Quins 25 Impala 8, Nakuru 14 Homeboyz 6, Strathmore 22 Nondies 24, Kisumu 16 KCB 40, Machine 25 Mwamba 17
Saturday, March 31, 2012
Wednesday, March 28, 2012
Weekly Ramble
That time of the year, when all we think about is whether my friend or my enemy will make it to the board. For some reason, this election seems to have attracted the largest array of contestants in recent times. A reflection on the percieved weakness of the incumbents? A chance to jump onto the apparent gravy train? Distraught at what they see in the union? A chance to make a difference? Maybe not so much is at stake as the Chairman's seat is not up for grabs. And given the management style of the current occupier of that position, makes me wonder whether any good intentioned person has a chance to make a mark? Manifestos and pledges have been bandyied around, but to me it is but a smoke screen.
Don't know if it is the current democratic space in the country, or just the rugby is a very transparent sport, but it appears as though the candidates are ready to present issues this time. Though the veiled agendas will always be there. Some to protect their interests, and others to try to intefere with those interests. Only time will tell.
I wish all the contestants well. And I hope as opposed to merely attending to vote in the elections, the delegates will ask pertinent questions as to the governance of the union, the revenue of the union and the expenditures of the union. That to me is the key of the AGM and not just going to ensure "one of our own" is in!
Some reads from previous AGMs.
Don't know if it is the current democratic space in the country, or just the rugby is a very transparent sport, but it appears as though the candidates are ready to present issues this time. Though the veiled agendas will always be there. Some to protect their interests, and others to try to intefere with those interests. Only time will tell.
I wish all the contestants well. And I hope as opposed to merely attending to vote in the elections, the delegates will ask pertinent questions as to the governance of the union, the revenue of the union and the expenditures of the union. That to me is the key of the AGM and not just going to ensure "one of our own" is in!
Some reads from previous AGMs.
Saturday, March 24, 2012
Kenya Cup Results 240312
Homeboyz 14 Nondies 13 Strathmore 42 Kisumu 0 Nakuru 28 Machine 5 Mwamba 16 Quins 13 Impala 17 KCB14
Friday, March 23, 2012
Weekend Games
A bit late. Missed the afternoon Sevens match against Samoa.
Kenya Cup action tomorrow sees league leaders Harlequins away to Mwamba, Nakuru at home to Mean Machine, Impala hosting KCB, Kisumu making the long trip to face Strathmore and Nondescripts face Homeboyz at home.
Got them horribly wrong last week, but let's try again. Quins over Mwamba by 10, Nakuru over Machine by 15, KCB over Impala by 12, Strathmore over Kisumu by 15 and Nondies over Homeboyz by 12.
Kenya 7s' continue their quest in Hong Kong with matches against England and Argentina at 6.20 a.m. and 11.28 a.m. EAT respectively tomorrow morning.
Do enjoy your weekend and your rugby as well.
S.
Kenya Cup action tomorrow sees league leaders Harlequins away to Mwamba, Nakuru at home to Mean Machine, Impala hosting KCB, Kisumu making the long trip to face Strathmore and Nondescripts face Homeboyz at home.
Got them horribly wrong last week, but let's try again. Quins over Mwamba by 10, Nakuru over Machine by 15, KCB over Impala by 12, Strathmore over Kisumu by 15 and Nondies over Homeboyz by 12.
Kenya 7s' continue their quest in Hong Kong with matches against England and Argentina at 6.20 a.m. and 11.28 a.m. EAT respectively tomorrow morning.
Do enjoy your weekend and your rugby as well.
S.
Richie McCraw out for a month
Rugby previews:
Crusaders coach Todd Blackadder has suggested World Cup winner Richie McCaw faces another "three weeks to a month" on the sidelines before he can make his return to Super Rugby from a foot injury.
The 31-year-old has missed the opening three rounds of the new season because of the ongoing problem and Blackadder says he no intention of putting a date on his much-needed return.
The Christchurch-based club have struggled for consistency in the absence of the All Blacks favourite but Blackadder insisted he would not be rushed back.
"We are still going to have to wait and see when we get back from South Africa, so he is still another three weeks to a month away from being considered," he said.
Crusaders hit the ground running with a tight win against the Blues on the opening day of the Super Rugby season, but have since fallen to defeats by the Highlanders and the Chiefs.
They are 10 points adrift of the Highlanders at the top of the New Zealand conference but have played one game less.
Blackadder is refusing to panic and insisted Crusaders would get the win their performances have merited.
"We're just off the pace, the last two weeks was really unlike us and we are a far better team than that," the coach told One Sport.
"I look back and look at our focus we just weren't focussing on the critical things that are going to make a difference in those games but we are a better side and I think you will see that this Saturday."
Crusaders play host to the Cheetahs at Rugby League Park on Saturday (06:35 GMT) – a game which could feature the return of All Blacks superstar Dan Carter from a groin injury.
For those looking to bet on rugby league these developments should be noted.
Crusaders coach Todd Blackadder has suggested World Cup winner Richie McCaw faces another "three weeks to a month" on the sidelines before he can make his return to Super Rugby from a foot injury.
The 31-year-old has missed the opening three rounds of the new season because of the ongoing problem and Blackadder says he no intention of putting a date on his much-needed return.
The Christchurch-based club have struggled for consistency in the absence of the All Blacks favourite but Blackadder insisted he would not be rushed back.
"We are still going to have to wait and see when we get back from South Africa, so he is still another three weeks to a month away from being considered," he said.
Crusaders hit the ground running with a tight win against the Blues on the opening day of the Super Rugby season, but have since fallen to defeats by the Highlanders and the Chiefs.
They are 10 points adrift of the Highlanders at the top of the New Zealand conference but have played one game less.
Blackadder is refusing to panic and insisted Crusaders would get the win their performances have merited.
"We're just off the pace, the last two weeks was really unlike us and we are a far better team than that," the coach told One Sport.
"I look back and look at our focus we just weren't focussing on the critical things that are going to make a difference in those games but we are a better side and I think you will see that this Saturday."
Crusaders play host to the Cheetahs at Rugby League Park on Saturday (06:35 GMT) – a game which could feature the return of All Blacks superstar Dan Carter from a groin injury.
For those looking to bet on rugby league these developments should be noted.
Monday, March 19, 2012
England must keep tabs on Henry
When the curtain finally falls on the Six Nations, the RFU's real tough task begins as they seek to appoint a permanent head coach for the England national side.
But while it is who will fill the top position around which most speculation has mounted, there are other roles within the coaching hierarchy that are also vital. Those following the best rugby union betting need to remember this.
One man who would have done an excellent job as part of a new England coaching team is former New Zealand boss Graham Henry.
Henry went on record last year to say that he'd welcome an approach from the RFU, and it is staggering that they didn't take him up on his offer.
Recently he has been appointed to an advisory role by the Argentinian RU, and the South American nation's gain is definitely England's loss, for Henry would bring so much to any national set-up.
The former All-Blacks supremo has a winning mentality and is always striving to go bigger and better, even after tasting success.
He isn't somebody who'll let loyalties cloud his judgement and aims to select players based on their form, not reputation.
Henry is also a tough disciplinarian, but knows how to handle potentially volatile situations in a professional and diplomatic manner.
The calm and collected way in which he dealt with in-house issues during the 2011 World Cup, when New Zealand stars Cory Lane and Israel Dagg broke curfew, should have been food for thought for the English after the negative their own impact off-field problems had on performances during the tournament.
Henry is also a great talent spotter and has a proven track record of turning lesser-known players into stars.
Much like the great Sir Clive Woodward, the New Zealander is also an astute technician who is not too stubborn to learn from his own mistakes, as evidenced by the respective performances by the All Blacks in the 2007 and 2011 World Cups.
That Henry has been snapped up by Argentina is a real shame for England, particularly when you consider that he'd expressed an interest in a role at Twickenham, but if the RFU have any sense then they'll be monitoring the 65-year-old's situation in Argentina very closely indeed.
But while it is who will fill the top position around which most speculation has mounted, there are other roles within the coaching hierarchy that are also vital. Those following the best rugby union betting need to remember this.
One man who would have done an excellent job as part of a new England coaching team is former New Zealand boss Graham Henry.
Henry went on record last year to say that he'd welcome an approach from the RFU, and it is staggering that they didn't take him up on his offer.
Recently he has been appointed to an advisory role by the Argentinian RU, and the South American nation's gain is definitely England's loss, for Henry would bring so much to any national set-up.
The former All-Blacks supremo has a winning mentality and is always striving to go bigger and better, even after tasting success.
He isn't somebody who'll let loyalties cloud his judgement and aims to select players based on their form, not reputation.
Henry is also a tough disciplinarian, but knows how to handle potentially volatile situations in a professional and diplomatic manner.
The calm and collected way in which he dealt with in-house issues during the 2011 World Cup, when New Zealand stars Cory Lane and Israel Dagg broke curfew, should have been food for thought for the English after the negative their own impact off-field problems had on performances during the tournament.
Henry is also a great talent spotter and has a proven track record of turning lesser-known players into stars.
Much like the great Sir Clive Woodward, the New Zealander is also an astute technician who is not too stubborn to learn from his own mistakes, as evidenced by the respective performances by the All Blacks in the 2007 and 2011 World Cups.
That Henry has been snapped up by Argentina is a real shame for England, particularly when you consider that he'd expressed an interest in a role at Twickenham, but if the RFU have any sense then they'll be monitoring the 65-year-old's situation in Argentina very closely indeed.
Saturday, March 17, 2012
Kenya Cup Results 170312
Quins 38 Nakuru 14 KCB 28 Mwamba 17 Homeboyz 28 Stratmore 22 Machine
12 Nondies 24 Kisumu 11 Impala 20
12 Nondies 24 Kisumu 11 Impala 20
Friday, March 16, 2012
Weekend Games
As the league is quickly winding down, teams are asking each other questions of the themselves. And in this last bend the league winners will rise to the top of the table and stay there. The top billed match of the weekend has leaders Harlequins hosting second placed Nakuru at RFUEA grounds, Mean Machine await Nondiescripts at UON grounds, Impala travel to the lakeside city to face Kisumu, Strathmore host Homeboyz and Mwamba cross town to face KCB in Ruaraka.
I was way out last week, let's try again. Quins over Nakuru by 5, Nondies over Machine by 10, Impala with a bonus point victory over Kisumu, Strathmore the same over Homeboyz and I'll give Mwamba over KCB by 3.
Do have a good weekend and do enjoy your rugby.
S.
I was way out last week, let's try again. Quins over Nakuru by 5, Nondies over Machine by 10, Impala with a bonus point victory over Kisumu, Strathmore the same over Homeboyz and I'll give Mwamba over KCB by 3.
Do have a good weekend and do enjoy your rugby.
S.
Kenya 7's to Hong Kong Named
The team will be:-
Collins Injera
Ben Nyambu
David Ambunya
Dennis Ombachi
Felix Ayange
Horace Otieno
Leon Adongo
Humphrey Kayange
Oscar Ouma
Nato Simiyu
Peter Ocholla
William Ambaka
All the best lads..
Collins Injera
Ben Nyambu
David Ambunya
Dennis Ombachi
Felix Ayange
Horace Otieno
Leon Adongo
Humphrey Kayange
Oscar Ouma
Nato Simiyu
Peter Ocholla
William Ambaka
All the best lads..
Tuesday, March 13, 2012
Wales close in on Grand Slam
Wales are one win away from a third Six Nations Grand Slam in eight years after defeating stubborn Italy 24-3 in Cardiff.
Wales went into half-time with a slender 9-3 lead courtesy of three Leigh Halfpenny penalties. Jamie Roberts calmed Welsh nerves with a long-range try early in the second half, before Alex Cuthbert added gloss on the scoreline late on.
Warren Gatland’s side started brightly at the Millennium Stadium but were left frustrated by Italy’s determined defensive line. Halfpenny and Mirco Bergamasco exchanged penalties as the Azzurri settled into the match.
Despite Italy’s resilience, Wales were doing most of the running and Halfpenny kicked two further penalties before the break. Those following the latest rugby betting odds will have been impressed.
Wales effectively made the game safe ten minutes into the second half when they turned the ball over deep inside their own half and launched an incisive counter attack. Roberts received the ball just inside his own half, stepped between two Italian defenders and raced clear to finish under the posts.
Halfpenny converted the try but his afternoon turned sour soon after when he was sent to the sin bin following a clumsy challenge on Italy captain Sergio Parisse.
Italy enjoyed a spell of possession as they searched for a way back into the contest. Unfortunately for the visitors, they failed to make their man advantage count and Rhys Priestland extended Wales’ lead to 16 points with a penalty. Fans of the Heineken Cup odds will have been impressed by his efforts.
Roberts was denied a second try when Rhys Webb was penalised for blocking. But Wales weren’t to be denied three minutes from time. Cuthbert showed speed and strength to finish in the corner after quick thinking by Gethin Jenkins.
Wales will secure the Grand Slam and Six Nations title with victory over France in Cardiff on Saturday, while Italy face a Wooden Spoon clash against Scotland in Rome.
Wales went into half-time with a slender 9-3 lead courtesy of three Leigh Halfpenny penalties. Jamie Roberts calmed Welsh nerves with a long-range try early in the second half, before Alex Cuthbert added gloss on the scoreline late on.
Warren Gatland’s side started brightly at the Millennium Stadium but were left frustrated by Italy’s determined defensive line. Halfpenny and Mirco Bergamasco exchanged penalties as the Azzurri settled into the match.
Despite Italy’s resilience, Wales were doing most of the running and Halfpenny kicked two further penalties before the break. Those following the latest rugby betting odds will have been impressed.
Wales effectively made the game safe ten minutes into the second half when they turned the ball over deep inside their own half and launched an incisive counter attack. Roberts received the ball just inside his own half, stepped between two Italian defenders and raced clear to finish under the posts.
Halfpenny converted the try but his afternoon turned sour soon after when he was sent to the sin bin following a clumsy challenge on Italy captain Sergio Parisse.
Italy enjoyed a spell of possession as they searched for a way back into the contest. Unfortunately for the visitors, they failed to make their man advantage count and Rhys Priestland extended Wales’ lead to 16 points with a penalty. Fans of the Heineken Cup odds will have been impressed by his efforts.
Roberts was denied a second try when Rhys Webb was penalised for blocking. But Wales weren’t to be denied three minutes from time. Cuthbert showed speed and strength to finish in the corner after quick thinking by Gethin Jenkins.
Wales will secure the Grand Slam and Six Nations title with victory over France in Cardiff on Saturday, while Italy face a Wooden Spoon clash against Scotland in Rome.
Saturday, March 10, 2012
Kenya Cup Results: 1003112
Quins 32 Nondies 17 Impala 25 Mwamba 26 Homeboyz 50 Kisumu 10 Nakuru 8 KCB 3 Strathmore 24 Machine 5
Weekend Games
Late at this, but here goes. Strathmore host Mean Machine at Impala, KCB travel to face Nakuru, Mwamba fight it out with Impala at RFUEA grounds, Nondies await Quins at Jamhuri Park and Homeboyz play host to Kisumu.
My calls, Strathmore over Machine by 8 points, Nakuru over KCB by 10 points, Mwamba over Impala by 12 points, Quins over Nondies by 8 and shock of all, Kisumu over Homeboyz by 3.
Enjoy your weekend.
My calls, Strathmore over Machine by 8 points, Nakuru over KCB by 10 points, Mwamba over Impala by 12 points, Quins over Nondies by 8 and shock of all, Kisumu over Homeboyz by 3.
Enjoy your weekend.
Friday, March 9, 2012
Dupuy to clinch France chance
France scrum-half Julien Dupuy is determined to grasp his opportunity with both hands after he was recalled to the team to face England in Paris on Sunday.
The 28-year-old fell out of favour under Marc Lievremont after the former coach described Dupuy as being too carefree in his approach. The Stade Francais star is keen to prove Lievremont wrong. Those looking at the Six Nations 2012 betting need to bear this in mind.
"That annoyed me at the time. There is a difference between being not stressed and being nonchalant. When someone says that I don't care about anything, that is simply not true," said Dupuy.
"I don't show it but that is not to say I am not thinking and that I am not taking in what is going on in terms of strategy during the match."
Dupuy won the last of his seven caps in November 2009 and will return to the side alongside former club team-mate Lionel Beauxis.
Dupuy and Beauxis formed the half-back pairing at Stade Francais between 2009 and 2011 and have been reunited at international level after Morgan Parra and Francois Trinh Duc failed to fire in the draw against Ireland. Fans of the rugby betting odds should remember this.
Beauxis, too, has been out of favour in recent years and starts a game for the first time since 2009. The 26-year-old ended the 2007 World Cup as France's first-choice fly-half and will be keen to make the number ten position his own again when he lines up against England.
Les Bleus must win at the Stade de France to set up a Six Nations title decider against Grand Slam hopefuls Wales on March 17.
Beauxis and Dupuy have a point to prove this weekend and what better way to do that than against bitter rivals England.
The 28-year-old fell out of favour under Marc Lievremont after the former coach described Dupuy as being too carefree in his approach. The Stade Francais star is keen to prove Lievremont wrong. Those looking at the Six Nations 2012 betting need to bear this in mind.
"That annoyed me at the time. There is a difference between being not stressed and being nonchalant. When someone says that I don't care about anything, that is simply not true," said Dupuy.
"I don't show it but that is not to say I am not thinking and that I am not taking in what is going on in terms of strategy during the match."
Dupuy won the last of his seven caps in November 2009 and will return to the side alongside former club team-mate Lionel Beauxis.
Dupuy and Beauxis formed the half-back pairing at Stade Francais between 2009 and 2011 and have been reunited at international level after Morgan Parra and Francois Trinh Duc failed to fire in the draw against Ireland. Fans of the rugby betting odds should remember this.
Beauxis, too, has been out of favour in recent years and starts a game for the first time since 2009. The 26-year-old ended the 2007 World Cup as France's first-choice fly-half and will be keen to make the number ten position his own again when he lines up against England.
Les Bleus must win at the Stade de France to set up a Six Nations title decider against Grand Slam hopefuls Wales on March 17.
Beauxis and Dupuy have a point to prove this weekend and what better way to do that than against bitter rivals England.
Thursday, March 8, 2012
Scotland's white line fever
Three tries in three Six Nations matches suggests that Scotland’s capabilities near the try line have not been up where they should be, but what are the underlying factors?
Many say that it is down to the players’ own attacking shortcomings, but should coach Andy Robinson also shoulder some of the responsibility, as well as his attack coach - and veteran of 80 caps - Gregor Townsend?
The continued selection of Dan Parks at number 10 has frustrated many, who believe he lacks the creative spark needed to carve open a try-scoring opportunity.
And, though that lack of creativity isn’t replicated elsewhere on the park, some reckon that the players on board who are capable of scoring points are not being used correctly.
Prolific Glasgow Warriors try-scorer Sean Lamont, for example, has been utilised during the Six Nations as a crash centre, which many believe blunts his impact on the international stage.
Another less tangible factor is confidence, and it doesn’t appear that Scotland have much of it at the moment. Those looking at the 2012 Six Nations betting should remember this.
And if you were to take away even the most gifted of attacking teams’ confidence - the All Blacks in their pomp - they’d struggle to get over that whitewash.
But, while it is more difficult to quantify, confidence surely comes from the top, and perhaps it is Robinson and the rest of his staff whose methods must again come into question.
Of course there are many who place the blame squarely on the shoulders of the players, but isn't it is the job of the coaching staff to fill their men with confidence, and send their play-makers out on the field with attacking blueprints stuffed up both shirt sleeves.
More pertinently, should all of this be enough to force the SRU to reshuffle their coaching hierarchy? Well, that’s another debate entirely, and probably one best saved until after the Six Nations dust has settled in just under two weeks time.
The Scots have trips to face Ireland and Italy still ahead, so there is time yet for them to prove the doubters wrong.
The Irish and the Italians have both leaked plenty of points already this this year, so it’s the perfect opportunity.
Many say that it is down to the players’ own attacking shortcomings, but should coach Andy Robinson also shoulder some of the responsibility, as well as his attack coach - and veteran of 80 caps - Gregor Townsend?
The continued selection of Dan Parks at number 10 has frustrated many, who believe he lacks the creative spark needed to carve open a try-scoring opportunity.
And, though that lack of creativity isn’t replicated elsewhere on the park, some reckon that the players on board who are capable of scoring points are not being used correctly.
Prolific Glasgow Warriors try-scorer Sean Lamont, for example, has been utilised during the Six Nations as a crash centre, which many believe blunts his impact on the international stage.
Another less tangible factor is confidence, and it doesn’t appear that Scotland have much of it at the moment. Those looking at the 2012 Six Nations betting should remember this.
And if you were to take away even the most gifted of attacking teams’ confidence - the All Blacks in their pomp - they’d struggle to get over that whitewash.
But, while it is more difficult to quantify, confidence surely comes from the top, and perhaps it is Robinson and the rest of his staff whose methods must again come into question.
Of course there are many who place the blame squarely on the shoulders of the players, but isn't it is the job of the coaching staff to fill their men with confidence, and send their play-makers out on the field with attacking blueprints stuffed up both shirt sleeves.
More pertinently, should all of this be enough to force the SRU to reshuffle their coaching hierarchy? Well, that’s another debate entirely, and probably one best saved until after the Six Nations dust has settled in just under two weeks time.
The Scots have trips to face Ireland and Italy still ahead, so there is time yet for them to prove the doubters wrong.
The Irish and the Italians have both leaked plenty of points already this this year, so it’s the perfect opportunity.
England give youth a chance
Harlequins scrum-half Karl Dickson and Wasps lock Joe Launchbury have joined up with the England squad ahead of Sunday's Six Nations clash with France in Paris.
Dickson, whose brother Lee started at scrum-half in the 19-12 defeat to Wales, has been called up as cover for Joe Simpson.
Launchbury will provide cover for Courtney Lawes, who is struggling with a shin problem. Those following the England Six Nations betting will be pleased to see youth being given a chance.
Neither player is expected to feature in the squad to face France but England coach Stuart Lancaster believes the inexperienced pair will improve from being around the set-up.
"We did it with Chris Brooker last weekend. It is all about the long-term evolution of the England team," Lancaster said.
Ben Youngs is likely to remain on the bench for the game at the Stade de France with Lee Dickson expected to retain his place in the starting line-up.
Youngs, who impressed for Leicester Tigers last weekend, has received the backing of Lancaster.
"We've never lost any faith in Ben. He is a great young player and we are fortunate that we have some competition in the position," Lancaster added.
Lancaster is not short of options at fly-half either. Owen Farrell is likely to start at number ten despite Charlie Hodgson's return from injury, while Toby Flood is also vying for a starting berth. Users of Betfair will be keeping a close eye on the selection.
Scott Williams ended England's Grand Slam hopes at Twickenham but Lancaster was encouraged by his team's performance in defeat and expects a further improvement in Paris.
"The irony is we played some of our best rugby and lost. The trick now is to build again and get ready for France," Lancaster said.
A repeat of their 2008 victory in the French capital would keep England's slim Six Nations title hopes alive.
Dickson, whose brother Lee started at scrum-half in the 19-12 defeat to Wales, has been called up as cover for Joe Simpson.
Launchbury will provide cover for Courtney Lawes, who is struggling with a shin problem. Those following the England Six Nations betting will be pleased to see youth being given a chance.
Neither player is expected to feature in the squad to face France but England coach Stuart Lancaster believes the inexperienced pair will improve from being around the set-up.
"We did it with Chris Brooker last weekend. It is all about the long-term evolution of the England team," Lancaster said.
Ben Youngs is likely to remain on the bench for the game at the Stade de France with Lee Dickson expected to retain his place in the starting line-up.
Youngs, who impressed for Leicester Tigers last weekend, has received the backing of Lancaster.
"We've never lost any faith in Ben. He is a great young player and we are fortunate that we have some competition in the position," Lancaster added.
Lancaster is not short of options at fly-half either. Owen Farrell is likely to start at number ten despite Charlie Hodgson's return from injury, while Toby Flood is also vying for a starting berth. Users of Betfair will be keeping a close eye on the selection.
Scott Williams ended England's Grand Slam hopes at Twickenham but Lancaster was encouraged by his team's performance in defeat and expects a further improvement in Paris.
"The irony is we played some of our best rugby and lost. The trick now is to build again and get ready for France," Lancaster said.
A repeat of their 2008 victory in the French capital would keep England's slim Six Nations title hopes alive.
Tuesday, March 6, 2012
Wales 'need to send a message'
Wales captain Sam Warburton has called on his side to send out a strong message to France ahead of a potential Six Nations decider on March 17.
A win for Wales against Italy this weekend coupled with a French victory over England would set up a crucial clash on the final weekend of the championship.
Ireland may have ended France's Grand Slam hopes with a 17-17 draw in Paris but Les Bleus could still lift the title with back-to-back victories. Those looking at the Wales Six Nations betting should remember this.
Warburton has urged his side to be ruthless against Italy to show they are "not messing around".
"A good impressive win over the Italians and trying to get some negative thoughts in their mind coming to Cardiff means a ruthless performance against the Italians would be good," said Warburton.
Wales have had a blistering start to their Six Nations campaign – earning impressive victories in Ireland and England either side of a comfortable win over Scotland in Cardiff.
A win against Italy, who have never beaten Wales at the Millennium Stadium, would take Warren Gatland's men to within one game of a third Grand Slam in eight years.
Warburton has warned against complacency and expects a tough battle against a spirited Italian side. People Betting on Rugby Union need to bear this in mind.
"When I have played against Italy, even though it might look comfortable from a spectator's point of view, you still have to work really hard on the pitch," added Warburton.
"You really have to try to break them down. If you go out a bit complacent and they get their tails up - they beat France last season, remember - they have that performance in them.
Wales have an immediate opportunity to put their World Cup disappointment behind them and seem determined to right the wrongs of New Zealand.
A win for Wales against Italy this weekend coupled with a French victory over England would set up a crucial clash on the final weekend of the championship.
Ireland may have ended France's Grand Slam hopes with a 17-17 draw in Paris but Les Bleus could still lift the title with back-to-back victories. Those looking at the Wales Six Nations betting should remember this.
Warburton has urged his side to be ruthless against Italy to show they are "not messing around".
"A good impressive win over the Italians and trying to get some negative thoughts in their mind coming to Cardiff means a ruthless performance against the Italians would be good," said Warburton.
Wales have had a blistering start to their Six Nations campaign – earning impressive victories in Ireland and England either side of a comfortable win over Scotland in Cardiff.
A win against Italy, who have never beaten Wales at the Millennium Stadium, would take Warren Gatland's men to within one game of a third Grand Slam in eight years.
Warburton has warned against complacency and expects a tough battle against a spirited Italian side. People Betting on Rugby Union need to bear this in mind.
"When I have played against Italy, even though it might look comfortable from a spectator's point of view, you still have to work really hard on the pitch," added Warburton.
"You really have to try to break them down. If you go out a bit complacent and they get their tails up - they beat France last season, remember - they have that performance in them.
Wales have an immediate opportunity to put their World Cup disappointment behind them and seem determined to right the wrongs of New Zealand.
Saturday, March 3, 2012
Kenya Cup Results 030312
Nakuru 29 Impala 14 Quins 25 Strathmore 22 Machine 12 Homeboyz 3 Mwamba 65 Kisumu 10 Nondies 24 KCB 34
Friday, March 2, 2012
Weekend Games
Kenya Cup action continues this weekend with 5 matches on the cards. The top billing has Strathmore host Quins in a return match after the first game only 2 days ago. Nakuru are at home to Impala, KCB cross the city to meet Nodescripts, whilst Mwamba are at home to Kisumu. The last match sees Homeboyz host Machine.
My calls are Quins doing the double on Strathmore, but this time with only 3 points. Nakuru over Impala by 12, KCB over Nondies by 10 and Mwamba with the bonus point win over Kisumu. Machine will pip Homeboyz by 8 points.
Do have a good weekend.
My calls are Quins doing the double on Strathmore, but this time with only 3 points. Nakuru over Impala by 12, KCB over Nondies by 10 and Mwamba with the bonus point win over Kisumu. Machine will pip Homeboyz by 8 points.
Do have a good weekend.
Lancaster gets England job backing
England interim coach Stuart Lancaster has received praise from a former boss after an encouraging start to the Six Nations.
England’s new-look side have exceeded expectations in this year’s championship, despite an agonising 19-12 defeat at the hands of Wales.
Ashton, who coached England between 2006 and 2008, believes Lancaster has staked his claim for the job on a permanent basis. Fans of the Betfair 6 nations championship will know he has done very well.
"He's made a very impressive impact on the England squad," said Ashton.
"Could anyone have done a better job in these three weeks than Stuart's done? He's done almost everything everyone asked of him."
Former England Saxons coach Lancaster stepped into the breach left by Martin Johnson after he quit in November following a disappointing World Cup campaign in New Zealand.
It has been a case of out with the old and in with the new during the 2012 Six Nations, with eight players making their international debuts and Chris Robshaw leading the side for the first time.
England handed Lancaster a winning start with hard-fought victories in Scotland and Italy before coming up just short against a strong Wales side.
Ashton has been impressed with the way the 42-year-old has handled a difficult situation.
"He's been put in a very unfortunate position. To have an interim coach job for five games must be incredibly difficult," said Ashton
"But England have shown a lot of progress. They won two banana skin games away from home and almost beat what was a pretty rampant Wales team before Saturday."
The defeat to Wales has left England with an uphill struggle in their bid to retain their Six Nations crown. They must beat Ireland and France and hope others slip up. Those looking at the Heineken Cup Betting odds will know this.
Lancaster has two more games to convince the RFU he is the right man for the job.
England’s new-look side have exceeded expectations in this year’s championship, despite an agonising 19-12 defeat at the hands of Wales.
Ashton, who coached England between 2006 and 2008, believes Lancaster has staked his claim for the job on a permanent basis. Fans of the Betfair 6 nations championship will know he has done very well.
"He's made a very impressive impact on the England squad," said Ashton.
"Could anyone have done a better job in these three weeks than Stuart's done? He's done almost everything everyone asked of him."
Former England Saxons coach Lancaster stepped into the breach left by Martin Johnson after he quit in November following a disappointing World Cup campaign in New Zealand.
It has been a case of out with the old and in with the new during the 2012 Six Nations, with eight players making their international debuts and Chris Robshaw leading the side for the first time.
England handed Lancaster a winning start with hard-fought victories in Scotland and Italy before coming up just short against a strong Wales side.
Ashton has been impressed with the way the 42-year-old has handled a difficult situation.
"He's been put in a very unfortunate position. To have an interim coach job for five games must be incredibly difficult," said Ashton
"But England have shown a lot of progress. They won two banana skin games away from home and almost beat what was a pretty rampant Wales team before Saturday."
The defeat to Wales has left England with an uphill struggle in their bid to retain their Six Nations crown. They must beat Ireland and France and hope others slip up. Those looking at the Heineken Cup Betting odds will know this.
Lancaster has two more games to convince the RFU he is the right man for the job.
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