The 2008 Super 14 final will be the last crusade for three of Canterbury's favourite sons. Coach Robbie Deans, Reuben Thorn and Caleb Ralph will all say goodbye to the Crusaders franchise that has given them (and us) many great memories.

Robbie Deans is leaving New Zealand after missing out on the All Blacks coaching job that went to Henry (again - don't start us on that one...), and as of Monday will begin a new chapter - as Head Coach of the Wallabies. No offense, Deans - but we just can't wish you any luck on this one.

After the disappointment of last years early exit from the World Cup (it still pains us to mention it...), Deans seemed a shoo-in for the All Blacks role. But, for reasons oly known by the NZRFU, Mr Henry was given another chance. The Wallabies, though, were all too happy to swoop in and claim Deans for themselves - we're just hoping it doesn't come back to bite us...

All that aside, though, and Robbie's focus will be on the match against the Warratahs tonight...although we're sure we'll have one eye (maybe two??) on the Aussie boys. You can hardly blaim him...

Crusader veterans Reuben Thorne and Caleb Ralph will also be hanging up their red and black jersey's for the last time, and are both off to Japan to earn some Yen before wrapping up their rugby careers.

Ralph will be hoping he makes it on, tonight, as he's starting off the bench. Surely he'll be given some decent game time? An unsung hero of the Crusaders team, Ralph has amassed a total of 112 Super Rugby games (including a handful for the Chiefs and Blues), not to mention an impressive tally of 58 tries - which has him sitting only 1 try behind record holder Doug Howlett. It would be great to see Ralph score, and equal Howletts record. Or, even better, score twice...

Thorne ends his Crusaders career with an astonishing 128 games behind him - many of which were as captain. Thorne (although often critisized for being 'invisible' on the field) has always had a strong work ethic. He may be rugbys Mr Invisible, but even if you couldn't see him - you knew he was getting the job done.

All three men have given the Canterbury region plenty to be proud of, and to win a 7th Super 14 title would cap off three excellent careers.

The only change to the Crusaders lineup is Ti'i Paulo, who comes in for the injured Cory Flynn after he broke his arm with 12 minutes remaining in the semi against the Hurricanes.

The Warratahs will also be looking to send their coach out on a high, as Ewan McKenzie was given the boot after a slow start to the season (oops). Rumours have already started to fly about where he'll be coaching next year, including some talk that he may be in line for the vacant Crusaders job. Strangly, the Warratahs haven't asked if he would consider staying on for next year - crazy, if you ask us.

So, as the Super 14 comes to a close for another year, we turn our attention (after the final, of course) to the International season, just around the corner.

Bring it on!

Once again, the world of rugby league is awash with rumour and speculation - this time surrounding Ruben Wiki, the NRL's oldest player.

Wiki has been dropped by the Warriors for this weeks clash with the Newcastle Knights, and instead he'll line up for the Warriors feeder club - the Auckland Vulcans - where he'll join fellow first-graders Wairangi Koopu and Ryan Shortland.

His demotion to the lower grades has led to calls for an early retirement from Wiki, ending his contract and in doing so saving the club around $200,000.

But we here in the Attic believe these calls are a bit premature, and we think Wiki still has the goods to play in the first-grade week-in and week-out.

The passion that Wiki inspires in those around him is second to none in the NRL, and the old-stager still hits as hard today as he did when his career first began 15 years ago. He may be 35, but he plays like he's still in his twenties - although, granted, he is a tad slower now.

Wiki has stated that he has no intention of walking out on his contract with the Warriors, and is happy to play wherever the coaches want him to play - yet another testament to the passion the man has for the game.

Wiki is only four games away from joining the illustrious 300 game club, and we would certainly be disappointed if Ivan Cleary doesn't give him his chance later in the season - It'd be a huge honour for Wiki, and who could say he hasn't earnt it?

A few weeks in the lower grades will give Wiki the time he needs to fully recover from the rib cartilage injury that has been bothering him for some time now. It will also give the young up-and-comers a chance to play along side the man they would have grown up watching - what a feeling that will be for the youngsters. They need to take the opportunity, and absorb everything they possibly can from Wiki while he's with them.

Ruben Wiki's career began back in June 13th,1993, when he debuted for the Canberra Raiders against the South Sydney Rabbitohs. Playing along-side some of leagues legends (Mel Maninga, Laurie Daley, Bradley Clyde, Steve Walters, and Ricky Stuart - bit of experience there...), gave Wiki the opportunity to learn from the true masters and perfect his trade, which he did as a center, initially, before moving into the forwards later in his career.

In 1994 Wiki went on to help win the Winfield Cup with the Raiders, defeating the Bulldogs 36-12.

He has since gone on to play 225 games for the mighty green machine (over twelve years), before signing with the Warriors in 2005, where he has played 70 games. Add to that a world record breaking 55 Tests for the Kiwis (including 18 as captain), and you've got a real icon of rugby league.

Wiki has hinted that at the end of the 2008 season he may hang up his boots, rather than head off to England to play for the Castleford Tigers in the Super League. Whatever option he chooses, he'll always be remembered as one of rugby leagues true warriors.

In other league news, Melbourne Storm back-rower Michael Crocker is off to the UK to play for Hull at the end of the year. The Australian and Queensland star has had a great NRL career, especially since joining the Storm after moving from the Sydney Roosters. Injuries, though, have limited his game time somewhat over the past few seasons.

Before the loss in game one of the 2008 State of Origin series, Crocker had an impressive run of 38 successive wins in a row.

Wouldn't you like some of that brought your way, Hull?

A 25-man training squad was announced on Monday, as Graham Henry looks to finalise his All Blacks lineup for the upcoming Test series against Ireland and England.

It's important to note that this is not the official lineup, but rather a training camp. This gives those selected a chance to show Henry they have what it takes to represent New Zealand at the highest level - no pressure, lads!

The Canterbury boys, of course, are still on Super 14 duty with the final this Saturday.

Always one to throw us the odd (ha...) curve ball, Henry has selected a few players that are - well - surprising. Among these are locks Kevin O'Neill (Waikato), Anthony Boric (North Harbour), and Tom Donnelly (Otago), who will all be looking to secure the third locking spot. Ali Williams and Brad Thorn, however, will still be the ones to beat. Jason Eaton has been left out of the training squad, which seems quite strange to us. He has some experience at Test level, and can cover on the flanks if needed.

Are you listening, Mr Henry?

Other first timers include Paul Williams (Canterbury), Adam Thomson (Otago), Stephen Donald (Waikato), Richard Kahui (Waikato), Anthony Tuitavake (North Harbour), and Rudi Wolf (North Harbour). All have shown potential throughout the Super 14, and with so many of last years All Blacks now overseas they've got a good shot at playing Test footy this year.

The biggest surprises, though, are those who missed out, with Piri Weepu (Wellington - or should we say, the Warriors? We'd like that, Piri...), Jason Eaton (Taranaki - come on, Graham - are you serious?), Isaia Toeava (Auckland), and Chris Masoe (Wellington - but for how long?) all unwanted by the All Black selectors at this stage.

We say 'at this stage', beacuse you just never know with Henry...

Jaime McIntosh (Southland), Lelia Masaga (Counties Manukau), and Liam Messam (Waikato) are also unlucky to miss out on the training squad, although this doesn't necessarily mean they aren't in contention. We'll say it again - what will you do, Graham?

Without the Crusaders in the mix, it's difficult to say who will make the [actual] All Blacks squad this year. There'll be some selected for the training squad who will miss out when the final team is named this Sunday, but they do have a chance to impress Henry and Co. It will certainly be interesting to see what they can bring to the table...

We would expect Richie McCaw (Canterbury), Dan Carter (Canterbury), Leon MacDonald (Canterbury), Stephen Brett (Canterbury - getting sick of hearing that word, yet?), Ali Williams (Tasman), Brad Thorn (Tasman), and Greg Sommerville (Canterbury - another one for ya...) to all be included in the final All Blacks squad, while Keiran Reid (Canterbury - OK, so it's getting old now...), Scott Hamilton (Canterbury - give it a break, please), and Casey Laulala (Canterbury - last one, we promise) will be looking to perform well this weekend to impress the All Black selectors before the squad is named.

Here's the full Training Squad:

Props: John Afoa (Auckland), John Schwalger (Wellington), Neemia Tialata (Wellington), Tony Woodcock (North Harbour).
Hookers: Andrew Hore (Taranaki), Kevin Mealamu (Auckland).
Locks: Anthony Boric (North Harbour), Tom Donnelly (Otago), Kevin O'Neill (Waikato).
Loose Forwards: Daniel Braid (Auckland), Jerome Kaino (Auckland), Sione Lauaki (Waikato), Rodney So'oialo (Wellington), Adam Thomson (Otago).
Half backs: Jimmy Cown (Southland), Brendon Leonard (Waikato).
First-fives: Stephen Donald (Waikato).
Second-fives: Ma'a Nonu (Wellington).
Centers: Richard Kahui (Waikato), Mils Muliaina (Waikato), Conrad Smith (Wellington).
Wingers: Sitiveni Sivivatu (Waikato), Anthony Tuitavake (North Harbour), Rudi Wolf (North Harbour).
Fullback: Paul Williams (Canterbury).

Whatever happens, we can't wait for the Test season to start.

Watch out, England.

The drama surrounding Bulldogs star Sonny Bill Williams continued this past week, as rumours about a possible code-switch continued to escalate throughout the rugby league world.

Williams is reported to be unhappy with his current situation in the Bulldogs camp, and is seriously considering leaving to take up a rugby (union) contract in France. It seems that he no longer feels any loyalty to his club, and unless drastic measures are taken his departure seems certain.

Williams is quoted as saying that one of his main concerns comes from the fact that he can't make extra money through endorsements because of the NRL's tight salary cap - which means that Williams can't be sponsored by outside companies.

According to his manager, Khoder Nasser, Williams may be departing within a matter of weeks -although the Bulldogs Board have claimed they'll put up a fight. The NRL Board should be doing everything possible to keep him in the game, because to lose him now, while he's in his prime, would be a massive waste of talent.

The drama seems to have started when Willie Mason left the Bulldogs to play for rival club, the Sydney Roosters. It was Mason who persuaded Williams to re-sign with the Bulldogs, and to show loyalty to the club that gave him his start in the NRL - despite the potential to move elsewhere for [a lot...] more money. So when Mason departed, Williams was left feeling angry and hurt - does loyalty count for anything, anymore?

It would be a real loss to the game if Williams was to leave for France, and hopefully an NRL club can jump in and keep him around. While the salary cap is a good thing in some respects (balancing out teams, for example) players should be able to recieve outside financial support if it's going to keep them in the game.

In other league news, Rabbitohs co-owner Peter Holmes a Court has resigned as club Chairman and Chief Executive, with Shane Richardson to replace him in the immediate future. Along with co-owner, Russell Crowe, Court helped to rebuild the struggling Bunnies and revive league in South Sydney. 2008 has been an unhappy year so far, though, which has led to reported tension between Court and Crowe - ending in the split.

Court will remain a shareholder at Souths, and they've acquired the assistance of veteran coach John Lang, who will have a supporting role with Jason Taylor. Let's just hope his talents can help the struggling Bunnies...

In NRL action this past weekend, the St George/Illawara Dragons picked up another win, this time over the second place Sea Eagles. They seem to be on the up after beating both of last years finalists in consecutive weeks. Are the players starting to think about next year, and securing their positions for incoming coach Wayne Bennett?

The Warriors were beaten at home for the first time this season, and it was another disappointing performance as the Sydney Roosters piled on the points to win 38-12. Halves combo Anasta and Pearce were outstanding in their kicking game, but their job was made all the more easy due to the Warriors' poor defence.

On a positive note, the Warriors welcomed back inspirational captain Steve Price from a knee injury - it's just a shame they couldn't welcome him back with a half-decent performance...

Results:

Dragons 20-18 Sea Eagles
Storm 15-10 Rabbitohs
Roosters 38-12 Warriors
Tigers 20-18 Titans
Bulldogs 30-22 Sharks

Bye: Broncos, Raiders, Cowboys, Eels, Panthers, Knights

It's quite possibly been the worst kept secret in New Zealand over the past few months, and as of Monday we were let in on it - Jerry Collins is departing from our shores.

However, in a strange twist Collins has yet to sign with another club. This makes him, for the moment anyway, officially unemployed. Collins will line up for the Barbarians when they take on England in a couple of weeks, and there's sure to be a few European clubs keeping an eye on him.

In the meantime, he could always return to his roots of picking up rubbish bags on the streets of Porirua...

Collins has been a standout loose-forward for Wellington and the Hurricanes, and he's played in 48 Tests for the All Blacks - including 3 as captain. Who will ever forget his infamous captain's speech after beating Argentina? Absolutely priceless, we think.

Often criticized for being one-dimensional, Collins never let it bother him, and he's become renowned as one of rugby's toughest players. Of all the quotes that we could use to sum up Jerry, we think this one does it the best -

"If you hit a brick wall hard enough, it'll fall down."

Jerry really does have a way with words - of that, there is no doubt.

He'll best be remembered for doing things his own way, will Collins. Whether it was playing club rugby (for the Porirua club, Norths) while he was meant to be resting, or taking a 'bathroom' break (say, what?) on the field, Collins certainly never worried about public opinion. New Zealand rugby could benefit from having a few more players of his caliber, and with his attitude, we believe.

His departure, though, has opened the door for guys like Liam Messam, Kieran Reid, and Jerome Kaino, who will all be eyeing up his test jersey. His spot, and his replacement, will be an interesting one to keep an eye on.

In his press conference on Monday, Collins hinted at a possible return to New Zealand shores down the track. Well, whether he returns or not - we'll always remember him as one of the true great characters of New Zealand rugby.

Jerry - a tribute...

When I got out of bed this morning, I tuned in to Breakfast to find out the state of the England vs. New Zealand cricket Test that's currently being played at Old Trafford.

Live television coverage starts here in New Zealand at 10pm, and the day's play wraps up at about 5am. Call me uncommitted, but I headed to bed just after midnight. England had gone to lunch sitting in a comfortable position, with Strauss and Vaughan batting nicely, but still along way off what would have been a very unlikely (and record breaking, for the ground) win.

I watched the sports news, heard the result, turned the TV off, and went back to bed. It was funny, really - I'd obviously been sleep-walking, and having a nightmare at the same time, because the news had told me that England had won by 6 wickets, with a day up their sleeve.

Half an hour of trembling under the sheets later, I got out of bed and accepted that I hadn't been dreaming, and that England had actually won.

And I was late to work, too.

We here in the Attic aren't sure what happened in that Test. New Zealand had a 179-run first innings lead, and England had a ton of pressure sitting squarely on their shoulders. Yet England's bowlers stood up, and rolled the sorry-looking Black Caps for a paltry, pathetic, useless, miserable (OK, we'll stop...) 114. Terrible from New Zealand, and a spirited fightback from an English side that was staring down the barrell of a heavy loss.

Still, New Zealand were well in the drivers seat. Thanks to their first innings total, England had 294 to chase down to win the game - and they'd have to set a new highest run-chase at Old Trafford to do it, too. England might have shifted some momentum their way, but the prospect of Vettori on a crumbling pitch kept the favourites tag with New Zealand.

And maybe that's what did it. There was no underdog status to overturn. Instead, there was an expectation to fulfill - and that's something the New Zealand Test side is not at all used to.

Maybe, too, it was the heavy roller that Vaughan decided to use before play began. It certainly seemed to extinguish the Vettori-flame - he finished with the unflattering (and unhelpful, from New Zealand's perspective) figures of 1-111 from 35 overs.

The closer England got to victory, and the more solid Strauss looked on the way to his match-winning 106, the more the pressure got to New Zealand. O'Brien should have had both Collingwood and Bell, but fumbled two fairly straight-forward return catches.

And that sums up New Zealand's day...should have.

O'Brien should have taken both catches. But he wouldn't have needed to had his batsmen performed better, and set England at least 370 to win. And England should have had to score that many. Even then, New Zealand's bowlers should have been able to bowl England out for less than 294. They really, really should have.

But they didn't - England did bowl New Zealand out cheaply, they did chase down the record score, they did win, and they do take an unasailable 1-0 lead with one match remaining.

And I'm going back to bed.

New Zealander's have something huge to celebrate today, with Kiwi boy Scott Dixon winning one of the most famous races in all of motor sports - the Indianapolis 500.

After finishing second in the same race last year, Dixon fought hard this year to make damn sure he came away with the win.

Dixon becomes the first ever Kiwi win the Indy 500, (he also poled first in qualifying - another Kiwi first), and becomes only the 19th person to win the race after starting in the pole position.
The 200 lap race was a stop-start affair, with eight yellow flags making life tough for Dixon - this win ranks right up there with his Indy Series title back in 2003.

Aussie Ryan Briscoe ended Danica Patrick's night when he clipped her car while in the pit lane, and didn't she get fired up? Still - with only 29 of the 200 laps to go, you can hardly blame her.

At the end of the day, though, none of that mattered to Dixon, who finally got to stand atop of the podium at Indianapolis and drink from the famous bottle of milk. Well done Scott - we're all immensely proud of your great achievement.

In other racing news, Britain's Lewis Hamilton picked up the checkered flag in Formula Ones Monaco Grand Prix, despite losing a tyre early in the race. Hamilton managed to limp into the pits and continue the race, which was hampered by rain and littered with crashes.
His win puts him right back on top of the championship table.

Keep 'em coming, Lewis!

Heading into the second Test, England and New Zealand were level-pegging. New Zealand, perhaps, had their noses in front - but only slightly. Either team had the opportunity to do apply pressure on day one at Old Trafford, and New Zealand was the team to do it.

At the end of the first day, shortened because of bad light, New Zealanded walked off looking comfortable on 202/4, with Ross Taylor sitting pretty on 67. And there was more to come. He pushed on in day two, and brought his second international hundred up off 130 deliveries.

He and Mills, batting at 9, combined for a demoralising 7th wicket partnership, with Mills scoring his maiden Test 50. Mills was dismissed for 57, off just 85 deliveries, and Taylor ended the innings unbeaten on 154 from 176 deliveries - a strike rate of 87.50, and an excellent innings.

New Zealand finished on 381, and then made serious inroads into the English top order. O'Brien removed both the openers, and Vettori served up 19 overs of pure pressure - and was rewarded with two wickets. Given what we saw from Vettori on a less-than-two-day-old pitch, how much of a handful will he be if this game goes the full length?

Day two ended with England on 152/4 - although one of those wickets was the night watchman, Sidebottom.

It's precarious for England. They've got a fair amount of work to do to score another 229 runs, and the momentum is definitely with New Zealand. Vettori is on top of the game, from both the perspective of the captaincy and as a bowler.

Before this series started, there was a lot of talk about playing 'exciting' and 'positive' cricket from the English camp. Funny, really - England's 152 runs so far in this match have come at a rate of 2.57 runs per over. Sure, there's been some tight bowling from New Zealand - but can we pick it up just a bit, please?

In the first match, too, England's run-rate was poor. 319 runs, at 2.86 runs an over, is hardly 'exciting'.

Compare that run-rate to the one New Zealand achieved during their 381 in the first innings - 4.2 runs per over. Compare, too, the top score (so far) from each team. With so much of the game to go, the totals (Taylor - 154, and Strauss - 60) are not entirely relevant. But the strike rates - oh boy...

Taylor scored his 154 off 176 balls, a strike rate of 87.5. Strauss's 60 came off 140 balls, at a rate of 42.85. Not exactly blistering.

Taylor faced only 36 extra deliveries in his innings than Strauss - and scored 94 more runs.

And should we even bother to look at Vaughan's strike rate of 22.55 over a period of 172 minutes? Best not to, we think.

These statistic's are astonishing. For a team to tout themselves as 'positive', and then come out and be this sluggish with their batting...

It would be understandable (almost...) against a rampant Australian attack. But England are facing, essentially, a re-built, second-string bowling attack from New Zealand. O'Brien is only in the side because Southee isn't playing - and even he is a rookie. Mills is solid, and Oram is generally reliable, but there's no real superstar amongst the seamers. Shane Bond has been lost to the cash-cow of Indian cricket, and New Zealand are yet to find a replacement that is up to his class - and will probably struggle to do so for some time.

Vettori, admittedly, is world-class, but he doesn't open the bowling. If there's ever a time to take the attack to New Zealand, it's before the slower bowlers come on. Yet, at the 31 over mark, England were 76/1, and crawling along at 2.5 runs an over. No top order collapse is needed to slow England down - they seem happy to dig in and do it themselves.

Cricket fans are used to this from England - they've never really had a flamboyant batting line-up, and slow-and-steady has generally been how they've played the game. And that would be fine...

But the fact that England started their summer with promises of positive intent - well, it's left us (and many, many English fans, we're sure) scratching our heads, and wondering -

When will the foot go down, England?

The second cricket Test between New Zealand and England starts tomorrow night (New Zealand time), and an interesting situation presents itself.

Neither team goes into the second Test with the upper hand, and neither team brings any real momentum from the first Test. Both teams had a century maker with the bat (Oram and Vaughan), and both teams had a stand-out bowler (Vettori and Sidebottom).

It was a fairly straight-forward draw for both England and New Zealand, and neither team was under any real pressure at any stage. Whilst it was a good game of Test cricket (other than the rain), we can essentially look back on it as a warm-up - because it's a two-match series now.

And so we turn to Old Trafford, and it's (traditionally) fast and bouncy pitch. The nerves of fronting up at Lords (and it's [overwhelming] Honours Board) will be gone, and it's time for both teams to get serious.

Both teams have a lot to work on. New Zealand's top order is still a concern (give us strength...), and England's middle order showed signs of vulnerability in the first Test that should worry them. Both teams had solid bowling performances, but there's no doubt that both teams could improve here.

Southee's been hit by a virus and is in doubt for the second Test, and Hoggard (broken thumb - cheers, Harmy) has been replaced in the squad by Chris Tremlett. Tremlett would be an interesting prospect on the bouncy Old Trafford pitch, but it'll be hard for England to change the team that performed so solidly at Lords.

Iain O'Brien and Michael Mason will fight for Southee's position if he's unavailable, and whilst he didn't set the world on fire at Lord's, it would be a huge blow to New Zealand if he can't play. Southee is young and inexperienced, but he has real all-round potential. He gets good pace and bounce with the ball, and with the bat...well, 77 off 40 deliveries on debut says it all, really. The Black Cap's coaching staff will want to develop and progress that talent as soon as possible...

...so you'll just have to get better, Tim.

Win this Test, and you can't lose the series - that'll be the message to both teams, and with such a solid start to the series both England and New Zealand will be looking to take things to the next level.

And that, sports fans, can only be good for us.

Game one of the 2008 State of Origin series kicked off in Sydney last night, and while the build up was quiet - the action on the field was anything but.

Queensland came into the game as red hot favourites, and with their backline full of superstars you could see why.

But somebody obviously forgot to tell the NSW boys that they were the underdogs, and they came out firing.

Within just four minutes, NSW were on the board thanks to some slick work from Ryan Hoffman and Brett Stewart, who set up winger Anthony Quinn for his first try of the night. Craig Fitzgibbon slotted the conversion to give NSW a 6-0 lead early on.

Quinn didn't have to wait long for his second try, scoring in the corner off a Peter Wallace kick. If these young rookies were nervous, they definitely weren't showing it.

Queensland had very few opportunities on attack in the first half, as they struggled to break the NSW defence - which commentator Ray Warren described as 'intense'.

Fullback Billy Slater was targeted all night, and took a lot of punishment from the NSW forwards. They showed that the best way to stop him is just to hit him hard - and boy, it worked.

In the 35th minute Mark Gasnier made a break to set up up Stewart for the third try of the night, and all of a sudden it was 14-0 in favour of NSW. If they'd landed their conversions, their lead would have been even greater.

With time almost up in the first half, Jonathan Thurston was finally able to weave some of his magic by putting a well timed grubber into the corner for Brent Tate to pounce on. The video ref had no problems awarding the try, and at halftime the score read 14-4 - giving Queensland a glimmer of hope.

The second half began with a brilliant break by Gasnier, who seemed to have few problems breaking the Queensland line - he was on fire. Queensland managed to withstand the early onslaught, but in the 66th minute Gasnier carved through the middle to set up debutant Anthony Laffranchi for his first Origin try. It would prove to be the final nail in the Queensland coffin, who just couldn't get anything going.

Both Tate and Justin Hodges were denied trys due to some great cover defence, before Israel Falou crossed in the corner for a last minute consolation try. The final score - 18-10 in favour of NSW, and a well fought win.

The NSW halves - Greg Bird (who was named Man of the Match) and Peter Wallace - were outstanding as they directed their side around the field. Wallace's kicking game was spot on, silencing those who doubted his selection in the team. Both Mark Gasnier and Matt Cooper were strong in the centres - Gasnier especially, who really ripped apart the Queensland defence. A solid effort by the forwards, who laid a great platform for their backs to shine, rounded off a terrific all-round performance.

For Queensland, the big problem was their inability to get any real forward momentum going, and the defence of NSW was absolutely relentless. Both Cameron Smith and Jonathan Thurston were unusually quiet, and that's a bad sign for the Queenslanders. Karmichael Hunt was sensational on defence, though - just ask Hoffman, who seemed to get hit by Hunt every time he got the ball. Unfortunately, all of his efforts in defence drained his energy, and left him unable to make a major impact on attack.

Brent Tate kept busy all night, and was deservedly rewarded with a first half try. Both Greg Inglis and Israel Falou, however, seemed almost invisible out on the field - another bad sign for Queensland.

Surely they'll have to bring in Scott Prince for game two? His NRL form has been brilliant, and his presence in the team would be a massive boost. We'd like to see him on the bench in place of PJ Marsh, who really doesn't offer the same skill sets as someone like Prince.

It will certainly be interesting to see if Mel Maninga makes any changes, as Queensland has traditionally been reluctant to make unforced adjustments to their team. We'll watch this space, but whatever happens they'll need to step it up big time for game two on their home soil.

Hats off to Quinn, Laffranchi, and Falou, who all scored on their debuts, while Wallace, Hannant, and Ben Cross can all be proud of their debut performances.

And last-but-not-least - spare a thought for Michael Crocker, who FINALLY tastes defeat for the first time in 32 games of footy...

Fantastic run, Mick.

Final result:

New South Wales: 18 (Trys - Quinn (2), Stewart, Laffranchi; Conversions - Fitzgibbon 1/3, Wallace 0/1)

Queensland: 10 (Trys - Tate, Falou; Conversions - Thurston 1/2)

It's been another completely forgettable season for the Otago Highlanders - a season filled with disappointing results, and games that simply seemed to slip through their fingers in the dying minutes.

For a province built on a proud history (rugby and otherwise) and a strong, "Southern Man" attitude, the results have been hard to swallow for most fans. For those hardy enough to continue following the Highlanders, the steady decline of the franchise has been unbearable.

There's a perfectly good reason why the Highlanders have gone from front runners to bottom dwellers - and that reason is player drain. Otago has been hit the hardest by the recent drain of players to Europe, and you only need to take a quick look at the quality of players missing from last year to understand the effect it's had:

Carl Hayman, Anton Oliver, Clark Dermody and Josh Blackie - and that's just a few. Add to that Nick Evans, who's returned to the Blues, and you can start to make sense of the rapid decline in Otago rugby's results and performances.

Although reluctant to go to the draft for players, this year they really had no choice - and they did end up finding some solid players. But a trend is devleloping over the years - the Higlanders un-earth good players, only to have them snatched up by their home provinces for the next season - and this trend is bound to continue. Two perfect examples of talent unearthed by the Highlanders this year spring to mind - Anthony Tuitavake and Richard Kahui. What will happen to them next year?

If Otago is to have any chance of reclaiming some of their lost pride, they need some help from the NZRFU. Players selected in the draft should be made available to the club that first selected them, so that teams like the Highlanders have a chance of building up a strong core of players, rather than having to start from the beginning again - every year. You could almost guarantee that the Highlanders would move up the competition ladder - if they could just stick with the same squad for more than a year!

If this problem is not resolved soon, the future of the Highlanders will remain up in the air.

So with that said - an appeal to the NZRFU from us here in the Attic:

Please remember, guys - this is the club that gave us great All Blacks like Jeff Wilson, Josh Kronfield, Taine Randell, Carl Hoeft, Kees Meeuws, and Tony Brown. Do something about it's future!

On a more positive note for the Higlanders - lets remember their amazing win over arch rivals Canterbury, which was a very rare highlight in an otherwise very disappointing year. But - a highlight none-the-less.

Fetu Vainakolo, Adam Thompson, Jaime McIntosh, and Paul Williams all deserve credit for their performances this season, while we wish the best of luck to outgoing captain Craig Newby, who is off to Leister. He's had a strong career at Otago since coming down from North Harbour, and he'll be sorely missed by the club and its fans.

Let's hope that the bulk of the Highlanders squad can be retained for next year. If it is, we just might see a revival in the deep South.

It's been an unusually quiet build up to Origin One, and both sides have been content to go about their respective business before the Wednesday night opener. The trash talking has been on the down low, but there's no doubt that both sides will be fired-up come kick-off time - and the greatest rivalry in Rugby League will be underway for another year. We're expecting a fiery opener filled with bone-crunching hits...anything less just wouldn't be Origin footy, now would it?

In NRL news, it was an action-packed weekend as the teams tried to make-do without their Origin stars - which had a lot to do with some of the surprises from the round ten action.

The biggest win (form-wise) came from the struggling Dragons, who beat the Storm 36-12 - although it must be noted that the Storm were without nine of their stars who were away on Origin duty. It certainly would have looked bad for the Dragons if they had failed to beat the "baby" Storm, and they'll be hoping Wendell Sailor makes his return within the next few weeks to help bolster that backline.

The North Queensland Cowboys were handed a 38-6 thrashing at the hands of the Manly Sea Eagles, which has led to coach Graham Murray's resignation - as of immediately. Murray was due to step down as coach at the end of the season, but the Cowboy's poor form has forced his hand earlier than expected. Quite an unfortunate turn-around for the man who has helped build the Cowboys into a dominant force over the last three seasons.

The Warriors once again failed to make any sort of impact away from home, as they were pounced on by the Penrith Panthers, who ran away with a 48-22 victory. If the Warriors can't find a way to win in Australia, their hopes for a top eight finish will fade rapidly - it just isn't enough to win only your home games in the NRL.

In Monday night action the Canberra Raiders went Bunny hunting, and came away with a solid 38-10 win at home. The South Sydney boys looked ordinary, and their defense was almost non-existent. After such a great year in 2007 it seems as though the Rabbitohs are falling into old habits (whipping boy, anyone?). Coach Jason Taylor must be starting to sweat, despite calls that his job is safe.

In player news, Brett Kimmorley is on the move again - this time to the Bulldogs, where he'll take up a contract as of 2009. This will be his sixth club in the NRL, having already played for the Newcastle Knights, Hunter Mariners (who no longer exist), the Melbourne Storm, the Northern Eagles (now the Manly Sea Eagles), and the Cronulla Sharks.

Brett Hodgson is on the move to the Huddersfield Giants in the Super League, while Mark "Piggy" Riddell is also off to England, where he'll front up for Wigan. Two big losses for the NRL, and for us League fans - best of luck, boys.

Finally - here's how your teams went in Round 10:

Titans 24-20 Bulldogs
Roosters 32-12 Eels
Sharks 13-6 Broncos
Sea Eagles 38-6 Cowboys
Dragons 36-12 Storm
Panthers 46-22 Warriors
Tigers 38-26 Knights
Raiders 38-10 Rabbitohs

Winter is almost upon us, and that means the International rugby season is about to kick off - and we, for two, can't wait.

We've decided that, with the naming of the All Blacks just around the corner, we'll give you a run-down on how we believe the squad should look.

With so many of last years All Blacks plying their trade in Europe, it's now time to blood some of the next generation. Having said that, we need to blend them with more experienced players, and we think we've got the mix just right...

Props: Tony Woodcock (Auckland), Greg Somerville (Canterbury), Neemia Tialata (Wellington), Jaime McIntosh (Southland).
Missing out: John Afoa (Auckland), John Schwalger (Wellington).

Hookers: Kevin Mealamu (Auckland), Andrew Hore (Taranaki).
Missing out: Cory Flynn (Canterbury)

Locks: Ali Williams (Tasman), Jason Eaton (Taranaki), Brad Thorn (Tasman).
Missing out: Ross Filipo (Wellington), Tom Donnolly (Otago).

Loose Forwards: Richie McCaw (Canterbury), Chris Masoe (Wellington), Jerry Collins (Wellington), Rodney So'oialo (Wellington), Liam Messam (Waikato).
Missing out: Daniel Braid (Auckland), Jerome Kaino (Auckland), Sione Luaki (Waikato), Mose Tuiali'i (Canterbury).

Half Backs: Brendon Leonard (Waikato), Piri Weepu (Wellington).
Missing out: Jimmy Cowan (Southland), Andy Ellis (Canterbury).

First-Fives: Daniel Carter (Canterbury), Stephen Donald (Waikato).
Missing out: Nick Evans (Auckland).

Second-Fives: Stephen Brett (Canterbury), Ma'a Nonu (Wellington).
Missing out: Benson Stanley (Auckland), Isaia Toeava (Auckland).

Centres: Mils Muliaina (Waikato), Conrad Smith (Wellington), Richard Kahui (Waikato).
Missing out: Casey Laulala (Canterbury).

Wings: Sitivini Sivivatu (Waikato), Anthony Tuitavake (Auckland).
Missing out: Scott Hamilton (Canterbury), Lelia Masaga (Waikato).

Fullback: Leon MacDonald (Canterbury).

Note that this is a 26-man squad. If Mr Henry decides to go with a 30-man squad, we'd add Jimmy Cowan (Southland), Sione Luaki (Waikato), Lelia Masaga (Waikato), and Casey Laulala (Canterbury).

Joe Rokococo has been omitted because of his injury, and we've deliberately left out Nick Evans due to the two year deal he's signed to play in Europe, and the fact that Carter will be back (and lets face it - he's indispensable). We also feel that if Jerry Collins signs overseas he shouldn't get selected - as much as it pains the Hurricanes-half of the Attic team to say. At the end of the day, though, we've always had the talent to replace players heading overseas, and Messam and Kieran Reid are just two of the many new stars on the rise.

We feel that Benson Stanley is too inexperienced at the moment, but we also feel we'll see him in the black jersey in the not-to-distant future.

McIntosh gets the nod ahead of Afoa, because we feel he's a player with a long future ahead of him. And, we'll put our necks out again, and say that he'll one day captain the All Blacks (2011?? - watch this space).

We believe our squad has a good balance of experience and young talent, capable of winning both the Tri Nations and Bledisloe Cup.

Remember, though, sports fans - this is OUR preferred squad. We're all ears as to what you would change...

...because it really has ruined what would have turned out to be an absorbing first cricket Test between England and New Zealand at Lords. Like any good International Test the match has swung both ways and, had London been spared the rain, an entrallining final day would have been on the cards. As it stands, however (world-record heroics from either side withstanding), the final day (rain or not) looks to be a write-off. New Zealand are sitting at a comfortable 40/0, just 2 runs behind England's first innings total of 319, and will look to bat for as much of the day as possible. With a result an extremely unlikely outcome, it's time to look at the individual performances from the match so far, and look forward to the rest of the [rain-uninteruppted, please] series.

New Zealand's first innings batting was - well - not good. It could potentially have been worse, but the real test for New Zealand was always going to be how the new-look top order held up.

And it didn't.

Redmond was perhaps (who are we kidding - he was) overwhelmed by the occasion, and a 5-ball duck ensued. New Zealand's other opener, How, managed only 7 runs, and a familiar tale then followed for New Zealands top order. Marshall scratched out 24, and Taylor's innings of 19 can only be described with a wry smile, and as 'interesting'.

Cue another familar tale from New Zealand - a middle-lower order wag. McCullum, fresh from the shores of India and the excitement of the IPL, played 'within himself' to score a gutsy 97 from 97 balls. Yes - we said 'within himself'. Oram and Vettori both contributed, with Vettori falling 2 short of another Test 50.

Statistically, there's yet more familiarity for New Zealand - the top 4 batsmen managed just 50 runs (an average of 12.5) between them, with the next 4 batsmen scoring 182 (averaging 45.5 each). A fantastic statistic from the perspective of the middle order, but when you consider that extra's contributed 34 runs (16 short of New Zealand's top 4) - it's a real worry.

James Anderson began the rot, and finished with 3-66. Sidebottom, though, finished off the pesky New Zealand tail and ended with the excellent, excellent figures of 4-55 - at an economy rate of 1.94. Justifiably Englands Player of the Year for 2007? We think so.

Interestingly - very interestingly - England's scorecard reads almost the opposite to New Zealand's.

England's top 4 - 233 runs between them at an average of 58.25. Compare that to New Zealand's top 4 total of 50 runs, and the New Zealand players involved have some personal examination ahead.

England's next 4, however - a total of just 47. That's an average of just 11.75 runs per wicket for England's middle order, with Bell, Collingwood and Ambrose all failing to put anything meaningful on the board.

It's funny, really - as much of a problem New Zealand has with their top order, we here in the Attic think England's problem is worse. New Zealand usually don't get themselves into a position of dominance with the bat, and so when the middle-lower order fire it's an encouraging fightback - it ends the innings on a positive note for New Zealand, and an innings like McCullum's (and, to a lesser extent, Vettori's) does a good job of demoralising an opposing team who probably feel like they're making speedy inroads.

Woe betide the English fan, however, who see's 230 runs put on by the top 3, only to see the other 8 batsmen score 66 between them. All that expectation - dashed. That fantatsic postion that effectively had New Zealand on the ropes - lost. England were in a position to score in excess of 400, and put themselves at least 150 runs ahead of New Zealand - and lump a whole lot of pressure on them, too. At this stage, with New Zealand at 40/0 - well, they'd still be over 100 runs off Englands first innings total, and there'd actually be pressure on them going into the last day. Instead, the two sides are effectively starting day 5 from scratch, with a draw the only real result possible. Sure, with the amount of rain that has fallen on Lord's in the past few days, a draw was probably the only likely result anyway. But that's the point we're making - when you're short on time in a match, pressure is everything. And England have failed to capitalise on a potentially pressurising position.

Top marks to Vaughan, though - a fantastic century under real pressure. Not from a match perspective - his opening pair made sure his position was a comfortable one. But from a career perspective - Vaughan has silenced (if only temporarily) those critics who have been calling for an end to his reign. There were glimpses of the Vaughan that any cricket fan would pay to watch, and those glimpses are extremely encouraging signs for the England side - especially with a series against South Africa to come this year.

Strauss and Cook, too, deserve a mention. Both scored in the 60's, and laid the foundation for their captain to play his dominant hand. Strauss is another one who is under real career-pressure, and he continues his surge back towards his best.

New Zealand's bowling - Daniel Vettori, take your hat off. After an innings of 48 that steadied the batting ship, he took 5-69 in the second phase of his captain's hand - his best bowling figures against England and, along with Vaughan, he writes himself onto the Lord's Honours Board.

Martin and the young Tim Southee bowled well, and provided Vettori the pressure he didn't necessarily need, but certainly used. Oram, too, bowled well - that nagging, undriveable length bagging him 2-45.

And finally - Stuart Broad. What a talent England have uncovered, and what an exciting prospect for the future of cricket. He showed glimpses of real class with the bat and ball and, with some experience and maturity, is sure to become a fantastic allrounder for England in the coming years.

So, all freak-occurences aside on the final day - we now cast our eyes towards the second Test, starting on May 23rd.

Some serious questions need to be asked - by both teams - before that match gets underway. Can New Zealand find a way to solidify their top order, and provide a proper platform for their powerful and effective middle order to launch from? Can England make the most of their in-form top order, and push on towards a big score, rather than a solid one?

What are your thoughts, sports fans??

Listen up, fanatics - it's Super 14 finals time again, and this weekend sees the top four sides go to war after fourteen rounds of Super 14 action.

Glued to the edge of your seat, this weekend? We know we will be.

First up, we see the ever reliable Canterbury Crusaders take on the attacking flair of the Wellington Hurricanes. There's no doubt the Crusaders will be looking to make amends for their shocking, (shocking) 26-14 loss to the boys from the deep south.

The loss to the Highlanders, though, may just be the wake up call the Crusaders need heading into the semis - they really have looked anything but their best over the past few weeks, and this shock-loss may spell bad news for the Wellington boys, who will be hoping to bounce back from their loss to the Auckland Blues last Friday night.

The Crusaders are the most experienced Super Rugby side when it comes to the finals, winning it on six occasions (1998, 1999, 2000, 2002, 2005 and 2006). And, they will be looking to send super coach Robbie Deans (departing to take up the head coaching job with the Wallabies) out on a high, and there would be no better way to do that than winning a seventh title.

The Hurricanes won't go down without a fight, though - they lost to the Crusaders earlier in the season, but they've shown in the past that they're capable of bringing down the mighty red and black machine.

If the Hurricanes can unleash their exciting brand of attacking rugby, they might just find themselves on the grand stage in two weeks. It wont be easy, but they only need to take a page out of the Highlanders book - the Crusaders can be beaten at home.

On the injury front - Mose Tuiali'i is in doubt for the Crusaders, and Hurricanes captain, Rodney So'oialo, is also under an injury cloud. Here's hoping they can both take their positions, because that would be one hell of a battle between the two No.8's.

In the other semi final, the Warratahs are looking to go Shark hunting as the boys from Durban invade NSW territory. Both sides are coming into the semi with wins behind them, and if the Sharks can put the trip over from South Africa behind them they have a real chance at making it to the final - for a second straight year. And, after a last minute loss to the Bulls in last years final, they'll be out for blood.

NSW coach Ewan Mckenzie must be a bit puzzled right now. Mckenzie was given the boot as coach after an early season slump by the Warratahs, but they've since managed to bounce back to secure second place on the competition ladder. Tough break Ewan, but with the Reds and Brumbies looking out of sorts im sure there'll be a job opening for you very soon...

So then - after another season of Super 14 action, here are our choices for the biggest improvers and the biggest disappointments (no, we didn't say losers) of the year:

Although crashing out of the competition, the Waikato Chiefs displayed a very entertaining brand of footy that saw them come so close (and yet so far...) to the finals. They were plagued with injuries throughout the season, but if they can continue to build on their attacking flair they'll be a real threat in 2009.

Both the Stormers and the Western force continue to grow in strength, and if they can gain some consistency next year they'll both be in the hunt for a finals berth.

At the other end of the spectrum, it would be easy to pick the Lions, the Cheetahs, or even the Highlanders for the most disappointing, but lets be honest - who actually expected anything
from these teams? On the other hand, though - last years Super 14
winners, the Bulls, have been disappointing to say the least. They did lose some key players from last year, (Victor Matfield was a biggy...), they still have a team that should have been able to string a few wins together.

A notable mention must go to the Blues, who missed out on a place in the semi finals despite having a team who could have potentially won the competition. It will certainly be interesting to see how they go with a new coach on board next year.

And now - it's time to put our neck's on the line...

...and predict a Warratahs vs Hurricanes final.

What do you think, fanatics? Give us your thoughts!

In what has come as a huge shock to the sporting world, woman's tennis no.1 Justine Henin has retired from all tennis - effective immediately - with fatigue and a lack of drive being cited as the major factors.

At only 25 years old, Henin has won 7 major championships, and has had 10 tour wins in the last year.

Henin's career, while short, has been quite remarkable - and she becomes the first woman in Tennis history to retire while still holding the no. 1 spot.

Henin's small stature has meant she's had to overcome much bigger and stronger opponents - think 'Williams' - a testament to how truely gifted she has been, and still is, as a tennis player.

Good luck with moving foward, Justine - you leave behind a legacy that won't be forgotten.

The Super 14 Round Robin wraps up this weekend, and we're still not sure who the final two semi-finalists will be. The Crusaders and Hurricanes are flying high, though, and will be looking to gather maximum momentum moving into the semi's.

Fighting for third and fourth are the Blues, Warratahs, Stormers, Sharks, Chiefs and the Western Force. Six teams, and a hell of a weekend of rugby ahead.

Wellington's happy - Jerry Collins comes back to replace Scott Waldrom at blindside, and his hard-man attitude will be invaluable against the Blues pack. Tialata will sit this week out after being handed a one week suspension for a tackle that would have looked more at home in a wrestling ring. I guess it's nice to know you have a career in the WWE if rugby doesn't work out...

Jimmy Cowan - what were you thinking? Or, more to the point, why weren't you thinking? Jimmy finds himself in Court this week after an altercation following the Higlanders loss against the Blues last weekend, and this, along with Mulipola being charged for driving while disqualified recently, puts a real blot on an already terrible season for the Highlanders.

The Basement Jaxx song, 'Where's Your Head At', springs to mind. Come on boys - lets get the focus back, shall we?

To make matters worse for the Highlanders, they have an almost impossible task this weekend as they take on the unstoppable Crusaders. In Canterbury, no less. The Highlanders should be playing for pride, but I doubt they can even muster that. Go easy, Crusaders - keep the score under 100.

Here's how your teams match up for the weekend:

Blues vs Hurricanes
Force vs Brumbies
Crusaders vs Highlanders
Reds vs Warratahs
Lions vs Stormers
Cheetahs vs Bulls
Sharks vs Chiefs

In International rugby news, the English tour to New Zealand could be in jeopardy after a dispute has developed over player payments. It is understood that the RFU wants to enforce a flat-rate payment with win bonuses for England's International squad. Players who receive 9000 pounds (NZ $23,225) per game are concerned that this would lead to a less-than-secure financial position.

So they don't think they have what it takes to win consistently - is that what these players are saying? It's simple, really - win and get paid more. Lose and miss out.

It's great to see that money isn't getting in the way of sport.

The English squad includes 6 new comers, including Dylan Hartley, Topsy Ojo (yep - we didn't make that up, either), Danny Care, Jason Hobson, David Paice and Nick Kennedy.

We know, we know - we can hear you - "Johnny, what about Johnny?". Well, suprise suprise - Mr Wilkinson has injured himself and will not be touring. Again. That news is almost as suprising as money complicating a sporting tour.

Steve Borthwick - congrats on the captaincy.

Former Scottish coach, Ian McGeechan, has been named coach of the Britsh Lions for next years tour of South Africa. Good news for the Lions - last time McGeechan was at the helm (in 1997) he led them to an historical 2-1 victory over the Springboks. If he can replicate the '97 result, he'll help erase the pitiful (strong word - but it fits nicely) efforts of the 2005 Lions against the All Blacks, who were utterly relentless in their 3-0 series win over Clive Woodward's boys.

Final push to the business end of the Super 14 this weekend, sports fans - enjoy!

As we look forward (and I mean, really look forward) to the first cricket Test between England and New Zealand at Lords, pause for a moment and spare a thought for two players - Aaron Redmond and James Marshall.


28 year old Redmond makes his International Test debut tonight (New Zealand time) on the biggest stage in cricket - a Test Match against England at Lords. Not only has he been handed the job of solidifying the long-term weakness of New Zealand's top-order batting (thanks, John) - he has to do it against an English team rearing to go at the start of their summer. And did we mention that it's at Lords?

And Marshall, too - spare him a thought. He'll be thrust into the number 3 position, another major on-going weakness for New Zealand - although his job might be made easier by the water-tight technique of Redmond.

Daniel Flynn, the hard-hitting Northern Districts rookie, also makes his Test debut - although coming in down the order will mean less initial pressure on him. He'll be hoping New Zealand have finally found an answer to their top order woes - with a solid foundation, Flynn has the potential to have an exciting impact coming in at 6. Throw into that middle order the returning Oram and, of course, the explosive McCullum, and we could have some exciting Test cricket ahead.

If the top order can manage to get to double figures, that is.

England, whilst missing the services of Flintoff, will field a very strong side - and New Zealand should be concerned.

Sidebottom was nothing short of spectacular during the tour to New Zealand, and with the confidence of 'England Player of the Year 2007' behind him, he's sure to make life very difficult for the New Zealand batsmen.

England's top order batting looks more-than-solid. With Strauss, Cook, Vaughan, Pietersen, Bell and Collingwood forming a nice blend of attack and defense in the top 6, it's hard to see how New Zealand's bowling attack is going to make significant in-roads.

And, if they do, they've learned the hard way that England's middle-lower order is no longer the fragile, splintered tail that it was.

Mentally, this match will be both tough but exciting for New Zealand. They've won 8 (yes, 8) out of the 91 Tests thay've played against England, but one of those, possibly New Zealand's greatest Test victory ever, came at Lord's in 1999. Could that be the motivation New Zealand need to turn true underdog status into their 9th Test win against England?

Chris Martin won't need any extra motivation, though - his young bowling partner, Tim Southee, has scored more runs than him in a single Test innings. Come on, Chris - it's time to get that avearge above 3.

He's one to watch, is Martin - if he decides he does want that average up, things could get very, very explosive.

State of Origin is just around the corner, and the naming of the two squads has brought with it a few surprises.

Mal Meninga, Queensland coach and former Queensland legend, has selected one of the most exciting backlines in recent history. Storm fullback Billy Slater will rock into the highly contentious fullback position ahead of Matt Bowan, while Karmichael Hunt has been brought in at five eigth in place of the injured Lockyer.

Brent Tate will front up on the wing, which will surprise a few who were claiming his 'rep career was over'.

Oops.

Bronco's enforcer Ben Hannant is the only newcomer to the Maroon's - Meninga has rewarded the youngster's solid start to the NRL season with a debut, and he'll run off the bench.
Making a much anticipated return to the side (for us Kiwi's, anyway) is former Paramatta and Warriors dummy half PJ Marsh. After a career-threatening neck injury playing for the Warriors, Marsh will be looking to make the most of his opportunity to perform again on the grand stage.

Over in the New South Wales camp, coach Craig Bellamy has selected four new comers- including young half-back Peter Wallace, who has flourised under the guidance of Wayne Bennett at Brisbane. Quite surprisingly, Wallace beat out the more experience Brett Finch, Brett Kimorly, and last years debutant Jarred Mullen. A nice move from Bellamy - Wallace definitely has the makings of a superstar, and we predict a long Origin career.

Come on, Peter - don't make us look stupid.

The other debutants, probably less surprisingly, are Anthony Laffranchi, Ben Cross, and Anthony Quinn.

Kurt Gidley, Luke Bailey and Steve Simpson are on the injured list for the Blue's, while Nathan Hindmarsh, Andrew Ryan, and Braith Anasta have been overlooked for Origin One.

The 'hard-done-by' award this week, though, goes to Brent Kite. After playing in the Centenary Test last weekend, he'll miss out on Origin One. A testament to the quality of Origin football, perhaps?

Lets get frank - on paper, Queensland look so dominant over the Blue's it's scary. But this is Origin, sports fans, and if there's one thing the history of this great series has taught us, it's that picking an Origin winner is damn near impossible.

So we're not even going to try, sorry - it'll just end in tears.

In a weekend of Rugby League news dominated by the Centennary Test Match at the SCG, Wendell Sailor, the former Bronco's star and Waratah's bad-boy, has snuck under the radar and made a return to the NRL. After signing a two year deal, he'll front up for the struggling St George/Illawara Dragons, who will be hoping he can channel two years worth of pent-up frustration at his ban into his trademark hard-hitting presence on the field.

Who knows? The Dragons might even manage to win a game or two.

Or not.

If Sailor can make it through this NRL season - (we're not saying he won't, of course...but just leave the stuff alone, Wendell) - he'll enter next season under his old mentor, Wayne Bennett. Bennett will take the reins at St George after 20 years with Brisbane - and boy, will they miss him. Bennett has been with the Bronco's since the year of their inception, and he's taken them to 6 premierships. Add to that 4 minor premiership titles, and he leaves behind one hell of a legacy. We wish him luck - because he'll need it, moving from a club like Brisbane to a club like St George.

So far we've made it through a few paragraphs without going into detail about the Test - and with good reason. We're Kiwi's, and frankly - we're disappointed. Beating the Aussie's is tough, and you just cannot spend the first 20 minutes against them in fairy-land - which is exactly where the Kiwi's seemed to be. The Aussie's punished the Kiwi's in that opening stanza. So much so, that despite the fact that the Kiwi's outscored the Kangaroo's for an hour of the game, the final scoreline read 28-12 to the Kangaroo's.

We cried - but we're [almost] moving on. After all, the World Cup is coming up, and we will have our revenge.

We hope...

On a more positive note, though, Issac Luke continues to show that he will be a League superstar. Overall, he had a solid debut - but there were moments of brilliance that hinted at his huge potential. And, from a Kiwi's perspective, it was nice to see the ball going through the uprights for a change, rather than around them. Kangaroo's, beware. Soiola, too, performed well. His second half performance was almost special, and he topped off an excellent day at the office with a well earned 4-pointer - an almost rare achievement against Australia these days.

Here's the breakdown:

Australia (28):
Trys - Gasnier (x2), Gallen, Smith, Falau
Conversions - Thurston (4/5)

New Zealand (12):
Trys - Soliola, Perrett
Conversions - Luke (2/2)

And here's how the NRL went down over the weekend:

Roosters (30) vs Raiders (4)
Panthers (30) vs Bulldogs (4) (you can't make this stuff up)
Sharks (24) vs Cowboys (18)
Sea Eagles (30) vs Broncos (12)
Eels (19) vs Dragons (18)
Storm (18) vs Knights (4)

Byes - Warriors, Titans, Rabbitohs, Tigers

And that's a wrap, fanatics.

Welcome, sports fans!

Like you, we live and breathe sport.

We read about it, we talk about, and now - we're going to write about it.

What we're not going to do is be nice to coaches. Or administrators. Or even players. Instead, we'll give you an honest breakdown of everything sport, from weekend wrap-up's and results to controversy and scandal.

So come on in, sports fans, and talk some sport with us.