England's Cup Runetth over

By Kath 24/5/04
May 25 2004

England's Zurich Premiership Clubs hit the heights. Congratulations to both NEC Harlequins and London Wasps for a wonderful weekend of Rugby!

 

 

 

This weekend saw the excitement and anguish of Rugby Union, the game we know and love!  How fitting that two English sides conquered their European counterparts.

 

NEC Harlequins v Montferrand gave us almost the same nerve racking finish that England gave us in the Rugby World Cup and then Wasps v Toulouse the dying seconds try by Rob Howley was just spine-tingling.  Some of course will say that this was an opportunist try but to be Champions you have to grasp those opportunities!  Personally, I would say that Robert Howley’s try was that of a very wise and experienced rugby brain!

 

Both Quins and Wasps never gave up and played for more than 80 mins.  What talent we have in England in the Union Countries and the Northern Hemisphere.  Gone are the days when the Northern Hemisphere looked in awe at our Southern Hemisphere counterparts.  The talent in England alone is so exciting to be watching at this time.

 

On hearing of all the England players retiring, plus injuries, I did worry that the England team going south this summer might find it very difficult and still do to some extent.  However, after the performances this weekend of the England Wasp players I am far more confident.

 

London Wasps' banner and motto in the changing room this weekend was ‘Defence Wins Championships’ and watching Wasps defensive line hold was rather like watching England defensive line at its best.

 

I now can’t wait to see next weekend’s games and also the England team selection for the Baa Baa’s game.

 

So yes players have retired and we thank them for all their hard work and devotion but now let us look forward to our new young talent and relish these rugby moments of glory.

 

Well done London Wasps (2004 Heineken Cup Champions) and NEC Harlequins (2004 Parker Pen Champions)

 

England’s Cup is truly running over, but let us spare a thought for the anguish of young Poitrenaud – that memory will live with him forever.