Rugby World Cup 2011: Bring me those lamb chops…the good and the bad of an amazing tournament

The hangover is gone, the mild blues are gone and I've caught up on sleep – the past six weeks had taken their toll. The hangover is easy to explain – the All Blacks won and we celebrated with gusto.

Fit for the Cup. And a bbq...

The mild blues? I always get them after a Rugby World Cup. It's an event I look forward to for the best part of four years. And then, when the lights dim for the last time after the final, the rugby landscape just seems so barren again. We don't even have autumn internationals to look forward to this year.

But what a ride it's been. The early-morning fixes while I watched games on telly in the UK – I missed a total of only two games – and the time I spent in New Zealand were, as Kiwis like to say, just simply awesome.

What a tournament! In today's money-hungry times it may not have made the most sense to award RWC 2011 to New Zealand, but nobody in the world brings as much single-minded passion to the event as the rugby-mad Kiwis. Take a bow, it was a brilliantly organised and the most fun World Cup I've been to! And so a few other acknowledgements and disappointments (and please let me know yours, I fully appreciate there are countless other highlights and lowlights out there)…

RWC JOYS

The All Blacks finally shaking off that four-yearly monkey. Nay, it was a bloody gorilla on their backs! They've been the most consistent and impressive team at this tournament – and for most of the years between world cups since 1987 – and it's simply grand that they've now got the cup to show for it.

The hosts – warm, welcoming, always ready with a beer and some banter. There was a fear they'd care only about the All Blacks, but they embraced one and all. 

The so-called minnows – always gallant in defeat, always immense in their contribution. I've changed my mind on an earlier suggestion to limit RWCs to the top 12 teams in the world. Their commitment to RWC 2011 was outstanding… none more so than Tonga getting one over France. Will South Auckland ever forget that day?   

RWC DISAPPOINTMENTS

A lot of the refereeing – inconsistent, often overbearing, often lax. None more so than at the crucial breakdown. Always a great pity when referees, not the players, decide matches. And it's something that demands urgent IRB attention. Springbok and Wales fans will always claim – rightly or wrongly – that referees cost them a shot at glory.

France being fined for advancing on the haka – what an absolute lot of nonsense. France made a fantastic gesture, and the All Blacks, I have no doubt, would have respected that acceptance of the challenge. Pull your heads in, IRB. What a petty, pedantic response by the blazers.

Quade Cooper – so much promise, so much lip, so little class. And Sonny Bill Williams, who was meant to set the World Cup alight, but never more than flickered.

Dan Carter's injury – this was meant to be his big moment on home soil, but he was cruelly robbed of that opportunity. Big credit to the man for the way he dealt with the hammer blow.

England – what a rabble who couldn't maintain discipline for a maximum of six weeks. Even more lamentable was their constant defending of the antics – "it was all the media's fault" – and the misguided belief that they were playing well. A team that believed its own hype and hot air, only to plummet to earth. Fair play then to Lewis Moody, for describing them as 'at best naive and at worst totally unacceptable'.

And finally, just before this blog takes a break, a few thanks: to each and every reader of this blog. We've agreed and disagreed – and I would not want it any other way. You've been great. And to Maximuscle, for being the power behind my adventure to New Zealand. Your support for a trip of a lifetime was immense.

My rugby cup has runneth over… See you soon again.

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Rugby World Cup 2011: New Zealand deserved winners in the greatest final of them all

Stunner: Thierry Dusautoir's try got New Zealand fans sweating (Photo: AP)

The wait is over, but my word how the whole of New Zealand had to live on its nerves to see their precious All Blacks claim their first World Cup in 24 years.

France were simply magnificent, from the moment they advanced on the haka in an arrow-shaped formation with the captain Thierry Dusautoir at the front, they defied every prediction that they would be a soft touch.

They were resolute, unyielding and hell-bent on taking the game to New Zealand in the best World Cup final ever.

And yet it was not enough. They may rue the 48-metre penalty goal failure by Francois Trinh-Duc in the 65th minute, the ball just drifting wide but given that Wales the week before had failed in similar circumstances perhaps there was some justice in all of it.

For the victors where was nothing but relief. The exultation at the final whistle, the clamour to embrace each other, tells you just how much it meant to all of them, to the players on the field, to the packed Eden Park stands and to the hundreds of thousands that have flooded in to the city to watch the match on big screens.

Who knows what level of desolation would have afflicted this country if that one-point margin of victory had been lost. It so nearly was.

In the end New Zealand were just grateful to hang on, the forwards picking and going only inches at a time to run the clock down for four long minutes. But they managed it, and the celebrations right throughout the land began. It was going to be a long night but a joyous one.

It was a deserved accolade to have claimed in the end for the double act of coach and captain, Graham Henry and Richie McCaw, these two great men warranted all the plaudits they would receive.

It was staggering to see the transformation in this French team. Even the All Blacks, respectful throughout the week, must have been stunned by the sustained ferocity with which France played.

It was true that the All Blacks had the better of a fearsome first half, scoring a try through the unlikely source of prop Tony Woodcock in the 15th minute, substitute fly-half Stephen Donald extending the lead five minutes in to the second half, but from there on in it was all France.

Some quite sumptuous performances to behold in the France back row, noble work from Aurelien Rougerie in the centre and some nice testing ball play from the back three. It was the forward pack though, who grabbed hold of the game, dominating in the set-piece, line-out and scrummage.

When Dusautoir was on hand to round off a sharp, opportunist attack, Trinh-Duc converted and it closed the scores to 8-7 with 34 minutes to run. You felt the force was with France and that somehow they might pull off an improbable victory.

Somehow New Zealand hung on, knowing that this sort of chance might never pass their way again. That they managed to do so was a sign of their character, their togetherness and a sense that it was their destiny to finally lay their hands on the Webb Ellis trophy after such a long time.

Rugby World Cup 2011: five reasons why South Africa lost to Australia

Going nowhere: Pierre Spies breaks blind off a scrum and gets bundled into touch

The quarter-final between South Africa and Australia was one of the best games of international rugby since the Lions Tests of 2009. Actually, there's no maybe about it. It was.

It had everything: skill, commitment, heart, tension, and some of the most robust collisions you are likely to see on a rugby field.

After the match I spent nearly four hours in the pub picking over the bones of the defeat with my cousin and we couldn't find too much to fault in South Africa's tactical approach, or their performance.

Now I've had a chance to re-watch the tape of the match in the cold light of day there are a few things to be critical of from that Springbok performance, but also plenty to be positive about.

I must also add that I think it's too simplistic to boil this game down to South Africa's attack not being good enough to beat Australia's admittedly superb defence. Here are my five reasons why they lost:

1. Bryce Lawrence

I have put this at the top because having watched the game in its entirety twice it is clear that Lawrence is the dominant figure of the match. As Mark Reason has blogged, Lawrence made a complete hash of the breakdown and a complete mockery of the IRB's directives. They were handed down to make sure the breakdown was strictly refereed with no funny business. This, the IRB hoped, would lead to a more attacking game as there would be less turnovers or defensive penalties at the breakdown. Lawrence failed in this. As he failed to award two clear high tackle infringements from James Horwill and Quade Cooper in the final 10 minutes. As he failed to spot Dan Vickerman's hand in the ruck with the Boks three metres out from the line. The lack of consistency in refereeing styles continues to blight Test rugby.

2. David Pocock

The openside made 26 tackles and was a force of nature at the breakdown. He must be given credit for his chutzpah. He realised pretty damn quickly that Lawrence was not going to penalise him very often at the tackle area, and he certainly wasn't going to bin him. He rode his luck for the full 80 minutes, using his physique, fitness and technique to slow down or pilfer the ball at every opportunity. It's going to take some performance from Richie McCaw to keep this boy quiet next week.

3. Heinrich Brüssow's injury

Prior to this match Brendan Venter wrote in his column that while Pocock was clearly an exceptional rugby player he would not been given a free pass at the breakdown because South Africa had stumbled upon a great balance in the back row, with both Brüssow and Schalk Burger there. Burger went on to produce another incredible Test match performance (in fact, he is so good and plays with so much heart I have noticed a few Lions fans forgiving him for fiddling with Luke Fitzgerald's eyes) but without Brüssow there he was unable to neutralise Pocock. Francois Louw had a super game off the bench but he is not in the same class as Brüssow when it comes to pilfers. I have no doubt that had Brüssow not gone off after the first quarter Pocock would not have exerted nearly as much influence over the game.

4. Too late to use the boot

When did South Africa look their most dangerous in this game? When Fourie du Preez, Morne Steyn and Pat Lambie were aerially bombarding the Aussies. JP Pietersen also played a blinder in this respect, chasing and tackling like a man possessed. It certainly ruffled the feathers of Quade Cooper, who went missing in action yet again at the World Cup, but we didn't see enough of this tactic in the first half. Nor did we see enough territorial kicking, which is particularly surprising when you consider that the Springboks won all 14 of their line-outs and stole five of the Wallabies'. I know it sounds bizarre to say it about this Springbok team. But they probably didn't kick enough.

5. Selections and injuries

The biggest debate in SA rugby over the last year has been about what the superior starting XV was. And three substitutions yesterday showed what was the real best team. Bismarck du Plessis at hooker, Francois Hougaard on the left wing and Willem Alberts at No 8. The trio, who replaced John Smit, Bryan Habana and Pierre Spies respectively, improved the side to the extent that you wonder what might have been had they started. Smit's impact at the set-piece was clear but he didn't add much around the park other than a few routine carries. Habana took a bit of a battering with the ball in hand and a quick comparison between his contributions and those of Hougaard show who is the bigger attacking threat at the moment. As for Spies? Well Opta say he made 121 metres with the ball in hand, more than anyone in the four quarter-finals, but unfortunately for South Africa a high proportion of these were runs down blind allies. Alberts got through his fair share of carrying but he also hit rucks and tried to spoil Australia's ball. Spies could learn a lot from his work-rate.

Rugby World Cup 2011: "Result! I desperately wanted England to lose to France"

Now, just before my many critics vent their spleen in rants about me being anti-English, anti-northern hemisphere, anti-Johnson, whatever, take note of this: the headline is not me saying it.

No, the headline is the sentiment of some mates – all of them England born and bred, all of them regular visitors to Twickenham, all of them with a red-rosed white shirt in their closets. In short, all true-blue England fans.

It may sound bizarre for England fans to say that, but there's method in their reasoning… That an early exit at RWC 2011 will possibly and hopefully prevent an even bigger embarrassment on home soil at RWC 2015. Or put another way, that defeat to France would stun England into making wholesale changes – in management, in player selection, in playing style.

As one mate put it: "If England go on to reach the final in New Zealand – even if they lose –  Martin Johnson and the RFU will simply believe that all is okay with English rugby. And we'll forever have an impotent backline and stick to players well past their best and tactics good enough to beat mediocre opposition but inferior to the top sides."

And let's face it, France were far from great in Wellington. Committed, determined and workmanlike with the occasional flash of brilliance – but England lost this match as much as Les Bleus won it.

It will be a bitter pill for England fans to swallow. But maybe, just maybe, my England mates are right… this bitter pill could well prove to have a sugar coating.

As for the first quarter-final, wow! Wales were simply sensational. Direct, incisive running combined with tackling of an intensity not often seen, made them full value for the semi-finals – and final if they repeat this power show.

In a strange way, defeat for Ireland could have a similar clear-out effect to that of England. And they should start with old man Ronan O'Gara … two terrible knock-ons with Ireland hard on attack and two terribly overcooked kicks for touch took the sting out of Ireland's running – and Wales needed no second invitation. 

Do you agree with my mates? What was really wrong with England and Ireland on the day? Let me know!

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Rugby World Cup 2011: abject England face big decisions on future of set-up after defeat to France

When the end came it was wretched, rather than noble. An ignominious exit from the Rugby World Cup in contrast to the nobility shown earlier in the evening by Ireland.

England, regrettably, saved one of their most awful displays for the most important point in the tournament.

They were abject in the first half, devoid of any sense of fluency, understanding and accuracy, looking for all the world as if they had just met up.

Now that the road has come to an end for England, the next question will be as to what the future holds for Martin Johnson.

This is England's worst performance at a World Cup since 1999 and serious questions were raised then about the suitability of keeping Clive Woodward on board.

Of course we know what happened on that occasion but this has been a World Cup riddled with controversy, ill discipline and underperforming.

Johnson will have to answer some searching questions as to the England set-up when the squad return home early next week.

Even though there was improvement after the break in England's play, with tries scored by Ben Foden and Mark Cueto.

There was a still a sense of desperation in much of what England did. France did have to hang on, grimly at times, as they conceded penalty after penalty, but no-one could dispute that they were the better team on the evening.

Given that they themselves had been such a rabble up to this stage, the fact that England were unable to take advantage of such disarray in their camp can only add to the sense of failure.

England had promised int he build-up that for almost the first time in this campaign they would make a good start. It was anything but.

Once again there were errors galore, rushed passes and when there was no need to force the issue, and a singular lack of cohesion.

Given that all the talk just prior to the match had been as to who would be England's goal-kicker it was astonishing that neither Jonny Wilkinson or Toby Flood had a penalty kick at goal in the entire match.

Wilkinson's conversion of Foden's try in the 55th minute was his only telling contribution.

As he traipsed from the field in the 66th minute for Matt Banahan you did wonder if that was the last you might see of him in an England shirt.

He has made no such suggestion himself but you feel his time might be coming to an end. As with much of his play in the pool stages, Wilkinson was again hesitant and unable to trigger anything of great significance in the England backline.

The eagerly anticipated combination with Toby Flood yielded precisely nothing. Only the man outside Manu tuilagi, was able to draw anything from the evening in terms of satisfaction.

Once again Tuilagi for long stretches of the game was England's lone attacking threat.

The journey home will be a sobering one for England and they have failed to get anywhere near the heights that they did last year when Australia were beaten twice. There was solace in their attacking game but they have shown so little over the last five weeks.

France, now, have redeemed themselves and are a threat to anybody in this World Cup.

Rugby World Cup 2011: Close encounters of the quarter-final kind… with wins for NZ, England, SA and Ireland

Twelve wannabe pretenders to the crown are already snugly tucked up in bed at home – and four more will have joined them come Sunday night. But who will they be?

At face value two of the weekend’s quarter-finals look to be safe bets, and two are absolute humdingers that only a fool would re-mortgage the house for to lay a bet.

But all eight teams, some more convincingly than others, have deserved their place in the knockout stage – and you just have to think back to Cardiff at RWC 2007 that no quarter-final is signed and sealed before the kick-off.

And while purely of academic interest, how different might the draw have looked if the outcomes of a few close games had been reversed… if Argentina had held on to their lead against England, if Scotland had not choked against the Pumas, if the world rankings had held sway between Australia and Ireland?? But that’s how this wonderful game goes, and now we’re guaranteed a southern v northern hemisphere final.

So here some thoughts and predictions… and would like to hear your take on the weekend.

New Zealand v Argentina One of the two ‘bankers’. Even without Dan Carter, even with Richie McCaw carrying an injury, the All Blacks should have far too much class for the enthusiastic but ultimately limited Pumas. There should be some parity among the tight five, the All Black loosies should secure plenty of fast ball, and the backs will have a field day. Game over. New Zealand 32 Argentina 15.

England v France The game between the two teams who’ve made more off-field headlines than set the world alight with their play. The drinking, kissing, lewd dwarf-tossers versus the bitching in-fighters intent on starting a new French revolution. Martin Johnson’s team have hardly been electrifying, squeaking past only reasonable opposition in Argentina and Scotland.

But so be it, they key is they stayed composed and won – and nothing else matters. France, in turn, have been a disgrace, and are the only team to have lost two matches and still qualified for the play-offs.

All signs point to a convincing win for England – and deservedly so. But this – need we any reminding? – is France. Tempestuous, arrogant mavericks that can lose by 50 today and beat the same opposition by two tomorrow. Supporters will hope, opponents will fear, that they have their customary 80 minutes of sublime RWC magic in them, when every bounce of the ball goes their way.

Just don’t see that happening. This France team make their 2010 Football World Cup counterparts look smart and disciplined, while England have enough grunt upfront to silence the calls of Allez Bleus. England 28 France 17.

Australia v South Africa Compelling, fascinating, thrilling… almost an injustice that the world No 2 and 3 teams should meet so early, and a match that won’t be settled until the final 10 minutes. If the Wallaby loose forwards compete like they did against New Zealand in Brisbane in August, and free up their hard-running backs, they could sneak this one. But the Springboks have shown in close matches against Wales and Samoa that they know how to hold their nerve. South Africa 21 Australia 18.

Ireland v Wales To neutrals surely the match-up of the weekend. Ireland, so brilliant against Australia, have gone about the business with understated grit and determination, throwing the pre-RWC form book right out of the window. A true all-round side, boasting presence upfront, a magnificent back-row and hard-running backs. And there’s the rub… with slightly different emphasis, we could say the same about Wales, who’ve done well to overcome that heart-breaking defeat in their opener to the Springboks.

I’ve tossed my lucky 50p coin untold times – and still it’s even between tails and heads. A draw perhaps at full-time with the tie settled in extra time? Virtually impossible to call in on-field skill, so I’ll predict it on perceived mental strength. Ireland, I think, just have that bit more self-belief than Wales, so it’s Brian O’Driscoll’s team by a whisker. Ireland 24 Wales 22.

Prepared to put a tenner on each of the outcomes. How do you see it?

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Rugby World Cup 2011: What was really said in the England, Scotland, NZ and France dressing rooms…

Wonderful thing, this technology, allows me to eavesdrop on coaches in their dressing rooms. And given events of the past 24 hours, there’s been a lot of cheering and cussing.

This is what was said around New Zealand yesterday:

England’s Martin Johnson: “Jesus Christ, you bumbling idiots age me prematurely. Was getting ready to pack my bags when finally you played some rugby. Well done, lads, I thought we were done for. That said, thank the Lord we don’t have NZ, the Aussies or Saffas in our half of the draw because we would have been on a plane very soon.”

Scotland’s Andy Robinson: “Ah for ***** sake, how many times must I tell ye lads this game is 80 minutes long. You run and tackle and kick yourselves hoarse for 75 minutes, then get caught cold by what England are terrible at… running the ball to score tries. I figured out limp show against Argentina would come to haunt us. Let’s go home, we all need a strong wee drink.”

New Zealand’s Graham Henry: “Ah ****, ****, ****. Anyone but Dan Carter. Ah ****, ****, ****. Without him we’re just pants. Phone the PM and see if we can make Felipe Contepomi a Kiwi by Friday.”

France’s Marc Lievremont: “You are le merde, le stupid, le losers, le pathetic. My contract runs out on Oct 24 but I’m of good mind to fly home now. Then again, may as well stick around for this last week, we’re out of here after the quarter-finals. You stinking bunch of escargots.”

Tonga's Quddus Fielea: "Life is sweet, bro, pass me a beer. Sheesssss, what might have happened if we'd not folded to Canada. No worries, bro, next time."

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Rugby World Cup 2011: Predictions – Too little too late for Scotland, Samoa and Italy in battle of bonus points

Take your pick of headlines for this weekend’s rugby… Sweet and sour success for Scotland; Big hits but little luck for Samoa; Pasta and basta for Italy.

All three are tantalisingly close to the play-offs, but for different reasons they’ll all fall short of a quarter-final place.

Welcome to the start of the real world cup, a newspaper headline in Auckland read today, and they’re right. Come Sunday night and there will be elation and depression in almost equal measure. It’s the weekend of the bonus points.

Amazingly at this late stage in the pool games, only New Zealand are absolutely guaranteed a quarter-final berth irrespective of what happens in Pool A. Canada could still pip France to the runners-up place, but only a double-deluded dunce would see them beat the All Blacks with a bonus point in the process and France lose heavily to Tonga. So that’s settled.

Then it becomes interesting. Pools B and D will require bonus points to upset the current standings. Argentina will no doubt smash Georgia, so Scotland need not only beat old foe England at Eden Park on Saturday, but do so with four tries and deny England a losing bonus point.

A haggis or two too far? Absolutely – as Scottish fans here in Auckland readily admit. And yet, will this required hell-for-leather approach liberate the Scots for once and see them throw all caution to the wind?

I’ll predict Scotland to actually score a try or two – despite their lame duck performances at RWC 2011 so far – but to fall short in the end (and possibly even get beaten by England at the death as the clock ticks down and the dream dies fast). Scotland 21 England 19.

Likewise in Pool D, where the current table topper could still depart home on Monday. On most days I’d say smash-and-run Samoa have four tries in them, but they’ve looked hesitant at RWC2011 while South Africa are showing sharp and ruthless signs. Wales will do the business comfortably against Fiji on Sunday, so it’s goodbye Samoa at North Harbour on Friday. South Africa 37 Samoa 22.

The biggest and most intriguing battle looms in Pool C, where unbeaten Ireland could still exit early. And Italy don’t even need to score four tries to make that happen – though they’ll have to deny Declan Kidney’s team a losing bonus point.

But that’s poppycock. Italy's forwards are mostly awesome, but their backs often make a plate of spaghetti look orderly and organised. So Ireland 28 Italy 13.

Fair calls or ramblings of a madman as we start this weekend of shock and awe? Your calls please…

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Rugby World Cup 2011: RWC stats, numbers and facts … how many would you get right in a pub quiz?

Sitting at a Wellington cafe mulling over Pools B, C and D… will we see the pre-tournament favourites go through to the knockout phase, or will we see an upset or two this weekend? But that, and my predictions, will have to wait until tomorrow, so please come back and let me know how you see the final pool games unfolding.

Heading back up to Auckland first thing on Friday, in time to see the pools-deciding matches of South Africa v Samoa, England v Scotland and Fiji v Wales (and watching the rest on telly in a pub).

In the meantime, some interesting figures relating to the Rugby World Cup, courtesy of the RWC News Service.

2,246,685 - Record total attendance for a RWC tournament (2007). Attendance in NZ currently stands at about 760,000.

82,957 – Record crowd for a RWC match – Telstra Stadium, Sydney, Australia (2003 Final Australia v England)

12,278 - Points scored in RWC tournaments (1987-2007)

1,711 -  Most points scored by a team in RWC tournaments – New Zealand (1987-2007)

1,429 - Tries scored in RWC tournaments (1987-2007)

1,053 -  Penalty goals kicked in RWC tournaments (1987-2007)

1,014 - Conversions kicked in RWC tournaments (1987-2007)

975 - Most points conceded by a team in RWC tournaments – Japan (1987-2007)

361 - Most points by a team in a RWC tournament – New Zealand (2003)

249 -  Most points scored by a player in RWC career – Jonny Wilkinson (ENG) 1999-2007

233 -  Total number of matches played in RWC finals tournaments (1987-2007)

162 - Most points in a RWC match (New Zealand 145 Japan 17, 1995)

142 - Biggest winning margin in a RWC match (Australia 142 Namibia 0, 2003)

126 - Most points scored by a player in a single RWC tournament – Grant Fox (NZL), 1987

106 - Drop goals kicked in RWC tournaments (1987-2007)

45 - Most points scored by a player in a RWC match – Simon Culhane (NZL) against Japan (1995)

40 - Age of the oldest player in the RWC (1999) – Diego Ormaechea (URU)

25 -  Most points scored by a player in a RWC Final – Matt Burke (AUS) 1999

24 - Countries to have participated in the RWC (1987-2007)

23 -  Most drop goals kicked by a team at a RWC tournament – England (2003)

22 -  Most matches by a player in RWC career – Jason Leonard (ENG) 1991-2003

21 -  Countries to have participated in at least two RWC tournaments

20 - Most conversions kicked by a player in a RWC match – Simon Culhane (NZL) against Japan (1995)

19 - Age of the youngest player in the RWC (1987-2007) – Thretton Palamo (USA) in 2007

18 -  Most consecutive matches by a player in RWC career – Martin Johnson (ENG) 1995-2003

17 - Highest losing score in a RWC Final (England 20 Australia 17 aet, 2003)

16 -  Countries participating in the first RWC (New Zealand 1987)

15 - Most tries scored by a player in RWC career – Jonah Lomu (NZL) 1995-1999

14 - Players sent off in Rugby World Cup matches

13 - Most RWC matches hosted by one venue (Murrayfield, Scotland, 1991-2007)

12 -  Most successive RWC victories – set by Australia between their 1995 quarter-final defeat by England and the loss to the same team in the final eight years later.

11 - Matches lost by Namibia at the RWC (1999-2007) – every match they played

10 - Occasions that 10 or more conversions have been kicked by a player in one RWC match

9 - Players who have scored at least 100 points in one RWC tournament.

8 - Most tries scored by a player in a RWC tournament – Jonah Lomu (NZL) 1995 and Bryan Habana (RSA) 2007

7 - Players who have represented two countries in RWC history

6 - Most tries scored by a player in a RWC match – Marc Ellis (NZL) against Japan (1995)

5 - Most drop goals kicked by a player in a RWC match – Jannie de Beer (RSA) against England (1999 quarter-final)

4 - Most tries by a forward in a RWC match – Brian Robinson (IRE) 1991 and Keith Wood (IRE) 1999

3 - Most red cards in a RWC match – South Africa v Canada (1995)

2 -  Hosts to have won the RWC – New Zealand (1987) and South Africa (1995)

1 - Northern hemisphere countries to have won the RWC – England (2003)

0 - RWC winners who have successfully defended their title

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Rugby World Cup 2011: Fiji v Samoa… far from the hype we expected but it keeps Pool D wide open

First all the hype, then the drabness, and finally some drama and partial redemption for this match. But it was far from vintage Pacific Island rugby.

For almost 60 minutes it seemed we'd witness an extreme rarity – neither Fiji nor Samoa scoring a try – and there was little show of the traditional flair, the sleight of hand, the blistering pace or the bone-shuddering hits.

Rather, it was bad handling, kicks instead of passing and a complete lack of spark that had the crowd resorting to Mexican Waves after only 26 minutes.

But then the sun came out and the match lit up, to give the vocal 60,327 crowd something to remember this encounter for.

Samoa's Paul Williams was sensational while Netani Talei and Gaby Lovobalavu tried to smash and bash their way through everything to salvage something for Fiji. Alas, too little too late.

The pre-match hype fell well short of the reality, but at least the result keeps Pool D extremely honest. Barring a massive upset in the other remaining games, South Africa v Samoa at North Harbour on Friday will decide the fortunes of all three. SA are in the driver's seat, but it could still come down to bonus points.

Who of the Springboks, Wales or Samoa will top the group – and who'll be heading home early?

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Rugby World Cup 2011: England show they are getting better with every game in big win over Romania

This was little more than a training run for England, one in which they executed things slickly and with purpose.

In that regard they can be satisfied with their evening’s work, 10 tries is a decent return in anybody’s book, a bonus point secured and the prospect of a quarter-final place tantalising close.  They will be through if Argentina fail to beat Scotland on Sunday.

Uplifting as the performance might be for England fans, there was a sadness in the hearts of those who would like to see the second tier nations being given a fair crack. Romania, with 11 changes, had their sights set firmly on what will be their World Cup final when they play Georgia next Wednesday. These four-day turnarounds have really taken their toll with some scorelines that embarrassingly blown out this week.

England though had been looking for a more polished display and they got it. Their attacking game had been faltering, interaction between backs and forwards fractured. The fact that the backs scored nine of the tries tells you all you need to know about the quality of the ball. It was fast and decisive.

Mark Cueto made a welcome bow in the tournament with his rat-a-tat hat-trick in the first 26 minutes, the Sale wing showing that he had fully shaken off the back injury which has delayed his entrance in the tournament. Cueto’s work rate has always been admirable but his finishing has tailed off. The three tries were all well taken, Cueto being in the right place at the right time.

Chris Ashton, inevitably perhaps, couldn’t allow anyone to steal his limelight and he showed a true finisher’s instinct. He has been searching for a bit of form himself so this was good to see also.

And what of the ill discipline that so annoyed Martin Johnson last week? Well, England were not without blemish, dropping back into old errant habits when a little bit of pressure came on but there was at least some sign of improvement.

England didn’t allow themselves to get too loose and overeager even though it was obvious that Romania were there for the taking. Often in games like this individuals can go glory hunting but there was a refreshing sense of England playing as a team.

Five tries were scored in either half indicating that they were determined to keep their shape and keep their pedal to the floor.

The wings did well, of course, the fly-halves shared a half each, and performed as one would expect, reliably so in all phases. The scrummage had the occasional creak but there were sound performances from Alex Corbisiero, Tom Croft and, albeit occasionally ragged at the base, from James Haskell.

England are moving through the gears, all too aware that Scotland at Eden Park next Saturday will be a tougher test all together.

Rugby World Cup 2011: New Zealand v France … the All Blacks to shake off their French choking syndrome

New Zealand v France, it’s probably fair to say it’s all Kiwis versus the rest of the world, such has the fascination become with the All Blacks’ famous ‘choking’ at World Cups.

And it's comforting to see that there appear to be tens of thousands of Frenchies in town, kitted out in berets and yelling 'Allez Bleus' at anyone who cares to listen.

So, to ease my own anxieties I turned to the stats guru  to see if facts and figures can provide some comfort – and yes, they do (at least regarding the overall picture)

First the good stuff. Consider that over the years New Zealand and France have faced each other 49 times, the All Blacks winning 36, losing only 12 with one draw.

Consider too the ‘fortress’ that’s Eden Park. Played 67, won an impressive 55, with 10 defeats and two draws.

And break that down to these two teams playing at Eden Park, and New Zealand lead 6-2 from their eight encounters.

But then comes the sobering stuff… In RWC clashes they’ve both won two matches – who could forget France reducing the All Blacks to quivering wrecks in 1999 and 2007, .while NZ emerged on top in 1987 and 2003.

And then there’s the Eden Park omen. While NZ have been unbeaten there in the last 24 tests (23 victories, one draw), their last defeat – in July 1994 – was against, well, none other than the French. Who then, just for good measure, proved they like facing the ABs in New Zealand by beating them in Dunedin in 2009.

Thankfully, much as stats can be interesting, they can also be lies and damn lies. And Saturday night will all come down to what makes rugby the spectacular game it is… Mighty collisions upfront, clever running lines at the back, heroic defence, the odd lucky bounce of that strangely shaped ball, the passion, the grit (and hopefully not a single contentious decision by a match official).

Time to stick my neck out again. The All Blacks to rip that RWC hand from around their throats and deal to the French true and proper. Something like 34-14.

What do you make of it? And predictions please.

This blog is supported by Maximuscle, the sports nutrition choice of Courtney Lawes, Joe Simpson and the Welsh team. For more information on how Maximuscle is the Team Behind the Team go to www.maximuscle.com/tbtt

Rugby World Cup 2011: From Sleepless in Sydney to Eyes Wide Shut

Arrived in Sydney this morning, en route to the RWC, and absolutely shattered after a flight that seemed to never end.

I'd liked the idea of flying Emirates with refuelling stops in Dubai and Bangkok. You know, a bit of duty free shopping at the first, and a decent green curry at the second, all while giving the old legs a good stretch. Harrumph! Neither happened as both stops were taken up by constant standing in line and OTT security checks. Off the plane, queue, unpack hand luggage, repack, queue again, back on to the plane.  

So I arrive in Sydney at 8am with legs like jelly and eyes as grainy as the Dubai surrounds. What's a man to do when a full day lies ahead in this magnificent city but the body is protesting loudly? Drink a truckload of Red Bull? Invite dodgy looks from receptionists when asking for a hotel room for one hour?

Step forward my dear mate Shelley Winter, who recommended the 'sleep pod' at MBF health insurers in the heart of the CBD. Free for 30 minutes for non-members, it's an oasis of sleep-inducing darkness and calming music. Half an hour of shut-eye later, and I'm ready for that kangaroo steak on the barbie and a schooner of beer. Worth checking out if you stop here on your way to the main event.

Next stop, Auckland – in time for that mammoth collision between New Zealand and France. 

This blog is supported by Maximuscle, suppliers of Whey protein to Courtney Lawes, Joe Simpson and the Welsh Rugby Team.

Rugby World Cup 2011: Oh ye of little faith, I always knew Ireland would beat Australia

So, who was that fool who predicted Ireland would possibly not progress to the quarter-finals? Oh, yes, that would be me. Apologies to every lover of Guinness. Ireland were simply magnificent, and humble pie will accompany my pint of the dark stuff tonight.

Man meets boy: the immense Sean O'Brien hands off James O'Connor

What a momentous day it's been in New Zealand. Not just for the six teams involved – as South Africa and Argentina thumped Fiji and Romania respectively – but  for the tournament as a whole.

I think it's fair to say that after the first week, only Australia could really, honestly say that they were happy with their performance. Bang! A week later, and they'll have the most jitters of all. The Irish outplayed them in just about every facet and turned the form book on its head.

In 80 minutes Ireland showed exatly what other teams have to do to beat Australia (and it's not rocket science). Crush their scrum and commit ample bodies to the breakdown to keep Will Genia and Quade Cooper on the backfoot. The rest of the backline is then largely impotent.

And let's not have whingeing from Australians about referee Bryce Lawrence, who rightly penalised the weaker scrum for losing the plot and the contest.

The result will not only have thrilled every Irishman and woman across the world, but Kiwis too. Not only to see their neighbours and most recent conquerers come well unstuck, but also because it sets up – barring further upsets – a quarter-final between Australia and South Africa. One big beast will be out of the way come Oct 9.

Your thoughts please!

This blog is supported by Maximuscle, suppliers of creatine to Courtney Lawes, Joe Simpson and the Welsh team Team.

Rugby World Cup 2011: South Africa showed they are still a force in big win over Fiji

Huge: Schalk Burger put in another impressive performance (Photo: GETTY IMAGES)

In the 'Group of Death' South Africa are the chief executioners, brushing aside the challenges in front of them and bringing an abrupt end to any fanciful ideas of upsets and fairytales.

Wales produced one of their best ever Rugby World Cup performances against South Africa, but they were denied at the death by a team who knows how to win.

The 'Flying Fijians' came out of the blocks at a fearsome pace early on and tried to run South Africa off the park. The Boks' first-up defence was poor, but the scramble was excellent and this meant that all Fiji's efforts added up to nil.

Come the second half, with the defensive job emphatically done, the Boks were able to unveil their attacking game for the first time since the opening 10 minutes against Wales, adding four more tries to the two scored in the first half, and winning by a much bigger margin than people were predicting.

For context's sake they beat Fiji by 17 points in 2007, when the Islanders were arguably a much better side. Today the difference was 46, so perspective is needed.

There are still things to work on but there is also plenty to suggest that these Boks will not be giving up their title without an almighty fight.

The good:

Defence: getting better and better. First-up tackling is still a bit ropey, with 26 missed in total, but the scramble continues to be excellent. Star performers in defence were Heinrich Brussow (21) and Schalk Burger (17).

Offloading: South Africa's forwards were particularly impressive in this respect with Burger, Danie Rossouw and Brussow always looking up for the pass. If the Boks forwards can come to the party with the ball in hand in the knock-out stages then they could be difficult to stop in attack.

Discipline: referees are stricter than ever at this World Cup and the Boks only leaked seven penalties. In this context that has to be considered a bonus.

The bad:

Errors and execution:  the Boks made 11 handling errors and still looked a bit scratchy at times in attack. They will be particularly annoyed at not scoring a seventh try at the end when they had several chances to go over. Still, this can only get better.

Selection headaches: does Pieter de Villiers know who his best team is yet? Frans Steyn looked quality at No. 12 but Jean de Villiers is hardly going to get dropped if he is fit enough to play. Morne Steyn missed three kicks at goal, but to his credit came back into the game well with the ball in hand. Pat Lambie also made a big claim to be included in the run-on team. There are so many question marks for the coaches to deal with and I'm sure they'd prefer to have a definitive idea.

The ugly:

Bakkies Botha: he went off at half-time. Was this to wrap him up in cotton wool? Or is 'The Enforcer' actually way off match fitness? They could do with him when they come up against the big boys in the knock-outs.

Thoughts?

Rugby World Cup 2011: The Cold War has ended, but the revolution continues in Russian rugby

A return to the Cold War as Russia and the United States meet in New Plymouth on Thursday? KGB versus the CIA? Underhand surveillance of the other's training methods? Slipping a bit of polonium 210 into the Eagles' diet?

None of the sort, says Paul Pook, a Welsh native who's now the fitness coach for Russia. "The players are young, bright and modern. They're obviously aware of history, but have no hangover in that regard. That said, the public may see it slightly differently … and still hope to get one over the old enemy.

"From our point of view this game is fantastic because of the long history between old Soviet Union and the US, and that can only help to make the game more prominent and raise the profile of the sport in Russia."

The biggest change, Pook says, lies in the players' attitutes, training and diets – it's been a real modern-day revolution. Previously it could be a ramshackle lot, but the Russians have cast off their bear-fur jumpers for the most modern gear, training methods and nutrition.

"The players have been like sponges, soaking up new methods, foods and attitudes. The normal diet in Russia is often high fat, high sugar - pancakes can feature 2-3 a day with meals – so players' revamped regimes are all very exciting for them."

Proof of the sea change lies in the pudding. So nowadays, instead of a visit to the local for a deep-fried yak burger and a shot of vodka after training, the Russians jump into ice baths and tuck into a high-tech arsenal of products. 

Pook readily acknowledges, though, that this revolution will take a long time to show real effects. "We have to be realistic about our chances at this World Cup. The USA is probably our biggest game. As for Australia, Ireland and Italy, we simply hope to gain their respect. Ultimately, we hope that playing on the big stage will help grow game in Russia."

This blog is supported by Maximuscle, who supply the Russian team with Ache Free, Beta Alanine, Immune Support, Promax, Cyclone, Promax Bars, Promax Diet, Progain Flapjack, Viper Active Gel, Viper Active & Recovermax. http://www.maximuscle.com

Rugby World Cup 2011: a mixed bag of good and bad, of deserving winners and desperately unlucky losers

What an opening weekend! After a fairly meek and predictable start to proceedings on Friday, the tension and intensity just got better and better, and it's fair to say there were some very deserved winners and some very unlucky losers.

A quick 'soundbyte' on each of the big teams – who's starting to look good and who's not – and then let me have your thoughts please.

New Zealand Pretty flash in the first half against a very plucky Tonga, pretty flat and sloppy in the second – something they simply can't afford to be against better teams. Still, will be happy to have had a proper workout and to have survived opening night without major injuries. Will need to step up seriously.

Scotland So nearly terribly embarrassed. Came into this tournament very confident after a good run of warm-ups, but will have feet very firmly on the ground again. Play like this against England and Argentina, and you'll have an early taste of Scottish sleet back home.

England Disjointed and slightly backwards for most of the match, but ultimately had the nous and seized the moment to deny Argentina. All credit to them for that. They have the bloody-mindedness to compete with the top boys, but still looked flat on attack and discipline could easily trip them up. Were deservedly on the receiving end of the penalty count and Courtney Lawes' penchant for being the enforcer may yet cost them dearly. Good enough for the quarter-finals, but then?

Argentina Brave, brilliant and battered – were in serious danger of clearing their bench by half-time – but continued to show magnificent commitment. Yes, profited from Jonny Wilkinson having a horror show with the boot, but also squandered a good few kicks themselves. Possible progress now depends on how well they mentally deal with this heartbreaking loss – and whether New Zealand has enough plasters to tape their broken bodies together. Alarm bells whispering.

 France Another embarrassment was on the cards but hey, this is France. Highly unlikely to lose any sleep over this. A typical French shoulder shrug, a nonchalant lift of the eyebrows, and it's on to the next match. Deep down Les Bleus will know that they'll have one of those magic days when everything clicks. Will hope it comes against New Zealand on Sep 24 or in the quarter-final. Jury still out.

Australia A bit flat in first half and well matched by the Italians, but take the weekend's points for a brilliant, decisive and clinical second half. Have the most reason of all to feel very optimistic.

Italy So much promise in first half, then fell off tackles and had no answer to the Wallabies' power and precision. Likely to have felt pretty miserable immediately after their match, but would have perked up on watching their most likely contenders for runner-up spot in the pool, Ireland, struggle against inferior opposition. Like Silvio Berlusconi, a dead man walking or will they rise up?

Ireland See the surprise  on the Irish faces at the end? They'd almost forgotten what it felt like to win. And let's be honest here, on this showing they're likely to forget it soon again. It simply beats me how so many fabulous players and individuals can be so average as a unit. Their showdown with Italy will be massive.

South Africa Would be harsh to call them the weekend's most undeserving winners, but very tempting to do just that. Looked tired, harassed and there for the taking – then showed just enough game management to prevail. No matter how ugly or how close, first blood and four points to the Springboks. Deep down, though, they'll know that big trouble could yet loom further down the line.

Wales Brilliant for the most part, clueless when it mattered most. And I'm not talking only about conceding that try, that contentious penalty or James Hook missing his last penalty attempt, but when, on the attack and only a few minutes to go, they were so desperate and so frenzied to attack that they failed to commit enough players to the breakdown and simply got bulldozed off the ball. Suddenly the Boks had the ball in their hands, the bit between their teeth and the points in the bag. Wales have worked hard on most aspects of the game and their fitness – now they must very quickly learn the meaning of composure. Their progress – or not – depends entirely on how they mentally respond to this gutting, galling defeat.

 As for the others, hats off to Fiji for an entertaining win, and all the other teams for entertaining, plucky defeats. Opening weekend is over and nobody's been disgraced. My only disappointment of the tournament so far is the seemingly big blocks of empty seats at some of the games (even some of the bigger ones). What's going on there?

Your take on the weekend's action please! And I'll name the winner of the Maximuscle gear and products tomorrow. 

This blog is supported by Maximuscle, the sports nutrition choice of Courtney Lawes, Joe Simpson and the Welsh team. For more information on how Maximuscle is the Team Behind the Team go to www.maximuscle.com/tbtt

Rugby World Cup 2011: Pieter de Villiers must drop the dead wood in his South Africa team

Sink or swim: Pieter de Villiers has a big decision to make (Photo: GETTY IMAGES)

If Pieter de Villiers and South Africa are to achieve anything at this Rugby World Cup he must realise what his best team is – and fast.

The substitution of John Smit, Pierre Spies and Bryan Habana, with the Springboks on their knees against Wales, brought about an instant change in fortunes for the struggling world champions.

Bismarck du Plessis lead the way in defence and carried well when called upon, Willem Alberts brought ballast and application to the back row and Francois Hougaard made more yardage with the ball than Habana had managed for the preceding 60 minutes.

If De Villiers can extend his mea culpa even further by picking young Sharks fly-half Pat Lambie at 10 then South Africa may have something resembling a competitive team.

If the marked improvement in South Africa's performance after those substitutions was not evidence enough for De Villiers then he should look to England's campaign in 2007.

They were also world champions and they also began the tournament in a mess. By the end of the 2nd pool game they had sneaked past the USA and been thrashed by the Boks.

Player power and cold hard reality sunk in and they adapated. Tactics were changed (actually tactics were employed for the first time having been missing in action before). Also, and most importantly, players like Shaun Perry who were quite clearly not up to the task of defending the trophy were removed.

Reinventing the wheel mid-tournament requires guts, but England showed it can be done, going on to reach the final when it looked impossible.

There is however a spanner in the works for South Africa: the fitness of Bakkies Botha, Victor Matfield and Jean de Villiers. If they are all unavailable (and it doesn't look good for Botha) then the Boks lose three towers of experience. If you also drop John Smit you are down four big, big leaders.

Does De Villiers have the courage to do what needs to be done? Will the players need to tell him so? Or will he carry on blindly with Plan A?

For what it's worth this is the team that I would pick for the big game against Samoa:

South Africa: Beast, Du Plessis, Du Plessis, Rossouw, Matfield (captain if fit), Brussow, Alberts, Burger, Du Preez, Lambie, Hougaard, De Villiers (if fit), Fourie, Pietersen, F Steyn

Thoughts?

 

Rugby World Cup 2011: My predictions – Scotland to beat England, an early exit for Ireland, Wales to top Pool D

Under 24 hours to go to Rugby World Cup 2011 kick-off (at the time of writing), so time to spell out how I think the pools will develop. Is this what I hope will happen, or think will occur? Not entirely sure myself – probably a mix of voices from the heart and the head – but no matter, here goes.

And please let me know how and where you agree or disagree.

Pool A

Very much a two-horse race, with the only real significant match on September 24 between New Zealand and their nemesis, France. On paper you'd have to say the All Blacks, but then you think back to 1999 and 2007, and suddenly it's one of THE biggest pool matches imaginable.

Can Les Bleus upset the apple cart true and proper by beating the hosts? Both will obviously want to win the group – thereby, on paper at least, securing an 'easier' quarter-final – but Pool B is wide open and coming second in Pool A might ultimately not be a massive price to pay.

Being the hosts has huge pros and cons for NZ – possibly unbearable pressure and expectations, but also masses of support. The current All Blacks seem to be open and relaxed, mingling with the public and coming across confident. Compare that with the siege mentality of previous campaigns (and failures), and they may just be on to a good thing here.

Prediction 1 NZ, 2 France.

Pool B

One of two 'pools of death'. And gut feel says this is so tight to call that bonus points – for scoring four tries or more or losing by seven points or under – may just come heavily into play.

Yes, Argentina seem not to be the force they were in 2007, but I think they may still be good enough to trouble their opponents. Fence-sitting? No way! England to beat the Pumas by a comfortable few, before backs-against-the-wall Argentina rumble Scotland.

All which sets up the group perfectly for a killer clash at Eden Park on October 1. And in an ugly, messy, attritional slug-fest among the two packs, I predict the Scots to squeeze home by a point or two (all courtesy of kicks). And so we're back in bonus-points territory and possibly points difference.

Prediction 1 England, 2 Scotland.

Pool C

The most predictable in terms of who'll finish on top. Can't see any of the four teams remotely threatening Australia. The Wallabies are also in the comfortable position of having played their two 'big' pool opponents by September 17, allowing some rest for key players in preparation for the play-offs.

Who'll finish second is the exciting bit. On paper it would seem to be Ireland by a country mile – but Italy will fancy their chances given Ireland's lacklustre warm-ups and the narrow 11-13 defeat in Rome in February. Having both lost to the Aussies come October 2, I think the pressure will simply mess with the Irish players' heads. Their dismal RWC record will play on their minds – and continue.

Prediction 1 Australia, 2 Italy.

Pool D

The most physical, closely contested group of the lot – and the other one in which bonus points could determine the final standings. Spare a thought for Namibia, who will be lambs to the slaughter in every match. And much as I like the Fijian way of playing – and despite their heroics last year – this year they'll end fourth in the pool, leaving it to South Africa, Wales and Samoa to slug it out.

This may sound like a caveat, but much depends on whether Wales learn to play the full 80 minutes or stick to exerting themselves only in the last 40, which, against the Boks and Samoa, could mean both games are lost for them by half-time.

Much has been made of Samoa's win over Australia in July, but it was against a mix-and-match team, so I'm going to discount that slightly. Ultimately, then, I somehow believe Wales will win both matches while South Africa's rather boring but efficient kick-and-chase game will stifle Samoa (of course, and I expect some biffo from both, this match could be won by the team who earns the fewer yellow/red cards).

Prediction 1 Wales, 2 South Africa.

Now kick that ball in anger!

Finally, you can still enter the competition to win Maximuscle gear and products by predicting the England v Argentina and Wales v South Africa scores (see the previous blog).

And very finally, my predictions for the big opening matches: NZ 35 Tonga 13, England 22 Argentina 10, Wales 20 South Africa 17. Now let the games begin.

Follow me on Twitter @lookdownsouth

This blog is supported by Maximuscle, the sports nutrition choice of Courtney Lawes, Joe Simpson and the Welsh team. For more information on how Maximuscle is the Team Behind the Team, go to www.maximuscle.com/tbtt

Rugby World Cup 2011: My predictions – Scotland to beat England, an early exit for Ireland, Wales to top Pool C

Under 24 hours to go to Rugby World Cup 2011 kick-off (at the time of writing), so time to spell out how I think the pools will develop. Is this what I hope will happen, or think will occur? Not entirely sure myself – probably a mix of voices from the heart and the head – but no matter, here goes.

And please let me know how and where you agree or disagree.

Pool A

Very much a two-horse race, with the only real significant match on September 24 between New Zealand and their nemesis, France. On paper you'd have to say the All Blacks, but then you think back to 1999 and 2007, and suddenly it's one of THE biggest pool matches imaginable.

Can Les Bleus upset the apple cart true and proper by beating the hosts? Both will obviously want to win the group – thereby, on paper at least, securing an 'easier' quarter-final – but Pool B is wide open and coming second in Pool A might ultimately not be a massive price to pay.

Being the hosts has huge pros and cons for NZ – possibly unbearable pressure and expectations, but also masses of support. The current All Blacks seem to be open and relaxed, mingling with the public and coming across confident. Compare that with the siege mentality of previous campaigns (and failures), and they may just be on to a good thing here.

Prediction 1 NZ, 2 France.

Pool B

One of two 'pools of death'. And gut feel says this is so tight to call that bonus points – for scoring four tries or more or losing by seven points or under – may just come heavily into play.

Yes, Argentina seem not to be the force they were in 2007, but I think they may still be good enough to trouble their opponents. Fence-sitting? No way! England to beat the Pumas by a comfortable few, before backs-against-the-wall Argentina rumble Scotland.

All which sets up the group perfectly for a killer clash at Eden Park on October 1. And in an ugly, messy, attritional slug-fest among the two packs, I predict the Scots to squeeze home by a point or two (all courtesy of kicks). And so we're back in bonus-points territory and possibly points difference.

Prediction 1 England, 2 Scotland.

Pool C

The most predictable in terms of who'll finish on top. Can't see any of the four teams remotely threatening Australia. The Wallabies are also in the comfortable position of having played their two 'big' pool opponents by September 17, allowing some rest for key players in preparation for the play-offs.

Who'll finish second is the exciting bit. On paper it would seem to be Ireland by a country mile – but Italy will fancy their chances given Ireland's lacklustre warm-ups and the narrow 11-13 defeat in Rome in February. Having both lost to the Aussies come October 2, I think the pressure will simply mess with the Irish players' heads. Their dismal RWC record will play on their minds – and continue.

Prediction 1 Australia, 2 Italy.

Pool D

The most physical, closely contested group of the lot – and the other one in which bonus points could determine the final standings. Spare a thought for Namibia, who will be lambs to the slaughter in every match. And much as I like the Fijian way of playing – and despite their heroics last year – this year they'll end fourth in the pool, leaving it to South Africa, Wales and Samoa to slug it out.

This may sound like a caveat, but much depends on whether Wales learn to play the full 80 minutes or stick to exerting themselves only in the last 40, which, against the Boks and Samoa, could mean both games are lost for them by half-time.

Much has been made of Samoa's win over Australia in July, but it was against a mix-and-match team, so I'm going to discount that slightly. Ultimately, then, I somehow believe Wales will win both matches while South Africa's rather boring but efficient kick-and-chase game will stifle Samoa (of course, and I expect some biffo from both, this match could be won by the team who earns the fewer yellow/red cards).

Prediction 1 Wales, 2 South Africa.

Now kick that ball in anger!

Finally, you can still enter the competition to win Maximuscle gear and products by predicting the England v Argentina and Wales v South Africa scores (see the previous blog).

And very finally, my predictions for the big opening matches: NZ 35 Tonga 13, England 22 Argentina 10, Wales 20 South Africa 17. Now let the games begin.

Follow me on Twitter @lookdownsouth

This blog is supported by Maximuscle, the sports nutrition choice of Courtney Lawes, Joe Simpson and the Welsh team. For more information on how Maximuscle is the Team Behind the Team, go to www.maximuscle.com/tbtt