News

The Prenter Report #19

2008-07-23T03:05:00Z

New Zealand could well heed the advice of crack coach Tim Sheens when it comes to assessing the brilliant Benji Marshall before any decision is made on World Cup selection.

Sheens has heard the rumour mill churning out suggestions that the Kiwis may well overlook Marshall, a match winner for the West Tigers in the NRL last round, when they name their team for the upcoming World Cup.

“I am hearing whispers that Benji may struggle to make the Kiwis line-up and that may, at this stage, be in his interests,” said Sheens, Marshall’s club coach.

“Benji needs to convince his home country that he can provide the goods week in, week out.

“He was great in attack last week but he did miss a couple of tackles and failed to make another.

“If he can maintain consistency then I would recommend to the Kiwis that they choose him at No.6

“Five-eighth is where he will give them most value, even though I am considering using him long term at No.7

“If I was selecting the Kiwis side Benji would be five-eighth.

“He does need to put good games together and he is capable of doing just that.

“However, news that he is no certainty in the Kiwis line-up maybe not a bad thing.”

Marshall is, without fear of contradiction, one of the most skilful players in the game.

He has so much natural ability that he can produce match winning efforts from halfback, five-eighth, centre and fullback. He is a true master of innovation and creativity.

“Benji has played in all those positions for me” said Sheens.

“But I do think five-eighth is where he will shine in the World Cup.

New Zealand plays their opening game in the 2008 World Cup against Australia at the Sydney Football Stadium on Sunday, 26 October.

The game will be the highlight of the official opening ceremony.

Thousands of Kiwi residents in the eastern suburbs of Sydney are expected to help produce a full house.

Adult ticket prices for the opening ceremony and the Australia-New Zealand clash range from $33 to $75.

By Geoff Prenter

Ireland and Scotland to Announce Squads

2008-07-21T02:02:00Z

Ireland and Scotland are putting the finishing touches to the 40-man squads they are required to name on August 1 in the lead-up to the 2008 Rugby League World Cup in Australia.

Both nations, who made it through the qualifying rounds, have been combing Australia’s National Rugby League and both Britain’s Super League and Co-operative National Leagues in a bid to find stars who are qualified to represent them in the tournament, starting October 25.

And both are playing their cards very close to their chests.

Irish team manager Mike Callaghan said: “We’ve had some definite responses from some players in the NRL and that’s something special for us.

“We’ve also built up a list of players from the British Leagues. When we name the 40 it will be constructed of players who are committed to the Irish cause. We don’t want any slip-ups so we’re being very thorough.

“We’re already working with a number of players from Ireland and they’ll be given their chance. That’ll not only give them some experience of being involved in international rugby league but also prove that home-grown players have a role to play in our World Cup journey.”

Quite a number of the players being sought by both Ireland and Scotland are still going through the process of proving their qualifications.

“Our head coach Andy Kelly has just been away on holiday and now that he has returned the preparation will step up a gear,” Callaghan said.

Likewise Scotland are going through the rigorous process of asking their players to make sure that they are properly qualified.

Head coach Steve McCormack said: “We’ve virtually finished the process of making up our squad of 40.

“Once that process is completed then we can start the hard work of working up the squad and seeing which players are staking a claim for a place in the reduced squad that goes to Australia in October.”

McCormack and Wakefield Trinity Wildcats ace Danny Brough have been up to Scotland to start the awareness campaign. Don’t forget Rugby League is still an emerging sport in the land of the tartan.

“Danny and I went to Glasgow for the media launch of Scotland’s World Cup playing strip,” he said. “And we were very impressed with the reaction we received from the Scots media.

“League is very much in its infancy in Scotland and yet there was plenty of media attention which is great news not just for this World Cup campaign but also for the long-term future of the game in the country.

“There was a great awareness of what we’ve achieved by reaching the World Cup Finals and it’s up to us to exploit that position.”

McCormack, who is the head coach at Co-operative National League One Club Widnes Vikings, and Brough, will be taking the high road back to Scotland next week for yet another media event.

“That kind of journey goes with the territory,” said McCormack. “But it’s exciting to be in at yet another exciting step forward for Scots Rugby League.”

From John Huxley
RLWC08 correspondent in the UK

Where's Wally?

2008-07-20T05:04:00Z

Move over the Eiffel Tower, the Pyramids and the Sydney Opera House – a bronze statue in
Queensland will become an international tourism icon in the lead up to the Rugby League
World Cup.

As part of the State Government’s $675,000 tourism marketing for the 2008 Rugby League
World Cup, league legend Wally Lewis will join Tourism Queensland to promote Rugby League
World Cup holidays from the Cape to Coolangatta.

Tourism Minister Desley Boyle said the ‘Where else would you find Wally?’ campaign would
encourage over 200,000 people going to games in Brisbane, Gold Coast, Townsville and
Rockhampton to stay longer and visit other Queensland tourism destinations.

“Almost 25% of tickets sold to the Rugby League World Cup final so far are from interstate and
we expect around 8,000 international guests.

“With sports tourists being traditionally high spenders, splurging around $300-$400 per night on
accommodation, tickets, food and beverages, we can expect the state’s tourism and hospitality
industry to be big winners.

“If their team wins they go out, spend up big to celebrate, but if their team loses, they do the
same to commiserate so they are an ideal tourist.

“Going on previous major sporting events such as the Rugby World Cup, which generated $494
million for Australia, or the Ashes Series, which generated $265 million, the Rugby League
World Cup will be an important economic tourism event in Queensland.”

Ms Boyle said that for the next three months if anyone asks ‘Where’s Wally?’ our answer will be
‘Where else but Queensland’ of course.

“The marketing campaign will be predominantly online and supported by print promotions.
“The campaign will target interstate fans to encourage them to come to Queensland for the Cup
and spend some extra time exploring while they were here.

“In a special “Where’s Wally” type promotion, the league legend will also invite Australian fans
to enter a competition to attend the Brisbane final and meet him for a photo opportunity on the
field of Suncorp Stadium before the game.

“To win, entrants must list where Wally’s top holiday locations are in Brisbane, the Gold Coast,
Townsville or Rockhampton – the regions where Rugby League World Cup matches will be
held.

“It is so great that for the first time a major international sporting event in Australia will hold
matches in regional areas so the benefits won’t just be focused on the capital,” she said.

Wally Lewis said he was honoured to be named a Queensland tourism ambassador for Rugby
League World Cup.

“No one could be a prouder Queenslander than I am and talking about Queensland’s fantastic
holiday experiences is an easy sell,” Mr Lewis said.

“I’m looking forward to the opportunity to be involved with Tourism Queensland, not just in
promoting the sport that I love, but the state that I love as well.”

The digital campaign will be advertised nationally via a number of channels including a
dedicated Tourism Queensland website www.queenslandholidays.com.au/worldcup
The competition will run from today until early October.

Universities World Cup Finals

2008-07-20T04:58:00Z

After two weeks of wild weather, soggy grounds and lopsided score lines, the 2008 Universities Rugby League World Cup culminated in a blaze of entertainment at Langlands Park, Stones Corner on Saturday.

Sunshine bathed Langlands Park for the final day’s festivities, with a large crowd of 1200 on hand to cheer on the eight participating nations. Host nations Australia were crowned 2008 World champions thanks to their nail-biting 26-18 victory over England.

Australian coach and former NSW and Australian test representative Brett Kenny said his side showed great courage to outscore their opponents 26-6 in the second half.

“It was the first time in this tournament we’ve been behind at halftime so it was all new to the players,” he said.

“We (coaching staff) had the belief they were good enough to come back, it was just a matter of whether the players had the belief in themselves.”

“They came out and did the simple things right, came up with a try in the second half and that’s what helped us get on our way.”

It was all one way traffic in the first half with England captain Mark McKinley slotting an early penalty goal to register the first points of the final.

McKinley then added the extras after Tom Lever scored in the 22nd minute, handing England a healthy start to the match.

The home side fought back from a halftime deficit of 10-0 thanks to some inspirational play from halfback and man of the match Drew Dalton.

Dalton kick-started Australia’s second half when he broke the line in the 45th minute, allowing centre Brad Horder to cross for Australia’s first points.

Co-captain Dalton then had a hand in the next try when a short ball of his managed to put wide running forward Sam Conlon over the line, levelling the scores at 10-all.

Australia then hit the lead for the first time in the 60th minute when utility forward Gavin Duncan danced his way through some poor English defence.

Lock Nuku Hifo then registered one of his one when he crossed just three minutes later, and it was all but over when Nathan Mossman handed Australia a 26-10 lead in the 73rd minute.

England managed to get one back in the 78th minute when Kristian Hodson ran the length of the field, but it was too little too late, allowing Australia to run out victors 26-16.

A massive comeback from New Zealand saw them claim the third place play-off match against Wales, with the Kiwis fighting back from a 16-0 deficit midway through the second half to storm home with a 24-18 victory.

The Welsh were unstoppable in the first half, fullback Gareth David and centre Jason Mossop punching holes constantly in the Kiwi defence, before an inspired second half from the 2005 defending champions saw them post four quickfire tries to stun a tiring Welsh outfit.

Ireland and Scotland kicked off the festivities with a last minute heartstopper, the two Great Britain nations deadlocked at 18-all inside the final three minutes before Irish skipper Tyrone McCarthy barged over to seal a 22-18 victory.

A hat-trick of tries to electric Irish winger Tom Gaffney proved the difference between the two sides, with the Scots drawing level twice in the second half only to have their spirit broken by McCarthy’s late four-pointer.

Greece continued their sublime form throughout their inaugural World Cup appearance, claiming the Plate Final courtesy of a narrow 14-12 victory over France in the second match of the day.

The Greeks shot out to a 14-4 lead midway through the second half, before French winger Regis Chave gave the World Cup debutants a massive scare by crossing for two tries late in the piece to keep them in the contest.

World Cup Final

Australia 26 (Brad Horder, Sam Conlon, Gavin Duncan, Nuko Hifo, Nathan Mossman tries; Drew Dalton 3 goals)
Defeated
England 16 (Tom Lever, Kristian Hodson tries; Mark McKinley 4 goals)

3v 4 Playoff – New Zealand v Wales

New Zealand 24 (Royaldo Leoni 2, Laupepa Pasene, Danny Meara, Mahana Toka tries; Scott Hurrell 2 goals)
Defeated
Wales 18 (Jason Mossop 2, Gareth David tries; Gareth David 3 goal)

Plate Final – France v Greece

Greece 14 (Craig Moustakas, Marcus Brandon, Jessy Argeros tries; York Antoniou goal)
Defeated
France 12 (Regis Chave 2, Mohamed Chaabi tries)

7 v 8 Playoff Ireland v Scotland

Ireland 22 (Tom Gaffney 3, Liam Duffy, Tyrone McCarthy tries; Danny Pike goal)
Defeated
Scotland 18 (Richard Knight, Stuart Dunbar, Martin Edwards tries; Sebastian Trotter 3 goals)

All Matches played at Langlands Park, Brisbane.

Universities World Cup Finals Day

2008-07-18T05:05:00Z

After two weeks of wild weather, soggy grounds and lopsided score lines, the 2008 Universities Rugby League World Cup will finish in a blaze of entertainment at Langlands Park, Stones Corner tomorrow from 10am.

Perfect weather is predicted for the tournament’s final day, with Australia and England set to battle it out for the seventh Universities World crown at 3.30pm. All eight nations will be showcased throughout the day, with New Zealand to meet Wales for third spot, Greece to play France in the Final of the Plate and Scotland and Ireland to battle it out for seventh place in the days opening match at 10am.

World Cup Final – Australia v England, 3.30pm

Having only conceded one try all tournament, Australia head into the 2008 Final as raging hot favourites to secure their fourth World Cup crown. The host nation will be contesting their sixth World Cup Final since 1989, with the Australian unit a perfect blend of size, pace and skill, evidenced by their undefeated run throughout this tournament.

Australia’s dominance has been built around their brutal defence, having conceded a miserly ten points in four games, while their scintillating attack has seen them register a whopping 162 points against the four British nations. The Aussies will be also buoyed in the fact that they have already posted a convincing 24-0 Round one shutout of the English in slippery conditions.

Despite being massive underdogs, the English have built momentum from that first round loss, having disposed of Cup heavyweights Greece, Scotland and defending champions New Zealand on their way to their third Cup Final. They showed with their dominant semi-final display against the Kiwis, that they will not take a backwards step against their more favoured opposition, and will be quietly confident of causing a massive boilover this Saturday afternoon.

Given both sides form thus far, it is hard to see where England can score points against the impenetrable Aussie defence, and Australia should easily romp home to yet another World Cup crown.

3 v 4 – New Zealand v Wales, 1.30pm

In what promises to be a brutal, but entertaining match, New Zealand will be out to salvage some pride after their upset semi-final loss to England on Wednesday, but will meet a skilful Welsh side full of resolve and commitment.

Wales have both the talent and size to worry New Zealand, and will start favourites in this match courtesy of their spirited performance against the Australian in the semi-final. The Welsh have shown that they score some breathtaking tries, and have two of the tournaments most potent attacking weapons in winger Rob Worrincly and fullback Gareth David.

The Kiwis will be primed for a big showing having not missed a World Cup final since 1996, and will have a huge supporter base on hand to cheer them to victory. There is no doubting that New Zealand has the talent, but have at times struggled to maintain their intensity throughout matches.

In what will be a tight and torrid affair, whichever team can convert their chances will win this match.

Plate Final – Greece v France, 11.45pm

Tournament surprise packets Greece head into the Plate final as overwhelming favourites, but are sure to be tested by a French team famous for their niggling attitude.

Greece have shown that they can more then match it on the international rugby league stage, having beaten Scotland and Ireland and pushing finalists England all the way before losing at the death in their Pool match. Despite spending limited time together as a squad prior to this tournament, the Greeks have banded together well, displaying tremendous courage and silky skills to make it into the Plate Fianl.

France has had a mixed tournament, combining entertaining victories against Ireland and Scotland with disappointing performances against New Zealand and Wales. On their day, the French can compete with the top teams, but have lack the consistency to go further in this Cup.

7 v 8 Playoff – Ireland v Scotland, 10am

Finals Day kicks off with this exciting fixture, with both the Irish and Scottish lads sure to entertain with their steely resolve and iconic humour. Both nations have struggled to contain their larger rivals, with both sides keen to register their first victory of the tournament.

Ireland will start slight favourites in this match courtesy of tehir superior try-scoring record, with the Irish lads having crossed for four tries to the Scots solitary intercept try.

Scotland will relish the combat against a similarly skilled opponent, as the Scottish lads were grouped against tournament heavyweights Australia, England and Greece.

Both sides have displayed courage and commitment in the face of adversity in this World Cup, and should be applauded for their spirit and pluck against some high quality rivals.

For more information please contact World Cup media managers Steve Petroff (0422 418 241) or Travis Meyn (0418 146 372) or visit the official Universities World Cup Website at http://worldcup.aurl.com.au/

Referees in pink for charity

2008-07-18T03:07:00Z

Referees in the 2008 Rugby League World Cup will officiate every game of the tournament in a pastel pink shirt … because it is for a good cause, it was announced today.

The referees’ shirts will be signed by team captains in all 18 matches played over the 29-day tournament and auctioned to raise money for the National Breast Cancer Foundation. The shirts will carry the NBCF logo on the collar.

With yesterday marking 100 days to the tournament’s first match in Townsville on October 25, World Cup organisers were delighted with the response to the new uniform, which provides the most “neutral” colour to the playing strips of the 10 competing nations.

2008 Rugby League World Cup tournament director and Rugby League International Federation Chairman, Mr Colin Love AM, said the decision on the referees’ gear was a natural fit with the NBCF, which is a major beneficiary of Rugby League’s One Community program.

To further support the charity, NBCF ambassador Sarah Murdoch will do the coin toss at Australia’s first World Cup match against New Zealand at Sydney Football Stadium on October 26 - just one day before the NBCF’s Pink Ribbon Day.

“Aside from the colour issues, we wanted to provide recognition and support to a charity during the period of the tournament and the NBCF was a logical choice, given the long-term support and relationship Rugby League already has with the organisation,” Mr Love said.

“Breast cancer touches the lives of many NRL players, fans and other members of the Rugby League family. In the referees ranks, it is a cause that has real relevance with Steve Clark’s wife Christine having previously been diagnosed with and undergone treatment for breast cancer.”

Over the past five years Rugby League has established an active and high profile partnership with the National Breast Cancer Foundation and contributed over half a million dollars towards finding a cure for breast cancer.

As one of the four One Community Charities, NBCF also receives support from the game in the form of joint public awareness campaigns and exposure through the Sunday Channel 9 One Community Match.

Yesterday in Brisbane, Mr Love and the Queensland Government marked the start of the 100-day countdown with news the Tournament Final at Queensland’s Suncorp Stadium is already guaranteed a sell-out crowd.

“We still have a lot of work ahead to make it the success that we believe it will be but I can tell you that the progress to date has surpassed all expectations,” Mr Love said

The Prenter Report #18

2008-07-18T01:37:00Z

Papua New Guinea’s performance in the World Cup could have a bearing on whether a PNG team plays in future NRL competitions.

A document provided by Gold Coast CEO Michael Searle urges Sydney clubs struggling to stay afloat to consider a joint venture with PNG.

Searle said that there are just under 3,000 Australian companies operating in PNG and that officials have made inquiries as to the possibility of having a team in the NRL.

“A relocation for a Sydney club finding it hard to make ends meet maybe the solution,” said Searle.

Searle is also floating the possibility of a joint venture between PNG and Darwin where both Rugby League and, in more recent times, the AFL have enjoyed strong support.

Searle said that the PNG Government strongly supports a team playing in the NRL.

Papua New Guinea already has the recognition of the World Cup organisers by being included in the top pool alongside “heavyweights” Australia, England and New Zealand.

PNG has always been competitive in the international arena and the incentive of being considered for a future spot in the NRL would be further motivation.

PNG play England in the opening game of the 2008 World Cup at Dairy Farmers Stadium, Townsville, on Saturday 25 October.

100 Days till World Cup Kick-Off

2008-07-17T11:02:00Z

AUSTRALIAN coach Ricky Stuart and Darren Lockyer have joined Jetstar to help the 2008 Rugby League World Cup take to the skies in Brisbane today on the eve of the final countdown to the tournament.

With tomorrow marking 100 days until the start of the tournament that brings together 10 nations in a 29-day celebration of rugby league, Jetstar has shown its commitment with the unveiling of an official World Cup plane, complete with Kangaroos logo and “Go Roos” message.

The Queensland Government will formally mark 100 days to the October 25 kick-off of the event tomorrow, but for Stuart and Lockyer, the sight of a green and gold emblem in the airways is a reminder that time is already running short.

While many Australian Rugby League fans may be already looking ahead to the Final on November 22, Stuart warned the Kangaroos could not afford to take a finals berth for granted.

He also used the opportunity to remind players that while an interim squad will be chosen on August 1, their form will be monitored in the remaining NRL matches.

“There are no certainties. Players can still be added or dropped after we pick the August 1 squad so everyone still needs to be on notice for the rest of the season,” said Stuart.

“The representative fixtures – the Centenary Test and the Origin Series – have shown the great level of depth we have to choose from.”

Meanwhile Lockyer is still hopeful of overcoming a knee injury to lead the Kangaroos in their defence of the World Cup Trophy, which they have held since 1975.

The 2008 Rugby League World Cup features 18 matches at 12 venues across three states and the ACT in 29 days, with England and Papua New Guinea playing in the first game in Townsville on October 25 and the tournament culminating with the Final in Brisbane on November 22.

Australia’s 2008 Cup defence begins on day two of the tournament on October 26 when they play New Zealand at the Sydney Football Stadium, following the official Opening Ceremony.

The Kangaroos next clash, against England, is one of the tournament’s most anticipated matches and will be played at the Telstra Dome in Melbourne on Sunday, November 2, between Victorian Racing’s prestigious Derby Day and the Melbourne Cup.

Australia beat New Zealand 40-12 to win the last World Cup tournament in England/France in 2000 and have won nine of the 12 World Cups contested, with Great Britain winning the other three.

Australia has won the past six successive Cups, with their last “loss” in 1972.

Source: QRL

Universities World Cup Semi Final Results

2008-07-16T23:11:00Z

Brisbane’s wild winter weather again wreaked havoc with the Universities Rugby League World Cup at Griffith University’s Nathan campus tonight, with drizzling rain again thwarting any chance of an entertaining football spectacle.

Australia firmed into World Cup favouritism courtesy of their hard fought 26-10 victory over a committed Welsh outfit, with the home nation now scheduled to meet England in the Universities World Cup Final on Saturday at Langlands Park.

In the match of the tournament thus far, Wales proved that they are a force to be reckoned with on the international stage, holding their own against a talented Aussie squad for the majority of the match.

Australia converted a glut of early possession into points thanks to the sublime of skills of hooker Brenton Stonier, the nippy number nine scooting his way over for two dummy-half barge over tries to hand the home side an 10-0 advantage inside the opening twenty minutes.

But Wales hit back with two penalty goals to gun goal-kicking ace Gareth David to reduce the deficit to six, Australia’s ill-discipline seeing them concede their first points against for the tournament.

Elusive Australian five-eighth Brogan Gibson kicked the home side out to a handy 16-4 half-time advantage when he bamboozled the Welsh defence with a try just before the break, and the game looked top be over just after the break when centre Jonathan Crawley finished off a scintillating backline movement to put Australia in control at 20-4.

But Welsh winger Rob Worrincly kept his team in the fight with a typically exciting try, the giant winger weaving his way through five Aussie defenders to reduce the deficit to ten points inside the final fifteen minutes.

However, Australian fullback Matt Church sealed the home sides spot in Saturday’s final with a brilliant solo effort, chipping over Welsh fullback Gareth David and regathering before outpacing the cover defence to score under the posts.

England will battle it out Australia for World Cup supremacy courtesy of their upset 30-22 victory over defending Cup champions New Zealand in tonight’s earlier match.

The Kiwis shot out to an early 10-0 lead in as many minutes thanks to two quick tries to winger Emmanuel Toka, but the England were able to take a slender 14-10 lead into the break courtesy of some fine goal-kicking from English utility Mark McKinley.

The game was all but over when the English crossed for three quick-fire tries midway through the second half, before New Zealand added some respectability with a couple of late four-pointers.

Greece flexed their muscle ahead of Saturday’s Plate final, turning a 16-6 half-time advantage into a comprehensive 28-10 victory over a dogged Irish outfit.

The Greeks unleashed their imposing backline despite the slippery conditions, with five-eighth David Georgiou enjoying a fine game, scoring a match sealing try and booting four goals.

Ireland tried hard but were continuously thwarted by the committed Greek defence, with the boys from Ireland to face off against Scotland at Langlands Park on Saturday.

In the night’s other match, France looked at ease in the Griffith’s fields greasy conditions, moving through to the Plate final courtesy of a 34-4 shutout of a determined Scotland.

The French were always in control of proceedings, with the goal-kicking prowess of French fullback Cedric Oileu pushing the score out to 16-0, before three late tries put the result beyond doubt.

The plucky Scots will now be chasing their first victory of the tournament when they meet Ireland in the seventh versus eighth play-off match on Saturday at Langlands Park while France will meet Greece in the Plate final.

Plate Semi-Finals - Tuesday

Greece 28 (Jessy Argeros, Craig Moustakis, Marcus Brandon, David Georgiou, Michael Giorgas tries; David Georgiou 4 goals)

Defeated

Ireland 10 (Shaun Quinn, Paul Maloney tries; Danny Pike goals)

France 34 (Florian Bissiere, Bruno Ormeno, Lucas Molina, Bastian Dintilhac, Guilhem Chouvelon tries; Cedric Oileu 7 goals)

Defeated

Scotland 4 (Evan Rose try)

At Griffith University, Nathan Campus

Greece to play France in the Plate Final, 11.45am, Saturday at Langlands Park

Ireland to play Scotland @ 10am, Saturday at Langlands Park

Cup Semi-Finals – Wednesday

England 30 (Tom Lever, Neil Cherryholme, Nick Walker, Chris Clarke, Mike Johnson tries; Mark McKinley 5 goals)

Defeated

New Zealand 22 (Emmanuel Toka 2, Danny Meara, Scott Hurrell tries; Scott Hurrell 3 goals)

Australia 26 (Brenton Stonier 2, Brogan Gibson, Jonathon Crawley, Matt Church tries; Drew Dalton 3 goals)

Defeated

Wales 10 (Rob Worrincly try; Gareth David 3 goals)

At Griffith University, Nathan Campus

New Zealand to play Wales in the Cup 3 v 4 Playoff, 1.30pm, Saturday at Langlands Park

Australia to play England in the Cup Final, 3.30pm, Saturday at Langlands Park

For all the up to date information on the Universities World Cup please visit the official website

http://worldcup.aurl.com.au/

The Prenter Report #17

2008-07-16T00:59:00Z

One of England’s most respected journals, League Weekly, has thrown its weight behind the upcoming World Cup.

“The World Cup is proof that the game is now moving in the right direction,” was how League Weekly editorial described the eagerly awaited event.

“The proliferation of international Rugby League throughout Europe, the re-awakening in the Pacific Islands and the sharper interest in England, Australia, New Zealand and France are signs that the 13-a-side code is now moving in the right direction,” said the editorial.

“The enthusiasm of players such as Scotland’s Danny Brough and Ireland’s Pat Richards for participation in the forthcoming World Cup, accompanied by that generated by the thousands of fans who have already booked their trips Down Under in October and November of this year, is proof of the attractions of the World Cup in 2008.

“That Sky TV and BBC TV are already making their plans to cover the event in full, that matches will be screened worldwide in countries like the USA, Spain, the Middle East, the Far East and north Africa and that journalists of every newspaper (including League Weekly) have already booked their flights signifies the importance of international competition to the profile and development of our game.”

League Weekly urges the Rugby League International Federation to remain tough on eligibility rules and the availability of every registered player.

English fans will be in Australia in hordes.

Thousands will take in the many sights close to World Cup venues, enjoying the warmer weather and unbounded hospitality.

By Geoff Prenter

World Cup Goes From Strength to Strength

2008-07-15T06:45:00Z

World Cup organisers insist there will be no shortage of faces for future World Cup promotion as the Australian selectors prepare to name their first forty man squad for RLWCO8.

Mark Gasnier’s decision to withdraw from the event will mean some repositioning of the game’s marketing material but the tournament itself continues to gain strength at every turn.

RLIF Chairman and Rugby League World Cup Tournament Director, Mr Colin Love AM, said today that the announcement of the first forty man squad on August 1 was a reminder of the competition that was already surrounding positions in the tournament:

“Not only are players vying for positions in the Australian Team but there are many NRL stars looking to establish their credentials to join the other nine nations.

“There’s no doubt that Mark’s decision will necessitate some changes to our marketing material and they will be phased in over the next month or so.

“We also have key photo shoots with both Daren Lockyer, Greg Inglis and Cameron Smith in hand and it will be very much business as usual.”

Mr Love stressed that it was not a case of Mark Gasnier being sacked from the promotion of the tournament:

“It’s simply a case of focusing on the players that will be there.

“No doubt there will still be material out there with Mark’s image on it for a little while yet and we will simply manage the process through as we can.

“It’s the sort of thing that can happen in promoting major events from a long time out and we just have to work our way through it.”

Universities World Cup Semi Finals

2008-07-15T01:51:00Z

The pool matches of the Universities Rugby League World Cup have come to a close with the semi-finals to be played at Griffith University on Tuesday and Wednesday nights. It’s must win time for all teams with the Finals to be played on Saturday July 19 at Langlands Park, Stones Corner.

Tuesday 15th July – Griffith University, Nathan Campus

Plate Semi-Finals

5.00pm

Greece v Ireland

Greece were unlucky to finish 2nd in their pool after going down to England by 2 points. They’ll be hoping to take out the plate cup though with a strong performance against the Irish.

Ireland on the other hand showed a lot of promise against Wales in their first round match. This should be a tough encounter for both teams who show a lot of spirit in their performances.

7.00pm

Scotland v France

France would have been hoping for a better performance against Wales in the match which decided 2nd place in their pool. The French unit is quick and agile when compared to the boisterous Scottish forwards.

Scotland still hasn’t registered a point in their first three matches and will be looking to barge over the French pack in the opening encounters.

Wednesday 16th July, Griffith University, Nathan Campus

Cup Semi-Finals

5.00pm

England v New Zealand

England is coming off a demanding win against the Scots while New Zealand is still playing well below their capability. This match should be a brutal affair with both sides having a lot of size all over the park.

It’s semi-final time and the pressure is on. New Zealand is expecting to win this, but if they don’t play to their full potential the English will certainly pounce.

7.00pm

Australia v Wales

Australia is by far the form team of the competition. Posting a whopping 136 points in three matches without conceding one is a very decent feat. They’re big, quick, know how to score points and will tackle all day.

Wales come into this match as rank underdogs but they’ve shown they’re a tightly coached unit. The discipline this team possesses is by far the best in the tournament. They’re dangerous out wide and if they can contain the Aussie forwards then this will definitely be Australia’s toughest match so far.

For more information please contact World Cup media managers Steve Petroff (0422 418 241) or Travis Meyn (0418 146 372).

The Prenter Report #16

2008-07-14T05:01:00Z

“The World Cup is the most imaginative piece of administration ever conjured by the legislators of Rugby League.”

A profound appraisal and declared by none other than the late Clive Churchill, undisputedly the world’s greatest ever fullback.

Churchill made the statement in his book-“They Called Me The Little Master” published in 1962.

In times when it is all too easy to take pot-shots at a World Cup competition, Churchill’s comments are refreshing.

He said in his book: “The World Cup is publicised as a competition for the World’s Rugby League Championship and, in this respect, the organisers are to be applauded.

“It began in 1954 on the basis of a World Cup every four years.

“I am hoping that one day it will be the greatest medium of excellent publicity for the Rugby League movement throughout the world.

“I believe the World Cup will become a grand achievement.”

Churchill was never one to exaggerate. He always told it as he saw it and he never minced his words.

He loved the game more than most and his lust for playing against England and the French was unsurpassed.

Churchill would marvel at the rivalry for World Cup fullback selection later this year.

I have an inkling he would give the nod to Billy Slater by a whisker from Brett Stewart.

By Geoff Prenter

Universities World Cup round 3

2008-07-13T23:00:00Z

Today’s Pool A matches panned out as planned with a well rehearsed Australian unit dismantling the spirited Greeks 54-0.

The win came on the back of a star performance from Co-captain Drew Dalton who finished the match with a personal tally of 14 points.

Greece looked dangerous in the opening encounters with prop forward Adam Kambouris breaking the line early to no avail.

Australia then switched themselves on when halfback Brogan Gibson opened the scoring for the Aussies when he crossed under the posts in the 4^th minute of the match.

The next 20 minutes of the match were in the balance as Greece showed the spirit which has made them a crowd favourite over the past week, but two late first half tries to Drew Dalton gave the home side an 18-0 lead heading into the break.

The second half started much the way that the first half ended, with inspirational lock Nuku Hifo scoring in the 40^th minute.

The next 30 minutes resulted in a steady flow of points with tries to captain Jonathon Crawley, Jason Gangaram, Josh Whitty, Eugene Seddon and Justin Volker.

Australia’s backs capitalised on the bruising performance of their forwards with front rower Alan Kemp sending two Greek players from the field with some solid defensive hits.

Australia has now scored a whopping 136 points in 3 matches without conceding any and will face Wales in the cup semi-final.

The final match of the day was another whitewash with England easily accounting for Scotland, 32-0.

A duo of tries to prop forward Dave Saxon helped the English to an impressive win in a match which saw players from both sides sinbinned for fighting.

The big English forwards were too mobile for Scotland in what was an encouraging match for England who will now face New Zealand in the semi’s.

There were no surprises in the Pool B matches played earlier today at Burleigh’s Pizzey Park sporting complex, with Wales demolishing France 42-6 in the opening Round 3 match.

The Welsh obviously enjoyed the perfect Gold Coast conditions, piling on five second half tries to finish second in their pool and book a semi-final showdown with Australia on Wednesday night.

Wales were always in complete control of proceedings, turning a slight 14-6 half-time advantage into a seven try romp, with fullback Gareth David scoring a try and booting seven goals in an all-round flashy performance.

It was another spirited effort from France, but they again struggled in holding out a much larger opposition, and they now turn their attentions in salvaging some pride in Tuesday’s Plate semi-final against Scotland.

A late surge from New Zealand saw them register a spiteful 32-10 victory over a plucky Irish outfit in the second Pool B fixture, with their six tries to two victory securing them a semi-final showdown with England on Wednesday night.

The Kiwis failed to match the intensity of the boys from Ireland for the majority of the match, with Ireland failing to capitalise on their early opportunities to trail 4-12 at the half-time break.

It took the injection of rampaging New Zealand forward Karerua Savage to spark the defending champions into action, with the elusiveness of reserve fullback Tasi Cordtz setting up the Kiwis hard fought victory.

SCORES FOR ROUND 3

Pool A

Australia 54 (Drew Dalton 2, Jonathon Crawley, Jason Gangaram, Josh Whitty, Brogan Gibson, Brenton Stonier, Eugene Seddon, Nuku Hifo, Justin Volkner tries; Drew Dalton 3, Gavin Duncan 3, Eugene Seddon goals)

Defeated

Greece 0

England 32 (Dave Saxon 2, Craig Cornelia, Sam Gee, Dawny Inman, Chris Clarke tries; Mark McKinley 3, Danny Sarside goals)

Defeated

Scotland 0

At Langlands Park, Brisbane

Standings after round three: Australia 6, England 4, Greece 2, Scotland 0

Pool B

Wales 42(Rob Worrincy 2, Gareth David, Grant Epton, Jason Mossop, Owen Lewis, Daniel Wright tries; Gareth David 7 goals)

Defeated

France 6(Frederic Marcerou try and goal)

New Zealand 32(Mahana Toka 2, James Roughan, Rema Smith, Paul Atkins, Laupepa Pasene tries; Scott Hurrell 4 goals)

Defeated

Ireland 10(Bernard Westman, Paddy Barcoe tries; Greg Mannion goal)

At Pizzey Park, Burleigh Heads

Standings after round three: New Zealand 6, Wales 4, France 2, Ireland 0

For further information contact Universities World Cup media managers Stephen Petroff (0422 418241) or Travis Meyn (0418 14637)

The Prenter Report # 15

2008-07-10T22:58:00Z

One of the world’s most successful businessmen, American building developer and television star Donald Trump, wants to see a World Cup game.

Trump will be in Australia on speaking engagements on dates coinciding with the World Cup and has expressed a wish to see his first game of Rugby League.

“I have heard a lot about the game and as I will be in Australia I would love to see one live,” Trump told his Australian tour promoter, Malcolm Quinn.

Quinn has already presented Trump with a Queensland State of Origin jumper.

Rugby League is making progress in the United States thanks to the efforts of former St George halfback David Nui.

Nui picked up the strings after pioneers Mark Meyer and John Morgan planted the seeds.

The United States competed in the World Sevens in Australia and their animated style entertained fans regardless of the opposition.

Donald Trump is a legend.

His success as a businessman has no boundaries and he has accepted a deal to talk on his favourite subject,“How To Think Like A Billionaire”.

He will speak in Melbourne on November 12, Sydney on November 13 and the Gold Coast on November 14, the day before the first World Cup Semi-Final at Suncorp Stadium.

Assuming Donald Trump likes what he sees at Suncorp?

The mind boggles at the possibilities of taking Rugby League to a new level in America.

An injection of serious funds could be just the shot in the arm David Nui needs to further foster the game in a sports crazy environment.

Any “product” Donald Trump sanctions usually pays off-big time.

There are, perhaps, exciting times ahead.