three. And he wanted it more.
It's been obvious that he is the most likely to make something happen compared to the safety of Jackson or Keatley.
Interesting game nonetheless, and plenty to ponder.
There wasn't many outstanding performances, but players impressed, especially on defence.
For me, George Ford was man of the match. He was outstanding. You can tell immediately that there is something about him. For a 20 year old to have so much game management, and be able to attack the line when it presents. He's a special talent. I was impressed with him whenever I've seen him, from U 20's games, and it looks like he's stepped up again. I'd put him in the EPS squad now. There is a serious argument for starting him. Now with Farrell and Burns impressing recently, that won't happen. But maybe it should.
More on that in another post I think.
Not many others of the Saxons impressed, mostly because they weren't allowed with some ferocious defending from the Wolfhounds.
I've been critical of Paddy Jackson's tackling in the past, but with each game he looks less and less ROG like in that regard, and Darren Cave coming up on the defensive line quickly and effectively and Dave McSharry tackling like a beast, the Saxons potent backline didn't get a chance to display its class.
Tommy O'Donnell continued his rapid rise, and along with Dave McSharry, were the two most impressive in defence.
Robbie Henshaw looked impressive under a high ball, and seems comfortable at this level, and Luke Fitzgerald edged the battle between himself and Trimble.
The most interesting aspect of the match was the battle of the props, and the outhalfs.
Kilcoyne didn't get much of a chance, and neither did Court really. It was obvious that the directive from the off was a half each, but that was a little unfair on Kilcoyne given that the trouble with Bent meant he didnt have a chance. It's still up for grabs between these two. Hopefully both will get minutes in the 6 Nations.
As for Bent, he is atrocious. But so atrocious that he needs a post all on his own.
What I found most interesting from the game was that Kidney felt the need to have the next 3 out halfs on the field at once. With Jackson not running the game completely, and being outclassed by Ford, Keatley was anonymous when he came on. But Madigan, for all the criticism I have sent his way, seemed to step up and assume responsibility. He was the only one of the three that went looking for work, and nearly produced a try for Henderson. Maybe he was buoyed by the news from earlier about Sexton, but Madigan looked to me to be the best of the three. And he wanted it more.
It's been obvious that he is the most likely to make something happen compared to the safety of Jackson or Keatley.
Interesting game nonetheless, and plenty to ponder.
Thursday, 24 January 2013
Lions certainties
Before the start of the 6 Nations, I wanted to do a few posts on the Lions; starting with who I think is a certainity to either a) go, and b) start in the text XV.
Starters.
1. Cian Healy
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8. Heaslip
9.
10. Sexton
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
That might be my Irish bias talking, but let me explain those.
Jonathan Sexton is the Lions 10, injury permitting. That's probably the only call that everyone in Europe agrees on, and he's in good form.
Being a 6 Nations captain gives you a boost to travel, and with not much alternatives in the number 8 shirt, Heaslip is almost a shoo in.
Cian Healy has been phenomenal so far this season, and with Jenkins his nearest challenger not getting enough gametime in Toulon, and Andrew Sheridan not certain of making with no English appearances, there is no one to stop him.
Other near certainities to travel include;
Rory Best, given the strength of the Irish hookers, and the leadership qualities that Best brings, he will certainly travel. I'm not backing Hartley to go, as I think he has too many disciplinary problems to be considered a definite.
Dan Cole and Adam Jones, both will go, but there is huge competition between these two for the test spot which is why I left it open.
Richie Gray, before the season, I had Gray as one of the few definites, but he has been involved in two poor teams which might affect him. Remains to be seen.
Paul O'Connell, less likely to go due to injuries, but I maintain that his presence on the tour would lift everyone, worth bringing if he can prove he can last a few games.
Sean O'Brien, He should start, but it's a question of where, depends on the other options in the back row, although there is a distinct possibility he mightn't due to
Stephen Ferris, who starts if he's 50% fit. What a colossus this man is. Thing is, he is rarely that fit.
Kelly Brown, I think Brown is a super player. Although he is one of the names mentioned here that I don't think will start in the test team. His presence on the touring squad would be a positive one, and I see him as a potential midweek captain.
Owen Farrell will probably go given his good form recently, and his ability to cover the centers. He's nowhere near Sexton though, and there aren't too many other 10's. This all depends if he starts in the 6Nations.
There are so many quality wingers in contention to go, so I don't want to name one that definitely will, but probably George North is ahead of everyone else at the moment.
Brian O'Driscoll, like Ferris and POC, if BOD is fit, he goes. His presence raises those around him. Jonathan Davies is pushing him hard for a test spot though.
Jonathan Davies, With the man above him meaning his XV place isn't guaranteed, I foresee at least one game where one of them places 12.
Rob Kearney and Leigh Halfpenny. Halfpenny has had an amazing year in the presence of mediocrity by his teammates at all levels. Kearney is just back from injury and would have been my front runner. Both will go, but it's close after that.
Starters.
1. Cian Healy
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8. Heaslip
9.
10. Sexton
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
That might be my Irish bias talking, but let me explain those.
Jonathan Sexton is the Lions 10, injury permitting. That's probably the only call that everyone in Europe agrees on, and he's in good form.
Being a 6 Nations captain gives you a boost to travel, and with not much alternatives in the number 8 shirt, Heaslip is almost a shoo in.
Cian Healy has been phenomenal so far this season, and with Jenkins his nearest challenger not getting enough gametime in Toulon, and Andrew Sheridan not certain of making with no English appearances, there is no one to stop him.
Other near certainities to travel include;
Rory Best, given the strength of the Irish hookers, and the leadership qualities that Best brings, he will certainly travel. I'm not backing Hartley to go, as I think he has too many disciplinary problems to be considered a definite.
Dan Cole and Adam Jones, both will go, but there is huge competition between these two for the test spot which is why I left it open.
Richie Gray, before the season, I had Gray as one of the few definites, but he has been involved in two poor teams which might affect him. Remains to be seen.
Paul O'Connell, less likely to go due to injuries, but I maintain that his presence on the tour would lift everyone, worth bringing if he can prove he can last a few games.
Sean O'Brien, He should start, but it's a question of where, depends on the other options in the back row, although there is a distinct possibility he mightn't due to
Stephen Ferris, who starts if he's 50% fit. What a colossus this man is. Thing is, he is rarely that fit.
Kelly Brown, I think Brown is a super player. Although he is one of the names mentioned here that I don't think will start in the test team. His presence on the touring squad would be a positive one, and I see him as a potential midweek captain.
Owen Farrell will probably go given his good form recently, and his ability to cover the centers. He's nowhere near Sexton though, and there aren't too many other 10's. This all depends if he starts in the 6Nations.
There are so many quality wingers in contention to go, so I don't want to name one that definitely will, but probably George North is ahead of everyone else at the moment.
Brian O'Driscoll, like Ferris and POC, if BOD is fit, he goes. His presence raises those around him. Jonathan Davies is pushing him hard for a test spot though.
Jonathan Davies, With the man above him meaning his XV place isn't guaranteed, I foresee at least one game where one of them places 12.
Rob Kearney and Leigh Halfpenny. Halfpenny has had an amazing year in the presence of mediocrity by his teammates at all levels. Kearney is just back from injury and would have been my front runner. Both will go, but it's close after that.
Wednesday, 23 January 2013
Irish Wolfhounds Squad
England Saxon's squad
This is shaping up to be some game. I've thought for a while that the Saxons seem to play with some freedom and impressiveness that they often perform better than the actual English sides.
Especially with some outstanding young talent coming through like George Ford, Christian Wade and Elliot Daly, backing up some known performers like Charlie Sharples, Tom Palmer and Louis Deacon.
As for the Irish selection; there are several things that we can take from the selection in terms of the upcoming 6 nations, and a number of things to watch out for come Friday.
The role of backup loosehead is very much up for grabs. We are in a fortunate enough position to have three good quality looseheads, with Healy out in front. Penney's calls for Kilcoyne to be a Lion might be a little premature, but not discounted. Both Court and Kilcoyne have been impressive recently, and whoever impresses more on Friday, should if given any game time, make a good case for Lions inclusion. I presume it'll be a half each, but if one gets more time than the other it might hint to which way Kidney is thinking.
At hooker, it's obvious that Cronin is now Best's backup, and rightly so. And with Sherry head and shoulders above Varley at Munster, thats how that order should stay. Interesting to see Sherry in a slightly higher level.
This is the first time that Bent has competition to Ross's backup as Fitzpatrick was injured in November. Similar to the looseheads, I would expect a half each, but again, anything different would suggest a leaning towards one over the other.
With two second rows picked, and three left in the main squad, there doesn't seem to be much to play for here. Especially with the Munster pair's impressive form, and McCarthy's performances in November. What is interesting is who shall be the replacement second row for the Wolfhounds. It looks to me that Henderson might be given a go to see what he's like in secondrow in front of the Irish management.
As mentioned, with 3 blindside flankers included in a squad of 23, it seems Henderson, or possibly McLaughlin is picked to cover lock. The 4 back rows left in the first team seem to be the 4 for the squad. Which will be an interesting call. It's good to finally see O'Donnell get a chance to impress. And who knows, maybe Coughlan will prove me wrong and show some talent.
At 9, Reddan and Murray seem miles ahead of Marshall and Boss. Kidney doesnt seem interested in Boss, despite his good form recently. Hopefully Marshall gets a good chance to shine.
I don't understand the thought process behind having three outhalfs in a squad of 23. It seems Jackson is ahead of Madigan who is ahead of Keatley. Whoever is covering 15 between Madigan and Keatley is at a disadvantage.
The inclusion of Fitzgerald and Trimble, even for match fitness, seem to suggest that Zebo and Gilroy are ahead of them. Which is an interesting call. Possible that McFadden is ahead of them aswell.
Also seems that Earls is ahead of Cave in the backup to O'Driscoll, which is also a questionable call.
Lastly, delighted to see McSharry and Henshaw, will be interesting to see them in the company of better players.
Wolfhounds:
1. Court, Kilcoyne
2. Sherry, Varley
3. Bent , Fitzpatrick
4. Stevenson
5. Toner
6. Henderson, McLaughlin, Ruddock
7. O'Donnell
8. Coughlan
9. Boss, Marshall
10. Jackson, Keatley, Madigan
11. Fitzgerald
12. McSharry
13. Cave
14. Trimble
15. Henshaw
Main Squad
1. Healy
2. Best, Cronin
3. Ross
4.O'Callaghan
5. McCarthy, Ryan
6. O'Brien
7. Henry
8. Heaslip, O'Mahony
9. Murray, Reddan
10. O'Gara, Sexton
11. Zebo
12. D'Arcy, McFadden
13. Earls, O'Driscoll
14. Gilroy
15. Kearney
This is shaping up to be some game. I've thought for a while that the Saxons seem to play with some freedom and impressiveness that they often perform better than the actual English sides.
Especially with some outstanding young talent coming through like George Ford, Christian Wade and Elliot Daly, backing up some known performers like Charlie Sharples, Tom Palmer and Louis Deacon.
As for the Irish selection; there are several things that we can take from the selection in terms of the upcoming 6 nations, and a number of things to watch out for come Friday.
The role of backup loosehead is very much up for grabs. We are in a fortunate enough position to have three good quality looseheads, with Healy out in front. Penney's calls for Kilcoyne to be a Lion might be a little premature, but not discounted. Both Court and Kilcoyne have been impressive recently, and whoever impresses more on Friday, should if given any game time, make a good case for Lions inclusion. I presume it'll be a half each, but if one gets more time than the other it might hint to which way Kidney is thinking.
At hooker, it's obvious that Cronin is now Best's backup, and rightly so. And with Sherry head and shoulders above Varley at Munster, thats how that order should stay. Interesting to see Sherry in a slightly higher level.
This is the first time that Bent has competition to Ross's backup as Fitzpatrick was injured in November. Similar to the looseheads, I would expect a half each, but again, anything different would suggest a leaning towards one over the other.
With two second rows picked, and three left in the main squad, there doesn't seem to be much to play for here. Especially with the Munster pair's impressive form, and McCarthy's performances in November. What is interesting is who shall be the replacement second row for the Wolfhounds. It looks to me that Henderson might be given a go to see what he's like in secondrow in front of the Irish management.
As mentioned, with 3 blindside flankers included in a squad of 23, it seems Henderson, or possibly McLaughlin is picked to cover lock. The 4 back rows left in the first team seem to be the 4 for the squad. Which will be an interesting call. It's good to finally see O'Donnell get a chance to impress. And who knows, maybe Coughlan will prove me wrong and show some talent.
At 9, Reddan and Murray seem miles ahead of Marshall and Boss. Kidney doesnt seem interested in Boss, despite his good form recently. Hopefully Marshall gets a good chance to shine.
I don't understand the thought process behind having three outhalfs in a squad of 23. It seems Jackson is ahead of Madigan who is ahead of Keatley. Whoever is covering 15 between Madigan and Keatley is at a disadvantage.
The inclusion of Fitzgerald and Trimble, even for match fitness, seem to suggest that Zebo and Gilroy are ahead of them. Which is an interesting call. Possible that McFadden is ahead of them aswell.
Also seems that Earls is ahead of Cave in the backup to O'Driscoll, which is also a questionable call.
Lastly, delighted to see McSharry and Henshaw, will be interesting to see them in the company of better players.
Wolfhounds:
1. Court, Kilcoyne
2. Sherry, Varley
3. Bent , Fitzpatrick
4. Stevenson
5. Toner
6. Henderson, McLaughlin, Ruddock
7. O'Donnell
8. Coughlan
9. Boss, Marshall
10. Jackson, Keatley, Madigan
11. Fitzgerald
12. McSharry
13. Cave
14. Trimble
15. Henshaw
Main Squad
1. Healy
2. Best, Cronin
3. Ross
4.O'Callaghan
5. McCarthy, Ryan
6. O'Brien
7. Henry
8. Heaslip, O'Mahony
9. Murray, Reddan
10. O'Gara, Sexton
11. Zebo
12. D'Arcy, McFadden
13. Earls, O'Driscoll
14. Gilroy
15. Kearney
Monday, 21 January 2013
Irish options.
With a number of people suggesting that Declan Kidney's job is under threat, one of the things he focused on when he got the job was to develop a squad.
Has he achieved this?
1. Loosehead.
At loosehead, we have a certain starter in Healy, who will be in place for a number of years, and two good quality back ups in Dave Kilcoyne and Tom Court.
Compare that to 2008 when Kidney took charge, and the only loosehead option was Marcus Horan and Ireland are in unusual rude health in this position.
2. Hooker
Ireland always have had a number of quality hookers, but maybe not at the same time, with Keith Wood and the incumbent when Kidney arrived, Flannery, springing to mind.
Now, perhaps we have more options, more diverse options. But one retains the feeling that they aren't at the same level as Flannery.
Best and Strauss are battling for the starting spot, with Cronin a valuable option, and Mike Sherry backing that up.
I get the feeling that in other times Sherry might have been a valuable addition to the squad, but this strength suggests now is not the time for him.
3. Tighthead
Then there was John Hayes and the ultimately failed test of Tony Buckley.
Now it's Mike Ross, and the test of Michael Bent.
Par for the course I think
4. Second Rows
2008 saw O'Callaghan and O'Connell in the prime of their careers, with Malcolm O'Kelly and Mick O'Driscoll backing them up.
Now would see O'Connell and Ryan, being backed up by McCarthy and Tuohy.
There are more options behind that now, and with the aim being to establish more choice, that's possibly a good thing, even though the starters are probably weaker now than then.
6. Blindside Flanker
2008: Denis Leamy with Simon Easterby as back up. Stephen Ferris had long since been discarded. Scary thought that eh?
Now: Fez walks into the team, with Sean O'Brien, Peter O'Mahony in direct back up, and Ruddock, McLaughlin, Muldoon and others in behind.
Now is more better.
7. Openside
08: David Wallace with no back up.
Now: Chris Henry, but with Sean O'Brien being put "out of position". Tommy O'Donnell has finally been called up which would suggest he is next in line.
Victory for 08.
8.
Then and Now: Jamie Heaslip, who is undoubtedly a better player now. And with O'Mahony providing quality cover, now wins hands down.
9. Scrum half
Then Reddan and Stringer were fighting it out, with Tomas O'Leary about to come in.
Now, Murray has usurped Reddan, with Marshall squeezing into third ahead of Boss and Marmion.
Reddan hasn't improved much, and Murray isn't a great option at the moment with time to improve. It's hard to pick a clear winner here.
10 Out half
Ronan O'Gara with Paddy Wallace as back up
Sexton at the height of his powers, with O'Gara performing backup and Jackson and Madigan approaching, Keatley is next in line after impressing yesterday.
For having backup, now wins comfortably.
11. Left Wing:
Then: Kearney.
Now: I'm putting my neck out and saying that Gilroy will be first choice 11 when all players return. Fitzgerald and Zebo might have something to say about that.
With the backup talent at the wings at the moment, now is significantly better prepared.
12.
Trimble
Now: D'Arcy.
With D'Arcy being injured, and Trimble being found out as not a centre but really a very good winger, now shades it. Backup in the same of Luke Marshall and Dave McSharry and Fergus McFadden add to this.
13.
O'Driscoll vs O'Driscoll.
Back up was Trimble vs Earls/Cave.
Hard to pick a winner here, but I think 2013 edition would cope better with O'Driscoll then 08.
14. Right wing
Geordan Murphy vs Tommy Bowe, with Trimble as back up.
The fact that a fullback is up against the legend that is Bowe shows how much of victory it is for the current squad.
15. Fullback
Dempsey, with Murphy and Kearney as back up.
Kearney with Henshaw and Zebo as back up.
Victory for 2008.
Results
2008 3 - 10 2013 with 2 splits
Say what you will, a squad is being developing, and Kidney should be congratulated about it.
Has he achieved this?
1. Loosehead.
At loosehead, we have a certain starter in Healy, who will be in place for a number of years, and two good quality back ups in Dave Kilcoyne and Tom Court.
Compare that to 2008 when Kidney took charge, and the only loosehead option was Marcus Horan and Ireland are in unusual rude health in this position.
2. Hooker
Ireland always have had a number of quality hookers, but maybe not at the same time, with Keith Wood and the incumbent when Kidney arrived, Flannery, springing to mind.
Now, perhaps we have more options, more diverse options. But one retains the feeling that they aren't at the same level as Flannery.
Best and Strauss are battling for the starting spot, with Cronin a valuable option, and Mike Sherry backing that up.
I get the feeling that in other times Sherry might have been a valuable addition to the squad, but this strength suggests now is not the time for him.
3. Tighthead
Then there was John Hayes and the ultimately failed test of Tony Buckley.
Now it's Mike Ross, and the test of Michael Bent.
Par for the course I think
4. Second Rows
2008 saw O'Callaghan and O'Connell in the prime of their careers, with Malcolm O'Kelly and Mick O'Driscoll backing them up.
Now would see O'Connell and Ryan, being backed up by McCarthy and Tuohy.
There are more options behind that now, and with the aim being to establish more choice, that's possibly a good thing, even though the starters are probably weaker now than then.
6. Blindside Flanker
2008: Denis Leamy with Simon Easterby as back up. Stephen Ferris had long since been discarded. Scary thought that eh?
Now: Fez walks into the team, with Sean O'Brien, Peter O'Mahony in direct back up, and Ruddock, McLaughlin, Muldoon and others in behind.
Now is more better.
7. Openside
08: David Wallace with no back up.
Now: Chris Henry, but with Sean O'Brien being put "out of position". Tommy O'Donnell has finally been called up which would suggest he is next in line.
Victory for 08.
8.
Then and Now: Jamie Heaslip, who is undoubtedly a better player now. And with O'Mahony providing quality cover, now wins hands down.
9. Scrum half
Then Reddan and Stringer were fighting it out, with Tomas O'Leary about to come in.
Now, Murray has usurped Reddan, with Marshall squeezing into third ahead of Boss and Marmion.
Reddan hasn't improved much, and Murray isn't a great option at the moment with time to improve. It's hard to pick a clear winner here.
10 Out half
Ronan O'Gara with Paddy Wallace as back up
Sexton at the height of his powers, with O'Gara performing backup and Jackson and Madigan approaching, Keatley is next in line after impressing yesterday.
For having backup, now wins comfortably.
11. Left Wing:
Then: Kearney.
Now: I'm putting my neck out and saying that Gilroy will be first choice 11 when all players return. Fitzgerald and Zebo might have something to say about that.
With the backup talent at the wings at the moment, now is significantly better prepared.
12.
Trimble
Now: D'Arcy.
With D'Arcy being injured, and Trimble being found out as not a centre but really a very good winger, now shades it. Backup in the same of Luke Marshall and Dave McSharry and Fergus McFadden add to this.
13.
O'Driscoll vs O'Driscoll.
Back up was Trimble vs Earls/Cave.
Hard to pick a winner here, but I think 2013 edition would cope better with O'Driscoll then 08.
14. Right wing
Geordan Murphy vs Tommy Bowe, with Trimble as back up.
The fact that a fullback is up against the legend that is Bowe shows how much of victory it is for the current squad.
15. Fullback
Dempsey, with Murphy and Kearney as back up.
Kearney with Henshaw and Zebo as back up.
Victory for 2008.
Results
2008 3 - 10 2013 with 2 splits
Say what you will, a squad is being developing, and Kidney should be congratulated about it.
Sunday, 20 January 2013
Review of the provinces weekend
First weekend that all Irish Provinces win. Ever. That's something all Irish Rugby fans should be proud of.
Connacht just scraped through on Friday against Zebre, in what was a really boring match. It was hard to concentrate on it, and with Quins and Biarritz with slight relevance to the permutations.
However, from what I did see, Henshaw performed with confidence that one gets with their first call up to the national squad, and O'Hallorhan continued his great form. He can't be too far away.
Ulster also looked lethargic, but should be boosted by winning for the first time in France, especially with so many key players out; Nick Williams, Johann Muller, Dan Tuohy, Stephen Ferris, Tommy Bowe and Jared Payne. I can't help get the feeling that while that depth is impressive, if anything were to happen to Ruan Pienaar, they would really struggle.
Looking forward to the Heineken quarters for them, they have a great chance away to Saracens in the quarters and possibly hosting Toulon who were so bad against Montpeiller on Saturday or Leicester, who they've beaten before. A second final in a row is a likely possibility. Hopefully too, as I've tickets this year.
Munster looked a different team in the space of a week. It looked like they had the 13 changes. They went from being absolutely awful against a worse Edinburgh "team", to looking like world beaters today. People like Simon Zebo and Conor Murray finally stepped up. They showed that Penney's plan can work, and they looked dangerous at all times.
The have the potential for a great team with a core of young players stepping up, with Kilcoyne, Sherry, Ryan, O'Mahony, O'Donnell, Murray, Keatley and Zebo showing well today. They all need to be more consistent, which is the next challenge for these guys. And they have Stander, Butler and JJ Hanrahan in particular to come through. The future could be bright, but need more consistency.
I've always thought the difference between a good player and a great player isn't how they are at the top of their game, it's what they are like when not on form. Conor Murray is a good player, who when playing badly, nearly becomes a liability. But someone like Zebo, or Heaslip, who has been getting a lot of criticism, still affects the games in a positive way when they are playing badly. Munster need their good young players to develop into these great players.
As for their European hopes, Quins aren't the toughest side left in the competition, but they have improved since Munsters last meeting with them. It'll be extremely tough, but not impossible. What is impossible, is for this Munster side to get a result against Clermont, in Clermont in the semi's were they to get there.
As for Leinster, It's a case of what could have been. From the lack of bonus points in their first two games, to not capitalising away to Clermont when the games was their. Hopefully they'll go for the Amlin, mostly because I also have tickets to that.
As for their match, they got the 4 tries, but it should have been more. It was like last week, in that they weren't as clinical as they needed to be, even coming away with the 4 tries. And the defence wasn't what it should have been, with Exeter still in the game themselves.
I don't know if that's a great team playing badly, or a bad team playing well for Leinster. They looked dangerous again, but rusty. And switched off too much to allow Exeter a chance to win the game with 5 minutes remaining.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)