Lions Watch - who impressed this weekend?
15/02/2021
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Wales wing Louis Rees-Zammit stakes his claim, while some leftfield candidates close in on the scrum-half and number eight vacancies...
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SammyG100
15/02/2021 08:20:35
201
22
bbc
NOT OWEN FARRELL! Finn Russell for Lions 10!
Would not have him in England team better 10's around give Smith or Simmonds a go. Our 8,9, & 12 should be rested, wont happen but one can dream !
100%, Farrell needs game time. He looks absolutely lost at the moment.
Those long looping passes to the wing are such a powerful attacking tool. When he’s on his game Russell is one of the best 10’s in the world.
Those long looping passes to the wing are such a powerful attacking tool. When he’s on his game Russell is one of the best 10’s in the world.
Agree, not Farrell, but expect he will be there as usual, hopefully not as captain. I don't think lack of game time has much to do with it, he has always been there for his place kicking. Without that, Ford would have been the regular in the team. Also, Daddy Farrell being mentioned as the next Lions head coach, so is another factor...
Russell got shown up against Wales, proved again he can't string more than 1 good game together.
It’s sure as hell not Dan Biggar ,for some reason he has completely lost it.
Farrell is not an international 10 never will be used in 2017 as a replacement one cap of the bench one start at 10 in the first test then moved to 12 imo his best position for the next two.10 at the moment imo should be Russell,Ford,and Sheedy,But Farrell would go as a 12.
Lions test team based on six nations so far imo
1. Wyn Jones
2. Cowan Dickie
3. Sinckler
4. Beirne
5. J Gray
6. Stander
7. Watson
8. Falateu
9. Price
10. Russell
11. Van Der Merwe
12. Henshaw
13. North
14. Rees-Zammit
15. Hogg
1. Wyn Jones
2. Cowan Dickie
3. Sinckler
4. Beirne
5. J Gray
6. Stander
7. Watson
8. Falateu
9. Price
10. Russell
11. Van Der Merwe
12. Henshaw
13. North
14. Rees-Zammit
15. Hogg
Hopefully flathead has played his way off the Lions tour.not even good enough for england so that is pretty poor.
Much depends on which Finn Russell turns up.
Who'd want the version that appeared in that final against Exeter?
Who'd want the version that appeared in that final against Exeter?
Well Farrell is more of a centre, so, yeah, lol, Farrell and Tuilagi in the centres. May, Williams and Hogg the back-three.
L R-Z was incredible. Thank goodness he's Welsh!!
He was excellent, but for Jiffy to try and credit him for the disallowed Scotland try was frankly ridiculous.
He could of played for England. Thank god he came to his senses??????????
If Rees-Zamit was English Eddie Jones wouldn't pick him anyway. Gloucester team mate Ollie Thorley is just as brilliant and can't get a game for England.
How Eddie Jones is ignoring Simmonds is beyond belief. And I’m Welsh!
Eddie has his favourites and can’t change. Why else would you insist on keeping the spine of the team Saracens when they haven’t played rugby for months?
Since when has not playing ever been a good thing?
Since when has not playing ever been a good thing?
Dombrant is a better all round player at 8. As quick as Simmonds but has better vision and passing skills.
I agree, especially as BV is so out of form. EJ seems to favour big, heavy players over more skilful ones. However, BV is carrying too much weight, which makes him slow and lazy. Simmonds is the best player in the EP imo, and would love him picked for the Lions. His brother deserves a game for England as well. Time for EJ to go.
Because he's not good enough. End of.
Who's probably going to have the better insight? A world renowned coach that's made multiple world cup finals? Or some random no nothing armchair "pundit" such as frequents this HYS?
Eddie 1 - 0 Hairdryers
Who's probably going to have the better insight? A world renowned coach that's made multiple world cup finals? Or some random no nothing armchair "pundit" such as frequents this HYS?
Eddie 1 - 0 Hairdryers
Simmonds is good having the arm chair ride, the reason he has not gone further is if you look his general work rate in a game is very poor, hangs around the fringes and out in the 3/4s
Every once in a while a player comes along and lights up the game. We had it with the likes Jona Lomu, Brian O'Driscoll and Dan Carter. By any measure they entertained and played with guile, cunning and had a swagger of greatness. The young lad Louis Rees-Zammit is the new kid on the block and is sheer class. He is a lethal attacking force with breathtaking pace. A Lion in waiting.
Rees lighting!
He’s been absolutely superb in scoring his tries and is blessed with blistering pace. From that aspect he would be on the plane.
My one concern is that we haven’t seen his defence tested yet and that will be very, very important against huge, fast South African wingers.
My one concern is that we haven’t seen his defence tested yet and that will be very, very important against huge, fast South African wingers.
Smith had another blinder, I'm sure Simmonds did too but did not see the Exeter game. At the moment hard to see many English players making a case for Lions - but then the other home nations have been pretty poor too
I have a similar dream. Wish Eddie did too.
8 Simmonds
9 Randal
10 Smith
12 Slade / Lawrence
13 O Conner / Slade
8 Simmonds
9 Randal
10 Smith
12 Slade / Lawrence
13 O Conner / Slade
Better still replaced!!
8, 9, 12 & 15 I would say. Simmonds at 8, and maybe Itije or lawes at 6 to help lineout options
2 quality tries with the second being world class, set up another and hit a clearance of destiny. The future’s bright on the Welsh Wing for LRZ. When you leave Stuart Hogg for dead you know you’re quick!
Agree that LRZ had a fabulous game and has great potential but don’t over hype him. Hogg was covering for his lack of winger, was moving to close down the space and had to turn on his heels when he was chipped. A foot race against an almost stationary opponent when you are at full pelt isn’t much of a comparison. I once jogged past Linford Christie in a park can I have his gold medal please ta.
What we have learned for sure is Owen Farrell is not fit to play for England at 10 or 12 or indeed any position. He is one dimensional and not a playmaker. He is petulant and gives away penalties. By definition he is not a Lion. The lad Rees-Zammit has been the stand out player of the week end and a bright light. Power, pace and skill in abundance.
I mean by definition he is a Lion. As he has already been on two Lions tours, as well as in the starting 15 for test games.
So your comment makes zero sense!
So your comment makes zero sense!
He was definitely rattled, again, on Saturday. Made a few handling errors.
When people talk of England's "no plan B" I think a lot of that is due to him. He's not one of those players who can turn a game around.
When people talk of England's "no plan B" I think a lot of that is due to him. He's not one of those players who can turn a game around.
I have no problem with him at 12, but it's either him or Slade at 12 and not both at 12 and 13. Poor old Lawrence treated like Christian Wade
Owen Farrell. By definition he isn’t an Owen or a Farrell.
Just joking.
He was in the team that drew the lions series with NZ and while form is temporary etc. So cut him some slack. Personally I much prefer Russell. Like I preferred Cantona over Deschamps - The water carrier - who won the World Cup...
Just joking.
He was in the team that drew the lions series with NZ and while form is temporary etc. So cut him some slack. Personally I much prefer Russell. Like I preferred Cantona over Deschamps - The water carrier - who won the World Cup...
Jones will drop Farrell for the next game. If it works he will be hailed as the saviour of English rugby.......again
Farrell nailed on for Lions regardless of how much you all bleat on here
This is rewarding Saracens and their players when they are meant to be being punished. Itolje is the only one that deserves his jersey, but he should be playing full time in premiership.
Especially when Billy V admits that he much prefers playing to training as a method of getting fit
Agreed and have in 2 weeks been comfortably our worst performers... And that's saying something... Daly, farell... Farell shouldn't even be juicebox guy at the moment hed drop them. Lcd has consigned George to the bench thankfully. Outrageous that sarries players are even near the squad without playing.
Farrell offers nothing except place kicking (even his captaincy skills are limited) and that does not justify a Lions place: I am an England supporter.
And his place kicking has been a bit off. So he offers nothing but knock ons and bad tackling at the moment.
Farrell wouldn't make the top three in the Premiership at either 10 or 12, Jones needs to get a grip and play players who deserve to be picked.
Agree, also an England supporter. Time to give the armband to Otoje and start picking on form versus past reputation...Farrell, Billy V and Daly need to be stood down for starters
On his day at his peak he offered excellent defence, great goal kicking and a seriously underrated attacking threat especially his lines and passing. Look back at Lions v All Black.
At present he offers nothing and hasn’t really since the WC. He should be dropped end of.
At present he offers nothing and hasn’t really since the WC. He should be dropped end of.
His place kicking isn't currently International standard imho.
He was one of the best players in the World a couple years ago, he is bad at the moment but lets not pretend he's a terrible player. He hasn't played for months, we will see if he improves over the tournament.
We're stuck in a rut with Farrell now. He's too slow and hasn't got the skills required. Blimey I know what he's going to do, let alone the other teams.
We start to get a bit of momentum then it's:
Youngs slow ball
Ford obviously going to pass
Farrell stand still or kick
Must be easy to defend.
Youngs slow ball
Ford obviously going to pass
Farrell stand still or kick
Must be easy to defend.
I think every welsh supporter is praying that Farrell starts whether it’s at 10 or 12. He’s got a pretty dodgy record in Cardiff as well I can remember him imploding in 2013 and 2 years ago. It’s a shame there won’t be any fans there as it has the potential to be a cracker.
Been discussing Ali Price as a possible lion among friends for a short while. There is a lack of genuine quality at 9 among any of the British/Irish nations, so he has a chance. Overall feeling though is that his decision making sometimes lets him down. For example, kicking away possession in the last two minutes on Saturday was a poor choice.
English scrum half
Despite a dip in form last year, John Cooney has been superb at 9 for the past 3-4 years. His omission from the Irish squad is baffling.
He had a good game on Saturday, but the Welsh gave him a lot of space. England were poor against Scotland, but Price had a poor game. His game management went to pot. His replacement in the England game was excellent. He tries to keep it quick all the time and needs to learn pacing. Not for me. Gatlands choosing there'll be suprises, its South Africa. No hiding places there.
George Horne is a better scrum half than Ali Price.
Farrell has had several years of “game time” and has demonstrated again and again I that he cannot play under pressure and apart from his goal kicking has very little to offer. He stifles spontaneous play.
Yeah Zammit this and Zammit that. He's pretty good but then so is Odogwu.
If only EJ would get his head out of his a*se and play him (and several others).
If only EJ would get his head out of his a*se and play him (and several others).
What we have learned for sure is Owen Farrell is not fit to play for England at 10 or 12 or indeed any position. He is one dimensional and not a playmaker. He is petulant and gives away penalties. By definition he is not a Lion. The lad Rees-Zammit has been the stand out player of the week end and a bright light. Power, pace and skill in abundance.
The fourteen Scottish guys who played on Saturday should be in with a shout, very English players at the moment, There are few Irish players looking good and even though Wales have only played against fourteen man teams will make up the bulk of the team.
Is this a joke
Nigel Owens impressed yesterday when he explained very clearly why May's "wonder try" should not have been allowed.
I didn't see that but it was presumably on the basis that Zammit didn't score it.
No because May jumped up BEFORE any tackler initiated so therefore it did stand. Best try I've ever seen, too.
I was surprised it was given as jumping to avoid a tackle is not allowed and as NO said, that he is what he did and not dive over the line which is allowed.
Owens’s anti English bigotry is well known. I’d take what he says with a pinch of salt.
and Jonathon Kaplan an equally eminent Ref with no skin in the game has called it as a try, so guess this makes the point that Laws of rugby are open to interpretation by the ref on the pitch on the day. The ref on the pitch called it a try so it was indeed a try. or if we go for democracy 2 refs v1 (owens) so still try and scoreboard says try. I think rightly so, The vision deserves reward.
No problem from allowing someone to jump like that on condition that the defender is allowed to hit him whilst he's 'diving' and be red carded for tackling man in the air.
Can't have it both ways.
Can't have it both ways.
So true, Scrum 5 is one of the best programmes to pick stuff up. I've watched it for years and am not Welsh.Owens was on it. Being a BBC Wales production they give a Welsh slant on the programme but it was pretty on point last night. But as he said nobody else has penalised that, his explanation of the Willis incident was also great. The laws are there,the guys have to use them. More ref analysis
Great respect for Owens knowing the laws , but I think it’s a dictionary that needs consulting more than games laws. The difference between a jump & a dive isn’t height achieved but manner of landing. A dive is specified as head or hands 1st (as may did) a jump is landing feet, legs ,bum or back first. Had may landed on his feet & then grounded no try , as he landed hands first it’s a try
Saw the try on Saturday; what a finish! Heard NO's explanation and did a double take; if May dives for the line OK but if he jumps to avoid a tackle it is dangerous play and a penalty. If jumping were allowed then it's a penalty every time as the tackled player is in the air. But it's also a penalty the other way for dangerous play as the tackler runs the risk of being hit in the head! Intriguing.
and i agree with him ' typical english ' if he (may) landed on his head then the whole english team would have been shouting pen
NO was correct. if he was diving for the line then there would have been no need to dive upwards as he did; the line is on the floor after all. I don't think that type of try will be given again after the Refs discuss it during their wash-up meeting. the minimum launch for the line will likely have to be a lot flatter.
To many people commenting without watching scrum v Owens clearly said that the it was a try and allowed because he was going for the line. We're the confusion is that people missed understood when he said that if that was in the middle of the park it would have been a penalty.
May had a drinker last week but was very good on Saturday
Given the opposition the centres are gonna have to be able to deal with the sheer physicality of their opposite numbers
At 9 anyone but Youngs, Davies or Murray
Given the opposition the centres are gonna have to be able to deal with the sheer physicality of their opposite numbers
At 9 anyone but Youngs, Davies or Murray
Playing at altitude is what May does best with his ability to fly over the opposition.
he was very good .... against italy !!
Eddie has his favourites and can’t change. Why else would you insist on keeping the spine of the team Saracens when they haven’t played rugby for months?
Since when has not playing ever been a good thing?
Since when has not playing ever been a good thing?
It was the club that was punished, not individual players. Are you saying that Saracens players shouldn't be selected because the club was punished? Total drivel.
I've a feeling that AWJ might not make this one. There was talk of him being in it but this 6N has thrown up loads of good second row options. The Scottish locks (both Greys included) were brilliant on the weekend, Itoje played superbly as usual, Henderson and Beirne had good games and Beard put his hand up. AWJ played well but it looked a bit laboured.
Gives away too many pens now for my liking and clearly isn’t as mobile round the Park
As a welshman I sadly agree that he shouldn't make the first XV. However I still expect him to be on the tour to provide leadership, and possible captain the midweek XV.
ahahaha
AWJ could go as tour Capt and Cap of the 2nd string. Perfect for those roles.
If it were anyone else picking the squad then AWJ wouldn't be anywhere near the plane, but its Gatland so he'll be anything between starting for the matchday XV to captain
Four second rows have already put their hands up to compete for the two test places.
Itoje, Johnny Grey, Ryan and Henderson. Beirne is pushing all of them closely and Lawes, as a Lion already is potentially a useful back up as 4/5/6.
The tour is too short to take players to be picked for the mid week team.
More concerns in other positions, hooker, 9, 12, 13.
Itoje, Johnny Grey, Ryan and Henderson. Beirne is pushing all of them closely and Lawes, as a Lion already is potentially a useful back up as 4/5/6.
The tour is too short to take players to be picked for the mid week team.
More concerns in other positions, hooker, 9, 12, 13.
On experience and standing alone I would say he's on the plane .. possibly as tour captain .. but he does look a bit tired and laboured, he's not at his best for sure.
And gave away 4 penalties
Yes i have been saying for 2 years, take AWJ as tour, non-playing captain. There are so many locks in front of him now, it would be an embarrassing indictment of WG if he was selected in the playing squad.
2 matches in 6 days will take it's toll on the greybeards
What we have learned for sure is Owen Farrell is not fit to play for England at 10 or 12 or indeed any position. He is one dimensional and not a playmaker. He is petulant and gives away penalties. By definition he is not a Lion. The lad Rees-Zammit has been the stand out player of the week end and a bright light. Power, pace and skill in abundance.
I appreciate at an intellectual level you struggle to understand my post. Read it again slowly in the context of "Six Nations Lions Watch" an if you still struggle feel free to ask me for further help.
Farrell or Russell have been very poor no way should they be on the plane
This is the classic English default position mate. You know they’re worried about you when they start talking about you like that. The English press and supporters did exactly the same to Gavin Henson because they were worried about him as well and he had the cheek to kick the winning kick against England and say it was never in doubt. Welsh people must put their arm around Louis and support him
Agree, not Farrell, but expect he will be there as usual, hopefully not as captain. I don't think lack of game time has much to do with it, he has always been there for his place kicking. Without that, Ford would have been the regular in the team. Also, Daddy Farrell being mentioned as the next Lions head coach, so is another factor...
I've a feeling that AWJ might not make this one. There was talk of him being in it but this 6N has thrown up loads of good second row options. The Scottish locks (both Greys included) were brilliant on the weekend, Itoje played superbly as usual, Henderson and Beirne had good games and Beard put his hand up. AWJ played well but it looked a bit laboured.
Captain has to be worth his place in the side. AWJ is past it I'm afraid but there's plenty of good second rows out there
The captain must justify his place as a player first and then be made captain, AWJ is not in the best 10 locks in the UK. If he makes the squad everyone will know that it is down to selection bias and that ruins the Lions brand.
May had a drinker last week but was very good on Saturday
Given the opposition the centres are gonna have to be able to deal with the sheer physicality of their opposite numbers
At 9 anyone but Youngs, Davies or Murray
Given the opposition the centres are gonna have to be able to deal with the sheer physicality of their opposite numbers
At 9 anyone but Youngs, Davies or Murray
No idea what happened in Week #1 but was miles between Saturday.
2 quality tries with the second being world class, set up another and hit a clearance of destiny. The future’s bright on the Welsh Wing for LRZ. When you leave Stuart Hogg for dead you know you’re quick!
Agree that LRZ had a fabulous game and has great potential but don’t over hype him. Hogg was covering for his lack of winger, was moving to close down the space and had to turn on his heels when he was chipped. A foot race against an almost stationary opponent when you are at full pelt isn’t much of a comparison. I once jogged past Linford Christie in a park can I have his gold medal please ta.
not sure what your point is--LRZ did the chip because he saw the space, no chip no try, instead at full pelt he saw the space, chipped it perfectly, ran on to his own ball--nice bounce I accept--and scored--it was a class try and i say that as an Englishman.
Hogg was NOT covering his lack of winger- look at the pictures, and you'll see LRZ passing Van der Merwe on his way past Hogg!
I don’t disagree aside from the silly point at the end, he’s absolutely burned him - and you’re showing your age referencing Linford old fruit. We don’t all throw a hip when we pivot!
My Lions XV based on current form:
1 Vunipola
2 George
3 Sinkler
4 Itoje
5 Gray
6 Underhill
7 Tipuric
8 Faletau
9 Price
10 Russell
11 Van Der Merwe
12 Henshaw (this is a problem position...)
13 Slade
14 Watson
15 Hogg
Very Scottish feel to the XV at the moment! Of course this will all change by the tour - the only two players that are nailed on (barring injury) are Itoje and Hogg imo.
1 Vunipola
2 George
3 Sinkler
4 Itoje
5 Gray
6 Underhill
7 Tipuric
8 Faletau
9 Price
10 Russell
11 Van Der Merwe
12 Henshaw (this is a problem position...)
13 Slade
14 Watson
15 Hogg
Very Scottish feel to the XV at the moment! Of course this will all change by the tour - the only two players that are nailed on (barring injury) are Itoje and Hogg imo.
Price wont be on plane never mind starting 15. You could make argument for Watson at 7, id have May in before VDM and id even say he is behind Adams & Stockdale (i know they haven't played but have enough in the bank already) VDM hast been that amazing if you were going on form then LRZ would be ahead of him.
based on form yet no reece zammitt ? he scored vs ireland and 2 vs Scotland. Watson scored vs a perennial dreadful italy....
Based on form? What form does Underhill have? He's out injured. You also have him at 6, a position he's never played for England.
Go back and start again...
Go back and start again...
Why would you pick ANY English forwards?
Watch yesterday's Scrum V and you'll see his explanation. He explains the difference between diving for the line (legal) and jumping to avoid a tackle (illegal)
No, it was because it was illegal. You cannot jump in the air, because then no one can tackle someone in the air. Try should have been disallowed and penalty to Italy.
Nigel Owens best referee the world as ever seen. Knows his stuff. I know let the forwards pick the scrum half up and carry him up the field & it's ok cos the opposition can't touch a player off the ground. There's some people on this site need to know the rules of rugby union.
I've a feeling that AWJ might not make this one. There was talk of him being in it but this 6N has thrown up loads of good second row options. The Scottish locks (both Greys included) were brilliant on the weekend, Itoje played superbly as usual, Henderson and Beirne had good games and Beard put his hand up. AWJ played well but it looked a bit laboured.
Jones continues to pick the drop that are past the sell by date. Vunipola ball in hand very poor and Daly simply flawed. Willis is the future and what a talent he is. Give Simmonds a run. Drop Farrell and Youngs for good. Russell at 10 Zammit on the wing.
Agree with what you said above, hope that the injury to willis isn't too severe and he isn't out for a long period. Ellis jenkins played for the 1st time in 2 years on the weekend after a knee injury so hoping its not that bad for him.
Johnny May's try should have been disallowed for 2 reasons.
1. Jumping into a tackle.
2. Contact with the corner flag before grounding the ball. (When I played over 30 years ago, touching the corner flag before grounding was touch). Unless the rules have been changed I could not say, so happy to be corrected on point 2.
1. Jumping into a tackle.
2. Contact with the corner flag before grounding the ball. (When I played over 30 years ago, touching the corner flag before grounding was touch). Unless the rules have been changed I could not say, so happy to be corrected on point 2.
Agree with everything accept the “Daly simply flawed” bit. Daly is quality but playing him at FB is wasting his abilities. That’s another EJ mistake to add to a growing list.
Playing at altitude is what May does best with his ability to fly over the opposition.
AWJ leaderships skills are clear to see. The way Farrell was arguing with the ref on Saturday was terrible
AWJ and Farrell were both useless again. Jones could barely walk by the second half
AWJ spent the entire match arguing every single decision with the referee. His intimidatory behaviour towards referees is a disgrace.
Any player addressing the match officials with anything other than a "yes sir" or "no sir" should be taken to the side of the pitch and thrashed to within an inch of their life in my humble opinion
Jones and for that matter Sexton have been weedling away at refs for years. I don't like the way any of these 3 players approach the referee - clear lack of respect and gamesmanship.
I've a feeling that AWJ might not make this one. There was talk of him being in it but this 6N has thrown up loads of good second row options. The Scottish locks (both Greys included) were brilliant on the weekend, Itoje played superbly as usual, Henderson and Beirne had good games and Beard put his hand up. AWJ played well but it looked a bit laboured.
Agree. Also these days a Lions squad is closer to 40 players with injuries to first picks so there is room for his experience.
Why is Jonny May"s "try" not being challenged. It was athletic, but illegal. The laws state that you cannot jump out of a tackle. Not only is it dangerous, but does not allow the opposition to tackle the player as he is in the air. Penalty to Italy
No it wasn’t. Please leave your anti English bigotry in the valleys, where it belongs,
Anti English nonsense.
You sound like that Welsh ref who's just retired!! TBF, May's acrobatics should not be penalised, he IS entitled to go airborne to score a try, but not to avoid a tackle, I respectfully submit he was in the act of scoring a try as much as avoiding a tackle so the try stands, and for rugby's sake, so it should.
You can't jump into a tackle. But May didn't do that.
The rules don't actually say that. It can be penalised if it is dangerous, but it wasn't. May timed that jump to perfection.
Wrong. A player cannot jump out of a tackle in open play. A player can dive for the line, and many do. So get over it.
They talked about this on commentary. I thought the same as you. But apparently if you are diving for a try it is OK. If you look at it the other way around - May dives for a try and is taken out in the air - result - penalty try. So it does make some sense.
He was diving to score a try which is legal. The ITV commentator commented about it.
have a look at the 3rd try took, English players pulled the Italian players out of the scrum and then Curry sealed them off so they couldn't join the defense. Then England take a tap. Clear penalty to Italy.
He didnt jump out of a tackle. The tackler wasnt in front of him or even touching him alongside when JM jumped.
The game has passed now, and the try was given. Technically though May Jumped up bringing his knees up, and technically it wasn’t a dive. A dive would be more horizontal and hands first...
Its down to interpretation. Looks great but its bound to be discussed by referees before the next game. Just like the crocodile tackle on Willis. To me both illegal because its an unfair contest, but hell I only refereed for 15 years. There'll be a change for sure.
The Referee should never be allowed to take charge of an international again. He doesn't know the rules??????????????????????
nearly but not quite. The law was changed 2 years ago. the only time you can jump out of the tackle is in the process of diving to score a try. perfectly legal.
Check the papers try awarded
May is overrated anyway goes missing in the big matches. Did nothing against Scotland and Cheslin Kolbe ran rings around him in the World Cup final
Salty!
If you know the laws of the game the attacker going for a try must not do anything to stop the defender having a chance of tackling the attacker as the Italian went to tackle may his red bull kicked in and have him wings try should have been disallowed pen to Italy
My Lions XV based on current form:
1 Vunipola
2 George
3 Sinkler
4 Itoje
5 Gray
6 Underhill
7 Tipuric
8 Faletau
9 Price
10 Russell
11 Van Der Merwe
12 Henshaw (this is a problem position...)
13 Slade
14 Watson
15 Hogg
Very Scottish feel to the XV at the moment! Of course this will all change by the tour - the only two players that are nailed on (barring injury) are Itoje and Hogg imo.
1 Vunipola
2 George
3 Sinkler
4 Itoje
5 Gray
6 Underhill
7 Tipuric
8 Faletau
9 Price
10 Russell
11 Van Der Merwe
12 Henshaw (this is a problem position...)
13 Slade
14 Watson
15 Hogg
Very Scottish feel to the XV at the moment! Of course this will all change by the tour - the only two players that are nailed on (barring injury) are Itoje and Hogg imo.
Price wont be on plane never mind starting 15. You could make argument for Watson at 7, id have May in before VDM and id even say he is behind Adams & Stockdale (i know they haven't played but have enough in the bank already) VDM hast been that amazing if you were going on form then LRZ would be ahead of him.
Been discussing Ali Price as a possible lion among friends for a short while. There is a lack of genuine quality at 9 among any of the British/Irish nations, so he has a chance. Overall feeling though is that his decision making sometimes lets him down. For example, kicking away possession in the last two minutes on Saturday was a poor choice.
I thought Price didn’t perform as well as his team mates against England but his kick for Graham’s try was excellent. Mixed bag for all scrum halves. Wales’ best scrum half (Webb) isn’t even in the squad. Randall won’t get a shot by England. Not sure there is an outstanding 9 at the moment. Maybe Murray gets the nod with a pacier 9 on the bench.
LRZ had a fantastic game on Saturday. Let's wait and see when some team specifically targets him constantly. The nature of Sport is, plaudits one week, pelters the next.
I can't see the Bok forwards being overly worried on the evidence seen so far in the 6N so far!
I can't see the Bok forwards being overly worried on the evidence seen so far in the 6N so far!
The lad is an amazing speedster for sure, but I''ll reserve judgement until I've seen him put under pressure defensively, that part of the game is just as important.
LRZ has been playing for Gloucester for 18 months, the youngest ever player in the Premiership. No team has ever been able to target him specifically.
If he stands up to England maybe but Watson and May are class...
I agree. Russell can be inspirational, and does things with the ball that few other 10s can. However, he also makes too many mistakes, throws too many interceptions to start for the Lions imo. That said, the competition for 10 is a little limited at the moment, so he may get the nod. Farrell shouldn’t even be starting for England for example.
I think at the moment people are generally paying themselves out of the tour (not that there will be one).
PoM and ZF obviously out
Farrell
AWJ,
Russell
Hogg
Youngs
Healey all showing their age and lack of form, amongst others
Positives, back 3 of LRZ, May and Watson is scary.
Itoje to Captain, as currently probably the only certain name on the team sheet.
PoM and ZF obviously out
Farrell
AWJ,
Russell
Hogg
Youngs
Healey all showing their age and lack of form, amongst others
Positives, back 3 of LRZ, May and Watson is scary.
Itoje to Captain, as currently probably the only certain name on the team sheet.
lols AWJ was close to MoM last week, Russell has been good and Hogg outstanding so far. Interested to know which games you've been watching.
Hogg playing himself out of contention, what games have you been watching?
I am guessing that you didnt see the game. Awj made endless tackless and was also sprinting down the field at pace before going off with about 10 minutes to go. The captain needs to talk to the ref.
I think you'll find you are allowed to dive for the line when the line is in reach. This is completely different to jumping in the midfield.
"No, it was because it was illegal."
It was given because it was legal. A player is alowed to dive in order to avoid a defending player whilst in the act of scoring. May went higher than most i've seen, but it was legal. You are not allowed to 'jump' tackles in open play.
This decision could have gone either way, and was a matter of interpretation. The fact it was allowed just upsets you.
It was given because it was legal. A player is alowed to dive in order to avoid a defending player whilst in the act of scoring. May went higher than most i've seen, but it was legal. You are not allowed to 'jump' tackles in open play.
This decision could have gone either way, and was a matter of interpretation. The fact it was allowed just upsets you.
He jumps and lands on the line... is that not the same as diving for the line? If he landed short of the line and then reached out to place the ball then its illegal as would have been jumping the tackle. Disappointed with Nige, he usually favours the attacking team. Incredible skill and stuff we want to see.
I seem to recall Sam Underhill tackling some welsh player diving for the and knocking him into touch
But it wasn't as ref gave the try. End of argument as NO knows!
I think at the moment people are generally paying themselves out of the tour (not that there will be one).
PoM and ZF obviously out
Farrell
AWJ,
Russell
Hogg
Youngs
Healey all showing their age and lack of form, amongst others
Positives, back 3 of LRZ, May and Watson is scary.
Itoje to Captain, as currently probably the only certain name on the team sheet.
PoM and ZF obviously out
Farrell
AWJ,
Russell
Hogg
Youngs
Healey all showing their age and lack of form, amongst others
Positives, back 3 of LRZ, May and Watson is scary.
Itoje to Captain, as currently probably the only certain name on the team sheet.
My Lions XV based on current form:
1 Vunipola
2 George
3 Sinkler
4 Itoje
5 Gray
6 Underhill
7 Tipuric
8 Faletau
9 Price
10 Russell
11 Van Der Merwe
12 Henshaw (this is a problem position...)
13 Slade
14 Watson
15 Hogg
Very Scottish feel to the XV at the moment! Of course this will all change by the tour - the only two players that are nailed on (barring injury) are Itoje and Hogg imo.
1 Vunipola
2 George
3 Sinkler
4 Itoje
5 Gray
6 Underhill
7 Tipuric
8 Faletau
9 Price
10 Russell
11 Van Der Merwe
12 Henshaw (this is a problem position...)
13 Slade
14 Watson
15 Hogg
Very Scottish feel to the XV at the moment! Of course this will all change by the tour - the only two players that are nailed on (barring injury) are Itoje and Hogg imo.
Flashes of brilliance but his error count is far too high for Gatland. Once the oppostion gets into his head he becomes very ordinary. Although he scored against England I thought he was poor. I would like to see Hogg play more at 10.
Every once in a while a player comes along and lights up the game. We had it with the likes Jona Lomu, Brian O'Driscoll and Dan Carter. By any measure they entertained and played with guile, cunning and had a swagger of greatness. The young lad Louis Rees-Zammit is the new kid on the block and is sheer class. He is a lethal attacking force with breathtaking pace. A Lion in waiting.
He clearly wasn't
It was illegal. Even a lowly referee named Nigel Owens said so and I believe he knows something about the laws of rugby.
Why do you view a reasonable point of view as ant Eng bigotry... need to take a look in the mirror me thinks...
Take a breathe. Both Matt Dawson and Nigel Owens have queried the decision to allow that try. Legal or not, it's a close call. My initial thoughts were it was a jump to avoid a tackle, certainly at full speed. In slow motion, it's a glorious try. It's done now, so we can move on - but don't slate people because they have a different opinion to you. That's poor form.
Easy tiger! It’s a fair question as it sets precedent. The question is whether a defender can stop the attacker legally. When I saw May’s try I thought wow, but didn’t know he was allowed to jump like that. Bit of a grey area Welsh fans love the sport and as an e.g. a lot didn’t want to see Fagerson sent off. I have some sympathy with Fagerson as it was hard for him to deal with Wyn Jones legally.
I've a feeling that AWJ might not make this one. There was talk of him being in it but this 6N has thrown up loads of good second row options. The Scottish locks (both Greys included) were brilliant on the weekend, Itoje played superbly as usual, Henderson and Beirne had good games and Beard put his hand up. AWJ played well but it looked a bit laboured.
After this week think lrz has played himself into the team, struggling with centres and no8 as no one is performing exceptionally well. Itoje and Hogg only certs
1. Vunipola
2. Cowan Dikie
3. Sinckler
4. Itoje
5. Gray
6. Underhill
7. Watson
8. Vunipola
9. T Williams
10. Russell
11. May
12. Henshaw
13. Slade
14. Lrz
15. Hogg
Subs genge, George, furlong, Ryan, tips, price, ford, Watson
1. Vunipola
2. Cowan Dikie
3. Sinckler
4. Itoje
5. Gray
6. Underhill
7. Watson
8. Vunipola
9. T Williams
10. Russell
11. May
12. Henshaw
13. Slade
14. Lrz
15. Hogg
Subs genge, George, furlong, Ryan, tips, price, ford, Watson
its rather amusing given England have been playing rubbish...and you select a team full of English players!!!
Time to wake up i'm afraid, v few of the england players have been on any great form to deserve selection, your forward select is a sure fast defeat
Time to wake up i'm afraid, v few of the england players have been on any great form to deserve selection, your forward select is a sure fast defeat
There is no way Gatland is going to pick anyone over Tipuric or Faletau.
Hogg needs defensive support but is best going forward by a mile. Watson and May. Henshaw no longer punching holes (but great player) I can see a ringer here. I too thought Gray was awesome. Russell = gamble. Curry on form. Porter should be up there.
Struggling for 9 and 10. One may depend on the other....
Hogg needs defensive support but is best going forward by a mile. Watson and May. Henshaw no longer punching holes (but great player) I can see a ringer here. I too thought Gray was awesome. Russell = gamble. Curry on form. Porter should be up there.
Struggling for 9 and 10. One may depend on the other....
Replace henshaw with Ringrose and Slade with North, watson is too small and take out 1, 3, 6 and 8, with two irishmen in the front row and possible CJ at 8 and faletau at 6.
Genge, this guy is a liability and would go with Sutherland or an Irish prop. Again Slade has done nothing to justify being in the squad. BV?
Billy V at 8 - You have got to be joking and your English bias is plain to see. Please take off your rose-tinted spectacles.
It is also clear that you know nothing about the front row.
Genge??? Oh please, give me strength.
It is also clear that you know nothing about the front row.
Genge??? Oh please, give me strength.
You sound like that Welsh ref who's just retired!! TBF, May's acrobatics should not be penalised, he IS entitled to go airborne to score a try, but not to avoid a tackle, I respectfully submit he was in the act of scoring a try as much as avoiding a tackle so the try stands, and for rugby's sake, so it should.
As a Welshman, I'm hoping Farrell gets picked at 10 to face Wales, or failing that, inside centre. He's deeply mediocre, whilst you know that, sooner or later, he's going to get sent off for violent play....
Hello Dean - Farrell will complete the triple of Wales playing against 14!
Funny how you don't rate OF but Gatland did and he played all the last Lions tour, but hey you know more about rugby than all the coaches that have picked him throughout his career. He is off form at moment but he will get better, so you best hope he doesn't hit form in the next game hey.
Hoping to play against 14 again only hope of winning ??????
He'll be first on the team-sheet. You're going to batter us.
Are you hoping he'll get sent off . In the interest of fairness, wouldn't you rather play a good game of rugby against 15?
Wales will certainly get him sent off
Please please pick Farrell Eddie we'd love to see him in Cardiff
OF is not mediocre and I’m Welsh too.
He’s not on form but a player of that class can just be one game from being so.
I’d rather Owen wasn’t playing!!
He’s not on form but a player of that class can just be one game from being so.
I’d rather Owen wasn’t playing!!
Opposition down to 14 and the Welsh still only
just manage to win
just manage to win
May had a drinker last week but was very good on Saturday
Given the opposition the centres are gonna have to be able to deal with the sheer physicality of their opposite numbers
At 9 anyone but Youngs, Davies or Murray
Given the opposition the centres are gonna have to be able to deal with the sheer physicality of their opposite numbers
At 9 anyone but Youngs, Davies or Murray
I think at the moment people are generally paying themselves out of the tour (not that there will be one).
PoM and ZF obviously out
Farrell
AWJ,
Russell
Hogg
Youngs
Healey all showing their age and lack of form, amongst others
Positives, back 3 of LRZ, May and Watson is scary.
Itoje to Captain, as currently probably the only certain name on the team sheet.
PoM and ZF obviously out
Farrell
AWJ,
Russell
Hogg
Youngs
Healey all showing their age and lack of form, amongst others
Positives, back 3 of LRZ, May and Watson is scary.
Itoje to Captain, as currently probably the only certain name on the team sheet.
LRZ was incredible on Sat., but defensively not quite there yet imo - future Lion for sure though. Plus very similar skill set to May.
VDM is similar in D, but different to all other wingers we have, so higher up in consideration for me.
9 is an area of concern - I'm Scottish and not a big fan of Price, but currently - who else is there! Many out of form / not playing.
VDM is similar in D, but different to all other wingers we have, so higher up in consideration for me.
9 is an area of concern - I'm Scottish and not a big fan of Price, but currently - who else is there! Many out of form / not playing.
I agree, classic armchair fans...LRZ plays 2 games and he's worldclass, load of nonsense!!
VDM is more experienced & has more than just speed to his game, LRZ's current limitations, so VDM ahead in my view also
You're right in that there is no genuine outstanding 9 anywhere, on forms also there is no outstanding 10 either but it will be Russell at this stage but he still doesnt play 80mins well
VDM is more experienced & has more than just speed to his game, LRZ's current limitations, so VDM ahead in my view also
You're right in that there is no genuine outstanding 9 anywhere, on forms also there is no outstanding 10 either but it will be Russell at this stage but he still doesnt play 80mins well
If EJ actually played the best 9 in England - Harry Randall, we might see a candidate.
It's a pity Tomos Williams got injured, plenty of good judges were saying him. Antoine Dupont doesn't have an Irish granny does he?
The fact that the European player of the year Sam Simmonds doesn't get near the squad is a total disgrace on Eddie Jones part, both Simmonds and Dombrandt are outperforming Billy V week in, week out.
"Louis Rees-Zammit for the Lions" mentions are ABSURD, quite frankly!
Wonderful attacking talent, but a long way to go developmentally, defensively in particular, before he can be considered for anything more than possibly being a water boy for the Lions tour of SA.
Do not rush the lad, or he will burn brightly, but briefly like a Flintoff. Contain your excitement, you'll be giving him an MBE next
Wonderful attacking talent, but a long way to go developmentally, defensively in particular, before he can be considered for anything more than possibly being a water boy for the Lions tour of SA.
Do not rush the lad, or he will burn brightly, but briefly like a Flintoff. Contain your excitement, you'll be giving him an MBE next
Just because he performs well for club, doesn't mean he will for country too. Alex Goode was European player of the year but was awful in an England shirt.
Billy is a liability and against Safas will be anonymous as he isn't bigger than them.
Have to agree Simmonds is a fantastic player to watch and a team player. I can not think of any other sport that would ignore it's best player in stats for international selection. Ireland have done the same with John Cooney at scrum half. He was top points scorer in European rugby last season and is currently top points scorer in the Pro 12. Connor Murray always gets the nod.
Simmonds, Armand and Ewers have had the better of most teams over the last several years and are all artists of the driving maul. None of them were given a look-in by Eddie, even when they had the better of Sarries in the back row over the last few years. Too late for Armand and Ewers now, but Simmonds is in his prime - he's a machine. an athlete and a phenomenon. Gatland should give him a chance!
Totally agree...
BV hasn't been the same player from when he stormed onto the scene... either all those injuries have taken the edge off, teams are reading him or as further up...EJ has him doing a diff role ...with perhaps Underhill and Curry now being the main protagonists...?
BV hasn't been the same player from when he stormed onto the scene... either all those injuries have taken the edge off, teams are reading him or as further up...EJ has him doing a diff role ...with perhaps Underhill and Curry now being the main protagonists...?
L R-Z was incredible. Thank goodness he's Welsh!!
yet
Should have... so let's see if karma catches up with him.
In fact he was sent off v Quins in the autumn and received a 5 week ban.
Yes but Farralls form had tanked since last Autumn. His contributions get less and less and of poor quality. Time to rest him until he's back playing week in week out then think about him again. In his present state of mind he's no good in the team!!
After this week think lrz has played himself into the team, struggling with centres and no8 as no one is performing exceptionally well. Itoje and Hogg only certs
1. Vunipola
2. Cowan Dikie
3. Sinckler
4. Itoje
5. Gray
6. Underhill
7. Watson
8. Vunipola
9. T Williams
10. Russell
11. May
12. Henshaw
13. Slade
14. Lrz
15. Hogg
Subs genge, George, furlong, Ryan, tips, price, ford, Watson
1. Vunipola
2. Cowan Dikie
3. Sinckler
4. Itoje
5. Gray
6. Underhill
7. Watson
8. Vunipola
9. T Williams
10. Russell
11. May
12. Henshaw
13. Slade
14. Lrz
15. Hogg
Subs genge, George, furlong, Ryan, tips, price, ford, Watson
I don’t think anyone can say those England players selected are off form except billy, have billy and faletau toss up at the moment neither on the form we know they can play with and no one else really putting a hand up at international level it’s a hard choice. But don’t think there is anyone else better atm
But who has been in good form? Other than France, every team has been complete dreck. Wales can’t win without a numerical advantage and Ireland are a basket case. The only team that really looks any good is Scotland.
My lions team at the moment on form would be:
1. Mako
2. Cowan-Dickie
3. Sinkler
4. Itoje
5. Gray
6. Underhill
7. Curry
8. Simmonds/ CJ Stander
9. ? No stand out for me
10. Russell
11. Rees-Zammit
12. Redpath
13. Slade
14. Watson
15. Hogg
I know everyone has there own ideas, maybe mine is a bit light weight in the backs but really slick and fast.
1. Mako
2. Cowan-Dickie
3. Sinkler
4. Itoje
5. Gray
6. Underhill
7. Curry
8. Simmonds/ CJ Stander
9. ? No stand out for me
10. Russell
11. Rees-Zammit
12. Redpath
13. Slade
14. Watson
15. Hogg
I know everyone has there own ideas, maybe mine is a bit light weight in the backs but really slick and fast.
I think Porter put in a show yesterday to challenge Sinkler at tighthead and it's too early to pick LRZ as a Lion until his defensive qualities have been examined.
Curry is way down the 7 list the mo.
Tipuric, Watson & Underhill for starters. Underhill because he has more credit in the bank & TC hasn't really shone yet. Early days though - still time for him to be overtaken by a few more
Tipuric, Watson & Underhill for starters. Underhill because he has more credit in the bank & TC hasn't really shone yet. Early days though - still time for him to be overtaken by a few more
not sure about Redpath!!! Slade as well ! Hard to disagree on no stand out 9 and also the other 12 you mentioned
Surely you see this is a difficult argument? Was an Italian defender entitled to tackle him while he was in the air as you can when others are diving closer to the ground? If so, who would have been liable if either one of them was injured as a consequence?
From an Irish perspective I’m a bit disappointed there’s not at least a mention of an Irish player in this the last 2 weeks - we played 60 mins with 14 men last week, a few very good performances even though we were pipped to the post (Beirne, Henshaw to name a few) and dominated the first half against a very good french team yesterday, I admit we didn’t deserve anything out of the game in the end
I think dominating the first half against France is a bit of a stretch when you were down at half time - 3-10.
Ireland look toothless in attack. Only a flukey try and France missing an easy kick made it a 2 point game.
Of course with Andy Farrell as head coach it's no surprise the Irish attack is currently looking a bit pedestrian. Him and his son share that trait at the moment!
Ireland look toothless in attack. Only a flukey try and France missing an easy kick made it a 2 point game.
Of course with Andy Farrell as head coach it's no surprise the Irish attack is currently looking a bit pedestrian. Him and his son share that trait at the moment!
"No, it was because it was illegal."
It was given because it was legal. A player is alowed to dive in order to avoid a defending player whilst in the act of scoring. May went higher than most i've seen, but it was legal. You are not allowed to 'jump' tackles in open play.
This decision could have gone either way, and was a matter of interpretation. The fact it was allowed just upsets you.
It was given because it was legal. A player is alowed to dive in order to avoid a defending player whilst in the act of scoring. May went higher than most i've seen, but it was legal. You are not allowed to 'jump' tackles in open play.
This decision could have gone either way, and was a matter of interpretation. The fact it was allowed just upsets you.
Don't know what rule book you're reading in no way did may dive he jumped in the air to avoid the tackler therefore not giving the defender any chance to tackle him try should not have stood
That is the point, it is very much open to interpretation. All I can think is that because he places the ball over the try line the officials have interpreted it as diving for the line.
However the call could easily be made to it was no try and a penalty because he jumped to avoid the tackle!
Very difficult to give a definitive answer for that one, to be honest.
However the call could easily be made to it was no try and a penalty because he jumped to avoid the tackle!
Very difficult to give a definitive answer for that one, to be honest.
He jumped in the air, did not dive for the line. Any schoolboy interested in RU, could tell you it is illegal.
My Lions XV based on current form:
1 Vunipola
2 George
3 Sinkler
4 Itoje
5 Gray
6 Underhill
7 Tipuric
8 Faletau
9 Price
10 Russell
11 Van Der Merwe
12 Henshaw (this is a problem position...)
13 Slade
14 Watson
15 Hogg
Very Scottish feel to the XV at the moment! Of course this will all change by the tour - the only two players that are nailed on (barring injury) are Itoje and Hogg imo.
1 Vunipola
2 George
3 Sinkler
4 Itoje
5 Gray
6 Underhill
7 Tipuric
8 Faletau
9 Price
10 Russell
11 Van Der Merwe
12 Henshaw (this is a problem position...)
13 Slade
14 Watson
15 Hogg
Very Scottish feel to the XV at the moment! Of course this will all change by the tour - the only two players that are nailed on (barring injury) are Itoje and Hogg imo.
LRZ had a fantastic game on Saturday. Let's wait and see when some team specifically targets him constantly. The nature of Sport is, plaudits one week, pelters the next.
I can't see the Bok forwards being overly worried on the evidence seen so far in the 6N so far!
I can't see the Bok forwards being overly worried on the evidence seen so far in the 6N so far!
My lions team at the moment on form would be:
1. Mako
2. Cowan-Dickie
3. Sinkler
4. Itoje
5. Gray
6. Underhill
7. Curry
8. Simmonds/ CJ Stander
9. ? No stand out for me
10. Russell
11. Rees-Zammit
12. Redpath
13. Slade
14. Watson
15. Hogg
I know everyone has there own ideas, maybe mine is a bit light weight in the backs but really slick and fast.
1. Mako
2. Cowan-Dickie
3. Sinkler
4. Itoje
5. Gray
6. Underhill
7. Curry
8. Simmonds/ CJ Stander
9. ? No stand out for me
10. Russell
11. Rees-Zammit
12. Redpath
13. Slade
14. Watson
15. Hogg
I know everyone has there own ideas, maybe mine is a bit light weight in the backs but really slick and fast.
LRZ was incredible on Sat., but defensively not quite there yet imo - future Lion for sure though. Plus very similar skill set to May.
VDM is similar in D, but different to all other wingers we have, so higher up in consideration for me.
9 is an area of concern - I'm Scottish and not a big fan of Price, but currently - who else is there! Many out of form / not playing.
VDM is similar in D, but different to all other wingers we have, so higher up in consideration for me.
9 is an area of concern - I'm Scottish and not a big fan of Price, but currently - who else is there! Many out of form / not playing.
I agree, classic armchair fans...LRZ plays 2 games and he's worldclass, load of nonsense!!
VDM is more experienced & has more than just speed to his game, LRZ's current limitations, so VDM ahead in my view also
You're right in that there is no genuine outstanding 9 anywhere, on forms also there is no outstanding 10 either but it will be Russell at this stage but he still doesnt play 80mins well
VDM is more experienced & has more than just speed to his game, LRZ's current limitations, so VDM ahead in my view also
You're right in that there is no genuine outstanding 9 anywhere, on forms also there is no outstanding 10 either but it will be Russell at this stage but he still doesnt play 80mins well
The added bonus is that VDM will know the pitches well when going home.
I agree on games so far. Before the 6Ns had started I didn't think he was ready for test match rugby but LRZ's improvement has been immense. Some work to do in defence yes, always,... but that 50m kick out of defence shows the confidence and the skill-set is there to be polished.
LRZ made VDM look like a prop when he scored his 2nd try, left him for dead!
Vunipola B should not start for England, let alone the Lions. He's overweight and unfit and has not performed well for some time now.
Would love for Sam Simmonds and Marcus Smith to be involved.
Could Gats bypass Eddie the Ego?
I can dream.
Could Gats bypass Eddie the Ego?
I can dream.
No it wasn’t. Please leave your anti English bigotry in the valleys, where it belongs,
Think this is the sort of thing that proves he was right to retire!
Let's hope Willis recovers quickly. It was horrific and you could hear him scream in genuine agony: unlike the likes of Fernandes, Kane, Salah who scream at the faintest of touches (without crowd noise you would swear you were listening to people having their fingernails pulled out watching football.)
If you don't like football, don't watch it, but keep your irrelevant comments to yourself on a rugby site!
I think at the moment people are generally paying themselves out of the tour (not that there will be one).
PoM and ZF obviously out
Farrell
AWJ,
Russell
Hogg
Youngs
Healey all showing their age and lack of form, amongst others
Positives, back 3 of LRZ, May and Watson is scary.
Itoje to Captain, as currently probably the only certain name on the team sheet.
PoM and ZF obviously out
Farrell
AWJ,
Russell
Hogg
Youngs
Healey all showing their age and lack of form, amongst others
Positives, back 3 of LRZ, May and Watson is scary.
Itoje to Captain, as currently probably the only certain name on the team sheet.
My Lions XV based on current form:
1 Vunipola
2 George
3 Sinkler
4 Itoje
5 Gray
6 Underhill
7 Tipuric
8 Faletau
9 Price
10 Russell
11 Van Der Merwe
12 Henshaw (this is a problem position...)
13 Slade
14 Watson
15 Hogg
Very Scottish feel to the XV at the moment! Of course this will all change by the tour - the only two players that are nailed on (barring injury) are Itoje and Hogg imo.
1 Vunipola
2 George
3 Sinkler
4 Itoje
5 Gray
6 Underhill
7 Tipuric
8 Faletau
9 Price
10 Russell
11 Van Der Merwe
12 Henshaw (this is a problem position...)
13 Slade
14 Watson
15 Hogg
Very Scottish feel to the XV at the moment! Of course this will all change by the tour - the only two players that are nailed on (barring injury) are Itoje and Hogg imo.
Farrell offers nothing except place kicking (even his captaincy skills are limited) and that does not justify a Lions place: I am an England supporter.
The bad tackling has been a "feature" for a long time, about time he was pulled on it.
I think at the moment people are generally paying themselves out of the tour (not that there will be one).
PoM and ZF obviously out
Farrell
AWJ,
Russell
Hogg
Youngs
Healey all showing their age and lack of form, amongst others
Positives, back 3 of LRZ, May and Watson is scary.
Itoje to Captain, as currently probably the only certain name on the team sheet.
PoM and ZF obviously out
Farrell
AWJ,
Russell
Hogg
Youngs
Healey all showing their age and lack of form, amongst others
Positives, back 3 of LRZ, May and Watson is scary.
Itoje to Captain, as currently probably the only certain name on the team sheet.
LRZ was incredible on Sat., but defensively not quite there yet imo - future Lion for sure though. Plus very similar skill set to May.
VDM is similar in D, but different to all other wingers we have, so higher up in consideration for me.
9 is an area of concern - I'm Scottish and not a big fan of Price, but currently - who else is there! Many out of form / not playing.
VDM is similar in D, but different to all other wingers we have, so higher up in consideration for me.
9 is an area of concern - I'm Scottish and not a big fan of Price, but currently - who else is there! Many out of form / not playing.
LRZ had a fantastic game on Saturday. Let's wait and see when some team specifically targets him constantly. The nature of Sport is, plaudits one week, pelters the next.
I can't see the Bok forwards being overly worried on the evidence seen so far in the 6N so far!
I can't see the Bok forwards being overly worried on the evidence seen so far in the 6N so far!
Gloucester's youngest ever player. Not the Prems. That was Ford.
LRZ was incredible on Sat., but defensively not quite there yet imo - future Lion for sure though. Plus very similar skill set to May.
VDM is similar in D, but different to all other wingers we have, so higher up in consideration for me.
9 is an area of concern - I'm Scottish and not a big fan of Price, but currently - who else is there! Many out of form / not playing.
VDM is similar in D, but different to all other wingers we have, so higher up in consideration for me.
9 is an area of concern - I'm Scottish and not a big fan of Price, but currently - who else is there! Many out of form / not playing.
At least England's backline comes alive with Ford playing, the same can't be said for Farrell...
Ford should pass - the difference is they are flat at space or disguised, so he creates something but really really hindered by slow ball @9 and an obvious @12
Ford, Slade and ‘Someone’ would do our game wonders!
Ford, Slade and ‘Someone’ would do our game wonders!
AWJ spent the entire match arguing every single decision with the referee. His intimidatory behaviour towards referees is a disgrace.
If AWJ does it it's OK but not Farrell...
Ultimately, there are enough referees touch judges tmo's to see everything so players should be encouraged to keep their mouths shut.
30 years ago it would be 10 yards and the refs saw very little so needed a strong captain to 'point' things out but now they 'see' everything. I would love to see Owens telling AWJ (and Farrell) to politely go away...
Ultimately, there are enough referees touch judges tmo's to see everything so players should be encouraged to keep their mouths shut.
30 years ago it would be 10 yards and the refs saw very little so needed a strong captain to 'point' things out but now they 'see' everything. I would love to see Owens telling AWJ (and Farrell) to politely go away...
This guy is a Lacrosse fan
Hogg is best by far ball in hand but SA will try and run over him. Need Watson and May if he picks Hogg. If he picks LRZ then Watson goes to FB (which is where I would put him for England).
My ringer for the team (or bench) is Odugwu....
My ringer for the team (or bench) is Odugwu....