Another Pearler
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Topic: Another Pearler
Posted By: SMELLYMIKE
Subject: Another Pearler
Date Posted: 16 December 2010 at 6:50am
Not going to say anything .......the decsion is yours alone Stephen Jones blow may boost Gavin Henson's Wales hopes
Gavin Henson could replace Stephen Jones as Wales fly-half
Wales great Phil Bennett believes Stephen Jones' injury could pave the way for Gavin Henson's Welsh return. Scarlets fly-half Jones faces up to four weeks out after straining a ligament in his left knee in their Heineken Cup win against Treviso. "What happens if Stephen Jones wasn't available for Wales?" Bennett said. "Would [Wales coach] Warren Gatland switch James Hook... Dan Biggar didn't have the greatest autumn... then the name that struck me - Gavin Henson." Jones will undergo what the Scarlets medical team are calling a "precautionary scan" on Wednesday on his knee ligament injury. A Scarlets statement said: "The region's medical team have re-assessed Jones on Tuesday and stated that early signs indicate that the Wales international has a minor knee ligament strain, which will probably keep him out of action for up to four weeks."
Jones' injury is not just a worry for the Llanelli region but Gatland as well as the Wales coach will already be without wings Shane Williams and George North for the start of the 2011 Six Nations while Lee Byrne faces a race against time to be fit. Jones is scheduled to recover from his injury two weeks before Wales' Six Nations opener with England on 4 February. But Wales' number one fly-half could still be short of fitness when the English visit the Millennium Stadium. Henson, who is set to make his competitive rugby return for Saracens against Wasps at Wembley on Boxing Day, may be considered as a potential replacement for the 33-year-old. The 2005 British and Irish Lions centre has been out of the game since suffering an ankle injury playing for the Ospreys against Gloucester in March 2009.
The 28-year-old, who has been on a sabbatical for more than 18 months, has made no secret of his hope to force his way back into the Wales squad in time for the Six Nations now that his television commitments have ended. With South African Derick Hougaard ruled out for the majority of the season, Henson could play at fly-half for Saracens, though Owen Farrell has impressed in the role recently and the Premiership side are currently short of centres through injuries. "I said a few weeks ago when he was still on Strictly Come Dancing, it wouldn't surprise me if Gavin makes his comeback for Wales against England," Wales legend Bennett told BBC Sport. "And they all laughed at me! "But stranger things have happened and let's keep on with this story... I don't know, he could be playing number 10 for Wales against England."
Jones' injury is of immediate concern to the Scarlets as coach Nigel Davies will be his talismanic fly-half for their "must-win" Heineken Cup Pool Five trip to Treviso on Saturday. The British and Irish Lions star is also set to miss the Scarlets' all-Welsh Magners League festive season derbies with Ospreys and Dragons. A return for the final two European pool games against Leicester and Perpignan in late January is possible for Jones if his rehabilitation goes well, though Bennett would have concerns about his readiness after a month on the sidelines. "The big worry is the matches he comes back to play," admitted Bennett. "Leicester at home and Perpignan away in the European Cup is a big ask for Stephen. "He will be badly missed by the Scarlets but let us hope he recovers in time for Wales." ------------- I am only responsible for what I say. Not for what you understand |
Replies:
Posted By: ladram
Date Posted: 16 December 2010 at 6:54am
i think he would waltz in to the team if he proves his match fitness,
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Posted By: mad scarlet
Date Posted: 16 December 2010 at 6:58am
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i still remember henson coming on for stevo out in Ireland when stevo was injured.
there henson was with his gelled hair and his orange false tan and shaved legs, he came on and he was mailto:cr@p - cr@p
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Posted By: lofty evans
Date Posted: 16 December 2010 at 7:46am
Yes he was, Stevo's contribution to the Wales team is so undervalued by most, it's incredible, when he hangs up his boots boy will he be missed, by team lets break you Wales.
------------- In 1972, Roy Bergiers scored that try and said "that was for you lofty" "All you have to decide is what to do with the time that is given to us" |
mad scarlet wrote:Posted By: redeyes
Date Posted: 16 December 2010 at 7:46am
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I really despair at journalism like that, Henson hasn't played for almost two years. How the hell can he be linked to playing for wales before he has played a game for his club? ------------- The stadium may change, but the dream will remain the same! |
Posted By: The Admiral
Date Posted: 16 December 2010 at 8:26am
| If Stevo is not fit, I would prefer Henson to BIggar everyday, match fit or not |
Posted By: Huwbach
Date Posted: 16 December 2010 at 8:33am
| Agreed admiral but tovey and rp are also waiting in the wings - not for the England game of course . I have no problem with Henson , I like his confidence I just hope he can back it up . |
Posted By: sioni77
Date Posted: 16 December 2010 at 8:37am
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You shouldnt be able to choose to play for Wales when you want. I would rather look to the future with Rhys or Dan Bigger. I'd vote Henson out! ------------- sionione side |
Posted By: corinthian
Date Posted: 16 December 2010 at 9:15am
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Like him or not, he's class. And he's pretty hard (for a back) too. His troubles all started when he gave that Leicester prop a retaliatory dig and got suspended. He may be a bit of a twonk, but he's strong, pacey talent. Not sure he'll be ready, but he'd be miles better than BIggar. Also, :what happens when RP gets his more than deserved call up ? We lose BOTH our OH's ? I know the boys we have will step up. but RP has been immense for us so far, and will only get better. ------------- It does not bark and it knows the secrets of the sea. |
Posted By: KID A
Date Posted: 16 December 2010 at 9:34am
Some funny posts on Stevo and his injury from another forum yesterday:
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Posted By: solihullscarlet
Date Posted: 16 December 2010 at 9:50am
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Ok who are the three better 10s then? Are there 3 better in the world? ------------- #UniteAndFight against the crooked Pro12 |
Posted By: aber-fan
Date Posted: 16 December 2010 at 9:58am
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How often has Henson played 10 in the last 5 years? IF he makes the Wales squad by the start of the 6N - and it's a big 'if' - then surely it will be at centre. Tovey is also injured - don't know how bad it is, but he looks a much better bet than Biggar on current form. Stevo will defo play if fit and well. As for Rhys - he could certainly play 10 for Wales, but he won't be picked unless he either becomes more consistent in his place kicking (has improved, but 'iffy' vs Treviso),or unless we have another good kicker in the 15 (Halfpenny or Henson, maybe). |
Posted By: JonWal
Date Posted: 16 December 2010 at 11:26am
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Agreed with Aber,regardless if Stevo makes it back before 6N or not, Hesnon will play alongside Dr Bob in the Centre.
Thats a pretty exciting prospect. Henson is Wales' Sonny Bill Williams...
------------- 13 |
Posted By: lofty evans
Date Posted: 16 December 2010 at 11:29am
And the gloryboys these quoted knumbnuts want, shows the lack of respect they possess.
 ------------- In 1972, Roy Bergiers scored that try and said "that was for you lofty" "All you have to decide is what to do with the time that is given to us" |
Posted By: Canada
Date Posted: 16 December 2010 at 11:34am
| I see that Jon Thiel good Canadian guy has been training with the Scarlets. |
Posted By: Guests
Date Posted: 16 December 2010 at 11:35am
| if stevo is not available for the 6N then it has to be 10 hook 12 henson 13 roberts. priestland as back up 10 |
Posted By: lofty evans
Date Posted: 16 December 2010 at 11:39am
Is overated at 10 Rap sorry to say, he has the command at ten as Smelly has with his spelling
 ------------- In 1972, Roy Bergiers scored that try and said "that was for you lofty" "All you have to decide is what to do with the time that is given to us" |
Posted By: BillyBigBalls
Date Posted: 16 December 2010 at 11:42am
Hate how Henson is bringing that media whoring crap that is usually associated with Jordan into rugby. Henson is behaving like some sort of WAG with not enough letters in the alphabet to rate him 
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Posted By: JonWal
Date Posted: 16 December 2010 at 11:47am
I like the way that Henson/Hook are interchangable along with Henson/Dr Bob.
------------- 13 |
Posted By: al08
Date Posted: 16 December 2010 at 11:58am
On this seasons form then
Carter
Cooper
Steyn
Sexton
Flood
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Posted By: JonWal
Date Posted: 16 December 2010 at 12:01pm
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Lol at Sexton and Flood.... Im sorry but...just no.
Ill give you the other 3 though.
Steven Jones is dependable, he does all things well consistantly. Which is why he's been at the top for about 10 years. ------------- 13 |
Posted By: A Evans
Date Posted: 16 December 2010 at 12:02pm
Please, really? ------------- We are Con Air. You will be assimilated. We will add your biological and technological distinctiveness to our own. Your culture will adapt to service us. Resistance is futile. |
Posted By: KID A
Date Posted: 16 December 2010 at 12:28pm
Cooper hasn't made a tackle since he was 13 years old. Sexton has been awful whenever I've seen him this season. Flood is good but not as good as Steve. Steyn and Carter are class. |
Posted By: Gate12
Date Posted: 16 December 2010 at 12:49pm
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I'd say that Carter is the only one in the world who's definitely better than Stevo, Wilko is better than half the ones mentions too.
You could put you're mortgage on for every excellent game Steyn has he'll back it up with a shocker.
As much as Hook probably deserved a shot at 10 for the Ospreys he'll never be a world class 10, if Stevo was out I honestly think that Rhys deserves a shot, alongside Foxy at 12 and Roberts at 13, no point in even discussing Henson until we've seen him on a pitch.
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Posted By: Gary Coleman
Date Posted: 16 December 2010 at 12:51pm
Yes, my thoughts too when I saw the headline, but it was our beloved Benny that said it.
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Posted By: Crug Mawr
Date Posted: 16 December 2010 at 1:27pm
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So Phil Bennett has an opinion – but its not one I share. I don’t think this is newsworthy and looks like lazy journalism. As for whether Henson should be selected if Stephen was not available. 1. he hasn’t played competitive rugby for 2 years 2. what appearances he has made at 10 have been limited and unconvincing. 3. Saracens have signed him to play centre. Any objective assessment taken now would say Henson should not play 10 for To say he should or could is purely speculative. |
Posted By: JonWal
Date Posted: 16 December 2010 at 1:45pm
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The list of players I'd rather see at 10 before Henson:
S Jones
J Hook
N Robinson
R Priestland
J Tovey
D Biggar
------------- 13 |
Posted By: SA14
Date Posted: 16 December 2010 at 2:00pm
| Am I being selfish not wanting Rhys to play? |
Posted By: A Evans
Date Posted: 16 December 2010 at 2:02pm
No, hope he never has to suffer at the hands of Gatland, would be really pleased for him but you just know he would come back to us broken ------------- We are Con Air. You will be assimilated. We will add your biological and technological distinctiveness to our own. Your culture will adapt to service us. Resistance is futile. |
Posted By: scarletman
Date Posted: 16 December 2010 at 2:07pm
Jason is out injured atm (knee) although not considered serious. Fitness test next week with a view to return for the Blues game on 27th Dec. ------------- |
Posted By: JonWal
Date Posted: 16 December 2010 at 2:15pm
I totally agree with you, you need tough skin to play for Wales.
More so, being a fly half. I think the media would really get on his back if he missed a few, and we know that he's a confidence player.
Apart from his kicking though (which has certainly improves over the last season), there is no other better 10 in Wales. ------------- 13 |
Posted By: SA14
Date Posted: 16 December 2010 at 2:19pm
He'd have the pressure of kicking taking off him as Hook would take them. That means he'd play all the better theoretically without the pressure of goal kicking on his mind.
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Posted By: JonWal
Date Posted: 16 December 2010 at 2:25pm
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If that was a possibility then, A backline of
Phillips, Priestland, Shane, Hook/Henson, Roberts, North/Halfpenny, Byrne.
Looks very good (provided Stevo is out)
Priestland has to be the Second choice fullback in Wales at the moment too.
------------- 13 |
Posted By: Mugwuffin
Date Posted: 16 December 2010 at 2:28pm
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If Stevo was injured for the 6 Nations, I wouldn't be too suprised to see Henson start at 10 either. Biggar's star has fallen with the Wales management after the Fiji game and I don't think Priestland or Tovey's defence are up to international standard yet. That leaves Henson or Hook. Hook will be playing centre for the Ospreys, whilst it looks likely Henson will get gametime at 10 for Saracens...
If Stevo's injury had been more serious, old Benny might have been spot on!
10. Henson
12. Hook
13. Roberts
Thank God Stephen's injury is not too serious though as I doubt that combo would've worked well.
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Posted By: JonWal
Date Posted: 16 December 2010 at 2:35pm
''...The engines running, but theres no-one behind the wheel..''
Springs to mind. ------------- 13 |
Posted By: aber-fan
Date Posted: 16 December 2010 at 2:58pm
Fair comment. Stevo isn't flash, but if you take everything into account (attack, defence, kicking) then only Carter is clearly better overall. He's shown again this season how he can put players into gaps with clever passes. |
Posted By: JonWal
Date Posted: 16 December 2010 at 3:21pm
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I guess thats probably the main difference with Stevo and Priestland at present. Stevo will put a player into a gap, whereas Priestland will go through the gap himself and create an overlap.
Stevo is the more reliable kicker, Priestland has a massive boot.
Stevo is dependable and safe, Priestland is full of flair. (for example the Treviso game, could you see Stevo throwing that backhanded pass to Regan?)
Its a great choice to be stuck with. ------------- 13 |
Posted By: NobbySosban
Date Posted: 16 December 2010 at 4:17pm
If Hook's not playing 10 for Wales because he's not getting game time at F/H for the Ospreys, the same logic would rule Henson out at least until he's had a couple of months bossing Saracens matches.
If the O's were to experiment by replacing out-of-form Biggar with Hook at F/H, and if Henson slots right in where he thinks he will, Wales may get a view of how a team without Stevo might work, but I don't think Scott Johnson & Co will risk experiments (especially not on Boxing Day!), unless they get a 'top-up' fee from the WRU.
Biggar and Byrne have faded due to lack of internal competition at the Liberty, imo, and clearly there are factors within the Ospreys camp that have led to their (probable) departures. Henson's move may have been for entirely different reasons, but he wasn't motivated to turn out for them for nearly 2 years.
Actually, I can't wait to see him playing again to see if he has that magic that a great Wales team needs - Mr Henson, the floor is yours (just a pity he won't have Brendan Venter as a dance partner for long...)
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Posted By: Matty
Date Posted: 16 December 2010 at 4:50pm
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I can actually see Henson wlaking straight back into the welsh team during the 6n, not that I agree with it unless he actually performs when he gets back on the pitch. He can talk the talk about being back at his best, but he really needs to prove it before I'll be happy with him in a Welsh shirt.
The thing is that Henson has the ability to turn a game around and win it for a team. He is one of the most talented players in a generation, it's a shame that he's made so many PR mistakes and become more of a celebrity than a rugby player. If he does come back and is at his best, then I'd prefer to have him rather than someone like Biggar! |
Posted By: redeyes
Date Posted: 16 December 2010 at 8:06pm
Still lauging at that suggestion! ------------- The stadium may change, but the dream will remain the same! |
Posted By: redeyes
Date Posted: 16 December 2010 at 8:07pm
Some common sense at last. Which is exactly what I said to one of my customers in Cardiff today when Charlotte Church was sitting at the next table in an empty coffee shop! ------------- The stadium may change, but the dream will remain the same! |
Posted By: The Admiral
Date Posted: 16 December 2010 at 8:43pm
| Come on Boys focus on the Scarlets, Wales is next year, we have far more important games ahead of us before the Six Nations |
Posted By: SMELLYMIKE
Date Posted: 16 December 2010 at 8:48pm
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There are only 2 options for wales and both are scarlet...and at a push shingler and williams are way ahead of the spotted dick form the shitespray region
------------- I am only responsible for what I say. Not for what you understand |
Posted By: mad scarlet
Date Posted: 16 December 2010 at 9:28pm
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Posted By: King Albert
Date Posted: 16 December 2010 at 9:49pm
I was thinking about the media pressure he'd be under today if he had his chance, and also thought it would get to him. After reading the article on the back page of the Western Mail today, I recalled how they love to build a youngster up to make his fall more dramatic.
But we must remember that he isn't a 18/19 year old thats just played a game or two at regional level. Rhys is 23 now and a very mature player. He's played some big games for us in tough competitions. I think he'd thrive in the spotlight.
And with regards to dealing with media scrutiny . . . he's been under immense pressure from our fans on too many occasions when things weren't going his way, but he carried on regardless to become a top player. I think he's mentally tougher than we give him credit for!
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Posted By: Rugby fan
Date Posted: 17 December 2010 at 3:15am
I'm no Henson fan but even I can see that comment is a bit harsh on Henson. Henson wasn't fully fit himself yet he had to come on very early in the game.
As much as I think he's a media whore, his record for Wales is still better than most and Wales can ill afford to lose players of the calibre of Henson.
Let's hope his feet do the talking on the field better than they were on the dance floor
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Posted By: JonWal
Date Posted: 17 December 2010 at 7:56am
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Good point king albert. Didn't think of it like that ------------- 13 |
Posted By: North London Scarlet
Date Posted: 17 December 2010 at 8:24am
Someone with an ego as big as his - I hope he gets flattened on boxing day. For a professional rugby player to take over a year off and to fight for pay from his club, and then to expect to foxtrot his way back into the welsh setup is disgusting. There are young players who would give anything to have the opportunities he's been given, yet he's failed to capitalise on them. Hero to zero. I've never liked him though - any man who puts garan evans into an advertising board in a derby goes way down in my estimation, and needs to learn the error of his ways. Oh wait a minute, didn't we smash them that day?....  ------------- Ry'n ni yma o hyd... |
Posted By: coach driver
Date Posted: 17 December 2010 at 9:39am
------------- Coach Driver |
Posted By: SA14
Date Posted: 18 December 2010 at 11:06am
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Remember this? Finau nearly had his head off!  |
Posted By: Ow!
Date Posted: 18 December 2010 at 11:08am
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Henson is potentially a great player but he is not a number 10. ------------- Gentlemen, gentlemen, I'll never understand. A world of knowledge at your fingertips, and you play poker all night. |
Posted By: ladram
Date Posted: 18 December 2010 at 11:10am
| god if finau had connected i was well positioned to catch his head,that was right in front of me. |
Posted By: A Evans
Date Posted: 18 December 2010 at 11:11am
Aye, was there, never seen Henson run so fast mun once he knew Finau was after him ------------- We are Con Air. You will be assimilated. We will add your biological and technological distinctiveness to our own. Your culture will adapt to service us. Resistance is futile. |