Well. That's what I always sing along to when the ubiquitous 'Haka' rears its inevitable head. With all due respect to heritage and tradition of those concerned, once again last night there was the "Oooooh, Aaaah!" as the New Zealand team slapped, preened and shuffled forwards in a pseudo confrontational manner - as much for the telly as anything else. I cannot believe that the players are 100% convinced as to the merits of what happened. Sure - have a haka - make it a statement of intent that both focuses the team 'performing' and, yes - it demands respect from the opposition at all times but stop there. Look at Tonga, Samoa, Fiji - all capable of announcing their particular intentions - vocal and challenging but without the 'cinema'. Boys, the haka has 'Jumped the shark' I'm afraid.
Besides, historical footage of hakas over the years gives evidence that it has developed from the original 'statement of intent' to a full-on 'marketing tool'. Or is it just me? Is it something that should only be performed by team members of Maori origin, or can anyone 'join in' if they are good enough to play rugby? It all seems a bit strange, that's all.
07 October 2007
Donkey O.T. - Tilting At Windmills...
Well. What a great Saturday for England and France - forcing Air New Zealand and Qantas into a panic as they haven't ordered any crusty rolls for the return flights yet...
One person not affected by the Australian defeat is the Australian Rugby Union chief executive John O'Neill. He... "... has expressed his"hate" for England and told the Wallabies to get even with Brian Ashton's side if they meet in the World Cup quarter-finals." We have all heard the story but it didn't stop 'Dear John' enjoying a night out in Marseille, as the picture shows.
06 October 2007
France v New Zealand
Meagre start for France but at least Wayne Barnes the referee has picked up Ritchie McCaw for mucking about - as he always does... I may be wrong but I think a cheap and nasty shot was made by Robinson, the New Zealand lock, on Betsen - watch this space as I have not been able to see a replay - as yet. Lots of off the ball obstruction by the All Greys - very subtle stuff.
I have to say that Murray Mexted's true colours are finally showing through - the blinkers are on Murray - and we are listening!
Ok - I took the dog for a walk and didn't see the second half - too nervous unfortunately... GREAT WIN - AND ROMANCE WINS THE DAY! (See a previous post).
Doron...
...offers his congratulations to all his friends in England and will drink a beer for each of us when he goes to Millandy to watch France v New Zealand on the big screen this evening. He's probably not going to wake up until Wednesday morning in that case - but thanks Doron!
Fancy A Sherry Dear..?
Car crash rugby, starring Andrew Sheridan as the truck and Australia as the Reliant Robin! Well played all the team - I would love to be a fly on the wall in the changing room right now...
Early Doors...
Here are two things that will be useful this afternoon - and also tomorrow methinks.
Team toilets a go-go also...but I don't have a bog standard picture of them - besides, for some of you, it will be breakfast time. I write this as the radio news broadcasts that Marion Jones - winner of three gold medals and two bronze at the 2000 Olympics - was taking performance enhancing drugs. As Private Eye would say..."Well, fancy that!"
You could never tell from looking at her figure...
05 October 2007
Saturday Matches - The Guide
England v Australia
France v New Zealand
Form: Australia, New Zealand. Romance: England, France. Actual: Australia, France. Without Howlett and with an injured Carter who is having trouble with his balls, France have a chance to show flair, invention and confidence. Bonnaire can command a lineout - Jauzion can offer the ball to his support. Life in the brain will be very difficult for New Zealand if France concentrate...
England have power but nothing substantial to capitalise upon it - a few old players who will not intimidate the young blood of Australia...unless the scrum and Allan Roland go haywire...
Key words to look out for: "Cauldron" "Pressure cooker" "Do or Die" "...giving 110%" " fearsome Haka..." "Chris Latham is world class..." " There's a buzz of excitement every time Jason Robinson gets the ball..." "What can you say about Daniel Carter..?"
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