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WARRIORS SURVIVE IN STYLE

Worcester Warriors pulled off a superb last day win at London Welsh to secure their place in next seasons Aviva Premiership. Wasps failure to win at Sale Sharks meant a losing bonus point would of been sufficient to keep the Warriors up, but a 25-24 win at the Kassam Stadium was a great end of the season for Stnicks men. Trailing at half time, second half tries from David Strettle and Sean Maitland ensured victory. After the game, stnick hailed the impact of recent signings Thomas Waldrom, Brian Mujati and David Strettle.
'These guys have come in and had a big hand in changing our fortunes. When I joined the club, there was a bit of glass half empty feel around the club, but guys like Mooj, Dave Strettle and Tom Waldrom have joined us and had a huge impact both on and off the field. These new faces, along with Dave Denton, Johnnie Beattie and James Percival have helped to give everyone a boost and ensured our survival. We will now look to kick on next season and push further up the table and establish Worcester as a top 6 club.'

Tigers' Cubs Leaked

Leicester Tigers academy squad for next season has been leaked. With new rules in place, Tigers seem to be ready to offload a number of youngsters, including the likes of South African youngster Francois Venter, young Fijian Josh Matavesi and prop Lee Imiolek.

The unconfirmed Academy squad list, below, has some standout names included. Huge backrower Edwin Maka literally stands above the crowd, South African centre Paul Jordaan is included, as are England u20 internationals Harry Wells, Henry Purdy and Tom Price.

One name that also stand out is a certain Brian Tuilagi. Son of Freddie Tuilagi, he is the next Tuilagi off the Tigers conveyor belt.


Unconfirmed Leicester Tigers Academy Squad:

HK Charlie Clare
HK Harry Thacker
PR Fraser Balmain
PR Harry Rudkin
SR Tom Price
SR Harry Wells
SR Joe Cain
FL George Oliver
FL Oliver Povoas
N8 Edwin Maka

SH Scott Steele
FH Rory Lyn
CE Paul Jordaan
CE Javiah Pohe
CE Joe Cobden
CE Pasqualle Dunn
CE Brian Tuilagi
WG Josh Bassett
WG Alex Lewington
WG Henry Purdy

Balmain is my player, I bought him earlier in the season.

HARTLEY WINS FITNESS RACE FOR CUP FINAL

Northampton Saints captain Dylan Hartley has won his race to be fit for the Heineken Cup Final after recovering from a hamstring injury. He completed his first full 80 minutes against Oxford University where a Saints 'A' team ran out 68-10 victors.

Saints defence coach, Paul Gustard, attended the game and was delighted to see Hartley return - "it was great that Dyls lasted the full 80 minutes and to have our captain back for the Heineken Cup Final is a huge boost to the whole squad. In some games we've missed his leadership qualities and influence - particularly in the league".

Saints also saw scrum half Joe Simpson return to action with a brace of tries and he is being tipped for a place on the Saints bench for the final.

Former Saint, Carlos Spencer, said "There is a huge sense of excitement around Franklins Gardens at the moment, I was invited back to the club to give a talk to the boys and its clear that their whole season has been set for this game.

It should be a cracking game, two teams that like to attack and score tries and match winners all over the park."

SAINTS NAME HEINEKEN CUP FINAL SQUAD
Northampton Saints Squad:

Forwards: Dylan Hartley, TPN, Henry Thomas, Mako Vunipola, Thomas Domingo, Carl Hayman, Joe Launchbury, Courtney Lawes, Sam Cane, Sergio Parisse, Samo Manoa and Billy Vunipola.

Backs: Joe Simpson, Mike Phillips, Juan Martin Hernandez, Weslie Fofana, Manu Tuilagi, Christian Wade, Elliot Daly, Julian Savea, Ben Foden, Leigh Halfpenny, Matt Giteau.

Calum Clark, Liam Gill, Chris Ashton and George Ford have also travelled with the squad to Dublin.

WORCESTER WARRIORS END OF SEASON AWARDS

Managers Player of the season - Tendai Mtawrira - The Warriors pack was instrumental in helping them beat the drop. The Beast was a cornerstone of the pack. Strong in the scrum and powerful in the loose, he never took a step back and always gave 100%.
Runner up - Tawera Kerr-Barlow

Players Player of the season - Johann Muller - The captain led from the front throughout and is a popular player in the squad. Dominating lineouts and giving the team a solid platform, Johann was a unanimous choice amongst the players.
Runner up - Patric Lambie

Fans Players of the Season - Tawera Kerr-Barlow - His sniping runs and exciting play has wowed the fans at times this season and he edged out Delon for the fans player of the season.
Runner up - Delon Armitage

Gatorade game changer award - Delon Armitage - For his performance against Wasps which effectively kept the Warriors in the Premiership.

Young Player of the season - Patric Lambie - After signing from London Welsh, Pat Lambie has established himself as first choice 10 ahead of Francois Trinh-Duc, and his goal kicking, game management and creativity have made him one of the first names on the team sheet.
Runner up - Tom Casson

Most improved player of the season - Tom Casson - After a loan spell in the Championship with Nottingham, Tom showed his quality this season and broke in to the first team going on to make numerous appearances. Will look to build on this next season and hold off competition from Olly Barkley and Kyle Godwin.
Runner up -Kearnan Myall

Tigers are Champions!

Tigers manager LukeLovesLuka has spoken after seeing his side win by the narrowest of margins in the Aviva Premiership Final. Tigers won on penalty kicks 5-3 after the game finished 26-26 after 80 mins, and then 38-38 after extra time had been played.

LukeLovesLuka said "to win the game that way was so nerve-wracking. We've battled for 8 months, and the title came down to those kicks. I really felt for Steven_Sharks as that's the worst way to lose.

I have to pay credit to my squad. They've all been sensational all season long, and every member has pulled their weight. To see James (Horwill) and Brian (O'Driscoll) lift that trophy meant the world to all of us.

I was delighted to see Isa (Nacewa) kick his penalty, and he deserved that moment before he retires. The crowd gave him a great send off too, and we thank him for all his work this year - he played more games than any other squad member and the boys wanted to win it for him.

But now the planning start for next season where we are all determined to go and do it all over again. We've had to release a few academy boys, which was tough, but the rules imposed by the RFU meant are hands were tied. Romain (Taofifenua) has been given a long term contract, and he takes his place in our senior squad.

The boys will take a break now, and then get back into pre-season to be ready for the start of the new Aviva Premiership."

Falcons streamline squad

Newcastle Falcons today finalised there squad for the up coming season with the additions of Wallaby Dave Dennis and Welsh flanker Aaron Shingler on 1 year deals. Driver insists that they will only be minute deals to follow with a couple of players being lined up for the academy.

Shipping out to Australia


Newcastle's lightning wing Dom Shipperly has returned to Queensland Reds for the remainder of there Super Rugby campaign in the hope of picking up some vital game time in the lead up to the Aviva Premiership season.

'Dom has massive talent and is a proper Aussie wing , he's the quickest guy in our backs by a good yard , he was unlucky to pick up a injury against Saracens last year which kept him out for the season so this is a great opportunity for him to get some valuable game time'


Newcastle also confirmed that George McGuigun , Jonny Grey , Will Carrick-Smith , Hugh Blake , Joel Hodgson , Sam Jones and U20s flyer Zac Kirbridge have signed for Leeds Carneigie on loan for the next season.

Tigers Announce Five Signings

Leicester Tigers have today confirmed the signings of Mike Brown, Kahn Fotuali'i, Ian Evans, Benn Robinson and Brock James.

Manager LukeLovesLuka said "we're absolutely delighted. We've brought in real proven quality, and it's the sort of statement I was looking to make. With the likes of Brock (James), Kahn (Fotuali'i) and Mike (Brown) in our squad now, hopefully we can start to look at changing the way we play.

Last season we were very structured with some our backline play, and this year we are looking at playing a more attacking style. With the likes of Kahn Fotuali'i, Brock James and Kurtley Beale, all of whom can play at half-back, we have some real attacking intent that we can turn to.

I'm delighted to also welcome Benn (Robinson) and Ian (Evans) to our pack, and they give us real grunt to add to what we've got, along with huge amounts of experience.

Hopefully this isn't the last of our signings either. We've been in talks with a few others, and we're always looking to strengthen our playing staff, so I hope to make a further announcement in the next few weeks.

We've said goodbyes to Geoff Parling, Rene Ranger, Freddie Michalak, Eoin Reddan, Roger Wilson and Yannick Forestier this week, and we wish all of them the very best in the future."

STNICK PROMISES MORE WARRIORS SIGNINGS

After unveiling the double signing of Springbok flyer Willie Le Roux and powerful Tongan try-scoring machine prop Halani Aulika, stnick made a promise to the fans to bring in more players over the summer to strengthen the squad.

'We're happy to get these two guys in. Willie has been a standout player in super rugby for the last couple of years and is now impressing for the Springboks. Halani has been ripping up trees in France and there is no prop in world rugby who scores more tries than him. When you are close to the try line he is near impossible to stop. His scrummaging is very strong as is his ball carrying. Both players add to our depth and will most definitely be challenging for starting spots come September.
We are still looking to strengthen in a few areas. Nothing is near completion yet but there are a few lads we are keeping an eye on and we will see how that goes.'

Worcester are rumoured to be looking at numerous backrow and centre options for next year, but a deal for Maxime Mermoz seems unlikely now as Leicester and Worcester struggled to come to a deal.

Falcons delighted to bring in scottish superstar in making


Newcastle Falcons today welcomed Perpinguan and former Western Province fly half Tommaso Allan to the club.


Allan joins the club on a 6 year deal and is seen as a definate world class fly half in the near future. The player has rejected advances from Italy , South Africa and France in order to play for his nation of birth.

WARRIORS SNAP UP AJ AND RUSSOUW

Worcester Warriors have strengthened their ranks for next season with the double signing of Sprinbok backrowers Ashley Johnson from Northampton Saints and Danie Russouw from Toulon.

'We have identified the backrow as an area where we need strength in depth. Getting these guys for 15 million is a bargain. Both are real hard men who will add some grunt and power to our pack.'

Warriors are also rumoured to be in talks with Northampton over Italian centre Tomasso Benvenutti.

Tigers Back in Training

Leicester Tigers today arrived back in pre-season training. The Tigers have had a good break after winning the Aviva Premiership last season in a tense finale against Harlequins. Tigers have added 11 names to their squad this year, and the new boys are straight into action.

Tigers have already named their side to play Saints in the team's first pre-season friendly this week, and it is a side with 6 new faces for Tigers fans to get used to. Loose-head prop Benn Robinson plays, alongside Welsh lock Ian Evans as the two new forwards on display.

An all new half-back combination plays - with new Samoan No.9 Kahn Fotuali'i lining up alongside the recently signed South African play-maker Pat Lambie. Tigers also have new back-three signings Henry Speight and Mike Brown getting to try the Tigers shirt for the first time too.

With a pre-season tournament planned it gives Tigers plenty of games between now and the beginning of the season in August to plan how their side is going to shape up as they begin their quest to regain the Aviva Premiership crown.

WARRIORS FRENCH CONNECTION

Worcester Warriors have delighted their fans by announcing the signings of French stars Dimitri Yachvili and Maxime Mermoz. The duo join from Aviva Champions Leicester Tigers, along with lock Mouritz Botha. The deal see's Patrick Lambie, Dwayne Peel and Kearnan Myall move to Welford Road. Manager stnick has named all 3 in the match squad for this weeks friendly against Newcastle Falcons. Yachvili starts at scrum half, partnering fellow French international Francois Trinh-Duc, who has recently declared his intention to make the Warriors fly half spot his own this season after largely playing second fiddle to Lambie last season. Mermoz slots in at inside centre, with powerhouse Mathieu Bastereaud playing at outside centre. Stnick is hoping the 4 Frenchmen will forge a formidable combination.
There is no space in the squad for Tusi Pisi, but he is expected to partner Tawera Kerr-Barlow at halfback in the clubs next friendly match.

Falcons confirm change of direction

Newcastle Falcons today named Kiwi 8 Kieron Read as the clubs captain with Richie McCaw stepping down from the role.

'Richie has had a long season and is just wanting to get back to his best on the field, Richie had a big say in who replaced him and at the end of the day it was either him or Paul O'Connell'

O'Connell will lead the side in Reads absence.

Quins take on Toulon in double header

Harlequins this weekend welcome Toulon to the Twickenham Stoop for 2 games which take place on sunday afternoon. This is next stage of the Quins preseason as the squad begins to shape up for the forthcoming season.

The two Quins sides to take on Toulon.

1. Tony Woodcock
2. Schalk Brits
3. Gjorgi Jgenti
4. Bakkies Botha
5. Hugh Pyle
6. Tom Wood
7. Sam Warburton (c)
8. Nick Easter
9. Lee Dickson
10. Quade Cooper
11. Tom Biggs
12. Jamie Roberts
13. Ben Tapuai
14. Yoann Huget
15. Rob Kearney

16. Gary Botha 17. Ben Franks 18. Kyle Sinckler 19. George Kruis 20. Luke Braid 21. Karl Dickson 22. Dan Bowden 23. Anthony Faainga

1. Joe Marler
2. Rob Buchanan
3. John Afoa
4. Pieter-Steph Du Toit
5. Steve Borthwick (c)
6. Lappies Labushagne
7. Michael Hooper
8. Pierre Spies
9. Greig Laidlaw
10. Freddie Burns
11. Luke Morahan
12. Jan Serfontein
13. Florian Fritz
14. Chris Feauai-Sautia
15. Andre Taylor

16. Gary Botha 17. Edward Byrne 18. Kieran Brookes 19. Charlie Matthews 20. Jamie Gibson 21. Luke McGrath 22. Stuart Olding 23. Topsy Ojo

Tigers Battle Pumas

At a sunny Welford Road today, Leicester Tigers entertained a star-studded Argentina side as part of both sides preparation for their respective up-coming competitive fixtures.

Tigers ran out eventual winners by 38 - 30, with the home side choosing to field two different sides in each half. Winger Henry Speight stole the headlines with a second half hat-trick, whist Argentinian Gonzalo Camacho scored a brace for the Pumas. Giant No.8 Edwin Maka also crashed over for the Tigers.


Tigers XV First Half:

01. Andrew Sheridan	09. Dwayne Peel
02. Tom Youngs	10. Jonny Wilkinson (k)
03. Cencus Johnston
04. Pascal Pape	11. Ugo Monye
05. Ian Evans	12. Tamati Ellison
06. Sean O'Brien	13. Brian O'Driscoll (c)
07. Jacques Burger	14. Vincent Clerc
08. Edwin Maka	15. Mike Brown

Tigers XV Second Half:

01. Benn Robinson	09. Kahn Fotuali'i
02. Stephen Moore	10. Pat Lambie (k)
03. Dan Cole
04. Nathan Hines	11. Drew Mitchell
05. James Horwill (c)	12  Billy Twelvetrees
06. Kearnan Myall	13. Dominic Waldouck
07. Francois Louw	14. Henry Speight
08. Ernst Joubert	15. Cheslin Kolbe

Saints in the States

In part of the IRB's plans to expand the global appeal of rugby union Northampton Saints continued their build up to the 2013/2014 Aviva Premiership Season with a game in New York City against Racing Metro.

Saints ran out 29 - 23 winners in a game that was disrupted with water breaks to deal with the blistering heat. Backing up his displays for the Barbarians was Elliot Daly, running in two spectacular tries and showing why he has been called into the England Saxons squad.

1. Thomas Domingo
2. Dylan Hartley (c)
3. Henry Thomas
4. Courtney Lawes
5. Samo Manoa
6. CJ Stander
7. Ed Quirk
8. Billy Vunipola

9. Joe Simpson
10. Matt Toomua
11. Siti Siviatu
12. Matt Giteau
13. Elliot Daly
14. Jamie Elliot
15. Ben Foden

England RFU confirm 13 Saints involved in the England set up for the 2013/2014 season, with 8 featuring in the EPS and a further 5 in the England Saxon squads.

Saints EPS Members: Dylan Hartley; Mako Vunipola; Joe Launchbury; Courtney Lawes; Billy Vunipola; Manu Tuilagi; Christian Wade; Ben Foden.

Saints Saxons Members: Henry Thomas; Calum Clark; Joe Simpson; George Ford; Elliot Daly

Saints pre-season Round-up
Northampton Saints continued their pre-season campaign with two games in the space of five days, taking a young team away to Top14 outfit Montpellier and then playing at Connacht on Friday evening.

Montpellier 43 - 29 Northampton Saints
A young, inexperienced Saints side put in a gutsy performance against Top14 outfit Montpellier. The game was close until the final twenty minutes where the French pack began to dominate and over power the opposition. Notable performances from Tyler Bleyendaal and Noa Nakaitaci - the latter bagging himself a brace of tries.

Saints team:
1. Sona Taumalolo
2. Scott Spurling
3. Henry Thomas
4. Lood de Jager
5. James Gaskell
6. Calum Clark
7. Jaques du Plessis
8. Billy Vunipola
9. Nikola Matawalu
10. Tyler Bleyendaal
11. Noa Nakaitaci
12. Mark Bennett
13. Tomassi Benvenutti (c)
14. Jamie Elliott
15. Jordan Williams

Connacht 14 - 43 Northampton Saints
Christian Wade lit up Friday evening with a pulsating hat-trick in his first game since returning from the British & Irish Lions Tour. The Saints pack provided an excellent platform for Ian Madigan and Matt Giteau to orchestrate an exciting offensive display, which saw six tries scored and one conceded.

1. Thomas Domingo
2. Moto Matu'u
3. Ben Teimafano
4. Mano Samoa
5. Courtney Lawes
6. CJ Stander
7. Ed Quirk
8. Opeti Fonua
9. Joe Simpson
10. Ian Madigan
11. Christian Wade
12. Matt Giteau (c)
13. Elliot Daly
14. Siti Siviatu
15. Ben Foden

WORCESTER PRE-SEASON ROUND UP

Two different Worcester XV's both recorded wins against the Scarlets and Cardiff Blues. Tendai Mtawrira, Tawera Kerr-Barlow and Willie Le Roux were not in action due to international commitments.

Worcester 37-21 Scarlets

1 Nathan Catt
2 Matthew Rees
3 Halani Aulika (T)
4 Alun Wyn-Jones
5 James Hudson
6 Ashley Johnson
7 Ross Rennie
8 Johnnie Beattie (T)
9 Dimitri Yachvili
10 Francois Trinh-Duc (T)
11 David Strettle (T)
12 Kyle Godwin
13 Casey Laulala
14 Tom Williams
15 Sean Maitland (2T)

Worcester 31-14 Ospreys

1 Brett Sturgess
2 Richardt Strauss (T)
3 Brian Mujati
4 Mouritz Botha
5 Johann Muller
6 Danie Russouw
7 Shane Jennings (T)
8 Thomas Waldrom
9 Michael Classens
10 Tusi Pisi
11 Eli Walker (T)
12 Maxime Mermoz (T)
13 Mathieu Basteraud
14 Sailosi Tagicakibau (T)
15 Delon Armitage

Falcons claim victories in Sundays double header

Newcastle Falcons played host to Newport Dragons and Leeds Carnigie at kingston this sunday with Falcons fielding 2 mixed sides

Newcastle 38 Newport 12

1.Alex Waller
2.Rory Best
3.Paul Doran Jones
4.Yoaan Maestri
5.Paul O'Connell
6.Chris Robshaw
7.Kelly Brown
8.Toby Falatau

9.Sam Harrison
10.Tommy Allen
11.Alex Cuthbert
12.Brad Barritt
13.George Lowe
14.Charlie Sharples
15.Alex Goode

NELewcastle 49 Leeds 9

1.Soana Tonga'uhia
2.George McGuigan
3.Scotty Wilson
4.Ed Slater
5.Will Carrick smith
6.Dave Dennis (c)
7.Hienrich Brussouw
8.Chris Masoe

9.Ben Youngs
10.Ruidarh Jackson
11.Chris Ashton
12.Luke Marshall
13.Chris Farrell
14.Zac Kirbridge
15.Dom Shipperley

SAINTS CONFIRM PARISSE AS CAPTAIN

Northampton Saints have today confirmed that Sergio Parisse will lead the side for the duration of the 2013/2014 season. It is the 4th consecutive season that Parisse has captained Northampton Saints and the club will be looking to build on their Heineken Cup and LV-Cup success.

Manager Dammit Chris stated "Sergio has been a stand out performer in every game he has pulled on the green, black and gold. He is a world class player and a world class leader. We are delighted that he will be leading us again this year and that he will continue to support the development of young players like Christian Wade, Joe Launchbury, Elliot Daly, Jamie Elliot and the Vunipola brothers".

The club confirmed that Dylan Hartley would support Parisse in his role and that Matt Giteau and Julian Bonnaire would complete the leadership group.

Pre-Season Result

Northampton Saints 27 - 19 Edinburgh
Northampton Saints continued their build up to the start of the 2013/2014 season with a hard fought victory over Edinburgh at Franklins Gardens.

1. Sona Taumalolo (T)
2. Dylan Hartley
3. Carl Hayman
4. Cadeyn Neville
5. Joe Launchbury
6. CJ Stander
7. Jacques du Plessis
8. Sergio Parisse (c)
9. Nikola Matawalu (T)
10. Rhys Priestland
11. Christian Wade (T)
12. Matt Giteau
13. Tom Stephenson (T)
14. Jamie Elliot
15. Elliot Daly

Newcastle claim another pre-season win over Castres

Newcastle claimed another pre-season victory over French T14 champions Castres. Max Evans caused the Falcons problems with his pace but it was a routine 19 - 3 win for Falcons with a hard defensive effort key to the win. Falcons lined up with a Goode, Marshall and Barritt midfield fueling sug geestions Goode could start the seasons opener against Bath there.

1.Ryan Grant
2.George McGuigan (Best)
3.Paul Doran Jones (Wilson)
4.Ed Slater
5.Paul O'Connell (c) (Carrick Smith)
6.Chris Robshaw (Dennis)
7.Hienrich Brussouw
8.Chris Masoe

9.Ben Youngs
10.Alex Goode
11.Dom Shipperley
12.Luke Marshall
13.Brad Barritt
14.Charlie Sharples
15.Jared Payne

Dom Shipperley continued his strong showing against Leeds with a try whilst Chris Masoe and Jared Payne both crossed either side of half time.

Falcons name sides for final pre-season games next Friday

Newcatle Falcons have named 2 squads to play games against Glasgow Warriors and Ulster Ravens in a double header at the Darlington Arena home of Darlington Mowden Park.

Newcastle hand starts to George Ford , George McGuigan and Zac Kirbridge against Glasgow. Whilst Dave Dennis captains the 2nd team with Kelly Brown leading the first team.

Billingham's Luke Wilson , Tynedales James Hall and Sunderland's Sean Brown will all feature for the 2nd team

Newcastle Falcons side to face Glasgow

15.Alex Goode 14.Chris Ashton 13.Charles Pitutau 12.Luke Marshall 11.Zac Kirbrudge 10.George Ford 9.Ben Youngs; 1.Ryan Grant 2.George McGuigan 3.Paul Doran Jones 4.Yoaan Maestri 5.Ed Slater 6.Kelly Brown (c) 7.Hienrich Brussouw 8.Toby Falatau

Subs; Rory Best , Soane Tonga'uhia , Scotty Wilson , Adam Sinclair , Hugh Blake , Sam Harrison , Joel Hodgson , Scott Williams

15.Jared Payne 14.Sean Brown 13.Chris Farrell 12.Brad Barritt 11.George Lowe 10.Tommy Allen 9.Luke Wilson; 1.Alex Waller 2.Nathan Morris 3.James Hall 4.Jonny Grey 5.Will Carrick Smith 6.Dave Dennis (c) 7.Curtis Browning 8.Joel Ceolon

Falcons start the season with a bang

Newcastle Falcons started there season with a hard thought win over a stubbern Bath side at Kingston Park , Falcons started well with a penalty from George Ford punishing Bath's James Haskell for not releasing in his own 22 due to some powerful counter rucking from Ryan Grant. Charlie Hodgson however drew the game level with Scott Williams being caught offside in the midfield allowing Hodgson a simple shot for 3.

Bath registered the next 3 points as well when Kelly Brown was pinged for having his hands in the ruck giving Hodgson another shot at goal to make the scores 6-3.

Alex Goode's tactical kicking forced the Bath wings to drop deep and Ben Youngs saw his chance to break away only to be covered by Tom Guest who prevented a certain try only to concede 3 points for not releasing.

Falcons used the power of Brown and Falatau early on in the 2nd half to conjure up a hole around the ruck to allow livewire Ben Youngs to snipe and dart over to take the score to 13 - 6 with Ford adding the 2.

Falcons streched there lead a bit further with another Ford penalty before James Haskell showed a turn of wheels to latch onto a John Davies offload to score to the left of the posts with Hodgson converting before adding two penalties to make it 19- 16 in Baths favour.

Newcastle made a number of changes with Jean Doussain and Charlie Sharples coming on and the two linked up brilliantly as Sharples saw space down the blind side from a turnover and Doussain produced a neat chip to the corner for Shaples to collect and score.

Man of Match: Ben Youngs.

Mixed news for Newcastle

Newcastle Falcons where left counting the debris from there hard fought win against Bath with a number of injuries. However Falcons can welcome back All Blacks Richie McCaw and Aaron Cruden who both landed at Manchester Airport today after being released from international duty as Steve Hansen aims to explore his options.

Ireland centre Luke Marshall is expected to take the Falcons 12 jersey from the injured Brad Barritt and the young centre is more than ready for the game. 'I'm really looking forward to the game against Sale , I'v had a good prep and it's hard lines for Brad as he was a rock in D last week and smashed everything that came his way''

Falcons begin 'A' League with a win.

Newcastle Falcons started the North East and Borders 'A' League with a strong win against Leeds Carnegie. The Falcons played with only Sonny Bill Williams having started a Premiership fixture for them.

Falcons once again included promising local youngsters such as James Hallem , James Hall (Both Tynedale) , Luke Wilson (Billingham) and Sean Brown (Sunderland)

1.James Hallem (Tynedale Player)
2.Nathan Morris
3.James Hall
4.Jonny Grey
5.Adam Sinclair
6.Joe Robinson
7.Curtis Browning (c)
8.Joel Coelen

9.Luke Wilson
10.Joel Hodgson
11.Sean Brown
12.Sonny Bill Williams
13.Chris Farrell
14.Zac Kirbridge
15.Tommy Allen

Falcons ran in 5 trys to Leeds 1 with Sean Brown bagging 3 , Chris Farrell 1 and Kirbridge the final one. Tommy Allen showed great composure to bang all 5 conversions over.

Falcons remaining fixtures;

Edinburgh
Border Riviers
National League 15
Leeds
Edinburgh
Border Riviers
National League 15

Flux Puts Trust in Newbies

Following his transfer from Falcons, current England captain has gone straight into the Exeter Chiefs starting XV for their first home game against London Wasps. Director of Rugby at Chiefs Flux stated in a pre-match interview that he was delighted with the signing of Chris and that he had been highly impressed with his attitude in training since he had joined. Flux also went on to say he was also impressed with Shipperlys intent and that he had warranted a start despite so little to meet his teammates. "We live in a time now where these lads don't need to spend weeks bedding in. In some key positions I can understand the notion. But seeing as these lads are professionals they should be able to jump straight in to a squad and training and integrate with their team mates. That is also why this week we have given them a simplified role within the team to stick to their basics and play the game how they see it."

Falcons announce Juan Smith return

Newcastle's medical team are reaping the rewards following flanker Juan Smiths return from retirement to feature for the Falcons this season. Smith is set to turn out in the 'A' League for a few weeks but is expected to make his senior return in the Hieniken Cup.

Falcons team to play Edinbourgh

1.James Hallem (Tynedale)
2.Nathan Morris
3.James Hall (Tynedale)
4.Andy Buist (Tynedale)
5.Jonny Grey
6.Juan Smith
7.Curtis Browning (c)
8.Joe Robinson

9.Sam Harrison
10.Tommy Allen
11.Sean Brown (Sunderland)
12.Sonny Bill Williams
13.Chris Farrell
14.Zac Kirbridge
15.Luke Wilson (Billingham)

Driver questions Gloucester's top 4 ambition

When asked if he saw Gloucester challanging for the title this season Newcastle coach Driver give a honest response that he can't see them even in the play offs. 'Finishing in the top 4 for 11 sides in this league is a dream for Gloucester it's an obsession and one they haven't managed to fulfill yet by winning the league , Matt is a top manager but even now he must be feeling the pressure a bit from the shed and that is surely going to filter into his players'

When asked about his own sides ambitions Driver had this to say

'We've been in the play offs the last few years so there is some expectation there , but we're in the middle of a upheavel at the moment and we're looking at giving more youngsters game time in the first team so we might not start on fire but we have started very , very well with a great win against a good Bath side. Come the end of the season i expect us to be challenging for a few trophies'

In the telegraph today

" Mat silence says it all"

Mat would not be drawn on Drivers comments that Glos will not make the top 4.

As an experienced manager who has won many titles it was a display of true mastery.

When another team comments on another it is often a sign of weakness and fear. At this point from this observer it looks like mat has the hook in drivers mouth and will reel him in

It looks like this could seriously backfire on Newcastle and they have lost a mind game at this early part of the season.

It is reminiscent of ferguson vs Keenan with mat being ferguson and driver playing the unfortunate role of Keegan

 

Just hope people pick up on Newcastles head being elsewhere when there playing Sale this week!

KING PRAISE FOR VUNIPOLAS

Northampton Saint's back coach, Alex King, was full of praise for the Vunipola brothers off the back of an impressive performance in the win against Harlequins at the Stoop.

"Give the ball to Mako or Billy and things happen around them, they make yards, create space and have the hands and vision to bring other people into the game. They've come on leaps and bounds over the last 18 months and we are very fortunate to have them both at the club.

Billy has really stepped up since Sergio Parisse got injured against the Chiefs, travelling to Argentina and experiencing what the full England setup is like seems to have really inspired him to make sure he gets hold of an England shirt again this Autumn.

We've got a tough game away at Gloucester this weekend, but we're a young team with a lot of confidence and will certainly be looking to go 3 wins from 3. The Chairman has targeted the league this year - for a club with our history we're aware that making the playoffs twice in five years isn't good enough."

POOLY BACK IN THE MIX
 
The biggest news in world rugby hit this week when Saracens announced the signing of Pooly as their intrim manager.
 
After quiting Newcastle Falcons last season Pooly, the most successful manager ever to grace the AP has been recharging his batteries and acting as a advisor to a host of top clubs.
 
What made you come back?
 
"Sarries were in dire straights, they finished last season season poorly and with no DOR in place have struggled to recruit in the summer, falling behind many of their peers.
 
We had a long chat and they persuaded me to come in and see what I can do, end of really."
 
A relegation dog fight is a little different to winning things every season with Falcons eh?
 
"I took Falcons from the bottom 4 to winning the HC within that same season, we then went on to win back to back titles which is still a record. The best team wins the title, thats a fact. We were the best team in the league for two season, Tigers were the best team last season, not much else to say.
 
Things have changed a little since those days, there's less talent outside the AP to pick up which can hinder your recruitment and progression is tough. It's not going to be an easy season, we aren't favourites to get relegated for nothing."
 
You've made a few additions already to the squad, how's recruitment going?
 
There were a few players past their prime here for the pay cheque. That doesn't happen anymore, you come to play for me to win and I think I've got the lads in to work towards that.
 
Good to see George Smith back in the AP, what was your thinking there?
 
"It's no secret I like to play with a natural 7, we didn't have that and it's the first area I targeted. George Smith is a superb player, we seen in the Super 15 and 4N games he's still one of the best open sides about and he'll add experience to our backrow. I was delighted to get him, he's still one of the best in business."
 
Your other signings?
 
I've brought in a couple to spice things up. Luke Charteris gives us a top line out operator which I felt we were lacking, Louis Deacon can run a line well but he was our only real specialist.
 
Julian Malzeui gives us a big physical presence on the wing and will compliment the way we want to play.
 
Luke Burgess gives us a running scrum half which again we were lacking, he'll link up well the backline and give us a threat around the fringes.
 
Tom Taylor was a massive coup tbh. We chatted for hours and he's put his trust in my approach to things. He looks the real deal after a fantastic super season and fully deserved his cap for the AB's recently. With the main man Dan Carter struggling for form over the last year Taylor is right in the mix to get in and around that squad. He's a big lad, he gives us playmaking options at 10 and 12 which is key.
 
With Taylor we also brought in his 'Saders midfield partner Ryan Crotty. I'm a massive fan of Crotty's, he's another who's in and around that AB squad and would walk into the England set up. He gives us real options at 12/13.
 
We also brought in Ben Botica as a backup 10/12, he's got a solid boot and won't let us down.
 
Any domestic dealings in the pipeline?
 
Nothing concrete. Clubs have been sniffing around our two world class players (Jdv & Ben Smith) but no deals have been put in place as of yet.

Flux Speaks about Despair in Defeat


Following the first three league games Exeter Chiefs have been cruelly denied wins by marginal differences in points in the following weeks. Flux stated in an interview after his side's last disappointing defeat that there are still positives to be taken from the results. 

"Compared to this time last year we were struggling in the Championship, now we are in the top league, of course things were never going to be easy. But we have shown marked improvements in our results and we will look for a big turn out this week at home and a big response from my lads. We will be hosting the League Champions this week, and some might believe that this fixture and result is a foregone conclusion. However when you break the battle down there a number of variables and outcomes which can be swayed into our favour. We are at home, the crowd will be intimidating to Tigers. Our game-plan is relatively similar to theirs, so we know how to play around with their weaknesses. And finally the lads in the squad are itching to set the record straight in the league. Not only do they want to record their first league win, but they want to set down a marker in this league as they know in the Chiefs spirit we can be fighting much higher up in this league."

Sonny Bill return nears

Newcastle Falcons have confirmed that Sonny Bill Williams is near to a return to rugby union and are set to name the All Black in there Falcons 15 to play Edinburgh on Monday in a 60 minute friendly at Berwick RFC.

Sonny Bill has been out on loan to Aussie RL side Canberra Bulldogs and has held a few more bouts in his 'sabical'.

Saints record tenth European win in a row
This weekend Northampton Saints recorded their tenth successive victory in the Heineken Cup with a bonus point win against Cardiff Blues at Franklins Gardens. Skipper Dylan Hartley continued his fine form but it was the overall performance of lock Courtney Lawes that stole the show for the home team.

Saints will look to make it eleven from eleven next week when they travel to Glasgow Warriors in which promises to be a stern test for the European Champions. They will be boosted by the return of Sergio Parisse from injury and it has been reported that Steve Luatua will be making his competitive debut for the club.

1. Thomas Domingo
2. Dylan Hartley (c)
3. Carl Hayman
4. Joe Launchbury
5. Courtney Lawes
6. Steve Luatua
7. Liam Gill
8. Billy Vunipola
9. Joe Simpson
10. Ian Madigan (k)
11. Leigh Halfpenny
12. Matt Giteau
13. Manu Tuilagi
14. Tommy Bowe
15. Ben Foden

Subs: 16. Mikey Haywood 17. Mako Vunipola 18. Henry Thomas 19. Samu Manoa 20. Sergio Parisse 21. Mike Phillips 22. Elliot Daly 23. Julian Savea

(Drawn out way of saying that if I can't get on the team thread this week can someone please post this as my team Tuesday/Wednesday for me!).

SARRIES MIDFIELD NOW COMPLETE

After a flurry of signings over the last few weeks, Sarries coach Pooly has spoke of his delight of landing key targets to take the struggling London club forward.

"It was an area of concern as soon as I walked through the door. We lacked a bit of imagination from 10-13 and if we failed to break teams down there was nothing to fall back on.

Joel Tomkins is an extremely strong 13 but just didn't compliment JdV so we needed to tweak.

We were gutted to lose Ben Smith as he's a world class back, I wouldn't be surprised if he won IRB player of the year as he's been unreal.

Having the option to bring in Jon Davies was too good to turn though, linking back up with his old Bath team mate Luther Burrell.

We now have some serious options, mixing the hard runners like JdV and Burrell with the flair of Davies, Lowe and Crotty.

I'm a huge fan of a hard running 12, I like the way they give the pivot a get out and it's always been my preferred style of play.

You need that physical hard runner in the AP, especially in the winter months. In JdV we have probably the best in the business, he's been amazing this year. Luther Burrell gives us a similar style player so we don't need to change the way we play too much.

Outside of that we now have Davies who is the complete centre imo. He has it all, he has a great boot and can mix it physically when needed. I'm really happy to bring him in.

George Lowe was the final piece, I'm a huge fan having initially bringing him to Falcons a few years back. He's great defensively and had gas to burn. He'll thrive in the space De Villiers & Burrell create. The deal was a but touch and go but the chairman backed me and Newcastle were great to deal with.

Falcons leak LV team for Irish clash

15.James O'Connor
14.Rene Ranger
13.Chris Farrell
12.Brad Barritt
11.Charlie Sharples
10.Jimmy Goppereth
9.Sam Harrison

1.Alex Waller
2.Darren Dawiduik
3.Paul Doran Jones
4.Ed Slater
5.Ali Williams
6.Juan Smith
7.Hienrich Brussouw
8.Chris Masoe

Falcons confirm scrum half signing

Newcastle Falcons today confirmed the signing of South Africa scrum half Francois Houghaard from London Wasps for £3m.

Falcons have been watching the former Bulls 9 for a while and are more than impressed with his aggresive approach to the breakdown something which head coach Driver thought his side lacked.

'With Ben , Jean and Sam we had 3 fantastic ball players and decision makers but we needed a physical presence to give us another option there and when we we're alerted to Fran's availability through our scouting network we jumped at the chance to bring him here

Houghard is set to partner James O'Connor at half back against London Irish at Kingston Park this week.

Jonny to expect more game time

Scotland lock Jonny Grey is expecting more game time upon his return to Tyneside after the AIs and is keen take the 5 shirt. Jonny is a diffrent type of player to his brother Richie. Richie is a rampant bull whilst Jonny runs the lineout.

Falcons claim big win against Quins

Newcastle produced a morale boosting win over last seasons runners up Harlequins. The return of  stalwarts Richie McCaw , Aaron Cruden , Liam Messem , Rory Best , Owen Franks , Charles Pitatau alongside club captain Kieron Read.

The Falcons produced a attacking display to run in 3 converted trys along with 2 penalties from Cruden to ensure victory against the Londoners.

Falcons are expected to rest plenty over the next 2 weeks as they take on Racing Metro Paris in the Hienken Cup.

1.Alex Waller
2.Dane Coles
3.Paul Doran Jones
4.Ed Slater
5.Paul O'Connell
6.Juan Smith (C)
7.Chris Henry
8.Dave Ewers

9.Ben Youngs
10.Dan Bigger
11.Charlie Sharples
12.Brad Barritt
13.Ben Smith
14.Charles Pitatau
15.James O'Connor

Ford gets the nod for Toulon clash

Northampton Saints have handed George Ford a huge boost by naming him starting fly half for the crunch tie against Toulon. The twenty year old has impressed in recent weeks and has helped guide Saints to four straight victories.

"George has displayed increasing levels of maturity since he got the 10 shirt" gushed Saints back coach Alex King "he has a way of bringing other backs into the game and unlocking defences and after last week's performance there was no chance he wouldn't start".

"It is the biggest game of his career, but when you see the likes of Sergio, Mike Phillips and Fofana around him he's got all the experience he needs to help him through. He's been a long-term project of mine to get into the England set up and follow the likes of the Vunipolas, Joe Launchbury, Henry Thomas and Wadey to get their frist caps while at Saints".

Saints delight at Pocock Capture

Northampton Saints have today announced the signing of David Pocock from Bath. The move sees Ben Teimafano, Dan Lydiate, James Gaskell and Liam Gill move to the Recreation Ground.

'We are delighted to be able to bring a player of David's caliber to Franklins Gardens - he's widely regarded as the best openside in rugby and we are looking forward to working with him over the course of his contract. He brings excellent leadership qualities and will fit in well to our squad and greatly enhance the options in our backrow.

It is a disappointment to lose players like Dan Lydiate and Liam Gill but we felt this was an opportunity too good to miss out on. We wish them all the best for their future careers and look forward to welcoming Davit Kubrashvill and Rhys Ruddock to our squad on Monday'.

"he's widely regarded as the best openside in rugby"

I think McCaw might have a thing or two to say atbout that

I'd say Pocockis about 6th in the listMcCaw, Hooper, Lowe, Warburton, SOB, Robshaw all offer more than pocock

It was the Saints press office at work, nothing like a good bit of PR first thing in the am.

If all players on form I'd go:

McCaw
Pocock
Hooper
Louw
Warburton

No way robshaw in top5 opensides or above Pocock, I'd take Brussow, Gill the French guys, Tipuric all above him.

Pocock is a one trick pony , his game going forward is non existent.

On form Pocock wouldn't be on any list tbh, he's not played for over a year has he?

If he was fit and firing I'd have him bunched in just behind McCaw with Louw etc below.

I love Pocock, there's none better at the breakdown. Big big step up on Cane imo who I don't rate too highly.

If he gets fit and in form he's a great addition Chris.