04.07.2009
British and Irish Lions 28, South Africa 9 in Johannesburg (3rd Test)
United States 12, Canada 6 in Charleston (WCQ America R2, 1st Leg)
Philippines 25, Guam in Manilla (Asia Nations Div.4, Final)
Iran 48, Indonesia 13 in Manilla (Asia Nations Div.4, Playoff 3rd-4th)
05.07.2009
Papua New Guinea 29, Cook Islands 21 in Port Moresby
Reviews
Finally and at last the British and Irish lions let loose and won comfortably against a South African side that struggled the whole match. The Springbox 'Second Fifteen', as they were labelled, were not allowed to play their usual game and found a fired-up Lions side determined to take something from this tour. There will be questions about the wisedom of the South African selectors decisions to rest players and to the depth of the South African squad that will face Australia and New Zealand in a few weeks time.
The USA gained the best birthday present ever. A win against canada on the 4th of July! Although no tries were scored it was a entertaining close, physical match. The USA now head for Edmonton, Canada next weekend where they will hope to win and place themselves directly into the 2011 Rugby World Cup.
The Philippines won promotion to Asia Nations Division 2 with a convincing 25-0 win against Guam. Iran won 48-13 against Indonesia thus relegating the Indonesians to Division for 2010.
And last but not least Papua New Guinea won the Oceania Zone World Cup qualifier against the Cook Islands. They now head to Apia next weekend for a playoff against Samoa in the first leg of the Oceania R2 final.
Showing posts with label 2009 British and Irish Lions Rugby. Show all posts
Showing posts with label 2009 British and Irish Lions Rugby. Show all posts
Sunday, July 5, 2009
Saturday, July 4, 2009
Test Match: South Africa-Lions Rubber is Dead
04.07.2009
British and Irish Lions v South Africa in Johannesburg (3rd Test)
Preview
It's a pity. So much was made of this unique British and Irish Lions tour to South Africa. But in the end it's became a fizzer. The Lions came so very close to pulling off the needed win last weekend but eventually went down 25-28 and from that point the series died. There may be a consolation Lions win here but already this side has been relegated to the group of Lions' sides that have failed.
Having said that the selectors have turned the game sideways with a huge number of changes made from the second test. They are not all forced by injuries although in the Lions camp, fresh legs were called for since the energy-sapping second test. Remember all players were selected to be able to play test rugby against South Africa.
For the Lions being without their inspirational back O'Driscoll wil hurt. But elsewhere across the paddock the possibilities are endless and in reality this is almost a one-off test. Pity about the dead rubber.
Lions Results on Tour So Far
30 May Lions 37, Highvelt Royals XV 25 at Rustenburg
3 June: Lions 75, Golden Lions 10
6 June: Lions 26, Free State Cheetahs 24 in Bloemfontein
10 June: Lions 39, Natal Sharks 3 in Durban
13 June: Lions 26, Western Province 23 in Capetown
16 June: Lions 20, Southern Kings 8 in Port Elizabeth
20 June: South Africa 26, Lions 21 in Durban (1st Test)
23 June: Lions 13, Emerging Springbox 13 in Capetown
27 June: South Africa 28, Lions 25 in Pretoria (2nd test)
GWC Rugby Rankings do not apply.
Prediction: Sentiment prevails. The Lions by 7 points.
Teams
South Africa
15 Zane Kirchner, 14 Odwa Ndungane, 13 Jaque Fourie, 12 Wynand Olivier, 11 Jongi Nokwe, 10 Morné Steyn, 9 Fourie du Preez, 8 Ryan Kankowski, 7 Juan Smith, 6 Heinrich Brussow, 5 Victor Matfield, 4 Johann Muller, 3 John Smit, 2 Chiliboy Ralepelle, 1 Tendai Mtawarira.
Replacements: 16 Bismarck du Plessis, 17 Guthro Steenkamp, 18 Dean Carstens, 19 Steven Sykes, 20 Pierre Spies, 21 Ruan Pienaar, 22 Frans Steyn.
British and Irish Lions
15 Rob Kearney, 14 Ugo Monye, 13 Tommy Bowe, 12 Riki Flutey, 11 Shane Williams, 10 Stephen Jones, 9 Mike Phillips, 8 Jamie Heaslip, 7 Martyn Williams, 6 Joe Worsley, 5 Paul O'Connell, 4 Simon Shaw, 3 Phil Vickery, 2 Matthew Rees, 1 Andrew Sheridan.
Replacements: 16 Ross Ford, 17 John Hayes, 18 Alun-Wyn Jones, 19 David Wallace, 20 Tom Croft, 21 Harry Ellis, 22 James Hook.
http://www.planetrugby.com/lions-09/story/0,25883,16024_5413116,00.html
British and Irish Lions v South Africa in Johannesburg (3rd Test)
Preview
It's a pity. So much was made of this unique British and Irish Lions tour to South Africa. But in the end it's became a fizzer. The Lions came so very close to pulling off the needed win last weekend but eventually went down 25-28 and from that point the series died. There may be a consolation Lions win here but already this side has been relegated to the group of Lions' sides that have failed.
Having said that the selectors have turned the game sideways with a huge number of changes made from the second test. They are not all forced by injuries although in the Lions camp, fresh legs were called for since the energy-sapping second test. Remember all players were selected to be able to play test rugby against South Africa.
For the Lions being without their inspirational back O'Driscoll wil hurt. But elsewhere across the paddock the possibilities are endless and in reality this is almost a one-off test. Pity about the dead rubber.
Lions Results on Tour So Far
30 May Lions 37, Highvelt Royals XV 25 at Rustenburg
3 June: Lions 75, Golden Lions 10
6 June: Lions 26, Free State Cheetahs 24 in Bloemfontein
10 June: Lions 39, Natal Sharks 3 in Durban
13 June: Lions 26, Western Province 23 in Capetown
16 June: Lions 20, Southern Kings 8 in Port Elizabeth
20 June: South Africa 26, Lions 21 in Durban (1st Test)
23 June: Lions 13, Emerging Springbox 13 in Capetown
27 June: South Africa 28, Lions 25 in Pretoria (2nd test)
GWC Rugby Rankings do not apply.
Prediction: Sentiment prevails. The Lions by 7 points.
Teams
South Africa
15 Zane Kirchner, 14 Odwa Ndungane, 13 Jaque Fourie, 12 Wynand Olivier, 11 Jongi Nokwe, 10 Morné Steyn, 9 Fourie du Preez, 8 Ryan Kankowski, 7 Juan Smith, 6 Heinrich Brussow, 5 Victor Matfield, 4 Johann Muller, 3 John Smit, 2 Chiliboy Ralepelle, 1 Tendai Mtawarira.
Replacements: 16 Bismarck du Plessis, 17 Guthro Steenkamp, 18 Dean Carstens, 19 Steven Sykes, 20 Pierre Spies, 21 Ruan Pienaar, 22 Frans Steyn.
British and Irish Lions
15 Rob Kearney, 14 Ugo Monye, 13 Tommy Bowe, 12 Riki Flutey, 11 Shane Williams, 10 Stephen Jones, 9 Mike Phillips, 8 Jamie Heaslip, 7 Martyn Williams, 6 Joe Worsley, 5 Paul O'Connell, 4 Simon Shaw, 3 Phil Vickery, 2 Matthew Rees, 1 Andrew Sheridan.
Replacements: 16 Ross Ford, 17 John Hayes, 18 Alun-Wyn Jones, 19 David Wallace, 20 Tom Croft, 21 Harry Ellis, 22 James Hook.
http://www.planetrugby.com/lions-09/story/0,25883,16024_5413116,00.html
International Rugby Matches This Weekend 4 July
04.07.2009
British and Irish Lions v South Africa in Johannesburg (3rd Test)
United States v Canada in Charleston (WCQ America R2, 1st leg)
Guam v Philippines in Manilla (Asia Nations Div.3, Final)
Indonesia v Iran in Manilla (Asia Nations Div.3, 3rd-4th)
05.07.2009
Papua New Guinea v Cook Islands in Port Moresby (WCQ Oceania R1, Final)
British and Irish Lions v South Africa in Johannesburg (3rd Test)
United States v Canada in Charleston (WCQ America R2, 1st leg)
Guam v Philippines in Manilla (Asia Nations Div.3, Final)
Indonesia v Iran in Manilla (Asia Nations Div.3, 3rd-4th)
05.07.2009
Papua New Guinea v Cook Islands in Port Moresby (WCQ Oceania R1, Final)
Sunday, June 28, 2009
International Test Rugby Results for 27 June
27.06.2009
South Africa 28, British and Irish Lions 25 in Pretoria (2nd test)
New Zealand 27, Italy 6 in Christchurch
Australia 22, France 6 in Sydney
Japan 21,Tonga 19 in Lautoka (Pacific Nations Cup)
Fiji 19, Samoa 14 in Lautoka (Pacific Nations Cup)
Tunisia 38, Uganda 13 in Tunis (WCQ Africa R2, SF: Africa Cup SF)-result TBC
Namibia 54, Ivory Coast 14 in Windhoek (WCQ Africa R2: Africa Cup SF)
Papua New Guinea 86, Vanuatu 12 in Port Moresby (WCQ Oceania R1, SF 1)
Cook Islands 29, Niue 7 in Pukekohe, NZ (WCQ Oceania R1, SF 2)
South Africa 28, British and Irish Lions 25 in Pretoria (2nd test)
New Zealand 27, Italy 6 in Christchurch
Australia 22, France 6 in Sydney
Japan 21,Tonga 19 in Lautoka (Pacific Nations Cup)
Fiji 19, Samoa 14 in Lautoka (Pacific Nations Cup)
Tunisia 38, Uganda 13 in Tunis (WCQ Africa R2, SF: Africa Cup SF)-result TBC
Namibia 54, Ivory Coast 14 in Windhoek (WCQ Africa R2: Africa Cup SF)
Papua New Guinea 86, Vanuatu 12 in Port Moresby (WCQ Oceania R1, SF 1)
Cook Islands 29, Niue 7 in Pukekohe, NZ (WCQ Oceania R1, SF 2)
Saturday, June 27, 2009
International Rugby Match: Lions Must Win
27.06.2009
British and Irish Lions v South Africa in Pretoria
Venue: Loftus Versfeld,
Preview
The greatness of this British rugby team hinges upon the result of this match. A win for the Lions will give them the opportunity to win the series and repeat their performances of 1997. Another loss to South Africa will reduce the Lions to just another defeated British Isles team on tour.
South Africa are at the top of their game right from the start of the season. They dominated in most aspects of the game last weekend and only some folly in substitutions saw the Lions came within a..er..Lions roar. I can't see this happening again this weekend.
Lions Results on Tour So far
30 May Lions 37, Highvelt Royals XV 25 at Rustenburg
3 June: Lions 75, Golden Lions 10
6 June: Lions 26, Free State Cheetahs 24 in Bloemfontein
10 June: Lions 39, Natal Sharks 3 in Durban
13 June: Lions 26, Western Province 23 in Capetown
16 June: Lions 20, Southern Kings 8 in Port Elizabeth
20 June: South Africa 26, Lions 21 in Durban (1st Test)
23 June: Lions 13, Emerging Springbox 13 in Capetown
GWC Rugby Rankings do not apply.
Prediction: South Africa to continue to dominate as World Cup Champions, and to win by 14 points.
Teams
South Africa
15 Frans Steyn, 14 JP Pietersen, 13 Adi Jacobs, 12 Jean de Villiers, 11 Bryan Habana, 10 Ruan Pienaar, 9 Fourie du Preez, 8 Pierre Spies, 7 Juan Smith, 6 Schalk Burger, 5 Victor Matfield, 4 Bakkies Botha, 3 John Smit (captain), 2 Bismarck du Plessis, 1 Tendai Mtawarira.
Replacements: 16 Chiliboy Ralepelle, 17 Deon Carstens, 18 Andries Bekker, 19 Danie Rossouw, 20 Heinrich Brüssow, 21 Jaque Fourie, 22 Morné Steyn
British & Irish Lions
15 Rob Kearney (Ireland),
14 Tommy Bowe (Ireland)
13 Brain O'Driscoll (Ireland)
12 Jamie Roberts (Wales)
11 Luke Fitzgerald (Ireland)
10 Stephen Jones (Wales)
9 Mike Phillips (Wales)
8 Jamie Heaslip (Ireland)
7 David Wallace (Ireland)
6 Tom Croft (England)
5 Paul O'Connell, Capt. (Ireland)
4 Simon Shaw (England)
3 Adam Jones (Wales)
2 Matthew Rees (Wales)
1 Gethin Jenkins (Wales)
Replacements
16 Ross Ford (Scotland)
17 Andrew Sheridan (England)
18 Alun-Wyn Jones (Wales)
19 Martyn Williams (Wales)
20 Harry Ellis (England)
21 Ronan O'Gara (Ireland)
22 Shane Williams (Wales)
Head Coach: Ian McGeechan
Team lists from, with some adaptions, http://www.planetrugby.com/lions-09/story/0,25883,3551_5401963,00.html
British and Irish Lions v South Africa in Pretoria
Venue: Loftus Versfeld,
Preview
The greatness of this British rugby team hinges upon the result of this match. A win for the Lions will give them the opportunity to win the series and repeat their performances of 1997. Another loss to South Africa will reduce the Lions to just another defeated British Isles team on tour.
South Africa are at the top of their game right from the start of the season. They dominated in most aspects of the game last weekend and only some folly in substitutions saw the Lions came within a..er..Lions roar. I can't see this happening again this weekend.
Lions Results on Tour So far
30 May Lions 37, Highvelt Royals XV 25 at Rustenburg
3 June: Lions 75, Golden Lions 10
6 June: Lions 26, Free State Cheetahs 24 in Bloemfontein
10 June: Lions 39, Natal Sharks 3 in Durban
13 June: Lions 26, Western Province 23 in Capetown
16 June: Lions 20, Southern Kings 8 in Port Elizabeth
20 June: South Africa 26, Lions 21 in Durban (1st Test)
23 June: Lions 13, Emerging Springbox 13 in Capetown
GWC Rugby Rankings do not apply.
Prediction: South Africa to continue to dominate as World Cup Champions, and to win by 14 points.
Teams
South Africa
15 Frans Steyn, 14 JP Pietersen, 13 Adi Jacobs, 12 Jean de Villiers, 11 Bryan Habana, 10 Ruan Pienaar, 9 Fourie du Preez, 8 Pierre Spies, 7 Juan Smith, 6 Schalk Burger, 5 Victor Matfield, 4 Bakkies Botha, 3 John Smit (captain), 2 Bismarck du Plessis, 1 Tendai Mtawarira.
Replacements: 16 Chiliboy Ralepelle, 17 Deon Carstens, 18 Andries Bekker, 19 Danie Rossouw, 20 Heinrich Brüssow, 21 Jaque Fourie, 22 Morné Steyn
British & Irish Lions
15 Rob Kearney (Ireland),
14 Tommy Bowe (Ireland)
13 Brain O'Driscoll (Ireland)
12 Jamie Roberts (Wales)
11 Luke Fitzgerald (Ireland)
10 Stephen Jones (Wales)
9 Mike Phillips (Wales)
8 Jamie Heaslip (Ireland)
7 David Wallace (Ireland)
6 Tom Croft (England)
5 Paul O'Connell, Capt. (Ireland)
4 Simon Shaw (England)
3 Adam Jones (Wales)
2 Matthew Rees (Wales)
1 Gethin Jenkins (Wales)
Replacements
16 Ross Ford (Scotland)
17 Andrew Sheridan (England)
18 Alun-Wyn Jones (Wales)
19 Martyn Williams (Wales)
20 Harry Ellis (England)
21 Ronan O'Gara (Ireland)
22 Shane Williams (Wales)
Head Coach: Ian McGeechan
Team lists from, with some adaptions, http://www.planetrugby.com/lions-09/story/0,25883,3551_5401963,00.html
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Rugby Test Fixtures: This Weekend 27 June
27.06.2009
British and Irish Lions v South Africa in Pretoria (2nd test)
New Zealand v Italy in Christchurch
Australia v France in Sydney
Tonga v Japan in Lautoka (Pacific Nations Cup)
Samoa v Fiji in Lautoka (Pacific Nations Cup)
Tunisia v Uganda in Tunis (WCQ Africa R2 SF; Africa Cup SF)
Namibia v Ivory Coast in Windhoek (WCQ Afr.R2 SF: Africa Cup SF)
Papua New Guinea v Vanuatu in Port Moresby (WCQ & Oceania Cup SF 1)
Cook Islands v Niue in Pukekohe, NZ (WCQ & Oceania Cup SF 2)
Preview Briefs
There is another huge weekend of international rugby ahead of us.
The British and Irish lions must win the second test against South Africa to keep the series alive and their hopes of another series win. New Zealand has a totally revamped side to face the Italians whilst Australia will field its strongest side yet against the French.
The Pacific Nations Cup looks like a dead certainty for the Junior All Blacks. The rest of the games are of some interest especially when the home side Fiji takes the field against their old foes Samoa.
World Cup qualifying games continue in Africa and begin in Oceania. Uganda has an uphill struggle away against the Tunisians whilst the Ivory Coast have every chance of pushing the Namibians out of the 2011 Rugby World Cup.
The first round of the Oceania section of World Cup qualifiers begins this weekend. The Cook Islanders will be out to avenge their shock loss to Niue last year, whilst Papua New Guinea will be looking to take the honours at home against Vanuatu.
British and Irish Lions v South Africa in Pretoria (2nd test)
New Zealand v Italy in Christchurch
Australia v France in Sydney
Tonga v Japan in Lautoka (Pacific Nations Cup)
Samoa v Fiji in Lautoka (Pacific Nations Cup)
Tunisia v Uganda in Tunis (WCQ Africa R2 SF; Africa Cup SF)
Namibia v Ivory Coast in Windhoek (WCQ Afr.R2 SF: Africa Cup SF)
Papua New Guinea v Vanuatu in Port Moresby (WCQ & Oceania Cup SF 1)
Cook Islands v Niue in Pukekohe, NZ (WCQ & Oceania Cup SF 2)
Preview Briefs
There is another huge weekend of international rugby ahead of us.
The British and Irish lions must win the second test against South Africa to keep the series alive and their hopes of another series win. New Zealand has a totally revamped side to face the Italians whilst Australia will field its strongest side yet against the French.
The Pacific Nations Cup looks like a dead certainty for the Junior All Blacks. The rest of the games are of some interest especially when the home side Fiji takes the field against their old foes Samoa.
World Cup qualifying games continue in Africa and begin in Oceania. Uganda has an uphill struggle away against the Tunisians whilst the Ivory Coast have every chance of pushing the Namibians out of the 2011 Rugby World Cup.
The first round of the Oceania section of World Cup qualifiers begins this weekend. The Cook Islanders will be out to avenge their shock loss to Niue last year, whilst Papua New Guinea will be looking to take the honours at home against Vanuatu.
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Recent Test Rugby Results
23.06.2009
British and Irish Lions 13, Emerging Springbox 13 in Capetown
Samoa 27, Tonga 13 in Lautoka (Pacific Nations Cup)
Junior All Blacks 52, Japan 21 in Lautoka (Pacific Nations Cup)
21.06.2009
Scotland 'A' 22, France 'A' 12 in Bucharest (IRB Nations Cup Final)-Non test
Italy 'A' 24, Romania 19 in Bucharest( IRB Nations Cup 3rd-4th)
Russia 29, Uruguay 26 in Bucharest (IRB Nations Cup 5th-6th)
British and Irish Lions 13, Emerging Springbox 13 in Capetown
Samoa 27, Tonga 13 in Lautoka (Pacific Nations Cup)
Junior All Blacks 52, Japan 21 in Lautoka (Pacific Nations Cup)
21.06.2009
Scotland 'A' 22, France 'A' 12 in Bucharest (IRB Nations Cup Final)-Non test
Italy 'A' 24, Romania 19 in Bucharest( IRB Nations Cup 3rd-4th)
Russia 29, Uruguay 26 in Bucharest (IRB Nations Cup 5th-6th)
Sunday, June 21, 2009
International Rugby Results: 20 June
So far
20.06.2009
South Africa 26, British and Irish Lions 21 in Durban (1st test)
New Zealand 14, France 10 in Wellington (2nd test)
Australia 34, Italy 12 in Melbourne (2nd test)
To Come
Churchill Cup
England Saxons v Ireland 'A' (Final)
Argentina 'A' v Canada (Playoff 3rd-4th)
United States v Georgia (Playoff 5th-6th_
20.06.2009
South Africa 26, British and Irish Lions 21 in Durban (1st test)
New Zealand 14, France 10 in Wellington (2nd test)
Australia 34, Italy 12 in Melbourne (2nd test)
To Come
Churchill Cup
England Saxons v Ireland 'A' (Final)
Argentina 'A' v Canada (Playoff 3rd-4th)
United States v Georgia (Playoff 5th-6th_
Friday, June 19, 2009
Test Match Rugby: Lions Face First Test
20.06.2009
British and Irish Lions v South Africa in Durban (1st test)
Preview
This test match is probably one of the most awaited test matches of the year. The British and Irish Lions are a unique rugby identity in a professional era that has done away with the idea of touring international rugby sides.
The rivalry between British and South African rugby sides goes back just under a century. 1997 was the last time Lions side toured South Africa. In that series the Lions won the first two tests and lost the last but took the series. They won the Durban test 18-15. That was the last time the Lions won a series, losing to Australia in 2001 and to New Zealand in 2005
Previous Encounters: The 1997 Series.
05.07.1997 South Africa 35-16 in Johannesburg
28.06.1997 Lions 18-15 in Durban
21.06.1997 Lions 25-16 in Capetown
GWC Rugby Rankings: Sadly do not apply
Prediction: South Africa by 7
Teams
South Africa
15 Frans Steyn (Natal Sharks) Age 22, 27 Tests
14 JP Pietersen (Natal Sharks) 23, 24
13 Adrian Jacobs (Natal Sharks) 28, 21
12 Jean de Villiers (Western Province) 27, 46
11 Bryan Habana (Blue Bulls) 25, 46
10 Ruan Pienaar (Natal Sharks) 25, 27
9 Fourie du Preez (Blue Bulls) 27, 43
8 Pierre Spies (Blue Bulls) 24, 19
7 Juan Smith (Free State Cheetahs) 27, 54
6 Heinrich Brüssow (Free State Cheetahs) 22, 1
5 Victor Matfield (Blue Bulls) 30, 80
4 Bakkies Botha (Blue Bulls) 29, 55
3 John Smit, Capt. (Cleremont-Auvergne, France) 31, 81
2 Bismarck du Plessis (Natal Sharks) 25, 21
1 Tendai Mtawarira (Natal Sharks) 23, 10
Replacements
16 Gurthrö Steenkamp (Blue Bulls) 28, 20
17 Deon Carstens (Natal Sharks) 30, 7
18 Andries Bekker (Western Province) 26, 13
19 Danie Rossouw (Blue Bulls) 31, 36
20 Ricky Januarie (Western Province) 27, 34
21 Jaque Fourie (Golden Lions) 26, 42
22 Morné Steyn (Blue Bulls) 24, New cap
Head Coach: Peter de Villiers
British & Irish Lions
15 Lee Byrne (Wales, 27 tests) Aged 28, 0 tests for Lions
14 Tommy Bowe (Ireland, 23) 24, 0
13 Brian O'Driscoll (Ireland, 92) 29, 4
12 Jamie Roberts (Wales, 11) 21, 0
11 Ugo Monye (England, 6) 25, 0
10 Stephen Jones (Wales, 80) 31, 3
9 Mike Phillips (Wales, 39) 26, 0
8 Jamie Heaslip (Ireland, 18) 24, 0
7 David Wallace (Ireland, 55) 32, 0
6 Tom Croft (England)
5 Paul O'Connell, Capt. (Ireland, 62) 29, 3
4 Alun-Wyn Jones (Wales, 31) 23, 0
3 Phil Vickery (England, 73) 32, 0
2 Lee Mears (England, 33) 29, 0
1 Gethin Jenkins (Wales, 68) 28, 3
Replacements
16 Matthew Rees (Wales, 27) 28, 0
17 Adam Jones (Wales, 56) 26, 0
18 Donncha O'Callaghan (Ireland, 55) 29, 3
19 Martyn Williams (Wales, 88) 33, 1
20 Harry Ellis (England, 26) 27, 0
21 Ronan O'Gara (Ireland, 92) 31, 1
22 Rob Kearney (Ireland, 16) 23, 0
Head Coach: Ian McGeechan
British and Irish Lions v South Africa in Durban (1st test)
Preview
This test match is probably one of the most awaited test matches of the year. The British and Irish Lions are a unique rugby identity in a professional era that has done away with the idea of touring international rugby sides.
The rivalry between British and South African rugby sides goes back just under a century. 1997 was the last time Lions side toured South Africa. In that series the Lions won the first two tests and lost the last but took the series. They won the Durban test 18-15. That was the last time the Lions won a series, losing to Australia in 2001 and to New Zealand in 2005
Previous Encounters: The 1997 Series.
05.07.1997 South Africa 35-16 in Johannesburg
28.06.1997 Lions 18-15 in Durban
21.06.1997 Lions 25-16 in Capetown
GWC Rugby Rankings: Sadly do not apply
Prediction: South Africa by 7
Teams
South Africa
15 Frans Steyn (Natal Sharks) Age 22, 27 Tests
14 JP Pietersen (Natal Sharks) 23, 24
13 Adrian Jacobs (Natal Sharks) 28, 21
12 Jean de Villiers (Western Province) 27, 46
11 Bryan Habana (Blue Bulls) 25, 46
10 Ruan Pienaar (Natal Sharks) 25, 27
9 Fourie du Preez (Blue Bulls) 27, 43
8 Pierre Spies (Blue Bulls) 24, 19
7 Juan Smith (Free State Cheetahs) 27, 54
6 Heinrich Brüssow (Free State Cheetahs) 22, 1
5 Victor Matfield (Blue Bulls) 30, 80
4 Bakkies Botha (Blue Bulls) 29, 55
3 John Smit, Capt. (Cleremont-Auvergne, France) 31, 81
2 Bismarck du Plessis (Natal Sharks) 25, 21
1 Tendai Mtawarira (Natal Sharks) 23, 10
Replacements
16 Gurthrö Steenkamp (Blue Bulls) 28, 20
17 Deon Carstens (Natal Sharks) 30, 7
18 Andries Bekker (Western Province) 26, 13
19 Danie Rossouw (Blue Bulls) 31, 36
20 Ricky Januarie (Western Province) 27, 34
21 Jaque Fourie (Golden Lions) 26, 42
22 Morné Steyn (Blue Bulls) 24, New cap
Head Coach: Peter de Villiers
British & Irish Lions
15 Lee Byrne (Wales, 27 tests) Aged 28, 0 tests for Lions
14 Tommy Bowe (Ireland, 23) 24, 0
13 Brian O'Driscoll (Ireland, 92) 29, 4
12 Jamie Roberts (Wales, 11) 21, 0
11 Ugo Monye (England, 6) 25, 0
10 Stephen Jones (Wales, 80) 31, 3
9 Mike Phillips (Wales, 39) 26, 0
8 Jamie Heaslip (Ireland, 18) 24, 0
7 David Wallace (Ireland, 55) 32, 0
6 Tom Croft (England)
5 Paul O'Connell, Capt. (Ireland, 62) 29, 3
4 Alun-Wyn Jones (Wales, 31) 23, 0
3 Phil Vickery (England, 73) 32, 0
2 Lee Mears (England, 33) 29, 0
1 Gethin Jenkins (Wales, 68) 28, 3
Replacements
16 Matthew Rees (Wales, 27) 28, 0
17 Adam Jones (Wales, 56) 26, 0
18 Donncha O'Callaghan (Ireland, 55) 29, 3
19 Martyn Williams (Wales, 88) 33, 1
20 Harry Ellis (England, 26) 27, 0
21 Ronan O'Gara (Ireland, 92) 31, 1
22 Rob Kearney (Ireland, 16) 23, 0
Head Coach: Ian McGeechan
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Rugby Test Result: British and Irish Lions in South Africa
16.06.2009
British and Irish Lions 20, Southern Kings 8 in Port Elizabeth
British and Irish Lions 20, Southern Kings 8 in Port Elizabeth
Sunday, June 7, 2009
Rugby Tests: Early Results 6 June
06.06.2009
Updated 9:15am
England 37, Argentina 15 in Manchester
British and Irish Lions 26, Free State Cheetahs 24 in Bloemfontein
Australia 55, Barbarians (UK) RFC 7 in Sydney
Wales 48, United States 15 in Bridgeview, Illnois
England Saxons 28, Argentina 'A' 20 in Denver (Churchill Cup)
Lithuania 6, Netherlands 3 in Vilnius (WCQ Euro.R3 Playoff)
Malaysia 43, China 15 in Kuala Lumpur (Asia Nations Div.2)
India 44, Pakistan 3 in Kuala Lumpur (Asia Nations Div.2)
To Come
Georgia v Canada in Denver (Churchill Cup)
Uzbekistan v Kyrgyzstan in Tashkent (Asia Regions 2)
Updated 9:15am
England 37, Argentina 15 in Manchester
British and Irish Lions 26, Free State Cheetahs 24 in Bloemfontein
Australia 55, Barbarians (UK) RFC 7 in Sydney
Wales 48, United States 15 in Bridgeview, Illnois
England Saxons 28, Argentina 'A' 20 in Denver (Churchill Cup)
Lithuania 6, Netherlands 3 in Vilnius (WCQ Euro.R3 Playoff)
Malaysia 43, China 15 in Kuala Lumpur (Asia Nations Div.2)
India 44, Pakistan 3 in Kuala Lumpur (Asia Nations Div.2)
To Come
Georgia v Canada in Denver (Churchill Cup)
Uzbekistan v Kyrgyzstan in Tashkent (Asia Regions 2)
Saturday, June 6, 2009
Rugby Match: British and Irish lions 3rd Tour match
06.06.2009
British and Irish Lions v Free State Cheetahs in Bloemfontein
Preview
This British and Irish lions combination will need to outdo their Wednesday team in the way it delt with the opposition. The pressure is on this combination to dominate the opposition and score trys. The Cheetahs will provide sterner opposition than the Golden Lions did last Wednesday but in the end the tourists will have too much skill, and especially, strength up front.
Prediction: British and Irish Lions by 15 points.
Teams
Cheetahs
15 Hennie Daniller, 14 Danwel Demas, 13 Corne Uys, 12 Meyer Bosman, 11 JW Jonker, 10 Jaques-Louis Potgieter, 9 Tewis De Bruyn, 8 Hendro Scholtz (captain), 7 Francois Uys, 6 Heinrich Brüssow, 5 David De Villiers, 4 Nico Breedt, 3 Kobus Calldo, 2 Adriaan Strauss, 1 Wian Du Preez.
Replacements: 16 Richardt Strauss, 17 WP Nel, 18 Frans Viljoen, 19 Kabamba Floors, 20 Gerrie Odendaal, 21 Louis Strydom, 22 Fabian Juries.
British and Irish Lions
15 Lee Byrne, 14 Leigh Halfpenny, 13 Keith Earls, 12 Luke Fitzgerald, 11 Shane Willians, 10 James Hook, 9 Harry Ellis, 8 Andy Powell, 7 Joe Worsley, 6 Stephen Ferris, 5 Donncha O'Callaghan, 4 Paul O'Connell, 3 Euan Murray, 2 Ross Ford, 1 Andy Sheridan.
Replacements: 16 Matthew Rees, 17 Adam Jones, 18 Simon Shaw, 19 Nathan Hines, 20 Mike Blair, 21 Ronan O'Gara, 22 Gordon D'Arcy.
British and Irish Lions v Free State Cheetahs in Bloemfontein
Preview
This British and Irish lions combination will need to outdo their Wednesday team in the way it delt with the opposition. The pressure is on this combination to dominate the opposition and score trys. The Cheetahs will provide sterner opposition than the Golden Lions did last Wednesday but in the end the tourists will have too much skill, and especially, strength up front.
Prediction: British and Irish Lions by 15 points.
Teams
Cheetahs
15 Hennie Daniller, 14 Danwel Demas, 13 Corne Uys, 12 Meyer Bosman, 11 JW Jonker, 10 Jaques-Louis Potgieter, 9 Tewis De Bruyn, 8 Hendro Scholtz (captain), 7 Francois Uys, 6 Heinrich Brüssow, 5 David De Villiers, 4 Nico Breedt, 3 Kobus Calldo, 2 Adriaan Strauss, 1 Wian Du Preez.
Replacements: 16 Richardt Strauss, 17 WP Nel, 18 Frans Viljoen, 19 Kabamba Floors, 20 Gerrie Odendaal, 21 Louis Strydom, 22 Fabian Juries.
British and Irish Lions
15 Lee Byrne, 14 Leigh Halfpenny, 13 Keith Earls, 12 Luke Fitzgerald, 11 Shane Willians, 10 James Hook, 9 Harry Ellis, 8 Andy Powell, 7 Joe Worsley, 6 Stephen Ferris, 5 Donncha O'Callaghan, 4 Paul O'Connell, 3 Euan Murray, 2 Ross Ford, 1 Andy Sheridan.
Replacements: 16 Matthew Rees, 17 Adam Jones, 18 Simon Shaw, 19 Nathan Hines, 20 Mike Blair, 21 Ronan O'Gara, 22 Gordon D'Arcy.
Sunday, May 31, 2009
International Rugby Results: Saturday 30 May
30.05.2009
Barbarians (UK) RFC 33, England 26 at Twickenham (Non Test)
British and Irish Lions 37, Highvelt Royals XV 25 at Rustenburg (Non Test)
Wales 32, Canada 23 in Toronto
Poland 14, Belgium 3 in Gdansk (WCQ Euro.R4; ENC 2A)
Romania v Tunisia in Tunis (not sure if Romanian U23 or Romania)
Review
The old hands of world rugby taught the new rugby boys of England a thing or two. The British and Irish Lions stuttered their way to an inglorious first win on tour. Perhaps a bit rusty? Canada gave Wales a good fright and the outsiders Poland have reached second in their division at the halfway point of ENC 2A. They won 14-3 against a weakened Belgian side.
Barbarians (UK) RFC 33, England 26 at Twickenham (Non Test)
British and Irish Lions 37, Highvelt Royals XV 25 at Rustenburg (Non Test)
Wales 32, Canada 23 in Toronto
Poland 14, Belgium 3 in Gdansk (WCQ Euro.R4; ENC 2A)
Romania v Tunisia in Tunis (not sure if Romanian U23 or Romania)
Review
The old hands of world rugby taught the new rugby boys of England a thing or two. The British and Irish Lions stuttered their way to an inglorious first win on tour. Perhaps a bit rusty? Canada gave Wales a good fright and the outsiders Poland have reached second in their division at the halfway point of ENC 2A. They won 14-3 against a weakened Belgian side.
Saturday, May 30, 2009
International Rugby: British Lions Tour Begins
30.05.2009
British and Irish Lions v Highvelt Royal XV in Rustenburg
Venue: Royal Bafokeng Stadium
Referee: Marius Jonker
Preview
This long awaited unique tour on the international rugby calendar begins in South Africa on Saturday. By unique I mean that the days of long tours by international rugby teams ended with the advent of firstly, better airline travel, and finally, the beginning of the professional rugby era.
Coach Ian McGeechan has started with a team that looks on paper to be balanced. Solid at the back, experimental mid-field, experience in the halves and very solid and experienced up front. The world waits with anticipation.
The local side is made up of players mainly from Griqualand West and is not expected to win. They will certainly be playing the game od their lives and will rise to the occasion, to annoy and even worry the tourists at time but eventually the more experienced and fitter Lions will prevail.
No previous encounters and GWC Rugby Rankings to not apply.
Prediction: Lions by 15 points
Teams
Royal XV
15 Russell Jeacocks
14 Egon Seconds
13 Deon van Rensburg
12 Hanno Coetzee
11 Bjorn Basson
10 Naas Olivier
9 Sarel Pretorius
8 Jonathan Mokuena
7 Devon Raubenheimer
6 Wilhelm Koch (c)
5 Jacques Lombaard
4 Rudi Mathee
3 Bees Roux
2 Rayno Barnes
1 Albertus Buckle.
Replacements
16 Pellow van der Westhuizen
17 Stef Roberts
18 Rynard Landman
19 RW Kember
20 Jacques Coetzee
21 Riaan Viljoen
22 Jovan Bowles
Head Coach:
British and Irish Lions
15 Lee Byrne (Wales)
14 Thomas Bowe (Ireland)
13 Keith Earls (Ireland)
12 James Roberts (Ireland)
11 Shane Williams (Wales)
10 Ronan O'Gara (Ireland)
9 Michael Blair (Scotland)
8 Andrew Powell (Wales)
7 Martyn Williams (Wales)
6 Joseph Worsley (England)
5 Paul O'Connell, Capt. (Ireland)
4 Simon Shaw (England)
3 Adam Jones (Wales)
2 Matthew Rees (Wales)
1 Andrew Sheridan England)
Replacements
16 Lee Mears (England)
17 Philip Vickery (England)
18 Alun-Wyn Jones (Wales)
19 Stephen Ferris (Ireland)
20 Michael Phillips (Wales)
21 Stephen Jones (Wales)
22 Riki Flutey (England)
Head Coach: Ian McGeechan
http://www.planetrugby.com/story/0,25883,16024_5354637,00.html
British and Irish Lions v Highvelt Royal XV in Rustenburg
Venue: Royal Bafokeng Stadium
Referee: Marius Jonker
Preview
This long awaited unique tour on the international rugby calendar begins in South Africa on Saturday. By unique I mean that the days of long tours by international rugby teams ended with the advent of firstly, better airline travel, and finally, the beginning of the professional rugby era.
Coach Ian McGeechan has started with a team that looks on paper to be balanced. Solid at the back, experimental mid-field, experience in the halves and very solid and experienced up front. The world waits with anticipation.
The local side is made up of players mainly from Griqualand West and is not expected to win. They will certainly be playing the game od their lives and will rise to the occasion, to annoy and even worry the tourists at time but eventually the more experienced and fitter Lions will prevail.
No previous encounters and GWC Rugby Rankings to not apply.
Prediction: Lions by 15 points
Teams
Royal XV
15 Russell Jeacocks
14 Egon Seconds
13 Deon van Rensburg
12 Hanno Coetzee
11 Bjorn Basson
10 Naas Olivier
9 Sarel Pretorius
8 Jonathan Mokuena
7 Devon Raubenheimer
6 Wilhelm Koch (c)
5 Jacques Lombaard
4 Rudi Mathee
3 Bees Roux
2 Rayno Barnes
1 Albertus Buckle.
Replacements
16 Pellow van der Westhuizen
17 Stef Roberts
18 Rynard Landman
19 RW Kember
20 Jacques Coetzee
21 Riaan Viljoen
22 Jovan Bowles
Head Coach:
British and Irish Lions
15 Lee Byrne (Wales)
14 Thomas Bowe (Ireland)
13 Keith Earls (Ireland)
12 James Roberts (Ireland)
11 Shane Williams (Wales)
10 Ronan O'Gara (Ireland)
9 Michael Blair (Scotland)
8 Andrew Powell (Wales)
7 Martyn Williams (Wales)
6 Joseph Worsley (England)
5 Paul O'Connell, Capt. (Ireland)
4 Simon Shaw (England)
3 Adam Jones (Wales)
2 Matthew Rees (Wales)
1 Andrew Sheridan England)
Replacements
16 Lee Mears (England)
17 Philip Vickery (England)
18 Alun-Wyn Jones (Wales)
19 Stephen Ferris (Ireland)
20 Michael Phillips (Wales)
21 Stephen Jones (Wales)
22 Riki Flutey (England)
Head Coach: Ian McGeechan
http://www.planetrugby.com/story/0,25883,16024_5354637,00.html
Saturday, May 16, 2009
British and Irish Lions on the Road
The British and Irish Lions 2009 rugby tour of South Africa is almost underway. The first match is in two weeks time.
What is unusual about this tour to South Africa is that the team will play some mid-week matches against invitation or provincial sides, rather than just test matches. There was a time when this was common. Teams toured with only 30 players and played dozens of matches including four tests.
There has been a few changes to the original selections. Tom Shanklin (Wales) and Tomas O'Leary (Ireland) were injured after selection. O'Leary has been replaced by Mike Blair (Scotland) but Shanklins replacement is yet to be made.
There has been a few changes to the original selections. Tom Shanklin (Wales) and Tomas O'Leary (Ireland) were injured after selection. O'Leary has been replaced by Mike Blair (Scotland) but Shanklins replacement is yet to be made.
The tour captain is Irishman Paul O'Donnell
Ireland's Alan Quinlan may also miss the tour if his appeal against a 12 match suspension fails.
The Team to date
Mike Blair (Scotland)-replaced O'Leary
Tommy Bowe (Ireland)
Lee Byrne (Wales)
Keith Earls (Ireland)
Harry Ellis (England)
Stephen Ferris (Ireland)
Luke Fitzgerald (Ireland)
Jerry Flannery (Ireland)
Riki Flutey (England)
Leigh Halfpenny (Wales)
Jamie Heaslip (Ireland)
Nathan Hines (Scotland)
Gethin Jenkins (Wales) Lions 2005
Rhys Adam Jones (Wales)
Alun-Wyn Jones (Wales)
Stephen Jones (Wales) Lions 2005
Rob Kearney (Ireland)
Lee Mears (England)
Ugo Monye (England)
Euan Murray (Scotland)
Donncha O'Callaghan (Ireland) Lions 2005
Paul O'Connell, Capt. (Ireland) Lions 2005
Brian O'Driscoll (Ireland) Lions 2005
Ronan O'Gara (Ireland) Lions 2005
Mike Phillips (Wales)
Andy Powell (Wales)
Alan Quinlan (Ireland)-place in doubt-suspension
Matthew Rees (Wales)
Jamie Roberts (Wales)
Tom Shanklin (Wales) Lions 2005 (Injured-yet to be replaced)
Shaw Simon (England) Lions 2005
Andrew Sheridan (England) Lions 2005
Phil Vickery (England) Lions 2001
David Wallace (Ireland) Lions 2001
Martyn Williams (Wales) Lions 2005
Shane Williams (Wales) Lions 2005
Joe Worsley (England)
Head Coach: Ian McGeechan
Tour Schedule
Sat 30 May 15: v Royal XV, Royal Bafokeng Sports Palace, Rustenburg
Wed 3 Jun 19: v Golden Lions, Coca-Cola Park, Johannesburg
Sat 6 Jun 15: v Free State Cheetahs, Vodacom Park, Bloemfontein
Wed 10 Jun 19: v Natal Sharks, ABSA Stadium, Durban
Sat 13 Jun 15: v Western Province, Newlands, Capetown
Tue 16 Jun 15: v Southern Kings, Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium, Port Elizabeth
Sat 20 Jun 15: First Test v South Africa, ABSA Stadium, Durban
Tue 23 Jun 19: v Emerging Springboks, Newlands, Capetown
Sat 27 Jun 15: Second Test v South Africa, Loftus Versfeld, Pretoria
Sat 4 Jul 15: Third Test v South Africa, Coca-Cola Park, Johannesburg
The Team to date
Mike Blair (Scotland)-replaced O'Leary
Tommy Bowe (Ireland)
Lee Byrne (Wales)
Keith Earls (Ireland)
Harry Ellis (England)
Stephen Ferris (Ireland)
Luke Fitzgerald (Ireland)
Jerry Flannery (Ireland)
Riki Flutey (England)
Leigh Halfpenny (Wales)
Jamie Heaslip (Ireland)
Nathan Hines (Scotland)
Gethin Jenkins (Wales) Lions 2005
Rhys Adam Jones (Wales)
Alun-Wyn Jones (Wales)
Stephen Jones (Wales) Lions 2005
Rob Kearney (Ireland)
Lee Mears (England)
Ugo Monye (England)
Euan Murray (Scotland)
Donncha O'Callaghan (Ireland) Lions 2005
Paul O'Connell, Capt. (Ireland) Lions 2005
Brian O'Driscoll (Ireland) Lions 2005
Ronan O'Gara (Ireland) Lions 2005
Mike Phillips (Wales)
Andy Powell (Wales)
Alan Quinlan (Ireland)-place in doubt-suspension
Matthew Rees (Wales)
Jamie Roberts (Wales)
Tom Shanklin (Wales) Lions 2005 (Injured-yet to be replaced)
Shaw Simon (England) Lions 2005
Andrew Sheridan (England) Lions 2005
Phil Vickery (England) Lions 2001
David Wallace (Ireland) Lions 2001
Martyn Williams (Wales) Lions 2005
Shane Williams (Wales) Lions 2005
Joe Worsley (England)
Head Coach: Ian McGeechan
Tour Schedule
Sat 30 May 15: v Royal XV, Royal Bafokeng Sports Palace, Rustenburg
Wed 3 Jun 19: v Golden Lions, Coca-Cola Park, Johannesburg
Sat 6 Jun 15: v Free State Cheetahs, Vodacom Park, Bloemfontein
Wed 10 Jun 19: v Natal Sharks, ABSA Stadium, Durban
Sat 13 Jun 15: v Western Province, Newlands, Capetown
Tue 16 Jun 15: v Southern Kings, Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium, Port Elizabeth
Sat 20 Jun 15: First Test v South Africa, ABSA Stadium, Durban
Tue 23 Jun 19: v Emerging Springboks, Newlands, Capetown
Sat 27 Jun 15: Second Test v South Africa, Loftus Versfeld, Pretoria
Sat 4 Jul 15: Third Test v South Africa, Coca-Cola Park, Johannesburg
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
British and Irish Lions Rugby Team
Here they are. Who do you think is missing and why? Who would you leave out?
Tommy Bowe (Ireland)
Lee Byrne (Wales)
Keith Earls (Ireland)
Harry Ellis (England)
Stephen Ferris (Ireland)
Luke Fitzgerald (Ireland)
Jerry Flannery (Ireland)
Riki Flutey (England)
Leigh Halfpenny (Wales)
Jamie Heaslip (Ireland)
Nathan Hines (Scotland)
Gethin Jenkins (Wales) Lions 2005
Rhys Adam Jones (Wales)
Alun-Wyn Jones (Wales)
Stephen Jones (Wales) Lions 2005
Rob Kearney (Ireland)
Lee Mears (England)
Ugo Monye (England)
Euan Murray (Scotland)
Donncha O'Callaghan (Ireland) Lions 2005
Paul O'Connell, Capt. (Ireland) Lions 2005
Brian O'Driscoll (Ireland) Lions 2005
Ronan O'Gara (Ireland) Lions 2005
Mike Phillips (Wales)
Andy Powell (Wales)
Alan Quinlan (Ireland)
Matthew Rees (Wales)
Jamie Roberts (Wales)
Tom Shanklin (Wales) Lions 2005
Shaw Simon (England) Lions 2005
Andrew Sheridan (England) Lions 2005
Phil Vickery (England) Lions 2001
David Wallace (Ireland) Lions 2001
Martyn Williams (Wales) Lions 2005
Shane Williams (Wales) Lions 2005
Joe Worsley (England)
Head Coach: Ian McGeechan
Tommy Bowe (Ireland)
Lee Byrne (Wales)
Keith Earls (Ireland)
Harry Ellis (England)
Stephen Ferris (Ireland)
Luke Fitzgerald (Ireland)
Jerry Flannery (Ireland)
Riki Flutey (England)
Leigh Halfpenny (Wales)
Jamie Heaslip (Ireland)
Nathan Hines (Scotland)
Gethin Jenkins (Wales) Lions 2005
Rhys Adam Jones (Wales)
Alun-Wyn Jones (Wales)
Stephen Jones (Wales) Lions 2005
Rob Kearney (Ireland)
Lee Mears (England)
Ugo Monye (England)
Euan Murray (Scotland)
Donncha O'Callaghan (Ireland) Lions 2005
Paul O'Connell, Capt. (Ireland) Lions 2005
Brian O'Driscoll (Ireland) Lions 2005
Ronan O'Gara (Ireland) Lions 2005
Mike Phillips (Wales)
Andy Powell (Wales)
Alan Quinlan (Ireland)
Matthew Rees (Wales)
Jamie Roberts (Wales)
Tom Shanklin (Wales) Lions 2005
Shaw Simon (England) Lions 2005
Andrew Sheridan (England) Lions 2005
Phil Vickery (England) Lions 2001
David Wallace (Ireland) Lions 2001
Martyn Williams (Wales) Lions 2005
Shane Williams (Wales) Lions 2005
Joe Worsley (England)
Head Coach: Ian McGeechan
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