England vs New Zealand November 2024 the closest of losses.
What a series this turned out to be. Three of the tightest of games, the teams separated by a measly 10 points across all three matches. All three one-score games. The final game coming down to a missed drop goal. Actually, one penalty and a drop goal attempt but who’s counting (not me). A penalty missed by mere inches, and a drop goal missed due to composure under pressure. It’s easy to look at this as a simple mistake,...
The Anatomy of a Try: Ted Hill vs Northampton Saints – September 2024
One of the most talked about Law changes/trials in recent memory is the adjustment to Law 10 offside in open play, specifically Law 10.4C, after a kick. Affectionately known as the Dupont Law, it removes the ability for an opposition player to be put on side by the ball carrier after a kick. In rough terms it means you have to make an effort to retreat towards your goalline, removing the ability for teams to creep up the pitch by...
The Anatomy of a Try: Max Malins vs Newcastle Falcons – September 2024
It’s been a heck of a Summer for the average Rugby Fan. The Olympics raised awareness of the abbreviated code delivering two of the best sevens tournaments in recent memory. England, Ireland, France and Wales Men travelled South. Four exciting tours against the Rugby Championship Teams, all four tours delivered moments. The Rugby Championship has been one of the best since its expansion from the Tri-Nations. South Africa have,...
Anatomy of a Try: O’Brien vs Connacht May 2024
Leinster spanked Connacht 33-7 in the penultimate round of the URC and pick of the scores was this O’Brien finish after great work from Foley, Frawley and Pendergast. It’s always enjoyable seeing a good quality strike move come off. However, whilst a clean kill is always satisfying the notable thing here is the excellence of the execution and how, when one player makes a mistake Leinster are able to adapt and maintain their...
The Anatomy of a Try: Boffelli vs England November 2022
If there were two major differences between England and Australia it was probably Argentina’s bravery in attack and their composure under pressure in a sodden, muted Twickenham. In the pouring rain, no one should have expected a high-scoring game. No one should have expected a low kick % game and no one should expect a team to pull off one of the best strike moves in recent memory to score off 1st phase ball. For a while now...