Wallaby selections

[bob10]

Well, interesting selections, Dennis, Tomani, Horne , Barnes, Palu, Folau, & Cummins look set to face the Lions, While Mogg, Pyle, Toomua, & White are on the outer. Still six to go, my bet is Cooper will be in the final six. Once upon a time, you had to play for Randwick to be guaranteed selection, now it seems all the Waratahs have to do is win the toss, :) Bob

[2stroke]

My first selection would be a seat on a plane back to the land of the wrong white crowd for a certain coach. Mackenzie would then be just one of the Reds to be included in a team that might one day be taken seriously by the Allblacks.

[disco_goose]

Some very interesting selections. I too agree cooper will be included in the squad. Was just discussing the selections over dinner with my father inlaw. Will just have to wait and see how it all turns out. I wouldnt be displeased if robbie deans did get a one way ticket back across the ditch

[Alra]

My first selection would be a seat on a plane back to the land of the wrong white crowd for a certain coach. Mackenzie would then be just one of the Reds to be included in a team that might one day be taken seriously by the Allblacks.


Surely the ARU will wake up and smell the coffee realising that Ewen Mackenzie knows how to beat NZ teams. It's a pity the Reds aren't playing Cantebury this season so we can beat them and make it an absolute clean sweep of all NZ teams.

Cheers,

Danial.

[2stroke]

I just find it frustrating that in this country we have no shortage of great playing talent but the wallabies just don't seen to gel as a team. The Allblacks, on the other hand just seem to be a "team" and although their level of talent is not so different from the Wallabies, performance on the park is! Surely the coaching is at least part of the problem?

[Alra]

It will be interesting to see what Mackenzie does at the end of he season. The Irish have found their new coach and who knows if Mackenzie really wanted that job. Surely Deans has to go!! His supporters will say that he has made the Wallabies go from the no.5 ranked team in the world to 3rd (we were 2nd for a bit I think) and he did a fabulous job with a squad that was decimated with injuries last year. We need someone that can lift the Wallabies to stick it to the Kiwis.

[bob10]

Playing Devils Advocate, I think Deans had some interesting things to say about Cooper, and his style of play at the Reds, which may, or may not, be a dig at MacKenzie. If you think about it, he has a point. From Foxsports Rugby;

Quote
"He (Cooper) needs to be a bit more prepared to take contact and the people around him will thrive more so," Deans told radio station Triple M on Monday

"You only have to look at the number of turnovers that have come off Quade as evidence." End quote

There are a lot of rugby followers in Aus. who would agree, and the memory of Cooper looking like a rabbit in the headlights against the All Blacks in the last World Cup is still fresh in their minds. The proof in the pudding will be how Quade plays in the Reds game against the Lions, without Genia. I'm sure if he passes that test, he will be welcome in the Wallabies. Can't wait for that game, Bob

[outback jeff]

HI Bob, as you know iI follow the Reds closely and I must say that Quade"s defence has been very good of late, see attached clip,Quade Cooper Huge Hit On Rene Ranger 2013 Reds vs Blues - YouTube

I am disappointed that Deans has not selected him in the squad, I am first to admit that he is not without faults but I do believe that he has a lot to offer.

Are you going to the Reds V Lions game Bob? We still need to have that Beer, I have tight my tickets and I'm staying down after the game so I will have a chance to catch up.

Cheers Jeff

[bob10]

HI Bob, as you know iI follow the Reds closely and I must say that Quade"s defence has been very good of late, see attached clip,Quade Cooper Huge Hit On Rene Ranger 2013 Reds vs Blues - YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lZfHOEzMh9c)

I am disappointed that Deans has not selected him in the squad, I am first to admit that he is not without faults but I do believe that he has a lot to offer.

Are you going to the Reds V Lions game Bob? We still need to have that Beer, I have tight my tickets and I'm staying down after the game so I will have a chance to catch up.

Cheers Jeff

Well, I was going to take the old fart way out & watch it at home under the blanket, but you have given me the incentive to see if tickets are left. SWMBO wont come out in the cold, you see. I'll get back to you. BTW, I am impressed with the way Quade has been playing, as you know, I have been a critic. I do want to see him make me eat my words against the Lions, and I tend to think Deans does too. Bob

[sheerluck]

Well, I was going to take the old fart way out & watch it at home under the blanket, but you have given me the incentive to see if tickets are left. SWMBO wont come out in the cold, you see. I'll get back to you. BTW, I am impressed with the way Quade has been playing, as you know, I have been a critic. I do want to see him make me eat my words against the Lions, and I tend to think Deans does too. Bob

There's only the Platinum level tickets at $295 a pop left Bob.

The blanket way sounds far cheaper at the moment!

[Alra]

Playing Devils Advocate, I think Deans had some interesting things to say about Cooper, and his style of play at the Reds, which may, or may not, be a dig at MacKenzie. If you think about it, he has a point. From Foxsports Rugby;

Quote
"He (Cooper) needs to be a bit more prepared to take contact and the people around him will thrive more so," Deans told radio station Triple M on Monday

"You only have to look at the number of turnovers that have come off Quade as evidence." End quote

There are a lot of rugby followers in Aus. who would agree, and the memory of Cooper looking like a rabbit in the headlights against the All Blacks in the last World Cup is still fresh in their minds. The proof in the pudding will be how Quade plays in the Reds game against the Lions, without Genia. I'm sure if he passes that test, he will be welcome in the Wallabies. Can't wait for that game, Bob

I'm not having a go at you Bob when I say this. I think Deans is clutching at straws for an excuse to hate Cooper after last years comments. I can't remember the last time I saw Dan Carter had plenty of "contact" during a game. I've got tickets to the first Lions test. I'm a bit worried about it considering the Wallaby performance in the first test in the last few years.

Cheers,

Danial.

[outback jeff]

There's only the Platinum level tickets at $295 a pop left Bob.

The blanket way sounds far cheaper at the moment!

Dave,
That may be for the Wallabies V Lions, I was talking about Reds V Lions, from what I can see there are still reasonable tickets available. Even the cheep tickets to the Wallabies V Lions was too much for me.

Bob,

Have a look here if you want tickets,
Ticketek Australia (http://premier.ticketek.com.au/Shows/Show.aspx'sh=REDBLION13)

Cheers Jeff

[sheerluck]

Dave,
That may be for the Wallabies V Lions, I was talking about Reds V Lions, from what I can see there are still reasonable tickets available. Even the cheep tickets to the Wallabies V Lions was too much for me.

Bob,

Have a look here if you want tickets,
Ticketek Australia (http://premier.ticketek.com.au/Shows/Show.aspx'sh=REDBLION13)

Cheers Jeff

Thanks for that Jeff. Damned iPad and fat fingers got me to the wrong game before!

[bob10]

Think I have talked the Missus into going, there are some seats in the nose bleed section, good enough for me, when she gets home from shopping, will do the deal, hopefully. Her favourite player, Saia Faainga, [ every mothers favourite] is not playing, I believe, but if I cook her favourite dinner tonight, could be a goer. I see the champion Waratahs were beaten by the Rebels, with O'Connor & Beale both out of the Rebels team. With 10 Waratahs in the 25, Think I will put my money on the Lions. The Sydney rugby mafia have a lot to answer for, IMO. Bob

[Hastykiwi]

I'm not having a go at you Bob when I say this. I think Deans is clutching at straws for an excuse to hate Cooper after last years comments. I can't remember the last time I saw Dan Carter had plenty of "contact" during a game. I've got tickets to the first Lions test. I'm a bit worried about it considering the Wallaby performance in the first test in the last few years.

Cheers,

Danial.

Yeah, well you'd have to watch some rugby to see it. Go back to the Rebels/Brumbies-Crusaders game, he was a defensive collossus, both in the tackle and breakdown. I personally think Quade has many deficiencies, and as such will never be thought of in that same league as Wilkinson, Carter, Lynagh, Johns etc, but he does add something to a team if he has the benefit of a forward pack with at least parity.

As far as Deans see's him, I simply cannot believe that Deans would risk his career over Quade. Deans is gone if he loses to the Lions, so if he really thinks Quade is critical in beating the Lions, he'll have him there, and at this point you don't know he won't with 6 players to come.

[bob10]

Well, I decided to wait until tonights game before deciding to buy tickets to the Reds/ Lions match. After watching Cooper, even though he improved in the 2nd half, I have decided to put the money towards a Bribie Island yearly pass. Better value, I think. O'Connor wasn't much better. Let's hope Beale dries out in time for the Tests. Jeff, getting to have a beer at Suncorp with you is a bit like Radish getting to the Cup. One day mate. Bob

[S3ute]

Hello from Brisbane.

Just back from Lang Park and I'm not sure that Deans necessarily has it wrong on Quade. He got a try but those two knock down tries he lent the Rebels were genuinely cringeworthy....... Great when he's firing but a shocker for consistency.

On an earlier post, not sure that the Waratahs even have to win the toss to get the bulk of selections. What a joke.

Cheers

[sheerluck]

Well the Wallabies had better watch out, first match of the tour and it's a 59-8 trouncing of the Barbarians.

I suspect there may be a little more resistance in Perth next week :lol2:

[Hastykiwi]

Well the Wallabies had better watch out, first match of the tour and it's a 59-8 trouncing of the Barbarians.

I suspect there may be a little more resistance in Perth next week :lol2:

Thats what I am banking on. I figured the Force were only ever going to lose a couple of players to Wallaby selection, so they go into the Lions game in reasonable shape after 16 weeks of Super 15. Most systems will be intact with minimal disruption, ergo they should be able to make a good game of it, except we don't know what team the Lions will put out. Regardless family is ready, and it should be a good night out. Only wish they had chosen NIB stadium instead of Subiaco.

cheers
Nick

[TerryO]

My first selection would be a seat on a plane back to the land of the wrong white crowd for a certain coach. Mackenzie would then be just one of the Reds to be included in a team that might one day be taken seriously by the Allblacks.

Hmmm! ....the All Blacks actually take the Wallaby's serious? ...are you serious! ...;)

[bob10]

Well the Wallabies had better watch out, first match of the tour and it's a 59-8 trouncing of the Barbarians.

I suspect there may be a little more resistance in Perth next week :lol2:

I watched England V Barbarians last weekend, the Barbarians were rubbish. This game in H.K. was just a training run for the Lions. Could come back to bite them. I don't expect the Force to beat the Lions, but they will know they have been in a game. Bob

[bob10]

Hmmm! ....the All Blacks actually take the Wallaby's serious? ...are you serious! ...;)

You should be careful, hubris can come back to bite. Don't remember the John Eales days?. And that kick. And the two Wallaby World cups. The best is yet to come, after Deans. Bob

[sheerluck]

I watched England V Barbarians last weekend, the Barbarians were rubbish. This game in H.K. was just a training run for the Lions. Could come back to bite them. I don't expect the Force to beat the Lions, but they will know they have been in a game. Bob

I agree Bob, hence my comment about expecting more resistance in Perth. A scratch team, suitably overrun, and doesn't really give an indication of what the Lions will do.

The Force are way down the bottom of the Super 15, and while I expect it to be much closer than the BaaBaas, I don't expect to see anyone beating the Lions until the Reds game at the earliest.

[Hastykiwi]

I agree Bob, hence my comment about expecting more resistance in Perth. A scratch team, suitably overrun, and doesn't really give an indication of what the Lions will do.

The Force are way down the bottom of the Super 15, and while I expect it to be much closer than the BaaBaas, I don't expect to see anyone beating the Lions until the Reds game at the earliest.

:)I'm not so sure, didn't the Force beat the Reds? On top of that, the Reds will be decimated. TBH I don't expect the Force will knock them off either, but it should be willing, and maybe a bit more entertaining than watching a third string Reds or Brumbies take them on. If however you are an optimist, just remember the Lions havn't really fronted a full strength Super side. In NZ inn 2005 they played Wellington and Auckland, but in their provincial guise , but they were gutted for the AB's. In SA it was provincial games again, so this is going to be an interesting tour, if only because Aus doesn't have provincial teams.
Looking forward to it!

[sheerluck]

Nick, it's very difficult to take anything meaningful from prior Lions tours, given that the squad and management are generally different for each one, but you're right that there has never been a match against a Super 15 side.

The Super Rugby style is different enough to Northern Hemisphere rugby, that I am expecting there to be a 'shock' defeat of the Lions before they learn to counter it effectively. Though looking at who is missing from the Reds, it may not be able to be them.

Either way, I don't really care. I'm just looking forward to some good matches!

[bob10]

Does anyone remember the Lions tour to N.Z, in 1971? With players such as Willie John McBride, Mike Gibson, David Duckham, Ian Mclauchlan & John Dawes? They stopped in Qld. on the way to N.Z., for a game against a totally amateur Qld. side, the equivalent of the H.K. Barbarians game. Qld. won, 15-11. Jeff Mclean, was pulling beers in his fathers pub in the morning, before knocking off work to play on the wing. Fullback Lloyd Graham kicked the late winning field goal , near touch, just inside the Lions half. [ I do remember the game, but have to admit to getting the finer details out of an article in Saturdays Courier Mail, P102.] BTW., the Lions went on to win a series in N.Z. for the first time in 100 years, after Qld beat them. Bob

[bob10]

McCalmans in the mix, good move, Bob

Ben McCalman ready to plug gap after injuries to Wallabies Scott Higginbotham, Sitaleki Timani






By Jamie Pandaram
News Limited Network
June 04, 2013 10:38AM
Timani, who was ruled out of the series on Monday night after it was confirmed the lock had broken his thumb, will undergo surgery on Tuesday and is unlikely to return before the Rugby Championship in August.
Backrower Higginbotham is now at long odds to play any part in the Lions series, after Wallabies doctor Warren McDonald assessed his scan results and decided a rehabilitation plan must be put in place later this week when the injury settles.
Higginbotham has been in sparkling recent form for Melbourne and will be an enormous loss for Australi

The pair had already been released from the official 25-man Wallabies squad last Sunday, but remained in the camp to get scans on their injuries in the hope they might recover quickly.



But that quickly evaporated on Monday, leaving McCalman an opportunity to play his first Test since December 2011.
His own injury-enforced absence from the game last year has given McCalman plenty of fuel.
"It makes you even hungrier to try to get back in the squad and play for your country again," McCalman said.
"I had a pre-season this year, which I hadn't had since 2009. I played for the Wallabies in my first Super year.
"It has helped me having a full pre-season under my belt.
"It was a very frustrating year for me last year having a broken shoulder and finally getting that right and then breaking my wrist, in total missing nine to 10 months due to injury
"I'm very happy to be playing this year and to be here now
With Wycliff Palu (knee) and Dave Dennis (cork) sitting out Australia's first training session at Hunter's Hill, Force star McCalman was immediately in the thick of the action alongside fellow backrow contender Ben Mowen.
"There are three hard weeks ahead of us, a lot of tough competition," McCalman said. "We continually try and push each other.
"Whatever team is selected, I'm sure they will be the right people for the job.
"[The Lions series] is something I've been thinking about the last year or two. It's something I'd love to be a part of.
"I'm here now in the 25, who knows, it could be just around the corner."
Winger Digby Ioane (knee), who was dropped from the 25-man list but remains with the team while rehabilitating, watched on from the sidelines along with fellow winger Nick Cummins, who had a tight calf, and prop James Slipper, who had a cork

[bob10]

Things are hotting up, Bob From Fox Sports;

Western Force coach Michael Foley defends weakened team set to face Lions on Wednesday






By Iain Payten and staff writers
FOX SPORTS (http://www.foxsports.com.au/)
June 05, 2013 11.30AM

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2013/06/1313.jpg (http://www.foxsports.com.au/rugby/western-force-coach-michael-foley-defends-weakened-team-set-to-face-lions-on-wednesday/story-fn5k35fo-1226657569258#splash-2) https://www.aulro.com/afvb/

Former England coach Sir Clive Woodward has labelled Western Force's selection of seven uncapped players for the British & Irish Lions tour opener in Perth on Wednesday night as a "disgrace".




The highly-respected Woodward even questioned in his column in The Daily Mail whether Australia should be stripped of Lions tours in the future if the provincial sides don't play their best players.

The furore erupted when Force coach Michael Foley left out a number of key players - including Kyle Godwin, Hugh McMeniman and Sias Ebersohn - with a view to Sunday's Super Rugby clash with NSW Waratahs.
Catch the Lions clash with the Force live on Fox Sports 2HD from 7.30pm (EST) on Wednesday
Foley's side contains only a handful of regular starters for the Force, although captain Matt Hodgson, Salesi Ma'afu, Richard Brown and Toby Lynn are all playing
But that wasn't enough to placate Woodward, who said: "it's unacceptable and disgraceful to cobble together a weakened, second-string club team to play against some of the best players in the world on one of the great rugby tours."
"Treating the Lions with such contempt threatens to undermine their status in the global game."

The 2003 World Cup-winning coach was also critical of Australia's perceived rhetoric about "violence and fighting."
Wallabies coach Robbie Deans and Force skipper Hodgson have both demanded a physical approach on Wednesday night, with Deans saying he expected Force "to take the Lions apart limb by limb". Hodgson's turn of phrase was just as colourful.
Woodward was clearly affronted by the expression used.
"Too many players are talking in terms of physically harming players rather than winning matches and this never happened in my time travelling to the country as a player or a coach. I thought professional rugby had put an end to all this nonsense," he said.
Foley defended the selections, saying the scheduling of the game just four days before a Super Rugby clash made it "impossible" and "unreasonable" to have all his top-line players line up in both.
"The way we see it we have a Test match tomorrow night and depending on what the ARU decides, we may have another Test match on Sunday. So asking players to do that twice is unreasonable," Foley said.
"What we have had to do is juggle our squad across two games, and look to pick a number of senior, experienced internationals against the Lions. What we said was realistically we weren't able to meet the challenge and do it justice by trying to pick the same 22 guys twice."
When asked why the Lions weren't made a priority over a "dead rubber" clash with the Waratahs, Foley said: "The pressure is to deliver every game you play as a team. When you suggest not putting every effort into the first game I think that is pretty insulting to the guys taking the field.
"We think this is the best team for this game in light of the fixture list we have been given."
Foley believes better scheduling is required by the Lions and host nations in future tours, and questioned why the Force couldn't have played agianst the Lions last weekend instead of the Barbarians, when his side had a bye.
"The Hong Kong game would have been ideal for us. We see the opportunity to play the Lions as a great honour," Foley said.
"Scheduling is pretty important. Everybody wants to see the best players on the field all the time. I think the scheduling has got to support that. If you push for quantity and compromise on quality, players are upset, coaches are upset and fans are upset. I think the scheduling could be a lot simpler."
If the Lions felt disrespected, they weren't showing it. Lions forwards coach Graham Rowntree said: "I have just seen the team, it's not a bad team."
"I can see there's not a lot of guys who've played Super 15 but it still looks a strong enough team to me," he said.
"But we go back to ourselves. It's another chance for a starting XV to show what they can do."

[sheerluck]

Well Bob, the "weakened team" showed. 69-17 is pretty comprehensive, but still got the impression that there was more to give.

We shall see.

[Hastykiwi]

That was a disgrace and Foley should be fired for that selection alone. I paid to go to that game based on it being the one chance a super side had to front with 90% or better of a full team, what a Joke. The tahs game is a cripple fight for the wooden spooners, so he had a chance to redeem the season with this game, but just threw it away with the 'we need to think about sunday' bull****. You can't tell me that the players left out wouldn't have stuck their hand up for the once in a career opportunity either. Gutted.

[bob10]

I agree. It was a disgrace. This tour by the Lions could have been the lift Aus. Rugby needs , in the competition between the NRL & AFL. It's not a good look. And I agree with Woodward, ;


" but that wasn't enough to placate Woodward, who said: "it's unacceptable and disgraceful to cobble together a weakened, second-string club team to play against some of the best players in the world on one of the great rugby tours."
"Treating the Lions with such contempt threatens to undermine their status in the global game." "

[bob10]

Just had a chat to my mate John, ex Qld hooker, back in the day. He said something I didn't think of. The players rested against the Lions, for the Force, who are considered good enough to play in the Ist 15, in Super Rugby, probably will never have the chance to play against the Lions again. Ever. Yet, the players selected, some may not make it in Super Rugby, but they will have on their CV they played the Lions , he says it may backfire on the Force, in the long run. Team morale will suffer. The only thing Foley could be thinking, is that their are some members of his side who could make the final six for the Wallaby squad, in the battle of the wooden spoon of the Australian Franchise against the Waratahs. The team with 10 members in the Wallaby squad. Professional Rugby? an oxy-moron. Bob

[bob10]

At least there's one fair dinkum side in Aus Rugby, Bob

12:52 PM
Rugby - Reds vow: this won't be an exhibition (http://www.foxsports.com.au/rugby/queensland-promise-to-give-british-irish-lions-serious-run-for-their-money-in-tour-match/story-fn5k35fo-1226658517702)

[stuee]

I agree with the above sentiment. That game did nothing good for rugby in WA. The Force are struggling to build some credibility here and that sort of performance doesn't help one bit.

[Hastykiwi]

Just had a chat to my mate John, ex Qld hooker, back in the day. He said something I didn't think of. The players rested against the Lions, for the Force, who are considered good enough to play in the Ist 15, in Super Rugby, probably will never have the chance to play against the Lions again. Ever. Yet, the players selected, some may not make it in Super Rugby, but they will have on their CV they played the Lions , he says it may backfire on the Force, in the long run. Team morale will suffer. The only thing Foley could be thinking, is that their are some members of his side who could make the final six for the Wallaby squad, in the battle of the wooden spoon of the Australian Franchise against the Waratahs. The team with 10 members in the Wallaby squad. Professional Rugby? an oxy-moron. Bob

Hello, what did I just say? Its great the Reds are taking this attitude, but its a bit easier for them given that they lose 7 players anyway to the wallabies, AND they DO NOT HAVE A GAME this weekend.

Yours Still Feeling Robbed.

[bob10]

Hello, what did I just say? Its great the Reds are taking this attitude, but its a bit easier for them given that they lose 7 players anyway to the wallabies, AND they DO NOT HAVE A GAME this weekend.

Yours Still Feeling Robbed.

They do indeed have a game this weekend, and I think if they had a game last Wednesday, they would be lining up to play, as well. That's the difference between the wooden spoon & finals contenders. Until that attitude finds its way into the Force, they will always be also rans. Anyway Fox Sport has some views on the Lions, Bob

Despite the Lions' devastating display against the Force, the Wallabies would have seen a few areas they can exploit.
Here's what we learnt from Western Force v British and Irish Lions clash.
LEIGH "SHARPSHOOTER" HALFPENNY
Leigh Halfpenny's right leg is a scarier proposition than Johnny Wilkinson's left. The fullback is a clone of the Wallabies' great adversary, slotting penalties and conversions from every corner of the ground.

The Welsh sharpshooter will be one man on the Wallabies' radar after he had a perfect night with the boot, and behind a powerful, grinding forward pack will be a threat to every team he plays.
The Wallabies must be disciplined around the breakdown and with their line-speed when Halfpenny is in kicking distance.
WHAT TO DO WITH WARBURTON
The young Welsh skipper was a contentious choice to captain the British and Irish Lions, and has done himself no favours after missing the opening two games of the tour.
Warburton's other worry is the fierce competition for his starting position with Sean O'Brien arguably the player of the match against the Force.
Other backrowers breathing down his neck are Justin Tipuric, Dan Lydiate and Tom Croft.
LET'S DO A HARRISON
Who can forget Justin Harrison's line out steal that ultimately won Australia the series 12 years ago.
The Lions line out looked disjointed against the Force and is an area the Wallabies will target. However, they will need to find the touch line with their open-field kicking as the Lions possess a potent back three.
Their scrum looked solid and will improve with every match.
BRIAN O'DRISCOLL
The evergreen veteran is back and as slippery as ever!

[Hastykiwi]

Yes they play the Lions, but they don't have S15 games clogging up the schedule.

[sheerluck]

Well the Reds gave it a good go last night, much, much better than WF. A few little runs from Cooper gave a glimpse of what he can do, but not enough to keep the Lions out.

The try by Morahan was a cracker, and the attempt by Warburton was well kept out by the Reds defence.
Good game - there will be lots of sore bodies today.

[bob10]

Yes, they had a go, & didn't dog it. There was more than one worried face in the Lions team. I would be happy, if only we had a different Wallaby coach. If you listened to Anthony Faainga being interviewed at half time, you would have seen the absolute exhausted state he was in, he normally interviews well, but he was totally spent. As a supporter, you can not ask for any more than that. The Force players, at full time, looked fresh by comparison. Bob

[sheerluck]

Well the Combined Country NSW & QLD team seem to be the latest casualty of the Lions team with a 64-0 beating. They were comprehensively outplayed.

However, the Lions supporters and media are having a go, saying it should have been a 100+ point tally.

Is total humiliation necessary?

[outback jeff]

Yes, they had a go, & didn't dog it. There was more than one worried face in the Lions team. I would be happy, if only we had a different Wallaby coach. If you listened to Anthony Faainga being interviewed at half time, you would have seen the absolute exhausted state he was in, he normally interviews well, but he was totally spent. As a supporter, you can not ask for any more than that. The Force players, at full time, looked fresh by comparison. Bob

Hi Bob, that game was the best I've seen the Reds play all season, every player look like they had given it there all, and the best game Cooper has played all year, I read an article where the Lions are happy he is not in the squad.

Cheers Jeff

[DiscoWeb]

My 2 cents worth,

Quade Cooper is sensational when his pack is going forward and he is given space to move and players are in motion around him. When ever the reds or the Wallabies play an up tempo game with quick ball Quade looks sensational.

However the wallabies pack will be working very very hard against the Lions and as we saw in the 2011 RWC Quade does not have a B game. He just keeps trying to do fancy things to get out of trouble and more often than note digs the hole deeper. This is why he has not been selected.

James O'Connor can play both games, perhaps his creative game is not as good a Quade but his B Game or under pressure option games are far superior.

In test matches the little mistakes are the ones that get punished and Quade is a player who can leak points at crucial times.

The selection I think is wrong is Berrick Barnes, how he is in the side over either Christian Lealiifano or Matt Toomua is beyond me.

Even thought the Reds challenged the Lions early nothing yet has show that the Lions are no beatable by the Wallabies provided we compete up front and choice our options wisely.

Also give Link ago, Robbie has had a good run but has not been able to gel the team, McKenzie is worth the chance.

I think it will be a great test series, bring it on!!

Regards,

George

[bob10]

Well the Combined Country NSW & QLD team seem to be the latest casualty of the Lions team with a 64-0 beating. They were comprehensively outplayed.

However, the Lions supporters and media are having a go, saying it should have been a 100+ point tally.

Is total humiliation necessary?

The Country side had 3 training runs before the game, for most of them Rugby is a social activity. I thought they played well. The young winger Dale Ahwang, has only played Rugby for 3 years, in the Cairns comp.. He showed enough to me to hope he gets some good coaching. He is the breadwinner for his extended family, of at least ten siblings, so Rugby is not high on his priorities, yet. The tradition was important, in the very first Lions tour, the Lions played both Qld. & NSW Country sides. Tradition is important, Bob

[sheerluck]

The Country side had 3 training runs before the game, for most of them Rugby is a social activity. I thought they played well. The young winger Dale Ahwang, has only played Rugby for 3 years, in the Cairns comp.. He showed enough to me to hope he gets some good coaching. He is the breadwinner for his extended family, of at least ten siblings, so Rugby is not high on his priorities, yet. The tradition was important, in the very first Lions tour, the Lions played both Qld. & NSW Country sides. Tradition is important, Bob

I thought 10 of the 23 were from Super rugby sides Bob, rather than all being amateurs.

I enjoyed watching it, though it was very one-sided. I must say though, the Lions backs are looking very dangerous. Looking forward to the game against the Tahs on Saturday.

[bob10]

I thought 10 of the 23 were from Super rugby sides Bob, rather than all being amateurs.

I enjoyed watching it, though it was very one-sided. I must say though, the Lions backs are looking very dangerous. Looking forward to the game against the Tahs on Saturday.
9 " had super rugby experience" , to quote the ARU. If you can find any of their names in a run on side, I'll be surprised. Beau Robinson was the only one, he didn't play. Bob

[bob10]

I agree, Bob




Latest News

One rule for red and one for blue
<div id="story"> Reds have every right to be frustrated after Wallabies release two Waratahs, Jim Tucker writes

By Jim Tucker
The Courier-Mail (http://www.couriermail.com.au/)
June 13, 2013 8:53AM


https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2013/06/930.jpg (http://www.foxsports.com.au/breaking-news/reds-have-every-right-to-be-frustrated-after-wallabies-release-two-waratahs-jim-tucker-writes/story-e6frf33c-1226663617432#splash-1) https://www.aulro.com/afvb/

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2013/06/931.jpg (http://www.foxsports.com.au/breaking-news/reds-have-every-right-to-be-frustrated-after-wallabies-release-two-waratahs-jim-tucker-writes/story-e6frf33c-1226663617432#splash-2) https://www.aulro.com/afvb/

The inconsistency of two NSW Waratahs players being released by the Wallabies to play for their state on Saturday night, just a week after six fully fit Reds were barred from any part in their own tour game against the Lions, is supremely frustrating.


Giving up 60-odd points in tour games is a dud look.
The Reds lit the fuse for the whole tour by producing a rousing contest and spectacle.
If the Australian Rugby Union got jumpy and urged the release of a few players to the Waratahs to prevent a 50-point hiding in rugby's biggest market, Sydney, this whole episode does stink.
Wallabies boss Robbie Deans is a genuine bloke, a maze of U-turns but a genuine, rugby-at-heart guy. I believe the call has come solely from him.
He would seriously want flanker Dave Dennis and centre Rob Horne (http://www.foxsports.com.au/rugby/robbie-deans-releases-dave-dennis-rob-horne-peter-kimlin-scott-sio-to-play-lions-in-tour-matches/story-fn5k35fo-1226663058306#.UbpQKGfezTo) to thrive in the once-in-a-lifetime chance for the Waratahs against the Lions on Saturday night.
Maybe, it is only now that Deans's Test team has become clear that those on the fringes can be released to play for their Super Rugby sides.
The good news is it means the Reds will likely have three starters - Genia, Horwill and Simmons - in the Test squad of 23 plus the three reserves Slipper, Liam Gill and Saia Faingaa.
Winger Digby Ioane would be the seventh if fully fit.
It would just be nice if the special treatment didn't always extend to the Walla-tahs.

[sheerluck]

Well in the end, those 2 released from the Wallaby squad made little difference, with a 47-17 loss. The Reds had a better go last weekend.

The Wallabies really need to be on top form next week.

[bob10]

Have to give them their due, the Waratahs did their best. I was very impressed with young lock Will Skelton. I think he will be a star in the future. 5/8 Foley played well, but needs a few more kilos at this level, I have watched him play 7 a side rugby, he does well. My tip is the Brumbies will beat the Lions. Bob

[sheerluck]

Agreed about Skelton. He gave his all, and was exhausted by about 60 minutes.

I think that Tuesday's game will be too close to call. The Brumbies have got six players missing to the Wallabies squad, and history has shown that the last match before the first test will be those Lions without a test starting spot.

[bob10]

. The Brumbies have got six players missing to the Wallabies squad, and history has shown that the last match before the first test will be those Lions without a test starting spot.

The difference is Jake White. He has the ability to make players believe in themselves, & in matches like this, will revert to good old fashioned South African tough play, nothing fancy. Having said that, the Lions are a class act. [ A battered & bruised class act, ;)] Bob

[bob10]

Brumbies 14, Lions 12, Jake White, take a bow. Toomua & Kuridrani, young Faainga, played like champions. Great team effort from the Brumbies. My tip for Saturday, Wallabies by 5, Bob

[sheerluck]

I said it would be close!

The Lions played poorly, with one or two exceptions, Foletau at 8 was one. The Waratahs deserved that one, a much better team performance.

[mojo]

Wallabies for the first test:

15. Berrick Barnes (NSW Waratahs)
14. Israel Folau (NSW Waratahs)
13. Adam Ashley-Cooper (NSW Waratahs)
12. Christian Leali'ifano (Brumbies)
11. Digby Ioane (Queensland Reds)
10. James O'Connor (Melbourne Rebels)
9. Will Genia (Queensland Reds)
8. Wycliff Palu (NSW Waratahs)
7. Michael Hooper (NSW Waratahs)
6. Ben Mowen (Brumbies)
5. James Horwill (Queensland Reds, captain)
4. Kane Douglas (NSW Waratahs)
3. Ben Alexander (Brumbies)
2. Stephen Moore (Brumbies)
1. Benn Robinson (NSW Waratahs)

Run on Reserves:
16. Saia Fainga'a (Queensland Reds)
17. James Slipper (Queensland Reds)
18. Sekope Kepu (NSW Waratahs)
19. Rob Simmons (Queensland Reds)
20. Liam Gill (Queensland Reds)
21. Nick Phipps (Melbourne Rebels)
22. Pat McCabe (Brumbies)
23. Kurtley Beale (Melbourne Rebels)

Not a bad side, probably the best Deans has managed to come up with for a quite a while. Should give the Lions a run for their money.

[DiscoMick]

Certainly a team with some attacking potential. Still worried they won't be able to match the Lions though. Hope I'm wrong.

[bob10]

A good side on paper. Barnes at fullback? He has a good kicking game, his defence can be suss. And he is not experienced in that position. O'Connor, good fullback for the Rebels, great in open play, but lacks vision at No. 10. Sometimes does not see his outside backs when they are in the correct attacking channel. Ashley Cooper, good tough defender, can make a break, needed to defend against the big outside backs. Lealiifano a good distributer, can put AA cooper away, can defend, good choice. Folau, will not let the side down. Our forwards must set the platform for the wallabies to win.

We have to hope the lead up games have bashed & bruised the Lions , to the extent it nullifies the lack of match play the Wallabies have had. Our forwards must at the least, gain parity against the Lions , to let our backs attack. The performance of both sides back row is crucial to which team wins. I'm excited, this should be a great game. And Genia is the key for Australia. Just my opinion, Bob

[sheerluck]

Lions team announced:
15. Leigh Halfpenny (Wales)
14. Alex Cuthbert (Wales)
13. Brian O'Driscoll (Ireland)
12. Jonathan Davies (Wales)
11. George North (Wales)
10. Jonathan Sexton (Ireland)
9. Mike Phillips (Wales)

1. Alex Corbisiero (England)
2. Tom Youngs (England)
3. Adam Jones (Wales)
4. Alun Wyn Jones (Wales)
5. Paul O'Connell (Ireland)
6. Tom Croft (England)
7. Sam Warburton (Wales, capt)
8. Jamie Heaslip (Ireland).

Replacements: Richard Hibbard (Wales), Mako Vunipola (England), Dan Cole (England), Geoff Parling (England), Dan Lydiate (Wales), Ben Youngs (England), Owen Farrell (England), Sean Maitland (Scotland).

For me, the pack is a going to be where it is won or lost. The two Wallaby flankers are inexperienced, one a debutant, the other has 13 caps compared to the Lions pair with 73 caps between them. I'm sure The breakdown will be a key area. However, the two guys I really like in there are Horwill and Palau.

Will Genia will be excellent as ever, but I fear the centre backs may be outclassed by O'Driscoll and Davies. The battle of the wings will be an interesting one too, with George North fit to play and Folau getting a debut. O'Connor at 10 I'm not so sure on, I feel he may be a bit fragile.

I reckon it will be the Lions by 5, but either way I think it will be a cracker to watch. Roll on Saturday evening!

[bob10]

[QUOTE=sheerluck;1934153]Lions team announced:
15. Leigh Halfpenny (Wales)
14. Alex Cuthbert (Wales)
13. Brian O'Driscoll (Ireland)
12. Jonathan Davies (Wales)
11. George North (Wales)
10. Jonathan Sexton (Ireland)
9. Mike Phillips (Wales)

1. Alex Corbisiero (England)
2. Tom Youngs (England)
3. Adam Jones (Wales)
4. Alun Wyn Jones (Wales)
5. Paul O'Connell (Ireland)
6. Tom Croft (England)
7. Sam Warburton (Wales, capt)
8. Jamie Heaslip (Ireland).

Replacements: Richard Hibbard (Wales), Mako Vunipola (England), Dan Cole (England), Geoff Parling (England), Dan Lydiate (Wales), Ben Youngs (England), Owen Farrell (England), Sean Maitland (Scotland).

For me, the pack is a going to be where it is won or lost. The two Wallaby flankers are inexperienced, one a debutant, the other has 13 caps compared to the Lions pair with 73 caps between them. I'm sure The breakdown will be a key area./

The forwards always determine the outcome. No dominance, no back line . Don't worry about our flankers, they have earned their spurs against McGraw & Co. The key thing about the breakdown will be how the referees interpret that area. What worries me is the ARU folded on the selection of refs for this series, & allowed the Lions to have their choice. Last year the Wallabies defeated Wales 3-0. Enough said about the flankers. Bob

[sheerluck]

......Last year the Wallabies defeated Wales 3-0......

And less than half of the Wallabies in this team played in that series, and only 5 of the Welsh contingent. Plus they aren't playing Wales. So not totally relevant Bob.

[bob10]

And less than half of the Wallabies in this team played in that series, and only 5 of the Welsh contingent. Plus they aren't playing Wales. So not totally relevant Bob.

It's all in the mind mate, like Brumbies 14, Lions 12, and that is where these games are won. And less than half of the Wallabies playing in that series? Don't mean a thing, It's already been proved in the minds of the Wallabies, after the reds & Waratahs games, and more so after the Brumbies, don't panic, they don't like the cold steel up 'em ;) Bob

[sheerluck]

My desire Bob, is for a good competitive game, without the needle tactics of the Brumbies game, just get on and play the team in front of you, to the best of your ability. History means nothing, just the 80 minutes whistle to whistle.

However, I wonder if 12 of this Wallaby squad have worked off the demons of being beaten at home by Scotland this time last year, when they had their first choice flankers? :angel:

[bob10]

However, I wonder if 12 of this Wallaby squad have worked off the demons of being beaten at home by Scotland this time last year, when they had their first choice flankers? :angel:

See , that's what I mean about the Lions [ & their supporters,] they don't play fair. :( :D Revenge is a dish best eaten cold, but the Wallabies will have the memory of defeating England 76-0 , a few years back, to keep them warm. Also 8 of the Lions starting team that played in the 3-0 Welsh defeat last year , will have the extra weight of a monkey on their back to cope with. I think the only Scots player is Jock Maitland, from that Scottish provincial side, the Crusaders, on the bench.

I believe dominating the set plays will be very important. The Wallabies should win the lineout battle, but the scrums? we will see. Also field position, field position, field position. We must play them in their own half, any penalties to the Lions in our own half, almost a gift 3 points. This is where the Lions choice of referees comes into their own. One of the refs chosen [ the Sth. African, I think] blew a world record number of penalties during a 6 nation match [ Scot. V England, I think] How they ref the breakdown could determine the eventual winner. That would be a pity, let's hope the Ref. doesn't have a huge influence on the result. I still have concerns over the Wallabies match fitness, and it is raining in Brisbane , but, BRING IT ON ! yahoo! Bob

[sheerluck]

That rain may play a big part. Remember the atrocious conditions of the Scotland game in Newcastle lat year? The NH teams are more used to playing in those kind of conditions.

We shall see. ;)

[bob10]

That rain may play a big part. Remember the atrocious conditions of the Scotland game in Newcastle lat year? The NH teams are more used to playing in those kind of conditions.

We shall see. ;)

Unless those Welsh heathens employ the Druids to cast a rain spell, all should be good. Bob



Brisbane Forecast


IDQ10095
Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology Queensland
Brisbane Forecast

Issued at 4:50 am EST on Friday 21 June 2013
Warning Summary at issue time


For the latest warning information please check the Bureau's web site www.bom.gov.au/qld (http://www.bom.gov.au/qld)
Forecast for Friday

Cloudy and cool with rain periods. Light southwest to southeast winds.
Precis: Cloudy, rain periods. City: Max 16Bayside: Max 16
UV Alert from 10:10 am to 1:20 pm, UV Index predicted to reach 4 [Moderate]


Saturday Fine, mostly sunny. Min 11Max 19

[Rohan]

Anyone else out there baracking for the Lions?
Or am I Billy-no-mates again? :eek:

[bob10]

Well , last night , with the Wife working, the prodigal son out on the prowl, and the daughter sleeping at home whilst the future son-in-law went to Ballymore to watch the Wallabies/Lions legends game [ daughter finally has one with the right priorities, diesel mechanic looking for his first Disco, and Rugby man, ] I made a favourite dish, mince with everything in, anything from the garden, plus the pantry. Tonight it becomes......WALLABY PASTIES!!!! With a dash of curry [ what the Lions will get tonight], and formed into small hand sized pasties, [ the other hand is for beer] the stage is set. The game is afoot, Watson, the enemy at hand. Time to gird the loins , fill the palm with beer, and repeat after me..... AUSSIE, AUSSIE, AUSSIE.....you know the rest of that horrible native chant, Bob

[bob10]

Anyone else out there baracking for the Lions?
Or am I Billy-no-mates again? :eek:

For 80 minutes tonight, in this house, yes. [meant in the nicest possible way, of course] Bob

[sheerluck]

Anyone else out there baracking for the Lions?
Or am I Billy-no-mates again? :eek:

No, you're not on your own :D

[2stroke]

Heard on the radio today there's 30000 lions supporters descending on the game tonight so I guess you're by no means alone. I wouldn't go against the Wallabies but if they are belted tonight it may be the catalyst for certain changes that'd be in the "national interest". I'll be happy to see a good try scoring game, not some poofy penalty shootout.

[sheerluck]

.........and formed into small hand sized pasties.......

You see, there you go with your mediocre Wallaby way of thinking Bob. A real pasty, like they make in the South West where I was born, should be so large that you're not sure whether you should eat it or sleep on it.

:Rolling:

[bob10]

You see, there you go with your mediocre Wallaby way of thinking Bob. A real pasty, like they make in the South West where I was born, should be so large that you're not sure whether you should eat it or sleep on it.

:Rolling:

Quality over quantity, Moriarty, quality over quantity, where you come from the pasties were eaten in the dark depths, we have seen the light of running Rugby , and our consecrated players, as pure as the driven snow, must surely win out over the Dark Beasts from the North. Bob

[sheerluck]

Quality over quantity, Moriarty, quality over quantity,

Nah, I'm allergic to small portions. :D


where you come from the pasties were eaten in the dark depths, we have seen the light of running Rugby , and our consecrated players, as pure as the driven snow

Maybe not that pure Rugby: Ioane pays price for misdemeanours | Otago Daily Times Online News : Otago, South Island, New Zealand & International News (http://www.odt.co.nz/sport/rugby/249063/rugby-ioane-pays-price-misdemeanours)


must surely win out over the Dark Beasts from the North. Bob

I wouldn't like to call them Dark Beasts to their faces :D

[mojo]

Went for a stroll at Southbank today, there were red Lions jerseys everywhere! I was at the Gabba for the first Lions test in 2001, the Aussie supporters were well and truly drowned out by the Lions fanatics. I suspect we might have a similar situation tonight, hopefully the Wallabies cope better than they did 12 years ago!

[2stroke]

Can only respect them for supporting their team, would be almost like a home game.:cool:

[DiscoMick]

If we get flogged by the Lions, and by the poms in the cricket, I may have to consider voting for a republic, as a form of protest against the English oppressors! :eek:
:D

[sheerluck]

When we get flogged by the Lions, and by the poms in the cricket, I may have to consider voting for a republic, as a form of protest against the English oppressors! :eek:
:D

There, fixed it for you. ;)

[bob10]

I wouldn't like to call them Dark Beasts to their faces :D

Now that's the difference between me & you, I would. Bob ;)

[bob10]

There, fixed it for you. ;)

Now that is a sign of desperation, or fantasy, or both, Moriarty. You disappoint me, Have you opened the Rum locker? Bob

[DiscoMick]

I'm settling in with a cheap red to watch the game. :D

[bob10]

Went for a stroll at Southbank today, there were red Lions jerseys everywhere! I was at the Gabba for the first Lions test in 2001, the Aussie supporters were well and truly drowned out by the Lions fanatics. I suspect we might have a similar situation tonight, hopefully the Wallabies cope better than they did 12 years ago!

Yes, exciting prospect, isn't it ! BTW, the Wallabies won that series, in case you have forgotten, Bob

[bob10]

Well the game is soon to start. Good luck to both teams, and may the best team on the night win. Am I excited? you bet I am. Bob

[sheerluck]

Well the game is soon to start. Good luck to both teams, and may the best team on the night win. Am I excited? you bet I am. Bob

Agree Bob. There goes the whistle, enjoy the game.

[sheerluck]

Wow. Now that was a game and a half. That really could have gone either way, hell of an advert for the series.

Hope the injured guys pull through ok.

[2stroke]

Wow, congrats to the Lions, a win's a win but that's the best I've seen of the Wallabies in ages and most plans must have needed revision after the early injuries. Folau looks like he'll become a Wallaby legend with a few more matches behind him. Beale was great, bet he'll be dirty at missing 2 potential match winners, but then that's Rugby.
Boy those Lions fans really know how to turn it on!

[griffman]

Wow, congrats to the Lions, a win's a win but that's the best I've seen of the Wallabies in ages and most plans must have needed revision after the early injuries. Folau looks like he'll become a Wallaby legend with a few more matches behind him. Beale was great, bet he'll be dirty at missing 2 potential match winners, but then that's Rugby.
Boy those Lions fans really know how to turn it on!

Hello from the UK guys

very tense game - I honestly thought the lions were lucky to win - Halfpenny's reliabilty with the boot proved to be the difference.

Some positives for the Wallabies:

Scrum came back well after shaky start - at last you have a couple of strong props with decent experience.
The excellent Horwill looks back to near his best
The whole team looked extremely fit
A superstar was born on the wing
Genia is a genius(although he should have been yellow-carded)
Beale seems to have got over his hangover and looked sharp.

Negatives:

Barnes is not good enough to play at the top level and is a weak link in the backline
Injury count - is there enough strength in depth to come out fighting next week?
Appalling place-kicking with no obvious solution.
No 'Nathan Sharpe' character to galvanise the pack if Horwill gets injured.

LIONS

The lions blew hot and cold and took too long to adapt to the Ref's interpretation of the breakdown.
They were definitely not as quick as the Wallabies to get over the ball, but got better in the second half.
They never adapted their game-plan to capitalise on the wallaby injuries and played too much rugby in their own half.

NEXT WEEK

Be interesting to see if Corbisiero is fit - if not we may see the arrival of the Toulon Wrecking Ball (Sheridan).Rumour has it he is fit, focussed and on standby.

I think the wallabies will bring in Cooper at 10 with Beale at full back - Lynagh will be rolled on in a shopping trolley to take the kicks at goal.

LIONS LIONS LIONS LIONS LIONS

[2stroke]

Was good to see the scrum become a contest again in a Wallaby test. Have to agree about Barnes, we improved with Beale in his place. As for place kicking, I'm sure Beale sinks both those last ones over and over at training, nerves I guess, also the Lions supporters chant "Lions Lions", nobody else can turn that on, must have affected the mindset of a young guy like him. The look of disapointment on his face at the finish...

[griffman]

Was good to see the scrum become a contest again in a Wallaby test. Have to agree about Barnes, we improved with Beale in his place. As for place kicking, I'm sure Beale sinks both those last ones over and over at training, nerves I guess, also the Lions supporters chant "Lions Lions", nobody else can turn that on, must have affected the mindset of a young guy like him. The look of disapointment on his face at the finish...

Yes mate- really felt for him.

He is such a gifted lad - reminds me of the young Mike Catt in many ways - outrageously talented but obviously has confidence issues.

Catty got through his inconsistencies and became a world-class operator - took a bit of time, but would have happened for him a lot sooner if he hadn't been dropped more times than a tart's knickers

ARU should nurture Curtley and reinforce his confidence with a commitment to a long run in the side irrespective of what happens - then he will mature quickly and fulfill his potential.

[griffman]

Was good to see the scrum become a contest again in a Wallaby test. Have to agree about Barnes, we improved with Beale in his place. As for place kicking, I'm sure Beale sinks both those last ones over and over at training, nerves I guess, also the Lions supporters chant "Lions Lions", nobody else can turn that on, must have affected the mindset of a young guy like him. The look of disapointment on his face at the finish...

sorry mate - meant to mention the scrum as well.

The two lads you have at the moment are good solid props - I hope the youngsters coming up behind are of the same mould because next year the ball has to go in straight and there is no pushing before the ball enters the tunnel - actually these are the rules at the moment - it is just that everyone has ignored them for the past 15 years - but from next year they will be enforced.

Some of the puddings you have had over the last fifteen years have put Aussie manhood to shame. Eddie Jones also encouraged them to feign injury in order to have uncontested scrums when they were being clobbered (Roly Poly Dunning in that disgraceful con-trick at twickenham for example).

Alexander has a good technique and a good flat back but he needs to get lower on the opposition put-in.

Robinson is a genuine footballer with a decent scrummaging technique - he could become a great player - he needs to forget about all the fancy stuff and see Jason Leonard as his role model - scrummage well and the rest will follow............................................ .......................

[sheerluck]

Now that is a sign of desperation, or fantasy, or both, Moriarty. You disappoint me, Have you opened the Rum locker? Bob

So it seems my 'fantasy' is one step closer, hey Bob? :p

[bob10]

Ouch! I hope you have a sore head this morning, I nearly fell out of my chair when kurtly missed that kick. He doesn't need that blow to his confidence, he was starting to hit his straps, too. The backs missed Ant. Fa'aingas' defensive skills, he also organises the backline defence well.North would not have scrored that try if he was there. Michael Hooper at centre? He last played there in his junior days, and with Phipps on the wing, they looked a bit disjointed. I'm amazed the Lions couldn't score more tries , they certainly did not look like Worldbeaters.

We knew about Folau's talent, now so do the Lions. With Mat Toomua at no. 10, Beale at fullback, Folau & lealiifano [ if fit] on the wings, Ant. Fa'ainga & Ben Tapuai in the centres, the Wallabies would more than match the lions. The forward pack matched the Lions, they will gain in confidence from that. Sexton was the pick of the lions, played all over O'Connor, stood very flat in attack, drew more than one defender, created room for his supports.Genia was man of the match, IMO. His control of the breakdown for Aus. and his cover tackling was excellent.

14 points lost from missed kicks! A terrible way to lose a game. One thing for sure,, the Lions showed they can be beat. Bring on Melbourne, can't wait, Bob

[sheerluck]

The Lions couldn't score more tries, that was down to how ferociously the Wallabies were defending, regardless of whether they were in their favoured position or not.

Genia showed his brilliance again, and he was the stand out in the game. Phillips looked big and slow by comparison. Folau and North were the pick of the back lines.

I fear that next week may not be so close, with 4 of the Wallaby back line possibly out, and James Horwill cited for stamping.

There will be some sore heads in Brisbane this morning (not least Alun-Wyn Jones after Horwill jumped on his :mad:) but mine is most definitely not one of them. :D

[SBD4]

Bad luck for Beale. He would have put that through no problems but for the condition of the turf in that spot. Have a look at the lump of gunk on his left boot when he gets up at 3:32 - there was no way anyone was going to remain standing with that crap around their sprigs:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=1JwCntboTZc

Nature of the game.

[sheerluck]

Bad luck for Beale. He would have put that through no problems but for the condition of the turf in that spot. Have a look at the lump of gunk on his left boot when he gets up at 3:32 - there was no way anyone was going to remain standing with that crap around their sprigs:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=1JwCntboTZc

Nature of the game.

The pressure got to him. Some other kickers seem to clear off the gunk around their studs before kicking, Sexton has it as part of his kicking (even kick off) routine.

It's the little things like that, that can turn a match.

[Reads90]

The Lions couldn't score more tries, that was down to how ferociously the Wallabies were defending, regardless of whether they were in their favoured position or not.

Genia showed his brilliance again, and he was the stand out in the game. Phillips looked big and slow by comparison. Folau and North were the pick of the back lines.

I fear that next week may not be so close, with 4 of the Wallaby back line possibly out, and James Horwill cited for stamping.

There will be some sore heads in Brisbane this morning (not least Alun-Wyn Jones after Horwill jumped on his :mad:) but mine is most definitely not one of them. :D

Oh believe me mine is. Was at suncorp with my lions shirt on I might add.
Spent 1.5 hours still at suncorp after the game had finished still drink to many heavy beers and watching the lions fans tell the Aussie fans to be careful and not slip over. :-)

Was a good night

[bob10]

The Lions couldn't score more tries, that was down to how ferociously the Wallabies were defending, regardless of whether they were in their favoured position or not.:D
The Lions didn't score more tries because they weren't good enough. I couldn't imagine the All Blacks or Springboks not taking advantage of the situation. We can get another back line to match the Lions but Horwill will be very difficult to replace. We'll know tomorrow, I guess, Bob

[sheerluck]

The Lions didn't score more tries because they weren't good enough. I couldn't imagine the All Blacks or Springboks not taking advantage of the situation. We can get another back line to match the Lions but Horwill will be very difficult to replace. We'll know tomorrow, I guess, Bob

They say opinions are like arseholes, Bob. We've all got one.

[bob10]

The pressure got to him. Some other kickers seem to clear off the gunk around their studs before kicking

I have to disagree, I'm afraid. The kick was taken from where the scrum packed, the turf was loose, and Beale had no muck on his sprigs, until just before contact with the ball. His left foot slipped on a loose patch of turf. If anything, I think he rushed it a little. Bob

[bob10]

They say opinions are like arseholes, Bob. We've all got one.

Yep, and some are based on fact , others on fantasy, :p Bob

[sheerluck]

Yep, and some are based on fact , others on fantasy, :p Bob

Well you can't escape from the fact that the Lions put more points on the board. All other discussion is irrelevant. ;)

[bob10]

Well you can't escape from the fact that the Lions put more points on the board. All other discussion is irrelevant. ;)
It's not a sprint, it's a 3 game marathon. Discussion would be irrelevant if it was a one off, I saw enough to say the Lions are vulnerable. Much as they were the last time they were here. It's the points on the board after 3 games that count. However, if the Lions win the series, I would be one of the first to congratulate them. I think they are a good team, but not as good as they think they are. They could fall foul of their own hubris ,hopefully, bob

[DiscoMick]

What a heart-stopper. Really felt for Beale, he deserved better. This game points to a great series.:cool:

[bob10]

well, I said if the Lions won the series, I would be the first to congratulate them, they lost this game , but I congratulate them anyway, their defence was almost perfect, they played a great game of rugby. The wallabies managed to win despite the best efforts of O'Connor & Beale to lose it. The Wallaby forwards played there heart out, O'Connor kicking the ball out on the full, after Genia passed back from outside the 22, must have almost broken their hearts. If O'Connor is no. 10 in the next game, and Beale in the side, The ARU are just not fair dinkum. Bob

[stuee]

Gotta say the wallabies were very lucky. A lot of silly ball thrown away through the whole game. The wallabies forwards played excellent, but the Lions were something to watch at the breakdown. If I hadn't had 4 teeth pulled out yesterday I'd be at the pub celebrating right now, was a real heart-stopper at the end.

I don't like O'Connor at 10, but I don't want to see Quade there either. Sydney is going to be an interesting game with Horwill most likely out. Who will step up as captain??

[bob10]

. Who will step up as captain??
Every junior player in Aus. is going to say " pick me" after that game, that's how important the win was for the Wallabies. Four teeth? I feel your pain, I almost broke my false teeth when O'Connor kicked THAT ball out on the full. I don't know who is pulling the strings with the Wallaby selections, but IMO they don't have it right yet. No wallaby team with Beale & O'Connor in is good for Australian Rugby at the moment, just for the very reason it sends the wrong message to junior players, the future of our game. Captain? Genia, of course. A better Captain than Horwill, you will find. Bob

[stuee]

Genia seems so on top of his game at the moment I wonder if taking on the burden of captaincy would have a negative impact.

[sheerluck]

well, I said if the Lions won the series, I would be the first to congratulate them, they lost this game , but I congratulate them anyway, their defence was almost perfect, they played a great game of rugby. The wallabies managed to win despite the best efforts of O'Connor & Beale to lose it. The Wallaby forwards played there heart out, O'Connor kicking the ball out on the full, after Genia passed back from outside the 22, must have almost broken their hearts. If he is no. 10 in the next game, and Beale in the side, The ARU are just not fair dinkum. Bob

Was an immense game again last night. What a series so far, I hope that Saturday in Sydney lives up to the two we've had.

The battle on the wing between Folau and North is still undecided for me. Folau again showed he has the speed and step, but North showed how strong he is, especially as he's only 21.

Will be very surprised if O'Connor and Beale are still in next week, along with Vunipola for the Lions.

Whatever happens next week, this series has been close, hard fought, and avid viewing. Heart stopping moments and cliff hanger endings aplenty.

[bob10]

Was an immense game again last night. What a series so far, I hope that Saturday in Sydney lives up to the two we've had.

The battle on the wing between Folau and North is still undecided for me. Folau again showed he has the speed and step, but North showed how strong he is, especially as he's only 21.

Will be very surprised if O'Connor and Beale are still in next week, along with Vunipola for the Lions.

Whatever happens next week, this series has been close, hard fought, and avid viewing. Heart stopping moments and cliff hanger endings aplenty.

Vunipola was targeted by the Wallaby front row, for his habit of turning in & collapsing his side of the scrum under pressure. It worked. It's amazing that the one area the Wallabies were perceived to be weak by the Lions coaching staff ,& most other observers, the scrum, was perhaps the only area they got over the top of the Lions. Looking forward to the next game, Bob

[mojo]

Horwill has been cleared to play. Great news for the Wallabies, he makes a huge difference to the team. If Beale and O'Connor can manage decent games without too many stuff ups, I think we'll ge to good for the pasty Brits!:D

[Hastykiwi]

I thought once you striped away the tension and excitement of a close finish, the game was pretty crap. Aus probably displayed one of the worst handling efforts from them ever, and the Lions game plan was nothing more than go for the penalty. As for the result, I'm stoked. Have to agree about O'Connor, he seems to do less and less as the 1st 5 each week. After the weekend I think he's pretty much reduced to 1st receiver on attack, with little or no responsibility for the kicking game. With Cooper being a complete cock, surely Foley would be a better and more complete option.