England vs South Africa Preview and Live Score Sites: RWC 2007 Final

The final match of Rugby World Cup 2007 between England and South Africa will be held on 20 October. The match is now the center of all attraction in the Rugby world. Ahead of the important match, rugby fans around the world are now very excited. All expect a competitive. England vs South Africa final match of Rugby world cup 2007 will take place on Stade de France, Saint-Denis. All the rugby fans will also experience a grand closing ceremony after the final match.

The whole Rugby world waited for this match over the last one month to get the new champion of Rugby world cup. The ongoing Rugby world cup has experienced some surprising incidents. The tournament started with an upset as the host France lost to underdog Argentina in the first match. So, Rugby world cup 2007 will be remembered for a long times for some of its upsets and interesting incidents. Another surprise is that England has reached to the final which is more than a surprise to even a die hearted fan of England.

Well, England as the defending champion of the tournament started off well as they defeated underdog USA easily in the first match. However, it was in the second Group match of England where they got a big blow from South Africa. England lost the match to South Africa. You may think that South Africa is a big contender in the tournament and naturally South Africa has the potential to defeat England. However, if the score line of the defeat is 0-36 then it has a lot to reveal. It came to England as a nightmare and immediately after such a crushing defeat, it was almost confirm that England was going to have their worst ever Rugby world cup performance. However, destiny guided them to another world cup final. Now, England is dreaming to defend their title in the way to take the revenge of their humiliating defeat to South Africa in the group stage. So, England fans are now eagerly waiting for the match. English players are determined to throw South Africa out of their way to win the Rugby world cup for the second consecutive time in the history.

In the contrary, South Africa has been playing like a favorite team from the beginning of the tournament. They have not lost any match yet in this tournament. They way they are playing in this tournament, they deserve something bigger from Rugby world cup 2007. I stated earlier that South Africa defeated England by 36-0 in the group stage match. So, it will inspire South African players to show their best performance in the final of Rugby world cup 2007. South Africa won their last and only world cup title in 1995 world cup at home. So, their fans are now eagerly waiting for another world cup victory.

South Africa will try their best to repeat their groups match success in the final match too. On the other hand, England is set to take the revenge over South Africa and win their second title in the history of Rugby world cup. After the defeat to South Africa in the group stage, England gradually came back to the right track. The good part is that, by the time the group stage matches finished England got their rhythm back. So, the world has seen an unstoppable England from the quarter final onwards. Their fans are now hoping to see the same determination in the mind of England players once again in this tournament.

Some of the players of England team are now in their prime form. Jonny Wilkinson, the star of England’s last world cup triumph, is continuing his prime form in this world cup as well. He is now the third highest point scorer in this tournament with 61 points to his credit. England wing Paul Sackey is also serving with his impressive performances in this tournament. So, fans are expecting special performances from them ahead of the final match against South Africa.

South African also has some inform players who are in their top form in the tournament. Fullback Percy Montgomery is the highest point scorer of this tournament so far. Scoring 93 points, he helped South Africa to reach at the final of the tournament. Moreover, Bryan Habana, Jaque Fourie, JP Pietersen and Juan Smith are also in their prime form. So, England has to be careful about these players and try their best to restrict them from playing with full pace. Now, it is, for sure, that England vs South Africa match has the every ingredients to be a classic one in the history of Rugby.

Online Live Score and Updates

I know that many of you are now eagerly waiting to watch the final match of Rugby world cup 2007. Not only the fans of England and South Africa, but also all rugby fans around the world are now excited over the upcoming final match. However, it also true that some of you will not be able to enjoy the match because of your personal and professional works. Some of you will not be bale to watch the match in your television because of having no access to the channels that are going to telecast the match. So, here I am giving some website links where you can get the live score and updates of England vs South African final match of Rugby World Cup 2007 below:

Sky Sports

Fox Sports

BBC

Sportinglife

Nine MSN

Palnet-rugby

Yahoo Sports

International Rugby Board (IRB)

Rugbyworldcup

Way2bet

South Africa vs Argentina Online Live Score Sites: RWC 2007 Semi Final

South Africa and Argentina will face each other in the second semi final match of Rugby world cup 2007. The match will take place at the Stade de France, Saint-Denis on 14 October 2007. Fans of both sides are now eagerly waiting for the match. 1995 world cup winner South Africa is heading toward their second world cup title smoothly. From the very beginning of the tournament South Africa is playing like favorite.

Argentina in contrast was though to be a dark horse in the tournament. They have already proved the prediction reaching at the semi final round of the tournament. Argentina started the tournament with an upset. In the opening match of the tournament Argentina defeated host France. That was the start of their impressive performance. Now, they are just two matches away from winning their first ever world cup title. Argentina has showed sheer dominance over their opponents in this tournament.

Both South Africa and Argentina have not lost any match so far in this world cup. South Africa projected a superb victory over the reigning champion England in the group stage. Through the victory South Africa created the worst world cup defeat for England. South Africa just faced some challenge against Tonga in the group stage match. South Africa looks strong and they have the capability to win their second world cup title in this tournament.

Argentina has been impressive throughout the tournament. The way they are playing this tournament, it seems that they have the potential to win the title of this world cup. Argentina is now in their five match wining streak which is a new record for them. Argentina conceded three tries so far in this tournament and this is the lowest try conceding for a semi finalist.

Argentina defeated Scotland in the quarter final by 19-13. Argentina played very well in the quarter final and looks impressive to throw a strong challenge for South Africa. On the other hand, South Africa defeated Fiji 37-20. South Africa could not impress with their performance in the last world cup. So, they are determined to achieve something big from this tournament. I think South Africa has better chance to win the match against Argentina.

It is true that both the teams have showed some impressive performances in this world cup and have not suffered any slip off. So, it will be nice to see who will be bale to continue their impressive performance in this tournament. Fans are excited with the upcoming South Africa vs Argentina second semi final match of the tournament.

Source:

Wikipedia

International Herald Tribune

Online Live Score and Updates

Fans of both sides are now planning to experience the match with immense interest. However, it is also true that many of you will not be able to watch the match live in your television set because of your personal and professional works. In some countries people can not have access to watch the matches of Rugby world cup 2007. So, you can get the online live score and updates of the South Africa vs Argentina semi final match of Rugby world cup 2007. Here, I am giving some website links where you can get the online live score of the South Africa vs Argentina match below:

Sky Sports

Fox Sports

BBC

Sportinglife

Nine MSN

Planet-rugby

Yahoo Sports

International Rugby Board (IRB)

Rugbyworldcup

Way2bet

England vs France Online Live Score Sites: RWC 2007 Semi Final

England and France will face each other in the first semi final of the Rugby world cup 2007. The match will take place at the Stade de France, Saint-Denis on 13 October 2007. Defending champion is now just two matches away to defend their title. On the other hand, France has defeated most favorite New Zealand in quarter final. So, the host team must be determined to win just two matches to claim their first ever Rugby world cup title in the history.

No doubt, France will have home advantage against England. Moreover, their quarter final upset to New Zealand will also inspire the French players to play their best against England to reach at the final of the tournament. On the other hand, England players must play all out to beat France in the way to hold the title of Rugby world cup 2007. To tell the truth there are some exceptional similarities between England and France.

Both England and France were thought to be two most favorite teams ahead of the Rugby world cup 2007. However, both teams have gone through some devastating situations. For France, it was started from the very beginning of the tournament. In the first match, France suffered a humiliating defeat to Argentina. That was the end of their nightmare and the start of good days. France won the three remaining match in group stage in style. The score lines of the three matches are 87-10 against Namibia, 25-3 against Ireland and 64-7 against Georgia. France showed their sheer dominance over the opponents in the last three matches.

For England, the shock was more devastating. Begin the reigning champion; England suffered their worst world cup defeat in this tournament. After the easy victory in the tournament opener against USA, England took on South Africa in the second match. South Africa surprisingly defeated England by 36-0. I am not sure if it is the first instance of such a crushing defeat for a defending champion. Many even were doubtful if England could make it to the quarter final. However, at last England got the ticket of quarter final match. Alike France, England also won the remaining matches in group stage. However, unlike to France, the defending champions failed to show any dominance over their opponents. If it is the only dissimilarity between the two semi finalists then there lies a big one to increase their glory. England and France have surprisingly won their quarter final matches.

England faced favorite Australia in the quarter final. So, no doubt, Australia was thought to be the favorite in the match. However, England came up with some impressive performance and projected a tremendous victory over Australia. England fly-half Jonny Wilkinson has become the highest point scorer in world cup breaking Gavin Hastings’ previous record of 227 points in world cup. Jonny Wilkinson has scored 12 points in four penalty shots. England won the match by 12-10 after coming back from a half time deficit of 3-6. Jonny Wilkinson scored all 12 points for England.

France also came up with an upset in quarter final as they defeated New Zealand by 20-18. This is the first time New Zealand is missing the semi final appearance in Rugby world cup. So, France is now hot favorite to win their first ever world cup title. France lost to England in the semi final of the last Rugby world cup in 2003. I think, the match will bring huge excitement among the fans of both sides. So, let us hope a classic match between England and France.

Source:

Wikipedia

Worldcupweb

Rugbyworldcup

International Herald Tribune

Online Live Score and Updates

I know that lots of fans are now eagerly waiting for the upcoming first semi final match between England and France. No doubt, the fans are planning to enjoy the match on television. However, it is also true that some of you will not be able to watch the match live in your television set because of your personal and professional works. Thinking of some of those fans today I have arranged some website links where you can get the online live scores and updates of the England vs France Rugby world cup 2007 semi final match. Here goes the website links:

Sky Sports

Fox Sports

BBC

Sportinglife

Nine MSN

Planet-rugby

Yahoo Sports

International Rugby Board (IRB)

Rugbyworldcup

Way2bet

Australia vs England Live Score Sites: RWC 2007 Quarterfinals

This is a perfect match for a Saturday. The timing is great. Tomorrow, Australia is going to play against England in quarter-final of Rugby World Cup 2007. The match will take place in Stade Velodrome, Marseille and kickoff time is 1400 BST (1500 GMT). So, it will be noon time in England and for Australia, it will be near midnight. However, I know that many Australians will be awake and enjoy the match. Why they should not do it? After all Australia is the hot favorite to win the match.

Sky Sports has a great preview of the match and its prediction is:

Prediction: It's been a while, well four years, since we've seen these two sides compete with full-strength XVs, and it should prove closer than many might image. With England wanting to play tight and Australia determined to go wide, the result could come down to the conditions. The men in white will be hoping for sleet and snow, but the sun is set to shine on the Wallabies. Australia by eight points.

This is the age of television but unfortunately, it is the age of pay TV. If you don’t have the channel then you cannot watch the match no matter how much you are crazy for sports. Unfortunately, in my home, I don’t have the pay channel that is covering the match Austrlia vs England tomorrow. So, I have to keep track of live score through Internet. Here, I have complied a list of website links through which you can know live score of the match Australia vs England in RWC Quarterfinal.

Sky Sports

FOX Sports

BBC

Nine MSN

Planet Rugby

Yahoo Sports

International Rugby Board

Rugbyworldcup

Way2bet

Rugby World Cup 2007: England Reaches at the Quarter Final

England rugby team at last could ensure their quarter final entrance defeating Tonga in the last group stage match today. The match was really very important for both England and Tonga. The situation was that the winner of the match would enter in to the quarter final of Rugby World Cup 2007. England projected an easy victory against Tonga. England won the important match by 36-20. With this defeat, Tonga failed to make it to the quarter final.

England is the defending champion. However, England’s performance in the tournament so far is poor and they could not impress with their performance. England suffered their worst defeat in this tournament as they lost to South Africa by 0-36. At one point, it was thought that England wound miss their quarter final appearance in this world cup. However, at last they could make it to the quarter final where they have to face Australia. England has to bring out a miracle to win the match against New Zealand.

Source:
Wikipedia

Rugby World Cup 2007: Georgia Gets First World Cup Victory

Georgia is not a big team in world rugby. However, they have already recorded their first ever world cup win over Namibia in the Rugby world cup 2007. For Georgia, it is something more than special as they came to play this world cup without having any big hope after being drawn in a group along with France, Argentina and Ireland. Georgia won the match against Namibia by 30-0. So, no doubt, it will inspire them to throw a strong challenge against France in the next match.

Afriquenligne reported:
Georgia comfortably defeated Namibia 30-0 to record their first ever victory in any World Cup appearance. Merab Kvirikashvili opened the scoring with two penalties while Akvsenti Giorgadze scored the first try just before half time bringing the score to 13-0. Another penalty from Kvirikashvili and two late tries from Irakli Machkhaneli and Davit Kacharava completed the victory for Georgia. Namibia are eliminated from Pool D, having lost all their matches. Georgia are fourth in the group with five points, behind Ireland on nine.

It is true that Georgia was underdog in the tournament and they could not show any impressive performance against the big contenders. However, this win will be something inspirational for Georgia to play well in future and make them a strong side in the rugby world.

Rugby World Cup 2007: Ireland may Miss Ronan O'Gara in the Next Match

Ireland’s next match in Rugby World Cup 2007 against strong Argentina will be very crucial. This will be the last match in group stage for both Ireland and Argentina. Ireland has to win the match with bonus points against Argentina in order to enter into the quarter final. However, the way Argentina is playing in this tournament so far, it is simply impressive. They created upset in the opening match of the tournament defeating France. So, for Ireland it will be hard to defeat Argentina in the match. Ahead of this important match, Ronan O'Gara of Ireland has become sick and not sure for the match against Argentina.

Telegraph reported:
O'Sullivan said: "He is an incredibly popular player and is a key member of the squad and it was a shock to everybody when we heard the news.
"We are concerned. There is a certain amount of concern because there isn't a diagnosis at this stage and I suppose that's the worrying thing. Rory (Best's brother and the Irish hooker) is a bit upset with the news but he knows that Simon is in the best possible hands and that everything has been done for him.

Now, it seems that Ireland is going though a bad time. If they want to enter in to the quarter final then they must win the next match with bonus point. Now, let us see if Ireland can come up with some impressive performances against Argentina.

England vs South Africa Live Score and Updates

England (0) - South Africa (36)

It going to be a dark night for England. Most probably this is the worst performance of England in Rugby world cup. England now tries to get into the quarter final stage. South Africa played tremendously well. Springboks can hope for their second Rugby world cup title in France this time. For England, reaching to the quarter final will be a success at this moment!!!

The Match has been finished.

78 Minutes: I do not know if any reigning champion showed such a poor performance in Rugby world cup. Now, England just needs at least one scoring point.

76 Minutes: Just four minutes left. England is still scoreless.

69 Minutes: South Africa is now rocking over England. England does not seem to be a reigning champion

64 Minutes: England could not score yet. Now, England seems to end up the match withing scoring.

59 Minutes: England got a penalty but missed it. England is showing their worst in this match.

England vs South Africa Rugby World Cup 2007 match is going on. However, England is not playing well. I am going to give the live scores and updates of the match now. So, keep this entry open in your browser to get the updated score of the match.

Wembley Stadium: The Venue of England vs Russia Match

Wembley Stadium is perhaps the most famous football stadium in England. It has hosted many memorable matches in the history of football. England is the birth place of modern football and Wembley Stadium is the heart of English football. In this stadium, England plays its international matches and also hosts the FA Cup Final.

Wembley Stadium has a capacity of 90,000 viewers and it is needless to say that all the people today will shout for English players. Russian players will need to keep their nerves strong in the match today.

England vs South Africa Preview and Live Score: RWC 2007

To get the latest score of England vs South Africa, go to this link:

England vs South Africa Live Score and Updates

http://techblogbiz.blogspot.com/2007/09/england-vs-south-africa-live-score-and.html

England vs South Africa Preview and Live Score: RWC 2007

England and South Africa will face each other in their second pool stage match of Rugby world cup 2007. Both England and South Africa have won their first match in style. England won their first match against USA with a huge margin of 28-10. South Africa also projected an easy win against Samoa. They won the match by 59-7 points.

England is the defending champion and undoubtedly they are one of the best rugby playing countries in the world. However, after winning the Rugby world cup in 2003, their performance over the last four years their performance has gone backward. So, it is the time for England to prove their skill to the world once again.

On the other hand, though South Africa’s recent performance is not so bad, South Africa could not reach at the semi final of the 2003 Rugby world cup after losing to New Zealand in the quarter final. So, South Africa will definitely try to present with some impressive performance and they must be determined to bring out their success of 1995. South Africa won their only rugby world cup title in 1995 in their home soil. Fans of South Africa are also keen to repeat the success of 1995 world cup.

South Africa is one of the big powers in the Rugby world. So, definitely they have the ability to win the title. On the other hand, though England could hardly show any impressive performance over the last few years, they have some talented, experienced players who can change the game single handedly and they can dominate over the other teams.

Interestingly, South Africa and England were drawn in the same pool in the last world cup as well. South Africa could not show any resistant in the pool stage match against England. England won the match by 25-6. So, this is a chance for South Africa to take the revenge of such a crushing defeat to England in the last word cup. South Africa looks impressive this time and some of their key players are also in good form.

England has an injury problem. Their star player Jonny Wilkinson has fallen in injury just before the start of the tournament. He missed the first match against USA. Now, he is not sure yet if he will play against South Africa or not. This fly half played an important role behind the success of England in the last world cup. So, if Jonny Wilkinson misses the match against South Africa then it will definitely lessen the strength of England.

England has some star players who play a big part for England during the rugby world cup 2007. Full Back Jason Thorpe Robinson is now in good form. So, English supports must wish to see Robinson in his prime form in the upcoming match against South Africa. Moreover, star fly half Oliver Barkley is also in prime form and he is also expected to play a big role for England.

In the same way, South Africa also has some star players who can be vital for England. Flanker Schalk Burger is a talented flanker who has a lot of potential to lead his team. Full back Percy Montgomery has played very well in the first match against Samoa. IN addition, their star wing Bryan Habana was excellent in the last match. So, naturally, these players will be inspired to perform well against England. I think, South African players are young and they have the potential to win the title of this world cup.

English players are also hungry to prove themselves and their ability to the world. They had to face lots of criticism during the last few years. So, they will definitely try to give some back to their critics. I think, England team is balanced and they have chance to defend their title. What they need is to play their natural game and perform consistently. It is needless to say that their seventh position in the ranking can not go with a champion team. So, it is badly needed for England to come back with their full pace in the Rugby world cup 2007.

When two inform opponents play each other, it becomes hard to predict anything. So, I am not interested to predict anything. Rather, I wish that England vs South Africa match will be a classic match and fans of both side will enjoy it. Now, let us see who will win the match.

Online Live Score

I know that many of you will not be bale to stick to the television because of personal and professional work. Many of you do no have access to TV pay channels. So, I have arranged some links of websites for those passionate rugby fans who will not be able to watch the matches. So, you can visit the following website links to get the live scores of England vs South Africa match:

Rugbyworldcup

Fox Sports

BBC

Planet-rugby

Sky Sports

Nine MSN

Sportinglife

Yahoo Sports

International Rugby Board (IRB)

Way2bet

Rugby World Cup 2007: Jason Leonard Focuses on Unity in the England Squad

Jason Leonard was one of the key member of England Rugby world cup winning team of 2003 Rugby world cup. He took retirement soon after the last world cup. Recently Jason Leonard has said that England has a good chance of they can win against South Africa in the pool match. His logic is that if England can win against the South Africans then, England will qualify for the quarter final round as the champion of Pool A. Thus, England will face Wales in the quarter final and will be able to avoid New Zealand till the final match.

It is a good idea. However, I admit that if England can become the pool champion then they will easily reach at the final. However, what will happen in the final then? If England wants to defend their title then they must have to go through some challenges from the other favorite teams. However, I agree with Jason Leonard that the England world cup squad have a strong unity among the players if England wants to defend the title. Coach Brian Ashton should inspire unity in the team.

To tell the truth, I am really very disappointed for the continuous failures of England rugby team in the last four years. No doubt, England players have to play something special to defend the title. There are some strong sides in the tournament who have more chances than England to win the Rugby world cup 2007 title. I think, the current England squad has lot of potential and they are capable of winning Rugby world cup 2007 but the pre requisite is unitary and consistent performance.

Read More:

Times Online

France vs Argentina Result: Rugby World Cup 2007

Argentina started the Rugby world cup 2007 campaign with a memorable win. Argentina has defeated host country France in the opening match of Rugby World Cup 2007. To tell the truth, France was clearly favorite in the match against Argentina. However, the reality was very harsh for the home crowd as France lost the match by 12-17. Argentina was really excellent in the match. Being the underdog in the match, Argentina dominated over France throughout the match.

In stead of saying France vs Argentina match, you can say it Skrela vs Contepomi match because most of the points were achieved by these two key players of their teams. Only one try was seen in the whole match which was made by Corleto for Argentina. So, you can say it a penalty match. Argentina scored four penalties and France also scored four penalties. So, it looks that the only try of the match made by Corleto made the difference between France and Argentina. However, actually it was Contepomi who from the very beginning of the match started to create pressure on France. Corleto also played very well in the match.

It was thought that Pool D is a pool of death and to many, it was only for the presence of Argentina in the pool. Now, it seems that competition is Pool D is going to be a hard for the first two places of the Pool. However, for the home crowed it would be very hard to bear this sorrow. However, France still have four matches and they can still get into the quarter final match.

Source:

Sky Sports

Rugby World Cup 2007: New Zealand is the All Time Favorite

New Zealand is all time favorite in any big rugby world cup tournament. They are again one of the most favorites in the ongoing Rugby world cup 2007. Rugby world cup 2007. This is the sixth rugby world cup. New Zealand has won their first and till only rugby world cup title in the first Rugby world cup tournament in 1987. After that 20 years have gone and four rugby world cup tournaments have also gone away. However, New Zealand has not won their second rugby world cup title yet.

So, winning another Rugby world cup has become a national demand. To tell the truth, New Zealand played well in all of the Rugby world cup tournaments. They have not missed their semi final appearances in any Rugby world cup tournaments. So, the thing is that, New Zealand is always favorite; New Zealand always plays well; New Zealand has become an automatic semi finalist; but they are not the winner. It is really very hard to believe that the best team in the world can not win the Rugby world cup.

To many, the reason is intense pressure on the All Blacks (New Zealand) which affects their natural game. The ever growing expectation and continuous failures to win another world cup title create an immense pressure on the side which resulted in another failure. So, it is important for New Zealand to feel no pressure and play their game. Now, let us see if they can do it this time.

Read More:

Stuff.co.nz

Rugby World Cup 2007: A Special Program on Ireland Live on TV3

Ireland is now considered as a strong team in the rugby world. Ireland is also considered as one of the big team in Rugby world cup 2007. Observing the Irish team and their improvement, TV 3 will telecast a program on Ireland rugby team. The program will include opinions of sports personalities regarding Ireland rugby team.

Irishrugby reported:
Tonight's programme will also have reports from the French capital, and a range of sporting personalities will be giving their views on the Irish team and the World Cup as the countdown continues to the most prestigious event in world rugby. Remember to tune in to TV3 at 10pm.

Rugby world cup 2007 has already been started. Now, the fans of Ireland are eagerly waiting for the first match of Ireland against Namibia on 9 September. I do not know how far Ireland will be able to go in this world cup but I hope they should show some impressive performances in the competition.

Rugby World Cup 2007: USA is not to Hopeful Regarding Their Result

Rugby world cup 2007 has already started. USA will play their first match against defending champion England on 8 September. It is clearly seen that USA is underdog in the match. It is now open secret that USA is not expecting to cause an upset against the English side because it is hardly possible for them. President of USA Rugby, Nigel Melville has recently revealed his realistic goal regarding the Rugby world cup 2007.

Rugby is not a popular sport and people think rugby is for the overweight, foreigners’ game. So, naturally USA could not yet develop in Rugby. It is thought that for USA money is not a problem. However, it is hard to believe that their rugby players are to do other jobs for earning their livelihood besides playing rugby. So, rugby, for them, is like a pastime or maximum a love. So, in USA, rugby has not experienced professionalism and that is why, the young generation is not interested to play rugby seriously.

The New York Times reported:
“Some of the top teams are absolutely spoilt,” United States fly half Mike Hercus said. “We’ve got a lot of guys who have to have 9-to-5 jobs through the year. Hypothetically, if we were to win the World Cup, our average player would walk away with hardly any money. If England wins it, their players would walk away with about $400,000 each.”

It seems that USA is now serious about rugby. So, I think, USA players should be given the credit that they have been qualifying for the Rugby world cups despite a lot of obstacles. I hope, USA authority will take rugby seriously thinking about the potential of rugby in USA and the world wide popularity of rugby. Here, I think, international rugby board (IRB) can play a big part initiating some developing programs in USA.

RWC 2007: Australia vs Japan match Without Phil Waugh

Australia will play their first match against Japan in Rugby world cup 2007. Australia vs JapanStade de Gerland, Lyon. Australian coach John Connolly has recently declared the first match line up of Australia. However, Connolly has come up with two surprises in the line up. Vice Captain Phil Waugh has been ruled out of the first match line up. Another surprise is that Berrick Barnes has been included in the first line up and this will be his first match for Australia. So, these 21 year old is expected to show some impressive performances in the first match. matches will be held on 8 September in

Reuters reported:
Australia coach John Connolly said he could not find a place for Waugh in his 22-man squad after choosing George Smith as the starting openside flanker.
Connolly said he had picked 21-year-old uncapped utility back Berrick Barnes on his replacements' bench ahead of Waugh because of his extra versatility.
"We thought it gave us the best balance this week and it's a wonderful opportunity for Berrick to get a taste of test rugby and gain some experience in a World Cup," Connolly told reporters on Wednesday.
"He has fitted into the team exceptionally well and deserves his opportunity in the 22."

Australia is favorite in the match against Japan. Yes, Japan may cause an upset against Australia but it will hardly be possible for Japan to come up with an upset against the Wallabies (Australia). I just hope to see a interesting match between Japan and Australia

Australia vs Japan Preview: Rugby World Cup 2007

Australia is one of the most favorite team in Rugby world cup 2007. Australia will play their first match against Japan on 8 September. So, you can see that Australia is going to start their world cup campaign with an easy match whereas Japanese side will face the strongest side of the pool in their first match. Australia vs Japan is now the center of attraction for both Australian and Japanese fans.

Australia is the most successful rugby playing country in the rugby world cup history. Wallabies (Australia) won the rugby world cup twice in the history being the only team to have such record. Australia is the second ranked team in the ranking of IRB. In contrast, Japan is not a big name in the rugby world. They do not have any impressive track record in rugby world cup. Japan participated in all five rugby world cup tournaments. However, Japan has not appeared in quarter final stage in any previous world cup tournament. The bet ever performance of Japan in rugby world cup was in 1991 Rugby world cup where they won a pool stage match for the first time. So, it is clearly seen that Australia is favorite in the match against Japan.

Japan lost all of the four pool stage matches of 2003 Rugby world cup. On other hand, Australia was the defending champion of last world cup but they could not defend their title as they lost to England in the final. Japan is now the 18^th ranked rugby playing country in the world.

There was a time when Japan was an impressive side in the rugby world. Especially in the 60’s and 70’s, Japan’s performance was not as ordinary as its looks now. Actually, after the start of Rugby world cup in 1987, Japan started losing its pace. Japan’s defeat to New Zealand by 145-17 in 1995 was another blow for them. From then on, Japan’s performance in the rugby world has started going down. On other hand, Australia’s recent performance is really very impressive. Australia played in the world cup final thrice out of five rugby world cup tournaments. Australia missed their semi final appearance in rugby world cup only once in 1995 Rugby world cup. So, you can see how much consistency Australia showed in rugby world cup competitions.

Australian coach John Connolly has already unveiled his 22 men line for the first match against Japan. Surprisingly, Connolly did not include vice Captain Phil Waugh in the first match line up. George Smith will play as flanker. There is another surprise inclusion in the team. Berrick Barnes will his debut match against Japan. So, it is undouted something special for this 21 year old back. I do not know why Connolly ruled out Phil Waugh and include debutant Berrick Barnes in their world cup opener. I guess, Australia coach wants to give a chance to Berrick Barnes because it is much safer against Japan. Coach said that he wanted to build a strong squad ahead of their hard match against Wales. There is not any surprise in the squad and Australia’s first match line up really looks very strong against the minnow Japan. So, it shows that Australia takes Japan seriously and they want to win the match with a big margin.

Japan coach John Kirwan is a legendary figure in world rugby. He also participated in rugby world cup for New Zealand. So, it is expected that Japan will be able to use Kirwan’s experience in Rugby world cup 2007. Ahead of the important match against Australia, John Kirwan recently talked about his plan. He said that if Japan could finish the match with a good score it will be similar to win against Australia. All know that Japanese players are typically short. So, sometimes it becomes an advantage for the opponent teams. That is why, Japanese players in almost all team sport, try to follow some plan so that opponent teams can not get extra advantage of their height. However, John Kirwan wants to see his boys showing the Japanese style of Rugby in the upcoming rugby world cup. Regarding the match against Australia, Kirwan said Japan will try to keep the ball as much as possible. It is nice that Japan has some plan before they take on Australia.

Well, I admit that Australia is much stronger than Japan. So, Australia should not have any problem to win their opening match against Japan. Rather, I think, Australia will try to play out from the very beginning to get a big win against Japan. However, I always believe that nothing is impossible in sport because upset exist in any sort of sport. Some upsets become more than upsets but it is always possible to experience an upset in the sports world. Japan coach has earlier said that they Japan wanted to show the Japanese style of rugby in Rugby world cup 2007. It indicates that Japan has made some plans ahead of the Rugby world cup 2007. Anyway, Still I believe that Japan has to do something unbelievable against two times champion Australia in order to cause an upset.

It is not possible to predict anything regarding the result of the match. It is clear that Australia is favorite and Japan is underdog. It is hardly possible for Japan to cause any upset against the Wallabies (Australia). However, anything can happen. Japan represents Asia in rugby world cup. Asian fans including the Japanese will be happy to see some impressive performance from Japan. So, Japan has nothing to lose against Australia. It can be an advantage for the Japan. Japan will not have any pressure in the match. So, it will be helpful for them to play their best. On other hand, Australia is the tournament favorite. So, they will try to have a big win against Japan. So, I think, Australian players will have some pressure in the match. Anyway, I hope to see an exciting match between Australia and Japan. I think, all rugby fans around the world wish the same.

Here I am giving the first match line up of Australia:

Australia - 15-Chris Latham, 14-Adam Ashley-Cooper, 13-Stirling Mortlock (captain), 12-Matt Giteau, 11-Lote Tuqiri, 10-Stephen Larkham, 9-George Gregan, 8-Wycliff Palu, 7-George Smith, 6-Rocky Elsom, 5-Dan Vickerman, 4-Nathan Sharpe, 3-Al Baxter, 2-Stephen Moore, 1-Matt Dunning.

Replacements: 16-Adam Freier, 17-Guy Shepherdson, 18-Hugh McMeniman, 19-Stephen Hoiles, 20-Berrick Barnes, 21-Drew Mitchell, 22-Mark Gerrard.

Source:

http://uk.reuters.com/article/rugbyNews/idUKSYD11120120070905?pageNumber=1

http://www.myrugbynews.com/Rugby_World_Cup_2007/world-rugby-rankings/

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rugby_World_Cup

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2007_Rugby_World_Cup

http://www.foxsports.com.au/story/0,8659,22356543-5013519,00.html

http://www.setantasports.com/en/Sport/News/Other-sports/2007/09/04/Rugby-Pool-B-Japan-preview-/?facets/sport-space/rugby/north-america-locale/

Rugby World Cup 2007: International Media Decides to Boycott Rugby World Cup for 24 Hours

International media has decided recently that they will not cover the any news, photos or videos of Rugby world cup 2007 for 24 hours. International media including Agence France-Presse, Reuters, the Associated Press, Getty Pictures and the German agency DPA has taken this action because of their ongoing dispute with International Rugby Board (IRB) over the matter of video transmission during the rugby world cup matches. IRB allows 50 photos for transmission during a match. However, international media claims that one picture can be transmitted in a second. So, international media claims to allow more pictures to be transmitted during a world cup match.

AFP reported:
"Fundamental rights are at stake, there is no question of letting them be flouted in the name of the protection of the financial interests of the IRB," said AFP chairman Pierre Louette.
"Amid growing confusion and uncertainty over reporting terms, and the IRB's unwillingness to engage with us to resolve the dispute over accreditation terms, Reuters is unable to continue coverage as planned."
World Cup chairman Mike Miller told a press conference Wednesday: "We think our rules are fair to everyone, to those who pay for the privilege to buy certain rights which helps us reinvest in the game, and also to those who get to come along without paying any rights fees."

Yes, now it seems that the dispute is going be severe ahead of the Rugby world cup 2007. To tell the truth, because of this dispute the rugby world cup will have a negative impact. So, I hope, IRB will take necessary steps to dissolve the dispute with the international media.

Rugby World Cup 2007: North American Fans can Watch the Matches Via Internet

Setanta Sports will telecast all 48 matches of Rugby world cup 2007 via Internet for the North American viewers. Moreover, they will also telecast the matches in television for the USA and Canada viewers. Besides live coverage, Setanta will also arrange some additional offers including original commentary, pre-match and post-match analysis. So, the North American fans can feel happy that they will not miss the rugby world cup excitement.

C21media reported:
Setanta will provide coverage of all 48 games, plus original commentary, pre- and post-match analysis and half-time programming when the event kicks off tomorrow.
American rugby fans will be able to log on to the Setanta Sports North America Web site and watch the games on either a pay-per-view subscription basis or via a season ticket pass.

Rugby world cup 2007 starts on Friday. They fans will be excited with this most prestigious tournament in rugby world. North American rugby fans can enjoy the upcoming rugby world cup via internet. What they need is just to log on to the Setanta Sports and enjoy the fullest of Rugby world cup 2007. I hope, North American fans including the fans of USA and Canada will not miss the excitement of rugby world cup.

Rugby World Cup 2007: A Local Rugby Pub Adopts the Name of New Zealand Province

You already know that New Zealand rugby team has got a warm reception in Marseilles. During the Rugby world cup 2007 New Zealand rugby team will stay at Marseilles, the seashore city of France. Upon the arrival of the New Zealand in Marseilles, rugby fans welcomed the former champions with their cheering voice. New Zealand captain has revealed his hope that French fans will adopt New Zealand as their second home team after France.

Recently a local rugby pub of Marseilles has adopted the name Canterbury which is a well known rugby playing province in New Zealand. The pub authority will keep the name during the Rugby world cup 2007.

Stuff.co.nz reported:
The bar concept was launched during last month's test between France and England at the Stade Velodrome, where the All Blacks will kick off their World Cup campaign against Italy on Sunday.
The bar is the base for Marseilles Rugby, a group of oval-ball adherents who keep the faith in a staunchly football city.

It seems that the pub authority is trying to promote their pub and attract the New Zealand fans during Rugby world cup 2007. New Zealand is one of the strong teams in the tournament and they are determined to win their second rugby world cup in France. The bat authority will be beneficial much if New Zealand can win their second rugby world cup in France.