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Simon Bedard

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Joined July 2014

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The problem with rewarding points continuously for all events would ultimately see NZ (in this case) hit the maximum of 100 points and not be able to go further anyway. And while NZ is as close to the perfect team that any sport has to offer (wow…that was tough to admit), no team is actually perfect. So the score or ranking points of 96 actually make a lot of sense.

What's at stake in June: World Rugby Rankings on the move

Thanks IceBlue. I actually think the system works quite well. Despite the comment from Misha (which I totally understand), the system has a strong track record of accurately reflecting results and predicting success.

What's at stake in June: World Rugby Rankings on the move

Put simply, NO.
Wales are going to get smashed and will be lucky to keep the points difference below 16.

Do Wales stand a chance in New Zealand?

Keeping the Force in Perth is preferable as long as they can find a financially sustainable model to support them/. This should not only be a priority for Perth, but for rugby in general. They need to find ways to tap into the community and build greater connections. This will require some new and innovative ideas. Unfortunately we are not hearing anything about plans to achieve this.

ARU steps up to ensure Western Force will remain in Perth

Unfortunately Dell was rubbish in the final…where it counted most.

What questions do you want to ask ARU CEO Bill Pulver?

I think the biggest issue facing Australian rugby is the strategic plan for the growth of the game.

The current format for Super Rugby remains a hot topic. While I believe that any change to the game needs time to iron our issues, I also think that the current format is not ideal, or sustainable. A Japanese and Argentine club playing in a SA conference does not make sense.

QUESTION: Do you see Super Rugby growing further in the APAC region? If so what are the key areas for growth, and what is your forecast timeline?

Considerations:
It would seem like a team for Singapore, and the at least one team in the Pacific Islands would make sense. Ideally Japan would build to have a few teams, and potentially a team out of the west coast of the USA. Growth of the game globally needs to bring in North America, which has begun, but is happening far too slowly. There is every possibility that SA will one day break off from Super Rugby to play in the European tournament where they can earn a lot more money, and play in the same time zone. Similar argument for building up Japan and the APAC region.

QUESTION: The NRC is clearly the strategy for the ARU to grow the game in Australia, so what are the next steps for this competition, and how do we get more people to support it?

Considerations:
Will we see new teams join the competition? If so, when? Where would these teams likely come from?
It is really important that we get more people to these games, and watching them on TV. How is the ARU and the clubs looking to drive this?

QUESTION: What is the ARU’s plan for engaging the next generation of young kids to the game?

QUESTION: Has the ARU considered the impact of technology on the game? Not just from the perspective of the players on the field, but how it can be used to engage fans and build greater grass roots support?

What questions do you want to ask ARU CEO Bill Pulver?

This will be a great series, but I don’t think we have anything to fear in the English side. That is not to say that we shouldn’t respect them as serious opponents, nor do I think the outcome is a foregone conclusion. They are a team in turnaround mode, and based on pure win vs. loss have done well since Eddie took over. But many of these wins have been pretty ugly and lack the finesse of a truly well oiled machine. Eddie may have more experience than Cheika, but I think the Wallabies are a stronger outfit and will win the series…hopefully 3-0.

Eddie's England could be a real threat to the Wallabies at home

I think your right here Elisha. A bit depressing as a Tahs fan, but there you have it. I just hope to see some of Gibson’s flair and style shine through for next season, because as you basically pointed out, the best we can hope for this season is to finish well with our heads high, and making progress on our plan for improvement.

They may have world-class players, but the Waratahs are in a rebuilding phase

I think when you take an-biased look at things (as much as possible) you see that there was a lot of errors on both sides, and a few ref calls against both teams that were not 100%. I am not sure how you go from a bloke getting 2 knees to he head to warranting a penalty try. But I agree that the Waratahs were lucky in many ways. In others they demonstrated some good skills. The Reds also squandered a lot of opportunities. But their set piece is really strong at the moment, and they have some solid backs. They are rebuilding and despite the loss, showing some real progress. On the other hand, the Waratahs are struggling with their game plan. Their set piece has been smashed all season, there are numerous ball handling issues, and their passion for giving away penalties is causing massive problems. As a Tahs fan I hope they can turn this around, but forecast exciting rugby from the Reds in the near future. Let’s not forget that Kane Douglas will return soon, and having Slipper back can only bring positive things (not that they seem to need him in the front row at the moment).

Reds rue referee calls in loss to Waratahs

I agree that both looked really bad, and are unacceptable. An accidental head-high is still a head-high. On balance I htink the ref made the right call, and the prop should probably be cited too.

Reds rue referee calls in loss to Waratahs

Can’t say I agree with the assessment here. Games are rarely lost because of one or two decisions. Secondly, the decisions referred to here were not unreasonable.
Roach got kneed in the head twice, and while the first one by Ready may have been accidental, then the second was either intentional or so negligent that it deserved a response.
Secondly, the alleged knock-on by Foley was nothing of the sort. He took the tap by throwing the ball down onto his foot, not an uncommon thing, and the ball did not bounce up where he could catch it. It rolled forward, off his foot, where he proceeded to pick it up again and run. This is not a knock-on.
Suggesting these two incidents were the main cause for the loss is patently wrong. The Waratahs had some questionable decisions made against them too. But that is the way the cookie crumbles.
The fact is that the Reds lost for a number of reasons, of their own doing. Firstly, they we not able to capitalise on their 3+ phase play. They we fantastic at the set piece but lost their way once they got to the 3-4 phase mark.
Secondly, unforced errors. On at least 2-3 occasions the Reds were on the attack with a try looking highly likely when the ball was passed to the sideline, saving the Waratahs skin.
I could keep going here, but there is no point. The Reds, like the Tahs, need to have a good hard look at themselves and work out how they need to improve.
The positives I took away (for the Wallabies). Our set peice can still dominate. Samu Kerevi still needs to work on his basic ball handling skills, but he will make a fantastic 12 for the Wallabies. And with other big runners in the backs we can still be a major force internationally.

Reds rue referee calls in loss to Waratahs

This issue is clearly not as simple as this article would suggest. One thing this article does not really address is the fact the the Wallabies are a very well established national, and international brand. To continue to develop this requires a more national and strategic approach. Rugby is in a battle for the hearts and minds of the people, and is not just competing against other codes, but other forms of entertainment. How can rugby continue to challenge for support in the major capitals without a presence?
Before even considering throwing in the towel, I would want to see the strategic plans for the Force and understand how they are going to grow the game at a grass roots level, building a bigger funnel to capture more fans, and ultimately more players.
While I completely respect Harris’ opinion (as reported in this article) and wealth of experience, there is a lot more that needs to be considered. I personally would love to hear more from the ARU on the progress of their strategy.

The Western Force should play out of Parramatta

I think it is a wee bit early to be talking favourites or to be dismissing any particular teams. Week 1 is rarely a reflection of what the season entails, but I agree that it is great to be back into Super Rugby and can only hope we continue to see quality rather than just quantity.
Despite being a Waratahs fan, I am particularly hopeful we will see some good performances from the Force, the Rebels, the Sunwolves and Jaguares.

Five takeaways from a full Super Rugby first round

An upset against England would be fantastic to see. While it would throw a wet blanket over the hosts, it would make history for Fiji and throw open the whole competition. The same could probably be said if they beat the Wallabies, but I can’t bear to think of that. They certainly stand a good chance against Wales, particularly with the recent injuries.
Go Fiji…

Fiji: Running the numbers on their chances at the Rugby World Cup

What a bloody sook.
He has the best team in the world….by far….and is complaining because a team used an effective technique to score. Not unlike the Kiwis have done to many oppositions. Boo Hoo Hansen.

Hansen hits out at 'boring' lineout drives

Hey Brett,
A good crack given the uncertainties at the moment. A few comments:
1. I am not sure how Pocock makes it in “on current form”. I am not disagreeing that he will be in the team or the right choice, but he has barely played a game in 2 years and we will need to see form before he gets a start.
2. Foley is yards ahead of Cooper in my book. He is a better 10 for tests with greater composure, a good read of the game (better than cooper), and knows how to find the try line. He might have less razzle-dazzle but I think we need less of this and better overall skills.
Cheers

A look ahead: My Wallabies 2015 Rugby World Cup squad

Great article Scott.

Michael Cheika must resign after a poor end of year tour

Good article. Thanks.
I would say that I dnt think the Wallabies players are necessarily thinking about their rankings so much when they go into games. I can’t speak for them, but having played a bit of sport I have always found that you are focussed on winning the game, focussed on your job in the mix, and making sure you do everything you possibly can to help your mates….not just the team.
I am sure others have already pointed this out, but the All Blacks wouldn’t be fighting for third place, as they would be equal first. They won the inaugural World Cup in 1987 making them dual winners also.
But all in all I totally agree with the sentiment that we need patience, and focus on taking each step at a time. Let’s not get ahead of ourselves.

How to become the best in the world? Become the second best

Well said. Totally agree.
Potzi has been great for the Tahs. Love his big mop of greasy hair flying around mid hit. And the grin on he is face when he gets up. Here is awesome. I am on my feet clapping him from the field every time.
Mongrel is difficult, if not impossible, to teach. But plenty more people have that you might expect. It just has to be encouraged, and they must be able to express it more often.
We should throw some more props into this category too. Why have 1 mongrel when 2 will knock the snot out of most teams. 🙂

Where can the Wallabies find a mongrel or two?

I am in rugby heartland in the north side of Sydney and the AFL were in my kids school leading the compulsory organised sport (public school). They are cashed up and have a string growth plan. Something we are lacking in rugby.
I agree with BB that we cannot use this as an excuse for poor results on the field, and we need to focus on the positives. But there is no denying that as a sport the ARU will measure themselves against their competition….and unfortunately we are getting smashed in terms of crown numbers, tv rights and overall membership numbers. But it is not all doom and gloom. The NRC is in my view the best thing to happen to rugby in oz for years. We need to build on this initiative and continue to capture the imagination or our youngsters…..not to mention, stop losing school boy prodigies to league 🙂

Wallabies know they must beat the Pumas

“what they add to the competition and why they deserve to remain”

Are people really saying this??? I have only heard praise for their entry into the competiton and the amount they have grown in recent times, particularly this year. In fact, most rugby supporters I know we’re arguing for the Argies to join the tri nations before it was motted in 2007.
Great country, great team, welcome addition I say…and it they happen to beat the Wallabies this weekend I will whole heartedly congratulate them (before shedding a quiet tear on my own).

Sticking up for our youngest brother

What a shame. Although some leaders are fantastic at turnarounds and building, others are great at taking things to the next stage. Some unique individuals are great at both. Let’s hope we find the right replacement.

Waratahs CEO steps down after record season

Agree with the sentiment Brett. I am not shy of spelling out my frustrations in the Wallabies but I thought they played really well for 70 minutes. Sure there were some errors, and we kicked the ball away a few times too often, but I can get over that.
To further support your comments…
Kurindrani was outstanding….probably the best on the field.
Fardy finally delivered what we know he is capable of, and a performance that warrants his selection.
Wallaby forwards stood up…despite a few scrums where they got pumped.
It was heart breaking watching Phipps give the ball away in those last 3-4 minutes, that led to the Springbok try. We still could have won the game at that point with a converted try, and then the Boks scored 2 more and destroyed us. But it would not be reasonable to focus on that one event for Phipps. He actually played pretty well.
I see improvement and that gives me hope. A victory in the final Bledisloe would consol me completely. 🙂

70 minutes of improvement let down by sorry final 10

Hi David,
I think there is some logic to your article here, and I can’t really argue with any of your comments. Well said.
It saddens me to say, but I am predicting a Boks win by 16+. But I would love to eat humble pie on that.

When will Ewen McKenzie get the selection message?

The Wallabies need to cut out all the school boy errors, and some of the ridiculous decisions. That will go a long way to improving their chances. They have the cattle..but it is up to them to make it happen.
If we see a repeat of what we saw in Perth and the Gold Coast it will be the Boks by 16+.

It's time for the Wallabies to win at Cape Town

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