http://www.rugbyleagueforums.co.uk/forums/ Sat, 19 May 2012 22:31:14 +0000 MyBB http://www.rugbyleagueforums.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?tid=29988 Sat, 19 May 2012 08:45:09 +0000 http://www.rugbyleagueforums.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?tid=29988
The ball speed and handling were excellent given the wet conditions.

Gaz Hock is getting better every game as is Micky Mac,getting Robyesque but with a plan b,c and d if he fails.

Before the game i was nervous with 3 front rowers out but the Huddersfield forewards were handled well.

Gelling needs a kick up the backside though,that or one of the youngsters picked in his place. He makes a lot of bad decisions and has missed a lot of tries in the last 3 games. I think Wane will have him in the office next week for "a chat".]]>
The ball speed and handling were excellent given the wet conditions.

Gaz Hock is getting better every game as is Micky Mac,getting Robyesque but with a plan b,c and d if he fails.

Before the game i was nervous with 3 front rowers out but the Huddersfield forewards were handled well.

Gelling needs a kick up the backside though,that or one of the youngsters picked in his place. He makes a lot of bad decisions and has missed a lot of tries in the last 3 games. I think Wane will have him in the office next week for "a chat".]]> http://www.rugbyleagueforums.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?tid=29987 Fri, 18 May 2012 11:15:47 +0000 http://www.rugbyleagueforums.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?tid=29987
The 31 year old was seeking a 2 yr deal & is now free to talk to other clubs with Catalans Dragons the early favourites to sign him as a replacement for Clint Greenshields.

However, in an about turn - after initially announcing his retirement at the end of 2012 season - Kylie Leuluai has agreed to stay for a further 12 months.]]>
The 31 year old was seeking a 2 yr deal & is now free to talk to other clubs with Catalans Dragons the early favourites to sign him as a replacement for Clint Greenshields.

However, in an about turn - after initially announcing his retirement at the end of 2012 season - Kylie Leuluai has agreed to stay for a further 12 months.]]> http://www.rugbyleagueforums.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?tid=29986 Thu, 17 May 2012 21:54:19 +0000 http://www.rugbyleagueforums.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?tid=29986
With just 10 days to go before a full round of Super League fixtures takes place over one weekend at the Etihad Stadium, almost 50,000 tickets have been snapped up by supporters eager to experience British sport’s unique two-day spectacular.

Magic Weekend kicks off on Saturday May 26 with three Super League fixtures at the home of newly-crowned Premier League champions Manchester City followed by four games at the same venue on Sunday May 27.

Some ticket price bands are already close to sell out – there is extremely limited availability for Category 2 tickets on Sunday and the full weekend – and with strong demand continuing for the event’s English debut, a bumper crowd is expected on both days.

“It’s clear that Stobart Super League Magic Weekend has captured the imagination of the sport’s supporters and it promises to be two days of cracking action,” said RFL Chief Operating Officer Ralph Rimmer.

“Etihad Stadium is a wonderful venue which is on the doorstep for many fans and with so many hotly contested rivalries taking place it’s not surprising that people have been quick to snap up tickets.

“With tickets available from just £30 for one day and £45 for the weekend, Magic Weekend represents fantastic value and I would urge anyone who wants to see sporting rivalry at its best to book their tickets now to avoid disappointment.”

The 2012 Magic Weekend schedule in full is:

Saturday May 26
1.00pm – Castleford Tigers v Wakefield Trinity Wildcats
4.00pm – Warrington Wolves v Widnes Vikings
7.00pm – Hull FC v Hull KR

Sunday May 27
12.00pm – Catalan Dragons v London Broncos
2.00pm – Huddersfield Giants v Salford City Reds
4.00pm – Bradford Bulls v Leeds Rhinos
6.00pm – St Helens v Wigan Warriors

http://www.code13rugbyleague.com/2012/05...50k-crowd/]]>
With just 10 days to go before a full round of Super League fixtures takes place over one weekend at the Etihad Stadium, almost 50,000 tickets have been snapped up by supporters eager to experience British sport’s unique two-day spectacular.

Magic Weekend kicks off on Saturday May 26 with three Super League fixtures at the home of newly-crowned Premier League champions Manchester City followed by four games at the same venue on Sunday May 27.

Some ticket price bands are already close to sell out – there is extremely limited availability for Category 2 tickets on Sunday and the full weekend – and with strong demand continuing for the event’s English debut, a bumper crowd is expected on both days.

“It’s clear that Stobart Super League Magic Weekend has captured the imagination of the sport’s supporters and it promises to be two days of cracking action,” said RFL Chief Operating Officer Ralph Rimmer.

“Etihad Stadium is a wonderful venue which is on the doorstep for many fans and with so many hotly contested rivalries taking place it’s not surprising that people have been quick to snap up tickets.

“With tickets available from just £30 for one day and £45 for the weekend, Magic Weekend represents fantastic value and I would urge anyone who wants to see sporting rivalry at its best to book their tickets now to avoid disappointment.”

The 2012 Magic Weekend schedule in full is:

Saturday May 26
1.00pm – Castleford Tigers v Wakefield Trinity Wildcats
4.00pm – Warrington Wolves v Widnes Vikings
7.00pm – Hull FC v Hull KR

Sunday May 27
12.00pm – Catalan Dragons v London Broncos
2.00pm – Huddersfield Giants v Salford City Reds
4.00pm – Bradford Bulls v Leeds Rhinos
6.00pm – St Helens v Wigan Warriors

http://www.code13rugbyleague.com/2012/05...50k-crowd/]]> http://www.rugbyleagueforums.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?tid=29985 Thu, 17 May 2012 21:45:19 +0000 http://www.rugbyleagueforums.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?tid=29985
Mate Ma'a Tonga mustered five tries under lights at Kaiser Stadium Saturday night, while the home team answered with three of its own.

In what, at times, was a gruelling rugby league international, the visitors proved that their higher world ranking was deserved.

The game was close throughout the 80 minutes and saw plenty of big hits by both teams. In fact, such was the nature of the physicality of the contest that players were left lying on the ground recovering after contact.

The Tomahawks struck first early on and established themselves defensively as planned. The home team had a 6-4 lead inside the final minute of the first half, but gave up a converted try on a borderline call that they unsuccessfully challenged that saw Tonga go to the locker rooms ahead 10-6.

On the opening kickoff to start the second half, the USA knocked-on at their own 10 meter line turning over possession to the Tongans, who took full advantage to score their third try for a 16-6 scoreline.

The USA didn't lose faith or get discouraged and worked hard battling back to 22-20 behind two more tries, but a fifth Tongan score sealed the deal.

"We had a number of chances to move ahead, but in the end it was too many dropped balls and a failure to execute when opportunities arose late in the game," said USA captain Apple Pope. "The effort and desire were there, the execution just wasn't."

Crossing the line for Tonga were Siafau Talanoa (2), James Tutuila, Petelo Tangilau and Sione Fakaosilea, while Pitikeni Fungavaka (3) and James Tutuila (1) added the extras.

For the Tomahawks tries were scored by forward Andrew Kniesly, fullback Kenny Britt and Vai Notoa. Matt Walsh added the rest by booting three conversions and a penalty goal.

"Amazing!" is how Rugby Hawaii Union secretary Shelly Nuner summed up the game.

"Tough one. Boys played hard," added American National Rugby League president David Niu.

It was the first ever Test match of any code played in Hawaii. The USA is scheduled to host Japan next up, also in Hawaii, in June.

http://www.rugbyleagueplanet.com/RLP/Art...150512.htm]]>
Mate Ma'a Tonga mustered five tries under lights at Kaiser Stadium Saturday night, while the home team answered with three of its own.

In what, at times, was a gruelling rugby league international, the visitors proved that their higher world ranking was deserved.

The game was close throughout the 80 minutes and saw plenty of big hits by both teams. In fact, such was the nature of the physicality of the contest that players were left lying on the ground recovering after contact.

The Tomahawks struck first early on and established themselves defensively as planned. The home team had a 6-4 lead inside the final minute of the first half, but gave up a converted try on a borderline call that they unsuccessfully challenged that saw Tonga go to the locker rooms ahead 10-6.

On the opening kickoff to start the second half, the USA knocked-on at their own 10 meter line turning over possession to the Tongans, who took full advantage to score their third try for a 16-6 scoreline.

The USA didn't lose faith or get discouraged and worked hard battling back to 22-20 behind two more tries, but a fifth Tongan score sealed the deal.

"We had a number of chances to move ahead, but in the end it was too many dropped balls and a failure to execute when opportunities arose late in the game," said USA captain Apple Pope. "The effort and desire were there, the execution just wasn't."

Crossing the line for Tonga were Siafau Talanoa (2), James Tutuila, Petelo Tangilau and Sione Fakaosilea, while Pitikeni Fungavaka (3) and James Tutuila (1) added the extras.

For the Tomahawks tries were scored by forward Andrew Kniesly, fullback Kenny Britt and Vai Notoa. Matt Walsh added the rest by booting three conversions and a penalty goal.

"Amazing!" is how Rugby Hawaii Union secretary Shelly Nuner summed up the game.

"Tough one. Boys played hard," added American National Rugby League president David Niu.

It was the first ever Test match of any code played in Hawaii. The USA is scheduled to host Japan next up, also in Hawaii, in June.

http://www.rugbyleagueplanet.com/RLP/Art...150512.htm]]> http://www.rugbyleagueforums.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?tid=29984 Thu, 17 May 2012 21:25:57 +0000 http://www.rugbyleagueforums.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?tid=29984
To qualify, players will fit at least one of the following criteria;
- Be born in Italy
- Parent/Grandparent be born in Italy
- Been resident of Italy for at least 3 years.

The initial aim is to drum up interest from qualifying players before entering a team in various tournaments, including an 'Exiles RLWC' to be held next Summer as part of the full 'RLWC' celebrations.

Anyone looking to be involved in either a playing or an off field capacity should contact Team Manager Carl Brown via italianexilesarl@hotmail.com, follow @ItalianExiles on twitter, or join the facebook group: http://www.facebook.com/groups/425397617484527/

http://www.loverugbyleague.com/news_9033...nched.html]]>
To qualify, players will fit at least one of the following criteria;
- Be born in Italy
- Parent/Grandparent be born in Italy
- Been resident of Italy for at least 3 years.

The initial aim is to drum up interest from qualifying players before entering a team in various tournaments, including an 'Exiles RLWC' to be held next Summer as part of the full 'RLWC' celebrations.

Anyone looking to be involved in either a playing or an off field capacity should contact Team Manager Carl Brown via italianexilesarl@hotmail.com, follow @ItalianExiles on twitter, or join the facebook group: http://www.facebook.com/groups/425397617484527/

http://www.loverugbyleague.com/news_9033...nched.html]]> http://www.rugbyleagueforums.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?tid=29983 Thu, 17 May 2012 21:22:59 +0000 http://www.rugbyleagueforums.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?tid=29983
Rugby League legends Iestyn Harris and Lee Briers will be leading the squad to the 2013 World Cup which is being co hosted by Wales with games being played in Wrexham.

The squad includes players from the North Wales Crusaders including Iwan Brown, Owain Brown, Christiaan Roets and Kriss Wilkes, along with former Argoed High School Pupil, Rhys Williams, now with the Warrington Wolves in the Superleague.

This Wednesday will be the squad's first get together as they prepare for their International v France on June 16, the game being held at the Glyndwr University Racecourse Stadium.

Matt Hayes, Sports Development Manager for Flintshire County Council said, ''This is an exciting development for Deeside Leisure Centre and the sport of Rugby League and through attracting high quality players and facilities to Flintshire we will grow Rugby League in the area and also ensure that we increase overall participation in Sport. Over the coming years we will be doing all that we can to support the growth and development of the game along with providing a platform for elite performance''

Sian Williams, Facility Manager for Deeside Leisure Centre said " The management team and staff here at Deeside Leisure Centre are extremely proud of our partnership with Wales Rugby League and have been impressed with their vision and aspirations to get every child hooked on sport. We feel that it is yet another new development which will help us to raise the standard of leisure provision and diversity of leisure opportunities for the people of Flintshire.

“Having the Wales Internationals training here is a privilege and something we hope to accommodate on many other occasions. This will undoubtedly help us increase participation in our proposed touch rugby leagues and U18s regional team, as well as showcase all of our new facilities including our Extreme, Gym, 3G pitches and the first public day spa in Wales - Afon Spa."

Wales head coach Iestyn Harris said: “We are delighted to be training at the excellent facilities at Deeside Leisure Centre. Here at Wales Rugby League, we are keen to spread the game throughout the country and use the best possible training facilities. Linking up with Deeside Leisure Centre is a further step to establishing a first class base in North Wales that our international sides can be proud of. We are looking forward to Wales v France at The Glyndwr University Racecourse Stadium on Saturday 16 June and we know that this partnership with Deeside Leisure Centre will be a massive help for us in our preparations.”

Tickets are now on sale, priced from £8 for adults and £4 concessions at http://www.walesrugbyleague.co.uk.

Meanwhile, Flintshire will hopefully have their own rugby league side up and running soon, with a taster session getting the ball rolling on Monday 21th May.

The session will start at 6pm on Monday 21st May at Deeside Leisure Centre and everyone is welcome, including any volunteers who would like to get involved with this exciting new club.

If you require any further information please contact Matt Pritchard at matt.pritchard@walesrugbyleague.co.uk

http://www.loverugbyleague.com/news_9035...entre.html]]>
Rugby League legends Iestyn Harris and Lee Briers will be leading the squad to the 2013 World Cup which is being co hosted by Wales with games being played in Wrexham.

The squad includes players from the North Wales Crusaders including Iwan Brown, Owain Brown, Christiaan Roets and Kriss Wilkes, along with former Argoed High School Pupil, Rhys Williams, now with the Warrington Wolves in the Superleague.

This Wednesday will be the squad's first get together as they prepare for their International v France on June 16, the game being held at the Glyndwr University Racecourse Stadium.

Matt Hayes, Sports Development Manager for Flintshire County Council said, ''This is an exciting development for Deeside Leisure Centre and the sport of Rugby League and through attracting high quality players and facilities to Flintshire we will grow Rugby League in the area and also ensure that we increase overall participation in Sport. Over the coming years we will be doing all that we can to support the growth and development of the game along with providing a platform for elite performance''

Sian Williams, Facility Manager for Deeside Leisure Centre said " The management team and staff here at Deeside Leisure Centre are extremely proud of our partnership with Wales Rugby League and have been impressed with their vision and aspirations to get every child hooked on sport. We feel that it is yet another new development which will help us to raise the standard of leisure provision and diversity of leisure opportunities for the people of Flintshire.

“Having the Wales Internationals training here is a privilege and something we hope to accommodate on many other occasions. This will undoubtedly help us increase participation in our proposed touch rugby leagues and U18s regional team, as well as showcase all of our new facilities including our Extreme, Gym, 3G pitches and the first public day spa in Wales - Afon Spa."

Wales head coach Iestyn Harris said: “We are delighted to be training at the excellent facilities at Deeside Leisure Centre. Here at Wales Rugby League, we are keen to spread the game throughout the country and use the best possible training facilities. Linking up with Deeside Leisure Centre is a further step to establishing a first class base in North Wales that our international sides can be proud of. We are looking forward to Wales v France at The Glyndwr University Racecourse Stadium on Saturday 16 June and we know that this partnership with Deeside Leisure Centre will be a massive help for us in our preparations.”

Tickets are now on sale, priced from £8 for adults and £4 concessions at http://www.walesrugbyleague.co.uk.

Meanwhile, Flintshire will hopefully have their own rugby league side up and running soon, with a taster session getting the ball rolling on Monday 21th May.

The session will start at 6pm on Monday 21st May at Deeside Leisure Centre and everyone is welcome, including any volunteers who would like to get involved with this exciting new club.

If you require any further information please contact Matt Pritchard at matt.pritchard@walesrugbyleague.co.uk

http://www.loverugbyleague.com/news_9035...entre.html]]> http://www.rugbyleagueforums.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?tid=29982 Thu, 17 May 2012 21:19:51 +0000 http://www.rugbyleagueforums.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?tid=29982
After a lenghty public inquiry and debate that started at 9am this morning, councillors finally voted 11-4 in favour of the plans submitted by Oakgate to build two new retail units for Marks & Spencer and John Lewis, plus a brand new 6,000 all seater community stadium, with various other leisure facilities.

The move is a massive boost to the Knights - and York City football club - who have both suffered from disappointing attendances and limited income streams at their dated current homes.

http://www.loverugbyleague.com/news_9039...nners.html]]>
After a lenghty public inquiry and debate that started at 9am this morning, councillors finally voted 11-4 in favour of the plans submitted by Oakgate to build two new retail units for Marks & Spencer and John Lewis, plus a brand new 6,000 all seater community stadium, with various other leisure facilities.

The move is a massive boost to the Knights - and York City football club - who have both suffered from disappointing attendances and limited income streams at their dated current homes.

http://www.loverugbyleague.com/news_9039...nners.html]]> http://www.rugbyleagueforums.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?tid=29981 Thu, 17 May 2012 21:04:37 +0000 http://www.rugbyleagueforums.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?tid=29981
Following a difficult start to the Vikings Super League return, O’Connor has come under criticism from a section of fans for persisting with head coach Denis Betts and director of rugby Paul Cullen.

But while he admits to being disappointed with the club’s current league position, he remains confident they are the right men for the job.

He said: "Managing expectations was always going to be difficult and I want to assure fans that we are striving to provide them the best value for money.

"I am as committed today as when I took over the club.

"Of course I hoped this initial squad would be more competitive, we wanted to compete on a par with four or five clubs. But we are on a steep learning curve and evidently we have not yet got the talent we need at this level."

In recent weeks O’Connor has held a number of meetings with disgruntled fans – both to hear their views and outline his plans.

He added: "There may be a sense among some supporters that the club isn’t as concerned about how things are going as we should be, but that certainly isn’t the case.

"This is only the start of a three year plan and in times of adversity you need your fans more than ever."

O’Connor believes that disciplinary problems and long-term injuries to key players have contributed heavily to a lack of form and consistency. He has also revealed that recruitment for next season is well underway.

"We had to make brave decisions to disconnect with two of our marquee players but at the end of the day we have a responsibility to look after our youngsters by setting certain standards of behaviour," he said.

"We simply cannot have players at the club who will potentially jeopardise their futures by setting a bad example.

"Denis and Paul were absolutely right to put their foot down – maybe these things weaken us in the short term but they will certainly make us stronger going forward.

"We already know the calibre of players we want to attract next year and the players we are speaking to know what to expect and what will not be tolerated.

"Players still seem very interested in what we are trying to build here, everyone knew this year was going to be tough.

"In a couple of years we could have some of the best from around the world playing in a team full of exceptional local lads. But to get there we need the fans to keep the faith."

The Vikings squad has been bolstered this week with the signing of Aussie forward Jarrad Hickey.

The 26-year-old former Canterbury Bulldogs star has passed a medical and agreed personal terms after he was released by London Broncos earlier this month due to overseas quota regulations.

Widnes just need to tie up the paperwork before he can take the field.

The Vikings have also secured the services of on-loan Wigan half-back Joe Mellor for at least another month.

But Denis Betts will be without prop John Kite for the next four to six weeks after the Aussie had surgery on a troublesome knee injury.

Some more good news however, is that Shaun Briscoe (groin) and Simon Finnigan (leg/ankle) both had successful operations last week – although Finnigan will not feature again this term.

The Vikings face high-flying Catalan Dragons at the Stobart Stadium Halton on Sunday(3pm).

The star-studded Dragons will be looking for a response following their Challenge Cup defeat to Warrington at the weekend and Denis Betts knows his side will need to be at the top of their game if they are to have any chance of providing an upset.

He said: "Catalan are a dangerous side right across the board, their back-row is truly world class.

"They have a long list of quality players but we have just got to look at ourselves and prepare as best we can.

"Hopefully we can get a bit of luck too."

http://www.runcornandwidnesweeklynews.co...30989483/?]]>
Following a difficult start to the Vikings Super League return, O’Connor has come under criticism from a section of fans for persisting with head coach Denis Betts and director of rugby Paul Cullen.

But while he admits to being disappointed with the club’s current league position, he remains confident they are the right men for the job.

He said: "Managing expectations was always going to be difficult and I want to assure fans that we are striving to provide them the best value for money.

"I am as committed today as when I took over the club.

"Of course I hoped this initial squad would be more competitive, we wanted to compete on a par with four or five clubs. But we are on a steep learning curve and evidently we have not yet got the talent we need at this level."

In recent weeks O’Connor has held a number of meetings with disgruntled fans – both to hear their views and outline his plans.

He added: "There may be a sense among some supporters that the club isn’t as concerned about how things are going as we should be, but that certainly isn’t the case.

"This is only the start of a three year plan and in times of adversity you need your fans more than ever."

O’Connor believes that disciplinary problems and long-term injuries to key players have contributed heavily to a lack of form and consistency. He has also revealed that recruitment for next season is well underway.

"We had to make brave decisions to disconnect with two of our marquee players but at the end of the day we have a responsibility to look after our youngsters by setting certain standards of behaviour," he said.

"We simply cannot have players at the club who will potentially jeopardise their futures by setting a bad example.

"Denis and Paul were absolutely right to put their foot down – maybe these things weaken us in the short term but they will certainly make us stronger going forward.

"We already know the calibre of players we want to attract next year and the players we are speaking to know what to expect and what will not be tolerated.

"Players still seem very interested in what we are trying to build here, everyone knew this year was going to be tough.

"In a couple of years we could have some of the best from around the world playing in a team full of exceptional local lads. But to get there we need the fans to keep the faith."

The Vikings squad has been bolstered this week with the signing of Aussie forward Jarrad Hickey.

The 26-year-old former Canterbury Bulldogs star has passed a medical and agreed personal terms after he was released by London Broncos earlier this month due to overseas quota regulations.

Widnes just need to tie up the paperwork before he can take the field.

The Vikings have also secured the services of on-loan Wigan half-back Joe Mellor for at least another month.

But Denis Betts will be without prop John Kite for the next four to six weeks after the Aussie had surgery on a troublesome knee injury.

Some more good news however, is that Shaun Briscoe (groin) and Simon Finnigan (leg/ankle) both had successful operations last week – although Finnigan will not feature again this term.

The Vikings face high-flying Catalan Dragons at the Stobart Stadium Halton on Sunday(3pm).

The star-studded Dragons will be looking for a response following their Challenge Cup defeat to Warrington at the weekend and Denis Betts knows his side will need to be at the top of their game if they are to have any chance of providing an upset.

He said: "Catalan are a dangerous side right across the board, their back-row is truly world class.

"They have a long list of quality players but we have just got to look at ourselves and prepare as best we can.

"Hopefully we can get a bit of luck too."

http://www.runcornandwidnesweeklynews.co...30989483/?]]> http://www.rugbyleagueforums.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?tid=29980 Thu, 17 May 2012 19:03:53 +0000 http://www.rugbyleagueforums.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?tid=29980
Queensland Maroons:
1) Slater
2) Boyd
3) Inglis
4) Hodges
5) Tate
6) Thurston
7) Cronk
8) Scott
9) Smith
10) Civoniceva
11) Myles
12) Thaiday
13) Harrison

14) Gillett
15) Taylor
16) Hannant
17) Shillington


New South Wales Blues:
1) B Stewart
2) Uate
3) Jennings
4) J Morris
5) Hayne
6) Carney
7) Pearce
8) Gallen
9) Farah
10) Tamou
11) Lewis
12) Stewart
13) Bird

14) Merrin
15) Williams
16) Buhrer
17) Creagh

Can't see anything other than a Queensland victory again. Their pack looks huge in particular their bench which consists of three international forwards. A lot will depend on how the NSW halves go and whether they can target the likes of Civoniceva who is way past his best.

I also think Uate and Jennings can expose Hodges and Tate with their elusiveness, but other than that, Queensland have a near perfect side.]]>
Queensland Maroons:
1) Slater
2) Boyd
3) Inglis
4) Hodges
5) Tate
6) Thurston
7) Cronk
8) Scott
9) Smith
10) Civoniceva
11) Myles
12) Thaiday
13) Harrison

14) Gillett
15) Taylor
16) Hannant
17) Shillington


New South Wales Blues:
1) B Stewart
2) Uate
3) Jennings
4) J Morris
5) Hayne
6) Carney
7) Pearce
8) Gallen
9) Farah
10) Tamou
11) Lewis
12) Stewart
13) Bird

14) Merrin
15) Williams
16) Buhrer
17) Creagh

Can't see anything other than a Queensland victory again. Their pack looks huge in particular their bench which consists of three international forwards. A lot will depend on how the NSW halves go and whether they can target the likes of Civoniceva who is way past his best.

I also think Uate and Jennings can expose Hodges and Tate with their elusiveness, but other than that, Queensland have a near perfect side.]]> http://www.rugbyleagueforums.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?tid=29979 Thu, 17 May 2012 18:45:01 +0000 http://www.rugbyleagueforums.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?tid=29979
There, said it now. Time to wash out my mouth with soap.

Like some poor down the ranks soldier I have to say they made me do it. I read it because I have to for my job.

It serves a purpose of course for all those repressed judges and retired colonels trussed up in their Kent dungeons but it isn't really my cup of tea.

Any paper that employs those busy little columnists Gary Neville and Piers Morgan immediately sets the teeth on edge.

But the Mail on Sunday truly excelled itself this week with its coverage of rugby league. There simply wasn't any.

Wigan v St Helens in the quarter final of the Challenge Cup wasn't a great game but it was a big game, on the Beeb and resonant to a wider audience.

Yet the MoS managed to carry not one word on it in the edition I saw.

No silly evening weekend kick-off excuses here. It was a 2.30 start, just perfect for deadlines.

I've checked and checked again and other than the result - alongside Madrid Open tennis and the Hampshire v Derbyshire scorecard - there is sweet nothing.

This was an edition which didn't have to worry about the usual 40 odd football matches to cover either. Space was not an issue.

I live in the south unfortunately so it may have been covered in a northern edition but that's not really the point with a game of this magnitude.

Has it really come to the point where our game can't even squeeze in a few paragraphs alongside the modern pentathlon and diving?

I'm not suggesting the MoS should be devoting acres of space to the sport as that is entirely unrealistic and would serve no purpose to them.

There's a World Cup around the corner though and the game appears to be dropping further and further off the radar.

Ironically that's at a time when it is better served than ever on TV.

Beeb's coverage apart there is a remarkable amount of the 13-a-side game on the box to bother your Sky hard drive.

Cough up the subscription and on any given week you can watch a couple of Super League games, a Championship clash, Six NRL games, a highlights package with every try from the top flight plus Boots N All.

To compliment that there's the rather good new Super League backchat show to download.

So many riches and yet so callously ignored by some.

Maybe the game should invite Gary Neville along to a Grand Final to guarantee a mention in the Mail.

His United pals Wayne Rooney, Rio Ferdinand and Ryan Giggs are all true fans of the sport.

We could then get Giggs' dad Danny Wilson, the former Swinton maestro who I had the pleasure of watching many times, on Piers' primetime show.

That rogue would have more interesting tales than Ken Barlow and Frank Bruno combined.

http://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/rugby-leag...umn-833741]]>
There, said it now. Time to wash out my mouth with soap.

Like some poor down the ranks soldier I have to say they made me do it. I read it because I have to for my job.

It serves a purpose of course for all those repressed judges and retired colonels trussed up in their Kent dungeons but it isn't really my cup of tea.

Any paper that employs those busy little columnists Gary Neville and Piers Morgan immediately sets the teeth on edge.

But the Mail on Sunday truly excelled itself this week with its coverage of rugby league. There simply wasn't any.

Wigan v St Helens in the quarter final of the Challenge Cup wasn't a great game but it was a big game, on the Beeb and resonant to a wider audience.

Yet the MoS managed to carry not one word on it in the edition I saw.

No silly evening weekend kick-off excuses here. It was a 2.30 start, just perfect for deadlines.

I've checked and checked again and other than the result - alongside Madrid Open tennis and the Hampshire v Derbyshire scorecard - there is sweet nothing.

This was an edition which didn't have to worry about the usual 40 odd football matches to cover either. Space was not an issue.

I live in the south unfortunately so it may have been covered in a northern edition but that's not really the point with a game of this magnitude.

Has it really come to the point where our game can't even squeeze in a few paragraphs alongside the modern pentathlon and diving?

I'm not suggesting the MoS should be devoting acres of space to the sport as that is entirely unrealistic and would serve no purpose to them.

There's a World Cup around the corner though and the game appears to be dropping further and further off the radar.

Ironically that's at a time when it is better served than ever on TV.

Beeb's coverage apart there is a remarkable amount of the 13-a-side game on the box to bother your Sky hard drive.

Cough up the subscription and on any given week you can watch a couple of Super League games, a Championship clash, Six NRL games, a highlights package with every try from the top flight plus Boots N All.

To compliment that there's the rather good new Super League backchat show to download.

So many riches and yet so callously ignored by some.

Maybe the game should invite Gary Neville along to a Grand Final to guarantee a mention in the Mail.

His United pals Wayne Rooney, Rio Ferdinand and Ryan Giggs are all true fans of the sport.

We could then get Giggs' dad Danny Wilson, the former Swinton maestro who I had the pleasure of watching many times, on Piers' primetime show.

That rogue would have more interesting tales than Ken Barlow and Frank Bruno combined.

http://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/rugby-leag...umn-833741]]> http://www.rugbyleagueforums.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?tid=29978 Thu, 17 May 2012 18:28:29 +0000 http://www.rugbyleagueforums.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?tid=29978
The Broncos are joint bottom of Stobart Super League at the halfway stage after winning just two of their first 13 matches and crashed out of the Challenge Cup with a 50-14 defeat at Huddersfield last Sunday.

That prompted a board meeting involving Hughes, whose personal investment enabled the club to spend up to the salary cap this year, fellow director Gerry Bouman and chief executive Gus Mackay and a decision to conduct a thorough review.

In a statement, the club said: "The board are well aware of the frustrations shown by the club's season-ticket holders and loyal fans after receiving several emails this week regarding the unacceptable performances by the team.

"The board's recommendation is to undertake a full review of the playing department. The areas under review are the current squad, coaching, physiotherapy, strength and conditioning (which includes the fitness levels of the squad), nutrition and football administration.

"This review will be led by chairman David Hughes and supported by chief executive Gus Mackay."

After finishing third from bottom last year, London were confident of a turnaround in fortunes after signing experienced overseas players of the calibre of Craig Gower, Michael Witt and 2011 NRL Grand-Final winners Michael Robertson and Shane Rodney.

But Rob Powell's team have beaten only fellow strugglers Wakefield and Castleford and have not won a Super League game away from home for 14 months.

The statement added: "The board are as frustrated as the fans that, after signing new players in the close season who are highly experienced and come fully recommended, performances have not matched expectations.

"With 13 games remaining, this intervention is required to ensure that we can finish the season with some positive results and lay the foundation for the 2013 season both on and off the field."

London, who dropped Harlequins and re-instated Broncos into their name after a re-branding exercise in the winter, will take a second game "on the road" on Sunday when they play Hull at Gillingham's Priestfield Stadium, a fortnight after playing Bradford at Leyton Orient.

http://www.sportinglife.com/rugbyleague/...ml&BID=480]]>
The Broncos are joint bottom of Stobart Super League at the halfway stage after winning just two of their first 13 matches and crashed out of the Challenge Cup with a 50-14 defeat at Huddersfield last Sunday.

That prompted a board meeting involving Hughes, whose personal investment enabled the club to spend up to the salary cap this year, fellow director Gerry Bouman and chief executive Gus Mackay and a decision to conduct a thorough review.

In a statement, the club said: "The board are well aware of the frustrations shown by the club's season-ticket holders and loyal fans after receiving several emails this week regarding the unacceptable performances by the team.

"The board's recommendation is to undertake a full review of the playing department. The areas under review are the current squad, coaching, physiotherapy, strength and conditioning (which includes the fitness levels of the squad), nutrition and football administration.

"This review will be led by chairman David Hughes and supported by chief executive Gus Mackay."

After finishing third from bottom last year, London were confident of a turnaround in fortunes after signing experienced overseas players of the calibre of Craig Gower, Michael Witt and 2011 NRL Grand-Final winners Michael Robertson and Shane Rodney.

But Rob Powell's team have beaten only fellow strugglers Wakefield and Castleford and have not won a Super League game away from home for 14 months.

The statement added: "The board are as frustrated as the fans that, after signing new players in the close season who are highly experienced and come fully recommended, performances have not matched expectations.

"With 13 games remaining, this intervention is required to ensure that we can finish the season with some positive results and lay the foundation for the 2013 season both on and off the field."

London, who dropped Harlequins and re-instated Broncos into their name after a re-branding exercise in the winter, will take a second game "on the road" on Sunday when they play Hull at Gillingham's Priestfield Stadium, a fortnight after playing Bradford at Leyton Orient.

http://www.sportinglife.com/rugbyleague/...ml&BID=480]]> http://www.rugbyleagueforums.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?tid=29977 Thu, 17 May 2012 18:24:48 +0000 http://www.rugbyleagueforums.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?tid=29977
Shenton is halfway through a three-year contract at St Helens but is thought to have been given permission to talk to other clubs and Hull and Hull KR could both rival the Tigers for his signature.

"We're in the market for any good centres and obviously he comes into that category but we're not advanced in any talks with Michael," said Millward.

"Our priority is to sign two centres and we're very active in the market place."

The Tigers are thought to be resigned to losing 20-year-old England Knights centre Joe Arundel, who is out of contract at the end of the season and has been linked with a move to Hull.

With Arundel currently injured, Millward has been forced to play second-rowers Brett Ferres and Lee Mitchell as makeshift three-quarters this year but he says he would be loathe to make any short-term signings, which would rule out a move for former Leeds and Great Britain centre Keith Senior.

Senior, who is keen to maintain his ever-present record in Super League going back to 1996, has been out of the game for more than 12 months with a knee injury but is nearing fitness.

"You never say never but I've only had one discussion with Keith and that was about two months ago," Millward added.

"I told him when he's ready to give us a ring and we'll have a look at where we are with our stock. It's up to Keith to prove his fitness first.

"I'd like to get through to the end of the year without having to bring anyone in. We lack a bit of depth in our outside backs but we're not in a position to test drive a player."

In the longer term, Millward has not ruled out a move for former St Helens centre Martin Gleeson, who will be free to join a club for the start of pre-season training in November after completing an 18-months drugs ban.

"He's not a priority for us but he does come into that category of experienced centre," he said.

"Martin has got to pick up the phone and also say he loves rugby league again. He's a very talented player who I still think has a future in the game but he's got to prepare himself to play rugby league again."

Meanwile, Castleford will go into Sunday's Stobart Super League game at Hull KR without a specialist half-back.

Skipper Danny Orr has been ruled out with a lower-back injury sustained in the Tigers' 36-12 win over Widnes 10 days ago while Rangi Chase and Ryan McGoldrick are both suspended.

Chase has one match left of a three-game ban imposed for a tackle that broke Tangi Ropati's jaw in Castleford's Challenge Cup defeat at Featherstone while McGoldrick misses his first match of the season as he starts a two-match suspension handed out for illegal use of the forearm against the Vikings.

Millward has still to decide on his replacements and admits he could be tempted to give a Super League debut to 20-year-old Ben Johnson, who is currently playing on a dual registration with home-town Championship club York.

"We've spent a fair amount of time this week trying a few things," he said. "We've called another session for tomorrow.

"We'd normally have Friday off for a Sunday game but we're going to do a bit more ball work. We're not sure what we'll do. We've got a couple of options.

"It's disappointing. We're heading in the right direction and it would have been nice to have some specialist halves this week."

Millward also has the option of giving a debut to Ryan Brierley, a half-back who is currently impressing on a dual registration with Leigh.

"We're considering Ryan but we don't think we're going to do it this week," said Millward.

http://www.sportinglife.com/rugbyleague/...ml&BID=480]]>
Shenton is halfway through a three-year contract at St Helens but is thought to have been given permission to talk to other clubs and Hull and Hull KR could both rival the Tigers for his signature.

"We're in the market for any good centres and obviously he comes into that category but we're not advanced in any talks with Michael," said Millward.

"Our priority is to sign two centres and we're very active in the market place."

The Tigers are thought to be resigned to losing 20-year-old England Knights centre Joe Arundel, who is out of contract at the end of the season and has been linked with a move to Hull.

With Arundel currently injured, Millward has been forced to play second-rowers Brett Ferres and Lee Mitchell as makeshift three-quarters this year but he says he would be loathe to make any short-term signings, which would rule out a move for former Leeds and Great Britain centre Keith Senior.

Senior, who is keen to maintain his ever-present record in Super League going back to 1996, has been out of the game for more than 12 months with a knee injury but is nearing fitness.

"You never say never but I've only had one discussion with Keith and that was about two months ago," Millward added.

"I told him when he's ready to give us a ring and we'll have a look at where we are with our stock. It's up to Keith to prove his fitness first.

"I'd like to get through to the end of the year without having to bring anyone in. We lack a bit of depth in our outside backs but we're not in a position to test drive a player."

In the longer term, Millward has not ruled out a move for former St Helens centre Martin Gleeson, who will be free to join a club for the start of pre-season training in November after completing an 18-months drugs ban.

"He's not a priority for us but he does come into that category of experienced centre," he said.

"Martin has got to pick up the phone and also say he loves rugby league again. He's a very talented player who I still think has a future in the game but he's got to prepare himself to play rugby league again."

Meanwile, Castleford will go into Sunday's Stobart Super League game at Hull KR without a specialist half-back.

Skipper Danny Orr has been ruled out with a lower-back injury sustained in the Tigers' 36-12 win over Widnes 10 days ago while Rangi Chase and Ryan McGoldrick are both suspended.

Chase has one match left of a three-game ban imposed for a tackle that broke Tangi Ropati's jaw in Castleford's Challenge Cup defeat at Featherstone while McGoldrick misses his first match of the season as he starts a two-match suspension handed out for illegal use of the forearm against the Vikings.

Millward has still to decide on his replacements and admits he could be tempted to give a Super League debut to 20-year-old Ben Johnson, who is currently playing on a dual registration with home-town Championship club York.

"We've spent a fair amount of time this week trying a few things," he said. "We've called another session for tomorrow.

"We'd normally have Friday off for a Sunday game but we're going to do a bit more ball work. We're not sure what we'll do. We've got a couple of options.

"It's disappointing. We're heading in the right direction and it would have been nice to have some specialist halves this week."

Millward also has the option of giving a debut to Ryan Brierley, a half-back who is currently impressing on a dual registration with Leigh.

"We're considering Ryan but we don't think we're going to do it this week," said Millward.

http://www.sportinglife.com/rugbyleague/...ml&BID=480]]> http://www.rugbyleagueforums.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?tid=29976 Thu, 17 May 2012 17:45:38 +0000 http://www.rugbyleagueforums.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?tid=29976
Leeds Rhinos v Wigan Warriors - Saturday 14th July at Galpharm Stadium, Huddersfield.

Warrington Wolves v Huddersfield Giants - Sunday 15th July at Salford Community Stadium.

Both matches will have a kick-off time of 5.30pm

I would personally have liked to see the 2nd semi awarded to Leigh Sports Village, which is a much more accessible stadium with a better atmosphere.]]>
Leeds Rhinos v Wigan Warriors - Saturday 14th July at Galpharm Stadium, Huddersfield.

Warrington Wolves v Huddersfield Giants - Sunday 15th July at Salford Community Stadium.

Both matches will have a kick-off time of 5.30pm

I would personally have liked to see the 2nd semi awarded to Leigh Sports Village, which is a much more accessible stadium with a better atmosphere.]]> http://www.rugbyleagueforums.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?tid=29975 Wed, 16 May 2012 18:12:11 +0000 http://www.rugbyleagueforums.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?tid=29975 Friday, 18 May 2012
Huddersfield v Wigan
Salford v Bradford

Sunday, 20 May 2012
Hull K R v Castleford
London Broncos v Hull
Widnes v Catalan Dragons
Wakefield v Warrington

Monday, 21 May 2012
Leeds v St Helens]]> Friday, 18 May 2012
Huddersfield v Wigan
Salford v Bradford

Sunday, 20 May 2012
Hull K R v Castleford
London Broncos v Hull
Widnes v Catalan Dragons
Wakefield v Warrington

Monday, 21 May 2012
Leeds v St Helens]]> http://www.rugbyleagueforums.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?tid=29974 Wed, 16 May 2012 18:07:07 +0000 http://www.rugbyleagueforums.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?tid=29974 Mullally got bad advice, says Denis Betts

WIDNES coach Denis Betts believes want-away prop forward Anthony Mullally has been given ‘bad advice’.

The 20 year-old has rejected all overtures from the Vikings in respect of a new contract and looks set to leave for pastures new when his current deal runs out at the end of the season.

Mullally spent last season learning his trade with crack Australian outfit Brisbane Broncos under an initiative driven by Vikings’ Director of Rugby, Paul Cullen.

But with high-flying Super League outfit, Huddersfield Giants, rumoured to be interested in his signature, it looks like Widnes may have lost out for 2013.

Betts said: “After his first outing when he got back I sat down with him and we spoke about this year and his development and how we were going to progress him.

“If he did certain things and hit certain requirements, then I was willing to keep him around the team. He did that, I kept him round the team; I kept him in the team even though he fell down quite considerably in other areas and cost us points or field-position. But he was doing the things I was asking and getting better.

“I couldn’t have him in the first team on the contract he was on, so we offered him an upgrade in line with other lads who are of similar ilk and standing within our squad. He turned us down flat. I think he got some real bad advice from an agent. Real bad.”

After putting a lot of work into developing Mullally’s game, Betts is disappointed how things have panned out. The Widnes boss is now looking to re-focus towards players who may still be wearing the black& white next season.

“People make decisions in life so it’s not about being let down by him or upset by him. If he was at any other club he wouldn’t be in the starting Super League side but because he’s here he’s getting the opportunity to play there.

“If he feels he wants to develop himself somewhere else, I have to consider there are players who want to play here and are playing for contracts who need work (on their games). And the amount of time and effort that went in to trying to make ‘Mull’ better – his tackle technique, his retreat, his understanding of the game, the one-on-one stuff – it was quite hard work.

“We’ve had to come away from that because he doesn’t want to be here. He’s made a conscious decision so I’ve got to focus my energies somewhere else and my staff’s energies somewhere else.”

In the meantime, Betts has confirmed the Vikings have agreed terms with Australian forward Jarrod Hickey.

The prop or second row had been with London Broncos but never donned the shirt having fallen foul of overseas quota restrictions.

Widnes need to tie up the paperwork before Hickey can take the field.

Read More http://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/sport/rug...z1v3b2WOBB]]> Mullally got bad advice, says Denis Betts

WIDNES coach Denis Betts believes want-away prop forward Anthony Mullally has been given ‘bad advice’.

The 20 year-old has rejected all overtures from the Vikings in respect of a new contract and looks set to leave for pastures new when his current deal runs out at the end of the season.

Mullally spent last season learning his trade with crack Australian outfit Brisbane Broncos under an initiative driven by Vikings’ Director of Rugby, Paul Cullen.

But with high-flying Super League outfit, Huddersfield Giants, rumoured to be interested in his signature, it looks like Widnes may have lost out for 2013.

Betts said: “After his first outing when he got back I sat down with him and we spoke about this year and his development and how we were going to progress him.

“If he did certain things and hit certain requirements, then I was willing to keep him around the team. He did that, I kept him round the team; I kept him in the team even though he fell down quite considerably in other areas and cost us points or field-position. But he was doing the things I was asking and getting better.

“I couldn’t have him in the first team on the contract he was on, so we offered him an upgrade in line with other lads who are of similar ilk and standing within our squad. He turned us down flat. I think he got some real bad advice from an agent. Real bad.”

After putting a lot of work into developing Mullally’s game, Betts is disappointed how things have panned out. The Widnes boss is now looking to re-focus towards players who may still be wearing the black& white next season.

“People make decisions in life so it’s not about being let down by him or upset by him. If he was at any other club he wouldn’t be in the starting Super League side but because he’s here he’s getting the opportunity to play there.

“If he feels he wants to develop himself somewhere else, I have to consider there are players who want to play here and are playing for contracts who need work (on their games). And the amount of time and effort that went in to trying to make ‘Mull’ better – his tackle technique, his retreat, his understanding of the game, the one-on-one stuff – it was quite hard work.

“We’ve had to come away from that because he doesn’t want to be here. He’s made a conscious decision so I’ve got to focus my energies somewhere else and my staff’s energies somewhere else.”

In the meantime, Betts has confirmed the Vikings have agreed terms with Australian forward Jarrod Hickey.

The prop or second row had been with London Broncos but never donned the shirt having fallen foul of overseas quota restrictions.

Widnes need to tie up the paperwork before Hickey can take the field.

Read More http://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/sport/rug...z1v3b2WOBB]]> http://www.rugbyleagueforums.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?tid=29973 Tue, 15 May 2012 21:48:59 +0000 http://www.rugbyleagueforums.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?tid=29973
Northampton Town Football Club have announced the new team, who will be based at the ground, will have a name paying tribute to the huge historical importance of the area, and will be called the Northampton Rebels.

‘The Rebels’, who will kick off in Championship 1 of the league next February, had their name chosen by a public vote, and Cobblers and Saints supporter John Marlow was the man to come up with the title.

He said: “I am delighted and honoured that Rebels has been voted for by fans to become the name of the new rugby league side.

“The name pays tribute to Northampton’s support for the Parliamentarians during the English Civil War. This was an important point in not only our history but the history of the country.”

He added: “It’s exciting to know that Northampton Rebels will be represented nationally in Championship 1.

“I am honoured to be part of this history and it is something that I will proudly share with my children and grandchildren. Go Rebels! ”

The Northampton Rugby League fan panel chose the name out of 67 suggestions to go on a shortlist of seven, which then went out to the public vote.

The name ‘Rebels’ was successfully chosen ahead of Revolution, Vipers, Nemesis, Pioneers, Roundheads and Diggers.

Supporters are now invited to help choose a badge for the new club and four potential designs can be picked from.

To view the badges and cast a vote, visit http://www.rebels-vote.co.uk.

The closing date is June 14 and the design for the new badge will be revealed shortly afterwards.

Follow the Rebels on Twitter at http://www.twitter.com/rebelsrl.

http://www.northamptonchron.co.uk/sport/...-1-3838432]]>
Northampton Town Football Club have announced the new team, who will be based at the ground, will have a name paying tribute to the huge historical importance of the area, and will be called the Northampton Rebels.

‘The Rebels’, who will kick off in Championship 1 of the league next February, had their name chosen by a public vote, and Cobblers and Saints supporter John Marlow was the man to come up with the title.

He said: “I am delighted and honoured that Rebels has been voted for by fans to become the name of the new rugby league side.

“The name pays tribute to Northampton’s support for the Parliamentarians during the English Civil War. This was an important point in not only our history but the history of the country.”

He added: “It’s exciting to know that Northampton Rebels will be represented nationally in Championship 1.

“I am honoured to be part of this history and it is something that I will proudly share with my children and grandchildren. Go Rebels! ”

The Northampton Rugby League fan panel chose the name out of 67 suggestions to go on a shortlist of seven, which then went out to the public vote.

The name ‘Rebels’ was successfully chosen ahead of Revolution, Vipers, Nemesis, Pioneers, Roundheads and Diggers.

Supporters are now invited to help choose a badge for the new club and four potential designs can be picked from.

To view the badges and cast a vote, visit http://www.rebels-vote.co.uk.

The closing date is June 14 and the design for the new badge will be revealed shortly afterwards.

Follow the Rebels on Twitter at http://www.twitter.com/rebelsrl.

http://www.northamptonchron.co.uk/sport/...-1-3838432]]> http://www.rugbyleagueforums.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?tid=29972 Tue, 15 May 2012 21:44:46 +0000 http://www.rugbyleagueforums.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?tid=29972
Brown, who is in his fourth season in Super League and will take over at St Helens next year, was scathing of McNamara’s decision to give New Zealand-born stand-off Rangi Chase his England cap in last year’s Four Nations Series. He is equally critical of the call-up of Catalan’s Australia-raised hooker Ian Henderson for this year’s internationals, especially at the expense of in-form Giants hooker Luke Robinson.

Although Henderson was born in Torquay and represented Scotland in the 2008 World Cup after qualifying through his Glasgow-born father, Brown is adamant that he should not play for England. He said: “If something looks like a duck, quacks like a duck, it’s a duck, isn’t it?

“He looks Aussie and talks Aussie so I suppose he is an Aussie.”

McNamara also risked criticism last year for selecting Sydney-born forward Chris Heighington and Queensland-raised centre Jack Reed, who added more overseas accents to the England training camp.

Brown was surprised over the omission from McNamara’s elite training squad of Robinson, who postponed his wedding in 2010 to go on the Four Nations trip to Australia and New Zealand and was arguably England’s best player.

The 27-year-old Robinson has also been in good form this year and was man of the match in Huddersfield’s 50-14 win over London Broncos in Sunday’s Carnegie Challenge Cup quarter-final.

Brown also echoed the disappointment of Castleford coach Ian Millward, another Australian, over the non-selection of promising 21-year-old hooker Daryl Clark in either of the national squads.

“Robbo went to Australia and got player of the tour,” said Brown. “Then he was man of the match in the Exiles game but didn’t get picked after that.

“I feel sorry for him, especially when they put an Aussie ahead of him.

“Ian Henderson is an Australian. He is not a Pommie. Rangi Chase is a good bloke and a good friend of mine. But Rangi Chase says ’bro’ and has got Maori tattoos. That’s because he is a Kiwi, he’s not English. When you have good young players in England playing well, like Daz Clark, they should be selected in my opinion. He shouldn’t pick a team that Nathan Brown likes because I am not coach of England. But I feel sorry for some of the English players. As I said, if something looks like a duck, quacks like a duck, it’s not a cow, is it?”

Read More http://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/sport/rug...z1uyde85GP]]>
Brown, who is in his fourth season in Super League and will take over at St Helens next year, was scathing of McNamara’s decision to give New Zealand-born stand-off Rangi Chase his England cap in last year’s Four Nations Series. He is equally critical of the call-up of Catalan’s Australia-raised hooker Ian Henderson for this year’s internationals, especially at the expense of in-form Giants hooker Luke Robinson.

Although Henderson was born in Torquay and represented Scotland in the 2008 World Cup after qualifying through his Glasgow-born father, Brown is adamant that he should not play for England. He said: “If something looks like a duck, quacks like a duck, it’s a duck, isn’t it?

“He looks Aussie and talks Aussie so I suppose he is an Aussie.”

McNamara also risked criticism last year for selecting Sydney-born forward Chris Heighington and Queensland-raised centre Jack Reed, who added more overseas accents to the England training camp.

Brown was surprised over the omission from McNamara’s elite training squad of Robinson, who postponed his wedding in 2010 to go on the Four Nations trip to Australia and New Zealand and was arguably England’s best player.

The 27-year-old Robinson has also been in good form this year and was man of the match in Huddersfield’s 50-14 win over London Broncos in Sunday’s Carnegie Challenge Cup quarter-final.

Brown also echoed the disappointment of Castleford coach Ian Millward, another Australian, over the non-selection of promising 21-year-old hooker Daryl Clark in either of the national squads.

“Robbo went to Australia and got player of the tour,” said Brown. “Then he was man of the match in the Exiles game but didn’t get picked after that.

“I feel sorry for him, especially when they put an Aussie ahead of him.

“Ian Henderson is an Australian. He is not a Pommie. Rangi Chase is a good bloke and a good friend of mine. But Rangi Chase says ’bro’ and has got Maori tattoos. That’s because he is a Kiwi, he’s not English. When you have good young players in England playing well, like Daz Clark, they should be selected in my opinion. He shouldn’t pick a team that Nathan Brown likes because I am not coach of England. But I feel sorry for some of the English players. As I said, if something looks like a duck, quacks like a duck, it’s not a cow, is it?”

Read More http://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/sport/rug...z1uyde85GP]]> http://www.rugbyleagueforums.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?tid=29971 Tue, 15 May 2012 21:40:15 +0000 http://www.rugbyleagueforums.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?tid=29971
Flower suffered a hamstring injury during an under-20s game at the weekend, while Prescott damaged knee ligaments in the Warriors' 18-4 Challenge Cup quarter-final win over St Helens on Saturday.

Coach Shaun Wane, who is hoping front-rower Epalahame Lauaki, who was knocked out against the Saints, and centre Darrell Goulding will both be fit for Friday's clash with second-placed Huddersfield at the Galpharm Stadium, feels the adversity of losing two key men will give an opportunity to some youth players to make the step up.

"Ben would have played this week so sadly those two are out for the forseeable future," said Wane.

"It does, however, give a chance to some of our youngsters, Gil Dudson and Dom Crosby and the like, who are ready to play and I have put pressure on our junior coaches to make sure these sort of players are up to speed and are ready to come into our team."

http://www.eatsleepsport.com/rugby-leagu...29654.html]]>
Flower suffered a hamstring injury during an under-20s game at the weekend, while Prescott damaged knee ligaments in the Warriors' 18-4 Challenge Cup quarter-final win over St Helens on Saturday.

Coach Shaun Wane, who is hoping front-rower Epalahame Lauaki, who was knocked out against the Saints, and centre Darrell Goulding will both be fit for Friday's clash with second-placed Huddersfield at the Galpharm Stadium, feels the adversity of losing two key men will give an opportunity to some youth players to make the step up.

"Ben would have played this week so sadly those two are out for the forseeable future," said Wane.

"It does, however, give a chance to some of our youngsters, Gil Dudson and Dom Crosby and the like, who are ready to play and I have put pressure on our junior coaches to make sure these sort of players are up to speed and are ready to come into our team."

http://www.eatsleepsport.com/rugby-leagu...29654.html]]> http://www.rugbyleagueforums.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?tid=29970 Tue, 15 May 2012 21:39:05 +0000 http://www.rugbyleagueforums.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?tid=29970
Tackles such as chicken wings, crocodile rolls and cannonballs were on the menu at a Rugby Football League media briefing as the governing body demonstrated the transparency of their disciplinary procedures.

The RFL laid bare the whole process, from applying on-field discipline through to the match-review system and the weekly disciplinary hearings at an illuminating presentation at their Red Hall headquarters.

The complete system was revamped at the start of the 2011 season and refined this year with the introduction of the early-guilty plea and the aid of further technological advances.

The outcome, according to match officials director Stuart Cummings, has been a marked improvement in discipline, demonstrated by facts which point to just 28 players being charged so far at the halfway of the Stobart Super League season, compared to 67 for the whole of the 2011 campaign.

That might suggest a reduction in the detection rate but scrutiny has never been more meticulous, with a host of high-definition cameras ensuring the Super League players have no place to hide.

The RFL’s technical co-ordinator Jon Sharp, the former head coach of Huddersfield Giants who now leads the match-review panel, reckons each panellist spends three to hours poring over footage from the weekend’s Super League matches.

Those panellists include former Great Britain international Paul Dixon and ex-referee and player Steve Presley.

And compliance manager Graeme Sarjeant reveals it takes between five and eight hours for the panel to reach all their verdicts before handing over the cases to a disciplinary committee.

Peter Charlesworth, one of four sitting or retired high court judges who chair the weekly hearings, provided an outline of the mechanics involved, including those in the recent case involving Castleford Tigers’ Rangi Chase.

The judge is joined on the tribunal by former players drawn from a panel which includes Ikram Butt (Leeds Rhinos and Featherstone), Graham Hallas (Leeds and Halifax) and Wilf George (Huddersfield, Widnes Vikings and Halifax).

According to the statistics, Super League players received an average suspension of 1.4 matches in 2011, compared to 1.8 for those in the Championship, evidence the RFL claim dispels the theory that penalties handed out to part-time players are far more severe than to their full-time counterparts.

The governing body is particularly proud of the absence of any offences relating to fighting, with mass brawls in Super League at least seemingly confined to history.

Not that the referees are infallible. The statistics show they make an average of 3.5 errors in each game, which show they are human after all.

“We just hope they have no major effects in a game,” said Cummings, who revealed his eight full-time Super League referees know what it is like to be on the end of some foul play.

One of Sharp’s first tasks on his appointment at Red Hall was to conduct a training session on the wrestling techniques such as chicken wings the League are attempting - with success it must be admitted - to eradicate and the referees gained the bruises as a painful reminder.

http://www.superleague.co.uk/article/250...ansparency]]>
Tackles such as chicken wings, crocodile rolls and cannonballs were on the menu at a Rugby Football League media briefing as the governing body demonstrated the transparency of their disciplinary procedures.

The RFL laid bare the whole process, from applying on-field discipline through to the match-review system and the weekly disciplinary hearings at an illuminating presentation at their Red Hall headquarters.

The complete system was revamped at the start of the 2011 season and refined this year with the introduction of the early-guilty plea and the aid of further technological advances.

The outcome, according to match officials director Stuart Cummings, has been a marked improvement in discipline, demonstrated by facts which point to just 28 players being charged so far at the halfway of the Stobart Super League season, compared to 67 for the whole of the 2011 campaign.

That might suggest a reduction in the detection rate but scrutiny has never been more meticulous, with a host of high-definition cameras ensuring the Super League players have no place to hide.

The RFL’s technical co-ordinator Jon Sharp, the former head coach of Huddersfield Giants who now leads the match-review panel, reckons each panellist spends three to hours poring over footage from the weekend’s Super League matches.

Those panellists include former Great Britain international Paul Dixon and ex-referee and player Steve Presley.

And compliance manager Graeme Sarjeant reveals it takes between five and eight hours for the panel to reach all their verdicts before handing over the cases to a disciplinary committee.

Peter Charlesworth, one of four sitting or retired high court judges who chair the weekly hearings, provided an outline of the mechanics involved, including those in the recent case involving Castleford Tigers’ Rangi Chase.

The judge is joined on the tribunal by former players drawn from a panel which includes Ikram Butt (Leeds Rhinos and Featherstone), Graham Hallas (Leeds and Halifax) and Wilf George (Huddersfield, Widnes Vikings and Halifax).

According to the statistics, Super League players received an average suspension of 1.4 matches in 2011, compared to 1.8 for those in the Championship, evidence the RFL claim dispels the theory that penalties handed out to part-time players are far more severe than to their full-time counterparts.

The governing body is particularly proud of the absence of any offences relating to fighting, with mass brawls in Super League at least seemingly confined to history.

Not that the referees are infallible. The statistics show they make an average of 3.5 errors in each game, which show they are human after all.

“We just hope they have no major effects in a game,” said Cummings, who revealed his eight full-time Super League referees know what it is like to be on the end of some foul play.

One of Sharp’s first tasks on his appointment at Red Hall was to conduct a training session on the wrestling techniques such as chicken wings the League are attempting - with success it must be admitted - to eradicate and the referees gained the bruises as a painful reminder.

http://www.superleague.co.uk/article/250...ansparency]]> http://www.rugbyleagueforums.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?tid=29969 Mon, 14 May 2012 19:40:26 +0000 http://www.rugbyleagueforums.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?tid=29969
Smiler got a correct prediction in the Hudds v London game, which takes him to the top with only two rounds to go.


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Smiler got a correct prediction in the Hudds v London game, which takes him to the top with only two rounds to go.


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