It's been a great first weekend. We have watched every game and think it has been the best in overall quality so far with minnows giving the bigger boys a good workout. The smaller teams have by and large played with great pride and commitment and it gives me hope that rugby can expand and grow as a world sport.
Big trouble fro Europe though the main 6 teams have all fared quite badly which is a worrying sign for the NH game. Early days but after watching the top teams play I have revised my list standings list
New Zealand - hate to say this Donny but absolutely outstanding. Annihilated Italy, looked sharp with a total killer instinct. Should win the Cup but the chokers tag weighs heavy and some of the other teams are also looking good.
South Africa - I labelled them overrated and I was so wrong. Looked very good against Samoa. Feisty and fiery forwards, slick backs and in Brian Habana have maybe the star of the tournament.
Argentina - Unsure of whether to put them at 3 or 4 but after their performance against France deserve the recognition. Should now finish top of the group which likely will lead to a QF against Scotland which should see them make the semi. That is a huge achievement and once England are eliminated will be getting my support.
Australia - difficult to judge but the destroyed Jaan ina thoroughly professional display. Will always be hard to beat.
France - Despite losing the opener I still feel they have something to offer. Could be a vicious backlash against Namibia next Sunday. I fancy them to beat Ireland setting up a mouthwatering QF against the All Blacks. That's a game that will make you sweat Donny
Scotland - Scottish rugby has been in disarray for years but they had a good build up ad they put away their minnow opponents Portugal with an ease that England, Ireland and Wales couldn't manage. They will be up for the QF battle with Argentina.
Wales - Canada gave them a good run for their money for much of the game but after some strategic player changes they coasted it in the end. The key for Wales will be to try to beat Oz (which they could do on a good day) to top the group and try to get England (or Samoa :( r) in the quarters. If they finish second and face the Boks I don't think they have a prayer.
Samoa - Could they beat England as Donny has been cheekily suggesting? Well embarrassingly, yes it is a possibility :angry: :(
England - Disgracefully inept in the opener. Brian Ashtom should be kicking some ar__se in a big way. The fans have the right to expect a better defence of our Champions crown.
Ireland - I have a strong affinity for Irsh rugby and would love them to do well but yesterday against Namibia was on the extreme side of woeful. I cannot understand why the management did not take Hickie off after he was knocked senseless by that massive hit. He looked completely bewildered after that. Irish fans must be asking why iconic players of the calibre of O'Driscoll and O'Connell showed such a lack of leadership skills. They need as big a kick as England.
I will be skipping a couple of the late mid week games but the results should either not be in doubt or will have no bearing on the outcome of the group stages.
Next big one England v South Africa on Friday night/Saturday morning. Lord have mercy and hope that England turn up.
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