“MISSION ACCOMPLISHED," declared Philippe Saint Andre in the wake of France’s dogged 22-14 defeat of Samoa on Saturday evening. "Today is the victory of courage, restraint, solidarity. We did not…
Countries
No more pipes for Robinson
THE PIPES have stopped their skirl. The flags are at half mast, unruffled by a gust. Andy Robinson has abdicated his post at the top of Scotland’s game and few…
England v South Africa: The Verdict
AN INTENSELY frustrating day for England, who on the balance of play did enough to earn a first win over the Springboks in 11 meetings. They had an edge in…
Ireland 46-24 Argentina: The Verdict
IRELAND WERE superior up front and absolutely ruthless about taking their scoring chances. This record win against the Pumas guarantees Ireland a top-eight seeding for the 2015 World Cup when…
Accent on youth reinvigorates Ireland
ON 31st July 2010 a young Ulsterman scored the first try in a challenge match to mark the opening of the Aviva Stadium. Another reporter turned to me and said…
Wales v New Zealand: Five things we learned
WALES HAVE once again become one of those teams that takes positives from defeats against the world’s best. This time last year that wasn’t the case. Wales were a team…
Robshaw’s decision-making under the spotlight
TEST MATCHES are won by inches. The top two inches. Robshaw misread the situation.
Wales 10-33 New Zealand: The Verdict
NEW ZEALAND are on another level and proved that yet again at the Millennium Stadium.
Inside the England camp: Part 3
ENGLAND WERE brought down to earth by Saturday’s loss to Australia, but away from the preparation for this weekend’s game against South Africa the players have found time to relax…
England v South Africa: The Preview
MALCOLM PREEDY was part of the first one-club front row to play for England. In 1984, the former Gloucester captain packed down with club-mates Steve Mills and Phil Blakeway against…