Lions up first. Is Mack Hansen injured or not. He sat out training yesterday with one coach denying any form of injury while later another said he picked up a knock to his foot during the AUNZ game and it is being monitored. He was always unlikely to start on Saturday, or was he. I’m getting very cynical but being Irish of course he was in contention.

Wales have been awful of late but I’m sensing a distinct anti-Welsh sentiment amongst the Irish coaching team. I have tried hard to rationalise the inclusion of Jamie George ahead of Dewi Lake but can’t. The only conclusion I came to was being big mates with Owen Farrell meant young Owen had someone to play with while daddy went to work. I struggle to see why Blair Murray was not considered as versatile back line cover. He’s not Irish. Talking of call-ups that require scrutiny how has Tom Jackson, a third string Irish prop got the nod ahead of any of the England props in Argentina lets say. It smacks of bias, and long term self interest, by Farrell snr and his team.

It is looking increasingly likely that Jac Morgan will not be included in the test match day squad. No Welshman in a Lions test squad. What a sad indictment of how the game has declined in the Principality.

Talking of which there is much in the press about the process now under way in Wales to finally define a way forward. It is about structure, which means how many regions. It is about player pathways, which focusses on the second tier of the game, and development programs for identified talent. It is of course about money, of which there is very little. For what its worth, I see the merit of reducing the regions from four to three, or even two, but my preference would be to keep the current four regions in play. We’ll know soon enough.

There has been plenty of chat about going to two regions and those regions moving out of the URC and into the Premiership. The Premiership is unsustainable with just ten teams. Whilst on paper this seems very attractive for both the Premiership and the WRU, better quality fixtures and great supporter appeal for a start, there would be an outcry from the second tier of the English game, who are already up in arms. I can’t see this happening. I would like to see the URC getting shot of the South African franchises. That never made sense and has added nothing but cost.

Changing tack, I watched England Under 20 v Wales yesterday afternoon. A game of two halves. Wales looked like World Champions in the first half playing some excellent rugby, England looked like startled rabbits in the headlights. In the second half Wales fell apart and England got their act together producing a stunning second half display to romp home with ease. Ultimately it was big men, with top team experience against small boys who play in the second or third tier of the Welsh game.

The contest reinforced my opinion that the 20 minute red card is a thugs charter. During the game the Welsh #5 quite rightly saw yellow for a fairly innocuous side entry into a maul causing it to collapse. Ten minutes on the naughty step. By contrast the big English prop attacked a defenceless Welsh player lying in a ruck with a direct, and deliberate shoulder to the head. He ultimately saw red but was replaced after just 20 minutes by a leviathan. It is not right. There is no bias in this view, it was a disgraceful act of thuggery which warranted more than a 20 minute suspension. The officials have to grow a pair and show more immediate red cards. It was as clear as day this was a deliberate act of foul play.

Rant over.

England now face Australia for 5th spot. Wales face Italy in their ‘placement’ match. As expected South Africa go head to head with New Zealand in the final. This all unfolds on Saturday. RugbyPassTV for the action.

Plenty of other action on Saturday but more on this later. A busy morning with an early start lies ahead tomorrow. I will blog but it will be later than normal.

Monday 14th July: 09:15

The obvious place to start is down under and The Lions. Learning from Warren Gatland 12 years ago Andy Farrell has bolstered his squad with players who are likely to play in the final mid-week game on Tuesday 22nd: First Nations & Pasifika XV, k.o. 11:00. Yes, Scotland’s Darcy Graham, Rory Sutherland and Ewan Asham have all been called up as cover. The loss of Tomos Williams and Eliot Daly, the doubt over Blair Kinghorn, and the absence, at least for next weekend, of Luke Cowan-Dickie and Garry Ringrose highlight the fragility of the current squad. The versatile Irishman Jamie Osbourne, Irish prop Tom Clarkson and Englishman Jamie George had already been drafted into the set up as cover.

Farrell is clearly concerned about the player attrition that might occur in the 1st test next Saturday, and the impact on the series going forward. It is a shame that no Welsh player has been considered for a call up. Blair Murray for one would have been a worthy inclusion. Sadly Nicky Smith limped off on Saturday against Japan so became unavailable. Of course there are probably other Farrell family members who would be ahead of any Welsh player!!!!!!! Bitter? No, not one bit!!

So, we now enter the business end of the tour with the three tests. I’m guessing that most of you will have a starting XV in mind and in most of the positions the names will be consistent. What is good is that there are, even now with a week to go, places up for grabs. I was going to have another stab at selection today, but what is the point. The only team that matters is the one Farrell announces later this week. Once that is known we can dissect and pontificate on the rights and wrongs.

Talking of pontification, Brian Moore, writing in the Torygraph, has suggested the only game of note to date is the loss to a strong Argentinian outfit. He goes on to say the other opposition thus far has been sub-optimal with lots of second and third string players getting game time while the Wallaby squad are hidden away as Joe Schmidt works feverishly at a game plan for Saturday. Moore may be right, but that said The Lions still had to win, and winning drives momentum. He makes a sensible point that perhaps if The Lions really wanted to be tested then warm up games against Tonga, Fiji and Samoa would have been better. He also states all three unions need the cash as much as Australia Rugby.

No midweek Lions game this week which is a shame. That leaves time to look at other rugby stories. The Under 20 Championship is heading towards a South Africa v New Zealand show down next Saturday. The tournament continues with the two semi-finals with France facing New Zealand and South Africa taking on Argentina today. The big game is England v Wales which kicks off at 14:30 and will be available on RugbyPassTV via the internet, or if you have a modern LG TV then 1603 on the LG Channel page. England will win comfortably by the way.

Jack van Poortvliet’s late, late try secured the series win against Argentina. Neither side were at full strength but the win highlights the improvements England have made, and more importantly the strength in depth. The late withdrawal of Jamie George was no issue as Theo Dan stepped up. By the way I think Dan is a better player now than George which reinforces my point about why Dewi Lake was not called up to the Lions squad. Seb Atkinson and Luke Northmore made statements and the evergreen George Ford proved that there is life in the old dog yet.

The Welsh media is full of the growth of Women’s football in Wales, despite their crushing defeat to England last night. There is passing comment about Wales Rugby finally getting a win on the board. They played really well in the first half but fell away in the second. Japan came roaring back as the heat and the humidity took its toll. This week however Wales got their tactics right and a late Dan Edwards try secured the all important ‘W’. Quite rightly the media highlights the huge problems Welsh rugby have will not be solved by a single win against lowly Japan. The game remains in a mess with bickering, self-interest, short-term thinking and most importantly a dearth of quality players. Hey Ho! Let’s move on.

Scotland lost to Fiji, but with a decent contingent in Australia this was less of a surprise.

Before I go I will be doing a short piece for the website about the fantastic contribution of the Minis and Juniors plus CRFC Walking Rugby to Crowborough’s Summer Fair. Please have a look.

Also I must mention the counties referees. We wouldn’t have a game without this fine body of men and women. They held their AGM recently and we Crowborough RFC was awarded the prestigious Sporting Spirit Trophy again. The club that ticks the most boxes on, and off the field according to the referee. Now that is something to be proud of.

Sunday 13th July: 09:10

Finally, yes finally, Wales get a win on the board. As stated post match, that is a monkey of our backs. It doesn’t solve the mess Welsh rugby is in however. The win was important but without being disparaging it was against a pretty ordinary Japanese outfit. More on the dire state of Welsh rugby during the week.

Congratulations to England for their fine series win over Argentina. At last, the immense amount of money, and the vast resources at England’s disposal are reaping rewards. More on this during the week too.

So to the Lions and their game in Adelaide. Whilst the AUNZ outfit was a scratch side with only a few days to prepare it was still a very strong XV that took to the field. A side packed with test experience. It is therefore fair to say this was a fine Lions win. As many more knowledgeable than me have said: ‘a complete team performance’. For the first time on this tour the Lions looked a team who knew what was expected of them as individuals, and more importantly what their teammates would deliver. The game ebbed and flowed with some excellent passages of play. Defensively the Lions were solid, and generally discipline was spot on, unlike some in the AUNZ outfit. Shannon Frizell was a liability for long periods.

There were plenty of highlights to enjoy. The quick thinking of Hugo Keenan and that quick lineout was a joy to watch. Henry Pollock not giving up and getting his hand to the ball for a try brought a smile to the face. The way the game flowed resulting in tries was better than what we have seen thus far.

You can read the blow by blow accounts across the media but let me indulge myself by giving you a view on who has made a case for test selection and who hasn’t.

On the basis Blair Kinghorn is a doubt Hugo Keenan stood up to the test. He was solid in defence and lively in attack. The Garry Ringrose concussion means Huw Jones is almost certain to start now, but based on yesterday it would have been difficult not to have picked him. It is likely Tuipulotu is now also in the frame. He played well and Farrell senior likes to use combinations. It is unlikely Ben White will displace Alex Mitchell on the bench but he played really well yesterday. Then you come to the back row. Ben Earl was deservedly man of the match. Will he oust Jack Conan from the #8 spot? I doubt it, but yesterday could put him in contention for that coveted #7 jersey. Jac Morgan was excellent again yesterday. Top tackler, did the grunt fantastically well, earning high praise from former All Black coach Ian Foster. He has to be in with a shout for the #7 spot. Then you have Henry Pollock. He will be in the discussion.

Who is out of the picture? The Smiths. Neither did anything wrong. In fact both looked lively, but they definitely did not do enough to send Finn Russell out of the starting XV. Duhan van der Merwe was very good going forward scoring three tries. In defence however he looked suspect, especially under the high ball when in retreat.

I can’t move on with mentioning the Farrell Jnr cameo. I hate to say it, he looked sharp, making a solid contribution. His ability to play 10 and 12 might make him a good choice for the bench.

The Luke Cowan-Dickie injury looked terrible at the time so it was relief to see him up and about later in the game. By the way I can’t see how Jamie George has been called up ahead of the excellent Dewi Lake. Yes there is bias in that comment but any objective observer would (hopefully) agree that on current form Lake is the better option.

We have all week to debate this but let me put down an early marker for the test 23.
Genge, Sheehan, Furlong, Itoje (c), McCarthy, Chessum, Conan, Morgan, Gibson-Park, Russell, Freeman, Jones, Tuipulotu, Lowe, Kinghorn
Bench: Porter, Kelleher, Bealham, Beirne, Pollock, Hansen, Mitchell, Farrell.

What is good is there are a myriad of alternatives. Tomorrow I’ll have a stab at an alternative 23.

Yesterday members of the CRFC Walking Rugby crew, plus representatives of the mini and junior sections were at the Crowborough festival of fun at Goldsmiths Leisure Centre. They all did the club and the game at large proud. Well done everyone.

Before I go, I’ll tell you who is doing nothing to make anyone proud and that is Sir U-Turn. I don’t know whether to laugh or cry. This latest piece of PR bull, the migrant deal, isn’t worth the paper it is written on. Msr Macron has taken us for fools again, and the biggest fool, Sir U-Turn, has been taken in hook, line and sinker.

Thursday 10th July: 10:15

Selection Supplement

Andy Farrell has announced the team to play in Adelaide on Saturday. It looks very much as if this is the second string XV with little chance of making the test team on July 19th. That said, Henry Pollock, Jac Morgan and Ben Earl all start. This is definitely a final audition for them. Tadgh Beirne will captain the side and a good showing from him might see him back in contention. The front row of Schoeman, Cowan-Dickie and Stuart are unlikely to feature in the test team, in my opinion. At fullback is Hugo Keenan. A good game is required from him if he is to secure the test spot. His chances will improve if Blair Kinghorn’s injury is bad. Marcus Smith is on the bench, and as they say in theatre ‘waiting in the wings’. It is an all Scottish pairing in the centre: Jones/Tuipulotu, with van der Merwe on on one wing, Mack Hansen on the other. Fin Smith gets the nod at #10 with Ben White at #9. James Ryan in the second row completes the starting XV.

Its quite a strong bench with Owen Farrell destined to make an appearance at some point. Alex Mitchell is getting the miles in as he is there again. The front row replacements are likely to be the test replacements: Kelleher, Porter, Bealham. Scott Cummings and van der Flier make up the 5-3 split.

The Au/NZ team includes some big names including David Havili, Marike Koribete, Shannon Frizzell and Hoskins Sotutu. Whilst some are heading towards the twilight of their careers there are plenty of caps in the squad, therefore bags of experience, and is always the case a fire in the belly, especially when those invaders from the North arrive.

I hope the touring supporters have arrived in Adelaide early as it really is a jewel in the Australian crown. The city centre is fabulous with some amazing architecture, especially around the university. Rundle Mall is a magnet for shoppers, and drinkers. Some great bars in that area. The central market is brilliant, and the ideal place for a massive breakfast. Don’t forget to go on the interweb and look at Glenelg Beach. Stunning. Go on street view and have a look at some of the waterfront properties.

Wales have been forced into changes with Faletau injured. Dan Edwards starts at #10. The game versus Japan is in Kobe under the roof of the Noevir (Misaki Park) Stadium. Kick 06:50. S4C on iPlayer or 134 on your SKY box.

Back on Sunday.

Thursday 10th July: 07:25

If you watched the game yesterday morning I’d be interested in your opinion. Mine is relatively straight forward: uninspiring, unconvincing and as a consequence unsure. Let me do the unsure bit first. I’m unsure about that being the test side. Yes I continue to be biased but Tom Curry failed to impress. Surely Jac Morgan has to be in contention. Joe McCarthy was nowhere the player who performed so brilliantly prior to this game. James Lowe was fairly innocuous. What will be the impact of Blair Kinghorn’s early departure?

Maybe I’m being a bit harsh with unconvincing, but when you consider this was a Brumbies without most of their Wallaby contingent I think unconvincing is what the Lions performance at times was. There were times when they were excellent but in my mind nowhere near as often as they should be.

Uninspiring comes from watching the Lions fail to dominate the break down, all too often fluff their lines under the high ball, suffer with ill-discipline and make too many basic errors. A perfect example was Bundee Aki, with all his caps and games with team mate Lowe, passing only to find touch.

Ok, that is the negative stuff out of the way. There were plenty of positives. In no order, what do you do with Henry Pollock? He brought energy and dynamism instantly. He has to be in the match day squad surely. Ollie Chessum had a fine game. I thought it went up a notch when he moved into the 2nd row alongside Maro Itoje, who also had a fine game. Dan Sheenhan is nailed on to start. Today’s man of the match. The Gibson-Park / Russell partnership continues to flourish. Nothing flashy today but a solid all round contribution from them both. Garry Ringrose will start alongside Aki. Now, the other dilemma: Marcus Smith. If Kinghorn is injured do you play Smith M ahead of the specialist fullback Hugo Keenan. I am on the fence on this one. Smith did nothing wrong when he came on. In fact he did plenty right, including offering Gibson-Park an alternative pivot point in attack.

There were some excellent passages of play which is great, and what we need to see more consistently. Some of the passing was slick, the lines of running good, the support play excellent, and the power in contact was up a notch from the games thus far.

A win is a win, and maybe I’m being way too picky but glancing at the media reports I don’t think I’m too far off the money.

‘A patchy victory over ACT Brumbies’
‘Lions “Test side” fail to impress in stuttering victory over Brumbies’
‘Lions win again but Brumbies expose flaws’
‘Lions beat Brumbies but rumoured “Test team” fail to impress’

So the Lions circus moves on to Adelaide. Now here is a city to enjoy. Unlike the GIO the Adelaide Oval is a fantastic ground. I haven’t watched a game there but I have been to the stadium. It is very close to the city centre with its myriad of bars and restaurants. The Black Bull was a favourite when we were there in 2017. The Balcony restaurant, part of the Strathmore Hotel, was amazing, steak on the stone to die for!! Time permitting the tram to Glenelg and its mile after mile of beach is well worth the trip. Like Freemantle the old jail is a great place to visit. During its 147 years of operation 45 inmates were executed including one woman, Elizabeth Woolcock. I’ll do a piece this afternoon when the team is known.

Saturday is another big day. Scotland v Fiji, Wales v Japan, New Zealand v France, South Africa v Italy, Portugal v Ireland and bringing up the rear England v Argentina.

I’m not going to waste your time with predictions because I got so much wrong last weekend.

The Under 20s played yesterday with both England and Wales winning, but not by much in closely contested games. South Africa and New Zealand were comfortable winners, as was France. Georgia drew with Italy. The placement games take place on Monday with final games on July 19th.

That’ll do for now as I need to work out how it has become more beneficial to be idle and on benefits than it is to have a job.

Wednesday 9th July: 08:15

As expected, yesterday was somewhat manic meaning any chance to blog went out of the window. Not that anybody reads this guff anyway.

An early start today too but for slightly different reasons. Today is Lions day and I need to get stuff done by 11:00 so I can plonk my (sadly, but only I can do something about it) 2XL backside into the chair ready for kick off. The Brumbies v Lions is an intriguing fixture. Andy Farrell has picked a side that looks very much like a test combination. The Brumbies are not at full strength due to Wallaby call-ups but the 3rd place Super Rugby outfit will still offer up quite a challenge. As mentioned on Monday the GIO Stadium is a difficult place to go. The wide open arena makes the wind unpredictable, it can be very cold, and the pitch can be ‘problematic’, or it used to be anyway.

What do the Lions have to improve. They must find a cutting edge. That might be through brute force and ignorance, or from guile and deception. Either way the Lions must improve in the area of forward momentum. With the side selected I think the scrum will be solid and the lineout should be a source of good ball. Against the Reds they lost way too many of the 50/50 balls in the contact area. The work at the ruck must be precise, but most importantly dynamic. No missed tackles please and discipline at its best.

Most of the Lions team selected have credit in the bank. A good performance from the front row sees them start on July 19th. The second row is pretty much nailed on with another dynamic contribution. The back row is a lottery. Ollie Chessum has much to gain, as he unlike the other contenders is a lineout option. Tom Curry has been consistent but not standout. Jack Conan will secure the #8 jersey with a good performance. There are those on the bench chomping at the bit to replace them, and with Ben Earl and Jac Morgan watching from afar, those starting have much to prove. When it comes to the back line those who take to the field today will have to be way off their ‘A’ game not to feature in the first test, in my opinion.

It should be a cracker.

Whilst all eyes will be on the game the circus continues in the background. Yes, the Owen Farrell show has arrived in town. The papers are saying he has ‘hit the ground running’ and despite the injury layoff looks sharp. Plenty, including the Daily Fail’s Chris Hoy, are suggesting he will be in the test match day squad. If I were one of the Smith’s I’d be put out by that, as it is likely they will be the biggest losers.

Whatever happens they won’t be facing Noah Lolesio. The Wallaby starting #10 was stretchered off on Saturday in their narrow victory over Fiji. The neck injury was found to be worse than expected resulting in surgery. The live-wire playmaker is out for a while sadly.

In other rugby, England Under 20 play Australia today. A game they should, and need to win if they are to progress to the semis. Wales play Spain, a game they should win, which should leave them in a position to secure 5th spot. RugbyPassTV for that, which can be found via your Freeview set up. That’s how I found it.

In other news, Henry Slade is out of the second test against Los Pumas. Not great news, but this tour was always about blooding youngsters so a door has opened for another of them.

Scotland are looking ahead to Fiji. That should be a cracker.

Wales are sweating, literally and metaphorically, on the fitness of the talismanic figure of Taulupe Faletau. Getting on in years, but a bag full of caps to his name, he was one of the few to come out of Wales shambolic defeat to Japan with any credit. Wales have to win.

Two big games in the Women’s Euros tonight. England play Netherlands, a must win game. Lose and the holders are on their way home. Wales play a very good French side. Wales won’t win but another solid performance from the Welsh girls will be good for the game in Wales. Bad news for rugby, what with the men doing well too.

Today’s political comment is in support of the Le Petit General Msr Macron. Normally a dolt, but he hit the nail firmly on the head when he said the illegal immigration crisis is very much the UK’s fault. We are too welcoming to the illegals who arrive on our shores: hotel accommodation, free meals, they even get benefits. It is also way too easy for them to find work in the black economy. There was a case yesterday where the police carried out a series of raids on delivery drivers and riders. Several were found to be here illegally with no justification to stay. Were they put on the next plane back to whence they came? No! They were told to sit on the naughty step. It is a joke.

Before the hate mail, and the complaints start to arrive. We in the UK should do all in our power to support those who are fleeing persecution and the horrors of war. They need our support. Economic migrants, and worse criminals, now milking the system are not wanted, nor needed. We have enough lazy buggers and criminals of our own already thank you.

Monday 7th July: 08:45

A wet and dreary start to the day, but do you know what, we desperately need the rain. Get through today and the sun reappears and the temperatures rise again. If you believe the forecasts, which I don’t, we are in for a glorious week.

Plenty of rugby lying in wait too. Before looking ahead let me do ‘an Oasis’ and ‘look back in anger’. The more I think about Wales second half performance the more my blood boils. Wales, a country of just over 3m has for way too long punched above its weight on the rugby field. They could have, and should have beaten an average Japan side. They couldn’t, not because of a lack of skill or talent, but because they were tactically inept. The press talk about a lack of a cutting edge. You’ll never have a cutting edge if you kick the ball away at every opportunity. It is the epitome of madness, doing the same thing over and over again, and expecting a different result.

England by contrast have one huge benefit over Wales, strength in depth, and a coach who is finally developing into a canny operator who can see a way of utilising his assets in the most productive way. The Torygraph sum it up with their headline: ‘How England pulled off a coaching masterclass to upset Argentina’. The article goes on to say it was a game tailored specifically for Los Pumas. England were very good on the night. However, a word of caution, Argentina will recall some of their big guns missing last weekend. How will Steve Bortwick’s charges adapt.

There is a general consensus that The Lions were lacklustre, unconvincing, sloppy and may other descriptors for a way below par performance. As mentioned yesterday many failed the audition and slip down the pecking order. That was then, so lets look ahead to Wednesday…..

Canberra and the Brumbies lie in wait. Canberra, the capital of Australia in the state of Australian Capital Territory. In some respects a city akin to Milton Keynes, new and ordered. The centre piece is The Parliamentary Triangle with Parliament House at one end, Lake Burley Griffin in Middle and the amazing War Memorial at the opposite end. They call it a triangle but it is more like a tree with the Parliament the fairy on the top and the Memorial the substantial base. It is a must visit location. The downtown part of Canberra, in our opinion, was a bit dreary. The GIO stadium is a little way from downtown and is a big open bowl of a ground with not too much cover on a wet and sometimes cold winter evening. The night we were there the temperature dropped below freezing, and the Lions lost.

The Brumbies will offer up a serious challenge, and it looks as if Farrell has picked a very strong, test like side. Kinghorn, Freeman, Ringrose, Aki, Lowe, Russell, Gibson-Park, Genge, Sheehan, Furlong, Itoje, McCarthy, Chessum, Curry, Conan. With the exception of Curry, where I would start with Morgan, that is exactly the test side I would go with on current form.

The bench is reasonably predictable too with Kelleher, Porter, Stuart, van der Flier, Pollock, Mitchell, M Smith, Hansen

Yes, I am biased, but after several solid contributions I’m surprised Jac Morgan is nowhere to be seen. After all the fuss, I’m also surprised Owen Farrell is not in the match day squad. By the way there is still plenty of negative comment about his inclusion.

There might not be a blog tomorrow. Early morning personal stuff to get on with.

Before I go, I thank my good friend Damper for his update. He tells me The Crows Golf Society beat Crowborough Beacon GC on Saturday. He also tells me the Summer Party was a great success. Moving away from the formality of a summer ball was proven to be an inspired idea. A succulent hog roast thanks to Ed Burridge, delicious accompaniments thanks to the amazing Jacqui, and fabulous local ice cream courtesy of the Russell family. The Inner Soul Collective kept the bodies moving and Louise and Ryan kept the punters hydrated. It was a shame we couldn’t make it. Grandparenting duties a priority.

Talking of which, my grandson Austin’s 13th birthday yesterday. Where has that time gone????

Sunday 6th July: 08:35

Right, let’s get Japan v Wales out of the way first. Yes, the heat and the humidity played a part meaning Eddie Jones insistence on kicking off at 2pm local time was justified. However, Wales literally kicked that game away. In control at half time then imploding in the second half. Japan stepped up the intensity but Wales tactic of kicking away possession at every opportunity was farcical. Kick, after aimless kick was quite frankly an embarrassment. The team had absolutely no idea what to do other than kick the ball, chase after it, and hope for the best. It didn’t work. I know the heat was intense but keep possession. Once Japan got their tails up they played some good rugby and in the end deserved to win. Michael Leach was outstanding in that second half. Wales need to take a hard look at themselves and find a way to rebuild. If they don’t the already dying game in Wales will find itself a part of Welsh history and no more.

So to the Lions and their win over the Waratahs. A waratah by the way is a plant native to Australia, specifically New South Wales. I am guessing those who watched it will be of a like mind: a win is a win. The Lions made hard work of that, in what many are describing as an unconvincing performance. Too many unforced errors, a lack of accuracy, a lack of dominance at the breakdown, and a pretty average showing in the set piece. I got what I wanted with the Tuipulotu - Jones axis in the centre but it didn’t set the pulse racing. I know Huw Jones went over for two tries but is that enough to oust Garry Ringrose? There were a couple of players who did themselves no harm. Ben Earl and Josh van der Flier caught the eye but even their work was fleeting. Alex Mitchell was the stand out performer and will certainly be in the frame for a spot in the test 23. Scott Cummings redeemed himself with a very solid contribution.

Who failed the audition. Sadly Tadgh Beirne was a long way from his best. By his normal standards he had a poor game. The starting front row failed to impress. Hugo Keenan was a long way from his best and has certainly handed the fullback shirt to Blair Kinghorn, who had a very solid game by comparison. The Smiths also failed to make a clear statement of intent about wanting that test starting berth. Finn Smith was busy and did the basics well but there was nothing to suggest Finn Russell shouldn’t start in a couple of weeks time. Marcus Smith came on and danced, and bounced around but again nothing suggested to me he should be in the test team.

The replacement front row came on and shored up the scrum. This is likely to be the starting test front row. Jac Morgan’s cameo at the death reinforced the opinion he has to be right up there to start in the #7 shirt.

Credit to the Waratah’s, missing a number of regular starters, they stuck at it and caused the Lions a number of problems. Their work at the breakdown was very good, and it must be noted they had a try chalked off.

So what’s next. The Brumbies on Wednesday for a start. The Brumbies were by far the best of the Aussie sides in Super Rugby, and in Canberra are always tough to beat. In 2013 the Brumbies beat the Lions, albeit an understrength side. Andy Farrell might want to show his hand by playing what could be a test XV. I doubt he will as Owen Farrell is sure to start. I am guessing Bundee Aki and Ringrose will start in the centre. We’ll know soon enough.

Before moving on Farrell snr let himself down with his ridiculous comments about the pitch. Excuses and banality should be left to clowns like Eddie Jones.

Before cracking on with the many chores for today a shout out for England. That was a fine win against Argentina last night. Yes it was a much changed Puma outfit but England played very well, especially in that second half. England clearly have strength in depth and should be a force to be reckoned with come World Cup time.

Well done Scotland and Ireland. Two fine wins, the Scottish result in particular. I enjoyed the New Zealand v France game. France, like England have strength in depth. South Africa’s triumph over an depleted Italy was expected. What wasn’t expected was the narrowness of Australia’s win over Fiji this morning.

More analysis, or nonsense, tomorrow.

Thursday 3rd July: 11:40

Thursday’s afternoon supplement.

I’m sure you can find the team selection and Lions news for yourselves but I’d like to share my view.

Firstly, after not playing international rugby for nearly two years, and not playing any rugby for nine weeks after suffering concussion, Owen Farrell does get called into the Lions squad. Sorry, but that is nepotism of the worst kind and has taken the gloss off the tour for me. There were better replacements close by. You have to feel for Elliot Daly, playing so well and then suffering a fractured arm.

Saturday’s team will be led by Tadgh Beirne, a team of 14 changes to the one that beat the Reds. In comes Keenan at fullback, no surprise there, with Blair Kinghorn on the wing. Hoorah, Tuipulotu and Jones are paired in the centre. Surprisingly Finn Smith is partnered by Alex Mitchell and not Ben White. A club and country pairing always makes sense however.

Schoeman, Cowan-Dickie and Bealham are back for their latest audition. James Ryan partners Beirne. The back row of Pollock, Van der Flier and Earl have something to prove after Morgan and Conan made very clear statements about their form. It is a strong bench that includes Jac Morgan, surprisingly, and Ben White.

It seems that Farrell snr is no closer to finalising his test team than he was at the outset of the tour. Lets see who shines on Saturday. Just two games left before the first test after that.

Before wrapping up any sports fan will be devastated by the news that Liverpool’s Diogo Jota has died in a car crash at the tender age of 28. He leaves behind a wife, who he married just last month, and three children. A terrible loss of life.

Thursday 3rd July: 08:55

Well, that was another step up. The Queensland Reds offered stiff resistance for 20 odd minutes during which time the Lions were not at their best. Across the park still too many unforced errors during that opening period. Once they got through that it looked a lot better, a cohesion began to appear. As expected Jamison Gibson-Park and Finn Russell played with aplomb. Gibson-Park in particular looked sharp. Andy Farrell will have to decide on his best midfield pairing however. In commentary the obvious solution was either Bundee Aki with Garry Ringrose, or Sione Tuipulotu with Huw Jones. As I type immediately post game the big concern is what to do at fullback, especially as Hugo Keenan failed to appear, Elliot Daly looked pretty banged up, and Blair Kinghorn has only just arrived. If there was a loser today in the Lions squad it was Duhan van der Merwe. Again he looked indecisive in defensive. Going forward he made yards and scored a nice try, but in my mind he hasn’t done enough to nail down a test spot.

Plenty to debate in the forwards. Who do you pick in the back row? Jac Morgan was without doubt man of the match and has put a marker in the ground. His work rate was immense and his contribution superb. That said Jack Conan was equally impressive. Maro Itoje led by example and was significantly better than his nondescript contribution against Argentina. The set piece was ok and some of the support work amongst the big boys was exactly what the game needs. Yards won beyond the game line. That said Kelleher and Stuart were not at their best in the loose and the scrum didn’t go as well as it did against Argentina.

There is a nagging doubt about the strength of the opposition but eight tries, and only two conceded is a step in the right direction. Farrell will want to see another step forward against the Waratahs. A dominant scrum, fewer unforced errors, once beyond the gain line exploit the opportunity better, and ensure discipline is at its best.

It will be interesting to see who gets the nod for Saturday’s game. I anticipate Russell and Gibson- Park will be wrapped in cotton wool, conversely it is essential Keenan and Kinghorn get game time. Ben White is likely to start with either Finn Smith, who did better than fine when he came on against the Reds, or Marcus Smith. I’d like to see Tuipulotu and Jones play together with the two Irish wingers outside them. We’ll know soon enough.

The game kicks off at 11:00

If you are glutton for rugby and have the stamina, the Maori v Scotland, New Zealand v France, South Africa v Italy and Argentina v England are all live on SKY, and that is alongside the Lions game. You could also squeeze in Japan v Wales if you are so inclined. Me, the Wales game is on the agenda plus the Lions game. The SKY box is set for the others. I might succumb to Argentina v England live and invite my mate Mal Bec to join me, after all he is Argentinian.

There is a veritable cornucopia of sport this weekend. The Under 20s as you know. The British Grand Prix, the England v India test, and of course the women’s Euros featuring both England and Wales.

That was yesterday, this is today. No doubting the big story, and no it isn’t Rachel Reeves tearing up in Parliament. Owen Farrell is set to join the Lions as a replacement for the injured Elliot Daly. Whilst there is no confirmation of Daly’s injury it seems the media are one step ahead and are all claiming Farrell will be back in the red of the Lions very shortly. I for one find this extraordinary. A player who has been out of form, plagued by injury, and currently between clubs gets called up ahead of players like Freddie Steward of England, Tom Jordan of Scotland or even young Blair Murray of Wales, the latter two both being within striking distance of Australia already.

My fingers are poised ready to give you my view of the team to face the Waratahs. It is yet to be announced. I’ll do a supplementary blog this afternoon when it should be available.

The Lions are now in Sydney, the biggest city in Australia and a wonderful city too. The iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House being recognisable around the world. The bars and restaurants around Circular Quay and up into The Rocks will be buzzing as the game approaches. Our highlight without doubt was doing the Harbour Bridge walk. Standing at the very pinnacle of the bridge and looking out across the harbour was magnificent. Plenty will take the equally iconic Manly ferry to enjoy the beach, and of course the bars of Manly. So much to tell you about Sydney but that will have to keep.

A word for Rachel Reeves. The song ‘tears of a clown’ sprang to mind but then I thought how disgraceful to allow an employee to be subject to such embarrassment. If she has personal issues she should not have been forced to work in such a state in the public domain. It sums up the state of this Government when they take pride in exposing someone to this level of ridicule. What makes matters worse is the smirking, slime ball, Angela Rayner sitting there like an Australia Zoo lizard waiting to devour a rat.

Wednesday 2nd July: 07:35

Not long now before the Lions take to the field at Suncorp Stadium. Get ready, this could be a rollercoaster of a contest.

There is not much more to add to what has already been said so let me look ahead to Friday and Saturday. On Friday the Under 20s continue with England playing South Africa at 17:00. South Africa annihilated their Australia counterparts in Round 1 so this is going to be a real test for the English. Wales face France kicking off at the earlier time of 14:30. Wales will be wanting to bounce back after their late capitulation to Argentina on Sunday. Both games are available via RugbyPassTV which can be found via the Freeview set up on your TV. At least it is on mine.

On Saturday we have a full card of intriguing contests. First up is the Maori All Blacks v Scotland, followed at 06:00 by Japan v Wales. After a long and embarrassing series of defeats Wales are desperate for a win. Further failure will see them in the third tier when it comes to World Cup seedings. There has been a right bit of bother about the kick off time. Mid-afternoon with temperatures at their highest. Wales and the broadcasters asked for it to be moved but Eddie Jones steadfastly refused. Ass!!

New Zealand host France, and this isn’t without controversy. The former Kiwi scrum-half and now well respected TV pundit Justin Marshall as ‘gone off on one’ about how the French have insulted the New Zealand people by bringing a team devoid of most of its stars. To a degree I can see his point but the French domestic season is long and arduous. Players need a break.

South Africa host Italy before Ireland A go head to head with Georgia. This is an interesting contest as this is an Irish second string as most of their first choice players are in Australia. Why is the game important? A) to see the quality of Ireland’s strength in depth, B) because a win for Georgia will only increase the clamour for inclusion at the top table of European international rugby and C) very parochially, a Georgia win will almost certainly condemn Wales to that third tier for the World Cup draw.

Bringing up the rear at 20:40, and live on SKY is Argentina v England. England, minus their significant Lions contingent, will be up against it on Saturday. Yes, they can still field a strong and experienced side led by the 100 cap George Ford, but Argentina at home buoyed by their win over the Lions will be a very high hurdle to get over indeed. The memory of the Falkland conflict is still raw in the minds of many Argentinians, and with their relatively new, but definitely flamboyant President stirring things up there is that added bit of spice to consider.

Six games, six predictions. A Maori win, Wales to win, an All Black victory, South Africa by a lot, Ireland just, Argentina take the spoils.

The European Cup draws have been made. None of the groups look easy. Bath are in with Toulon, Munster, Castres, Edinburgh and Gloucester. I only pick out Bath because my mate Damper reads this guff. In the Challenge Cup Dragons find themselves up against Newcastle , Benetton, Lions, Lyon and USAP. That’s the Dragons screwed then! It all kicks off 5th to 7th December with the final in Bilbao on May 23rd.

Going back to today’s Lions game the Aussie media and certain pundits have come in for some stick. They have been at their ‘sledging’ best with plenty of comments about the Lions overseas contingent. As has now been pointed out Australian rugby is littered with Fijians, Tongans and Samoans proving hypocrisy is alive and well down under.

The RFU AGM happened on the weekend. Best to read the outcome for yourself, but in essence all the proposals put forward by the rebel group were voted down leaving the Whole Game Union plotters out on a limb. There is a need for change but putting responsibility for the game even more in the hands of a diverse body with a wide range of self-interests is not the way forward.

The Benefits Bill debacle headlines in many papers. You know it is a complete and utter shambles when The Guardian takes aim at Keir Starmer and his Government. Sadly the Government’s incompetence and lack of fortitude to make change happen is keeping the horrors in Ukraine and Gaza off the front pages. Needless to say Netanyahu and Putin are never slow in exploiting a reduction in coverage of their appalling acts of war.

Tuesday 1st July: 08:10

Just over 24 hours before the Lions take to the field again. Queensland Reds lie in wait. Les Kiss, that wily old fox who used to be DoR at Ulster, then Head Coach at London Irish has picked a strong side, including several from the Wallaby squad. Yes, a number of first choice players such as Fraser McReight and Tate McDermott are still in Wallaby camp but nevertheless this will still be a stiff test for Andy Farrell’s charges.

Suncorp Stadium is a fantastic 52,500 seat arena close to Brisbane city centre. The roads around the ground will be packed with fans from both sides, and the bars close by packed to the rafters. Having been lucky enough to have been there, twice in fact, I know what the Lions fans can expect. They’re in for a treat.

Those from farther afield will be emptying off the trains and trams as they trundle into Roma Street Station for the short walk to the ground. The locals love their sport and are passionate about the Reds. Banter aplenty me thinks.

Oh, sorry to jump around, just remembered to clarify yesterday’s comment about the zoo. It is the world famous Australia Zoo founded by the late Steve Irwin and now run by his family. Certainly in 2013 it was an amazing day out.

Right, back to tomorrow. We will get our first chance to run the rule over the likely test combination of Jamison Gibson-Park and Finn Russell at #9 and #10. They both can be impetuous, unpredictable and that is what the game needs and wants. However, as the key lynch pins of the side they need to work in tandem. I expect them to go well together.

What about the skipper Maro itoje. Largely anonymous against Argentina, he has plenty to prove. Big Joe McCarthy stepped up to the plate on Saturday and Tadgh Beirne was no slouch in both games thus far.

Farrell has an abundance of riches at his disposal so tomorrow is another opportunity for players to stake a claim for a test spot. Huw Jones in the centre is one to watch. I think him alongside Tuipulotu in the test side would be a great combination.

It is way too early to be thinking about test selection, but right now who is in the frame to start. Front row we have Ellis Genge and Dan Sheehan. Second row on last week alone Joe McCarthy. Back row: Henry Pollock. Half-backs, it has to be the two trotting out tomorrow. Full-back is Eliot Daly. Everything else is up for grabs. In essence, selection is wide open.

Moving on, my good friend Colin has been in touch, and having been a very good back row forward in the day, he asks: was it satisfactory for Ben O’Keefe to arbitrarily eliminate jackling from the game. Colin is arguing that the referee managed the game in a way that jackling was effectively banned. I thought the merry whistle blower had a good game and kept the game flowing. All too often the defender over the ball is not holding up his own body weight, has not latched onto the ball immediately, nor tried to lift it. All too often it is about stopping the opposition playing, rather than turning the ball over. On that basis I have no problem with the referee being very strict on the interpretation. However, Colin makes a good point by asking did he go too far, and can that be justified. I don’t know the answer so feel free to comment. I’ll ask my mum for her opinion on the subject. All I can reiterate is; I thought O’Keefe had a good game and the game seemed to flow in the way the game should.

Before moving on, I know I am an opinionated clown who thinks he knows a lot, when maybe I know very little. As a consequence PLEASE let me have your views. bleater@crowboroughrugby.com

Calling all Welsh fans. My mate Milgi has been in touch and confirms that Japan v Wales IS on TV. 06:00 on Saturday on BBC 1 Wales. Access via your SKY box, or via IPlayer, or via the ‘red button’. The second test will be covered by S4C. All the same sources.

Ok, before moving on to today’s Spanish lesson I must confess I had a bit of rant on Friday at Friday Club. I was agitated by the ordering of fighter jets while here at home the care system is in a mess. By the way that fighter jet announcement was smoke and mirrors. They’ve been on order for some time. I also got agitated about the benefits u-turn. On reflection I should have made my feelings on the subject clearer. In society there are many who are genuinely disadvantaged. We should ensure they get the best support they can. There is a risk with the cuts proposed to disability benefits that those most in need would be adversely affected. That is NOT right. However, I stand by my assertion that the welfare system is in desperate need of change. There are way too many who are milking the system, the exponential growth in claims for mental health disability is a perfect example. The millions who will again receive a winter fuel allowance only for them to put it towards holidays, or in my case the winter drinks bill. It is too easy for people to opt out of work when they are fit and able to work. None of that can be right. Equally those in the employ of the state hang on to their gold plated pensions as we mere mortals are being squeezed from every angle. That also is not right.

Monday 30th Jun: 08:25

And then there was one. Yes, the devastating news that Tomos Williams hamstring injury is worse than first thought means he is on his way home leaving just Jac Morgan as Wales only representative on the tour. That view is somewhat jingoistic as the bigger story is after Williams positive showing against Argentina, and then against the Force, he was in the running for a test spot. Sadly it’s not to be.

One man’s disappointment, is another man’s joy. Scotland’s Ben White, who was unlucky not to be selected originally, is leaving Scotland’s base in Whangarei in New Zealand to join the Lions party in Brisbane. By the way Whangarei is at the heart of Maori culture and a stunning North Island location.

The Lions left Perth on yesterday arriving four hours later in Brisbane. Now on the east coast clocks will have been reset losing two hours from Perth time. After a night’s sleep Andy Farrell wasted no time by updating the media about Williams, and announcing the team to face The Reds on Wednesday at Suncorp Stadium. It is all change with only Finn Russell keeping his starting berth. Maro Itoje returns as captain with Hugo Keenan and Jamison Gibson-Park starting. Huw Jones and Bundee Aki are paired in the centre with Tommy Freeman and Duhan van der Merwe completing the back line. Some wouldn’t be too disappointed if that was the starting line up in the first test. I might be, as Hansen and Lowe did more than enough on Saturday to be in the frame

The forwards by comparison will have to put in stellar performances if they are to be trotting out against Australia in a couple of weeks time. Porter, Kelleher and Stuart feels like a second string front row. In the second row Ollie Chessum has a chance to stake a claim. The back row of Curry, Morgan and Conan will also need a strong showing to displace those who played so well against the Force.

Following Williams’ departure Alex Mitchell has to be included on the bench. Garry Ringrose is the only other player from Saturday to be included.

The Reds will be a step up again in terms of opposition. They finished a creditable 5th in Super Rugby, and are a real handful at home at Suncorp. As with all the games it kicks off at 11:00 which is 20:00 local time.

What can the fans expect. The city is the capital of Queensland and straddles the Brisbane River. It is a modern city with pockets of fascinating history. Those staying in the city will have a wide choice of bars and restaurants to choose from, and likely to find it cheaper than Perth. Some will have opted to stay on the Gold Coast, a cross between Las Vegas and Miami, a magnet for those who like to party. Just over an hour from central Brisbane this is an ideal alternative, or so I have been told. I can be more certain that the Sunshine Coast, just under 2 hours from central Brisbane, is another great location. In 2013 this is where we stayed for the Reds game. Much more subdued with mile after mile of sandy beaches and azure blue seas. Zoos might not be high on the average Lions fan’s list of tourist attractions but I can assure you it is an amazing destination, and well worth the trip. About 30 minutes out of the city and you are there.

The World Under 20s got underway yesterday with a comfortable win for England against Scotland. The game was marred by an unacceptable act of thuggery by England’s George Timmins. No 20 minute red, this was the full red card. Wales lost to Argentina in what was a cracking game. Wales thought they had won but a late try was ruled out for a ‘croc roll’. Argentina snatched victory at the death. RugbyPassTV for coverage. Other winners were South Africa, France, New Zealand and Ireland. The next round of games is on Friday. World Rugby website for all the details.

The Bard has been in touch from France. He tells me he watched the Toulouse v Bordeaux Begles game and I didn’t do it justice. He states it was a ‘bloody great game’ and ‘a shame one side had to lose’. As I mentioned I was trying to get in touch with my feminine side by multi-tasking. I was also watching on a very small screen. I stand corrected.

Plenty across the media about Glastonbury. There is a fine line between free speech, which we should all strive to uphold, and incitement to hate. I think those screaming hatred towards Israel crossed a line. That said I continue to believe the actions of Israel in Gaza are an absolute disgrace.

Sunday 29th Jun: 08:35

Well, that was better. A comfortable win in the end with some excellent performances across the park. That said, the opposition wasn’t a team ranked 5th in the world, it was a mid-table at best Super Rugby outfit missing a number of their best players.

Let me get a few negatives out of the way first. The penalty count was unacceptable. On a different day poor discipline could prove to be costly. The scrum was ok but not great. There were still a number of unforced errors, to be fair, in part due to new combinations bedding in.

Way more positives to consider however. A number of players stood out. Let me focus on five of them.

Tomos Williams looked like a proper, top flight international scrum half. Not just because he scored two tries, his all round game was excellent. Everything he did, he did well. Him going off with a serious looking hamstring injury is a huge concern.

Finn Russell had a very good game. Not the flashy, maverick Russell. This was the consummate professional at #10 playing with confidence and maturity. As stated pre-match I can see Williams (if fit) and Russell being the test combination.

Elliot Daly at full-back. I had concerns with this selection. Boy, didn’t he prove me, and others wrong. A rock solid performance in defence and attack. Safe under the high ball, and always making the right decision.

Joe McCarthy was outstanding. Everything he did, whether it was the grunt in the scrum or lineout, or the flashy stuff in the loose was excellent. His work rate was mighty impressive and getting on the scoreboard with a try wide out was just reward for a man of the match performance. Not sure about his choice of hairstyle however!!

Then we have young Mr Henry Pollock. He pushed McCarthy hard for the MotM accolade. He was impressive from start to finish. Not just his line-break that set up Williams’ first try, or the break with the chip and chase, but his all round contribution. It was interesting how the Australia media latched on to him straight away post match. He is definitely the poster boy of the squad. But, and it is a big ‘but’, he conceded several penalties and spent ten minutes in the bin, when, if he had listened, the infringement was avoidable. The pathetic push after the Daly try was unwarranted, as were the histrionics when he thought he had been tripped, and the deliberate holding down of a player post tackle was lucky not to be punished. He is, if he keeps his feet on the ground, and head out of the clouds, a superstar in the making.

A couple of moments that will stick in the memory. I have already mentioned Pollock’s breaks. The Russell tap penalty was a thing of beauty. Williams second try was a beauty following superb support play. A special mention for the Force #11 Mr Peach. He had a splendid game with some mazy runs, and dynamic tackling.

There were plenty of other positives to consider, but again they are against a back drop of a weakened opposition.

Mr Ben O’Keefe needs some praise too. I for one thought he was excellent. He kept the game going, was empathetic at the breakdown, and his communication top notch. Well done sir.

The squad will be well on their way to Brisbane now. More analysis tomorrow and a little bit about what the fans can expect in and around Brisbane.

I watched a significant part of Toulouse v Bordeaux Begles last night FREE, courtesy of TV Monde 5. It was ok. A plethora of French stars on show. Blair Kinghorn was on the wing for Toulouse but pretty anonymous in my view. With France heading to New Zealand today Msr Galthie will be troubled seeing Ntamack go off on 38 minutes, and Bielle-Biarrey leave the field on 41 minutes, later to be seen on crutches.

Multi-tasking I had an eye on England U21 beating their German counterparts in the European Championships. Some of the football was excellent.

The Austrian Scaletrix today. It should be less boring than most. In truth, I like the F1.

Thursday 26th Jun: 09:15

The team has been announced and there are a couple of surprises. The headline is of course Henry Pollock starting at No.8. He is a flanker by trade and the fact he has been selected ahead of Jack Conan, who is on the bench, would need some investigation. It is a bold decision that is for sure. Tadhg Beirne at #6 is another interesting call, especially when there are plenty of multi-talented back row players in the squad.

Finn Russell starts, as expected, and is partnered by Tomos Williams. A slightly biased view but I can see this as the test pairing. What is interesting is Alex Mitchell is on the bench meaning Jamieson Gibson-Park is still not ready to return to the fray.

Huw Jones is on the bench with Garry Ringrose starting alongside Sione Tuipulotu. As Jones is recovering from injury surely it makes more sense for him to start than to come on and then find he is not as ready as originally thought.

No Hugo Keenan in the match day squad indicating he too is still receiving treatment. Eliot Daly fills in at full back, with Marcus Smith on the bench. Oh how Andy Farrell needs Blair Kinghorn to arrive. It does beg the question whether picking non UK based players makes any sense. Kinghorn is a brilliant player but he won’t arrive until the middle of next week at the earliest. The answer is ‘yes’, of course he had to be selected.

Unsurprisingly Dan Sheehan captains the side.

The Force have named their side and it includes a number of seasoned pros. The wind-up merchant extraordinaire Nic White starts, as does Ollie Hoskins formerly of Sarries. The player to watch out for is Nick Champion de Crespigny. He is the recent call up to the Wallaby squad after an impressive Super Rugby season. By the way, with names now on the back of the shirts he must have broad shoulders.

The full match squads are available across the media.

A reminder that the game kicks off at 11:00 and is exclusive to SKY. S4C do have extended highlights later in the day.

Yesterday I mentioned Freemantle jail. It was a great tour which included the solitary confinement wing where inmates were allowed to paint the walls. When I say paint, these were quite attractive murals depicting a wide range of themes. The other highlight was the hanging room. Here during the period the jail was in operation 44 executions took place. Seeing how the mechanism worked was fascinating.

If you ever get to Oz, have Perth on your itinerary, and definitely get into Freemantle.

In other news Wales have arrived in Japan where two tests lie in wait. According to WalesOnline the training has been brutal, especially as they try and replicate the hot and humid conditions the team will encounter. Based on Wales limited resources and long injury list it is a pretty inexperienced squad. Two wins will go a little way to restoring confidence. It is a real shame there is no TV coverage…… as of yet.

Before I go, it seems Sir U-Turn is about to show us another of his washing machine style spins. Yes, a U-turn on benefit cuts is about to become a reality. The welfare system is out of control. Pensions continue to raise. Unemployment and disability payments are allegedly out of control, way too easy to jump on the benefit gravy train. Then you have the gold plated civil service pension schemes. Something has to give, which is why I was supportive of the cuts being proposed, and the tightening of the eligibility criteria. Being a cynical old goat, the MPs who are rebelling don’t have their constituents at heart, they are looking at the polls and thinking about their jobs, if you call being an MP a job!!

If, as stated by Ms The Hood Reeves, the country has no money, how on earth can we afford to be spending billions on defence contracts, probably at inflated prices??? If this sort of money is available why isn’t going into the massively underfunded, and creaking at the seams, care system?

Back on Sunday, hopefully with a reduced blood pressure. The motorways await right now!

Wednesday 25th Jun: 07:55

Well, here I am in Bridgnorth again. A long day yesterday and an equally long day ahead today. So much to cram into these flying visits. This drivel however remains a priority if for no other reason it kick starts my brain into gear most mornings.

The Lions have arrived in Perth, a wonderful city, sometimes considered to be the most remote in the world based on the fact it is on the western edge of Australia. A city of around 2.3m. Flowing through the city is the Swan River alongside which you’ll find Langley Park. In 2013 the Lions actually trained in the park rather than at the Subiaco Oval where the game was due to be played. Their base this time around is Hale School which is a drive away from the CBD. The fans will have plenty to keep them entertained. The Brass Monkey and the Lucky Shag are two must go to bars. Cottesloe Beach is a short bus or train ride from the centre and is absolutely gorgeous. Freemantle with its iconic balconied streets, its famous market, and the old jail is well worth a trip. We did the jail tour in 2013 and it was fantastic. The game is being played at the state of the art Optus Satdium which is located on a promontory jutting out into the Swan river. Nearby is the racecourse and across the river is the famous WACA cricket ground.

I’m hoping the team will be announced overnight so I can include comment tomorrow before hitting the motorway network. I anticipate a very much changed side with most of Friday’s non-starters getting a game.

Plenty in the papers about the war of words surrounding team selection. On many occasions the pre-test games have seen under strength opposition wheeled out to face the Lions. As part of the tours contract there is a clause stating the sides fielded should be the strongest possible. Joe Schmidt is saying this is not the case. Some players have been released back to Western Force, but not all. Schmidt argues, quite rightly, that Andy Farrell is not going to play his strongest side in every game so why should he put is best players in ‘harms way’ ahead of the test series. Going back to 2013 the then coach of the Force, Michael Foley, put out a very much weakened team, much to the chagrin of many, including me.

Finn Russell has defended the inclusion of the plethora of non-British players in the squad. I have a degree of sympathy with the argument that it detracts from the history of the Lions, especially where only the pathetic residency rule is in play. However, they have earned the right to be there by being the best players, maybe not in van der Merwe’s case, in their respective positions. Yep, mo