Fusesport – Sport Management Software
Holding’s Bits 5 April 2013
WE’RE BAAAAACK, SO IS SUBBIES TV, JIM WILLIAMS, TRIVIA, 2013 PREVIEW, TWEETS & JOKES
Welcome to the 2013 NSW Suburban Rugby season - I bet can you can all taste the start of the season by now! I will be bringing you the highs and lows of the Subbies season once again with the odd joke thrown in - although I can’t promise they will be an improvement on last year. Make sure you check out .au each Friday lunchtime to get your fix of Holding’s Bits for what’s going on across our epic competitions.
Subbies TV - Season Two
Message from our host, Ninja:
“Get excited people, we are one week out. Good luck to everyone this weekend. Got to love it, Footy is back!!!!! Check out the Subbies TV season preview.”
Wow, he is excited! And so should you be. Subbies TV – don’t miss it. See it all at .au
An evening with Jim Williams
One for your diaries – “An Evening with Jim Williams” on 13 May at Lindfield RFC. No, it’s not a romantic, candlelit dinner. It’s a coaching session with former Wallaby forwards coach, Jim Williams, who will cover plenty of theory on his coaching philosophy and the principles of the game. A must for all aspiring coaches. More details to follow soon.
Fixtures and Results
Keep up to date with all the fixtures and results right here, also a good place to check out all the movers and shakers around the divisions before the big kick off.
Trivia Teaser
For the first question of 2013, I am going for something a little bit different – more of a guessing comp:
How many tries will be scored across the whole Kentwell Cup competition this weekend?
Answers must be in before 3pm Saturday to wbamatt@ for your chance to score 6 tickets to the next Tahs home game against the Chiefs on the 19th April.
Contributions
This year I will be running the ‘Club of the Week’ once again. If you would like your Club to feature in the “Bits”, please send an email to wbamatt@. Let me know your hopes for the season, any club news you may have, maybe an interesting signing or even a new burger creation at your canteen.
I also welcome any inside info you may have or a description of a great try, a gut busting run from deep or a bone rattling tackle.
Round 1 Preview
Each week I will look at the key match ups across the Divisions. In preparation for Round 1, I am predicting the games of the Round and who I think will take the points:
Div 1 - St Pats v Colleagues
This one promises a high quality game to start us off. Hudson Park is the venue for last season’s 2nd v 3rd and both sides will fancy their chances to be at the upper echelons of the Kentwell ladder come September. I fancy Colleagues to edge this one.
Div 2 - Petersham v Lindfield
The Shammies are on home turf for the season opener and will be looking for the perfect start against a Lindfield side that finished just one point behind them in 2012. I’m hearing good things from the Shammies after they trialed well, so I am going for a home win.
Div 3 - Briars v Blacktown
Battle of the B’s in the Clark Cup and it will be interesting to see how Briars start life in Div 3. Beginning with a home game, I fancy Briars to make a winning start but the Blacktown boys will be in the mood to cause an early upset.
Div 5 - Fairvale/Lansvale v Sydney Irish
Here come the Irish - and they face a tough start away against The Vales. I fancy the new boys to get a win in the opener, however I don’t think the home side will be giving the points up without a fight.
Div 6 - Chatswood v International College of Management (Sydney)
The Stags had a dreadful campaign in 2012 and will be looking to hit the ground running in the new season. They’ve got new management and new enthusiasm and new players – and new opponents in the boys from ICMS. An unknown quantity, of course, and Chatswood will be wondering exactly who they are up against. Tough one, but I will go with a home win.
Prop-erly Fit
We hope that ALL Subbies players have been keeping fit over the off-season - I would be pretty impressed if anyone can manage this in Round 1 though!!
Snowed Under
I managed to get back to the homeland over the break and saw plenty of snow - so did this bloke.
The Belgians Go BIG!
Only two red cards from this incident between Belgium and Georgia!
Tweets
LordLaurie58 (Laurie Fisher)
Outstanding innovation from a S15 team who is going to use the Shute Shield as a direct feeder. Now why didn't I think of that?
nswrugbyrefs
The worst aspect of junior sport - The Ugly Parent - is driving kids away from playing. A study from Flinders Uni.
brothersrugby
New Division and first game of the season this weekend vs Kings at Kings. #bringiton
Jokes
Sorry I have been away for a while - I have been at the fabric shop looking for new material.
What does a clock do when it is hungry?
Goes back four seconds.
- now that's a site for sore eyes.
If you think you have a joke or two, send them through to me at wbamatt@. If we deem them bad enough to be published in the “Bits” you’ll get some Tahs tickets.
Enjoy your Rugby! (Hope you get on in the Big Wet.)
Cheers,
Wonderboy Holding
wbamatt@
@subbiesrugby
Holding’s Bits 12 April 2013
SUBBIES TV, SMARTRUGBY, TRIVIA, KENTWELL CUPSETS IN THE WRAP, SUPER RUGBY CROWDS, BREAKING BAD, TWEETS & JOKES
Subbies TV
The first episode of the season is up and it’s a cracker - the best yet, in fact! This week, I was asked to join Ninja to discuss the weekend’s action, Sydney Irish, and life in general in Subbies Rugby. You may also like to know that Subbies TV now has a female newsreader!
You can catch this week’s episode right here.
SmartRugby
All coaches - make sure you are qualified with the compulsory ARU requirement, SmartRugby. Hurry up if you aren’t already accredited.
Trivia Teaser
Hopeless! No-one managed to get last week’s question. However, Kevin Addison was the closest, with a guess of 40 tries. Kevin won six tickets to the Waratahs v Chiefs game next Friday.
This week’s question:
How many points did Knox score in the 2012 Finals Series? (Hint: Answer can be found in the report that comes out annually.)
Send your answers to wbamatt@ Winner will again get six tickets to the Waratahs v Chiefs game next Friday night.
The Wrap
Division 1
There were some upsets in the Kentwell Cup on the weekend as Mosman overpowered the Dirty Reds of Drummoyne taking away a bonus point win from Drummoyne Oval - no mean feat I’m sure you will agree! Beecroft grabbed an impressive 21-17 over Balmain, as the new boys start to the season didn’t follow the script. St Pats had the best possible start as they overcame a determined Colleagues outfit at Hudson Park in a 29-20 victory.
Division 2
I will be the first to admit that I was wrong about the plight of Lindfield on the weekend - they claimed the points in what was definitely the game of the round. A high scoring encounter ended with Lindfield beating Petersham 48-43, Josh Rickard-Ford bagging an impressive 26 points. Barker began their campaign in Div 2 with a heavy defeat against the impressive Oatley.
Division 3
It was a high scoring affair at Carss Park as St George took on UWSH, with the away side taking a 40-29 victory from an entertaining battle. Briars ended up getting their home win (albeit at St Luke’s Oval due to wet weather) over Blacktown with a 17-8 triumph. Epping couldn’t score a point as they were defeated 14-0 by Hills. Hornsby got a great win at Blue Mountains.
Division 5
Plenty of points scored across the Jeffrey Cup, 307 in fact (how’s my maths?) There were big wins for Maccabi and Redfield, while there was a close affair at Waterloo Oval as Sydney Harlequins edged out Div 5 newcomers Merrylands 17-15. Sydney Irish began with a win, 42-17 against Fairvale/Lansvale. Canterbury scored 33 points in their win over the Renegades of Rouse Hill.
Division 6
Chatswood put the ghosts of 2012 behind them as they beat the new boys from ICMS in a close one, 22-19. Clovelly burrowed (get it? they play at Burrows Park!) through a dodgy Dundas defence to score 94 unanswered points. Manly Savers also racked up a big win with a 70-0 score line at home to Rockdale. Tomorrow, look for new boys, ICMS, taking on Manly Savers at Manly Oval after the Shute Shield match.
Super Rugby Crowds
What does the future hold for Super Rugby? Scott Allen from Green and Gold Rugby assesses the facts on dwindling crowd numbers, especially in Australia. There are some interesting points on here and it’s definitely worth a read. Personally, I don’t think ticket prices have a lot to do with it as it’s quite cheap to see a Tahs game for example and the Brumbies do great student and junior player memberships.
Breaking Bad
I hope none of you are too squeamish.
Saracens Player Brian Moore suffers a pretty severe break – good look!
Just in case you might have missed this very bad broken leg by French Referee Mathieu Raynal.
Colin Slade’s injury is not great either!
Ref Spit
What dummy? Peter Stringer cops a face full of spit! Has to get a few weeks for this. Bad behaviour. (Stop press: Spitter gets 14 week ban!)
Friends of Rwanda
A great charity showing how beneficial participation of the game can be across the globe.
Tweets
@carlrobo: another Barker Old Boys player making the jump from subbies - former BOB Sam Figg in the Aussie7's squad - 3rd in Tokyo #rugbynursery
@subbiesrugby: A funny NZ billboard - and it has nothing to do with sheep:
@Planet_Rugby: B&I Lions watch: Edition 8
@matthewgralton: just picked up the Hoff at Sydney airport and yes he is coming to BRC training on Tuesday
@subbiesrugby: Getting a few enquiries. Just to be clear - that is NOT a leprechaun leading out Sydney Irish pic.UlXjXVqM4T
Jokes
John didn’t really want to go to the funeral.
He wasn’t a mourning person.
Did you hear about the constipated mathematician?
He worked it out with a pencil and paper.
What did one ocean say to the other?
Nothing, they just waved.
Enjoy your Rugby!
Cheers,
Wonderboy Holding
wbamatt@
@subbiesrugby
Holding’s Bits 19 April 2013
REDFIELD’S RUN, BANDICOOTS, TRIVIA, SUBBIES TV, WRAP AND TIP, MARATHON MICHAEL, THE WALLABY WINNER, PROMOS, TWEETS & JOKES
The Redfield Old Boys’ Run
….has come to an end! It was mid 2010 since Redfield Old Boys had lost a First Grade Subbies game, with the run stretching to 42 matches. Mighty Maccabi were the conquerors, toppling the invincibles on the weekend in the Jeffrey Cup. I am not quite sure who holds the record for the longest unbeaten run in Suburban Rugby, but this has got to be up there! Will they bounce back next week?
ICMS Bandicoots Win on the Big Stage
New Subbies club, the International College of Management (Sydney) or ICMS, took to the big stage of Manly Oval on Saturday, beating Manly Savers in a Meldrum Cup match played after the Manly v West Harbour Shute Shield game. A huge internationally flavoured crowd was on hand to cheer the “Bandicoots” to their first ever win. Full report here. By the look of their supporters, I don’t think ICMS will have any trouble recruiting players!
Trivia
Congratulations to Andrew Johnston who correctly answered last week’s Trivia Teaser - Knox scored 142 points in the 2012 Finals Series. Andrew bagged six tickets to tonight’s Waratahs game.
This week’s question:
Who will be the first try scorer in tonight’s Waratahs v Chiefs encounter?
To be in with a chance of winning 4 tickets to the Tahs next home game on 11 May send your answers to wbamatt@ (Before 7.30 tonight!)
Club Contributions
Let me know how your Club has started the season - are the gruelling runs in the heat paying off? I would love to hear from you guys about your hopes and aims for the campaign ahead. You know the score - wbamatt@
Subbies TV
On the show this week, Tim drops in to discuss all things Subbies with Ninja, Slammin’ and Brothers’ Vinny Byrne. Catch this week’s episode right here.
And the boys are running a new comp on Subbies TV – send in clips of your post-match boat races to determine who’s the fastest. Mosman are the club to beat at the moment with 23.1 secs.
Remember, the guys are still looking to raise the profile of Subbies TV and gain sponsorship of the show - drop them a line: rugbystuff@
Wrap it, Tip it!
Division 1
Mosman beat boisterous Balmain at Rawson to seal a very impressive first seven days of the 2013 season. The whales now sit on two from two and with both the fancied Balmain and Drummoyne blown away early on they have got to be fancying their chances this season. Drummoyne edged a hard fought encounter at Campbelltown, never an easy place to go - hats off to the Dirty Reds on that result. Colleagues and Beecroft both recorded relatively comfortable home wins against Old Iggies and Hunters Hill respectively. My ‘dark horse’ tip never really looked like coming off as Knox failed to upset St Pats at Barra Brui.
This week, I fancy Balmain to get their first win at Colleagues.
Division 2
A great win for Forest in the Barraclough Cup saw them upset Lindfield on their own patch in a high scoring encounter that finished 39-31. Petersham also managed to cross the line a few times last weekend as they ran out 46-17 winners over St Ives. Oatley and Brothers recorded home victories and Barker Old Boys campaign has not started well, they went down again - this time at the hands of UNSW.
I think Brothers v Petersham this weekend has the potential to be a great game. I am thinking a Shammies win at Roseville Chase Oval, but this should be close.
Division 3
The Blueys took the points at College Oval as Blue Mountains beat UWSH 24-21 in a close one. There were also plenty of points scored as Hawkesbury Valley and Briars clashed at McQuade Park, Briars winning the game 48 points to 36! Hills got a win under their belts as they knocked over Waverley, and Blacktown recorded a home victory over Epping. Hornsby edged St George by the finest of margins with a 19-18 win.
This weekend sees Briars take on Hills at Rothwell Park and despite Hills’ win last weekend I fancy the home side Briars to take the points.
Division 5
Sydney Irish gave their sizeable crowd something to cheer as they got up in a 58-10 win against Lane Cove. There was an all-together closer affair at Macquarie Uni as the home side was beaten 33-32 in an epic Jeffrey Cup encounter against The Vales. Roseville grabbed a solid win and scored quite a few points to boot as they downed the renegades of Rouse Hill. Sydney Harlequins also got an away win, beating the Convicts by 19.
Clash of this weekend? Definitely Redfield v Roseville – and I have to go with Redfield to get back to their winning ways!
Division 6
Chatswood are back…well and truly - Rockdale were the week two victims of the resurgent side who have started 2013 with a bang. The Stags put 74 points on the board to hammer their hosts at C A Redmond. I am told Saturday’s evening kick-off down at Manly Oval was also something to behold, with Subbies new boys, ICMS, getting their season alive and kicking with a win over their neighbours, Manly Savers. The game finished 22-20 and I am reliably informed it was a cracker. Another standout result came at Yulong Oval as Terrey Hills beat Clovelly 44-17, yes…that’s right, the same side that scored 94 points just last week got mauled by the Hills boys! Grammar and Dundas Valley gained home wins over Burraneer and Alexandria Dukes.
Tip this week is Dundas Valley to upset Sydney Grammar Old Boys.
Wallabies Captain?
Do you agree that James Horwill should lead the Wallabies against the Lions this winter?
Crusaders Crowd
The Force upset the Crusaders on the weekend in Super Rugby but was the crowd partly to blame?
Marathon Man
Well done Michael Lynagh, who is going to run the London Marathon on Sunday 21 April – almost a year to the day that he suffered a near-fatal stroke. He will be raising money for the Stroke Association’s ‘Back to Work’ scheme, helping survivors to return to work after their strokes.
Keep Your Eye on the Ball!
This is ugly – Munster v Leinster recently.
Powerade Promo
Check out the promo Coca Cola are offering again to clubs this season
The Rugby Championship
All the focus is on the Lions, understandably - can’t wait! However, there is still the matter of the Rugby Championships to attend to. The Wallabies vs The All Blacks Test in Sydney takes place on Saturday 17th August at ANZ. You can check out the full match schedule right here.
Tweets
@kobweb: Quote of the weekend from our 4th grade ref: 'Lads, I'm not a very good ref. But you aren't very good players, so we'll call it even.'
@swainy7: #RugbyHQ looking for Top 5 set piece tries this week. Here's a beauty from the weekend.
@SydneyIrishRFC: Nice report from the weekend's games from Irish Echo Australia. Cheers guys!
@subbiesrugby: Getting set to tape the 2nd episode of Subbies TV. Out on YouTube on Thursday. pic.97m592iVqR
@brothersrugby (in reply): Make sure you put Vinny Byrne on a booster seat so he can see over the counter.
@subbiesrugby: Hmm. Tim, you sure that's a great choice? "RobbieDeans a key ally in Sheens plan to reclaim League World Cup from NZ"
Jokes
What lies at the bottom of the ocean and twitches?
A nervous wreck
Why did the golfer wear two pairs of pants?
In case he gets a hole in one.
What did one aspiring wig say to the other aspiring wig?
I wanna get ahead.
Enjoy your Rugby!
Cheers,
Wonderboy Holding
wbamatt@
@subbiesrugby
Holding’s Bits 26 April 2013
SUBBIES TV, SUPER SCRUMS, WHO AM I?, THE WRAP & MY TIPS, CLUB IN FOCUS, FLYING TAHS, TWEETS & JOKES
Subbies TV
This week’s Subbies TV episode features Beecroft man Daniel Milne and Chatswood coach Jack Rogers. Don’t forget, if you want to contribute to the show contact Ninja: rugbystuff@.au
Scrum Analysis
Green and Gold Rugby’s Scott Allen has written an interesting article, analysing the scrums from the Reds v Brumbies clash last weekend.
Trivia Teaser
It’s a rollover! I had quite a few guesses for the first try scorer- some even had two attempts - not sure that is allowed! However, nobody picked Cam Crawford to cross the line first.
This week I will offer up four more tickets, that’s a total of EIGHT tickets to the Waratahs next home match against the Stormers on Sat 11 May at Allianz Stadium.
WHO AM I?
• I was born in Newcastle in 1984.
• My early club rugby was in Sydney.
• I played in the ARC.
• I moved to France and began playing in the Heineken Cup.
• I will soon be playing for my third Super franchise.
Answers to wbamatt@ by Monday 5pm to be in with a chance of scoring the tickets!
The Wrap
Div One
There was just one fixture across Division One on the weekend as Knox took on Hunters Hill. You can check out what the Hunters Hill boys made of the encounters right here.
All the washed out matches will be played tomorrow and I am going to stick with my tip of Balmain to get their first win on the board against Colleagues.
Div Two
No games at all last weekend due to the rain. However, I have picked a couple of the standout encounters coming up in Round 4.
Oatley take on Lindfield at H.V. Evatt Park tomorrow and will be looking to continue their strong start to the season. Lindfield will need to improve their defence if they are going to get anything from this game. Although they are scoring plenty of points, they have conceded a lot in their two fixtures so far this campaign. I think Oatley will take the points in this one.
In the other standout game, Petersham go toe to toe with Newport at Camperdown Oval. The Shammies have had a mixed start, but will fancy their chances at home to a Newport side who are none from two. I can’t see anything other than a Petersham win.
Div Three
This week, Jeff Lalchere gives us his Clark Cup wrap from the weekend:
“The resurgence of the Clark Cup has continued with the current top four all teams who had pretty poor winters last year. Topping the table are Briars, who despite having their match switched to Yattenden Oval were too strong for Hills, while the winners scored four tries to nil, the scoreboard was perhaps a bit deceptive as the home team kept coming and made life hard for Briars. Number 8 Supe Misa was in great touch all over the paddock and deservedly gained the Man of the Match award.
Hawkesbury Valley, with vice-captain and hooker Scott Hocking playing a stirring role, came home with a late surge to overcome Blacktown. Hornsby went on a nine try rampage against the Rams of Epping to remain undefeated, with the Lions’ Noah Fotu named man of the match. With UWS and Waverley washed out, the remaining fixture saw Blue Mountains edge out St George in a dour struggle in the wet at Carss Park. Dayne Nicholls in particular put in a brilliant effort for the Mountain Men”.
Jeff has tipped the Blue Mountains v Hawkesbury Valley contest as the match of the round in the Clark Cup this weekend. As for my tip, I am going for an away win in this one, the Hawks to take the points.
Div Five
Sydney Irish continued their 100% record with a hard fought 21-12 win over Merrylands on the weekend - they have certainly enjoyed their start in Subbies Rugby! Canterbury recorded a comfortable win over Fairvale/Lansvale at Wills Ground, the home side finishing on the right side of a 34-13 score line. Maccabi grabbed an away victory at Convicts while Sydney Harlequins coolly saw off the challenge of Lane Cove in a 57-0 win.
Two games fell foul to the weather on the weekend - Redfield v Roseville and Macquarie Uni v Rouse Hill will all be played tomorrow, as will the Rd 2 abandoned Jeffrey Cup match between Canterbury and Merrylands.
Div Six
Chatswood’s revival is in full swing, with the Stags recording another win, this time defeating Terrey Hills 26-24 in a nail biter. The team is now three from three and will surely be thinking the future is bright for 2013. Sydney Grammar Old Boys scraped a low scoring win over Dundas Valley, winning 12-5 in the wet. Meanwhile, Clovelly’s mixed start to the season took a turn for the better as they thrashed Rockdale 62-12 in the only other Div Six game of the weekend.
This week, Sydney Grammar take on ICMS at Reg Bartley Oval and I am picking the new boys ICMS to take the points.
Club in Focus
Redfield’s President, Tommy Tudehope, gives us an insight into the Redfield Run that finally came to an end:
“Redfield's unbeaten run in 1st Grade began after a bruising defeat at the hands of Liverpool in July 2010 and a much deserved and stinging spray from the coach.
Since that game, Redfield have recorded 42 consecutive victories including three premierships.
To go through a season undefeated is a monumental effort. To do it twice, back to back, is even harder and something we, as a club, are immensely proud of. A record we are unlikely to emulate and one we will look back on for a long time to come.
'The streak' was not without drama, with many close games, come-from-behind wins and one noteworthy after the bell victory last year against our old foes, Maccabi.
It's difficult to identify a single reason for our ongoing success. Having a playing group that has played together since school and has remained intact over the last 5 years has been a key factor. We have also been blessed with two great coaches in Julian Whealing and Matt Aldous who were ably supported off the field by Tony Montgomery and Matt Wall.
Success isn't just a product of on-field performance. Off-field activities and building a club culture is what brings people back, it's what makes them come to training on a cold winter's night and, in our case, make the odd comedic YouTube hit.
All streaks must come to an end. In a sense it’s good to have the monkey off our backs. We certainly don't see this as an end of an era or a changing of the guard but a chance to reset, start again and continue to build a club”.
Try Time
Take a look at Rugby HQ’s top five set piece tries of all time!
Howell’s Hundreds
Big congratulations to Shawn Howell who will play his 300th Game for Hills Rugby this weekend. His Hills boys take on Blacktown this Saturday in 1st Grade at Yattenden Oval.
The Lions Countdown
Matt Rowley from Green and Gold Rugby looks ahead to the tour; it’s not too far away now!
Waugh on the Flying Waratahs
Do you agree with Phil that the Tahs are flying under the radar even after last week’s win?
Folau Flattened
Always room for a big hit…
Tweets
Gav @Gav_Norman So Rugby participation is an all time high, yet the crowds for the professional "product" are declining somewhat. Quality or cost?
Mosman Rugby Club @WhalesRugby Rained out games are fun. Buena Vista hawaiian shirt party kicking on! pic.MDiBIhiCVJ
Cranky old rugby ref @Cranky_Old_Ref Danny Cipriani should have stayed at the Melbourne Rebels, only Kurtley Beale would have hit him there. Hit on the bus, not by the bus!
Jokes
A guy walks into the psychiatrist wearing only glad wrap for shorts.
The shrink says, 'Well, I can clearly see you're nuts.'
My mate is in love with two schoolbags.
He's bisatchel.
I was reading this book today, ‘The History Of Glue’.
I couldn't put it down.
Enjoy your Rugby!
Cheers,
Wonderboy Holding
wbamatt@
@subbiesrugby
Holding’s Bits 3 May 2013
REP TEAM, SUBBIES TV & THE BOAT RACE CHALLENGE, FATMAN, SOME TEAM CALLED THE LIONS, LOOSE IN LISMORE, BALMAIN’S BOUNCEBACK
Rep Team
Subbies Rep Team Coach, Damon Baffico, has announced a 26 man squad in the lead up to the NSW Country rep match on 18th May. The squad will be trimmed to 22 over the next few weeks. Take a look at the cream of the crop right here.
The game against Country will take place before the Waratahs v Brumbies clash at ANZ Stadium (KO 5:15pm). Make sure you grab a ticket and come and support the boys as we defend the Maher-Ross Trophy!
Who am I?
I had a huge response from last week’s trivia question and unfortunately there can only be one winner! Mike Gray took the tickets as his email was randomly pulled out of the hat first. Mike picked Luke Burgess as the answer to last week’s Who Am I?
This week’s Who Am I...
• I played the lead role in drama productions at my school in Sydney
• I became a regular churchgoer whilst I had a playing stint in the UK
• I scored a try on my Super debut against the Reds
• In 2010 I was the top try scorer for my team
To be in with a chance of winning 4 tickets to the Waratahs v Stormers clash on the 11th May at Allianz Stadium (KO 7:40pm), send your answers to wbamatt@ by Monday 5pm.
Subbies TV
You can view the latest offering from Ninja and his panel right here. If clubs wish to nominate someone to be a panelist on the show, contact Ninja here: rugbystuff@.au
Speed Boat Race
Take a look at Hawkesbury Valley’s attempt at the five man boat race. I hope your team has been in training!
Fabulous Fatties
Check out the best ‘Fatman Tries’ of all time!
Lions Squad Announcement
Wallabies Coach Robbie Deans gives his verdict on the Lions Squad Announcement.
Wrap and Tips
Div 1
So…I got it right! Balmain are off the mark in the Kentwell. The boys from Blackmore ran out 29-15 winners over Colleagues. I heard someone from Colleagues managed to spur on the opponents by emailing Balmain to suggest they were struggling a bit to adjust to life at the top - something he may have regretted. Mosman continued their fantastic start by defeating Campbelltown at Rawson in a close one, the Whales coming out 33-28 winners. Drummoyne and St Pats both got home wins over Old Iggies and Beecroft respectively.
This weekend Mosman take on Colleagues at Rawson Park. I don’t think Colleagues will lie down easily in this one and I fancy them to halt Mosman’s great start and get back to winning ways themselves.
Div 2
What a game at Camperdown! The Shammies took the match with a 40 points to 30 win over Newport. Miles Nagle certainly enjoyed himself - he bagged a hat trick of tries for Petersham. Forest gained an impressive win over Barker at Turramurra, winning 18-3. BOB’s still haven’t really got going this season. Lindfield also impressed on the weekend gaining an important win over Oatley, 22-10. Brothers and UNSW both scored a few points as they travelled well to secure victories at St Ives and Kings.
Petersham are again at home as they take on Forest tomorrow. Forest have been very impressive this season and I reckon they will get another win this weekend.
Div 3
The Blue Mountains used their home ground advantage to defeat Hawkesbury Valley 22-5 at Lapstone Oval. The Mountain Men have recovered well from their opening day defeat to Hornsby, winning their last three fixtures. St George thrashed Epping 46-8 at Somerville to hand Epping their forth defeat of the campaign - the Rams must be fearing the worst after their poor start. Waverley had a great day out at Hornsby, securing a 28-20 win over a Hornsby side who have looked strong in 2013 so far. UWSH won at home against Briars, which is no mean feat and they will be looking to build on this when they face Blacktown this weekend, who were defeated by Hills last Saturday.
My fixture of Round 5 in Div 3 has to be Hills v Hornsby. Hills and Hornsby have both had decent starts but I fancy the Hills boys to take this one on their home patch.
Div 5
Just a few catch up games on the weekend in Div 5. Merrylands scored a good win over Canterbury at Wills Ground, taking the points in a close 23-17 victory. Redfield did bounce back from their first loss in three years, beating Roseville very comfortably 53-0. Macquarie Uni also scored a straight forward home win, as they had too much for Rouse Hill, beating them 36-7.
This week, the big battle is at Latham Park as the Irish take on Sydney Harlequins. Both teams have had strong starts to the season and I fancy the luck of the Irish to come out on top in the eastern suburbs.
Div 6
The game of the week across all divisions surely came in Division 6. Rockdale and Dundas Valley threw caution to the wind as they racked up 43 points each in a thriller. The battle of the educators between Sydney Grammar and ICMS ended with a 41 point difference in Grammar’s favour as they taught the Subbies new boys a harsh lesson at Reg Bartley Oval. Chatswood, Alexandria Dukes and Clovelly all had happy weekends as they recorded wins on the road.
The Meldrum Cup this weekend sees resurgent Chatswood take on reigning premiers Sydney Grammar Old Boys in Round 5’s stand out encounter. I think Chatswood will take the points and carry on their marvelous start to 2013.
Loose in Lismore
Whilst watching a game of Country Rugby on the weekend, I noticed a player came off the field with quite a bit of blood flowing from his mouth. Five minutes later, as half-time was called, a search party was sent out onto the field. They were all looking for his tooth! Alas, it was never found. What is the strangest thing you have seen on the rugby field? Tweet us your weird and wonderful moments via @subbiesrugby
Balmain’s Bounceback
Balmain President Warren Livingstone gives us an insight into his club’s start to life in Div 1.
“It’s been an interesting first few weeks for the muzzled wolves in 1st Division. Pre-Season was a bit rocky for us with a changeover of 1st grade coaches. The change wasn’t necessarily the issue but more the timing which came during the trials. So for our Club that likes to be organised this was obviously a learning curve.
On top of that we had an influx of new players that came to us from all over Sydney and a tonne of French backpackers, believe it or not, that wanted to follow in the footsteps of the great Chabal. As a young Club it’s never been easy to attract players and while we always had new players turn up to pre-season, it is clear that quality players turn up on your door step more often in Division 1 than Division 3. As is always the case when you win Premierships we had a lot of older blokes pull up stumps after last Season so it was great to get these new guys coming to the Club.
Last week marked our 1st win in Kentwell Cup and was obviously a significant milestone for the Club in its 9th season. It’s only early so we haven’t played all teams but our initial opinion on the big differences between the Divisions is that Division 3 is more social than Division 2 and Division 2 is more social than Division 1. Not in regards to social rugby but more in regards to what happens off the field.
Not for the first time the Club has had to deal with considerable mud throwing from other Clubs via the local rags and social media but the ferocity this year took us by surprise. It’s all good and we’ll let the haters hate, but it’s safe to say that there is a considerable difference in the intensity on and off the pitch as you go up the Divisions. It’s clear that teams in Division 1 don’t like each other at all.
Football wise the big difference seems to be that in Division 3 you could have 5 good players and dominate. In Division 2 you probably need 10 good players to win a Premiership but in Division 1 there are no passengers in any team. As a Club we have enjoyed the first few rounds against quality teams with strong traditions on good facilities.
It’s been an eye opener, but no doubt that’s the way other Clubs have wanted it - it’s been a fun initiation and we look forward to the rest of the season”.
Worrying Waratah Lineouts
There was a bit of chat this week in the office about how the lineout cost the Waratahs in South Africa last weekend. Green and Gold Rugby writer Scott Allen agrees.
Tweets
@GregGrowden: for desperates who want to lose their dough
@SydneyRugbyClub: Only 37 days until the Lions arrive. We will be hosting a tour kick off lunch on June 5. Details coming soon.
@BalmainRugby: Big day out today & the sun’s shining at Woollahara Oval for @subbiesrugby Balmain v Colleagues.
#skinnyjeanseverywhere #notetoselfmustlookcool
@HAC_Rugby: Looking forward to seeing @hillsrugby for Back to HAC Day on the 01 June 2013. Will be a great day with the 2003 Premiership Team reunion.
Jokes
I dreamt I was drowning in an ocean of orange soda.
Luckily, it was just a Fanta sea.
There’s a new disease found in margarine.
Apparently it is spreading very easily.
My mate dug a hole in the garden and filled it with water....
I think he meant well.
Enjoy your Rugby!
Cheers,
Wonderboy Holding
wbamatt@
@subbiesrugby
Holding’s Bits 10 May 2013
REP TEAM EXCLUSIVE, JERSEY AUCTION, BANTER BITE BACK, LIONS ON BIKES, JIM WILLIAMS, WARATAH WRATH, CUMMINS COMMENTS AND MORE
Bits Exclusive - Rep Team Named
Subbies Representative Coach, Damon Baffico, has today announced his final 22 man squad to face the NSW Country Cockatoos.
Huge congratulations to the selected players, and their clubs.
The first outing for the rep team is as a curtain-raiser to the Waratahs v Brumbies match on 18 May at ANZ Stadium, Homebush. Our boys kick off at 5.15pm.
The Team
|Tony Barry |Colleagues |
|Matthew Battishall |Oatley |
|Michael Black |Brothers |
|Ben Borg |Brothers |
|Vinny Byrne |Brothers |
|Adam Choice |Campbelltown |
|John Fonokalafi |Balmain |
|Dan Kelly |Colleagues |
|Jake Havebond |Drummoyne |
|Larry Hermens |St Patricks |
|Lawrance Hunting |Brothers |
|Bill Johnston |Colleagues |
|John Mason |Balmain |
|Simon Meiklejohn |Mosman |
|Alex Miles |Mosman |
|Glen Packer |Campbelltown |
|Sevanaia Rokobaro |Drummoyne |
|Perofeta Silva |St Patricks |
|Trent Sutton |Balmain |
|Craig Thomas |Brothers |
|Jake Wainwright |Balmain |
|Richard Woolf |Knox |
Make sure you come along and support the boys - the Maher-Ross trophy has been ours since 2011, but it is once again on the line!
The second rep match is against QLD Subbies at Suncorp Stadium on 8 June, played as the curtain raiser to the Reds v Lions game.
Good luck to all involved and here’s hoping we can make it two from two.
Trivia Teaser
Congratulations to Will Hodgkinson who correctly answered that Ben Alexander was last week’s ‘Who Am I’. Will won 4 tickets to the Waratahs v Stormers.
A great prize this week - a sports compression garment from our sponsors at Body Science.
WHO AM I?
• I was born in a Port town in NSW
• I appeared for the Perth Spirit in 2007
• I have 6 caps for Australia
Send your answers to wbamatt@ by Monday 5pm to be in with a chance of winning the Body Science prize.
Community Rugby Jersey Auction
The Waratahs have launched the annual 2013 Charity Auction of the Community Jersey. All proceeds will go to Junior Rugby. Successful bidders get an exclusive autographed (and match worn) jersey. Already, there’s been an outstanding response:
1. Palu, $500.00 bid
2. Ashley-Cooper, $500.00 bid
3. Polota-Nau, $365.00 bid
4. Robinson, $200.00 bid
5. Hooper, $200.00 bid
The auction runs until 23 May 2013. Click here to view all results and make your bids.
Balmain Banter Bite Back
Balmain’s feature last week caused a bit of a stir from a few across Div One. We here at ‘The Bits’ certainly welcome lively discussion – here’s one person’s response to Mr. Livingstone’s article.
Lions Cycle Tour
The ‘Hearts in Union’ charity has teamed up with the Irish Rugby Charitable Trust to create the Lions Cycling & Walking Tour. The event will aim to raise money for injured players across both organisations. It’s a great idea and a worthy cause - check out the event information page right here.
An Evening with Jim Williams
Last chance to reserve your seat at the Coaching session with Jim Williams at Lindfield RFC next Monday.
Wrap and Tips
Just for the record my tips aren’t going that well (in case you hadn’t noticed) ... so I think I might look for a guest tipper each week. Feel free to send me your tips for the following week: wbamatt@ There may even be a prize if you get them all right!
Div One
Three clubs recorded stand out wins on the weekend. I think the rest of Div 1 will now be sitting up and taking notice of Mosman, Beecroft and Balmain, if they weren’t already. Battling Beecroft recorded a great win, seeing off Drummoyne 20-17 at Headen Park, while Balmain destroyed St Pats at Blackmore. Looking at the early ladder it is fair to say that there could be a changing of the guard in Kentwell. Mosman have been extremely impressive and their 38-17 whipping of Colleagues underlines their Premiership credentials. Knox are enjoying a brilliant boost in form, they have notched up three solid wins and lie in second...although it’s very early days. I should also mention Hunters Hill, a pretty decent win at Old Iggies, who look in trouble at the foot.
This week, I am going for St Pats v Mosman as match of the round, it promises a lot...Mosman win for me. They look like the real deal. [Be careful Mosman – that’s the infamous ‘Holding Kiss of Death’ – Ed.]
Div Two
Big wins for Oatley, Brothers and Petersham on the weekend. Brothers thrashed UNSW away, a game in which they scored 48 points to 17 - they are now 4 from 4. Oatley racked up 45 points at home to St Ives, a great response to last week’s defeat to Lindfield. Petersham were very impressive at home to Forest, the Shammies went to second on the ladder with the 38-21 win at Camperdown Oval. Lindfield downed Barker 25-20 and Newport scored 22 unanswered points against King’s Old Boys.
Brothers v Lindfield this weekend is a big game. I know I have tipped against Lindfield in the past and have come unstuck, but I just can’t see them upsetting Brothers on their home patch this week. Prove me wrong fellas.
Thanks to Tim Calvert for sending in a rundown of St Ives’ recent Ladies Day and congrats to all involved for raising money for the national Breast Cancer Foundation:
On 27 April, the newly promoted Brothers club, neighbours to the Saints, visited Hassall Park for the first time in a number of years. Whilst a local derby is always a tantalising affair involving 30 tough boys trotting (sometimes running) around a rugby field, the day also marked the Saints’ annual “Ladies Day”, this year all in aid of the National Breast Cancer Foundation.
Pink is not traditionally a colour you associate with rugby, but the St Ives clubhouse was transformed to resemble an exploded fairy-floss machine for the day. First grade even ran out with fluorescent pink socks and two pink breast cancer Gilberts, all donated courtesy of Triforce Sports.
A $10 donation to the charity was requested from the ladies for entrée to the clubhouse, food, pink champagne, beauty products & live music. Over $1900 was raised from the mothers, wives, girlfriends, friends or daughters from the St Ives and Brothers clubs.
The Saints boys, surely keen to impress their supporters clad in pink, even celebrated the day with a few senior grade wins. The day’s atmosphere encapsulated the spirit of community and camaraderie - something that truly makes the union game so great.
Regards, Tim Calvert
Div Three
How about the Mountain Men? They scored a great victory at Briars winning 37-14 to take the bonus point home. UWSH have impressed most in Div 3 this campaign so far, they sit top after another victory - this time Blacktown felt the force. A brutal 41 point win saw the leaders stretch their points differential to 102 after just 5 games! There were closer wins for St George and Hornsby while Hawkesbury Valley bounced back from last week’s defeat with a 46-28 victory over Epping.
Blue Mountains v Hills this weekend could be a cracker. I fancy the home side to take the points, a close Blue Mountains win.
Div Five
Sydney Irish continued their fantastic start to life in Suburban rugby - you can read what Australia’s Irish newspaper made of events right here. Redfield certainly haven’t felt a hangover from their defeat a couple of weeks ago, as they trounced Rouse Hill 84-12. Maccabi got a big win over Canterbury too, the game finishing 45-10 at Lyne Park. Fairvale/Lansvale and Convicts shared an entertaining draw, 28 all at Cherrybrook Park. Roseville and Merrylands picked up bonus point wins over Macquarie Uni and Lane Cove, respectively.
Game of the week in Div 5...Irish v Redfield. Latham Park is the stage for the clash for two of Division 5’s front runners. I think the Irish boys might come unstuck against Redfield, who are certainly finding their stride.
Div Six
There were some tight contests in the Meldrum Cup last weekend. Chatswood were defeated in an 18-17 cliff hanger against Sydney Grammar Old Boys. The reigning premiers went to the top of the tree with 5 games played and are looking pretty strong. Dundas Valley secured the points when they took on Terrey Hills on home turf, 19-7 the final score. The Burraneer boys put Manly Savers to the sword, scoring 30 points to secure their first win of 2013, while Clovelly took a win away from Nagle Park, defeating the Dukes. Rockdale did new boys ICMS no favours, beating the students 27-5 to leave them in bottom place.
I am looking forward to ‘Back to Burrows Day’, as Clovelly take on Chatswood tomorrow. I am predicting a closely fought Chatswood win. I’m hoping to get down there - the thought of a beer from the Blowflies’ legendary giant toilet is pretty enticing don’t you think? [Sicko – Ed.]
The Wrath of the Waratah
Green and Gold Rugby Columnist Hugh Cavill discusses the Waratahs devestaing defeat of the Southern Kings.
K’mon Kurtley
Beale is at it again. Arguably nothing outrageous, but he just can’t keep out of the headlines can he?!
Cummins Comments
A Nick Cummins Interview is always worth watching...
Tweets
@BalmainRugby: Boom @subbiesrugby boom, boom, boom pic.s4Vf8fLKyD
@subbiesrugby: Great effort, Mosman ladies & GENTS: “@WhalesRugby: Biggest ladies day in subbies? pic.iASom0ot24”
Not a Tweet anymore... this got taken down after the Lions got into a bit of hot water...too far?
@RugbyNews1: Izzy Will Be A Wallaby “If Selectors Aren’t Blind” Says Tuqiri - by @1bbradfo
Jokes
A mate of mine recently admitted to being addicted to brake fluid.
He reckoned he could stop any time.
I’ve just been on a once-in-a-lifetime holiday.
I’ll tell you what, never again.
I just got back from my best friend's funeral.
He died after being hit on the head with a tennis ball.
It was a lovely service.
Enjoy your Rugby!
Cheers,
Wonderboy Holding
wbamatt@
@subbiesrugby
Holding’s Bits 17 May 2013
SUBBIES SUPPORT, WALLABIES WISDOM, CLUB OF THE WEEK, WRAPS AND TIPS, WHAT THE?, TWEETS & JOKES
Subbies Support
This weekend promises to be a great spectacle of Rugby. Our Subbies Rep Team takes on NSW Country at ANZ Stadium, kicking off at 5:15pm. The Waratahs are up against the Brumbies straight after – so, if you can, get out to Homebush and support the best we have to offer.
If you haven’t already got your tickets, buy them from this page and Subbies will receive 25% of the sale.
The team tasked with hanging on to the Maher-Ross Cup is:
|1 |John |Mason |Balmain |
|2 |Bill |Johnston |Colleagues |
|3 |Tony |Barry |Colleagues |
|4 |Glen |Packer |Campbelltown |
|5 |Trent |Sutton |Balmain |
|6 |Matthew |Battishall |Oatley |
|7 |Craig |Thomas |Brothers |
|8 |Adam |Choice |Campbelltown |
|9 |Vinny |Byrne |Brothers |
|10 |Dan |Kelly (c) |Colleagues |
|11 |Larry |Hermens |St Patrick's |
|12 |Alex |Miles |Mosman |
|13 |Perofeta |Silva |St Patrick's |
|14 |Richard |Woolf |Knox |
|15 |Ben |Borg |Brothers |
|16 |John |Fonokalafi |Balmain |
|17 |Brendan |Fogarty |St Patrick's |
|18 |Lefu |Iaopo |Petersham |
|19 |Sevanaia |Rokobaro |Drummoyne |
|20 |Jake |Wainwright |Balmain |
|21 |Simon |Meiklejohn |Mosman |
|22 |Michael |Black |Brothers |
|23 |Jake |Havebond |Drummoyne |
| | | | |
|Coach |Damon |Baffico | |
|Coach |Kristian |Berghofer | |
|Physio |Jerry |Murphy | |
|Manager |Peter |Holt | |
Wallaby Wisdom
Green and Gold Rugby writer Matt Rowley discusses “Why you’re wrong about how the Lions and Wallabies will play”- To include Cooper or not? Rowley makes a good point around the “logistics camp” and Cooper’s non-inclusion, but his recent form will surely complicate Robbie’s decision.
Trivia Teaser
Congratulations to Paul Van Der Westhuizen who correctly answered that Nick Cummins was last week’s Who Am I. Paul won a compression garment from our sponsors, BodyScience.
This week’s question:
• My sister represented Australia in Netball
• I have assisted Canada and Fiji in Rugby World Cup preparation and selection respectively
• My test debut was at Ballymore
For your chance to win FOUR tickets to the Waratahs’ final home game against the Reds at ANZ Stadium on 13 July, send your answers to wbamatt@ by Monday 5pm.
Club of the Week - St Pats
This week, St Pats Club President, Greg Dening, provides us with an update ahead of this weekend’s clash with Hunters Hill:
“St Pats this week plays Hunters Hill in what we call the Robbo Challenge. One of our stalwarts, Bruce Robinson, went to the dark side & has helped coach the Hunters Hill team over the last few years. Robbo thought that we needed to play for a trophy that would be decided on club championship points for that round. (Plus 20pts for the winner of the traditional boat race!) In the first Robbo Challenge the winner wasn't decided until after the boat race. We look forward to meeting Hunters this weekend. [Kentwell is postponed due to rep commitments. – Ed.]
We have our ladies day planned for the Drummoyne game at Hudson on the 1st of June. We hear that Mosman has taken the Ladies day crown from Colleagues, and we hope to emulate some of their success.
The Club is also celebrating our 50th season this year, with a dinner at the convention centre on the 3rd of August.” Greg Dening.
Wrap and Tips
Div One
There was a big win for the Drummoyne boys on Saturday as they spanked Hunters Hill 74-5 at Drummoyne Oval. Hunters Hill didn’t go down without a fight though - I saw a Drummoyne forward with a pretty hefty black eye on Saturday night at the Waratahs game! The Beecroft boys continued their great start, winning on the road 32-28 at Campbelltown in a high scoring contest. Balmain got 55 points on the board as they dispatched of Old Iggies, who look like they are in for a long old season. St Pats halted Mosman’s progress with an impressive 33-18 victory at home. While Colleagues grabbed a much needed win as they defeated Knox.
With Drummoyne vs Balmain postponed due to the Subbies Rep match, my standout game this weekend is Beecroft vs Knox. I fancy the home side here - they are in really good form and should continue this against the Knox boys.
Div Two
Brothers belted Lindfield 75-10 at Roseville Chase last Sat. The winners now have a week off in the Barraclough due to the number of players they have in the Rep side - testament to the quality in their ranks. Oatley, on the other hand, have another week to stew on their upset loss to UNSW at David Phillips. The Uni boys took the game to the visitors and ran in four tries against their much-fancied opposition. There were two exciting draws in the other Barraclough matches - Forest and Newport shared the spoils in a 20-all draw, while St Ives held Barker Old Boys in a tight 17-all battle. Petersham took the points at Kings, defeating their hosts 18-9.
This weekend Forest take on UNSW at Melwood. With the visitors coming off the back of that great win last weekend, Forest will have to be at their best to claim the points - and I think they will be. Home win.
Div Three
Roaming Div Three correspondent, Jeff Lalchere, gives us his version of the action in the Clark Cup over the weekend. Deep breath …… and we’re off:
“Powerhouse centre Jeff Ryan stamped his authority on proceedings at the College as the Blood and Mustards maintained top spot on the table with a victory over Epping, and just up the road at Lapstone Oval,Hills scored an intercept try to open proceedings but that was to be the only time they were to lead as Blue Mountains,with George Ftynogiannis and Andy Power in great touch outclassed them on the day.Meanwhile over at Carrs Park proceedings were called up early as Valley beat St George with Dane Humphries man of the match with great support once again from hooker Scott Hocking,Hornsby won away to Blacktown with club captain Tim Burns and loosey Paula Kainga two of the Lions best,and in the final fixture,moving from hooker to blind side Connor Geoghan got the refs and the coaches vote as man of the match being particularly lethal in attack,with some positive Rugby from Nathan Ferguson as well ,as Waverly scored a crucial win over Briars at home,with the visitors flyer Taani Kaliti scoring to place himself as the comps current leading try scorer.Saturday all roads lead to the College at Richmond as two of the top three meet head on when UWS host Hornsby,the clash of two tough and well drilled packs could well decide the outcome”. Jeff Lalchere
Div Five
I caught some of the Sydney Irish v Redfield game on the weekend and it was a fantastic first half of Rugby! The game was in the balance at half time but Redfield pulled away in the second period with the score finishing 36-26 to the Redfield boys. (Advice to Sydney Irish - Magners in a can? Not so good. Bottles only, please fellas). There were big home victories for Merrylands and Macquarie Uni, while Sydney Harlequins put plenty of points on the board as they beat Rouse Hill 57-12 at Waterloo Oval. Maccabi claimed a hard fought win at Fairvale/Lansvale, their tussle finished 33-24.
My game of the weekend is Sydney Harlequins v Redfield. Harlequins have had a good campaign so far, but I feel Redfield are a cut above. Maccabi and Redfield just look too strong this year.
Div Six
What has happened to the Chatswood honeymoon? I also made it down to Burrows Park on the weekend to catch the tail end of Clovelly v Chatswood - only to find the big toilet esky had disappeared! Although highly dismayed, I soldiered on and saw a great try in the corner that sealed the Blowies victory that downed the Stags, 27-9. Terrey Hills secured a win on home turf as they downed Rockdale 47-0 at Yulong Oval, while Dundas Valley and Burraneer claimed valuable away victories over ICMS and Dukes respectively. The upset of the round came at Manly, the Savers defeating favourites Sydney Grammar in a battling 7-5 win.
This weekend Dundas Valley host Chatswood at Sir Thomas Mitchell Reserve. The Stags will be looking to get back to winning ways but it will be a big ask as Dundas will have their eyes on a third win in a row. Home win, I say.
Did you just see that?
You’re at the game and the half-time siren goes. Do you queue for a watery beer, a lukewarm pie, or stay and watch the entertainment? Here is the best of what can happen at a game that might not necessarily be what you expect.
Merchandise Gone Mad
I’ve seen it all now...Hard Hats!?!
Bike Brake
Proof that you shouldn’t play League - or cycle for that matter.
Tweets
@whiskeycully: The Wallabies 25 - who picks it, when it will be announced and how the players will find out: .au/rugby
@BalmainRugby: Great to have the great Daryl Halligan down at training working with our goal kickers last night. #chestsquare
pic.7Vea8AdLzQ
@nswrugbyrefs: Ross Williamson runs 1st Women’s Only ‘Refereeing Kids Rugby’ course at SCG last night. Congrats ladies! pic.ovfsVSXhSI
@themarkella: My picks for the @QantasWallabies backline v Lions:
15.Mogg 14.Cummins 13.Ashley-Cooper 12.Lealiifano 11.Ioane 10.Cooper 9.Genia
Dave Dennis Vampire Twitter account
Jokes
I just bought a Japanese car.
Turned on the radio - don't understand a word they're saying.
I slept like a log last night.
I woke up in a fireplace.
A jumper-lead walks into a bar.
The barman says, "I'll serve you, but don't start anything."
Enjoy your Rugby!
Cheers,
Wonderboy Holding
wbamatt@
@subbiesrugby
Holding’s Bits 24 May 2013
REP POST MORTEM, REDFIELD RENDITION, SUBBIES BACHELOR, BROTHERS BATTLERS, JOURNEY FROM HELL, TRIVIA, TWEETS AND JOKES
Subbies TV’s Awesome Ad
Whilst circling the ANZ Stadium underground ring-road on Saturday evening prior to the Waratahs-Brumbies kick off, I managed to miss the Subbies Ad going onto the big screens - gutted! Our chauffer (a rampant golf cart driver) managed to do three laps before we eventually made it to our seats.
Just in case you missed it like I did, here is Ninja (and Barry) promoting Subbies.
This week’s Subbies TV episode is also available right here. Don’t miss Ninja and his guests dissecting the week in Subbies Rugby.
The Rep Post Mortem
I thought we might have just nicked it at the end...but not to be. Country ran out 26-20 winners in the tussle for the Maher-Ross Cup on Saturday at ANZ Stadium. A disappointed Subbies camp can reflect on not taking points from a sustained period of pressure in the 2nd half that ultimately cost the boys in blue. It will be onwards and upwards when we head to Queensland on 8th June and hopefully we can retain the Barraclough Shield against the lads from Brisbane.
Redfield’s Latest Rendition
Last season we featured a few song parody’s by the Redfield boys. Their latest offering of “I will wait”- Mumford and Sons (the ROBR UNCUT version) is another fantastic offering. A must see.
The Bachelor
Channel 10’s casting director has been in touch. They are looking for:
“an Aussie guy 25 - 38, tall, handsome, fit and definitely single - who is looking for love.”
That rules me out [only because of his age – Ed.] but if you fancy a go - take a look right here.
Trivia Teaser
I got most of you last week. The answer to the ‘Who Am I’ was GLEN ELLA! The lucky winner...Michael Jones from the Lane Cove Club. Michael won FOUR tickets to the Waratahs final home game of the season against the Reds on the 13th July.
This week’s Who Am I?
• I was born in Saudi Arabia
• I scored a try on my full test debut
• Science is my forte - I have a degree to prove it
If you think you know the answer and you have a taste for Shiraz (bottle of Jamiesons Run 2010 - very drinkable according to Ed.) then send your answer to wbamatt@. Thanks to our sponsors My Wine Warehouse for the prize.
Heff Hills Legend
This weekend marks the 12 month anniversary of the tragic death of Andrew ‘Heff’ Heffernan. The Hills club are planning a minutes silence and will wear black armbands to remember him this weekend. I have attached the clip of Andrew Winning the Boat Race for Hills.
Wrap and Tips
Div One
There was a great win for Knox on the weekend as they defeated Beecroft 28-20 in an entertaining battle at Headen Park. Knox now move ahead of Beecroft on the ladder and will be extremely happy with their weekend’s work. Old Iggies are in big trouble - they were convincingly beaten by Mosman at Ryde Oval. The Whales put 47 points past their opponents as Mosman underlined their force in the upper echelons of the Kentwell ladder. Colleagues got a much needed win as they dispatched Campbelltown 41-15 on home turf. Both sides have had stuttering starts to the season and Colleagues needed the points to re-start their campaign. Both Drummoyne v Balmain and Hunters Hill v St Pats were postponed due to the Rep Match.
First takes on third tomorrow as Mosman host Knox in what promises to be a great game. I am going for a Whales win.
Div Two
Petersham racked up 53 points as they thrashed Barker Old Boys at Turramurra Oval. Barker sit on just 3 points from 6 games and the club are surely hoping their abysmal start doesn’t last too much longer. However, with a trip to Brothers up next it doesn’t look like getting much easier. St Ives also scored a big 59-17 win as they defeated another struggling side in King’s Old Boys. Forest got their win over UNSW, the score finished 31-22 at Melwood Oval to put the home side third on the table. Lindfield grabbed a valuable away victory at Newport with Daniel Bozich crossing 3 times to claim a hat-trick and seal a 32-22 win.
Petersham take on Oatley on Saturday in my game of the round. It’s going to be a close one but I fancy the Shammies to take the points.
Div Three
UWSH survived a late scare at home to Hornsby to move 3 points clear at the Clark Cup summit. The home side finished 35-33 victors with Brendon Newcombe and Dave Leigh standing out. St George took the game to Briars and it paid off as they won the game 45-20 at Carss Park. The hosts have been inconsistent this season and will be hoping they can back-up this solid display when they travel to Hills this weekend. Hills themselves were turned over against Hawkesbury Valley last weekend, their Valley visitors scoring 39 points to inflict a heavy defeat on the third-from-bottom outfit. Waverley ended up on the right side of a 39-26 scoreline as they beat Epping at Somerville Oval, while the Blue Mountains boys locked down second place with a tough 30-19 win over Blacktown.
Game of the week for me is the big local derby - Hawkesbury Valley against UWSH. This is a tough one to call, but I’m going for an away win and continuation of the form for UWSH.
Div Five
The Irish are level at the top! Sydney Irish continued their great start as they took care of Rouse Hill’s challenge at Francesco Reserve, winning the game 54-6. Redfield aren’t looking like they are going to shift though, as they put 38 points past Sydney Harlequins. Roseville was the only home side to win last weekend as they defeated Canterbury 41-27. Fairvale/Lansvale and Merrylands both grabbed good victories, but the upset of the day took place at Waverley Oval. Maccabi were overturned by a determined Macquarie Uni side that threw the form table out the window to record a 28-15 win.
Maccabi v Roseville promises to be a decent clash tomorrow. Roseville high on confidence, Maccabi looking to bounce back- it was just a blip in my opinion, home win!
Div Six
Clovelly Blowflies - what has happened? The Blowies sit atop the Meldrum ladder after another win, this time in the form of a 27-11 victory at Burraneer. Manly Savers got themselves up the ladder by defeating Terrey Hills in a close 18-14 win at Keirle Park while ICMS won the battle against the Dukes 31-21. Chatswood were defeated yet again and the memories of 2012 are creeping back for the Stags as they went down 42-20 at Dundas Valley. Sydney Grammar comfortably beat Rockdale 43-7 to set up this weekend’s blockbuster against Clovelly.
The Blowies are at home, but Grammar are always a tough nut to crack. This will be one of the games of the year in Div 6. Its pot luck, but I will go with an away win.
Brothers Battlers
Brothers Rugby has a well seasoned front row, with its members racking up a combined total of 1120 games - a superb effort!
The breakdown of these games between the boys is as follows:
Adrian Brannan: 368, Dave Taylor: 321, Michael Wren: 431
Well played fellas - keep it up!
The Long Journey Home From a Rugby Lunch
Received this funny email during the week from Andrew Logan (check out his other stuff at The Roar.) Big mistake jumping on a flight straight from a rugby lunch …………
“Gentlemen,
I just spent a week on a flight to Orange this afternoon. It was chronologically 35 minutes, but after 12 schooners at the Old Iggies lunch it seemed like 35 days.
The seat belt sign did not go off. My bladder was approximately the size of the Hindenburg and marginally more volatile.
Every turbulent bump brought a whimper to my lips and a small squirt of urine to my jocks. My friends, I moaned like a gutshot bison.
Finally, after an airborne eon during which I passed the time poking a toothpick in my eye to distract myself, we descended into Orange. As we came to a stop I threw off my seatbelt and charged down the aisle as though it was Pamplona.
An elderly lady was in my way on the staircase, and as the fluid sloshed around my back teeth, I threw her to the tarmac where she narrowly avoided a scalping from the rotating propeller.
I didn't care. All I could see was a sign in the distance saying "Gents". I sobbed as I ran, bystanders thought I was dealing with a recent tragedy, unaware how close they were to being an intimate part of an immediate one.
I barged through the door, fumbling with my fly and grappling with my rope, as it threatened to release full pressure like Hose #6 on the fire service ladder truck.
The relief was indescribable. The steel wall of the urinal warped under the power of the flow. Small children thought a marching band was passing such was the noise of the drumming.
Finally, after an hour or so, the flow tapered off and stopped. In the silence you could hear nought but my breath and a gurgling drain.
Exhausted, I retired to my vehicle and set off for home.
It was a good day my friends. But nightmare trip.
Regards,
P. R. Ostate
Urologist.”
The Fallout from Wallaby Selection
Roar Rugby blogger Elisha Pearce highlights five main talking points from the naming of the 25 man Wallabies squad to face the Lions.
Tweets
@subbiesrugby: Rumour? Hard facts? Scuttlebutt? It's in the paper, so must be true, right?
@subbiesrugby: Long time Subbies volunteer Mick Clay recognised for his distinguished service tonight at the NSW Sport Awards. Congrats.
pic.0J7dIQQMoP
@WhalesRugby: Congratulations Michael Muligan who celebrated his 100th 1st grade game with a meat pie! #evergreen #2001colts
pic.knEbxzkg13
@NSWWaratahs: Well worth $45! Don't miss Al Baxter & Greg Clark - Unleash the Lions: The Future of Super Rugby - event May 30
@NSWWaratahs (late at night): Cunt
Jokes
There are three kinds of people in this world. Those who can count, and those who can't.
What do Eskimos get from sitting on the ice too long?
Polaroids.
My cat was just sick on the carpet.
I don’t think its feline well.
I fired my masseuse today.
She rubbed me up the wrong way.
Enjoy Your Rugby,
Cheers,
Wonderboy Holding
@subbiesrugby
wbamatt@
Holding’s Bits 31 May 2013
NEWPORT’S BIG DAY, WRAP AND TIPS, LIONS AD, U-S OUCH, HIGH VIS VALUE, RUGBY IN PARADISE, MILESTONE MAKERS, CREAM OF THE CROP, TRIVIA, TWEETS AND JOKES
Newport’s Big Day
“The Newport Breakers song may have only been heard a couple of times on the field last Saturday, but the line "there’s a track winding back past an oval to a shack" could not have rung louder with the 2000 strong crowd ensuring the 'track' was well worn and the 'shack' was standing room only. The Breakers have arguably the best overall facilities in Subbies Rugby and with it one of the largest supporter bases. They turned up not only to support their beloved local team play rivals St Ives, but to show their respect and remember club legend Moape Ravuvu.
It was the corresponding round in May 2012 when Mo collapsed at the end of 2nd grade and passed away several days later. Mo joined the Newport Breakers Club in the late 90’s and played over 200 games for Newport. He was instrumental in the club’s 1999 Kentwell Cup and 2003 Barraclough Cup grand final victories. His career included representative honors with NSW Suburban Rugby from 2000 to 2004 and he also participated in the 1996 Hong Kong Sevens.
The Fijian community rose early to prepare the "Hungi", a traditional feast which was to be the central part of the celebration of Mo's life and achievements. The day also included raffles and donation buckets in aid of Julie and her two young children. A minute’s silence proceeded 1st grade, and whilst the Breakers couldn't close out the game, going down 19-13, the celebration of a life of a loving husband, father and all round gentle soul continued at the club house until it was drunk dry.....literally!
Saints have now claimed the inaugural Moape Bowl, which will go to the club that wins the most grades when the two sides do battle each year. The Breakers would like to acknowledge the St Ives club and players, the broken Breakers, and local community for showing up in large numbers to the clubhouse to acknowledge Mo's memory and support his family.
All in all, a great day of rugby and of community. Subbies Rugby at its absolute best!”
A big thanks to Alan Jones and David Hunt for sending through their version of Saturday’s events at Porter reserve.
Trivia Teaser
The answer to last week’s question was...Stephen Moore. Plenty of you got it right, but Hugh Cavill was first out of the hat and scored the bottle of wine!
This week’s Who Am I?
• I played and coached in the UK between 2001 and 2004
• I am a director at a boutique telecoms company
• I played with my national team for two years
There are four more tickets on offer for the Waratahs v Reds game on 13 July. Send your answers to wbamatt@ by 5pm Monday to be in with a chance of winning.
Subbies TV
Ninja is slack and has taken a week to sun himself on a distant island somewhere – therefore, no Subbies TV this week folks…Gutting.
Wrap and Tips
Div One
Two games fell foul to the weather on Saturday - Old Iggies v Beecroft and Campbelltown v St Patricks were both postponed. Knox produced a superb display to overturn their hosts, Mosman, 35-24. Subbies Rep player Richard Woolf stole the show as he grabbed a hat trick of tries to help his side secure the win. Richard also starred for his Colts side, I have heard he got the call from the coach with the side trailing - only to come on and turn the game completely on its head...this kid’s a bit special. Balmain moved into third spot with a rampant 52-10 victory over Hunters Hill at Blackmore. Colleagues and Drummoyne played out a thriller at Woollahra, the Dirty Reds coming out on the right side of a 32-30 score line. Drummoyne secured the rejuvenating win but Colleagues will be wondering what is going wrong this campaign. The narrow loss leaves with them just 3 wins from 7.
Two in-form sides meet this weekend at Barra Brui Oval when Knox take on Balmain in what should be a great attacking game. Both teams have been scoring plenty of points lately and this is one to watch. I will pick Balmain here...such a tough call though.
Div Two
Brothers deepened Barker Old Boys’ woes with a 45 point thrashing at Roseville Chase Oval. The home side is still running on a 100% record this campaign and are already looking like favourites for the Barraclough Cup title come September. Petersham took the points in an impressive victory over Oatley, defeating their visitors 26 points to 3. The win takes the Shammies top of the ladder courtesy of their extra game played. St Ives took the spoils in the big derby at Porter - it was a close fought battle, St Ives winning 19-13 when that whistle was blown. Forest also took points on the road as they defeated Kings. Lindfield and UNSW played out a classic when they met at Hassall Park, Liam Hinchcliffe’s 19 points wasn’t enough for the away side as they were defeated 37-34.
Forest take on Brothers at Melwood Oval in a top of the table clash, 2nd playing 3rd. I can’t see the Brothers boys getting beat here but Forest will be a tough an opponent as Brother will meet this season. Away win.
Div Three
Clark Cup specialist Jeff Lachere gives his version of events from the weekend.
“It was no place for the faint hearted at Winsdor, the scene of a hard fought local derby with the spoils going to Valley. Valley resisted a late surge from the visitors in a game which saw their scrum dominant, and thus their platform at rucks giving them an advantage. Returning skipper Kristian Berghofer was the star of the show but his cause was certainly advanced by the boys up front. Dane Humphries and the consistant Scott Docking two of the winner’s best. Meanwhile up the road at Lapstone, Blue Mountains, with Dayne Nichholls on fire, hit the top of the table for the first time with a big win over Epping. Over at Yattenden, St George were too good for Hills with number 7 Sean Vaalepu best and fairest. Don Faiga, Paula Kainga and Sam White playing at number 10, were amongst Hornsbys best as the Lions edged out Briars in a 30-27 win while Waverley stumbled out west, Blacktown scoring a morale boosting two point victory.”
Div Five
Sydney Irish and Sydney Harlequins both scored huge home wins to underline their credentials at the top of the Jeffrey Cup table. Sydney Irish sit in second place due to an inferior points difference to Redfield while Harlequins are in forth, six points behind the leaders. The Irish men racked up 50 points at Latham Park as they disposed of Canterbury; Harlequins managed 48 against Macquarie Uni. Maccabi edged out Roseville in a great game at Lyne Park, the hosts winning 28-27 in what was a great effort from the away side. The Convicts took a win from their clash with Lane Cove while Fairvale/Lansvale edged past Rouse Hill in a high scoring 34-31 victory.
Sydney Irish take on Maccabi this weekend in what will be a stern test of their credentials. I fancy the Maccabi boys to take a win away from the Eastern Suburbs.
Div Six
Grammar stole the show at Burrows Park, beating the Clovelly Blowflies 23-10 in the game of the round. Terrey Hills scored a big win at home to ICMS and Dundas Valley beat Manly Saver 30-17 to climb to third on the Meldrum ladder. Burraneer beat Rockdale 37-15 at C A Redmond to put some life into their 2013 season. The big winners of the weekend were Chatswood as they got back to winning ways, 43-17 over Alexandria Dukes.
The battle at the bottom takes centre stage this weekend as Rockdale take on Alexandria Dukes at McKay Oval. This will be a close one but I will go for an away win.
Lions Ad
HSBC have spent some serious cash on their rugby ads. Here is the latest one for the much anticipated Lions tour.
High Vis Value
Take a look at this case, if you haven’t already. Manly RFC’s physio is seeking compensation from an incident back in 2009. This really underlines the importance of wearing the yellow bibs when physios and water runners enter the field of play. The Manly physio, without a bib, was hard to spot and differentiate from the players. Subbies has had a rule in place since 2007 that requires high visibility vests to be worn by water runners. The rule is there for a bloody good reason – please make sure your club complies.
U-S-Ouch
Big hit from the USA play offs...turn the volume up!
Deans and Cooper
Brendan Layton from Green and Gold Rugby discusses the relationship between a sheep, philosophers and Cooper. Seriously though, quite a good read!
Rugby in Paradise
Fancy a Rugby Tour to Hawaii? Well you can make it happen. Check out the brochure with all the info for the tournament running in October right here.
Keep your mouth shut!
Lesson here for everyone: The Lions tour is just days away, it would therefore be a good idea to not call the top dog a cheat. However, that’s exactly what Dylan Hartley did.
Milestone Makers
A few St George players are clocking up milestone matches over the next few weeks. Big congratulations to the following:
Ben Theocharous - 250 games
David Brighton - 180 games
Justin Brown - 150 games
Theo Pitsikas - 150 games
Anthony Cooper - 150 games
Patrick Wild - 100 games
Greg Black - 100 games
Terrific Twomey
Blue Mountains club legend Dave ‘Socket’ Twomey will this weekend notch up his 250th first grade game for the club against Waverley. Enjoy the day Socket!
Cream of the Crop
I saw a bit of discussion on the Subbies Facebook page this week regarding the best Subbies player that you have seen - quite an interesting topic. However, it looks like Jakey Havebond still stands out as the player of the decade!
Tweets
@BalmainRugby: Get me a coupla muzzled wolves will ya! Balmain Rugby's Muzzled Wolf on tap at The Balmain! Our shout. pic.w3Qkx4IuvD
@WhalesRugby: Monkey plays game #600 and something. Still counting.... #ageless pic.6qDGWg7dg4
@whiskeycully: The Lions arrive in Hong Kong - the mascot Lion looks like it's had a crack at Boonie's record.
There’s no escaping the combination of modern technology and a club treasurer:
@unswrugby: Boys, the Eftpos machine will be at training again tonight for the few remaining guys that haven't paid!! Please...
@whiskeycully: If you are an Aussie working in a London bar and have played rugby, you're in line for a Test cap later this year.
Jokes
My wife just split up with me because I've got a pasta fetish.
I'm feeling cannelloni right now.
A sandwich walks into a bar.
The barman says, "Sorry, we don't serve food here."
How are a chicken and a grape alike?
They are both purple... except for the chicken.
There's a new type of broom out.
It's sweeping the nation.
Enjoy Your Rugby,
Cheers,
Wonderboy Holding
@subbiesrugby
wbamatt@
Holding’s Bits 6 June 2013
REP TEAM EXCLUSIVE, RAM-POWER, TRIVIA, DIRTY DOWN UNDER, STAG SMASH, CLIVE WOODWARD’S A KNOB, ODE TO A TIGHTHEAD, PRE-MATCH PRANCE, TWEETS & JOKES
Bits Exclusive - Rep Team Named
Subbies Representative Coach, Damon Baffico, has today announced his final 22 man squad to face the Queensland Suburban.
Huge congratulations to the selected players, and their clubs.
The second (and final) outing for the rep team is the curtain-raiser to the Reds v Lions match this Saturday at Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane. Our boys kick off at 4.50pm. Make sure you follow all the LIVE action on twitter:
@subbiesrugby
The Team
|1 |John |Mason |Balmain |
|2 |William |Johnston |Colleagues |
|3 |Tony |Barry |Colleagues |
|4 |Glen |Packer |Campbelltown |
|5 |Trent |Sutton |Balmain |
|6 |Matthew |Battishall |Oatley |
|7 |Jake |Wainwright |Balmain |
|8 |Adam |Choice |Campbelltown |
|9 |Vincent |Byrne |Brothers |
|10 |Dan |Kelly |Colleagues |
|11 |Ben |Borg |Brothers |
|12 |Sanualio |Afeaki |Drummoyne |
|13 |Perofeta |Silva |St Patricks |
|14 |Richard |Woolf |Knox Old Boys |
|15 |Jake |Havebond |Drummoyne |
|16 |Scott |Hocking |Hawkesbury Valley |
|17 |Brendan |Fogarty |St Patricks |
|18 |Sevanaia |Rokobaro |Drummoyne |
|19 |Tipiloma |Kaveinga |Balmain |
|20 |Simon |Meiklejohn |Mosman |
|21 |Michael |Black |Brothers |
|22 |Larry |Hermens |St Patricks |
| | | | |
| |Damon |Baffico |Coach |
| |Kristian |Berghofer |Ass Coach |
| |Peter |Holt |Mgr |
| |Jerry |Murphy |Physio |
| |Darren |Barlow |Trainer |
Your humble correspondent will be heading to Brisbane on an all-expenses paid junket so that I can better follow the Rep Team on its quest to retain the Barraclough Shield. Stay tuned for a Bumper Bits next week where I will be detailing all the action – on and off the field.
Subbies TV
Ninja has embedded himself with the Rep Team and so is also heading up to do an eyewitness account of the Brisbane tour. This means no Subbies TV this week. Never fear though – a huge episode is planned for next week.
Club of the week – Epping
Epping’s John Carters gives us an update of what’s happening at the Rams...
“RAMPOWER - The subbies event of the year is coming up, with the 8 hottest players strutting their stuff down the catwalk in swim wear and school uniforms. The winner will be judged by the ladies of Epping. Brock Heydon, Anthony Pomering and Tom Johnson are equal favourites, whilst Colt Cameron Dagger is firming after the ladies saw him with his shirt off last Saturday.
On a more serious note...the boys are stoked with their efforts against Briars on Saturday - we got all grades up, bar second grade, and even put on a massive upset in Halligan Cup, defeating Redfield. The day was dedicated to our club treasurer and 700 game veteran, Warren ‘Killer’ Christey, whose mother passed away last week.
First grade’s 13-0 victory was one of true grit - it is the first time in about 5 years our first grade has kept a side to nil. The boys defended for about 15-20 minutes on their line and didn't let up. Third grade was a thriller as well, getting up by one point, and fourth grade is really starting to look the goods. Second grade were on the wrong end of a big penalty count in the first half and struggled to claw back the lead in a great physical match.
The Rams are starting to get players back - we had 48 unavailable on Saturday and over previous weeks we had over 50 unavailable, with plenty of them being first and second grade quality. We are really looking forward to our upcoming matches with our neighbour, Hills RFC. We will be travelling to Yattenden hoping to prove that we are still a dominant club with plenty to play for.” John Carters - Epping Rugby
Trivia Teaser
Rod Kafer was the answer to last week’s question. I got a few correct answers but Cameron Harris was the lucky winner.
This week’s Who Am I?
• I was born on the Gold Coast
• I am sometimes likened to a pop icon
• I am eligible to play for both the Kiwis and the Boks.
The fantastic prize this week is a sports compression garment provided by our sponsors BodyScience. Send your answers to wbamatt@ by Monday 5pm to be in with a chance of winning.
Wrap and Tips
Div One
St Pats have hit the form button this season! The club sits fourth on the ladder but have played two games less than leaders Mosman. Pats defeated the Dirty Reds of Drummoyne 25-15 on Saturday at Hudson Park to crown a thoroughly successful Ladies Day. The message has been sent to the rest of Division One that the Strathfield club means business. Balmain have also hit their stride recently. The Muzzled Wolves claimed an impressive away win against Knox who have been looking so strong themselves in 2013. Colleagues were rampant at Headen Park, defeating Beecroft by 20 points, 37-17 the final score. Campbelltown easily got rid of Old Iggies out west, the home side racking up plenty of tries in a 52 points to 6 drubbing of the Kentwell strugglers. The Mosman Whales did all they could to extend their lead at the top by comfortably beating Hunters Hill 35-12 at Boronia.
Who is your tip for the 2013 crown? It has been a highly entertaining start to the season and I would be surprised if anyone predicted the Division One ladder to look like this at this stage of the campaign.
Div Two
What a game between the old boys! Kings took on Barker on Saturday in what turned out to be a highly entertaining 29 all draw at Turramurra Oval. Both sides did all they could do to take all the points and get some much needed confidence back into their respective camps but the stalemate leaves both clubs at the foot of the Barraclough table. Unbeatable Brothers passed the Forest test with flying colours as they took a 29-12 win away from Melwood Oval, centre Greg Wade grabbing a couple of tries. Oatley beat struggling Newport 25-12 at H V Evatt to reignite the pressure on the top four, while Lindfield took the points from their game with St Ives, the score finishing 23-7. Petersham were the big winners on the day in Div Two - The Shammies destroyed UNSW 33-0 at David Phillips, taking them to the top of the tree going in to the week off.
Div Three
Waverley scored a creditable draw with Blue Mountains at Waverley Oval on Saturday. The home side matched the leaders all the way in a 13 all battle. I did see that the mountain men were welcomed with open arms after the match - looked like a top night! Hornsby beat Hawkesbury Valley in the top four clash at Waitara Oval, the Hornsby boys claimed a 25-16 victory to leave themselves just one point behind Blue Mountains at the top of the Clark ladder. St George had Pulega Palepua to thank for 20 of their points as the fly half helped his side dismantle Blacktown and hand St George a 45-5 win. Hills caused an upset when they travelled to UWSH and defeated their hosts 26-17 in an impressive display. Hills have had a very mixed start and will be delighted to record a win over one of the division’s high-flyers. Epping’s win is featured in the Club of the Week segment above.
Div Five
There were some shock results in Division Five as Redfield succumbed to their second defeat of the season. It was Fairvale/Lansvale’s turn to inflict the unfamiliar feeling on the youthful Redfield outfit, the home side claiming a powerful 17-10 victory over their visitors. Much fancied Maccabi fell to the Irish in the Eastern Suburbs - the Division’s new boys stormed to the top of the ladder as they beat their rivals 34-14. Sydney Harlequins kept themselves in the picture as they defeated Roseville 26-18 on their travels. The impressive win takes the Harlequins on to 29 points, just two behind the Division favourites, Redfield. Canterbury and Convicts took away wins from Lane Cove and Macquarie Uni, while Merrylands put 41 points on the board as they beat the Renegades of Rouse Hill.
Div Six
Is the party still going at Terrey Hills? A fantastic performance by the Wolves saw Sydney Grammar fall to a rare home defeat on Saturday and give the away side a moment to savour in the Meldrum Cup. The Grammar slip up allowed Clovelly to take full advantage and move to the top of Division Six. The Blowflies thrashed ICMS 41-12 at Bantry Bay. Dundas Valley charged into third place as they claimed a hard fought win over Burraneer, while Chatswood returned to form with a 23-7 win over Manly Savers. Alexandria Dukes took the win against fellow strugglers Rockdale to give them hope of rejuvenating their disappointing season so far.
Dirty Down Under
Green and Gold Rugby brings us the best battles of the last two Lions tours....just to get you in the mood.
Woodward’s Jibe
Clive Woodward has had a dig at the credibility of the whole Lions tour after the Force’s decision to select a much weakened side. [Proving that Sir Clive is a hack in love with overblown rhetoric and, most likely, himself. He’s also a hypocrite – Ed.]
Ode to a Tighthead Prop
Many thanks to Richard Rice from Oatley, who placed this great piece on the Subbies Facebook page, well worth a look! [Finally! Something worthwhile on our facebook page – Ed.]
New Wave Pre-Match Warm Up?
Maybe not... (No camels were hurt in the making of that video.)
The Stag Smash
Number Eight Jordan Crane smashes a pool bystander on a stag do in Spain.
Tweets
@subbiesrugby Enjoying the brilliant setup at the @stpatsoldboys Ladies Day at Hudson Park. (Footy's good too!) pic.SgMydBOPsP
@GAGR Stats say Force to beat Lions in 2025 pic.YnYGcJXRc6
@whiskeycully Strong Reds team named for the Lions. Cooper at No.10. Crisis over. On to the next one. [Hope that team meets with Sir Clive’s approval – Ed.]
@SydneyRugbyClub There is only one place in Sydney's CBD showing every Lions game live in HD #originfreezone
@iainpayten James O'Connor signs a 3-year deal with West Harbour Pirates. Looks a bit like Wendell signing for Norths, and he never played a game.
@iainpayten Lions score > Australian cricket team score.
Jokes
I took the shell off of my racing snail to see if it went any faster.
If anything, it just made it more sluggish.
My housemate threw a block of cheese at me.
I said, "That's mature."
One armed butlers - they can take it, but they can't dish it out.
A man went to hospital after swallowing 12 plastic horses.
The doctors describe his condition as stable.
Enjoy your week off.
Cheers,
Wonderboy Holding
@subbiesrugby
wbamatt@
Holding’s Bits 14 June 2013
RAMPANT REP TEAM, SUBBIES TV, DEAF DEFEATERS, CLASSIC WALLABIES, BINGHAM CUP, BYRON BAY 7s, TRIVIA, TWEETS & JOKES
‘Rep Team Revels in Massive Win’ or ‘My Twenty Hours in Queensland’
Our flight to join the rep tour left 24 hours after the team, so the group that travelled up to BrisVegas on Saturday morning was hoping there weren’t too many “casualties” from Friday night. We needn’t have worried - of course the boys were on their best behaviour and everyone was raring to go by the time we arrived. (Except Ninja - he didn’t look quite as fresh!)
After a leisurely lunch - all part of my all-expenses paid junket - we arrived at the stadium just in time to watch the boys kick off. Suncorp is a great place to watch footy and it looked even better as Vinny Byrne crossed the line to give us a great start! And on it went - a great try to Perofeta Silva was quickly followed by another to the Knox colt bolter, Richard Woolfe. There was just enough time for Ben Borg to run away with a 75m solo try before the half time whistle saw us leading 26-0 - the stuff a coach’s dreams are made of!
As the Lions coaching staff emerged from the tunnel (presumably they heard we were playing some stunning stuff) we began the second half just where we left off – scoring more sensational tries. Larry Hermens finished off some great work by Vinny Byrne, before another 75m gallivant saw Simon Meiklejohn take the score to 38-0...it was becoming embarrassing for our Queensland foes. Ben Borg wrapped up the scintillating display with an intercept try that capped a wonderful evening of Subbies Rugby at a superb venue.
Evergreen Jakey Havebond was awarded the Man of the Match crown (actually a pewter mug) and took his seat for the Lions game knowing his job was done. All that was left was the small matter of celebrating the win in Brisbane’s salubrious Brunswick Mall...or as the chief tweeter called it...HELL!
After a very early morning flight home, with a screaming child kicking my seat, [just a reminder, dear reader, Wonderboy is a pom. Whinging is his default position – Ed.] I was back in Sydney reflecting on a great win and an even better weekend.
You can check out some of the photos from the game (and a couple from the aftermath) kindly provided by Kylie Baffico right here. Full details of the game and scorers available here.
Subbies TV
The boys are back in town! After what feels like a long absence, Subbies TV has returned and it’s a special episode after Saturday’s rep team win. Check out the latest and greatest right here.
Trivia Teaser
Max Dixon was last week’s prize winner. Max took home a compression garment from our great sponsors, BodyScience. The correct answer was, of course, James O’Connor.
This week’s question:
• I was born in Balmain
• My club was Eastern Suburbs
• I also played in the Subbies comp.
• I have also played first grade Aussie Rules in the Sydney Competition
For your chance to win FOUR tickets to the Waratahs v QLD Reds game on 13 July at ANZ Stadium send your answers to wbamatt@ by 5pm Monday.
Deaf Defeaters
Deaf Rugby Australia have continued to their undefeated run, winning against the Surfers Paradise Dragons, 33-20, on the weekend on the Gold Coast. This was a trial for the Test Match against New Zealand in Canberra on 13 October.
Old Fogeys
Interesting read on The Roar. Just read it – no need to start a kerfuffle on Facebook.
Classic Wallabies
The Classic Wallabies take on the British & Irish Rugby Legends on the 4th July at North Sydney Oval. All the profits from the game go to Junior Rugby. It should be a great occasion and encourage you to get down there and cheer on the legends.
Bingham Cup 2014
The Bingham Cup will take place in Sydney from the 27th to the 31st August next year. Take a look at the trailer. Have a read of what the cup is all about.
Another Big Hits Across the Pond
Check out this bone rattler as USA played Ireland.
Toast to Timmins
Long term NSW Rugby employee, Robin Timmins, has deservedly received the Medal of the Order of Australia in the recent Queen’s Birthday Honours List. Robin has been with the Union for 44 years and was Australia’s first ever female referee. Take a look at the article in the Tele this week.
Byron Bay 7s
The Byron Bay 7s tournament will be held on 19th & 20th October this year. If you enter you stand to win a share of the $12,000 prize money and are guaranteed at least four games. For more information and your invite to the 7s click here.
Lions v Country Review
Green and Gold’s Matt Rowley gives his review of Tuesday night’s clash in the Hunter. Do you agree with his overall assessment?
Tweets
@subbiesrugby I have seen HELL and its name is Brunswick Mall, Brisbane on a Sat night
@iainpayten Two of four Wallabies “Invincibles” in Sydney. Campo sent apologies from Sth Africa. Col Windon was represented by daughters. pic.vf1E5K2c3n
@FOXRugbyLive Attention Reds and Lions fans: watch "slo-mo" highlights of Saturday's game Quade Cooper prominent.
@nickmcardlefox For those who think neither O'Connor nor Beale at 10. Who then, given no Cooper in the squad?
@iainpayten "Is this on the record?" - Gatland faces the print media hordes and their old school equipment. pic.IkxIZMCocW
@NSW_Horrotahs David Warner getting pissed and belting people. With form like that he could well make the Wallabies squad.
@VampDaveDennis Thou has heightened levels of excitement in being released from Wallaby camp for beloved Tahs. All we've done for two weeks is bitch about Quade.
Jokes
I quit my job at the helium factory the other day.
I refuse to be spoken to in that tone.
'Doctor, I think I'm becoming a kleptomaniac.'
'Take these tablets. If you're not better in a week bring me a colour TV.'
‘Doctor, I’m hallucinating - I keep seeing this ant spinning in circles.’
‘There's a bug going round.’
I went to a zoo with only one dog in it.
It was a Shih Tzu.
Enjoy your Rugby!
Cheers,
Wonderboy Holding
@subbiesrugby
wbamatt@
Holding’s Bits 21 June 2013
THE RUGBY BORED, TRY TOPPERS, WALLABIES CHANCES, MAD MITCHELL, KIWI SMASH, GOING IT ALONE, TRIVIA, TWEETS & JOKES
The Rugby Bored
The very talented guys at Redfield Old Boys have served up some more viewing pleasure with ‘The Rugby Bored’ - a four part series about the fictional Redfield Old Boys Club Office - I can assure you this is very similar to our office! This is a must watch.
Try Toppers
As we are now half way through our season let’s have a look at who is top of the try scoring tables for each of the top grades:
Kentwell Cup:
9 Tries - Larry Hermens (St Patricks)
8 Tries - Alex Cheng (Colleagues)
7 Tries - Sam Smith (Mosman), John Mason (Balmain), Petero Satogo (St Pats)
Barraclough Cup:
17 Tries - Joel Brooks (Brothers)
9 Tries - Jone Tagivetaua (Brothers)
7 Tries - Thomas Evans (Petersham), Greg Wade (Brothers)
Clark Cup:
10 Tries - Taani Kaliti (Briars)
8 Tries - Sam Aukuso (Hawkesbury Valley)
6 Tries - George Ftynogiannis (Blue Mtns), Fuatapu Ongoongo (Hornsby), Sean Vaalepu (St George), Totoa Tuaia (St George)
Jeffrey Cup:
9 Tries - Aaron Muller (Maccabi), Joseph Ngawini (Merrylands), Val Baynes (Sydney Irish)
8 tries - Andrew William (Canterbury), Michael Hines (Fair/Lans)
7 Tries - Fawzi Hijazi ( Mac Uni), Keiran Byrne (Redfield), Michael Abrams (Redfield), Ardi Haimona (Sydney Harlequins)
Meldrum Cup:
8 Tries - Paul Whyte (Clovelly), Peter Timmons (Clovelly)
6 Tries - Dennis Lee (Dukes), Mitchell Arnold (Chatswood), David Hunston (Manly Savers), Craig Brent (Sydney Grammar OB)
5 Tries - Kurt Girven (Chatswood), Adam Rust (Dundas Valley), Jayden Skeet (Dundas Valley)
Subbies TV
Ninja and the boys talk to Pepsi (Subbies Rep Team Manager & Petersham Colts Coach) and Campbelltown Club Captain, Brady. The topics of discussion include the heavy fall some clubs take when they get relegated and the state of the ladders across the Divisions - will your team make the finals?
Catch all the action from Subbies TV on our website.
Trivia Teaser
Congratulations to John Waugh! John answered last week’s trivia teaser correctly to score FOUR tickets to the Waratahs v Reds game at ANZ Stadium on 13th July. The answer I was looking for was...Dally Messenger.
This week’s question is:
• I have worked with a former Waratah coach a few times
• The army changed my game
• I have been involved with several “B” teams
• Subbies clubs have sought my advice
If you think you know the answer drop me an email at wbamatt@ by Monday 5pm for your chance to score some tickets to the Waratahs v Reds game on 13th July.
Wraps and Tips
Div One
The Whales still lead the way at the summit of the Kentwell Cup. Mosman ground out a plucky 27-21 win at home against Beecroft to cement top spot and underline their strong home form. The six point victory took the home side onto 7 wins from 9 games and certainly gives their fans something to cheer about mid way through the 2013 campaign. However, St Pats aren’t too far behind their Premiership searching rivals. Pats travelled to Old Iggies knowing that barring a huge upset they could remain hot on the heels of top spot...the visitors certainly took care of that, final score Old Iggies 21 Sat Pats 73. Colleagues also racked up some points last weekend, the Woollahra outfit thumped out-of-sorts Hunters Hill at Woollahra - the home side running 72 points past their rivals. Balmain also used their home ground to full advantage, the Muzzled Wolves put on a great display to beat Campbelltown 42-26. Drummoyne wrap up the Div 1 round up - the Dirty Reds beat top four hopefuls Knox 42-24 at Drummoyne Oval. The victor’s kicking prowess was highlighted by Charles Edwards who scored an impressive 17 points for his side. The defeat might spur Knox on this weekend as they enter their big clash with St Pats.
My match of the round this weekend has to be Balmain v Mosman, the two clubs didn’t see eye to eye earlier this season when they met at Rawson Park and I think there may well be a bit of bite in this clash. Home win....just.
Div Two
It was a big Brothers win last weekend as a one sided affair against Kings Old Boys ended with a 79-0 result. Although they are in second place, the Brothers side are still unbeaten and their run doesn’t look like ending anytime soon. Petersham also racked up a few points as they defeated Lindfield at Camperdown Oval. The Shammies ran away with the contest and finished 50-17 winners. Oatley thrashed Barker at H V Evatt, 44 points to 5. The Oatley boys now sit just outside the top four, two points behind Lindfield, but with a game in hand. Forest continued their solid season as they won their contest with St Ives, scoring a 23-8 away win. UNSW doubled Newport’s tally as they climbed onto 23 points at the half way mark of the Barraclough season. The home side bagged the 20-10 win thanks to Edward Close’s fantastic kicking.
Forest take on Lindfield this weekend as they look to cement their place in the top four. Lindfield have had a pretty good season so far so their heavy defeat against Petersham will have hit them hard. Forest win.
Div Three
There were some tight games last weekend in the Clark. Waverley and Hills drew 17 all at Waverley Oval in an entertaining game that saw both sides remain locked in mid-table at the final whistle. Briars got over the line in the contest with Hawkesbury Valley in a 15-14 win. The cliff-hanger saw Briars gain a much needed victory to pull themselves further away from the foot of the table. The battle of the basement boys saw Blacktown score a morale boosting win against fellow Clark Cup strugglers Epping, the score finishing 23-10. Blue Mountains remain top of the ladder after they defeated UWSH 34-7 at Lapstone Oval. The leaders put in a commanding performance to see off their rivals and underline their Division 3 Premiership credentials. St George gained a great result as they beat Hornsby 33-12 at Carss Park to go to third.
Its 1st v 2nd on Saturday as Blue Mountains take on Hornsby. Looking at the recent form I can only see a Blue Mountains win in this one.
Div Five
It was the form of the favourites on Saturday in the Jeffrey cup with all the expected winners keeping the scorers busy with some impressive wins. Roseville won big when they travelled to Lane Cove. The visitors ran in 46 points at Tantallon Oval to resign the opposition to another week looking up at the rest on the ladder. Over one hundred points were scored at Wills Ground as Redfield thrashed Canterbury 78-26. Fairvale/Lansvale and Sydney Harlequins played out an enthralling contest as they met at Fairvale High School. The home side was eventually on the end of a 26-19 score that moves Harlequins into third. Merrylands and leaders, Sydney Irish, both scored 50 points as they had away wins against Mac Uni and the Convicts respectively, while 4th placed Maccabi comfortably beat Rouse Hill 43-12.
Roseville v Fairvale/Lansvale is my game of the week and I am going for a hard fought away win.
Div Six
The Clovelly Blowflies beat Terrey Hills at Burrows Park, 27-20, to lead Division Six at the half way mark. Dundas Valley were the Dukes’ defeaters at Nagle Park as they put in a solid display to take a 19-11 win away from the strugglers and keep their finals hopes alive. Sydney Grammar also got an important away win when they took on Burraneer. Without blowing the home side away, the Premiership favourites did what was required and came away with the points. The Manly derby this time fell the way of Manly Savers as they beat the Subbies newcomers, ICMS, 32-13 at Keirle Park. Chatswood also got the points as they took on Rockdale at Beauchamp Park and scored a 26 point win to put another scratch in the wins column.
Dundas Valley takes on Clovelly in my match of the round. I fancy Dundas to give the leaders a real run for their money and think they will come away with the points.
Wallabies Chances
What do you think the Wallabies chances are of beating the Lions over the test series? Avid Holding’s Bits reader and Green and Gold Rugby blogger, Hugh Cavill, outlines his five reasons Australia can do it.
Mad Mitchell
Something a bit tricky from Drew...
Kiwi Smash
Take a look at this brutal hit from a NZ Schoolboys game...a bit late?
Going it Alone
Take a look at Rugby HQ’s top individual tries of all time...some unbelievable efforts!
Tweets
@LugieJ: Thanks for Jersey T.Youngs and awesome to have a beer with A.Jones #legends #greatblokes pic.iCJSQBs61W
@whiskeycully: A bit of interest from the press. UK and Irish eyes watching very closely. pic.3WlNZ1NRaV
@NSWWaratahs : @IzzyFolau to become dual-code international after being named in @QantasWallabies starting XV to play @lionsofficial
@GAGR: Why the forced changes to the Lions may be their best hand - by analyst Nick Bishop …
@GregGrowden: Wallabies side an 'odd' mix
Jokes
I wanted to become a watchmaker but I just couldn't make the time.
Did you hear about the Italian chef who died?
He pasta way.
“Why are you carrying a 9 foot book?”
“It’s a long story.”
I got a dog from the blacksmith the other day....
As soon as I got him home he made a bolt for the door.
Enjoy your Rugby.
Cheers,
Wonderboy Holding
@subbiesrugby
wbamatt@
Holding’s Bits 28 June 2013
DEANS DO OR DIE, INJURIES, FINALS SCHEDULE, WALLAROOS MANAGEMENT, MARKSMEN, THE RUGBY BORED, WRAP & TIPS, TWEETS & JOKES
Wet Weather
Make sure you keep your eye on our website and twitter pages for all the latest information regarding your team’s game this weekend.
Do or Die for Deans
Greg Growden gives his take on Robbie Dean’s selection of James O’Connor. Would you rather have had Quade?
Brett Mackay of the Roar insists that the Wallabies should have learned their lessons from the first test and ousted JOC from the no.10 position to stand any chance.
Test Preview
Green and Gold Rugby’s Shane Sullivan takes a look at this weekend’s clash.
Injury Incidents
Have a look at Rugby Dump’s analysis of the Wallabies injuries suffered on the weekend. What are their chances on Saturday?
2013 Finals Series Schedule
The schedule for this year’s Subbies Finals Series has now been set. Take a look at where you could be playing your make or break games this year.
Trivia Teaser
Lyle Maclean was the lucky winner of last week’s Trivia teaser. Lyle correctly answered last week’s ‘Who am I?’ - which was Jim Williams.
This week’s question:
How many points did the British and Irish Lions concede on their 2001 tour of Australia?
The last FOUR tickets to the Tahs v Reds game are up for grabs this week. Send your answer to wbamatt@ by 5pm Monday to be in with a chance of scoring the tickets the Waratahs final game in 2013.
Wrap and Tips
Div One
Boisterous Balmain beat foes Mosman 22-8 at Blackmore Park to put themselves second on the Kentwell ladder. The Muzzled Wolves have now scored just one more point than the Whales and if these two meet in the Finals picture it is sure to be one hell of a game. Alberto Saccardo crossed the line twice for the hosts to help ensure his side came away with the points. The Dirty Reds of Drummoyne were held at home to Campbelltown, the game finishing 10-all. The result is a pretty decent one for the away side but Drummoyne will be slightly worried that they have some very good sides around them and may well struggle to make the end of season festivities. Beecroft scraped past Hunters Hill at Boronia Park, the boot of Andrew Carroll getting them over the line. Old Iggies ran their Colleagues counterparts extremely close but ultimately came out on the wrong end of a 24-23 score line. Finally, leaders St Pats kept their visitors Knox scoreless at Hudson Park. Pats now have 39 points and are looking pretty at the Kentwell summit, although they face a tough trip to Colleagues this weekend but I fancy them to keep their run going.
Div Two
The Brothers boys kept up their winning streak and with that their 100% record, this time they saw off the challenge of Newport at Porter Reserve beating their hosts 29-18. A certain Joel Brooks scored yet more tries to add to his already huge 2013 tally to aid his side’s cause. Oatley also racked up 29 points as they travelled to Kings. Amena Bushell got two tries for the visitors as they moved onto 31 ladder points and fourth place. UNSW added to the list of Saturday’s away winners, the Students took on Barker Old Boys at Barker College and came away smiling. The 26-19 win deepening Barker’s lower ladder fears. Third place Forest hosted Lindfield at Melwood Oval and convincingly took the points in a 40-14 victory. Petersham vs St Ives was OFF.
It’s a top of the table clash in the Barraclough as the Shammies take on Brothers at Camperdown Oval. To put it simply Brothers can’t lose at the moment, I think they will go 10 from 10.
Div Three
Super St George claimed valuable points as they triumphed over rivals UWSH at College Oval. The 25-22 win took St George into third place, just four points off the Clark Cup summit. Hornsby were the other big winners near the top of Div 3 last weekend, the 2nd placed side toppling leaders Blue Mountains 29-19 at Waitara Oval. Hawkesbury Valley crossed the line 4 times to grab a valuable bonus point. Hills thumped hapless Epping at Yattenden Oval to rub more salt into the Rams 2013 wounds. The 44-12 result breathed a bit of life into Hills campaign but Epping must be wondering where their next win is going to come from. Briars beat the Blacktown boys on their travels to move away from the foot of the Clark table, 18-15 the final score.
This weekend 1st takes on 3rd in a mammoth encounter between Blue Mountains and St George. As the game is at Lapstone I have to go with a Mountains win.
Div Five
There was a spanner thrown into the works as half of the Sydney Irish squad were on a boozy trip to Brisbane for the 1st test...and didn’t they pay for it. Credit where credit is due though, a determined Macquarie Uni overturned the leaders in a 20-19 win at Mac Uni Sports Fields. Irish’s defeat left the door open for a rampant Redfield to take full advantage and regain top spot against Lane Cove. The Redfield boys did just that, thrashing their visitors 69-10. In third, Sydney Harlequins comfortably beat Canterbury on home turf, 29-3 the final score. Roseville put themselves back in the end of season picture as they dismantled Fairvale/Lansvale at Roseville Chase Oval in a comprehensive 39-14 victory. Rouse Hill renegades were run over by the Convicts in a resounding 52-5 defeat while Maccabi won the M battle at Holroyd Sports Ground as they beat Merrylands 15-5.
Will one of the season strugglers get a win this weekend...well you would of thought so, Lane Cove take on Rouse Hill in the basement battle. I will pick home ground advantage and Rouse Hill.
Div Six
With Sydney Grammar’s game with Dukes being called off the teams around them took advantage. The biggest grinners were Dundas Valley who defeated Clovelly 22-8 to rise to the top of the Meldrum ladder. There was a high scoring encounter at C A Redmond as Rockdale and Manly Savers served up a try scoring feast. The Savers ended up coming out on top with a 38-26 win to move up to fifth, mind due they are miles behind forth placed Clovelly. Burraneer beat Terrey hills 22-15 at Yulong Oval in a mid table battle that leaves both sides in mid season obscurity. Chatswood clocked up the points as they thrashed ICMS 46-10 at Bantry Bay Reserve. The Stags are now 2nd and are dreaming of the biggest reversal possible form last season’s horror show.
Clovelly v Manly Savers this weekend, can the Savers make up some much needed ground on the team above them? Probably not, home win.
Wallaroos Management Positions Available
Anyone interested in a management position with the Australian Womens 15’s side should take a look at the Advertisement put up by the ARU.
The Rugby Bored
The eagerly anticipated second episode of The Rugby Bored is here. KB is in trouble.
Methodical Marksmen
Goal kicking coach Chris Malone speaks about the Wallabies goal-kicking approach.
Beck at her Best
Thumping try saving tackle from Nicole Beck...a bit old but worth a watch
Plays of the Week
Usually a good laugh, here are Rugby HQ’s Plays of the Week.
Tweets
@seanny202 Copped some tap for saying Genia is close to #1 player on the planet right now. Here's just SOME of his work on Sat:
@iainpayten Miracle man George Smith back from a 12-week injury in 35 days, driven by a desire to play again for Wallaby v Lions.
@Rugbysmartarse BREAKING: images appear of Digby Ioane and his legal team trying to resolve his issues pic.GiB50zYJmk
@AAMIPark ON THIS DAY 125 years ago: This photo of the inaugural Lions was taken 200m away. They play here tonight. pic.NBiWEH3OQG
@iainpayten Daily Mail reporting Kurtley Beale and James pictured in Melbourne Hungry Jacks at 4am this morning.
@TommyTudehope Anyone have a contact for Guy Sebastian?
#seriousquestion
@GavN Why didn't the ARU offer standing room tickets from the get go? I would have taken them up with beer money to spare
@subbiesrugby "Beale & JOC in Hungry Jacks at 4am but neither player was drinking" - Won't make the Subbies Rep team after a basic mistake like that!
Jokes
I broke up with my gym the other day ....... It wasn't working out!
"What's the difference between spaghetti and dog poop?"
"I don't know."
"Well, I'm never coming for dinner at your place."
Did you hear about the contortionist who tried to fit into a colander?
He strained himself.
Good news! The man who fell into the upholstery machine is fully recovered.
Enjoy your Rugby.
Cheers,
Wonderboy Holding
@subbiesrugby
wbamatt@
Holding’s Bits 5 July 2013
HORWILL HOLDS FIRM, THE TEST, JERSEY BOYS, SUBBIES TV, THE RUGBY BORED, NO SHIRT SHERLOCK, BROTHERS IN THE CITY, MARSHALL LAW, TIPS, TRIVIA & JOKES
Horwill Case
James Horwill’s boot DID make contact with the head of a Lion, that fact is not being disputed. The initial trial is somewhat fair enough. The re-trial isn’t. Below are a few articles and opinions on the matter - most believe it will galvanize the Wallabies, however some believe this could work in the Lions’ favour. There is plenty of pre-match chat going around on this topic.
Have a read of this great article from South African Referees that discusses the Horwill case and the IRB’s involvement.
Could JH’s inclusion in the squad actually be to the Wallabies detriment? Back Page Rugby’s Jack Quigley thinks so.
The Roar’s Jim Morton outlines Bill Pulver’s position on the IRB’s stance on the case.
A Lion Opinion: "IRB case against James Horwill was embarrassing" says Lions captain Wynn Jones ahead of 3rd Test:
THE Test
Is all the momentum now with the Wallabies? Clark thinks so!
Take a look at the Travel Info the ARU have supplied for getting to the game.
The stage between Pub and Kick Off: If you are planning on getting to ANZ a bit early here is what is on offer.
The Squads: Matt Rowley discusses the surprise selections in both camps. Smith IN, BOD OUT...Is he really being left out?
Where to Watch?
Haven’t got a ticket to the game on Saturday?
The Green and Gold Rugby Community have discussed the best places to watch the Lions Tour.
I also hear the Nags Head in Glebe is going to be pretty decent.
Trivia Teaser
The winner of last week’s Trivia was John Carters. John correctly answered that the Lions of 2001 conceded a grand total of 184 points.
We will all be either at the game or glued to the telly on Saturday night. So....who will score the First try?
Get your answer to me at wbamatt@ by Kick Off on Saturday to be in with a chance of winning a Gilbert Dimension Subbies Match ball.
Jersey Boys
Take a look at the battle uniforms of the Lions and Wallabies over the years.
Subbies TV
Ninja and Slammin are back for Episode 11 of Subbies TV, complete with Pith helmets. The boys discuss the week in Subbies and the big game this weekend.
Wrap and Tips
No Games in Division’s 1, 2 & 5 last weekend due to the weather.
Div One
Big game this weekend in the Kentwell Cup as Mosman takes on Drummoyne at Rawson Park. The Whales now lie third on the ladder and would love to take some points off the Dirty Reds to give themselves a boost going into the final straight. I do think Mosman will get the home win but they will have to fight for it.
Div Two
I will stick with my prediction from last week and go for a Brothers win as they take on Petersham.
Div Three
Three games beat the weather in the Clark Cup last weekend. UWSH saw off the challenge of Waverley as they ran out 24-3 winners. The home side lies fourth on the ladder, now just 3 points off Blue Mountains at the top. Blacktown couldn’t score a point as they faced Hawkesbury Valley, 17-0 the final score. Hills and Briars played out an entertaining battle as Hills got the upper hand in a 25-15 victory that leaves them on 6 wins from their 12 games.
Blue Mountains take on St George on Saturday and I am going to go for a shock away win for St George. Although Blue Mountains are strong at home, St George have had some good results recently, namely turning over UWSH on their own patch last time out.
Div Five
Maccabi host Sydney Harlequins this weekend as 3rd takes on 4th. The home side will be looking to overtake their rivals as they sit three points behind them on the Jeffrey ladder. It’s all very tight at the top though, all four teams at the summit have scored 8 wins from 10 games. There is a very compelling finals series taking shape in Div 5!
Div Six
Just the two games went ahead in the Division Six Meldrum Cup last weekend. Clovelly gained a boost as they beat Manly Savers 28-11 at Burrows Park on Saturday. Sydney Grammar Old Boys certainly enjoyed the weather as they used the slippery conditions to their full advantage, thrashing ICMS 112-0, William Sackville scoring 17 points for his side.
The Stags of Chatswood entertain Burraneer this weekend and I can’t see anything but a home win in this one. Chatswood have been strong this season and should dispose of their visitors comfortably.
Test Review
Green and Gold Rugby’s Shane Sullivan gives his verdict on the pulsating Test in Melbourne last weekend.
Last week’s stats
The Rugby Bored
Episode Three is out now and “the auditions for the awards night have finally come! Though a long running post-it note saga is definitely hindering productivity today. Find out who is talented and who is plain out offensive!”
No Shirt Sherlock
Who said you need playing attire...
Brothers in the City
Brothers Rugby Club is holding its ‘Brothers in the City’ Luncheon on Friday 16th August at Cockle Bay Wharf. John Eales is the Guest Speaker at the event and tickets are $150 per head or you can purchase a table of ten for $1400. Check out the flyer for more details.
Marshall Law
League star Benji Marshall has been in the news this week, stating that he could be changing codes. Is this realistic or just a ploy to get more money out of his current employers?
Tweets
@GAGR EXCLUSIVE: Graeme Mew dropped this on his way through immigration while heading back to Canada. pic.Q2ofv9rx3l
@QantasWallabies It all comes down to this Saturday. Sign up to #RugbyRewards, pledge your support & earn a spot on the Ultimate Team!
@GreenwoodRugby Incredible range of opinions re selection... Gatland will do his own explaining but "Ballsy" re BOD is an understatement
@BrianODriscoll Obviously totally gutted at being left out for deciding Test but all efforts go into preparing the boys to see it through. #seaofred
@hughcavill What an awesome Wallabies team. Best we have fielded for years, right in time for the Lions decider. Bring it on!
@TommyTudehope #JUSTICEforODRISCOLL
Peter FitzSimons Qantas Lounge Tullamarine. Robbie Deans & Wallabies get standing ovation as they leave to catch flight to Sydney. Lovely!
@abcgrandstand Deans on Smith: "His expertise in contact zone, where timing, judgment & physicality is everything will be critical."
@rugbyheaven 30,000 fans to descend for Lions finale
Jokes
Why did the can crusher quit his job?
Because it was soda pressing.
If at first you don't succeed ……… skydiving is not for you!
What did one hat say to the other?
You stay here, I'll go on a head!
Get ready folks...the biggest weekend in Australian Rugby for 10 years is upon us. Thank you to Petersham Rugby in advance for their hospitality this afternoon at their Luncheon...marvelous.
Enjoy your Rugby.
Cheers,
Wonderboy Holding
@subbiesrugby
wbamatt@
Holding’s Bits 12 July 2013
SENSATIONAL SHAMMIES, ALL CHANGE, CONCUSSION CASES, SCHOOLBOYS, SPONSORS IN SPORT, GLOBAL, TRIVIA, WRAP & TIPS,TWEETS & JOKES
Sensational Shammies
A HUGE thanks and congratulations to Petersham Rugby who put on an incredible Lions Luncheon at Luna Park last Friday. We managed to sneak a quick clip of Welsh legend Sean Holley singing on stage, but I must stress how well the Shammies guys did to get so many legends there on the day! As I made my out of the venue, (perfectly coherent I might add) I heard several people say that it was definitely up there with the best Rugby lunches they have ever attended.
All Change
There is sure to be plenty of discussion as to whether Ewen is the right man?(Spiro-The Roar), Hugh Cavill (GAGR) thinks he is a good coach but not the messiah. Both of these opinions seem to point towards the appointment as a step in the right direction but not a long term solution- is a coach ever a long term solution? The players have to take a certain amount of responsibility but the coach must take the brunt of it- part of the job description.
How successful was Robbie? This infographic gives a good depiction of the Wallabies performance under Deans’ reign.
Just In case you want to re-live Saturday night’s action and it hurts too much to watch the replays- how about watching it in Lego form? Ok, so maybe this Timelapse is a bit better...take a look at over 5000 photos compressed into 3 minutes, a great look at how ANZ Stadium fills up and rapidly empties after a Test Match.
Concussion Cases
A concussion is a serious injury and should be treated with a lot of caution, what did you make of Smith returning to field after the head collision on Saturday night? It should be noted that a huge part of the audience on Saturday participate at the grassroots level of the game- which mandates a three week break from rugby when a concussion occurs. What sort of example to safe rugby practice is this? Fitzsimons discusses this in Thursday’s SMH.
Researchers are looking into the possibility of a test to determine whether a player has in fact experienced concussion within 10 minutes. However, in the meantime allowing a player to continue playing after such a serious head collision is a woeful decision.
Trivia
Nobody predicted the first try scorer last week! This week sees the return of the Who Am I?
I was unearthed in a University town in NSW where I studied Fisheries management
Born in Sydney, I played in the UK & Ireland before returning to my homeland
I was involved in quite a bit of controversy in 05’ and 09’
For your chance to win a Subbies Gilbert Dimension Match Ball send your answers to me at wbamatt@ by Monday 5pm.
Wrap and Tips
Div One
What a tight round in the Kentwell! Just the three games on Saturday but all were won by 7 points or less. The Beecroft boys weren’t quite buzzing on Saturday but still managed to grab a win...only just as they beat Old Iggies 17-16 - Simon Daff and Ben Gordon the try scorers for the victors. That win puts Beecroft just 3 points off 4th place on the ladder. Campbelltown scored an impressive victory as they beat front runners St Pats; the 19-12 win is a healthy boost for the home side who have suffered an indifferent campaign thus far. The Harlequins defeat allowed Mosman to take full advantage as they edged passed Drummoyne at Rawson Park. Five tries were shared across the backline as the Whales finished on the right side of a 36-34 thriller.
This weekend 3rd take on 4th as Balmain host Colleagues at Blackmore Park. I fancy Balmain to do the business and cement their top four spot - with a game in hand on those around them, Balmain are in a healthy position after their nine games.
Div Two
A brilliant performance by Petersham saw them overcome the previously unbeatable Brothers. The Shammies took to the stage as underdogs and certainly came out with a fighting spirit that was always going to be needed to overturn bullish Brothers. The score finished 10-7 to Petersham who are now hot on the heels of their opponents at the top of the Barraclough ladder, sitting just one point behind in 2nd place. Another intensely tight game was played out at Melwood Oval as Forest overcame Oatley 6-3. The Forest boys now sit in 3rd place and look a good bet to grab a finals spot. Far more points were shared at Soldiers Memorial Park when Lindfield hosted Kings Old Boys. The home side took the game to their opponents and finished with 57 points. Kings managed 20 themselves, but the day had a similar feel to the rest of their 2013 season...too many points conceded, still no wins on the board. UNSW had a good day as they defeated St Ives 33-5 at David Phillips to get a much needed victory to keep the pressure on the previously mentioned Lindfield. The race for the finals is hotting up! In the day’s other game, Newport comfortably beat Barker 28-11.
This weekend I fancy Oatley to get something at Lindfield and cause a minor upset.
Div Three
Just the two games on the weekend. St George didn’t quite manage an upset as they were turned over by Blue Mountains at Lapstone, the score finishing 34-17. The home side’s win came partly thanks to a double try display from Ross Kerkham. The only other clash in the Clark saw Hornsby trounce Epping 73-12 at Waitara Oval. Fuatapu Ongoongo scored a hat-trick while Rob Macgrath had his kicking boots on as he slotted 9 conversions. I am sure they both thoroughly enjoyed their day out as their side ran riot.
Hawkesbury Valley take on Blue Mountains on Saturday at McQuade Park. The Valley boys will be looking to cut the Mountain Men’s lead at the top of the tree and they may just gain some ground...home win.
Div Five
The top two in the Jeffrey Cup remain hot on each other’s heels as they both gained comfortable victories on the weekend. Sydney Irish easily disposed of Roseville at Latham Park, with Eddie O’Mahony and Henry ‘Panda’ Bourke getting two tries each for the home side. Redfield thrashed the Convicts 55-19 to remain at the summit, with Keiran Byrne getting himself a hat-trick for the victors. Canterbury claimed an impressive win as they put plenty of points past Macquarie Uni as they strolled to a 38-22 win. Rouse Hill Renegades thumped hapless Lane Cove 64-7 at Francesco reserve to claim their first win of the season in the basement battle. The game of the round probably came at Lyne Park as Sydney Harlequins scored an awesome victory over Maccabi, 29-20 at full time. The Merrylands Wolves beat Fairvale/Lansvale 26-14 at Holroyd Sports Ground in the day’s other game.
Roseville host Redfield this weekend (albeit at Yattenden Oval) and I can only see the R of Redfield smiling on Saturday evening.
Div Six
Three games took place last weekend as the Wet Weather Week came in to play. Sydney Grammar Old Boys easily saw off the challenge of Alexandria Dukes in a 31-3 win. Jack Roxburgh had a productive afternoon as he scored 18 points for the winners. Chatswood crept past Burraneer at Beauchamp Park, winning the contest 31-24; the Stags are now in 3rd place just one point behind Dundas in 2nd. The Vikings of the Valley certainly won’t give up that 2nd spot without a fight and they proved that on Saturday as they defeated bottom placed Rockdale 48-7. Dundas take on Sydney Grammar this weekend in what will be a stern test of their credentials; I have to go with a Grammar win.
Subbies TV
Ninja lost the bet...hence he is decked out in Lions gear. Special guests are Ricky Love and Redfield Coach Matt.
Check out episode 12 right here.
NSW Schoolboys Victorious
NSW I beat NSW II at Riverview on Saturday in the final of the Schoolboy Championships. This is the second year running that NSW have taken the crown and proves that there is plenty of local talent floating about. The Australian Schoolboys side was selected from the boys at the tournament.
Sponsors in Sport
Has sponsorship in sport gone too far?
Global Game
New proposals have been backed for a globally integrated Rugby Season.
Tweets
@abcgrandstand New Wallabies coach Ewen McKenzie said he will ensure players always take pride in the Wallaby jumper.
@FOXRugbyLive McKenzie: I think Quade is an outstanding player ... I'll be picking a team that I think can beat the All Blacks.
@_ROBRugby Flicking through MX and stumble across these jokers. Ping
@TheRugbyBored pic.nfeNqhmKJ2
@Peter_Fitz Am getting ENORMOUS reaction to this piece on the DISGRACE of the CONCUSSED GEORGE SMITH returning to #RUGBY TEST
@QantasWallabies Take a sneak peak at the new #ARUTV series "The Magic of #Bledisloe" feat. former Wallabies Coach Bob Dwyer
Jokes
Why is there a long line at the cemetery?
Because people are dying to get in.
What do you call a Spanish bloke who can’t find his car?
Carlos
I gave all my dead batteries away today...
Free of charge.
Enjoy your Rugby,
Wonderboy Holding
@subbiesrugby
wbamatt@
Holding’s Bits 19 July 2013
NOT SO SUPER SEASON, MARCHING SAINTS, RUGBY BORED, MEDIA WATCH, SUPER 5’S, KO INTITIATION, REBEL REVIEW, SNAP HAPPY, WRAP & TIPS, TWEETS & JOKES
Super Rugby Report Card
Greg Growden gives a school report like summary of the Australian Super Teams this season.
Club in Focus - Oh when the saints...
Joy Johnson from the St Ives club gives us an insight into a stunning weekend and the season so far.
“The St Ives Club has come out the other side of the “double header” weekend with swag of club championship points and some unlikely wins against stiff competition. No-one was as surprised as the boys from Hassall Park when they found themselves trailing competition favorites Brothers by a mere two points at half time last Saturday at Roseville Chase. With the sniff of a win in the nostrils, the Saints produced their best rugby of the season to run out winners 17-12”.
“But there was more to come. A tired, bruised and a little depleted St Ives 1sts followed that up with a stirring come from behind win against 4th placed Uni at Hassall Park on Sunday. Coach Shane Carty has been quietly confident that his side had some good wins in them and while the semi-finals are out of reach this year, the rejuvenated Saints will be dangerous opposition as the season concludes”.
“In the other grades, 2nds are best placed for a finals run having moved into equal 4th position in the Stockdale Cup after a win over Uni on Sunday. The Saints colts can take a finals berth if they can find some consistent form having had a roller coaster season. Their 19-all effort against the Uni 3rds (Uni had to forfeit colts) on Sunday showed just what they are capable of.”
“Season 2013 has been one of building for the Saints, a club as well-known as any in Subbies rugby. Some new faces are around and as always, they’ll be seeing off some older ones this year, such as Logan Harding who moves to QLD at the end of the season after a distinguished run in the higher grades. However, some things never change at the Saints. Its clubhouse hospitality and speeches are second to none and Stephen “Parksey” Parkes still gets the boots on as often as he can. Parksey set a new club record on Sunday, contesting his 429th senior match for last Sunday”.
Trivia
The answer to last week’s Trivia was Justin Harrison. Matt Duffy was the lucky winner and he scored a Subbies Gilbert Matchball.
This week’s question:
In total, how many points have Australia scored in the Bledisloe Cup?
If you think you know the answer shoot me an email at wbamatt@ and you could win a compression garment of your choice from our sponsors BodyScience.
Wrap and Tips
Div One
Well...Balmain didn’t manage that home win - the Muzzled Wolves were humbled on home turf by Colleagues. The sky blues came away from Blackmore Park with a comfortable 31-6 win and dented Balmain’s premiership confidence. Luke Simmons was the star of the show as he scored 4 tries for his victorious side. Mosman scored a 7 point win on the road at the notoriously difficult Campbelltown Showgrounds. From looking at the Subbies facebook page it looked like both clubs enjoyed the day and the night! The Whales remain level on points with Kentwell leaders St Pats after the frontrunners also got a win on their travels. Pats thumped Beecroft 53-10 at Headen Park to put a puncture in Beecroft’s finals chances. Drummoyne racked up 44 points as they defeated Old Iggies at Ryde Oval. The Dirty Reds have now moved up the table into fifth place - just one point behind Balmain in third...back on track? The only home side to win on Saturday was Knox, as they thrashed hapless Hunters Hill 48-7.
This week my game of the week again features Balmain as they travel to the leaders, St Pats. Will the Muzzled Wolves bounce back? I don’t think so. St Patricks win.
Div Two
What a weekend for St Ives - read about their fortunes in the Club of the Week section above. Four clubs played games on both Saturday and Sunday. Petersham had a mixed weekend as they enjoyed a fruitful Saturday by beating Newport 34-7 at Porter Reserve. However, they felt the Brothers backlash on Sunday as they narrowly lost on home soil, beaten 31-27 by the competition leaders. It is now neck and neck at the top as the Shammies have the same number of wins, losses, bonus points and ladder points as their rivals. UNSW had a Saturday win as they beat Kings 46-10 at David Phillips. Lindfield had a bad day at the office, with the game at Soldiers Memorial Park ending in a heavy defeat for the home side as Oatley ran riot in a 43-17 victory. The Oatley boys didn’t quite get as many as Forest though, who poured more misery on Barker with a brutal 71-5 win at Melwood Oval.
Forest take on Petersham in this week’s match of the round in what promises to be a cracker. Forest are on a roll but I fancy the Shammies to do the business and take the points.
Div Three
Plenty of nail biters in the Clark on the weekend! Hawkesbury Valley were outdone on their own patch by a single point, with Blue Mountains stealing a 17-16 win at McQuade Park to keep hold of top spot. Briars patchy season continued as they were edged out by UWSH. The 36-33 score line compounded Briars less than stellar season and they are now definitely not going to be involved in the finals. UWSH on the other hand are pushing for their spot and are right in the mix – third place, five points behind Hornsby in 2nd spot. The Lions of Hornsby are not going to give up any ground lightly as they edged past Waverley 21-18 at Waverley Oval. St George got a routine win under their belts as they were victorious over bottom placed Epping at Carss Park. The 43-19 rout ensures St George are secured in the coveted 4th spot for another week. Finally, Blacktown enjoyed a rare win as they toppled Hills at Alwyn Lindfield Reserve, grabbing a 22-19 triumph.
The St George battlers face a tricky trip to Hawkesbury Valley on Saturday in attempt to pull away from their rivals. I think Valley will be too strong at home and take the points to move back above St George.
Div Five
There were some big wins in the Jeffrey on the weekend as Merrylands and the Harlequins both enjoyed plenty of tries. The Wolves of Merrylands crushed the challenge of the Convicts at Holroyd Sports Ground. The home side crossed the line 10 times to record a 62-5 win. The Harlequins managed to better Merrylands efforts when they came up against struggling Lane Cove. The Ladies Day hosts were thoroughly outclassed by Harlequins and unfortunately didn’t score a point for the girls as they went down 84-0. Redfield took a 24-12 win away from their clash with Roseville - John Wall was the stand-out as he bagged a hat-trick of tries for the away side. It is the Irish who remain top of the tree though as they also got a win on their travels, albeit in a close 22-20 win over Canterbury. Macquarie Uni had an easy week as they recorded a default 28-0 win due to Maccabi’s involvement in the Maccabiah games.
This week, Sydney Irish take on Merrylands at Latham Park in what should be a tough test for the home side. I think the Irish will prevail, but this one won’t be a walkover.
Div Six
Devastating Dundas climbed to the top of the Meldrum Cup ladder with a superb away win at Sydney Grammar Old Boys on the weekend. Dundas Valley are now looking down on the rest of the division as they crept past their weekend opponents on the table - however it is extremely tight at the top as Chatswood, Grammar and Dundas all sit on 49 points. The Stags of Chatswood kept up with the pack courtesy of their 32-26 triumph over Terrey Hills. Clovelly are also keeping themselves in the Premiership hunt as they scored a 40-14 away win at struggling Rockdale. The Blowflies now sit fourth, just 2 points behind the top three. There was a big win for Burraneer as they strolled past opponents ICMS with ease. The Subbies new boys buckled under the Burraneer pressure and the final score of 59-5 consigned ICMS to their 11th defeat of 2013...a tough start. Alexandria Dukes are also finding it tough going in 2013 - they lost out to Manly Savers on Saturday in a 26-19 defeat.
Sydney Grammar again feature in the game of the weekend as they take on Chatswood tomorrow. Grammar will be looking to get back to their winning ways, while Chatswood will be looking to take the top spot. This should be a cracker. I’ll go for a Stags win.
The Rugby Bored
Here it is folks, the last episode in the mini series...office romance and the presentation night are high on the agenda.
Media Watch
Cat from Green and Gold Rugby has had a look at some recent events in social media...not quite sure what Digby is doing, to be honest.
Super 5’s on the Beach
Back in 2010 the IRB officially recognised Beach 5’s and since then the sport is becoming increasingly recognised. This weekend (20/21 July) Rugby Dump will be streaming the 5’s live from Lignano, Italy.
Guide to Joining a New Club
Lesson 1. Don’t swan around like you own the place.
Rebel Review
The Roar’s David Morgan has a look at how the Melbourne Rebels have fared in their Super Rugby careers so far. The Rebels have decided not to renew the contracts of Beale and JOC - is this just a stamp of authority against bad behaviour? Can the Wallabies learn a lesson from this take no crap attitude? Sheek, a Roar Guru, discusses.
Samsung Photography Competition
Are you a keen Rugby photographer who dreams of being sideline shooting a Bledisloe Cup match? Then you’ll want to be part of this!
Commencing Sunday 13th July through to Sunday 11th August, The Samsung Snapshot Photo Competition is an opportunity for your Clubs and Schools to showcase their photographic talents, with the opportunity to win some great prizes.
First prize is two gold tickets to the Bledisloe and 2nd prize is a signed Wallabies jersey. For more info and to upload your great pic visit
Tweets
@WhalesRugby A good trip to Campbelltown with wins in 1s 2s 4s & Colts. Hooters was the real winner!
@SuperRugby Look out Argentina, because the @NSWWaratahs are coming your way in August! Full tour details here: #TRC2013
@QantasWallabies Don't miss your chance to see George Smith play this w/e in the 1st Canberra @SuperRugby AUS final in 9 years
#BRUvCHE
@FOXRugbyLive 'Too late for successful Benji switch' #rugby
@NSWWaratahs Great to see the players in their @ShuteShield club colours at training. A glimpse at NSW squads of future perhaps?
pic.oARBB5EHe
@subbiesrugby Why is Tom Waterhouse singing the national anthem at State of Origin?
Jokes
What three manmade objects can be seen from outer space?
Answer: The Great Wall of China, The Pyramids and the Gap in the Australian Backline.
Stuart Broad walks into a bar....
Just kidding. Stuart Broad doesn’t walk.
A termite walks into a bar and asks, "Is the bar tender here?"
Enjoy your Rugby,
Wonderboy Holding
@subbiesrugby
wbamatt@
Holding’s Bits 26 July 2013
VOLLIES, CRAZY FRENCH GAMES, UNSW LUNCHEON, MACCABI MAGIC, FASTEST MAN IN RUGBY, BACKING THE BRUMBIES, WRAP AND TIPS, TRIVIA & JOKES
2013 Volunteer of the Year
Ladies and Gentlemen it is time to recognise those people who give up their time to make Subbies Rugby happen week in, week out...the Volunteers! Take a look at the Program Outline which highlights what the initiative is all about:
“The Australian Rugby Union invites nominees who have made significant contributions to the sport of Rugby Union up to and including August 2013. Areas of contribution may include coaching, managing, publicity, social planning, registrar, ground marshalling etc. all of which are invaluable to the success of Rugby both on and off the field.”
There is a great prize on offer with each nominee being hosted at the 2013 John Eales Medal. In addition, each NSW affiliate finalist will receive tickets to a Waratahs Corporate Box for a 2014 home game.
Click here for the 2013 Nomination Form.
Crazy Concept
A French charity match with a bit of a difference took place between Toulon and Olympic Marseille last week. The game was played as half Rugby, half Soccer in a strange event that attracted 12,000 fans in order to raise money for a local cancer charity. Is this a throwback to how it all started? Maybe - but I don’t think it is likely to catch on again somehow.
Friends of UNSW Annual Luncheon
Here it is folks, the 2013 Friends of UNSW Luncheon! ARU CEO Bill Pulver will be conducting a Q & A session at this year’s event in what promises to be a cracker.
The lunch is being held on Fri 9 Aug at the Establishment, George St.
Cost: $150.00
More info here
Trivia
Congratulations to Phil Ebbott who won last week’s trivia teaser: Australia have scored a total of 1965 points in the Bledisloe Cup.
This week’s question:
WHO AM I?
• I was born in Brisbane
• I have represented 3 Super Rugby teams
• At the age of 28 I made my Test debut
If you think you know the answer send me an email at wbamatt@ for your chance to win a compression garment of your choice from our sponsors BodyScience.
Wrap and Tips
Div One
Powerful Pats stormed to a huge 47-0 win over Premiership rivals Balmain at Hudson Park. In what promised to be a great Kentwell spectacle the Muzzled Wolves were blown away by the Pats panache. St Pats now sit on 50 points from 12 games, an impressive haul coming into the final straight. Second placed Mosman struggled at Colleagues as they went down by 20 points in a 33-13 loss. Woollahra Colleagues have steadily improved throughout the 2013 campaign and are now in contention for the Kentwell crown. An impressive display by Knox Old Boys saw them take the points on the road at Campbelltown with a 40-28 win. With 10 tries there was plenty of action for those on the sideline. The Dirty Reds of Drummoyne sit in 4th after they ran out comfortable winners against Beecroft. Rokobaro and McGowan both getting doubles for their side in the 38-0 win. The game at Boronia Park between Hunters Hill and Old Ignatians proved a tough one - not only for the teams on the field but also the Comp Manager, who managed to turn up at Ryde Oval thinking he had the best parking spot ever! The match finished in a closely fought 13-all draw, a result that benefits neither side.
This week the Whales of Mosman take on St Pats at Rawson Park in a battle of the top two. It will be a stern test of St Pats Premiership credentials and I am tipping Mosman to turn them over in a close one.
Div Two
Brothers smashed UNSW 54-7 to remain top of the table after 13 rounds in the Barraclough Cup. Joel Brooks’ incredible try scoring season continued as he crossed the line twice to aid his side’s emphatic win. Second placed Shammies did the business over Forest at Melwood Oval, albeit only by five points in an 18-13 triumph. Petersham had the boot of James Walsh to thank as they scraped past a determined Forest outfit. Barker Old Boys managed a rare win as they turned over Lindfield in a high scoring game at Turramurra. Barker have had a poor season but the six tries scored in the 39-31 win will put a smile on those involved at the club. Last week’s overachievers, St Ives, ran Oatley close on Saturday but ultimately came out on the wrong side of a 22-18 score line at Hassall Park. Despite the result there is no doubt that there has certainly been some improvement at the Saints recently. Newport poured more misery on Kings Old Boys season as they came away with a comfortable 42-20 win.
This week sees an important game in the race for the coveted 4th spot in the Barraclough. Oatley take on UNSW at H.V. Evatt in what should be a close game - going on form I have to plump for an Oatley win, but UNSW will know their season may well be over if they lose.
Div Three
Bottom placed Epping caused a stir around the Clark Cup as they overturned UWSH in a cracking game at Somerville Oval. The Rams’ victory is a rare one in 2013 and their supporters on the sideline would have been proud of their boys as they managed to come away with a 43-37 victory. The mid-table clash at Waverley Oval also proved to be a close affair as Waverley crept past Briars 27-26 in an entertaining encounter. Hawkesbury Valley easily disposed of St George’s challenge at McQuade Park as they put plenty of points on the board in a 47-15 rout. Clark Cup frontrunners, Blue Mountains, were made to sweat for their points at Yattenden Oval, as Hills showed a battling display that almost caused an upset. The Mountain Men eventually got their win but the 13-10 score may well be a wake-up call that Blue Mountains need going into the final few weeks of the regular season. Second placed Hornsby thrashed Blacktown to underline that they mean business. The 63-0 win gave the Premiership hopefuls the bonus point that sees them sit just one point behind the ladder leaders.
UWSH will be looking to get back on track this week against Blacktown, however last week’s loss will have severely dented their confidence. I think they will have enough against Blacktown but their opponents will have hope after Epping’s achievements.
Div Five
Plenty of points in the Jeffrey Cup last Saturday and we start with a major upset. Up until now Sydney Irish had enjoyed an extremely fruitful 2013 campaign but were convincingly beaten when they hosted Merrylands. The four try bonus point win for the visitors keeps them in the hunt for what looked to be an unlikely finals appearance a few weeks ago. There were no such worries for current leaders Redfield as they hammered Canterbury 60 points to 7, scoring 10 tries in the process - even one of the “Rugby Bored” stars got in on the act. Roseville got a handsome win on the road as they beat the Convicts, the away side managing to score 50 points in the process. The biggest win of the day was reserved for the Harlequins as they belted hapless Fairvale/Lansvale 78-0. The victors are now second - just one point behind Redfield. The closest game in the Jeffrey on the weekend was Macquarie Uni’s tight away win at Rouse Hill. The luckless Renegades fell just short at Francesco Reserve as Uni won the game 27-24. With Maccabi still away at the Maccabiah games, Lane Cove scored a default 28-0 win.
Sydney Irish face a tough trip to Roseville this weekend and I fancy Roseville on home soil to take all the points.
Div Six
A rampant Clovelly outfit put the Dukes to the sword in a massive 75-12 win at Burrows Park. The blowflies are one of the Meldrum Cup favourites this year and they may just be starting to really show their class. Dundas Valley don’t look like shifting from the top of the tree though as they comfortably beat Terrey Hills 33-10 at Yulong Oval. Sydney Grammar Old Boys shook off last week’s disappointing defeat to record a 45-11 win over the Stags of Chatswood. Grammar will now look to push on in the final weeks of the season and build up valuable momentum going into the finals. ICMS enjoyed only their third win of the season as they scored six tries against Rockdale in a 42-10 win. Manly Savers kept Burraneer scoreless in a 19-0 win at Keirle Park. The game saw two mid-table sides competing for the ‘best of the rest’ tag outside the top four with both sides too far adrift from the four.
Chatswood take on Clovelly on Saturday at Beachamp Park with both teams looking to gain the edge and get a feel for what they might expect if they meet in the Finals Series. I’d say a Clovelly win.
Maccabi Magic
I already mentioned Maccabi’s involvement in the Maccabiah Games over in Israel but I thought I would give you an update on their progress. The boys have won their pool after defeating Chile 60-0 and grabbing a great win against South Africa 12-6.
Fastest Man in Rugby
Take a look at this great little documentary on speedster Carlin Isles.
Back the Brumbies?
A woeful crowd of 14,000 turned up to see the Brumbies edge past the Cheetahs in Canberra on the weekend. How far do you think the Brumbies can go? They face the Bulls in the early hours of Sunday morning in what I think will be their last game of the season.
Chaplaincy in Rugby
A feature shown on SBS about the role of Chaplaincy in Rugby and Sport in General.
Tweets
@stpatsoldboys Boys getting fired up! #HUDSONHURTLOCKER
pic.pm6YI12GdX
@HAC_Rugby Epping‘s Ben Scott loves his new HAC Rugby sticker.
pic.v4DEW0QWem
@kobweb Classic subbies ingenuity, improvised wind break for the BBQ...
pic.riXq417zKE
@StIvesRugbyFC Parksie celebrating game 430 today. Club record + 2...
pic.foZMXHcHN1
@SydneyIrishRFC Matt Moloney, Barry Delahunt and Richie O' Gorman have made back page news in the Tipperary Star! Thanks to Noel...
@RugbyNews1 Sad to hear Parramatta’s coach Glen Christini will return to NZ at the end of the season. He's completely revitalised the Two Blues.
Jokes
I was going to tell a dairy joke, but it was too cheesy.
Did you hear about the guy with a courtroom fetish?
He got off on a technicality.
Just had my first round of golf.
I'm not very good, in fact I've got a fairway to go.
Enjoy your Rugby,
Wonderboy Holding
@subbiesrugby
wbamatt@
Holding’s Bits 2 Aug 2013
BLEDISLOE, BRUMBIES, CLUB IN FOCUS, A LEAGUE OF THEIR OWN, PASS POWER, WRAP AND TIPS, TRIVIA, TWEETS AND JOKES
Subbies Bledisloe Tickets
The ARU is offering Subbies members the chance to buy ‘two for one’ tickets to the Bledisloe at ANZ Stadium on Sat 17 Aug. To take advantage of the offer click here and enter SUBBIES in the Promotional code box on the right hand side of the screen.
Just a little taster to get you in the mood.
Finals? Already?
Yes, that’s right folks - the 2013 Subbies Finals series is upon us. Kicking off the festivities are the Colts in the Radford Cup. Blue Mountains take on Hills in the Radford Semi Final. The top three Finals Series will see the winner of the game do battle with Epping for the Premiership on 10 Aug at Somerville Oval. Good luck to all involved!
Club in Focus- King’s Old Boys’ RFC
King’s Old Boys’ representative, Hugh Cavill, gives his take on his club’s 2013 campaign:
“It’s never fun to lose footy games, but it has to happen to someone. This year it is our turn to bring up the rear of Div 2, with both our 1’s and 2’s so far failing to win a game. What has prompted this fall from grace? Well the seeds were planted in 2010, when our 1sts won the Barraclough Cup and 14 of the starting side decided to hang up the boots. Almost every leader in the club retired in the two years after that, but we still managed to keep our head above water. Another exodus at the end of last season saw us lose 13 first graders, mainly to overseas and interstate relocation.
A club can only take so much, and unfortunately in 2013 we have been unable to cope with these losses. Our 1st grade is gutsy and young, but are outmuscled almost every week. Our 2nds are generally an amalgam of blokes that have played 4’s, 3’s or Colts earlier in the day. We have a critical shortage of props, with the few we have starting to break down due to a very heavy workload of two or more games each weekend.
But it isn’t all doom and gloom. Our 4’s are having a good season and are in the hunt for a finals berth. Our 3’s and colts have had mixed success as well. Most importantly we have recorded runaway victories over most clubs in the post-game boat race. The club spirit is still high, with social events getting a good turnout. But it gets harder and harder to come back every week, knowing that a win is bloody unlikely. This week we have St Ives at home, an old rival who towelled us up in most grades earlier in the year. Hopefully we can extract some revenge on Saturday, then rebuild in 2014 and return to Div Two bigger and better than ever.”
Super Brumbies
Well, the ACT Brumbies are in the Super Grand Final, securing their place against the Bulls last weekend. George Smith certainly impressed and a close source of some Rugby prestige believes that was one of his best ever performances. Do you think they can win on Saturday? They have certainly outperformed the Tahs in every department.
Trivia
Nicholas Watt was last week’s lucky winner of the BodyScience compression garment. Nick correctly guessed Ben Mowen to the Who Am I?
This week’s question:
Who scored the opening try in the last ACT Brumbies Super Rugby Grand Final win?
Get your answers to me at wbamatt@ by Monday 5pm for your chance to win FOUR tickets to the Subbies Finals Day of your choice.
Wrap & Tips
Div One
What about those Whales?! Mosman proved they mean business this season in the Kentwell as they defeated Premiership favourites St Patricks 17-14 in a tight tussle at Rawson Park last Saturday. The win takes the Mosman side onto 49 points - two behind leaders St Pats who have a game in hand. Drummoyne and Balmain both racked up large away wins as they travelled to Hunters Hill and Old Iggies respectively. Drummoyne racked up a 67-8 win that was partly thanks to Ugo Taiana’s 32 point haul while Balmain thumped Iggies 71-12 at Ryde Oval. Colleagues and Knox played out an entertaining encounter at Woollahra no.2, the home side edged past the Old Boys 42-31 in what was arguably the game of the day. In the day’s other game, Beecroft scored a 24-12 home win over Campbelltown to cement their mid-table position. Midweek, in a match deferred from way back in may, Balmain upset the odds to record a 26-16 win over the Dirty Reds at Drummoyne Oval.
This weekend will see Balmain take on Drummoyne for the second time in a matter of days - based on Tuesday’s result I will go for a Balmain win at Blackmore.
Div Two
As stated above, King’s OB’s 2013 season has not really gone to plan. Saturday proved no different as they were outclassed by the Shammies, 55-0. Petersham are now hot on the heels of Brothers who again claimed victory, this time away at Lindfield. The leaders ran in a convincing display to return with a try-fuelled 53-7 win. Both Oatley and Forest kept their finals aspirations alive as they both claimed routine wins over UNSW and Newport. The Oatley boys managed a bonus point, scoring four tries in a 24-13 win, while Forest didn’t quite get there despite their 25-6 triumph. St Ives claimed another win, this time at Barker Old Boys. The Saints have been involved in some mighty close affairs recently and this one was no different as they claimed a 27-22 win at Turramurra Oval. Brothers and Oatley played on Wednesday night in a match deferred from May, with Brothers coming out on top, 28-15.
Brothers take on Oatley again in this weekend’s headline encounter. I have to back the Brothers boys again in this one.
Div Three
Winners are grinners, and for only the third time this season Epping are smiling. The bottom placed Rams gained a rare win as they comfortably beat Hawkesbury Valley at Somerville Oval - the bonus point win giving them hope of avoiding that dreaded last place. The Mountain men again reigned supreme as Blue Mountains easily defeated Briars 46-10 at Lapstone to remain top of the table. Hot on their heels are Hornsby, who whacked Hills 31-3 at Yattenden Oval. UWSH served up a far harsher punishment to Blacktown who were destroyed 71-0 at College Oval. UWSH now sit third and are a real chance to experience the finals in a few weeks time. One place behind them are St George, who also had a big home win as they saw off the challenge of Waverley at Carss Park. The 41-15 was no more than St George deserved and Waverley are once again licking their wounds this season after a disappointing campaign that has only brought 4 wins so far.
This weekend Hornsby take on UWSH at Waitara Oval in what should be a great tussle. I will go for a Hornsby win on home turf.
Div Five
Redfield Old Boys are back on the straight and narrow after their big win over the Convicts ensured they remain on the top after 14 rounds in the Jeffrey Cup. James Watson scored an impressive 17 points for his side as they finished with a 57-0 win at Redfield College. Challengers Sydney Harlequins gained a reprieve last weekend as they gained a default 28-0 win with Maccabi still away at the Maccabiah games. Harlequins are just one point behind Redfield and I for one cannot wait to see how the season will pan out in Div 5. In third, Sydney Irish kept up with the pack as they gained a valuable bonus point 35-6 victory at Roseville. Merrylands have a chance of finals footy this season as they got a routine home win over Canterbury, 25-7. Rouse Hill won the basement battle of Div 5 against Lane Cove, scoring six tries in a rare 34-7 victory. Rounding off the results in the Jeffrey were Fairvale/Lansvale who gained a bonus point with a 39-25 win over Macquarie Uni.
Merrylands hosts Redfield on Saturday and I am tipping an upset at Holroyd - Merrylands win.
Div Six
By default, Dundas Valley remain top of the Meldrum Cup ladder with the Vikings gaining a 28-0 win due to a forfeit by ICMS. The Blowflies of Clovelly were rampant as they travelled to Beauchamp Park to face the Stags. The men from the coast eased to victory with a 41-14 win. Alexandria Dukes bagged a rare win as they thumped Burraneer at 35-5 at John Dwyer Oval, Aaron Nunn the stand out for the Dukes. Manly Savers caused a major upset as they overturned Sydney Grammar Old Boys at Reg Bartley Oval. Savers scored 4 tries to also take home a bonus point in the 30-24 win. Rockdale also got a win, a rare one at that - they defeated Terrey Hills 45-31 at C A Redmond.
The Stags of Chatswood take on Dundas Valley this weekend at Beauchamp Park. I can’t see Dundas giving up that top spot, hence I am predicting an away win.
A League of Their Own
The new channel ten sporting game show ‘A League of Their Own’ begins soon and Applause Store are offering free tickets to be part of the audience. If this is something that floats your boat click here to apply for tickets.
Maccabiah Games
A painful Final defeat saw Maccabi fall at the final hurdle of the 2013 Maccabiah games as they were defeated 13-0 by Israel. A fantastic effort by the boys for getting that far and representing their country. Hopefully next time they can bring home the trophy!
Pass Power
Try something crazy...and it just might pay off - the most ridiculous passes in the game.
Tweets
@MeghanMutrie: Remember Seti Tafua, paralyzed rugby player? A year of grit, hard work, big heart & tremendous support = standing.
pic.hKTqILsNJX
@Skywalkerinc: I've played 2 games with new scrum rules now. Changes things completely at impact but definitely fewer collapses. There is still a diminished hit but all the pressure comes on from both packs when the ball comes in.
@rugbyheaven: Giteau open to bid Toulon au revoir for Wallabies tilt
ow.ly/nwILY
@FOXRugbyLive: Hey, Brumbies Rugby fans! We've thrown together the Brums' best tries of the season - check them out here! Watch:
Jokes
A photon is going through airport security.
The guard asks if he has any luggage.
The photon says, "No, I'm traveling light."
What’s 7ft tall, hairy all over, and can do 400 sit ups?
The abdominal snowman
I wish these two tailors would get on with their fight.
They've been sizing each other up for hours.
Enjoy your Rugby,
Wonderboy Holding
@subbiesrugby
wbamatt@
Holding’s Bits 9 Aug 2013
DEMENTIA, COLTS GF, DAD OF THE YEAR, BRUMBIES BATTLERS, A RUGBY PROPOSAL, WRAP AND TIPS, TRIVIA, TWEETS & JOKES
Dementia in Rugby
A brain injuries expert has discovered what he believes to be the first confirmed case of early onset dementia caused by Rugby. This is yet another piece of evidence throwing weight behind the argument of not allowing players to return to the game for a specified amount of time.
Colts Grand Final
The First Grand Final of 2013 takes place this Saturday as Epping take on Hills at Somerville Oval. Following on from their slightly unexpected victory against Blue Mountains, Hills will be looking to take the Radford crown on Epping’s turf on the weekend. Kick Off is at 2pm; make sure you keep an eye on the Subbies Twitter page for updates @subbiesrugby.
The match program for Saturday’s game is available here.
Dad of the Year
It’s time to support all the fathers out there who are making a difference in our game, take a look at the flyer for the Phillips Community Sports Dad of the Year.
“Community Sports Dad of the Year award – as it’s the first year it would be great for a Rugby dad to take out the title, giving them the recognition they deserve. It’s the same mob who organise Celebrity Sports Dad of the Year, no win its fifth year.
To get involved, people simply need to go to:
.au/community and explain in 100 words or less why they think their chosen sports dad should be crowned the Community Sports Dad of the Year.
The Community Sports Dad of the Year winner will be provided with a $5,000 Rebel Sports voucher to donate to his sporting club of choice for some new gear or sporting equipment. Plus there is the chance to win some great Philips male grooming prizes for dad on Father’s Day simply by nominating”
Trivia
Tony Daly was the winner of last week’s trivia; he scored 4 freebies to a Subbies Finals day of his choice.
This week’s Who am I?
• My international career spanned six years
• I had the final say against my side’s greatest foe
• I have represented three Sydney premiership teams and a golden gate
Send your answers to wbamatt@ by 5pm on Monday for your chance to score a Waratahs backpack and four finals series passes to a weekend of your choice.
Wrap and Tips
Div One
After Balmain took the points in a brutal midweek tussle, the Dirty Reds and the Muzzled Wolves met again in an enthralling encounter of real quality that saw Drummoyne overcome Balmain 23-20 at Blackmore Park on Saturday. Balmain pushed and pushed at the death to try and steal a win but it wasn’t to be as they spurned several late chances. The mercurial Jake Havebond once again pulled the strings in the Drummoyne attack helping his side rise into 4th place on the Kentwell ladder. There was another close game at Campbelltown Showgrounds as the Harlequins lost out to Colleagues by six points. The sky blues came away with a hard fought 30-24 win and will take that all day long at this stage of the season. St Pats are still sitting pretty after they convincingly beat Hunters Hill 53-7 at Hudson Park. Hot on their heels are Mosman, who also disposed of a struggling side as they heaped misery on Old Iggies, 59-22 at Rawson Park. Knox kept their finals hopes alive as they beat Beecroft in an entertaining 33-20 win at Barra Brui Oval. Allan Glassie scored 13 points to help his side gain a vital win.
Colleagues v St Pat’s is my pick this weekend. Pats have a few players missing and I think they might find life a bit tougher on Saturday. Colleagues win.
Div Two
Brothers sealed their second win in a week against Oatley. Saturday saw an emphatic 52-28 score line for the Brothers boys who now sit top of the ladder by 6 points. Petersham strolled to victory over struggling Barker at Camperdown Oval. I managed to get down see some of 2nd Grade and I am informed the burgers were almost as tasty as the action on the field - 1st grade finishing 65-3 winners. St Ives grabbed an away win at bottom-of-the-table Kings. In what has been a tough season for KOBS, they may have seen Saturday’s game as a prime opportunity to get that elusive win. However, it didn’t come and St Ives came away with a 19-13 triumph. UNSW and Forest played out a fantastic game at David Phillips - Uni came out on the right side of a 32-26 game that saw a total of 8 tries. Newport had more luck than Forest on the road as they travelled to Lindfield and ran in 42 points to 29 as they took a bonus point win back to the beaches.
Oatley v Forest should be a cracker on Saturday - both sides have plenty to play for. As Oatley played those two games in a week, I will go for a Forest win.
Div Three
There were plenty of tries in the Clark Cup last weekend as the race for the finals hots up! UWSH grabbed a great win as they turned over the Lions of Hornsby at Waitara Oval. In what was a pressure cooker encounter UWSH managed to sneak a 33-31 win which puts them in 3rd place and an outside chance of taking the 2013 Clark cup crown. Blue Mountains made light work of their trip to Blacktown as they beat their hosts 46-22. Gavin Duncan was the star of the show as he scored 16 points for the victors. St George also enjoyed their road trip as they thrashed Briars 52-19 at Rothwell Park. St George are now 4th, 3 points ahead of Hawkesbury Valley who edged past Hills 19-11 at McQuade Park. Epping turned on the style for the second week running as they claimed a 30-27 victory at Waverley, Samuel Attfield scoring a double.
No games in the Clark this weekend. Enjoy the week off.
Div Five
Sydney Harlequins remain 2nd as they just managed to beat Macquarie Uni by just 2 points in a 19-17 victory. The quins will be looking over their shoulder as the Irish boys again scored a win - they comfortably beat the convicts 38-12 at Latham Park. Redfield round off the top three as they stumbled across the line against Merrylands. The youthful Redfield boys saw off the Wolves in their 26-22 win to remain top of the table with just one round to go. The battle for fifth spot is now on a knife edge; Fairvale easily beat Lane Cove 58-0 to put themselves in the prime spot while Maccabi, with a whole host of players out, lost by two points to Rouse Hill. Roseville can still make it despite their heavy 33-5 loss to Canterbury, while Macquarie Uni would need a miracle to get there.
The game of the weekend has to be Maccabi vs Fairvale/Lansvale, as the winner takes a finals spot. I will go with Fairvale/Lansvale - I think they will have too much for the weakened Maccabi side.
Div Six
Massive win for Clovelly as the Blowflies blew Burraneer out of the water at Burrows Park. The 71-7 win saw the home side score a hatful of tries. James Rowles crossed the line twice and slotted 8 conversions to take his total to 26 points for the day. Third placed Grammar managed to better Clovelly’s efforts as they hammered Rockdale 85-0! Dundas Valley are still top, claiming an away win at Chatswood. The Stags lost out to Valley in the top four encounter that sees Chatswood hanging onto a finals place by the skin of their teeth. Manly Savers have come from nowhere and are hot on the Stags heels in 5th; they won again on Saturday - this time at Yulong Oval against Terrey Hills. The Savers have won four on the spin to put themselves in full contention. Rounding off the wrap are the Dukes who beat ICMS 26-19 to record their 4th win of the campaign at McKay Oval.
The Dukes and Terrey Hills play the only Meldrum cup game of the weekend and I am tipping Terrey Hills to take an away win.
Brumbies Battlers
Close, but no cigar! The Brumbies fell at the last hurdle on Saturday evening in Hamilton despite a rousing performance in which they almost secured an upset title win. Just in case you missed it, here are the highlights.
Beer Snake
Not Rugby related but we all love a beer don’t we?
A Rugby Proposal
Thinking of tying the knot? Well, how about taking a leaf out of Garth Chamerlain’s book? The former London Wasps player asks the question in a way that will make anyone else’s attempt look extremely amateur!
Tweets
@NSWWaratahs Coveted #BledisloeCup to tour Sydney's schools & clubs this Sat. Get up close to the coveted silverware - event list
@SydneyRugbyClub smells like Steinlager... Needs a VB odour!
pic.PbQ4yToMxr
@BalmainRugby Nasty break for Aaron, our #14, tonight
pic.d1lqP5eemK
@HAC_Rugby The date for @HAC_Rugby vs RMC has been confirmed as 12 Oct 2013. The match will take place at Duntroon and will be the 91st anniversary.
@FOXRugbyLive Super Rugby set for radical shake-up
Jokes
What does Bob the Builder call himself after he retired?
Bob
What’s the best thing about going to Switzerland?
Well, the flag’s a big plus
What did the grape do when he got stepped on?
Let out a little wine
I'm reading a book on anti-gravity.
It’s impossible to put down.
Enjoy your Rugby,
Wonderboy Holding
@subbiesrugby
wbamatt@
Holding’s Bits 16 Aug 2013
RADFORD GF, CLUB CHARITY EFFORTS, PRESO NIGHT, SUPER PLAYS, BLEDISLOE BATTLE, BEER SURVEY, IN THE NEWS, WRAP & TIPS, TRIVIA, TWEETS AND JOKES
Radford Grand Final
A thrilling Radford Cup Grand Final saw the Epping Rams crowned 2013 Champions after a last gasp Hills try took the game to extra time. It could of all been so different had the usually reliable boot of Matt Brinnand converted his teams injury time try, however it wasn’t to be and Epping proved too strong in the extra period. After a stellar season the Rams attracted a huge crowd at Somerville Oval and delighted the hordes with six tries. Congratulations boys, a well deserved Premiership.
BeyondBlue Initiative
In an attempt to raise awareness of depression, Michael Kellaway has set up a great initiative for the Hunters Hill club. At tomorrow’s Hunters Hill v Balmain fixture at Boronia Park the Hunters Hill colts will be playing a highlight game of 7’s against the Balmain Rugby Club colts prior to 1st grade. Alongside custom jerseys, pants and socks to help push the blue colour and concept they are seeking help from the Rugby community to raise as much awareness as possible.
You can read more here about the work of beyondblue
Brothers IV Brothers
Knox are also raising funds tomorrow – for the Chris O’Brien Lifehouse Organisation ()
Knox and Petersham will be playing a charity rugby game at 1pm on the main oval at Knox Grammar School. A crowd in excess of 2000 people is expected to support the teams and this great cause.
There is a link below where you can make a small donation and help continue the fight against this disease that affects so many people. Every small donation counts and Knox are looking to beat their effort last year, when they raised over $100,000.
Subbies Presentation Night
Save the date! The Annual NSW Suburban Rugby Presentation Night will be held on Friday 11th October at The Establishment, 252 George Street.
Super Rugby Plays of the Season
Fox Sports have put together their ultimate Plays of the Super Season- a pretty good watch.
Battle for the Bledisloe
The Rugby Championship gets underway tomorrow night as the Wallabies take on the All Blacks at ANZ Stadium (KO 8pm). If you are still thinking about heading to the game but haven’t got your ticket yet, the ARU’s two for one offer still applies for anyone involved with Subbies. Click here and enter SUBBIES in the promotional box to receive two tickets for the price of one in the silver category.
ANZ Stadium has put together some information for anyone who is going out for the game.
To get you in the mood reminisce with the greatest game ever played!
Nick Bishop from Green and Gold Rugby takes a look at the Wallabies Scrum going into the Rugby Championship.
Beer Survey
Love beer? Well put your vote in on Green and Gold Rugby’s favourite beers- even their ‘Rugbyness’ relation.
Subbies TV
The boys are back in town, Ninja and guests return to the screens after a brief absence. You can see the episode at .au
Trivia
PJ Sullivan was the lucky winner of last week’s trivia, as it turns out PJ actually played with the man in question- Tony Daly in San Francisco Golden Gate RFC.
This week’s question:
Who will score the last try in Saturday’s Bledisloe Cup match?
Send your answers to me at wbamatt@ before Saturday 8pm to be in with a chance of scoring FOUR finals passes to the Subbies finals series.
Wrap and Tips
Div One
What a game at Woollahra! Colleagues and St Pats did battle as 1st took on 3rd in the Kentwell Cup and the tussle didn’t disappoint - St Pats winning 35-34 on enemy territory (after being down 5-34 with 30 mins to go!) The victory means that the comp leaders are within touching distance of the minor premiership. Balmain bounced back from their defeat to Drummoyne to earn a solid win at Headen Park when they took on Beecroft. The Muzzled Wolves took the points and move back into the top four at the expense of the Dirty Reds who had the week off, so that every team has now played 15 games. Campbelltown earned just their 4th win of the campaign as they thrashed Hunters Hill at the Showgrounds. The Harlequins were simply too powerful for their visitors and the final score of 65-20 underlined that. Knox are still hanging onto the Finals dream as they saw off Old Iggies at Barra Brui. The hosts finished the day with a 47-22 win which means they are just three points behind Balmain who occupy that coveted 4th spot.
It’s Drummoyne v Colleagues this Saturday. How will Colleagues respond to that painful one point loss to Pats? Not well enough, in my opinion - Drummoyne win.
Div Two
It was edge of your seat stuff at Camperdown Oval on Saturday as the much improved St Ives took Petersham all the way in a great game. The Shammies eventually came out winners by just the single point in a 25-24 score line. The result ensures the battle for the minor premiership will go down to the wire as Petersham sit just two points behind Brothers on the Barraclough Cup ladder. King’s Old Boys came oh-so-close to getting their first win of 2013, but were held to a 27-all draw by Lindfield at Waterloo Oval. Newport had reason to smile, enjoying a big win on the road at Barker Old Boys with plenty of tries as they romped to a 48-14 win. In the match of the round in Div Two, 3rd placed Forest defeated Oatley, 32-22, at H V Evatt to secure a finals spot. The Forest boys have had a great season and will be confident going into the Finals, however they will have to be at their very best against the top two to have any chance of progressing into the Grand Final.
Oatley have the perfect opportunity to rid the demons of last weekend when they face Petersham tomorrow. The Shammies struggled across the line against St Ives but I think they will up their game and come away with a win against the Oatley lads.
Div Three
No games in Div Three last weekend.
3rd takes on 5th this Saturday, as Hawkesbury Valley travel to UWSH. It is a must win encounter for Valley as they look to secure a Finals berth. I think they will keep their hopes alive and do the business against UWSH.
Div Five
Redfield Old Boys sealed the Jeffrey Cup Minor Premiership after 16 Rounds that saw just two defeats. The deserved ladder leaders convincingly defeated Sydney Irish 49-22 at Redfield College to confirm their week off in the five-team finals series starting tomorrow (Norford Park, Sefton). The Irish boys must gather themselves and re-group to face Sydney Harlequins in Qualification Final 1. The Quins had a confident end to the regular season as they did not concede a point at Rouse Hill whilst getting 42 of their own. Lane Cove finished bottom of the 2013 ladder as they fell to Macquarie Uni at Tantallon Oval, concluding the campaign with a 37-10 defeat. Fairvale/Lansvale secured a finals berth as they destroyed Maccabi 57-27 at Waverley Oval - Salvation Taatia scoring four tries for the victors. Fairvale/Lansvale’s win set up a tie with Merrylands who finished fourth after a tough 15-10 defeat to Roseville who eventually finished in 6th place. Canterbury and Colleagues Convicts both in the bottom half of the table as their season came to an end in entertaining fashion - Canterbury taking away a 34-29 victory from Woollahra Oval #3.
The two finals games this weekend take place at Norford Park, Sefton (Both Kick Off at 3:15pm). Harlequins v Irish has to be the pick of the games on paper and I will go with the Irish to win a place in next week’s Major Semi-final to have another shot at Redfield Old Boys.
Div Six
There was just one catch-up game in Division Six last weekend as Alexandria Dukes took on Terrey Hills. The tussle ended up being a great one as Terrey Hills came away with a 42-38 win against a plucky Alexandria Dukes side. With neither side in finals contention it was refreshing to see so many points on the board as the players threw caution to the wind.
Saturday’s game of the round sees Manly Savers take on Dundas Valley at Keirle Park. Manly’s run has been marvellous and if they can keep that going for the last few games they may well make a finals appearance. Will the Dundas boys provide too much of a test? Probably - Dundas win.
NSW vs Pumas
The NSW Barbarians (Waratahs on Tour) were heavily beaten by the Pumas in chilly conditions over the weekend. Check out the highlights and report here.
In the News
It’s always good to see positive pieces about Rugby in the news, take a look at this piece on Seven earlier in the week.
Tweets
@ARU_Community Defending champs QLD face NSW at the #GIO National Wheelchair Rugby Champs in Sydney. pic.kH2AqSmb73
@greg_clarkie I like the feel of it. Look forward to the Wallabies drinking from it this year!!!!! pic.KATvi0pmjW
@QantasWallabies He has a 75% winning record against NZ SuperRugby teams. How will McKenzie fare this weekend v the All Blacks?
pic.gIGSh04ZhR
@npgrey Very excited about opportunity adding to NSW Waratahs coaching group in 2014. Honoured establishing Melbourne Rebels 2011-2013
@whiskeycully Average age of Wallabies is 25.21. Average age of All Blacks is 26.47
Jokes
What's worse than spiders on your piano?
Crabs on your organ
What did the inventor of Knock Knock jokes win?
The No-Bell prize
Saw a man and woman wrapped in a barcode.
I said, “Are you two an item?”
Enjoy your Rugby,
Wonderboy Holding
@subbiesrugby
wbamatt@
Holding’s Bits 23 Aug 2013
LIKE FACEBOOK, KNOX LIFEHOUSE, JUNIOR GOLD, SEVENS TOURNAMENTS, T G MILLNER UPGRADE, BATTERING BLEDISLOE, MILESTONES, LIKE FATHER LIKE SON, RUGBY BUSINESS NETWORK, WRAP & TIPS, TWEETS & JOKES
FINALS SCHEDULE & RESULTS
Over the next few weeks you can click here for your one stop finals shop - including all teams, venues, kick off times and results as they happen.
Subbies Has A New Face (book)
Subbies has started a new Facebook PAGE, after remodeling its Facebook group. Like us. Send us stuff. Spread the word.
Knox Does It Again – With A Little Help From Its Friends
A note from Knox legend, Bryn Robertson:
“Knox Rugby Club would like to thank our friends at Petersham for the contribution they made to our second annual ‘Brothers IV Brothers’ day last Saturday. The day was another great success, raising over $110,000 in much needed funds for the Chris O’Brien Lifehouse. We had over 1500 supporters in attendance, but we are particularly grateful to Petersham for getting involved - the sportsmanship shown by the Petersham club and players was what it’s all about. Rugby and Charity were the winners and Petersham deserves a huge pat on the back.”
Junior Gold Cup
The ARU are seeking applicants for a variety of coaching and management positions for the Junior Gold Cup (JGC) development and competition program aimed at U15 and U17 age levels.
An evolution of the Junior Gold program, the JGC aims at giving players the opportunity to be involved in high levels of representative rugby whilst maintaining their local/regional representation.
For further info and details on how to apply click here.
Sevens Tournaments
Todd River 7s
The Central Australian Rugby is staging its showpiece event on Sat 5 October in Alice Springs. The Todd River Sevens features Men’s, Women’s and Tight Five competitions with the cost $200 per team. The flyer for this year’s event is available here.
Southern Highlands 7s
A bit closer to home, the Bowral Rugby Club is hosting the Southern Highlands 7s, also on 5 October. Prize money of $6000 is up for grabs in the Seniors competition and the event promises to be a great end to the season.
Development Centre Announcement
Funding has been put in place for a major upgrade to T G Millner Field, which will now become the Australian Rugby Development Centre. The transformation will see the facility act as a base for visiting school, regional and international teams as well as an Indigenous Education Centre. Featuring an Indoor pool, gym, analysis centre, altitude training and on-site accommodation the upgrade, the new centre will also secure the future of Eastwood Rugby.
Battered in the Bledisloe
I went out to ANZ after my afternoon at Norford Park and despite the new coach and the decent 70,000 odd attendance the Wallabies fell to a heavy defeat. A close first half was long forgotten in the 2nd period as the All Blacks ran in several more tries. The beer was off, the Wallabies were very average and Cooper was booed by the home hordes...not the great start to the McKenzie era all had hoped for.
Trivia
Plenty of tries in the Bledisloe but not one of you picked JOC to score the final try.
This week’s question:
Pre 2006, who was the last ‘current’ Subbies club to win the Div 5 Club Championship?
Send your answers to wbamatt@ by Monday 5pm to be in with a chance of winning 4 passes to a Subbies finals day of your choice.
Wrap and Tips
Div One
A win of huge importance took place in the Kentwell on Saturday as Drummoyne were turned over by Colleagues in a result that sees the Dirty Reds now struggling for finals contention. The Sky Blues travelled to Drummoyne Oval knowing a win would pretty much secure a top four spot and greatly harm their opponents’ chances. And a win is certainly what they got - Colleagues went on the rampage on their rival’s patch, with a final score of 32-12. Balmain will be pretty happy with that result too, I’d reckon. The Muzzled Wolves strolled to victory at Boronia Park, beating Hunters Hill 71-7 and gaining a valuable bonus point. Mosman look like they will snare 2nd place as they beat Knox in a close game at Knox Grammar. The Whales’ 31-25 win saw them go three points ahead of Colleagues in 3rd and with a home game against perennial 2013 strugglers, Hunters Hill, they should seal the position. St Pats easily disposed of Campbelltown at Hudson Park, 53-5. Pats can seal the Minor Premiership if they beat Drummoyne tomorrow. The Beecroft boys sealed their 8th win of the season at home to Old Iggies with a 52-17 victory.
This weekend’s game of the round is Balmain vs Knox at Blackmore Park. If the Muzzled Wolves win they will make the Finals in their debut Div 1 season. I think they can do it.
Div Two
Brothers can wrap up the Barraclough Cup Minor Premiership this weekend after they thrashed Barker Old Boys 100-12 at Turramurra last Saturday to remain 3 points ahead of nearest rivals Petersham. Try scoring machine Joel Brooks crossed the line 4 more times to add to his giant 2013 tally, while nine other Brothers boys got in on the act. The Shammies kept their winning run going, although not quite as emphatically, as they met Oatley at H.V. Evatt Park. The away side edged out Oatley by five points in the end, with the 19-14 score ensuring they will finish at least 2nd on the ladder. Forest demolished King’s Old Boys 46-14 at Melwood Oval to clinch 3rd place, potentially setting up a finals clash with either Oatley or UNSW. The Uni boys need to get something against Petersham this weekend and hope Oatley slip up against Newport. However, UNSW kept themselves in with a shout after defeating Lindfield 26-0 at David Phillips on Saturday. St Ives’ improvements fell on the back burner as they were defeated on home turf by a resurgent Newport side - 43-12 to the Breakers.
Petersham vs UNSW is my Div Two game of the week. Uni need a minor miracle. I can’t see them beating the Shammies, so Oatley will make the Finals.
Div Three
How about Hawkesbury Valley? They scored a great win at College Oval against UWSH to keep their slim finals hopes alive. Valley now must beat Hornsby at home and rely on UWSH slipping up against Hills to make the finals...a tall order, but stranger things have happened. Blue Mountains can seal the Clark Cup Minor Premiership tomorrow when they face Waverley at Lapstone Oval. The Mountain Men saw off Epping at Somerville Oval last weekend in a 40-26 victory at Somerville Oval. St George can taste Finals footy - their 49-26 victory over Hills should seal their place in the top four. Hornsby demolished Briars 49-0 at Waitara Oval, with Kainga and Halaifonua both getting hat tricks. Waverley cannot make the finals but they enjoyed a rare win when they beat Blacktown 23-12. The victory has the Bondi outfit sitting in the ‘best of the rest’ position on the table in 6th.
Hawkesbury Valley v Hornsby is my pick of the games tomorrow. If Valley can spring a surprise they may just see themselves make the Finals...home win.
Div Five
The 2013 Finals began in Div 5 last weekend as Sydney Irish took on Harlequins and Fairvale/Lansvale faced Merrylands. The Irish had four players back for their tussle and fancied their chances at Norford Park. 2nd placed Harlequins were on the back foot from the off, with Sydney Irish taking a 14-0 lead early on. The Quins reduced the deficit going into the break but Irish returned after their oranges to blow their opponents away. The final score of 38-19 means Irish now take on Minor Premiers Redfield in this weekend’s Major Semi. See the match report from the Irish Echo.
Merrylands were bundled out of the 2013 comp - much to the dismay of one of their tired and emotional supporters – after a tight encounter against Fairvale/Lansvale in the second qualification final. The Vales came out on top, 17-14. Fairvale/Lansvale’s reward for their triumph is a match-up with Sydney Harlequins in the Minor Semi.
I am going for an upset win for the Irish against Redfield tomorrow. A week off may just take the wind out of the Minor Premiers’ sails and they could be caught out.
Div Six
What rejuvenation for those Stags of Chatswood! Last season’s bottom placed club have made the finals in 2013 thanks to a stellar, season-long effort from their current crop of talent. The Stags sealed their finals berth after a huge 60-8 win on the road at Alexandria Dukes. Leaders Dundas Valley also picked up an away win as they defeated Manly Savers at Keirle Park. Six different try scorers shared the glory as their team strolled home. Sydney Grammar held onto 2nd spot after they scored a tight 13-11 win over the Clovelly Blowflies. Jack Roxburgh kicked the penalties to get his side over the line. Burraneer romped in a massive home win as they defeated Rockdale 61-12, while Terrey Hills scored 8 tries in a big away win at ICMS.
In what could have been a decisive encounter, Chatswood meet Manly Savers tomorrow. Manly will want revenge for missing out on the 4th spot but I think Chatswood will be too strong.
Crazy Bruce Leigh
No not that Bruce Lee, the real hero is Bruce ‘Crazy’ Leigh - the Canterbury forward is set to take the field for his 750th game in this weekend’s Noice Cup minor semi-final against Fairvale/Lansvale.
Well done Bruce – a monumental effort.
Hills Milestones
Congratulations to the following players who will be making milestone appearances this weekend for the Hills club:
• 300 Games - 19 year old Colts Captain, Matt Brinnand
• 200 Games - 1st Grade front row, Charlie Budwee
• 150 Games - 3rd Grade front row, Aaron Smith
Blue Mountains Hero
While the focus on ‘Back to Lapstone Day’ will be evenly spread tomorrow, no doubt one of the major highlights will be at 12 noon when tough-as-teak forward, Leigh Dodds, runs on in the double blue jumper for an amazing 500th time. The talented front-rower has played every season since his debut 29 years ago, including 130 games in the top grade. He has won four premierships - including one as coach, coached for over 10 seasons, put in over a decade of service on the committee, and has survived a record 23 end-of-season trips. Well done, Doddsy!
Like Father, Like Son
This Saturday, Epping 1st Grade will field a father/son combination for the 8th week in a row. Dad, 52 yr old Trevor Dobbie, will pack down in the second row, literally watching the back of his son, Tane, playing at hooker.
The final round against Briars could be their last game together (Tane’s retiring, I guess?) and so their Epping teammates will be striving to send them off with a win.
The Rugby Business Network
The Sydney chapter of the International Rugby Business Network will be meeting next on the 9th September. The Rugby Business Network is a free networking community of people who share the love of Rugby and look to help each other in business and in general.
Click here for more information.
Tweets
@subbiesrugby Full time in Jeffrey Cup Qualification Finals. QF1: Syd Irish 38 bt Syd Harl 19. QF2: Fairvale 17 bt Merrylands 14
@Cranky_Old_Ref Hooper says All Blacks fans' booing Quade Cooper is 'unreasonable'. Young Cranky at the game says it was Aussie fans!
@NSWWaratahs Cheika praises Michael Hooper's decision to re-sign with NSW til 2016 calling him 'outstanding' & 'long-term leader'
@whiskeycullyAustralian invasion into ITM Cup shows craving for third tier comp … Over to the ARU.
@BalmainRugby This dude is GAY pic.g0X57bypq1
@BBCSport "I'm on my deathbed." Springbok legend Joost van der Westhuizen talks to BBC Sport about motor neurone disease
Jokes
They've found a Mummy in Egypt that's covered in chocolate and hazelnuts.
Apparently he was called Pharaoh Rocher.
What did the mountain climber name his son?
Cliff.
I just got hit by a rental car.
It Hertz.
Enjoy your Rugby,
Wonderboy Holding
@subbiesrugby
wbamatt@
Holding’s Bits 30 Aug 2013
FINALS FOOTY, SUBBIES MOBILE, DIGITAL PROGRAM, BAD NEWS, ARU POLICY, BLEDISLOE II, TOP 14, IZZY, TRIVIA, WRAP & TIPS, TWEETS & JOKES
Finals Footy
Here we go, this week sees the entry of Division’s Two, Three and Six and you can view the match program right here – Subbies’ first ever digital program.
For your one stop shop of all finals fixtures, results, venues, and kick off times click here.
Venues 31/8:
Divisions 3, 5 and 6 - Macqaurie Uni Sports Fields
Division 2 - David Phillips Field
Entry prices:
Entry for all semi-finals is $10 per person, U18’s free.
Our gate staff do not really enjoy getting abused but if you must try and make it witty.
Players:
Remember your photo ID’s... and passes to get into the venue!
Trivia
Last week’s winner was Subbies Life Member, Damian Henry. He correctly answered Blacktown (1987) to last week’s question. For your chance to win 4 Subbies Finals Passes for a weekend of your choice send your answer to this week’s question to wbamatt@ by 5pm Monday:
Who am I?
• I have had involvement with 3 Super Rugby Franchises
• I have a Masters degree in marketing
• Over 5 years I gained 35 caps for my country
• Out of my 94 games for one franchise, I played just once at flyhalf
Subbies TV
Slammin’ and Ninja chew the fat, discussing the weekend’s Finals
New Website
Subbies have gone mobile! In addition to our remodeled website we also have launched a new mobile platform which enhances your viewing of pages when browsing on your phone. The mobile site should automatically activate when you search for the Subbies website on your Smart Phone.
Wrap and Tips
Div One
There is just one round of the regular season to go in the Kentwell Cup and all four finals spots are set in stone. Mosman, Colleagues and Balmain will join Minor Premiers St Pats in this year’s Finals series. Pats sealed their top spot as they were successful at Drummoyne Oval, the visitors victorious 27-14. The result also confirmed Drummoyne would not be playing in the end of season antics for the first time since 2005! A great crowd gathered at Blackmore Park to see Balmain romp home in their Ladies day as they defeated Knox 46-10 in a convincing win. Mosman also enjoyed home success, the Whales downing Hunters Hill 80-5 at Rawson Park. Colleagues got the better of the Beecroft boys at Woollahra #2- the Sky Blues enjoying their 12th win of the season in which could prove very fruitful come the end of September. The Woollahra based outfit have suffered a major blow this week with Captain (& Rep Captain) and Goal kicker Dan Kelly ruled out indefinitely. Last weekend’s big away winners were the Harelquins of Campbelltown who thumped Old Iggies 47-22 at Ryde.
The final round of the season sees Knox take on Drummoyne at Barra Brui. Although there is nothing but pride at stake in this one I think Knox will be keen to end the season on a high note with a home victory.
Div Two
Brothers sealed the Minor Premiership the Barraclough Cup last weekend as they saw off the challenge of Forest at Roseville Chase Oval. The Brothers boys finished the season on an impressive 82 points, three ahead of rivals Petersham who equalled their total of wins, with 16. The Sammies finished the regular season with a comfortable 24-7 over UNSW. The two big hitters now face each other in the Major Semi Final on Saturday in what will be a fantastic encounter. Fourth placed Oatley lost out on the road to Newport - 20-19, not the best preparation for their Minor Semi against Forest. Lindfield and St Ives scored plenty of points as they played out an entertaining game at Soldiers memorial Park. Lindfield eventually came out on top with a 35-30 win; however both sides will need to look at their defence over the off-season as they have both been quite leaky in 2013. Kings almost did it, again! However, the Barraclough basement dwellers didn’t do it- they didn’t win a game all season. They faced Barker on Saturday and ran them close, 31-26 the Final score. The defeat underlined what has been a dismal season for KOBS, Barker’s has almost been as bad but they round of the campaign with a win...just.
Brothers v Petersham in the major has to be the pick of the two Finals games in the Barraclough Cup. Both sides have been so strong this year but I think Brothers will get over the line and book their Grand Final spot.
Div Three
UWSH will be playing in the Finals! The blood and mustards defeated Hills 15-13 in a hard fought game at Yattenden Oval on the weekend. The victory sealed 4th place for winners who snuck into the series at the expense of Hawkesbury Valley who just missed out despite a huge 39-19 win over 2nd placed Hornsby. The result was not the best preparation for the Lion’s encounter with Minor Premiers Blue Mountains, the ladder leaders only just toppled Waverley themselves, winning 27-24 at Lapstone. However, the Mountain men did celebrate their back to Lapstone day in style- going through 120 cases of beer...pretty good effort, I think you will agree. Epping rose above Briars on the table to put a gloss on their season, the Rams thumped their opponents 49-12. St George finished the regular season on a good note, defeating Blacktown at Alwyn Lindfield Reserve. The win means St George will play UWSH in the knock out Minor Semi tomorrow.
I am tipping UWSH to do the business over St George and seal a spot in the Prelim final to take on either Blue Mountains or Hornsby.
Div Five
A cracking day at Norford Park on Saturday saw Redfield defeat the Irish in a thrilling encounter. The Division Five Major Semi saw the Jeffrey Cup powerhouses do battle for the chance to earn themselves a Grand Final spot. Redfield started well and took a deserved 14-0 lead before the Irish responded with a try of their own. Redfield again surged in front in the 2nd half before a stirring comeback saw the 3rd placed outfit miss a conversion to level the scores at 29-all. A final score of 32-27 to Redfield now sets up a blockbuster between Irish and Sydney Harlequins tomorrow, do or die for both clubs. The Harlequins secured their place with a 34-24 win over Fairvale/Lansvale in a hard fought encounter.
In the 2nd Grade Noice Cup, Roseville downed Redfield in a great game that ended 27-19. Redfield must now face a strong Canterbury side that saw off the challenge of Fairvale/Lansvale. Canterbury’s win means a win against Redfield on Saturday would tee up a Grand Final against Roseville. Ladies and Gentlemen- all to play for!
Div Six
Sydney Grammar confirmed they will face Minor Premiers Dundas Valley in a blockbuster Major Semi Final this weekend when they beat Terrey Hills 36-13 at Yulong Oval. Grammar’s win means they will face the side that has beat them in Round 13, Dundas have had a super season especially after they lost the opening game of the season 94-0 against Clovelly! Valley rounded off with a crunching 52-8 demolition of Burraneer at Sir Thomas Mitchell Reserve. The Blowflies will be in the Finals themselves after they finished 3rd, the beach boys beat ICMS in the Final round 43-0 at Burrows Park to round of the regular season in style. Clovelly now face a resurgent Chatswood who have completed a remarkable 12 month turn around. From bottom of Div 6 to a finals berth, the Stags have been superb this campaign- culminating in the thrashing of Manly Savers 71-14 last weekend. Can they go one better and continue the dream this weekend? Both Alexandria Dukes and Rockdale had poor seasons but they put on a show on Saturday. Plenty of points were scored but it was the Dukes who came away with a win, 33-31 at C A Redmond.
I will tip Clovelly to beat Chatswood in a close one, it would be a great story if the Stags made it but I think Clovelly will be a bit too strong.
Bad News
We encourage all shapes and sizes to come and play in our competition but this bloke....definitely not!
ARU Policy
The Australian Rugby Union announced this week that they will be unveiling a new policy to tackle homophobia in Rugby. Wallabies David Pocock and Adam Ashley-Cooper have backed the move ahead of the Bingham Cup (the Gay Rugby World Cup) to be held in Sydney in 2014.
Izzy
Israel Folau has agreed to a deal that will see him represent the Wallabies and Waratahs for the next two seasons. A great bit of business and a huge positive for both teams!
Bledisloe II
Shane Sullivan from Green and Gold Rugby outlines the major talking points from the Wallabies 2nd loss in a week to the All Blacks.
Falcons
You’ve gotta love a Falcon...here are Rugby HQ’s Top Five
Top 14 Tries
The best tries from the opening weekend in the Top14.
Tweets
@kobweb Yes, we can confirm we have been trying to lure Israel to the promised land... 3rd Division Subbies!! I think he's keen #lovesasteaksanga
@nowtro This is brilliant. A ceiling mural in a designated smoking area that manages to be funny AND make a sobering point:
pic.eVybl2uSVV
@subbiesrugby Congrats to @petershamrugby & @Bluemtnsrugby on winning the Div 2 & Div 3 Club Championships respectively.
@BalmainRugby One of these boys is drunk. Guess who?
pic.X1FNc4FRi8
@FOXRugbyLive Izzy gonna stay? You betcha! @IzzyFolau has committed to rugby union for a further two years and will play through to the 2015 World Cup.
Jokes
Why did the invisible man turn down a job offer?
He just couldn’t see himself doing it.
I have a friend who only has one toe and one knee.
We call him Tony.
Did you hear that joke about the butter?
Everyone's spreading it.
Enjoy your Rugby,
Wonderboy Holding
@subbiesrugby
wbamatt@
Holding’s Bits 6 Sep 2013
FINALS, DIGITAL PROGRAM, BAD DECISIONS, BALL BITERS, RUGBY VILLAINS, SEVENS, SUBBIES TV, WRAP & TIPS, TRIVIA, TWEETS AND JOKES
Finals
Here we go! We are in full Finals swing now. Together with the opening games of Division One’s series, this weekend has a whole host of action across Suburban Rugby. All your need-to-know info is right here.
Click here for this week’s digital match program.
Venues 7/9:
Divisions 2, 3, 5 and 6 - Macqaurie Uni Sports Fields
Division 1 - David Phillips Field
Entry prices:
Entry to both venues is $10 per person, U18’s free.
Our gate staff does not really enjoy getting abused - but if you must, try and make it witty.
Players:
Remember your photo ID’s... and passes to get into the venue!
Subbies Finals One Stop Shop
For all the info you need on fixtures, results, venues and times right here.
Division Five Grand Final Preview
Well, what a game we have in store in the Jeffrey Cup. The power of the Irish meets the flair of Redfield as the two standout sides in Division Five go head to head in the season decider.
Sydney Irish 2013 Record Redfield Old Boys Record
Played 19, Won 14, Lost 5 Played 17, Won 15, Lost 2
Top Try Scorer – Val Baynes Top Try Scorer – John Wall
Top Point Scorer – Henry Bourke Top Point Scorer – Andrew Watson
Redfield have tasted victory each time the sides have met in 2013 and although the Irish have improved each time, Redfield will fancy themselves to take the Jeffrey crown for the second year in a row. Both sides are sure to have plenty of support. I have even heard the Irish are bringing a party bus from Coogee. This will be a great Subbies spectacle, let’s hope for plenty of points and an entertaining game for all concerned. Best of luck to both teams.
Wrap and Tips
Div One
All of the Kentwell Cup big boys finished on a winning note last Saturday as the regular season was completed. St Pats sealed the Division One Club Championship as they defeated Old Iggies 45-8 at Hudson Park. The season has been a superb one for the Strathfield based club who sealed their first Bruce Graham Shield since 1999. Mosman secured second place on the Kentwell ladder after they defeated Beecroft at Headen Park. The Whales scored 45 points as they turned over a Beecroft side who faded fast in 2013 after a decent start to the season. Colleagues missed out on the Club Championship by less than a First Grade win, but they did all they could on Saturday as they thrashed Hunters Hill 59-12 at Boronia Park. The Sky Blues will be disappointed not to grab the glory from St Pats but will take heart from the fact they will be appearing in all six grades in the semis. Fourth placed Balmain prepared well for their Minor Semi against Colleagues this weekend with a comfortable 22-7 over Campbelltown at the Showgrounds. Drummoyne got over the disappointment of missing out on the top four by thumping Knox 60-24 at Barra Brui.
Two huge semis this weekend - Pats take on Mosman and Balmain face Colleagues. Both games promise so much but the sudden death Balmain and Colleagues match will be the pick of the two - there are no second chances and all is on the line…Balmain to go through, I reckon.
Div Two
A convincing Brothers outfit saw off their nearest foes Petersham in the Major Semi Final in the Barraclough cup last Saturday at Macquarie University. Try scoring machine Joel Brooks crossed the line for the 34th time this campaign to aid his side’s cause. The result confirms Brothers deserved Grand Final place and puts Petersham in a nerve wracking Preliminary Final showdown tomorrow. Their opponents, Forest, just shaded Oatley in the Minor Semi with a late long range penalty giving them a 14-13 victory. The nature of this topsy turvy tussle and the gritty performance from both teams will leave their coaches with plenty of pride.
Tomorrow’s tie between Petersham and Forest will be a close one and the nature of Finals Footy means the momentum is with Forest, but I think the Shammies will be too strong and set up another battle with the Brothers in the Grand Final.
Div Three
There were two upsets in my opinion in the Clark Cup Finals last weekend. A terrific Hornsby performance saw them overcome Minor Premiers Blue Mountains at Macquarie University. The Hornsby boys really dug in and deserved their great result in what was the sternest of tests. Their reward, a week off knowing they have done the trick and made it to the Division 3 showdown. Their opponents could be St George who produced another superb performance to overcome UWSH in the Minor Semi Final. The final score of 27-19 means that UWSH go out of this year’s competition and the Red and Whites face a wounded Blue Mountains side in tomorrow’s crunch Preliminary Final.
St George will be living off last weekend’s adrenalin but the Mountain Men should have enough to overcome them. The Finals is a completely different beast, this is really tough one to call.
Div Five
An effervescent encounter saw Sydney Irish claim victory to secure a Grand Final spot in their maiden season in the regular Subbies Competition. The Sydney Irish bench looked nervous in the dying embers of a nail biting game but the relief was apparent come the 80 minute mark. Harlequins were somewhat unlucky and can be proud of their efforts this season; however they were ultimately undone by late Irish points and a solid defence. The Irish now face their foes Redfield in the Grade Final (see preview above) and will be hopeful Rod Petre has his kicking boots on again this weekend.
Div Six
Sydney Grammar Old Boys will play the winner of Clovelly and Dundas Valley after a tough day of Finals at Macquarie Uni in the Meldrum Cup. In what was a battle of two strong teams, Grammar got the upper hand on the Vikings of the Valley and eventually took a 15 point win to give them their Grand Final berth. However, the game was closer than the final score of 35-20 suggests. Dundas must pick themselves up and go against a Clovelly Blowflies outfit who broke Chatswood hearts in the Minor Semi. The blowflies took the game by 5 points to knock out the Stags. Chatswood will be pleased with their campaign though and will re-build again for next season and come back even stronger. Clovelly will fancy their chances this weekend and hope for even half a repeat of Round 1, where they thumped Dundas 94-0! This will be a completely different story though and with all on the line I don’t think there will be too many points between the two teams.
I can’t wait for this one and I think it will be one of the most entertaining games of the day. I will have to go for a Dundas win but it is certainly not beyond the Blowflies to get themselves a Grand Final appearance.
Subbies TV
Here is the latest episode of Subbies TV. Ninja and the boys are back to discuss the Finals in all Divisions. You can also ‘like’ Subbies TV on Facebook right here, if you haven’t already.
Lake Macquarie 7’s
The Lake Macquarie Rugby Club are staging their Sevens tournament on 15th February 2014. The competition will form the inaugural Lake Macquarie Rugby Club Sevens Festival. For further information click here.
Hong Kong 7’s
All you need to know about next year’s tournament, 28-30th March 2014.
Wallabies Team v Boks
Green and Gold Rugby’s Steve Lenthall looks at the Wallabies team to play the Springboks this Saturday night.
Rugby Villains
Take a look at Rugby HQ’s Top Five Rugby Villains.
15 Year Suspension
You may be aware of an incident of physical abuse of a match official involving a Petersham Colts player last weekend. The Union reiterates that it will never tolerate any form of violence in the game, especially not towards a match official. The suspension of fifteen years given to the young man on Wednesday night underlines the seriousness of his actions and sends a clear message to those who are incapable of playing rugby as it is meant to be played.
Trivia
Congratulations to James Campbell who won last week’s trivia by answering Nathan Grey to the Who Am I? This week I am again offering FOUR Subbies Finals Passes to a weekend of your choice.
This week’s question:
Which team last successfully defended their Jeffrey Cup title?
If you think you know the answer send it me at wbamatt@ by Monday 5pm to be in with a chance of winning.
Biting off more than you can chew
Surely nobody has ever seen this in Subbies?
Here is another person who wasn’t shy about letting people know what not to touch. Not quite Rugby related but hilarious nonetheless.
And...more biting! Aussie Rory Arnold banned for biting whilst scoring his first Currie Cup try.
Bad Decision Touchy!
The League boys have outdone themselves this time.
Have you ever seen a decision as bad as this? (Don’t answer that!)
Tweets
@johnqgoh Congratulations to Redfield for winners of Halligan cup
pic.Ibv0vODQQc
@QantasWallabies "There is always the potential for change. We are playing a different team in a different context" - Ewen McKenzie
@FOXSportsAUS Rugby HQ are hatching a plan to #BeatTheBoks
@Cranky_Old_Ref New scrum laws in place in both hemispheres. ITM cup going well, positive comments. Aviva Premiership nothing but whinges. Work with it.
@iainpayten Ben Mowen named new wallabies vice-captain, after only five Tests.
@FOXRugbyLive Rugby teen's 15-year bashing ban
Jokes
Did I ever tell you the story about the broken pencil?
It had no point.
Did you hear about the cross-eyed teacher?
He couldn't control his pupils.
Did you hear about the angry gymnast?
He just flipped.
Enjoy your Rugby,
Wonderboy Holding
@subbiesrugby
wbamatt@
Holding’s Bits 13 Sep 2013
MEDAL FINALISTS, INCREDIBLE IRISH, FINALS FEVER, WOEFUL WALLABIES, WIN 100 BEERS, MASSEUSE MADNESS, TENS, RUCKING, TRIVIA, TWEETS & JOKES
Medal Finalists
The 2013 Medal Finalists have been announced. Take a look at whether you or one of your team mates made the cut right here. The winner of each medal will be announced at our Annual Presentation night on Friday 11th October at the Establishment.
Incredible Irish
Sydney Irish pulled a remarkable victory last weekend as they were crowned Jeffrey Cup Premiers in their maiden Subbies season. In a rollercoaster encounter, the Irish produced a sensational fightback following a flurry of Redfield points early in the 2nd period. The eventual winners were leading at half time but fell behind to a Redfield side that must have thought they would seal the win after coming back into the game. However, it wasn’t to be and the powerful Irish scored two late tries to send the horde of Green supporters into raptures. Needless to say there was plenty of Magners drunk and I am ensured that the celebrations went long into the night.
Finals Schedule
Your one stop shop for all Finals info including fixtures, results, venues and times is right here.
Program
Take a look at this week’s Digital Match Day Program
Finals Preview - Div One
Following an exciting encounter with Colleagues last weekend, Balmain will be looking to produce the winning goods once again tomorrow as they take on Mosman at David Phillips Field. The Whales won’t want their terrific season to end just yet and will be desperate to get ahead of the Muzzled Wolves to seal a Grand Final spot against Minor Premiers St Pats, who defeated them 31-28 last Saturday. Colleagues will be disappointed at losing out in the Kentwell Cup last week but they still have plenty to play for, with teams in all the lower grade finals.
Division One is at David Phillips Field this weekend. Players – remember your pass and your photo ID.
Grand Final Fever
Division Two: T G Millner Field, Eastwood
Division Three: Macquarie Uni Sports Fields, Nth Ryde
Division Six: David Phillips Field, Daceyville
Entry is $15 to Grand Finals. Players - remember your pass and your photo ID.
Div Two
After overcoming Petersham in the Preliminary Final last week, Forest face a Brothers side that have been in stunning form all year. Joel Brooks has scored a sensational amount of tries this season and will be looking to help his side finish the campaign in style by claiming Barraclough Cup glory. Forest was terrific last week although they suffered a last gasp scare as Petersham missed a conversion to win the game right on full time. However, Forest deserved their win and will contest the decider against a side that has beaten them twice already this year.
The Shammies may not finish 2013 empty handed just yet - they face St Ives in the 2nd Grade Stockdale Cup and Oatley in the 3rd Grade Blunt Cup Grand Finals. In 2nds, St Ives are on a six game winning streak and will be a mighty tough nut to crack - as the Shammies have already experienced in the wet weather catch-up game when St Ives knocked them off, 22-3. Oatley will also prove a difficult proposition in the 3rd Grade Blunt Cup as they have won both of their meetings in the regular season.
The top two on the ladder in the Colts Robertson Cup meet when Newport takes on Oatley. The two sides are no strangers to each other - they met twice in two weeks, in Round 18 and the Major Semi. The Breakers came out on top on both occasions but will have been aggrieved that they lost out on the Minor Premiership by the tightest of margins:
Club |P |W |D |L |F |A |Diff |BP |Pts | |Oatley |18 |14 |1 |3 |619 |188 |431 |13 |71 | |Newport |18 |14 |1 |3 |450 |143 |307 |13 |71 | |
They will be looking to right that in the decider tomorrow, but Oatley will be ready for anything, I’m sure.
Div Three
A bullish St George Clark Cup outfit defeated Minor Premiers Blue Mountains to book a ticket to tomorrow’s big Div Three showdown with Hornsby. Last weekend’s victory was just rewards for a superb end to the season that has seen six straight wins. It was a gut wrenching day for the Mountain men as they were undone in all four grades. Hornsby secured their passage into the GF by also beating the Bluey’s in the major Semi Final giving themselves last weekend off. Will the rest help the Lions or will the warriors from St George take all their momentum into the decider? We are in for a hell of a game at Macquarie Uni in the Clark Cup!
Hawkesbury Valley and Waverley are contesting the Grand Final in each of the Farrant, Campbell and Nicholson Cups. Valley may be considered favourites for all of the encounters after finishing higher on the ladder in each grade. However, in the Campbell Cup Waverley have defeated Valley twice this year, including in the Major Semi just a couple of weeks ago - so 3rd grade might give them their best chance of glory. Valley are undefeated against their opponents in both 2nd and 4th Grade in 2013.
Div Six
The mighty Sydney Grammar Old Boys face the Buzzing Blowflies from Clovelly in the Meldrum Cup Grand Final at David Phillips Field. Reigning premiers Grammar will be looking to hold onto their Meldrum Cup crown while the Blowflies will be hoping to pull off an upset and claim a famous win. Clovelly will be hoping the Division’s top point scorer, James Rowles, has his kicking boots on. The fly-half has scored a remarkable 170 points in the regular season. I reckon this will be a close game, but it’s difficult to crystal ball the result - Will the ‘Cloey Blowies’ cap a marvellous season with a win? Or will the Old Boys of Grammar be too strong and end the dreams of the boys from the beach? Find out from 3pm at David Phillips Field, Banks Ave, Daceyville.
Good luck to all teams participating in the Finals this weekend, do your mates proud!
Trivia
Ali O’Kane answered last week’s trivia correctly. Haberfield in 1990-91 were the last Subbies team to retain the Jeffrey Cup. A great Subbies prize this week, TWO BEER NECKLACES to the Kentwell Cup Lunch on 21st September at T G Millner! Send your answer to wbamatt@ by Monday 5pm to be in with a chance of winning.
This week’s question:
How many tests have been played between the Wallabies and Argentina on Australian soil?
Newport Coaching Position
The Newport Breakers Rugby club is calling for expressions of interest for coaching staff in 2014. Please send enquiries to Gus Hunt at treasurer@.au.
Wallabies Woes
Another heavy defeat, another poor performance. Huntley Mitchell from the Roar Rugby analyses how it all went so wrong...again!
Hawkesbury Valley 10’s Tournament
The Hawkesbury Valley 10’s tournament will take place on 22nd February 2014. For further details take a look at the flyer here.
Social Media
Most clubs now have a social media portal of some sort - be it Twitter, Facebook or Instagram. The Federal Police have introduced a guide that might be helpful when managing these accounts and protecting against unwanted interest. Click here for the guide.
Win 100 Schooners
Green and Gold Rugby are running a competition to win 100 schooners…worth entering.
Ruck off!
A bit of old fashioned rucking never hurt anyone, right?
Masseuse Madness
I think we would all agree that the masseuse/physio is vital to the success of your team in any sport. However, this incident in the Brazilian 4th tier soccer league takes this role to a whole new level.
Tweets
@WhalesRugby Tough weekend for the Whales. We got harpooned. Second chance this weekend
@Cranky_Old_Ref What have #Wallabies been doing in camp for 3-4 weeks? Not working on a game plan, scrums or defence apparently. Clueless so far.
@ForestRugby 15 years since we last won the Barraclough Cup. There will be a tear in the eyes of those that played on that historical day in 1998.
@iainpayten Antony Green says with 50% of the vote in, the Wallabies are set to lose the safe seat of Suncorp.
@subbiesrugby This could be the start of something big tonight! Enjoy
pic.ZkaZ3AcDLU
@subbiesrugby This, on the other hand, should be stopped immediately.
Please. @SydneyIrishRFC pic.RjWKuEgisZ
@subbiesrugby King's OB's waterboy for today's final. (He may be a tad overqualified!) pic.Hsgtp09BuR
@kobweb The match report from the truly epic 4ths semi final encounter vs Barker last Saturday is now online. Have a read:
…
Jokes
Got lost in a corn field today.
It was a-maize-ing.
A barman offered me a whisky for 20 cents.
I said, "That's a cheap shot and you know it."
I found a 6m roll of bubble wrap at work.
The Boss said to just pop it in the corner.
Six hours it took me!
Good luck to all involved this weekend,
Wonderboy Holding
@subbiesrugby
wbamatt@
Holding’s Bits 20 Sep 2013
REVIEWS & PREVIEWS, FINALS PHOTOS, COACHING POSITIONS AND COURSES, PRANKS, INTERVIEWS, BIG HITS, GREAT KICKS, TWEETS AND JOKES
Div One Grand Finals
Venue: T G Millner Field, Eastwood
Cost: $15 per person. Players - remember to bring your Player Pass and photo ID!
View the match day programme here
Kentwell: St Pats v Balmain
What a battle we have on our hands here. St Pats took the Minor Premiership in style and have had a sensational campaign. Balmain have made a late surge, coming into the finals in 4th place only to overturn the challenges of Colleagues and Mosman en route to the Subbies showpiece event. Pats will be searching for their first Kentwell Cup since 1993. Balmain – their first ever. Holding’s Kiss of Death: I reckon Balmain. Just. A draw, I reckon.
Burke: Balmain v Colleagues
Top of the table Balmain face Colleagues in 2nd grade. Both sides won their home games when the two met earlier in the season but the Muzzled Wolves will fancy their chances. The Sky Blues of Colleagues have an esteemed history in the Burke Cup having claimed the title a total of 17 times! There promises to be plenty of points in this tussle.
KoD: Balmain
Barbour: Knox v Colleagues
The Colts game will be quick, energetic and exciting. Colleagues had the upper hand on their Knox rivals last time out in Round 14, however Knox are reigning Premiers and their grasp on the Barbour Cup will surely not be broken without a fight. The speed of Subbies Rep star Richard Woolf will be a huge asset for the Knox boys and the ball will surely be going wide a lot. This should be a sensational game of footy.
KoD: Knox
Whiddon: Knox v Colleagues
Huge favourites Knox are facing a Colleagues side that they have already beaten three times this season. Knox won the Minor Premiership, and are current Third Grade Premiership holders. Everything is pointing towards a Knox win but Colleagues will be keen to add an 11th Whiddon Cup to their already bulging Subbies trophy cabinet. Keep an eye out for an upset here.
KoD: Colleagues
Judd: St Pats v Knox
The Knox boys again feature in the 4th Grade Judd Cup as they tackle Minor Premiers St Pats in the breakfast kick off. (Interesting fact - this is the first Judd Cup GF since 1995 that doesn’t feature either Old Ignatians or Colleagues.) The dew will still be fresh when the fourth graders run out for their finale and both sides will be looking to reward their wives and girlfriends for turning up so early to cheer them on. Can Knox start the day as they mean to go on or will Pats show why they finished top of the tree in the regular season? Ladies and Gents, all to play for at the ungodly hour of 9am.
KoD: Pats
Sutherland: Old Ignatians v Colleagues
Old Iggies and Colleagues face off at the far more respectable time of midday up on Field 2. The Iggies side were top points scorers in the regular season; however the Colleagues defence will be well prepared for their attacking threat, having restricted their opponents to 15 points or less in both previous 2013 encounters.
KoD: Iggies
Grand Finals Wrap
Div Two
The Brothers boys got their reward for their ground-breaking season; they are the Barraclough Premiers for 2013! The Minor Premiers underlined their quality by beating a buoyant Forest side in the Grand Final last Saturday. A final score of 34-10 finalised a campaign that saw just two defeats and gave the club a well deserved Premiership. Jone Tagivetaua had a sensational day scoring a brace for the victors. Petersham got the glory in both the Stockdale and Blunt Cups as they overcame St Ives and Oatley respectively. Oatley also suffered heartbreak in the Colts Robertson Cup as Newport ran riot in the 2nd half to record a 36-13 triumph - although the game was much tighter than that score indicates. In 4th grade, UNSW were comfortable winners over Kings Old Boys in the early match, with a 26-7 win.
Div Three
The Super Saints of St George claimed their first ever Clark Cup Premiership on Saturday with a 37-17 win over Hornsby. The Lions from the north came into the clash as favourites, however they were blown away in a very physical game at Macquarie Uni. St George’s superior strength and a super end to the season gave them the momentum to power past their opponents and secure a famous win. Hawkesbury Valley and Waverley did battle in all three of the lower grades and the day didn’t start well for Valley. Waverley sealed both the Nicholson and Campbell Cups with strong performances as Hawkesbury just didn’t turn up. However, they turned it on in the 2nd Grade Farrant Cup and claimed the trophy with a 21-15 victory.
Div Six
Bzzzzzzzzzz...The Blowflies did it! Clovelly won the 2103 Meldrum Cup at David Phillips Fields with an 18-3 win over reigning Premiers, Sydney Grammar Old Boys. The boys from the beach claimed their first Meldrum Cup Premiership in style in what will go down as an historic year for the club.
Photos Of Your Finals
GeoSnapShot and Bruce Palme Photography have attended the Subbies Finals series to take photos of all the action and the great shots are now available online.
GeoSnapShot:
Division 1 Prelim Finals
Division 2 Grand Finals
Brothers vs Forest
Petersham vs St Ives
Newport vs Oatley
Petersham vs Oatley
UNSW vs King
Division 3 Grand Finals
Previous Weeks’ Photos
Bruce Palme Photography:
Div 3 Grand Finals brucepalme.
Div 1 Grand Finals brucepalme.
And many more from this year brucepalme.
Balmain, We Hardly Knew Ye
Off already? After an amazing season in their maiden campaign in Division One, the club that was re-formed in 2004 is now pushing for higher ground. Balmain is putting its hand up to be included in the ARU’s mystical 3rd tier. Good luck with that.
Trivia
Congratulations to Kurt Girven who won the last Trivia of 2013 by correctly answering that the Wallabies clash with Argentina was the 11th Test on Australian soil between the two sides. Kurt bagged the super prize of two beer necklaces for tomorrow’s Kentwell Cup lunch.
Drummoyne Coaching in 2014
DDRU is seeking a head coach and coaches for all grades for season 2014.
Head coach and Kentwell coaching positions are remunerated.
Please send resumes directly to Gavan Hassett at:
Secretary@.au
Or call 0419 244 132 for more details
Coaching Courses
The ARU is running two coaching courses at the beginning of October:
Foundation Course – a pre-requisite to gain Level 1 coach accreditation.
Date: 5th October
Location: Cranbrook Junior School
Level 2 Coaching Course
Dates: 4th, 5th and 6th October.
Location: Cranbrook Junior School
If you are interested in attending either course, please contact
luke.thiessen@.au
Great Prank
What if your kitchen tap delivered cold beer? These lads made it happen.
This one also made me chuckle...
If At First You Don’t Succeed...
Have another go. Have you ever seen this in a game? I certainly haven’t. However, our Competition Manager witnessed our very own Jake Havebond do something very similar in 2005!
Poor Post Match Interview
This was quite a while ago but still amusing. Saracens Brendan Venter clearly wasn’t happy about having to speak to the media
Foregone Conclusions
Green and Gold Rugby’s excellent writer Hugh Cavill serves up an article about Sydney University’s dominance in the SRU.
Thank You!
A big thanks to you all for reading the column this year, this will be my last for 2013.I thought I might as well finish with a big hit!
Tweets
@SUFC1863 SHUTE SHIELD REVIEW Tim Davidson leads Students to eighth Premiership title in nine starts
pic.jzV5B3ZVQu
@QantasWallabies Two years today till RWC 2015. Will you be going?
pic.NAmiQPOt9E
@MacUniRugbyClub Thanks to all the players, officials and fans who came to Mac Uni for the last three weeks of Finals Rugby.
@FOXRugbyLive How Wallabies could look in 2015
@QantasWallabies Who do you think should have ‘C’ next to their name when we take on Springboks on Saturday 28th September?
pic.ZGvRkTGpwF
@SydneyIrishRFC Want to relive the glory of the grand final or missed the match first time round? Here is the game in full. Big...
@GregGrowden An open letter to James O'Connor
…
@thewesternforce #ThrowbackThursday How many of these Western Force players can you name from our first training session in 2005?
pic.tflEYtK3rv
Jokes
A nose walks into a bar.
The barman says, “I can’t serve you - you’re off your face.”
Experts say men think about sex every 7 seconds.
I eat my hot dogs in 6 seconds, just so it doesn't get weird.
I saw this guy chatting up a cheetah.
I thought, ''He's trying to pull a fast one.''
Enjoy the Grand Finals ………. and the off-season!
Cheers,
Wonderboy Holding
@subbiesrugby
wbamatt@
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