Wednesday 12 October 2011

Dragons roar as roses wither

Bucket loads of bacon butties and copious cups of tea (or something stronger) were the choice of rugby fans last Saturday morning.

But while Welsh supporters were savouring the refreshments and the rugby on offer, those to the east of the Severn estuary were left with a bad taste in their mouths.

Wales’ win over an experienced Ireland side took them to their first World Cup semi-finals since the inaugural tournament 24 years ago. Former champions England looked a shadow of their former selves against a well-organised French team.

The contrast in the desire, dedication and discipline between the English and the Welsh squads couldn’t have been greater. It’s a timely reminder that in sport – indeed in all realms of life – success doesn’t just happen; it requires hard graft and the right attitude. To quote wise Solomon: ‘If the axe is dull and its edge unsharpened, more strength is needed but skill will bring success’. (Ecclesiastes 10: 10)

If only England’s axe had been sharpened for battle. Instead it’s been a month to forget. It kicked-off with alcohol-fuelled celebrations involving a number of players including Mike Tindall, who was caught on CCTV kissing a local woman.

Two players were banned for dangerous on-field play, whilst two management team members were suspended for illegally switching balls against Romania. Even since Saturday, there has been more negative publicity: Manu Tuilagi received a police warning after jumping from a ferry in Auckland.

As for Wales, its passion for the national sport has never been in question. But now, with a pool of focused and talented young players captained by Sam Warburton and coached by the wise Warren Gatland, the Dragons might just reward that enthusiasm. The days of heavy drinking and bad behaviour (and that’s just Gavin Henson) have been traded for 4am starts for summer training, a refreshing team spirit and an alcohol ban.

James Corrigan wrote in The Independent on Sunday: ‘Only one in five in Wales speaks Welsh. So many more speak rugby. They will talk it all week, about the parties they will hold if the dream comes true’.

As the fried breakfasts are served for the match against France this coming Saturday morning, Welsh rugby fans will be hoping they don’t end up with egg on their face, but rather that they’ll be on a roll all the way to the World Cup Final.

This article was written for The Baptist Times Sportsweek column