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  1. Indigenous Replacements -

    South Sydney’s Beau Champion and the Titans’ Greg Bird have been called into the Indigenous All Stars team for next week’s Harvey Norman Rugby League All Stars match at the Gold Coast’s Skilled Park on February 13..

     

    Champion replaces devastated Storm centre Greg Inglis, who today lost an intense battle to be fit for the match.

     

    Inglis had been suffering a hip injury but remained determined to try and be a part of the historic game.

     

    He is determined to help its promotion by joining the team in camp as soon as his treatment schedule allows but is now no chance of playing.

     

    “I’m extremely disappointed,” Inglis declared.

     

    “I did everything I possibly could to get my body right but unfortunately it just didn’t respond.

     

    “It’s going to be an historic occasion and I’m sure the boys will still put on a show without me.”

     

    Indigenous All Stars Coach, Neil Henry, confirmed Champion as Inglis’s replacement and announced that Bird would be brought in to replace the injured Daine Laurie.

     

    The NRL All Stars are yet to finalise changes to the team following the withdrawals of Gareth Ellis, Alan Tongue and David Taylor.

     

  2. Super Bowl XLIV Preview -

    The stage is set for what many Americans think is the biggest sporting event on earth – the Super Bowl, and this year will be no exception when the Colts clash with the Saints at the Miami Orange Bowl.

    Super Bowl XLIV has also captured the imagination of Australia punters who will bet millions of dollars on the outcome of this intriguing match-up.

    The Road to Super Bowl XLIV

    The Indianapolis Colts defeated the New York Jets 30-17 in the AFC championship game and they are now headed back to the NFL title game for the second time in four years and their fourth Super Bowl in franchise history. Better yet, they're heading back to their lucky city Miami, where they've played all four of those games and won there twice.

    Four time MVP Peyton Manning threw three touchdown passes and the Colts rallied from an 11-point, first-half deficit to beat the Jets – Manning finished 26 of 39 for 377 yards and he became the first player in league history with seven 300-yard postseason games.

    The New Orleans Saints earned their place in Super Bowl XLIV when a little known punter (Garrett Hartley) drilled a 40-yard field goal in overtime to defeat the Vikings 31 – 28 in the NFC championship game, and this day will be remembered as they day Brett Farve threw a game defining interception deep in New Orleans territory in the closing seconds of regulation and the Saints won the coin toss and ended it on Hartley's kick 4:45 into overtime to advance to their first Super Bowl and they became the first home team to win a conference championship game in overtime.

    The Quarterbacks

    Peyton Manning (Colts): Widely regarded as one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time and he was drafted by the Colts as first pick overall in 1998 and he is the son of former NFL quarterback Archie Manning  and the older brother of current New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning.

    A four-time MVP, Manning holds NFL records for consecutive seasons with over 4,000 yards passing and the most total seasons with 4,000 or more yards passing in a career and since the Colts drafted Manning, the team the team has the highest conversion rate on 3rd down (44.6%) and 4th down (61.1%) plays in the NFL and while leading the Colts to their Super Bowl victory in 2007, Manning helped the team to an NFL record by converting 56.1% of its 3rd downs.

    Drew Brees (Saints): Initially drafted by the Chargers in the second round in 2001and he joined the Saints in 2006 and he led them to the franchise's first NFC Championship game, losing 39-14 to the Bears.

    Brees has been selected to the Pro Ball four times in his career and he was named the NFL’s Comeback Player of the year in 2004 and the Offensive Player of the Year in 2008 and this season he finished the season with a completion percentage of 70.62 which established a new NFL record.

    The Edge: Peyton Manning – he’s already won a ring and he has the ability to turn on the heat when needed.

    How the Game will be won and lost

    Obviously Manning and Brees will play an integral role in the overall result  and both the Colts and Saints believe that defensive pressure on their opposing quarterback is the ultimate key to success in Super Bowl XLIV and both defences are led by match winning defensive ends the Colts’ Dwight Freeney and the Saints’ Will Smith.

    The front seven unit will not only need pressure the quarterback but also stop the opposing team’s running game.  This group of defensive linemen and linebackers will also be looked at to force turnovers and make big plays on third downs and the biggest question will be, is there one front seven unit that is so significantly better than the other?

    Colts: The Colts’ front seven is led by defensive end Dwight Freeney, although he is not certainty to play after sustaining a leg injury in the Conference Championship game..  Freeney had 13 ½ sacks during the regular season, although it is worthwhile noting he hasn’t recorded a sack during the post-season. The Colts also have Gary Brackett, who along with Daniel Muir and Clint Sessions, have combined for 36 tackles in their last two matches.

    Saints: The Saints’ constantly pressured Brett Farve in the NFC championship game, forcing two interceptions and three fumbles and the Saints have the habit of forcing the opposing quarterback into making poor decisions, mind you, the recent poor form of Will Smith must be a concern.

    The Edge: The Saints may give up a lot of yards, but they make up for it by creating turnovers.

    The Coaches

    Colts – Jim Caldwell: Caldwell became only the fifth rookie coach to reach the Super Bowl. Only two others - San Francisco's George Seifert and Don McCafferty, of the Baltimore Colts - have won it, but Caldwell does have Peyton Manning on his side.

    Caldwell joined Tony Dungy’s staff with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2001 and he followed Dungy to Indianapolis in 2002 and on January 13, 2008, Caldwell was formally announced as the future replacement for former Colts head coach Tony Dungy.

    Caldwell holds the NFL record for the best start by a rookie head coach, starting his career with 14 wins.

    Record: Regular season 14 wins – 2 losses at 87.5%. Post season 2 wins – 0 losses at 100%.

    Saints – Sean Peyton: Peyton was hired by the Saints on January 17, 2006 and he was named the NFL Coach of the Year Award in his first year with the Saints.

    When Peyton took over in New Orleans they were coming off a 3-13 record and in his first year he led them into the playoffs with a 10-6 record and under Peyton.

    Peyton, who has turned the Saints into one of the most productive offences in the NFL, is a pragmatic leader who backs his players to the limit, especially Brees.

    Record: Regular season 38 wins – 26 losses at 59.4%. Post season 3 wins – 1 loss at 75 %.

    The Edge: Sean Peyton has the experience and Caldwell has Manning – just about even.

    The Winner: This is shaping up as one of the all-time classic Super Bowl’s – there is the romance of the Saints, who five years ago were without a home after Katrina destroyed New Orleans. Then there is the Peyton Manning factor – this future hall of famer is the son every mother (and father) would want – he represents everything that is good in America and he has a clean-sheet (unlike some sporting heroes of late).

    But, romance dosen’t win a ring – quarterbacks do and Super Bowl XLIV is all about two of the best quarterbacks in the business, Manning and Brees.

    Manning has already climbed the mountain, whereas Brees is a novice and the pressure will be on from the drive, whereas Manning thrives under pressure and he has the uncanny knack of saving his best for the big-show.

    Best Bet: The Colts will start favourites and if Dwight Freeney is 100 percent fit, they’ll win, but at $1.48 they are too short for mine and I’ll be backing the Colts to cover the line (-5.5 at $1.91). As for the MVP – Peyton Manning.

     

     

  3. Jimenez wins in the desert -

    Spain's Miguel Angel Jimenez  defeated Lee Westwood on the third hole of a sudden death playoff to win the Dubai Desert Classic..

    Westwood missed a 5-foot par putt on the third playoff hole to leave Jimenez with a 4-footer for the win.

    "After so many years of coming to Dubai and playing well, I am proud to have finally won this title," Jimenez said. "I have always loved the course, the ambiance and the people here."

  4. A Five Goal Thriller -

    Perth Glory has slipped to fifth on the Hyundai A-League table after a heart breaking 3-2 loss to Sydney FC at Parramatta Stadium.

     

    Former Socceroo striker John Aloisi was Sydney’s hero with two second half goals as Perth showed tremendous spirit and courage to twice come back from a goal down.

     

    “Very proud, it shows we now have a bit of depth at the club and it’s a credit to them.

     

    “They gave everything in the second half and I think we deserved something out of the game but it wasn’t to be,” was Dave Mitchell’s reaction.

     

    In one of the games of the season, the Sky blues took the lead on 24 minutes when Steve Corica converted a penalty, after Todd Howarth was judged to have fouled Shannon Cole in the box.

     

    Despite the set-back, the Glory hit back immediately and Daniel McBreen forced Clint Bolton into a stunning save with his long range effort.

     

    Perth though did equalise just before the break through Wayne Srhoj.  In a well worked move, Srhoj volleyed home from the edge of the 18 yard box, after a nice touch from Andrija Jukic.

     

    Five minutes into the second half Sydney took the lead again but in controversial circumstances when Aloisi’s shot was cleared off the line.  Initially referee Chris Beath awarded a corner but he then changed his decision after a discussion with his assistant.

     

    Television replays show referee Beath was correct to award the goal because the ball crossed the line but slipped out through the side netting.

     

    “It’s disappointing because he changed his mind and I didn’t think he was allowed to do that.”

     

    With the Glory chasing their fourth straight win, McBreen made it 2-2 with his fifth goal in five games, when he finished from close range, to set up a thrilling finish.

     

    A classic header from Aloisi with eight minutes to play put Sydney in front for the third time but Perth refused to give in.

     

    McBreen again forced Bolton into a brilliant save, with another stinging shot but Perth, minus 6 players through injury failed to get a third.

     

    The Perth Glory will now play Brisbane Roar next Saturday at ME Bank Stadium before their first A-League finals campaign begins.

     

    Hyundai A-League 2009/10 – Round 26

     

    Perth Glory: 2 (SRHOJ 45+1’, McBREEN 76’)

    Sydney FC: 3 (CORICA 24’, ALOISI 50’, 82’)

     

    Sunday 7 February 2010 at Parramatta Stadium, Parramatta

    Crowd: 8532

     

  5. Did it really happen? -

    Super Bowl XLIV MVP Drew Brees turned to his wife and asked: “Did it really happen?”

    "I'm not sure if it's completely sunk in yet," Brees said at Monday morning's news conference after leading the Saints to an upset 31-17 win over the Colts. "It seems like as the minutes go by, it slowly does.

    "Our victory last night was the culmination of four years of hard work, fighting through a lot of adversity, ups and downs and more importantly than that, representing a city that has been through so much," Brees said.

    "Along the way, people have asked me so many times, 'Do you look at it as a burden or extra pressure? Do you feel like you're carrying the weight of the city on your teams' shoulders.' I said, 'No, not at all. We look at it as a responsibility. Our city, our fans, gave us strength and we owe this to them. That's made all the difference. ... There's no people that you would want to win for more than the city of New Orleans. So it's an honor."

    Meanwhile, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell called this Super Bowl "clearly more than a game.

    "I keep thinking of the word 'magical,' " he said. "When you think about the relationship between the Saints and the Gulf Coast and the city of New Orleans, it was more than just a football game and more than just a football team. The hopes, the dreams and the struggles of that community were all reflected in that football team. It was a great night for the people in New Orleans and the Gulf Coast region."

     

  6. Season Preview -

    The 2010 Rebel Sport Super 14 season gets under way next weekend..

    and much of the focus will be on the quartet of Australian teams who will be trying to put a horror 2009 season behind them. All four failed to reach the finals.

    The Brumbies are favoured among our franchises, with Matt Giteau returning to his former state to try and help them to a third title. However, Phil Zammit is tipping the Warratahs to do best of the Oz squads. 

    The Bulls from South Africa are the defending champs, but with noted try scorer Bryan Habana switching camps over to the Stormers, they certainly look ripe for the taking, while the Lions and the Cheetahs look cellar dwellars once more.

     

    AUSTRALIA

    Waratahs ($10):

    Notable gains: Berrick Barnes (Reds), Drew Mitchell (Force), Sosene Anesi (Chiefs), Hendrik Roodt (Bulls), Josh Holmes (Brumbies).

    Only a finals appearance will satisfy as the Waratahs head into their second season under coach Chris Hickey. Finishing in equal fourth position last season, the Waratahs missed out on finals after points difference was taken into account. The ’Tahs look a much stronger outfit after recruiting several quality players, none more so than Wallabies star Berrick Barnes. Barnes’s inclusion makes the backline look very formidable as his leadership and directional abilities should prove extremely valuable. Further, his game compliments the rest of the back line well. In particular his kicking game will immensely help the team. It has often been a criticised weakness of fly half Kurtley Beale. The backline now has the welcome dilemma of how to fit Barnes, Beale, Daniel Halangahu and Rob Horne into the same side. Enjoying the fruits of so many talented players available in the centre of the backline will be Drew Mitchell and Lachlan Turner on the wings. With better delivery of the ball Turner’s output should increase this season while Mitchell provides a more-than-adequate replacement for the departure of Lote Tuqiri. Rounding out the new look backline is former Chiefs full back Sosene Anesi. With the Waratahs’ strong and experienced forwards led by Be Robinson, they now look very strong across the board. The Waratahs have no excuses not to make the finals this season with a very reasonable draw and only having two matches in South Africa.

     

    Brumbies ($5.50):

    Notable gains:  Matt Giteau (Force), Rocky Elsom (Waratahs), Josh Valentine (Force), Justin Harrison (Bath-England), Jerry Yanuyanutawa (Sydney University).

    Many are expecting big things from the Brumbies who along with the Waratahs have signed up a number of experienced and promising recruits. The Brumbies now have a large percentage of the current Australian team in their side. However, it should be noted that the Wallabies haven’t exactly been world beaters of late. Most significant is the return of Matt Giteau, giving the Brumbies a much more attacking feel which should lead to an increase in their scoring potential. With the experience of Giteau and Stirling Mortlock combined with the rising potential of Adam Ashley Copper, Josh Valentine, Afusipa Taumoepeau and Christian Lealiifano across the backline the Brumbies are capable of playing a grand brand of rugby.  They should be looking to earn more bonus points this season and certainly improve on the six last year. Their forwards look a powerful combination with the recruitment of Wallabies Captain Rocky Elsom. Prop Ben Alexander and lock Mark Chisholm help form a very strong pack, giving talented flankers George Smith and Stephen Hoiles plenty of opportunities to play the ball. The Brumbies need to hit the ground running after being inconsistent starters in previous seasons. This year they have an early short visit to South Africa. If they can return successful they can set up the rest of their season.

     

    Reds ($61):

    Notable gains: Will Chambers (Melbourne Storm NRL), Lei Tomiki (Castres Olympique-France), Luke Morahan (junior squad).

    Former Wallabies Coach Ewen McKenzie has agreed it is to one of the toughest tasks in rugby taking over as Reds coach. It’s a team that hasn’t finished higher than 10th in the past six years. McKenzie, as the seventh Reds coach in 11 years, will need to work a miracle if the Reds are to have any chance of challenging for finals, particularly with the departure of playmaker Berrick Barnes. McKenzie’s first test arrived during the pre-season with an off-field distraction involving talented Quade Cooper. Cooper has missed some of the Reds’ trial matches – hardly ideal for the man expected to fill the void in the wake of Barnes’s departure. Undoubtedly the Reds’ strengths lie in the talents of Cooper, Digby Ioane, Peter Hynes and Will Genia. The key is getting all four of them firing at the same time. If they do, they should be able to put pressure on the scoreboard and hence give the Reds a chance to win games. However, the forwards are a worry. If any of lock James Horwill, flanker Daniel Braid or hooker Sean Hardman get injured the Reds will be in real strife. There is very little talent or experience to back them up. The Reds must make an impact at the start of the season with four of their first five matches at home. If they can’t produce in these opening matches then yet again their fans may be in for a very long and frustrating season.

     

    Force ($34):

    Notable gains: Andre Pretorius (Lions), Matt Dunning (Waratahs), Brett Sheehan (Waratahs), Nic Henderson (Brumbies).

    The Western Force enter their fifth season in the competition still yet to taste finals action. 2010 looks to be challenging both on and off the field. The Force has experienced a player exodus with key men Matt Giteau, Drew Mitchell, Josh Valentine among 14 departures. Essentially they have to rebuild and hope that the new group will quickly gel. Off the field coach John Mitchell remains at the helm despite constant reports of player unrest last season. Hopefully the detractors have left the club and Mitchell can focus on improving player performances instead of constantly looking over his shoulder. The signing of former Lions captain Andre Pretorius is a real coup. Pretorius is a game breaker with superb vision and an uncanny ability to bring others into the game through both precise handling and passing, as well as his probing kicking to advantage. The team’s strength lies in their backs, with Andre Pretorius, James O’Conner, Ryan Cross and Cameron Shepherd all aggressive runners. This combination will be a constant threat but will need to work on their consistency. Last year they had too many flat periods. The Force also must rectify their poor record at home – it’s one of the worst in the competition.  This year they move from Subiaco to Members Equity Stadium. I feel the Force will be too unsettled and have too many obstacles to get over this year. Indications are that they are likely to go backwards.

     

    SOUTH AFRICA

    Bulls ($5.50)

    Notable gains: Gary Botha (Harlequins-England), Jaco van der Westhuyzen (NEC-Japan).

    The reigning Super 14 champions return to defend their title with most of their winning squad intact. One notable omission is flying winger Bryan Habana, whose eight tries in 2009 was the second-best haul of the competition. The Springbok winger, who enjoyed a superb Tri Nations tournament, has left for the Stormers, leaving a gap to fill and points to find. Springbok prop Gary Botha returns to the Bulls from his stint in England with the Harlequins but that won’t help in the points department. It will be up to much improved centre Wynyand Olivier, representative winger Akona Ndungane and fullback Zane Kirchner to carry the back line. Helping them get the service they require will be superb halves pairing Morne Steyn and Fourie du Preez, while captain Victor Matfield and lock partner Bakkies Botha will lead an awesome forward pack. 

    Sharks ($9.00):

    Notable gains: Willem Alberts (Lions), Juan Martin Hernandez (Stade Francais-France), Louis Ludik (Lions).

    The Sharks are starting to develop a reputation as being a side that goes missing at the business end of the season. In 2009 they started their season on fire, on top of the table after nine rounds with eight wins. Then disaster struck – winning only one more match for the season and falling out of the finals. In 2008 they were also the form side in the first half of the season before ultimately losing the final. In 2010 they must find a way to finish the year off strongly. The Sharks have one of the finest defensive units in the competition. Their tacking is ruthless. Penetrating through their line is akin to breaking through a brick wall. They rarely concede a try and are involved in many low scoring games. On the flip side they can struggle to score tries, which often hurts their position on the competition ladder as they don’t receive as many bonus points as they may deserve due to seldom scoring at least four in games they dominate. Fly half Ruan Pienaar is key to their game. With an elusive running ability that often confuses and wrong foots his opponents he also has the rare ability to kick well off both feet. Pienaar, along with centers Adrian Jacobs and JP Pietersen, form one of the better looking backlines in the competition. However, Francois Steyn heading to play in France will be a huge loss. The Sharks will be thereabouts again. It’s just a question of whether they can perform when it really matters.

    Stormers ($16):

    Notable gains: Bryan Habana (Bulls), Jaque Fourie (Lions), Fabian Juries (Cheetahs), Eusebio Guinazu (SU Agen-France).

    Many predicted a rise up the competition table from the Stormers last year but they ultimately disappointed, winning only two of their first nine games. With a talented list many again expect the Stormers to challenge strongly. In order to fulfill their potential the Stormers will need to hit the ground running and could not have asked for a sweeter draw. They don’t have to travel overseas until week eight. The Stormers have plenty of firepower in their back line, especially with the recruitment of Bryan Habana and Jaque Fourie. Between them they should add on average at least an extra try per match on last season. Fly half Peter Grant becomes key to the whole team. His ability to direct the team and dish the ball out to his creative backline could prove to be the difference between an average season and an exceptional one. Their forwards are not world beaters but should be serviceable. No doubt the game strategy will not be focused on brute force or power. It will instead revolve around getting the ball into the hands of match winners like Bryon Habana as soon as possible. They have the talent on the park, but can they deliver?

    Lions ($101)

    Notable gains: Jacques Lombard (Griquas-Currie Cup), Jonathon Mokuena (Griquas), Tonderai Chavanga (Stormers), Marius Delport (Bulls).

    Since 2002 the Lions have consistently been the Super 14 easybeats, and along with fellow South African franchise the Cheetahs have struggled to put together a competitive outfit. In that seven-year period the Lions have finished no higher than 11th and have mustered only 14 wins (five of them in 2007). The Lions head into 2010 as 100-1 outsiders in the tournament and even those odds seem ridiculous unders! Their roster was, however, given a much needed boost recently with the announcement that former All Black fly half and fan favourite Carlos Spencer would join the team from English side Gloucester. Spencer, a former Auckland Blue with 35 Test caps under his belt, replaces Springbok and former Lions stalwart Andre Pretorius, who has joined the Western Force. While Spencer will do a great job in replacing Pretorius, the Lions lose another Springbok in centre Jaque Fourie, the 51-test cap transferring to the Stormers in the off-season. Springbok winger Tonderai Chavanga is a welcome addition to the Lions backline and will help fill the class void left by Fourie. Burton Francis, a young fly half formerly of the Bulls, is seen by many as one of the most exciting in his position in South Africa, and will no doubt be eager to keep Spencer at bay — this competitiveness for positions could well work in the Lions’ favour. In the forwards, where the Lions tend to struggle more than any other Super 14 team, Jonathon Mokuena, captain of the Griquas Currie Cup side, will add some depth.

    Cheetahs ($101):

    Notable gains: Rocco Jansen (Bulls), Wesley Wilkens (Maties-SA club rugby).

    The Cheetahs finished on the bottom of the Table with just two wins last season, following up just one win in 2008.

    However, the Cheetahs are not as awful as their record of three wins in 28 games suggests. In several games last season they were in as strong position, only to melt in the last 20 minutes. They simply can’t close out matches, partly because of a lack of mental fortitude and partly because they have little quality coming off the bench. Captain Juan Smith, Heinrich Brussouw and Jongi Nokwe are their three main players. The rest of the squad would struggle to get selected with most other teams in the competition. Their forward line is their strength. Smith holds the side together while Brussouw has quickly established himself as the Springboks’ open-side flanker. The Cheetahs can take the game up to a number of sides but can’t maintain their intensity for more than 60 minutes. They’ll battle it out with fellow South African side Lions in a fight to avoid last position on the table.

    New Zealand 

    Crusaders ($4.50)

    Notable gains: Robbie Fruean (Hurricanes), Zac Guildford (Hurricanes), Daniel Bowden (Blues), Chris Jack (Saracens, UK).

    The Crusaders will once again start the Super 14 season as favourites, and seven titles in 14 years of competition suggest they’re an even-money chance. With former star player Todd Blackadder at the helm for his second season as head coach and a number of up-and-coming youngsters ready to feed off a host of experienced and top-class regulars, the Crusaders will be a force again in 2010. The side’s two marquee names, Richie McCaw and Dan Carter, will both be fit for the start of the season, unlike last year. Tireless veteran Brad Thorn will lead a strong contingent of second-row forwards that also includes the returning Chris Jack and emerging star Isaac Ross. Wyatt Crockett and Owen Franks, representing the new breed among New Zealand’s front rowers, will prove vital, as will New Zealand’s top number eight, Kieran Read. In the backs, former Highlander Daniel Bowden will cover for Carter, Andy Ellis will work on getting back into the national team as scrum half, and new All Black winger Zac Guildford will look to shine out wide.

     

    Hurricanes ($8.00)

    Notable gains: Nick Crosswell (Manawatu), Andre Taylor (Manawatu), Aaron Cruden (Manawatu), Tyson Keats (Canterbury).

    The non-winners tag that sticks with the Wellington Hurricanes is the reason they’re not favourites for this year’s title. The powerful squad of players they have at their disposal should be enough to have them at the top of betting, but after another season of disappointment in 2009, when they again fell at one of the final hurdles, the Canes will be desperate to break the hoodoo. Six times they’ve made it to the top four, and six times they’ve failed to pick up any silverware. Perhaps they can finally achieve their goal in coach Colin Cooper’s final season at the helm before he heads back home to coach Taranaki. The Canes will boast probably the most potent backline in this year’s Super 14, with the All Blacks centre pairing of Conrad Smith and Ma’a Nonu to lead the way. Under-20s World Cup-winning captain Aaron Cruden will make his 14s debut this season, and will try to take the number 10 jersey away from Willie Ripa, while Piri Weepu will be eager to show he’s still got what it takes at scrum half. The Hurricanes scrum won’t look too shabby either, with Tialata, Schwalger, Ellison, Hore and So’oialo to lead the way. New recruits Anthony Perinese and Michael Paterson will add further depth to the roster.

     

    Chiefs ($9.00)

    Notable gains: Ben Afeaki (North Harbour), Luke Braid (Bay of Plenty), Jarred Hoeata (Taranaki), Tim Nanai-Williams (Counties Manukau).

    Arguably the surprise packet of 2009 was the Waikato Chiefs, who broke record after record on route to a grand final berth. Although handed a thrashing by the Bulls in Pretoria, the Chiefs would certainly feel they had a winning season, and in 2010 they’ll look to go one better. Basically, the squad remains the same, with only a handful of new faces. The young stars from last year’s dominant forward pack are back, including hooker Aled de Malmanche, Hika Elliott, Sona Taumalolo and James McGougan. Liam Messam, Tanerau Latimer and Sione Lauaki pack a big punch in the second row, while the Chiefs backline is all class, headed up by All Blacks Sivivatu, Kahui, Masaga and Muliaina. The team’s most experienced player, Mils Muliaina, is injured and may be on the sidelines for most of the first month of competition, but the Chiefs’ halves combination of Brendon Leonard and Stephen Donald boasts plenty of experience and can guide their young squad through the start of the year.

     

    Blues ($10)

    Notable gains:  Stephen Brett (Crusaders), Daniel Kirkpatrick (Hurricanes), Alby Mathewson (Hurricanes), Serge Lilo (Wellington), Viliame Ma’afu (North Harbour).

    The Auckland Blues are the Super 14’s greatest mystery — talent to burn, yet always finding a way to underachieve. In the past 11 seasons, the Blues have made the final four on only two occasions. In 2009, the Blues had one of their most inconsistent seasons — their best was exhilarating, their worst miserable. They only once tasted victory in back-to-back games, and finished the year with the third-worst defensive record in the competition. As that stat suggests, the Blues’ defence was the major issue. They could regularly muster four tries and earn the attacking bonus point, but they let in too many points of their own and simply could not contain an opposition. Their four wins for 2009 were over fellow bottom feeders. Coach Pat Lam will surely have worked on getting his charges’ defence in order, but the fact remains that the Blues roster loves to play attacking rugby, which in the current rugby climate can more often prove a hindrance rather than a help. The Blues have drafted well for 2010, picking up former Wellington flanker Serge Lilo and half back Alby Mathewson, as well as former Canterbury half Stephen Brett. The Blues forward pack boasts All Black reps John Afoa, Keven Mealamu, Tony Woodcock, Ali Williams, Anthony Boric and Jerome Kaino — enough to put fear into any of their Super 14 rivals. In the backs, Isaia Toeava, Anthony Tuitavake, Joe Rokocoko and Rudi Wulf are enough to ensure the attacking side of things will be in good hands.

     

    Highlanders ($34):

    Notable gains: Anthony Perenise (Wellington), Bronson Murray (Northland), Matt Berquist (Hawke’s Bay).

    The Highlanders will be looking to end a period of failure in the Super 14, having finished ninth or worse for the past four years. With some All Blacks in key positions and a good blend of youth and experience in their 2010 squad, optimism is plentiful. It would be unrealistic to suggest the Otago franchise could challenge for the title, but they’re not that far from the handful of sides that finished ahead of them last year, and just outside the top four. In the past two years, the Highlanders have lost 11 games by seven points or less — six in 2008 and five in 2009 — and if they happen to turn a couple of those near misses into wins, they’ll certainly be climbing the ladder. Wins over defending champs Canterbury and eventual title winners the Bulls  gave glimpses of what the side is capable of. The defection of fly half Daniel Bowden to the Crusaders is a big loss for 2010, but with an injection of players from Southland (best defensive team in the 2009 Air New Zealand Cup) and Hawke’s Bay (best offensive team), the squad looks stronger than recent years. Up front, last year’s combination of Chris King, Clint Newland, Jamie Mackintosh, Jason Macdonald and Jason Rutledge will do a good job in the front row, while All Black lock Tom Donnelly and loose forward Adam Thomson will give them class in the scrum. Classy All Black Jimmy Cowan leads the way at scrum half, while Hawke’s Bay general Matt Berquist will be a key inclusion at number ten. The young but exciting backline of Robbie Robinson, Israel Dagg and Fetu’u Vainikolo will provide exciting viewing and plenty of highlights.

     

     

    Suggested Bets:

    Zammit:

    2010 should be a much brighter year for Australian fans with the genuine possibility of two Australian sides reaching the finals for the first time since 2002. While many will look to the Brumbies to be the pick of the Australian sides, you can’t ignore the classy, new look backline of the Waratahs. At $2.85 the Waratahs are extremely good value to be the highest finishing Australian side in what is essentially a two-horse race. As for the Championship the best value for mine is the Sharks at $9. They have been one of the stronger sides over the past few years. This may be the year they finally get the monkey off their backs and perform at the business end of the season. However, one must never overlook the Crusaders who on average win a Championship every second year and  having missed out last season they are due! They are well worth backing at $4.

     

    Marshall:

    I like to look for early value before the season start  and I like the $16 being bet about the Stormers. They have added nicely to their roster for this season, with noted try scorers Bryan Habana and Jaque Fourie to highlight a strong backline. They lost their first three games of 2009 and four of their first six before coming home with a wet sail. I’m expecting them to start much stronger this year. While the Highlanders probably won’t win the title, I really think they can improve sharply. If they can turn some of their narrow defeats into wins, they’ll climb the ladder for sure. If you shop around, you can get as much as $11 for them to make the top four. For those looking for a shorter option, the Hurricanes to make the top four looks a steal at $2.

  7. Round 26 Preview -

    Not so pleasant for Perth this time around..

     

    Sydney FC v Perth Glory

    Parramatta Stadium

    Sunday 5.00pm AEDT

    Back in April 2004, the old National Soccer League drew to a close on a very wet and windy Parramatta afternoon. On a ground barely fit for playing because it was water-logged, the Perth Glory scored an injury-time winner to claim the last NSL title from the now-defunct Parramatta Power.

    27 years of history was closed off on that miserable day. Australian soccer was reformed soon after and after a 16-month break the national competition returned as the A League.

    This Sunday the A League moves back to the venue where the previous competition effectively drowned.  With the Sydney Football Stadium unavailable due to the visiting Edinburgh Military Tattoo, Sydney FC are heading out to Parramatta for the visit of Perth Glory. Perhaps fittingly the Glory celebrate the sealing of their first ever A-League finals berth with a return to the scene of their last premiership triumph.

    Nick Mrdja (now Central Coast Mariners) scored the winner back then, coming off the bench with a minute to go in normal time. He scored the golden goal barely 10 minutes later. The man he beat in the Parramatta Power net was Clint Bolton, who will be Sydney’s ’keeper this week. Among the defenders in front of him over five years ago was Simon Colosimo who will once again be keen to keep Bolton’s work to a minimum.

    Only two of the Perth Glory premiership side (Jamie Harnwell and Jamie Coyne) will make this weekend’s trip to Parramatta.

    This time around they will be looking to harm Sydney FC’s claims of snaring the Premiers Plate (top side at the end of the home and away season and automatic entry to the Asian Champions League). Sydney blew a perfect opportunity to move back to the top of the table when they lost to Brisbane last weekend. Instead they sit third with Perth only six points behind them. A win for the Glory would keep alive their hopes of finishing in the top four and snaring a home final.

    Last week the Glory managed to overcome the loss of key players Jacob Burns and Mile Sterjovski and still prove too good for the hapless Central Coast Mariners. New signing Daniel McBreen scored twice in the 3-1 win.

    The Glory’s away form has been patchy this season and they may need to channel some of the spirit of 2004 to snare this one from a desperate Sydney FC.

    Sydney FC continue to prove very hard to break down defensively. They can probably hold the visiting Perth and get the win at $1.95.

      

    Melbourne Victory v North Queensland Fury

    Etihad Stadium

    Friday 8.00pm AEDT

    The Victory return from the Gold Coast licking their wounds after Kevin Muscat copped a suspension and Robbie Kruse an injury in the 1-0 loss. Archie Thompson watched from the comforts of the stand and his return will be crucial. The Fury are backing up after a come from behind win over Newcastle in a postponed clash on Tuesday night, giving them only two days to recover. That clash played in oppressive humidity may soften the Fury up here.

    If Archie is fit and plays, the Victory could belt them. Take the $1.40 in a multiple.

      

    Central Coast Mariners v Newcastle Jets

    Bluetongue Stadium

    Saturday 6.00pm AEDT

    Clashes between these north coast neighbours are usually tight, with them sharing the points seven times previously. It may need the passion of a local derby to get the Mariners up for this one, though. Michael McGlinchey (Motherwell) and Dean Heffernan (Huddersfield), who were so instrumental in their side’s promising start to the season, have been released to enhance their claims of making the World Cup. The Mariners have failed to win any of their past 10 and while the finals bound Jets back up from a midweek encounter, they have much more to play for.

    Newcastle, at $2.45, to continue the Mariners’ miserable run.

     

      

    Adelaide United v Brisbane Roar

    Hindmarsh Stadium

    Saturday 8.00pm AEDT

    Adelaide went to Wellington last week without Cristiano or Lloyd Owusu, two big strikers they had pinned their hopes on for success this season, only for both to disappoint. Without them, they still played the same way – lots of attack but little produced in the way of quality on goal. The Roar have been guilty of the same for most of their existence but got a rare win with a deflection off the hip of Sergio Van Dyk late against Sydney.  

    This will probably be a good game to watch as both sides will attack, but you couldn’t back either with confidence. Maybe take the draw at the $3.40.

      

    Gold Coast United v Wellington Phoenix

    Skilled Park

    Sunday 7pm AEDT

    Gold Coast confirmed their championship credentials with a hard-fought and at times feisty victory over the Melbourne Victory last week. Zenon Caravella’s impressive strike capped a good game and enhanced an outstanding season for the Cairns-born 26-year-old. Perhaps if he’d shown the same form while at his previous club, Omniworld in the Netherlands, he would figure more in Pim Verbeek’s Socceroos plans. One player who is probably back in consideration is Phoenix skipper Jon McKain. He got the winner last week.

    The Gold Coast were belted 6-0 the last time these two met. Expect them to be keen to make amends here at the $1.60.

     

    Best multi: Sydney/Melbourne/Gold Coast = ­$4.37

  8. Anstey and Mackinnon retire -

    OAMPS Melbourne Tigers players Chris Anstey and Sam Mackinnon have called an end to their outstanding basketball careers, announcing yesterday that this season will be their last in the NBL.

    Both Anstey and Mackinnon have been icons of Australian basketball and between them have 5 NBL Championships, 4 Olympic games representations, 3 NBL MVP’s, 3 NBL Grand Final MVP’s, 2 NBL Best Defensive Players, 2 Gaze Medals for International Player of the Year and 795 NBL games.

    Anstey had hip surgery at the start of the season and has been battling hip and back injuries since returning in December.

    “For me it has been a very tough decision, I have been thinking about it for a while but now feels like the right time. I pride myself on my work ethic and my body can’t work as hard as I would like or as it needs to be at practice”, Anstey said.

    “My best moments would have to include the Under 23s World Championships Gold Medal in Melbourne, the Olympic Games and all 3 NBL Championships. The 2 championships with the Tigers are very special considering the teammates I shared them with and my role in the team.”

    “It’s also fantastic that I get to share the day with Sam. We grew up playing basketball together, we have been teammates many times and although our careers took different turns here and there, its great to be able to share this day with him.

    Anstey went on to talk about what the future holds.

    “I will look to take a break from basketball for a little while and spend some time with the family”

    ‘Slammin’ Sam Mackinnon also found the decision to close his playing career difficult.

    “The decision to retire has been building up for the past couple of weeks, it’s a decision that hasn’t come lightly but it has been coming for a couple of years. I have had a long career which I have thoroughly enjoyed and I am comfortable in what I have achieved.”

    “My best memories include the Under 23s World Championships Gold Medal in Melbourne and the Olympic Games. The Championships were great and I consider myself very lucky to have many special moments rather than just the one or two standouts.”

    When asked who had major influences on his standout career Mackinnon said, “My father, junior coach Fred Liddy and Mike Kelly have all been fantastic for me and have inspired and helped me along the way”.

    When asked about his future plans Mackinnon was more than happy to discuss his job with pizza company Crust.

    “I am the Area Manager for Crust Pizza in Queensland so that will be taking up a fair bit of my time along with spending some time with my family.”

    Tigers Head Coach Al Westover paid tribute to the outgoing stars.

    “It’s a sad time for the Tigers and also Australian Basketball with two legends of the game retiring. Both Chris and Sam have been fantastic for the Melbourne Tigers and Australian Basketball. We would like to wish them all the best for what they move onto in the future.”

    Tigers CEO Seamus McPeake was full of praise for the departing NBL champions.

    “Chris and Sam have given so much to the game over a long period of time and should be congratulated on their outstanding careers. Both their team and individual records speak for themselves. It will be sad not to see them out on the court after this season, but I am sure they will find success in their careers after basketball.”

    Basketball fans will have the chance to say goodbye to two legends of the game this Saturday night (13th of February) when the Tigers take on the Gold Coast Blaze in their final game of the season.

     

  9. EPL Preview -

    Chelsea and Arsenal meet in the match of the round..

     

    Chelsea v Arsenal

    Sunday 3.00am AEDT

    “We need something special now to stay in the race.” That was Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger’s summary of his side’s title hopes after Manchester United eased past them with a 3-1 win last weekend.

    The loss, and Chelsea’s surprise midweek draw with Hull, left Arsenal six points adrift of top spot with 14 games remaining.

    Wenger will need to find that “special” quality quickly as they head across London to Stamford Bridge to take on Chelsea in a match that may well end any chance the Gunners have of claiming the title.

    Recent clashes suggest it is going to take all of the Arsenal manager’s guile and experience to keep the dream alive as Chelsea have belted them 3-0 and 4-1 at their past two clashes.

    Sadly for Arsenal the most special element of their squad will again be sitting in the stand, with Robin Van Persie still a couple of months away from returning from injury.

    In Cesc Fabregas and Andrey Arshavin they have a couple of players capable of being the match winners they require and it is worth recalling that Arshavin had a good chance to give his side the lead early against United. He put his shot wide and his team found themselves behind soon after.

    That deficit was doubled when Arsenal succumbed to a slick counter attack, a move started by United’s Wayne Rooney – and finished by the in-form striker. He was allowed to run the length of the ground without anyone from the Gunners defence so much as casting an eye on him. It was very careless defending and something that will need to be tightened.

    This week they encounter the likes of Nicolas Anelka, Didier Drogba, Salomon Kalou and Joe Cole. It’s a forward combination as slick as there is.

    Chelsea’s effort to be clear at the top is outstanding as they have had to overcome the setback of a number of key players missing recent encounters with African Cup of Nations commitments.

    Now they have got the added pressure of their skipper John Terry involved in an off-field scandal involving extra-marital affairs. Terry’s manager at Chelsea Carlo Ancelotti has produced a familiar line when one of your key players is in trouble - “what he does in his private life is his own business.”

    The Chelsea players seemed to share that view judging by the passion they showed towards their skipper after he scored the winning goal at Burnley last week.

    With Arsenal looking a goal or two off the best sides in the competition it is hard to see Chelsea dropping this one.

    It is not often you can get $4.50 about Arsenal in a clash but they will need something very special to win. Chelsea to get home at $1.70.

     

      

    Liverpool v Everton

    Saturday 11.45pm AEDT

    Both sides go into the Merseyside derby in good form. Liverpool is on a run of six unbeaten games while Everton have turned their season around with last week’s 1-0 victory at Wigan, making it nine since suffering defeat. Everton’s Socceroo midfielder Tim Cahill has been instrumental recently with goals in the past two victories. Liverpool may have been a little fortunate to account for Bolton last week but after the start they had to the season they are probably due some luck. They haven’t lost at home to Everton since 1999.

    Everton look overs at the $4.20, as does the draw at $3.40.

     

      

    Bolton v Fulham

    Sunday 2.00am AEDT

    Fulham slumped to a fifth successive defeat courtesy of some shoddy defending in the 2-0 loss at home to Aston Villa last week. Fulham strengthened their squad this week with a couple of borderline players from other clubs (Christopher Buchtmann – Liverpool, Nicky Shorey – Aston Villa) to offset injuries to the likes of Andy Johnson and Clint Dempsey. Bolton were probably only some good finishing away from getting a point at Liverpool last week. They have secured talented Arsenal youngster Jack Wilshere for the run home.

    Hard to bet with confidence here but I fancy Bolton could win at the $2.25.

     

      

    Burnley v West Ham

    Sunday 2.00am AEDT

    Burnley made it four losses on end and 12 games without a victory when conceding a late goal to Chelsea last week. It was a better performance than that of West Ham who were lucky to get a 0-0 draw at home to Blackburn. The Hammers have drawn their past three and during the week added Benny McCarthy, Mido and Ilan to a strikeforce that has been having trouble scoring.

    Burnley is a little under-manned through injury but may do enough to grab a draw at the $3.20.

     

      

    Hull v Manchester City

    Sunday 2.00am AEDT

    It has been another mixed week for Hull with some careless defending costing them victory over Wolves before a brave draw with Chelsea during the week. Hull come to this third-last and locked in a battle to avoid relegation. Key midfielder Jimmy Bullard will miss again. City did enough to account for lowly Portsmouth last week to keep alive their hopes of qualifying for the Champions League.

    City won’t lose and are probably safe at the $1.65 to put into a multiple.

     

      

    Manchester United v Portsmouth

    Sunday 2.00am AEDT

    United’s slick forward movement was too much for Arsenal last week as they kept the pressure on for another Premier League title. Wayne Rooney’s form up front continued to be outstanding as he slotted his seventh goal from his past four outings. Cash-strapped Portsmouth’s fire sale of any player of quality has continued with Younes Kaboul moving to Tottenham. His defensive skills would have been handy here against Rooney and co.

    United is $1.11 to win. They probably should be $1.01.

     

      

    Stoke v Blackburn

    Sunday 2.00am AEDT

    Stoke took their unbeaten run in the Premier League to three matches with a 0-0 draw at Sunderland during the week. Blackburn were a little unlucky not to beat West Ham as their recent revival continued. Rovers have picked up points in five of their past six Premier League outings.

    These two drew 0-0 first time around and it is likely to be tight again. Blackburn at $3.00 look a touch of overs.

     

      

    Sunderland v Wigan

    Sunday 2.00am AEDT

    Sunderland extended their winless run to 10 with their 0-0 draw midweek. The difficult run came as the depth of the squad was stretched through injuries. At the start of the season the strike pairing of Kenwyne Jones and Darren Bent was shaping as one of the better ones around. However, Jones’s form has fallen away through suspension and injuries. He looked to be moving better on Tuesday morning. Wigan won the previous encounter between the two but has only managed one victory in eight subsequent outings. Their confidence could be shaken after losing 2-0 to second division Notts County in the FA Cup during the week.

    Sunderland can break their long run of outs but shop around for better than the $2.00.

     

      

    Tottenham v Aston Villa

    Sunday 4.30am AEDT

    Tottenham fell for the old “try and defend a lead” trick when conceding a late equaliser at Birmingham last weekend. Spurs had played well enough to win, then changed their game in a bid to hang on. Villa were excellent at Fulham with Gabriel Agbonlahor scoring two outstanding goals. He is pretty strong for a little fella. First time around these two shared the points with Spurs having the better of the encounter.   

    This should be a good clash with both sides pushing for a spot in Europe. Spurs may be a touch of unders at the $2.00 but I think they will win. A Villa victory at $3.40 would not surprise, though.

     

      

    Birmingham v Wolves

    Monday 12.30am AEDT

    Birmingham again showed their fighting character with Liam Ridgewell scoring a late equalisor at home to Tottenham last week. They have had just one defeat from their past 14. Wolves moved out of the relegation zone with a point at Hull last weekend before an embarrassing FA Cup loss at Crystal Palace on Wednesday morning. Clashes between these two are always tight with both sides situated in Birmingham and neither keen to hand bragging rights to their local rival.     

    Birmingham won’t lose but Wolves could grab a point at the $3.40.

     

     

    Best multi:  Manchester United, Manchester City, Sunderland = $3.66.

  10. Mariners defeat Newcastle -

    The Central Coast Mariners won their first match in 10 games with a 3-0 victory over a 10-man Newcastle Jets last night..

    The Mariners' victory is their first at home since the round-seven 3-0 win on September 19 over a Gold Coast.

    Ladder:

    1 Melbourne 26 14 5 7 47 30 17 47
    2 Sydney 26 14 3 9 33 23 10 45
    3 Gold Coast 26 13 5 8 38 33 5 44
    4 Wellington 26 9 10 7 34 29 5 37
    5 Perth 26 10 6 10 38 34 4 36
    6 Newcastle 26 10 4 12 32 43 -11 34
    7 Central Coast 26 7 9 10 32 26 6 30
    8 Brisbane 26 8 6 12 32 40 -8 30
    9 North Qld 26 7 8 11 27 45 -18 29
    10 Adelaide 26 6 8 12 22 32 -10 26

     

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