It's been just under 4 years since that night in the Stade de France where England fought so galantally against an undefeated South African side, to which it eventually ended 15-6 to the boks, although it was wrapped in controversy over the decision to chalk off Mark Cueto's try in the 42nd minute. Now 4 years later it all kicks off again, hosted by the fierce All Blacks. Now my problem with this is that it makes the times of the games happen at ridiculous hours, disturbing my beauty sleep with kick off times such as 7:30 on a saturday morning. However, I do remain excited like a small child in a sweet shop and some would say hopelessly optimistic that England will pull off a shock win to bring the World Cup back to these shores. I mean who knows, we have Johnny Wilkinson back at 10 and in good form, so what are the chances that history could be repeated and that he swipes a cheeky drop goal in the last minute against a rampant New Zealand team in the final on the 23rd of October. Paddypower have given us odds of 16/1 to win which I think must be worth a naughty £10 with Chris Ashton 18/1 to be top try scorer even worth a cheeky fiver.
Now more importantly it is the start of the rugby season for yours truly, and a new start for a new team. This heralds the unfortunate return of what I like to call the "bus effect" which as all rugby players will know, is the feeling you get when you wake up the next morning feeling like you have been hit by a bus, although there is something strangely satisfying about this (I'm not one of those pain-loving weirdoes honestly). After what can only be described as an "injury-plagued" season last year, I can't to strap myself and get beaten the shit out of on a regular occasion once again, and hopefully we can have a bit of success as that always makes the black eyes, broken limbs and destroyed livers worth it at the end of the season.
Now a final verdict on the new Red Hot Chili Peppers album.....(drum roll please)....IT'S A GROWER
Other than pretty much listening to the album on repeat, there are some definite tunes on it. My particular favourites are: Monarchy of Roses, Factory of Faith, Ethiopia and Brendan's Death Song. And I have to say I genuinely enjoy the album, even if its not classic chilis and is a bit different.
As usual my football manager update. After securing back-to-back promotions for league 2 into the Premiership, we managed to secure a 6th placed finish as well as winning the league cup. I also added to my record of winning the Manager of the Year every year in each division. I know what your thinking... Why haven't I been snapped up yet? My job offer must be in the post. Bloody Royal Mail...
And finally my song of the week...gone a bit dupsteppy with Guilt by Nero:
That's it for all, so as usual, It's been emotional.
