Autumn Tests

Its that time of year again when you know Autumn has finally arrived. The Autumn tests mark the true start of the Rugby Calendar. The visit of the Southern Hemisphere is always inspiring. The Northerners hoping to claim a scalp or two over their travelling counterparts.

English fans lived in hopes of granger leading the Australians at half time. But such hopes short lived. One match in to the international calendar and the English pack is under question. Johnson expects England to learn from it lose. But many an English fan will wonder when this learning by defeat will end. England need to start knowing by winning. Already Dallaglio is asking for a new look team and a younger selection. England need to blood young players, but Johnson is not taking that responsibility. For England these are the years of discontent.

Wales and New Zealand. Always look forward to this fixture it constantly delivers entertainment and excitement. But this year not so. Even the Hakka seemed a little subdued. A tight game but Wales showed done of their invention. Both teams failed to turn it on.

With the Southerners recovering from the Tri Nations they are already up to match speed and fitness. What’s worse is they don’t seem to be tiring. Difficult for England and Wales too perform off the cold foot. We wait to see what the other matches will bring, but you can only assume the Southerners will do what they do best and win.