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2006-03-25T12:38:00.000-08:00

BBC Sport Rugby Union UK Edition today headlines

London Irish 21-29 Sale
Sale extend their lead at the top of the table after beating London Irish. 2006/03/25 06:39 PM
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Ulster 24-17 Dragons
Ulster shoot back to the top of the Celtic League with a 24-17 win over Dragons at Ravenhill. 2006/03/25 07:13 PM
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London Irish 21-29 Sale Sharks
Sale extend their lead at the top of the table after beating London Irish. 2006/03/25 06:39 PM
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Live: Celtic League
All the latest from Saturday's Celtic League games. 2006/03/25 05:53 PM
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Bath 12-19 Leicester
Leon Lloyd scores the game's only try as Bath's recent revival comes to an end at the hands of the Tigers. 2006/03/25 06:02 PM
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Gloucester 15-20 Bristol
Brian Lima's late try snatches the points for strugglers Bristol to upset Gloucester's promotion charge at Kingsholm Stadium. 2006/03/25 06:50 PM
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Live: Premiership
Latest scores from Saturday's Guinness Premiership games. 2006/03/25 12:07 PM
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"Would Woodward actually take on the job given the perfomance England lately?" - SL
2005/11/20 08:12 PM
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RFU denies talks with Woodward
The RFU denies reports it has approached Sir Clive Woodward to rejoin the England set-up. 2006/03/25 01:40 PM
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Flatman signs new Bath contract
Bath prop David Flatman signs a new three-year deal with the club. 2006/03/25 12:55 PM
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Border Reivers 9-11 Connacht
John Muldoon scores the only try as lowly Connacht surprise Reivers again at Netherdale. 2006/03/24 11:39 PM
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Moreover Technologies - Sports: rugby news - of 5601 returned today headlines

Cueto injury mars Sharks triumph
Cueto tripped over an advertising triangle positioned close to the touchline as he tried to catch a kick in the second half and fell on to the hard surface surrounding the pitch. 2006/03/25 08:50 PM
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Bath Disappoint Ashton
By Andrew Baldock, PA Sport Rugby Union Correspondent Bath boss Brian Ashton bemoaned his team's 'massive lack of intensity' after they slipped to a 19-12 Guinness Premiership defeat at home to Leicester. 2006/03/25 08:50 PM
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Cueto Worry For Sale
By Duncan Bech, PA Sport England winger Mark Cueto is a major doubt for Sale's Heineken Cup quarter-final against Biarritz after sustaining an ankle injury in their 29-21 victory over London Irish. 2006/03/25 08:50 PM
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Gloucester 15 Bristol 20
Sorry, the page you're trying to reach is temporarily unavailable or the page may no longer exist. This may be a broken bookmark or link you have followed to our site. 2006/03/25 08:49 PM
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Catalans Dragons v Salford
Extract not available. 2006/03/25 08:48 PM
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Gloucester 15-20 Bristol
Brian Lima crossed three minutes from time to steal victory for Bristol and edge them closer to Premiership safety in a thrilling clash at Kingsholm. 2006/03/25 08:42 PM
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RFU deny Woodward talks
RFU deny Woodward talksRugby Football Union officials insist Sir Clive Woodward has not been approached to make a return to the sport. 2006/03/25 08:42 PM
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Llanelli Scarlets v Munster - Postponed
Llanelli Scarlets v Munster - Postponed The clash between Llanelli Scarlets and Munster scheduled for this evening at 5.30pm has been postponed due to a water-logged pitch at Stradey Park. - 2006/03/25 08:34 PM
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Ulster win takes them back to the top
Bryn Cunningham celebrates his try. The victory was the Irish province's fifth in a row and added to the Dragons' woes away from home where they have won only once in their last 18 games in all competitions since October 2004. 2006/03/25 08:34 PM
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Team Chosen For Welsh Boys Clubs Test
Sports Rugby Scotland Under-18A team to play Boys Clubs of Wales at Port Talbot tomorrow (Sunday 26 March), kick-off 11am 15 Johnny Hope (Stirling County) 14 John Smart (Dunfermline) 13 Richard ... 2006/03/25 08:28 PM
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Cueto injury over-shadows Sale win
Cueto tripped over an advertising triangle positioned close to the touchline as he tried to catch a kick in the second half and fell on to the hard surface surrounding the pitch. 2006/03/25 08:23 PM
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Countdown to club rugby kick-off
Countdown to club rugby kick-off 26.03.06 Auckland Auckland's top rugby clubs will be relying on their depth of talent far more than previously due to the expanded national provincial competition which starts on July 28. 2006/03/25 08:20 PM
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Highlanders edge out Cats
Poor finishing sinks Cats hopesThe Highlanders managed to sneak a 16-14 win over the Cats in their Super 14 Round Seven match at Rugby Park in Invercargill on Saturday, with the home team's superior defence winning the day. 2006/03/25 07:57 PM
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Force loses to Bulls
Fourie du Preez opened the scoring in the 28th minute to give the Bulls a 7-0 lead and Pedrie Wannenburg crossed just before halftime to give the South Africans a 14-0 lead at the break. 2006/03/25 07:57 PM
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S14: Rogers likely to miss clash against Cheetahs
Waratahs pay dear price for big winThe Super 14Round 7 Round 7 Wrap Photos Fri., Mar. 24 Hurricanes 23-17 Sharks Report Waratahs 43-9 Blues Report Cheetahs 10-6 Reds Report Sat., Mar. 2006/03/25 07:57 PM
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S14: Utility back Atkinson travels to join Reds in SA
Extract not available. 2006/03/25 07:57 PM
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Super 14 Wrap, Mar. 24
24 Hurricanes 23-17 Sharks Report Waratahs 43-9 Blues Report Cheetahs 10-6 Reds Report Sat., Mar. 2006/03/25 07:57 PM
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Full FSC TV Schedule
Fox Soccer Channel weekly pdf program schedule: This Week Next Week Fox Sports World Canada weekly pdf program schedule: This Week Next Week Fox Sports en E 2006/03/25 07:57 PM
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Harlequins v Leeds
Extract not available. 2006/03/25 07:53 PM
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Tigers down Bath at The Rec
Andy Goode emerged from the wreckage of England's dismal RBS 6 Nations Championship campaign to deliver a sublime wet-weather performance as Leicester sunk Recreation Ground hosts Bath. 2006/03/25 07:37 PM
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Battered Sale edge out brave Exiles
Steve Hanley plundered two late tries to send Sale nine points clear at the top of the Guinness Premiership in a high-octane encounter at the Madejski Stadium. 2006/03/25 07:37 PM
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Ashton far from happy following defeat
The teams meet again in the Heineken Cup quarter-finals next weekend, and Leicester gained a clear psychological edge by grinding out a deserved victory in miserable Recreation Ground conditions. 2006/03/25 07:36 PM
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Ashton slams Bath's shortcomings
The teams meet again in the Heineken Cup quarter-finals next weekend, and Leicester gained a clear psychological edge by grinding out a deserved victory in miserable Recreation Ground conditions. 2006/03/25 07:28 PM
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Elephants take Eagles derby
Elephants take Eagles derbyPosted on 25 March 2006 - 17:14The Mighty Elephants scored three second half tries to claim local bragging rights with a 43-26 (halftime 22-26) victory over the SWD Eagles in a Vodacom Cup match in George on Saturday. 2006/03/25 07:17 PM
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Lions beat Griffons 51-32
Despite the victory margin the match was evenly balanced for long periods and with just 12 minutes remaining the home side had clawed their way back to within just five points of the visitors at 32-37 with a try from flanker Johnny Fourie. 2006/03/25 07:17 PM
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Beeste pound Pumas
Beeste pound PumasPosted on 25 March 2006 - 18:31The KZN Wildebeeste kept up their title-chasing form in the Vodacom Cup with a hard-fought 26-13 (halftime 19-3) victory over the @lantic Pumas in Witbank on Saturday. 2006/03/25 07:17 PM
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Meintjies' double stuns Bulls
The Blue Bulls appeared to be cruising to an away victory as they took a 36-24 lead into the final ten minutes against a Boland side that had competed well at forward but had looked sterile in the backs. That's where Meintjies came in. 2006/03/25 07:16 PM
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Annan 0 v Dalziel Dragons U 15s 75
Following the postponement of last weeks games due to the heavy snow all were eager to get a game under their belts. 2006/03/25 07:06 PM
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Dalziel in Finals as S1s Defeat Dumfries
After a few postponements due to weather Dalziel S1 team finally got to play Dumfries RFC for a place at Murrayfield on Sunday 26th March. 2006/03/25 07:06 PM
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Tigers Too Goode For Bath
England fly-half Goode warmed up for next Saturday's Heineken Cup quarter-final clash between the clubs by masterminding only Tigers' third Guinness Premiership away win this season. 2006/03/25 06:44 PM
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Bath 12-19 Leicester
Leon Lloyd's first-half try proved the difference as Leicester warmed up for next week's Heineken Cup quarter-final against Bath with victory at The Rec. - 2006/03/25 06:18 PM
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Force fall short
But the Bulls backs were less effective, knocking on twice in the face of the Force's defensive vigour. The home team broke the shackles to go onto attack for ten minutes, creating a string of line breaks to pressure the Bulls' defence. 2006/03/25 05:46 PM
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Rfu Deny Woodward Talks
By Mike McGrath, PA Sport Click here for more rugby union news Rugby Football Union officials insist Sir Clive Woodward has not been approached to make a return to the sport. 2006/03/25 05:31 PM
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Marshall to make shock return
March 25, 2006 WESTS Tigers NRL superstar Benji Marshall is set to make a shock return from a fractured cheekbone a month ahead of schedule against Melbourne next weekend. 2006/03/25 05:28 PM
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Ferres ready for challenge ahead
Steve Ferres, who this week embarks on his second stint as Wakefield chief executive, is confident he can help bring back the good times to Belle Vue. 2006/03/25 05:02 PM
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Cowboys crush Storm
The Cowboys edged further ahead with a penalty goal to Thurston, before Melbourne got onto the scoreboard with Matt Geyer crossing in the left corner. 2006/03/25 04:56 PM
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Manly sneaks past Sharks
Sports Rugby Manly has overcome a slow start to notch their first victory of the season, defeating Cronulla 20-18 at Brookvale Oval on Saturday night.Once again Manly struggled in the opening ... 2006/03/25 04:56 PM
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Ferres Ready For Challenge
Steve Ferres, who this week embarks on his second stint as Wakefield chief executive, is confident he can help bring back the good times to Belle Vue. 2006/03/25 04:38 PM
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Gunners on world stage
With Blackadder returning home to New Zealand at the end of the season, the club have been strongly linked with Sloane, a former Auckland, Otago Highlanders and Canterbury Crusaders mentor. 2006/03/25 04:32 PM
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Force go down
Extract not available. 2006/03/25 03:50 PM
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No truth in Woodward story
Francis Baron, Chief Executive of the RFU, said today (Saturday) "There is absolutely no truth in claims made by Will Greenwood in today's Daily Telegraph that Sir Clive Woodward has been approached to return to the RFU. " 2006/03/25 03:49 PM
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Rogers vows to ignore rib injury
March 26, 2006 INJURED Waratahs five-eighth Mat Rogers is hoping to make a shock early return for the heavyweight showdown with five-time champions the Crusaders on Saturday week. 2006/03/25 03:44 PM
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Wallace To Renew Munster Contract
Sports Rugby ...Munster and Ireland back row David Wallace...Ireland back row David Wallace, a member of last weekend's Triple Crown winning side, is one of four players to renew their contracts ... 2006/03/25 03:35 PM
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Hooker Hickie Agrees Terms With Leicester
The 25-year-old Dubliner said: 'I'm thrilled to get this chance. Leicester is a massive, massive club and its record speaks for itself. The opportunity to be part of the Leicester was too good to turn down. 2006/03/25 03:35 PM
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Keogh To Quit Munster For Leinster
I have seen him play this year and I have been impressed with his consistently high level of performance.'I think that he will be an excellent and valuable addition to our team and he will give us a strong, competitive back row. 2006/03/25 03:35 PM
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O'Connor: I'm Not Ready To Go Home Yet
Having ousted Paul Volley to become the club's first choice number 7 in his first season, the 26-year-old, who is nicknamed 'Johnny Concrete', made his Irish debut against South Africa the following season (November 2004). : 2006/03/25 03:35 PM
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Ferres ready for challenge ahead
Steve Ferres, who this week embarks on his second stint as Wakefield chief executive, is confident he can help bring back the good times to Belle Vue. 2006/03/25 03:29 PM
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Tykes Take On Tough Challenge
By Andrew Baldock, PA Sport Rugby Union Correspondent Struggling Leeds begin a five-match quest for Guinness Premiership survival on Sunday, with rugby director Phil Davies admitting: 'We need to deliver results.' 2006/03/25 03:28 PM
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Victory Lane Racing Collectibles - Sponsored Link
Ad - Offering a full line of official Diecast cars! Available for your favorite drivers including Dale Earnhardt Jr, Jeff Gordon, Tony Stewart, Carl Edwards, Jimmie Johnson and more. 2006/03/25 03:22 PM
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Highlanders hold out Cats
Desperate defence enabled the Highlanders to cling on for a 16-14 win over the Cats in their seventh round Rebel Sport Super 14 match against the Cats in Invercargill on Saturday night. Who scored and when? - 2006/03/25 03:22 PM
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Arabian Gulf League round-up
The champions dominated the first half to turn around 29-3 ahead and were never seriously troubled after the break. 2006/03/25 03:03 PM
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RFU slam Woodward links
There is absolutely no truth in claims made by Will Greenwood in today's Daily Telegraph that Sir Clive Woodward has been approached to return to the RFU,' commented Baron in a statement released by the RFU. " 2006/03/25 03:03 PM
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Wasps agree new deals
Sports Rugby England regulars Josh Lewsey and Joe Worsley are among five players to have agreed new contracts with London Wasps.The Guinness Premiership side are building for the future and have ... 2006/03/25 02:54 PM
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Greenwood claims Woodward in RFU talks
After a poor Six Nations campaign, pressure is mounting on Andy Robinson, the current man in charge, and there is continuing speculation that RFU bosses could make a change before next year's World Cup. 2006/03/25 02:54 PM
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Rogers could return for crunch games
NEW South Wales five-eighth Mat Rogers might miss just one Super 14 rugby game despite confirmation he suffered rib cartilage damage against the Blues last night. 2006/03/25 02:45 PM
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RFU deny Woodward talks claim
RFU deny Woodward talks claimPosted on 25 March 2006 - 14:10Reports that Sir Clive Woodward was on the verge of a dramatic return to revive England's flagging fortunes ahead of next year's World Cup defence were firmly denied on Saturday. 2006/03/25 02:38 PM
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Highlanders hang on
But the Cats were their own worst enemy. 2006/03/25 02:33 PM
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Fantasy Baseball - Win $5000 Grand Prize - Sponsored Link
Ad - Fun $100M salary cap baseball game. Win up to $400 in league prizes. Free buddy leagues. 2006/03/25 01:49 PM
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Connacht The Lesser Of Two Evils
Border Reivers 9, Connacht 11 Border Reivers could only salvage a bonus point out of tonight's Celtic League clash with Irish side Connacht at a very wet and cold Netherdale. 2006/03/25 01:49 PM
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Victory Lane Racing Collectibles - Sponsored Link
Ad - Offering a full line of official Diecast cars! Available for your favorite drivers including Dale Earnhardt Jr, Jeff Gordon, Tony Stewart, Carl Edwards, Jimmie Johnson and more. 2006/03/25 01:15 PM
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Manly storm home
Sports Rugby Manly has overcome a slow start to notch their first victory of the season, defeating Cronulla 20-18 at Brookvale Oval on Saturday night.Once again Manly struggled in the opening ... 2006/03/25 01:15 PM
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Millward remains upbeat
'It's not an issue,' insisted Millward. ' We're only into game six or seven. It's not the time for me to panic. 2006/03/25 01:09 PM
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Mat may be back for marquee matches
By James MacSmith Sunday, March 26, 2006 Danger man: Mat Rogers on the burst before he injured his rib cartilage in the Waratahs' pounding of the Blues in Sydney on Friday night. 2006/03/25 01:05 PM
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Not pretty but Brumbies show Chiefs who's boss
By Greg Growden Saturday, March 25, 2006 Real handful: Brumbies breakaway George Smith frustrated the Chiefs in ACT's last-gasp win. 2006/03/25 01:05 PM
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Manly sneak past Sharks
Sports Rugby Manly has overcome a slow start to notch their first victory of the season, defeating Cronulla 20-18 at Brookvale Oval on Saturday night.Once again Manly struggled in the opening ... 2006/03/25 01:02 PM
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Warriors win 'away'
Sports Rugby New Zealand's Warriors have kick-started their 2006 campaign with a convincing 26-10 victory over an injury-riddled Wests Tigers outfit at Jade Stadium in Christchurch.Playing as the ... 2006/03/25 01:02 PM
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Tough French Grand Slam winning manager Desclaux dies
DAX, France (AFP) - Jean Desclaux, who managed the France rugby team which won the 1977 Five Nations championship, has died at the age of 84 after a long illness, his former club US Dax reported on Friday. ' 2006/03/25 12:42 PM
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Flatman agrees new Bath deal
Following hot on the heels of Olly Barkley committing his future to the club earlier in the week, Flatman's commitment to Bath Rugby is further evidence of the club building towards the future under new head coach Brian Ashton. " 2006/03/25 12:42 PM
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New Zealand forward Maka off to Japan
TOULOUSE, France (AFP) - New Zealand forward Isitolo Maka is leaving European champions Toulouse at the end of the season to play for Japan side Fukuako. 2006/03/25 12:42 PM
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Super 14: NSW give Auckland the blues
SYDNEY (AFP) - The NSW Waratahs smashed the Auckland Blues 43-9 to pick up a bonus point and move to the top of the Super 14 ladder here Friday. 2006/03/25 12:41 PM
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Another victory for Super 14 newcomers Cheetahs
BLOEMFONTEIN, South Africa (AFP) - Central Cheetahs climbed to fifth on the Super 14 table after edging Queensland Reds 10-6 Friday. 2006/03/25 12:41 PM
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Flatman Agrees New Bath Terms
Bath prop David Flatman has agreed a new three-year contract with the Guinness Premiership club. 2006/03/25 12:38 PM
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Vodacom Western Province beat Border
Vodacom Western Province beat BorderPosted on 24 March 2006 - 21:09Vodacom Western Province beat the Border Bulldogs 18-9 (halftime 6-6) in an entertaining Vodacom Cup match in East London on Friday. 2006/03/25 12:21 PM
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Sarries looking for positive approach
The Watford club took a big step towards safety with their shock 15-9 victory at leaders Sale a fortnight ago but they are still only seven points above bottom place Leeds. 2006/03/25 12:04 PM
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Flatman agrees new deal
Flatman's deal will see him through until the end of the 2008-09 season, and it follows team-mate Olly Barkley's decision to pen fresh terms earlier this week. 2006/03/25 12:04 PM
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Connolly excited by new coaching team
Johnson confirmed yesterday he is to return Down Under following a four-year spell with Wales, culminating in his brief reign as caretaker coach during the RBS 6 Nations. '' Scotty is one of rugby's true characters. 2006/03/25 12:03 PM
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Clive aid will not deliver England from rugby famine
And now, he tells the world, he wants to reinstate Clive Woodward as the man to revive the Great England of 2003 and that World Cup triumph. 2006/03/25 11:30 AM
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Brumbies win thriller
He converted his own try for a 10-6 lead.A penalty try each took the score to 13-9 at half-time as tight defence and the referee's whistle has kept the attacking action to a minimum. 2006/03/25 11:13 AM
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Benji's early return
Club doctor Donald Kuah is likely to clear him to play against the Storm next Sunday.'I think he'd certainly love to be there as soon as he could,' Tigers CEO Steve Noyce told AAP. ' 2006/03/25 10:32 AM
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Police away to Strathaven
Today's game sees the Old Bill travel to Strathaven to take on their old Nemesis Strathaven. 2006/03/25 10:11 AM
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Cheetahs outmuscle Reds
Saturday, March 25, 2006 Cheetahs 10 Reds 6 Queensland produced the meanest defensive display of their Super 14 rugby season, but a lack of firepower cost the Reds in their 10-6 loss to the Cheetahs in Bloemfontein. 2006/03/25 10:08 AM
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Brumbies deny Chiefs in thriller
A great performance from skipper and centre Stirling Mortlock has steered the Brumbies to a nail-biting 28-26 win over the Chiefs in their Rebel Sport Super 14 match at Canberra Stadium. 2006/03/25 10:01 AM
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SA Rugby to meet sports ministry
At the first Presidents Council meeting of the newly-elected Saru Presidency, it was agreed the matter of the investigation should continue to be jointly handled by Saru and the Ministry. 2006/03/25 09:44 AM
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Injuries Force Changes for Glenrothes
Highland's Squad is still not quite at full strength with back row forward Finlay MacRae still unavailable, but two further changes have been made. 2006/03/25 09:43 AM
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Peacock Back For Rhinos
Leeds are boosted by the return of Great Britain skipper Jamie Peacock as they look to stay on the heels of engage Super League pace-setters St Helens. 2006/03/25 09:40 AM
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Saints On Top As Warriors Hit Bottom
The fortunes of arch rivals Wigan and St Helens continue to lunge in opposite directions. 2006/03/25 09:40 AM
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REPUTATION is a great thing. A poll on a BBC rugby website has resulted in Brian O'Driscoll being
Sat 25 Mar 2006 Scots in good heart for Tests but England under a cloud ALLAN MASSIE REPUTATION is a great thing. A poll on a BBC rugby website has resulted in Brian O'Driscoll being voted Player of the Year in the Six Nations. 2006/03/25 09:32 AM
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Sarries Seek Inspiration From Sunshine Break
By Duncan Bech, PA Sport Saracens hope their week-long training camp in Portugal will inspire their climb away from danger in the Guinness Premiership. 2006/03/25 09:25 AM
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TAIT & SMILE Rugby Union: England's future is bright Born-again Mat is
A week on from striking silver with England in the Commonwealth Games Sevens, Tait is the talk of the sport and sure to be called up by the crisis-torn world champions to return to Australia on tour this summer. 2006/03/25 09:21 AM
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LEWSEY: WE NEED BIG CHANGES Rugby Union: England's future is bright
By Alex Spink JOSH LEWSEY has become the first England player to put his head above the parapet and back changes to the world champions' set-up. 2006/03/25 09:21 AM
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Blues hammer Warriors
Blues hammer Warriors Cardiff BluesvGlasgow Warriors Arms Park Friday 24th March 2006, 19:10 Cardiff Blues produced a five-try onslaught to crush Glasgo Warriors 31-3. Friday 24 March at Arms Park, 7.10pm live on BBC Wales. 2006/03/24 11:13 PM
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Blues 31-3 Glasgow
Cardiff Blues eased to a bonus-point Celtic League victory over Glasgow on muddy Arms Park pitch on Friday. 2006/03/24 11:00 PM
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New deals for Lewsey and Worsley
Lewsey has signed a two-year deal which will keep him at Causeway Stadium until 2008 when he will have marked a decade since making his professional debut for the club. 2006/03/24 10:42 PM
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Lewsey and Worsley sign new Wasps deals
Lewsey and Worsley sign new Wasps dealsEngland stars Josh Lewsey and Joe Worsley have agreed new contracts with Premiership champions Wasps. 2006/03/24 10:37 PM
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Cheetahs pip Reds
Queensland's Reds picked up a bonus point but that was their only reward when going down 6-10 to the Cheetahs at Bloemfontein in their Super 14 match. It was a disappointing game with few consistent attacking movements. 2006/03/24 10:30 PM
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Cooper keeps confident
No words of wisdom were required of Hurricanes coach Colin Cooper when his side went to the half-time dressing room 6-10 down to the Sharks in their Super 14 match at Westpac Stadium. 2006/03/24 10:29 PM
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Leinster snap up Keogh
Leinster snap up Keogh Leinster Rugby have announced the signing of Stephen Keogh from Munster on a two-year deal. 2006/03/24 10:03 PM
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Disciplinary Commissioner fines Cooper
Following an investigation by the RFL Disciplinary Commissioner, Ben Cooper of Huddersfield Giants has been fined 100. 2006/03/24 09:53 PM
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Smith wary of Quins threat
Leeds Rhinos boss Tony Smith is urging his team not to under-estimate injury-hit Harlequins at the Twickenham Stoop on Saturday. 2006/03/24 09:53 PM
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Wasps players agree new contracts
Josh Lewsey, Joe Worsley, Jonny O'Connor, Mark Van Gisbergen, alongside George Skivington have all agreed contracts to continue playing for Wasps next season, adding to the buoyant mood at the club as the international players returned this week. 2006/03/24 09:53 PM
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Cas agree to let Smith go
Castleford Tigers prop forward Byron Smith has returned to his former club Halifax after two seasons at the Jungle. Smith's senior opportunities at the Tigers have been limited. 2006/03/24 09:53 PM
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Referees Get Capped
24 March 2006, 6:54 pm REFEREES GET CAPPED The world's leading referee Derek Bevan was among 17 Welsh international officials who received a traditional rugby 'cap' to mark their Test status at a special ceremony at the Millennium Stadium. 2006/03/24 09:52 PM
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Owen Pays Tribute To Johnson
24 March 2006, 6:13 pm OWEN PAYS TRIBUTE TO JOHNSON Wales captain Michael Owen has paid tribute to Scott Johnson following the announcement of his departure to Australia and is looking forward to locking horns with him at the 2007 Rugby World Cup. 2006/03/24 09:52 PM
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Wakefield v Warrington (Sun)
Belle Vue Sunday, 26 March Kick-off: 1530 GMT Wakefield centre Jon Whittle returns to the squad after a three-match absence, while Tom Saxton is back after being ineligible for last week's Hull defeat. 2006/03/24 09:45 PM
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Harlequins v Leeds (Sat)
Twickenham StoopSaturday, 25 March Kick-off: 1800 GMTLive on BBC London 94.9 and the BBC Sport website Harlequins have called up 21-year-old rugby union scrum-half Duncan James for Saturday's clash with Leeds Rhinos. 2006/03/24 09:45 PM
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Warriors sign Whitehaven forward
Wigan have confirmed the signing of Whitehaven second-row forward Oliver Wilkes on a two-year deal. The struggling Super League club had wanted to take Wilkes on loan but were told they had to sign him permanently. 2006/03/24 09:44 PM
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Cas agree to let Smith go
Castleford Tigers prop forward Byron Smith has returned to his former club Halifax after two seasons at the Jungle. Smith's senior opportunities at the Tigers have been limited. 2006/03/24 09:26 PM
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Smith wary of Quins threat
Leeds Rhinos boss Tony Smith is urging his team not to under-estimate injury-hit Harlequins at the Twickenham Stoop on Saturday. 2006/03/24 09:25 PM
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Rugby: Johnson confirms return to Australia
CARDIFF : Scott Johnson has turned down the chance to become the new head coach of Wales and decided to return to Australia to join the Wallabies coaching staff for next year's World Cup. 2006/03/24 09:22 PM
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sarugby.com today headlines
Cheetahs smother the Reds
The Cheetahs posted a sloppy win over the Reds in Bloemfontein on Friday night. The result never looked like it should have been as close as it ended up, but handling mistakes and silly errors blighted their play throughout the evening. 2006/03/25 08:27 PM
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Rogers out with rib injury
The Waratahs' impressive win over the Auckland Blues wasn't all silver lining as an injury cloud hangs over their key man Mat Rogers. Rogers will be out for a month with rib cartilage damage he sustained during the win Aussie Stadium. 2006/03/25 02:37 PM
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Sport today headlines

'Kallis is the key'
South Africa are counting on Jacques Kallis to steer them to safety in the second test against Australia, says coach Mickey Arthur. 2006/03/25 08:33 PM
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ABSA Cup matches - results
Results of Absa Cup games - Last 16 - played on Saturday. 2006/03/25 09:16 PM
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Soccer star hurt in air crash
Argentine soccer star Jorge Valdano and seven others have been injured in a helicopter crash in Mexico City. 2006/03/25 07:27 PM
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Wins for Chelsea, Liverpool
Didier Drogba's two first-half goals lifted Chelsea to a 2-0 victory over Manchester City, giving the Blues a 14-point lead atop the Premier League. 2006/03/25 09:16 PM
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SA fight back
Jacques Kallis and AB de Villiers have fought back well in the last session of the second day of the second Test against Australia. 2006/03/25 05:43 PM
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Ban diving cheats - Wenger
Arsene Wenger believes the only way to stamp out the problem of diving in football is to ban players who do it. 2006/03/25 04:56 PM
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RFU denies Woodward talks
Reports that Clive Woodward is on the verge of returning to revive England's flagging fortunes ahead of next year's World Cup, have been denied. 2006/03/25 04:56 PM
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Mortlock seals win for Brumbies
Centre Stirling Mortlock has produced an outstanding individual effort to lead the Brumbies to a 28-26 Super 14 win over Chiefs. 2006/03/25 04:56 PM
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England disqualified in 4x400m
Australia have won the women's 4x400m relay title at the Commonwealth Games after original winners England were disqualified. 2006/03/25 04:56 PM
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Disastrous start for SA
Australia have claimed two early wickets after Michael Hussey guided them to a competitive total on the second day of the second Test against South Africa. 2006/03/25 03:06 PM
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Mwelase ups SA's gold tally
Bongani Mwelase has claimed South Africa's only boxing gold at the Commonwealth Games. 2006/03/25 01:11 PM
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Cats put up gallant fight
The Highlanders have been forced to rely on a rock-solid defensive wall to hold off a gallant Cats 16-14 in their Super 14 clash at Invercargill. 2006/03/25 01:41 PM
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Sportal.com.au - Rugby Union News today headlines
Force miss out
2006/03/26 02:00 AM
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Bonus point worry
2006/03/26 02:00 AM
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Force fall short
2006/03/26 02:00 AM
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Force go down
2006/03/26 02:00 AM
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Highlanders hang on
2006/03/25 02:00 AM
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Brumbies win thriller
2006/03/25 02:00 AM
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Brumbies prepared
2006/03/25 02:00 AM
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Rogers likely to miss
2006/03/25 02:00 AM
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Sportnetwork Rugby today headlines

Leicester Win At The Rec
A converted try was all that separated Bath and Leicester as the visitors walked away from a dire match 12-19 victors. Neither side looked capable of demonstrating their rugby skills in the incessant rain but the Tigers brought some nous with them from the East Midlands to stifle Bath in the loose. by Glen Leat on 2006/03/25 08:19 PM
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Looking Back Toward the Future....
March 25th 2005. A year ago. Leeds Tykes sat bottom of the (then) Zurich Premiership, looking odds on favourites for the drop. Sounds familiar doesn't it? by baldric on 2006/03/25 02:17 PM
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England Women Six Nations Grand Slam Champions2006
England Women crowned 6N Grand Slam Champs.The title has eluded Geoff Richardsside since 2003 but after Englands 28-0 demolition of France in Paris the Red Roses were in the driving seat & true to form, after an impressive 6N campaign, the women delivered in magnificent style running in 7 tries by Kath on 2006/03/25 12:13 PM
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England Players did not follow orders!
England players did not follow orders when playing Ireland, according to the East Terrace hounds. Question did anyone follow orders? by Kath on 2006/03/25 10:46 AM
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Connacht Rugby Legends - Ray McLoughlin
With a week to go to the biggest game of the season so far for Connacht, we look back at one of our legendary players from the past. The multifaceted, indomitable Connacht, Ireland & British Lion prop Raymond John McLoughlin who was born on the 24th August 1939 in Ballinasloe, County Galway. by Sea_Point on 2006/03/25 04:32 AM
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GP: Falcons Saints Match Preview
So on Friday night we were entertained royally by the Old Boys and the prospects for years to come. So which one was the free match in the BOGOF for you? Its a close-run thing for me, but on Sunday evening it will all be forgotten if the Northampton Saints present do the business at Kingston Park. by Chris Wearmouth on 2006/03/25 03:10 AM
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Connacht beat Reivers in Scotland
Connacht ended their woeful Celtic League away record with a narrow 11-9 victory over Border Reivers at Netherdale. The visitors ended a run of nine successive league defeats away from home dating back to March last year and in doing so they dented the hosts' hopes of a top-five finish this season. by LDTT on 2006/03/25 12:25 AM
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2006-03-20T14:05:00.000-08:00

Gilbert Super 20 Tournament

2006-03-20T09:35:00.000-08:00

Club rugby has received a major boost with the launch of the Gilbert Super 20 tournament involving a number of clubs from the northern provinces.
Launched by former Springbok scrumhalf Joost van der Westhuizen at the Pirates Rugby Club in Johannesburg, 20 clubs drawn from the Blue Bulls, the Falcons, the Golden Lions, Limpopo and Mpumalanga will participate in the pre-season tournament. The tournament will be played over six weeks, starting on Saturday, and is targeted at genuine club players in that no provincial contracted players will be permitted to participate. The participating rugby clubs are:
Blue Bulls Rugby Union: Centurion, Harlequins, Pretoria Police, Naka Bulle.
Falcons Rugby Union: Vaal, Brakpan, Springs.
Golden Lions Rugby Union: Alberton, Pirates, Raiders, Roodepoort.
Leopards Rugby Union: Rustenburg Impala, Vaal Reefs.
Limpopo Rugby Union: Letaba, Louis Trichardt, Pietersburg.
Mpumalanga Rugby Union: Benoni, Nelspruit, Middelburg, Witbank Mica Ferros.
The introduction of the tournament was welcomed by Prof Jannie Ferreira, president of the Gauteng Lions. “I believe club rugby is essential if wish to have strong and competitive professional sides. Competitions like this will narrow the gap between amateur and professional rugby,” he commented.
Willem Visser, executive chairman of Pirates, hailed the tournament as “the best thing to happen to club rugby since the introduction of the national club championships.

Hoskins must deal with Van Rooyen leftovers

2006-03-06T07:14:00.000-08:00

Oregan Hoskins, the new president of the South African Rugby Union (SARU), got a lot more than what he bargained for when he took over the hot seat from his controversial predecessor, Brian van Rooyen.One of the first major issues he has to deal with is a court case - something which was a common occurrence under the Van Rooyen regime.And the irony is that Hoskins' troubles are leftovers from the Van Rooyen era.The Afrikaans weekly, Rapport, reported on Sunday that Griqualand West Rugby Union (GWRU) had served papers on SA Rugby (Pty) Ltd - the professional arm of SARU.The matter relates to the qualifying system that will determine which teams qualify to play in the Currie Cup, South Africa's premier domestic competition.Johan Prinsloo, the SA Rugby MD, confirmed on Sunday that he was aware that papers had been served on the organisation.However, he told Rugby365.com that he was not prepared to discuss the matter as he had not seen the actual documents."I only returned to office on Friday and will not be able to deal with the matter till Monday," Prinsloo said. "I am not prepared to do this interview at present. Once I have studied the documents I will comment."Anything before that would be guesswork on my behalf and I'm not going to do that."According to Rapport's report it relates to a decision taken by the SARU President's Council - which determined that the Vodacom Cup would serve as a qualifying tournament for the Currie Cup.Five teams - The Blue Bulls, Lions, Cheetahs, Sharks and Western Province, along with the controversial South Eastern Cape franchise the Southern Spears - are entrenched in the Currie Cup competition this year.The remaining nine provincial teams - Eagles, Griffons, Mighty Elephants, Leopards, Falcons, Pumas, Border Bulldogs, Boland and Griquas - will do battle for the two remaining places by qualifying in the Vodacom Cup.It is this format, along with the inclusion of the Spears that Griquas are protesting.They claim to have made several counter proposals and also feel that the infamous President's Council did not have the authority to make such decisions.According to the report the court papers claim that the President's Council could only deal with amateur rugby and that professional rugby (tournaments such as the Vodacom Cup and Currie Cup) fell under the auspices of SA Rugby (Pty) Ltd, the professional arm.Prinsloo confirmed on Sunday that the Vodacom Cup format (and the qualifying system) were decided upon by the President's Council - an organisation that was empowered by Van Rooyen when at the height of his powers.He had gathered his friends around him and numerous controversial decisions were pushed through by the President's Council - something which eventually resulted in his downfall - especially when the bigger unions started to revolt against Van Rooyen's reign.A number of unions - Griquas, Border, Griffons and Border - also voted out their respective presidents because they continued to support Van Rooyen, despite not having the mandate to do so.The Spears issue also remains one of the most heated topics on the SARU and SA Rugby board tables.The Spears franchise is meant to gain automatic entry into the Super 12 next year, at the expense of the lowest finishing South African team.But this matter has resulted in the five current franchises - the Bulls, Cats, Cheetahs, Sharks and Stormers - refusing to sign the participation agreement.And Hoskins are left to deal with these hot potatoes, left for him as a "gift" by Van Rooyen.The Griquas complaints - relating to the Vodacom Cup/Currie Cup issue and the Spears' participation in the Currie Cup - is likely to be heard in court before April 7, according to Rapport's report.If the matter follows the trend of the several court cases SARU/SA Rugby lost last year, then the organisation now under Hoskins' control is heading for another defeat.It is not a nice way to start your tenure as SARU boss, but Hoskins always new he would be courting some trouble, having to deal with Van Rooyen's leftovers.

John Hopkins

DURBANVILLE/BELLVILLE

2006-03-06T07:00:00.000-08:00

Durbanville/Bellville RFC development programme continues to grow from strength to strength. We recently hosted our first tournament with 285 players 7, 8, 9 and 13 age groups showing their new-found skills.

The Durbanville Community Development Project (DCDP) proposes to uplift and integrate the general community specifically through sport development.

The DCDP proposes to develp young talent through the medium of sport by hosting various clinics from its main base of operations situated at the Durbanville/Bellville Rugby Club. The main activities will involve Rugby clinics for teenagers with the emphasis on integrating previously disadvantaged schools with well established rugby schools within the Durbanville Community, as wel as refer eeing courses which will teach them the practical experencie and allow them to step into the club system on weekends.

As a community project not aimed at generating profit, we will rely on the generous contributions of sponsors within the community and also nationwide, who shares the aim and goals of the DCDDP.

We are of the opinion that the most benefit from the DCDP will be to those younsters between the ages of 10 to 13. Initially these clinics will cater for 80 to 100 youngsters, which numbers we intend to increase in due course and already we are seeing that the numbers are growing.

Although we will in limited situations require payment from participants, we will rely greatly on generous contributions from sponsors.

Our financial needs include:

1. Equipment
2. Transport to and from clinics
3. Snacks and cold drinks
4. Remuneration for teachers
5. Clothing (at our previous clinics we noticed that many youngsters had to wear their school uniforms, as they had no other clothing available for this purpose)

We have to date been able to purchase balls, cones a computer which was made possible by generous donations made by various entities who have already indicated their commitment to our aim.

Our immediate aim is to provide coaching to all the kids in our community. Our vision is however in no way limited to this. We are already arranging various scholarships at High Schools in the community which scholarships will allow those kids showing potential to grow to their full potential. The scholarships will also include boarding.

We there fore intend on not only providing services on a sports level, but also to ensure that proper education is given to the kids to prepare them for all aspects of life.

Regards

Warren Abrahams
(Director of DCDP)

021 979 3557 (w)
021 979 3559 (f)
072 971 4624 (c)

Rustenburg keeps its All Black Test

2006-03-01T11:01:00.000-08:00

Controversial former South African Rugby Union (SARU) president Brian van
Rooyen will get his wish ... his day in the dock. The investigation in
charges of maladministration that were levelled against him will go ahead.

Johan Prinsloo, the managing director of SA Rugby (the professional arm of
SARU), confirmed on Tuesday that the investigation will not be canned - as
had been reported in the media.

Prinsloo and the new SARU president Oregan Hoskins, met in Cape Town on
Monday to start working through a number of issues left on the table after
Van Rooyen's departure - when he was voted out at last Friday's Annual
General Meeting.

And two key issues were addressed - the Van Rooyen investigation and the
allocation of Test matches.

According to Prinsloo the process [the investigation] was never stopped.
Judge Joos Hefer will be instructed to convene the hearing at the earliest
convenient date.

"It is in the best interest of both parties [SARU and Van Rooyen] that the
investigation goes ahead," Prinsloo told rugby365.com.

"Brian [van Rooyen] always said he wanted an opportunity to clear his name
and it is only fair that he be afforded that opportunity."

Prinsloo also confirmed that the controversial allocation of a Test match to
Rustenburg - one of the many reasons for Van Rooyen's demise - will not be
overturned.

The Test-match schedule for the year has been confirmed.

"Those fixtures must now be signed off and then we must ensure that the
various unions can provide the guarantees," Prinsloo said.

Provided that the Leopards, who will be hosts for the Rustenburg Test, can
provide the guarantee of about ZAR5-million (about US$800,000) the Royal
Bafokeng Stadium will entertain a Tri-Nations Test between the Springboks
and All Blacks on September 2.

One of the biggest gripes against Van Rooyen's autocratic style was the
allocation of Test matches - with the Sharks (who for the second successive
year failed to get a Tri-Nations Test) and the Cheetahs (who for the second
successive year failed to get a Test at all) suggesting that they were
deliberately sidestepped because of their opposition to Van Rooyen.

While the Test-match allocation issue has been settled, the much-maligned
Super 14 promotion-relegation system remains on the table.

Prinsloo said on Tuesday that the issue was not discussed at all at Monday's
meeting.

"it is a very sensitive matter and needs to be addressed, but it will be
discussed at a later stage. We had other matters to resolve now," Prinsloo
said.

All the stakeholders in the promotion-relegation and Spears issue will visit
Port Elizabeth, where they will try to assess what will be the best for
everybody.

Once they have fully investigated the franchise in Port Elizabeth and have
obtained answers to the numerous questions about the validity of the whole
Spears issue, will the matter be taken forward.

Springbok Fixtures for 2006:

June:
10 - v Scotland, Durban
17 - v Scotland, Port Elizabeth
24 - v France, Cape Town

July:
15 - v Australia, Brisbane (3N)
22 - v New Zealand, Wellington (3N)

August:
5 - v Australia, Sydney (3N)
26 - v New Zealand, Pretoria (3N)

September:
2 - v New Zealand, Rustenburg (3N)
9 - v Australia, Johannesburg (3N)

November:
11 - v Ireland, Dublin
18 - v England, London
25 - v England, London

Clubs Tournament in Malta

2006-03-01T02:42:00.000-08:00

New era for SA Rugby

2006-02-24T06:51:00.000-08:00

Cape Town - Sharks president Oregan Hoskins was elected president of the South African Rugby Union (Saru).
He defeated incumbent Brian van Rooyen at the annual general meeting held on Friday.
Former vice president Mike Stofile was elected deputy president and Western Province's Koos Basson has been appointed as vice president.
Saru CEO Johan Prinsloo said he had asked Van Rooyen whether the vote count could be released to the media but the ousted president had refused.
Hoskins said it was a very emotional moment. "It is a great honour and privilege to be given this opportunity to serve rugby."
He added that he now needed to be informed on all the issues before he could decide on the next step. "I've just been elected I need to let the whole thing sink in."
Asked whether his election would result in Springbok coach Jake White losing his position, Hoskins gave an emphatic "no".
"That is not true at all. I have no idea where the speculation came from."
Super 14 sixth franchise
Stofile and Hoskins had clashed over the decision to award the Southern Spears the Super 14 sixth franchise but the new deputy president said that it was a decision not made by him, but by the presidents council and it still stands. However, commenting on the new president though Stofile called him "a wonderful man".
Minutes before the election Van Rooyen defended his position, reminding the sports administrators of what had been achieved under his leadership.
"I had inherited a ramshackled ship and today I hand over a seaworthy vessel," he told the Saru AGM.
"It would be preposterous to blow my own trumpet, but history will show that Brian van Rooyen has achieved more for SA rugby than any of his predecessors."
Van Rooyen said the sport had suffered setbacks in the past year but these were overshadowed by triumphs and achievements.
He criticised those accusing him of being a dictator and autocrat, and said they wanted to get rid of him because of "personal agendas" and "group loyalties".
As to the ongoing internal inquiry into alleged financial mismanagement, Van Rooyen asked to be given a chance to state his side of the story.
He bore no grudges towards anyone in Saru, Van Rooyen said, and, in concluding his presidential address, thanked all rugby administrators.

News24.com

Sailor faces more trouble after booze binge

2006-02-21T12:10:00.000-08:00

The New South Wales Rugby Union (NSWRU) in conjunction with the Australian Rugby Union (ARU) has agreed to conduct a Code of Conduct Hearing into an incident involving the Waratahs' Wallaby wing Wendell Sailor in Cape Town last week.The decision has been taken following an approach from the NSWRU to the ARU seeking clarification on the status of a two match suspended sentence handed down to Sailor, following an incident in Cape Town prior to a Wallabies' Tri-Nations Test match last year.ARU Managing Director Gary Flowers advised the NSWRU that the sentence pre-dated the ARU Disciplinary Protocol Review and thus applied to Wallaby assemblies only.After further discussions, both NSWRU Chairman Arvid Petersen and ARU Managing Director Gary Flowers agreed a Code of Conduct hearing was the appropriate way to proceed following a team Disciplinary Hearing in Cape Town Monday morning."The Waratahs acted quickly in conducting an internal Disciplinary Committee hearing, however, because of the significance of the issue, both the NSWRU and the ARU agree further action is warranted." Flowers said."The NSWRU is concerned about the image of our game - obviously in circumstances where an individual has re-offended, that is something that the NSWRU takes extremely seriously. We believe this process is the most appropriate course of action to achieve this goal." said Petersen.A NSWRU Tribunal aims to convene this week, chaired by an independent senior legal practitioner or retired judge, a representative of the NSWRU and a representative of the ARU. The player is entitled to appropriate representation at the hearing as stipulated in the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) with the Rugby Union Player's Association.

WRU top brass under fire from the troops

2006-02-21T12:05:00.000-08:00

The rugby clubs of Wales are preparing to give a vote of no confidence to the WRU in the wake of the storm caused by Mike Ruddock's departure.The clubs have long been fed up with the way they are treated, are sick of the rumours and counter-rumours sweeping the country and are disgruntled by the manner in which national coach Mike Ruddock departed.The movement currently gathering pace is along similar lines to the rebellion of 1993, when the entire WRU general committee was pushed out of office.The disquiet was originally started when David Moffett resigned, and the WRU did not go about finding a successor to the Australian.The storm over Ruddock has heightened the tension, with the general opinion being that Steve Lewis has far exceeded his powers during the Ruddock saga. The signatures required to force an extraordinary general meeting of the WRU are reported to have been gathered."It is a question of when rather than if there will be an EGM," said an experienced club source to the South Wales Echo."In the interests of Welsh rugby we are waiting until after the Six Nations because we don't want to distract from efforts on the field."But this is going to happen. It's just about when the trigger is pulled."People are that disappointed with the governance that there is every chance a vote of no-confidence will be called along the lines of the one that sparked the revolution 13 years ago."There is outright anger over what has happened to Mike Ruddock."How can we have lost such an honourable and decent man who actually delivered good results?"Meanwhile, Mike Ruddock gears up for his special meeting with the WRU board members with his solicitor possibly even paving the way for a comeback, and challenging the WRU to say whether or not Ruddock was pushed out of office!"Mike is still effectively national coach," said solicitor Tim Jones"He told the union that he wanted to continue until the end of the Six Nations."Unless I am missing something and they have dismissed him, he is still coach of Wales."

DURBANVILLE/BELLVILLE RFC

2006-02-20T07:14:00.000-08:00

Young stars not getting the opportunities

2006-02-19T03:02:00.000-08:00

The Rugby Football Union's (RFU) performance director Chris Spice fears the development of England's best young talent is being stunted by the Guinness Premiership clubs' approach to the relegation battle.Spice believes struggling clubs turn too readily to average overseas imports instead of giving young English talent its head.And he is anxious for the RFU to push through plans that would reward those clubs who produce England players with increased funding."Relegation is great theatre, but from a development point of view one of the major issues I have is that most of my talented youngsters were not on the park for the bottom six or seven clubs," said Spice."They were actually journeymen from South Africa or the Pacific Islands and that does cause me concern in terms of the future production of young players."I would like to see much more of our investment targeted into those clubs who do supply the England players and that would have a spin-off in the style of rugby and style of development our youngsters would get."That is in our strategic plan, to target our funding into clubs that are providing England players."There is no surprise to me that the teams that end up at the top of the table are not the ones full of South Africans and Pacific Islanders."Newcastle boss Rob Andrew recently blamed the creaking trap door of relegation for the risk-free, often negative rugby that the Premiership produces.Spice agreed in part with Andrew's complaints - but the RFU as an organisation still believe in the system of promotion and relegation."Stopping relegation isn't the panacea everyone thinks it is in terms of player development. There are other things that impact on the style clubs choose to play," said Spice.Under the 2001 Long Form Agreement, promotion and relegation will remain in place until the end of the 2008/09 season.But Martyn Thomas, the RFU's management board chairman, is willing to listen to any ideas which he believes will help England return to the top of the world rankings."I believe in the fundamentals of promotion and relegation but you have got to approach it with an open mind," he said."We have a hugely talented bunch of athletes - probably better than anywhere in the world - and yet New Zealand remains at number one. We have to ask ourselves why."We have to remove the pinch-points and that may involve promotion and relegation. Anything is on the table. We don't have the panacea to resolve the issue and we want to listen to everyone and discuss it with the Premiership."We have got to work a way to have a vibrant and exciting Premiership and have a winning England. The RFU's aim has got to be to get England back to number one."The RFU and Premier Rugby, the clubs' umbrella body, are in negotiations about structuring future seasons.The union are not happy with Premiership games taking place this Sunday, just six days before England play Scotland in the RBS 6 Nations.But the RFU's argument was contradicted somewhat by their agreement to play two Tests in six days against Australia this summer.Spice described both situations as "not ideal" and he hopes to re-start negotiations with Premier Rugby over block release days. Original discussions on the issue stalled last year.Another of the season's "pinch-points" is the Powergen Cup, which sees the semi-finals played a week before England face France in Paris.Wasps, Leicester and Bath will all field their internationals - much to England coach Andy Robinson's frustration - but Llanelli will not have their Wales stars made available.The RFU feels a commercial responsibility to back the Powergen Cup, though negotiations are taking place to reschedule the tournament next season."We are trying to move to a World Cup cycle so everyone will know where they stand," added Spice."For the first time in my time at the RFU we are having a discussion that is making some sense."RFU chief executive Francis Baron and his Premier Rugby opposite number Mark McAfferty meet later this week to try to reach an agreement over the Lions compensation issue before it reaches court on February 27.Thomas said: "We have exchanged witness statements now. It is fair to say that with the likes of Bill Beaumont and Andy Robinson giving that information, I hope they take serious note of what those gentlemen have to say."

The Rugby Football Union seeking a new sponsor

2006-02-19T02:53:00.002-08:00

The Rugby Football Union today announced that it will be seeking a new sponsorfor its knockout competitions following Powergen's decision to end its association with rugby at the end of the current season.The five-year partnership has created four vibrant tournaments - the Powergen National Trophy, the Intermediate Cup, the Junior Vase as well as the new-look Powergen Cup for the 12 Guinness Premiership clubs and four Welsh regions.The existing contract expires at the end of the season and RFU Business Operations Director Paul Vaughan said: "We would like to thank Powergen for their strong support of English rugby at an exciting time for the sport. It has been an excellent partnership for everyone involved and the new-look Powergen Cup, with its increased attendances, will be a lasting testament to their involvement."The new Powergen Cup has been a huge success. Matches screened live on the BBC have attracted over 1.5 million viewers per game and attendances are up over 12% on previous years.More than 40,000 tickets have already been sold for the Powergen Cup semi-finals between Leicester Tigers and London Wasps and Bath Rugby and Llanelli Scarlets at the Millennium Stadium, Cardiff on March 4, with a bumper four finals in one day at Twickenham on April 9.With the BBC committed to covering the Anglo-Welsh competition until 2009, the RFU and Premier Rugby Ltd will be actively seeking a new sponsor and Vaughan added: "Our focus now is to find a new partner who will be as committed as Powergen so that we can continue to have exciting competitions across all levels of the game."Powergen's sponsorship of the National Rugby Community Programme, which has seen 150,000 participants through the Schools Tag Rugby Scheme and the Rugby Club Skills Roadshow, as well as 12 regional leagues at levels five and six (i.e London One & Two), has had a major impact on grassroots participation.Premier Rugby Commercial Director Jon Varney added, "The Powergen sponsorship has been an unqualified success and we thank them for their support over the last five years."As well as helping us create the new Powergen Cup, they have also invested in one of sport's most successful community programmes and that's a legacy that will benefit the game for years to come. We must now build on the continuing popularity of the club game to recruit a new partner for the next exciting phase of our growth."Mike Thompson, Powergen's Head of Sponsorship, said: "We're extremely proud of our long term relationship with both rugby codes. We've been a passionate supporter of both Rugby League and Rugby Union over the years and wish them the very best for the future."The sponsorships have come to a natural conclusion for us as a business and with our recent announcement that E.ON, our parent company, is to become a lead partner with the Football Association from August 1 2006, this will now become the focus of our sponsorship strategy moving forwards.

John Hopkins

The Rugby Football Union seeking a new sponsor

2006-02-19T02:53:00.001-08:00

Record turnout bodes well for Asian rugby development

2006-02-19T02:29:00.000-08:00

The Mercantile club of Sri Lanka have run away with the All-India sevens title, in a tournament marked by a record turnout of 20 clubs.Some of those 20 had to spend the day before the tournament qualifying, as the tournament was over-subscribed with over 30 team applications. Five groups of four teams were drawn early on Friday morning, with the four seeds - holders Chennai Cheetahs, Mercaltile club of Sri Lanka, Bangalore Refugees and Bombay Gymkhana. Group D was the toughest draw, with the Bangalore Refugees paired up with Army A and Delhi Lions, who brought a healthy spread of Indian U19 internationals with them. The Refugees eventually won 12-5 over the Army A by dint of experience, with the Army B team also pushing Bombay Gym all the way in a 12-12 draw in two of the day's stand-out matches. The first quarter-final brought together long time leaders of Indian rugby Chennai Cheetahs and Bombay Gymkhana. In a physical and hard fought contest Chennai won through 14-12.Top India player Emil Vartizarian got them through with the added conversion.In an upset in the quarterfinals Army B were beaten by the Bangalore RUFC side while Army A were mauled 47-7 by Mercantile and Army C dumped out of the Bowl by Bhubaneswar. A tough week of fatigues loomed!Chennai ran out comfortable winners against Bangalore Refugees in the Cup semi-final but Mercantile had their first test in a hard fought contest with Bangalore RUFC.In the Plate Kalinga and Bhubaneswar went into extra time and a breakaway Kalinga try eventually settled it while Delhi eventually overpowered Jungle Crows 22-0.The three finals: Cup, Plate and Bowl were all one sided affairs as fatigue in the baking Chennai heat took its toll on the teams. In the Bowl Final, Future Hope of Kolkata, with a side missing most of its stars through work and exam commitments, overcame new boys MEG of Bangalore 34-0.In the Plate, Delhi overwhelmed Kalinga 48-5, while in the final, the Mercantile Club smashed the holders Chennai Cheetahs 34-0.This was a record-breaking weekend for Indian Rugby, and clearly the development work around the country is paying dividends, with four teams coming from Bangalore alone. Rugby is on the up in India!

John Hopkins

Scotland also move up two places

2006-02-08T07:15:00.000-08:00

After a dramatic weekend of Six Nations action, England and Scotland have both moved up two places in the latest International Rugby Board (IRB) World Rankings.England's 34-point winning margin over last season's Grand Slam winners Wales enables them to jump ahead of Australia. They have also leapfrogged France into third, following Les Blues' shock defeat against Scotland at Murrayfield on Sunday.That result moves Scotland up to eighth in the rankings, ahead of Argentina and Samoa.France drop one to fourth, whilst Wales retain sixth despite their heavy defeat at Twickenham.Ireland's unexpectedly hard fought victory over Italy in Dublin does not change either team's ranking position.Georgia defeated Russia 46-19 to move three points clear at the top of the European Nations Cup Division One standings. The Rugby World Cup 2003 finalists remain in 19th in the IRB World Rankings, five ahead of Russia, who drop one place to 24th.Top 50 IRB rankings:1 (1) New Zealand 93.322 (2) South Africa 88.763 (5) England 84.214 (3) France 84.155 (4) Australia 83.936 (6) Wales 81.607 (7) Ireland 80.038 (10) Scotland 75.559 (8) Argentina 75.1610 (9) Samoa 73.9711 (11) Fiji 73.1112 (12) Italy 72.4013 (13) USA 68.3114 (14) Canada 67.4215 (15) Romania 66.4716 (16) Uruguay 66.2717 (17) Portugal 65.9318 (18) Japan 65.9319 (19) Georgia 64.2420 (20) Tonga 62.0421 (21) Morocco 61.5122 (22) Korea 60.4423 (24) Chile 59.2224 (23) Russia 58.8925 (25) Czech Republic 58.7826 (26) Namibia 58.5227 (27) Spain 55.8028 (28) Germany 55.6029 (29) Hong Kong 54.0830 (30) Paraguay 53.6331 (31) Ukraine 53.0832 (32) Netherlands 51.8633 (33) Poland 51.8234 (34) Tunisia 51.3235 (35) Brazil 50.9836 (36) Croatia 50.8737 (37) Belgium 50.8438 (38) Kenya 48.9739 (39) China 48.7940 (40) Ivory Coast 48.5741 (41) Arabian Gulf 48.3142 (42) Chinese Taipei 48.2843 (43) Moldova 47.7644 (44) Switzerland 47.7145 (45) Madagascar 47.7046 (46) Sri Lanka 47.5247 (47) Zimbabwe 47.3248 (48) Singapore 46.7049 (49) Latvia 46.4650 (50) Kazakhstan 46.33

Referees till 12 February

2006-02-08T07:13:00.000-08:00

Super 14 moves into action
The Super 14, with brand new sides in the Cheetahs and the Western Force, gets into action this weekend, with Bryce Lawrence to blow it into life.
The RBS Six Nations goes into its second round. Interestingly all three matches are being refered by New Zealand referees, which must be unique.
International
Six Nations
France vs Ireland at Stade de France, Paris
Referee: Paul Honiss (New Zealand)
Touch judges: Chris White (England), Rob Dickson (Scotland) Television match official: Roy Maybank (England)
Italy vs England at Stadio Flaminio, Roma
Referee: Kelvin Deaker (New Zealand)
Touch judges: Donal Courtney (Ireland), Nigel Whitehouse (Wales) Television match official: Simon McDowell (Ireland)
Wales vs Scotland at Millennioum Stadium, Cardiff
Referee: Steve Walsh (New Zealand)
Touch judges: Jonathan Kaplan (South Africa), Eric Darrière (France) Television match official: Giulio De Santis (Italy)
A team
Italy A vs England Students in Nuoro, Sardinia
Referee:
Under-21
France vs Ireland
Referee:
Italy vs England in Biella
Referee:
Under-19
Italy vs England at Tre Fontana, Rome
Referee:
Women
Wales vs Scotland
Referee: Dale Newitt (England)
Spain vs England
Referee: Ger English (Ireland)
France vs Ireland
Referee: Ian Clarke (Scotland)
England A vs Italy at Imber Court
Referee:
Super 14
Blues vs Hurricanes in Auckland
Referee: Bryce Lawrence (New Zealand)
Touch judges: Gary Wise, Vinny Munro (both New Zealand) Television match official: Josh Noonan (New Zealand)
Assessor: Alan Riley (New Zealand)
Western Force vs Brumbies in Perth
Referee: Stuart Dickinson (Australia)
Touch judges: Paul Marks, James Scholtens (both Australia) Television match official: Bradley Wahl (Australia)
Assessor: Sandy MacNeill or Ian Hailes (Australia)
Cheetahs vs Bulls in Bloemfontein
Referee: Mark Lawrence (South Africa)
Touch judges: JC Fortuin, Willie Roos (both South Africa) Television match official: Christie du Preez (South Africa)
Assessor: Frans Muller (South Africa)
Crusaders vs Highlanders in Christchurch
Referee: Lyndon Bray (New Zealand)
Touch judges: Chris Pollock, Greg Watson (both New Zealand) Television match official: Brent Murray (New Zealand)
Assessor: Kim Eichmann (New Zealand)
Reds vs Waratahs in Brisbane
Referee: Matt Goddard (Australia)
Touch judges: George Ayoub, Daniel Cheever (both Australia) Television match official: Geoff Acton (Australia)
Assessor: Mick Keogh or Terry O’Connor (Australia)
Cats vs Stormers in Johannesburg
Referee: Tappe Henning (South Africa)
Touch judges: Marius Jonker, Johann Meuwesen (both South Africa) Television match official: Phillip Bosch (South Africa)
Assessor: James Apollis (South Africa)
Sharks vs Chiefs in Durban
Referee: Scott Young (Australia)
Touch judges: Julian Pritchard (Australia), Linston Manuels (South Africa) Television match official: Shaun Veldsman (South Africa)
Assessor: Keith Hendricks (South Africa)
England
Premiership
Gloucester vs Leicester Tigers
Referee: Wayne Barnes
Touch judges: Ashley Reay, Bob Mullis
Assessor: Brian Leigh
TMO/Timekeeper: L Bryant , Geoff Warren
Leeds Tykes vs Bristol
Referee: Dave Pearson
Touch judges: Steve Savage, Don Helme
Assessor: Brian Campsall, Ed Morrison
TMO/Timekeeper: David Hudson
Worcester Warriors vs Sale Sharks
Referee: Tony Spreadbury
Touch judges: Lloyd Jackson, Peter Huckle
Assessor: Colin High
TMO/Timekeeper: Matt Bayliss
London Irish vs Newcastle Falcons
Referee: Martin Fox
Touch judges: David Broadwell, David Kurk
TMO/Timekeeper: John Burtenshaw
London Wasps vs Northampton Saints
Referee: Rob Debney
Touch judges: Paul Emerson, Robin Goodliffe
TMO/Timekeeper: A Turner
Saracens vs Bath
Referee: Ashley Rowden
Touch judges: Andrew Pearce, Roger Baileff
Assessor: Paul Bridgman
TMO/Timekeeper: L Bryant
National League 1
Coventry vs Pertemps Bees
Referee: Bruce Robertson
Touch judges: Brendan Fitzmaurice, David Grashoff
Exeter Chiefs vs Rotherham
Referee: Nick Williams
Touch judges: Bob Bullock, Adrian StEastern Provincehenson
London Welsh vs Nottingham
Referee: Andrew Vertigan
Touch judges: Tim Miller, Nick Clarke
Assessor: Clive Nicholas
Newbury vs Plymouth Albion
Referee: Rowan Kitt
Touch judges: Guy Steele-Bodger, Paul Stanley
Assessor: Roger Quittenton
Sedgley Park vs Otley
Referee: Chris Sharp
Touch judges: Tim, Wigglesworth, Martin Buck
Assessor: John Haggart
Cornish Pirates vs Bedford Blues
Referee: Tim Beddow
Touch judges: Nick Williams, Fred Spong
Assessor: Ed Morrison
Doncaster vs Harlequins
Referee: Llyr Apgeraint Roberts
Touch judges: Tim Wigglesworth, Rob Sawyer
Assessor: Bob Wilkinson, Jim Marr
Universities
Bath University vs Exeter University
Referee: Nigel Cutland
Hartpury University vs St Marys
Referee: Alan Biggs
Loughborough University vs Worcester University
Referee: C Johnson
Assessor: Steve Savage
Northumbria University vs Birmingham University
Referee: Chris Sharp
Nottingham University vs Durham University
Referee: Adrian Hartwell
Cambridge University vs Crawshays at Grange Road
Referee: Martin Fox
France
Top 14 - postponed match
Brive vs Agen
Referee: Frank Maciello
Touch judges: Hervé Gilard, Guy Pince
Goal judges: Jean-Marie Piraveau, Dominique Parrini
Pro D2 - postponed matches
Béziers vs Aix
Referee: Denis Grenouillet
Touch judges: Abdel Bouaffou, Gérard Capelle
Assessor: Gérard Borreani
Auch vs Albi
Referee: Stéphan Pomarède
Assessor: Didier Bonnet, Jean-Louis Fillon
Assessor: Mars Desclaux
Assessor: Marc Daroque
Scotland
Premiership
Stirling County vs Currie at Bridgehaugh
Referee: Graeme Hannah
Touch judges: Andy Hepburn, Alan Forrest
Stewarts Melville vs Hawick at Inverleith
Referee: Andy Macpherson
Touch judges: Andy Ireland, Bob Nevins
Assessor: Colin Henderson
Boroughmuir vs Biggar at Meggetland
Referee: Peter Allan
Touch judges: David Changleng, David Anderson
Assessor: Johnny Bacigalupo
Aberdeen GSFP vs Glasgow Hawks at Rubislaw
Referee: Iain Heard
Touch judges: Ted Coutts, John Ferns
South Africa
Vodacom Cup
Free State vs Blue Bulls at Vodacom Park, Bloemfontein
Referee: Craig Joubert (KwaZulu Natal)
Touch judges: Willie Roos (Golden Lions), Lourens van der Merwe (Free State) Television match official: Phillip Bosch (Eastern Province)
Assessor: Frans Muller (SARU)
Eastern Province vs Western Province at Eastern Province Rugby Union Stadium, Port Elizabeth
Referee: Cobus Wessels (Blue Bulls)
Touch judges: Mandla Dakuse (Border), Mtheleni Msileni (Eastern Province)
Assessor: M Plaatjie (Eastern Province)
Leopards vs Pumas at Olën Park, Potchefstroom
Referee: Stuart Berry (KwaZulu Natal)
Assessor: Pro Legoete (Golden Lions), Gerrie Coetzee(Free State)
Assessor: Louis Wessels (Blue Bulls)
Griffons vs Valke at North West Stadium, Welkom
Referee: Phillip de Bruin (Golden Lions) Touch judges: Michael Cupido (Golden Lions), Chris Jones (Blue Bulls)
Assessor: Pierre Oelofse (Golden Lions)
Boland vs Griquas at Boland Stadium, Wellington
Referee: Roderick Barry (Western Province) Touch judges: Guy Lloyd-Jones (Western Province), François Veldsman(Bol)
Assessor: A O’Connell (KwaZulu Natal)
South Western Districts vs Wildebeest at Outeniqua Park, George
Referee: Deon van Blommestein (Western Province) Touch judges: Matt Kemp (Western Province), Jenny Bentel (Western Province)
Assessor: Richard Nash (Golden Lions)
Wales
Premiership
Bedwas vs Carmarthen Quins
Referee: Phil Connett
Touch judges: Peter Soroka, ChrisTapper
Bridgend vs Pontypool
Referee: Matthew Aplin
Touch judges: Mike O'Connor, Andrew Bevan
Cardiff vs Swansea
Referee: Hugh Watkins
Touch judges: Lynn Davies, Mike Jones
Cross Keys vs Neath
Referee: Nigel Owens
Touch judges: David Bodilly, Tony Evans
Ebbw Vale vs Maesteg
Referee: Jonathan Mason
Touch judges: Barrie Gregory, Jerrard Hamer
Glamorgan Wanderers vs Llanelli
Referee: Huw Griffiths
Touch judges: Reg Hughes, Jeff Lake
Newport vs Aberavon Wizards
Referee: Tim Hayes
Touch judges: Gerald Davies, Eric Jones

Rare big match in Sardinia

2006-02-08T07:11:00.000-08:00

Rare big match in Sardinia
Italy A play England Students on Saturday afternoon in Nuoro on the island of Sardinia. Just the venue is an interesting choice by Italy and for the students.
Last weekend England A beat Italy A 57-13 in Colleferro.
The Italian coaches Franco Bernini and Stefano Bordon have made just one change to their squad. At scrumhalf 21-year-old Willem Reitsma replaced Matteo Mazzantini.
Several of the players had full international caps for Italy - Matteo Barbieri. Valerio Bernabò, David Dal Maso, Roberto Mandelli, Luciano Orquera, Antonio Pavanello and Roberto Pedrazzi, .
Italy A squad: Matias Aguero (Arix Viadana), Robert Barbieri (Overmach Parma), Matteo Barbini (Benetton Treviso), Valerio Bernabò (Ghial Calvisano), Christopher Burton (Admo Leonessa Brescia), Salvatore Costanzo (Benetton Treviso), David Dal Maso (Benetton Treviso), Luigi Ferraro (Arix Viadana), Leonardo Ghiraldini (Ghial Calvisano), Roberto Mandelli (Ghial Calvisano), Andrea Marcato (Benetton Treviso), Luigi Milani (Conad L’Aquila), Luciano Orquera (Auch), Gonzalo Padrò (Adriatic LNG Rovigo), Pino Patelli (Ghial Calvisano), Antonio Pavanello (Benetton Treviso), Roberto Pedrazzi (Arix Viadana), Gabriel Pizarro (Benetton Treviso), Tommaso Reato (Adriatic LNG Rovigo), Willem Reitsma (Bellabarba Livorno Rugby), Valerio Santillo (HDI UR Capitolina), Claudio Spadaro (Arix Viadana), Fabio Staibano (Overmach Parma), Mario Vella (Arix Viadana)

Van Rooyen 'kicked out' of the Lions' den

2006-01-31T11:51:00.000-08:00

Tuesday January 31 2006 GLRU executive decided not to support Brian van Rooyen
The groundswell of opposition to controversial rugby boss Brian van Rooyen's reign as president of the South African Rugby Union (SARU) gained new momentum on Tuesday with the announcement that his own union, the Golden Lions, has turned on him.
In a statement issued on Tuesday the Golden Lions Rugby Union (GLRU) made it clear that they will not be voting for Van Rooyen an the SARU annual general meeting on February 24.
Van Rooyen will be opposed as president by KwaZulu-Natal Rugby Union president Oregan Hoskins at the AGM.
Although the GLRU claim they have not decided who to vote for, because they haven't seen the final candidates list, it is public knowledge that Hoskins and Van Rooyen will be the only candidate.
The important fact is that the GLRU will NOT vote for Van Rooyen.
"At the Special Executive Committee Meeting of the Golden Lions Rugby Union, dated 30 January 2006, the Executive Committee has decided not to support Brian van Rooyen in the upcoming SA Rugby elections as President," the GLRU statement said.
"The Golden Lions Rugby Union Executive Committee will decide which candidate to support as soon as the candidates list is available for the different positions."
It is also worth noting that the statement was issued by Andy Turner, the GLRU Chief Executive Officer, and not by the union's president Jannie Ferreira.
Ferreira is a known supporter of Van Rooyen and one of the men on the notorious president's council that has been supporting the SARU boss throughout his two-year term ... despite at least two reports that found Van Rooyen guilty on numerous charges of poor corporate governance and being in breach of SARU's code of conduct.
It is not the first time that a union's president has fallen foul of his own constituents over his support for Van Rooyen.
Four unions have already axed their presidents for their continued support of Van Rooyen. These include Joey Daniels (South Western Districts), Baby Richards (Griquas), Riaan von Gericke (Griffons) and Monwabisi Yako (Border).
The GLRU's statement also comes on the same day that a group of provincial unions met in Johannesburg to rally their support for Hoskins, ahead of the elections next month.
Free State Rugby Union president Harold Verster told Business Day that the purpose of the gathering was to discuss the election and to show their support for Hoskins.
"The meeting will bring together a few of the presidents to start the campaign for Oregan Hoskins," Verster told Business Day.
"Rugby presidents are meeting all over SA [about the election]. This will allow us to think about it on a higher level with openness and integrity."
He refused to divulge which other provincial presidents would attend Tuesday's meeting, saying only that there were "quite a number from some of big and smaller rugby unions".
However, unconfirmed reports say the unions in attendance on Tuesday were the Blue Bulls, the Lions, the Sharks, Western Province, Griquas, the Griffons, the Cheetahs, the Pumas and the Falcons.
In what is another blow to Van Rooyen's prospects of staying on, a senior member of his management committee walked out on him.
SABC news reported that Koos Basson, who is also president of the Western Province Rugby Union, said in his letter of resignation that he was not prepared to continue working in the current circumstances.
Van Rooyen, who has publicly stated that he will "fight to the bitter end", has also claimed to have gone on the campaign trail.
But it is now obvious that he no longer has the support of the majority of the unions and is facing far stronger opposition than he would ever have thought.
Or maybe he knew about it all along and that was why he secretly met with Ali Bacher, the sponsor's representative last week to broker a deal whereby he can make a credible exit without facing the axe at the AGM.
Van Rooyen has since denied that he met with Bacher to "make a deal", although he has since confirmed that he did meet with Bacher - despite initially denying that such a meeting took place.
But the fact that he has changed his version of the events, while Bacher's version remained unchanged, must cast further doubt over Van Rooyen's credibility - something which has taken a severe beating in the past year.

By Jan de Koning
Planet Rugby

Jones returns for Wales after two year absence

2006-01-31T11:41:00.000-08:00

Mark Jones will make a remarkable return to international rugby against England on Saturday more than two years after last pulling on a Wales jersey. The Llanelli winger, 26, has not played for Wales since the 2003 World Cup quarter-final defeat to England and has had to battle through two career-saving knee operations. Jones' return, in place of Dafydd James, is a rare good news story for head coach Mike Ruddock, who has had to plan the start of Wales' Grand Slam defence without eight key players. Brent Cockbain, Ryan Jones, Kevin Morgan, Tom Shanklin and Chris Horsman are all injured, Gavin Henson and Ian Evans are suspended while Sonny Parker announced his retirement earlier this month. But Ruddock has challenged his men to meet England head on at Twickenham and stay true to the attacking philosophy that earned them such success last year. ``We know it's going to be ferocious out there, they will be running straight lines at us and the biggest battle will be for parity up front in the scrums and lineouts,'' said Ruddock. ``Our players are up for the challenge, excited about the prospect of playing England at Twickenham and liberated by the knowledge that if they play the way we know they can then we have a chance to frighten the opposition.'' Ruddock has made four personnel changes from the side which beat Australia in November. Horsman's long-term ankle problem opens the way for Ospreys loose-head prop Adam Jones to reclaim his place in the front row, while Hal Luscombe returns from injury to replace Parker and starts alongside Matthew Watkins in the centre. Jones comes onto the wing and, in another major boost for Ruddock, Lions scrum-half Dwayne Peel returns to the side after missing the autumn internationals through injury. ``The issues we have with injuries and suspensions are well documented, but we have been able to establish some stability in the pack and we have picked some new faces in a backline that we are confident will be able to make a statement in the competition,'' said Ruddock. ``You could argue that the centre partnership is not unlike the one formed by Tom Shanklin and Gavin Henson which faired so well last season. ``Hal is a similar player to Tom in terms of his physicality and ability to run some exceptional angles and Matthew is more than capable of producing magic of his own.'' Gethin Jenkins, the Lions prop and one of the stars of Wales' Grand Slam campaign, returns to the international arena after missing the autumn Tests with a shoulder injury and starts on the bench. Bath number eight Gareth Delve has also been named among the replacements and Alix Popham received late confirmation of his involvement after Dafydd Jones was handed a three-week ban for stamping. ``Alix Popham comes onto the bench on the back of playing some of the best rugby of his career for the Scarlets and, although Dafydd has been a front line player for us for some time, Alix's inclusion is a positive step for the team,'' insisted Ruddock. Wales team: G Thomas (capt, Toulouse); M Jones (Llanelli); H Luscombe (Newport Gwent), M Watkins (Llanelli), S Williams (Ospreys); S Jones (Clermont-Auvergne), D Peel (Llanelli); D Jones (Ospreys), R Thomas (Cardiff), A Jones (Ospreys), I Gough (Newport Gwent), R Sidoli (Cardiff), C Charvis (Newcastle), M Williams (Cardiff), M Owen (Newport Gwent). Replacements: M Davies (Gloucester), G Jenkins (Cardiff), G Delve (Bath), A Popham (Llanelli), G Cooper (Newport Gwent), C Sweeney (Newport Gwent), L Byrne (Llanelli).

Source: Scrum.com

Another blow for Van Rooyen

2006-01-31T11:05:00.000-08:00

Cape Town -The beleaguered President of South African Rugby, Brian van Rooyen, has suffered another blow on Tuesday with the resignation of a senior member of his management committee.
SABC news reported that Koos Basson, who is also president of the Western Province Rugby Union, said in his letter of resignation that he was not prepared to continue working in the current circumstances.
South African rugby has been plagued by turmoil and infighting, and members of the presidents' council of the South African Rugby Union (Saru), have come out in open revolt against Van Rooyen's leadership.
The CEO of the Cheetahs Rugby Union, Harold Verster, confirmed that members of the presidents' council had met in Johannesburg on Tuesday to discuss the way ahead, and the eecutive of the Golden Lions announced that they would not support Van Rooyen in the Saru elections later this month.
Sharks Rugby Union president Oregan Hoskins will stand against Van Rooyen, and support for his candidacy is reported to be going from strength to strength.
Meanwhile, Van Rooyen is to be the centre of the Judge Joos Hefer inquiry into alleged mismanagement of Saru corporate affairs.

Source: NEWS24.com

Australia Trails Rivals Ahead of World Cup, Rugby Union Says

2006-01-27T13:09:00.000-08:00

Australia Trails Rivals Ahead of World Cup, Rugby Union SaysJan. 27 (Bloomberg) --Australia's rugby team trails its rivals in key facets of the game and needs to close the gap to have a chance of winning next year's World Cup, an Australian Rugby Union review said.The Wallabies, who won rugby's four-yearly championship in 1991 and 1999, lost eight of their nine most recent Tests, a run which cost head coach Eddie Jones his job last month.The governing body's ongoing review of the 2005 season ``unearthed critical deficiencies'' that need to be addressed ahead of the 2007 World Cup, ARU Chief Executive Gary Flowers said in a statement. The Wallabies, the only team to have played in three World Cup finals, are rated as fifth favorites to win the tournament in France by U.K. bookmaker William Hill.``If we are to be brutally honest, we are significantly behind many of our competitors in key areas of the game,'' Flowers said. ``We remain number one in areas like defense but elsewhere -- restarts, offloads, lineouts and scrummaging -- we are deficient compared with our major rivals.''Australia was beaten seven straight times last year, its worst losing streak in 36 years. After failing to win a match in the Tri-Nations for the first time since the southern hemisphere championship began in 1996, the Wallabies won just one match on November's four-Test tour to Europe.Australia's forward play came under particular scrutiny after the Wallabies' pack was overpowered in losses to France and England.Writing in the Sunday Times newspaper on Nov. 13, former New Zealand captain Sean Fitzpatrick described the Australian scrum as a ``disgrace.'' The Wallabies were shunted all around London's Twickenham stadium by England and resorted to illegal tactics to stop their opponents' momentum.Jones was fired Dec. 2 and a three-man panel, including 1999 World Cup-winning coach Rod Macqueen, was appointed to find his successor. They will recommend a replacement next month.``What this review is telling us is that we are not simply one win away from getting things right,'' Flowers added. ``The clock is ticking but we will put the right structure and the right coaching team in place to put the Wallabies in a winning position for 2007.''

Sad passing of a great rugby international

2006-01-27T12:58:00.000-08:00

Sad passing of a great rugby international
Maurice Colclough, capped 25 times as a lock for England and eight time for the British & Irish Lions, died on Friday at the age of 52.
Maurice won his England caps between 1978 and 1986 and was a member of the Grand Slam team of 1980.
He was on two Lions' tours - in 1980 to South Africa and 1983 to New Zealand. He played in all four Tests on each tour.
Bill Beaumont OBE, friend, captain and fellow lock, said: "Maurice was a powerful and very athletic rugby player who made a massive contribution to the clubs he played for, to his country and to the Lions. He had a huge heart and will be greatly missed."
Born in Oxford on 2 September 1953, Maurice John Colclough was educated at the Duke of York’s Royal Military School, Dover, and Liverpool University, playing for Liverpool RFC. He went on to become one of the first Englishmen to play for Angoulême and Poitiers in France, where he captained Angoulême.
He later played for Wasps and Swansea.
Earlier in his rugby career Maurice played for Kent and London Schools, Sussex and Lancashire and for London against Argentina and New Zealand.
Maurice had fought against a brain tumour for some time and last season was joined for lunch before the England v Italy match at Twickenham by friends and team mates from Sussex, Merseyside, England and France.
He is survived by his wife Annie and their five children.

2006-01-13T14:45:00.000-08:00

Eastern Province game in Port Elizabeth on the 7th January 2006 at 15H00.

Team Shot following the game against Eastern province

Score: 38 – 5

Try Scorers for Southern Spears: 11- Luvo Shogidashe; 14 – Reinhard Gerber; 8 - Ashley Johnson - Capt.; 12- Basil de Donker; Wing Substitute - Gersham Ramazan; 4 Conversions by 10 – Is-Maheel Dollie
Try Scorer for Eastern Province: 11 – l. Tsotsobe

Next Game for the Southern Spears: Vodacom Cheetahs – 14th January 2006 EPRU Stadium Port Elizabeth

Game analysis and video streaming available off the http://www.thespears.co.za/ website Sunday 8th January at 15H00

Tony McKeever
CEO
The Southern Spears
Duduma + Umbane = Amandla
Cell: 082.9511.488
tony@thespears.co.za

Rugby in South africa

2006-01-12T13:29:00.000-08:00

I am a South African who followed the different discussion closely with regards to the USA and various issues from all the world of rugby. We inSouth Africa do have our own issues as well. On and off the field. But my greatest concern is the way that our Rugby Union do not give to much attention to the ground level of the game. This is club rugby. In certain parts of the country it might be a whole different story but for me who are involved at club rugby level at this stage of the game in the Pumas Union we also have our issues. I created a web site for club rugby in SA www.saclubrugby.com for the amateur players and all who is involved to get their stats posted. Otherwise nobody will know of who the "stars" is at this level of the game.The question is, what is your thoughts of rugby in South Africa? May it be on any level. Give us your thoughts.

Regards

Johan

What is your view of the support Club Rugby gets in South Africa?

2006-01-11T11:55:00.000-08:00

2006 Rugby Season

2006-01-11T10:40:00.000-08:00

Welcome to a new season. SAClubrugby have a lot planned for this year. We are still looking for 15 coaches to join us on our tour to the UK. Absolutely free. Yip free.

All are welcome to post news from all over South Africa of their clubs.