Lets talk about Wales!

First topic message reminder :

We knew Wales can win European grand slams and championships, but the monkey on the back of the players was for them to win in the Southern hemisphere. In all fairness that has now been accomplished.

So many of them have played a huge part in this series, surely now Gatland and these players can go to the next level?

15 Leigh Halfpenny
14 Alex Cuthbert
13 Jonathan Davies
12 Jamie Roberts
11 George North
10
9 Mike Phillips
8 Toby Faletau
7 Sam Warburton
6 Dan Lydiate
5
4 Alun-Wyn Jones
3 Adam Jones
2 Richard Hibbard
1

It's quite incredible that all of these players have now started a test game and won in Australia. While Gethin Jenkins probably would of played some role had he stayed fit.

This could be a massive shot in the arm to these players and maybe a new golden era dawn for us!  

wales606 wrote:

rodders wrote:Wales are a top fly half away from being the best side in the world imo, they have an outstanding group of players just now, many of whom are still getting better.

For me they are serious contenders for the 2015 RWC.

Bit far Rodders

Wales still need a bit of strengthening in certain positions and as certainly capable of winning a World Cup (joint 4th favourite at the moment), but NZ are still the best side in the world.

Wales should be aiming to be no2 when the WC comes knocking in 2015 - that would be an achievement...then they look to knock over NZ in the final    

I think you are in a deep sleep/ dream their Wales606. 

Wales are a good team, a good (NH TEAM) They have won a few Grand Slams in the last few years, but when it comes to the SH teams Wales seem to- be a long way behind...Although they do have the players to step up to the plate, when it comes t o SH teams. they do not seem to have the game plan, or the ( skill of the players ) to put that plan into action to win against the SH teams.

I guess we will wait and see just How much Wales have progressed with regards to this Lions tour in the Ais....As to how many games they win/lose.

captain carrantuohil wrote:Wales seem to have plenty of cover in most positions, barring 9 10 and, I think, lock. From memory, the line-out has been the bane of Wales's existence for a year or two - sort that out and you'll give anyone problems, I reckon.

Throwing in an issue,Charteris,AWJ,Evans and Bradley Davies all useful players.

RubyGuby wrote: Its raining supreme at the moment

Tis indeed Rubs, take a bow old bean  

GavinDragon wrote:Its good to see the strength in depth thought isnt it? And the fact that tha majority of these boys will get game time.

For me Biggar (and I have been one of his worst critics in previous years) has the right mentality and his decision making is improoving with every season....

Priestland will have a big season and want that Welsh Jersey back but his kicking and temperament when under pressure could be questioned...

Patchell....agree had a superb first season and looks a great prospect, will be interesting to see how he goes this year, will he get second season syndrome?

Tovey has to fight off steffan jones and Kris Burton but I believe back 'home' under what I hope will be a rejuvenated Dragons un Lyn and Kingsley will rediscover the form that took him to the fringes of the Welsh squad a few years back

Have you guys forgotten about Jordan Williams? He normally plays 10, though I think he would be better suited to fullback after seeing his blistering runs in the JWC

Shifty wrote:We knew Wales can win European grand slams and championships, but the monkey on the back of the players was for them to win in the Southern hemisphere.  In all fairness that has now been accomplished.

So many of them have played a huge part in this series, surely now Gatland and these players can go to the next level?

15 Leigh Halfpenny
14 Alex Cuthbert
13 Jonathan Davies
12 Jamie Roberts
11 George North
10
9 Mike Phillips
8 Toby Faletau
7 Sam Warburton
6 Dan Lydiate
5
4 Alun-Wyn Jones
3 Adam Jones
2 Richard Hibbard
1

It's quite incredible that all of these players have now started a test game and won in Australia.  While Gethin Jenkins probably would of played some role had he stayed fit.  

This could be a massive shot in the arm to these players and maybe a new golden era dawn for us!  

Welsh players, Mike Phillips excepted as always, played well today. However you are kidding yourself regarding Jenkins. He needs to concentate on being first choice for his club. Currently his is is poor second behind a retired England loose head. In terms of NH rugby he is behind Corbs, Mako, Healey, Sheridan & Grant to name a few.

Exiledinborders wrote:

Shifty wrote:We knew Wales can win European grand slams and championships, but the monkey on the back of the players was for them to win in the Southern hemisphere.  In all fairness that has now been accomplished.

So many of them have played a huge part in this series, surely now Gatland and these players can go to the next level?

15 Leigh Halfpenny
14 Alex Cuthbert
13 Jonathan Davies
12 Jamie Roberts
11 George North
10
9 Mike Phillips
8 Toby Faletau
7 Sam Warburton
6 Dan Lydiate
5
4 Alun-Wyn Jones
3 Adam Jones
2 Richard Hibbard
1

It's quite incredible that all of these players have now started a test game and won in Australia.  While Gethin Jenkins probably would of played some role had he stayed fit.  

This could be a massive shot in the arm to these players and maybe a new golden era dawn for us!  

Welsh players, Mike Phillips excepted as always, played well today. However you are kidding yourself regarding Jenkins. He needs to concentate on being first choice for his club. Currently his is is poor second behind a retired England loose head. In terms of NH rugby he is behind Corbs, Mako, Healey, Sheridan & Grant to name a few.

Gethin Jenkins is most definitely the first choice prop at his club - the Cardiff Blues.

Exiledinborders wrote:

Shifty wrote:We knew Wales can win European grand slams and championships, but the monkey on the back of the players was for them to win in the Southern hemisphere.  In all fairness that has now been accomplished.

So many of them have played a huge part in this series, surely now Gatland and these players can go to the next level?

15 Leigh Halfpenny
14 Alex Cuthbert
13 Jonathan Davies
12 Jamie Roberts
11 George North
10
9 Mike Phillips
8 Toby Faletau
7 Sam Warburton
6 Dan Lydiate
5
4 Alun-Wyn Jones
3 Adam Jones
2 Richard Hibbard
1

It's quite incredible that all of these players have now started a test game and won in Australia.  While Gethin Jenkins probably would of played some role had he stayed fit.  

This could be a massive shot in the arm to these players and maybe a new golden era dawn for us!  

Welsh players, Mike Phillips excepted as always, played well today. However you are kidding yourself regarding Jenkins. He needs to concentate on being first choice for his club. Currently his is is poor second behind a retired England loose head. In terms of NH rugby he is behind Corbs, Mako, Healey, Sheridan & Grant to name a few.

Shame you missed Wales v England game.With little match fitness he and his front row colleagues beasted English front row.

wales606 wrote:

Exiledinborders wrote:

Shifty wrote:We knew Wales can win European grand slams and championships, but the monkey on the back of the players was for them to win in the Southern hemisphere.  In all fairness that has now been accomplished.

So many of them have played a huge part in this series, surely now Gatland and these players can go to the next level?

15 Leigh Halfpenny
14 Alex Cuthbert
13 Jonathan Davies
12 Jamie Roberts
11 George North
10
9 Mike Phillips
8 Toby Faletau
7 Sam Warburton
6 Dan Lydiate
5
4 Alun-Wyn Jones
3 Adam Jones
2 Richard Hibbard
1

It's quite incredible that all of these players have now started a test game and won in Australia.  While Gethin Jenkins probably would of played some role had he stayed fit.  

This could be a massive shot in the arm to these players and maybe a new golden era dawn for us!  

Welsh players, Mike Phillips excepted as always, played well today. However you are kidding yourself regarding Jenkins. He needs to concentate on being first choice for his club. Currently his is is poor second behind a retired England loose head. In terms of NH rugby he is behind Corbs, Mako, Healey, Sheridan & Grant to name a few.

Gethin Jenkins is most definitely the first choice prop at his club - the Cardiff Blues.

Isn't he still at Toulon untill the start of next season?

Taffineastbourne wrote:

Exiledinborders wrote:

Shifty wrote:We knew Wales can win European grand slams and championships, but the monkey on the back of the players was for them to win in the Southern hemisphere.  In all fairness that has now been accomplished.

So many of them have played a huge part in this series, surely now Gatland and these players can go to the next level?

15 Leigh Halfpenny
14 Alex Cuthbert
13 Jonathan Davies
12 Jamie Roberts
11 George North
10
9 Mike Phillips
8 Toby Faletau
7 Sam Warburton
6 Dan Lydiate
5
4 Alun-Wyn Jones
3 Adam Jones
2 Richard Hibbard
1

It's quite incredible that all of these players have now started a test game and won in Australia.  While Gethin Jenkins probably would of played some role had he stayed fit.  

This could be a massive shot in the arm to these players and maybe a new golden era dawn for us!  

Welsh players, Mike Phillips excepted as always, played well today. However you are kidding yourself regarding Jenkins. He needs to concentate on being first choice for his club. Currently his is is poor second behind a retired England loose head. In terms of NH rugby he is behind Corbs, Mako, Healey, Sheridan & Grant to name a few.

Shame you missed Wales v England game.With little match fitness he and his front row colleagues beasted English front row.

Wasn't Corbs out injured?

Exiledinborders wrote:

Taffineastbourne wrote:

Exiledinborders wrote:

Shifty wrote:We knew Wales can win European grand slams and championships, but the monkey on the back of the players was for them to win in the Southern hemisphere.  In all fairness that has now been accomplished.

So many of them have played a huge part in this series, surely now Gatland and these players can go to the next level?

15 Leigh Halfpenny
14 Alex Cuthbert
13 Jonathan Davies
12 Jamie Roberts
11 George North
10
9 Mike Phillips
8 Toby Faletau
7 Sam Warburton
6 Dan Lydiate
5
4 Alun-Wyn Jones
3 Adam Jones
2 Richard Hibbard
1

It's quite incredible that all of these players have now started a test game and won in Australia.  While Gethin Jenkins probably would of played some role had he stayed fit.  

This could be a massive shot in the arm to these players and maybe a new golden era dawn for us!  

Welsh players, Mike Phillips excepted as always, played well today. However you are kidding yourself regarding Jenkins. He needs to concentate on being first choice for his club. Currently his is is poor second behind a retired England loose head. In terms of NH rugby he is behind Corbs, Mako, Healey, Sheridan & Grant to name a few.

Shame you missed Wales v England game.With little match fitness he and his front row colleagues beasted English front row.

Wasn't Corbs out injured?

Wasn't he opposite the much vaunted Dan Cole? 

Exiledinborders wrote:

Shifty wrote:We knew Wales can win European grand slams and championships, but the monkey on the back of the players was for them to win in the Southern hemisphere.  In all fairness that has now been accomplished.

So many of them have played a huge part in this series, surely now Gatland and these players can go to the next level?

15 Leigh Halfpenny
14 Alex Cuthbert
13 Jonathan Davies
12 Jamie Roberts
11 George North
10
9 Mike Phillips
8 Toby Faletau
7 Sam Warburton
6 Dan Lydiate
5
4 Alun-Wyn Jones
3 Adam Jones
2 Richard Hibbard
1

It's quite incredible that all of these players have now started a test game and won in Australia.  While Gethin Jenkins probably would of played some role had he stayed fit.  

This could be a massive shot in the arm to these players and maybe a new golden era dawn for us!  

Welsh players, Mike Phillips excepted as always, played well today. However you are kidding yourself regarding Jenkins. He needs to concentate on being first choice for his club. Currently his is is poor second behind a retired England loose head. In terms of NH rugby he is behind Corbs, Mako, Healey, Sheridan & Grant to name a few.

That's unfair, the man was at the top of his game before Toulon, got an injury before the Top 14 and took a while to get back and then nearly ever got his chance. Ok, Gethin wasn't his best in the Autumn and wasn't at his best at the start of the six nations but he played like his life and career depended on it against Italy and mainly England when he was captain. Showed he has still got it but needs to be in a place where he is getting a chance (game time). Give him the start of the season with the Blues and he will be back to best and the leading looshead once again.

Taffineastbourne wrote:

Exiledinborders wrote:

Taffineastbourne wrote:

Exiledinborders wrote:

Shifty wrote:We knew Wales can win European grand slams and championships, but the monkey on the back of the players was for them to win in the Southern hemisphere.  In all fairness that has now been accomplished.

So many of them have played a huge part in this series, surely now Gatland and these players can go to the next level?

15 Leigh Halfpenny
14 Alex Cuthbert
13 Jonathan Davies
12 Jamie Roberts
11 George North
10
9 Mike Phillips
8 Toby Faletau
7 Sam Warburton
6 Dan Lydiate
5
4 Alun-Wyn Jones
3 Adam Jones
2 Richard Hibbard
1

It's quite incredible that all of these players have now started a test game and won in Australia.  While Gethin Jenkins probably would of played some role had he stayed fit.  

This could be a massive shot in the arm to these players and maybe a new golden era dawn for us!  

Welsh players, Mike Phillips excepted as always, played well today. However you are kidding yourself regarding Jenkins. He needs to concentate on being first choice for his club. Currently his is is poor second behind a retired England loose head. In terms of NH rugby he is behind Corbs, Mako, Healey, Sheridan & Grant to name a few.

Shame you missed Wales v England game.With little match fitness he and his front row colleagues beasted English front row.

Wasn't Corbs out injured?

Wasn't he opposite the much vaunted Dan Cole? 

True but the damage was done on the other side by Adam Jones.

Exiledinborders wrote:

Taffineastbourne wrote:

Exiledinborders wrote:

Taffineastbourne wrote:

Exiledinborders wrote:

Shifty wrote:We knew Wales can win European grand slams and championships, but the monkey on the back of the players was for them to win in the Southern hemisphere.  In all fairness that has now been accomplished.

So many of them have played a huge part in this series, surely now Gatland and these players can go to the next level?

15 Leigh Halfpenny
14 Alex Cuthbert
13 Jonathan Davies
12 Jamie Roberts
11 George North
10
9 Mike Phillips
8 Toby Faletau
7 Sam Warburton
6 Dan Lydiate
5
4 Alun-Wyn Jones
3 Adam Jones
2 Richard Hibbard
1

It's quite incredible that all of these players have now started a test game and won in Australia.  While Gethin Jenkins probably would of played some role had he stayed fit.  

This could be a massive shot in the arm to these players and maybe a new golden era dawn for us!  

Welsh players, Mike Phillips excepted as always, played well today. However you are kidding yourself regarding Jenkins. He needs to concentate on being first choice for his club. Currently his is is poor second behind a retired England loose head. In terms of NH rugby he is behind Corbs, Mako, Healey, Sheridan & Grant to name a few.

Shame you missed Wales v England game.With little match fitness he and his front row colleagues beasted English front row.

Wasn't Corbs out injured?

Wasn't he opposite the much vaunted Dan Cole? 

True but the damage was done on the other side by Adam Jones.

If we can take the W agains England and win the 6N's with such a poor loosie Lord help you when we find a decent one.Think we got a couple of GS's with him too.Yeah,he'll do for us for going on with!

Exiledinborders wrote:

Taffineastbourne wrote:

Exiledinborders wrote:

Taffineastbourne wrote:

Exiledinborders wrote:

Shifty wrote:We knew Wales can win European grand slams and championships, but the monkey on the back of the players was for them to win in the Southern hemisphere.  In all fairness that has now been accomplished.

So many of them have played a huge part in this series, surely now Gatland and these players can go to the next level?

15 Leigh Halfpenny
14 Alex Cuthbert
13 Jonathan Davies
12 Jamie Roberts
11 George North
10
9 Mike Phillips
8 Toby Faletau
7 Sam Warburton
6 Dan Lydiate
5
4 Alun-Wyn Jones
3 Adam Jones
2 Richard Hibbard
1

It's quite incredible that all of these players have now started a test game and won in Australia.  While Gethin Jenkins probably would of played some role had he stayed fit.  

This could be a massive shot in the arm to these players and maybe a new golden era dawn for us!  

Welsh players, Mike Phillips excepted as always, played well today. However you are kidding yourself regarding Jenkins. He needs to concentate on being first choice for his club. Currently his is is poor second behind a retired England loose head. In terms of NH rugby he is behind Corbs, Mako, Healey, Sheridan & Grant to name a few.

Shame you missed Wales v England game.With little match fitness he and his front row colleagues beasted English front row.

Wasn't Corbs out injured?

Wasn't he opposite the much vaunted Dan Cole? 

True but the damage was done on the other side by Adam Jones.

No for once it wasn't Adam, It was definitely Gethin was putting the pressure on Cole. If you watch back the game you will discover the majority of the penalties given away by England from scrum time was because of Cole. Obviously Adam didn't help your cause on the other side. But Gethin was the main thorn in the side of the English scrum I must say.

Jhamer25 wrote:

Exiledinborders wrote:

Shifty wrote:We knew Wales can win European grand slams and championships, but the monkey on the back of the players was for them to win in the Southern hemisphere.  In all fairness that has now been accomplished.

So many of them have played a huge part in this series, surely now Gatland and these players can go to the next level?

15 Leigh Halfpenny
14 Alex Cuthbert
13 Jonathan Davies
12 Jamie Roberts
11 George North
10
9 Mike Phillips
8 Toby Faletau
7 Sam Warburton
6 Dan Lydiate
5
4 Alun-Wyn Jones
3 Adam Jones
2 Richard Hibbard
1

It's quite incredible that all of these players have now started a test game and won in Australia.  While Gethin Jenkins probably would of played some role had he stayed fit.  

This could be a massive shot in the arm to these players and maybe a new golden era dawn for us!  

Welsh players, Mike Phillips excepted as always, played well today. However you are kidding yourself regarding Jenkins. He needs to concentate on being first choice for his club. Currently his is is poor second behind a retired England loose head. In terms of NH rugby he is behind Corbs, Mako, Healey, Sheridan & Grant to name a few.

That's unfair, the man was at the top of his game before Toulon, got an injury before the Top 14 and took a while to get back and then nearly ever got his chance. Ok, Gethin wasn't his best in the Autumn and wasn't at his best at the start of the six nations but he played like his life and career depended on it against Italy and mainly England when he was captain. Showed he has still got it but needs to be in a place where he is getting a chance (game time). Give him the start of the season with the Blues and he will be back to best and the leading looshead once again.

He is 33 this year. I know propping is not a young man's game but I doubt he will ever be back to his best. Corbs on the other hand is 24, Mako is 22 so is Joe Marler.

Ask Dan Cole about how poor Gethin is.Ask Warren Gatland too.

Exiledinborders wrote:

Jhamer25 wrote:

Exiledinborders wrote:

Shifty wrote:We knew Wales can win European grand slams and championships, but the monkey on the back of the players was for them to win in the Southern hemisphere.  In all fairness that has now been accomplished.

So many of them have played a huge part in this series, surely now Gatland and these players can go to the next level?

15 Leigh Halfpenny
14 Alex Cuthbert
13 Jonathan Davies
12 Jamie Roberts
11 George North
10
9 Mike Phillips
8 Toby Faletau
7 Sam Warburton
6 Dan Lydiate
5
4 Alun-Wyn Jones
3 Adam Jones
2 Richard Hibbard
1

It's quite incredible that all of these players have now started a test game and won in Australia.  While Gethin Jenkins probably would of played some role had he stayed fit.  

This could be a massive shot in the arm to these players and maybe a new golden era dawn for us!  

Welsh players, Mike Phillips excepted as always, played well today. However you are kidding yourself regarding Jenkins. He needs to concentate on being first choice for his club. Currently his is is poor second behind a retired England loose head. In terms of NH rugby he is behind Corbs, Mako, Healey, Sheridan & Grant to name a few.

That's unfair, the man was at the top of his game before Toulon, got an injury before the Top 14 and took a while to get back and then nearly ever got his chance. Ok, Gethin wasn't his best in the Autumn and wasn't at his best at the start of the six nations but he played like his life and career depended on it against Italy and mainly England when he was captain. Showed he has still got it but needs to be in a place where he is getting a chance (game time). Give him the start of the season with the Blues and he will be back to best and the leading looshead once again.

He is 33 this year. I know propping is not a young man's game but I doubt he will ever be back to his best. Corbs on the other hand is 24, Mako is 22 so is Joe Marler.

Oh he definitely is getting on but he can still do a job for us for another 2 years I believe. He is just one of those players who gives everything and will do everything they can. He, when on his game you can't say he isn't far from the best loosehead in World rugby.
Alex Corbisero is absolutely amazing and is already cementing himself into the English set up for the next 10 years. But he doesn't offer what Gethin does around the park and that's what is so vital in the modern game of rugby. It like Mako he is great aroung the park but struggles at scrum time, Corbs is great at scrum time ad don't get me worn gr he is great around the park. But Gethin has both those factors and he has that experience and leadership. Corbisiro is just going to get stronger and Gethin is going to retire in a few season but for me he is still the leading loosehad in Europe, not on current form but (cause he hasn't played) but when he gets back with the blues and plays in the autumn series he will be back to best.

Oh and Joe Marler I just over rated, you have nothing there sorry. You have Crobs yes and Mako is an IMPACT player but Joe hasn't really got anything going for him when it comes to the big stage.

Taffineastbourne wrote:Ask Dan Cole about how poor Gethin is.Ask Warren Gatland too.

absolutely 3 or 4 months ago Gethin made Cole look like a youth player ... having said that when Cole has played for a few more years and builds his experience I think he could be world class .... Wales will certainly need to find two new props after 2015 .... having said that we thought we would never get anywhere without Shane and we are not doing to bad!

Newsilure wrote:

Taffineastbourne wrote:Ask Dan Cole about how poor Gethin is.Ask Warren Gatland too.

absolutely 3 or 4 months ago Gethin made Cole look like a youth player ... having said that when Cole has played for a few more years and builds his experience I think he could be world class .... Wales will certainly need to find two new props after 2015 .... having said that we thought we would never get anywhere without Shane and we are not doing to bad!

Of course.Exiled was rubbishing him as of now which is either a WUM or lack of knowledge.

Yep, as a Blues fan I am worryingly optimistic that Gethin, Rees and Andrews might actually give us a platform...they'll probably be injured all season then.

Taffineastbourne wrote:

Newsilure wrote:

Taffineastbourne wrote:Ask Dan Cole about how poor Gethin is.Ask Warren Gatland too.

absolutely 3 or 4 months ago Gethin made Cole look like a youth player ... having said that when Cole has played for a few more years and builds his experience I think he could be world class .... Wales will certainly need to find two new props after 2015 .... having said that we thought we would never get anywhere without Shane and we are not doing to bad!

Of course.Exiled was rubbishing him as of now which is either a WUM or lack of knowledge.

Honestly When Adam and Gethin leave we are screwed for a while. Dan Cole is world class already and so is Corbisiero. In 4 years time The English scrum will be like what the Welsh scrum is now. We do have loads of good props coming through. The most promising for me are both at Scarlets (yes I know it seems biased but when it come to props I a far from biased). Samson Lee and Rob Evans keep an eye out because they are brilliant. Both at the junior world cup made ends meat of every scrum. Both were miles ahead of any prop in the championship and will hopefully come along in development by the time Gethin and Adam have retired.

Wales certainly have a strong platform in Gatland and this lions tour will undoubtedly strengthen that further. It makes last years autumn internationals more of a mystery to me, as the 6 nations seemed to reignite the welsh side. Further more, George north became a beast again during this lions tour after a quietish spell for club and country. He was world class during the tour.

To me, this is a team who are very much in their prime, or found the magic formula. If you can keep the consistency of wins up and manage to continue this consistency when perhaps a few positions are a little shakey, then there is no reason why Wales can't win a few more grand slams. It's also so great you have a player like north, who is so young performing at such an excellent level.

Further more, if equal replacements can be found for players who will eventually get a bit past it, such as Roberts (26), jones (32) AWJ (27), that'll be fantastic.

I'll be watching closely regarding autumn internationals to see how Wales get on and wether they can make a statement to the big three SH teams. Winning all of your autumn internationals would to me be slightly more impressive than another Grandslam, as it is the missing part at the moment and something wales have struggled to obtain. So this autumn will be very interesting indeed, good luck!

When they go it won't be easy to replace them because both are exceptional props.Two more years is what we need,please lads.

Need a smooth transition somehow. Did any welsh props look good on Japanese tour?

bsando wrote:Need a smooth transition somehow. Did any welsh props look good on Japanese tour?

Scott Andrews.

Wales have a few good loosehead about too - Bevington has developed further this season, we also have Gill and Rhodri Jones looking over his shoulder.


........

For the next Lions tour, Wales are only likely to lose Ryan Jones, Mike Phillips, Adam Jones, Gethin Jenkins and Paul James. While those are excellent players, the core of the side will still be there, and we are already finding replacements for the front rowers and Ryan Jones.

That's good there's some strength in depth there then. I suppose it's a case of slowly introducing them. What is the main problem position for Wales then? 9/10?

I remember watching the wales game where both powell and halfpenny debuted. I thought halfpenny was incredible and I was also really impressed with Powell. Shame he went a bit west, but still a decent player when focussed.

Biltong wrote:It was still the Lions, not Wales that won the series.  

Nothing more needs to be said.

As a neutral I think Rhys Webb is the most naturally gifted 9 in Wales. I do understand that he hasn't kicked on, so his coaches and the need to do some work imo.

Oh, and history shows us that France usually win the 6N after a Lions tour.

dan biggar ,6ns 10 for wales, the only player against england in the 6ns who didnt go on lions tour. he must have been gutted.

no welsh press , media interest inside wales about his omission because the welsh media and supporters are still under the illusion that theres a magical way of playing 10 and we are waiting for that 10 to appear.

get real, go with what we've got, dan is the man. the game has moved on from the old fashioned 10, as sexton showed this tour.

patchell is light years behind in comparison, as japan tour showed.

rp has lost the 10 shirt
hooks days are gone, so hooky fans get behind dan ( most of you would rather swallow nails than support dan as the 10 ) he is the only one mentally and physically capable of being the 10 we need.

Shifty wrote:We knew Wales can win European grand slams and championships, but the monkey on the back of the players was for them to win in the Southern hemisphere.  In all fairness that has now been accomplished.

So many of them have played a huge part in this series, surely now Gatland and these players can go to the next level?

15 Leigh Halfpenny
14 Alex Cuthbert
13 Jonathan Davies
12 Jamie Roberts
11 George North
10
9 Mike Phillips
8 Toby Faletau
7 Sam Warburton
6 Dan Lydiate
5
4 Alun-Wyn Jones
3 Adam Jones
2 Richard Hibbard
1

It's quite incredible that all of these players have now started a test game and won in Australia.  While Gethin Jenkins probably would of played some role had he stayed fit.  

This could be a massive shot in the arm to these players and maybe a new golden era dawn for us!  

If you look at the positive effect of winning Lions tours has on Welsh rugby when we provide the most players it is worth noting that we didnt achieve our most consistent records until after 74.

So roll on 2017 and beyond.

The whole Lions squad and coaching team have made every rugby fan in Britain and Ireland very proud by putting a winning Lions team back on the map.

The experience will benefit all four countries players massively.

Jhamer25 wrote:

Taffineastbourne wrote:

Newsilure wrote:

Taffineastbourne wrote:Ask Dan Cole about how poor Gethin is.Ask Warren Gatland too.

absolutely 3 or 4 months ago Gethin made Cole look like a youth player ... having said that when Cole has played for a few more years and builds his experience I think he could be world class .... Wales will certainly need to find two new props after 2015 .... having said that we thought we would never get anywhere without Shane and we are not doing to bad!

Of course.Exiled was rubbishing him as of now which is either a WUM or lack of knowledge.

Honestly When Adam and Gethin leave we are screwed for a while. Dan Cole is world class already and so is Corbisiero. In 4 years time The English scrum will be like what the Welsh scrum is now. We do have loads of good props coming through. The most promising for me are both at Scarlets (yes I know it seems biased but when it come to props I a far from biased). Samson Lee and Rob Evans keep an eye out because they are brilliant. Both at the junior world cup made ends meat of every scrum. Both were miles ahead of any prop in the championship and will hopefully come along in development by the time Gethin and Adam have retired.

We have Rhys Gill for the immediate future when Gethin retires, he should last 2-3 seasons giving bevington time to mature as a prop

I still feel Wales need a purer scrum half. In the Lions game yesterday it's hard to ignore the positive impact that Connor Murray made.

Phillips showed great alertness to set up the first try but beyond that he didn't play particularly well. At the tail end of the 1st half and the start of the second we had a lot of possession, battering away at the Ozzie line for 20+ phases and struggled to make a dent. Not all of the blame, but some could be laid at Phillips door, his service was pretty slow at times.

Never been a fan of Phillips but he struggled enormously against Genia in test 1. I fear what Wales would be capable of with a Scrum half who can distribute before the opposing teams can reorganise.

Definitely Radge, have a look at some of the debate regarding Phillips on the first page of this thread. A lot of welsh fans want a return to the traditional 9 for Wales - unfortunately the lack of decent alternatives means Phillips gets in by default. But yes, certainly the aim should be to get a nippy little scrum half. I think we'd be far more effective that way.

I didn't see one 'Welsh' player in that Lions side yesterday............ !  

Careful guys, thought we woz all Lions on'at tour, there?

SecretFly wrote:I didn't see one 'Welsh' player in that Lions side yesterday............ !  

Careful guys, thought we woz all Lions on'at tour, there?  

This is a thread about the Wales team going forward, I don't see what the problem is.

Yes they played as the Lions, but a lot of those Lions will be turning out for Wales in the Autumn, and I for one can't wait.

wales606 wrote:

SecretFly wrote:I didn't see one 'Welsh' player in that Lions side yesterday............ !  

Careful guys, thought we woz all Lions on'at tour, there?  

This is a thread about the Wales team going forward, I don't see what the problem is.

Yes they played as the Lions, but a lot of those Lions will be turning out for Wales in the Autumn, and I for one can't wait.

Oh don't mind me.  I don't mind the emotion of truth at all wales606.  It's honesty.  Honesty always breaks out after the Lions come home.  I find it refreshing.  Just telling you all to be aware of it.

There is the danger of people seeing this as a Wales Lions thread, but if you actually read the posts then you can see it's talking about moving forward, I.e. Lions is over so now let's discuss Wales. Can see how it would be taken the wrong way though.

One point though: where perhaps there is justification to discuss Wales in the same breath as the Lions is because of the support team involved. For the England, Scotland and Ireland players they go back to their coaching structures, different coaching philosophies, set moves, game plans, etc. For Wales, they have a certain amount of continuity going forward. We'll continue with this style of play, game plan, same coaches, conditioning team, analysts, etc. so discussing how we move on is perhaps pertinent as little will change apart from some of the players around them. Before yesterday I would have said 'mores the pity' as I have been critical of the game plan in the past. If this is actually the plan but the players have not managed to execute it in the past then I say OK, 'cos I liked what I saw. Just need to find a new scrum half...!

Griff,

I'll say two things to that Griff.  And both are genuine compliments...; although some of your countrymen will be surprised to hear that as I seem to be on a list of enemies of the People for some guys  

Anyway.  Number 1:  I genuinely (personally, can't speak for others who might come in here) have absolutely no issue with Welsh fans getting back to the exciting business of thinking about and chatting about Wales's next step and promising future.  None.  I'm honest when I say I find it refreshing actually.  My real love is International.

Number 2:  I really don't think you or most Welsh fans realise fully how smart and good a coach you have in Gatland.  Oh I know you all realise that he's giving you some very special times in these years but I think it takes an outsider to realise just how cute and wise a man he is.  

SecretFly wrote:

Number 2:  I really don't think you or most Welsh fans realise fully how smart and good a coach you have in Gatland.  Oh I know you all realise that he's giving you some very special times in these years but I think it takes an outsider to realise just how cute and wise a man he is.  

Yep

Ever since the World Cup I have been aware that Gatland is amongst the best coaches on the planet.

As a head coach he is very good at looking at the big picture - since 2008 he has brought through an entire new generation of talent and fostered an atmosphere of hard work and discipline. At the WC we saw his ability to invent a gameplan and out think his opposite number, I think he saves his best for the big occasions. The performances on the pitch though owe a lot of credit to Shaun Edwards though, I would consider the pair the best coaching duo in the world at the moment.

Hansen and Henry brought a lot of chance to Welsh rugby, and laid foundations - but I think Gatland has had the biggest impact and one that will hopefully last a long time.

I've been naming Shaun a lot in the last few weeks...

Fly, I'm sure you're right. It will be one of those "didn't realise how good it was 'til it was gone" moments.

I'm a huge fan of the professionalism he's instilled in the players since he arrived. They're certainly less flaky now! We used to be push overs physically pre Gatland.

If and when he leaves I'd like to think that I and others from Wales would thank him in writing for what he's done. I'll probably never actual write to him, but the sentiment is there at least! Never felt that way inclined to previous coaches in the past.

I think wales will get pummelled in The coming six nations, most of The players will be injured, or mentally, emotionally and or physically, fatigued. Ir always happens after lions and wales will suffer from this massively with The wales reserves struggling against japan. In Rwc trae however they will take some beatng!!!!

wales606 wrote:

SecretFly wrote:I didn't see one 'Welsh' player in that Lions side yesterday............ !  

Careful guys, thought we woz all Lions on'at tour, there?  

This is a thread about the Wales team going forward, I don't see what the problem is.

Yes they played as the Lions, but a lot of those Lions will be turning out for Wales in the Autumn, and I for one can't wait.

Yes but I am actually a bit scared of what is to come in the autumn, I mean our boys haven't had a break and the Rabo isn't far away. We have done it before, I mean we won the Grand Slam and then had a 6 match losing streak. We somehow need to keep that intensity that we have going now.

GavinDragon wrote:

Jhamer25 wrote:

Taffineastbourne wrote:

Newsilure wrote:

Taffineastbourne wrote:Ask Dan Cole about how poor Gethin is.Ask Warren Gatland too.

absolutely 3 or 4 months ago Gethin made Cole look like a youth player ... having said that when Cole has played for a few more years and builds his experience I think he could be world class .... Wales will certainly need to find two new props after 2015 .... having said that we thought we would never get anywhere without Shane and we are not doing to bad!

Of course.Exiled was rubbishing him as of now which is either a WUM or lack of knowledge.

Honestly When Adam and Gethin leave we are screwed for a while. Dan Cole is world class already and so is Corbisiero. In 4 years time The English scrum will be like what the Welsh scrum is now. We do have loads of good props coming through. The most promising for me are both at Scarlets (yes I know it seems biased but when it come to props I a far from biased). Samson Lee and Rob Evans keep an eye out because they are brilliant. Both at the junior world cup made ends meat of every scrum. Both were miles ahead of any prop in the championship and will hopefully come along in development by the time Gethin and Adam have retired.

We have Rhys Gill for the immediate future when Gethin retires, he should last 2-3 seasons giving bevington time to mature as a prop

Yes you are right but for some reason I don't think Gatland thinks much of him, I rate him highly as he is a great scrummager but Gatland has always seemed to favor Bevington.

Jhamer25 wrote:

GavinDragon wrote:

Jhamer25 wrote:

Taffineastbourne wrote:

Newsilure wrote:

Taffineastbourne wrote:Ask Dan Cole about how poor Gethin is.Ask Warren Gatland too.

absolutely 3 or 4 months ago Gethin made Cole look like a youth player ... having said that when Cole has played for a few more years and builds his experience I think he could be world class .... Wales will certainly need to find two new props after 2015 .... having said that we thought we would never get anywhere without Shane and we are not doing to bad!

Of course.Exiled was rubbishing him as of now which is either a WUM or lack of knowledge.

Honestly When Adam and Gethin leave we are screwed for a while. Dan Cole is world class already and so is Corbisiero. In 4 years time The English scrum will be like what the Welsh scrum is now. We do have loads of good props coming through. The most promising for me are both at Scarlets (yes I know it seems biased but when it come to props I a far from biased). Samson Lee and Rob Evans keep an eye out because they are brilliant. Both at the junior world cup made ends meat of every scrum. Both were miles ahead of any prop in the championship and will hopefully come along in development by the time Gethin and Adam have retired.

We have Rhys Gill for the immediate future when Gethin retires, he should last 2-3 seasons giving bevington time to mature as a prop

Yes you are right but for some reason I don't think Gatland thinks much of him, I rate him highly as he is a great scrummager but Gatland has always seemed to favor Bevington.

Based on this season, Bevington is the clear front runner for me.

wales606 wrote:

Jhamer25 wrote:

GavinDragon wrote:

Jhamer25 wrote:

Taffineastbourne wrote:

Newsilure wrote:

Taffineastbourne wrote:Ask Dan Cole about how poor Gethin is.Ask Warren Gatland too.

absolutely 3 or 4 months ago Gethin made Cole look like a youth player ... having said that when Cole has played for a few more years and builds his experience I think he could be world class .... Wales will certainly need to find two new props after 2015 .... having said that we thought we would never get anywhere without Shane and we are not doing to bad!

Of course.Exiled was rubbishing him as of now which is either a WUM or lack of knowledge.

Honestly When Adam and Gethin leave we are screwed for a while. Dan Cole is world class already and so is Corbisiero. In 4 years time The English scrum will be like what the Welsh scrum is now. We do have loads of good props coming through. The most promising for me are both at Scarlets (yes I know it seems biased but when it come to props I a far from biased). Samson Lee and Rob Evans keep an eye out because they are brilliant. Both at the junior world cup made ends meat of every scrum. Both were miles ahead of any prop in the championship and will hopefully come along in development by the time Gethin and Adam have retired.

We have Rhys Gill for the immediate future when Gethin retires, he should last 2-3 seasons giving bevington time to mature as a prop

Yes you are right but for some reason I don't think Gatland thinks much of him, I rate him highly as he is a great scrummager but Gatland has always seemed to favor Bevington.

Based on this season, Bevington is the clear front runner for me.

Bevington has been fantastic in the loose, still needs to prove that he has the scrummaging prowess to take the jersey

Might it be an idea to use our 1st choice players for autumn, try to turn over the southerners for once, but then rest the welsh lions come 6 nations time? Try to develop some of this strength in depth we so long for on a proper stage (ie not japan)?

I dont think resting your Lions players for the 6ns will be a good idea to be honest.

doddieman wrote:Might it be an idea to use our 1st choice players for autumn, try to turn over the southerners for once, but then rest the welsh lions come 6 nations time? Try to develop some of this strength in depth we so long for on a proper stage (ie not japan)?

Can see where your coming from. Would like to win them all though. The Six Nations is going ti get harder and harder from now on with Scotland and Italy developing a lot of good players. But i would love to beats South Africa and Australia in the same month. It won't happen but it wouldn't be a terribel idea. Let's just give um a rest and see what happens.