Wales vs Ireland - Six Nations

First topic message reminder :

Date - Saturday 2nd February 2013, KO 13:30
Venue - Millennium Stadium, Cardiff Wales

Coverage - Watch live on BBC One NI, BBC One HD
Internet - http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/rugby-union/
Radio - BBC Radio Ulster
Replay the Game - BBC iPlayer

Wales Team

15 L Halfpenny
14 A Cuthbert
13 J Davies
12 J Roberts
11 G North
10 D Biggar
09 M Phillips
01 G Jenkins
02 M Rees
03 A Jones
04 A Coombs
05 I Evans
06 A Shingler
08 T Faletau
07 S Warburton (capt)

Replacements

16 K Owens
17 C Mitchell
18 P James
19 O Kohn
20 J Tipuric
21 L Williams
22 S Williams
23 J Hook


Ireland Team

01 Cian Healy
02 Rory Best
03 Mike Ross
03 Donnacha Ryan
05 Mike McCarthy
06 Peter O'Mahony
07 Sean O'Brien
08 Jamie Heaslip (c)
09 Conor Murray
10 Jonathan Sexton
11 Simon Zebo
12 Gordon Darcy
13 Brian O'Driscoll
14 Craig Gilroy
15 Rob Kearney

Replacements

16 Sean Cronin
17 Dave Kilcoyne
18 Declan Fitzpatrick
19 Donnacha O'Callaghan
20 Chris Henry
21 Eoin Reddan
22 Ronan O'Gara
23 Keith Earls



TOURNAMENT RECORD

MATCH FACTS

HEAD-TO-HEAD
These two nations have clashed on 118 occasions since 1882. Wales have 65 wins; Ireland 47.

Wales have won their last three Tests against Ireland; two in the Six Nations, one at the 2011 Rugby World Cup.

Since 1985 Ireland have won 10 and drawn one in Cardiff, with Wales picking up just two wins.

Legendary Irish fly-half Ronan O'Gara has scored 100 points in 14 appearances against Wales. O'Gara and centre Brian
O'Driscoll are the record caps holders for Ireland against Wales.

WALES

Have lost their last seven games, their worst run since 2003 (when they lost 10 on the spin).
Should Ireland win this fixture, Wales would have lost five consecutive home games for the first time in their history (they lost four at home during that 10-defeat run back in 2003).
Have scored just seven tries in their last seven matches.
The Wales pack retained possession at 96% of their own put-ins during last season's Six Nations. However, they did win just 22 scrums across the whole tournament - fewer than any other side.
Alex Cuthbert made seven clean breaks in last season's Six Nations, more than any other player.

IRELAND

Prior to the win over Argentina in their final match of 2012 Ireland had lost five straight Tests, scoring just two tries in the process (this excludes XV versus Fiji). It was their worst run since 1998.
Ireland were top points scorers in last year's Six Nations, racking up 121 in total (an average of over 24 per match). This included 13 tries, the most they had scored in the competition since 2007.


Games played between Ireland and Wales: 118 18.13%
Games won by Wales: 65 55.08%
Games lost by Wales: 47 39.83%
Games drawn: 6 5.08%

Most wins in a row for Wales over Ireland: 5

Most wins in a row for Ireland over Wales: 5

Average Pts Per Game 13

Heaviest Defeat 3rd of Feb 2002 Ireland 54 - 10 Wales

Recent Record between Ireland and Wales

2012 - Ireland 21-23 Wales
2011 - Ireland 10-22 Wales (RWC)
2011 - Wales 19-13 Ireland
2010 - Ireland 27-12 Wales
2009 - Wales 15-17 Ireland
2008 - Ireland 12-16 Wales

maestegmafia wrote:Thing is, we cheated back in the late 90's with Grannygate. We then behaved ourselves for over a decade picking far more welsh bred players than other nations were doing. Particularly in recent years where our opposition would field more pacific Islanders, Kiwis and South Africans than the Pacific Island, Kiwi and SA nations did in their own teams.

Yes, Wales broke the rules and should have faced serious sanctions. Other nations have acted within them (as Wales do now). Your last sentence is clearly illogical and a wind-up.

Mike Phillips interview in The Telegraph.

Mike Phillips wrote:

It is going to be a tough Six Nations after the autumn Test series.

We did end up playing more positively but overall it wasn’t good enough. We need to show a bit more pride and passion. We are the champions, which says a lot. We weren’t expected to win the first game last year against Ireland and we went on to win the championship.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/rugbyunion/international/wales/9835468/Six-Nations-2013-Passion-will-make-struggling-Wales-winners-again-says-scrum-half-Mike-Phillips.html

maestegmafia wrote:

bedfordwelsh wrote:

RubyGuby wrote:And by the way Bedford my sources tell me Hook might be given the 10 jersey

Hope them sources are wrong Ruby Biggar has to start for me and if doesn't it would he a huge kick in the teeth for him.

The coaches bang on about players staying in Wales then they ignore the form Welsh No10 for someone playing outside Wales.

Beds you really have to watch some ESPN and Top 14. Hook is in great shape, better than Biggar, it would be harsh on Wales not to play him.

Maes,

Not doubting Hooks form but Biggar ahs been on form for 2 seasons now and like the coahces want plays in Wales.

If I am honest then I think both are a risk Hook hs never really established himself as 1st choice for Wales whilst Biggar has never really been given a fair crack.

bedfordwelsh wrote:

maestegmafia wrote:

bedfordwelsh wrote:

RubyGuby wrote:And by the way Bedford my sources tell me Hook might be given the 10 jersey

Hope them sources are wrong Ruby Biggar has to start for me and if doesn't it would he a huge kick in the teeth for him.

The coaches bang on about players staying in Wales then they ignore the form Welsh No10 for someone playing outside Wales.

Beds you really have to watch some ESPN and Top 14. Hook is in great shape, better than Biggar, it would be harsh on Wales not to play him.

Maes,

Not doubting Hooks form but Biggar ahs been on form for 18 months (just) now and like the coaches want, he plays in Wales.

If I am honest then I think both are a risk Hook hs never really established himself as 1st choice for Wales whilst Biggar has never really been given a fair crack.

Well until the other options either get fitness or or form on their side we have little option other than Hook or Biggar.

I don't think either player is a risk, they aren't going to let us down, they are both playing well.

I hope one or the other can inspire a bit of ingenuity and intelligence into our attack.

I hope that both are given good opportunity to play some rugby. It would be great to see them step up a level for Wales...!

bedfordwelsh wrote:

maestegmafia wrote:

bedfordwelsh wrote:

RubyGuby wrote:And by the way Bedford my sources tell me Hook might be given the 10 jersey

Hope them sources are wrong Ruby Biggar has to start for me and if doesn't it would he a huge kick in the teeth for him.

The coaches bang on about players staying in Wales then they ignore the form Welsh No10 for someone playing outside Wales.

Beds you really have to watch some ESPN and Top 14. Hook is in great shape, better than Biggar, it would be harsh on Wales not to play him.

Maes,

Not doubting Hooks form but Biggar ahs been on form for 2 seasons now and like the coahces want plays in Wales.

If I am honest then I think both are a risk Hook hs never really established himself as 1st choice for Wales whilst Biggar has never really been given a fair crack.

Biggar was given two consecutive starts at 10 in 2012. The last time Hook had more than that was in 2008.

Having said that, the Western Telegraph(?) is reporting that Biggar has been given the nod (there is sound on this link).

http://www.westerntelegraph.co.uk/sport/walesrugby/10192703.Dan_Biggar_wins_battle_for_Wales_No10_jersey/

Cas,

Who were those two starts against and how did the rest of the team stack up in regards to first choice players.

This will be Biggars first 6 Nations campaign.

As I said, I don't mind either way. Both are good players in form, they have played well all season.

Lets hope they play even better for Wales than they have at their clubs.

bedfordwelsh wrote:Cas,

Who were those two starts against and how did the rest of the team stack up in regards to first choice players.

This will be Biggars first 6 Nations campaign.

Baabaas and Samoa. It was more a point that although people are fond of saying 'Hook hasn't made the position his own' and 'he's had plenty of chances' etc, he really hasn't. Since 2008 anyway, when he was brilliant.

As MaestegMafia said, I think either Biggar or Hook would do a good job for us. In many ways the least of our worries. Under Gameplan Gatland (unless Howley decides to go rogue and unleash some champagne rugby) the 10 doesn't really do much other than pop pass and boot it.

I don't remember Biggar getting two consecutive starts last year.

He didn't tour Aus, only started/player the Samoa game where he got injured. He played against the Baabaas and didn't play the 6Ns.

Biggar played one and a half games for Wales' last year, and one of those was a 3rd string team vs the Baabaas, and they were not consecutive.

I don't think Biggar has ever had 2 consecutive games for Wales, unless he did on the States tour in 2009

No Biggar has always been in and out.


Thing is until Tandy took over the Ospreys Biggar was bloody awful, most O's fans wanted him to bugger off to Stade Francais when the opportunity arose.

He has improved dramatically from the under skilled petulant brat he was a mere 18 months ago.

But again if Hook was as brilliant or as consistent as some would seem to think he would have made the 10 shirt his.

When you look at Wellies, love him hate him or somewhere in between whislst he never set the world alight in brillaint fashion he was Mr coonsistency and I would take that anyday over the odd flash or brilliance.

"Underskilled petulant brat" ?

Speak your mind Maes!

bedfordwelsh wrote:Cas,

Who were those two starts against and how did the rest of the team stack up in regards to first choice players.

This will be Biggars first 6 Nations campaign.

You are correct, sir. He's a 6N rookie.

In fact, has never played in front of a full house in Cardiff.

Casartelli wrote:

bedfordwelsh wrote:Cas,

Who were those two starts against and how did the rest of the team stack up in regards to first choice players.

This will be Biggars first 6 Nations campaign.

You are correct, sir. He's a 6N rookie.

In fact, has never played in front of a full house in Cardiff.

There's a possibility he won't this weekend will still a fair amount of tickets left, than again at £75 a pop what do the WRU expect.

Unfortunately I don't think we stand a chance with Stan laurel in charge. Ireland to win by 10.

I was looking late last year about going to this game, but tickets at £75, price of staying in Cardiff that weekend, put me off (also near everywhere was already booked) 6 nations really do generate a lot of money for the home cities.

King

I actually know of a scheme these days that focus's on getting their hands on hotel rooms, tickets and merchandise as soon as humanly possible only to flog them at a higher rate, and I'm not talking package trips etc, just local lollies who want a slice of the pie.

If anyone wants a room in the Hilton theres a few going spare at £250 PP, PN.

Anyone heard the rumour that Kearney is crocked and out of the match?

Submachine wrote:Anyone heard the rumour that Kearney is crocked and out of the match?

I have now....

Bad news, Earls to start on the wing then, with Zebo at 15?

Heard he picked up a knock in training but is expected to be fit. All rumours though...

I hope he is fit. He is one of those players who lights up the competition.

I hope he is too. Love how he jumps through the air under the high ball without any regard for his personal safety. If he comes up against 1/2p it will be a real treat.

I hate to say it, but Wales' chances are better it Kearney can't play. Awesome player.

The Argus are saying Dan Biggar's been given the nod for Saturday:

http://www.southwalesargus.co.uk/sport/rugby/latest/10192703.Dan_Biggar_wins_battle_for_Wales_No10_jersey/

Part of me wants to see Byrne vs Kearney.

Which part is that Morg

Morgannwg wrote:Part of me wants to see Byrne vs Kearney.

All of me wants to see Byrne Vs Kearney..... that 1/2penny bloke has caused enough trouble ......

Just lurking, to check if the bickering is any better quality than on the England thread. I'm sorry to tell you it looks pretty lame on here so far.
So I'll just buzz off back to the Eng Scotland one - which is also relatively docile since Telfer chipped in his calming wisdoms.

rodders wrote:

Morgannwg wrote:Part of me wants to see Byrne vs Kearney.

All of me wants to see Byrne Vs Kearney..... that 1/2penny bloke has caused enough trouble ......

I'm sure he will be on the pitch somewhere don't worry


Ireland haven't beaten Wales since 2010 when Keith Earls scores a brace in Dublin.

Wales' should have the confidence that they can beat Ireland.

Of course, Ireland do like playing in Cardiff. Ireland have won 2/3 of their last games in Cardiff though, with their loss 2 years ago coming from a rather controversial lineout try.

Nothing controversial about it, Phillips clearly grounded the ball.

Ballboy was credited with that score. Is he playing again on Saturday ?

gregortree wrote:Ballboy was credited with that score. Is he playing again on Saturday ?

I expect so. Do you think he can play second row? Although he may be more useful running the line, tripping up Gilroy and Zebo as they run past.

He is a couple of years older and has since bulked up.

gregortree wrote:Ballboy was credited with that score. Is he playing again on Saturday ?

Forget it, we've been doing loads of video analysis on that guy. We've got him sussed as a dangerman.

rodders wrote:

gregortree wrote:Ballboy was credited with that score. Is he playing again on Saturday ?

Forget it, we've been doing loads of video analysis on that guy. We've got him sussed as a dangerman.

Glad you have him covered, but watch his mates too.

gregortree wrote:

rodders wrote:

gregortree wrote:Ballboy was credited with that score. Is he playing again on Saturday ?

Forget it, we've been doing loads of video analysis on that guy. We've got him sussed as a dangerman.

Glad you have him covered, but watch his mates too.

Flip Wales could put a cricket score on us.....! Best keep the ball in touch!

Ah we've signed up the Swansea city ball boy now...

wales606 wrote:

rodders wrote:

Morgannwg wrote:Part of me wants to see Byrne vs Kearney.

All of me wants to see Byrne Vs Kearney..... that 1/2penny bloke has caused enough trouble ......

I'm sure he will be on the pitch somewhere don't worry

Halfpenny worries me - don't think he's the full shilling.

The Great Aukster wrote:

wales606 wrote:

rodders wrote:

Morgannwg wrote:Part of me wants to see Byrne vs Kearney.

All of me wants to see Byrne Vs Kearney..... that 1/2penny bloke has caused enough trouble ......

I'm sure he will be on the pitch somewhere don't worry

Halfpenny worries me - don't think he's the full shilling.

Glas a du wrote:Ah we've signed up the Swansea city ball boy now...

I thought he was the same bloke ....

Luckless Pedestrian wrote:The Argus are saying Dan Biggar's been given the nod for Saturday:

http://www.southwalesargus.co.uk/sport/rugby/latest/10192703.Dan_Biggar_wins_battle_for_Wales_No10_jersey/

Hi LP

Yes the same article has been going around the media in Wales all day. Not too much of a surprise or a worry. Both Hook and Biggar are in good form and are an asset to the greater team.

When is the Wales team announced?

Tomorrow.

rodders wrote:

Glas a du wrote:Ah we've signed up the Swansea city ball boy now...

I thought he was the same bloke ....

That Swansea City lad looks like he can't handle being at the bottom of a ruck though.

Pete C (Kiwireddevil) wrote:

rodders wrote:

Glas a du wrote:Ah we've signed up the Swansea city ball boy now...

I thought he was the same bloke ....

That Swansea City lad looks like he can't handle being at the bottom of a ruck though.

Hes not bad at lying on the ball though ala McCaw for example.

...I would have given him a shoeing aswell, little twerp.

If I were being paid 150k a year I could muster up enough to not give the little twet a good kicking!!

Eden Hazard face masks are now doing the rounds in Cardiff!!!

thebluesmancometh wrote:If I were being paid 150k a year I could muster up enough to not give the little twet a good kicking!!

Eden Hazard face masks are now doing the rounds in Cardiff!!!

And that's 150k a week by the way

Looks like Biggar has won the flyhalf race...