Glasgow and Edinburgh: Ongoing Banter Thread VIII

[RuggerRadge2611]

First topic message reminder :

Ye Olde Banter:

https://www.606v2.com/t48240-glasgow-and-edinburgh-ongoing-banter-thread
https://www.606v2.com/t51313-glasgow-and-edinburgh-ongoing-banter-thread-ii
https://www.606v2.com/t53119-glasgow-and-edinburgh-ongoing-banter-thread-iii
https://www.606v2.com/t54519-glasgow-and-edinburgh-ongoing-banter-thread-iv
https://www.606v2.com/t55409-glasgow-and-edinburgh-ongoing-banter-thread-v-the-fun-continues
https://www.606v2.com/t56913p950-glasgow-and-edinburgh-ongoing-banter-thread-vi-banter-boogaloo
https://www.606v2.com/t57946-glasgow-and-edinburgh-ongoing-banter-thread-vii



A. Edinburgh
   

1. League Results  

Fri 5 Sep: Munster Rugby 13 - 14 Edinburgh Rugby

Fri 12 Sep: Edinburgh Rugby 13 - 14 Connacht Rugby

Sun 21 Sep: Ospreys 62 - 13 Edinburgh Rugby

Fri 26 Sep: Edinburgh Rugby 20 - 20 Scarlets

Fri 3 Oct: Ulster Rugby 30 - 0 Edinburgh Rugby

Sat 11 Oct: Edinburgh Rugby 24 - 10 Newport Gwent Dragons

Fri 31 Oct: Leinster Rugby 33 - 8 Edinburgh Rugby

Sun 23 Nov: Edinburgh Rugby 28 - 13 Cardiff Blues

Sat 29 Nov: Zebre 18 - 10 Edinburgh Rugby

Fri 19 Dec: Edinburgh Rugby 48 - 0 Benetton Treviso

Sat 27 Dec: Glasgow Warriors 16 - 6 Edinburgh Rugby

Fri 2 Jan: Edinburgh Rugby - 20 - 8 Glasgow Warriors

Fri 9 Jan: Connacht Rugby 13 - 16 Edinburgh Rugby

Fri 13 Feb: Edinburgh Rugby 24 - 16 Ospreys

Fri 20 Feb: Edinburgh Rugby 17 - 20 Ulster Rugby

Sun 1 Mar: Cardiff Blues 21 - 15 Edinburgh Rugby

Sat 7 Mar: Benetton Treviso 8 - 29 Edinburgh

Sat 28 Mar: Scarlets 15 - 26 Edinburgh Rugby

Fri 24 Apr: Edinburgh Rugby 3 - 34 Munster Rugby

2. European Results  

17/10/14: Bordeaux-Begles 13 - 15 Edinburgh Rugby

24/10/14: Edinburgh Rugby 25 - 17 Lyon

7/12/14: Edinburgh Rugby 25 - 13 London Welsh

14/12/14: London Welsh 6 - 24 Edinburgh Rugby

17/01/2015: Lyon 21 - 19 Edinburgh Rugby

23/01/2015: Edinburgh Rugby 38 - 20 Bordeaux-Begles

05/04/2015: London Irish 18-23 Edinburgh

17/04/2015: Edinburgh 45-16 Dragons

B. Glasgow


1. League Results  

Sat 6 Sep: Glasgow Warriors 22 - 20 Leinster Rugby

Sun 14 Sep: Cardiff Blues 12 - 33 Glasgow Warriors

Sat 20 Sep: Newport Gwent Dragons 13 - 33 Glasgow Warriors

Fri 26 Sep: Glasgow Warriors 39 - 21 Connacht Rugby

Sun 5 Oct: Benetton Treviso 23 - 40 Glasgow Warriors

Sat 11 Oct: Ulster Rugby 29 - 9 Glasgow Warriors

Fri 31 Oct: Glasgow Warriors 17 - 9 Benetton Treviso

Fri 21 Nov: Scarlets 19 - 9 Glasgow Warriors

Sun 30 Nov: Glasgow Warriors 19 - 15 Newport Gwent Dragons

Sat 20 Dec: Glasgow Warriors 21 - 18 Munster Rugby

Sat 27 Dec: Glasgow Warriors 16 - 6 Edinburgh Rugby

Fri 2 Jan: Edinburgh Rugby 20 - 8 Glasgow Warriors

Fri 9 Jan: Glasgow Warriors 22 - 7 Scarlets

Sun 15 Feb: Zebre 10 - 54 Glasgow Warriors

Sat 21 Feb: Glasgow Warriors 19 - 16 Ospreys

Sat 28 Feb: Munster Rugby 22 - 10 Glasgow Warriors

Fri 6 Mar: Glasgow Warriors 26 - 5 Zebre

Fri 27 Mar: Leinster Rugby 34 - 34 Glasgow Warriors

Fri 10 Apr: Glasgow Warriors 36 - 17 Cardiff Blues


2. European Results  

18/10/14: Glasgow Warriors 37 - 10 Bath Rugby

25/10/14: Montpellier 13 - 15 Glasgow Warriors

7/12/14: Toulouse 19 - 11 Glasgow Warriors

13/12/14: Glasgow Warriors 9 - 12 Toulouse

18/01/2015: Glasgow Warriors 21 - 10 Montpellier

25/01/2015: Bath Rugby 20 - 15 Glasgow Warriors

Hopefully this thread will keep GC off my back for a wee while...

[jimbopip]

Game set and match Fester.

[madmaccas]

Assuming he comes Glasgow is the best outcome, Embra have Fife, Helu, Hoyland, Allen, Farndale so really don't need another wing. Plus if rumours are true he's on a big contract which would have eaten up too much of the budget for other players.

Talking of Michael Allen what did people think of him against Glasgow? I only managed to catch the highlights but from the glimpse's I saw I wasn't overly impressed. Looked a bit sluggish and got absolutely gassed by Hogg for his try.

Bar being beaten by Hogg (happens to the best of 'em) I thought he looks very useful. He had one run where he evaded 3 defenders, which against Glasgow's rush defence is some feat. The stats say he made the 2nd most meters after Ludik (and fullback's meters always flatter to deceive) and looked pretty handy on the back foot. Not a starter, but a very good squad players methinks - in the mould of Murchie/Horne.

[funnyExiledScot]

Assuming he comes Glasgow is the best outcome, Embra have Fife, Helu, Hoyland, Allen, Farndale so really don't need another wing. Plus if rumours are true he's on a big contract which would have eaten up too much of the budget for other players.

Talking of Michael Allen what did people think of him against Glasgow? I only managed to catch the highlights but from the glimpse's I saw I wasn't overly impressed. Looked a bit sluggish and got absolutely gassed by Hogg for his try.

Bar being beaten by Hogg (happens to the best of 'em) I thought he looks very useful. He had one run where he evaded 3 defenders, which against Glasgow's rush defence is some feat. The stats say he made the 2nd most meters after Ludik (and fullback's meters always flatter to deceive) and looked pretty handy on the back foot. Not a starter, but a very good squad players methinks - in the mould of Murchie/Horne.

Agreed - I thought he had a decent game. Ulster fans tell me he's a better centre than a winger, which may account for his lack of top pace. I was quietly encouraged - he looked better than Andries Strauss......

[21st Century Schizoid Man]

Allen looks perfect for the Luvvies - slow, ponderous and cannot /will not tackle. He will fit in perfectly at The Library. Priceless photo on The Herald sports pages today of Visser heading over to tackle an elderly lady Luvvie supporter (most likely 25% of the MFL support) with a tartan scarf on. Looks like Tim had to push her granddaughter out of the way to get there.

[jimbopip]

Allen looks perfect for the Luvvies - slow, ponderous and cannot /will not tackle.   He will fit in perfectly at The Library.   Priceless photo on The Herald sports pages today of Visser heading over to tackle an elderly lady Luvvie supporter (most likely 25% of the MFL support) with a tartan scarf on.  Looks like Tim had to push her granddaughter out of the way to get there.  

Had the rampaging Timbo snuck up on the granddaughter's blind side then?

[funnyExiledScot]

Allen looks perfect for the Luvvies - slow, ponderous and cannot /will not tackle.   He will fit in perfectly at The Library.   Priceless photo on The Herald sports pages today of Visser heading over to tackle an elderly lady Luvvie supporter (most likely 25% of the MFL support) with a tartan scarf on.  Looks like Tim had to push her granddaughter out of the way to get there.  

Had the rampaging Timbo snuck up on the granddaughter's blind side then?

This is top quality banter!

[jimbopip]

Allen looks perfect for the Luvvies - slow, ponderous and cannot /will not tackle.   He will fit in perfectly at The Library.   Priceless photo on The Herald sports pages today of Visser heading over to tackle an elderly lady Luvvie supporter (most likely 25% of the MFL support) with a tartan scarf on.  Looks like Tim had to push her granddaughter out of the way to get there.  

Had the rampaging Timbo snuck up on the granddaughter's blind side then?

This is top quality banter!

That wasn't.

[funnyExiledScot]

I think Allen will do OK for Edinburgh. Looks solid enough, if a bit sluggish for a top player.

I'll be very interested to see Visser and Maitland in the Aviva next season. Both could use a kick up the backside frankly, having seen Seymour jump ahead of them by some distance.

[George Carlin]

Seymour is the very man to show them that a chance of scenery to a club where you feel at home can do wonders for your skill levels and your career. Here's hoping that they don't "do a Mossy in Gloucester".

I think that they're good enough not to.

[RDW]

The 1872 cup winners had their awards dinner last night

Newcomer of the year - Rory Sutherland
Young player of the year - Sam Hidalgo-Clyne
Players' player of the year - Al Dickinson
Player of the year - Roddy Grant

No arguing with that!

[George Carlin]

The 1872 cup winners had their awards dinner last night

Newcomer of the year - Rory Sutherland
Young player of the year - Sam Hidalgo-Clyne
Players' player of the year - Al Dickinson
Player of the year - Roddy Grant

No arguing with that!

Apparently the category most closely fought was 'Most Shagged Out Player'.

WP Nel won but sources confirmed he was too exhausted to climb the steps to the podium and pick up the award.

[MacKnocked-on]

The 1872 cup winners had their awards dinner last night

Newcomer of the year - Rory Sutherland
Young player of the year - Sam Hidalgo-Clyne
Players' player of the year - Al Dickinson
Player of the year - Roddy Grant

No arguing with that!

Apparently the category most closely fought was 'Most Shagged Out Player'.

WP Nel won but sources confirmed he was too exhausted to climb the steps to the podium and pick up the award.

I take it from Edinburgh's twitter feed last night that Carl Bezuidenhout is leaving the club, was that officially announced anywhere?

[highland_scot]

Sorry to but in on a non-club related note (not that that ever stopped us on the banter thread)!

Posted on the World Cup thread, we seem to be getting a new backs coach:

http://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/68679894/manawatu-turbos-coach-jason-ohalloran-signs-deal-with-scottish-rugby-union

If it reduces SJ's involvement in the squad then I'm all for it. A bit of a "who?" appointment, and he seems to be close with Vern's brother.

We'll see how it goes I guess - now just to get JonHump replaced. Still can't fathom how between him and Dean Ryan, they took a very good pack from Robinson and made such a mess of it!

[RDW]

The 1872 cup winners had their awards dinner last night

Newcomer of the year - Rory Sutherland
Young player of the year - Sam Hidalgo-Clyne
Players' player of the year - Al Dickinson
Player of the year - Roddy Grant

No arguing with that!

Apparently the category most closely fought was 'Most Shagged Out Player'.

WP Nel won but sources confirmed he was too exhausted to climb the steps to the podium and pick up the award.

I take it from Edinburgh's twitter feed last night that Carl Bezuidenhout is leaving the club, was that officially announced anywhere?

Him, Hart, Atkins and visser were the only ones mentioned - does that mean Dominguez and Leonardi are staying?

They might have already left to be fair.

On the plus side, it surely means Dickinson, Nel and Du Preez are staying.

[funnyExiledScot]

The 1872 cup winners had their awards dinner last night

Newcomer of the year - Rory Sutherland
Young player of the year - Sam Hidalgo-Clyne
Players' player of the year - Al Dickinson
Player of the year - Roddy Grant

No arguing with that!

Agree with all of these - all strong performers this year.

[Majestic83]

The 1872 cup winners had their awards dinner last night

Newcomer of the year - Rory Sutherland
Young player of the year - Sam Hidalgo-Clyne
Players' player of the year - Al Dickinson
Player of the year - Roddy Grant

No arguing with that!

Apparently the category most closely fought was 'Most Shagged Out Player'.

WP Nel won but sources confirmed he was too exhausted to climb the steps to the podium and pick up the award.

I take it from Edinburgh's twitter feed last night that Carl Bezuidenhout is leaving the club, was that officially announced anywhere?

Him, Hart, Atkins and visser were the only ones mentioned - does that mean Dominguez and Leonardi are staying?

They might have already left to be fair.

On the plus side, it surely means Dickinson, Nel and Du Preez are staying.

Anton Bresler tweeted this morning something about it was the time of year that was sad about rugby and seeing players move on.

Think there will be quite a few others departing. Whoever was doing the Edinburgh twitter feed and taking the pics had had a few beverages it seemed!

[BigGee]

Well it seems that Duncan Hodge is going to join the Edinburgh coaching set up once the WC is over and this new guy arrives from NZ to work with the national side.

Hodge may not get the pulse racing but he is a good solid coach and may turn out to be another Steve Scott, who it is fair to say no one rated all that much when he took on the Edinburgh forwards and yet has done a pretty good job!

From the national perspective it is definitely a good thing to see VC start to bring his own men in as well. That suggests that he is planning to stick around for a while as well, which can only be a good thing.

[RDW]

Scotland Assistant Coach Duncan Hodge will take on the role of Edinburgh Rugby Backs Coach at the end of the Rugby World Cup 2015, it was confirmed today.

He will join recently re-signed Head Coach Alan Solomons and Assistant Coach Stevie Scott in the black and red backroom as they look to build on the progress of the BT Murrayfield club.

Hodge said: "Edinburgh Rugby has been a massive part of my life, having played 11 seasons of senior rugby for the club.

I'm looking forward to being part of it again, working with Alan [Solomons] and Stevie [Scott] to develop the players and continue the progress of the club with an exciting group.”

The former Scotland stand-off began his coaching career in the twilight of his playing days, at Leeds Tykes, where he supported the club's academy, before coaching at Watsonians from 2005 to 2007.

In 2007 former Scotland Head Coach Frank Hadden employed his services as a part-time Specialist Coach at Edinburgh Rugby, Glasgow Warriors and the national team, going full-time in 2012.

The following year Hodge was promoted to Assistant Coach for the Scotland and Scotland A team – overseeing the latter's 13-9 away win over England Saxons at Kingston Park – and has directed the national team's back play ever since.

The move represents a return to the capital club for Hodge, who not only completed over 150 appearances for the men in black, but also enjoyed a successful interim coaching spell, alongside Stevie Scott, for the last five games of the 2012/13 season.

Scotland Head Coach Vern Cotter, said: "Duncan is a very good coach, and I've enjoyed working with him.

"As an ex-player I think he's always held this desire to coach Edinburgh and this move gives him an opportunity to coach continuously, at a professional level.

"I think it's important for him to bring the things he's learned from the international environment to the club, in what I think is a great move for him, his personal development and the club.”=

He added: "He'll be working with players that are, or will become, Scotland international rugby players and knows what skill-sets are important to play at that level.

Not only is he a great coach but he's a great guy and I'll enjoy exchanging with him through the national set-up. I'm sure he'll do an excellent job."

As a player, Hodge remains among a select group of players who have scored a century of points for Scotland.

His tally is 123 in 26 internationals, and he is also Scotland A's leading scorer with 138.

Earlier in his career he was the top points-scorer on Scotland's 2000 tour to New Zealand, claiming 41 points from the five games he played.

That trip followed a superb individual contribution to Scotland's Calcutta Cup victory against England during which he notched his fourth try for his country and scored all the points in the 19-13 result.

He won his first full cap as a replacement for Craig Chalmers against France in Paris in 1997, having already booked a place in Scottish rugby lore when his drop goal in the dying seconds secured Scotland A's victory over the 1994 Springboks.

Some 12 years later he had another memorable drop that lifted Edinburgh Rugby to a Heineken Cup victory against Leinster by 25-24 at BT Murrayfield in October 2006.

He was never the most exciting player, but that doesn't mean he won't be a good coach. He has had a good few years' experience now with Scotland so he really needs to be stepping up.

I'm just glad we've got someone!

[funnyExiledScot]

Agree - I'm just pleased that the gap has been noted and filled, both for Edinburgh and for Scotland. He's widely respected in Scottish rugby and has plenty experience. I'm pleased that we are seeing another Scottish coach given an opportunity to work with someone like Solomons. Scott and Hodge could well be the succession planning we've been asking for.

[RDW]

We just need a full time defence coach now and we'll have the full set!

[funnyExiledScot]

We just need a full time defence coach now and we'll have the full set!

I wonder what role Ben Atiga is going to fulfil next season. He surely can't do another year of just wandering about talking to players. I know he has been working with Sam H-C on his kicking game, but perhaps he could step up into a more permanent coaching role? Plenty rugby knowledge and experience, it was just on the playing side that I had an issue with him.

[RDW]

We just need a full time defence coach now and we'll have the full set!

I wonder what role Ben Atiga is going to fulfil next season. He surely can't do another year of just wandering about talking to players. I know he has been working with Sam H-C on his kicking game, but perhaps he could step up into a more permanent coaching role? Plenty rugby knowledge and experience, it was just on the playing side that I had an issue with him.

Head chef.

On a more serious note, I think he is doing some coaching - what that is I don't know.

I still can't see what he has got to teach SHC about goal kicking! I know Mossy has been working with him. He certainly has a lot more pedigree.

[Majestic83]

We just need a full time defence coach now and we'll have the full set!

I wonder what role Ben Atiga is going to fulfil next season. He surely can't do another year of just wandering about talking to players. I know he has been working with Sam H-C on his kicking game, but perhaps he could step up into a more permanent coaching role? Plenty rugby knowledge and experience, it was just on the playing side that I had an issue with him.

Head chef.

On a more serious note, I think he is doing some coaching - what that is I don't know.

I still can't see what he has got to teach SHC about goal kicking! I know Mossy has been working with him.  He certainly has a lot more pedigree.

Atiga was actually a pretty deadly kicker back in the day for the Blues in Super rugby. Took a lot of the long range shots and took over from Carlos Spencer who often had a shocker.

I think Atiga should be kept on at Edinburgh in a coaching capacity, he has added quite a lot to the team this season and has been a good link between the players and coach.

[funnyExiledScot]

Well he was certainly involved on the touchline, passing messages etc onto the pitch, and speaking with the players who were coming on. I'd be fine with him being kept on in that capacity.

[George Carlin]

Security would seem to be the obvious choice for Atiga.

"Nah, bro - if your name's not Dan, you're not coming in".

[des]

I've only heard Atiga stating the obvious from the touchline. 

Edinburgh give away a penalty for something.
Atiga: "Watch it with the 'something' boys".

I like my colleagues to be pleasant and competent.  If I had to go for one it would be competent.

[funnyExiledScot]

I've only heard Atiga stating the obvious from the touchline. 

Edinburgh give away a penalty for something.
Atiga: "Watch it with the 'something' boys".

I like my colleagues to be pleasant and competent.  If I had to go for one it would be competent.

In Glasgow they call that leadership. Al "come on lads" Kellock has forged a career with stating the obvious.

[21st Century Schizoid Man]

Well whatever it is Al Kellock has it works. Whereas the numerous diddies the Luvvies have used don't have it hence 8th - that is in the bottom half of the league in case you have omitted to notice.

BTW glad to see your Glasgow wendyball team has another ned in charge !

[funnyExiledScot]

BTW glad to see your Glasgow wendyball team has another ned in charge !    

We're a sleeping giant Schizoid my boy, a sleeping giant I tell you. I'm preparing my "maybe another season in the Championship will do us good" speech as we speak....

[jimbopip]

[quote="funnyExiledScot"]

BTW glad to see your Glasgow wendyball team has another ned in charge !    

A ned in charge
You'll need to narrow that down Schiz, seeing as neds are not exactly an endangered species in Glasgow.

[21st Century Schizoid Man]

Especially not at Ned Central near to Govan ! Anyway some tax dodging geezer takes over from the fat English guy at Eebrocks.

[George Carlin]

Soapdodger Awards last night:

McCrea Financial Services Player of the Season – Niko Matawalu
House of Fraser Players' Player of the Season – Peter Horne
Cameron House Young Player of the Season – Adam Ashe
QBE Most Improved Player of the Season – Fraser Brown
The Famous Grouse Coaches Award – Peter Murchie and Mark Bennett
McTear's Test Player of the Season – Stuart Hogg
Al Kellock Leadership Award, sponsored by Malcolm Group – Al Kellock
Greenbelt Community Club of the Season – Hamilton RFC
BT Try of the Season – Stuart Hogg (v Ulster)

Leaving aside the innate hilarity in Al Kellock unpredictably winning the Al Kellock Award, I really would also have had a Buckfast Best Drunken Stooshie Award, which would have been closely contested between Bane, Batman and the Crayon. Too soon? Too soon?

[RDW]

Right come on people, let's go for the alternative Glasgow/Edinburgh awards:

The Johnson's Baby Wipes award (presented by Dan Parks) for services to tackling - Tim Visser

The Simon Taylor award for most injured player - Matt Scott ( )

The Duracell Bunny award for keeping on going - WP Nel

The 'Big Dave's Quality Sledgehammers' award for tactical variety - Alan Solomons

The Kirkcaldy blind darts team award for accuracy with the boot - Tom Heathcoat

The Mike Penn (who?) award for zero appearances in a season - Nikki Walker

The GLove award for gingerset player of the year - Roddy Grant

[George Carlin]

Surely Ross Rennie a shoe-in for the Simon Taylor Award? God, it's painful to write that.

Others:
"The Bill Clinton Contrition Award" for the player we all made fun of but shouldn't have: Richie Vernon

"The Chocolate Teapot Award": Scott Johnson wins again.

[lostinwales]

Do you give players special awards for not getting any other awards?

[jimbopip]

I've just been on t'Facebook with my mole in Pukekohe. he says while he doesn't know Jason O'Halloran personally he has done "great things at Manawatu." He also says that the Blues fans are pretty unimpressed with J Kirwan as coach and there was a large body uf public opinion in favour of O'Halloran getting his job.
SRU make good appointment

Now there's a funny thing! As Max Miller used to say.

[EWT Spoons]

I've just been on t'Facebook with my mole in Pukekohe. he says while he doesn't know Jason O'Halloran personally he has done "great things at Manawatu." He also says that the Blues fans are pretty unimpressed with J Kirwan as coach and there was a large body uf public opinion in favour of O'Halloran getting his job.
SRU make good appointment

Now there's a funny thing! As Max Miller used to say.

The Scotsman seem to agree with you

New Zealand disquiet as O’Halloran joins Scotland

SAY New Zealand and you think rugby superpower. They may only have finally managed to win the World Cup for a second time last time around, and for the first time since the inaugural hosting in 1987, but they have always been the game’s undisputed hotbed.

However, it was interesting to note in the local reports of Jason O’Halloran’s departure to join compatriot Vern Cotter in the Scotland set-up, a rather exasperated tone. While not quite of existential proportions, another promising young coach heading overseas seems to have the Kiwis a tad hot under the collar.

As well as Cotter, there is Warren Gatland at Wales, Joe Schmidt at Ireland and a peppering of other top New Zealand coaches, like Robbie Deans, in club rugby in countries such as Japan, France and England.

The clear disappointment that O’Halloran is heading north rather than moving up to Super Rugby, suggests that Scotland have bagged themselves a good ’un in the shape of the 43-year-old former Wellington Hurricanes centre, who will replace Edinburgh-bound Duncan Hodge as national backs coach after the World Cup. It continues Cotter’s shake-up of the backroom staff, with Nathan Hines confirmed in a forwards/mentoring role early in the month and Massimo Cuttitta departing.

O’Halloran’s stock rose last year when he led Manawatu to their first provincial title since 1980, when they won the ITM Championship.

Yesterday he was keen to play down talk of a slight on his homeland and, indeed, hinted that he viewed the move as a potential stepping stone to the All Blacks.

O’Halloran told the New Zealand Herald: “I just felt in terms of being the best coach I can be, working with Vern is a way of getting there. It’s not a snub on New Zealand rugby.

“If you talk to people around who they think a potential successor is for Steve Hansen, the two names I always hear are Dave Rennie and Vern Cotter.”

Undeterred by being an insulin-dependent diabetic, O’Halloran forged a fine career at provincial and Super Rugby level, scoring 35 tries in 95 games for Wellington, and 17 in 54 for the Hurricanes.

In 2000 he represented New Zealand A against England and then captained the side against Tonga and Samoa, before earning his first and only All Black cap as a replacement against Italy in Genoa later that year.

He finished his playing career with Japanese club Kubota Spears, where he began his coaching career in 2005.

He was then appointed high performance academy manager of Manawatu in 2007, before being the first coach to lead the province to a title in 34 years.

It was there that he oversaw the development of some the nation’s top young exponents, including half-backs Aaron Cruden and Aaron Smith, before taking on the role of head coach of the Turbos, which he has occupied since 2011.

In his new role, O’Halloran will be tasked with getting the best out of what is the most exciting crop of young Scottish backs, including the likes of Alex Dunbar, Mark Bennett, Matt Scott and Stuart Hogg, for many a year. Yesterday Cotter
said: “Jason was a very good rugby player and is an excellent coach. I’ve kept tabs on him for a number of years, with him coming well-recommended over that time.

“He’s very strong on individual development, has a very good eye on attack and how to open up opportunities. I think our players will thrive and develop under him. His arrival is another plus for Scottish rugby; he’ll bring another perspective and develop our players here in Scotland.”

O’Halloran added: “I’m looking forward to working with an exciting group of players under a widely respected Head Coach in Vern Cotter. I believe in the style Vern is pursuing and that there is significant growth potential in a young and enthusiastic squad. Working with that type of talent excites me.

[funnyExiledScot]

Soapdodger Awards last night:

McCrea Financial Services Player of the Season – Niko Matawalu
House of Fraser Players' Player of the Season – Peter Horne
Cameron House Young Player of the Season – Adam Ashe
QBE Most Improved Player of the Season – Fraser Brown
The Famous Grouse Coaches Award – Peter Murchie and Mark Bennett
McTear's Test Player of the Season – Stuart Hogg
Al Kellock Leadership Award, sponsored by Malcolm Group – Al Kellock
Greenbelt Community Club of the Season – Hamilton RFC
BT Try of the Season – Stuart Hogg (v Ulster)

Leaving aside the innate hilarity in Al Kellock unpredictably winning the Al Kellock Award, I really would also have had a Buckfast Best Drunken Stooshie Award, which would have been closely contested between Bane, Batman and the Crayon. Too soon? Too soon?

I thought it was a joke!! The Soap Dodgers have actually created something for Al Kellock to win. Bless.

[jimbopip]

Another way of looking at it , oh Festering one, is that Glasgow have created a culture where strong leadership is expected and recognised. The Captain is stepping down and this award will ask future groups of players, "Who is able to step up and be the leader?"
The journey from also-rans at Hughenden to where we are now is one of the most impressive in Scottish sporting history. It is not just about the 80 minutes on the pitch. While we debate ad nauseum about who should play in what position we often miss the fact that the it's the culture of an organisation which ultimately determines long term success or mediocrity. The label of Metrosexual Festival Luvvies would not have stuck if it had not reflected a certain reality about the ethos at Murrayfield. Creating the Al Kellock leadership award tells future wannabe captains exactly what is expected of them, and by extension reinforces the culture he helped create.

[George Carlin]

Agree with Jimbo on this - you can merrily and easily remove the urine about Kellock's limitations as a player (and there are clearly many) but in terms of driving his club on, he's been exemplary. Everyone involved with the club says so. Once Edinburgh make the playoffs for 4 consecutive years, then we'll talk.

I suspect we will not see a Mike Coman Epic Leadership Award presented in future.

[EWT Spoons]

Agree with Jimbo on this - you can merrily and easily remove the urine about Kellock's limitations as a player (and there are clearly many) but in terms of driving his club on, he's been exemplary. Everyone involved with the club says so. Once Edinburgh make the playoffs for 4 consecutive years, then we'll talk.

I suspect we will not see a Mike Coman Epic Leadership Award presented in future.

You are more than likely right, but we are working on a 'Sam Hidalgo-Clyne best hair award' so you know swings and roundabouts.

[jimbopip]

Agree with Jimbo on this - you can merrily and easily remove the urine about Kellock's limitations as a player (and there are clearly many) but in terms of driving his club on, he's been exemplary. Everyone involved with the club says so. Once Edinburgh make the playoffs for 4 consecutive years, then we'll talk.

I suspect we will not see a Mike Coman Epic Leadership Award presented in future.

You are more than likely right, but we are working on a 'Sam Hidalgo-Clyne best hair award' so you know swings and roundabouts.

I rest my case. BBC Alba did a piece with the Luvvies back in December and the number of times players mentioned grooming products in their answers was very revealing.

[highland_scot]

Agree with Jimbo on this - you can merrily and easily remove the urine about Kellock's limitations as a player (and there are clearly many) but in terms of driving his club on, he's been exemplary. Everyone involved with the club says so. Once Edinburgh make the playoffs for 4 consecutive years, then we'll talk.

I suspect we will not see a Mike Coman Epic Leadership Award presented in future.

Surely it'll be a major tussle between the eponymous Mike and the one and only Andries Strauss to win the first edition of it?

[funnyExiledScot]

Another way of looking at it , oh Festering one, is that Glasgow have created a culture where strong leadership is expected and recognised. The Captain is stepping down and this award will ask future groups of players, "Who is able to step up and be the leader?"
The journey from also-rans at Hughenden to where we are now is one of the most impressive in Scottish sporting history. It is not just about the 80 minutes on the pitch. While we debate ad nauseum about who should play in what position we often miss the fact that the it's the culture of an organisation which ultimately determines long term success or mediocrity. The label of Metrosexual Festival Luvvies would not have stuck if it had not reflected a certain reality about the ethos at Murrayfield. Creating the Al Kellock leadership award tells future wannabe captains exactly what is expected of them, and by extension reinforces the culture he helped create.

You could say the same about the tag "Ruck Inspector".

Look, he's a lovely guy and he'll give some thrilling Powerpoint presentations in the years to come. He can't be all bad either, he did spend close to a third of his career at Edinburgh afterall, learning from some proper locks like Scott Murray, Todd Blackadder and Nathan Hines.

[George Carlin]

Agree with Jimbo on this - you can merrily and easily remove the urine about Kellock's limitations as a player (and there are clearly many) but in terms of driving his club on, he's been exemplary. Everyone involved with the club says so. Once Edinburgh make the playoffs for 4 consecutive years, then we'll talk.

I suspect we will not see a Mike Coman Epic Leadership Award presented in future.

You are more than likely right, but we are working on a 'Sam Hidalgo-Clyne best hair award' so you know swings and roundabouts.

I rest my case. BBC Alba did a piece with the Luvvies back in December and the number of times players mentioned grooming products in their answers was very revealing.

The mandatory and viciously enforced grooming requirements now provide a great deal of clarity as to why one former player was forced to leave the club:

[funnyExiledScot]

Agree with Jimbo on this - you can merrily and easily remove the urine about Kellock's limitations as a player (and there are clearly many) but in terms of driving his club on, he's been exemplary. Everyone involved with the club says so. Once Edinburgh make the playoffs for 4 consecutive years, then we'll talk.

I suspect we will not see a Mike Coman Epic Leadership Award presented in future.

You are more than likely right, but we are working on a 'Sam Hidalgo-Clyne best hair award' so you know swings and roundabouts.

I rest my case. BBC Alba did a piece with the Luvvies back in December and the number of times players mentioned grooming products in their answers was very revealing.

The mandatory and viciously enforced grooming requirements now provide a great deal of clarity as to why one former player was forced to leave the club:

Actually I think you'll find that sort of style is pretty trendy these days. Beards, lumberjack shirts, skinny jeans and glasses with no lenses are all the rage - just ask Schizoid.

[jimbopip]

Another way of looking at it , oh Festering one, is that Glasgow have created a culture where strong leadership is expected and recognised. The Captain is stepping down and this award will ask future groups of players, "Who is able to step up and be the leader?"
The journey from also-rans at Hughenden to where we are now is one of the most impressive in Scottish sporting history. It is not just about the 80 minutes on the pitch. While we debate ad nauseum about who should play in what position we often miss the fact that the it's the culture of an organisation which ultimately determines long term success or mediocrity. The label of Metrosexual Festival Luvvies would not have stuck if it had not reflected a certain reality about the ethos at Murrayfield. Creating the Al Kellock leadership award tells future wannabe captains exactly what is expected of them, and by extension reinforces the culture he helped create.

You could say the same about the tag "Ruck Inspector".

Look, he's a lovely guy and he'll give some thrilling Powerpoint presentations in the years to come. He can't be all bad either, he did spend close to a third of his career at Edinburgh afterall, learning from some proper locks like Scott Murray, Todd Blackadder and Nathan Hines.

If he hadn't had the humility and dedication to learn from better players he wouldn't be the right man to captain the Warriors or win an award like the Al Kellock Leadership award. See how quickly it has been integrated into the Warrior culture. What a masterstroke that award was.

[21st Century Schizoid Man]

Yes The Captain's mantra of commitment, integrity and application, words that will be foreign to all Luvvie players and supporters I guess. Anyway enjoy mediocrity for another few years MFLs !

I can also assure the Fuhrer that my glasses all have dark lenses in them - thats why they are called SUNglasses

[George Carlin]

Another way of looking at it , oh Festering one, is that Glasgow have created a culture where strong leadership is expected and recognised. The Captain is stepping down and this award will ask future groups of players, "Who is able to step up and be the leader?"
The journey from also-rans at Hughenden to where we are now is one of the most impressive in Scottish sporting history. It is not just about the 80 minutes on the pitch. While we debate ad nauseum about who should play in what position we often miss the fact that the it's the culture of an organisation which ultimately determines long term success or mediocrity. The label of Metrosexual Festival Luvvies would not have stuck if it had not reflected a certain reality about the ethos at Murrayfield. Creating the Al Kellock leadership award tells future wannabe captains exactly what is expected of them, and by extension reinforces the culture he helped create.

You could say the same about the tag "Ruck Inspector".

Look, he's a lovely guy and he'll give some thrilling Powerpoint presentations in the years to come. He can't be all bad either, he did spend close to a third of his career at Edinburgh afterall, learning from some proper locks like Scott Murray, Todd Blackadder and Nathan Hines.

Glasgow: League Position: First
(1) Games Won 16 (2) Games Lost 5 (3) Points For 540 (4) Points Against 360 (5) Difference +180 (6) Points 75

................

Edinburgh: League Position: Eighth
(1) Games Won 10 (2) Games Lost 11 (3) Points For 399 (4) Points Against 419 (5) Difference -20 (6) Points 48

Remind me which of these two sides AK is captain of? Or is your point that Kellock had nothing to do with the success of his club?

[funnyExiledScot]

Another way of looking at it , oh Festering one, is that Glasgow have created a culture where strong leadership is expected and recognised. The Captain is stepping down and this award will ask future groups of players, "Who is able to step up and be the leader?"
The journey from also-rans at Hughenden to where we are now is one of the most impressive in Scottish sporting history. It is not just about the 80 minutes on the pitch. While we debate ad nauseum about who should play in what position we often miss the fact that the it's the culture of an organisation which ultimately determines long term success or mediocrity. The label of Metrosexual Festival Luvvies would not have stuck if it had not reflected a certain reality about the ethos at Murrayfield. Creating the Al Kellock leadership award tells future wannabe captains exactly what is expected of them, and by extension reinforces the culture he helped create.

You could say the same about the tag "Ruck Inspector".

Look, he's a lovely guy and he'll give some thrilling Powerpoint presentations in the years to come. He can't be all bad either, he did spend close to a third of his career at Edinburgh afterall, learning from some proper locks like Scott Murray, Todd Blackadder and Nathan Hines.

Glasgow: League Position: First
(1) Games Won 16 (2) Games Lost 5 (3) Points For 540 (4) Points Against 360 (5) Difference +180 (6) Points 75

................

Edinburgh: League Position: Eighth
(1) Games Won 10 (2) Games Lost 11 (3) Points For 399 (4) Points Against 419 (5) Difference -20 (6) Points 48

Remind me which of these two sides AK is captain of? Or is your point that Kellock had nothing to do with the success of his club?

"Nothing" is too strong a word. I would suggest "little" would do him justice.

What I'm actually doing is complimenting Naka, Gray and Swinson, and Richie Gray and Tom Ryder before them. All much better players.

The fuss over Kellock is just pure Weegie sentimentality. Soft bunch.

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