Magic Similies

30 years ago, Rosie Vela sang a lovely song with some nonsense words in it, and everyone was confused...

Nowadays, of course, we all realize that she was archly predicting the rise to power of the new Head Coach of French Rugby, Guy Novès. Two matches played in this year's Six Nations; two wins. After several seasons of seeming more disorganized than a mummification ritual in a Bontempi factory, France might just be back.

Or not. That's France, of course. In truth, they were horribly unconvincing in scraping past Italy, and lucky to face an Ireland side ultimately eviscerated by injuries. Winning becomes a habit, though, or so we're told.

That's good, then, because Wales have won this fixture four times in a row now and conceded just one try in the process. Brice Dulin's score in Paris last year remains the only one scored by a Frenchman against Wales in 400 minutes of trying.¹ The selection of the trusted Lydiate/Warburton/Faletau back row suggests that Wales' efforts will be focused on maintaining such intransigence.

The worry is that the French shackles may finally be off for real. It's proven a groundless worry before, in all honesty. But it's still there. We've been dying to see you, Baby. Just, perhaps not tonight, okay..? Merci!


1 They didn't get one in the RWC11 semi, either. Had to get that one in!

Benign Dictatorship?

The issue of "player power" in Wales is again in the news after Gavin Henson's interview on BBC's ScrumV. Because it's Henson, reaction of all colours will be forthcoming, but his words carry the ring of truth. His problems with the previous regime were clear to see, and few will argue that a system which makes players like Henson happy, must be a good thing.

Not that much to cheer about on the field for Welsh teams this week; but the best was saved for last. Cardiff Blues' stunning finish against Munster could be argued to owe a debt to fortune, but the visitors' crazy attempt to play keep-ball on their own try-line for the last ten minutes, appears no less crazy for having almost worked.

Next up will be Warren Gatland's team announcement for Wales' trip to Dublin. Primed now to expect the unexpected, most observers still seem to anticipate Stephen Jones starting at 10 against the Irish. The accepted wisdom is that Wales will need calm control more than quick wits at the start. What is not in dispute is that we'll also need another step up from the forwards. Will this be Robin McBryde's finest hour?