The 2007 Six Nations all-star XV
- 2 Feb 07, 09:28 AM
London - The northern hemisphere鈥檚 annual rugby-fest is upon us and the debate about just who the best players on show are has begun once again.
Our team of rugby union journalists sat down in 大象传媒 Sport鈥檚 glistening digital media centre and came up with our XV to start the tournament.
Injuries have cost the likes of Shane Horgan and Dan Ward-Smith a place in the team - they'll be gutted, we're sure.
No doubt we could have done better, so, who鈥檝e we missed and who should not have got anywhere near our selection?
15: Josh Lewsey (Eng) The versatile Lewsey may be on the wing for England, but in our view he edges out Scotland captain Chris Paterson, who also starts on the wing on Saturday, and Wales full-back Kevin Morgan.
14: Sean Lamont (Sco) With Shane Horgan out injured we go for another big lump in Scotland鈥檚 Lamont. Injured Wales wing Mark Jones was another contender.
13: Brian O'Driscoll (Ire) Who else but O'Driscoll for the number 13 shirt? He is head and shoulders above the other contenders, who are led by rejuvenated England powerhouse Mike Tindall.
12: Yannick Jauzion (Fra) There are several good contenders here, including Ireland鈥檚 Gordon D鈥橝rcy and Italian Mirco Bergamasco, while England's Andy Farrell could yet impress in the number 12 shirt. But Jauzion, who admittedly has not been at full throttle so far this season, gets the nod.
11: Christophe Dominici (Fra) Dominici is nearing the end of his career, but he remains a finisher par excellence. The other contenders were young Irishman Andrew Trimble and Welsh hot-stepper Shane Williams.
10: Ronan O'Gara (Ire) The Munster fly-half has come on in leaps and bounds, and although his defence remains suspect he keeps out Wales captain Stephen Jones and some Englishman called Jonny Wilkinson.
9: Dwayne Peel (Wal) The livewire Peel鈥檚 the man to get out backline firing, fighting off the challenges of fit-again Scot Chris Cusiter and Ireland鈥檚 Peter Stringer, while a fit Mike Blair would have been mentioned in despatches.
1: Gethin Jenkins (Wal) To be honest there don鈥檛 seem to be too many world class loose-heads around at the moment, and with Andrew Sheridan injured Jenkins gets in ahead of Welsh rival Duncan Jones and the Italian Salvatore Perugini.
2: Raphael Ibanez (Fra) The veteran Frenchman is back as captain of the defending champions and he is given our two shirt ahead of the Irish pair Jerry Flannery and Rory Best and injured Englishman Steve Thompson.
3: Carlos Nieto (Ita) The Italians do not lack front-row power and the in-form Gloucester prop is our choice ahead of compatriot Martin Castrogiovanni and England captain Phil Vickery.
4: Paul O'Connell (Ire) If Ireland are playing well then you know O鈥機onnell is at the heart of the action and he takes the shirt ahead of England鈥檚 Danny Grewcock, with Fabien Pelous a contender if he was fit.
5: Marco Bortolami (Ita) The Italian captain is a key player in the impressive Azzurri pack and wins selection ahead of Ireland鈥檚 Donncha O鈥機allaghan and Frenchman Jerome Thion.
6: Joe Worsley (Eng) If Neil Best had kept on the boil he would have earned the nod, but the in-form Worsley keeps Best and Irish team-mate Simon Easterby out.
7: David Wallace (Ire) Ireland have a number of quality open-sides and the pacy Wallace wears out number seven shirt despite the claims of Italy鈥檚 Mauro Bergamasco and Welshman Martyn Williams.
8: Ryan Jones (Wal) Ireland鈥檚 Denis Leamy, England鈥檚 Martin Corry and Italy鈥檚 Sergio Parisse all have their supporters, but it鈥檚 Welshman Jones who completes our line-up.
Wales 27-18 England
Comments Post your comment
Jauzion at 12 instead of D'arcy is a joke! You said yourself he is not at full trottle and Darcy is quite clearly the form player in the world at the moment!
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O'Gara ahead of Wilko- are you bonkers?
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So Joe Worsley's Irish now is he?!
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Where can i pick my fantasy 15 and send it to my friends like you can do with each team?
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Chabal has to No. 8. How can you consider anyone else?
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I'm not unhappy with the selection, but i would have included Chabal at number 8, and Have Wilko at 10 - we'll see at the end of the 6 nations if he's injury free!
more open for debate would be Vickery not getting a place, Birgamasco (centre), and there's plenty of competition on the flanks - i guess to really do everyone justice you'd have to have included a subs bench too!
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Chabal has to be No. 8. How can you consider anyone else?
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As an Irishman-I think thats a pretty fair team.Mind you I would have Darcy in as the no 12 as in my opinion he is playing as well as BOD at the moment and you cant leave out BOD. The Jones/ O'Gara call is an interesting one as it was the other way around the last couple of seasons. I also agree that Shane Horgan would have been in the team and word around the campfire is he will be definately back for the england game.
Irelands strength lies in the fact that they have contenders for most positions, more than any other team. Dan Ward Smith would walk into the team would he? I had never heard of him before last week. Why wasnt he playing in the AI's for England?..
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By the end of the six nations you will have to amend that XV.
Andy Farrell will have established himself unassailably.
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What a sign of the times that there are only 2 white shirts amongst them! How many would there have been only 4 years ago? 8? Probably 5 forwards at least!
Be prepared to write James Hook in at twelve for the next few years....
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Looks like a really good selection but I fancy we'll see some big things from Kevin Morgan and Simon Taylor this year at 15 and 8 respectively
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Ha! What a ridiculous team sheet. The fact that D'Arcy isn't in the team sums it up, he is the best 12 in the world at the moment, let alone in the Six Nations. It feels like you wanted to have a representative team for all, but come on.
Worsley? And Lewsy at 15?! Perhaps a few years back but he's not even England's best 15.
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Not a bad effort. Frightening to think NZ would probably take this team by 20 points.
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Think Lamont is a token Scotsman I think there are better wings in England, Wales, Ireland & France.Not sure Worsley should be near this team either! Would be a good team to watch though, especially te backs- Jauzion has to be in the team!!
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Not a bad selection but i would have to question your belief that their are no good Loose head players around, Vickery, and White, if England can do anything right at the moment it is scrummage! And anyway, loose head is number 3 in the line up not number 1. Sorry to point that out.
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Lewsey, Lamont, Ibanez, WorsTley, Nieto !!!!!
I hadnt realised the crisis in English rugby had stretched to its journalists! these guys should not be allowed hand out the water bottles.
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Not a bad selection but i would have to question your belief that their are no good Loose head players around, Vickery perhaps, if England can do anything right at the moment it is scrummage!
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Elle-Think he meant that Worsley was keeping both Easterby and Irish team mate Neil Best out...
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Steve, even as an Irishman I will admit that Wilko of three years ago should be in ahead of O'Gara of today, but there is no way he could justifiably be in this team.....bizarre as much of the other selections are though.
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I'd definitely have O'Gara ahead of Wilkinson. Sure he'll be doing well to last a half of the game against Scotland. Remember he hasn鈥檛 played test rugby in 3 years, whilst O'Gara has racked up about 30 caps and won a Heineken Cup! So he doesn鈥檛 deserve to be even mentioned as a possible contender for the 10 shirt!
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Elle, read the bit about worsley again, he is saying neil best's team mate, Simon Easterby.
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It would be interesting to compare peoples selections pre and post 6N. there's always a few players who come from nowhere each year.
Especially with a tournament as open as this one.
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Elle, read the bit about worsley again, he is saying neil best's team mate, Simon Easterby.
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Sorry am I reading this right? O'Gara ahead of Jones!! Wilkinsnon is not fully fit so Jones is the logical choice. Llanelli have been playing out of their skins in the Heinekin Cup and Jones has been at the heart of that. Better in defence, equally good goal kicker at least, better passer of the ball, more attack minded!! Plus with Peel at 9, they play at both club and national level. Oh and how can Lewsey "edge out" Paterson. Lewsey is 10 times the player Paterson is!!
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Someone said O'Gara ahead of Wilko, Wilko as you put it has not played for 3 years, ARE YOU BONKERS!
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Stephen Jones is the best outside half in the Northern hemisphere. Also no Martin Williams? What are you on?
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maybe you should run that squad through on www.scrum.com 's fantasy league and see how well it does!!
cant believe there arent more welsh players in it though! hehe
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2. Steve,
They are obviously picking on form rather than hysteria driven reputation.
I would have taken Betsen over Worsley.
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Jenkins with the shirt number 1? In 2005, yes.
The contenders of Perugini are Marconnet and Milloud. And Duncan Jones just a shade after.
For number 8, how you could leave Leamy out?
And Sean Lamont ahead of ROugerie and Heymans, and .
These 3 are picked on performances made years ago.
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I think by the end of the tournament James Hook will have proved himself as the best number 12. Keep an eye on him, he's going to be very, very good.
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ALthough Jauzion has established himself as one of the best centres in the world, but I don't think he is at the form he once was but his centre partner Fritz can play both 12 and 13 and I believe he should be up there.
O'Gara is probably the best fly half but I think Hook is on better form although he isn't starting at 10 for Wales, he will be moved there after a few games.
Peel is good but Yashvili is a more rounded player with his kicking abilities.
I really can't see how you cannot put Vickery in there, top player and soon to be great captain.
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Morning all - just over 24 hours until the championship starts, almost makes the winter bearable doesn't it.
Caoimhin, you're out of the blocks quicker than a D'Arcy break.
The Leinster man has been in superb form, but Jauzion has been magnificent over the past couple of years.
The fact that Toulouse have been struggling, by their lofty standards, has not helped Jauzion, and it was probably the closest call in the team.
And a spotter's badge for Elle - the team list has been ammended.
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yes a pretty strong side. Not much to argue about here.
As an Irishman I'd argue darcy should be in there on form and I disagree that Neil Best has gone of the boil,hes been harshly dropped in favour of one of EOS's Teachers pets, he's still the best no.6 around and hopefully will get the chance to show it this 6 nations.
O'garas a form selection but I'd have gone for Jones for his consistancy.
Johny wilkenson, don't make me laugh! Typical english Arrogance to suggest a player that hasn't played an international since 2003 should be in ahead of Jones and O'gara!
Good team.
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Eh why would Dan Ward Smith walk straight into the team? Has he even played for England before? I am sure messrs Jones, Leamy and Chabal would have something to say about that. Darcy should be at twelve alongside BOD. I agree with Horgan at 14 if he was fit. Apart from that the team seems pretty fair. And Chris Walker-Andy Farrell will establish himself unassailably? The only place he will establish himself is flat on his back side on the hallowed Croke Park turf as the best centre partnership makes mince meat of him and the other crash bang wallop centre england have picked.
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The rest I can just about understand but Joe Worsley? Lewis Moody? Infact any other starting No.6 I'm English an I still think Worsley is a BAD choice
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Worsley at 6 !! Easterby, Best, Betsen and Popham are superior to Joe !! Come on pick some real rugby players insted of someone who just looks the part, struts round the field and achieves very little.
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Elle - it's just the way you read it. James was referring to Best and not Worsley.
BTW - that will be a remarkably different team come the end of the 6 nations, always is, but some well thought out and interesting choices to start with.
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Many ahead of Wilko - you need to have played some games to be in a 'best of' team.
Wilko is good but always over credited - but a Scottish-based Antipodean would say that!
O'Gara is currently sublime - wish he had an Aussie grannie!
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As an Irish fan i think that you should replace the whole squad with the ireland squad, they are playing awesome at the moment and will win the grand slam no problem
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Chris Walker-So Andy Farrell will establish himself unassailably will he? The only place he will establish himself is flat on his backside on the hallowed Croke Park turf as the best centre partnership in the world make mincemeat of him and the other crash bang wallop centre england have picked. And I cant understand all this clamour for Wilkinson. He hasnt played international rugby for three and a half years. I would be amazed if he lasts the pace
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Dan-Ward Smith was injured about a week ago
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There are a few of these guys picked on reputation rather than recent form. How can D'arcy not be the No.12.!!! Anyone who has seen Leinster this season will realise he has been devistating
The same goes for Lewesy...what has he done for England in the last 12 months...nothing...Dempsey for Leinster again has been outstanding!!! The same goes for Dominici of France...nothing for France!!
Who picks these teams....do the watch any rugby???
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Fly half is right as wilko has not been playing so nobody knows how he will do. Not sure about Lamont as he has not been firing on all cylinders for Northampton. Vickery should be in the team
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I know that it has to have players from each team to make it fair. However, lets be honest:
- Would Average Joe get into an Ireland team? He wouldn't even get onto the bench!
- Would Lamont get into Ireland, England or French team? No
- Jauzion has been awefull all season, surely D'Arcy would get the nod?
- Lewsey is playing on the wing, not full back!
Otherwise, I'd say that it is a good side.
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Bit surprised by the lack of Scots mentioned, our game might not be at its strongest just now but you have to remember how well we performed last year beating the English and the French, finishing 3rd out of 6 when so little was expected of us. In the pack Scott Murray, Jason White and Simon Taylor were all brilliant and despite White's injury i think all three desreved a mention
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I agree he hasn't done enough yet to be in the fantasy XV pre 6N, but I really think James Hook will be the star of the tournament.
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Good selection barring the absence of D'Arcy and Vickery. Stroller - what are you talking about? Lewsey is consistently the most accomplished full back in the northern hemisphere.
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Loose head is 1 on the pitch Mr P. Evans and how has Castrogiovanni's performance been so quickly forgotten. quality loose head and part of a granite hard Italian scrum.
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I definitely agree with the Irish and Welsh entries, their Heineken Cup form alone is enough to seal their places in this XV.
Dominici though? He is not exactly someone who makes something out of nothing and when the going gets tough he will happily hide out the back. Jason Robinson is still the most exciting attacking player in Northern Hemisphere rugby and Im sure the likes of O'Driscoll etc would love to see him pop up on their outside shoulder at various moments throughout the tournament.
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I'm an Englishman, so you can understand my admiration for the guy.Surely the scottish skip White should at least have an honourable mention at Blind side?Robinson vs Dominici?!Robinson surely has more presence,strength, speed,finishing ability, acceleration...the list is endless.Wilko,Farrell&Tindall. That 10,12,13 trio would strike fear into any backline in the world. Also believe Shanklin should have a mention at 13,one of the most underrated
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Patrick Evans
Julian White is a tight head, and the number 1 shirt is the loose head's, the 3 is the tight head's
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Who was who corrected the selector on his comment about the prop. I don't know where you play but in most parts 1 is indeed the loose head so the numbers read 1-2-3 across the back. Darcy is a notable absentee. Not convinced as to any reason why he should be overlooked. Vickery hopefully will prove himself once more but most england players have been sadly lacking for to long. Vickery can at least blame an injury or too.
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The player I am most excited about is James Hook.I think that at the end of the 6 Nations he will be a stong contender for one of the centre spots in the "Best XV".
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Very good team.
However I think on current form D'arcy should be in ahead of Jauzion.Yes I am an Irishman.
Neil Best has not gone of the boil, hes been unfairly dropped in favour of EOS's teachers pet easterby and is the best no 6 around and hopefully will get the chance to show it this tournament.and Yes I am an Ulsterman.
I'd probably go for Jones ahead of O'gara due to his consistancy and all round game.
Whoever mentioned wilkinson must be having a laugh. He was a very good player 4 years ago, albeit not a great allround fly half and he's hardly played since. His last taste of top level rugby was with the lions and he wasn't fit to lace carters boots.
Farrell was a great rugby league player and perhaps one of britains greatest sportsman but has a lot to prove as a rugby union player so doesn't warrent consideration.
On current form there wouldn't be an english player in the side and maybe no french either.
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Post 14 & 16 - Patrick having played at tighthead prop for the past 20 yrs I can assure you that tightheads do in fact occupy the no 3 shirt and loose head's the no 1 shirt
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Always a talking point, these selections!
I would much prefer if no England players were selected at this stage, in the hope that many observers will feel inclined to support bulk inclusion in a 2007 "best of" team when all is said and done.
In what could well be a close run tournament I think this new look England could be in the mix later on, especially when they make much-vaunted Ireland choke and croak at Croke!
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Patrick Evans, Do you know anything about the front row. I'm sorry toptell you but 1 is loose head, and Vickery and White both play 3 and are tight heads!
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Lewesy over Patterson?! Having been England's form back immediately post-World Cup, the former has produced virtually nothing for the last two years, while Patterson remains one of the most criminally underrated players in world rugby; he can kick - both out of hand and for goal - he can pass, he's seriously good in broken field and he's a decent leader. Just coz he's not built like a tank a la Lewesy - and as such his defence isn't always great - doesn't mean he's not worth a place amongst this bunch. It's pretty worrying for European rugby how few of them would get into a world XV right now.
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As a Scotland fan even I feel forced to agree that Sean Lamont is perhaps fortunate to make this 15. However, where I do feel that Scottish players should have been considered is in the back row. The threesome of Hogg, Taylor and White were unstoppable last season and were the main reason we finished third. Sadly White is out for this tournament and Hogg is only just coming back from injury. The other teams should be grateful we're saving ourselves for the World Cup!
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I'm amazed no-one's mentioned Martin Williams yet!
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O'Gara ahead of Jonny Wilkinson - dream on. I'd take D'Arcy ahead of O'Driscoll on current form and I'm not really sure why Ryan Jones features at all when Chabal's around. Wallace doesn't come close - I'd take Mauro Bergocantspellhisname any day of the week against him and Castrocantdothatoneeither has to be first on the team sheet as prop.
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Lamont as token Scotsman? Seem the remember, he walked over Wngland and France last year, and there was the small matter of 5 yards from the line with 7 Welsh players hanging of him.
After tomorrow, the English Broadcasting Corporation might put a few more "token Scots" in.
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Jones at 10 over O'Gara any day. Jones amkes things happen by himself, whilst O'Gara requires a pack to do the work for him. When the going gets tough you'd have Jones on your side any day.
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I know Ally Hogg has been out injured for a while but surely he was in with a shout at Openside!? Personally I would rather see Nikki Walker playing for Scotalnd rather than Lamont so how he got into a dream XV I dont know!
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How can Jason White not even get a mention!? Perhaps being Premiership player of the year didnt really prove his calibre??
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Lamont as token Scotsman? Seem the remember, he walked over Wngland and France last year, and there was the small matter of 5 yards from the line with 7 Welsh players hanging of him.
After tomorrow, the English Broadcasting Corporation might put a few more "token Scots" in.
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suckers
of course he doesn't really think this is the best team. obviously his best team 'd have greenwood in at 12 and catt at 13
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That team looks okay but lets face it the back row should read
6. Ryan Jones
7. Wallace, Williams or Bergamasco
8. Leamy
10. Jones (Stephen is more consistent than O'Gara and knows how to defend)
12. Either Hook or D'Arcy I think D'Arcy on experience at that Level.
15. Big Debate at the moment I think either Geordan Murphy, Girvan Dempsey, Kevin Morgan or even Chris Paterson would be ahead of Lewsey who I feel is a better Winger and would probably force Lamont out of the side with the players that are available.
Whoever made the comment about Loose head props wearing 3 knows nothing about Rugby being a loose head myself I can tell you that we definitely wear 1 and always have. Vickery and White are both Tight Head Props.
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1. Gethin Jenkins, Marco Castrogiovanni
2. Raphael Ibanez, George Chuter, Jerry Flannery
3. Phil Vickery, Carlos Nieto
4. Paul O'Connell
5. Marco Bortolami
6. Ryan Jones, Neal Best, Alix Popham, Serge Betsen
7. David Wallace, Martyn Williams, Mauro Bergamasco
8. Dennis Leamy, Ryan Jones
9. Dwayne Peel
10.Stephen Jones
11.Josh Lewsey, Christoph Dominici
12.Gordon D'Arcy, James Hook, Yannick Jauzion
13.Brian O'Driscoll, Florian Fritz, Mirco Bergamasco
14.Chris Patterson, Dennis Hickie
15.Geordan Murphy, Girvan Dempsey, Kevin Morgan
Just one or two players there that have been missed off the list there
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what r u on O'Gara what a fanny wilkinson is 100x the player!
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Interesting selections but I wonder how many would appear post 6 nations???? A lot of reputations are on the line
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Hmm, I can't help feeling that this won't look the same at the end of the tournament.
The jury is still out on a couple of debutants (Messrs, Farrel and Morgan of England with Lund now in his favourite position).
Completely disagree with O'Gara, there's more to fly halfing than kicking to the corners. Wilkinson probably better on reputation and Hook might yet surprise everyone if he gets to play there.
Only other problem is with Lewsey. He's not a full-back he's a winger. The best full-back of the tournament will be a specialist full-back. Erm.. I run out if ideas then though, cos Gareth Thomas is busy after his "C,mon then, I'll take you all on.... Here Eric you should hear what that little fella said about your ma, or was it bar" moment.
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Rugby is a team sport and many of your selections are individual star players who can provide flashes of brilliance but don't play their guts out for their team mates.
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Darcy should be included in the team. As should Dennis Leamy.
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I agree with most of this apart from jones at no.8. Leamy is by far the best 8 in the hemisphere
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o'gara at 10 is a brilliant choice, wilko has to prove himself but he should be starting for england as both wilko and flood are risks eventhough flood does look like he could be a quality player soon
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Hi, some interesting points made - the fly-half debate seems to be split down national lines.
Much as it's good to see Wilkinson back it seemed wrong to put him ahead of the others after so little game time.
And as for the O'Gara/Jones debate, let's see on Saturday!
Helen and Matt, Chabal is a good shout, but can he reproduce his Sale form for France?
Equally, can Joe Worsley take his excellent recent form for Wasps onto the international stage?
And Patrick, while the front row remains largely a mystery to me, the players you are talking about are actually tight-heads and wear the three shirt.
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Lamont as token Scotsman? Seem the remember, he walked over Wngland and France last year, and there was the small matter of 5 yards from the line with 7 Welsh players hanging of him.
After tomorrow, the English Broadcasting Corporation might put a few more "token Scots" in.
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Darcy should be included in the team. As should Dennis Leamy.
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Generally Fair, but Jones at Flyhalf and no Lamont or Lewsey, Patterson and Morgan for me.
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If Lewsey's such a good FB why's he playing on the wing on Saturday? Everything else seems not too bad. It鈥檚 impossible to keep everyone happy with these kinds of teams. Why's everyone on about Jonny Wilkinson getting a place at 10? He's lucky to be playing for England let alone being picked for this team!
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Post no. 15 is rubbish.
Tight head wears 3 and loose head wears 1, meaning that neither vickery or white are looseheads patrick evans
sorry to point that out
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Hmm. Worsley should be no-where near the England team let alone a 6N team. Lewsey is not at the top of his game but you know he wouldn't let anyone down. Lamont should be no where near it either - take your pick for better players.
In terms of the centre debate, Jauzion is a better player than D'arcy.
I would go with Leamy at 8 rather than Jones and Jenkins should be no where near the team either - I am sure Castrogiovanni could make a reasonable fist of loosehead.
As for the Fly half debate you have to with O'Gara for consistency and form, however come the end of the 6N Wilkinson and Hook (who both have more ability) could be contending. S. Jones shouldn't be considered.
Oh and a little note to any Englishmen who want to back an English player - you can't because that would be 'typical English arrogance'.
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Patrick Evans you eejit: Please tell me you're a back because if not you should be excommunicated. Loose-head prop is and always has been number 1 (tight-head is 3).
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the only thing wrong with that team is the presence of two white shirts! there's not a single englishman fit to grace the team.
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This is really a lazy selection and says more about the journalists than the players selected.
Anybody with an ounce of playing experience or knowledge know that combinations work well at this level, not including D'arcy is incredible. Likewise Peel and Jones would be the natural choices as a combination, Jones excels under pressure and in an attacking role, O'Gara in 2005 for example chose a system of play that was undone against France and Wales, he has passed his sell by date, however, I will state for the record he is a great Irish player.
The journos have got it right with the back row, not with the second or front row......its a great game and we are all experts!!!
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This is crazy - you have to pick the team on FORM not reputation. Wilkinson has no business in the team, he last played 4 years ago!4 years! While o Gara has overseent he demolition of the best teams in the heineken cup and SA and AU.
Lets cut the crap - italy are still 2nd rate, enlgand have lost 8 out of 9 games,scotlands squad is too thin, Wales are not the team they used to be and France are a mess. Irelands central system is bearing fruit. The proof is in the results. NZ laugh at the rest of the world, the only team they want to play is Ireland.The heineken cup is a great reflection of the 6 nations, thats why an all Leciester front row is in there.PICK ON FORM NOT REPUTATION. For the record i don`t think JW will make it through all games, although i hope he does. He`s a fantastic player but UNPROVEn.Things have changed the last 4 years...
Heres my team!
1.Castrogiavani - After what he did to Munster in Thomond.
2.Chuter - Again great performance
3.Julian White - Monster, should be starting for England.
4.Paul O Connell - Nominated for player of year. Enough said.
5.Thion - Bortalami isn`t in the league of the big dogs yet.Remember Gloucester are out of the H Cup
6.Worsley - very Impressive as of late
7.Wallace - yards gained,tackles broken, runs made - this man is beaten in these categories by one man....
8.Chabal - Impressive player, although Leamy ran riot last year he`s not playing like himself in the H Cup this year
9.Peel - Playing very well.
10. O Gara - Contemponi,Adams,Latham, some of the players out played by O Gara. If JW makes it to Croke Park he`ll be devastated by the master tactician.
11.Hickie - Playing great rugby and has the ball skills that are lacking in English Rugby
12.Darcy - The man who beats Wallace for runs and tackles broken.Jauzion is not ready for this.
13.O Driscoll - Will be Top try scorer this year.
14.Lamont - A pretender to Horgans throne
15.Murphy - The biggest omission in the Irish squad, he will be starting the rest of the games.Lewsey is a fantastic player but not a game breaker.
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Wait and see, Worsley will make all those doubters eat your words, come on Joe!
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Even as a rabid England fan, I can't possibly argue for Wilko in at number 10...yet. If he stays fit (fingers crossed) I would hope he'd be a lock come the post-six nations team, but not now. That's not to say I support the selection of O'Gara. In my mind (and it pains me to say this) Stephen Jones is the man for the job.
As for the rest, I can't see why D'Arcy isn't there, and personally, I'd move Josh to wing (sorry, Sean Lamont, you get dropped) and bring in maybe Patterson at 15, although I admit my knowledge of in form full backs is a bit sparse.
I'm with the 'Worsley out' brigade, though. I struggle to recall a game where he's contributed something positive to England's play.
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chabal for me at no.8,he has been awasome this season
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D'arcy??? You must be joking! The only reason he gets so much time and space in games is because defences are too concerned with O'Driscolls capabilities.Neil and Caoimhin are obviously Irish leprechan's!!
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On the O'Gara V's Jones debate-O'Gara has been mentioned as second only to Dan Carter in the out half stakes this year. Remember the penalty he kicked for Munster against Leicester at Welford Rd in this years Heineken Cup? That was a huge pressure kick-particularly after what he had said in the papers about the english premiership the previous week. The guy has a superb temperament. I think Wales have a good team but their back line has been disrupted by injury and Jenkins has picked a side to take on Ireland up front. The only obvious Ireland have in the scrum and scrummaging just isnt as important as it was ten years ago. Line outs are far more important.Ireland have a superb line out-O'connell, O'Callaghan and Easterby are all excellent jumpers and Best and Flannery are superb throwers. Re-starts, mauling, rucking and the "breakdown" are all areas that are more important than scrums.
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Popham in for Worsley and Leamy in for Jones. Ryan Jones is an awesome player but dont forget he has been injured and hasnt really played test rugby since the Lions tests (He was replaced after a dire first half against New Zealand in November). Lewsey has lost his impact too, sure he wasnt starting for Wasps earlier on in the season. If we are gona judge it on what players were like and their reputations which is obviously what was done regarding wilkinson I'm gona recommend that Fergus Slattery and Ollie Campbell could do a job in that team!
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Kevin morgan is a definite at 15 and Darcy at 12. Dwayne peel at 9 would definitely be under pressure from Mike Phillips who is better than all the other 9s mentioned. Neil Best and Simon Easterby are far and away the best 6s at the moment. Joe Worsley does'nt even deserve a mention.
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Clearly there are a few backs out there that aren't sure about who is who or what is what in the front row. Dave Gregson has it spot on! However, I would have to take issue with all these people raving and shouting about Vickery. Vickery is great in 80% of his game, one of the best in the world, its just unfortunate that scrummaging is the missing 20%. Every time he comes up against a good technical loosehead he gets twisted up like a bit of old rope hence 3 back operations in 2.5 years. I hope for his sake that he lasts the 6Ns because his heart and commitment cannot be faulted and in the loose at least he merits his Raging Bull nick name.
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Having played as a loose head for 12 years, and not just talked about it online, I'm pretty sure the number on my back is a "1". Jenkins is clearly the choice for this slot from those fit. Don't want all that rank hair anywhere near the front row, so no Jones boys. Sheridan would walk in if fit.
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Not a bad selection although I would have the following changes:
1. Castrogiovani in for Jenkins. he can play either side and is a total beast of a prop.
8. Sergio Parisse for Jones. He's utter class.
10. Jones for O'Gara. The former has been rock steady for the Scarlets whilst O'Gara has recently been shaky for Munster.
I'm Scottish and I have to agree that - on current form - Lamont is the only one who would get in. However, if Ally Hogg and Jason White were fit I think we'd see a differently coloured back row.
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stephen jones and o'gara would have been a close call, although if david humphreys was still playin he would take it easily!!
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Why is Lamont in the team? If your going to put a scot in there just to make them feel better it should have at least been Patterson. Lemey should be at 8 and Vickery at 3. Who else would be at 13? but 12 is a tricky one. I beleive Jauzion to have greater ability than D'arcy but the Irishmans on top of his game and he's in the best team, which always helps.
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Are you on medication. Which bunch of muppets picked tis team. So you have two players in from England, one who isn't in his right position and one whos lucky to be in the England team. I think you'll change your mind by the end of the six nations when Engalnd win it.
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Are you on medication. Which bunch of muppets picked tis team. So you have two players in from England, one who isn't in his right position and one whos lucky to be in the England team. I think you'll change your mind by the end of the six nations when Engalnd win it.
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I could possibly go for Stephen Jones ahead of Wilkinson, but not O'Gara. Ibanez is not even the best No2 in France, Sebastian Bruno is the best scrummaging hooker in Europe
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Derek Fallon don't worry about Jonny Wilkinson's stamina. He has maintained that by the bucketload. Anyone who has seen any of his come back games can clarify that for you.
I'm glad to see him back, for all the 'weaknesses' in his game. Hope he can stay injury free from now on.
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I am hoping that by the end of the six nations we will see a change the fortunes of England. Then Vickery, Wilkinson, Farrell, Tindell, Robinson and the others will become proven players again.
If the England machine can start up again it will be hard to keep the selection looking so depressing (for an English supporter!)
I also think Varndell needs to be tried again in a team that know what they are doing - given a real back line a true flying wing may make all the differance at the world cup.
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A fit wilkinson, time out or not, would walk into any of the teams in the 6 nations.
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I suspect Wales and Ireland will have been a little more dedicated about their preparation than I have so far today..
I ought to be working hard on my commentary notes - scouring the morning's newspapers for any juicy snippets, surfing the rugby websites, trying to decipher hastily-written notes from the last few days, that type of stuff - instead I've been getting a headache - also formulating my Fantasy XV for one of the sponsors.
I've decided the 50-quid prize on offer to the eventual winner makes it a worthwhile priority. Just in case my editor reads this, I've been busy dual-tasking, re-watching Ireland/Wales matches from 2005 and 2006 at the same time.
Anyway, I've also stumbled across something mildly interesting that you might try for yourself. Not one of my fantasy fifteen is English. I dare say that might change as the Six Nations wears on and one or two players might feel like giving me a slap when I head to watch England train in Bath next week, but based purely on Autumnal form and disregarding this week's big headline selections, my dressing room would be an English-free zone. See what you make of this little lot and then tell me where I'm going wrong:
Geordan Murphy
Mark Jones
Brian O'Driscoll
Yannick Jauzion
Chris Paterson
Stephen Jones
Dwayne Peel;
Martin Castrogiovanni
Dmitriy Szarzewski
Carlos Nieto
Paul O'Connell
Marco Bortolami
Neil Best
Martyn Williams
Sergio Parisse.
Right, back to the proper prep and the search for my travel bag.
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i really think there should be more english players in the team. i know we had a bad autumn but there is still so much class in the side. with wilko back, points will be going over the bar and andy farrell is going to be a revelation! i predict both would be in an all star XV at the end of the 6 nations. come on england!
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Personally I think Dominici is past his best. Trimble or Williams would come ahead in my selection.
I would have picked Mirco Bergamasco at 12 and Chris Patterson at 15.
Alas my opinions go against my nationality ... but we shall see if England can affect the team sheet by the end of the tournament.
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Here! Here! Nick, you know the score. Come on England!
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"O'Gara is currently sublime" - OK, how much rugby have you been watching of late?
If we're going to pick on form, pick on form, not form of several months ago. I would concede that O'Gara should be a shoe-in but his latest Heineken games have been poor - so too O'Driscoll who is in on reputation every bit as much as JW.
Worsley has been playing very well (though not everyone sees it as he's not so glory hungry as some). Chabal should get 8 ahead of the injured DWS.
As for even mentioning Stringer!! Please, he's not a patch on Boss and the luckiest man in international rugby - even if the NH isn't blessed in this department at the moment.
Lamond - not good enough on recent performances for the Saints. Shame Horgan's injured.
What is encouraging about putting this side together is that it does show that it's not just England that is uncertain at the moment. There's a lot of talk about Wales and Scotland at the moment, this kind of analysis just shows that they are living on bluster.
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Here! Here! Nick, you know the score. Come on England!
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Looks like a crap lions team + garlic to me - would probably ship 50 points against the All Blacks
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England win the six nations?Are u nuts?they have NO WORLD CLASS PLAYERS. Prepare for destruction
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Personally I think Dominici is past his best. Trimble or Williams would come ahead in my selection.
I would have picked Mirco Bergamasco at 12 and Chris Patterson at 15.
Alas my opinions go against my nationality ... but we shall see if England can affect the team sheet by the end of the tournament.
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Personally I think Dominici is past his best. Trimble or Williams would come ahead in my selection.
I would have picked Mirco Bergamasco at 12 and Chris Patterson at 15.
Alas my opinions go against my nationality ... but we shall see if England can affect the team sheet by the end of the tournament.
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Here! Here! Nick, you know the score. Come on England!
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surely scotlands back row is being overlooked here?!! fair enough jason white is injured but when ally hogg returns (for the 2nd/3rd game) then he will show he deserves his place in this XV
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Here! Here! Nick, you know the score. Come on England!
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"O'Gara is currently sublime" - OK, how much rugby have you been watching of late?
If we're going to pick on form, pick on form, not form of several months ago. I would concede that O'Gara should be a shoe-in but his latest Heineken games have been poor - so too O'Driscoll who is in on reputation every bit as much as JW.
Worsley has been playing very well (though not everyone sees it as he's not so glory hungry as some). Chabal should get 8 ahead of the injured DWS.
As for even mentioning Stringer!! Please, he's not a patch on Boss and the luckiest man in international rugby - even if the NH isn't blessed in this department at the moment.
Lamond - not good enough on recent performances for the Saints. Shame Horgan's injured.
What is encouraging about putting this side together is that it does show that it's not just England that is uncertain at the moment. There's a lot of talk about Wales and Scotland at the moment, this kind of analysis just shows that they are living on bluster.
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i really think there should be more english players in the team. i know we had a bad autumn but there is still so much class in the side. with wilko back, points will be going over the bar and andy farrell is going to be a revelation! i predict both would be in an all star XV at the end of the 6 nations. come on england!
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I wouldnt be talking about White and Castriigiavanni because of what they did too the munster front row...take 3 grannies from the bingo bus and they would do the same thing to the munster scrum.
Wilkinson was the best 10 3years ago, if he completes the 5 games of the tournament injury free il be very surprised. I wouldnt have any englishmen on the team, as on current international form, none of them deserve to be there. Farrell is an unknown quantity, and Tindall is in the Kevin Maggs mould...ie:rubbish. Worsely is a decent 6 but Moody is better in my opinion.
Leamy is the best 8, Darcy is the best 12 and Horgan is the best 14(pity he isnt fit) Jones probably shades it against O Gara and Lamont is rubbish. Put Webster in if you need a Scot(if he was fit!)
Id say Flannery in hooker although Ibanez is abit of a hero himself so I cant argue there!
Thats my rant out of the way. Mags!
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The most open 6 Nations in years??? When Hogan is fit Ireland will have 5 players in your side with 6 more on the bench. If their pack can hold their own it will be all over for the rest.
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Simon Taylor isnt even mentioned?!?!?!?!- he'll prove you wrong over the next few weeks (and ally hogg will be in the mix come the end of the tournament too)
but to show im not just scot biased- i think lamont has to go some to warrant his place
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Where is Shane Horgan?
Leagues ahead of Sean Lamont and is in my opinion the best 14 in world Rugby
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I dont agree with the exclusion of Chris Patterson from the side. He was after all robbed not to be included in the England Celebration..my mistake Lions tour. He is a superb winger or fullback, and his place kicking is sublime. Lewsey at 15 even though hes playing wing tomorrow i think not. The exclusion of any of the Scottish backrow is a shock, even though they have been blighted by injury White, Hogg or Taylor should have had a mention. Keep your eyes on Rob Dewey at centre, he will show his class, power and strength.
although i agree with Dwayne Peel at #9 i think the comment that Blair would have been the next choice had he been fit is incorrect as Cusiter is a superb player, one to keep your eyes on. Remeber the half pitch breaks he made when he first played 6 nations.
O'gara for 10, the suggestion of wilkinson would be fair if he had played recently. O'Gara is far better than Jones, kicking, defence and passing are all better.
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It will be interesting to see how the team changes week in week out to reflect the games. D'Arcy would be in for me from the outset (and I'm English.) That said I expect a white front to sweep across the page from tomorrow (but don't tell my wife as she is a Scot.)
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Anyone thinking Wilko should make this team is delusional.
i would still have Jones in at 10 though, regardless of ROG's form, Jones is more reliable. I think Hook will have a good tournament too.
Worsley wouldnt get near the Ireland team, so why is he in here ahead of 2 Irishmen? Betsen would get in ahead of Worsley aswell.
Jauzion ahead of Darcy is a bold selection, guess they didnt want 2 irish in the centres, because they knew a fit Horgan would walk into the side aswell. Id still have Darcy anyday.
Im not sure on either winger, because lamont is arguably Scotlands best player, doesnt make him good enough for this team, and his form of late has been suspect. Dominici is a good finisher yes, but hes not really that good at anything else, so i wouldnt touch him.
Id say that 4-5 of this team will remain after the tournament, maybe less.
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only 1 scotsman???!!!!!!! appauling and as for more english players.... don't make me laugh!!!! they'r rubbish nowadays
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It will be interesting to see how the team changes week in week out to reflect the games. D'Arcy would be in for me from the outset (and I'm English.) That said I expect a white front to sweep across the page from tomorrow (but don't tell my wife as she is a Scot.)
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Unlike us, Brian Ashton, Mathew Wilson and Ciaran Nolan (you're keeping good company there lads) would have Josh Lewsey on the wing.
Given the relative paucity of options we felt he was the best man for the job - and I notice neither of you suggest a better alternative!
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Expanding this slightly, but do you think at the time of the last world cup there were more players in the 6 nations that would have made a world 15 than we currently have.
It seems, bar a couple of world class players, that the northern hemisphere has not progressed. Ireland have improved as a team with largely the same players but I don't see many international players stepping up.
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I feel a bit sorry for the english! After tomorrow, they will have nobody left in this team as Worsley will be replaced with Taylor and Lewsey with Paterson after Scotland anialates them for the second year running! Then they will stop complaining about Lamont being in the team!
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renault megane.We're not trying to predicty the post 6 nations team or look into the futre we're talking about the here and now!!! And in that case Hogg is not in the team. Also as for Hook he might well be the best thing since sliced bread after the tournament but right now all he is is what roy keane would call 'Potential'. He hasnt done enough in his few welsh caps to merit being considered for the shortlist.
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Heres a question,
How many of that team do you folks think woulld make the current all blacks line up?
The only 2 i can see are ODriscoll and OConnell.
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the wilko, farrel tindall compination strike fear into anyteam in the world- there has never been a more makeshift englishbackline ever, everyone in ireland is praying these 3 start in dublin as it will be so easy, the two best centers in the world up against a few nearly men, the second best outhalf in the world up against sick note- no competition at all- the irish will walk straight through the english backline- worsely at 6- he would not make the irish bench, and the same goes for lewsey- i know these nearly men have to be included for political reasons as does the compulsary scot but in all fairness- if this was a real team o connel, flannery, easterby, wallace, leamy, ogara, darcy, BOD, and Horgans would be 100% definate starters, dempsey, murphy, trimble, o callaghan would be pushing hard for inclusion, at a minimum of 9 irish would start a fantasy team there is no two ways about it
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i'd still have shane williams if fit on the wing above all others!
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If you say O'Gara is better than Stephen Jones, why does the graphic have Jones at 10?
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Not a bad selection, a fair bit of reputation seems to have been applied.
Only posistion I have a problem with is fly half, O'Gara can kick well but is not much else, I'd have the Welshman any day.
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no No.15(Patrick Evans) you are wrong the loose-head prop is number 1 in the line-up and tight head is number 3.
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no No.15(Patrick Evans) you are wrong the loose-head prop is number 1 in the line-up and tight head is number 3.
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15. At 11:39 AM on 02 Feb 2007, Patrick Evans
As a loosehead myself i can correct you and tell you what every rugby man knows, that loosehead is no1! think you'll find no3 is the tighthead..
also james hook in at 12 after the tournie, if not bergamasco
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Not a bad selection, a fair bit of reputation seems to have been applied.
Only posistion I have a problem with is fly half, O'Gara can kick well but is not much else, I'd have the Welshman any day.
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Elle,
Does Worsley have to be Irish to have a Wasps team mate?
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I agree with the pack. It's good, strong and has a fair amount of experience. Perhaps Vickery should be there. The half backs aren't great. Firstly, as much as I think Peel is pure class, Yachvilli probably gets the pick as he is more versatile and can also be a backup kicker. O'Gara at 10? No way. To be blunt: he is an average fly-half in a decent team. To be honest, I think Paddy Wallace is a sharper player. As much as I would love to suggest Wilko, I have no evidence of how he has been playing so he can't be in. I would probably say Hook or Jones. At 12, Jauzion is definitely the right choice, with D'Arcy close behind. Obviously BOD! Lewsey at full-back. In my opinion, the quality of wingers in the NH is nothing compared to the SH at the moment. I've always liked Cueto! :)
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I agree with the pack. It's good, strong and has a fair amount of experience. Perhaps Vickery should be there. The half backs aren't great. Firstly, as much as I think Peel is pure class, Yachvilli probably gets the pick as he is more versatile and can also be a backup kicker. O'Gara at 10? No way. To be blunt: he is an average fly-half in a decent team. To be honest, I think Paddy Wallace is a sharper player. As much as I would love to suggest Wilko, I have no evidence of how he has been playing so he can't be in. I would probably say Hook or Jones. At 12, Jauzion is definitely the right choice, with D'Arcy close behind. Obviously BOD! Lewsey at full-back. In my opinion, the quality of wingers in the NH is nothing compared to the SH at the moment. I've always liked Cueto! :)
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who the hell said lewsey not in the number 15 jersey? lewsey is quite simply awesome where ever he plays the best 15 in the world right now! and chabal should be number 8 without a doubt
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My Fantasy 6-nations Team:
Vickery, Chuter, Freshwater, Deacon, Grewcock, Lund, Corry, Worsley, Ellis, Wilkinson, Farrell, Tindall, Lewsey, Robinson, Morgan
Subs: Snap, Crackle, Pop and Gordon Brown. (I have included the token scot as this seems to be required).
I think this team would embarrass most teams that have thus far been suggested. See you tomorrow.
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i dont think o'gara has shown the form to deserve to be on this team, i wouldnt be too surpirised that if his level drops any lower than the mark it is at the minute then he could well be replaced come the world cup
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I agree with the pack. It's good, strong and has a fair amount of experience. Perhaps Vickery should be there. The half backs aren't great. Firstly, as much as I think Peel is pure class, Yachvilli probably gets the pick as he is more versatile and can also be a backup kicker. O'Gara at 10? No way. To be blunt: he is an average fly-half in a decent team. To be honest, I think Paddy Wallace is a sharper player. As much as I would love to suggest Wilko, I have no evidence of how he has been playing so he can't be in. I would probably say Hook or Jones. At 12, Jauzion is definitely the right choice, with D'Arcy close behind. Obviously BOD! Lewsey at full-back. In my opinion, the quality of wingers in the NH is nothing compared to the SH at the moment. I've always liked Cueto! :)
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Well what a surprise!! The Irish think there should be more Irish in there, the Welsh think there should be more Welsh, and the Scots think there should be more Scots!!!
Nothing like nationalistic anti English arrogance to stop people being objective!!
England may be going through a bad spell but there is not a huge difference in standard between England, Ireland and Wales, who are all a little behind the French. On current form the best pack in Europe is Leicester who destroyed Munster's pack for the full 80 minutes in their own back yard, so maybe 1 or 2 of them deserve a place!!
I haven't laughed so much in ages at some of the comments!! Horgan the best 14 in the world?!! D'Arcy the best no 12!! Hilarious!! They would not even get close to a New Zealand second string!!
The only one who would get near a starting spot in the current New Zealand 15 would be O'Driscoll and he might only make the bench!!
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My Fantasy 6-nations Team:
Vickery, Chuter, Freshwater, Deacon, Grewcock, Lund, Corry, Worsley, Ellis, Wilkinson, Farrell, Tindall, Lewsey, Robinson, Morgan
Subs: Snap, Crackle, Pop and Gordon Brown. (I have included the token scot as this seems to be required).
I think this team would embarrass most teams that have thus far been suggested. See you tomorrow.
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the third comment on this list, first off learn how to read before you make a comment.
D'arcy should be on this team no excuses.
Leamy should also be on at number eight, a legend in the making.
Patterson should be fullback too.
Wilko should not be number 10 on any team, it is a good toss up between o'gara and jones.
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I can't wait for the scotland back row to impress in this tournament. Ican't believe that no has even mentioned a fit Jason White for 6.
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Who said Worsley is Irish?? I think the post refers to Bests Irish team mate Easterby..not Worsleys....
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Why is everyone even bothered with Jonny Wilkinson???? He is,never was, and never will be anywhere near the playing standard of Stephen Jones or Ronan O'Gara today. O'Driscoll=O'verrated.
Whatever muppet reckons that the Loosehead prop lineup number is 3 is sadly very wrong. Martyn Williams is the second best openside in the world after breakdown emperor Richie McCaw, not to include him is a sin punishable by severe slating by supporters and other various people who know what they are talking about. Peel=the best back in the world, yes, even better than (overrated) baby-boy Dan Carter.
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Patrick Evans number 1 is loose head number 3 is tight head you've obviously never played the game.
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Who said Worsley is Irish?? I think the post refers to Best' Irish team mate Easterby..not Worsleys....
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A few weird selections it must be said.Firstly if picking on form darcy is the best centre in world rugby at present. How lamount got on there il never know with the likes of heymans, horgan, hickie, robinson etc out there!castrogiovanni and julian white should be shoe ins after demolishing the munster scrum for leicster. There is no debate with ogara jones thing at the mo, ogara is by far the in form out half at the moment with jones not really bringing enough to the table at the moment(especially as a certain james hooke should be playin at 10 instead of him). Back row how chabal can be picked ahead of leamy i hav no idea as he is untested at this level, although i am a great fan of ryan jones, tight call mind.And my god how could joe worsley be picked with the likes of neil best, simon easterby and dennis leamy being able to play there!!! My team would be
Castrogiovanni
Ibanez
White
O'Connell
Bortalami
Leamy
Wallace
Ryan Jones
Peel
Ogara
Darcy
Odriscol
Heymans
Dominici
Lewsey
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Wilkinson is not, never was, and never will be anything other than a ridiculously overrated and very average fly-half. Nowhwere near the world class standard of Stephen Jones or James Hook. The half-backs have always been dominated by Welshmen in past fantasy XVs:Cliff Morgan,Gareth Edwards, Barry John, Phil Bennett,Chico Hopkins,Jonathan Davies,Gareth Davies,Rob Howley,Neil Jenkins, and now Stephen Jones, Dwayne Peel and young James Hook. Peel is easily the best scrum half in the world, despite an off-the-ball but still impressive Autumn internationals. Peel & Jones = the greatest halfback partnership of the 21st century.
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Right, that's me done for the day.
I'm at Twickenham tomorrow for the game - let's hope it's a good one.
You may have noticed two posts from commentator Nick Mullins due to system problems.
He changed his mind over his blind-side and the eagle-eyed may have noticed that the two posts differed for a while - in the spirit of blogging openness I thought I'd just point that out.
Have a good weekend and come on England/Ireland/Wales/Scotland... (delete as appropriate).
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Joe Worsley is good in defence, but terrible in attack. He has no vision to pass and he seems to have some sort of lead weight on his head that makes him nosedive to ground everytime he gets the ball. If NZ and lately Ireland as well have shown us anything, its that forwards need to be able to keep the ball alive. He shouldn't even be playing for England, let alone make the top 15 of the tournament.
Josh Lewsey would make a world 15 though so glad to see him there!
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15 Clement Poitrenaud
14 Josh Lewsy
13 Brian O'Driscoll
12 James Hook
11 Denis Hickie
10 Ronan O Gara
9 Dwayne Peel
1 Marco Castriovanni
2 Jerry Flannery
3 Phil Vickery
4 Donnacha O Callaghan
5 Paul O'Connell
6 Ryan Jones
7 David Wallace
8 Sebastien Chabal
Come On Eire!!!
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15 Clement Poitrenaud
14 Josh Lewsy
13 Brian O'Driscoll
12 James Hook
11 Denis Hickie
10 Ronan O Gara
9 Dwayne Peel
1 Marco Castriovanni
2 Jerry Flannery
3 Phil Vickery
4 Donnacha O Callaghan
5 Paul O'Connell
6 Ryan Jones
7 David Wallace
8 Sebastien Chabal
Come On Eire!!! Horgan would defo be in instead of lewsy if fit, the mans a beast.
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Can we correct Bortolami's name on the picture?
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that team sheet is poor poor poor! No vickery...sorry but he has to be in, and no Wilko, sorry but even after his time out he has an all round game that O'Gara can only dream of, all he can do is kick to keep pressure on, Jones would be ahead of him. Had Ward-Smith been fit he would had been 8 as well. I agree the Irish centre pairing has to be in, you have to play the combinations tht work. Think that team sheet is poor now and will be shown to be even poorer by the end of the tournament.
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whilst there are only two englishmen in the starting XI, I bet that despite how any of the England players play in the 6 nations, they'll be more of them then any players of another country when it comes to the next lions tour, whether they perform better or not.
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whilst there are only two englishmen in the starting XI, I bet that despite how any of the England players play in the 6 nations, they'll be more of them then any players of another country when it comes to the next lions tour, whether they performe better or not.
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What a typical 大象传媒 "let's not offend anybody" selection that is. Every team gets a mention, and not one country warrants more than four players. Total boll--s
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Wilko always comes back to his gret form when i have seen him play for falcons and this time I am sure will be no different.
9-Peel
10-Wilko
11-Cueto (although he is injured he is a quality winger)
12-D'arcy
13-O'Driscoll
14-Jason Robinson
15-Murphy
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as a scotland fan i think that u have to include julian white in that team as he is just a monster and i am glad he is not starting tomorrow. also i think by the end of the 6 nations andy farrell will be the name on everyones lips as he is a tremendous talent a will be a fantastic no.12 for england. also am quite asamed that only one scot made the grade but can not really see anyone else who would get in other than lamont as he is a beast when he is on form and in a confident mood possibly simon taylor and mike blair would challenge for a place but other than that we lack strength in depth but are starting xv is good enough and i should hope to finish at least 3rd with a victory over england to start us off. wilko definately doesnt deserve to be in the england team let alone this one. he is weak and has shown a considerable lack of attacking flair, jones is the man for me as he controls the game in a way that i feel that wilko can no longer do after such a lengthy spell on the sidelines, he is not the player he used to be.
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I think it's rather patronising to include clearly unworthy players from weaker nations just so all nations are represented. No, i'm not talking about Nieto or Lamont, but Lewsey and Worsley!
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why isnt Magnus Lund mentioned he is the best 7 in the northern hemisphere.
italy will beet france
1. Gethin Jenkins
2. Raphael Ibanez
3. Martin Castrogiovanni
4. Paul O'Connell
5. Marco Bortolami
6. serge betsen
7. MAGNUS LUND
8. sebastian chabel
9. Yachville
10. O'gara
11. jason robinson
12. bergamasco
13. Brian O'Driscoll
14. rougerie
15.gordon murphy
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Derek Fallon, take off your green tinted glasses, Farrell wont get embarased by anyone this tournament, before Irish fans get complacent think what Leicester just did to Munster, Ireland dont cope well with being favourites. If they get complacent against England or France they'll rename the hallowed ground of Croke park to Choke park. Didn't see the best centre pairing in the world do too well against Gloucester lately either.
O'Gara isn't fit to tie Wilkinson's boot laces.
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Anyone who saw Leicesters front row domination of Munster recently would have to call the front row as
Castrogiavani ( ITaly bench)
Chuter and White- and I say that as an Irish man. I don't know what goes on in the front row but they did it!
And anyone who has watched Leinster or Ireland in the last year should be amused at the lack of Darcy- Brian O'D is made to look good because of the work he does.
All this patriotism in selection amuses me.
THe weak link in this team is definitely the back 3 - G Murphy should be in on his Leicester form but not his Irish!
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If all were fit and in their respective squads:
1. Marco Castrogiovanni
2. Raphael Ibanez
3. Phil Vickery
4. Paul O'Connell
5. Marco Bortolami
6. Neal Best (it's criminal he's been dropped)
7. Martyn Williams (what a huge oversight on the 大象传媒's part, first name on my scrum.com team)
8. Chabal
9. Dwayne Peel
10.Stephen Jones
11.Christoph Dominici
12.Gordon D'Arcy
13.Brian O'Driscoll
14.Shane Williams
15.Jason Robinson (best counter attacker in northern hemisphere!)
O'Gara very unlucky, just not as solid in defence.
I agree Hook will prove himself to be a very good player but you should need experience and form to get into this team.
Arguably no big winger but they are both natural finishers.
Oh and I'm English, and just like someone else said - not many would get in world XV and this team would still be soundly beaten by NZ.
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I am writing this as a totally bemused Scot. Not only did your so-called experts omit Scott Murray and Jason White, I haven't seen so much as a mention of them from your correspondents. Are you rugby people living in the real world?
Shame on you all!!!!
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wilko is far better than o'gara. and the team which has been selected is crap
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I'm not sure I'd have had Lewsey at full-back either. I think Latham and Muliana are both superior 15s to Lewsey, currently (in response to the person who said he was the best 15 in the world). Lewsey should be on the wing, with Paterson at full-back.
Jauzion has been a part of unsuccessful teams but I don't think he's the cause. He just pips D'arcy, just, but it's close.
If the team were playing tomorrow, I'd pick Wilkinson. It's a risk because you're assuming he'd play well but I think he's far more dangerous than Jones and O'Gara.
I wouldn't play Worsley but I think he and Tindall are classic examples of how people don't judge on form. Worsley has been in good form recently (ergo he's been picked for England), but poor form historically means that people put the boot into him. Nevertheless, he may be the best English blindside but I think, Taylor would be my choice, Easterby my second. Both better players.
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I agree with everyone. But really - your spelling!!!!! I have never been so shocked since I failed to turn out with the under 14s because I would get my hair wet.
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Of course you are all correct. In this, potentially the closest 6 Nations in a while, there is only 1 sure bet and that is that Italy will lose more games than they win. If Ireland can play as they want to, watch out. If Wales can find their fast flowing form of 2 years ago, watch out. If England can deliver the performance their high profile players should, watch out. If the Scots get on a roll at home, watch out. Never trust the French. As for Italy, they are now big enough to do some damage - get in, get a resulut get out woulld be my advice to all.
I would put Darcy at 12 and Jones at 10. I'd think about Leamy at 6 and Chabal at 8 as long as we're making s**t up.
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Castro is the best northern hemisphere prop there is
in fact possibly ony second 2 haymans in the world
id have him in any team!!!!!!!!
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Just to shut the dreamers up, what about Wilko for the first 4.5 seconds of the game until he breaks a leg or something, then O'Gara for the rest of the game ?
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Ok so why all the anti-O'Gara postings? He's proven during the last 6 nations and the autumn internationals that he's not just an outstanding out-half but also able to lead the highly talented Irish backline. One bad game in the Heineken cup against Leicester doesn't mean he's dropped his level any. I rate him second only to Carter. Also I'd like to see Geordan Murphy included - much better player than that scottish winger,even if for some unknown reason Eddie O'Sullivan leaves him on the bench on Sunday.
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My comment is not on the selection of any players, I'll leave my fantasy rugby team with those answers. This is about the singing of God save the queen,I am an English man and although it stirs the emotions, its not a rugby anthem. NZ has their anthem both verses followed by a dance, Ireland have two songs to get emotional too. Why cant we have the anthem we want 'Jerusalem'. It is the anthem of the rugby team, it differs us from football. New coach, new captain, new beginnings. Bring on Jerusalem!
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what about trimble far better than lamont
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Would love to see this team go up against a Super 14 version. (Bring back the North Vs South matches...give the money to charity...!!
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Its not a bad team but how is Josh Lewsey ahead of Clement Poitrenaud at 15. As a irishman i think Jones should be ahead of O'Gara he is physically stronger, his place kicking is as good and he is a more attacking minded player, O'Gara can control a game better and his kicking out of hand is the best in the world but jones is a better all round player. Vickery should be in the team. It think Darcy should be in the team on form but how do you leave either o'driscoll or jauzion. This would be my fantasy team
1.Martin Castrogiovanni
2.Raphael Ibanez
3.Phil Vickery
4.Danny Grewcock
5.Paul O'Connell
6.Joe Worsley
7.Martyn Williams
8.Martin Corry
9.Dwayne Peel
10.Stephen Jones
11.Andrew Trimble
12.Yannick Jauzion
13.Brian O'Driscoll
14.Shane Horgan
15.Clement Poitrenaud
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I can only assume that the "fantasy XV" featured on this site was prepared before Johny Wilkinson was named in the England team or was prepared by someone who lacks sufficient knowledge of the game. Wilkinson, at 50 per cent of his best, is better than any other player at No. 10. His return will also lift England's performance. Fortunately Ashton has the knowledge to appreciate this.
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Don't woory about Neil Best he'll be in for the bruising Italy finale at least
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Interesting team James, a few differences from the team I would have picked but thats the beauty of forecasting like this, we have a huge mix of ideas. I have a request though- at the end of the 6 nations, you and your panel pick again based on actual performances and compare it with this one. I imagine that any of us would do well to match more than 3 or 4 players in a post and pre selection. Could be a good competition??????
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Caoimh铆n, in the world? D'arcy might be form played in Northern Hemisphere. We'll stop there shall we!
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Why haven't you got Chris Paterson in. He's the best kicker in europe ( just edging out o gara). If Mike Blair was fit he'd be in the team. worsley and lewsey youre havin a laff. I'd say Betsen and Paterson
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Having Dominici and Ibanez in the team is a crime. Sure Dominici can finish but not alot else. Plenty of other wingers out there (Trimble or even Hickie). I would personally have Bergamasco in at 7 and Easterby in at 6. Also Vickery has to be in the pack as well as Chabal.
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come on not having martin williams in the squad, a load of rubbish. also i still say that o'gara is over rated.
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Have you been drinking....! One English forward..........!
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No, Elle - Best's Irish team-mate Easterby, not Worsley's!
The mix seems to be about right, spread across the Six Nations fairly evenly. What price two Italians in the "best of" team 2 or 3 seasons ago? No doubt it would have been dominated by the English then, which goes to show how the balance is changing. The Italians are going to turn over one of the teams soon and I can quite honestly see it happening today if the French don't watch out. Of course I would really hate it (!) if it was the smug English supporters who were humbled, but I can't see that quite yet. One player does not turn a team of confused average players into world-beaters, I'm sorry to have to tell you, and there's a lot of unlearning to be done before Brian Ashton's influence can bear fruit.
Good luck to Mr Wilkinson today. Despite all that's been written about him please remember that he's not actually God, though, and that he will not last 80 minutes of international rugby for a while yet. I hope he comes through unscathed, as he is without doubt an exceptionally-gifted player. I just hope that he ends up on the losing side today. And for the rest of the tournament! Enjoy the matches, and let battle commence.
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where is james hook clearly he should be number 12 and lewsey at full back, thats a joke right, definitely kevin morgan every time
wales to win the 6 nations garantee . . . . . england to get wooden spoon.
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Reading through the posts, it's fascinating to see vitriol starting to emerge along the lines of nationality. C'mon folks - this is rugby, not poncy soccer. Let's have reasoned argument rather than attacks on another country's player. This is Five Live's team BASED ON CURRENT FORM hence the omission of certain starters such as Horgan who's been on fire in the Heineken Cup, and no room for JC - sorry, JW - who hasn't played since about the time of the Crimean War.
If you want to pick a fantasy team, then that's a different matter. Start off with the all-conquering Welsh XV of the seventies and add a couple of people like Martin Johnson and BOD. Ah - the Viet Gwent front row. JPR. Barry or Phil. The finishers extraordinaire - Davies and Williams. And, of course, the One that God Himself took lessons from - Saint Gareth...
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Hi ,it sseems to me the team is the best that can be picked due to the injuries that are out there at the moment.But listen to urselfs ,we all sound like a bunch of old women BITCHING.Leave the 6 Nations begin and lets enjoy it.And at the end of it on the 17th ,let the real bitching begin
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Bergamasco should have been included at flanker!
He was my player of the tournament last year!
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JOE WORSLEY !!!!!!!!!!!! Why is he in that team ???????????
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What only one Scotsman? Surely you have forgotten about Ali Hogg, Ali Kellock, Kelly Brown, Chris Paterson and Johnie Beattie?
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jauzion v Darcy tough call , also Jones v leamy based on form at the moment. O gara spot on as wilkinson realistically untested in 3 years.you cant pick wilkinson with just 40 minutes rugby running into six nations.
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Surely you should pick your team after the six nations when we can see how all the players have performed, im sure wilko and farrell would make it into that team.
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Nick Mullins-shame on you. Of the four irishmen in your team, two of them cant even get into the Irish side. Can people not see how strong the Irish squad is? Best, Murphy and Horgan-for different reasons-are not even in the first 15 yet are still making it into peoples tournament 15!! People are having a go at O'Gara. Why? He has proved again and again on the international stage that he has the skill and temperament to be world class.
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As a die-hard Welshman, I can safely yet disappointingly say that having Stephen Jones mentioned by so many posts as their pick for the fantasy no. 10 shirt shows how few established and classy outside halves there are right now.
Jones has had 2.5 good games for Wales in the recent past - the 2nd half against France and the games against Scotland and Ireland that followed. Though he was outstanding in those games, he is too slow passing out of hand and Gareth Jenkins' selection of him as captain is keeping the next class act - Hook - away from the position where he'd fulfill his potential; for him and for Wales
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It is clear that Ashton has made a forced decision to include JW and Andy Farrell and I believe it will truly backfire on him. JW has not played an international game for three years and it will be a miricle to see him last the whole tournament. As for Farrell he will be a target man alongside JW and with his injuries he had had since he joined union i would not be surprised to see him pick up another injury. England have put too much faith in these two men delivering a successful championship when both are injury prone. There are many more capable men that Ashton has ignored!!
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Johnny Wilkinson is well hard and deserves a definnate placce in that team.
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No Martin Williams at No 7. What a crime.
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Wilko may not have played for three years, but surely that will make him much for hungry for the position that anyne else? And we all know what he can do when he's on form. He'd outstrip all contenders...
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i do not think peel should be in the team he is most definately not the worlds best number 9 it should definately be sean perry and worsley should be out of it and dan ward smith should be at number 8 and betsen on the flank then dominici your having a giggle he is pretty rubbish if you ask me and you should have shane horgan
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Is there a great deal of point in picking such a team before the tournament has kicked off? Better leave it until later to see who best meets the test in the crucible of battle. Then compare the form-book with l'actualite
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Even though this is meant to be a 'fantasy' team, any national coach worth their salt would surely pick the best goal kicker at their disposal, especially considering the importance of kicked points! That said, Patterson should be the first name on the team sheet as he's the best and most consistent kicker in the world, and that is including Dan Carter! Definitely better than O'Gara who is good only as his own biggest fan! The only problem is where to play him - considering his ability to kick from hand and the danger he poses from broken play he is probably most suited to fullback?
Even speaking as a Scotsman, I would agree that Lamont is a token selection as he has failed to get anywhere near the heights of last year's championship this season.
If fully fit, White, Taylor, Hogg, Cuisiter and Blair would all be in with a shout but the absence and/or lack of match fitness of these five will be why Scotland will struggle this year.
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As everyone alot of you are too caught up in the wilkinson hype he's not proven him self yet and who is to say he even will only him but dispite that o'gara is still not the first choice look at sTephen Jones he is on fire lately control of every part of the game and why is jauzion picked at 12 when he is playing for France at 15. Also you need to look at the scots there goin to be a suprise package and Patterson is to reliable on the wing for them to overlook. the team should be:
1.Gethin Jenkins
2.Rafeal Ibanez
3.Carlos Nieto
4.Paul O'connel
5.Ian Gough
6.Ryan Jones
7.Colin Charvis
8.Sergio Parisse
9.Dwayne Peel (only option for anyone)
10.Stephen Jones
11.Shane Williams
12.Gordon D'Arcy
13.Brian O'Drisscoll
14.Mark Jones (patterson can't beat the pace of this man)
15.Josh Lewsey
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Yesterday I said that Wilkinson should have been picked to play. His reading of the game, handling and kicking have been outstanding in the first half. Re-write your fantasy XV. After 3 years of not playing at this level his performance proves that he is the best No. 10. And he will only improve. I also said his selection would raise England's game. Would anyone wish to disagree?
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How do you feel about leaving Wilkinson out now??! In my humble opinion, ludicrous that he shouldn't have made it. He's arguably the best and unquestionably the most disciplined and professional standoff in world rugby. He wouldn't have made himself available if he wasn't fit...
Comments from Wilko-bashers welcome...
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told you so!
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I think Jonny Wilkinson has earned his palce in your fantasy team aftedr that display against the scots
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ha ha still now Wilko and Robinson in your team then?
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Are you re-thinking your decision for the No 10 now?
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I note that those who berated Wilkinson yesterday and earlier today have gone quiet. If they had played at No. 10 for 30 years - as I did - they might not have been so quick to underestimate him. If anyone understood the position they would appreciate the skills he possesses. The kicking ability is merely the more obvious icing on the cake. Watch his handling, off-loading, tackling, reading of the game and speed of thought. Having done so I am confident that you will agree. If not, then you don't understand rugby.
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Andy Robinson wouldn麓t have had Wilkinson in the team, well that麓s why he麓s not England coach anymore.
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Half an hour since the england/scotland match finished and already he is already splashed across every website imaginable and national headlines....what about the other 14 players that took england to victory today? It's rediculous the amount of credit wilko gets from basically kicking a ball between the posts. As the commentators mentioned this afternoon Patterson has a higher record than wilko... and can also play the game..for the full 80 minutes.
Man of the match..your having a laugh, little Harry Ellis was MORE than deserving!!
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i'm sorry but lamont should not be there. he is really not as good as people think he is, and im scottish, so im not being biased or anything.
After todays performances, 9 and 10 should be covered by england pairing of Wilko and Ellis.
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Half an hour since the england/scotland match finished and already he is already splashed across every website imaginable and national headlines....what about the other 14 players that took england to victory today? It's rediculous the amount of credit wilko gets from basically kicking a ball between the posts. As the commentators mentioned this afternoon Patterson has a higher record than wilko... and can also play the game..for the full 80 minutes.
Man of the match..your having a laugh, little Harry Ellis was MORE than deserving!!
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Half an hour since the england/scotland match finished and already he is already splashed across every website imaginable and national headlines....what about the other 14 players that took england to victory today? It's rediculous the amount of credit wilko gets from basically kicking a ball between the posts. As the commentators mentioned this afternoon Patterson has a higher record than wilko... and can also play the game..for the full 80 minutes.
Man of the match..your having a laugh, little Harry Ellis was MORE than deserving!!
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Denis Leamy. Leaving him out is a crime. Idiots.
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Perhaps those people fawning over Wilko should wait until we see O'Gara and Jones tomorrow, eh?
Admittedly Wilko was superb and it's good - even from a Scottish point of view - to see him back.
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Why yannik jauzion why not james hook he played awesome in the autumn internationals and so did gordan darcy come but i still think that the could beat the all blacks NOT
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Why yannik jauzion why not james hook he played awesome in the autumn internationals and so did gordan darcy come but i still think that the could beat the all blacks NOT
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Why yannik jauzion why not james hook he played awesome in the autumn internationals and so did gordan darcy come but i still think that the could beat the all blacks NOT
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Sorry? Did I hear no Wilkinson?....
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ronan o'gara??...there is only 1 god and jonny be thy name. Sara i dont think u truly see the other work wilko puts in around the pitch..its not simply his mercurial kicking that makes jonny the best but his tackling which is as good as any world class back row player his passing is also perfection too and ball in hand attacks better than ever too. to say wilko gets credit solely for his kicking is foolish. harry ellis was quality too however i do not feel he was as inspirational and as influential as wilko.
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Leave Wilko out? only a fool\would do that after todays performance. Best you eat your`hat
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Alevo -
"As everyone alot of you are too caught up in the wilkinson hype he's not proven him self yet and who is to say he even will, only him"
Thats a bit embarrassing...!!
"and why is jauzion picked at 12 when he is playing for France at 15."
Yet again a bit embarrassing...!!
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No Wilkinson are you stupid
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I'm not quite sure about the outside half debate i would probably go for stephen jones being a welsh and fan of Jones and also put Gordon D'Arcy in the center him and O'Driscoll are an unbelievable center partnershi[
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i have just read all of the comments
posted pre england scotland match and have seen a few coments downing johinny wilkinson, well for a guy to be out for 3 years then come back and perform as he did, in my mind due to not just his kicking ability
but his tackling and general control
over the game he is the best number 10 in the world, even after just 1 match back, he is a class act
with hopefully more to follow
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Afetr today's performance will we hear any more disparaging remarks about both JW's.
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Given the way England played today and that they looked a team finding its feet, this could be ominous for other nations if England really start to fire. The forwards looked good, as did Ellis. Wilkinson wasn't as commanding as he used to be, but what do you expect, and Farrell was obviously finding his feet. The back three barely touched the ball but when they did...
Admittedly I'm an England fan, and used to being optimistic, but after this performance I feel I have something to be optimistic about.
As to best starting XV, I thought it had been based on the players who were starting in each of the games this weekend and what their form had been in the recent weeks and autumn internationals.
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Looks like all you anti wilkinson commenters were wrong
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As a Scot I must praise Wilkinson who was superb.
Scotland tried hard but lack class in too many positions. The pack was outplayed by England and really Wilkinson was cruising in the time and space he was given.
It looks like a long hard Six Nations for Scotland.
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Very pleasing to see J Wilkinson return so well today, and survive a game without serious damage. Shame though to see the usual nitpicking and carping on the one hand and nauseating adulation on the other. Even the video referee joined the fawning, and really, J Wilkinson did NOT need the help. But a note of caution, let's see how J Wilkinson goes in the next few weeks and hope that he stands up physically. As for the "best" No.10 give him a chance, and a game or two against a certain D Carter.
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Very pleasing to see J Wilkinson return so well today, and survive a game without serious damage. Shame though to see the usual nitpicking and carping on the one hand and nauseating adulation on the other. Even the video referee joined the fawning, and really, J Wilkinson did NOT need the help. But a note of caution, let's see how J Wilkinson goes in the next few weeks and hope that he stands up physically. As for the "best" No.10 give him a chance, and a game or two against a certain D Carter.
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This was dull game which lacked pace and flair from both sides.
It wasn't so much that England won but that Scotland lost. They basically didn't even show up.
The real tests for England will (hopefully) be Ireland, Wales and France(if it's not raining and they're in the mood to play)
Let's not get carried away with Johnny Wilkinson he's not even in the same league as Dan Carter.
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Oh dear oh dear you forgot that Wilkinson is available!!!
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england looked good today but scotland were poor by the end of the championship we should know if they are an outside bet for the world cup {am a scotland fan}but i think it will be to soon for them to do well in the world cup
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Would echo the comments of a fellow scot above, Wilko was class today although given the necessary time and space to do so by Scotland! If people are questioning bizarre decisions by the 大象传媒 selection team, how ridiculous do they feel Hadden's selections are?! Hogg/Dewey/Ford on the bench, Walker/Webster/Kydd/Evans/MacLeod not even in the 22?! Guys who have genuine ability to worry opposition teams! Ah well can only hope for changes before next week!
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The game was dull and laboured and lacked pace and flair on both sides. Scotland didn't appear to have shown up. It was more a case of Scotland losing than England winning. The real tests for England will be Ireland, Wales and (hopefully, provided it's not raining and they're in the mood for it) France who on a good day are pure poetry to watch.
Let's have some entertaining rugby please.....it's all a bit tired.
Oh, and let's not get too carried away....the best no. 10 in the world is Dan Carter
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Would be great to put this team up at the end of the 6 Nations and see what everyone thinks. Even after today's games it is well out of date. Do you really think that Joe Worsley and Josh Lewsey will be the best and only English memebers of a 6 Nation's team? I think you are already well out of date.
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No point in adding to what's been said about Johhny W, except to say that he is also a thoroughly nice chap and a Great Brit.
Ellis runs well but needs to quicken up his pass. Scotland's lack of class and depth really showed; they gave us no real problems at all. The match was no real indicator of how we'll do against Ireland, Wales and France. (Sorry, Italy ...)
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After todays performance if Jonny carries on playing like that, im sure he'll be your no 10 in the Best XV at the end of the tournament.
Anyone who claims he isnt still the best fly halve is having a laugh.
With 40 mins rugby under his belt to perform like that - If he steers clear of injuries and with some more game time by he world cup he will be better than Dan Carter (Again)
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After that display from Jonny Wilkinson this afternoon, longing to see how he'll measure up against Dan Carter next time England play NZ
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To often since Wilko's injury absence, the goal kicking by England as been like watching russian roulette. There was more chance of a 2-day blizzard snow storm happening in Central London, than the penalty kicks being converted. Now Wilkinson's back, we can now secure our mortgages on him getting the points for us. Hodgson - watch and weep, see the professional fly half in action. Icy, cool and the ever so bankable Jonny Wilkson. Welcome back, Kid. I only wish the England cricket team had 11 players with the mental calibre of you in their side.
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That performance was something else from Wilkinson. He is better than O'Gara, Jones or Hook, Michalak (when he is fit). He is not better than Daniel Carter... yet...
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As far as the O'Gara-Jones debate goes I think ROG will prove himself tommorow in the Millenium Stadium.Good team selection but looking through slightly green-tinted glasses,I would include Leamy and Darcy,also watch out for Andrew Trimble this year.
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Fascinating reaction to today matches. What will be interesting is to compare the 'dream team' at the end of the 6 nations to the one at the start. Performing at club level is one thing - shining in 5 internationals in 7 weeks is another. Class will show through!
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15.)C.Paterson (Scotland)
14.)M.Jones (Wales)
13.)B.O'Driscoll (Ireland)
12.)G.D'arcy (Ireland)
11.)S.Williams (Wales
10.)S.Jones (Wales)
9.)D.Peel (Wales)
8.)D.Leamy (Ireland)
7.)M.Williams (Wales)
6.)R.Jones (Wales)
5.)P.O'Connell (Ireland)
4.)M.Bortolami (Italy)
3.)Castrogiovanni (Italy)
2.)D.Szarzewski (France)
1.)G.Jenkins (Wales)
Jenkins and Castrogivanni - couldn't think of any other decent props at the mo.
Szarzewski - like an extra back-rower, finds his jumpers.
Bortolami and O'Connell - Bortolami holds the pack together, O'Connell - scary, ugly, Irish, ginger, hates the English.
Jones, Williams, and Leamy - Jones is a six that will carry the ball through brick walls against even the best defences (remember for the Lions in New Zealand???), Leamy hurts people like any decent no.8 should, Williams is always, always there in support, never misses a tackle, and a demon in the ruck - easily the second best forward in the world after McCaw.
Peel and Jones - simply the best halfback partnership of the 21st century. Peel is the best back in the world with his searingly quick runs and fast, lateral passing, Jones always keeps a cool head and never has a bad game. Miles ahead of O'Gara and legions ahead of Wilkinson.
Williams and Jones - Jones is one of the fastest players in the world, and Williams has the best sidestep in the world.
D'arcy and O'driscoll - If you put one in then you have to put in the other. D'arcy is playing the best rugby of his life, O'driscoll = overrated.
Paterson - Well i couldn't fill up the entire back line with welshmen, could i!!!
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How you can leave out wilko after his performance against scotland i don't actually know. He is now back from injury but he is not only back he is back in full strength after only 10 minutes club playing time!! Definatley wilko at fly half
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How you can leave out wilko after his performance against scotland i don't actually know. He is now back from injury but he is not only back he is back in full strength after only 40 minutes club playing time!! Definatley wilko at fly half
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i hate 2 break it to all u english fans hu watched dat game i didnt hear andy farrels name 1ce apart from when the teamsheet was red. and to all u people hu make this fantasey team r u takin da mick, where is dnnis hickie G D'arcy i was reading a comment and it sed andrew trimble shud b on dere ahahahahahahahahaha idiots hickie is quicker can catch was irelands record try scorer
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i hate 2 break it to all u english fans hu watched dat game i didnt hear andy farrels name 1ce apart from when the teamsheet was red. and to all u people hu make this fantasey team r u takin da mick, where is dnnis hickie G D'arcy i was reading a comment and it sed andrew trimble shud b on dere ahahahahahahahahaha idiots hickie is quicker can catch was irelands record try scorer and hu da heel sed johnny wilkinson was beta den ogara haha he got pusheed by chris paterson and went whimpering 2 da floor
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i hate 2 break it to all u english fans hu watched dat game i didnt hear andy farrels name 1ce apart from when the teamsheet was red. and to all u people hu make this fantasey team r u takin da mick, where is dennis hickie G D'arcy i was reading a comment and it sed andrew trimble shud b on dere ahahahahahahahahaha idiots hickie is quicker can catch was irelands record try scorer and hu da hell sed johnny wilkinson was beta den ogara haha he got pusheed by chris paterson and went whimpering 2 da floor!!!!!!!
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i hate 2 break it to all u english fans hu watched dat game i didnt hear andy farrels name 1ce apart from when the teamsheet was red. and to all u people hu make this fantasey team r u takin da mick, where is dennis hickie G D'arcy i was reading a comment and it sed andrew trimble shud b on dere ahahahahahahahahaha idiots hickie is quicker can catch was irelands record try scorer and hu da hell sed johnny wilkinson was beta den ogara haha he got pusheed by chris paterson and went whimpering 2 da floor!!!!!!!
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i hate 2 break it to all u english fans hu watched dat game i didnt hear andy farrels name 1ce apart from when the teamsheet was red. and to all u people hu make this fantasey team r u takin da mick, where is dnnis hickie G D'arcy i was reading a comment and it sed andrew trimble shud b on dere ahahahahahahahahaha idiots hickie is quicker can catch was irelands record try scorer
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i hate 2 break it to all u english fans hu watched dat game i didnt hear andy farrels name 1ce apart from when the teamsheet was red. and to all u people hu make this fantasey team r u takin da mick, where is dennis hickie G D'arcy i was reading a comment and it sed andrew trimble shud b on dere ahahahahahahahahaha idiots hickie is quicker can catch was irelands record try scorer and hu da hell sed johnny wilkinson was beta den ogara haha he got pusheed by chris paterson and went whimpering 2 da floor!!!!!!!
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i hate 2 break it to all u english fans hu watched dat game i didnt hear andy farrels name 1ce apart from when the teamsheet was red. and to all u people hu make this fantasey team r u takin da mick, where is dennis hickie G D'arcy i was reading a comment and it sed andrew trimble shud b on dere ahahahahahahahahaha idiots hickie is quicker can catch was irelands record try scorer and hu da hell sed johnny wilkinson was beta den ogara haha he got pusheed by chris paterson and went whimpering 2 da floor!!!!!!!
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For once its good to see a few Scots admit defeat, i reinstate my view that they are gracious losers, and i had a good crack with a few glaswegians in the pub last night.
After reading theses blogs all week, my blood pressure was in the red, one after another of silly welsh, irish and scotish anti english rantings.
Good on you guys north of the border, my view slightly changes and i wish you luck for the rest of the competition, lets hope the welsh can follow in your footsteps!
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Further to my post 196 yesterday, it appears that I was totally wrong and that Wilkinson IS God. Still wouldn't have picked him before the game, though - a huge gamble which has obviously paid off in spadesful. He was peerless yesterday. This display will have all the bloody pundits claiming England can retain the Webb Ellis trophy now, just you wait.
Here's hoping for a better game this afternoon than either of yesterday's.
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from many of the comments left on here from our irish friends, i would suggest you stay off the guinnes for a while before posting.
not a chance that o'gara should be in any side.
the best 2 centers in world rugby comment, i laughed so much i had to go and have a lie down to recover.
don't you just love the irish sense of humour.
yesterday proved the scots don't deserve a place.
chabal not in surprises me
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While not wanting to prejudge today's results, large question marks are hanging already of any selections from scotland or italy in this line-up. Me thinks lamont is a bit of a joke selection here.
By the end of six nations the selection will be:
1) Pack will be a mix of england and ireland, easily the two most powerful packs, France were again unconvincing bar Chabal.
2) Ellis or cusiter
as much as it pains me O'gara may be displaced by JW if he stays away from the table
i can see farrell at inside,
BOD at outside enough said really
Wings and full back not important, any from lewsey, robinson, hickie, trimble, etc to early to call it.
Note no welsh backs at present so little experience and so much expectation. No disrespect but they have a lot to do this championship in the front five and throughout the backs
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Ninja - not going to get carried away, but you are right, JW's return was exceptional given his history. Thought he was even better, showed more attacking presence.
Only one bad performance, but did suggest he is a little succeptable to pressure. Not a good sign.
On the weekends performances, as a generality, it would appear that the Irish and Italians have been slightly over rated, the English and French slightly under rated and the Welsh and Scots performed as expected. But this is after just on game.
In answer to the Andy Farrell doubters. Thought he had a compitent debut. No major errors and solid there after. Not much more you can ask for from somebody with little RU experience on his first cap. Did highlight the extra width he gives with his kicking though.
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Sorry, meant to say "Only one bad performance, but did suggest ROG is a little succeptable to pressure. Not a good sign in international sport."
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Well done Johnny Wilkinson!
I have positively commented enough already, about this man - on the 大象传媒 website.
But today, a day of days, I bet he even confounded even the most optimistic, even rabid - England supporter. Be honest lads!
He has had 40 minutes of International Rugby in 2 years! Then, he goes out today and does that! The last time I saw someone do that at the highest level was Ali's comeback in the 70's. Magic stuff.
Suffice it to say, that the man is a paragon. He is precision personified. He is accuracy defined. He is unassuming - did you see his interview after the match? Of course you did!
He is as hard as nails - a point that belies the angelic features. He is driven (as are all World Class exponents of any sport). But most of all - and this is something that transcends all that I've said before - he is a complete gentleman.
Class, pure all round class.
The only slight problem I have with the man (yes I found his weakness) - is that he's not Irish !
Welcome back JW, may you enhance and entrance the game you love so much - way into the future. Thank you for that man. Thanks a mill. It was deep-joy to witness. It's one of the main reasons I love rugby. You are the epitome of this feeling I have for the beautiful- brutal-back-passing forward-running game.
May God bless you and mind you JW.
See you in Croker (Dublin)!
But do us a favour Johnny, please leave yer boots behind...
Leinster madman in the Netherlands
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With all this talk of O'Gara vs Wilko, has anyone even considered Dan Paterson? He had a fairly mediocre game against England, but according to the rankings hes the best around, so surely he deserves a mention.
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After yesterdays performance I wouldn't consider Paterson for fly half. He doesn't play there for his club and doesn't start there for his country. That rules him out as a contender to O'Gara or Wilko. On a further note, if you have a good kicking fly half, you don't need someone else in the team for that job.
On todays match, whilst it was absorbing and the fastest paced of the weekend's games, the quality wasn't high. The Irish finished clinically but didn't seem to compete with the Welsh forwards. The Welsh had possession and territory but couldn't conjure up anything to break through the Irish defence.
On the weekends performances, the only standout performances I saw were D'Arcy, Wilko, Ellis and Peel.
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D'arcy not in at 12 is ridiculous as you can see from todays game he was brilliant and as you can see from all the comments everyone agrees that he should be 12. Ireland didnt play their best, there's still alot more too come and when were in croke park everyone knows it will be special. The rest of the team seams fair enough besides worsley and d'arcy.
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This must have been done beofre the six nations started. Wilko over o'gara all day. Lamont is a token Scot, Robinson proved he should be playing on the wing ALL the time and embarassed Lamont. He is the most effective runner in the game. Where is Darcy. It is a shame there isnt room for Tindall. Damn the genius of O'Driscoll. Grewcock should have a place next to an excellent irishman and what about Ellis! What a performance!!!
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Michael - totally agree. Still looking like an open championship. Hard to know if Italy flattered them, but France looked good. So, the game this weekend should be a cracker.
John C - It was a pretty spectacular return. May be my aging grey matter but I thought he even was looking better with distribution etc. than before. If he remains injury free he should challenge Carter for best 10 in the world.
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Not picking Darcy before the match is ....careless
His man of the match performance reveals the carelessnes to be sheer incompetence and ignorance...... why break up the best centre pairing in the WORLD today?
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1)Jenkins
2)Ibanez
3)Vickery
4)O'Connell
5)O'Callaghan
6)Worsley
7)Wallace
8)Chabal
9) Peel
10)Wilkinson
11)Robinson
12)D'Arcy
13)O'Driscoll
14)Dominici
15)Lewsey
I'm not really a forwards man but pack provides power, form and great leadership
Peel is the mst proven of all the scrum halves even with Ellis performance, Cusiter is also hugely overrated, with the amazing job he does behind a poor scottish scrum, Wilkinson...enough said. Irish Centre combination best in world at moment, Dominici and robinson offer pace and experience, and a lack of a good full back anywhere means Lewsey gets the shirt (he did save England numerous times during the Autumns with great tackles) and normally plays consistently well in a good team.
This is a team that could rival the All blacks if they were a real team, who played and trained together
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very average selection there
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To John Cooke, ( 274 )
Thank you for your blog, it is for people like you that i read theses blogs. Un bias, educated and appreciated view on a diffrent nations player.
Ireland won last night for one reason and one reason only, purely and quite simply because they are a better Rugby team.
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Think JonnyD may have just hit it on the head...
Still think jenkins place is up for grabs from that lineup due to his complete ineffectiveness against a supposedly poor irish front 3.
Nice to see chabal in but Leamy pushed him close for his performance against the welsh.
Dominici remains the only other query, does he have the same finishing ability of any of the irish back three (which ever ones they deem to pick) or even K.Morgan
Has any one given consideration to the Bench yet....
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I must debate about your team due to O'Gara instead of wilko your out of your mind, Chabal no8 definetly also no Robinson What are you doing his pace is electrifying instead of shaun Lamont especcialy after his blunder v England Last week-end And peel instead of Ellis What are you playing at
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Spot on with the scrum half. Peel is an awesome player and is a threat to other teams with his pace and quick thinking. Im opting for Kevin Morgan for number 15, expecting him to shine in the six nations
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for me its chabal everytime at number eight. he inspires those around him.
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Spotted a cool pick your Dream Team tool thing on the 6 Nations site yesterday. And if you leave your email they have a draw at the of the tournament for a season ticket for next years games. How cool would it be to win that!
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How poor are England?!?!?!?!?!?!
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Brian O'Driscoll is like a flanker with an extra yard of pace. But.......He's definately past his best in the attack department.
Unbelievebly overrated! D'arcy is much better, so is Shanklin.
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Based on the games today, no Englishmen, Welsh or Italians would get into the team. Looking forward to the Match at Croke park.C'mon France!!!!!!!!!!!!!
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1)Lo Ciciero
2)Jerry Flannery
3)Castrogiovanni
4)Donncha O'callaghan
5)Marco Bortolami
6)Niel Best
7)Martyn Williams
8)Ryan Jones
9)Dwayne Peel
10)Stephen Jones
11)Shane Williams
12)Gordon D'arcy
13)Tom Shanklin
14)Chris Patterson
15)Kevin Morgan
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I have to agree with George (289). England are truly terrible! Wilkinson kicked a couple of goals, so can Jones, Paterson, Hook, Parks and O'gara. How can you expect and think so much of him?!?!?!?!?! If he makes a mistake (like he often has in the last two games) all you English protect him and say,
"oh, he hasn't played for ages!!!! he's amazing really!"
Today one of the commentators on the england game said something about Wilkinson saying something about not liking the ball used against scotland. He then said,
"Imagine what he would've done if he had a ball he did like!"
Pathetic. And it just shows the desperation england are in to try and convince people, and especially themselves that they've got a decent player. sorry guys, not fooled.
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Thankyou Mac (293)!
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Wot is Jason Robinson doing for england? and Wilkinson, and Farrell. Ashton is desperate.
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Just make it the whole Irish squad - they have the passion and the ability to win whereas the robotic and downright boring English team are a pain and excrutiating to watch.
Chris
English, but wish I was Irish
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Does anyone else hate the English commentators esp Brian Moore? How more pro-English can you get. Thank god we got Tyrone Howe and some other guy over here for the england-ireland game or I would have blown my top with all his rubbish about Wilkinson being awesome, excellent blah blah blah. Saviour of English rugby? I dont think so. And Andy Farrell? Wat does he do? He certaintly doesnt play rugby by the looks of things. England play boring pedestrian rugby with no flair whatsoever with the exception of Dave Strettle who played well against us Irish. In the competition so far the player who has stood out has to be David Wallace. He has been absolutely outstanding!Mind you no 6nations team will have any hope against the All Blacks when the World Cup rolls round!
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Can't see any point other than an all Irish backrow of Easterby - Leamy and Wallace
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I think it is a fair team, I think I would have Jonny Wilko at 10 and Harry Ellis at 9. Chabal should be there.
In reply to comment No 297 I think Brian Moore is a top commentator and I don't think he is Biast. I remember the 大象传媒 commentry for Eng v Scot and it was he who said Wilko's try was not a try and when it was given he said Oh no that's not right. I think the really annoying commentator is Eddie Butler, we should have a get rid of Eddie campaign. I think Matt Dawson should move from Radio 5 to 大象传媒1 his analysis of the Eng v Ireland game was more than fair. Lets get rid of commentators and just hear the reflink instead!!
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think harry ellis should be in..nice team though..may even have a chance against southern hemisphere teams!
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think harry ellis should be in..nice team though..may even have a chance against southern hemisphere teams!
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1G.jenkins
2R.best
3C.Nieto
4P.Oconell
5A.W.Jones
6A.Popham
7M.Williams
8Pierce
9P.Stringer
10J.Hook
11Dominici
12G.Darcy
13B.Odrisscol
14M.Jones
15.G.Thomas
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hello. adam winstanley fancies harry potter a.k.a ailsa
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jauzion is world class at the moment... i don't agree with o'gara at fly-half though. maybe wilko when he's on form. and lamont isn't quick enough on the wing.
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Can't understand picking Jauzion instead of D'arcy, if anything would have picked D'arcy over O'Driscoll who only played four games and wasn't that imprssive in any of them whereas D'arcy played all five and played well in all five
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Sorry, but it's gotta be Robinson at 11. He's been key to so many of England's breaks and, ultimately, tries and wins.
Harry Ellis at 9 too - he hasn't made a bad move this tournament and that's difficult for a scrum half - just look at what happened when Shaun Perry (worst scrum half in the Guinness prem) came on for him!
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how rediculous! it should just be the English tean that nailed France but with Vickery, tait and Wilkinson!!
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D,Arcy must def b at 12 jauzion had poor comp on his dau my b brilliant but D'Arcy was best centre of the comp.
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1.Castrogiovanni
2.Ibanez
3.Vickery
4.Bortelami
5.O'Connell
6.Chabal
7.M.Williams
8.Leamy
9.Ellis
10.Hook
11.J.Robinson
12.D'Arcy
13.O'Driscoll
14.Paterson
15.K.Morgan
Had to move Paterson to wing to accomodate Morgan, who was the best full back by a mile. Paterson takes the kicks, Irish centre partnership has to be, as it works so well. No arguing with the front row-and the back row is perfect-even with chabal at blindside, the front 8 will destroy any other team at the lineout and in the loose. Hook gives the team some flair, and Ellis completes the team-England's stand out player from the 6 nations- don't forget robinson on the wing- so clinical and arguably Strettle on the other for sheer unpredictability and verve
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1 lo cicero
2 ibanez
3 nieto
4 bortolami
5 o'connel
6 easterby
7 rees
8 parisse
9 ellis
10 skrela
11 strettle
12 dewey
13 o'driscoll
14 clerc
15 poitrenaud
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it would be good if they did a world one aswell
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why is everybody wanting Chabal? great for Sale, pants for France, no form at all, especially in Ireland, O'Connell had him wrapped up every time.Ryan Jones would be my pick, diamond in the dirt.
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to be honest there should be no scotland players in that team at all non of them really shone in the nations no ofence to any scots - but really dave strettle is a better wing then lamont. the best team is the following based on performance in the 6 nations - ;
1- d. jones
2- ibanez
3- nieto
4- bortalami
5- o'connel
6- m bergamasco
7- easterby
8- chabal
9- peel
10- o'gara
11- robinson
12- hook
13- o'driscal
14- dominici
15- patterson
subs-
darcy
tait
strettle
worsely
lamont
pirrse
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CHABAL IS A BEAST!!!!!!!!!!!!
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I know the above team was posted before the start of the tournament, but lets be honest theres a lot to talk about - but I don't have time (I'm at work) so do it quickly - theres far too many blue shirts, no enough white ones and certainly not enough red ones. Williams has got to be there and where's Jonny? I'm sorry but even a 70% wilco, keeps out o'gara as would jones. O'Gara for me dispite playing superb rugby for his club never produces it at this level. If eddie had another option he would have taken it long ago - yes I know how many points he's scored and yes he had a big game v france a few years ago but he is consistantly inconsistant, struggles kicking off the ground, can't run the ball, dodgy in defence I'm just not convinced by him. Everytime Ireland seem to be struggling it him giving the ball away, he only plays well when there well on top, so to pick him in this 15 is criminal and an insult to jonny, jones even cipriti and hook would get a call before him for my team. Anywsay thats it must go back to work, didn't intend just attacking O'Gara but whatever!!
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