SARACENS SAGA: THE FINAL WORD

RUGBY WORLD CUP 2019: TOURNAMENT REVIEW AND JAPAN INSIGHT

Final thoughts and ranting on everything Japan RWC 2019, with help of special OATH roving reporters, Alan Doyle and Mark Evans, who gave us their unique insight into the country and its people from their recent time there. This is our longest podcast yet, at a Supper's Ready length of 40 minutes (look it up young people), and apologies for rubbish editing (we mysteriously lost 2 minutes of content). We do all this in just one take, no posh editing suite, until you send us some cash ;)

I just called to say how much I care...

It has been a privilege and pleasure over the last few weeks for Blake & Buckle to broadcast our rugby love to the globe, and we will be back for the Six Nations in a couple of months time. 

Arigatōgozaimashita

RUGBY WORLD CUP 2019: FINAL POST MORTEM

Apologies for delay, software issues. Congrats to SA again, well deserved victory!

Come back Friday for a final audio reviewing the whole tournament, and the chance to hear what Japan was like from a couple of roving reporters who were actually there.

 

   

   

If using your mobile phone and cannot see audio file, access the web version and download the MP3 file. Thank you.

WELL DONE SOUTH AFRICA

Chariot derailed at last hurdle.  England beaten by better team, but rugby was the winner. New audio to be recorded Monday.

RUGBY WORLD CUP 2019: FINAL PREVIEW

If using your mobile phone and cannot see audio file, access the web version and download the MP3 file. Thank you.

The 2007 try that never was ... will we see your like again?

RUGBY WORLD CUP 2019: SEMI FINAL PREVIEW UPDATE - SQUADS

If using your mobile phone and cannot see audio file, access the web version and download the MP3 file. Thank you

It's coming home...

RUGBY WORLD CUP 2019: SEMI FINAL PREVIEW AUDIO

If using your mobile phone and cannot see audio file, access the web version and download the MP3 file. Thank you

Buckle and Blake Marlow v Chinnor 1873

WHAT A QF WEEKEND

Well done to England and New Zealand for dominating their inferior opposition, and what a semi final in prospect next Saturday.

South Africa v Japan was one of the most physical contests I have ever witnessed, and credit to SA's defensive discipline for denying the free scoring Japanese.

And what was going through the mind of that French lock in that maul? I mean why? And, yes, the Welsh are the best ever at winning ugly, and although that rip at the end seemed forward, this is apparently allowed under the laws. However, surely Tipuric was in front of the ball when he caught it so he should have been penalised for offside, and thus the final try should not have been allowed. 

The French John Wick

But Le French only have themselves to blame (again), missing two kicks and playing with 14 men for 30 minutes. South Africa v Wales will another enthralling, attritional contest next Sunday.

We will endeavour to record another audio file midweek, reviewing all four games in more detail, and previewing the the two semi's. Thanks for listening so far, and for those who shared on social.

IRELAND V NEW ZEALAND QF MATCH PREVIEW

If using your mobile phone and cannot see audio file, access the web version and download the MP3 file. Thank you

WALES V FRANCE QF MATCH PREVIEW

If using your mobile phone and cannot see audio file, access the web version and download the MP3 file. Thank you

JAPAN V SOUTH AFRICA QF MATCH PREVIEW

If using your mobile phone and cannot see audio file, access the web version and download the MP3 file. Thank you

RWC 2019 QUARTER FINAL PREDICTIONS

If using your mobile phone and cannot see audio file, access the web version and download the MP3 file. Thank you

ENGLAND V AUSTRALIA QF MATCH PREVIEW

If using your mobile phone and cannot see audio file, access the web version and download the MP3 file. Thank you

JAPAN: A COACHING MASTERCLASS

Anyone who has coached rugby at any level was simply in awe of the Japanese team yesterday against the Scots. Their ability to create space and get the ball at lightning speed to that space was awesome. Their footwork before contact, resulting in arm not shoulder tackles, allowing them to get over the gainline was awesome. Their running lines at space and support on the shoulder to receive offloads was awesome.

Japanese attacking space not the face

Their ability to frequently create the tightest of overlaps out wide and exploit them was awesome. The speed of ball and constant retention to build pressure was awesome. Their tackling was awesome, especially in the second half, offensive, with shoulders not arms, and sometimes in pairs, legally, one resulting in a try from a rip. Their hand catch, accuracy and fitness in the humid conditions was awesome. The subs off the bench were awesome, etc, etc

They look well coached, but not overcoached and are certainly capable of playing what's in front of them, and in Fukoka, they had the man of the match, and probably one of the players of the tournament so far, even though he has only played a couple of games. Fukoka is certainly the quickest player, along with Kolbe of SA, and his pace contributed to three of the tries yesterday. And apparently he is set to retire after the RWC to become a doctor!

Fukoka - set to retire to become a doctor

A DAY TO REMEMBER

Well done to World Rugby and the people of Japan who helped make the Scotland game happen today - it was a very special occasion, both for Japan, who were stunning in attack and defence, and also, for the game itself. Hopefully some of the 60m who watched it will get involved in the sport. Credit to Scotland for scoring three tries and for contributing to a marvellous contest, but not even a team of superheroes would have denied the hosts today. South Africa await in the QF, quite a prospect.

JAPAN WE SALUTE YOU

This post does not involve talking about the weather (hurrah) or even me bleating on about a conspiracy to deny Scotland a QF place at the expense of the hosts. It simply celebrates the amazing people of Japan, who have welcomed fans of all nationalities with open arms.

OATH is fortunate to have a roving reporter in Alan "Doylie" Doyle out in Tokyo, Shizuoka and Yokohama (at his expense) to experience the hospitality first hand.

He are his thoughts:

"The Japanese people are illuminating this tournament. Today's memories include an amazing high school swing band in the fan park who reduced 1000 steaming Scots to mesmerised respectful silence through sheer quality of performance and great use of humour, the fans who turn up in the full kit of their adopted team with anthem pre memorised (Flower Of Scotland has only been heard louder at Murrayfield), the dozens of people who shyly stopped us for photographs in our kilts, the multiple people who went out of their way to congratulate us on our win when we were out in Hamamatsu celebrating and finally the group of salarymen who latched onto our celebration, bought us dinner and drinks and paid for our taxi home! As Father Ted would have put it "The Japanese. A grand bunch of lads"

THE SMUG, THE ARROGANT AND THE UPSET

The fallout from Typhoon 19 continues, and it has not even arrived yet. First, let me put it out there, rugby is unimportant compared to public safety, so yes games at risk should not be played. Second, may I also point out that, as there was the risk of typhoons affecting matches, surely World Rugby should have made some contingency plans, even agreeing to play games behind closed doors. Those in business will know that the boss always likes solutions better than just problems.

Everyone looks at impact of events like this through a different lens, and, also, at times of crisis, people reveal their true colours. Eddie Jones, England's pompous coach, is full of the joys of spring, as having won the group (by default), not only do his team now face Australia not Wales (the stronger team in ranking and form), he also gets to return the England squad back to the Japanese "Isle of Wight", where he almost bought a house, for over a week's worth of rest & recuperation, allowing some of his best players (Billy, Owen, Jack) to get fit for the QF. Not content with this turn of a friendly card, SMUG Eddie, feels he needs to make the observation that Scotland and Italy should have played better, and accumulated more points by this stage, so then wouldn't need to win their last game. And that every team should have been prepared for typhoons - well, I wish he had told World Rugby that before the tournament. But of course, looking at it through the England lens, Eddie would say that, despite the fact that they have huffed and puffed their way passed Tonga, USA and 14 man Argentina, whereas Scotland and Italy have had to play Top 4 teams in Ireland and South Africa respectively.

Is that Scotch mist I can feel?

Steve Hansen, the most miserable man on the planet, also waded into the debate, and (through the Kiwi lens) pointed out that cancelling their game was such an easy decision that even Trump would have made it. He hardly spared a thought for the Italians (Tier 2 nation) who could have still qualified for the QF at NZ's expense, had they beaten them without conceding a losing point. But of course ARROGANT Steve never even considered that a possibility, despite the fact that NZ conceded over 50 points to an average Australian team a few months ago. So you have to admire Sergio Parisse, the Italian legend (who being high on emotion having missed out on his RWC farewell) declared that if the shoe was on the other foot, and cancelling the game resulted in NZ being knocked out before the QF's then a different decision might have been made.

Something we will not see again this RWC

And also spare a thought for VERY UPSET Italy hooker Leonardo Ghiraldini, who broke down in tears after learning he would not be playing in what would have been a farewell match for his country. He has spent six months rehabbing after injuring himself in the last game of the Six Nations, and spent months and time away from his family doing so. He just missed out on selection for the game against Canada and South Africa, but was set to play this weekend - not the way to end a 14 year career.

Anyway, we await the decision on Japan v Scotland, which, due to the England and New Zealand cancelled match precedents cannot be postponed and replayed. My gut tells me that weather will prevail and Scotland will suffer the same fate as Italy, and I will not get the chance to wear my kilt one last time at RWC 2019.

RED CARDS WILL HAVE AN IMPACT IN QUARTER FINALS

So far, the only red cards issued in RWC 2019 have been issued to Tier 2 nations, plus Argentina, who sit outside Top 10 world rankings. No Tier 1 nation has yet suffered this fate, but if refs are consistent (yeah right), then a red card for a high, late or illegal tackle will be issued to a team in the Quarter Finals, which, more than likely, will impact the outcome of the game.

Can you imagine a Kiwi receiving a red card in their QF, resulting in an historic Japan victory? Can you imagine Owen Farrell being red carded for yet another illegal shoulder charge on that poor Aussie (that he previously floored in Autumn 2018), resulting in an English exit?

Owen Farrell prevents an Oz try with illegal no arms tackle

How will RWC cope with the inevitable onslaught of criticism against the referee? How will English, Kiwi or South African commentators like Matt Dawson react, who have previously applauded such refereeing decisions, if the decision (probably not clear cut) results in their team heading home?

It will be fascinating...

TYPHOON HAGIBIS WREAKS HAVOC BEFORE ITS ARRIVAL

England v France and New Zealand v Italy both cancelled this weekend due to predicted arrival of Hagibis. Safety obviously comes first, but you do feel sorry for fans of Italy, who will not see their team compete against the mighty AB's, and especially France, who, had they beaten England, could still have topped the group and avoided battle hardened Wales in the QF's. Plus, you also have to feel for all those fans from the affected nations who may have splashed out four figures for a £100 ticket, and will only receive a face value refund.

Let's hope Hagibis is through by Sunday, inflicting little damage, so Japan v Scotland game is played. If Ireland win with a bonus point v Samoa on Saturday, and Japan game is cancelled, then as everyone knows by now, Scotland will not qualify for QF's with Japan going through to play their first ever QF (against NZ). Four more years of bitterness and conspiracy theories for the poor Scots, who still feel aggrieved at being cheated out of a RWC 2015 semi final by the Saffa ref. However, if Ireland lose to Samoa, and fail to pick up a losing bonus point, and the other game is cancelled, then the Irish will head home. Phew, exhausting stuff...

RWC 2019: WEEKEND #2 REVIEW

Wow, just wow, even a few days on, the events and impact of the second weekend of RWC 2019 has not dissipated. Japan, the hosts, turning over the no.2 team in the world, Ireland, and then, Wales sneaking past Australia, in a game played at the intensity of a QF. There were also wins for Tier 1 nations, Argentina, South Africa and Scotland, over Tier 2 counterparts, with the Scots only securing that valuable bonus point in last five minutes of their match with Samoa. Georgia also edged Uruguay, who could not replicate the passion and accuracy they demonstrated previously over Fiji.

Kerevi was penalised for using ball to fend a defender

Australia complained about persistent Welsh offside, and did concede (yet another) Gareth Davies intercept try, but Will Genia (like Ben Youngs) does take an age to distribute the ball at 9 once he has picked it up off the floor. They were also penalised for leading with the arm, when Samu Kerevi used ball/arm to fend off a wrap tackle from Rhys Patchell, who the Aussies complained was guilty of poor tackle technique. This one will run and run. I have sympathy with Australia, as the tackler has been ordered by World Rugby to go lower, but defences are reluctant to do so, risking injury to minimise the chance of an offload and easy yards over the gainline.

Japan show Brighton was no fluke

Japan confounded their critics by demonstrating that for 75+ minutes they could be consistently accurate and resilient against a Tier 1 nation. Their intensity in the second half was staggering, as was their level of fitness in the humid, hot conditions. Scotland are capable of beating them, but will struggle to score four tries in the process, so will need to deny Japan a losing bonus point to squeeze through to QF by nature of winning the head to head contest. Whatever the mathematical permutation, it will be a cup final for the home nation.

WHO WILL ISSUE THE FIRST RED CARD?

Radio DJ's used to call it the hit parade, but it had nothing to do with the game of rugby ... until now. World Rugby sent out a clear message prior to the start of RWC 2019 in Japan that it would clamp down hard on illegal "hits" - high, no arms tackles - and that referees would be encouraged to issue a straight red if warranted. Well that has worked out well ... for some reason ever since the Australian Hodge's shoulder to the head assault on the Fiji back rower (no card, later cited), all RWC referees seem reluctant to issue the ketchup (red card) preferring the mustard (yellow card).

The hit parade is on a roll .. whether it is England v Tonga with Zane Kapeli’s big hit on Billy Vunipola which achieved the rare feat of knocking the No.8 backwards. The tackle was actually illegal and should have been penalised as Kapeli made the tackle with his shoulder while keeping his right arm tucked by his side. 

Or, how about the Russia v Samoa match, where twice in the space of a few minutes during the first half, Samoan players Rey Lee-lo and Motu Matu’u made the kind of hits that were clear ketchup offences. Not only were the tackles to the head, they were forceful and the tackler did not properly wraps his arms around his opponent, who in both cases, was the Russia captain Vasily Artemyev. 

The referee after consulting the TMO downgraded the offence to mustard only as they thought the player had lowered his head (complete b*****). Funny enough both players have been cited. Later in the same match Russia’s Kirill Gotovtsev grabbed Samoa’s Afaesetiti Amosa around the neck in an attempt to stop a certain try. The tackler wrenched Amosa’s head violently to one side causing a hyper extension of his right leg which led to a tournament ending knee injury. Again, mustard was shown not ketchup.

How strange that football, a much less dangerous game than rugby, should be far better at protecting the most skilful players. Still, there is time, with five weeks remaining of the tournament, for the referees to wake up and start throwing the ketchup about.

RWC 2019: WEEKEND #1 REVIEW

So what did we learn about each team during the opening weekend of RWC 2019 in Japan?

In terms of Tier 1 clashes, New Zealand edged a titanic tussle with South Africa, France likewise against Argentina, whereas Ireland dominated a poor Scotland team, and Australia finally stretched away from a impressive Fiji. In the other games, England scored four tries, getting the bonus point against Tonga but have room to improve, Wales likewise against Georgia and Japan and Italy finally stretched away from a dogged Russia and Namibia respectively.

England's Samoan scored two tries against fellow Pacific Islanders

There was plenty of controversy involving referees and their application of the laws (or lack of). Reece Hodge somehow stayed on the pitch after his his high no arms shoulder charge on Yato, Fiji's best player, who did leave the field permanently (after failing an HIA). Hodge has since been cited (quelle surprise). South Africa were so incensed with the French referee's refusal to penalise NZ for persistently dropping scrums, clearing out rucks from the side, off their feet with no use of arms, that they made a nice video to show everyone. 

The Kiwis have been masters of the dark arts for years, and were very smart and clinical at the weekend. Yes, they cheat, but they do it better than anyone else - Richie McCaw's middle name was "lazy rolling away".

So it's award time, who got what?

Team super heroes: Fiji, Tonga, NZ (they are still the best) and France (for making the QF's despite everyone writing them off).

Team rubbish: Scotland, especially the forwards, and that Japan game (without Hamish Watson) now looks tight...

Ali Price thinking about that foot injury that will keep him out of rest of tournament for Scotland

Individual gold stars: Jordan Larmour (Ireland), James Ryan (Ireland), Damian Penaud (France), Antoine Dupont (France), Manu Tuilagi (England), Marika Koraibete (Australia), Sevu Reece (New Zealand), Zane Kapeli (Tonga).

Games to look forward to next weekend:

Ireland v Japan (could decide the group winners now Scots are recovering from Culloden#2),
Australia v Wales (again the group decider unless Fiji can beat the Welsh like they did in 2007...),
Scotland (or what's left) v Samoa (which Scots need to win to keep QF hopes alive).

RWC 2019: AND SO IT BEGINS...

Wow, it is really here, the RWC 2019 kicks off in a few hours time with the hosts Japan taking on Russia. A nation expects, and it will take a very good Scotland performance to deny the hosts, the Brave Blossoms their first ever QF spot, where they will take on the might of New Zealand or South Africa. The Scotland game will be their cup final, and OATH will have their very own Alan "EJ" Doyle at the game to bring us a unique insight into the build up, the contest on the pitch and the post match festivities.

The most open RWC ever? I am not sure, the semi finalists four years ago were all from Southern Hemisphere, and that could happen again, although England have a good chance of getting that far this time at the expense of Argentina and Wales (who they will probably have to beat along the way). Ireland's chances of reaching their first ever semi-final appear to be receding by the day, especially as their form is poor, and they have key injuries to Henshaw and Kearney for the Scotland game this weekend (a must win for the Scots if they are to take the pressure off the Japan fixture).

France make a late replacement to their squad...

Wales can beat anyone with a fully fit XV, but, without Webb, Faletau and Anscombe do not have the strength in depth and quality to make it beyond the quarter finals. Unlike Ireland, South Africa are peaking at the right moment, and are my joint favourites with New Zealand, who will be unsurprisingly motivated to win three cups in a row. Australia will miss Skelton and Folau, but could still turnover Wales, and then lose to Fiji (who will beat a Tier 1 nation), but will not fear England in the QF's if it comes to pass. France are France, and will not make it out of the group, but we said that 8 years ago and they should have beaten the Kiwis in the final.

So, off the fence, who will make the QF's?
Well back in March of this year I predicted the following:

QF
England v Australia
New Zealand v Scotland 
Wales v France
Ireland v South Africa

I would now revise this to:

QF
England v Wales
South Africa v Ireland
Australia v Argentina
Scotland v New Zealand

Yes, England, Australia, Scotland and South Africa to win their respective pools.

SF
England v South Africa
Australia v New Zealand

F
New Zealand v South Africa (to win)

Very very excited, and to whet your appetite for what is to come, here is the official Japanese version of the infamous RWC theme song "World in Union" ... and so it begins

WORLD CUP WARM UPS

Off the horse for a while, but with a few Rugby Championship games already concluded, and World Cup squads soon to be announced, there is plenty to talk about.

2019 Rugby Championship results

·       20 July: South Africa 35 Australia 17

·       20 July: Argentina 16 New Zealand 20

·       27 July: New Zealand 16 South Africa 16 

·       27 July: Australia 16 Argentina 10

What have we learnt so far from the matches completed in the shortened Rugby Championship Well, it is clear that South Africa are peaking nicely, and will give anyone a run for their money, including the AB's in their group game. In fact, the Kiwi's are stuttering slightly, and without Beauden Barrett at 10, are not able to exploit organised defences at will like they used to - in fact Argentina should have beaten them (admittedly, NZ team not their strongest). Much is expected of Argentina, after their Super Rugby franchise's good showing this season - however, they do need to be more ruthless and take their opportunities. Australia, are still in a state of flux, having lost Folau, but will be pleased Lealiifano is back after battling leukaemia and showing form. How they compete against NZ this weekend will provide a better guide as to where they really are.

Lealiifano scored 11 points to help Oz overcome Argentina

2019 Rugby Championship fixtures

·       10 August: Australia vs. New Zealand (10.45am; Optus Stadium, Perth, Western Australia; live on Sky Sports)

·       10 August: Argentina vs. South Africa (8.40pm; Padre Ernesto Martearena Stadium, Salta; live on Sky Sports)

2019 RWC warm-up matches

·       10 August: Ireland vs. Italy (2pm; Aviva Stadium, Dublin; live on Channel 4) 

·       11 August: England vs. Wales (2pm; Twickenham Stadium, London; live on Sky Sports) 

England take on Grand Slam champions, Wales, at home this weekend, and will announce their RWC squad soon afterwards. It appears Eddie has deemed Cipriani, Brown, Dombrandt, Te’o and Ben Spencer surplus to requirements, with Willi Heinz (recently qualified) now the second pick 9 behind Ben Youngs. Wales will have to make do without Faletau at no.8 after his broke his collar bone in training. Ireland take on Italy and will announce their 31 man squad on 8th September.

·       17 August: New Zealand vs. Australia (8.35am; live on Sky Sports)

·       17 August: Wales vs. England (2.15pm; Principality Stadium, Cardiff; live on Sky Sports) 

·       17 August: South Africa vs. Argentina (4.05pm; live on Sky Sports)

·       17 August: Italy vs. Russia (5.25pm)

·       17 August: France vs Scotland (8pm; Allianz Riviera, Nice; live on Premier Sports) 

·       24 August: Scotland vs. France (1.10pm; BT Murrayfield Stadium, Edinburgh; live on Premier Sports)

·       24 August: England vs Ireland (3pm; Twickenham Stadium, London; live on Sky Sports) 

·       30 August: France vs. Italy (8.10pm)

·       31 August: Wales vs. Ireland (2.30pm; Principality Stadium, Cardiff; live on Channel 4) 

·       31 August: Georgia vs. Scotland (5pm; Dinamo Arena, Tbilisi; live on Premier Sports) 

·       6 September: Japan vs. South Africa (11.15am)

·       6 September: Scotland vs. Georgia (7.30pm; BT Murrayfield Stadium, Edinburgh; live on Premier Sports)

·       6 September: England vs. Italy (7.45pm; St James’ Park, Newcastle; live on Sky Sports) 

·       7 September: New Zealand vs. Tonga (3.35am)

·       7 September: Australia vs. Samoa (10.30am)

·       7 September: Ireland vs. Wales (2pm; Aviva Stadium, Dublin; live on Channel 4)

BLOODGATE 10 YEARS ON

Riveting podcast from BBC on Bloodgate saga at Harlequins 10 years on featuring Ugo Monye, Danny Care and Tom Williams, all who were there that fateful day.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p0763rvt

CUP FINALS COME EARLY THIS WEEKEND

Fantastic Friday this week sees some vital games in both the English Premiership and Pro 14, the outcomes of which will have a big impact on who qualifies for Europe or who gets relegated.

Newcastle v Leicester

Only five points now separate Newcastle (bottom with 29 points) and Leicester (34 points) who play each other on Friday night in the North East. Leicester appear in freefall, and despite having all their English internationals now back from Six Nations duty, defensively looked very disorganised against Exeter last weekend. They look like a disparate bunch of individuals rather than a professional team. And with Tom Youngs being sent off in that game, they may not see him again this season, which will hurt them leadership wise, especially as his brother, Ben, is already absent with injury. Still, players like Tuilagi, May and Ford need to step up and set an example for their less high profile team mates.

Tom Youngs suspension could be critical for Leicester

Newcastle, with ex Leicester heroes like Dean Richards as coach, Vereneki Goneva, the flying Fijian, on the wing, and Toby Flood at 10, will have added motivation to inflict more pain on their old club. Despite narrowly missing out on a losing bonus point to Sarries last weekend, Newcastle competed strongly up front, and with John Hardie and Mark Wilson in the back row, will not be short of possession. If they can win front foot ball for the likes of Sinotti, Harris and Goneva they will test Leicester's fragile defence, and in Takulua, they have a 80%+ kicker. A win is imperative for both teams in a true 8 point game.

Edinburgh v Ulster
Benetton v Munster

Edinburgh's second half performance against Scarlets last weekend was sheer quality - being 12 points down at half time against a very good Scarlets team with all their Grand Slam stars back - as they scored 20 unanswered points to win the game and deny the Welsh province a valuable losing point. With Ulster being comfortably beaten by Glasgow Warriors, and Benetton drawing with Leinster, this narrowed the gap in Pro14 Conference B between Edinburgh and the Italian province to 1 point, and between Edinburgh and Ulster to 3 points, meaning this Friday's fixture at Murrayfield is now massive.

Jonathan Davies was superb on Friday night against Edinburgh

If Edinburgh win (with a bonus point) they will then be 2 points ahead of Ulster, and in a strong position to secure that valuable 2nd league position going into the final weekend, where they play Glasgow, who will need to also win their game to secure 2nd place in Conference A. However, if Benetton beat Munster at home (a week before their Heineken semi final) then, with only Zebre to beat on the final weekend, they will then be favourites to finish 2nd behind Leinster, and secure home advantage for the play off against the 3rd place team in Conference A (possibly Connacht). But, if Ulster can beat Edinburgh this weekend, or secure a losing bonus point, then they will be in the driving seat themselves for that 2nd place, as they face Leinster (at home) in their final fixture, who have already won Conference B (and are still in Heineken Cup). If Ulster are victorious this Friday, it could mean Edinburgh will only finish 4th in Conference B, forcing them into a play off with the team that finishes 4th in Conference A (Blues or Ospreys) for that final 7th Pro14 Heineken spot.

CHAMPIONS CUP QUARTER FINAL REVIEW

Edinburgh 13 Munster 17

I fancied this game so much I took the whole family up for the weekend, and, along with 11,000 Munster fans, was not disappointed. Edinburgh, under Cockers, are a formidable side, especially up front, and had won 17 from 19 previous home games. They started off like a train, and despite gallant Munster defence, should have been 6-9 points ahead in the first 20 minutes, choosing to kick to the corners to keep the pressure on, rather than take the easier penalty option. In a single score margin game, this would come back to haunt them later, as did the failure to capitalise on Munster having a man in the bin. In fact, Munster scored the first try of the game with only 14, when the (French) ref adjudged that an Edinburgh hand had knocked on a Murray box kick 10m from the line (looked dubious from stands 20m away). Munster made a mess of the scrum, but won the ball, but with no flanker, Pyrgos was allowed to stand next to Murray as he passed the ball out wide, knocking it on in the process. The (French) ref adjudged the offence a penalty (so a deliberate slapdown rather than an attempted intercept) which was harsh. If the Munster 8 had popped the ball to his scrum half, Pyrgos would not have had the opportunity to get near the ball. Anyway, move on. As Earls quickly gathered the ball and took a quick tap, his path to the line was made easier by Murray judo throwing his opposite number to the floor. I am not sure whether he thought Pyrgos had the ball, but regardless it was reckless and should have been referred to the (French) TMO, just as Liam Willams' retaliation caused Sarries try to be ruled out by the (English) ref last week. Earls sauntered over unimpeded and Munster were ahead.

Brian Jacks could not have done better than the Murray judo throw

Edinburgh equalised not long after through a Chris Dean try, and then followed another moment of controversy when Conway took out Darcy Graham in the air, causing him to land on his back. Admittedly, Conway only had his eyes (and hands, briefly) on the ball, and did not see Graham coming, but he lost the contest, and therefore, by the letter of the law, had the responsibility to land Graham safely. The (French) ref penalised Conway but did not issue a yellow, which impressed the home crowd no end. It didn't look any better than Stuart Hogg's aerial challenge on Biggar a few years back, for which he got a red, but anyway move on. Just before half time, Jaco van der Walt kicked Edinburgh ahead for a deserved 13 -10 half time lead. The second half was more even, with both teams getting into the opposition 22 but failing to score. Edinburgh had the ball in hands of both wingers, and looked the more dangerous, however, again it was Munster who scored a try against the run of play. Following a soft late hit on the Edinburgh fly half, the ref awarded a penalty on halfway, which would have given the Scottish club a good try scoring opportunity. For some reason, Schoeman the loose head, who was having a stormer, decided to bump Berne with his shoulder as he ran past. Berne did a Salah and claimed mortal wounding, which caused the (French) TMO to wake up and alert the ref, who subsequently reversed the decision. Munster kicked to the corner, and Earls outstripped the Edinburgh cover to score out wide.

Earls excellent finish for winning try

Keith Earls is a favourite of mine. He consistently produces MOM performances for province and country, and, similar to Ben Smith of NZ, does the basics better than anyone. His handling, running lines, defence, decision making and finishing are simply awesome. What followed was multiple waves of patient Edinburgh attack, and phenomenal Munster defence. How neither side made an error in attack or defence in the last 10 minutes was astonishing, and testament to the fitness and mental strength of both teams. In the end, Munster closed out a tight win, with their European experience on the road, and better management of the (French) ref being the difference. Not a classic, with only three tries scored, but a really good contest between two decent sides. Edinburgh should have won the game, but are mixing it with the big boys now, and will learn from the experience. Munster face Sarries in England next up, and will need to create more in attack if they are to progress to their third final.

JAPAN WORLD CUP REVIEW

So what does the Six Nations outcome mean to our projections for Rugby World Cup in Japan in 6 months time?

(1) Wales' Slam means they could win it, as having put together an unbeaten 14 match run, they have clearly showed they could win the 7 consecutive games required to lift the trophy. That now means there are (probably) six teams in the mix, from NZ, Australia and South Africa to England, Ireland and now Wales.

(2) Whilst Scotland will not win the tournament, having put 38 unanswered points in 55 minutes on England at home, they could have an important influence on the QF or SF line ups - Ireland will certainly be feeling less comfortable about their head to head group fixture on that opening weekend of the tournament. And if the Scots win Group A, they avoid NZ in the Quarter Finals, forcing the Irish to play the All Blacks, a match up everyone thinks will not happen until the final.

(3) England, despite winning the first half of every game, showed their mental frailty and lack of leadership under pressure persists from the Autumn, in failing to close out games from a winning position against Wales and Scotland. This will give France some hope in the Group stages, as it will Australia, who they may face in the QF's.

Whilst the Top 8 seeds in the World rankings remain unchanged today versus when the Groups were originally drawn over a year ago, what is interesting is the rise of teams like Fiji (9th), Japan (11th) and Georgia (12th). What odds on Japan beating Scotland in their final group game (at altitude) to reach their first ever QF, or Fiji turning over Australia in the real Group of Death to make a QF against England?

The bookies would project the RWC Quarter Finalists to be as follows:

England v Australia
New Zealand v Scotland (or Ireland)
Wales v France
Ireland (or Scotland) v South Africa

This would then lead to England v NZ and Wales v Ireland SF's, with final being NZ v Ireland (top two teams ranked in the world).

The hopeless romantics would project the RWC Quarter Finalists to be slightly different:

France v Fiji
South Africa v Japan
Australia v Argentina
Ireland v New Zealand

This would then lead to France v South Africa and Australia v NZ SF's, with final being South Africa v New Zealand.

Summer warm up games will be upon us before you know it, so will publish a full list of dates in due course.

SIX NATIONS REVIEW WEEK 5: WELSH SLAM

Super Saturday saw Wales overcome the emotion and a poor Irish performance to achieve the Grand Slam, Warren Gatland's third in total, making him the first coach to win three Grand Slams in Five or Six Nations history following 2008 and 2012 achievements. Gatland has now won 43 Six Nations matches, which is 13 more than anyone else, and Wales have now won their last 14 Test matches, a feat only England have bettered with 18 consecutive victories from 2015 - 17.

From the kick off, Wales looked up for the occasion, with the outstanding Hadleigh Parkes scoring a try after a few minutes. Ireland never recovered, and in terrible wet, windy conditions, Wales just controlled the tempo of the game and were ruthless in turning territory and pressure into points. Gareth Anscombe put in a masterful display of kicking, slotting 6 penalties under immense pressure, and, despite an early Stockdale run, Ireland only got on the scoreboard right at the death when 25 - 0 down. 

Gareth Anscombe kicked 20 points on Saturday

Most of Ireland's star names just didn't show up, including Sexton, who had a terrible game, but they are not a bad side (their #3 world ranking does not lie). Spare a thought for Joe Schmidt, the Ireland coach, who deserved a more competitive performance from his team - unfortunately his squad never recovered from being battered by England in the first game. And they need to find their mojo quickly in the RWC warm up games in the summer after a poor Six Nations tournament by their standards. Suddenly, Rory Best, Sean O'Brien, Rob Kearney and Cian Healey are starting to look old, but Ireland has some great young players coming through who gained valuable game time over the last few weeks, and also the Irish U20's won their Championship trophy so future looks brighter for them.

After 30 minutes in the final game of the weekend, England were 31 - 0 up on the Scots at Twickenham, and playing some awesome rugby, although the Scots poor defence helped enormously. Many of the away supporters were contemplating going to the bar (or home) during the half time break, when Stuart McNally (somehow) outpaced both May and Farrell for a consolation try just before the interval. What followed in the next 35 minutes was the most extraordinary passage of play I have ever seen at Twickenham, if anywhere. Scotland scored five unanswered tries to lead by 7 points going into the final 3 minutes of play. It was a combination of fantastic skill by Scotland (Finn Russell's pass to Maitland for the 4th try was better than last year's effort to Huw Jones) and England's defensive mistakes (a further kick chargedown, an intercept and woeful tackling). Sam Johnson's running line, sidestep (on Nowell) and handoff (on Daly) were simply epic, and Scotland's sixth try deserved to break the 1983 hoodoo. However, probably due to fatigue, Scotland allowed England to get from their own 22 up to the other end of the pitch in extra time and score under the posts to draw the match. Wow...no other word for it. I think both defence coaches will be nervous this week, but it was great entertainment for the neutral (and as good, if not better then any football comeback).

England stayed out at half time for a chat ... that worked well then

Scotland, who had a poor Six Nations tournament, where they were expecting to beat France, if not either Wales or Ireland at home, at least now have something positive to focus on (especially in attack). Thanks to the long injury list, fringe players like Darcy Graham, Ben Toolis, Magnus Bradbury, Sam Johnson and Adam Hastings have been exposed to more Test match rugby, so giving Gregor Townsend extra options for his RWC squad. Amd Scotland has never had many Test match warriors, but Finn Russell, Hamish Watson and Stuart McNally are getting close. 

Aussie Sam evades four England defenders to put Scotland ahead

England, once again choked under pressure in a big game, and they need to show the ability to concentrate for 80+ minutes, especially when comfortably in control of a game. It was their downfall against NZ in the Autumn, against Wales a few weeks ago and it reappeared here. Own Farrell is a world class player, but he self imploded mentally on Saturday, and should have been carded for his (no arms, high and late) tackle on Darcy Graham. Credit to Eddie Jones for taking him off, although, following two chargedowns and an intercept, he should have been replaced by Ford earlier. Had Laidlaw slotted that penalty, the game would have been out of reach. The challenge Eddie had is that Farrell is the captain and natural leader of the team, and there are not many others. Tuilagi is a wrecking ball of an inside centre, but does not communicate well and take pressure of his fly half. Ford or Slade are better wingmen, but Eddie favours brawn over brains. England may face Wales in a RWC QF so they need to fix it quickly in the summer, otherwise we might be watching a repeat of 2015.

Cheer up lads, you scored six tries at Twickers

So what a climax to this year's tournament - a third Slam for Gatland's Wales, the highest score draw ever in a Test match, and Scotland scored 6 tries, the first opposition to do so at Twickenham. Japan is only 6 months away ... can't wait!