World in Union: Round 11 review of the Aviva Premiership

ROUND 11

Over 146,000 people stepped through the turnstiles to watch Aviva Premiership Rugby over the Christmas weekend including the Harlequins v Saracens Big Game 4 which sold out to a capacity crowd at Twickenham Stadium, a new world record for a regular season club game.
Christmas Eve at Franklin’s Gardens saw Northampton Saints in control, courtesy of a star performance from George Pisi, that condemned Bath Rugby to their fourth consecutive defeat. Tries came from Phil Dowson, Tom Wood and Jamie Elliott for the Saints, and from Francois Louw for Bath. Final score: Northampton Saints 22, Bath Rugby 13.

On Boxing Day, Nick Macleod won the kicking battle for Sale Sharks as his side beat their northern rivals Newcastle Falcons to return to an Aviva Premiership Rugby semi-final position in fourth place and leave their opponents at the foot of the table. Sale had taken a 16-0 lead after 24 minutes through three Macleod penalties and a converted Tom Brady try, but Newcastle mounted a comeback. After Macleod and Jimmy Gopperth had traded three-pointers, substitute Jeremy Manning went over to reduce the gap to 19-10 at half-time. Gopperth continued to boot the Falcons back into the game and narrowed the gap to three points before England wing Mark Cueto touched down to seal the win for the home side. Final score: Sale Sharks 27, Newcastle Falcons 19.

Over at Kingsholm, Jonny May and Olly Morgan both scored two tries as Gloucester produced a stunning performance to demolish London Wasps. The home side thrilled a packed stadium as Wasps had no answer to the power of the Gloucester pack and the potency of their backs. Gloucester’s tries came from Luke Narraway, Jonny May, Henry Trinder and Olly Morgan, with just one Wasps try in reply courtesy of Elliot Daly. Final score: Gloucester Rugby 39, London Wasps 10.

On Tuesday London Irish finished the year third in the table in an Aviva Premiership Rugby play-off place thanks to a tough win over Exeter Chiefs at the Madejski Stadium. Centres Joe Ansbro and Shontayne Hape grabbed Irish tries, while wing Tom Homer landed 19 points with five penalties and two conversions. Exeter did manage a losing bonus point though, after full-back Luke Arscott ran in a try in the second half while fly-half Ignacio Mieres kicked five penalties and a conversion. Final score: London Irish 29, Exeter Chiefs 22.

Over at Sixways, England star Toby Flood ran the show as Leicester Tigers extended their unbeaten Aviva Premiership Rugby run to five games after brushing Worcester Warriors aside at a sold-out Sixways. The Tigers never looked back once they had built a 17-point lead early in the second quarter following tries by Flood and wing Matt Smith. Fly-half Flood added another 12 points from the boot, while Leicester and England lock Louis Deacon sealed Tigers’ victory when he rumbled over for a 60th-minute try after wing Marcel Garvey’s touchdown had briefly threatened a Worcester revival. Final score: Worcester Warriors 13, Leicester Tigers 32.

A defiant Saracens side ended Harlequins unbeaten start to their Aviva Premiership Rugby season with a ferocious defensive performance at a sold-out Twickenham. Owen Farrell kicked 14 points and David Strettle scored against his old club as Saracens raced into a 19-3 lead after just 24 minutes. Harlequins attempted a comeback and prop Joe Marler, whose pass had earlier been intercepted by Strettle, scored in a dominant second-half performance from the hosts. Saracens did not score another point but defended resolutely to seal the victory in front of a record crowd who were kept entertained for the full 80 minutes. Saracens win closed the gap with the league leaders to five points. Final score: Harlequins 11, Saracens 19.

WSN Basketball. Wasps win against Maroons

Thanks to Dave Bushall and all at the Wasps for the match report. We wish you all a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

Hull Wasps put in a stunning performance on Saturday afternoon to outclass Bradford Maroons. Heading into the game, the Wasps sat just below Bradford in the league in fifth place but have moved up to fourth after the 89-40 victory and are now just two points behind league leaders Stockport Falcons.

For the first time in years, as many as six teams are in the running for the play-offs; Stockport, Rossendale, Middlesbrough, Burnley, Bradford Maroons and now, after four straight wins, Hull Wasps are all in contention for the top-three spots.

The home game on Saturday was a big game for the Hull club, looking to make a big statement to the rest of the league for the first time this season. The game was billed as a definitive game, looking to be a close contest all the way. The opening period of the game certainly looked that way with both sides racking up 17 points each before the first break.

However, the Wasps came out from the rest with a renewed vigour and took the game to Bradford with some fast breaks and excellent defensive work which created a 16-2 run to open up a commanding 16 point lead before half-time.

The home crowd expected a fight back from the visitors after the break but another outstanding period of play from the Wasps restricted Bradford to just 8 points in the quarter, while sinking 23 points themselves.

With the game all but buried, the Wasps didn’t let up. Wasps’ coach Matt Fawcett took the opportunity to rest some senior players while other members of the squad produced another solid performance with a 25-7 run to seal the biggest win of the season at 89-40 for the Wasps.

“It was a huge win for the team today” said Fawcett following the performance.

“We played hard and just played our game how we wanted. After that opening period we knew we had a tough game on our hands but the guys were solid on defence and that opened up opportunities when we broke forward.

“In all honesty, we all looked at this fixture months ago and expected a tight game with only a few points to decide it. But it wasn’t the case in the end and it’s brought us our biggest win of the season so far. This squad has got great potential and we’ve proven it here today. It’s been a solid team performance with everyone working for each other.

“It has set us up nicely for the second half of the season, knowing that we’ve got a lot of hard work ahead of us. We’ll enjoy it over the Christmas break but we mustn’t get too caught up on this as we’ll lose focus. It’s two points at the end of the day and that’s all. We’ve got some big games in January and we’ll be back in the New Year looking to continue the season as we left it.”

Adrian Blatherwick top scored for the Wasps with 18 points. James Rayner came second with 16 while MVP John Brignell scored 15 points. Hull Wasps will next play Oldham Titans away on Saturday 8th January.

Big Puck reports: CHIEFTAINS LOSE TOP SPOT AFTER DEFEAT ON ISLAND

Thanks to Pete Lewis and all at the Chieftains for the reports, we wish you a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

Chelmsford Chieftains have slipped from top spot after going down 5-4 on the Isle of Wight thanks to a late winner from Dominic Hopkins. The Chieftains had been in the lead for the bulk of the game and were the better side for much of it, but were unable to turn possession into goals. Connor Pollard scored first for the home side, but then a double from in-form Tom Long put the Chieftains 2-1 up at the end of the first period. Then Alex Murray tied the game before Ross Brears put the Essex side back in front. It was neck and neck now and the two sides traded goals as Damon Larter put the Raiders on level terms during the second period. Alan Green put the visitors back ahead and it looked like the 2 points and retention of the league-leader placing would remain in Chelmsford before former EPL forward Arran Strawson tied the game with 7 minutes to go and then a late goal from Hopkins put the Raiders back ahead, much to the disappointment of the visiting fans and players. Alan Green had a chance to tie it up with seconds on the clock, but a bad bounce from the puck meant he never got a clean shot away and the travelling fans were left disappointed.

Onto Sunday and player-coach Gary Clarke knew he had to turn things around and the team did so in style with a 10-3 demolition of the Oxford City Stars. In seemingly normal fashion, the Chelmsford side fell behind to an early goal from the Stars, but then ran in 8 unanswered goals in the first 2 periods. Former Stars forward Alan Green got the ball rolling before Jakub Klima and then Long got his 3rd and 4th of the weekend. James Ayling then put the puck away before Clarke himself netted a brace either side of the first interval. Brears then made it 8 before Josh Oliver scored for the Stars prior to Klima getting his hat-trick with 2 late goals in the third period. Oliver scored again late on but it was never going to be enough to start a fightback and the Chieftains comfortably saw the game out. Klima picked up the man of the match award after a fine performance in the teams final game before the Christmas and new year break.




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Kult & Punk: St Pauli crucial win keeps them in touch with leaders.

Thanks to Jonathan who filled in for the boys, while they over did the festivities. One dressed as a Nun the other Roger Rabbit - absolutely no idea. Thanks to Kult and Punk for 2011 already looking forward to 2012, we wish you a Merry Christmas and Happy New year. Season greetings to the Players, officials and supporters of FC.St Pauli from all here at Sports Pulse.

FC St. Pauli consigned Eintracht Frankfurt to only their second defeat of the campaign with a deserved 2-0 win that took them to fourth in the table, level with their visitors on 39 points and only three behind league leaders Fortuna Düsseldorf.

The final Bundesliga 2 game before the winter break provided an entertaining spectacle for the fans at the sold-out Millerntor-Stadion, who saw goals from Fabio Morena and Max Kruse lead the hosts to victory over a fellow promotion favourite.

Entertaining start

Both teams began energetically, determined to finish the year on a high note, and it made for a lively encounter, as the play switched from end to end. The visitors marginally edged the opening period and almost took the lead after Karim Matmour's through ball allowed Alex Maier to run in on goal, but the striker's shot from a tight angle was well saved by Philipp Tschauner.

The hosts' reply came only moments later and Fin Bartels should have done better than to skew the ball over the bar after excellent work on the right from Florian Bruns had found him unmarked in the box. Frankfurt had the next opportunity of a frenzied beginning, when Gordon Schildenfeld flicked Pirmin Schwegler's whipped free-kick goalwards, but Tschauner once again reacted well to save.

Pauli go in front

However, it was Pauli, buoyed by their vocal home support, who took the lead just after half an hour. Frankfurt failed to deal with a corner from the right, and Morena was on hand to prod the ball in from close range after visiting keeper Oka Nikolov had parried Sebastian Schachten's shot. Frankfurt pushed for an equaliser, but were unable to find a breakthrough before half time.

The match began in the same fashion after the restart, and Pauli broke following a series of Frankfurt corners, going close through Fabian Boll after a mistake from Anderson in the Frankfurt defence. At the other end, Mo Idrissou tested Tschauner with a snap-shot from the edge of the box, which the unsighted keeper did well to save.

Kruse seals the win

That strike initiated an intense period of pressure from the guests, who created several half chances, which neither Idrissou nor Theofanis Gekas were able to make the most of. With the hosts struggling to get beyond the halfway line, their second goal came totally against the run of play. Frankfurt had committed men forward for another corner when Bartels broke down the right, running the length of the pitch before crossing for Kruse to stroke past the helpless Nikolov.

Frankfurt continued to push for a goal, but they were lacking the necessary creativity to unlock the well-organised home defence. The guests pumped high balls forward, looking to exploit the aerial ability of Idrissou, but the forward was well marshaled by Morena, while shots from distance were rarely accurate enough to trouble Tschauner. Indeed, Pauli looked the most likely to score again and constantly looked threatening on the break, but neither side found the net again.


Jonathan Stockitt

Cycle Premier Racing Team announce the signing of Stephen Adams

Cycle Premier Racing Team Press Release

Cycle Premier Racing Team is delighted to announce the signing of 24 year old Stephen Adams from Nottingham who joins the team from Sigma Sports for 2012.

Adams will see early season action with the team in the final round of the National Cyclo Cross Series and in the National Cyclo Cross Championships in January before a well earned rest ready for the road season in March.

Adams said, “I’m really pleased to be on-board with Cycle Premier. I have seen the team grow from strength to strength over the past few years and I'm looking forward to a successful and prosperous 2012 with them.”

Cycle Premier’s Rod Freeman said, “We are delighted to welcome Steve to the team and really excited about the experience he brings to the team on the road, criterium circuits and off road. I’m looking forward to seeing Steve and Michael (Berling) in action together in April at Dengie Marsh, Tour Doon Hame and Cicle Classic.”

The team has so far announced 11 of its 13 man squad for 2012. They are:

Stephen Adams (24)
Michael Berling (29)
Tom Black (21)
Declan Byrne (18)
Jamie Caldwell (21)
Russell Falder (21)
Richard Hepworth (24)
Jake Martin (19)
George Moore (18)
Jon Mozley (24)
Chris Pritchard (28)

Sol y Futbol: Lanzarote extend their unbeaten run to eight games

Lanzarote earn a disappointing draw, but continue their unbeaten run. We wish the players and officials of UD Lanzarote a Merry Christmas and happy new year. A massive thank you to Ian for supplying the reports for 2011 and look forward to their continuation in 2012. SportTrades would like wish Ian, Anna, Jessica and Oscar a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

C.D. CORRALEJO 0 LANZAROTE 0

The second half of the season began with a scoreless draw as did the first. It may be an away point and Lanzarote have extended their unbeaten run to eight games but the Rojillos will be disappointed returning from Fuerteventura with just a point.

The Majoreros (Fuerteventurians) began the game the better of the two sides but rarely troubled the League´s best goalkeeper Santi Lampón. Midfielder Isaac had the best chance of the half in the 9th minute but failed to hit the target for the hosts. Lanzarote best opportunity was a free kick from Gustavo García but the ex Las Palmas player saw his strike fall into the arms of the Corralejo keeper.
Before the half was up Rojillos manager Fabían Rivero was forced into making a double substitution. Echedey and Aythami limped off and were replaced by the experienced Jotha and defender Jesús but the game remained goalless going into the break.

If the fans thought the first half lacked entertainment then they were not going to be impressed with an even poorer second period. The majority of the match was played in midfield and it wasn’t until the final few minutes that either side threatened.

In the 87th minute Toñito fed Alex Yunes, his strike was well saved by the Fuerteventura keeper then his follow up shot was deflected away by a defender. In the final minute a header for striker Dino went narrowly wide for the home side but this was a day when neither side deserved to score.

The Rojillos remain in ninth spot but have drifted to three points off the play off places as we head into the National Spanish football break. The chase for a playoff position resumes with a tasty home match on the 8th January against fifth placed side Las Palmas B.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to you all.
Ian, Anna, Jessica and Oscar.

Gwrys Yn Kernow: Pirates progress to next round

Thanks to Cornish Pirates & Woll for the match report and also Simon Bryant for the pictures

Cornish Pirates 30-3 Cross Keys

British & Irish Cup Round 4

At The Mennaye Field Penzance

Woll's Match Report

Thirty years ago and almost within sight of The Mennaye, the real meaning of bravery was redefined by the actions of the crew of the Solomon Browne. Tragically, it was the ultimate outcome that provided the reason for the very emotional sixty seconds prior to today’s kick off; an annual show of respect, impeccably observed, and a humbling reminder of what really constitutes perspective.

Not a bad thing given the past few days and concerns regarding future Pirates plans; but at least this particular cup tie could be played in the knowledge that they are clearly progressing, if a little behind original timescales. Something that post match, Chris Stirling confirmed and re-iterated his intention to remain part of, hopefully dispelling any remaining question marks.

Just as well then, that attention could focus back on to the field of play so quickly even if this clash was in effect a ‘dead rubber’; both sides having already booked their quarter final berths. Something that may have contributed to a game that never really hit the heights one would have hoped for.

Not that Matt Evans would be too bothered; as the winger helped himself to a couple of tries to put any hopes a much changed Cross Keys side may have had of causing an upset, well and truly to bed. Something that allegedly the visitors eventually managed during their overnight stay, the evening prior.

A scrappy contest then, took a good fifteen minutes to ignite, as Thomas coming in at full back, saw a couple of early pots miss their target; denying the Pirates some reward for their early pressure.

But pressure there was, and the Keys were already creaking before Hodge incurred a ten minute spell on the sidelines for his troubles, as his colleagues just couldn’t please Mr. Harding at all. So much so, that the official finally decided to trot under posts to disturb the scorers for the first time on the quarter hour. Ceiron this time doing the honours.

As if on cue, this sparked the Welshmen on against his countrymen. Five minutes later, he put Evans through on the left for his first score in the Old Western National Corner, in an identical manner to one in the first minute that didn’t end quite so successfully. Keys full back, Andrews’ timely intervention, preventing the perfect start for the Pirates on that occasion.

At this point a flurry of points seemed likely, as the gulf between the teams on the day threatened to be reflected in a large score line. As it materialised, only two further Thomas penalties came forth and so a 20 point gap at the break had to suffice.

Après tea and the first drama revolved around Chris Morgan and a gash to his head, that gave his otherwise boyish features, a menacing red war paint shade. The flow of the red stuff happily ceased after liberal use of the magic towel, but the image no doubt remained with all and sundry; perhaps raising a few blood pressures in the process. A spat between the impressive Doherty and his opposite number, Owens, seemingly occurring soon after.

This earned the pair a lengthy lecture from Mr. Harding, but no further punishment. The clips on the ears from fellow players, apparently being sufficient from afar.
Cattle meanwhile was thrown on to spare James any further pain, and for a few minutes it appeared that the Pirates may well find that extra gear. Ward in true Wardy style roused the crowd with his usual ball stealing exploits and bullocking runs as well. But it was the visitors who scored next as they nailed their only points of the afternoon with less than half hour remaining, as Mills landed a 30m penalty.

Minutes later, a 45m attempt by Andrews went well wide and joined his earlier attempt at bringing the Pirates TV gantry down, as moments best forgotten.
In fact, this was about as good as it got for the Welsh Premiership side as they began to feel the force of the Pirates pack turn up the heat once more.
Several catch and drives threatened, until Thomas’s boot finally ended what had been a stale period otherwise, with his third penalty of the afternoon.

Keys were creaking and once again upsetting Mr. Harding. Nash finally bit the bullet and took one for the team as their tempers frayed. A little aggrieved that the official hadn’t done similar to Suniula for a high challenge not long before. Regardless the talcum powder flurried and some animation in front of the main stand almost distracted sufficiently for many to miss Evans’ second dot down, as ‘talks’ continued on the touchline.

Any chance of an escalation in hostilities were quashed however, as Cowan’s final charge ended in a knock on, and Mr. Harding calling time; no doubt with half an eye on getting to the bar in time for drinks with the retiring Nigel Higginson.
If calculations are correct, then Nottingham will have to visit the Mennaye twice in the New Year come the next round of the British & Irish Cup. Interesting no?

Cornish Pirates

15 C. Thomas 14 D. Daniel (21 R. McAtee 53mins) 12 G. Pointer (22 S. Hill 75mins) 13 A. Suniula 11 M. Evans 10 M. Dorrian 9 J. Doherty (20 G. Cattle 48mins) 8 B. Maidment 7 P. Burgess 6 C. Morgan (capt) (18 B. Cowan 71mins) 5 M. Myerscough (19 K. Marriott 53mins) 4 M. Smith 3 R. Brits (1 R. Storer 70mins) 2 D. Ward 1 R. Storer(16 A. Paver 53mins)
Replacements: un-used 17 R. Elloway

Tries: Penalty, Evans 2
Cons: Thomas 3
Pens: Thomas 3


Cross Keys

15 L. Andrews 14 K. Baller (20 J. Robinson 59mins) 13 L. Williams 12 N. Williams 11 M. Johnstone 10 S. Mills 9 O. Jones (c) 8 R. Williams (16 R. Nash HT) 7 C. Trayhern 6 M. Popham 5 L. Rawlins 4 D. Hodge 3 M. Jones (18 C. Gould 55mins) 2 J. Sollis 1 I. George
Replacements: un-used 17 G. Price, 19 T. Lampard, 21 P. Williams, 22 R. Dyer

Pen: Mill

Yellows: Hodge, Nash

Match Officials
Referee: Simon Harding (RFU)
Assistants: Tom Foley & Nigel Higginson
Referee Coach : Jerry Wallis
Man of the Match: Matt Evans