The Rogues Rant

Welcome to The Rogues Rant, an occasional look at all things Rugby.

Courtesy once again of the Old Illawarrior I read a very quirky and charming article this week from across the Ditch. At a time when there is plenty being said about Grass Roots Rugby in this country it’s interesting to see that they are having similar problems in this regard in New Zealand as well. Perhaps not however on the same scale as here in Australia, these changing social times are impacting on the traditional game in New Zealand as well. This article looks at the Dean Cup in the Taranaki region of the North Island, a cup with over 100 years of local Rugby history. The article comes from the New Zealand Herald and is well worth a read! Check it out; it’s a feel good story. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/indepth/sport/dean-cup-rugby/

The attacking flair of the Brandon brothers down Shoalhaven way came to the fore again last week. In an amazing performance the Brothers between them scored all the Shoalies points in their vital 44 – 36 win over Vikings. Mark crossed for 4 tries, while Steven could only manage one for the day, a quiet one for him. Kieran came up with 2 tries and added 4 goals from the boot. All season the boys have been exciting fans from all clubs as they continually express themselves, showing amazing speed, agility and strength as they play a pivotal role in the Shoalies charge to the finals. Let’s hope they can stay healthy, not only for the sake of the Shoalies run to the finals but for the sheer pleasure that they bring to Rugby fans allover.

Well it’s Finals time for Super Rugby this week. It’s really hard to get excited given the whole atmosphere surrounding Super Rugby. The form of several teams over the last few weeks following the International hiatus has left a bit to be desired leading into the Finals Series, The Waratahs included. The Waratahs form against the Brumbies would not have filled the most ardent NSW supporter with any great amount of confidence going into this week’s match up with the Highlanders. I think we will still have three Kiwi sides alive going into the next week. My tips for the first week of Finals: Hurricanes, Crusaders, Highlanders and Lions.