WELSH RUGBY UNION STATEMENT
The Wales team announcement ahead of the RBS 6 Nations opening clash with England at Twickenham on Saturday 6th February is to be rescheduled.
Head coach Warren Gatland had intended to name his side tomorrow, Sunday 31st January, but will now wait pending a possible appeal by Lee Byrne of an independent Disciplinary Committee decision to ban the player for a period of 2 weeks.
The ban was imposed yesterday, Friday 29 January, at a hearing in Dublin after Misconduct complaints were brought by Heineken Cup tournament organiser ERC relating to the round 6 match of the competition between Ospreys and Leicester Tigers the previous week.
Byrne has a period of 72 hours from the time the decision was made to lodge an appeal and is currently taking advice while based at national team headquarters, the WRU National Centre of Excellence at the Vale Resort in Hensol.
A new time and date for the team announcement will be issued when appropriate and no further comment will be made on the subject at this stage.
31.1.10
31.1.10.Byrne lodges Appeal
WELSH RUGBY UNION STATEMENT:
ISSUED: SATURDAY, 30 JANUARY
Lee Byrne has today (Saturday, 30 January) confirmed he will lodge an appeal to Heineken Cup organisers ERC against the sentence he received after pleading guilty to Misconduct during an independent Disciplinary Committee hearing on Friday.
Byrne was banned from rugby for a period of two weeks - ruling him out of Wales' RBS 6 Nations opening clash with England at Twickenham on Saturday, 6 February - after Misconduct complaints were brought relating to the round 6 Heineken Cup match between Ospreys and Leicester Tigers.
The player has been taking legal advice based at national team headquarters, the WRU National Centre of Excellence at the Vale Resort in Hensol, and will lodge the necessary documents for the appeal no later than next Monday.
The Wales team announcement ahead of the clash with England was also re-scheduled today as Head coach Warren Gatland awaits the outcome of the appeal.
A new time and date for the team announcement and further details of the appeal will be issued when appropriate, but no further comment will be made on the subject until the hearing has taken place.
For further information please contact John Williams 07824 357083 / Simon Rimmer 07825 981128
Ends
ISSUED: SATURDAY, 30 JANUARY
Lee Byrne has today (Saturday, 30 January) confirmed he will lodge an appeal to Heineken Cup organisers ERC against the sentence he received after pleading guilty to Misconduct during an independent Disciplinary Committee hearing on Friday.
Byrne was banned from rugby for a period of two weeks - ruling him out of Wales' RBS 6 Nations opening clash with England at Twickenham on Saturday, 6 February - after Misconduct complaints were brought relating to the round 6 Heineken Cup match between Ospreys and Leicester Tigers.
The player has been taking legal advice based at national team headquarters, the WRU National Centre of Excellence at the Vale Resort in Hensol, and will lodge the necessary documents for the appeal no later than next Monday.
The Wales team announcement ahead of the clash with England was also re-scheduled today as Head coach Warren Gatland awaits the outcome of the appeal.
A new time and date for the team announcement and further details of the appeal will be issued when appropriate, but no further comment will be made on the subject until the hearing has taken place.
For further information please contact John Williams 07824 357083 / Simon Rimmer 07825 981128
Ends
29.1.10
29.1.10. Ospreys fined 25k,Byrne banned 14 days
OSPREYS / BYRNE DECISIONS
29-01-2010
Issued by Angélina Lacroix
Ospreys and Lee Byrne Misconduct Complaints Hearing Decision
An independent Disciplinary Committee sat in Dublin today, Friday, 29 January, 2010, to hear Misconduct complaints under the Heineken Cup 2009/10 Disciplinary Rules brought against Ospreys and Ospreys full-back, Lee Byrne (No 15).
The Misconduct complaints, brought by Heineken Cup tournament organiser, ERC, were that Mr Byrne, who had been replaced as a blood substitute in the 67th minute of the Heineken Cup round 6 match v Leicester Tigers at Liberty Stadium on Saturday, 23 January 2010, had then re-entered the pitch without replacing another player and/or without the referee signalling that he may do so.
The independent Disciplinary Committee was chaired by Pat Barriscale (Ireland) and also comprised Mark McParland (Ireland) and Jean-Noel Couraud (France).
Ospreys and Mr Byrne pleaded guilty to the misconduct complaints. During the hearing, the independent Disciplinary Committee heard submissions from representatives of ERC and Ospreys and from a number of witnesses, and considered statements from various individuals and video evidence from the match. The committee also heard submissions from representatives of Leicester Tigers.
The independent Disciplinary Committee found that Mr Byrne had re-entered the pitch without the referee's permission and that he knew or ought to have known that he needed that permission. The committee found that this represented a clear breach of the Substitution Protocol, which forms part of the Heineken Cup 2009/10 Tournament Rules, and that the club could have done more to ensure that such a breach did not occur. However, the committee found that the breach had not been deliberate or premeditated on the part of the club's management and that there had been no material effect on the match.
In the circumstances, the committee imposed a fine of 25,000 euros on the Ospreys and suspended Mr Byrne from playing rugby for a period of two (2) weeks, up to and including Friday, 12 February, 2010. Mr Byrne will be free to play on Saturday, 13 February 2010.
Lee Byrne, the Ospreys and ERC have the right to appeal.
NOTES
Independent Disciplinary Committee / Misconduct Hearings
a) The independent Disciplinary Committee is chosen by the Chairman of the independent Disciplinary Panel, Professor Lorne Crerar.
b) The ERC Disciplinary Officer, Roger O'Connor, presents the case against the club / individual.
c) Both parties to the hearing (ERC and the club / individual) have the right to appeal decisions of the independent Disciplinary Committee. Appeals must be lodged within 72 hours of receiving the full written decision from the Chairman of the independent Disciplinary Committee
d) The full written decision of the independent Disciplinary Committee will be available on www.ercrugby.com/disciplinenews when the disciplinary process is complete.
ENDS
29-01-2010
Issued by Angélina Lacroix
Ospreys and Lee Byrne Misconduct Complaints Hearing Decision
An independent Disciplinary Committee sat in Dublin today, Friday, 29 January, 2010, to hear Misconduct complaints under the Heineken Cup 2009/10 Disciplinary Rules brought against Ospreys and Ospreys full-back, Lee Byrne (No 15).
The Misconduct complaints, brought by Heineken Cup tournament organiser, ERC, were that Mr Byrne, who had been replaced as a blood substitute in the 67th minute of the Heineken Cup round 6 match v Leicester Tigers at Liberty Stadium on Saturday, 23 January 2010, had then re-entered the pitch without replacing another player and/or without the referee signalling that he may do so.
The independent Disciplinary Committee was chaired by Pat Barriscale (Ireland) and also comprised Mark McParland (Ireland) and Jean-Noel Couraud (France).
Ospreys and Mr Byrne pleaded guilty to the misconduct complaints. During the hearing, the independent Disciplinary Committee heard submissions from representatives of ERC and Ospreys and from a number of witnesses, and considered statements from various individuals and video evidence from the match. The committee also heard submissions from representatives of Leicester Tigers.
The independent Disciplinary Committee found that Mr Byrne had re-entered the pitch without the referee's permission and that he knew or ought to have known that he needed that permission. The committee found that this represented a clear breach of the Substitution Protocol, which forms part of the Heineken Cup 2009/10 Tournament Rules, and that the club could have done more to ensure that such a breach did not occur. However, the committee found that the breach had not been deliberate or premeditated on the part of the club's management and that there had been no material effect on the match.
In the circumstances, the committee imposed a fine of 25,000 euros on the Ospreys and suspended Mr Byrne from playing rugby for a period of two (2) weeks, up to and including Friday, 12 February, 2010. Mr Byrne will be free to play on Saturday, 13 February 2010.
Lee Byrne, the Ospreys and ERC have the right to appeal.
NOTES
Independent Disciplinary Committee / Misconduct Hearings
a) The independent Disciplinary Committee is chosen by the Chairman of the independent Disciplinary Panel, Professor Lorne Crerar.
b) The ERC Disciplinary Officer, Roger O'Connor, presents the case against the club / individual.
c) Both parties to the hearing (ERC and the club / individual) have the right to appeal decisions of the independent Disciplinary Committee. Appeals must be lodged within 72 hours of receiving the full written decision from the Chairman of the independent Disciplinary Committee
d) The full written decision of the independent Disciplinary Committee will be available on www.ercrugby.com/disciplinenews when the disciplinary process is complete.
ENDS
29.1.10. Rob Higgitt leads Scarlets at Wasps
Scarlets name team to face London Wasps on Saturday
Dyddiad/Date: Friday 29th January 2010
Cyhoeddwyd ar ran y Scarlets/Issued on behalf of Scarlets
British Lions and Wales hooker Matthew Rees starts for the Scarlets against London Wasps this weekend, after being released by Wales to build up game time before the start of the Six Nations, following his return from injury.
With the Scarlets without their internationals - Stephen Jones, Jonathan Davies, Martin Roberts who joined Wales this week and wing/centre Sean Lamont up in Scotland, the West Wales region is looking to its impressive crop of talented younger players to deliver a win against a strong London Wasps line-up at Adams Park on Saturday afternoon.
The Scarlets, like Wasps are unbeaten in the LV=Cup and both sides top their pools after two rounds. In what promises to be a keenly contested match, both sides have everything to play for in their bid to get to the latter stages of the competition - with the champion being guaranteed a place in next season's Heineken Cup.
The Scarlets have recently hit a rich vein of form, having won their last three matches back-to-back and will be looking to retain their winning ways. The Scarlets currently lead their LV= Cup pool with seven points after a win over Worcester and a hard-fought draw away at Harlequins. Wasps lead their group on eight points after two decisive wins over London Irish and the Dragons.
Scarlets Head Coach Nigel Davies has chosen to rest some key Scarlets players following a packed rugby schedule in December and early January including current captain and no 8 stalwart David Lyons and hooker Ken Owens.
But the long-awaited return to the Scarlets squad of star centre Regan King, who is named on the bench this Saturday, will be a welcome boost to the rugby region and its supporters.
King suffered a serious hamstring injury in March last year and has been out for close to 11 months. The quick-footed and elusive centre, renowned in Europe for his vision, speed and agility is looking forward to getting back onto the field, however the Scarlets Head Coach said it will take time before Regan performs back at his top level.
Davies said: "It's great for us to see Regan back and fit again but we have to recognise and respect just how long he's been out, so we are not expecting a great deal from him in these early games."
North Wales centre Rob Higgitt, 28, is handed the captaincy another LV= Cup game, following his performance leading a youthful Scarlets' side to an impressive 15-15 draw against Harlequins in the competition in early November last year. 19-year-old scrum-half Tavis Knoyle returns from injury to start.
Head Coach Nigel Davies said: "We have brought back a lot of players who haven't played since the last round of LV= Cup games. They played particularly well during that phase of our season and certainly gave us a lift at that time. A number of these players have been itching for another opportunity and will be really up for this game.
"There has been a good energy in this group at the moment, and the younger players shown real character in the last three games. They've taken a lot out of it as individuals and they have contributed a lot to get us in a better position.
"Wasps have lost key players on international duty, but having said that their team will be still be very strong - particularly behind the scrum and it will be a very physical game.
"We expect them to be very competitive, they're a very aggressive group and they look to dominate teams. The physicality of it will be evident and that is the first thing we have to go out and do - to match them physically.
"We knew that would be the case out in Brive last weekend and our pack of forwards fronted up very well. If we give that same level of commitment and endeavour then we give ourselves a chance."
Scarlets selection v London Wasps; LV= Cup Saturday 30th January 2010 (KO 1745) at Adams Park.
15 Daniel Evans, 14 Lee Williams, 13 Gareth Maule, 12 Rob Higgitt (captain), 11 Andy Fenby, 10 Rhys Priestland, 9 Tavis Knoyle, 1 Phil John, 2 Matthew Rees, 3 Deacon Manu, 4 Lou Reed, 5 Damian Welch, 6 Rob McCusker, 7Johnathan Edwards, 8 Josh Turnbull
Replacements: 16 Iestyn Thomas, 17 Emyr Phillips, 18 Rhys Thomas, 19 Vernon Cooper, 20 Richie Pugh, 21 Daniel Newton, 22 Regan King 23 Joe Ajuwa.
Dyddiad/Date: Friday 29th January 2010
Cyhoeddwyd ar ran y Scarlets/Issued on behalf of Scarlets
British Lions and Wales hooker Matthew Rees starts for the Scarlets against London Wasps this weekend, after being released by Wales to build up game time before the start of the Six Nations, following his return from injury.
With the Scarlets without their internationals - Stephen Jones, Jonathan Davies, Martin Roberts who joined Wales this week and wing/centre Sean Lamont up in Scotland, the West Wales region is looking to its impressive crop of talented younger players to deliver a win against a strong London Wasps line-up at Adams Park on Saturday afternoon.
The Scarlets, like Wasps are unbeaten in the LV=Cup and both sides top their pools after two rounds. In what promises to be a keenly contested match, both sides have everything to play for in their bid to get to the latter stages of the competition - with the champion being guaranteed a place in next season's Heineken Cup.
The Scarlets have recently hit a rich vein of form, having won their last three matches back-to-back and will be looking to retain their winning ways. The Scarlets currently lead their LV= Cup pool with seven points after a win over Worcester and a hard-fought draw away at Harlequins. Wasps lead their group on eight points after two decisive wins over London Irish and the Dragons.
Scarlets Head Coach Nigel Davies has chosen to rest some key Scarlets players following a packed rugby schedule in December and early January including current captain and no 8 stalwart David Lyons and hooker Ken Owens.
But the long-awaited return to the Scarlets squad of star centre Regan King, who is named on the bench this Saturday, will be a welcome boost to the rugby region and its supporters.
King suffered a serious hamstring injury in March last year and has been out for close to 11 months. The quick-footed and elusive centre, renowned in Europe for his vision, speed and agility is looking forward to getting back onto the field, however the Scarlets Head Coach said it will take time before Regan performs back at his top level.
Davies said: "It's great for us to see Regan back and fit again but we have to recognise and respect just how long he's been out, so we are not expecting a great deal from him in these early games."
North Wales centre Rob Higgitt, 28, is handed the captaincy another LV= Cup game, following his performance leading a youthful Scarlets' side to an impressive 15-15 draw against Harlequins in the competition in early November last year. 19-year-old scrum-half Tavis Knoyle returns from injury to start.
Head Coach Nigel Davies said: "We have brought back a lot of players who haven't played since the last round of LV= Cup games. They played particularly well during that phase of our season and certainly gave us a lift at that time. A number of these players have been itching for another opportunity and will be really up for this game.
"There has been a good energy in this group at the moment, and the younger players shown real character in the last three games. They've taken a lot out of it as individuals and they have contributed a lot to get us in a better position.
"Wasps have lost key players on international duty, but having said that their team will be still be very strong - particularly behind the scrum and it will be a very physical game.
"We expect them to be very competitive, they're a very aggressive group and they look to dominate teams. The physicality of it will be evident and that is the first thing we have to go out and do - to match them physically.
"We knew that would be the case out in Brive last weekend and our pack of forwards fronted up very well. If we give that same level of commitment and endeavour then we give ourselves a chance."
Scarlets selection v London Wasps; LV= Cup Saturday 30th January 2010 (KO 1745) at Adams Park.
15 Daniel Evans, 14 Lee Williams, 13 Gareth Maule, 12 Rob Higgitt (captain), 11 Andy Fenby, 10 Rhys Priestland, 9 Tavis Knoyle, 1 Phil John, 2 Matthew Rees, 3 Deacon Manu, 4 Lou Reed, 5 Damian Welch, 6 Rob McCusker, 7Johnathan Edwards, 8 Josh Turnbull
Replacements: 16 Iestyn Thomas, 17 Emyr Phillips, 18 Rhys Thomas, 19 Vernon Cooper, 20 Richie Pugh, 21 Daniel Newton, 22 Regan King 23 Joe Ajuwa.
28.1.10
28.1.10. Ospreys Liam Davies off to Ldn Welsh on loan
Scrum-half heads out on loan
Date: Thursday 28th January 2010
Issued on behalf of Ospreys
Liam Davies today completed a loan move to English Championship side London Welsh.
The 23-year old scrum half has joined the Old Deer Park outfit until the end of the season, with a view to getting more game time under his belt.
Elite Performance Director, Andrew Hore, said:
"We have arranged this move to allow Liam the chance to be playing more regular rugby at a good standard. He's not registered in our Heineken Cup squad, and at the moment he is faced with the situation where Jamie Nutbrown and Mike Phillips are both returning from injury and will need to get game time, while we also have Rhys Webb available to us.
"It makes sense for us to look to place Liam somewhere he will get the exposure that he needs to continue his development. Unfortunately, none of the other regions currently require a scrum-half, so we have had to go outside of Wales, but we feel that a spell on loan at London Welsh in the Championship will prove to be very beneficial for Liam.
"He fully understands the reasoning behind the loan, knows that he remains in our long term plans, and that we will be monitoring his progress closely and will be in regular contact with him. The loan agreement includes a call back clause that can be activated at any time should his services be required by the Ospreys. From speaking to him about the loan, I would expect Liam to use this opportunity to show us what he is capable of."
Davies has made four appearances for the Ospreys since signing from French Club Brive last summer, also turning out for Aberavon and Swansea in the Principality Welsh Premiership.
Speaking about the loan, former Wales U21 international Davies said:
"It's a positive move for me and I'm really looking forward to it. I'm still developing as a player so it's important that I'm playing regular rugby, and opportunities are going to be limited for me over the next few months with players like Mike and Jamie coming back. With that in mind, it'll be good to get some regular rugby under my belt at London Welsh, who play good rugby at what is quite a high standard in the Championship.
"It should be a win-win for the Ospreys and for me. The ideal situation for me will be that I can make a positive impact with London Welsh, and then hopefully, I will come back to the Ospreys for next season and really push for a regular place, something that hasn't happened for me here yet."
ENDS
Date: Thursday 28th January 2010
Issued on behalf of Ospreys
Liam Davies today completed a loan move to English Championship side London Welsh.
The 23-year old scrum half has joined the Old Deer Park outfit until the end of the season, with a view to getting more game time under his belt.
Elite Performance Director, Andrew Hore, said:
"We have arranged this move to allow Liam the chance to be playing more regular rugby at a good standard. He's not registered in our Heineken Cup squad, and at the moment he is faced with the situation where Jamie Nutbrown and Mike Phillips are both returning from injury and will need to get game time, while we also have Rhys Webb available to us.
"It makes sense for us to look to place Liam somewhere he will get the exposure that he needs to continue his development. Unfortunately, none of the other regions currently require a scrum-half, so we have had to go outside of Wales, but we feel that a spell on loan at London Welsh in the Championship will prove to be very beneficial for Liam.
"He fully understands the reasoning behind the loan, knows that he remains in our long term plans, and that we will be monitoring his progress closely and will be in regular contact with him. The loan agreement includes a call back clause that can be activated at any time should his services be required by the Ospreys. From speaking to him about the loan, I would expect Liam to use this opportunity to show us what he is capable of."
Davies has made four appearances for the Ospreys since signing from French Club Brive last summer, also turning out for Aberavon and Swansea in the Principality Welsh Premiership.
Speaking about the loan, former Wales U21 international Davies said:
"It's a positive move for me and I'm really looking forward to it. I'm still developing as a player so it's important that I'm playing regular rugby, and opportunities are going to be limited for me over the next few months with players like Mike and Jamie coming back. With that in mind, it'll be good to get some regular rugby under my belt at London Welsh, who play good rugby at what is quite a high standard in the Championship.
"It should be a win-win for the Ospreys and for me. The ideal situation for me will be that I can make a positive impact with London Welsh, and then hopefully, I will come back to the Ospreys for next season and really push for a regular place, something that hasn't happened for me here yet."
ENDS
28.1.10 Kids in for a quid at Blues on Sunday
David Young quotes ahead of Cardiff Blues v Newcastle Falcons
For Immediate release: Thursday 28th January 2010
Issued on behalf of Cardiff Blues
Kids for a quid and students for a fiver at the Cardiff City Stadium
Cardiff Blues take on Newcastle Falcons this Sunday at 3.00pm in what will be a dress rehearsal of April's Amlin Challenge Cup quarter final.
Cardiff Blues have won their last two games both against English opposition, beating Sale and Harlequins. They will be aiming to make it three in a row this Sunday against Newcastle.
Young supporters from throughout the region can come to cheer on their team at the bargain price of only £1, while students can come to watch the game for only £5.
Sunday's match is a great chance to check out April's Amlin opponents and a chance to watch some top class rugby at bargain prices ahead of the Six Nations.
Speaking of the match, Cardiff Blues Director of Rugby, David Young said,
"Obviously last weekend's result against Harlequins was the most important thing, but just as pleasing was the manner in which we got the result. The performance I thought was excellent. We went into the game with quite a bit of pressure on the boys shoulders. We knew realistically we needed the bonus point win and there was a lot at stake."
"The win sets us up for an Amlin Cup quarter final match against Sunday's opponents. Newcastle have a massive scrum, with Carl Hayman who is probably the world's best tight head at the minute. They've got a real attacking scrum as well, which as we've seen, week in week out in the Guinness Premiership, is going to be a massive threat."
"They've got quality behind as well, so they try and get that dominance up front to give them ability to launch their platform from behind. Newcastle is a very difficult place to go and win so it's not going to be easy to get the result up there."
Tickets for the match, priced from only £1 for Under 16's and £5 for students, are available by calling the ticket office on 0845 345 1400.
The team will be announced on www.cardiffblues.com by 12.00pm Friday.
Please note that Save the Children will be holding a special collection at the match for the Haiti Earthquake appeal. Cardiff Blues would like to thank all their supporters for the generosity they have shown with the charity collections so far this season and hope that they continue to support the good causes that we support during the games.
For Immediate release: Thursday 28th January 2010
Issued on behalf of Cardiff Blues
Kids for a quid and students for a fiver at the Cardiff City Stadium
Cardiff Blues take on Newcastle Falcons this Sunday at 3.00pm in what will be a dress rehearsal of April's Amlin Challenge Cup quarter final.
Cardiff Blues have won their last two games both against English opposition, beating Sale and Harlequins. They will be aiming to make it three in a row this Sunday against Newcastle.
Young supporters from throughout the region can come to cheer on their team at the bargain price of only £1, while students can come to watch the game for only £5.
Sunday's match is a great chance to check out April's Amlin opponents and a chance to watch some top class rugby at bargain prices ahead of the Six Nations.
Speaking of the match, Cardiff Blues Director of Rugby, David Young said,
"Obviously last weekend's result against Harlequins was the most important thing, but just as pleasing was the manner in which we got the result. The performance I thought was excellent. We went into the game with quite a bit of pressure on the boys shoulders. We knew realistically we needed the bonus point win and there was a lot at stake."
"The win sets us up for an Amlin Cup quarter final match against Sunday's opponents. Newcastle have a massive scrum, with Carl Hayman who is probably the world's best tight head at the minute. They've got a real attacking scrum as well, which as we've seen, week in week out in the Guinness Premiership, is going to be a massive threat."
"They've got quality behind as well, so they try and get that dominance up front to give them ability to launch their platform from behind. Newcastle is a very difficult place to go and win so it's not going to be easy to get the result up there."
Tickets for the match, priced from only £1 for Under 16's and £5 for students, are available by calling the ticket office on 0845 345 1400.
The team will be announced on www.cardiffblues.com by 12.00pm Friday.
Please note that Save the Children will be holding a special collection at the match for the Haiti Earthquake appeal. Cardiff Blues would like to thank all their supporters for the generosity they have shown with the charity collections so far this season and hope that they continue to support the good causes that we support during the games.
28.1.10 Ospreys team to face Dragons- Tandy makes 100th appearance
Ospreys team to face Newport Gwent Dragons
Date: Thursday 28th January 2010
Issued on behalf of Ospreys
The Ospreys team to Newport Gwent Dragons in the LV= Cup on Friday 29th January 2010 at Rodney Parade, kick off at 7.30pm, will be as follows:-
15 Barry Davies
14 Kristian Phillips
13 Sonny Parker
12 Ashley Beck
11 Shane Williams
10 Gareth Owen
9 Jamie Nutbrown
1 Ryan Bevington
2 Ed Shervington
3 Adam Jones
4 Andy Lloyd
5 Ian Evans
6 Ben Lewis
7 Steve Tandy (Capt)
8 Tom Smith
Replacements:
16 Marc Breeze
17 Craig Mitchell
18 Cai Griffiths
19 James Goode
20 James King
21 Rhys Webb
22 Matthew Jarvis
23 Tom Prydie
Steve Tandy makes his 100th appearance for the region, becoming the 11th player to reach a century of Ospreys caps.
Ospreys Coach Jonathan Humphreys said:
"With 15 players away on international duty, the next few weeks promise to be an exciting time for this group of players with the challenge of the LV= Cup followed by two important games as we look to secure a place in the end of season-play-offs. It's certainly going to be an interesting time, particularly with so many younger players coming into contention during this period looking to show what they can do and stake a claim for a place.
"Our options for this game have been enhanced by Wales allowing four players to come back to us. In the case of Shane and Adam, it is clear that they need more game time after lengthy spells on the sidelines, while the likes of Tom and Kristian were always penciled in for involvement this weekend so we are happy to welcome them back.
"At the other end of the scale, we have Steve Tandy making his 100th appearance for the region and captaining the team for the first time. One of the original Ospreys, Steve has been, and continues to be, a tremendous servant to the region, and along with the likes of Andy Lloyd and Sonny Parker will have an important part to play over the coming weeks as one of the senior players in the group.
"I've no doubt that the Dragons will be looking forward to welcoming what they perceive to be an under strength Ospreys side to Rodney Parade, but we are building a squad that can compete on all fronts here and we will go into the game confident that we have the capability of going there and performing, so I've no doubt it should be good game."
Forthcoming Fixtures
Fri 29th Jan - Newport Gwent Dragons V Ospreys - LV= Cup - Rodney Parade - 7.30pm
Thurs 4th Feb - Ospreys V Leeds Carnegie - LV= Cup - Liberty Stadium - 7.35pm
Sun 21st Feb - Ospreys V Connacht - Magners League - Liberty Stadium - 5.00pm
Sun 7th Mar - Edinburgh V Ospreys - Magners League - Murrayfield - 2.00pm
Sat 27th Mar - Newport Gwent Dragons V Ospreys - Magners League - Rodney Parade - 6.30pm
Date: Thursday 28th January 2010
Issued on behalf of Ospreys
The Ospreys team to Newport Gwent Dragons in the LV= Cup on Friday 29th January 2010 at Rodney Parade, kick off at 7.30pm, will be as follows:-
15 Barry Davies
14 Kristian Phillips
13 Sonny Parker
12 Ashley Beck
11 Shane Williams
10 Gareth Owen
9 Jamie Nutbrown
1 Ryan Bevington
2 Ed Shervington
3 Adam Jones
4 Andy Lloyd
5 Ian Evans
6 Ben Lewis
7 Steve Tandy (Capt)
8 Tom Smith
Replacements:
16 Marc Breeze
17 Craig Mitchell
18 Cai Griffiths
19 James Goode
20 James King
21 Rhys Webb
22 Matthew Jarvis
23 Tom Prydie
Steve Tandy makes his 100th appearance for the region, becoming the 11th player to reach a century of Ospreys caps.
Ospreys Coach Jonathan Humphreys said:
"With 15 players away on international duty, the next few weeks promise to be an exciting time for this group of players with the challenge of the LV= Cup followed by two important games as we look to secure a place in the end of season-play-offs. It's certainly going to be an interesting time, particularly with so many younger players coming into contention during this period looking to show what they can do and stake a claim for a place.
"Our options for this game have been enhanced by Wales allowing four players to come back to us. In the case of Shane and Adam, it is clear that they need more game time after lengthy spells on the sidelines, while the likes of Tom and Kristian were always penciled in for involvement this weekend so we are happy to welcome them back.
"At the other end of the scale, we have Steve Tandy making his 100th appearance for the region and captaining the team for the first time. One of the original Ospreys, Steve has been, and continues to be, a tremendous servant to the region, and along with the likes of Andy Lloyd and Sonny Parker will have an important part to play over the coming weeks as one of the senior players in the group.
"I've no doubt that the Dragons will be looking forward to welcoming what they perceive to be an under strength Ospreys side to Rodney Parade, but we are building a squad that can compete on all fronts here and we will go into the game confident that we have the capability of going there and performing, so I've no doubt it should be good game."
Forthcoming Fixtures
Fri 29th Jan - Newport Gwent Dragons V Ospreys - LV= Cup - Rodney Parade - 7.30pm
Thurs 4th Feb - Ospreys V Leeds Carnegie - LV= Cup - Liberty Stadium - 7.35pm
Sun 21st Feb - Ospreys V Connacht - Magners League - Liberty Stadium - 5.00pm
Sun 7th Mar - Edinburgh V Ospreys - Magners League - Murrayfield - 2.00pm
Sat 27th Mar - Newport Gwent Dragons V Ospreys - Magners League - Rodney Parade - 6.30pm
28.1.10. Dragons team v Ospreys
The Dragons will be boosted by the return of Danny Lydiate to the side on Friday night as the Men of Gwent take on the Ospreys in the LV= Cup (7:30pm)
Steve Jones will play at hooker with Cross Keys number 2 Lloyd Burns providing cover on the bench as captain Tom Willis in rested.
Martyn Thomas starts at fullback as Jason Tovey moves to outside half.
Dragons Team for Ospreys
Martyn Thomas, Will Harries, Matthew Watkins, Ashley Smith (C), Aled Brew, Jason Tovey, Wayne Evans, Ali Mckenzie, Steve Jones, Pat Palmer, Adam Jones, Hoani MacDonald, Gavin Thomas, James Harris, Grant Webb.
Replacements
Lloyd Burns, Aaron Coundley, Ben Castle, Rob Sidoli, Danny Lydiate, James Leadbeater, James Arlidge, Richard Fussell.
Steve Jones will play at hooker with Cross Keys number 2 Lloyd Burns providing cover on the bench as captain Tom Willis in rested.
Martyn Thomas starts at fullback as Jason Tovey moves to outside half.
Dragons Team for Ospreys
Martyn Thomas, Will Harries, Matthew Watkins, Ashley Smith (C), Aled Brew, Jason Tovey, Wayne Evans, Ali Mckenzie, Steve Jones, Pat Palmer, Adam Jones, Hoani MacDonald, Gavin Thomas, James Harris, Grant Webb.
Replacements
Lloyd Burns, Aaron Coundley, Ben Castle, Rob Sidoli, Danny Lydiate, James Leadbeater, James Arlidge, Richard Fussell.
27.1.10
27.1.10 Ospreys Hearing arrangements
OSPREYS HEARING
27-01-2010
Issued by Angélina Lacroix
ERC Disciplinary Officer, Roger O'Connor, has now completed his investigation into the allegation that the Ospreys had 16 players on the pitch during the second half of the Heineken Cup Pool 3 Round 6 match between the Ospreys and Leicester Tigers at the Liberty Stadium, Swansea, on Saturday, 23 January 2010.
As part of his investigation he reviewed statements from the Ospreys, Leicester Tigers and the Match Officials and also reviewed footage of the incident.
Following his investigation the Disciplinary Officer has made Misconduct complaints against Ospreys full back Lee Byrne (No 15) and the Ospreys club.
The independent Disciplinary Committee appointed to hear the case in Dublin on Friday, 29 January, 2010, will be chaired by Pat Barriscale (Ireland), and also include Jean-Noel Couraud (France) and Mark McParland (Ireland).
ENDS
27-01-2010
Issued by Angélina Lacroix
ERC Disciplinary Officer, Roger O'Connor, has now completed his investigation into the allegation that the Ospreys had 16 players on the pitch during the second half of the Heineken Cup Pool 3 Round 6 match between the Ospreys and Leicester Tigers at the Liberty Stadium, Swansea, on Saturday, 23 January 2010.
As part of his investigation he reviewed statements from the Ospreys, Leicester Tigers and the Match Officials and also reviewed footage of the incident.
Following his investigation the Disciplinary Officer has made Misconduct complaints against Ospreys full back Lee Byrne (No 15) and the Ospreys club.
The independent Disciplinary Committee appointed to hear the case in Dublin on Friday, 29 January, 2010, will be chaired by Pat Barriscale (Ireland), and also include Jean-Noel Couraud (France) and Mark McParland (Ireland).
ENDS
26.1.10
26.1.10. Smith leads Dragons against Ospreys
Dragons centre Ashley Smith will captain the side as they take on the Ospreys in the LV= Cup at Rodney Parade on Friday night (7:30pm). Cross Keys hooker Lloyd Burns has joined the squad as Captain Tom Willis is rested.
Rising star James Leadbeater has been named for the third time this season since making his senior debut against Biarritz last month as All Black Danny Lee undergoes scheduled surgery on his shoulder.
Dragons Squad for Ospreys
Backs
Jason Tovey, Martyn Thomas Aled Brew, Will Harries, Richard Fussell, Ashley Smith (c), Matthew Watkins, James Arlidge, James Leadbeater, Wayne Evans.
Forwards
Pat Palmer, Aaron Coundley, Ben Castle, Ali McKenzie, Lloyd Burns, Steve Jones, Rob Sidoli, Hoani MacDonald, Adam Jones, Lewis Evans, Gavin Thomas, James Harris, Grant Webb.
Rising star James Leadbeater has been named for the third time this season since making his senior debut against Biarritz last month as All Black Danny Lee undergoes scheduled surgery on his shoulder.
Dragons Squad for Ospreys
Backs
Jason Tovey, Martyn Thomas Aled Brew, Will Harries, Richard Fussell, Ashley Smith (c), Matthew Watkins, James Arlidge, James Leadbeater, Wayne Evans.
Forwards
Pat Palmer, Aaron Coundley, Ben Castle, Ali McKenzie, Lloyd Burns, Steve Jones, Rob Sidoli, Hoani MacDonald, Adam Jones, Lewis Evans, Gavin Thomas, James Harris, Grant Webb.
26.1.10. Pl;ayers release for Club matches
PRESS RELEASE FROM WELSH RUGBY UNION
ISSUED 26 JANUARY, 2010
Wales will release seven RBS 6 Nations squad players back to Regional rugby this weekend in order to give them game-time before the Championship opener against England at Twickenham a week on Saturday.
Ospreys prop Adam Jones, wing Shane Williams and young backs Kristian Phillips and Tom Prydie will be available for the LV-Cup meeting with the Dragons on Friday night (17.30) and Scarlets hooker Matthew Rees returns in time to travel to face London Wasps on Saturday (17.45).
Tom Shanklin and Sam Warburton will boost the Blues backline and back row respectively as they host Newcastle Falcons on Sunday (1500).
"There are a couple of players who have made recent returns from injury and are in need of game time so for them it has been an easy decision to make," said Wales head coach Warren Gatland.
"It doesn't get any bigger than a visit to Twickenham to start off a Six Nations campaign and we must make sure we get our preparation exactly right.
"That means some players remain in camp for the fortnight and there are others who will benefit from seeing some senior rugby action this weekend."
English premiership prop duo Eifion Lewis-Roberts and Rhys Gill will also return to club rugby this Friday night, Gill's Saracens head to Leeds Carnegie and Sale Sharks host Northampton Saints.
LV= Cup Round Three Fixtures:
Friday, January 29
19:30, Newport Gwent Dragons v Ospreys (S4C)
19:30, Leeds Carnegie v Saracens
19:45, Sale Sharks v Northampton Saints
Saturday, January 30
15:00, Gloucester Rugby v Worcester Warriors
17:45, London Wasps v Scarlets (Sky)
Sunday, January 31,
15:00, Cardiff Blues v Newcastle Falcons
15:00, London Irish v Harlequins
ISSUED 26 JANUARY, 2010
Wales will release seven RBS 6 Nations squad players back to Regional rugby this weekend in order to give them game-time before the Championship opener against England at Twickenham a week on Saturday.
Ospreys prop Adam Jones, wing Shane Williams and young backs Kristian Phillips and Tom Prydie will be available for the LV-Cup meeting with the Dragons on Friday night (17.30) and Scarlets hooker Matthew Rees returns in time to travel to face London Wasps on Saturday (17.45).
Tom Shanklin and Sam Warburton will boost the Blues backline and back row respectively as they host Newcastle Falcons on Sunday (1500).
"There are a couple of players who have made recent returns from injury and are in need of game time so for them it has been an easy decision to make," said Wales head coach Warren Gatland.
"It doesn't get any bigger than a visit to Twickenham to start off a Six Nations campaign and we must make sure we get our preparation exactly right.
"That means some players remain in camp for the fortnight and there are others who will benefit from seeing some senior rugby action this weekend."
English premiership prop duo Eifion Lewis-Roberts and Rhys Gill will also return to club rugby this Friday night, Gill's Saracens head to Leeds Carnegie and Sale Sharks host Northampton Saints.
LV= Cup Round Three Fixtures:
Friday, January 29
19:30, Newport Gwent Dragons v Ospreys (S4C)
19:30, Leeds Carnegie v Saracens
19:45, Sale Sharks v Northampton Saints
Saturday, January 30
15:00, Gloucester Rugby v Worcester Warriors
17:45, London Wasps v Scarlets (Sky)
Sunday, January 31,
15:00, Cardiff Blues v Newcastle Falcons
15:00, London Irish v Harlequins
25.1.10
25.1.10 Ospreys Humphreys set for Head Coach role for a week
Humphreys set for Head Coach role
Date: Monday 25th January 2010
Issued on behalf of Ospreys
The Ospreys are set for a coaching reshuffle during the build-up to Friday's LV= Cup clash with Newport Gwent Dragons, with Jonathan Humphreys stepping up to take the reins as Head Coach for the week.
The new-look coaching team will also see Filo Tiatia being handed the responsibilities of Forwards Coach, with Skills Coach Gruff Rees taking the role of Backs Coach ahead of the game, with current Head Coach Sean Holley being temporarily elevated to Director of Coaching.
The job swap comes as part of the Ospreys forward thinking coach development programme, which is aimed at creating a long lasting legacy that will help to create a sustainable region on and off the pitch.
Humphreys has already begun his stint as Head Coach by leading a number of session planning meetings with his colleagues, but the real step-up comes this week in the build-up to the Welsh derby when he will take full responsibility for team, leading training sessions ahead of the match with the assistance of Tiatia and Rees, before he takes charge on the day of the game itself.
Speaking about the experience, Humphreys said:
"It's a chance for me to head things up in a live environment with Filo and Gruff, and it's going to be an opportunity for the three of us to go outside of our normal fields of responsibility, to step outside of the comfort zone. I'm looking forward to stepping up to the challenge and taking a wider view of things, moving away from the set-piece area to look at the bigger picture in terms of the Ospreys game.
"Organisationally, it's going to be tough. It's not a dead week, as we have a competitive Welsh derby at the end of it, and everything will have to be carried out as normal to ensure that preparations for the game don't suffer in anyway, so the pressure is really on. I have to learn new things and really hit the ground running when it comes to the day-to-day responsibilities of what Sean usually has to do during the week but it's going to be an exciting week, for me personally and for Filo and Gruff as well, who will also have to take a step into new territory."
Humphreys says that the coaching development pathway is an important element of the ongoing work at the region to create a stronger rugby environment, and that by allowing senior coaches to gain these new experiences, the Ospreys are safeguarding the future. He added:
"Everybody who goes down the path of a coaching career will have aspirations of being a Head Coach eventually I'd imagine. It's important to have that ambition. But, with that, comes a level of expertise and experience, which can be very difficult to come by. It's certainly not something that you can just learn from a textbook, you have to get your hands dirty on the job, so to speak.
"I'm grateful to the Ospreys for giving me this opportunity. Horie backed myself and Sean last year at a time when a lot of people may have gone out there and opted for someone with more experience, as he believes that development from within is the way forward for the region. He's been true to his word, and this is an example of how he is allowing us to continue developing on the job, encouraging all the coaches employed by the region to learn new skills. In the long term, by giving us these experiences, he is allowing us to become better coaches and that has to be good for the organisation. It's what is happening throughout the Ospreys, there's a coach development strategy that runs right the way down the age-grade teams, the Districts and the Clubs, and it can only be a benefit for everyone involved.
"It would be very easy for the top man to protect his secrets and say 'this is my domain', but long term that would be detrimental. Johnno isn't like that at all, he is happy to share things, happy to talk through issues, and with Horie, he will be taking an overview of how this next week goes and then feeding back to us. It would be easy for the people at the top to feel threatened, but you can't threaten someone like Johnno. He's been there, done it, so to speak, he must have about 50 years of experience behind him by now!
"This is completely what this organisation is about. It's a very open management structure, there's no question of stepping on anybody's toes or taking responsibility off them. I'm sure it won't be the last time that we are able to try something like this, which will be an invaluable experience that will help to build a stronger coaching team all round."
According to Andrew Hore, the activities this week are just the latest examples of the Ospreys commitment to development from within:
"We have made a long-term commitment to develop the best talent from within the region, and that counts for coaches as well as players. There are a number of initiatives already in place, such as ORCA, a discussion group for all Level 3 coaches and above in the region, the popular Coaching Seminars that take place across the region, and a new programme which has allowed our age-grade coaches to shadow the senior coaching team on and around matchday to get a real taste of like at the sharp end.
"It's important that we don't neglect the development needs of our more senior coaches, which is why we are implementing this initiative. There has been a lot spoken about the LV= Cup being a great tool for the development of our younger players who will be getting some valuable exposure to this level of rugby, but the same is true about our coaches. These guys have been working hard in our elite development pathway which is very different to any other club or region in Wales, and deserve the opportunity to step up for this week."
"For Sean, who will be stepping into Scott Johnson's shoes, Jonathan, Filo and Gruff, this will be a fantastic opportunity to really get their teeth into new roles, albeit temporarily, allowing them to see for themselves exactly what areas they need to work on before they are ready for that next step up. For us to create long-term sustainable success at the region, we have to work hard to ensure that everybody in the organisation is afforded the opportunity to develop fully, and this is just one step towards that.
"It is quite clear that if we can produce a better standard of coach then, in turn, we will produce a better standard of player."
ENDS
Date: Monday 25th January 2010
Issued on behalf of Ospreys
The Ospreys are set for a coaching reshuffle during the build-up to Friday's LV= Cup clash with Newport Gwent Dragons, with Jonathan Humphreys stepping up to take the reins as Head Coach for the week.
The new-look coaching team will also see Filo Tiatia being handed the responsibilities of Forwards Coach, with Skills Coach Gruff Rees taking the role of Backs Coach ahead of the game, with current Head Coach Sean Holley being temporarily elevated to Director of Coaching.
The job swap comes as part of the Ospreys forward thinking coach development programme, which is aimed at creating a long lasting legacy that will help to create a sustainable region on and off the pitch.
Humphreys has already begun his stint as Head Coach by leading a number of session planning meetings with his colleagues, but the real step-up comes this week in the build-up to the Welsh derby when he will take full responsibility for team, leading training sessions ahead of the match with the assistance of Tiatia and Rees, before he takes charge on the day of the game itself.
Speaking about the experience, Humphreys said:
"It's a chance for me to head things up in a live environment with Filo and Gruff, and it's going to be an opportunity for the three of us to go outside of our normal fields of responsibility, to step outside of the comfort zone. I'm looking forward to stepping up to the challenge and taking a wider view of things, moving away from the set-piece area to look at the bigger picture in terms of the Ospreys game.
"Organisationally, it's going to be tough. It's not a dead week, as we have a competitive Welsh derby at the end of it, and everything will have to be carried out as normal to ensure that preparations for the game don't suffer in anyway, so the pressure is really on. I have to learn new things and really hit the ground running when it comes to the day-to-day responsibilities of what Sean usually has to do during the week but it's going to be an exciting week, for me personally and for Filo and Gruff as well, who will also have to take a step into new territory."
Humphreys says that the coaching development pathway is an important element of the ongoing work at the region to create a stronger rugby environment, and that by allowing senior coaches to gain these new experiences, the Ospreys are safeguarding the future. He added:
"Everybody who goes down the path of a coaching career will have aspirations of being a Head Coach eventually I'd imagine. It's important to have that ambition. But, with that, comes a level of expertise and experience, which can be very difficult to come by. It's certainly not something that you can just learn from a textbook, you have to get your hands dirty on the job, so to speak.
"I'm grateful to the Ospreys for giving me this opportunity. Horie backed myself and Sean last year at a time when a lot of people may have gone out there and opted for someone with more experience, as he believes that development from within is the way forward for the region. He's been true to his word, and this is an example of how he is allowing us to continue developing on the job, encouraging all the coaches employed by the region to learn new skills. In the long term, by giving us these experiences, he is allowing us to become better coaches and that has to be good for the organisation. It's what is happening throughout the Ospreys, there's a coach development strategy that runs right the way down the age-grade teams, the Districts and the Clubs, and it can only be a benefit for everyone involved.
"It would be very easy for the top man to protect his secrets and say 'this is my domain', but long term that would be detrimental. Johnno isn't like that at all, he is happy to share things, happy to talk through issues, and with Horie, he will be taking an overview of how this next week goes and then feeding back to us. It would be easy for the people at the top to feel threatened, but you can't threaten someone like Johnno. He's been there, done it, so to speak, he must have about 50 years of experience behind him by now!
"This is completely what this organisation is about. It's a very open management structure, there's no question of stepping on anybody's toes or taking responsibility off them. I'm sure it won't be the last time that we are able to try something like this, which will be an invaluable experience that will help to build a stronger coaching team all round."
According to Andrew Hore, the activities this week are just the latest examples of the Ospreys commitment to development from within:
"We have made a long-term commitment to develop the best talent from within the region, and that counts for coaches as well as players. There are a number of initiatives already in place, such as ORCA, a discussion group for all Level 3 coaches and above in the region, the popular Coaching Seminars that take place across the region, and a new programme which has allowed our age-grade coaches to shadow the senior coaching team on and around matchday to get a real taste of like at the sharp end.
"It's important that we don't neglect the development needs of our more senior coaches, which is why we are implementing this initiative. There has been a lot spoken about the LV= Cup being a great tool for the development of our younger players who will be getting some valuable exposure to this level of rugby, but the same is true about our coaches. These guys have been working hard in our elite development pathway which is very different to any other club or region in Wales, and deserve the opportunity to step up for this week."
"For Sean, who will be stepping into Scott Johnson's shoes, Jonathan, Filo and Gruff, this will be a fantastic opportunity to really get their teeth into new roles, albeit temporarily, allowing them to see for themselves exactly what areas they need to work on before they are ready for that next step up. For us to create long-term sustainable success at the region, we have to work hard to ensure that everybody in the organisation is afforded the opportunity to develop fully, and this is just one step towards that.
"It is quite clear that if we can produce a better standard of coach then, in turn, we will produce a better standard of player."
ENDS
24.1.10
24.1.10. Scarlets draw Toulon in Quarters of Amlin Cup
Scarlets face Toulon in quarters of Amlin
Dyddiad/Date: Sunday 24th January 2010
Cyhoeddwyd ar ran y Scarlets/Issued on behalf of Scarlets
The Scarlets will face another French test after securing their place in the quarter-finals of the Amlin Challenge Cup this weekend with a win in Brive.
The Scarlets will play Toulon on the 8/9/10 of April in the Stade Felix-Mayol in the South of France against a strong French club with a great home record.
However, with the Scarlets' away results as successful as their home form in this season's Heineken Cup with two impressive wins as visitors against London Irish and Brive, Head Coach Nigel Davies said the team would have a lot of belief they can get a result.
He said "It is going to be a challenge to go there, playing French teams in their home grounds is never easy and Toulon are a quality side and a big budget playing squad and some very good players - so it will be difficult.
"Saying that, our team has had great away experiences in this season's Heineken Cup campaign and so there will be a certain amount of belief within our group that we can get a result.
"We've just encountered what it can be like to play French sides at home and I'm sure, like Brive, there will be a passionate French crowd, plenty of exciting rugby and a team fiercely defending a strong home record."
The Scarlets were the first Welsh region to secure a win against Brive in Europe on Saturday afternoon.
He said: "Winning away from home is all about belief and the desire to win and that is what our group of players has shown both at London Irish and Brive, who also have good home records. The result on Saturday was great effort by the team - particularly the younger players who really stood up to the pressure Brive put on us.
"We are just delighted to be in the quarter-finals of a European competition and will be looking forward to the quater-final in April.
"From where we have come from in year one of our rebuilding process, to now be in a position where we are a couple of games away from a final in Europe is a massive achievement for this squad.
"We've come back from mid December with three back-to-back wins and I've been proud of how the boys have performed recently and are developing as a group."
And commenting on the move of the third, fourth and fifth best Heineken Cup pool runners-up into the latter stages of the Amlin competiton, Davies said:
"I think it's great for the profile of both the competitions and for the clubs involved because it adds to the season, with plenty to play for going forward. The Amlin Challenge Cup has had some good sides competing - with the likes of top placed Guinness Premiership teams like Saracens and Newcastle."
And there will be plenty for the Scarlets travelling support to enjoy in the South of France in April with a number of star attractions in the big spending Toulon side including England's Jonny Wilkinson who joined their ranks last summer. There will be a family reunion too, for two Scottish international brothers as Scarlets wing-turned centre Sean Lamont hooks up with younger brother Rory Lamont who joined Toulon this season at full-back.
Toulon are currently 6th in the French Top 14 championship behind leaders Clermont as well as Castres and Toulose.
Other Amlin Challenge Cup quarter-finals include:
Connacht v Bourgoin
Wasps v Gloucester
Newcastle v Cardiff Blues
Dyddiad/Date: Sunday 24th January 2010
Cyhoeddwyd ar ran y Scarlets/Issued on behalf of Scarlets
The Scarlets will face another French test after securing their place in the quarter-finals of the Amlin Challenge Cup this weekend with a win in Brive.
The Scarlets will play Toulon on the 8/9/10 of April in the Stade Felix-Mayol in the South of France against a strong French club with a great home record.
However, with the Scarlets' away results as successful as their home form in this season's Heineken Cup with two impressive wins as visitors against London Irish and Brive, Head Coach Nigel Davies said the team would have a lot of belief they can get a result.
He said "It is going to be a challenge to go there, playing French teams in their home grounds is never easy and Toulon are a quality side and a big budget playing squad and some very good players - so it will be difficult.
"Saying that, our team has had great away experiences in this season's Heineken Cup campaign and so there will be a certain amount of belief within our group that we can get a result.
"We've just encountered what it can be like to play French sides at home and I'm sure, like Brive, there will be a passionate French crowd, plenty of exciting rugby and a team fiercely defending a strong home record."
The Scarlets were the first Welsh region to secure a win against Brive in Europe on Saturday afternoon.
He said: "Winning away from home is all about belief and the desire to win and that is what our group of players has shown both at London Irish and Brive, who also have good home records. The result on Saturday was great effort by the team - particularly the younger players who really stood up to the pressure Brive put on us.
"We are just delighted to be in the quarter-finals of a European competition and will be looking forward to the quater-final in April.
"From where we have come from in year one of our rebuilding process, to now be in a position where we are a couple of games away from a final in Europe is a massive achievement for this squad.
"We've come back from mid December with three back-to-back wins and I've been proud of how the boys have performed recently and are developing as a group."
And commenting on the move of the third, fourth and fifth best Heineken Cup pool runners-up into the latter stages of the Amlin competiton, Davies said:
"I think it's great for the profile of both the competitions and for the clubs involved because it adds to the season, with plenty to play for going forward. The Amlin Challenge Cup has had some good sides competing - with the likes of top placed Guinness Premiership teams like Saracens and Newcastle."
And there will be plenty for the Scarlets travelling support to enjoy in the South of France in April with a number of star attractions in the big spending Toulon side including England's Jonny Wilkinson who joined their ranks last summer. There will be a family reunion too, for two Scottish international brothers as Scarlets wing-turned centre Sean Lamont hooks up with younger brother Rory Lamont who joined Toulon this season at full-back.
Toulon are currently 6th in the French Top 14 championship behind leaders Clermont as well as Castres and Toulose.
Other Amlin Challenge Cup quarter-finals include:
Connacht v Bourgoin
Wasps v Gloucester
Newcastle v Cardiff Blues
24.01.10 Protest mars Ospreys’ march to quarter finals Jan 24 2010
EVEN when they qualify for the Heineken Cup quarter-finals, the Ospreys cannot help but make things difficult for themselves.Read http://www.walesonline.co.uk/
22.1.10
22.1.10. Shane starts for Ospreys crunch match v Tigers
Ospreys team to face Leicester Tigers
Date: Friday 22nd January 2010Issued on behalf of Ospreys
The Ospreys team to Leicester Tigers in the Heineken Cup on Saturday 23rd January 2010 at Liberty Stadium, kick off at 1.35pm, will be as follows:-
15 Lee Byrne
14 Tommy Bowe
13 Andrew Bishop
12 James Hook
11 Shane Williams
10 Dan Biggar
9 Ricky Januarie
1 Paul James
2 Richard Hibbard
3 Adam Jones
4 Alun-Wyn Jones
5 Jonathan Thomas
6 Jerry Collins
7 Marty Holah
8 Ryan Jones (Capt)
Replacements:
16 Huw Bennett
17 Ryan Bevington
18 Cai Griffiths
19 Ian Gough
20 Filo Tiatia
21 Jamie Nutbrown
22 Sonny Parker
23 Nikki Walker
The following players were not considered because of injury:
Craig Mitchell - fractured rib
Duncan Jones - broken bone in foot
Mike Phillips - ankle ligament
Tom Isaacs - shoulder
Conor McInerney - knee
Lyndon Bateman - knee
Scott Baldwin - hernia
Ospreys skipper, Ryan Jones, said:
"Saturday's game promises to be an great occasion, an exciting afternoon and a great game between two sides slugging it out for the big prize. We know what we need to do, and that is get our own house in order after the disappointment last weekend, make sure we get the little things right, and with the necessary improvement in certain areas that we have been working on, we have to have confidence and faith in our ability and gameplan.
"We've certainly built up a rivalry with Leicester over the last few seasons, and all our games tend to be tight scorelines with not much to separate us, and they are always incident packed so I'd imagine it's going to be quite a spectacle. What's gone before won't be of any concerns, it's what we do on Saturday that matters, and we want to make sure that come half past three we still have an interest in this year's Heineken Cup.
"We know that we are going to have a big crowd at the Liberty Stadium, providing us with their usual passionate support. As a group of players, we want to reward them for that backing and send them back to the Village after the game with smiles on their faces, allowing them to celebrate. To do that, know that we'll have to keep our focus and discipline, and play the match, not the occasion."
Date: Friday 22nd January 2010Issued on behalf of Ospreys
The Ospreys team to Leicester Tigers in the Heineken Cup on Saturday 23rd January 2010 at Liberty Stadium, kick off at 1.35pm, will be as follows:-
15 Lee Byrne
14 Tommy Bowe
13 Andrew Bishop
12 James Hook
11 Shane Williams
10 Dan Biggar
9 Ricky Januarie
1 Paul James
2 Richard Hibbard
3 Adam Jones
4 Alun-Wyn Jones
5 Jonathan Thomas
6 Jerry Collins
7 Marty Holah
8 Ryan Jones (Capt)
Replacements:
16 Huw Bennett
17 Ryan Bevington
18 Cai Griffiths
19 Ian Gough
20 Filo Tiatia
21 Jamie Nutbrown
22 Sonny Parker
23 Nikki Walker
The following players were not considered because of injury:
Craig Mitchell - fractured rib
Duncan Jones - broken bone in foot
Mike Phillips - ankle ligament
Tom Isaacs - shoulder
Conor McInerney - knee
Lyndon Bateman - knee
Scott Baldwin - hernia
Ospreys skipper, Ryan Jones, said:
"Saturday's game promises to be an great occasion, an exciting afternoon and a great game between two sides slugging it out for the big prize. We know what we need to do, and that is get our own house in order after the disappointment last weekend, make sure we get the little things right, and with the necessary improvement in certain areas that we have been working on, we have to have confidence and faith in our ability and gameplan.
"We've certainly built up a rivalry with Leicester over the last few seasons, and all our games tend to be tight scorelines with not much to separate us, and they are always incident packed so I'd imagine it's going to be quite a spectacle. What's gone before won't be of any concerns, it's what we do on Saturday that matters, and we want to make sure that come half past three we still have an interest in this year's Heineken Cup.
"We know that we are going to have a big crowd at the Liberty Stadium, providing us with their usual passionate support. As a group of players, we want to reward them for that backing and send them back to the Village after the game with smiles on their faces, allowing them to celebrate. To do that, know that we'll have to keep our focus and discipline, and play the match, not the occasion."
22.1.10 Dragons team to face Gloucester
Dragons Scrum half Wayne Evans has recovered from a knee injury to take up a spot in the starting line-up for Sunday’s Heineken Cup round six game against Gloucester at Rodney Parade (12:45pm)
Prop Ben Castle and centre Ashley Smith who have both returned from long injury lay-offs will start on the bench. Whilst back row Danny Lydiate and lock Luke Charteris also start for their last regional outing before joining the Welsh squad next week.
Following the moved game against Biarritz before Christmas, the Dragons have invited all supporters who attended the match at Parc y Scarlets to enjoy the Gloucester match for free as a thank you for their exceptional support under difficult circumstances. Ticket holders simply need to present their ticket stubs from the match to the ticket office before Sunday or contact the ticket office on 01633 674 990.
Dragons team to face Gloucester
15 Martyn Thomas, 14 Aled Brew, 13 Rhodri Gomer Davies , 12 Tom Riley, 11 Richard Fussell, 10 James Arlidge, 9 Wayne Evans, 1 Hugh Gustafson, 2 Tom Willis (capt), 3 Gethin Robinson, 4 Hoani Macdonald, 5 Luke Charteris, 6 Danny Lydiate, 7 James Harris , 8 Lewis Evans.
16 Steve Jones, 17 Ali McKenzie, 18 Ben Castle, 19 Gavin Thomas, 20 James Leadbeater, 21 Ashley Smith, 22 Jason Tovey.
Prop Ben Castle and centre Ashley Smith who have both returned from long injury lay-offs will start on the bench. Whilst back row Danny Lydiate and lock Luke Charteris also start for their last regional outing before joining the Welsh squad next week.
Following the moved game against Biarritz before Christmas, the Dragons have invited all supporters who attended the match at Parc y Scarlets to enjoy the Gloucester match for free as a thank you for their exceptional support under difficult circumstances. Ticket holders simply need to present their ticket stubs from the match to the ticket office before Sunday or contact the ticket office on 01633 674 990.
Dragons team to face Gloucester
15 Martyn Thomas, 14 Aled Brew, 13 Rhodri Gomer Davies , 12 Tom Riley, 11 Richard Fussell, 10 James Arlidge, 9 Wayne Evans, 1 Hugh Gustafson, 2 Tom Willis (capt), 3 Gethin Robinson, 4 Hoani Macdonald, 5 Luke Charteris, 6 Danny Lydiate, 7 James Harris , 8 Lewis Evans.
16 Steve Jones, 17 Ali McKenzie, 18 Ben Castle, 19 Gavin Thomas, 20 James Leadbeater, 21 Ashley Smith, 22 Jason Tovey.
22.1,10. WRU Under 18 final rescheduled
WRU PRESS RELEASE
Issued: 22 Januaruy 2010
UNDER 18 FINAL RESCHEDULED
The postponed WRU Under 18 Regional Final between the Blues and the Scarlets will now take place at the Brewery Field, Bridgend on Sunday 31 January, 2pm.
Wales Under 18 head coach Simon King will now finalise his squad for the Under 18 international season following the final, and after the second of two training games against Leicester Tigers academy on February 28.
Tickets for the final will be £3 for adults, free entry for Under 16s
For further information, contact WRU communications manager Liz Jones tel 07736 056669
Issued: 22 Januaruy 2010
UNDER 18 FINAL RESCHEDULED
The postponed WRU Under 18 Regional Final between the Blues and the Scarlets will now take place at the Brewery Field, Bridgend on Sunday 31 January, 2pm.
Wales Under 18 head coach Simon King will now finalise his squad for the Under 18 international season following the final, and after the second of two training games against Leicester Tigers academy on February 28.
Tickets for the final will be £3 for adults, free entry for Under 16s
For further information, contact WRU communications manager Liz Jones tel 07736 056669
22.1.10. Ospreys set for memorable afternoon
Ospreys set for a memorable afternoon
Date: Thursday 21st January 2010
Issued on behalf of Ospreys
With preparations for this weekend's crunch Heineken Cup tie against Leicester Tigers well underway, Ospreys bosses are calling on rugby fans to show their support for the region on Saturday afternoon.
The Guinness Premiership giants arrive at the Liberty Stadium for the final Pool 3 fixture, with both sides knowing that a win, however it comes, will be enough to ensure they progress to the knockout stages, eliminating their opposition in the process.
14,000 tickets have already been sold for the game, with the season's highest crowd almost guaranteed, and with all the ingredients in place for a memorable afternoon, Managing Director Roger Blyth says that he is expecting a great atmosphere on Saturday. He said:
"It's going to be a fantastic occasion, and I think that I can speak for everybody at the Ospreys when I say that we can't wait for the game on Saturday. First class rugby doesn't get any better than this; a return to good old fashioned Anglo-Welsh rivalries with the Guinness Premiership leaders in town, it's effectively a knockout cup-tie as it is winner takes all, there's going to be a big crowd present and it's rugby on a Saturday afternoon, which is what everybody wants.
"Leicester are sure to be well supported, they will bring plenty of fans to the game as they did last season, so it's important that we have the passionate backing of as near to a full house as we can get. It really will give the players a lift to see and hear thousands of Ospreylians in full voice for such an important game. Having been at the game in Clermont Auvergne last weekend, I have to say that the atmosphere generated by a 15,000 crowd blew me away, it was something to behold.
"There is no doubt that the crowd played a huge part in their win, now the challenge is for our supporters to step up to the challenge and match that. Our players will be doing all they can on the pitch, but it is important that the team effort extends to the stands. We've seen the difference that passionate Ospreylian support has made on big European occasions in the past, games like Sale, Gloucester and Leicester last year spring to mind. More of the same this weekend will be appreciated."
To help supporters get into the spirit, festivities will get underway two hours before the 1.35pm kick-off, when the Supporters Village opens for business, with live entertainment from The Somethings, while the Kidszone will be in full swing with its range of interactive rugby themed inflatables providing real fun for Ospreys fans young and old. Meanwhile, the Wave Roadshow will be broadcasting live from the stadium throughout the day. The Somethings will return to the stage in the Village immediately after the final whistle, entertaining supporters for another hour as they enjoy a post-match pint and discuss the game
Roger Blyth added:
"All the ingredients are in place for a memorable afternoon, and the activities in place around the stadium will help to ensure that everybody has a great time. While it should be a fantastic match, we realise that it's not just about 80 minutes these days, people expect more than just attending a rugby match, and the package of entertainment that we have in place certainly provides that.
"There's a real buzz of anticipation about the place ahead of the game, and I'd suggest that the buzz at the Liberty Stadium on Saturday will be one of real excitement. If you are a rugby fan in Ospreylia then there's only one place to be this weekend."
Tickets for the game remain on sale at the Liberty Stadium Ticket Office. Alternatively, they can be purchased via the Ticket Hotline on 08700 400 004, or online at www.ospreysrugby.com
Date: Thursday 21st January 2010
Issued on behalf of Ospreys
With preparations for this weekend's crunch Heineken Cup tie against Leicester Tigers well underway, Ospreys bosses are calling on rugby fans to show their support for the region on Saturday afternoon.
The Guinness Premiership giants arrive at the Liberty Stadium for the final Pool 3 fixture, with both sides knowing that a win, however it comes, will be enough to ensure they progress to the knockout stages, eliminating their opposition in the process.
14,000 tickets have already been sold for the game, with the season's highest crowd almost guaranteed, and with all the ingredients in place for a memorable afternoon, Managing Director Roger Blyth says that he is expecting a great atmosphere on Saturday. He said:
"It's going to be a fantastic occasion, and I think that I can speak for everybody at the Ospreys when I say that we can't wait for the game on Saturday. First class rugby doesn't get any better than this; a return to good old fashioned Anglo-Welsh rivalries with the Guinness Premiership leaders in town, it's effectively a knockout cup-tie as it is winner takes all, there's going to be a big crowd present and it's rugby on a Saturday afternoon, which is what everybody wants.
"Leicester are sure to be well supported, they will bring plenty of fans to the game as they did last season, so it's important that we have the passionate backing of as near to a full house as we can get. It really will give the players a lift to see and hear thousands of Ospreylians in full voice for such an important game. Having been at the game in Clermont Auvergne last weekend, I have to say that the atmosphere generated by a 15,000 crowd blew me away, it was something to behold.
"There is no doubt that the crowd played a huge part in their win, now the challenge is for our supporters to step up to the challenge and match that. Our players will be doing all they can on the pitch, but it is important that the team effort extends to the stands. We've seen the difference that passionate Ospreylian support has made on big European occasions in the past, games like Sale, Gloucester and Leicester last year spring to mind. More of the same this weekend will be appreciated."
To help supporters get into the spirit, festivities will get underway two hours before the 1.35pm kick-off, when the Supporters Village opens for business, with live entertainment from The Somethings, while the Kidszone will be in full swing with its range of interactive rugby themed inflatables providing real fun for Ospreys fans young and old. Meanwhile, the Wave Roadshow will be broadcasting live from the stadium throughout the day. The Somethings will return to the stage in the Village immediately after the final whistle, entertaining supporters for another hour as they enjoy a post-match pint and discuss the game
Roger Blyth added:
"All the ingredients are in place for a memorable afternoon, and the activities in place around the stadium will help to ensure that everybody has a great time. While it should be a fantastic match, we realise that it's not just about 80 minutes these days, people expect more than just attending a rugby match, and the package of entertainment that we have in place certainly provides that.
"There's a real buzz of anticipation about the place ahead of the game, and I'd suggest that the buzz at the Liberty Stadium on Saturday will be one of real excitement. If you are a rugby fan in Ospreylia then there's only one place to be this weekend."
Tickets for the game remain on sale at the Liberty Stadium Ticket Office. Alternatively, they can be purchased via the Ticket Hotline on 08700 400 004, or online at www.ospreysrugby.com
21.1.10
21.1.10.Scarlets team for Brive
Scarlets announce team for Brive
Dyddiad/Date: Thursday 21st January 2010Cyhoeddwyd ar ran y Scarlets/Issued on behalf of Scarlets
British Lions duo Stephen Jones and Matthew Rees return to the Scarlets squad this weekend, as the region faces Brive this Saturday in the final round of its pool six games in the Heineken Cup.
Star fly-half Jones will start at no10, with hooker Matthew Rees on the Scarlets bench. Prop Rhys Thomas also returns from injury to get a place in the 23 and 27-year-old lock Damian Welch who impressed the Scarlets coaching set-up last weekend, gets his first start for the region in Europe.
The Scarlets will visit the Stade Municipal des Sports on Saturday evening (KO 7pm local, 6pm UK time) focused on a replicating their win against London Irish at home last weekend, and with it the opportunity of reaching the last eight of either the Heineken Cup or Amlin Challenge Cup.
With only two sides having secured qualification for the next stages so far, there is still plenty to play for in Europe, but the Scarlets say they are just focused on getting an away win and with it the chance of finishing second in their group.
Head Coach Nigel Davies said: "There are so many permutations as to how and if we can qualify - we just have to focus on what we can control which is getting a result in Brive on Saturday.
"I was delighted with last weekend's result and the way that a lot of our younger players stuck at the cause and finished as the stronger team. It was a huge achievement for them and the team and obviously put us in a reasonably good position going into this final round.
"This is a very big game for us against Brive, we have remained very focused and positive this week building on the platform from Sunday and the players are just looking at securing a win."
On the return of some experienced Scarlets players to the field, Davies said:
"It is great to have some of our senior guys back - having experience is very important particularly away from home in Europe. Having said that the younger boys who played on Sunday will have gained a lot from that win and comeback; they know now that they can stay in games and by being determined you can come through and win.
"I was very impressed with the way our bench went on Sunday - it's that quality we need to impact games and all three of the forwards who came on made an impact.
"Damian Welch has been working hard, he's a great athlete and can be very quick and as a line-out forward he was very effective last weekend."
The Scarlets began this season's European campaign with a 24-12 win over the French side but know that going away from home to France will present a new challenge.
"Brive is a very passionate French rugby club and it's great to see them back in the top flight - but they will be disappointed with their performances and may want to sign-off with a big game. They have a big squad of experienced players, a great support and it's a hard place to go and win a game of rugby at.
"What we are looking at is trying to finish second in our group, to win four out of six games in our pool, given where we are in our transition and the fact we blooded so many of our younger players in this competition, will, in my view, be a real achievement."
And returning Scarlets star Matthew Rees said the team were not taking anything for granted and were prepared for a typically physical French test.
"The result last weekend proves what we can do as a squad and puts us in good stead for this weekend. But we know its going to be tough, a physical challenge out there.
"Brive have got some good players, so it's been important that we've prepared well and chuck everything at them and the boys are really up for the challenge."
And on a possible last eight spot for the Scarlets in either European competition, Rees said: "It will mean a massive amount to us. It will be huge. We are moving forward in the right direction now and there are a lot of young players here who have had a lot of game time this season and are coming through really well.
"A quarter final place in either competition will inspire our youngsters and I think we would all be proud of having achieved that."
Scarlets selection v Brive Sat 23 January 2010 (KO 1900 local time 1800 (UK)) at Stade Municipal des Sports.
15 Daniel Evans, 14 Morgan Stoddart, 13 Sean Lamont, 12 Jonathan Davies, 11 Andy Fenby, 10 Stephen Jones, 9 Martin Roberts, 1 Iestyn Thomas, 2 Ken Owens, 3 Deacon Manu, 4 Damian Welch, 5 Dominic Day, 6 Rob McCusker, 7 Josh Turnbull, 8 David Lyons (captain).
Replacements: 16 Matthew Rees, 17 Phil John, 18 Rhys Thomas, 19 Lou Reed, 20 Johnathan Edwards, 21 Lee Williams, 22 Rhys Priestland 23 Gareth Maule.
Dyddiad/Date: Thursday 21st January 2010Cyhoeddwyd ar ran y Scarlets/Issued on behalf of Scarlets
British Lions duo Stephen Jones and Matthew Rees return to the Scarlets squad this weekend, as the region faces Brive this Saturday in the final round of its pool six games in the Heineken Cup.
Star fly-half Jones will start at no10, with hooker Matthew Rees on the Scarlets bench. Prop Rhys Thomas also returns from injury to get a place in the 23 and 27-year-old lock Damian Welch who impressed the Scarlets coaching set-up last weekend, gets his first start for the region in Europe.
The Scarlets will visit the Stade Municipal des Sports on Saturday evening (KO 7pm local, 6pm UK time) focused on a replicating their win against London Irish at home last weekend, and with it the opportunity of reaching the last eight of either the Heineken Cup or Amlin Challenge Cup.
With only two sides having secured qualification for the next stages so far, there is still plenty to play for in Europe, but the Scarlets say they are just focused on getting an away win and with it the chance of finishing second in their group.
Head Coach Nigel Davies said: "There are so many permutations as to how and if we can qualify - we just have to focus on what we can control which is getting a result in Brive on Saturday.
"I was delighted with last weekend's result and the way that a lot of our younger players stuck at the cause and finished as the stronger team. It was a huge achievement for them and the team and obviously put us in a reasonably good position going into this final round.
"This is a very big game for us against Brive, we have remained very focused and positive this week building on the platform from Sunday and the players are just looking at securing a win."
On the return of some experienced Scarlets players to the field, Davies said:
"It is great to have some of our senior guys back - having experience is very important particularly away from home in Europe. Having said that the younger boys who played on Sunday will have gained a lot from that win and comeback; they know now that they can stay in games and by being determined you can come through and win.
"I was very impressed with the way our bench went on Sunday - it's that quality we need to impact games and all three of the forwards who came on made an impact.
"Damian Welch has been working hard, he's a great athlete and can be very quick and as a line-out forward he was very effective last weekend."
The Scarlets began this season's European campaign with a 24-12 win over the French side but know that going away from home to France will present a new challenge.
"Brive is a very passionate French rugby club and it's great to see them back in the top flight - but they will be disappointed with their performances and may want to sign-off with a big game. They have a big squad of experienced players, a great support and it's a hard place to go and win a game of rugby at.
"What we are looking at is trying to finish second in our group, to win four out of six games in our pool, given where we are in our transition and the fact we blooded so many of our younger players in this competition, will, in my view, be a real achievement."
And returning Scarlets star Matthew Rees said the team were not taking anything for granted and were prepared for a typically physical French test.
"The result last weekend proves what we can do as a squad and puts us in good stead for this weekend. But we know its going to be tough, a physical challenge out there.
"Brive have got some good players, so it's been important that we've prepared well and chuck everything at them and the boys are really up for the challenge."
And on a possible last eight spot for the Scarlets in either European competition, Rees said: "It will mean a massive amount to us. It will be huge. We are moving forward in the right direction now and there are a lot of young players here who have had a lot of game time this season and are coming through really well.
"A quarter final place in either competition will inspire our youngsters and I think we would all be proud of having achieved that."
Scarlets selection v Brive Sat 23 January 2010 (KO 1900 local time 1800 (UK)) at Stade Municipal des Sports.
15 Daniel Evans, 14 Morgan Stoddart, 13 Sean Lamont, 12 Jonathan Davies, 11 Andy Fenby, 10 Stephen Jones, 9 Martin Roberts, 1 Iestyn Thomas, 2 Ken Owens, 3 Deacon Manu, 4 Damian Welch, 5 Dominic Day, 6 Rob McCusker, 7 Josh Turnbull, 8 David Lyons (captain).
Replacements: 16 Matthew Rees, 17 Phil John, 18 Rhys Thomas, 19 Lou Reed, 20 Johnathan Edwards, 21 Lee Williams, 22 Rhys Priestland 23 Gareth Maule.
21.1.10. Ospreys-Johnson can't wait for Leicester clash
Johnson can't wait for big Heineken clash
Date: Thursday 21st January 2010
Issued on behalf of Ospreys
Scott Johnson has spoken about the excitement in the Ospreys camp ahead of Saturday's Heineken Cup Pool 3 clash with Leicester Tigers that will decide which of the two sides will progress through to the knockout stages (KO 1.35pm).
The Ospreys Director of Coaching acknowledged the size of the challenge that is facing his side when they entertain Guinness Premiership leaders Leicester Tigers at the Liberty Stadium in a game where the winners will book their place in the final eight, ending their opponents interest in the tournament for another season.
"We realise what we need to do on Saturday, and that is win, nothing less will do" he said.
"It's a big game for us, a big occasion against one of the giants of European rugby and it's winner takes all. It doesn't get much bigger than that. Win and we are through to the quarter-finals, lose and we are out. It's the same scenario for Leicester. That's the situation laid bare, both sides know what's at stake so you can be sure that it's going to be a real battle. We're all excited about what the afternoon has in store for us, games don't get any bigger than this and we can't wait."
A home win on Saturday will see the Ospreys move ahead of the Tigers onto 20 points, a tally that will be high enough to secure them one of the two available best runners-up slots, behind Clermont Auvergne should the French side secure the points against Viadana as anticipated. However, a Leicester win would see them progress at the Ospreys expense. As the team prepare for the big game, Johnson insists that they remain on track for progression:
"When we set out at the start of this tournament, we had an idea of where we needed to be in terms of points if we were to progress from this Pool. It was always going to be a difficult task with the quality of teams involved, but we felt that if we could get to 20 points that would be enough. That's where we are right now, a win would take us to that figure.
"It ain't going to be any kind of 'gimme', Leicester Tigers are an excellent side who have been on a bit of run recently. With their European pedigree, the prospect of them missing out on the quarter-finals is unthinkable really, so you can imagine how they will be approaching this game. They have a very proud record and a history in this competition that stands comparison with anyone, so they won't be relishing a defeat and an early exit. You can bet your house on it that they will be fired up and will come out all guns blazing.
"We can't and won't allow ourselves to be overly concerned with how they are thinking, we have to concentrate on getting it right ourselves. Our attention to detail has to be spot on if we are going to achieve what we need to, we have to make sure that we all get our jobs done properly, players and coaches alike."
After tasting defeat for the first time in this season's Heineken Cup out in France last weekend, the first task has been to lift the players to ensure they are in the right frame of mind as they prepare for the Leicester game, something which Johnson says has been easy:
"It's never difficult to lift your players for a game like this, regardless of the disappointment we were feeling as a group last Saturday. It was a strange one really, there was plenty about the performance in France that we could take satisfaction from. Our defence was excellent, right up until the death when we started throwing it about when we looked for a bonus point and got caught out. Generally, when we had the ball in hand and were able to move it we looked dangerous, and our attitude and effort was first rate.
"What let us down was our discipline, and a penalty count against us that made it very difficult for us to build up any kind of momentum or territory at all. Without that, you will struggle to win any game of footy, never mind when you are up against a team of the quality of Clermont who were outstanding on the day and really made us pay for our indiscipline. But, Saturday is another day. We know what we need to put right, that is what we will work on this week, and make no mistake, that defeat is behind us now, we are only looking forward."
After tasting a memorable atmosphere at the Stade Marcel Michelin last weekend, Johnson is hopeful that the Ospreys fans will be able to play their part in something similar at the Liberty Stadium. He said:
"It was a fantastic environment and a great atmosphere, their crowd were terrific and to talk in cliché's, really were the 16th man. From the moment that we took to the field, until we were back in the changing room, all they were concerned about was backing their team and making life difficult for us and the officials. You have to savour experiences like that, win, lose or draw and marvel at the passion.
"We've enjoyed some memorable European days at the Liberty Stadium ourselves over the years, and we want to make this the latest in the short history of the Ospreys. If we can pack the stands out it will give the players a significant lift, and to hear them getting behind us really will help. I can remember being at Leicester earlier this season and their support showed their value after we'd built up a good lead against them, they stuck with their side and helped them to comeback. What we have to do is ensure that our fans can match that on Saturday, to give us as good a chance as we can."
With over 13,000 tickets already snapped up for Saturday's match, supporters are being urged to ensure they act swiftly to ensure they don't miss the game. Tickets can be purchased online at www.ospreysrugby.com, via the Ticket Hotline on 08700 400 004, or in person at the Liberty Stadium Ticket Office.
ENDS
Date: Thursday 21st January 2010
Issued on behalf of Ospreys
Scott Johnson has spoken about the excitement in the Ospreys camp ahead of Saturday's Heineken Cup Pool 3 clash with Leicester Tigers that will decide which of the two sides will progress through to the knockout stages (KO 1.35pm).
The Ospreys Director of Coaching acknowledged the size of the challenge that is facing his side when they entertain Guinness Premiership leaders Leicester Tigers at the Liberty Stadium in a game where the winners will book their place in the final eight, ending their opponents interest in the tournament for another season.
"We realise what we need to do on Saturday, and that is win, nothing less will do" he said.
"It's a big game for us, a big occasion against one of the giants of European rugby and it's winner takes all. It doesn't get much bigger than that. Win and we are through to the quarter-finals, lose and we are out. It's the same scenario for Leicester. That's the situation laid bare, both sides know what's at stake so you can be sure that it's going to be a real battle. We're all excited about what the afternoon has in store for us, games don't get any bigger than this and we can't wait."
A home win on Saturday will see the Ospreys move ahead of the Tigers onto 20 points, a tally that will be high enough to secure them one of the two available best runners-up slots, behind Clermont Auvergne should the French side secure the points against Viadana as anticipated. However, a Leicester win would see them progress at the Ospreys expense. As the team prepare for the big game, Johnson insists that they remain on track for progression:
"When we set out at the start of this tournament, we had an idea of where we needed to be in terms of points if we were to progress from this Pool. It was always going to be a difficult task with the quality of teams involved, but we felt that if we could get to 20 points that would be enough. That's where we are right now, a win would take us to that figure.
"It ain't going to be any kind of 'gimme', Leicester Tigers are an excellent side who have been on a bit of run recently. With their European pedigree, the prospect of them missing out on the quarter-finals is unthinkable really, so you can imagine how they will be approaching this game. They have a very proud record and a history in this competition that stands comparison with anyone, so they won't be relishing a defeat and an early exit. You can bet your house on it that they will be fired up and will come out all guns blazing.
"We can't and won't allow ourselves to be overly concerned with how they are thinking, we have to concentrate on getting it right ourselves. Our attention to detail has to be spot on if we are going to achieve what we need to, we have to make sure that we all get our jobs done properly, players and coaches alike."
After tasting defeat for the first time in this season's Heineken Cup out in France last weekend, the first task has been to lift the players to ensure they are in the right frame of mind as they prepare for the Leicester game, something which Johnson says has been easy:
"It's never difficult to lift your players for a game like this, regardless of the disappointment we were feeling as a group last Saturday. It was a strange one really, there was plenty about the performance in France that we could take satisfaction from. Our defence was excellent, right up until the death when we started throwing it about when we looked for a bonus point and got caught out. Generally, when we had the ball in hand and were able to move it we looked dangerous, and our attitude and effort was first rate.
"What let us down was our discipline, and a penalty count against us that made it very difficult for us to build up any kind of momentum or territory at all. Without that, you will struggle to win any game of footy, never mind when you are up against a team of the quality of Clermont who were outstanding on the day and really made us pay for our indiscipline. But, Saturday is another day. We know what we need to put right, that is what we will work on this week, and make no mistake, that defeat is behind us now, we are only looking forward."
After tasting a memorable atmosphere at the Stade Marcel Michelin last weekend, Johnson is hopeful that the Ospreys fans will be able to play their part in something similar at the Liberty Stadium. He said:
"It was a fantastic environment and a great atmosphere, their crowd were terrific and to talk in cliché's, really were the 16th man. From the moment that we took to the field, until we were back in the changing room, all they were concerned about was backing their team and making life difficult for us and the officials. You have to savour experiences like that, win, lose or draw and marvel at the passion.
"We've enjoyed some memorable European days at the Liberty Stadium ourselves over the years, and we want to make this the latest in the short history of the Ospreys. If we can pack the stands out it will give the players a significant lift, and to hear them getting behind us really will help. I can remember being at Leicester earlier this season and their support showed their value after we'd built up a good lead against them, they stuck with their side and helped them to comeback. What we have to do is ensure that our fans can match that on Saturday, to give us as good a chance as we can."
With over 13,000 tickets already snapped up for Saturday's match, supporters are being urged to ensure they act swiftly to ensure they don't miss the game. Tickets can be purchased online at www.ospreysrugby.com, via the Ticket Hotline on 08700 400 004, or in person at the Liberty Stadium Ticket Office.
ENDS
21.1.10. Full Swalec Cup,Plate, Bowl draw
Please disregard copy sent at 17:25 and use this in previews.
WRU PRESS RELEASE: CORRECTION
Issued: 20 January 2010
SWALEC CUP, BOWL AND PLATE DRA
Find previews and forthcoming fixtures below
SWALEC CUP ROUND THREE
Sean Gale has just the sort of pedigree that Narberth are looking for as they target Round Three opponents Bedwas for a place in the quarter-finals of the SWALEC Cup.
Narberth forwards coach knows all about the magic of the cup as a player, coach and the son of former Wales captain Norman Gale.
Gale senior was part of the coaching team that led the great Llanelli team, featuring the likes of Phil Bennett and Ray Gravell, that dominated the early years of the competition during the seventies.
So it is little wonder then that the SWALEC Cup should hold a special place for his son who also knows just what it takes to lift the trophy.
He was part been of the Scarlets squad that played in four finals in the space of five years between 1988 and 1992 as well as working alongside Scott Quinnell to coach the 2005 cup winners.
Now Gale is helping Narberth carve their own path in the competition. The Otters defied their Division One status by over-turning Pontypool 28-8 in the previous round and having dispatched one Premiership team with relative ease, will hoping to repeat the feat at their Lewis Lloyd Ground against Bedwas on the weekend of February 20.
"Obviously I was virtually brought up on the cup given the success my father enjoyed as a coach with Llanelli in the seventies. I loved playing in that competition a decade later and winning the trophy in 2005 was another big moment, but this is all about Narberth," said Gale.
"It's a great opportunity for the club and everyone involved. We may not be most people's bet to win the trophy but we're determined to go as far as we can.
"It's a great draw for us to have another Premiership club at home. We have ambitions of one day being in that league so it's great to test ourselves against the bigger clubs.
"We were confident that we could match Pontypool in the last round. We had done our homework on them and we made the most of any mistakes they made.
"Bedwas are in a similar position to Pontypool, they're in the bottom half of the table so we know we have a chance. They're a big and physical team but we have a few players back from injury and I know all the lads will be fired up for tie."
Glamorgan Wanderers could argue they produced an even bigger surprise in Round Two by knocking out holders Neath at the Gnoll and have also been rewarded with a home tie, against Rumney.
Neath hopes of a hat-trick of Swalec titles, after lifting the cup in 2008 and 2009, were ended by the pin-point accuracy of Wanderers fly-half Scott Sneddon, who kicked 11 points including the conversion of Simon Rosser's try.
That has earned the Wanderers a Cardiff derby in the Third Round after drawing Division One club Rumney at the Memorial Ground. Rumney held out to defeat league leaders Uwic 17-13.
Premiership champions Cardiff face age-old rivals Newport at Rodney Parade but only after an injury-time penalty try saved them from a disastrous loss to Bedlinog in the last round.
Meanwhile Llandovery will be wary of a similar fate when they face Tonmawr.
Following a weather-effected Round Two, Cross Keys will travel to either Beddau or Aberavon while Premiership high-flyers face an away tie against Pontypridd or Felinfoel.
The winners between Newbridge and Blackwood know they will be home to a team from Carmarthen once the Quins and Athletic have settled their derby while either Premiership teams Ebbw Vale or Llanelli will earn a home draw against Division One opponents Bargoed or Corus.
SWALEC PLATE ROUND FOUR
Skewen's reward for a hard-fought 3-0 over local rivals Glynneath is a trip to either Treorchy or Maesteg in Round Four of the SWALEC Plate.
The runaway leaders in Division Three South-West face an early test of their Division Two credentials against either of the fallen giants who are both riding high in that league.
Kenfig Hill, also doing well in Three south-west, welcome Gilfach Goch, 19-0 victors of Llandaff North on Tuesday evening for a place in the quarter-finals.
Division Three south-east table toppers Penarth have taken their league form into the cup and are only one step away from the last eight after beating Aberdare 17-13.
They face either Rhydyfelin or Penallta while Aberystwyth host Crymych or Laugharne after dismantling Division Three West leaders Newcastle Emlyn 23-0.
Loughor earned a home draw against Cwmavon or Aberavon Quins while Gwernyfed await the winner between Mumbles and Waunarlwydd.
Brynmawr or Tredegar Ironsides have home advantage against North Wales opponents Nant Conwy or Caernarvon while Ruthin and Denbigh will also head south to face either Llantwit Fardre or Pentyrch.
SWALEC BOWL ROUND FIVE
Division Six south-east leaders Hafodyrynys have been handed the toughest possible rout to the quarter-finals of the SWALEC Bowl after being handed an away tie at Pyle.
Hafodyrynys have only lost one game all season but must first get past Risca before facing Pyle who currently top Division Four south-west and brushed past Glyncorrwg 46-5 in the last round.
Bethesda are the only north Wales team guaranteed their place in Round Five after defeating Machynlleth and welcome either Bettws or New Tredegar.
Amman United await Pontarddulais or Trebanos while Birchgrove's 28-0 win over Cwmgwrach earned them a home tie against Llangodog or Milford Haven.
Cardiff rivals Llanrumney and Cardiff University will fight for a place at Bridgend Sports or Porth while Talywain take on either Abercarn or Abertillery if they defeat Blaenavon.
The top two teams from Division Six central, Cambrian Welfare and Glyncoch, compete for a trip to either Pontardawe or Bryncethin. Division Four east's Monmouth will fancy their chances against lower-league St Joseph and Senghenydd, if they overcome a tricky trip north to Bala.
SWALEC Cup
Round 3 draw
Matches to be played on weekend of 20 February
Beddau / Aberavon v Cross Keys
Newbridge / Blackwood v Carmarthen Athletic / Carmarthen Quins
Pontypridd / Felinfoel v Swansea
Tonmawr v Llandovery
Newport v Cardiff
Glamorgan Wanderers v Rumney
Ebbw Vale / Llanelli v Bargoed / Corus
Narberth v Bedwas
SWALEC PLATE
Round 4 draw
To be played the weekend of 20th February 2010
Loughor v Cwmavon /Aberavon Quins
Llantwit Fardre /Pentyrch v Ruthin /Denbigh
Treorchy /Maesteg v Skewen
Gwernyfed v Mumbles /Waunarlwydd
Rhydyfelin /Penallta v Penarth
Brynmawr / Tredegar Ironsides v Nant Conwy /Caernarvon
Kenfig Hill v Gilfach Goch
Aberystwyth RFC v Crymych /Laugharne
SWALEC Bowl
Round 5 draw
Matches to be played on weekend of 20 February
Bala / Monmouth v Senghenydd / St Joseph
Pontardawe / Bryncethin v Cambrian Welfare / Glyncoch
Pyle v Hafodyrynys / Risca
Bridgend Sports / Porth v Llanrumney / Cardiff University
Talywain / Blaenavon v Abercarn / Abertillery
Bethesda v Bettws / New Tredegar
Amman United v Ponarddulais / Trebanos
Birchgrove v Llangadog / Milford Haven
WRU PRESS RELEASE: CORRECTION
Issued: 20 January 2010
SWALEC CUP, BOWL AND PLATE DRA
Find previews and forthcoming fixtures below
SWALEC CUP ROUND THREE
Sean Gale has just the sort of pedigree that Narberth are looking for as they target Round Three opponents Bedwas for a place in the quarter-finals of the SWALEC Cup.
Narberth forwards coach knows all about the magic of the cup as a player, coach and the son of former Wales captain Norman Gale.
Gale senior was part of the coaching team that led the great Llanelli team, featuring the likes of Phil Bennett and Ray Gravell, that dominated the early years of the competition during the seventies.
So it is little wonder then that the SWALEC Cup should hold a special place for his son who also knows just what it takes to lift the trophy.
He was part been of the Scarlets squad that played in four finals in the space of five years between 1988 and 1992 as well as working alongside Scott Quinnell to coach the 2005 cup winners.
Now Gale is helping Narberth carve their own path in the competition. The Otters defied their Division One status by over-turning Pontypool 28-8 in the previous round and having dispatched one Premiership team with relative ease, will hoping to repeat the feat at their Lewis Lloyd Ground against Bedwas on the weekend of February 20.
"Obviously I was virtually brought up on the cup given the success my father enjoyed as a coach with Llanelli in the seventies. I loved playing in that competition a decade later and winning the trophy in 2005 was another big moment, but this is all about Narberth," said Gale.
"It's a great opportunity for the club and everyone involved. We may not be most people's bet to win the trophy but we're determined to go as far as we can.
"It's a great draw for us to have another Premiership club at home. We have ambitions of one day being in that league so it's great to test ourselves against the bigger clubs.
"We were confident that we could match Pontypool in the last round. We had done our homework on them and we made the most of any mistakes they made.
"Bedwas are in a similar position to Pontypool, they're in the bottom half of the table so we know we have a chance. They're a big and physical team but we have a few players back from injury and I know all the lads will be fired up for tie."
Glamorgan Wanderers could argue they produced an even bigger surprise in Round Two by knocking out holders Neath at the Gnoll and have also been rewarded with a home tie, against Rumney.
Neath hopes of a hat-trick of Swalec titles, after lifting the cup in 2008 and 2009, were ended by the pin-point accuracy of Wanderers fly-half Scott Sneddon, who kicked 11 points including the conversion of Simon Rosser's try.
That has earned the Wanderers a Cardiff derby in the Third Round after drawing Division One club Rumney at the Memorial Ground. Rumney held out to defeat league leaders Uwic 17-13.
Premiership champions Cardiff face age-old rivals Newport at Rodney Parade but only after an injury-time penalty try saved them from a disastrous loss to Bedlinog in the last round.
Meanwhile Llandovery will be wary of a similar fate when they face Tonmawr.
Following a weather-effected Round Two, Cross Keys will travel to either Beddau or Aberavon while Premiership high-flyers face an away tie against Pontypridd or Felinfoel.
The winners between Newbridge and Blackwood know they will be home to a team from Carmarthen once the Quins and Athletic have settled their derby while either Premiership teams Ebbw Vale or Llanelli will earn a home draw against Division One opponents Bargoed or Corus.
SWALEC PLATE ROUND FOUR
Skewen's reward for a hard-fought 3-0 over local rivals Glynneath is a trip to either Treorchy or Maesteg in Round Four of the SWALEC Plate.
The runaway leaders in Division Three South-West face an early test of their Division Two credentials against either of the fallen giants who are both riding high in that league.
Kenfig Hill, also doing well in Three south-west, welcome Gilfach Goch, 19-0 victors of Llandaff North on Tuesday evening for a place in the quarter-finals.
Division Three south-east table toppers Penarth have taken their league form into the cup and are only one step away from the last eight after beating Aberdare 17-13.
They face either Rhydyfelin or Penallta while Aberystwyth host Crymych or Laugharne after dismantling Division Three West leaders Newcastle Emlyn 23-0.
Loughor earned a home draw against Cwmavon or Aberavon Quins while Gwernyfed await the winner between Mumbles and Waunarlwydd.
Brynmawr or Tredegar Ironsides have home advantage against North Wales opponents Nant Conwy or Caernarvon while Ruthin and Denbigh will also head south to face either Llantwit Fardre or Pentyrch.
SWALEC BOWL ROUND FIVE
Division Six south-east leaders Hafodyrynys have been handed the toughest possible rout to the quarter-finals of the SWALEC Bowl after being handed an away tie at Pyle.
Hafodyrynys have only lost one game all season but must first get past Risca before facing Pyle who currently top Division Four south-west and brushed past Glyncorrwg 46-5 in the last round.
Bethesda are the only north Wales team guaranteed their place in Round Five after defeating Machynlleth and welcome either Bettws or New Tredegar.
Amman United await Pontarddulais or Trebanos while Birchgrove's 28-0 win over Cwmgwrach earned them a home tie against Llangodog or Milford Haven.
Cardiff rivals Llanrumney and Cardiff University will fight for a place at Bridgend Sports or Porth while Talywain take on either Abercarn or Abertillery if they defeat Blaenavon.
The top two teams from Division Six central, Cambrian Welfare and Glyncoch, compete for a trip to either Pontardawe or Bryncethin. Division Four east's Monmouth will fancy their chances against lower-league St Joseph and Senghenydd, if they overcome a tricky trip north to Bala.
SWALEC Cup
Round 3 draw
Matches to be played on weekend of 20 February
Beddau / Aberavon v Cross Keys
Newbridge / Blackwood v Carmarthen Athletic / Carmarthen Quins
Pontypridd / Felinfoel v Swansea
Tonmawr v Llandovery
Newport v Cardiff
Glamorgan Wanderers v Rumney
Ebbw Vale / Llanelli v Bargoed / Corus
Narberth v Bedwas
SWALEC PLATE
Round 4 draw
To be played the weekend of 20th February 2010
Loughor v Cwmavon /Aberavon Quins
Llantwit Fardre /Pentyrch v Ruthin /Denbigh
Treorchy /Maesteg v Skewen
Gwernyfed v Mumbles /Waunarlwydd
Rhydyfelin /Penallta v Penarth
Brynmawr / Tredegar Ironsides v Nant Conwy /Caernarvon
Kenfig Hill v Gilfach Goch
Aberystwyth RFC v Crymych /Laugharne
SWALEC Bowl
Round 5 draw
Matches to be played on weekend of 20 February
Bala / Monmouth v Senghenydd / St Joseph
Pontardawe / Bryncethin v Cambrian Welfare / Glyncoch
Pyle v Hafodyrynys / Risca
Bridgend Sports / Porth v Llanrumney / Cardiff University
Talywain / Blaenavon v Abercarn / Abertillery
Bethesda v Bettws / New Tredegar
Amman United v Ponarddulais / Trebanos
Birchgrove v Llangadog / Milford Haven
20.1.10
20.1.10. Dragons Squad v Gloucester
There has been good news for the Dragons as three more players are leaving the physio’s room to take up a place in the squad to face Gloucester in round 6 of the Heineken Cup this weekend, (Sunday 12:45pm)
Dragons prop Ben Castle is set to return to action this weekend after suffering a ruptured bicep in the region’s pre-season friendly against Worcester. Scrum half Wayne Evans is also back from a knee injury and is joined in the squad by centre Ashley Smith who has been out for several weeks with a broken foot.
Luke Charteris has also been declared fit following bruising to the shoulder last weekend at Glasgow.
"I’m delighted to have Ashley, Wayne and Ben back in the side this weekend," said Dragons Head Coach Paul Turner. "We’ve missed Wayne over the Christmas period and I’d like to say a big thank you to Danny Lee who literally came from the surgical bed to postpone his shoulder operation and play for us all over Christmas. It wasn’t easy, and he played well despite carrying the injury."
"I’m also very pleased for Ben to be back in the side. It’s been a frustrating time for everyone, particularly for Ben and having had a long, hard road to recovery, this is his opportunity to have a major impact as we head into the back leg of the season."
Dragons Squad for Gloucester
Backs
Jason Tovey, Martyn Thomas Aled Brew, Rhodri Gomer Davies, Ashley Smith, Tom Riley, Richard Fussell, Matthew Watkins, James Arlidge, James Leadbeater, Wayne Evans.
Forwards
Hugh Gustafson, Ben Castle, Ali McKenzie, Tom Willis (c) Steve Jones, Gethin Robinson, Rob Sidoli, Luke Charteris, Hoani MacDonald, Adam Jones, Danny Lydiate, Lewis Evans, Gavin Thomas, James Harris
Dragons prop Ben Castle is set to return to action this weekend after suffering a ruptured bicep in the region’s pre-season friendly against Worcester. Scrum half Wayne Evans is also back from a knee injury and is joined in the squad by centre Ashley Smith who has been out for several weeks with a broken foot.
Luke Charteris has also been declared fit following bruising to the shoulder last weekend at Glasgow.
"I’m delighted to have Ashley, Wayne and Ben back in the side this weekend," said Dragons Head Coach Paul Turner. "We’ve missed Wayne over the Christmas period and I’d like to say a big thank you to Danny Lee who literally came from the surgical bed to postpone his shoulder operation and play for us all over Christmas. It wasn’t easy, and he played well despite carrying the injury."
"I’m also very pleased for Ben to be back in the side. It’s been a frustrating time for everyone, particularly for Ben and having had a long, hard road to recovery, this is his opportunity to have a major impact as we head into the back leg of the season."
Dragons Squad for Gloucester
Backs
Jason Tovey, Martyn Thomas Aled Brew, Rhodri Gomer Davies, Ashley Smith, Tom Riley, Richard Fussell, Matthew Watkins, James Arlidge, James Leadbeater, Wayne Evans.
Forwards
Hugh Gustafson, Ben Castle, Ali McKenzie, Tom Willis (c) Steve Jones, Gethin Robinson, Rob Sidoli, Luke Charteris, Hoani MacDonald, Adam Jones, Danny Lydiate, Lewis Evans, Gavin Thomas, James Harris
19.1.10
19.1.10. Voice of Rugby Bill McLaren dies age 86 -DPost
Rugby union commentator Bill McLaren dies aged 86
Jan 19 2010
Rugby union commentator Bill McLaren has died aged 86.
McLaren, from Hawick, was known as the "voice of rugby" after almost 50 years as a national broadcaster.
He retired in 2002, having made his first appearance on national BBC radio in 1953.
He received an OBE, CBE and MBE for services to the sport and combined his work as a broadcaster with that of a PE teacher until 1987.
Born in 1923, McLaren began as a player and made the Hawick first XV prior to the Second World War.
A flanker, he had a trial for Scotland in 1947 and was on the verge of a full international cap when he contracted tuberculosis, which nearly killed him.
"I was desperately ill and fading fast when the specialist asked five of us to be guinea pigs for a new drug called Streptomycin," McLaren said in 2001.
"Three of the others died but I made what amounted to a miracle recovery."
His first commentary was made while recovering from TB, describing table tennis matches for the hospital radio.
"There must have been something inside me that wanted to describe rugby football to people," he once said.
"I’ve still got the fictional reports I used to write when I was a wee boy of seven or eight. Scotland always won. They beat the world once by 70-3."
McLaren studied physical education in Aberdeen and coached three players who went on to play for Scotland: Jim Renwick, Colin Deans and Tony Stanger.
It was through his junior reporting with the Hawick Express that he launched himself into a career of commentary, making his national debut for BBC radio in 1953, when Scotland were beaten 12-0 by Wales.
The switch to television came six years later.
His final commentary was also a game between Wales and Scotland in 2002.
In November 2001, McLaren became the first non-international to be inducted into the International Rugby Hall of Fame.
He was awarded his MBE in 1992, an OBE in 1995 and a CBE in the 2003 honours list.
McLaren is widely regarded as being to rugby what Murray Walker was to motor racing and Peter O’Sullevan was to horse racing, having come through BBC radio to television in its infancy.
Two of his grandchildren are current professional rugby players: Scotland and Gloucester scrum-half Rory Lawson and Edinburgh utility back Jim Thompson.
Hawick club secretary John Thorburn led the tributes to McLaren, saying: "We're devastated, obviously. We've got a room named after him at the rugby club.
"It was very close to his heart, Hawick rugby club.
"He’s a huge loss to rugby worldwide."
Following his retirement, McLaren would still attend Hawick matches, though ill health prevented him continuing to do so more recently.
"It was a big part of his life," Thorburn added.
Jan 19 2010
Rugby union commentator Bill McLaren has died aged 86.
McLaren, from Hawick, was known as the "voice of rugby" after almost 50 years as a national broadcaster.
He retired in 2002, having made his first appearance on national BBC radio in 1953.
He received an OBE, CBE and MBE for services to the sport and combined his work as a broadcaster with that of a PE teacher until 1987.
Born in 1923, McLaren began as a player and made the Hawick first XV prior to the Second World War.
A flanker, he had a trial for Scotland in 1947 and was on the verge of a full international cap when he contracted tuberculosis, which nearly killed him.
"I was desperately ill and fading fast when the specialist asked five of us to be guinea pigs for a new drug called Streptomycin," McLaren said in 2001.
"Three of the others died but I made what amounted to a miracle recovery."
His first commentary was made while recovering from TB, describing table tennis matches for the hospital radio.
"There must have been something inside me that wanted to describe rugby football to people," he once said.
"I’ve still got the fictional reports I used to write when I was a wee boy of seven or eight. Scotland always won. They beat the world once by 70-3."
McLaren studied physical education in Aberdeen and coached three players who went on to play for Scotland: Jim Renwick, Colin Deans and Tony Stanger.
It was through his junior reporting with the Hawick Express that he launched himself into a career of commentary, making his national debut for BBC radio in 1953, when Scotland were beaten 12-0 by Wales.
The switch to television came six years later.
His final commentary was also a game between Wales and Scotland in 2002.
In November 2001, McLaren became the first non-international to be inducted into the International Rugby Hall of Fame.
He was awarded his MBE in 1992, an OBE in 1995 and a CBE in the 2003 honours list.
McLaren is widely regarded as being to rugby what Murray Walker was to motor racing and Peter O’Sullevan was to horse racing, having come through BBC radio to television in its infancy.
Two of his grandchildren are current professional rugby players: Scotland and Gloucester scrum-half Rory Lawson and Edinburgh utility back Jim Thompson.
Hawick club secretary John Thorburn led the tributes to McLaren, saying: "We're devastated, obviously. We've got a room named after him at the rugby club.
"It was very close to his heart, Hawick rugby club.
"He’s a huge loss to rugby worldwide."
Following his retirement, McLaren would still attend Hawick matches, though ill health prevented him continuing to do so more recently.
"It was a big part of his life," Thorburn added.
19.1.10 Mike Phillips return next month?
February return is the target for Phillips
Date: Tuesday 19th January 2010
Issued on behalf of Ospreys
Mike Phillips is set to hand the Ospreys a boost after being pencilled in for a return to action against Connacht next month.
The scrum-half has been sidelined since suffering ligament damage during the Heineken Cup win over Clermont Auvergne at the Liberty Stadium in October, but he will be stepping up his rehab in the coming weeks with a view to featuring in the Magners League game against the Irish side at the Liberty Stadium on Sunday 21st February (KO 5pm).
Ospreys Physio, Chris Towers, confirmed:
"Mike is now twelve weeks post-op following repair of ankle ligaments he damaged in October. Over the last 4 weeks since coming out of plaster he has undertaken an intensive rehabilitation and treatment programme which we've been running in conjuction with the WRU medical team, and we're all satisfied that clinically he couldn't be any better at this stage of his recovery.
"He is now entering a phase of progressive functional rehab with a return to play in mind. If he continues his current progress with no hiccups or setbacks over the coming weeks, then he has a realistic chance of being available for game time in mid-February.
"Looking at the fixture list, we are targeting the Connacht fixture for his return. However, as with any of our players returning from long term injury or following surgery we will be looking to limit his game time initially, gradually building this up over a number of weeks, as this initial return to play period remains an important, ongoing part of his recovery to full health and fitness in terms of his ankle."
ENDS
Date: Tuesday 19th January 2010
Issued on behalf of Ospreys
Mike Phillips is set to hand the Ospreys a boost after being pencilled in for a return to action against Connacht next month.
The scrum-half has been sidelined since suffering ligament damage during the Heineken Cup win over Clermont Auvergne at the Liberty Stadium in October, but he will be stepping up his rehab in the coming weeks with a view to featuring in the Magners League game against the Irish side at the Liberty Stadium on Sunday 21st February (KO 5pm).
Ospreys Physio, Chris Towers, confirmed:
"Mike is now twelve weeks post-op following repair of ankle ligaments he damaged in October. Over the last 4 weeks since coming out of plaster he has undertaken an intensive rehabilitation and treatment programme which we've been running in conjuction with the WRU medical team, and we're all satisfied that clinically he couldn't be any better at this stage of his recovery.
"He is now entering a phase of progressive functional rehab with a return to play in mind. If he continues his current progress with no hiccups or setbacks over the coming weeks, then he has a realistic chance of being available for game time in mid-February.
"Looking at the fixture list, we are targeting the Connacht fixture for his return. However, as with any of our players returning from long term injury or following surgery we will be looking to limit his game time initially, gradually building this up over a number of weeks, as this initial return to play period remains an important, ongoing part of his recovery to full health and fitness in terms of his ankle."
ENDS
18.1.10
18.1.10. Wales Squad Announced
WRU PRESS RELEASE
Issued: 18 January 2010
WALES PICK 35 AS RWC BUILD UP BEGINS
Wales have selected a 35-man squad for the 2010 RBS Six Nations Championship which includes four uncapped players.
Young Ospreys backs Tom Prydie and Kristian Phillips join Blues scrum-half Richie Rees and Saracens prop Rhys Gill as the latest additions to the national cause.
The four debutants are backed up by the return of some key senior players with Ospreys full-back Lee Bryne and his regional colleague prop Adam Jones both back from injuries picked up on the British and Irish Lions tour of South Africa in the summer, whilst lock Ian Gough returns to add his considerable experience.
Scarlets hooker Matthew Rees is also back after picking up an injury with on the Lions tour,
Blues second row Deiniol Jones and hooker Gareth Williams also return - both back in after missing out this Autumn, but touring with Wales to Canada and USA last summer, as is Sale prop Eifion Lewis-Roberts.
The Ospreys (14) and the Blues (13) make up the bulk of the squad which will again be led by 2008 Grand Slam captain Ryan Jones with the Scarlets providing four players - Rees, Jonathan Davies, Stephen Jones and Martin Roberts - the Dragons two - Luke Charteris, Dan Lydiate - with just two players based outside Wales in Gill and Lewis-Roberts. The latter's Sale team-mate, scrum-half Dwayne Peel, was considered unavailable due to injury.
"We are now at the beginning of our countdown to the world cup and this slightly larger squad reflects that," said Wales coach Warren Gatland.
"We have brought in some youngsters to put some pressure on some of our senior players and to help increase the depth we have in certain positions.
"Kristian is a good example of an exciting young player, he has just won the Principality player of the month award and scored five tries in one match for Neath, he is skilfull and very quick.
"Elsewhere we are very happy to welcome back the likes of Adam (Jones) and Lee (Byrne) who were both obviously missed in the Autumn, although at full-back in particular a certain James Hook provided more than ample cover.
"Our first match at Twickenham could set the tone for the Championship for both sides, we will both be desperate to win that first up match.
"We then come to the Millennium Stadium for two home matches and the support we have there will make a huge difference to us."
Wales Squad:
BLUES
Gareth Cooper, Bradley Davies, Leigh Halfpenny, Tom James, Gethin Jenkins, Deiniol Jones, Andy Powell, Richard Rees, Jamie Roberts, Tom Shanklin, Sam Warburton, Gareth Williams, Martyn Williams
OSPREYS
Huw Bennett, Dan Biggar, Andrew Bishop, Lee Byrne, Ian Gough , James Hook, Paul James, Adam Jones, Alun Wyn Jones, Ryan Jones, Kristian Phillips, Tom Prydie, Jonathan Thomas , Shane Williams
SCARLETS
Jonathan Davies, Stephen Jones, Matthew Rees, Martin Roberts
DRAGONS
Luke Charteris, Dan Lydiate
SALE
Eifion Lewis-Roberts
SARACENS
Rhys Gill
WRU Group, Millennium Stadium, Westgate Street, Cardiff CF10 1NS
Issued: 18 January 2010
WALES PICK 35 AS RWC BUILD UP BEGINS
Wales have selected a 35-man squad for the 2010 RBS Six Nations Championship which includes four uncapped players.
Young Ospreys backs Tom Prydie and Kristian Phillips join Blues scrum-half Richie Rees and Saracens prop Rhys Gill as the latest additions to the national cause.
The four debutants are backed up by the return of some key senior players with Ospreys full-back Lee Bryne and his regional colleague prop Adam Jones both back from injuries picked up on the British and Irish Lions tour of South Africa in the summer, whilst lock Ian Gough returns to add his considerable experience.
Scarlets hooker Matthew Rees is also back after picking up an injury with on the Lions tour,
Blues second row Deiniol Jones and hooker Gareth Williams also return - both back in after missing out this Autumn, but touring with Wales to Canada and USA last summer, as is Sale prop Eifion Lewis-Roberts.
The Ospreys (14) and the Blues (13) make up the bulk of the squad which will again be led by 2008 Grand Slam captain Ryan Jones with the Scarlets providing four players - Rees, Jonathan Davies, Stephen Jones and Martin Roberts - the Dragons two - Luke Charteris, Dan Lydiate - with just two players based outside Wales in Gill and Lewis-Roberts. The latter's Sale team-mate, scrum-half Dwayne Peel, was considered unavailable due to injury.
"We are now at the beginning of our countdown to the world cup and this slightly larger squad reflects that," said Wales coach Warren Gatland.
"We have brought in some youngsters to put some pressure on some of our senior players and to help increase the depth we have in certain positions.
"Kristian is a good example of an exciting young player, he has just won the Principality player of the month award and scored five tries in one match for Neath, he is skilfull and very quick.
"Elsewhere we are very happy to welcome back the likes of Adam (Jones) and Lee (Byrne) who were both obviously missed in the Autumn, although at full-back in particular a certain James Hook provided more than ample cover.
"Our first match at Twickenham could set the tone for the Championship for both sides, we will both be desperate to win that first up match.
"We then come to the Millennium Stadium for two home matches and the support we have there will make a huge difference to us."
Wales Squad:
BLUES
Gareth Cooper, Bradley Davies, Leigh Halfpenny, Tom James, Gethin Jenkins, Deiniol Jones, Andy Powell, Richard Rees, Jamie Roberts, Tom Shanklin, Sam Warburton, Gareth Williams, Martyn Williams
OSPREYS
Huw Bennett, Dan Biggar, Andrew Bishop, Lee Byrne, Ian Gough , James Hook, Paul James, Adam Jones, Alun Wyn Jones, Ryan Jones, Kristian Phillips, Tom Prydie, Jonathan Thomas , Shane Williams
SCARLETS
Jonathan Davies, Stephen Jones, Matthew Rees, Martin Roberts
DRAGONS
Luke Charteris, Dan Lydiate
SALE
Eifion Lewis-Roberts
SARACENS
Rhys Gill
WRU Group, Millennium Stadium, Westgate Street, Cardiff CF10 1NS
18.1.10.Six Nations Tickets Released to Public
Six Nations Tickets Released to Public
Warren Gatland's Wales face three home matches at the Millennium Stadium in the 2010 RBS 6 Nations Championship and selected tickets for each of the games will be released on general sale for the first time at 12.00 noon today (Monday, 18 January).
The Welsh Rugby Union's member clubs and debenture holders were offered first refusal on tickets for the games against Scotland (13 February), France (26 February) and Italy (20 March) in Cardiff, before over 27,000 supporters snapped up tickets via pre-registration at the WRU website.
This is the last chance for fans to get hold of tickets for the Millennium Stadium games with a choice of tickets to the final game versus Italy and single tickets only remaining for the clashes with Scotland and France.
The final round of tickets on offer to the general public is strictly limited, so fans are encouraged to act fast and visit the Welsh Rugby Union website and the Cardiff Arms store today (Monday) to avoid disappointment.
Gatland, who names his squad for the 2010 campaign at 12.55pm this afternoon on www.wru.co.uk, has moved to encourage fans who would not normally think of attending games.
"There is sometimes a myth out there that the Wales team is unreachable to certain fans and that tickets are impossible to get hold of," said Gatland.
"It is true that they are in short supply but today is a great opportunity for those people who have always wanted to come and watch, but haven't laid their hands on a ticket, to pick up the phone and experience what the Millennium Stadium has to offer.
"We are a tight knit group of people in the Wales camp, we have tried to create an environment where there is intense competition for places, it's difficult to win a cap and when you are capped it is because you deserve it.
"We will be keeping it tight again when we name the squad this afternoon and there shouldn't be too many surprises, the fans should know what to expect from this Wales team by now, they know we will give it our all and that we are worth backing.
"A full-house at the Millennium Stadium is a something not to be missed, by fans, players or management."
The remaining tickets, released at the Cardiff Arms Store (Westgate Street, Cardiff), the website (www.wru.co.uk) and by telephone (08442777888), will be priced at £59, £65 and £69.
Groups of fans wanting to get behind Warren Gatland's Wales will also be encouraged by the news that hospitality packages still remain for all games from £249 (plus vat) and further information can be accessed via www.millenniumstadium.com
The Bar 10 package (at the price above) includes a ticket for Wales v Italy in one of our VIP areas along with the official event programme and a limited edition gift, a fully-stocked bar and a guest speaker from the world of rugby.
Tickets will also be available from £5 for Wales U20s, U18s and Women's home matches from midday today at www.ticketweb.co.uk or 08444 771000 and at the Cardiff Arms store.
For further information, please contact Millennium Stadium communications manager Gemma James: gjames@wru.co.uk or 07725828498.
ENDS
Warren Gatland's Wales face three home matches at the Millennium Stadium in the 2010 RBS 6 Nations Championship and selected tickets for each of the games will be released on general sale for the first time at 12.00 noon today (Monday, 18 January).
The Welsh Rugby Union's member clubs and debenture holders were offered first refusal on tickets for the games against Scotland (13 February), France (26 February) and Italy (20 March) in Cardiff, before over 27,000 supporters snapped up tickets via pre-registration at the WRU website.
This is the last chance for fans to get hold of tickets for the Millennium Stadium games with a choice of tickets to the final game versus Italy and single tickets only remaining for the clashes with Scotland and France.
The final round of tickets on offer to the general public is strictly limited, so fans are encouraged to act fast and visit the Welsh Rugby Union website and the Cardiff Arms store today (Monday) to avoid disappointment.
Gatland, who names his squad for the 2010 campaign at 12.55pm this afternoon on www.wru.co.uk, has moved to encourage fans who would not normally think of attending games.
"There is sometimes a myth out there that the Wales team is unreachable to certain fans and that tickets are impossible to get hold of," said Gatland.
"It is true that they are in short supply but today is a great opportunity for those people who have always wanted to come and watch, but haven't laid their hands on a ticket, to pick up the phone and experience what the Millennium Stadium has to offer.
"We are a tight knit group of people in the Wales camp, we have tried to create an environment where there is intense competition for places, it's difficult to win a cap and when you are capped it is because you deserve it.
"We will be keeping it tight again when we name the squad this afternoon and there shouldn't be too many surprises, the fans should know what to expect from this Wales team by now, they know we will give it our all and that we are worth backing.
"A full-house at the Millennium Stadium is a something not to be missed, by fans, players or management."
The remaining tickets, released at the Cardiff Arms Store (Westgate Street, Cardiff), the website (www.wru.co.uk) and by telephone (08442777888), will be priced at £59, £65 and £69.
Groups of fans wanting to get behind Warren Gatland's Wales will also be encouraged by the news that hospitality packages still remain for all games from £249 (plus vat) and further information can be accessed via www.millenniumstadium.com
The Bar 10 package (at the price above) includes a ticket for Wales v Italy in one of our VIP areas along with the official event programme and a limited edition gift, a fully-stocked bar and a guest speaker from the world of rugby.
Tickets will also be available from £5 for Wales U20s, U18s and Women's home matches from midday today at www.ticketweb.co.uk or 08444 771000 and at the Cardiff Arms store.
For further information, please contact Millennium Stadium communications manager Gemma James: gjames@wru.co.uk or 07725828498.
ENDS
18.1.10.Kristian Phillips gets Premiership December Award
WRU PRESS RELEASE
Issued: 17 Jaunary 2010
NB. Presentation Photos available from Huw Evans Agency tel 02920 764311 / www. Huwevansimages.co.uk
PHILLIPS WINS PRINCIPALITY AWARD
Neath wing Kristian Phillips has won the December Principality Premiership Player of the Month award.
The Welsh All Blacks flyer scored tries against Llandovery and Aberavon in December - before his five try rout against Pontypool on January 2.
Phillips missed over six months of rugby after sustaining an injury while playing for Wales Under 20 last season but is satisfied with the progress he's making with Neath and is determined to have a good season with Wales Under 20.
Principality Premiership head coaches, WRU and Regional academy staff, and selected journalists select the winner who receives £100 from the Principality Building Society, title sponsors of the competition.
Phillips said, "Neath are doing really well at the moment, the whole team is performing well which makes things easier for me and I've been lucky enough to be on the end of a few tries in recent weeks.
"Ospreys training is going well too and I'm hoping for a good international season for Wales Under 20s.
"Neath's been good for me because after returning from injury, I've been able to play a good standard of rugby week in, week out, gaining confidence and returning to a bit of form."
Phillips, who played all his junior rugby for Tonmawr RFC before joining the Ospreys academy and turning out for Ospreys and Wales at age grade level is hoping for more opportunities at Regional level.
"That would be the next step, but one thing at a time. I'm enjoying my rugby at Neath and hopefully if I have a big Six Nations with the Under 20s, that will be the springboard I need."
Neath head coach Patrick Horgan said, "Kristian is fully deserving of this award. He has a great work ethic, and attitude, and his attacking ability is without question.
"He had a slow start to the season, but he is working hard on his game and developing all the time. I think the Premiership is the right place for Kristian at the moment but I'm sure it won't be too long before he graces the likes of the Heineken Cup and Magners League. We should certainly be in for an exciting Under 20 Six Nations with Kristian on the wing."
Kristian Phillips factfile:
DoB: 02.09.90
Place of Birth: Neath
Club: Neath / Ospreys academy
Position: Wing
Nickname: Squirrel
Player most admired: Shane Williams
Sportsman most admired: Tiger Woods
Biggest impact on career - my family
Career outside rugby: Studying for a Glamorgan University sports diploma at Neath college
For further information contact Liz Jones, WRU Communications Manager, tel 07736 056669 / email lizjones@wru.co.uk
ENDS
Issued: 17 Jaunary 2010
NB. Presentation Photos available from Huw Evans Agency tel 02920 764311 / www. Huwevansimages.co.uk
PHILLIPS WINS PRINCIPALITY AWARD
Neath wing Kristian Phillips has won the December Principality Premiership Player of the Month award.
The Welsh All Blacks flyer scored tries against Llandovery and Aberavon in December - before his five try rout against Pontypool on January 2.
Phillips missed over six months of rugby after sustaining an injury while playing for Wales Under 20 last season but is satisfied with the progress he's making with Neath and is determined to have a good season with Wales Under 20.
Principality Premiership head coaches, WRU and Regional academy staff, and selected journalists select the winner who receives £100 from the Principality Building Society, title sponsors of the competition.
Phillips said, "Neath are doing really well at the moment, the whole team is performing well which makes things easier for me and I've been lucky enough to be on the end of a few tries in recent weeks.
"Ospreys training is going well too and I'm hoping for a good international season for Wales Under 20s.
"Neath's been good for me because after returning from injury, I've been able to play a good standard of rugby week in, week out, gaining confidence and returning to a bit of form."
Phillips, who played all his junior rugby for Tonmawr RFC before joining the Ospreys academy and turning out for Ospreys and Wales at age grade level is hoping for more opportunities at Regional level.
"That would be the next step, but one thing at a time. I'm enjoying my rugby at Neath and hopefully if I have a big Six Nations with the Under 20s, that will be the springboard I need."
Neath head coach Patrick Horgan said, "Kristian is fully deserving of this award. He has a great work ethic, and attitude, and his attacking ability is without question.
"He had a slow start to the season, but he is working hard on his game and developing all the time. I think the Premiership is the right place for Kristian at the moment but I'm sure it won't be too long before he graces the likes of the Heineken Cup and Magners League. We should certainly be in for an exciting Under 20 Six Nations with Kristian on the wing."
Kristian Phillips factfile:
DoB: 02.09.90
Place of Birth: Neath
Club: Neath / Ospreys academy
Position: Wing
Nickname: Squirrel
Player most admired: Shane Williams
Sportsman most admired: Tiger Woods
Biggest impact on career - my family
Career outside rugby: Studying for a Glamorgan University sports diploma at Neath college
For further information contact Liz Jones, WRU Communications Manager, tel 07736 056669 / email lizjones@wru.co.uk
ENDS
15.1.10
15.1.10 Ospreys team at Clermont
Ospreys team to face ASM Clermont Auvergne
Date: Thursday 14th January 2010
Issued on behalf of Ospreys
The Ospreys team to ASM Clermont Auvergne in the Heineken Cup on Saturday 16th
January 2010 at Stade Marcel Michelin, kick off at 4.45pm (local time), will be
as follows:-
15 Lee Byrne
14 Tommy Bowe
13 Sonny Parker
12 Andrew Bishop
11 Nikki Walker
10 Dan Biggar
9 Ricky Januarie
1 Paul James
2 Richard Hibbard
3 Adam Jones
4 Alun-Wyn Jones
5 Jonathan Thomas
6 Jerry Collins
7 Marty Holah
8 Ryan Jones (Capt)
Replacements:
16 Huw Bennett
17 Ryan Bevington
18 Cai Griffiths
19 Ian Gough
20 Filo Tiatia
21 Jamie Nutbrown
22 James Hook
23 Shane Williams
Ospreys Head Coach, Sean Holley, commented:
"We face a team who are one of the leading sides in Europe who are coming into the game in a rich vein of form. They've been on a good run lately and picked up some good wins, most notably away to Toulouse last weekend which put them top in the T14 so we know the size of the challenge that we are up against on Saturday afternoon. We've had a good look at their strengths and weaknesses, and it's been interesting viewing to be honest. They've got a good set-piece game and they like to play attacking rugby using their big, strong backs. We know that we are going to be put under pressure by them and their passionate supporters, but we have to stand up to that.
"It's what this competition is all about, you want to be testing yourself against the best, and there's no doubt in mind that description fits our opponents on the weekend. It doesn't get any bigger, or more difficult, than the challenge we face over the next two weeks, against the form team in France, and the form team in England at the Liberty Stadium next weekend.
"We've been strengthened going into the game by the return of some important players to the squad, who have big game experience, and that is something that we will need on Saturday, along with self belief and a strong character. We've put together a good run of results ourselves over the last couple of months without actually hitting the levels where we want to be at week in week out, and where we need to be on Saturday if we are going to get anything from the game. We've focussed on getting that right since our last game against the Blues, getting consistency into our game and becoming more clinical. We know that we have to raise our game significantly if the work done to get to this point isn't to be wasted, and that is the challenge for us all, players and coaches, right now.
"We're just pleased that the work we have done up to this point means that we can go into these two games in a good position and with a real say in how this Pool pans out and who progresses to the knockout stages. They are mouth watering games and as a group we are relishing the challenge."
The following players were not considered because of injury:
Craig Mitchell - fractured rib
Duncan Jones - broken bone in foot
Mike Phillips - ankle ligament
Tom Isaacs - shoulder
Conor McInerney - knee
Lyndon Bateman - knee
Scott Baldwin - hernia
Forthcoming Fixtures
Sat 16th Jan - Clermont Auvergne V Ospreys - Heineken Cup - Stade Marcel Michelin 4.45pm
Sat 23rd Jan - Ospreys V Leicester Tigers - Heineken Cup - Liberty Stadium - 1.35pm
Fri 29th Jan - Newport Gwent Dragons V Ospreys - LV= Cup - Rodney Parade - 7.30pm
Thurs 4th Feb - Ospreys V Leeds Carnegie - LV= Cup - Liberty Stadium - 7.30pm
Sun 21st Feb - Ospreys V Connacht - Magners League - Liberty Stadium - 5.00pm
Date: Thursday 14th January 2010
Issued on behalf of Ospreys
The Ospreys team to ASM Clermont Auvergne in the Heineken Cup on Saturday 16th
January 2010 at Stade Marcel Michelin, kick off at 4.45pm (local time), will be
as follows:-
15 Lee Byrne
14 Tommy Bowe
13 Sonny Parker
12 Andrew Bishop
11 Nikki Walker
10 Dan Biggar
9 Ricky Januarie
1 Paul James
2 Richard Hibbard
3 Adam Jones
4 Alun-Wyn Jones
5 Jonathan Thomas
6 Jerry Collins
7 Marty Holah
8 Ryan Jones (Capt)
Replacements:
16 Huw Bennett
17 Ryan Bevington
18 Cai Griffiths
19 Ian Gough
20 Filo Tiatia
21 Jamie Nutbrown
22 James Hook
23 Shane Williams
Ospreys Head Coach, Sean Holley, commented:
"We face a team who are one of the leading sides in Europe who are coming into the game in a rich vein of form. They've been on a good run lately and picked up some good wins, most notably away to Toulouse last weekend which put them top in the T14 so we know the size of the challenge that we are up against on Saturday afternoon. We've had a good look at their strengths and weaknesses, and it's been interesting viewing to be honest. They've got a good set-piece game and they like to play attacking rugby using their big, strong backs. We know that we are going to be put under pressure by them and their passionate supporters, but we have to stand up to that.
"It's what this competition is all about, you want to be testing yourself against the best, and there's no doubt in mind that description fits our opponents on the weekend. It doesn't get any bigger, or more difficult, than the challenge we face over the next two weeks, against the form team in France, and the form team in England at the Liberty Stadium next weekend.
"We've been strengthened going into the game by the return of some important players to the squad, who have big game experience, and that is something that we will need on Saturday, along with self belief and a strong character. We've put together a good run of results ourselves over the last couple of months without actually hitting the levels where we want to be at week in week out, and where we need to be on Saturday if we are going to get anything from the game. We've focussed on getting that right since our last game against the Blues, getting consistency into our game and becoming more clinical. We know that we have to raise our game significantly if the work done to get to this point isn't to be wasted, and that is the challenge for us all, players and coaches, right now.
"We're just pleased that the work we have done up to this point means that we can go into these two games in a good position and with a real say in how this Pool pans out and who progresses to the knockout stages. They are mouth watering games and as a group we are relishing the challenge."
The following players were not considered because of injury:
Craig Mitchell - fractured rib
Duncan Jones - broken bone in foot
Mike Phillips - ankle ligament
Tom Isaacs - shoulder
Conor McInerney - knee
Lyndon Bateman - knee
Scott Baldwin - hernia
Forthcoming Fixtures
Sat 16th Jan - Clermont Auvergne V Ospreys - Heineken Cup - Stade Marcel Michelin 4.45pm
Sat 23rd Jan - Ospreys V Leicester Tigers - Heineken Cup - Liberty Stadium - 1.35pm
Fri 29th Jan - Newport Gwent Dragons V Ospreys - LV= Cup - Rodney Parade - 7.30pm
Thurs 4th Feb - Ospreys V Leeds Carnegie - LV= Cup - Liberty Stadium - 7.30pm
Sun 21st Feb - Ospreys V Connacht - Magners League - Liberty Stadium - 5.00pm
15.1.10 Blues team for crunch match against Sale
Young selects his side for Saturday's crunch match
For Immediate release: Friday 15th January 2010
Issued on behalf of Cardiff Blues
Cardiff Blues take on Sale Sharks in the Heineken Cup with both teams needing a win to have a chance of progressing to the quarter- final stages.
Speaking ahead of the match David Young said,
"Saturday's match is a must win game for us, as it is for the Sale Sharks. Being realistic, if we lose to Sale, we are pretty much out of both the top tier and the second-tier competitions in Europe. So we have got to make sure we go into the last game with an opportunity to get into the quarter final stage of either the Heineken or Amlin cups. That has got to be our focus."
"It we don't qualify for either competition it will be a huge blow for us after having had such a good run in Europe last season."
Reflecting on last season's campaign, Young feels that perhaps there is added pressure on the Blues to achieve this season,
"The 2008/09 campaign was great, but some people said we over-achieved and perhaps we did. But we certainly should be doing better than we are this year. We have put ourselves under pressure and must get ourselves out of it," added Young.
"There was expectation after our achievements of last year but we must deal with that pressure. The great champions continue to produce season on season. As we have seen year-on-year, your fate is in your own hands once into the knockout stages. They are one-off games and they can always go either way."
Young also admits that the Sharks will also be a real threat following some good performances by the English team,
"Sale managed to pick up a bonus-point win away at Harlequins, which is never easy, so they are in a very strong position and they will certainly fancy playing against us here today."
"However, if we play as well as we can, I am confident we have nothing to fear. The frustrating thing for all of us this season is that we have not performed for the full 80 minutes. We've shown glimpses of what we can do, as against the Dragons over the Christmas period, but it's crucial that we play well for the whole match."
15 Ben Blair 14 Leigh Halfpenny 13 Casey Laulala 12 Jamie Roberts 11 Tom James 10 Ceri Sweeney 9 Richie Rees
8 Xavier Rush 7 Martyn Williams 6 Andy Powell 5 Deiniol Jones 4 Bradley Davies 3 Taufau Filise 2 Gareth Williams 1 Gethin Jenkins (c)
16 T Rhys Thomas 17 Sam Hobbs 18 Gary Powell 19 Paul Tito 20 Ben White 21 Gareth Cooper 22 Sam Norton Knight 23 Tom Shanklin
For Immediate release: Friday 15th January 2010
Issued on behalf of Cardiff Blues
Cardiff Blues take on Sale Sharks in the Heineken Cup with both teams needing a win to have a chance of progressing to the quarter- final stages.
Speaking ahead of the match David Young said,
"Saturday's match is a must win game for us, as it is for the Sale Sharks. Being realistic, if we lose to Sale, we are pretty much out of both the top tier and the second-tier competitions in Europe. So we have got to make sure we go into the last game with an opportunity to get into the quarter final stage of either the Heineken or Amlin cups. That has got to be our focus."
"It we don't qualify for either competition it will be a huge blow for us after having had such a good run in Europe last season."
Reflecting on last season's campaign, Young feels that perhaps there is added pressure on the Blues to achieve this season,
"The 2008/09 campaign was great, but some people said we over-achieved and perhaps we did. But we certainly should be doing better than we are this year. We have put ourselves under pressure and must get ourselves out of it," added Young.
"There was expectation after our achievements of last year but we must deal with that pressure. The great champions continue to produce season on season. As we have seen year-on-year, your fate is in your own hands once into the knockout stages. They are one-off games and they can always go either way."
Young also admits that the Sharks will also be a real threat following some good performances by the English team,
"Sale managed to pick up a bonus-point win away at Harlequins, which is never easy, so they are in a very strong position and they will certainly fancy playing against us here today."
"However, if we play as well as we can, I am confident we have nothing to fear. The frustrating thing for all of us this season is that we have not performed for the full 80 minutes. We've shown glimpses of what we can do, as against the Dragons over the Christmas period, but it's crucial that we play well for the whole match."
15 Ben Blair 14 Leigh Halfpenny 13 Casey Laulala 12 Jamie Roberts 11 Tom James 10 Ceri Sweeney 9 Richie Rees
8 Xavier Rush 7 Martyn Williams 6 Andy Powell 5 Deiniol Jones 4 Bradley Davies 3 Taufau Filise 2 Gareth Williams 1 Gethin Jenkins (c)
16 T Rhys Thomas 17 Sam Hobbs 18 Gary Powell 19 Paul Tito 20 Ben White 21 Gareth Cooper 22 Sam Norton Knight 23 Tom Shanklin
15.1.10. Scarlets team v L Irish Parc y Scarlets on Sunday ko 12.45.
SCARLETS NAME TEAM TO FACE LONDON IRISH ON SUNDAY
Dyddiad/Date: Friday 15th January 2010
Cyhoeddwyd ar ran y Scarlets/Issued on behalf of Scarlets
The Scarlets have named a 23-man squad to face the London Irish on Sunday at Parc y Scarlets, kick off 1245pm, in the fifth round of the Heineken Cup.
The Scarlets have beaten London Irish in their previous three Heineken Cup clashes including their last encounter - the memorable 27 - 25 win at Madejski stadium in October in Round 2 of this season's competition.
With London Irish out to revenge their defeat at home in Reading against the Scarlets, both teams have admitted it is a 'massive match' - knowing that a result keeps their hopes in the Europe alive.
Scarlets Head Coach Nigel Davies said the Parc y Scarlets home crowd will have plenty to look forward in Sunday's game.
"It should be a good game, both sides traditionally look to play an expansive brand of rugby. I've got a lot of admiration for what they are doing at London Irish, they are a quality outfit and with both sides knowing it is a must win match - it should make for a great game of rugby, just like the first game was."
Back into the Scarlets starting line-up comes Morgan Stoddart on the wing with talented young flanker Josh Turnbull back after suspension.
Fly-half Stephen Jones does not quite make the race for fitness for this game, after picking up a slight shoulder injury against the Dragons on New Years Eve, so Rhys Priestland takes up the key no10 slot for the Scarlets. Daniel Evans, Man of the Match against London Irish last time out takes position at full-back.
The Scarlets welcome back experienced prop Iestyn Thomas who returns from injury to start. The squad is still without a number of its internationals including Mark Jones, Matthew Rees (expected back next week), Dafydd Jones, Rhys Thomas and Regan King.
The Scarlets are determined to put their back-to-back form against Leinster right, with Davies saying it is now the 'key game' in the European Cup with "a lot to play for and a lot to prove".
He said: "This is a key game in our group now. It's very important to both teams and realistically we are still in there with a shout of finishing in second spot in this particular group if we win on Sunday.
"If we can do that in this group, that will be a big achievement for us, particularly where we've come from over this past two or three years."
And Davies backed his young Scarlets fly-half, Rhys Priestland, saying he has developed well this season: "I am really pleased with Rhys, I think his overall game is very good, and he has developed really well this year. He has a bit more of a mental hardness to his game now and affects games very positively. I felt that in our win against the Dragons on New Years Eve, he had a significant impact on the game."
Asked about the last London Irish encounter, Nigel Davies said: "We were able to get pretty much our strongest team on the field for that game - with most of our internationals available. Our pack went well and our set piece gave us a great platform, which was no mean achievement against a formidable team like London Irish.
"We established a platform to play off and we were able to react to the game as it unfolded, and in the second half we dominated the game. We stuck in there and showed resilience and belief when they got a break away try and that's the type of commitment and character that we are going have to show again on Sunday."
Meanwhile, London Irish second row Bob Casey who will lead the Exiles out on Sunday after back to back wins of 34-13 and 36-3 winners against Brive has said the team were aware of the challenge the Scarlets present: "We slipped up badly at home when the Scarlets punished us but we will be doing our homework on them next week and make sure we are 100 per cent prepared for what we know will be a huge challenge in West Wales," said Casey.
"The Scarlets have a decent scrum, their line-out is going well and they have gain breakers behind the scrum and guys who can run in tries from all over the pitch.
"Any team that can do that is a threat and in David Lyons they have one of the best No 8s in the competition, an extremely powerful player with a great rugby brain."
Scarlets selection v London Irish Sunday 17th January 2010 (KO 1245) at Parc y Scarlets
15 Daniel Evans, 14 Morgan Stoddart, 13 Sean Lamont, 12 Jonathan Davies, 11 Andy Fenby, 10 Rhys Priestland, 9 Martin Roberts, 1 Iestyn Thomas, 2 Ken Owens, 3 Deacon Manu, 4 Lou Reed, 5 Dominic Day, 6 Rob McCusker, 7 Josh Turnbull, 8 David Lyons (captain).
Replacements: 16 Emyr Phillips, 17 Phil John, 18 Jamie Corsi, 19 Damian Welch, 20 Johnathan Edwards, 21 Lee Williams, 22 Dan Newton 23 Gareth Maule.
Dyddiad/Date: Friday 15th January 2010
Cyhoeddwyd ar ran y Scarlets/Issued on behalf of Scarlets
The Scarlets have named a 23-man squad to face the London Irish on Sunday at Parc y Scarlets, kick off 1245pm, in the fifth round of the Heineken Cup.
The Scarlets have beaten London Irish in their previous three Heineken Cup clashes including their last encounter - the memorable 27 - 25 win at Madejski stadium in October in Round 2 of this season's competition.
With London Irish out to revenge their defeat at home in Reading against the Scarlets, both teams have admitted it is a 'massive match' - knowing that a result keeps their hopes in the Europe alive.
Scarlets Head Coach Nigel Davies said the Parc y Scarlets home crowd will have plenty to look forward in Sunday's game.
"It should be a good game, both sides traditionally look to play an expansive brand of rugby. I've got a lot of admiration for what they are doing at London Irish, they are a quality outfit and with both sides knowing it is a must win match - it should make for a great game of rugby, just like the first game was."
Back into the Scarlets starting line-up comes Morgan Stoddart on the wing with talented young flanker Josh Turnbull back after suspension.
Fly-half Stephen Jones does not quite make the race for fitness for this game, after picking up a slight shoulder injury against the Dragons on New Years Eve, so Rhys Priestland takes up the key no10 slot for the Scarlets. Daniel Evans, Man of the Match against London Irish last time out takes position at full-back.
The Scarlets welcome back experienced prop Iestyn Thomas who returns from injury to start. The squad is still without a number of its internationals including Mark Jones, Matthew Rees (expected back next week), Dafydd Jones, Rhys Thomas and Regan King.
The Scarlets are determined to put their back-to-back form against Leinster right, with Davies saying it is now the 'key game' in the European Cup with "a lot to play for and a lot to prove".
He said: "This is a key game in our group now. It's very important to both teams and realistically we are still in there with a shout of finishing in second spot in this particular group if we win on Sunday.
"If we can do that in this group, that will be a big achievement for us, particularly where we've come from over this past two or three years."
And Davies backed his young Scarlets fly-half, Rhys Priestland, saying he has developed well this season: "I am really pleased with Rhys, I think his overall game is very good, and he has developed really well this year. He has a bit more of a mental hardness to his game now and affects games very positively. I felt that in our win against the Dragons on New Years Eve, he had a significant impact on the game."
Asked about the last London Irish encounter, Nigel Davies said: "We were able to get pretty much our strongest team on the field for that game - with most of our internationals available. Our pack went well and our set piece gave us a great platform, which was no mean achievement against a formidable team like London Irish.
"We established a platform to play off and we were able to react to the game as it unfolded, and in the second half we dominated the game. We stuck in there and showed resilience and belief when they got a break away try and that's the type of commitment and character that we are going have to show again on Sunday."
Meanwhile, London Irish second row Bob Casey who will lead the Exiles out on Sunday after back to back wins of 34-13 and 36-3 winners against Brive has said the team were aware of the challenge the Scarlets present: "We slipped up badly at home when the Scarlets punished us but we will be doing our homework on them next week and make sure we are 100 per cent prepared for what we know will be a huge challenge in West Wales," said Casey.
"The Scarlets have a decent scrum, their line-out is going well and they have gain breakers behind the scrum and guys who can run in tries from all over the pitch.
"Any team that can do that is a threat and in David Lyons they have one of the best No 8s in the competition, an extremely powerful player with a great rugby brain."
Scarlets selection v London Irish Sunday 17th January 2010 (KO 1245) at Parc y Scarlets
15 Daniel Evans, 14 Morgan Stoddart, 13 Sean Lamont, 12 Jonathan Davies, 11 Andy Fenby, 10 Rhys Priestland, 9 Martin Roberts, 1 Iestyn Thomas, 2 Ken Owens, 3 Deacon Manu, 4 Lou Reed, 5 Dominic Day, 6 Rob McCusker, 7 Josh Turnbull, 8 David Lyons (captain).
Replacements: 16 Emyr Phillips, 17 Phil John, 18 Jamie Corsi, 19 Damian Welch, 20 Johnathan Edwards, 21 Lee Williams, 22 Dan Newton 23 Gareth Maule.
14.1.10
14.1.10 Dragons Side V Glasgow Warriors
Danny Lydiate has returned from a hamstring injury to take up a starting position as the Dragons face Glasgow Warriors at Firhill in the round five clash of the Heineken Cup tomorrow (Friday 7:30pm)
With Pat Palmer ineligible for the tournament, Gethin Robinson comes into the front row and Shaun Connor gets a start at fly half
Newport Gwent Dragons
Jason Tovey, Aled Brew, Rhodri Gomer Davies, Tom Riley, Richard Fussell, Shaun Connor, Danny Lee, Hugh Gustafson, Tom Willis (C), Gethin Robinson, Rob Sidoli, Luke Charteris , Danny Lydiate, James Harris, Lewis Evans.
Replacements
Steve Jones, Ali Mckenzie, Peter Bracken, Hoani MacDonald, Mathew Watkins, James Leadbeater, James Arlidge, Martyn Thomas.
With Pat Palmer ineligible for the tournament, Gethin Robinson comes into the front row and Shaun Connor gets a start at fly half
Newport Gwent Dragons
Jason Tovey, Aled Brew, Rhodri Gomer Davies, Tom Riley, Richard Fussell, Shaun Connor, Danny Lee, Hugh Gustafson, Tom Willis (C), Gethin Robinson, Rob Sidoli, Luke Charteris , Danny Lydiate, James Harris, Lewis Evans.
Replacements
Steve Jones, Ali Mckenzie, Peter Bracken, Hoani MacDonald, Mathew Watkins, James Leadbeater, James Arlidge, Martyn Thomas.
12.1.10
12.1.10. Lydiate set to return for Dragons
Although the Dragons physio room is beginning to empty, the Heineken Cup clash against Glasgow on Friday night will only see one return as several players eye the round six match against Gloucester to get back on the pitch.
Rising star Danny Lydiate is set to return from a hamstring injury for the round 5 match at Firhill Arena whilst Ben Castle and Ashley Smith are hoped to be available for next weekend’s match along with scrum half pair Alex Walker and Wayne Evans.
The absence of Walker and Evans has given academy graduate James Leadbeater the opportunity to build on his senior career after making his debut against Biarritz last month.
"Glasgow are similar to the Dragons," said Dragons Head Coach Paul Turner. It’s not all stars but a workman like side with a couple of key players we’ve always been aware of. Although we have a good record against them, the fact that they are riding high at the top of the league and the fact that they’ve made Firhill a bit of a fortress means that this definitely won’t be an easy game.
"Christmas has not been a happy time for us. The Friday match against Biarritz where we became victims of the weather in more ways than one was a tough one for us and effectively stopped what had been a good run for us. I’ve always said that Europe can damage you if you’re not 100% on your game, with a few players unavailable.
"The weather’s been very tough to deal with. We’ve been training all over the place and it feels like we’ve been at the Vale of Glamorgan forever. It is a great facility and we’re lucky to have access to it but it’s very difficult with the moving around to keep continuity.
"The only longer-term guys are Joe Bearman – who we’re expecting a decision on over the next couple of days and Nigel Hall.
"In any sport, if you’re not playing well and things go against you, you have to be able to fight back. We’re doing things very well in training, it’s just a question of making sure that we get these things right on the pitch."
Dragons Squad for Glasgow
Backs
Jason Tovey, Martyn Thomas Aled Brew, Rhodri Gomer Davies, Rom Riley, Richard Fussell, Matthew Watkins, James Arlidge, Shaun Connor, James Leadbeater, Danny Lee
Forwards
Hugh Gustafson, Ali McKenzie, Tom Willis (c) Steve Jones, Peter Bracken, Gethin Robinson, Rob Sidoli, Luke Charteris, Hoani MacDonald, Adam Jones, Grant Webb, Danny Lydiate, Lewis Evans, Gavin Thomas
Rising star Danny Lydiate is set to return from a hamstring injury for the round 5 match at Firhill Arena whilst Ben Castle and Ashley Smith are hoped to be available for next weekend’s match along with scrum half pair Alex Walker and Wayne Evans.
The absence of Walker and Evans has given academy graduate James Leadbeater the opportunity to build on his senior career after making his debut against Biarritz last month.
"Glasgow are similar to the Dragons," said Dragons Head Coach Paul Turner. It’s not all stars but a workman like side with a couple of key players we’ve always been aware of. Although we have a good record against them, the fact that they are riding high at the top of the league and the fact that they’ve made Firhill a bit of a fortress means that this definitely won’t be an easy game.
"Christmas has not been a happy time for us. The Friday match against Biarritz where we became victims of the weather in more ways than one was a tough one for us and effectively stopped what had been a good run for us. I’ve always said that Europe can damage you if you’re not 100% on your game, with a few players unavailable.
"The weather’s been very tough to deal with. We’ve been training all over the place and it feels like we’ve been at the Vale of Glamorgan forever. It is a great facility and we’re lucky to have access to it but it’s very difficult with the moving around to keep continuity.
"The only longer-term guys are Joe Bearman – who we’re expecting a decision on over the next couple of days and Nigel Hall.
"In any sport, if you’re not playing well and things go against you, you have to be able to fight back. We’re doing things very well in training, it’s just a question of making sure that we get these things right on the pitch."
Dragons Squad for Glasgow
Backs
Jason Tovey, Martyn Thomas Aled Brew, Rhodri Gomer Davies, Rom Riley, Richard Fussell, Matthew Watkins, James Arlidge, Shaun Connor, James Leadbeater, Danny Lee
Forwards
Hugh Gustafson, Ali McKenzie, Tom Willis (c) Steve Jones, Peter Bracken, Gethin Robinson, Rob Sidoli, Luke Charteris, Hoani MacDonald, Adam Jones, Grant Webb, Danny Lydiate, Lewis Evans, Gavin Thomas
12.1.10.Ospreys Paul James pays tribute to conditioning team
I needed to get a bit more explosive and a bit faster around the field"
Date: Tuesday 12th January 2010
Issued on behalf of Ospreys
Paul James has paid tribute to the work of the strength and conditioning team at the Ospreys for the support that enabled him to force his way back into the national set-up earlier this season.
The 27-year prop was a fixture in the Wales team during the autumn internationals, starting all four games during November, more than six years after his solitary previous appearance in a red shirt which came at the Racecourse, Wrexham, when Wales played Romania back in 2003.
The most capped Osprey of all time with 138 regional outings to his credit, the return to international duty was a welcome reward for a player who had worked closely with the coaching team at the Ospreys to force his way into the international reckoning. This season has seen the ever reliable James hit a rich vein of form, culminating in his two try man-of-the-match showing in the Christmas win over the Scarlets, but he says that his rise to prominence is no coincidence, it is down to the efforts of Head Strength and Conditioning Coach Mark Bennett and his Assistant Alex Lawson, who have worked with him to put together a conditioning programme that has allowed him to flourish. He said:
"I spoke to the coaches back in the summer about my ambitions for the next few years, one of which was that I wanted to get back into the Welsh squad. The feedback I got was that if I was going to achieve that, then I needed to get a bit more explosive and a bit faster around the field. I've worked hard with Benny and Alex on explosive power, and on my speed and fitness. Basically, it was about working hard in pre-season and in the early part of the season on areas of conditioning that would make a difference to me.
"I can definitely feel a big difference, I think they've really helped and guided me in the right direction. The difference can be measured, it's not just about how I feel, it's there in black and white in the records that the coaches keep. For example, take counter movement jumps. Last year I would have been jumping 22cm, this year I'm up to 28. I never thought that I'd ever get to that kind of score, but from the training that I've done with the conditioning coaches, that's a guide to how far they've brought me on this season.
"It isn't something that I can just do and then forget about it and let all the good work go to waste. They keep on pushing me, and it's all part of my regular routine now. You go through different phases, the weights will change as the months go by, but you have to put your faith in the conditioning team. It's been really good for me and the results, the way I am playing better than ever, speak for themselves."
Mark Bennett arrived at the Ospreys ahead of the current season after spending five years as WRU National Fitness Coach. Renowned as one of the world's leading sports conditioning experts, he was brought to the Ospreys to ensure that the region has the best physical development programme in world rugby. He immediately set about testing the whole squad, the results of which were then used to put together individual conditioning plans to address the shortcomings of each player. He says that it is this detailed approach that has paid dividends for a number of players, including James:
"When we did our pre-season fitness testing, the striking thing that I found with the Ospreys squad as a whole was that we had very good endurance levels in the squad, but top end speed and power wasn't where it should have been. For us to get around the field, the players would be able to maintain around 94 or 95 per cent of their maximum velocity, or speed, for about 10 sprints. For a rugby player, that figure should really be down at about 90 per cent, so our endurance is too good for our speed, which was lagging behind somewhere. It was clear that what we needed to do, it was about going away and working on power and speed with the players.
"For Paul in particular, it was a phased process. We wanted him to lose a bit of body fat, so the first phase was about losing a bit of weight and then trying to regain that in muscle mass, and to improve his maximum strength levels. Once we'd done that, it was about improving his explosive strength, before the final phase, which was to improve his speed.
One of the problems that you can get with that approach is that it's not a two or three week process. Each phase needs you to work in blocks of four to six weeks. That means that somebody like Paul needs twelve to sixteen weeks of hard work to be able to really show his improvements.
"It was the same for a lot of our players who played at the start of the season, they were fatigued a little maybe and had to play through it. It wasn't until probably the first days of Europe this season that we actually reached the stage where we'd got past that and were starting to see some of the gains that players had made."
The common perception seems to be that speed is one of those natural assets that sportsmen are either blessed with or they aren't, and that it's not something you can coach a player. That perception is something that Bennett disagrees with, as he explains:
"To an extent you can. It's not pure, top end speed we're talking about, where people are actually running 100 metres that kind of speed is very difficult to improve. You have to realise that rugby is a stop start game, so when we talk about speed, it's about agility, explosiveness out of the blocks and getting your first five or ten metres done. That is actually relatively easy to improve in the gym, by doing lots of heavy lifts to start with and then trying to convert that strength into power by doing jumps with weights on your backs, doing plyometrics and bounding exercises. That type of work generally allows players to improve their acceleration very quickly. It also improves their stepping ability, their stopping ability and all those sorts of things that can gain you half a metre on the pitch.
"It's a multi-year approach, and you have to keep on doing the same thing until the player stops improving. You repeat the cycle. If his legs got 30kg stronger last time, they may only get 15kg stronger next time, 10kg the next time. The slope of improvement is steep to start with and it will curve off. When you plateau and you aren't getting any gains, then you'd look to move them onto something else. But, one of the problems of rugby that coaches are always facing is that you have so many injuries, so many problems that can prevent a player from training or playing, that you actually never, or very rarely, ever reach that plateau. All that happens is they slip back and have to start again. They may get to the same point quicker next time, but it's rare that they'll ever get to the plateau. What we need to do is constantly manage these players to ensure that we give them the best chance to get up that slope."
James says the key has been that he has been able to buy into what the conditioning coaches have been doing with him, because the processes and the benefits were explained thoroughly to him, so he can see the reasoning behind the programme:
"They explain why you are doing something, what the benefits are, and when you can understand that then it makes sense. You can be doing stuff in the gym simply because you've got to, but not know what you are trying to achieve, but that's not the case. The conditioning guys make sure we understand the benefits. I had a goal, which was to get back into the Wales side, Benny explained what we needed to do to reach my goal, and what each different part of the routine would bring to me, so it gives you the added incentive to push yourself.
"I'm enjoying my rugby more than ever at the moment. The conditioning programme has helped massively. The coaches set my targets and I've reached them, which to be honest is all down to them. Okay, I put the hard work in but it's their planning, without that I wouldn't have ever got there. I wanted to be doing the right things to give me the best chance of representing my country again and they have enabled me to do that. And, they are the ones who are continuing to keep me going so that I can keep my place."
ENDS
Date: Tuesday 12th January 2010
Issued on behalf of Ospreys
Paul James has paid tribute to the work of the strength and conditioning team at the Ospreys for the support that enabled him to force his way back into the national set-up earlier this season.
The 27-year prop was a fixture in the Wales team during the autumn internationals, starting all four games during November, more than six years after his solitary previous appearance in a red shirt which came at the Racecourse, Wrexham, when Wales played Romania back in 2003.
The most capped Osprey of all time with 138 regional outings to his credit, the return to international duty was a welcome reward for a player who had worked closely with the coaching team at the Ospreys to force his way into the international reckoning. This season has seen the ever reliable James hit a rich vein of form, culminating in his two try man-of-the-match showing in the Christmas win over the Scarlets, but he says that his rise to prominence is no coincidence, it is down to the efforts of Head Strength and Conditioning Coach Mark Bennett and his Assistant Alex Lawson, who have worked with him to put together a conditioning programme that has allowed him to flourish. He said:
"I spoke to the coaches back in the summer about my ambitions for the next few years, one of which was that I wanted to get back into the Welsh squad. The feedback I got was that if I was going to achieve that, then I needed to get a bit more explosive and a bit faster around the field. I've worked hard with Benny and Alex on explosive power, and on my speed and fitness. Basically, it was about working hard in pre-season and in the early part of the season on areas of conditioning that would make a difference to me.
"I can definitely feel a big difference, I think they've really helped and guided me in the right direction. The difference can be measured, it's not just about how I feel, it's there in black and white in the records that the coaches keep. For example, take counter movement jumps. Last year I would have been jumping 22cm, this year I'm up to 28. I never thought that I'd ever get to that kind of score, but from the training that I've done with the conditioning coaches, that's a guide to how far they've brought me on this season.
"It isn't something that I can just do and then forget about it and let all the good work go to waste. They keep on pushing me, and it's all part of my regular routine now. You go through different phases, the weights will change as the months go by, but you have to put your faith in the conditioning team. It's been really good for me and the results, the way I am playing better than ever, speak for themselves."
Mark Bennett arrived at the Ospreys ahead of the current season after spending five years as WRU National Fitness Coach. Renowned as one of the world's leading sports conditioning experts, he was brought to the Ospreys to ensure that the region has the best physical development programme in world rugby. He immediately set about testing the whole squad, the results of which were then used to put together individual conditioning plans to address the shortcomings of each player. He says that it is this detailed approach that has paid dividends for a number of players, including James:
"When we did our pre-season fitness testing, the striking thing that I found with the Ospreys squad as a whole was that we had very good endurance levels in the squad, but top end speed and power wasn't where it should have been. For us to get around the field, the players would be able to maintain around 94 or 95 per cent of their maximum velocity, or speed, for about 10 sprints. For a rugby player, that figure should really be down at about 90 per cent, so our endurance is too good for our speed, which was lagging behind somewhere. It was clear that what we needed to do, it was about going away and working on power and speed with the players.
"For Paul in particular, it was a phased process. We wanted him to lose a bit of body fat, so the first phase was about losing a bit of weight and then trying to regain that in muscle mass, and to improve his maximum strength levels. Once we'd done that, it was about improving his explosive strength, before the final phase, which was to improve his speed.
One of the problems that you can get with that approach is that it's not a two or three week process. Each phase needs you to work in blocks of four to six weeks. That means that somebody like Paul needs twelve to sixteen weeks of hard work to be able to really show his improvements.
"It was the same for a lot of our players who played at the start of the season, they were fatigued a little maybe and had to play through it. It wasn't until probably the first days of Europe this season that we actually reached the stage where we'd got past that and were starting to see some of the gains that players had made."
The common perception seems to be that speed is one of those natural assets that sportsmen are either blessed with or they aren't, and that it's not something you can coach a player. That perception is something that Bennett disagrees with, as he explains:
"To an extent you can. It's not pure, top end speed we're talking about, where people are actually running 100 metres that kind of speed is very difficult to improve. You have to realise that rugby is a stop start game, so when we talk about speed, it's about agility, explosiveness out of the blocks and getting your first five or ten metres done. That is actually relatively easy to improve in the gym, by doing lots of heavy lifts to start with and then trying to convert that strength into power by doing jumps with weights on your backs, doing plyometrics and bounding exercises. That type of work generally allows players to improve their acceleration very quickly. It also improves their stepping ability, their stopping ability and all those sorts of things that can gain you half a metre on the pitch.
"It's a multi-year approach, and you have to keep on doing the same thing until the player stops improving. You repeat the cycle. If his legs got 30kg stronger last time, they may only get 15kg stronger next time, 10kg the next time. The slope of improvement is steep to start with and it will curve off. When you plateau and you aren't getting any gains, then you'd look to move them onto something else. But, one of the problems of rugby that coaches are always facing is that you have so many injuries, so many problems that can prevent a player from training or playing, that you actually never, or very rarely, ever reach that plateau. All that happens is they slip back and have to start again. They may get to the same point quicker next time, but it's rare that they'll ever get to the plateau. What we need to do is constantly manage these players to ensure that we give them the best chance to get up that slope."
James says the key has been that he has been able to buy into what the conditioning coaches have been doing with him, because the processes and the benefits were explained thoroughly to him, so he can see the reasoning behind the programme:
"They explain why you are doing something, what the benefits are, and when you can understand that then it makes sense. You can be doing stuff in the gym simply because you've got to, but not know what you are trying to achieve, but that's not the case. The conditioning guys make sure we understand the benefits. I had a goal, which was to get back into the Wales side, Benny explained what we needed to do to reach my goal, and what each different part of the routine would bring to me, so it gives you the added incentive to push yourself.
"I'm enjoying my rugby more than ever at the moment. The conditioning programme has helped massively. The coaches set my targets and I've reached them, which to be honest is all down to them. Okay, I put the hard work in but it's their planning, without that I wouldn't have ever got there. I wanted to be doing the right things to give me the best chance of representing my country again and they have enabled me to do that. And, they are the ones who are continuing to keep me going so that I can keep my place."
ENDS
11.1.10
11.1.10 WRU -6 Nations Tickets Released Tomorrow
WRU PRESS RELEASE
Issued: 11 January, 2010
RBS 6 NATIONS TICKETS RELEASED
Over 27,000 Welsh rugby fans who have pre-registered for the 2010 RBS 6 Nations matches at the Millennium Stadium will get the opportunity to snap up the hottest tickets of the season from tomorrow (Tuesday, 13 January) at 12.00 noon.
Fans from far and wide have registered their support for the national squad since Wales captain Ryan Jones launched the pre-registration process via the Welsh Rugby Union website during last year's Invesco Perpetual Autumn Series .
The website link at www.wru.co.uk/tickets, which closed on Thursday of last week, invited fans to join a priority waiting list for access to any tickets unclaimed by WRU member clubs and debenture holders.
Sell-out crowds are expected at the iconic rugby venue when Warren Gatland's Wales face the three teams in blue, Scotland (February 13), France (February 26) and Italy (March 20), as they chase their third championship title in six seasons.
"The fans are an important part of the team and we will be looking forward to three home games with the Millennium Stadium full to its rafters," said Wales coach Warren Gatland.
"There is nothing like looking up from the pitch to a sea of red to inspire a player, we have three tough matches in Cardiff this year and the crowd will have an vital part to play."
WRU Head of Group Compliance Julie Paterson introduced pre-registration for fans following a review of ticketing systems over the past three seasons.
She said: "The pre-registration process allows fans who struggle to secure access to match tickets to register their interest in our team and the championship and get the first chance to buy any tickets that are unclaimed by our member clubs."
"This system does not take your money at the point of registration and allows members the option to pay for any unclaimed tickets prior to the games. Pre-registration also helps to deter fans that may feel tempted to purchase tickets from sources other than a recognized established agent."
At the point of registration fans were asked for their name and contact details only and will tomorrow be given a passcode to access and pay for tickets to the games when they are released.
Julie added: "Record numbers of fans, over 27,000 this season, have pre-registered for the opportunity to see Wales play the 'three Blues' at the Millennium Stadium, compared with the 12,000 people that pre-registered for last year's championship."
A limited number of tickets for the RBS 6 Nations at £25, £46, £59, £65 and £69 will be released tomorrow to the pre-registered list via email instruction. Any remaining tickets will go on public sale at midday on Monday 18 January via www.wru.co.uk.
Tickets are also available from the WRU website for Wales Under 20's and Wales Women's home games against Scotland, France and Italy from £5.
Millennium Stadium hospitality packages for the RBS 6 Nations are available from £249 plus vat per person at www.millenniumstadium.com.
Fixture Schedule (GMT)
Week 1
Saturday 6th February
14:30 - Ireland v Italy
17:00 - England v Wales
Sunday 7th February
15:00 - Scotland v France
Week 2
Saturday 13th February
14:00 - Wales v Scotland
16:30 (17:30 local) - France v Ireland
Sunday 14th February
14.30 (15:30 local) - Italy v England
Week 3
20/21 February - Rest Weekend
Week 4
Friday 26th February
20:00 - Wales v France
Saturday 27th February
13:30 (14:30 local) - Italy v Scotland
16:00 - England v Ireland
Week 5
6/7 March - Rest Weekend
Week 6
Saturday 13th March
14:30 - Ireland v Wales
17:00 - Scotland v England
Sunday 14th March
14:30 (15.30 local) - France v Italy
Week 7
Saturday 20th March
14:30 - Wales v Italy
17:00 - Ireland v Scotland
19:45 (20:45 local) - France v England
For further information, please contact Millennium Stadium communications manager Gemma James: gjames@wru.co.uk or 07725828498.
Issued: 11 January, 2010
RBS 6 NATIONS TICKETS RELEASED
Over 27,000 Welsh rugby fans who have pre-registered for the 2010 RBS 6 Nations matches at the Millennium Stadium will get the opportunity to snap up the hottest tickets of the season from tomorrow (Tuesday, 13 January) at 12.00 noon.
Fans from far and wide have registered their support for the national squad since Wales captain Ryan Jones launched the pre-registration process via the Welsh Rugby Union website during last year's Invesco Perpetual Autumn Series .
The website link at www.wru.co.uk/tickets, which closed on Thursday of last week, invited fans to join a priority waiting list for access to any tickets unclaimed by WRU member clubs and debenture holders.
Sell-out crowds are expected at the iconic rugby venue when Warren Gatland's Wales face the three teams in blue, Scotland (February 13), France (February 26) and Italy (March 20), as they chase their third championship title in six seasons.
"The fans are an important part of the team and we will be looking forward to three home games with the Millennium Stadium full to its rafters," said Wales coach Warren Gatland.
"There is nothing like looking up from the pitch to a sea of red to inspire a player, we have three tough matches in Cardiff this year and the crowd will have an vital part to play."
WRU Head of Group Compliance Julie Paterson introduced pre-registration for fans following a review of ticketing systems over the past three seasons.
She said: "The pre-registration process allows fans who struggle to secure access to match tickets to register their interest in our team and the championship and get the first chance to buy any tickets that are unclaimed by our member clubs."
"This system does not take your money at the point of registration and allows members the option to pay for any unclaimed tickets prior to the games. Pre-registration also helps to deter fans that may feel tempted to purchase tickets from sources other than a recognized established agent."
At the point of registration fans were asked for their name and contact details only and will tomorrow be given a passcode to access and pay for tickets to the games when they are released.
Julie added: "Record numbers of fans, over 27,000 this season, have pre-registered for the opportunity to see Wales play the 'three Blues' at the Millennium Stadium, compared with the 12,000 people that pre-registered for last year's championship."
A limited number of tickets for the RBS 6 Nations at £25, £46, £59, £65 and £69 will be released tomorrow to the pre-registered list via email instruction. Any remaining tickets will go on public sale at midday on Monday 18 January via www.wru.co.uk.
Tickets are also available from the WRU website for Wales Under 20's and Wales Women's home games against Scotland, France and Italy from £5.
Millennium Stadium hospitality packages for the RBS 6 Nations are available from £249 plus vat per person at www.millenniumstadium.com.
Fixture Schedule (GMT)
Week 1
Saturday 6th February
14:30 - Ireland v Italy
17:00 - England v Wales
Sunday 7th February
15:00 - Scotland v France
Week 2
Saturday 13th February
14:00 - Wales v Scotland
16:30 (17:30 local) - France v Ireland
Sunday 14th February
14.30 (15:30 local) - Italy v England
Week 3
20/21 February - Rest Weekend
Week 4
Friday 26th February
20:00 - Wales v France
Saturday 27th February
13:30 (14:30 local) - Italy v Scotland
16:00 - England v Ireland
Week 5
6/7 March - Rest Weekend
Week 6
Saturday 13th March
14:30 - Ireland v Wales
17:00 - Scotland v England
Sunday 14th March
14:30 (15.30 local) - France v Italy
Week 7
Saturday 20th March
14:30 - Wales v Italy
17:00 - Ireland v Scotland
19:45 (20:45 local) - France v England
For further information, please contact Millennium Stadium communications manager Gemma James: gjames@wru.co.uk or 07725828498.
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