Gareth
I cant sing those words because I can't bloody understand them, let alone read it. I may whistle "land of my father" though.
Anyway on with the task in hand and that's trying to supply winning plays.
Wales play Italy at Canberra Stadium where the two sides meet for what is in effect a likely place in the last eight of the Rugby World Cup.
I remember growing up and watching the five nations as it was back then in the 70's and marvelled at the jinking runs of Phil Bennett, the reverse pass around his back from Gareth Edwards, the calm JPR Williams with his socks rolled down around his ankles and the other Williams (JJ) flying down the wing. Sorry for those I have failed to mention, although one name escapes me who I would have liked to mention, I think he played in the centre or on the wing. Anyway, that then was one proud rugby nation which produced so many great players before and after those that I mentioned. How things have changed, as Wales have struggled in world rugby for a decade now. Back in those wonder days of the 70s the Welsh performed with passion from the heart and spirit from the sole, just as the Welsh coal mining communities did for each other.
Right now though Welsh rugby has never been so woeful and defeat against Italy will put Welsh rugby back further. This is Wales's chance to encourage todays youth to return to what is their national sport. Make no mistake, the Welsh people love their rugby but over these past ten years the Welsh players have lacked that same passion.
Just when it's not needed Wales have several players who have only a handful of games between them. This may have been forced upon them or it may be coach Steve Hansen's decision, but these lads should need time, but right now that is something Wales don't have.
Wales were asked to constantly battle to control possession and they lacked composure on many occassion against Tonga and that spells danger. Italy's pack are dominant and this is where the game will be won. I see them winning plenty of ball and releasing a good back row. If that doesn't work effectively they have plenty of talent to steal the ball on the ground, get plenty of turnovers and work well in the tackle. One bright spot for Wales is that Iestyn Harris has finally come of age. Some are saying he is a world class number 12, I am not convinced. His kicking game has improved tremendously, both from hand and tee, but question marks still surround his ability to run and break the game line with regularity, bringing the three quarters and wingers into play. Can Wales forwards perform well, win enough ball for their backs and win this game. The answers unfortunatly yes and no. If Wales turn up and perform like they did against England in Cardiff earlier this year, then there is no doubt they will win and win comfortably. However, if it's the same Welsh side that has churned out one poor performance after another, then Italy will win.
I feel that this handicap line is high, and is based more on years past than present. Italy beat Wales convincingly in the Six Nations this year and Wales ended that campaign finishing bottom and collecting the wooden spoon.
I am not saying Wales won't win, I hope they do win, but Italy in receipt of 12 points is to large.
2 points ITALY +12 @ 5/6 (Victor Chandler)
