Little to Cheer About

Just when there seemed to be some light at the end of the dark tunnel of the Covid 19 Pandemic, we are faced with the dreadful events in Ukraine. Russia’s unprovoked attack on their neighbour has left us all stunned. My heart goes out to the people of Ukraine whose very existence has been so savagely threatened.

In that context rugby seems somewhat insignificant but it can provide a welcome distraction for an hour or two. Normally at this time of year, that would be a Pontypool match to watch but the vagaries of the pandemic and the WRU have left yet another blank weekend even though it is a pause week in the Six Nations Championship.

There is always the rugby on the TV but watching Cardiff and the Dragons receiving a thrashing from Ulster and Leinster respectively did little to lighten the mood. Both of the Welsh regions were absolutely dreadful and totally out played by their Irish opposition. Rather like the Ireland v Wales few weeks ago the regions were outgunned and outthought. The Irish have got everything so right at the moment while in Wales we seem to have got it all wrong.

Fortunately, I did catch the Saracens playing Leicester in the English Premiership and was able to observe a full-blooded, high quality, evenly balanced contest with the result in doubt to the end. Nick Tompkins was man of the match which surely must cement his place in the Welsh team for their encounter with France next weekend.

France have looked the form side in the Six Nations and will be the sternest possible opposition for Wales in Cardiff on Friday night. Yes, Friday night, which means another battle for spectators to find public transport to get themselves home. It always seems to be Wales or France who end up playing on a Friday night and it is something I really dislike.

The French seem to have all bases covered with a big powerful but skilful pack, sublime half backs, and dangerous backs. It does seem an extremely tall order for Wales to beat such a formidable outfit but you never can tell. I don’t expect Wales to make any changes from the side that played so well in the second half against England. I would, however, like to see Rees Zammit on the bench as another attacking option.

The great news is that, with the Wales match on Friday night, Pooler are playing on Saturday against Trebanos in the Championship. Let us hope that they are not too rusty after yet another long layoff.

It promises to be a better weekend for rugby at least!

Good luck Ukraine!

Come on Wales!

Come on Pooler!