By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Paul_M_Williams]Paul M Williams
I was born in Salford and worked for many years within the City but after a long absence I returned there recently for a brief visit. In reality, I visited Swinton which is a separate location within the City of Salford and is home to a small but busy shopping centre and the administrative offices of Salford council.
Famous Salford resident LS Lowry, who painted famous pictures of "match stalk men and match stalk cats and dogs" was actually a life long resident of Swinton and lived on Station Road nearby.
Swinton, and particularly Station road, are also famous for a Rugby League team who were once one of the biggest names in the game and in 1927/28 were one of only three clubs to win all four cups played for in one season. Their successful team of the 1960's won the Championship twice with stars such as Alan Buckley, John Stopford and Ken Gowers.
Station Road was the venue for numerous international matches between Great Britain and other nations in particular Australia for the Rugby League Ashes. It was once called the "Aussie graveyard" because for many years Australia were unable to win there.
In 1930 at Swinton, in the third and deciding Test with the score standing at a very unusual 0-0 and time running out, Australia's half-back Joe "Chimpy" Busch picked the scored what seemed like a match winning and Ashes winning try. Busch and his team were jubilant but the referee consulted the touch judge and over-turned his original decision.
In 1948, the Second Test match was played at Station Road and before the game, the Australian players paid homage in the corner where "Chimpy" Busch had been denied but they lost the match 17-6 and The Ashes with it. Station Road, once again proved to be the graveyard of the Aussies.
In 1950, Australia won the Ashes for the first time since 1920 when they won a series 2-1 on home soil but Great Britain regained them in 1952 at Station Road.
rel=nofollow [http://youtu.be/_MBiIHxJ7IU]CLICK HERE to see some footage
In 1963, the Australians finally won at Station Road and became the first Australian team to win an Ashes series way from home. The result was a 50-12 massacre which was a record score at the time. Station Road was no longer an "Aussie graveyard".
In 1992, the famous Swinton club had fallen upon hard times and the then directors decided to sell the ground to a housing company to clear debts. No consultation process was carried out with the supporters, the local council or the Rugby League authorities. It was an act of treachery and betrayal.
The Rugby League team are still called Swinton but have since played their matches at various locations including Bury FC and Sedgeley Park RU and have struggled ever since. They are currently enjoying their best season for many years and stand top of Championship 2. They play their games at The Willows which is the home of fierce rivals Salford but at least it is close to their traditional home. There is talk of them moving to a new purpose built stadium nearby. Let's hope so
Station Road is a now a nondescript housing estate and when I visited I saw no mention made of it's significance in Rugby League history. There was no signpost, no commemorative plaque or even roads named after famous Swinton, Great Britain or Australian players. It really is a great shame. [http://rugbyleaguethoughts.blogspot.com]CLICK HERE for more information about International Rugby League.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Station-Road,-Swinton&id=6249875] Station Road, Swinton
Sunday, February 5, 2012
Friday, February 3, 2012
Rugby League: A General Overview
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Kevin_Fernandez]Kevin Fernandez
Rugby league is very popular especially in Australia, England and New Zealand. It is played in other nations as well. The sport was created in the nineteenth century-officially came into vogue on August, 1985. Rugby basically developed from football but moved away from it, with different sets of rules. News about the sport was flashing in the news channels a few years back due to the Rugby league betting scandal. It gained media attention for quite some time especially after some men were found guilty in some betting scandals a few months ago.
The rules of Rugby
Rugby differs from football mainly due to the ways in which the ball is used in both the games. Football is played with a round ball that has to be kicked while Rugby uses an oval shaped ball that can be carried as well as kicked Two points are given for a goal in Rugby and the players have the scope of converting a goal if they score a try. A game is eighty minutes long and each team has six downs or tackles for aiming a try.
The tournaments
The Rugby League World Cup is the most awaited tournament of the sport. But the Four Nations Cup also attracts a large number of sport-lovers. The betting fever rises during the season of the Four Nations. Another big occasion for the Rugby is the Challenge Cup. It is difficult to choose the best among the four teams in the Rugby league and many a time it has happened that the Challenge cup has gone to none of the teams. In the final match, the man of the match is usually chosen by the league reporters and the prestigious Lance Todd Trophy is handed over to the show stealer. The Super league is another big game. It is basically a European Tournament, but the majority of the teams are from United Kingdom.
Betting
Rugby betting is much easier than betting on football games as a tie is very rare in case of Rugby. The bookies mostly set the handicaps reflecting the difference in points in Rugby betting. Online betting is also becoming increasingly popular especially after the Tri Nations and the Championship of Six Nations in Europe. Online betting was never popular before. With the increase of the popularity of the game, the Rugby league betting is also enhancing.
Rugby is a dangerous game that makes it exciting to watch. It has a huge fan base including the ones who enjoy Rugby league.
Visit us for more information on [http://www.rugbyleaguebetting.net/]rugby league betting and [http://www.rugbyleaguebetting.net/rugby-league-news/]rugby league news.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Rugby-League:-A-General-Overview&id=6271300] Rugby League: A General Overview
Rugby league is very popular especially in Australia, England and New Zealand. It is played in other nations as well. The sport was created in the nineteenth century-officially came into vogue on August, 1985. Rugby basically developed from football but moved away from it, with different sets of rules. News about the sport was flashing in the news channels a few years back due to the Rugby league betting scandal. It gained media attention for quite some time especially after some men were found guilty in some betting scandals a few months ago.
The rules of Rugby
Rugby differs from football mainly due to the ways in which the ball is used in both the games. Football is played with a round ball that has to be kicked while Rugby uses an oval shaped ball that can be carried as well as kicked Two points are given for a goal in Rugby and the players have the scope of converting a goal if they score a try. A game is eighty minutes long and each team has six downs or tackles for aiming a try.
The tournaments
The Rugby League World Cup is the most awaited tournament of the sport. But the Four Nations Cup also attracts a large number of sport-lovers. The betting fever rises during the season of the Four Nations. Another big occasion for the Rugby is the Challenge Cup. It is difficult to choose the best among the four teams in the Rugby league and many a time it has happened that the Challenge cup has gone to none of the teams. In the final match, the man of the match is usually chosen by the league reporters and the prestigious Lance Todd Trophy is handed over to the show stealer. The Super league is another big game. It is basically a European Tournament, but the majority of the teams are from United Kingdom.
Betting
Rugby betting is much easier than betting on football games as a tie is very rare in case of Rugby. The bookies mostly set the handicaps reflecting the difference in points in Rugby betting. Online betting is also becoming increasingly popular especially after the Tri Nations and the Championship of Six Nations in Europe. Online betting was never popular before. With the increase of the popularity of the game, the Rugby league betting is also enhancing.
Rugby is a dangerous game that makes it exciting to watch. It has a huge fan base including the ones who enjoy Rugby league.
Visit us for more information on [http://www.rugbyleaguebetting.net/]rugby league betting and [http://www.rugbyleaguebetting.net/rugby-league-news/]rugby league news.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Rugby-League:-A-General-Overview&id=6271300] Rugby League: A General Overview
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
Rugby School Tours: New Zealand is the Only Option in 2011
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Ryan_Saunders]Ryan Saunders
With the rugby season in the southern hemisphere well under way, rugby clubs throughout New Zealand and Australia are battling for supremacy in their specific grades. Many school and interschool competitions are giving birth to a new breed of future All Blacks and Wallabies, displaying a level of skill that is only seen in the worlds best up and coming players. With many schools, universities and junior rugby clubs expanding their seasons and training regimes, the end of year tours and school rugby tours are becoming a popular medium for ongoing training, experience and team building.
With the Rugby World Cup being hosted in New Zealand in 2011, all international attention is being focussed on New Zealand. This is being correlated with an increased demand from schools and universities within Australia and the wider South Pacific region to use New Zealand as a base for their school rugby tours. With school rugby teams having the ability to play and train on the same grounds that their countries team will be competing on for Rugby World Cup glory in 2011, there is no other country that can offer such an experience. Combined with the high level of rugby being played at all grades and age groups in New Zealand, organising a rugby school tour in New Zealand provides rugby teams to play against some of the best in the world. This enables teams from Australia to not only hone their skills and playing ability, but to battle in the long standing grudge history of competition that stands between New Zealand and Australia. There is no doubt that we invented the Pavlova, but it is up to your school or university rugby team to prove that wrong on your rugby school tour of New Zealand.
Building individual skill levels, team cohesion and developing game plans and strategies is the ultimate goal for all school rugby tours. Leading tour companies in New Zealand that specialise in sports and rugby tours have access to some of the best training facilities and coaches available. One such facility is based at Massey University, in Palmerston North; termed the International Rugby Academy. Close relationships foster between leading New Zealand educational and sports tours companies provides access to the same facilities as utilised by the All Blacks and Super 15 teams for their training, recovery and strategy needs. There are numerous specialist facilities accessible here including the indoor training room which has nylon-stranded Field Turf has recycled rubber chip and sand 'combed' through it to absorb the impact of a fall while giving the 'feel' of real grass underfoot. Unlike other synthetic surfaces there are no 'burns' associated with this installation. The scrum room features a hydraulic scrum machine which provides an undercover alternative to scrum training, which can 'push' against the team using it and has adjustable levels to suit. It can 'wheel' left and right as well as move 'up and down' to simulate real scrummaging actions. This is only the beginning!
Furthermore, leading rugby and sports school tour companies have close relationships with current and ex-All Blacks. Upon request, their presence can be arranged for a simple meet and greet, formal evening or a specific training session. For your next rugby school tour, don't leave anything to chance: choose a leading New Zealand sports and rugby tour company that can ensure an end of season tour or training tour produces tangible benefits for your rugby team.
Haka School Tours is an award winning educational tour company based in New Zealand. Specialising in school group travel, school sports tours as well as educational and cultural trips, Haka School Tours guarantees the best in experiential learning, adventure and sporting experiences available to schools throughout the world. To find out more, [http://www.newzealandschooltours.com]www.newzealandschooltours.com
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Rugby-School-Tours:-New-Zealand-is-the-Only-Option-in-2011&id=6279097] Rugby School Tours: New Zealand is the Only Option in 2011
With the rugby season in the southern hemisphere well under way, rugby clubs throughout New Zealand and Australia are battling for supremacy in their specific grades. Many school and interschool competitions are giving birth to a new breed of future All Blacks and Wallabies, displaying a level of skill that is only seen in the worlds best up and coming players. With many schools, universities and junior rugby clubs expanding their seasons and training regimes, the end of year tours and school rugby tours are becoming a popular medium for ongoing training, experience and team building.
With the Rugby World Cup being hosted in New Zealand in 2011, all international attention is being focussed on New Zealand. This is being correlated with an increased demand from schools and universities within Australia and the wider South Pacific region to use New Zealand as a base for their school rugby tours. With school rugby teams having the ability to play and train on the same grounds that their countries team will be competing on for Rugby World Cup glory in 2011, there is no other country that can offer such an experience. Combined with the high level of rugby being played at all grades and age groups in New Zealand, organising a rugby school tour in New Zealand provides rugby teams to play against some of the best in the world. This enables teams from Australia to not only hone their skills and playing ability, but to battle in the long standing grudge history of competition that stands between New Zealand and Australia. There is no doubt that we invented the Pavlova, but it is up to your school or university rugby team to prove that wrong on your rugby school tour of New Zealand.
Building individual skill levels, team cohesion and developing game plans and strategies is the ultimate goal for all school rugby tours. Leading tour companies in New Zealand that specialise in sports and rugby tours have access to some of the best training facilities and coaches available. One such facility is based at Massey University, in Palmerston North; termed the International Rugby Academy. Close relationships foster between leading New Zealand educational and sports tours companies provides access to the same facilities as utilised by the All Blacks and Super 15 teams for their training, recovery and strategy needs. There are numerous specialist facilities accessible here including the indoor training room which has nylon-stranded Field Turf has recycled rubber chip and sand 'combed' through it to absorb the impact of a fall while giving the 'feel' of real grass underfoot. Unlike other synthetic surfaces there are no 'burns' associated with this installation. The scrum room features a hydraulic scrum machine which provides an undercover alternative to scrum training, which can 'push' against the team using it and has adjustable levels to suit. It can 'wheel' left and right as well as move 'up and down' to simulate real scrummaging actions. This is only the beginning!
Furthermore, leading rugby and sports school tour companies have close relationships with current and ex-All Blacks. Upon request, their presence can be arranged for a simple meet and greet, formal evening or a specific training session. For your next rugby school tour, don't leave anything to chance: choose a leading New Zealand sports and rugby tour company that can ensure an end of season tour or training tour produces tangible benefits for your rugby team.
Haka School Tours is an award winning educational tour company based in New Zealand. Specialising in school group travel, school sports tours as well as educational and cultural trips, Haka School Tours guarantees the best in experiential learning, adventure and sporting experiences available to schools throughout the world. To find out more, [http://www.newzealandschooltours.com]www.newzealandschooltours.com
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Rugby-School-Tours:-New-Zealand-is-the-Only-Option-in-2011&id=6279097] Rugby School Tours: New Zealand is the Only Option in 2011
Monday, January 30, 2012
Rugby World Cup Teams - Pool C
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Paul_Hesketh]Paul Hesketh
The Rugby World Cup 2011 starts on the 9 September until the 23 October 2011. The following article is an outline of the teams that will be featuring from pool C.
Australia - The Wallabies
Australia are currently ranked second in the IRB World Rankings, they are commonly known as the Wallabies, without question they are a team steeped in history and success. Australia have competed in all six Rugby World Cups, having appeared in the final three times, winning the World Cup on two occasions, in 1991 against England, and in 1999 against France; only South Africa have won the World Cup twice since the inaugural tournament. At the 2007 World Cup Australia crashed out of the competition at the quarter-final stage, this significant early round exit has led many to describe it as Australia's worst ever World Cup performance. The years since have seen the team rebuild with youth at its core; when the 2011 World Cup begins Australia will be ready with a squad that is youthful and experienced. Australia too many will be potential winners, being a southern hemisphere team the conditions are favourable, the squad strong and crowd support will be plenty, all factors that the wallabies will feed off. Star player: Matthew Giteau, Head Coach: Robbie Deans
Italy- Azzurri
Italy has competed at every Rugby World Cup except one since the tournament was first held in Australia and New Zealand in 1987; the furthest progress to date is only to the quarter finals. In an heartland of football fandom, rugby very much holds its own in this sports mad nation; strong recent performances in the six nations including Italy's first competitive win against France have given the Azzurri hope of a very good tournament. In the 2011 six nations winger Andrea Masi was named player of the tournament, the first time an Italian has won such an award. Italy's hope of getting out of the group stages relay heavily on getting a result against Ireland or Australia, both on paper stronger teams who should qualify ahead of them. That said the Italian side is going in the right direction, the win against France could ultimately prove a watershed moment for the Azzurri and there supporters. Star Player: Andrea Masi,Head Coach: Nick Mallett
Russia - The Bears
Russia will compete in their first Rugby World Cup in New Zealand 2011, a long wait for a team that has played the sport since 1936 predominantly under the USSR flag. Since March 2010, however, Russia's form has improved greatly, being placed 18th in the world rankings, above Romania and coming behind the USA. Group C is a very tough group for Russia to progress from, realistically Russia will be aiming to beat the United States and not pick up the group wooden spoon. Like all under dogs the Bears will be an unknown quantity that other teams will do well to not underestimate, something they will hope to exploit come kick off. Star Player: Andrei Ostriko, Head Coach: Nikolay Nerush
United States - The Eagles
The United States has competed at every Rugby World Cup except one since the tournament was first held; this record is only marked with two World cup victories so far. The United States has a fantastic history of rugby heritage in a land of great sporting diversity but with little international success to date. While the United States like Russia is a super power, the United States rugby team is not, group C will prove exceptionally tough for the Eagles to progress from. However the United States does now boast players from some of the top leagues in the world, a sign of progression and growing belief that the Eagles have what it takes to move up a level and start to compete against some of the more established teams. Star player Chris Wyles, Head coach Eddie O'Sullivan
Ireland - Men in Green
Ireland have competed at every Rugby World Cup since the tournament was first held, only progressing to the quarter-final stages to date. The 2007 World Cup was one to forget for the Irish, a tough group of death meant Ireland didn't progress out of this stage, the first time this had happened to the team. Ireland has since won the 2009 Six Nations Grand Slam, having achieved this feat for the first time since 1948; it's a massive boost for this rugby mad nation and gives hope of a great World Cup ahead. In current captain Brian O'Driscoll, Ireland's all-time leader in both tries and appearances, the men in green boast a player considered one of the best in the world. If the players in the rel=nofollow [http://www.cottontraders.co.uk/ireland-rugby-shirt-long-sleeve-classic/invt/ae90004/]Ireland Rugby shirt click and O'Driscoll stays fit, the Irish should comfortably make it out of the group stage; a favorable quarter-final draw may even see them make the semi finals for the first time in their history. Star player Brian O'Driscoll, Head coach Declan Kidney.
The first match of pool C is on the 11 September 2011 15:30
Australia v Italy- North Harbour Stadium, Auckland
Visit Cotton Traders for a great selection of [http://www.cottontraders.co.uk/page/rugby-shop]Rugby Shirts.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Rugby-World-Cup-Teams---Pool-C&id=6280099] Rugby World Cup Teams - Pool C
The Rugby World Cup 2011 starts on the 9 September until the 23 October 2011. The following article is an outline of the teams that will be featuring from pool C.
Australia - The Wallabies
Australia are currently ranked second in the IRB World Rankings, they are commonly known as the Wallabies, without question they are a team steeped in history and success. Australia have competed in all six Rugby World Cups, having appeared in the final three times, winning the World Cup on two occasions, in 1991 against England, and in 1999 against France; only South Africa have won the World Cup twice since the inaugural tournament. At the 2007 World Cup Australia crashed out of the competition at the quarter-final stage, this significant early round exit has led many to describe it as Australia's worst ever World Cup performance. The years since have seen the team rebuild with youth at its core; when the 2011 World Cup begins Australia will be ready with a squad that is youthful and experienced. Australia too many will be potential winners, being a southern hemisphere team the conditions are favourable, the squad strong and crowd support will be plenty, all factors that the wallabies will feed off. Star player: Matthew Giteau, Head Coach: Robbie Deans
Italy- Azzurri
Italy has competed at every Rugby World Cup except one since the tournament was first held in Australia and New Zealand in 1987; the furthest progress to date is only to the quarter finals. In an heartland of football fandom, rugby very much holds its own in this sports mad nation; strong recent performances in the six nations including Italy's first competitive win against France have given the Azzurri hope of a very good tournament. In the 2011 six nations winger Andrea Masi was named player of the tournament, the first time an Italian has won such an award. Italy's hope of getting out of the group stages relay heavily on getting a result against Ireland or Australia, both on paper stronger teams who should qualify ahead of them. That said the Italian side is going in the right direction, the win against France could ultimately prove a watershed moment for the Azzurri and there supporters. Star Player: Andrea Masi,Head Coach: Nick Mallett
Russia - The Bears
Russia will compete in their first Rugby World Cup in New Zealand 2011, a long wait for a team that has played the sport since 1936 predominantly under the USSR flag. Since March 2010, however, Russia's form has improved greatly, being placed 18th in the world rankings, above Romania and coming behind the USA. Group C is a very tough group for Russia to progress from, realistically Russia will be aiming to beat the United States and not pick up the group wooden spoon. Like all under dogs the Bears will be an unknown quantity that other teams will do well to not underestimate, something they will hope to exploit come kick off. Star Player: Andrei Ostriko, Head Coach: Nikolay Nerush
United States - The Eagles
The United States has competed at every Rugby World Cup except one since the tournament was first held; this record is only marked with two World cup victories so far. The United States has a fantastic history of rugby heritage in a land of great sporting diversity but with little international success to date. While the United States like Russia is a super power, the United States rugby team is not, group C will prove exceptionally tough for the Eagles to progress from. However the United States does now boast players from some of the top leagues in the world, a sign of progression and growing belief that the Eagles have what it takes to move up a level and start to compete against some of the more established teams. Star player Chris Wyles, Head coach Eddie O'Sullivan
Ireland - Men in Green
Ireland have competed at every Rugby World Cup since the tournament was first held, only progressing to the quarter-final stages to date. The 2007 World Cup was one to forget for the Irish, a tough group of death meant Ireland didn't progress out of this stage, the first time this had happened to the team. Ireland has since won the 2009 Six Nations Grand Slam, having achieved this feat for the first time since 1948; it's a massive boost for this rugby mad nation and gives hope of a great World Cup ahead. In current captain Brian O'Driscoll, Ireland's all-time leader in both tries and appearances, the men in green boast a player considered one of the best in the world. If the players in the rel=nofollow [http://www.cottontraders.co.uk/ireland-rugby-shirt-long-sleeve-classic/invt/ae90004/]Ireland Rugby shirt click and O'Driscoll stays fit, the Irish should comfortably make it out of the group stage; a favorable quarter-final draw may even see them make the semi finals for the first time in their history. Star player Brian O'Driscoll, Head coach Declan Kidney.
The first match of pool C is on the 11 September 2011 15:30
Australia v Italy- North Harbour Stadium, Auckland
Visit Cotton Traders for a great selection of [http://www.cottontraders.co.uk/page/rugby-shop]Rugby Shirts.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Rugby-World-Cup-Teams---Pool-C&id=6280099] Rugby World Cup Teams - Pool C
Saturday, January 28, 2012
Rugby World Cup Teams - Pool D
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Paul_Hesketh]Paul Hesketh
The Rugby World Cup 2011 starts on the 9 September until the 23 October 2011. The following article is an outline of the teams that will be featuring from pool D.
South Africa- Springboks
The South African rugby team is the current holder of the Rugby World Cup, beating England 15 -6 to lift the Webb Ellis Cup for a record equaling second time in 2007. Since the last World Cup the Springboks results range from all time highs to some indifferent results, they are however still one of the best teams on the planet. The South African team is renowned for scrummaging aggressively with a high level of technical excellence, a ball-in-hand style that often works very well against opponents. Expect a traditional high-pressure, attritional game plan at the 2011 World Cup; this approach is likely to see the Springboks get to the later stages of the competition and if like 2007 could see a successful defense of the Web Ellis. The Springboks possess quality in-depth and are renowned for being extremely difficult to break down over 80 minutes, they have also been drawn in a favorable group consisting of teams that shouldn't prove too much of a problem; complacency will be South Africa's biggest problem but once out of the group stage expect a charge towards the final in Auckland. Star Player: Bryan Habana, Head coach: Peter de Villiers
Fiji - The Palms
Fiji is one of the few countries where rugby union is the national sport, as a team they are very strong and definitely the strongest from the Oceania region. The 2007 World Cup was a great success for the Fijians who got knocked out at the quarter-final stage by future winners South Africa, prior to this they overcame Wales in the second round 38-31; this put Fiji in the top 8 teams in world rugby, no small feat for this pacific island. The Fijian style is very off the cuff and proves to be highly entertaining, their ball handling is generally excellent and is more akin to basketball at times. The Fijian free-flowing style does however expose a defensive fragility that the better teams capitalise on but on their day the Palms are a handful for any team. Group D throws up the mouth-watering repeat of the 2007 game against Wales, described by some as one of the best matches ever. The winner of this match will very likely progress to the next round behind South Africa but the game against neighbours Samoa will be tough and definitely one to watch. Star Player: Sisaro Koyamaibole, Head Coach: Sam Domoni
Samoa- Manu Samoa
Rugby was introduced to Samoa in the early 1920s; the first international was played as Western Samoa against Fiji in August 1924. Samoa did not compete at the first World Cup but have qualified for every tournament since. Samoa in the early years of the World Cup were an unknown, this worked exceptional well for the team and help them to progress to the quarter-final stages in the first three tournaments that they participated in; since these early highs Samoa have failed to get out of the group stages. There are strong links between Samoa and New Zealand even sharing a pre match challenge similar to the Haka called the Siva Tau. Many players switch nationalities between the two nations, often Samoan player's trying to realise a dream of playing for the All Blacks. Manu Samoa is a naturally strong, physical side, who will go toe to toe with any opponent. Group D represents a great opportunity for the side to get out of the group, the games against Wales and Fiji are vital to this - expect a great encounter when these teams meet each other. Star Player: Alesana Tuilagi, Head Coach: Fuimaono Tafua
Namibia- Welwitschias
Namibia has been playing international rugby since the early 1900s; they are the second best team from Africa and the most likely first team candidate to join the second tier of world rugby. Namibia have competed at every World Cup since 1999 but are yet to win a match, with a small player base, and lacking frequent or strong competition, the team has deteriorated in recent years. The Likelihood for Namibia in the 2011 World Cup is that they will again struggle. A potential result if possible will come against Samoa or Fiji but on paper the group D wooden spoon beckons for the Welwitschias. There have been a few excellent internationals out of Namibia; however these players often opt to play for South Africa, a country with strong ties to Namibia as past rulers. The shining hope for Namibia was surprisingly winning the IRB Nations Cup in 2010, proving their progress at international level is on the rise. Star Player: Jacques Burger, Head Coach: Johan Diergaardt
Wales- Dragons
Wales have contested at every Rugby World Cup since the inaugural tournament in 1987; the first one is still the best one. At the 1987 World Cup Wales finished third in the tournament, beating Australia 22-21 in a classic match, since this high the Welsh have seesawed between the quarter-finals and not progressing out of the group stages at all. To put on the rel=nofollow [http://www.cottontraders.co.uk/wales-rugby-shirt-long-sleeve-classic/invt/ae90002/]Wales rugby shirt is every Welshman's dream; engrained in the very fabric of the people of the valleys. Wales will look at group D with optimism, on their day Wales play a fluid, entertaining and often spectacular blend of rugby that creates fans around the world. South Africa will be very tough for Wales, having played each other 25 times and only winning once against the Springboks, the odds are firmly stacked against them. Samoa, Fiji and Namibia should prove more of a contest; maximum points from these three games will see the Welshman into the next round, expect a spectacular game when the opponents are the Palms of Fiji. Since the last World Cup Wales secured a grand slam victory in the Six nations back in 2008 but the years since have seen a decline in performances and results, it will interesting to see what Welsh side shows up in New Zealand 2011. Star Player: Stephen Jones, Head Coach: Warren Gatland
The first match of pool D is on the 10th September 2011 15:30
Fiji v Namibia - Rotorua International Stadium, Rotorua
Visit Cotton Traders for a great selection of [http://www.cottontraders.co.uk/page/rugby-shop]Rugby Shirts.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Rugby-World-Cup-Teams---Pool-D&id=6299143] Rugby World Cup Teams - Pool D
The Rugby World Cup 2011 starts on the 9 September until the 23 October 2011. The following article is an outline of the teams that will be featuring from pool D.
South Africa- Springboks
The South African rugby team is the current holder of the Rugby World Cup, beating England 15 -6 to lift the Webb Ellis Cup for a record equaling second time in 2007. Since the last World Cup the Springboks results range from all time highs to some indifferent results, they are however still one of the best teams on the planet. The South African team is renowned for scrummaging aggressively with a high level of technical excellence, a ball-in-hand style that often works very well against opponents. Expect a traditional high-pressure, attritional game plan at the 2011 World Cup; this approach is likely to see the Springboks get to the later stages of the competition and if like 2007 could see a successful defense of the Web Ellis. The Springboks possess quality in-depth and are renowned for being extremely difficult to break down over 80 minutes, they have also been drawn in a favorable group consisting of teams that shouldn't prove too much of a problem; complacency will be South Africa's biggest problem but once out of the group stage expect a charge towards the final in Auckland. Star Player: Bryan Habana, Head coach: Peter de Villiers
Fiji - The Palms
Fiji is one of the few countries where rugby union is the national sport, as a team they are very strong and definitely the strongest from the Oceania region. The 2007 World Cup was a great success for the Fijians who got knocked out at the quarter-final stage by future winners South Africa, prior to this they overcame Wales in the second round 38-31; this put Fiji in the top 8 teams in world rugby, no small feat for this pacific island. The Fijian style is very off the cuff and proves to be highly entertaining, their ball handling is generally excellent and is more akin to basketball at times. The Fijian free-flowing style does however expose a defensive fragility that the better teams capitalise on but on their day the Palms are a handful for any team. Group D throws up the mouth-watering repeat of the 2007 game against Wales, described by some as one of the best matches ever. The winner of this match will very likely progress to the next round behind South Africa but the game against neighbours Samoa will be tough and definitely one to watch. Star Player: Sisaro Koyamaibole, Head Coach: Sam Domoni
Samoa- Manu Samoa
Rugby was introduced to Samoa in the early 1920s; the first international was played as Western Samoa against Fiji in August 1924. Samoa did not compete at the first World Cup but have qualified for every tournament since. Samoa in the early years of the World Cup were an unknown, this worked exceptional well for the team and help them to progress to the quarter-final stages in the first three tournaments that they participated in; since these early highs Samoa have failed to get out of the group stages. There are strong links between Samoa and New Zealand even sharing a pre match challenge similar to the Haka called the Siva Tau. Many players switch nationalities between the two nations, often Samoan player's trying to realise a dream of playing for the All Blacks. Manu Samoa is a naturally strong, physical side, who will go toe to toe with any opponent. Group D represents a great opportunity for the side to get out of the group, the games against Wales and Fiji are vital to this - expect a great encounter when these teams meet each other. Star Player: Alesana Tuilagi, Head Coach: Fuimaono Tafua
Namibia- Welwitschias
Namibia has been playing international rugby since the early 1900s; they are the second best team from Africa and the most likely first team candidate to join the second tier of world rugby. Namibia have competed at every World Cup since 1999 but are yet to win a match, with a small player base, and lacking frequent or strong competition, the team has deteriorated in recent years. The Likelihood for Namibia in the 2011 World Cup is that they will again struggle. A potential result if possible will come against Samoa or Fiji but on paper the group D wooden spoon beckons for the Welwitschias. There have been a few excellent internationals out of Namibia; however these players often opt to play for South Africa, a country with strong ties to Namibia as past rulers. The shining hope for Namibia was surprisingly winning the IRB Nations Cup in 2010, proving their progress at international level is on the rise. Star Player: Jacques Burger, Head Coach: Johan Diergaardt
Wales- Dragons
Wales have contested at every Rugby World Cup since the inaugural tournament in 1987; the first one is still the best one. At the 1987 World Cup Wales finished third in the tournament, beating Australia 22-21 in a classic match, since this high the Welsh have seesawed between the quarter-finals and not progressing out of the group stages at all. To put on the rel=nofollow [http://www.cottontraders.co.uk/wales-rugby-shirt-long-sleeve-classic/invt/ae90002/]Wales rugby shirt is every Welshman's dream; engrained in the very fabric of the people of the valleys. Wales will look at group D with optimism, on their day Wales play a fluid, entertaining and often spectacular blend of rugby that creates fans around the world. South Africa will be very tough for Wales, having played each other 25 times and only winning once against the Springboks, the odds are firmly stacked against them. Samoa, Fiji and Namibia should prove more of a contest; maximum points from these three games will see the Welshman into the next round, expect a spectacular game when the opponents are the Palms of Fiji. Since the last World Cup Wales secured a grand slam victory in the Six nations back in 2008 but the years since have seen a decline in performances and results, it will interesting to see what Welsh side shows up in New Zealand 2011. Star Player: Stephen Jones, Head Coach: Warren Gatland
The first match of pool D is on the 10th September 2011 15:30
Fiji v Namibia - Rotorua International Stadium, Rotorua
Visit Cotton Traders for a great selection of [http://www.cottontraders.co.uk/page/rugby-shop]Rugby Shirts.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Rugby-World-Cup-Teams---Pool-D&id=6299143] Rugby World Cup Teams - Pool D
Thursday, January 26, 2012
2010/2011 Premiership Rugby Final - Leicester Tigers Vs Saracens
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Paul_Hesketh]Paul Hesketh
The Leicester tigers going into this match had back to back titles, and the incredible fact that this was their seventh straight final appearance, but the Tigers simply didn't have an answer to the more disciplined, more resolute even more dogged performance Saracens produced. At the end the air around Twickenham buzzed with talk of who was the outstanding performer, in fairness every player in black stood up, the likes of Schalk Brits, Richard Wiggleworth and Jacques Burger all excelled. The word on most lips was about the ice-cold performance of young Owen Farrell. The nineteen year who went head to head with Toby Flood, England's number one choice fly half and came out the victor, converting five excellent penalties, steadying his teammate's nerves and pushing the Saracens over the line. It was somewhat fitting that after the mammoth number of phases Saracens endured at the end it was Owen Farrell who hoofed the ball into touch to win the game. Owen Farrell's father Andrew a legendary rugby league player for the Wigan Warriors was full of praise for his young son describing his performance as so good it would have been a travesty if he was on the losing side.
After a 30 phase final siege on their own line Saracens finally got its significant mark in the clubs 135 year old history, a first Premiership final victory against the Leicester Tigers the revered kings of rugby in recent years. The general punter and rugby purist will say this game lacked the flair and slickness of last year's repeat final but for edge of your seat excitement and anxiety this game will take some rivaling. Maybe Saracen's had a point to prove after last year's cruel last gasp defeat to Leicester, maybe this was the added determination shown in the ferocious tackling of the final minutes, whatever it was it proved enough to seize the title from Leicester.
After trading penalties for most of the match the defining moment came in the twenty-ninth minute when a quick line out ball allowed Saracens the freedom to attack. The roaming Schalke Brits cut free and delivered a scoring pass to James Short, a neat cut inside was all it needed to get round Agulla; Saracens had broken the Leicester line for the only try of the match. rel=nofollow [http://www.cottontraders.co.uk/rugby-store/leicester-tigers/icat/leicester-tigers/]Leicester Tigers Toby Flood had his chance to gain the advantage but missed two crucial conversions that would on won the game; stirring in its defiance this was Saracens day. The future looks very bright for rugby in Watford, the talent now coming out of the Saracens can only give supporters belief this is the start of a very special time at Vicarage Road. The style of rugby some may say is conservative but on this performance it was nothing other than pure entertainment. Saracens with their first ever English title are only the fifth club to win the Premiership since its existence back in 1997, joining the likes of Newcastle Falcons, London Wasps, Leicester Tigers and Sale Sharks.
Visit Cotton Traders for a great selection of clothing from our [http://www.cottontraders.co.uk/page/rugby-shop]rugby shop
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?2010/2011-Premiership-Rugby-Final---Leicester-Tigers-Vs-Saracens&id=6329801] 2010/2011 Premiership Rugby Final - Leicester Tigers Vs Saracens
The Leicester tigers going into this match had back to back titles, and the incredible fact that this was their seventh straight final appearance, but the Tigers simply didn't have an answer to the more disciplined, more resolute even more dogged performance Saracens produced. At the end the air around Twickenham buzzed with talk of who was the outstanding performer, in fairness every player in black stood up, the likes of Schalk Brits, Richard Wiggleworth and Jacques Burger all excelled. The word on most lips was about the ice-cold performance of young Owen Farrell. The nineteen year who went head to head with Toby Flood, England's number one choice fly half and came out the victor, converting five excellent penalties, steadying his teammate's nerves and pushing the Saracens over the line. It was somewhat fitting that after the mammoth number of phases Saracens endured at the end it was Owen Farrell who hoofed the ball into touch to win the game. Owen Farrell's father Andrew a legendary rugby league player for the Wigan Warriors was full of praise for his young son describing his performance as so good it would have been a travesty if he was on the losing side.
After a 30 phase final siege on their own line Saracens finally got its significant mark in the clubs 135 year old history, a first Premiership final victory against the Leicester Tigers the revered kings of rugby in recent years. The general punter and rugby purist will say this game lacked the flair and slickness of last year's repeat final but for edge of your seat excitement and anxiety this game will take some rivaling. Maybe Saracen's had a point to prove after last year's cruel last gasp defeat to Leicester, maybe this was the added determination shown in the ferocious tackling of the final minutes, whatever it was it proved enough to seize the title from Leicester.
After trading penalties for most of the match the defining moment came in the twenty-ninth minute when a quick line out ball allowed Saracens the freedom to attack. The roaming Schalke Brits cut free and delivered a scoring pass to James Short, a neat cut inside was all it needed to get round Agulla; Saracens had broken the Leicester line for the only try of the match. rel=nofollow [http://www.cottontraders.co.uk/rugby-store/leicester-tigers/icat/leicester-tigers/]Leicester Tigers Toby Flood had his chance to gain the advantage but missed two crucial conversions that would on won the game; stirring in its defiance this was Saracens day. The future looks very bright for rugby in Watford, the talent now coming out of the Saracens can only give supporters belief this is the start of a very special time at Vicarage Road. The style of rugby some may say is conservative but on this performance it was nothing other than pure entertainment. Saracens with their first ever English title are only the fifth club to win the Premiership since its existence back in 1997, joining the likes of Newcastle Falcons, London Wasps, Leicester Tigers and Sale Sharks.
Visit Cotton Traders for a great selection of clothing from our [http://www.cottontraders.co.uk/page/rugby-shop]rugby shop
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?2010/2011-Premiership-Rugby-Final---Leicester-Tigers-Vs-Saracens&id=6329801] 2010/2011 Premiership Rugby Final - Leicester Tigers Vs Saracens
Tuesday, January 24, 2012
Get Adequate Information About Rugby World Cup 2011
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Ali_Raza]Ali Raza
Throughout the world, the rugby world cup is ranked as the 3rd largest event. It is due to this fact that it is known to attract a large following and the 2011 rugby world cup is not any different. It is expected to attract more than sixty thousand international visitors and it will be covered by more than two thousand international media houses. For this reason, it is also expected to attract a large TV audience amounting to more than 4 billion people. The world cup is expected to deliver over $ 267 million to the region through direct economical benefits. There are a couple of highlights that make the event more appealing to fans and they include the following.
� Betting
It is due to all these facts it is important to know more about the game and what it has to offer. As people talk endlessly about the game, you should find a way of capitalizing on it in order to make money. There are several online sites designed to make this possible and this is through the following betting. Thanks to such sites, you can place your bet for the 2011 game and enjoy some cash benefits. There are several online sites that give fans the opportunity to bet on their favorite teams. While this is the case, it is advisable to find a reputable site before doing this. In this regard, you should also be on the lookout for free bets.
� Fixtures
The fixtures are comprised of 6 crazy weeks which begin on 9th September 2011 and they end on 23rd October 2011. In order to understand the fixtures it is advisable to find a website that offers the same. This especially comes in handy for people interested in betting. They will receive a clear outline of the games as they are expected to be played as well as the different pools participating in the game. The best thing about getting fixtures ahead of the game is the fact that it keeps sports lovers well informed about what they should expect before the curtain closes down. Additionally, it also offers reliable information about the playoffs and the teams expected to participate in the same.
� Important Facts
The following are some of the 2011 rugby world cup facts that you have to keep in mind in order to enjoy the season.
� For starters, New Zealand got the hosting rights on 17th November 2011.
� At least 20 countries are going to participate in the tournament by playing forty eight games.
� The organization responsibilities are going to be shared by the international Rugby Board, local authorities, major sporting stadiums and the rugby New Zealand among others
As a fan, if you want to get more about rugby world cup, use some of the reputable resources found online. By becoming an informed fan, it becomes increasingly easy to make wise decisions whether placing you want to place your bet or simply ensuring you don't miss any of the games. [http://onlinerugbysportsbetting.com/featured/rugby-world-cup-2011-sports-betting/]Rugby world cup 2011 is what you need to be on the lookout for and through [http://onlinerugbysportsbetting.com/featured/rugby-world-cup-2011-sports-betting/]rugby world cup, you get the opportunity to enjoy a variety of benefits such as the opportunity to bet.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Get-Adequate-Information-About-Rugby-World-Cup-2011&id=6339871] Get Adequate Information About Rugby World Cup 2011
Throughout the world, the rugby world cup is ranked as the 3rd largest event. It is due to this fact that it is known to attract a large following and the 2011 rugby world cup is not any different. It is expected to attract more than sixty thousand international visitors and it will be covered by more than two thousand international media houses. For this reason, it is also expected to attract a large TV audience amounting to more than 4 billion people. The world cup is expected to deliver over $ 267 million to the region through direct economical benefits. There are a couple of highlights that make the event more appealing to fans and they include the following.
� Betting
It is due to all these facts it is important to know more about the game and what it has to offer. As people talk endlessly about the game, you should find a way of capitalizing on it in order to make money. There are several online sites designed to make this possible and this is through the following betting. Thanks to such sites, you can place your bet for the 2011 game and enjoy some cash benefits. There are several online sites that give fans the opportunity to bet on their favorite teams. While this is the case, it is advisable to find a reputable site before doing this. In this regard, you should also be on the lookout for free bets.
� Fixtures
The fixtures are comprised of 6 crazy weeks which begin on 9th September 2011 and they end on 23rd October 2011. In order to understand the fixtures it is advisable to find a website that offers the same. This especially comes in handy for people interested in betting. They will receive a clear outline of the games as they are expected to be played as well as the different pools participating in the game. The best thing about getting fixtures ahead of the game is the fact that it keeps sports lovers well informed about what they should expect before the curtain closes down. Additionally, it also offers reliable information about the playoffs and the teams expected to participate in the same.
� Important Facts
The following are some of the 2011 rugby world cup facts that you have to keep in mind in order to enjoy the season.
� For starters, New Zealand got the hosting rights on 17th November 2011.
� At least 20 countries are going to participate in the tournament by playing forty eight games.
� The organization responsibilities are going to be shared by the international Rugby Board, local authorities, major sporting stadiums and the rugby New Zealand among others
As a fan, if you want to get more about rugby world cup, use some of the reputable resources found online. By becoming an informed fan, it becomes increasingly easy to make wise decisions whether placing you want to place your bet or simply ensuring you don't miss any of the games. [http://onlinerugbysportsbetting.com/featured/rugby-world-cup-2011-sports-betting/]Rugby world cup 2011 is what you need to be on the lookout for and through [http://onlinerugbysportsbetting.com/featured/rugby-world-cup-2011-sports-betting/]rugby world cup, you get the opportunity to enjoy a variety of benefits such as the opportunity to bet.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Get-Adequate-Information-About-Rugby-World-Cup-2011&id=6339871] Get Adequate Information About Rugby World Cup 2011
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)