England vs New Zealand – Defensive Analysis Pt 1
Despite many protestations, 2019 was one of the most incredible Rugby World Cups to date. High drama from International Coaches not knowing the laws (Cheika) to Typhoons nearly derailing the entire competition. It also threw out some incredible games of Rugby along the way, Japan beating Ireland and Scotland, New Zealand walloping eventual winners South Africa and Uruguay beating Fiji possibly the second biggest upset in the World...
Rugby Reimagined Episode One: Three Red Kings
With the Covid 19 lockdown going on it’s been hard to find Rugby to analyse. Sure, I could go back and review old games, and yes, I am planning to drop a couple of videos on the World Cup. But, most importantly, I also wanted to do something different with this time and put together a short Podcast based mini-series. In Rugby Reimagined I discuss what people would like to see change in Rugby (once the Covid 19 crisis has...
The Anatomy of a Try – Anthony Watson vs Wales 2020
There are fewer things more exciting than an England team that attack the gain line. With all their power runners in full flow England on their day are akin to a force of nature. There is (almost) nothing that can stand in its way. When I think of the all time great England Teams of the 90’s and early 00’s, the wonderful Rugby they played was first and foremost about knocking seven bells out of the opposition until they, just,...
The Anatomy of a Try: Fainga’anuku vs Waratahs February 2020 (Video Analysis)
The opening round of Super Rugby seldom disappoints. New stars step up to make headlines and what seems like all out attacking Rugby is the order of the day. It’s sports entertainment to the max. Much doesn’t change though and the Crusaders are still a brilliant side with skills in abundance. No where was this more evident in Leicester Fainga’anuku’s wonderful try around the 35 minute mark. It had everything, intelligent play from the...
The Anatomy of a Try: Sean Maitland vs Bath November 2019
If I had to define what makes Saracens so good as a team it would be two words “Work Rate”. Saracens love a challenge. Which is why when you see the returning raft of internationals for the visit to Bath you know their current Premiership position is something they are out to fix. But regardless of the issues behind Saracens Squad depth, buying players is only part of it. How you put team together is important. 15 guys on the pitch...
The Anatomy of a Try: Jonny May vs Australia October 2019 Pt 2
Much of the talk before this England Australia game was around the midfield, England opting for a starting 10-12-13 of Farrell, Tuilagi and Slade. Australia opting for Lealiifano, Kerevi and Petaia.Part of Englands decision was to nullify Kerevi (and Petaia) but there was never much in the way of deception around how England would in turn play, it was about going forward both in attack and defence, brute forcing the Australians.Of the...