Nervosa wrote:Beer Necessity wrote:I agree about Ireland - I definitely think they will provide the sternest test of the 'Home' nations.
What do you think about Jonny Wilkinson's inclusion, btw? I predict he'll be off before half time, but I hope I'm wrong, obviously.
I'm really proud of the Ireland team. O'Driscol (#13) is one of the best players of all time, IMO. He reminds me a lot of Joana Lumo (sp) actually.
Not even close, yes he's good, and possibly was one of the best in the world a few years ago, but will never be a legend of the International greats.
Nervosa wrote: As for Wilkinson, I think it's pretty stupid putting him on. No offence, but I think he's a total has-been. Don't get me wrong, I think he was the man that won England the World Cup....well his right foot won it. But these days, I think his Ruggers career is well and truly over.
He has suffered from injury yes, and is possibly not fully match fit, but how on earth can you say his career is over and he is a "has been", when he hasn't played since 2003?? He is still young and he has skills far beyond his boot and any other fly half in England. I dare you to go up to Martin Johnson and tell him that the only reason England won the World Cup was down to one kick!!
I'm sorry but when I hear anyone who claims the World Cup was won by Wilko, it just shows to me that they do not know Rugby, probably didn't watch the game, and just read about it in the tabloids. It took 15 men and years of sweat at sheer guts, and fine leadership.
Nervosa wrote:My desired order would be:
1st - Ireland
2nd - Scotland
3rd - Italy
4th - France
5th - Wales
6th - England
Putting England in last place is simply because of my dislike of English sportsmen/commentaters, nothing against you English folk! I think the commentaters are sooooooo bias, and even after the team has got a total thrashing, there's always the predictable excuses by the commentaters/players/coaches.
It's odd isn't it, when England lose a game (I do not think they have been "thrashed" by anyone other than NZ for some time!) how they are slagged off and are constantly compared to the 2003 side. And yet when Wales, Scotland or Ireland lose a game, they are courageous, unlucky etc.
The bias is actually against England, and critics are so much harsher against England compared to any other home nation - So I'm not sure who you are listening to??