Though surprised by our result last weekend, I have been even more surprised at our response to the loss and our lack of ownership for that lost. We do not seem to have analyzed it in the right fashion, though I am only talking from a layman's point of view. Word has it that the Zimbos brought in all their professionals and that turned the game. The guys were so good we could not tackle or kept giving away penalties that they could not miss (tongue firmly in cheek). Well I said it close to two years ago, then again just over year ago, and the silence on the post said it all. Maybe that's why I no longer ramble regularly.. total waste of cyberspace. Why don't we have/call our professionals? Or don't we have any? Then why don't we? Are we working on getting some? And if we can't beat teams with professionals, why then are we stating we want to qualify for the Rugby World Cup in 2015? Like we won't meet any professionals on the way? Oh, I forget, all our players will be professional by then and I'm just blowing hot air!
Let us be more objective in our view of the game. Let us analyse things for what they are. If someone was not tackling it is fact. If someone cannot run, it is fact. If someone cannot pass the ball when required it is fact. If we do not know why we lost, then that is also a fact, that we are clueless!
Thursday, June 30, 2011
Weekly Ramble
Monday, June 27, 2011
Victoria Cup: Kenya 24 Zimbabwe 42
Thinking more with my heart than with my head once more. Can't really tell what happened, will wait to hear about the game. Though that our forwards scored most of our tries is quite telling. And that our backs were leaking is also a huge indictment. Lots of work to do, just hope we know what to do.
Have a good week.
Have a good week.
Friday, June 24, 2011
Weekend Games
Kenya take on Zimbabwe in Harare in the second fixture of the Victoria Cup. Zimbabwe already have a headstart with a 25-15 victory over Uganda away a fortnight ago and will be determined to lay last year's ghosts to rest. Kenya do not have it easy either with last year's victory the only one they have ever achieved on Zimbabwean soil.
Both sides play a very similar game and are both gifted with quick backs. I believe the balance will be tilted in the forwards where the better conditioned team will carry the day in the second half. I give Kenya a narrow win in this one, by less that five points.
Both sides play a very similar game and are both gifted with quick backs. I believe the balance will be tilted in the forwards where the better conditioned team will carry the day in the second half. I give Kenya a narrow win in this one, by less that five points.
Thursday, June 23, 2011
Flood has faith in Tuilagi
England fly-half Toby Flood has insisted that centre Manu Tuilagi has what it takes to make the grade at International level.
The Tigers' centre has had a stand out début season and has been selected for Martin Johnson's provisional 45 man World Cup training squad ahead of the tournament in New Zealand which begins on September 9th.
Tuilagi's season was slightly marred after he was found guilty of punching Chris Ashton in Leicester's Premiership semi-final defeat of Northampton Saints. As a result the 20-year-old was handed a five-week suspension, missing the Premiership final and leading many to ask questions about his temperament.
However, Flood has no issues with the player's attitude and believes he is already good enough to make the step up and fans of sports online betting should take note of his comments.
"He has been outstanding," Flood told Press Association Sport. "You could throw him into a Test match tomorrow. He wouldn't let it affect him.
The centre has been a revelation this season, regularly impressing with his strong running and explosive defence. Anyone following rugby tips would have been impressed.
The 20-year-old is the longest in a long line of Tuilagis to have become stars and he has five brothers who have played professionally, a fact that Flood believes has been highly beneficial to the youngster.
"He has a good structure around him, his family has an incredible heritage in the game and he keeps himself to himself.
"He is a quiet young man and he has handled himself very well this season.
The Tigers' centre has had a stand out début season and has been selected for Martin Johnson's provisional 45 man World Cup training squad ahead of the tournament in New Zealand which begins on September 9th.
Tuilagi's season was slightly marred after he was found guilty of punching Chris Ashton in Leicester's Premiership semi-final defeat of Northampton Saints. As a result the 20-year-old was handed a five-week suspension, missing the Premiership final and leading many to ask questions about his temperament.
However, Flood has no issues with the player's attitude and believes he is already good enough to make the step up and fans of sports online betting should take note of his comments.
"He has been outstanding," Flood told Press Association Sport. "You could throw him into a Test match tomorrow. He wouldn't let it affect him.
The centre has been a revelation this season, regularly impressing with his strong running and explosive defence. Anyone following rugby tips would have been impressed.
The 20-year-old is the longest in a long line of Tuilagis to have become stars and he has five brothers who have played professionally, a fact that Flood believes has been highly beneficial to the youngster.
"He has a good structure around him, his family has an incredible heritage in the game and he keeps himself to himself.
"He is a quiet young man and he has handled himself very well this season.
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
MUTHEE BOOTS OMWELA AND CRONIES FROM SAFARICOM SAFARI SEVENS GRAVY TRAIN
There's a new sheriff in town and his name is Michael Mwangi Muthee. His guns are loaded and firing deadly rounds in all directions. This time he has fired a bullseye straight into the Safaricom Safari Sevens Tent and the casualties are many. The former GM can painfully can testify to that.
Dumped out of the committee mercilessly are immediate KRFU/Safaricom Safari Sevens Chairman Richard Omwela together with Roger Bebbington, Sadik Makii, Asiko Owiro, Sasha Mutai, Frank Sabwa and the marketing consultant lady Glady's Gathigira among others.
In come Myke Rabar (he of the Homeboyz fame and next co-tenant RFUEA) as new Chairman, Terry Adembesa as Treasurer, Paul Nyamodi as Operations Director, Fred Ollows and Barbara Kokonya (the soon to be confirmed new GM). Tournament Director is yet to be filled but several names in the race include Edward Rombo, Sammy Kemmey, Zach Oloo, Aggrey Chabeda, Ray Dawa, John Mutua and Godwin Karuga. Outside bets are Peter Nduati, Thomas Opiyo and Alvus Onguro. Sports Ventures are the new marketing consultants.
At the heart of this change is close to Kshs 70 million lying unutilised in the Safaricom Safari sevens account which meant to to be for the purchase of the Unga grounds. Omwela, Makii and Owiro together with Bebbington were the only signatories
It will be interesting to see how the new team performs with Safaricom Safari Sevens having being moved closer to the IRB Sevens in November.
Meanwhile the axe at the Kenya Rugby secretariat continues to sharpen. Fred Ollows has survived miraculously for now but Benjamin Ayimba, Mike Mwanja and Eric Situma are next in the radar of the Sheriff.
Ireland name preliminary squad
Ireland head coach Declan Kidney has named his preliminary 43-man World Cup squad, including a number of players battling back from long-term injuries. The squad will meet up to go through a conditioning program ahead of their pre-World Cup warm-up games this summer, before being whittled down to the 30 players that will travel to New Zealand to take on the world's best.
Long-term injury victims Stephen Ferris and Rob Kearney have been included despite not playing for lengthy spells. Shane Jennings and Tony Buckley have also been named in the party after recovering from their short-term spells on the sidelines. Injury has robbed Ireland of the experienced Shane Horgan who has been ruled out with a knee injury. Ulster duo Ian Humphreys and Nevin Spence have also been left out after undergoing surgery on their respective injuries. Those following the Rugby World Cup odds 2011 will know this will be a blow for the side.
Of those in the squad, there have been call-ups for Munster's uncapped full-back Felix Jones and scrum-half Conor Murphy after impressing this season for the southern Irish club. The two Munster players will join other uncapped players named in the squad, Connacht's Mike McCarthy and Brett Wilkinson.
Ireland will begin their World Cup campaign against the USA in their opening Pool C clash, before going on to face Australia, Russia and finally Italy, looking to earn their place in the knock-out phase from a modest group they are widely expected to qualify from.
Long-term injury victims Stephen Ferris and Rob Kearney have been included despite not playing for lengthy spells. Shane Jennings and Tony Buckley have also been named in the party after recovering from their short-term spells on the sidelines. Injury has robbed Ireland of the experienced Shane Horgan who has been ruled out with a knee injury. Ulster duo Ian Humphreys and Nevin Spence have also been left out after undergoing surgery on their respective injuries. Those following the Rugby World Cup odds 2011 will know this will be a blow for the side.
Of those in the squad, there have been call-ups for Munster's uncapped full-back Felix Jones and scrum-half Conor Murphy after impressing this season for the southern Irish club. The two Munster players will join other uncapped players named in the squad, Connacht's Mike McCarthy and Brett Wilkinson.
Ireland will begin their World Cup campaign against the USA in their opening Pool C clash, before going on to face Australia, Russia and finally Italy, looking to earn their place in the knock-out phase from a modest group they are widely expected to qualify from.
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Otieno Names Squad for Maiden Game
Coach Michael "Tank" Otieno has named his maiden squad for this year's assignment. With no fewer than seven "rookies" in the squad, his eyes are firmly set on the future and blooding in new players. The squad is as follows.
Forwards: Joel Ng'ang'a, Vincent Ongera, Daniel Kiptoo,(UAP Rhinos),Dennis Abenga (SDV Transami Cheetahs), Moses Amusala (Lions), Anthony Mutai (UAP Rhinos), Michael Aung (SDV Transami Cheetahs), Martin Likami (UAP Rhinos), Kevin Umbuge (SDV Transami Cheetahs), Dennis Mwanja (Lions), David Mogere, Wilson Kopondo (UAP Rhinos)
Backs: Peter Mutai (Lions), Edwin Achayo (UAP Rhinos), Nato Simiyu (SDV Transami Cheetahs),Isaac Adimo,Victor Sudi,Dennis Muhanji (UAP Rhinos),Kelvin Omiyo, Anthony Nyandigisi (SDV Transami Cheetahs), Allan Omuka (UAP Rhinos),Vincent Mose (SDV Transami Cheetahs)
Management
Michael Otieno (Head Coach), Edward Kinyany (Assistant Coach), Wangila Simiyu (Team Manager), Chris Makachia (Physio)
Management
Michael Otieno (Head Coach), Edward Kinyany (Assistant Coach), Wangila Simiyu (Team Manager), Chris Makachia (Physio)
Stevens gets England call ahead of World Cup
Matt Stevens has been rewarded for his fine form in the Churchill Cup with a recall to England's 45-man provisional squad ahead of the World Cup.
The prop was instrumental in the England Saxons' recent victory in the tournament, regularly dominating his opponents at scrum-time as well as providing impetus in the loose.
Stevens returned to the game in January after serving a two-year ban failing a drugs test after admitting to taking cocaine while playing for previous club Bath.
The South-African born player, who is equally comfortable on either side of the scrum, signed with Saracens upon his return and was a vital part of the side that won the club's first ever Premiership crown at Twickenham at the end of May. Those making a Betfair iPhone app download would have been impressed by his efforts.
His recall marks the end of fairytale comeback for the prop and he'll be keen to impress as he looks to make the final squad and add to 32 caps he has already amassed.
Stevens is joined in the squad by fellow South African-born player, lock Mauritz Botha as well Leicester Tigers' Manu Tuilagi and Thomas Waldrom, Wasps' scrum-half Joe Simpson and Stevens' Chruchill cup teammate Charlie Sharples.
There also recals for Richard Wrigglesworth, Lee Mears, Ugo Monye and James Simpson-Daniel who have all been included alongside the squad that took part in the Six Nations and coach Martin Johnson says no-one has a guaranteed place for the tournament in New Zealand. Anyone planning a Betfair mobile download should bear this in mind.
"Every one of these players has the chance to be in that final 30 going to New Zealand" he told his press conference. "The camp is going to be intense and competitive, as you would expect leading up to a World Cup, but all the players are ready for it.
"It's now up to all of them to set down their marker over the next 10 weeks before we head to New Zealand."
The prop was instrumental in the England Saxons' recent victory in the tournament, regularly dominating his opponents at scrum-time as well as providing impetus in the loose.
Stevens returned to the game in January after serving a two-year ban failing a drugs test after admitting to taking cocaine while playing for previous club Bath.
The South-African born player, who is equally comfortable on either side of the scrum, signed with Saracens upon his return and was a vital part of the side that won the club's first ever Premiership crown at Twickenham at the end of May. Those making a Betfair iPhone app download would have been impressed by his efforts.
His recall marks the end of fairytale comeback for the prop and he'll be keen to impress as he looks to make the final squad and add to 32 caps he has already amassed.
Stevens is joined in the squad by fellow South African-born player, lock Mauritz Botha as well Leicester Tigers' Manu Tuilagi and Thomas Waldrom, Wasps' scrum-half Joe Simpson and Stevens' Chruchill cup teammate Charlie Sharples.
There also recals for Richard Wrigglesworth, Lee Mears, Ugo Monye and James Simpson-Daniel who have all been included alongside the squad that took part in the Six Nations and coach Martin Johnson says no-one has a guaranteed place for the tournament in New Zealand. Anyone planning a Betfair mobile download should bear this in mind.
"Every one of these players has the chance to be in that final 30 going to New Zealand" he told his press conference. "The camp is going to be intense and competitive, as you would expect leading up to a World Cup, but all the players are ready for it.
"It's now up to all of them to set down their marker over the next 10 weeks before we head to New Zealand."
Monday, June 20, 2011
Shane Horgan ruled out of Rugby World Cup
Irish veteran Shane Horgan's hopes of forcing his way back into Ireland's World Cup squad after being ruled out of the entire build-up to the tournament.
The winger has had somewhat of a resurgence this season, scoring nine tries in 26 appearances for Leinster, as well as helping the side to their second Heineken Cup title after starting in the 33-22 final victory over Northampton. Those betting sports money would have been impressed by his efforts.
Horgan's improved form saw him being touted by many as an outside bet to make the squad after losing his place in recent years but has now been told he faces surgery on his knee. This means he won't be featuring in the live betting odds any time soon.
The winger, known as 'Shaggy' within the game due to his resemblance to the Scooby-Doo character is not the only player to miss out on selection due to injury with Ulster duo Ian Humphreys and Nevin Spence who both miss out with shoulder injuries.
"The only players unavailable for selection are Shane Horgan, Ian Humphreys and Nevin Spence, who all had to undergo surgery on long-standing injuries," the IRFU said in a statement.
"The rehabilitation period is such that all three players will not be able to take part in the World Cup conditioning schedule to enable them to build up the required fitness levels."
With Horgan being out of the international limelight for such an extended period of time, coach Declan Kidney is understood to have wanted to test his ability before making a final decision but his inability to feature in the warm-up games has now ruled the player out as Ireland look to fine tune their squad ahead of the game's showpiece event that starts in New Zealand on 9th September.
The winger has had somewhat of a resurgence this season, scoring nine tries in 26 appearances for Leinster, as well as helping the side to their second Heineken Cup title after starting in the 33-22 final victory over Northampton. Those betting sports money would have been impressed by his efforts.
Horgan's improved form saw him being touted by many as an outside bet to make the squad after losing his place in recent years but has now been told he faces surgery on his knee. This means he won't be featuring in the live betting odds any time soon.
The winger, known as 'Shaggy' within the game due to his resemblance to the Scooby-Doo character is not the only player to miss out on selection due to injury with Ulster duo Ian Humphreys and Nevin Spence who both miss out with shoulder injuries.
"The only players unavailable for selection are Shane Horgan, Ian Humphreys and Nevin Spence, who all had to undergo surgery on long-standing injuries," the IRFU said in a statement.
"The rehabilitation period is such that all three players will not be able to take part in the World Cup conditioning schedule to enable them to build up the required fitness levels."
With Horgan being out of the international limelight for such an extended period of time, coach Declan Kidney is understood to have wanted to test his ability before making a final decision but his inability to feature in the warm-up games has now ruled the player out as Ireland look to fine tune their squad ahead of the game's showpiece event that starts in New Zealand on 9th September.
Friday, June 17, 2011
Weekly Ramble
The National XV team acquitted itself fairly well last weekend and I believe there were valuable lessons learned. Least of which should be the mindset in which to approach matches. Not to say we do not have this, but we at times seem to struggle when facing much weaker opposition due to possible assumptions or otherwise. Hailed variously has been the magnificent defensive effort and I'll join the bandwagon. Obviously lacking in our game was patterns in both offense and defense. That our forwards could keep their continuity going in the face of the professionals from down south was something to behold but beyond that play was isolated and lucky at best, but that I'm sure can be worked on.
On the administrative front there has been a flurry of activity and though initially skeptical, maybe sometimes a change is as good as a rest. The one victim of change so far was not surprising, but what was surprising was the new chairman's support for the person most thought would be immediately next. Could it be that the previous chair, a staunch defender of the same, was also not giving him free reign to work? Or are his international tentacles so wide it is difficult to touch him? All I can say is the structures and programmes are very ambitious and I would not have been so brazen about declaring them without first ensuring their sustainability! The previous chair resisted using the word "professional" in anything to do with rugby like the plague, but now this seems to be the mantra of the new chair. Change we can believe in? Let's watch and see.
This weekend sees no rugby action on the local scene as the National team prepares to take on Zimbabwe in their first Victoria Cup match. Do have a good weekend and do enjoy your rugby, wherever you find it.
As an aside, I give thanks to our guest blogger who is putting international posts on the blog as well. This serves to enlighten our readers on what is happening elsewhere as well. And as the Rugby World Cup approaches, who know, I may try my hand at that as well.
On the administrative front there has been a flurry of activity and though initially skeptical, maybe sometimes a change is as good as a rest. The one victim of change so far was not surprising, but what was surprising was the new chairman's support for the person most thought would be immediately next. Could it be that the previous chair, a staunch defender of the same, was also not giving him free reign to work? Or are his international tentacles so wide it is difficult to touch him? All I can say is the structures and programmes are very ambitious and I would not have been so brazen about declaring them without first ensuring their sustainability! The previous chair resisted using the word "professional" in anything to do with rugby like the plague, but now this seems to be the mantra of the new chair. Change we can believe in? Let's watch and see.
This weekend sees no rugby action on the local scene as the National team prepares to take on Zimbabwe in their first Victoria Cup match. Do have a good weekend and do enjoy your rugby, wherever you find it.
As an aside, I give thanks to our guest blogger who is putting international posts on the blog as well. This serves to enlighten our readers on what is happening elsewhere as well. And as the Rugby World Cup approaches, who know, I may try my hand at that as well.
Thursday, June 16, 2011
New Zealand face selection challenge
New Zealand face selection challenge
New Zealand boss Graham Henry believes he and the All Black selectors face an uphill battle to ensure all their squad receive enough time on the field ahead of the World Cup.
The hosts play five tests ahead of the tournament which begins September 9th with their match against Tonga in Auckland and Henry believes the selectors will have to balance naming their best side with giving a number of key back-up player sufficient game time during upcoming Tri-Nations series starting on July 23rd. Anyone with a Betfair Android betting app will be wondering just how well they can perform in this scenario.
The All Blacks once again go into the tournament as heavy favourites, much as they do for most tournaments but they still only have one World title to their name which came in the inaugural event in 1987. However, that tournament was also held on home soil and many believe that could have a big influence on proceedings. Henry's side went into the 2007 tournament as overwhelming favourites but came unstuck to hosts France after a number of key players received injuries. Those looking at Betfair Mobile should remember this.
The Kiwi players will come into the tournament on the back of a particularly bruising Super Rugby season which has seen a number of key players pick up injuries including skipper and IRB World Player of the Year Richie McCaw and mercurial playmaker Dan Carter and Henry knows that he needs to build a strong squad if he is to lead his side to success after so many near misses.
"'We can't take the risk of going into a sudden death rugby World Cup and having to play somebody who hasn't played a big Test match for all of 2011,"' he said.
"'I just think we need to be pragmatic there and make good decisions"' he added.
New Zealand boss Graham Henry believes he and the All Black selectors face an uphill battle to ensure all their squad receive enough time on the field ahead of the World Cup.
The hosts play five tests ahead of the tournament which begins September 9th with their match against Tonga in Auckland and Henry believes the selectors will have to balance naming their best side with giving a number of key back-up player sufficient game time during upcoming Tri-Nations series starting on July 23rd. Anyone with a Betfair Android betting app will be wondering just how well they can perform in this scenario.
The All Blacks once again go into the tournament as heavy favourites, much as they do for most tournaments but they still only have one World title to their name which came in the inaugural event in 1987. However, that tournament was also held on home soil and many believe that could have a big influence on proceedings. Henry's side went into the 2007 tournament as overwhelming favourites but came unstuck to hosts France after a number of key players received injuries. Those looking at Betfair Mobile should remember this.
The Kiwi players will come into the tournament on the back of a particularly bruising Super Rugby season which has seen a number of key players pick up injuries including skipper and IRB World Player of the Year Richie McCaw and mercurial playmaker Dan Carter and Henry knows that he needs to build a strong squad if he is to lead his side to success after so many near misses.
"'We can't take the risk of going into a sudden death rugby World Cup and having to play somebody who hasn't played a big Test match for all of 2011,"' he said.
"'I just think we need to be pragmatic there and make good decisions"' he added.
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
Leicester bolster their ranks
Aviva league winners Leicester have boosted their ranks with a triple signing of three of England's most exciting prospects. Kieran Brookes, Graham Kitchener and Micky Young will all link up with their new club after competing for England Saxons in the Churchill Cup after agreeing to move to Welford Road. The youngsters are all highly thought of by their clubs and by their country and Leicester had to act fast to make sure they got their targets.
Tigers head coach Richard Cockerill confirmed the news, describing his joy at clinching the trio and those following the rugby betting will be excited by the prospect of the three playing together.
"We're delighted to add such promising young talent to our squad," he said.
"We've brought a number of young players through to our first-team squad in the last couple of seasons and we think these three have the potential to develop well within our environment."
Prop Brookes and scrum-half Young have both joined Leicester from Newcastle Falcons where they both amassed over 50 games in their time up north. Second-row Kitchener has signed from newly-promoted side Worcester Warriors, where he was a mainstay in the side that finished top of the Championship.
The three youngsters will have been signed with one eye on the future, but the trio have shown in their short careers so far that they can handle the pressures of Premiership rugby. For the time being at least and the group will be focusing on winning the Churchill Cup with the Saxons.
Tigers head coach Richard Cockerill confirmed the news, describing his joy at clinching the trio and those following the rugby betting will be excited by the prospect of the three playing together.
"We're delighted to add such promising young talent to our squad," he said.
"We've brought a number of young players through to our first-team squad in the last couple of seasons and we think these three have the potential to develop well within our environment."
Prop Brookes and scrum-half Young have both joined Leicester from Newcastle Falcons where they both amassed over 50 games in their time up north. Second-row Kitchener has signed from newly-promoted side Worcester Warriors, where he was a mainstay in the side that finished top of the Championship.
The three youngsters will have been signed with one eye on the future, but the trio have shown in their short careers so far that they can handle the pressures of Premiership rugby. For the time being at least and the group will be focusing on winning the Churchill Cup with the Saxons.
Monday, June 13, 2011
Barnes seeks neurologists help
Waratahs centre Berrick Barnes has sought the help of a neurologist amidst fears his career could be cut short because of the headaches he suffers with.
The Wallabies player has endured a difficult season and has had to sit through prolonged spells on the sidelines because of a knock to the head he suffered against the Queensland Reds in February.
Since then Barnes has been forced from the field after suffering what seemed an innocuous head knock against the Brumbies in round six, before leaving the field against the Lions in round 1 with a migraine.
Barnes is considered one of the hottest talents in Australia and will be one of a small group who carry the hopes of a nation on his shoulders when the Wallabies travel to New Zealand later this year for the World Cup.
Waratahs coach Chris Hickey admitted there was some concerns over Barnes’s walfare, and said the club was doing all they could to get to the bottom of the problem.
“Our doctor and the neurologist will see Berrick and work out what's happening," Hickey said.
"It's very difficult trying to sort out what's happening. His welfare will be the No 1 priority. Until he sees the specialist we are not in a position to speculate." He added.
Former Australia fly-half Eton Flatley was forced to retire from the game after suffering concussion in 2006, said Barnes must make the decision over his future on his own.
“I'm glad to see they are taking it seriously with Berrick. Deep down Berrick will know how he is feeling. He will be guided by doctors, but he is the only one who will know what's happening.” He commented.
"He will be receiving excellent medical advice and he will be guided by their opinions, but deep down Berrick will know his own health and he has to be true to that. Berrick is a smart boy. He'll know what to do."
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The Wallabies player has endured a difficult season and has had to sit through prolonged spells on the sidelines because of a knock to the head he suffered against the Queensland Reds in February.
Since then Barnes has been forced from the field after suffering what seemed an innocuous head knock against the Brumbies in round six, before leaving the field against the Lions in round 1 with a migraine.
Barnes is considered one of the hottest talents in Australia and will be one of a small group who carry the hopes of a nation on his shoulders when the Wallabies travel to New Zealand later this year for the World Cup.
Waratahs coach Chris Hickey admitted there was some concerns over Barnes’s walfare, and said the club was doing all they could to get to the bottom of the problem.
“Our doctor and the neurologist will see Berrick and work out what's happening," Hickey said.
"It's very difficult trying to sort out what's happening. His welfare will be the No 1 priority. Until he sees the specialist we are not in a position to speculate." He added.
Former Australia fly-half Eton Flatley was forced to retire from the game after suffering concussion in 2006, said Barnes must make the decision over his future on his own.
“I'm glad to see they are taking it seriously with Berrick. Deep down Berrick will know how he is feeling. He will be guided by doctors, but he is the only one who will know what's happening.” He commented.
"He will be receiving excellent medical advice and he will be guided by their opinions, but deep down Berrick will know his own health and he has to be true to that. Berrick is a smart boy. He'll know what to do."
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Williams seeks All Blacks spot
Ali Williams believes he can force his way into New Zealand head coach Graham henry’s thinking ahead of the World Cup later this year.
The lock has endured a torrid time over the past 18 months after a succession of serious Achilles injuries left his career hanging in the balance, but now is he is back playing with the Blues, the All Black insists he has what it takes to make the final squad – an assessment that his club coach Pat Lam agrees with.
Lam believes he has seen a dramatic improvement in William’s form as he makes his way back to full fitness and believes his hard work on the training field is slowly starting to pay off.
“Now we're starting to get the performance. He's doing a truckload of work on the training field and the way he has done a lot of rehab and a lot of work on his game, we are getting really close to seeing him where he was before the injury," Lam http://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gifsaid.
"He's thriving in those big games. He's really driven to get his spot back and he knew that he had to get on the field and keep working on his game.
He's on the bottom of that hill and he's made a nice climb up and he's working his way to the top." He added.
Williams will face tough competition to even be included in the final squad as Crusader’s Sam Whitelock continues to impress in an All Blacks Shirt, while there are also some doubts remaining over the 30-year-old’s fitness.
He was also unable to do anything about the Crusaders romping to victory over the Blues on Saturday however, as the Auckland franchise lost their fourth game in a row to put their qualification to the play-offs in real danger.
The lock has endured a torrid time over the past 18 months after a succession of serious Achilles injuries left his career hanging in the balance, but now is he is back playing with the Blues, the All Black insists he has what it takes to make the final squad – an assessment that his club coach Pat Lam agrees with.
Lam believes he has seen a dramatic improvement in William’s form as he makes his way back to full fitness and believes his hard work on the training field is slowly starting to pay off.
“Now we're starting to get the performance. He's doing a truckload of work on the training field and the way he has done a lot of rehab and a lot of work on his game, we are getting really close to seeing him where he was before the injury," Lam http://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gifsaid.
"He's thriving in those big games. He's really driven to get his spot back and he knew that he had to get on the field and keep working on his game.
He's on the bottom of that hill and he's made a nice climb up and he's working his way to the top." He added.
Williams will face tough competition to even be included in the final squad as Crusader’s Sam Whitelock continues to impress in an All Blacks Shirt, while there are also some doubts remaining over the 30-year-old’s fitness.
He was also unable to do anything about the Crusaders romping to victory over the Blues on Saturday however, as the Auckland franchise lost their fourth game in a row to put their qualification to the play-offs in real danger.
Kenya 27 Pumas 41
A very good show and the welcome news of the technical assistance will help us improve on where we are failing. Very impressive was the defensive effort, our offense needs a lot of work. The forwards were outstanding in the loose, not so in the set pieces. The backs when they put their minds to it were awesome in defense.
Our brothers next door have lost the opening game of the Victoria Cup. Next up is us against Zimbabwe. Do have a good week.
Our brothers next door have lost the opening game of the Victoria Cup. Next up is us against Zimbabwe. Do have a good week.
Friday, June 10, 2011
Weekend Games
Kenya take on the Mpumalanga Ford Pumas at 4.00 p.m. tomorrow. If the match on Wednesday was a sneak preview we are in for a good game. Unfortunately I will not hold my breath too much but once more look out for the positives that come out of the game... and our potential future stars. Also looking out for the ravages of natural attrition and who it affects.
Have a good weekend.
Have a good weekend.
Thursday, June 9, 2011
KRFU GM SENT ON COMPULSORY LEAVE
Auka Gecheo is no more at the KRFU. The new broom has swept him first.
One down and now three to go.
The former Machine back has been steeped in controversy and corruption.
Pole comrade.
England needs to break Heineken Cup hoodoo
English rugby union sides have not succeeded in the Heineken Cup in recent years, but Harlequins full-back Mike Brown reckons this will come to an end next season.
Wasps were the last English side to win the competition back in 2007 but since then Munster, Leinster and Toulouse succeed in the following three competitions.
In the 2011 competition it was Leinster again who came out victorious, beating Northampton Saints in the final to ensure an Irish club lifted the most coveted prize in European rugby union for a fourth time in six years. Those following the Rugby World Cup latest odds will wonder why English sides do so poorly when the England team is relatively strong.
There has been constant wrangling that English sides are at a disadvantage when it comes to the Heineken Cup as a salary cap does not restrict French clubs and also the Irish rugby season is planned around the tournament. Those placing rugby bets should remember this.
Brown, who has seen his Harlequins side paired with Gloucester, Toulouse and Connacht in Pool 6 for next season's Heineken Cup, reckons Quins experience winning the Amlin Cup this season will give them a boost.
He said: "I believe an English club can go on and win it. Northampton were really close.
"It's about turning up on the day and playing to the best of your ability. Any club from England in this competition is capable of winning it."
Defending champions Leinster have been paired with Bath, Glasgow and Montpellier for next season's Heineken Cup group stage, while Northampton will meet Muster, Scarlets and Castres.
The other English sides competing are London Irish, Leicester Tigers and Aviva Premiership champions Saracens, with all three teams given relatively simple group opponents as they look to break the English winless streak in the Heineken Cup.
Wasps were the last English side to win the competition back in 2007 but since then Munster, Leinster and Toulouse succeed in the following three competitions.
In the 2011 competition it was Leinster again who came out victorious, beating Northampton Saints in the final to ensure an Irish club lifted the most coveted prize in European rugby union for a fourth time in six years. Those following the Rugby World Cup latest odds will wonder why English sides do so poorly when the England team is relatively strong.
There has been constant wrangling that English sides are at a disadvantage when it comes to the Heineken Cup as a salary cap does not restrict French clubs and also the Irish rugby season is planned around the tournament. Those placing rugby bets should remember this.
Brown, who has seen his Harlequins side paired with Gloucester, Toulouse and Connacht in Pool 6 for next season's Heineken Cup, reckons Quins experience winning the Amlin Cup this season will give them a boost.
He said: "I believe an English club can go on and win it. Northampton were really close.
"It's about turning up on the day and playing to the best of your ability. Any club from England in this competition is capable of winning it."
Defending champions Leinster have been paired with Bath, Glasgow and Montpellier for next season's Heineken Cup group stage, while Northampton will meet Muster, Scarlets and Castres.
The other English sides competing are London Irish, Leicester Tigers and Aviva Premiership champions Saracens, with all three teams given relatively simple group opponents as they look to break the English winless streak in the Heineken Cup.
Kenya XV 22 Pumas 48
Very many positives from the game and I take great heart in our performances. We were very weak in the obvious places but surprisingly strong in others. No need to talk much about the set pieces, but we can definitely improve on our line outs. We were able to recycle the ball well and get it out of the scrums under pressure. However we could not do much after that and resorted to how what we used to call "kufungua". As a means to an end, good thinking. But we needed to use the game to prepare for the others coming up. Defensively we had no patterns, and just did what we do best. The midfield was wanting in communication on this aspect and in taking responsibility. But we were lethal on the loose ball and on the counter attacks.
So I reiterate. Forget results, let's use this game to prepare for the upcoming fixtures. In the long run we will gain more if we build our systems and structures, as opposed to getting good results.
So I reiterate. Forget results, let's use this game to prepare for the upcoming fixtures. In the long run we will gain more if we build our systems and structures, as opposed to getting good results.
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
Weekly Ramble
Becoming more of a monthly one, but hey...
Kenya A face Mpumalanga Pumas today in a one off match as Kenya prepares to face them on Saturday. For me, it is a nothing match. The score does not mean anything whatsoever to me. What matters most would be what we learn out of that game. Last year's match I believed helped us in winning the twin diadems of the Elgon and Victoria Cups. And we need to use this experience for the same purpose. Hence my surprise at a Kenya A side being named to face the visitors first, before Kenya proper. Fear of embarrassment twice over, or a spying mission? I don't know. But to me it is an opportunity missed.
We should have fielded our best for both games. It has been done in the past. The same people played for Chairman's Select, Scorpions then Kenya. The result did not change much, but your core players got the exposure you needed. Some said a rose by any other name, but to the guys who got the experience, invaluable. I won't even go into how the teams were selected, etc. as I don't know. But I assume the selection panel was very busy during the just concluded Super Series. Will we see new players? Will the old ones improve? Have we dropped the ones past their usefulness, or are we hoping for a miracle from others?
All the best Kenya A as you face this task and wish you well.
Monday, June 6, 2011
Bamburi Rugby Super Series: Finals
And the closest and most evenly contested to date. The Rhinos have made this tournament their own, but the rest are not taking it lying down. Contrasting styles really, but just reward to both teams for their mode of play. The Cheetahs were disciplined in defence and gave away few penalties, but perhaps this allowed the Rhinos to play and they were rewarded with tries, and that's all they scored. The Rhinos indiscipline nearly cost them the game, as all scores against them came from penalties. A final of contrasts, but entertaining all the same, as both sides came ready to take the diadem.
Have a good week and do enjoy your rugby. Kenya A face Mpumalanga on Wednesday and well, we'll see...
Have a good week and do enjoy your rugby. Kenya A face Mpumalanga on Wednesday and well, we'll see...
Friday, June 3, 2011
Weekend Games
It's the finals of the Bamburi Rugby Super Series with the defending champions UAP Rhinos taking on SDV Transami Cheetahs. Whilst the Cheetahs had to weather a vicious fight back from the Sharks, the Rhinos had a relatively easy walk in the park. I don't know if the one weekend's break has given them rest, or confused them by making them work harder. Only time will tell.
My money's on the Rhinos for this one. With the Cheetahs missing a key player in a key position, and a potential series MVP, that may make all the difference in the game.
Do have a great time and do enjoy your rugby.
My money's on the Rhinos for this one. With the Cheetahs missing a key player in a key position, and a potential series MVP, that may make all the difference in the game.
Do have a great time and do enjoy your rugby.
Tank gets down to serious business with Kenya Rugby Fifteens
National XV's coach Michael Tank Otieno has his work cut out for him over the next two months. With the sevens team out of the limelight the fifteens squad now have a chance to regain their shine.
The former Kenya fullback has a hard task starting with the two match build up against South African provincial side Mpumalanga Pumas. The last encounter between the two sides saw the Pumas ran away 101-7 winners.
The biggest blow is the injury to team captain Innocent Namcos Simiyu who is out for six months. Namcos injured himself in a Bamburi Super Rugby Series game two weeks ago. Tank has not been amused ever since. This year he has not been keen on the Super Rugby Series.
The captaincy has attracted several candidates with Victor Sudi the brother as frontrunner. Others in contention are Derrick Wamalwa, Neto Simiyu, Daniel Kiptoo and youthful Patrick Agunda. Tank is also keen to have Kenya sevens captain Humphrey Kayange in the team whom then he would bestow the captaincy with less controversy as he is already a respected player in the game.
Come next week Tank and his assistants Kinyany and Ngovi will be in the thick of things as they get the Kenya fifteens back in action. Kinyany is reported to have quit coaching his club Quins as he was appointed Vice Chairman of his club. He is following the footsteps of long time mentor Ham Onsando the former Uganda Coach.
A win against the South Africans would most welcome.
Go Kenya Go.
The former Kenya fullback has a hard task starting with the two match build up against South African provincial side Mpumalanga Pumas. The last encounter between the two sides saw the Pumas ran away 101-7 winners.
The biggest blow is the injury to team captain Innocent Namcos Simiyu who is out for six months. Namcos injured himself in a Bamburi Super Rugby Series game two weeks ago. Tank has not been amused ever since. This year he has not been keen on the Super Rugby Series.
The captaincy has attracted several candidates with Victor Sudi the brother as frontrunner. Others in contention are Derrick Wamalwa, Neto Simiyu, Daniel Kiptoo and youthful Patrick Agunda. Tank is also keen to have Kenya sevens captain Humphrey Kayange in the team whom then he would bestow the captaincy with less controversy as he is already a respected player in the game.
Come next week Tank and his assistants Kinyany and Ngovi will be in the thick of things as they get the Kenya fifteens back in action. Kinyany is reported to have quit coaching his club Quins as he was appointed Vice Chairman of his club. He is following the footsteps of long time mentor Ham Onsando the former Uganda Coach.
A win against the South Africans would most welcome.
Go Kenya Go.
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