ARC World Tour 2008

http://www.rugbyheaven.co.nz/4757516a29068.html?source=nav

I'll post here all the ARC videos for this tour

Keep the link of the article SAFE!!!!

video 1 :

http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=u9Gd0cGivW8

Check 5'38...8'44... They are so cute, they arrived by alphabetical order : made me laugh!!!
Watch out ABs : your successors for the haka are already on!!!

Video 2:
http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=iLguA-T-aCA

ARC World Tour 2008 video 3
http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=s1MQS29R78w

ARC World Tour 2008 video 4
http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=loKk386wFYY

ARC World Tour 2008 video 5
http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=SDUYJHUvdW0


ARC World Tour 2008 video 6
http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=vYWhItDXLLI

http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=moAGk_W3ybE
ARC World Tour 2008 video 7


http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=zvT5Ni4JE4Y
ARC World Tour 2008 video 8 - part1


ARC World Tour 2008 video 8 - part2
http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=6ycKkDaHVvg

SRU is ready for next Saturday!!!

GET YOUR TICKETS NOW FOR SCOTLAND V ALL BLACKS - AND SEE EVEN MORE ON THE NEW BIG SCREENS!

Make it a date on November 8! Just eight days to go until Scotland takes on New Zealand and supporters can experience the new-look magic of a Murrayfield match day!

It's guaranteed to be a BIG day. Not only is Scotland taking on the world's current TOP team - but there's a HUGE match day experience in store. MASSIVE state-of-the-art screens around the stadium will beam EXCLUSIVE highlights of Scotland's summer victory in Argentina, EPIC moments from Scotland's rugby history and previously UNSEEN footage of your favourite Edinburgh and Glasgow players all before the match - and the GRIPPING game action during play.

Come early - soak up the atmosphere - support your country - and say 'I was there' as Scotland aims for a historic victory! Tickets are selling fast to see Scotland take on the world's number one side New Zealand (8 November, Murrayfield, k/o 5.15pm), Webb Ellis World Cup holders South Africa (15 November, Murrayfield, k/o 2.30pm) and contenders Canada (22 November, Pittodrie Stadium, Aberdeen, k/o 2.45pm).

Click here to buy tickets online and for hospitality information to all three Autumn Tests

Alternatively call the credit card hotline on 0131 346 5100 (Monday to Friday, 9am to 8pm, Saturday & Sunday 10am to 4pm). Or purchase tickets in person from the Scottish Rugby Ticket Centre at Murrayfield Stadium (Monday to Friday, 9am to 8pm, Saturday & Sunday 10am to 4pm). Booking fees may apply. Please note tickets will not be on sale on match day. As a result of the ongoing work on flood defences and the Edinburgh tram scheme, there will be no car parking at Murrayfield during the Tests.

JOIN THE THOUSANDS WHO HAVE ALREADY REDEEMED THEIR TEST TICKET FOR MAGNERS MAGIC!

Come to this season's Bank of Scotland Corporate Autumn Tests and you can see many of your Scotland heroes don their pro team kit for a Magners League game, FREE - namely the hotly-contested 1872 Cup derby game between Edinburgh and Glasgow on Boxing Day at Murrayfield.

The first 60,000 who take up this amazing offer will be able to watch Edinburgh take on Glasgow in the opening derby double-header for the 1872 Cup, at Murrayfield on 26 December 2008, kicking off at 7.30pm. One Magners League ticket per person. Click here to read more!

And hot on the heels of the Magners Murrayfield magic, remember to make it a date for Firhill the following week to see the climax of the 1872 derby double-header! The match kicks off at 7.30pm on Friday 2 January.

Terms and Conditions
Application and full terms HERE at www.scottishrugby.org. Open to UK residents who have purchased and retained a 2008 Autumn Test ticket. Submit application online by 29 November 2008 for one free 2008/09 Magners League ticket played in Edinburgh or Glasgow. No preferences for specific matches accepted. First 60,000 tickets allocated to Edinburgh v Glasgow match on 26 December 2008. Apply from 13 October 2008. Under-18s must be accompanied by an adult. The promoter is Scottish Rugby Union plc, Murrayfield, Edinburgh, EH12 5PJ.

If the links don't work,

just email me (marykoala@hotmail.fr, title : "SRU")

& I'll forward the e-ad :)

All Blacks take time out in Hong Kong

Alternative Rugby Commentary - Hong Kong Bledisloe

http://au.youtube.com/watch?v=efVwRlRJbII

Check 0'36!!!
PS : what's the title of the song??? Thanx

Captain McCaw rubbishes 'dead rubber' talk

http://nz.sports.yahoo.com/rugby/news/article/-/5111451/captain-mccaw-rubbishes-dead-rubber-talk

Yahoo!Xtra Sport, Neil Reid
October 30, 2008, 9:00 am

Inspirational All Blacks captain Richie McCaw says Saturday's historic Bledisloe Cup clash in Hong Kong is anything but a 'dead rubber'. The Bledisloe Cup will again be locked up in the NZRU's trophy cabinet for the summer, with the All Blacks holding an unassailable 2-1 lead in the four-test series.

As Cup holders, the All Blacks just need to tie the series to retain the silverware. There is no mistake the test is a money-making venture, with both the NZRU and ARU set to earn around $3 million each from the venture.
Both unions have also spoken of the desire to grow the game globally with such off-shore matches.

However, there has been no shortage of critics attacking a Hong Kong-based test being handed Bledisloe Cup status.
Those comments have intensified given the fact the series winner is already confirmed.

However, McCaw said there would be no lacking in motivation from the men in black as they sought to start their season-ending form in winning fashion.
"Although we have already won the Cup, from the players' point of view, we would rather win it 3-1 than 2-2," McCaw told reporters in Hong Kong "We'd feel we really deserve it. It could so easily have been on the line in Hong Kong. But although it is not up for grabs, it is not going to take away any of the intensity. We want to win this one."

The All Black coaching staff confirmed their match 22 for Saturday's trans-Tasman showdown on Tuesday, including the handing of a first test cap to Hosea Gear and Daniel Carter's shift from first-five to second-five.

Sweltering weather conditions were also on hand to welcome both sides, with humidity of between 95-99 percent forecast for Saturday night.

And it seems the Wallabies will not just be battling the heat at Hong Kong Stadium, with the home crowd expected to hugely favour the All Blacks. The Australian Sevens team is no strangers to rugged receptions when they play at the Hong Kong Sevens.

Former Sevens reps who are in the Wallaby squad have spoken of how intimidating that can be.
McCaw said he was in the dark over the frosty times Australian teams had previously endured in Hong Kong.
"I was not aware the Aussies were booed in Hong Kong. I suppose the crowd will get behind us," he said."From what I hear, I believe the crowds will create a super atmosphere. It is bound to be exciting."

The All Blacks travel to the UK on Sunday ahead of their final five matches of the season. They will seek to secure just their third Grand Slam of victories over Ireland, Scotland, Wales on England during the UK-leg of the tour.

"It is going to be a huge tour and we will have to use all 35 players," he said."It starts with Australia, who are always tough and then finishes against England. A visit to Twickenham is always a huge confrontation, but every other team will present its own challenge."

The final test of the tour will also see the All Blacks and England battle off for a new piece of rugby silverware, the Hillary Shield.
The NZRU revealed the new shield last week, to be up for grabs in All Black/England clashes.

McCaw said of Hillary: "He is a legend and he put New Zealand on the map through his expeditions. I met him briefly a few years ago when he came and spoke to the All Blacks. England is always a big match for us and with something like this on the line it will mean a little bit more."

Horsing around, missing mascots and junk

http://www.rugbyheaven.co.nz/4744490a22363.html

By DUNCAN JOHNSTONE in Hong Kong, RugbyHeaven
Thursday, 30 October 2008

TOUR BRIEFS: The Bledisloe Cup rivalry has spread to the race course with the All Blacks and Wallabies attending a large night meeting in Hong Kong where rival skippers Richie McCaw and Stirling Mortlock took things further by sharing a bit of banter over next week's Melbourne Cup.

The unique nature of this Trans-Tasman test being played at a neutral venue has seen the two sides rub shoulders in the buildup to Saturday night's clash.
They attended a gala dinner at the massive Sha Tin race course on Wednesday evening with All Blacks and Wallabies players sharing tables with invited guests.
On Thursday afternoon players from the two teams were running a coaching clinic for local kids.

But the night at the races went down well with the players. A horse named Lucky Quality romped home to win the Hong Kong Rugby Football Union Cup by 8-1/2 lengths. McCaw and Mortlock presented trophies to the jockey and trainer. McCaw declared a bit of an interest in the horses - no doubt helped by his forwards coach, racing-mad Steve Hansen.
"Particularly the Melbourne Cup, it's on again on Tuesday and a Kiwi will win it," said McCaw.
"I don't think so," Mortlock chipped back. "The Kiwis will have to endure more than one sad story over the next week."

HAKA HEAVEN

The match continues to get very good coverage in the South China Morning Post with four stories included in the Thursday edition of Hong Kong's main English newspaper.
The All Blacks' promotion in the main adidas store in the shopping metropolis featured local children performing a haka and was rewarded with a large photo.
Piri Weepu and Sitiveni Sivivatu joined youngsters from the Tai Po Dragons Rugby Club.
They had been taught the haka by the club's imported Kiwi prop Taiapa Tomlinson who played for Hautapu in the Waikato competition.
"The hardest thing to teach the kids were the words, but they got the hang of it after two lessons," he said.

WHERE'S WALLY?

The newspaper also featured a humorous tale of teenaged Wallaby James O'Connor. At 18 he is the youngest of their tourists and so has to guard the team mascot, Wally the Wallaby. It looks like some of his older team mates have already got the better of him. O'Connor was in a flap on Wednesday.
"I took Wally with me for training as it is required that I keep him by my side at all times. But someone nicked him and I haven't been able to find him," the mop-haired Western Force midfield back told the newspaper."I'm not the first keeper of Wally to lose him, I know Berrick [Barnes] lost him a couple of times. But this is the longest time he has gone missing. I will have a lot of room searching to do."

O'Connor is desperate to find the mascot before the team head to France because apparently Wally is a bit of a babe-magnet there as was discovered at last year's World Cup.
"I heard that in France the girls love him. They also love the guys carrying the mascot. It should be good," O'Connor said.

NO JUNK MAIL

The Wallabies have been mixing business with pleasure in Hong Kong. Having the benefit of four training camps before coming to the city for this historic Bledisloe Cup clash, Robbie Deans gave his players the day off on Wednesday.
That saw several of them take a ride on a traditional Chinese junk boat on the harbour.
All this was going on while the All Blacks were training in extremely hot and humid conditions.
"This does feel weird. It feels more like a holiday," said Australian wing Lote Tuqiri. "But then we have never played a test match in Hong Kong before and everyone is really excited and looking forward to it."

SADDLE HIM UP: Jockey Mark du Plessis eyes up All Blacks captain Richie McCaw at Sha Tin Racecourse in Hong Kong.

-- PM to O'Connor : whether you get Wally** back (**here with BB during 2007 RWC) or not, I'm sure you'll be a ladies' man in France coz we LUUVVV Oz :P !!!!!!!!!!

--Did anyone notice that Richie looks like a giant here? Know what? On Saturday, it's gonna be the same :)

McCaw: Wham-bam the Slam is on

http://www.rugbyheaven.co.nz/4744106a22363.html

By DUNCAN JOHNSTONE in Hong Kong, RugbyHeaven
Thursday, 30 October 2008

Grand Slam was banned from the All Blacks' vocabulary during their successful 2005 attempt but skipper Richie McCaw didn't dodge the phrase when asked if a repeat was possible on the current tour, declaring it "quite realistic".

Three years ago All Blacks coach Graham Henry went out of his way to ensure the revered Grand Slam wasn't mentioned. The thought of winning all four tests was reduced to a weekly assignment. The result was his side became just the second All Blacks outfit to snare a Slam, matching the 1978 side led by Graham Mourie.

McCaw was making similar noises about every country being treated on their own merits. But when he was asked straight out if another Grand Slam was possible he said, with the benefit of being part of the previous success:

"I think it's quite realistic if you get your planning right. That's certainly the goal but you cut it down to one game at a time. It's the result of doing it right every week from here on and at the end you'd be able to say that. But underlying all that is the fact it would be great to be able to do that."

Henry has gone on record saying that the current tour, with the addition of this weekend's Bledisloe Cup test and fixture against Heineken Cup champions Munster, was arguably the toughest touring assignment undertaken by the All Blacks in terms of test matches, outweighing his 2005 challenge. McCaw didn't disagree with that and believed the constant pressure would rival a World Cup environment.

History suggests they may be right. Only the Wallabies have joined the All Blacks in achieving Grand Slam status down the years. And now Australia are preparing to stall New Zealand's latest attempt with this Hong Kong Bledisloe Cup test.

"Playing five nations who are in the top eight in the world is going to be tough," said McCaw."We have played in World Cups where it's six or seven tests but you get a game against a lower ranked team. Here every week we have to be on the job."

The challenge would be for the All Blacks new-look squad to come up to speed quickly. There was pressure on the new players to contribute.
"We have a squad of 35 and most of those guys are going to be called on to play a role at some point. If you do it well it will be satisfying."

Do you see anyone stopping the All Blacks completing another Slam on this tour? Post your comments below.

OLD FRIENDS: Richie McCaw and Wallabies coach Robbie Deans catch up at the races in Hong Kong. The All Blacks skipper says a Grand Slam over the next month is a 'realistic' target.

NPC Final : Canty vs. Welly (pics)

I'm so sorry, I realize at lunch time (when talking with FSS) that I hardly published an article about the NPC final. So that's why you find articles about Saturday's Hong Kong match and then article about last weekend's final.

As I know there are Richie Girls who also cheer on the guys from the Northern Island, I just wanna say sorry for Wellington. We can all imagine how strange (and difficult) it must be for you

(*recall : 5 finals in 6 years, never got the cup*) ; but you'll bounce again (with your S14 clubs or in a couple of days with the All Blacks!)

Again, sorry for this 'mess' in the publication. I promise not to forget newt year :P

Good night
Good morning

Mary*L

Pictures from Hong Kong

Meeting with the fans :

Crusaders' power :
Captains' meeting :

(I stole these pics on Cécile's Bebo -MERCI!!)

The pick of the crop from Canterbury

**warning :
do not comment on this article
or click on the existing comment author**

http://www.rugbyheaven.co.nz/4742846a22364.html

The Press
Wednesday, 29 October 2008

A first Air New Zealand Cup title, six players making the All Blacks tour (if you count the on-stand-by Greg Somerville) and a coaching staff that may keep its jobs; all in all it has been a marvellous season for Canterbury.

So, in the spirit of achievement, The Press has picked the best performing or most notable players of the season.

Player of the Year Award - Wyatt Crockett
Scott Hamilton produced some magnificent form in his final season, while Mose Tuiali'i and Campbell Johnstone may have been contenders had they played the full campaign. But no-one contributed as much, as often as Crockett. Rarely matched let alone beaten at scrum time, his work around the paddock is starting to rival Somerville's.

Best Interview Award - Scott Hamilton
For his unprompted carve-up of Johnstone. Asked to provide a few quotes about his years flatting with the Biarritz-bound prop, Hamilton's stuff was pure gold.

Courage Under Fire Award - Rob Penney and John Haggart
Seemingly dead men walking after the round one loss to Manawatu, coaches Rob Penney and John Haggart were always a pleasure to deal with. Twelve unbeaten matches later, it appears the roles are theirs if they still want them.

Nothing Personal Award - Leon MacDonald
As people, Leon, we all feel for you. But as journalists we are obliged to pester you for interviews and have every right to ask others for information when you decline. We wish you all the best ... (really).

Keeping it Real Award - Tyson Keats
Blessed with more cheek than the patrons of Copacabana beach, the wee halfback's play won him plenty of admirers this season. But by continuing to do at least one day's graft a week for his plastering business because it kept him grounded Keats was the obvious recipient.

Most Improved Award - Colin Slade
Came on in leaps and bounds at first five-eighths. "Colin who?" may soon find he is "Colin Slade, Super 14 player."

Your Time Will Come Award - Tim Bateman, Michael Paterson and Isaac Ross
Not quite All Blacks yet, but good enough to be in the forseeable future.

Culture Club Award - The whole squad
A hideous word, culture is nevertheless the commodity every team wants. This Canterbury team has it in spades and it is what won them this year's title, in spite of an injury count that would have crippled anyone else.

Man of the Year Award - Scott Hamilton
Consistently good to deal with, faultless on the paddock. **Andrew Ellis** comes a close second.
**Of course, I'd have voted for Kid in the candy store!

Richie revved up to rip into defining tour

http://www.rugbyheaven.co.nz/4743340a22363.html
By DUNCAN JOHNSTONE in Hong Kong, RugbyHeaven

Wednesday, 29 October 2008

Richie McCaw says he's shaken off some rust with Canterbury and now he is out to recapture his imperial Tri-Nations form for a tour that the All Blacks skipper believes will define his season.

McCaw leads the All Blacks out against the Wallabies here on Saturday night, determined to finish the elongated Bledisloe Cup series in style so that his side can then concentrate on a Grand Slam attempt.

And Captain Fantastic McCaw is up for the challenge, expressing satisfaction with his own game as the All Blacks face five tests on consecutive weekends.

McCaw got in two and a bit matches for Canterbury and reckons he's all the better for it.
"I was just happy to get that game under my belt and get a win," he said of last week's Air New Zealand Cup final against Wellington."Going into a test match I'm pleased I've had some rugby now. I don't have to worry about that side of things; I can just focus on doing it right for a test match that's going to be a step up from what we have had the last couple of weeks. Hopefully I'm ready for it."

Once McCaw came back from the ankle injury during the Iveco Series he sparked the All Blacks to their Tri-Nations and Bledisloe Cup double, recapturing the form he had displayed for the Crusaders.

His aim is to get that same consistency of performance he believes is so crucial at this level. McCaw sets his standards higher than anyone and clearly wants to be the best week-in, week-out. When he plays well, the All Balcks play well. Sometimes it can be as simple as that because he is in such a crucial position. That won't change against the Wallabies where his old rival George Smith will be thrown up against him again.

"I have been pretty happy. I've been reasonably consistent, especially the later half of the Super 14 and during the tests," said McCaw."The thing I try to do is make sure I don't have a good one and then a bad one - I try to keep my performances consistent. You're always aiming to improve. The next six weeks ... if I can look back on the year and I can do the same that I did in the middle of the year then perhaps it has been a good year. If it goes the other way you are remembered by that."

As superhuman as he seems, McCaw is likely to get a rest at some stage on this tour. On the back of a quarter-final sub's role and a full semifinal and final for Canterbury, it would be too much to ask of him to front the Wallabies, Scotland, Ireland, Wales and England on consecutive Saturdays.

Not that he was shirking that scenario, when asked by RugbyHeaven.
"If I get told I'll give it a crack. I think it's a generalisation to say that no one can - that you can only play a certain number of tests. But I think you have to have an open mind ... that maybe if you can't you can use the other guys. Graham (Henry) has always said that anything more than three (tests in a row) then you have to really keep an eye on guys to put the right person out on the field. I guess with this tour after each week we will see where everyone is at injury-wise and how they are feeling. That's the main thing to do."

The most likely scenario appears to be McCaw being rested against Scotland and then returning to lead the charge for the final three tests. He certainly gave his new specialist openside backup Scott Waldrom his vote of confidence.

"I was involved with Scott at the Crusaders two or three years ago and I know him reasonably well. I've been impressed with what he has done this year. He's a hell of a good man and he's come in and fitted in pretty well. I'm sure he will be given a chance at some stage on the tour. I guess it's up to him to take that. Knowing the sort if guy he is and the sort of form he has shown, especially in the Air New Zealand Cup, then he will be good I think."

IAIN McGREGOR / Fairfax Media
ON TOP OF HIS GAME: All Blacks skipper Richie McCaw is reasonably comfortable where his play is at as he leads his side into the start of their six-match tour in Hong Kong

Canterbury wins Air NZ Cup

http://www.nzrugbyworld.com/NewsItem.aspx?id=2667

Canterbury has won the Air New Zealand Cup for 2008, prevailing 7-6 over the Wellington Lions in front of 21,237 fans desperate to see their side finally become the champions after coming so close in previous years.

Sunday, 26 October 2008
Sportal.co.nz

Canterbury has won the Air New Zealand Cup for 2008, prevailing 7-6 over the Wellington Lions in front of 21,237 fans desperate to see their side finally become the champions after coming so close in previous years.

Unfortunately for Wellington once again, it stumbled at the final hurdle as it has done so often, with Canterbury's efficiency winning the day as they suffocated Wellington's attack and ground out a hard fought victory, scoring the only try of the match in a low scoring affair.

The two sides ground out a tense opening ten minutes, with both teams sounding each other out with spells of good territory which they were unable to turn into points. It was the home side that managed to get ahead on the scoreboard however, following a sustained period of attack inside the visitors territory. Piri Weepu was able to knock over a penalty to take the score to 3-0 after 16 minutes.

However, it was the visiting side that crossed the line first. Canterbury loose forward Hayden Hopgood managed to crash over just to the right of the uprights after some good forward play on 25 minutes. Colin Slade added the extras to take the score to 7-3.

As the rain began to fall, both sides struggled with ball retention as the handling errors did their best to interrupt any prolonged passages of play. Slade had the opportunity to extend the lead with a penalty attempt on 32 minutes, but he was unsuccessful and the score held through until half time.

It was Wellington who came out of the blocks strongly in the second period, and it immediately seized the initiative.A smart breakout from inside its own half saw it force Canterbury into conceding a penalty on 48 minutes, 30 metres out from its line. Weepu managed to slot the attempt from a tight angle to put the home side within a point and leave the score at 7-6.

The Lions continued their momentum and on 53 minutes, the infallible Richie McCaw dropped a very straightforward Weepu kick, 12 metres out from his own line. Despite the opportunity though, Wellington was unable to capitalise on the opportunity.However, the Lions' persistence finally paid off as it was given the opportunity to take the lead in the 60th minute.

Unfortunately for the home side though, Weepu's trusty boot was off target keeping the scores at 7-6.Wellington dominated territory over the next twenty minutes, and had several opportunities to take the lead. However, a combination of resolute defence and simple mistakes saw it become frustrated as Canterbury coolly soaked up the pressure and suffocated the game.

Canterbury's ruthless efficiency and ability to keep its defensive shape allowed it to contain Wellington's flair and allowed it to grind out a famous and deserved victory at the expense of a Wellington side that had promised so much throughout the entirety pf the competition.

Wellington 6 --Pen:Weepu 2
Canterbury 7 --Try: Hopgood ; Con: Slade
HT: 3-7.

No fanfare as ABs hit Hong Kong

http://www.rugbyheaven.co.nz/4741934a22363.html

BY DUNCAN JOHNSTONE in Hong Kong, RugbyHeaven
Tuesday, 28 October 2008

The All Blacks arrived safely in Hong Kong today although they are yet to make a real impression in Asia's latest rugby hot-spot.

There were just a handful of fans at the airport to greet the squad after their 12-hour overnight flight from Auckland. Two local television crews quizzed lock Ali Williams and utility back Richard Kahui on Saturday's Bledisloe Cup clash with the Wallabies.

While the match may be a dead rubber, Kahui told the locals that would not affect the All Blacks' attitude. They were determined to start the Grand Slam tour strongly and pick up from where they left off in defeating Australia in Brisbane to claim the silverware.

All Blacks manager Darren Shand** brought an advance party to Hong Kong the day before the main squad's arrival. He reported management were satisfied with hotel, training and stadium facilities.

Temperatures are expected to be in the range of 27degC or the match and threatening thunderstorms are forecast this week.
The All Blacks are also hoping fullback Mils Muliania will be on a flight to Hong Kong tomorrow. They are yet to receive any update of the birth of his first child which he has remained home for.

The All Blacks plan to train later today after they name their starting team which is expected to feature Stephen Donald at first five-eighths with Daniel Carter moving out to second five, the same formation New Zealand finished the Brisbane match with.

The Wallabies, who have been in a training in camp over the past four weeks, got a head-start on the All Blacks by arriving in Hong Kong a day earlier.

**the guy with the flip-flops :)

All Blacks want to be worthy holders

http://sportal.co.nz/rugby-union-news-display/all-blacks-want-to-be-worthy-holders-59393
28/10/2008 9:09 AM
Sportal

All Blacks captain Richie McCaw wants his side to use the fourth Bledisloe Cup match of the year to prove it is a worthy holder of the trans-Tasman trophy which is being played for in Hong Kong on Saturday.
It is the first time the two countries have squared off outside of Australasia in a Bledisloe Cup contest, and while the trophy is already in New Zealand's care until next season, the game in Hong Kong has some extra spice to it.
McCaw told the South China Morning Post that the All Blacks would rather win the Cup 3-1 than 2-2.

"It [the Cup] could so easily have been on the line in Hong Kong," McCaw said."But although it is not up for grabs, it is not going to take away any of the intensity. We want to win this one."

While McCaw, regarded as the finest exponent in his position in the world game, has achieved many things djuring his career he has not been one of those New Zealanders to have played in the Hong Kong Sevens.
"I have heard a lot about the atmosphere in Hong Kong. We're all excited and looking forward to it," he said.

It is expected the traditional bias against Australian teams in Hong Kong will continue in the game. An incident of foul play by Australians competing at the 1979 Hong Kong Sevens is remembered regularly by home fans and has seen Australian sides competing in the Sevens over the years being jeered and booed. McCaw was unaware of that tradition.

"I suppose the crowd will get behind us. From what I hear, I believe the crowds will create a super atmosphere. It is bound to be exciting," he said.
Australian fullback Adam Ashley-Cooper is one member of the Australian side who has experienced the crowd's reaction at the Sevens.
"They hated us. Every sevens tour they were just abusing us. I was asking 'Why do they hate us?' They said they don't know. They've just done it for years and years," he said.

Photograph Copyright : Getty Images

RGs on duty!

Links sent by Rudy & pic sent by Izzy

http://www.stuff.co.nz/thepress/4740178a6009.html

http://www.rugbyheaven.co.nz/4739648a22363.html

http://www.planet-rugby.com/Story/0,18259,3551_4374654,00.html

Alternative Rugby Commentary - UK Tour: Scotland

Just because it's gonna be MY match, I had to publish this video

Other ARC videos : http://www.youtube.com/fraserdldavidson

ps : Izzy has some issues with her email addy, she can only post in the chatterbox so to celebrate Canty's victory, we'll have just e-articles for the moment. Any other local assistant would be welcomed :P

Someone's had a haircut!

(photos sent by FSS -whose comment became the title of this article!)

New All Black flanker 'to back up McCaw'

http://www.rugbyheaven.co.nz/4733266a22430.html
By JIM KAYES, The Dominion Post
Monday, 20 October 2008

Richie McCaw's All Blacks backup No 7 will be an uncapped player with Taranaki's Scott Waldrom and Bay of Plenty's Tanerau Latimer the prime contenders.

Both were included in a 25-strong training squad that excludes the Wellington and Canterbury players who will contest Saturday's Air New Zealand Cup final. The squad will play a game against the Barbarians on Wednesday with the 35-strong squad for next month's five-test tour named on Sunday.

Forwards coach Steve Hansen confirmed yesterday that an uncapped specialist would be named on Sunday to deputise for McCaw.

"That's pretty fair to say. Adam Thomson can play there and he might on tour but he won't be the specialist who is backing up Richie."

Hansen would not comment on perhaps the most notable omission from the squad - Hawke's Bay hooker Hika Elliot - who had been with the All Blacks as injury cover this year.

It suggests Canterbury's Corey Flynn will join Andrew Hore and Keven Mealamu on the plane to Hong Kong, though Wellington's Dane Coles could be a bolter.

Another in that category is Lions teammate, halfback Alby Mathewson, as Auckland's Taniela Moa, who travelled to South Africa with the All Blacks in August, has missed out. Andy Ellis and Piri Weepu would be expected to join Jimmy Cowan in the All Blacks but Ellis hurt a knee in Canterbury's 31-21 semifinal win against Hawke's Bay on Saturday night. He is listed as doubtful for Saturday's final, and if he was ruled out of the tour, Mathewson could be named as an All Black on Sunday.

While head coach Graham Henry said two weeks ago the squad was all-but picked, Hansen said "some whittling down" had to be done after Saturday's final."We've got more players than we need, so we'll be at the final looking at a couple of players in a couple of positions."

Lock is certain to be one of those positions, along with prop, wing, fullback and possibly hooker.
Jason Eaton's slow return from injury took another step with his inclusion in the training squad but the 10-test All Black will be sweating on the performances of Wellington's Ross Filipo and Jeremy Thrush in the final.

Five locks will be named with Brad Thorn, Ali Williams and Anthony Boric certainties. The All Blacks claims of Wellington's Hosea Gear and Cory Jane could be helped by what position Isaia Toeava is named in. He made his debut at fullback, has been used by the All Blacks at wing and centre, and played for Auckland at first five-eighth. With Mils Muliaina a chance to miss next week's test against Australia in Hong Kong because of the impending birth of his first child, a fullback is required.

Jane is a specialist but Toeava can play there too. His merits might be hotly debated by the public, but he is a firm favourite of the All Blacks coaches. Four wings are in the training squad - Joe Rokocoko, Sitiveni Sivivatu, Rudi Wulf and Anthony Tuitavake - but Gear will be hoping his form for Wellington has earned him a callup.

It could come at the expense of Wulf, though Tuitavake could be used at centre where he played the majority of his rugby for the Blues. Sione Lauaki's charmed life as an All Black seems set to continue with his inclusion in the training squad. It has to be hoped Canterbury's Kieran Read joins the loose forwards mix after he was sensationally left out after the Super 14 because he had apparently played too much rugby.

All Blacks wider training group: John Afoa, Anthony Boric, Jimmy Cowan, Stephen Donald, Jason Eaton, Ben Franks, Andrew Hore, Richard Kahui, Jerome Kaino, Tanerau Latimer, Sione Lauaki, Jamie Mackintosh, Keven Mealamu, Liam Messam, Mils Muliaina, Josevata Rokocoko, Sitiveni Sivivatu, Adam Thomson, Brad Thorn, Isaia Toeava, Anthony Tuitavake, Scott Waldrom, Ali Williams, Tony Woodcock and Rudi Wulf.

Richie's back-ups split for head-to-head trial

http://www.rugbyheaven.co.nz/4733760a22430.html
By DUNCAN JOHNSTONE, RugbyHeaven
Tuesday, 21 October 2008

All Blacks flanker hopefuls Tanerau Latimer and Scott Waldrom are set to go at each other head-to-head when Graham Henry's wider training squad plays the New Zealand Barbarians in a practice match in Auckland on Wednesday.

The race to be Richie McCaw's backup could be defined in the afternoon game at Henderson with one of the flankers loaned to Pat Lam's Barbarians side along with a lock.

Either Latimer or Waldrom will don the famous red Baabaas jersey in their quest for a spot on an All Blacks tour that features tests against Australia in Hong Kong and a grand slam attempt against Scotland, Ireland, Wales and England. There is also a midweek fixture in Irleand against Heineken Cup champions Munster.

The Barbarians are essentially a Blues trial combination of Auckland, North Harbour and Northland players but there is an obvious gap at No 7 in their ranks with Daniel Braid having now departed and fellow Auckland flanker Onosai'i Auva'a still suffering from a head knock in the final round loss to Northland.

Lam will operate a squad of about 30 players and the All Blacks will use the bulk of their 25-man wider training group named last Sunday in a match that will be played over the traditional two halves of 40 minutes at Trust Stadium in Henderson.

Lam is delighted to have the opportunity to put some of his younger players through their paces given the failure of all three of the Blues unions to make the Air New Zealand Cup playoffs.

"But this game is about the bigger picture. It's all about the All Blacks and helping them get ready for their tour," said Lam."There's plenty to play for in that All Blacks training squad. We want to give the All Blacks a good hit-out and I'm expecting this to be a full-on game. We have some shortages at openside and lock so that all works out well."

Young Auckland halfback Grayson Hart will join the All Blacks' group as backup to Jimmy Cowan who is the only No 9 in the squad.

Auckland halfback Taniela Moa, who was part of the All Blacks scene during the Tri-Nations after Andy Ellis was injured, won't be involved in this practice game. He had surgery to an ankle injury last week and is out of action for the next four to five weeks, ruling him out of tour contention.

With Ellis now suffering a knee injury that has a question mark over his place in the Canterbury team for Saturday night's final in the capital, young Wellington halfback Alby Mathewson could have everything to play for as Piri Weepu's deputy at the Cake Tin.

Gus Collins and Nick White are other Blues players who are being rested with Lam saying he wants to have a look at his younger players.
"We've got 11 Blues players in the All Blacks frame, so this is a good opportunity for us to look at the next group," said Lam.

Lam will oversee a Barbarians coaching staff that includes former All Blacks halfback Steve Devine. He has been coaching the Auckland Colts along with former All Blacks hooker Derren Witcombe. An obligation in Japan will keep Witcombe away from this fixture with Auckland forwards coach Mike Casey in charge of the Baabaas pack.

Warriors player Ryan Shortland is another who will be trialled for the Blues with Lam saying he is keen to switch codes now that his league contract is up. Jimmy Gopperth, now having switched permanently from Wellington to North Harbour will be at first five-eighths and Lam said he was keen to see exciting young Northland wing Rene Ranger get a run at fullback.
Lam will name his starting side on Wednesday morning.

The All Blacks wider training group assembled in Auckland on Monday afternoon and will train on the North Shore on Tuesday. The 35-player All Blacks touring squad will be named at 9am on Sunday in Wellington.

Penney names strong Canterbury side for final

http://www.rugbyheaven.co.nz/4737058a22363.html
RugbyHeaven Thursday, 23 October 2008

Andy Ellis has been bracketed with Tyson Keats in the Canterbury side to play Wellington in the Air New Zealand Cup final.

The 24-year-old halfback has been in doubt after suffering a medial ligament injury in his right knee and coach Rob Penney has given him until the last minute to prove his fitness. It will be a final opportunity for Ellis to impress the All Blacks selectors after he was forced out of the side with a rib injury in the loss to the Wallabies in Sydney.

His likely competition for a place on next week’s tour now appears to be Alby Mathewson who will have the starting jersey for Wellington with Piri Weepu playing at first five.

The other players in doubt for the final were centre Casey Laulala and lock Isaac Ross, but they have both been named in the side for Saturday night's game at Westpac Stadium.

Wing James Paterson was already ruled out after suffering a knee injury in the semifinal win over Hawke's Bay and Sean Maitland has taken his place.

Penney will be pleased to have a least two of his injured players confirmed for the final as Canterbury look to claim their first provincial title since 2004. Canterbury are on an 11-match winning streak and the TAB rates them a better-than-even chance of making it 12 matches on Saturday night.
There will be an extra incentive for the side to win as they look to send long-serving players Scott Hamilton and Greg Somerville off in style. Hamilton is set to link up with the Leicester Tigers and Somerville with Gloucester at the conclusion of this year's Air New Zealand Cup.

CANTERBURY: 15 Scott Hamilton, 14 Paul Williams, 13.Casey Laulala, 12 Tim Bateman, 11 Sean Maitland, 10 Colin Slade, 9 Andy Ellis/Tyson Keats, 8 Kieran Read (c), 7 Richie McCaw, 6 Hayden Hopgood, 5 Isaac Ross, 4 Michael Paterson, 3 Greg Somerville, 2 Corey Flynn, 1 Wyatt Crockett, Reserves: 16 Steve Fualau, 17 Owen Franks, 18 Nasi Manu, 19 George Whitelock, 20 Tyson Keats/Steve Alfeld, 21 Hamish Gard, 22 Adam Whitelock.

News from overseas ABs : http://www.rugbyheaven.co.nz/4736902a22363.html 'Mrs Hayman' ain't so pretty in pink

Canterbury win comes at cost

http://tvnz.co.nz/view/page/536641/2214914
Oct 19, 2008

Air New Zealand Cup rugby finalists Canterbury have confirmed that they will be without winger James Paterson for the competition decider against Wellington next weekend.
Coach Rob Penney says Paterson has hyper extended his left knee, and will take a few weeks to recover.
Halfback Andy Ellis has suffered medial ligament damage in his right knee, and will sit out training early this week, before a decision is made on his availability.
Midfield back Casey Laulala and lock Issac Ross have suffered a similar injuries, but are expected to be available for the final showdown.

http://tvnz.co.nz/view/video_popup_windows_skin/2215195
Canterbury quell Hawke's Bay (1:51)
The Air New Zealand semi-final between Canterbury and Hawke's Bay on Saturday provided stunning tries and a couple of cringe worthy injuries

http://tvnz.co.nz/view/video_popup_windows_skin/2217357 Ellis slipping out of contention (1:44)
The Canterbury rugby team was battered and bruised on Monday and despite Andy Ellis looking unlikely to play the prognosis was looking good for Casey Laulala

Personal pic sent by a local spy (not Izzy this time!) : Merci!!!

No pictures please

If you want it, email me at marykoala@hotmail.fr -subject "NPP"

Thank you Izzy!

McCaw in starting line-up

http://www.canterburyrugby.co.nz/news/mccaw-in-starting-line-up/63/news.aspx

Thursday, 16 October 2008

Richie McCaw has been named in the starting line-up for Canterbury in their Air New Zealand Cup semi-final match against Hawke’s Bay at AMI Stadium on Saturday night. McCaw, the All Blacks captain, came off the reserves bench to play the final 25 minutes of Canterbury’s 48-10 victory over Tasman in last weekend’s quarter-final at AMI Stadium.

He takes over the number seven jersey from George Whitelock, who has been named in the reserves.
Canterbury coach Rob Penney paid credit to Whitelock’s performances this season, saying: "George has played fantastically well at openside flanker for us. His progression throughout the season has really impressed me. Richie has got the nod over him for Saturday but George will continue to play an important role on the bench."

The rest of the starting line-up is the same as that which took the field against Tasman. There are two changes in the reserves, with hooker Steve Fualau coming in for Ti’i Paulo, whose knee injury suffered against Tasman has ruled him out for the rest of the season.

In the other change, loose forward Nasi Manu comes into the squad, replacing James Broadhurst. Manu, who has had ankle and back injuries, last played for Canterbury when coming off the bench against North Harbour in the round six victory at Albany on September 6. He has been cleared to return after playing for the Canterbury Colts against their Auckland counterparts last weekend.

Penney added: "It’s great to see Nasi back. He is a special talent and has brought great enthusiasm to the group since his return. We are looking for another lift in intensity across the whole squad for this match against Hawke’s Bay. We beat them at AMI Stadium in the round-robin but that counts for very little now. The Magpies will be desperate to make the final and we know they will throw everything at us."

Thanx for the link Rudy & Happy B-day!!!

Holiday blog officially suspended (for now)

http://richiemccaw-bis.blogspot.com/2008/10/caption-game-results.html
http://richiemccaw-bis.blogspot.com/2008/10/blog-suspended.html

McCaw to start against Hawke's Bay

http://www.rugbyheaven.co.nz/4729289a22363.html

http://www.stuff.co.nz/4729304a1823.html
By DUNCAN JOHNSTONE, RugbyHeaven
Thursday, 16 October 2008

Richie McCaw has been brought in to start at openside flanker for Canterbury's Air New Zealand Cup semifinal against Hawke's Bay in Christchurch on Saturday night. McCaw made his return to provincial rugby via the bench in last week's comfortable quarterfinal win over Crusaders franchise partners Tasman.

But with the ante being upped this week by a Magpies side in good form, Canterbury coach Rob Penney has had no hesitation in bringing McCaw into his starting pack.
He takes over the No 7 jersey from George Whitelock, who has been named in the reserves.

Penney paid credit to Whitelock's performances this season, saying: "George has played fantastically well at openside flanker for us. His progression throughout the season has really impressed me. Richie has got the nod over him for Saturday but George will continue to play an important role on the bench."
Kieran Reid retains the captaincy though and holds on to the No 8 jersey he has been performing well in after the injury to Mose Tuiali'i.

The rest of the starting line-up is the same as that which took the field against Tasman. There are two changes in the reserves, with hooker Steve Fualau coming in for Ti'i Paulo, whose knee injury suffered against Tasman has ruled him out for the rest of the season.
In the other change, loose forward Nasi Manu comes into the squad, replacing James Broadhurst.

Manu, who has had ankle and back injuries, last played for Canterbury when coming off the bench against North Harbour in the round six victory at Albany on September 6.
He has been cleared to return after playing for the Canterbury Colts against their Auckland counterparts last weekend.

"It's great to see Nasi back. He is a special talent and has brought great enthusiasm to the group since his return," said Penney who is demanding more from his side in this do-or-die clash."We are looking for another lift in intensity across the whole squad for this match against Hawke's Bay. We beat them at AMI Stadium in the round-robin but that counts for very little now. The Magpies will be desperate to make the final and we know they will throw everything at us."

The Magpies have retained the smae starting XV that got past Waikato in last Sunday's quarter-final thriller in Npaier.Their only change comes on the bench where outside back Mark Jackman replaces Daniel Waenga.

Canterbury: 15 Scott Hamilton, 14 Paul Williams, 13 Casey Laulala, 12 Tim Bateman, 11 James Paterson, 10 Colin Slade, 9 Andy Ellis, 8 Kieran Read (c), 7 Richie McCaw, 6 Hayden Hopgood, 5 Isaac Ross, 4 Michael Paterson, 3 Greg Somerville, 2 Corey Flynn, 1 Wyatt Crockett.
Reserves: 16 Steve Fualau, 17 Owen Franks, 18 Nasi Manu, 19 George Whitelock, 20 Tyson Keats, 21 Hamish Gard, 22 Adam Whitelock.

Hawke's Bay: 15 Israel Dagg, 14 Jason Kupa, 13 Jason Shoemark, 12 Sam Giddens, 11 Zac Guildford, 10 Matt Berquist, 9 Danny Lee (c), 8 George Naoupu, 7 Karl Lowe, 6 Michael Johnson, 5 Bryn Evans, 4 Johan Snyman, 3 Anthony Perenise, 2 Hikawera Elliott, 1 Faka'anaua Taumalolo.
Reserves: 16 Ash Dixon, 17 Josh Keys, 18 Matt Egan, 19 Pama Petia, 20 Chris Eaton, 21 Aayden Clarke, 22 Mark Jackman.

***
Do you want me to tell you a secret?
I don't know any player from Hawke's Bay...
I'm so sorry (for them, not for me!)

McCaw adds strength to Canterbury

http://tvnz.co.nz/view/page/411749/2207466
Oct 16, 2008

All Blacks captain Richie McCaw has been named in the starting line-up for Canterbury in their Air New Zealand Cup rugby semifinal match against Hawke's Bay in Christchurch on Saturday night. McCaw came off the reserves bench to play the final 25 minutes of Canterbury's 48-10 victory over Tasman in last weekend's quarterfinal in Christchurch.

He takes over the number seven jersey from George Whitelock, who has been named in the reserves. Canterbury coach Rob Penney said Whitelock had played fantastically well at openside flanker and his progress throughout the season had been very impressive.

"Richie has got the nod over him for Saturday but George will continue to play an important role on the bench."

The rest of the starting line-up is unchanged from that which took the field against Tasman. There are two changes in the reserves, with hooker Steve Fualau coming in for Ti'i Paulo, whose knee injury suffered against Tasman has ruled him out for the rest of the season. In the other change, loose forward Nasi Manu comes into the squad, replacing James Broadhurst. Manu, who has had ankle and back injuries, last played for Canterbury when coming off the bench against North Harbour in the round six victory at Albany on September 6.

"We are looking for another lift in intensity across the whole squad for this match against Hawke's Bay, Penney said. He said while Canterbury beat Hawke's Bay 31-7 in the round robin match in Christchurch "that counts for very little now."

Canterbury: Scott Hamilton, Paul Williams, Casey Laulala, Tim Bateman, James Paterson, Colin Slade, Andy Ellis, Kieran Read, Richie McCaw, Hayden Hopgood, Isaac Ross, Michael Paterson, Greg Somerville, Corey Flynn.
Reserves: Steve Fualau, Owen Franks, Nasi Manu, George Whitelock, Tyson Keats, Hamish Gard, Adam Whitelock

other video :
http://www.3news.co.nz/News/Canterbury-prepares-to-go-head-to-head-with-the-Magpies/tabid/415/articleID/76127/cat/70/Default.aspx

More pix from the Tri Nations Final

Richie McCaw unofficial blog (2): More pix from the Tri Nations Final Link to FSS's new pix

Rugby News n°34

If you want this article, please send an email to maryandfss@hotmail.fr -subject "RN 34"

All Blacks skipper aims to be more competent captain

http://www.stuff.co.nz/4724562a10295.html
By GREG FORD, Sunday Star Times
Sunday, 12 October 2008

Lifting his competency as captain is Richie McCaw's main aim on the grand slam northern hemisphere tour next month. The All Black skipper told the Sunday Star-Times he's a more competent and confident team talisman than a year ago.

But he now wants to take his captaincy to another level.
"I think I am a better captain for the experiences I went through last year," he said. "That's the way I am looking at it and hopefully on this tour I will be better than I was in the middle of the year."

McCaw's burgeoning leadership credentials were one of the highlights in what has been to date a successful season for the All Blacks. The New Zealand Rugby Union's trophy cabinet is again well-stocked after capturing both the Tri Nations trophy and Bledisloe Cup last month.

In the wake of the Tri Nations victory McCaw was compared to the great Sean Fitzpatrick. His leadership was that good. Given the criticism he copped in the wake of last year's Rugby World Cup, it has been quite a turnaround.

With the benefit of hindsight, McCaw said the chiding he coped in a damning report into the All Blacks cup campaign may have helped.
"Up until that point [in his career] I had never really had that," he said. "I didn't take too much notice of it to be perfectly honest. I knew there were things I needed to do better. That's the nature of the role. You are not going to be perfect from the start. You have to learn from [experiences like Cardiff]."

Last Monday (October 6) was the one year anniversary of the team's loss to France, something McCaw wasunaware of.
Asked to state something tangible he'd learnt in the year following the cup, McCaw said: "I think I have more confidence in what I do, to back your gut instincts. It takes time to be able to do that. They might not be right all the time but you have to be decisive at times and it's something you can be when you get familiar with the role. I'm also able to draw information out of guys. We have a number that have played a lot of rugby. So it's good to work out ways of drawing that out."

His own form has been pretty good, too. Most thought he was the stand out player of the Tri Nations despite missing a couple of tests through injury.
McCaw said he was hungry for more rugby this year. The prospect of claiming another grand slam and the novelty of playing a test on neutral ground against Australia had whet his appetite.

"We have five big tests that are all going to be quite different like the Hong Kong match. I'm sure motivation will be high for that one and a chance of a grand slam, even though we have to do it one game at a time. If you look at it as a whole, it's bloody exciting and a chance to have something tangible at the end of it if we do it right. We're also taking 35 players so there will be some new fellas. Hopefully I'll get the opportunity to help them perform and be good All Blacks. I can now see the influence you have on the team by doing things well and getting enjoyment and satisfaction from that helps."

McCaw's All Blacks will also have to endure another rules switch. The northern hemisphere unions are trialling a different set of Experimental Law Variations, under some duress. McCaw is aware of the resistance in the north.

"I think some of the laws they are bringing in are bloody good," he said. "A lot has been made about all the switching but from a player's point of view it's not a big deal at all. When we went back to the old laws for the three test before the Tri Nations I don't think we even talked about it. We discussed it a wee bit, things like lineout numbers and when we went into the Tri Nations we had to tweak a few things. But it hasn't been a big deal. I think the Tri Nations was fun to play in and most people enjoyed watching it, or that's the impression I had. So if the players are enjoying it and the public enjoy watching it, that has to be a positive."

McCaw said the fate of the rules would probably be decided by referees.
"I think the refs have to be hard on the tackler and making sure he gets away and allows the ball to be played and that's where the Super 14 was good when they were hard on that. I hope everyone has an open mind. It will be interesting to see what sort of game we get and perhaps after the November series everyone will be in a pretty good state to make a judgement."

=> what do you think, please react by leaving a comment below. Thank you!

Mission accomplished for Canterbury

http://tvnz.co.nz/view/page/429802/2173856

Oct 3, 2008

Canterbury got the tough workout they wanted before beating Southland 25-6 in an Air NZ Cup rugby match in Invercargill on Friday. The match was an ideal quarterfinals dress rehearsal for Canterbury, who were assured of finishing second in the regular season before the game at Rugby Park Stadium.

Southland's physical commitment could never be questioned as they made Canterbury toil for success, before two tries in the last quarter secured their ninth successive win since dropping their opening match to Manawatu.

Canterbury controlled play throughout the first half, dominating both possession and territory to build a handy 13-0 advantage at the interval. Southland were simply denied the ball, Canterbury committing adequate numbers at the breakdown to retain possession for long periods.

The only try of the spell came from wing James Paterson, who slipped two tackles in the 16th minute, while first five-eighth Colin Slade landed the conversion then added two penalties.
The game turned testy at times as neither forward pack was willing to take a backward step, and an all-in punchup between the packs in the 32nd minute ended with referee Josh Noonan sending one front rower from both teams to the sinbin.

Southland managed to stem the stream of possession going Canterbury's way early in the second half and were given a boost when the visitors lost flanker George Whitelock to the sinbin for repeat offending at the breakdown in the 53rd minute. Almost immediately Southland moved into the opposition 22 and earned a penalty for first five-eighth Robbie Robinson to get them on the scoreboard.

Despite enjoying the better of the third quarter Southland at no stage threatened the tryline, with Canterbury composed and organised when pressed into a defensive mode. Having soaked up that pressure Canterbury made their first incursion deep into the opposition half after the break count when replacement halfback Tyson Keats stretched over the tryline from a ruck in the 66th minute.

They were in again just three minutes later when captain Kieran read picked up the spoils after a decisive midfield break by centre Casey Laulala, making his first outing since breaking an arm in July. The only bad news for Canterbury was an injury to No 8 Mose Tuiali'i, which saw him stretchered from the field and taken to hospital for precautionary X-rays.

Mindful that points differential may have a huge bearing on their final placing, Southland were happy for Robinson to kick his second penalty with eight minutes remaining. Southland entered the final round of the regular season in fifth place and guaranteed a quarterfinal, although their final position will not be known until Sunday.

Canterbury 25 (James Paterson, Tyson Keats, Kieran Read tries; Colin Slade 2 pen, 2 con)
Southland 6 (Robbie Robinson 2 pen).
Halftime: 13-0.

McCaw ready to give his all

http://www.stuff.co.nz/thepress/4720638a6429.html
Hamish Bidwell, The Press

Thursday, 09 October 2008

A jinx? Richie McCaw thinks not.

Drafting All Blacks into its ranks late in provincial campaigns has not always paid off for Canterbury. In fact, the return of the likes of McCaw has often heralded its play-off exit. Named on the bench for tomorrow night's Air New Zealand Cup quarter-final against Tasman at AMI Stadium, McCaw insists that this time is different.
"You learn, over the time, the best way to approach it. Like, this time I am really excited about being back because I've had two weeks where I didn't think about playing and got away and that's a key; there's no point being here if you are not willing to go out, put everything into it and contribute," the All Blacks skipper said.

That has not always been the case, with stepping back down to Canterbury duty being the last thing some players have needed after a draining All Blacks campaign.

"Had it been the week after the All Black thing, yeah it could've been (a bit of a chore). But, as I said, after two weeks completely away from playing and watching last week back here and doing a little bit of training with the boys, you feel excited about getting back out on the field."

One thing helping to arouse McCaw's interest this week is the opportunity to play against Brad Thorn for the first time. Friends as well as Crusaders and All Blacks team-mates, McCaw said Auckland fans were not the only ones caught out by its loss to Northland on Sunday.

Thorn, like many, assumed Auckland would win, leaving Tasman as the final team to scrape into the quarter-finals.
That honour eventually fell to Taranaki, which plays top-qualifier Wellington at Westpac Stadium in Wellington on Saturday.

"We were down here (at Rugby Park) training last week and he said `I'm starting to think I might play if they (Tasman) get through'. He's going to mean a lot to that team, so it'll be good fun. (There) might be a bit of banter, it's going to be interesting. I think he thought when he was driving up to Tasman on Monday that they were playing Wellington and then he found out he's coming back to play Canterbury."

As the only loose forward on Canterbury's bench, McCaw practised in all three positions yesterday. Captain Kieran Read will again start at No.8 in place of the injured Mose Tuiali'i and had his claims for an All Black jersey endorsed by McCaw.

"He had a really good Super 14 and to take over the captaincy and carry on playing as one of the better players in the competition shows the class of the guy," McCaw said."He's certainly put his hand up if there are opportunities on this tour, but I suppose he won't be thinking too much about that. He's definitely put himself in the frame, I think."

In the pack Greg Somerville, Wyatt Crockett and Isaac Ross return to the starting 15, as do backs Tim Bateman, Casey Laulala and Paul Williams. Should Canterbury beat Tasman, it will play the winner of Sunday's quarter-final between Hawkes Bay and Waikato.