How to develop the game in Ireland

As seen here

Irish rugby is in rude health at the moment. The academies for each province seems to flourishing almost to the point where there are too many players and not enough space for them to get the necessary game time to develop.

Some solutions:

1. 7's team

It's about time Ireland had a Seven's team. It's a great way to develop young players, something that New Zealand and Australia have been doing for years. It's something that the IRFU needs to look at.

It's no coincidence that the best teams in the world have their players come through the 7's circuit before going on to further levels. This gives them some attributes and abilities that other nations never have the chance to develop.

Benefits

7's promotes fitness, speed and running abilities. Players who have played 7's have a better understanding of space, how to create line breaks, and are able to withstand huge periods of continuous play.

Tries like these in the Super Rugby competition this year wouldn't have been scored without a 7's input.

Tim Nanai-Williams touching down after an incredible 3 minutes of play

Fantastic individual solo effort from Bernard Foley

7's rewards players who can spot a gap, accelerate into it, and those who can offload and run support lines. Backs and back rowers could benefit from the speed of the game, and the added skills needed to thrive in the environment.

If you still don't believe that 7's produces results, look at New Zealand 7's record.

Twenty five of 70 New Zealand 7's representatives ever have either gone on to be All Blacks, with a number of future All Blacks included

Players

1. Charles Piutau (caps 0)
2. Joe Rokocoko (68)
3. Jerome Kaino (49)
4. Tanerau Latimer (0) - Maoris (5) Super Rugby winner with the Chiefs
5. Jonah Lomu (63)
6. Tim Nanai-Williams (0) - Super Rugby winner with the Chiefs
7. Fritz Lee (0) - Super Rugby winner with the Chiefs
8. Zac Guildford (10)
9. Israel Dagg (25)
10. Kurt Baker (0) - Maoris (3)
11. Rico Gear (20)
12. Anthony Tuitavake (6)
13. Rene Ranger (3)
14. Ben Smith (12)
15. Adam Thomson (29)
16. Beauden Barrett (5)
17. Frank Halai (0)
18. Liam Messam (20)
19. Christian Cullen (58)
20. Hosea Gear (14)
21. Cory Jane (43)
22. Tamati Ellison (4)
23. Buxton Popoali'i (0)
24. Victor Vito (20)
25. Julian Savea (9)
26. Rodney So'oialo (62)
27. Dallas Seymour (3)
28. Eric Rush (9)
29. Scott Waldrom (0) - played in uncapped game vs Munster 2008
30. Bruce Reihana (2)
31. Sosene Anesi (1)
32. Mils Muliaina (100)
33. Roger Randle (2)

It's not just New Zealand, in the last few years Ed Quirk, Liam Gill, James Stannard, Robbie Coleman, Ed Stubbs, Dom Shipperley, Matt Lucas, Luke Morahan, Nick Phipps, Tevita Kuridrani and Jono Lance who have all featured in Super Rugby this year have played for Australia 7's. 

Some of those including Phipps, Gill and Shipperley have caps for the Wallabies, and the others are all under 24.

If you still think that this is only a Southern Hemisphere thing, then have a read of Murray Kinsella's piece on 7's a year ago.

Olympics

With 7's coming into the Olympics in Rio in 3 years time, it will give a chance for the youngsters involved to develop some big game experience which would be vital in future years.

Added to that is the chance to play in the Olympics, which no athlete would ever want to turn down.

As supporters, It would be great to cheer on another Irish team in the Olympics, and the IRFU are missing a huge opportunity to capitalise on a huge opportunity to continue to grow the supporter base of Rugby in the country.

Ireland already have a Women's team, which has already made dividends with the team winning the Plate in China this year. Coupled with the Women's remarkable Grand Slam this year, the Seven's team has served to increase interest in Women's rugby in Ireland.

Men's Seven's need this.

2. Draft System: New Zealand model

If you haven't read it already, Ireland's Answer makes a good case for introducing a draft system to better distributed amongst Ireland's provinces.

He says that it would be best to leave those on development contracts alone. However, I think these are the players that would benefit most from the system. Academy players, unless moving into a 25 man squad, should be exempt as this is an important part of their development.

However, I wouldn't dismiss the draft idea. I would try to incorporate the Super Rugby model or something similar. This would be where each province nominated a 25 man squad, with remaining players available to move between provinces that year. This would give some of the fringe players a better chance of getting more game time in another province and continuing their development.

3. Wolfhounds

Ireland definitely needs to make better use of it's second team. While their isn't a second team competition to help this yet, more than one game a year would be of benefit to those who aren't quite good enough for the National team yet, like Tiernan O'Halloran or Rhys Ruddock.

The team could play against some Tier 2 or 3 nations during IRB windows to promote the game in these countries.

The "Emerging Irish" team to play in a competition in Georgia this summer is a great idea, and needs to be continued. A step in the right direction.

4. Use the AIL more

The AIL isn't being used effectively by the Provinces since the start of professionalism. The standard in the AIL is significantly better than most people realise, and this should be a feeding ground for some of the academy players to get some real game time against physically more mature opponents. 

Props would develop faster and better if up against older props every week in AIL.

The restrictions that are put on contracted players in each match day squad need to be removed to allow for this development. This allows the players currently in the system to benefit from exposure to this players in the hope of receiving call ups themselves.

A bigger debate on the subject is available from Murray Kinsella.

5. Move abroad

This is an option that more and more players seem to be doing recently. Ulster especially seem to be loaning players out only for them to return as better players after a year, as has happened with Michael Heaney and Ian McKinney.

Shane Monahan, Robin Copeland, Gareth Steenson are among many "Exiles" plying their trade in England and Wales and impressing, while the recent departures of Brian Hayes and Nigel Brady to France are further options for other fringe players that need game time, but have international stars ahead of them.

Wallaby contenders trying to tame the Lions.

January's 46 man squad

Fullbacks: Luke Morahan, Kurtley Beale,
Wingers: Dom Shipperley, Digby Ioane, Drew Mitchell, Joe Tomane, Cooper Vuna, Nick Cummins
Outside Centres: Anthony Fainga'a, Mitch Inman
Inside Centres: Ben Tapuai, Berrick Barnes, Rob Horne, Pat McCabe,
Out-halfs: Quade Cooper, Christina Lealiifano,
Versatile: Ben Lucas, Mike Harris, Adam Ashley-Cooper, James O'Connor
Scrum-half: Will Genia, Nic White, Nick Phipps,
Loosehead: Benn Robinson, Ben Alexander
Hookers: Saia Fainga'a, James Hanson, Tatafu Polatau-Nau, Stephen Moore,
Tighthead: James Slipper, Paddy Ryan, Sekope Kepu, Dan Palmer, Salesi Ma'afu,
Second Row: James Horwill, Rob Simmons, Kane Douglas, Sitaleki Timani, Caderyn Neville, Hugh Pyle, Hugh McMenamin
Blindside: Dave Dennis, Scott Higginbotham, Ben McCalman,
Openside: Liam Gill, Michael Hooper, David Pocock,
No. 8. Jake Schatz, Wyclif Palu,

Glaring Omissions: Pek Cowan, Luke Jones, Israel Folau, Ben Mowen
Shouldn't be there: Luke Morahan, Cooper Vuna, Nick Cummins, Mitch Inman, Mike Harris, Ben Lucas


Recent 30 man squad

Fullbacks: Israel Folau, Jesse Mogg
Wingers:Digby Ioane, Joe Tomane,
Outside Centres
Inside Centres: Ben Tapuai, Pat McCabe, Berrick Barnes,
Out-halfs: Christian Lealiifano,
Versatile: Adam Ashley-Cooper, James O'Connor,
Scrum-half: Nic White, Will Genia,
Loosehead: Ben Alexander, Benn Robinson, Scott Sio,
Hookers: Stephen Moore, Tatafu Polatau-Nau
Tighthead: Dan Palmer, James Slipper,
Second Row: Rob Simmons, James Horwill, Kane Douglas, Sitaleki Timani
Blindside: Dave Dennis, Scott Higginbotham,
Openside: Michael Hooper, Liam Gill,
No. 8. Wyclif Palu, Fotu Auelia, Ben Mowen

Glaring Omissions: Kurtley Beale, Alife Mafi, Drew Mitchell, Rod Davies, Anthony Fainga'a, Kyle Godwin, Quade Cooper, Matt Lucas, Nick Phipps, Luke Burgess, George Smith
Shouldn't be there: Pat McCabe

Full Backs:

Kurtley Beale is the best fullback in Australia. He's one of the top 3 fullbacks in the world. But, understandably, he won't be involved against the Lions.

The Contenders to replace him would be Mogg, Folau, O'Connor, Ashley Cooper and Berrick Barnes. Ashley-Cooper O'Connor and Barnes can play at 15, but it's neithers favourite position.

And why would you play them out of position when Folau, and especially Mogg are in great form. Mogg started the season like a speed train, and is approaching that form again after a small injury disruption, while Folau is still learning the game after converting from Rugby League and Aussie Rules.

Wingers:

The contenders are Digby Ioane, and Joe Tomane, although Deans has said that he can see Israel Folau doing damage on the wing, while James O'Connor frequently plays on the wing for the Wallabies, as can Adam Ashley Cooper.

How Deans can ignore the form of Alfie Mafi and the talent of Drew Mitchell is beyond me. Rod Davies has also been good since he's come back, with 3 tries in two games.

Digby is a cert for one wing, with the other up for grabs.

Outside Centres

From an outsiders perspective, the Wallabies seem to have an overload of playmaking talent in the 10,12 and 15 positions, and a few wingers. They don't have a traditional 13.

Adam Ashley Cooper is probably seen as the only 13 in the squad, although Ben Tapuai, Digby Ioane and Drew Mitchell can play there successfully too. Israel Folau is being touted as a potential 13, but he hasn't played there in his short union career.

I personally think James O'Connor would be best suited to 13.

Inside Centres

James O'Connor, Ben Tapuai, Berrick Barnes, Christian Lealiifano, Pat McCabe, Kyle Godwin are all contenders.

James O'Connor has to play. The question is where. If Quade Cooper isn't going to be trusted it's very likely that he'll be stuck in at 10, with Lealiifano or McCabe fighting it out for the 12 "jumper".

Berrick Barnes is always handy on the bench covering 10, 12 and 15, while Kyle Godwin is a younger, more exciting, more in form, less injury prone and less pornstar moustache than Berrick.

Outhalves

Quade Cooper, with O'Connor, Lealiifano, and Barnes as the other contenders.

Much depends on Dean's plans with Cooper. All others are contenders elsewhere, with the talent of Cooper, and in the form he's in, it would be hard to leave him out.

Scrumhalves

Will Genia is without doubt the best scrumhalf in the world. Kahn Fotauli'i, Ruan Pienaar and Morgan Parra are close, but Genia has a O'Connell like influence on any team he plays for.

He is a general of the team and certain to start.

The big question is who will be the backup. Nick Phipps took over from Genia when he was injured, but Nic White is in better form for the Brumbies. Or with the returning Luke Burgess skip the queue to Genia's no.2?


Loosehead

Scott Sio has been impressive off the bench for the Brumbies. The 21 year old has an exciting future, but I think this will be a few years too soon. Benn Robinson has been the form loosehead and the incumbent. Ben Alexander can play on both sides.

Hooker

When Ireland beat Australia in the World Cup, it would put down to the absence of David Pocock. I think it was equally down to the non-appearance of Stephen Moore, who along with Bismarck du Plessis is one of the best hookers in the world. Moore is solid out of touch, a strong scrummagger, and dynamic around the park.

Tatafu Polata-Nau is ahead of the rest of the field.

Tighthead

Ben Alexander has the ability to play both sides of the scrum, and is the incumbent. Don't rule out James Slipper who has been in outstanding form this season, but there are question marks abouts his scrummaging. Sekope Kepu is motoring along nicely for the Tahs too.

Second Row

James Horwill's stature is growing, and most likely at the end of this Lions tour, he will be respected a lot more by the Northern Hemisphere supporters who don't follow Super Rugby.

Who partners him will be a race, with regular partner Rob Simmons in with a shout, while Timani is in good form for the Tahs. He might be disadvantaged with the announcement of his impending move abroad though. Kane Douglas is also a strong contender.

Blindside

Blindside options are Dave Dennis, Scott Higginbotham and George Smith. With Ben Mowen an option too. Higginbotham hasn't been good in a poor Rebels side, and faces pressure to retain his "jumper".

Much is dependent on the decision at openside.

Openside

One of the most intriguing subplots to almost every week in this year's Super Rugby competition is the battle for the Wallaby 7 jersey. David Pocock, the captain and the incumbent injured his knee and has been ruled out. Fortunately for the Wallabies, unlike in 2011, they have alternatives. And the contenders are in form. The top 3 players who have turned the ball over in this years competition are Michael Hooper, Liam Gill, and George Smith.

Hooper had a breakthrough year last year, starring in the Wallabies tour to Europe, Liam Gill is the even younger pretender who has shone in all aspects this year, and George Smith is the wily veteran, having lost none of his powers and hoping to join a select group who have faced the Lions twice. Smith is versatile enough to play 6 or 8, or even 12 or wherever he wants.

No.8

Wyclif Palu is the injury prone incumbent, with only Fotu Auelua and Ben Mowen challenging, both in great form for the Brumbies. Smith is an option here too.

Much like blindside, it's important to look at the balance of the backrow, and with Smith a live contender in each spot, it's going to be close.

My squad.

In a few weeks, Deans will pull 25 or 26 players from Super Rugby duty that will form his first squad, with a further 6 to join making a 31 man squad
If I were in Dean's position, this is the squad I'd pick, complete with starting XV and subs.

1. Benn Robinson (Waratahs)
2. Stephen Moore (Brumbies
3. James Slipper (Reds)
4. James Horwill (Reds) (c)
5. Sitaleki Timani (Waratahs)
6. George Smith (Brumbies)
7. Liam Gill (Reds)
8. Ben Mowen (Brumbies)
9. Will Genia (Reds) (vc)
10. Quade Cooper (Reds) / Christian Lealiifano (Brumbies) if Cooper isn't selected.
11. Digby Ioane (Reds)
12. James O'Connor (Rebels)
13. Ben Tapuai (Reds)
14. Rod Davies (Reds)
15. Jesse Mogg (Brumbies)
Subs:
16. Tatafu Polata-Nau (Waratahs)
17. Dan Palmer (Brumbies)
18. Ben Alexander (Brumbies)
19. Rob Simmons (Reds)
20. Scott Higginbotham (Rebels)
21. Nic White (Brumbies)
22. Christian Lealiifano (Brumbies) / Berrick Barnes (Waratahs)
23. Israel Folau (Waratahs) (not to be pulled from Super Rugby - needs game time)

Extras:
Michael Hooper (Waratahs) - I'd prefer to have Hooper over Higginbotham, but I couldn't justify having 3 openside flankers in the 23 man squad.
Berrick Barnes (Waratahs) / Kyle Godwin (Force)
Kane Douglas (Waratahs)

To be added: (and Folau)
Alfie Mafi (Force)
Scott Sio (Brumbies)
Adam Ashley-Cooper (Waratahs)
Wyclif Palu (Waratahs)
Kyle Godwin (Force)/ Nick Phipps (Rebels)

Is Zane Kirchner the right fit for Leinster

This article is a response to a piece from Whiff Of Cordite which can be seen here.

Leinster have decided to replace Isa Nacewa, a versatile back with Zane Kirchner, an out and out fullback. There is no doubt that Nacewa's best position is at fullback, thus it might make sense to replace him with a fullback, but Isa is used primarily as a winger, and slots in at outhalf relatively comfortably too. His extra placekicking option provides a lot of great options for Leinster.

The reason for Nacewa not playing at fullback is Rob Kearney. Kearney, while off form at the moment, is one of the best full backs in European rugby. Given that Nacewa is extremely effective from the wing, Leinster are losing nothing by playing both of them at the same time.

With Kirchner now however, there will be a decision to make. Kearney isn't going to be displaced, and Kirchner isn't versatile enough to place on the wing. Have Leinster just spent a reported €300,000 a year for a backup?

Kirchner has played outside centre and wing before, but those who've seen that argue he didn't look comfortable. Some could also argue that Kirchner isn't good enough in his favoured position of fullback. WoC mention that Kirchner "is primarily known for his Sideshow haircut and his propensity for occasional clangers" while going on to say that Kirchner has only scored 3 tries in 22 games for South Africa. While that stat isn't impressive, stats don't always tell the full story, for example, Mike Brown hasn't scored in 11 games for England, but is a dangerous runner with ball in hand, and often creates opportunities for others. Those who have seen Kirchner in Super Rugby level know that he isn't capable of that, and at 28, doesn't have the time to develop that.

While he starts for South Africa, he is one of the most over-rated players in the Southern hemisphere. This is the same South African policy who continue to overlook Heinrich Brussouw, possibly the best breakdown player in the world, for bigger and beefier men like Pierre Spies, Willem Alberts and Duane Vermulean. This is the same South African selector who commented that South Africa are miles behind Australia and New Zealand in terms of breakdown work, but that the Cheetahs have it right. Guess who Heinrich Brussouw plays for?

What Leinster are getting:

There's no doubt in my mind that Kirchner is the incumbent of the South African fullback jersey because he's bigger than his numerous more talented rivals - Gio Aplon, Joe Pietersen, Willie le Roux, Jaco Taute and Riian Viljoen.

Aside from the fact that Kirchner isn't good enough, he's behind both Kearney's in my mind for the fullback jersey, he is coming into a position that Leinster don't really need cover. With both Kearneys, Fitzgerald, Madigan and Reid able to play fullback, it shouldn't be a priority to sign one. With only Fitzgerald and Hudson as wingers for next season, with McFadden and David Kearney able to cover, Leinster are very short on wingers. Fitzgerald is also out with a serious injury so winger should have been a priority.

WoC's final point on replacements is partly true, Leinster and Ireland can't match Japan and France's wages and thus are out of the market for the Digby Ioane's and Drew Mitchell's and other marquee signings, and as such should be satisfied with Zane. However, for that money that Kirchner is on, a number of Southern Hemisphere players that are better could be attracted:

Reds - Rod Davies and Dom Shipperley are two young wingers with serious pace. Neither are guaranteed their for the Reds, especially with the Reds academy producing some great kids coming through. One or the other could be persuaded, but both have Australian caps.

Waratahs- Tom Kingston made his Waratahs debut when he was 19. Now 21, he covers both outside centre and wing, and is being used sparingly as the Tahs have an embarrassment of riches in the back three. Could be worth a punt

Force- Alfie Mafi is inexplicably left out of the Australian squad recently. He is 25, and has improved year on year since breaking through. Comfortable at fullback but primarily a winger, Mafi is almost singlehandedly keeping the Force competitive this season.

Chiefs - Less likely but Tim Nanai-Williams might be attracted. Comfortable at 13, wing or fullback, the prospects of Nick William's brother becoming an All Black appear slim. Recently he has struggled to keep Richard Kahui out of the starting XV, but scores some great tries.

Highlanders - Kade Poki is one of a small number of Highlanders who are enhancing their reputation this season. In what appears to be a sinking ship, Poki might want a fresh start, and Leinster would falll over themselves to have Poki who has been profilic in Super Rugby in the last 3 years, injury permitting.

Blues - Less likely again, but anyone of George Moala, Frank Halai and Charles Piutau would be incredible signings. Each have lit up Super Rugby this year, with Piutau almost definitely a future AB, with the others possibly following. There is a small chance they could be persuaded. Piutau has Dagg and Ben Smith ahead of him, with Andre Taylor close.

Hurricanes - With Piutau making waves for the Blues, Andre Taylor's chances of becoming an AB appear to be receding. He was incredible in 2012, but appears off the boil this year. Still extremely talented. Primarily a fullback, but has the skills for wing, in much the same way Nacewa does.

Cheetahs - Initially there were strong rumours for Willie le Roux coming to Leinster. He is possibly the closest to Nacewa out there. Uncapped by the boks, at 23, he wouldn't take up an NIQ slot, and would have enough time to play for Ireland. Started his career at out-half, and appears at first receiver often, he has the skills to put people through, or score some wonderful individual tries. Naturally a winger who can play fullback, almost exactly what Leinster need. He's hardworking, and capable of magic. Still my top choice.

Bulls - Kirchner isn't even the best option from his current team. Lionel Mapoe has appeared this year, and has done well on the wing, and can play outside centre. Bit more about him than Kirchner.

Stormers - Joe Pietersen and Gerhard van der Heever. van den Heever is a strong quick winger, and Pietersen should be the bok fullback, with him not getting a look in, it would be worth a punt. He's also a placekicker to boot.

Super Rugby Review Round 10

Another thrilling weekend of Super Rugby.

Hurricanes 22-16 Western Force

The Hurricanes did just enough in this game, despite a spirited performance from the Force. 

DTOTW: Jeffrey Toomaga-Allen (78), mostly due to a try and 19 tackles. Heath Tessman (41) and Jayden Hayward (32)

Waratahs 25-20 Chiefs

When the Tahs play like that, you can see what all the fuss was about. That was fantastically entertaining, with Bernard Foley running the show. But it seldom happens for the Tahs. They were irresistible in the first half, with Israel Folau scoring a weird try. I have no idea how he caught that with the two defenders around him. Irish defences wouldn't concede a try like that with their GAA upbringings. This was definitely Folau's best game, and it's a little easier to see why he's being touting as a contender to face the Lions.

In the second half, the Chiefs came storming back and were leading by two points with 5 minutes left. How do you lose after being behind like that and taking the lead with 5 minutes to go?

DTOTW: Ben Tameifuna (40), Brodie Retallick(30), Gareth Anscombe (49), Cam Crawford (31), Israel Folau (32)

DTOTY: Bernard Foley (237), Israel Folau (218), Gareth Anscombe (240), 

Crusaders 24-8 Highlanders

The Crusaders had a huge amount of possession and territory in this game. It was beyond ridiculous. That they only scored 24 points reflects on a decent Highlanders defensive performance, the conditions and a lack of ruthlessness that is creeping into the Crusaders in recent days.

Despite the Highlanders fielding three locks, they had huge problems out of touch.

DTOTW: Luke Romano (29), TJ Ioane (46)
DTOTY: George Whitelock (245)

Reds 19-19 Brumbies

What. A. Game. Edge of your seat stuff. The TMO was called for action more times in a game than I can remember. And he seemed to make the right call each time. Eventually the Reds were rewarded a try, and this frantic contest ended in a draw. Thrilling stuff.

DTOTW: Jake Schatz (38), Liam Gill (36), Rod Davies (46), Nic White (32).
DTOTY: James Slipper (259)

Sharks 6 -12 Cheetahs

Another fantastic win for the Cheetahs who are having a great season. The second try was awarded amidst controversial circumstances, but you'd have to watch the video to see for yourself.

DTOTY: Pieter Labuschagne (275), Robert Ebersohn (192), Cobus Reinach (115)

Southern Kings 0-34 Bulls

A man of the match performance from last year's IRB Junior Player of the Year. Jan Serfontein sure is making a name for himself in just 6 Super Rugby games. A try here, with some class touches throughout, he was the talk of this game where the Southern Kings were only routed for the second time in an impressive first season. It just wasn't their day this time.

DTOTW: Jan Serfontain (35)
DTOTY: Schalk Ferreira (211), Jacques Engelbrecht (224)

Super Irish

A Good overall round for everyone, with only 2 players not getting over 300, with signs suggesting that those managers may have neglected their teams this week.

That difference between the highest score this weeek (372) and the 7th highest (328) is 44 and low, gives an indication of how tight things are. There were no changes in position this week as is understandable.

Much the same in the league with the Aussie celebs, with Simon Farrell and Peter Corley moving up a position each. The gap between ourselves and the Aussies has been cut with Nathan Sharpe, Brendan Cannon, Greg Martin, Nick McArdle and Greg Clark all within touching distance of Irish players below them in the table.

Twit vs Tweeter

Results

Ireland's Answer 233- 372 Ball Handling Hooker
Poseidon's Belvedere 339 - 325 Multiple Scoregasms
Les Mecs 254 - 340 GlasUlstermanNSW
Average 291- 333 The Weshties

Mention for Multiple Scoregasms who were neglected this week and only had 9 players scoring. They ran Cillian Hogan close.

These results now mean that Cillian Hogan has a 4 point lead to 3 chasers, with a further 3 players another 4 behind, with Average dead last with no wins.

Next weeks fixtures pit:

(2) Ball Handling Hooker v Les Mecs (7)
(3) GlasUlstermanNSW v Cillian Hogan (1)
(6) MultipleScoregasms v Average (8)
(5) The Weshties v Ireland's Answer (4)

Fantasy Cup

This round, the top 16,384 were entered into a competition wide cup tournament. This is how we got on.

Ball Handling Hooker bt "Sluffmakers" 372-353
Poseidon's Belveder bt "Mealamwho?" 339-265
The Weshties lost to "Rod Munch & Friends" 333-346
Garbhan Hogan lost to "Cock 'n Bulls" 328-336
Simon Farrell bt "Tommohawks" 347-344
GlasUlstermanNSW bt "Davuilevu Knights" 340-274
Les Mecs bt "Rebels123" 212 - 175
Ro_Murph bt "RaggaBlacks" 331-252
Ireland's Answer lost to "South Park Cows" 233- 304
Multiple Scoregasms bt "ZRXV" 325-264

With the Aussie teams approaching a break, Lions contenders are in form, but they'll be pulled from the competition earlier than others. Managers will face a tough task of balancing their squads.

Super Rugby Teams Round 10

BYE: Blues, Stormers, Rebels

Friday

Wellington Hurricanes vs Western Force 8 35 am

Beauden Barrett and Tusi Pisi remain at 15 and 10 respectively. Jack Lam comes in for Ardie Savea, and Smylie and Dane Coles start too. Strange calls from Mark Hammett as they look to bounce back from last weeks hammering at the hands of the Blues.

Hurricanes: 15 Beauden Barrett, 14 Alapati Leiua, 13 Conrad Smith (c), 12 Tim Bateman, 11 Julian Savea, 10 Tusi Pisi, 9 Chris Smylie, 8 Faifili Levave, 7 Brad Shields, 6 Jack Lam, 5 Mark Reddish, 4 Jeremy Thrush, 3 Jeffery Toomaga-Allen, 2 Dane Coles, 1 Ben Franks.
Replacements: 16 Motu Matu'u, 17 Reggie Goodes, 18 James Broadhurst, 19 Karl Lowe, 20 TJ Perenara, 21 Reynold Lee-Lo, 22 Andre Taylor.

Winston Stanley comes back, and moves Junior Rasolea into 12, replacing Kyle Godwin. Sias Ebersohn and Alfie Mafi are on the bench.

Force: 15 Jayden Hayward, 14 Patrick Dellit, 13 Winston Stanley, 12 Junior Rasolea, 11 Ed Stubbs, 10 Sam Norton-Knight, 9 Alby Mathewson, 8 Richard Brown, 7 Matt Hodgson (c), 6 Angus Cottrell, 5 Sam Wykes, 4 Toby Lynn, 3 Tetera Faulkner, 2 Heath Tessmann, 1 Pek Cowan.
Replacements: 16 James Hilterbrand, 17 Kieran Longbottom, 18 Rory Walton, 19 Chris Alcock, 20 Mick Snowden, 21 Sias Ebersohn, 22 Alfie Mafi.

NSW Waratahs vs Waikaito Chiefs 10. 40 am

Drew Mitchell retains a spot despite the announcement that he is leaving the Tahs at the end of the season.

Waratahs: 15 Israel Folau, 14 Cam Crawford, 13 Adam Ashley-Cooper, 12 Rob Horne, 11 Drew Mitchell, 10 Bernard Foley, 9 Brendan McKibbin, 8 Wycliff Palu, 7 Michael Hooper, 6 Dave Dennis (c), 5 Kane Douglas, 4 Sitaleki Timani, 3 Sekope Kepu, 2 Tatafu Polota-Nau, 1 Benn Robinson.
Replacements: 16 John Ulugia, 17 Paddy Ryan, 18 Mitchell Chapman, 19 Will Skelton, 20 Pat McCutcheon, 21 Matt Lucas, 22 Ben Volavola, 23 Peter Betham (one to be ommitted).

Richard Kahui moves to 12, and Ngatai is at 13. Tim Nanai-Williams and Gareth Anscombe is on the bench. There are doubts about Aaron Cruden's groin, so there may be a goal-kicking problem.

Chiefs: 15 Andrew Horrell, 14 Lelia Masaga, 13 Charlie Ngatai, 12 Richard Kahui, 11 Asaeli Tikoirotuma, 10 Aaron Cruden, 9 Brendon Leonard, 8 Fritz Lee, 7 Sam Cane, 6 Liam Messam (c), 5 Brodie Retallick, 4 Michael Fitzgerald, 3 Ben Tameifuna, 2 Hika Elliot, 1 Pauliasi Manu.
Replacements: 16 Rhys Marshall, 17 Michael Kainga, 18 Nick Crosswell, 19 Tanerau Latimer, 20 August Pulu, 21 Gareth Anscombe, 22 Tim Nanai-Williams.


Saturday, April 20

Canterbury Crusaders vs Otago Highlanders 8 35am

Still no Dan Carter, but Zac Guildford and Israel Dagg start together for the first time.

Crusaders: 15 Israel Dagg, 14 Tom Marshall, 13 Robbie Fruean, 12 Ryan Crotty, 11 Zac Guildford, 10 Tyler Bleyendaal, 9 Andy Ellis, 8 Luke Whitelock, 7 Matt Todd, 6 George Whitelock (c), 5 Sam Whitelock, 4 Luke Romano, 3 Owen Franks, 2 Corey Flynn, 1 Wyatt Crockett.
Replacements: 16 Ben Funnell, 17 Joe Moody, 18 Dominic Bird, 19 Jordan Taufua, 20 Willi Heinz, 21 Tom Taylor, 22 Adam Whitelock.

Highlanders name their team on Friday NZ time.

Highlanders: tbc

Queensland Reds vs ACT Brumbies 10.40 am

For the big one, Digby Ioane is recalled and Rod Davies is retained meaning Dom Shipperley misses out in the only change.

Reds: 15 Jono Lance, 14 Rod Davies, 13 Anthony Faingaa, 12 Ben Tapuai, 11 Digby Ioane, 10 Quade Cooper, 9 Will Genia, 8 Jake Schatz, 7 Liam Gill, 6 Eddie Quirk, 5 James Horwill (c), 4 Rob Simmons, 3 James Slipper, 2 James Hanson, 1 Greg Holmes.
Replacements: 16 Saia Faingaa, 17 Ben Daley, 18 Ed O'Donoghue, 19 Jarrad Butler, 20 Ben Lucas, 21 Chris Feauai-Sautia, 22 Dom Shipperley.

Jake White has picked the XV that has performed for him this season.

Brumbies: 15 Jesse Mogg, 14 Henry Speight, 13 Tevita Kuridani, 12 Christian Lealiifano, 11 Joe Tomane, 10 Matt Toomua, 9 Nic White, 8 Fotu Auelua, 7 George Smith, 6 Ben Mowen, 5 Sam Carter, 4 Peter Kimlin, 3 Dan Palmer, 2 Stephen Moore, 1 Ben Alexander.
Replacements: 16 Siliva Siliva, 17 Scott Sio, 18 Jordan Smiler, 19 Colby Faingaa, 20 Ian Prior, 21 Pat McCabe, 22 Clyde Rathbone.

Natal Sharks vs Free State Cheetahs 4. 05 pm

Teenager Sean Robinson retains his place, and Frans Steyn drops to the bench.

Sharks: 15 Riaan Viljoen, 14 Odwa Ndungane, 13 Paul Jordaan, 12 Meyer Bosman, 11 Sean Robinson, 10 Patrick Lambie, 9 Cobus Reinach, 8 Keegan Daniel (capt), 7 Jean Deysel, 6 Marcell Coetzee, 5 Franco van der Merwe, 4 Pieter-Steph du Toit, 3 Wiehahn Herbst, 2 Kyle Cooper, 1 Tendai Mtawarira.
Replacements: 16 Craig Burden, 17 Jannie du Plessis, 18 Anton Bresler, 19 Tera Mtembu, 20 Charl McLeod, 21 Francois Steyn, 22 Andries Coetzee.

Coenie Oosthuisen for Trever Nyakane is the only change to the XV, with Francois Francois on the bench.

Cheetahs: 15 Hennie Daniller, 14 Willie le Roux, 13 Johan Sadie, 12 Robert Ebersohn, 11 Raymond Rhule, 10 Burton Francis, 9 Piet van Zyl, 8 Phillip van der Walt, 7 Lappies Labuschagne, 6 Heinrich Brussow, 5 Francois Uys, 4 Lodewyk de Jager, 3 Lourens Adriaanse, 2 Adriaan Strauss (capt), 1 Coenie Oosthuisen.
Replacements: 16 Ryno Barnes, 17 Trevor Nyakane, 18 Landman Ligtoring, 19 Frans Viljoen, 20 Tewis de Bruyn, 21 Francois Brummer Francois, 22 Ryno Benjamin.

Southern Kings vs Blue Bulls 6.10 pm

Luke Watson is back, which means that Jacques Engelbrecht is on the bench for the third successive match. 

Kings: 15 George Whitehead, 14 Ronnie Cooke, 13 Waylon Murray, 12 Andries Strauss, 11 Sergeal Petersen, 10 Demetri Catrakilis, 9 Shaun Venter, 8 Luke Watson (c), 7 Wimpie van der Walt, 6 Cornell du Preez, 5 David Bulbring, 4 Steven Sykes, 3 Kevin Buys, 2 Bandise Maku, 1 Schalk Ferreira.
Replacements: 16 Hannes Franklin, 17 Grant Kemp, 18 Rynier Barnardo, 19 Jacques Engelbrecht, 20 Nicolas Vergallo, 21 Marcello Sampson, 22 Siviwe Soyizwapi.

No Zane Kirchner for the Bulls, and Jan Serfontein seems to have cemented his place at 12.

Bulls: 15 Jürgen Visser, 14 Akona Ndungane, 13 JJ Engelbrecht, 12 Jan Serfontein, 11 Lionel Mapoe, 10 Morné Steyn, 9 Jano Vermaak, 8 Pierre Spies (c), 7 Arno Botha, 6 Deon Stegmann, 5 Juandré Kruger, 4 Flip van der Merwe, 3 Frik Kirsten, 2 Chiliboy Ralepelle, 1 Morné Mellet.
Replacements: 16 Callie Visagie, 17 Werner Kruger, 18 Paul Willemse, 19 Jacques Potgieter, 20 Rudy Paige, 21 Louis Fouchè, 22 Bjorn Basson.

Irish Summer tour squad

4 Years ago Rory Best was on this tour, which of the current squad could make the Lions in 4 years time?

The importance of Ireland's summer tour has increased significantly due to the horrendous showing in the 6 Nations. The games against the US and Canada are a perfect opportunity to look at new players, for others to get used to the system, and for others to step up and start establishing leadership material. The games in Georgia for the new "Emerging Ireland" should also be used for development

This tour will allow the management a closer look at some of the talent that they feel isn't ready for bigger challenges yet. These are the squads I would pick;

Fullbacks:

Whether or not Rob Kearney goes to Australia, there is no benefit for him to be on the tour to America. This tour should look at Felix Jones in an Irish jersey, and give Keith Earls an opportunity in what should be his position fullback. Robbie Henshaw should remain with the 20's to ensure that they do as well as possible. It might be worth looking at Adam D'Arcy soon too.

For Georgia, I've been impressed with Ricky Andrew for Ulster, and would give Andrew Conway a run here too.

Wingers:

If Keith Earls is picked as a winger, then Dave Kearney can play full-back, either way, both can fill in both positions. Tiernan O'Halloran and Niall Morris have had strong seasons, and it might be worth looking at the leadership capabilities of Andrew Trimble.

Luke O'Dea, Chris Cochrane, Mike Allen and Shane Monaghan would be my choices for Georgia. Cochrane and Allen have featured well for Ulster, O'Dea is on the cusp for Munster and Monaghan has done well in a promising first season for Gloucester.

Craig Gilroy, Tommy Bowe and Simon Zebo aren't chosen even if for some reason none of them make the Lions tour. Bowe could benefit from a full pre-season, and Gilroy and Zebo would also benefit for what would be a rare summer off in their promising careers, especially with other players that deserve a look at.

Outside Centre

Brian O'Driscoll isn't going to be insulted with the trip to America.

Darren Cave and Eoin O'Malley should have the straight fight between them to see who should be next in line.

Danny Barnes, Brendan Macken and Eoin Griffen should go to Georgia, with Griffen and Barnes able to play wing, and Macken can slot in at 12.

Inside Centre

Luke Marshall needs some time away from the game to recover from all the head wounds. This tour wouldn't be a good idea for him. D'Arcy is in the same boat as O'Driscoll.

McSharry's injury is unfortunate as I think he would have been the main beneficiary of this tour.

James Downey and Ian Keatley are the only two left.

Noel Reid and Jordan Coughlan should travel to Georgia.

Sturat Olding remains with the 20s.

Out-half.

Ian Madigan and Paddy Jackson. Some of these calls I don't have to explain.

Georgia should be JJ Hanrahan, Gareth Steenson and Ian McKinney who is returning to Ulster next season. I felt that Keatley was a bit old for "Emerging Ireland" and that Hanrahan would benefit from a starting position. Gareth Steenson has been superb for Exeter and should feature, allowing JJ to show what he can do at 12 too.

Scrum-half

Boss, Murray and Reddan shouldn't be involved.

Leaving Paul Marshall and Kieran Marmion to both get the chances they deserve.

I would choose John Cooney and Michael Heaney for Georgia, with Cathal Sheridan missing out.

Luke McGrath remains with the 20s.

Loosehead:

Dave Kilcoyne's leadership skills should be tested on the tour, while Jack McGrath's impressive form should earn him a look at too.

Denis Buckley and Jack O'Connell travel to Georgia, with Tom Court getting the summer off.




Hooker:

Richardt Strauss has a chance to familiarise himself with some of the squad, while establishing a leadership role. Mike Sherry should be his back up.

Niall Annett and Jason Harris- Wright would benefit most from Georgia

Tighthead:

With South Africa and Georgia known for strong scrummaging, I've chosen Jamie Hagan and Michael Bent to go to Georgia to work on that.

Stephen Archer and Ricky Lutton travel to America with Mike Ross finally getting a rest.







Second Rows:

Dan Tuohy, Devin Toner and Lewis Stevenson travel to the US, with Iain Henderson in support.

O'Connell, O'Callaghan, Cullen, Ryan and Mike McCarthy have no business in America.

Mick Kearney, Dan Qualter, Ian Nagle and Tom Denton get a chance in Georgia.

Blindside:

This tour is tailor-made for Rhys Ruddock to show the Irish management what he can do. Jordi Murphy should be rewarded with the back up place in the tour.

Robin Copeland has impressed with Cardiff, and Ben Marshall are good choices for Georgia.

Openside:

It's about time Tommy O'Donnell was capped, and I think he should be in Irelands 23, if not starting 15. Dominic Ryan is next best openside.

Sean Dougall and Ali Birch from Ulster travel to Georgia.

No. 8.

This tour gives the management a better chance to look at Robbie Diack, and perhaps also test Chris Henry's leadership qualities.
Giving Peter O'Mahony, Sean O'Brien and Jamie Heaslip a summer off if they aren't with the Lions.

Eoin McKeon and Paddy Butler travel to Georgia.

Super Rugby Review Round 9

A fabulous weekend of sport for Australia. Culminating in Adam Scott's thrilling win at Augusta, giving Australia their first Masters title, the Australian teams won 3 and lost none of their battles with New Zealand teams, with only the Rebels going down to an impressive Southern Kings side who have showed they are more than capable of competing at this level.

Friday morning dragged us up for an entertaining game for the Brumbies and the Highlanders, with the Brumbies returning to full form and leaving the Highlanders with their season in ruins. After a quiet 2 weeks, George Smith was awesome producing a try, 11 runs, three tackles bust, a linebreak, 20 tackles only missing two and forcing another turnover. This gave Smith 53 points, top backrower and the sole representative from this game in the dream team of the week, hereby called DTOTW. Hosea Gear is now hanging on to his place in the DTOTY.

Chiefs Reds was played in the middle of the night over here, and Quade Cooper showed how good he is when Will Genia is inside him, and produced a performance approaching his 2011 best. He even made 6 tackles and forced a turnover. Rod Davies returned in what is becoming a fiercely competitive battle to get into the Red's back three, scoring two tries, five runs, five tackle busts and two offloads which earned him 43 points, joining Gareth Anscombe, Richard Kahui and Patrick Osborne in the DTOTW. James Slipper retains his place on the DTOTY.

The Blues rewarded those who were up to witness it a textbook performance that was thrilling to watch. Steven Luatua's performance was described by the commentator as "the best blindside performance ever". Now while that's a bit much, he was awesome. !0 runs, three tackle busts, an offload, two linebreaks, a try save, 16 tackles, a lineout take and a lineout steal contributing 48 points and a spot on the DTOTW with Tom McCartney and Charles Piatau. Piatau and Luatua are on the DTOTY, along with Piri Weepu.

The Kings shocked another Australian team in the last minute with a drop goal from Demetri Catrakilis to give the Kings their first ever away win. The Kings went 14-0 up before the Rebels rallied to go in 17-17 at half-time. It was deep into injury time before Catrakilis landed the drop goal to joyous scenes in Melbourne. Mitch Inman with 36 was on the DTOTW, and Schalk Ferraira, Jacques Engelbrecht, Ged Robinson and James O'Connor retain their places in the DTOTY.

The Force shocked the Crusaders for their first win at the new NIB stadium. This game gave a perfect example of why the extended rules for TMOs are good when it correctly disallowed a Luke Romano try for a forward pass. Richard Brown made 12 runs, with five tackle busts, an offload and 14 tackles, second only to Pek Cowan with 18 tackles. Cowan also forced a turnover. Both Cowan, and Brown along with Romano made the DTOTW. Kyle Godwin and George Whitelock remain in the DTOTY.

The Stormers beat the Sharks thanks to a quality offload from de Villiers to set up Juan de Jongh for a great try. Sharks scrumhalf Cobus Reinach is having a great season, running 6 times with 8 tackle busts to end up as the sole participant in the DTOTW. Andries Bekker retains his place in the DTOTY.

The Cheetahs again showed why they are the most attractive team in South Africa. Nearly extending their run to 6 games, just getting a losing bonus point against the Bulls. Jano Vermaak scored the pick of the tries running through a number of awful Cheetahs defending. Trevor Nyakane made the DTOTW with this salmon dance, and Pieter "Lappies" Labuschagne and Robert Ebersohn retain their places in the DTOTY.

Fantasy:

Next week will see the introduction of competition wide cup:

Qualifying

The top 16,384 scorers in round 9 will enter the first round. If there are more than 16,384 qualifiers then there will be a random draw amongst the lowest scorers to see who qualifies.

How The Cup Works

Each qualifying team will be randomly drawn against another in the first round. The winner (the team with the highest round score minus any transfer points), will progress to the second round and another random draw, the losers are out! This process continues until the final round when the two remaining teams contest the cup final.

If a cup match is drawn, then the following tie-breaks will be applied in the following order until a winner is found:
Most tries scored in the round
Most drop goals scored in the round
Most conversions in the round
First player to register their team

SUPERIRISH

This was a high scoring round with everyone over 300 points, and 4 over 400 points.

Competition average was a high 349, and 7 of 9 players were ahead of that. I knew you guys would make this a highly competitive league. Garbhan Hogan had a dream round, with 472 points, thanks to a good choice of captain and several DTOTW players on. That Piatau was on the bench is scary to think Garbhan should have had more than 500.

The only positional change was between Cillian Hogan's Poseidon's Belvedere and Connacht Man's The Weshties. Only 14 points separates them in 2nd and 3rd place.

Twittersphere showed Tim Horan had an exceptional week with 496 points, and is way out in front. Can anyone catch him.

In the head to head league

Cillian Hogan destroyed me, 456 to 371 to rise to the top of the table, Murray Kinsella overcome a high competition average to move into 4th, Ireland's Answer showed that he is focusing on this league beating Peter Corley 399 to 369. The Weshties will feel hard down by that 402 wasn't enough to beat Multiple Scorgasms with a high of 457. The Weshties would be in 3rd place were this a normal league, but finds himself in 7th. The lowest score here was 369, which shows the high competitive nature of the league.

Next round fixtures:

(2) Ireland's Answer vs Ball Handling hooker (3)
(1) Poseidon's Belveder vs Multiple Scoregasms (6) - Were this to have been played this week, Multiple Scoregasms would have won by a point. Big game.
(4) Les Mecs vs GlasUlstermanNSW (5)
(8) Average vs The Weshties (7)