Robinson KO tests Strettle's mettle
- 23 Feb 07, 11:30 AM
London - For England fans, Friday has not been a good day so far.
So will miss Saturday's contest at Croke Park and England's bid to claim their first win over Ireland since 2003 has got a whole lot harder.
The neck injury Robinson received in training on Wednesday has failed to heal in time and England go into their game without one of their most experienced and threatening attacking players.
The Sale man has fully justified why Brian Ashton persuaded him to come out of international retirement and his three well-taken tries in the Six Nations so far have proved that none of his well-honed finishing instincts have dulled.
In his place steps David Strettle of Harlequins. David who? You might ask.
Last year he was playing for National League One side Rotherham and now he is being thrown into the cauldron of Croke Park for his senior international debut.
The 23-year-old has only been with Quins since last summer but has a fine strike rate (nine tries from 14 outings) and was one of England's stand-out performers for the Saxons in the earlier this month.
He has leaped above the likes of Ben Cohen and Mark Cueto to claim a place in the team and coach Brian Ashton obviously believes he has the character to handle such an occasion.
We know he is a real speed merchant with evasive running and has the ability to cut a side to shreds if given space.
He made IRB Sevens history when he scored five tries in the first half of England's victory over Papua New Guinea in 2006 - the first time anyone has done that on their Sevens debut.
Now if there are any Quins or Rotherham fans out there that have seen Strettle in action - let us know how you think he will cope.
As England approach their sternest test of the Six Nations so far, the loss of Robinson is bad enough, but the prospect of losing inspirational fly-half Jonny Wilkinson is unthinkable.
Word has it that England's management are so desperate for their talisman to play that they are willing to wait until Saturday lunchtime to prove his fitness.
Imagine what the mood will like in the Ireland camp if injury forces Wilkinson to miss out yet again?
Wales 27-18 England
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Dave Strettle was heavily involved in the England 7s setup last season and proved to be very successful. I saw him score a few amazing tries and he looked very sharp for the Saxons against the Italians. I've got a feeling he'll turn a few heads this saturday...
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As a Quins supporter I was expecting Strettle to play a bit-part role this season, as we have quite a few experienced wingers. The fact that he's leaped to the front of the club queue - despite a couple of injuries - shows how good he is. None of us was surprised at how well he did for Saxons, and I fully expect him to do the same against Ireland. His defence has come on, his awareness is good, and when he gets the ball he has lightning pace.
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We are so screwed! Worse yet Wilkinson might not be able to play because of his leg. I think Ireland should drop BOD and O'Gara to even things up! Whats up with Ashton picking this Strettle guy? Why have Tait on the bench as the wing replacement and then bring in a player from outside the sqaud when your best wing is injured? I didn't think to much of Nick Easter either. Personally I would have pick creuto and hope like wilkinson he'd turn good on the day. Ashton selection makes no sense to me but I have faith in the old man. He hasn't failed England...yet
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As a Quins season ticket holder, i can assure England fans that they are in for a treat. The man is steady under pressure and has electric pace. He is a winger of the Ashton mould willing to play what he sees in front of him rather than adhereing to strict structures. His try scoring record this season and impact at Quins testifies to he ability to make the right judgements.
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Now that David Strettle has forced his way into the England reckoning in place of JR, it makes me wonder what has happened to the two recent League converts - Karl Pryce and Chev Walker. Have either of these guys played regularly for their respective clubs, and are they England wing material? Pryce in particular could be a new Lomu given time. Good luck to Strettle, but is he (a)big enough and, (b)experienced enough for the cauldron of Croke Park. Remember Mathew Tait in '05 at the Millenium Stadium?
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As a Roth die hard I said years ago this guy was gonna go all the way, he's amazing.
People quite rightly talk about his pace but he's intelligient, strong, and defensively sound aswell. He has a genuine all round game.
I'm a massive Robinson fan so I would have both in the side if fit, but I'm certain we won't even miss him tomorrow. It may be a bold statement before he's even played a full international but he's a world class winger.
Does anyone think when Robinson's fit we could play Strett's at full back? I think he's got the game to do it.
Best of luck Dave! Run reit fast!!!
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Hi, I'm a Quins fan and season ticket holder.
Dave Strettle has been a great signing for us, and possibly our player of the season so far.
Not only has he an excellent strike rate, but certainly punches his weight in defence. His speed and the ability to step off his right or left foot makes him difficult for opponents to stop him.
We're so pleased for him at the Stoop.
Good luck tomorrow David!
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It is an utter shame that two of the hero's of english rugby could be out. Robinson's loss cannot be overstated. I would love to see a full english side against the irish. It's a test that Ireland really needed after the france game to see if they can pick themselves up, and critcal for england to see if they can get out of this slump. What was going to be a very difficult game has just been made harder.
This surely points to player burnout and does not bode well for any of the home nations before the world cup. The injury situation in the northern hemisphere compared to the rest period the all blacks are currently taking should where the unions loyalties lay, to the almight euro/pound.
C'mon the boys in green
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Guys, I used to go to the same uni as Strettle, the year before he left he came on to the 1st xv and completely changed the game. Dave has gone from strength to strength and thoroughly deserves the position that he now finds himself in....
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Strettle has pace to burn, he made William Ryder(fiji speedster) look pedestrian, in one leg of the world sevens. His frame does not bely his strenghth he has a massive handoff and great feet. Good to see that Ashton is sticking to selecting players onform/in the correct positions.
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That is a shame. I wanted England to have their best team out, so there would be no excuses in the Sunday news papers when Ireland beat England.
I really wanted the Irish team to prove the English critics wrong.
We all know what happened the last time a young promising English Debut came along, Mathew Tait is still feeling the bumps and burses form his international debut.
cant wait, looking forward to the occasion, just hope the local people living beside Croke Park, most of whom are hard core Sinn Fein supporters, I hope to god they do not cause any trouble.
Rugby is a mugs, game played by Gentlemen!!
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This is a big blow for England, especially having seen Robinson in such startling form at Wasps last Sunday. But ever cloud etc. good luck to Strettle.
Just a thought, "Robinson injured in training", I suppose all those who spent last week slagging off the clubs for playing their players, as they might get injured, will now be campaigning to stop England squads training in the week before big games!!!!
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hi Edward,
But will he ever see the ball???!!!
Froggie.
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Quins STH too and I echo those comments. First time I saw him I thought he was a bit lightweight but he's really hard to put down and he stood up well to probably the biggest wing (or fastest Prop) John Rudd against Newcastle. Speed, footwork, kicking, passing, good in the air, tenacious tackler. The kid's got everything bar experience, which might be the most important factor for tomorrow. However, given the chances. he'll do just fine for England against anyone.
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"but the prospect of losing inspirational fly-half Jonny Wilkinson is unthinkable"
Don't be daft. Jonny is a great player but if he is unfit Toby Flood can step in and prove his worth, giving a good young player valuable experience in an important year for English rugby. I'm not sure that ROG is that far in front of TF in terms of basic skill levels, though ROG obviously is far more experienced in terms of controlling a game at this level. And Andy Farrell is a world class goal-kicker.
There, I've just proved the prospect is not unthinkable.
You media guys should be more careful with your use of language; hype serves nobody well!
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who is the 2nd and 3rd best place kicker under pressure who qualifies to play for england? whoever they are they should be on the bench and on standby. the place kicker has effectively determined the results of all the relevent 6 nations games and will do so in the world cup. it does not matter if the kicker is not the best person for his position - what is relevent is he is the best kicker. this is continually forgotten when sides suddenly find their kicker injured and they have no suitable replacement.
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As a Rotherham supporter knowing Dave Strettle very well, you will not be let down by this lad! He is strong as an ox and i've never seen a more elusive runner, his change of direction is staggering........ i mean staggering!
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Well guess who is'nt a Quins supporter, yes step forward the person that made comment nunber three. Just watch Strettle tomorrow, yes its a huge game considring its his first for the main England squad. Strettle has superb rugby skills and deserves his place in the squad.
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It is a big loss for an already average England side.
If England lose tomorrow, the cries from England will no doubt be;
"We had no Robinson, (and maybe Johnny W.) So that's why we lost"
Let me remind you, Ireland were missing both Stringer AND B O'D for the France game..........and came within 2 minutes of winning.
I would have prefered beating the English with a full-strength team.........but that's life.
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Similarly, Ireland had to play France 2 weeks ago without BOD and Stringer. It turns out that Stringer's passing was the bigger miss for us...
Still, we nearly squeaked through - no reason why England shouldnt present a decent challenge just because two players are changed. Especially with the player base there is in England - somehow I imagine England will manage to field 15 fairly decent players...
That said - my money is still on our lot to win.
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Strettle is an out and out finisher. Electric pace ank knows his way to the whitewash He'll be far more effective as a wing than Tait would be. Tait makes the bench because of his versatility not as a specialist in any position.
You can't argue with his form either (for both the mighty Quins and the Saxons) and one of the main criticisms of the Robinson era (Andy not Jason!) was that he didn't go with the form players!
I'm certainly going to have a bob or 2 on him for 1st try!
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This might actually help England. Without Balshaw, and until Tait comes on, England lack genuine pace in the backs, and apparently Strettle has that.
I suppose Streetle has a lot of experience of playing with Tait in sevens, so it'll be good if these two can get some combinations going.
Does Strettle come off his wing well? That would be a big help, and Jason Robinson hasn't been doing enough of this.
I'm surprised that JSD and Cueto were overlooked.
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I agree with Edward on this; when he was with Rotherham he was really special and its good to see how he has continued to develop and improve since. I'll be surprised if he doesn't have a positive impact against Ireland.
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He will be fine and is twice the player that Mathew tait was at the millenium stadium.
In Strettle we will have the fastest player on the park by a good second over the 100 metres. He has scored 9 tries in 14 appearances for the quins. He is exactly what we need, our backline is sluggish and this guy livens it up! Anyone who picks Cueto over this guy is MAD! this guy ran rings around Cueto in his second game! He is better than tait too.
He alway beats at least 3 people every time he gets the ball. and he will make the much slower shane horgan look like a forward, trust me.
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Have to say as an Irishman I havent heard of Strettle at all but from what Ive read on this blog he sounds like a real talent. Just one question,,, how big is he? As Horgan is a big guy at 6'4" do you think Ashton will move him over to the other wing to line up against a slightly smaller 6'1" Hickey? Its a shame that Robinson got hurt,,was it one of the Bath youngsters that did it? And I would also be dissapointed to see Wilkinson not lining out. Will just give you English an excuse when beaten :-)
Anyway, all has now been said and its going to be a momentous occassion. I have to say I have been impressed and touched in the manner which the English players have respectfully commented on the venue.
Also may I make the comment of your RFU! The situation of your national team playing 6 days before an international is ridiculous, and I hope for the English players health that central contracts are sorted out soon.
Welcome to Croker Mr. Strettle
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Any side would miss Robinson, and Wilkinson's ability to keep the scoreboard ticking over is legendary.
However this is not a game England where likely to win, and with Wilkinson doubtful it will give Andy Farrell and Toby Flood a stage to show there worth in this RWC year.
I watched the Saxons game against Italy A, and some of last weekends Harlequins match, Strettle is a really exciting prospect and a natural winger. If England manage to blood a few players and progress forward it will be a good result.
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Fair play to Strettle, he's clearly the in-form winger and I hope he takes his chance. But what does this say to Tait? Its an absolute kick in the teeth to a player who has awesome finishing ability and is probably one of the most naturally talented ball players in the side.
Will be interesting to see what happens if JW gets injured:
- Flood at 10 with Catt outside him?
- Faz to step in (seeing as he played most of the Scotland game at 1st 5/8)
- Or just a straight swap Wilko for Catt.
Either way England will play 10 man rugby without jonny.
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As most people who have watched him whill know, Stretts is a serious attacking danger. What most people are worried about is his slender size, especially in defence. However his defensive game has come on hugely and i truely believe strettle could be the one to watch on saturday.
not that im biased in anyway!!!
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If England win this Saturday without Wilko, I shall be absolutely delighted! England are without a doubt the underdogs but that means they have nothing to loose and the pressure will be on Ireland as they are expected to win (favourites is a tag the cannot cope with). If Wilko plays, which I have a feeling he might, England may resort to a restrictive style of play, ie forwards getting penalties and Jonny kicking the points. However,it may actually benefit England in the long run if Jonny does not play......who knows?
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As a Tigers STH, we have a player you might have heard of - Tom Varndell. He set the 7's and club rugby worlds alight. However, in the international arena he has been found wanting.......for the moment.
Good luck to Strettle. Let's hope he has a blinder. If JW doesn't play, we'll have Strettle, Flood and Morgan all in the back line. Ooer! But you never know.
To be honest, all the pressure is on Ireland and not England as we're heavy underdogs and not expected to win in most quarters, so it should lend itself to a cracking match.
I'm off to see the Sale v Irish match tonight - where Cueto is captain. Then tomorrow it's Tigers v Northampton, followed by a spot of TV! No Geordan Murphy anywhere. Two great shames, in my opinion.
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It's a shame for Jason Robinson because I'm sure he would have loved the opportunity to play at Croke Park. It's a big step up for David Strettle but there can be no doubt he has the talent. Provided the occasion doesn't get to him he could be just the sort of outright finisher that England need. I hope Jonny Wilkinson is fit because of the lift he gives the side mentally. He's a little way off being at the top of his game so, in playing terms, Toby Flood is OK by me. Andy Farrell can do the place kicking as League afficianados will tell you.
As for Ireland, I'm not sure bringing Stringer back improves the team. I've never rated him particularly highly and thought Boss showed promise against France. The weather forecast doesn't look too great so it may be that we'll finally see what Irelands tight five are made of. An 'up the jumper' forward slog would England rather than Ireland who need to have Darcy and O'Driscoll firing to be at their best. Not convinced by the selections in the back row or at full back, either. I'd have thought Neil Best and Geordan Murphy would have troubled England more and I'm a firm believer in picking those that the opposition would least like to play against.
Hope the game lives up to the hype and good luck to everyone involved.
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If England win this Saturday without Wilko, I shall be absolutely delighted! England are without a doubt the underdogs but that means they have nothing to loose and the pressure will be on Ireland as they are expected to win (favourites is a tag the cannot cope with). If Wilko plays, which I have a feeling he might, England may resort to a restrictive style of play, ie forwards getting penalties and Jonny kicking the points. However,it may actually benefit England in the long run if Jonny does not play......who knows?
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I was in School with David Strettle, he has shown imense commitment and drive to achieve his first cap and will perform well.
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I agree totally with Mark. The major criticism of AR's reign was that he never took risks and didnt go with form players. Now BA is doing that and people are moaning!
As a quins fan i have to say that Strettle is brilliant, i am also a huge follower of Tait, so whilst im disappointed he isnt being started, i think itl be great to see what Strettle has to offer on the big stage.
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Looking at his form, I'm a bit worried about this strettle guy, I hope he doesn't become the success story from this match! Mind you, they have to get the ball to him.. I just hope Ireland start like maniacs and get in amongst the forwards and let BOD and Darcy tear through the middle. We won't be worrying about any new fast wingers then, or anyone in the white shirt at number ten..
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Guys, guys. Strettle is ok, but he has been playing the best that the GP has to offer. As we've seen this year Magners League Rugby is by far and away better than GP rugby, so I am convinced that Ireland's defence will be way too much for this guy, who appears to be the best of an ordinary bunch. Ireland by 10+ if Jonny's on, and if he's not, anything up to 20 points. The irish finishers are the real deal. You can be fairly sure that Jonny is probably good to go , but as Ashton knows that's all they've got, they're waiting to the last minute to name him, and if there is a genuine problem, he won't last a full match, cos the work he'll have to do in defence will take its toll. Constantly turning and having to back up is very sore on a helathy hamstring, let alone one on the verge of popping.
I'd be sorry for him, but he'd make the job easier; besides England are really gonna need him against France. If he plays and the hamstring really goes, he'll miss France for sure, a Gde 2 tear can take up to 6 weeks.
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I haven't seen much of him on TV or live when Irish (STH) played Quins at LDH or in previous season's for Roth. so would ask what is his kicking like?
His try scoring record is great and on that basis he must be 1st class finisher but ROG and Stringer will surely test him big-time with 'Gary Owens.'
Weakness of a number of the England wings over recent seasons and of Lewsey as a f/b. is their poor clarance kicking - Cueto stands out as being excellent in this area. Not sure why Aston has turned against him though 'guess' it might be his lack of real-gas.
Whatever I hope he does well and that England win - & win well on Saturday. Key there for me has to be the front 5 imposing themselves. If they play like they did against Italy we'll lose regardless of whether JW is fit or not.
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Well I am not a Harlequins season ticket holder, but I have seen Strettle play a couple of times on Sky this year and this kid looks the business. As someone has pointed out, experience is missing but he has everything else you could ask for in terms of rugby skills. Sad for Robinson, but to be honest his three tries have been about being in the right place at the right time rather than individual brilliance. Might I suggest any decent wing would have scored them in his place? And Strettle certainly has the brains to be in the right place at the right time. Good luck to the lad.
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Form over experience. That seems to be BA's mantra and after the Robinson years where he consistently picked out of form players, usually in the wrong position, we can't complain after we bleated on the message board for 2 years solid.
Having said, that with Streetle and Morgan in the back 3, I think ROG must be licking his lips with the idea of putting up some bombs and kicks behind them to soften them up before they move it wide in hand.
Any views on how Morgan will handle this?
Have to say I was nervous going into this game, but I think we could now ship 30 points, especially if Jonny is out.
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Strettle good luck for Saturday's game fella. I am sure you will be able to cope with the atmosphere in the so called cauldron. Just remember where those rugby skills were first unleashed in year seven to sixth form at Lymm High (what a team). Definatley have a few quid on you to score.
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I witnessed Strettle for the first time during a couple of the 7s tournaments. It would have been difficult to recognise him at times, having the same shaggy blond mane as Tait and Seymour who also played out of their skins all over the pitch, were it not for the fact that whenever he got the ball he seemed to leave everyone for dead. Those who think Tait has the potential of a dangerous speedster should see this guy when given a few yards of space. Stood out by a mile amongst all the other backs in terms of using that space. Maybe not quite as quick as Varndell but a better runner. Electric! But only if Ireland don't close him down...
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Ultimately this guy is in the squad because the Manager believes he's good enough. From an England perspective why not trial out alternatives! As for Ireland, I wish Boss was given another chance & Murphy! By the way, some England supporter just joked that if Wilko & Robinson are unable to play then we should drop ROG & BOD! It's not ROG & BOD I'd be worried about but more so Gordon Darcy, he's on fire this year!!
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Strettle is exactly the sort of winger England need - his finishing is superb and England need to score some tries.
Anyone who saw him play for England A at Exeter will confirm that he is a dangerous runner - I just hope the England centres tomorrow get the chance to give him the ball in a bit of space.
Admittedly it isn't the easiest time or place to get your first cap, but let's face it, England need to take some risks if they want to go to the WC with a team that can threaten the French and the AB's etc.
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Some of these comments show some people know nothing about rugby. Saying we are doomed because we now have an in-form, mobile, electric paced elusive runner on the wing is hilarious. Yes, losing Robinson is a shame, he is proven as a finisher BUT he can be one dimensional. Strettle has looked amazing for the Saxons and i think he will make the step up. We can't sit back and rely on experienced players all the time, otherwise we'll end up with a Vets team! Tait is not an out and out winger (though I do rate him very highly as a centre or maybe even fullback) and the world stage has evolved - if you don't have searing pace, forget it. I am hoping Ashton has a more positive approach to bringing on new players than A Robsinson who could not make a decision and stick with it.
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Saw strettle last week
he fairly cut up the saints.
I think he'll do well...
he's a bit skinny though...
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If Wilkinson does not play the sheer stupidity of the decision to play him without him showing he can stay fit comes home to roost - man has not been fit to play for 3 years but I bet he'd be fit all year over 10+ international games in 2 runs of 5 or more, doh.... So someone young and progressive and likely to be available for the world cup gets thrown in against an Ireland with something to prove.
Honestly why did Ashton throw all his eggs in a basket that might not be there come the world cup. Plus you have to play serveral more games in a successful world cup run than 2.
So we waste 2 matches trying players like Robinson and Wilkinson we know all about for what?
Given the amount of games in all sports we play surely it is time people woke up and realised a) no one is indispensible b) we should use the squad anyway as the All Blacks do c) celebrity name obsession is just that.
However plays no 10 is set up to fail and to further produce the Jonny myth. A myth I have to say unlike people in other sports he himself is well aware is a myth. Doubt it well question him not me about how he played in most matches in the last world cup or against Italy.
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'Comment 3 by Luke Swan' i believe is such a unknowledgable comment that it shouldnt be actually taken into consideration by anyone! Nothing against you Luke but you dont have a clue what you are talking about! First of all Strettle has proven himself at every level of rugby he has competed at (Sevens, premiership and Saxons) He is a young and exciting player similar to Matthew Tait he has pace, strength and raw talent. He is playing far better than Other England wingers like Cohen and Cueto are not in as much form as Strettle and it was Robinson choosing name over form that played a massive part in Englands dyer run of form since the world cup! Also i would like to add Ashton has made it very clear since he has taken the role of head coach that he does not want to put players out of their best position and Tait is seen to play best at 13 and not on the wing and this is why he will stay on the bench. If you look at the call-up of Morgan for the first match against Scotland they could of played Lewsey at Fullback and put Tait on the wing, but Ashton beleives Lewsey is best on the wing so he didnt make these positional changes.
In conclusion Strettle has been given this chance because he has earned it and Ashton would't play him in what is probably the most important macth of our 6 nations campaign and what i would say may prove to be the hardest!
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I don't a lot about Strettle; I watched him recently on TV and he looks a useful lad. He seems to generate a lot of enthusiasm here. But tomorrow, he'll experience rugby at a different level. I suspect he's going to have to spend a lot of his game-time trying to keep Shane Horgan quiet.
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@ Con, but you lost to a pretty mediocre french side who performed only in patches. Victory will be all the sweeter against ireland with or with out Robinson especially with your mindless comments. Two players dont make a team, the spirit england have found with Ashton is quite a turnaround, saturday cant come quick enough...bring it on!
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When England come out and hammer the lacklustre Irish tomorrow, this debate will all be forgotten. I'm sure Strettle and Flood (if required) will step up to the plate, as Ashton is a man who knows his players' strengths and abilities inside out. In addition to this I haven't seen anything special from the Ireland team so far in this tournament - even an understrength, underachieving French team made them look pedestrian in the "Cauldron" Croke Park. Having two world class centres doesn't magically produce a world beating team. When Ireland finally produce some consistency and win some meaningful silverware then maybe the rest of the world will take them seriously, until then.......
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I agree with all the quins supporters. I saw Strettle play against Bath twice and the man has pace to burn and a relatively educated boot.
I'm not sure I would have picked him though, because experience will count for a lot on Saturday.
That said, Mr Ashton is a wily old man and don't be surprised if he's not seen an Irish defensive weakness up for exploitation, who's Strettle's opposite number?
Alan #5 Chev Walker is alive and kicking and making great progress at Bath. He will be immense just not yet.
Derek #11 If England lose, it will be to a better side. No excuses, with or without JW/JR. What will the Irish excuse be?
Con #19 - erm isn't "missing both Stringer AND B O'D for the France game..........and came within 2 minutes of winning" the same excuse as "we had no Stringer or B O'D, thats why we lost".
Bottom line, Ireland should have put France away. Its got nothing to do with absences, they just choked on the big occasion.(just like last year)
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I think the reason Cueto is not being used is because Ashton wants to try and keep the same balance in the side. Cueto and Lewsey are of similar nature on the wing, and whilst JR is clearly in a class of his own, Strettle is more like him.
Tait is probably more use on the bench due to his versatility, playing at centre wing and FB for his club.
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Dan, you said
"Fair play to Strettle, he's clearly the in-form winger and I hope he takes his chance. But what does this say to Tait? Its an absolute kick in the teeth to a player who has awesome finishing ability and is probably one of the most naturally talented ball players in the side."
Ashton is saying to Tait: "At the moment you're second best Outside Centre in England, because Tindall is in such good form. Your ability to play wing is a bonus, especially from the bench, but your not in my list of top 3 or 4 wingers".
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I was greatly impressed by Daniel Cipriani in his HCup games here in France. Good defender, great runner. Many of us do not understand why he was not selected AHEAD of Robinson, especially with the RWC in mind. Now that JR is sidelined, why doesn't he make it in the team? Sure he's young, but how promising! Blood him. Or send him over here, we could use a good full back.
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Jason is a big loss - especially since seeing how awesome he was against Wasps the other day.
However, I'm not a Quins fan, but this guy Strettle is something special - I've watched him ever since he burst onto the Sevens scene and I've never seen him have a bad game (for anyone). Anyone who saw his superb try from 40 metres out against Ireland 'A' (highlights on the bbc website somewhere - 6:45 mins in) will see what I mean.
It's a bold statement, but I reckon he's the best wing in England at the moment - would love to have seen him on the other wing from Jason, with Josh at FB.
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It will be interesting to see who he lines up against.
Robinson played left side, and would have been up against Horgan. I suspect they might switch Lewsey to the left to deal with ROG's bombs, and stick Strettle on the right against coffin-dodger Hickie.
He is Wheeeeeeeeeellllllsss.
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Cueto should have been in the team however good Strettle's recent form is, against a team like Ireland it is experience and talent that make the difference and Cueto has this in bucketloads - he regularly pops up in midfield to add an extra element to the England attack, he has a massive boot that can help Faz (and Toby Flood if Wilko is out) in the centre and he is strong in defence. Strettle might be fast and a try machine but you need the experience, the mental and physical strength in defence as well as a strong attack to beat the top International sides. I applaud Ashton for his bravery but I hope Strettle can cope with Shane Horgan bearing down on him or worse still BOD and Horgan both attacking him! As to saying Jason Robinson is one dimensional it is just insane, the man has won every honour in rugby representing his Country in both codes including winning the Rugby World Cup and The Premiership with Sale. What more does he have to do to prove his worth, losing him is a massive blow, if Wilko goes as well then we will have to hope that the pack can control it from the front but on their showing against Italy last week I have the FEAR.
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Always sad to see somebody like Robinson missing, but if the Quins guys are to believed Strettle can do the job, sounds like another Duckham, which can't be bad. I wonder when a real England 15 gets on the pitch? One with Thompson, Moody, Stevens, Robinson and a few others who haven't been available. And I still rate Balshaw, which considering Ashton does is another player missing.
Either way I still fancy England to win this, its time for Farrell to impose himself.
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From what I've read so far, I can't wait to see Strettle in action. As mentioned already, I hope we can get the ball to him and in space too.
Wilkinson missing will not be the end of the world. We need to give our future players some experience at this level. I hope Flood is given a chance - if not tomorrow then before the Six Nations is over.
'Best' team out there or not, I still think Ireland will be too good for us right now. It's a question of how much better they are / worse we are. Good luck, England.
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Good luck to Strettle, I hope he isn't starved of the ball by the players inside of him as Lewsey has been on several occassions in the last two games
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there needs to be a reality check here!
the inlcusion of strettle for me is a smoke screen for the more important issue, and that is simply 'are england a good team?'... truth is i don't know. truth is i don't even think ashton knows...we've only palyed scotland and italy...tomorrow we will know for sure... even if we lose!
strettle could be the best winger in the world for all we know but if he hasn't got 14 other players around him playing decent rugby he may as well be the worst ... it's a position that only works when the rest of the team play well. i guarantee that if the enlgand pack don't turn up and take the game to the irish we will not see anything of strettle and he will return to that highly populated place for lost english wingers that includes chris oti, adedayo adebayo, john bentley, tom voyce and many many others...
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Good Lord, this guy sounds like the Messiah!
Simon Geoghan any one?
Lets have a chat about the poor lad after the event.
(Cumain Ireland!!)
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I'm looking forward to seeing what Strettle can do in an England shirt tomorrow, but as a Newcastle suuporter I would much rather see Mathew Tait getting some game time. What will it take for him to be given a chance to show himself at international level? He's been with the England squad now for 3 weeks and has to stay on the bench again while a player who has been with the squad for 3 days gets to start ahead of him - what must be going through his head at the moment??
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I saw Strettle play for Quins A v Wasps A at Henley earlier this year. He was fantastic! After the game I bored everyone with stories of how this guy was going to be a star " Remember the name Dave Strettle" I kept saying. This got the usual reponse of "who the hell is he?" All I can say is six months later its tough being proved right. I'm presently anoying everyone with constant reminders of my predictive powers.
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i feel sorry 4 him, obviously a lot of potential and a lot of speed, look who he is going to be against HORGAN so is defense is going to have to be strong!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! but if farell and Wilko can set him into space there could be sum fireworks!!!!!!!!!
does any one remember who Tom Varndell is?
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i am very relieved that charlie hodgson isn't available to step in!
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I won the bet with my bro. Strettle's a England starter. I made this bet the moment I saw him play 7's, & said he'll leave Rotherham and be at a premiership club soon. He'll be fine. Keep Ashton for 2011 WC, he's got the nuts to select, Strettle, Varndell, Tait, Lamb, Morgan, Thompstone, Ellis, Wigglesworth, Foden, Flood, Geraighty....Wilkinson. So much gas & talent. Lets get behind our boys at last. Robinson would never in a million years play these boys, but look at our U20 & Saxons XV. The talent's there, just needs right combo.
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Dont think you will read this stret but if u do good look fella, i think a few more people may recognise you next time ur in friers or flares!!
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I would like to make a couple of observations as I see it:-
1. Tait would not have even been considered by BA for JR's replacement as he is not a winger and to pick him would go against the most sensible selection for years - play the players in thier positions. I have to say I would like to see Tait line up in the centre outside Mike Tindal but definately nowhere near the wing - remember centres need pace too.
2. Strettle seems to be in good form and in him I think it is pretty much accepted that we have the pace. Lewsey is the power. It is important to have wingers of complementary skills.
3. I hope that JW is fit as this would make for a cracking contest. But I think that it is important to remember that Flood has earned the right to be second choice and should be given a chance - he will have kicking support from Farrell much as JW did from Catt when under preasure in the WC.
4. This game will not be won on the wide outsides or even in the half-backs. If the both packs tip up and play to thier best we will have a cracking game worthy of the Croker.
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u furgot to mension that he played for the mighty lymm rugby club 2
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i hope strettle is quicker than this blog's moderator!
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FAST FAST FAST, GREAT STEP, STRONGER THAN HE LOOKS,
Seen him play a few times for Rotherham, as long as he doesn't get carried away with the occasion he can stake his claim to a starting place next week aswell.
Sit back and enjoy the Spectacle of Streetle at full speed.
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I think its funny how people want to talk trash about Strettle's hyped up debut and immediately say things like "Young English players can't last the pace these days, look at Tait's debut!" ??? Are you joking? While none are probably more guilty of nursing hangovers than the English (WCs for footy and ruggers) if people are going to complain about echoes of the past then they should stop being hypocrites and lead by example. We've actually had some promising young talent come through: Morgan - not flashy, but did what was asked of him vs. Scotland; Lund - has yet to put a foot wrong and has an amazing work-rate; Ward-Smith - OK, so he didn't make it this year, and he isn't that young, but he'd sure have been exciting to watch and always deserves a mention! Dan with Eng vs Seabass with Fr! Mouthwatering!!!... given the right selections obviously.
Anyway, what I wanna say is give Dave a chance. He'll have his hands full with Horgan (one of my favourite players when fit) not to mention Darcy & BOD, which will present one of the sternest tests a player can face in int rugby these days, so even if he comes up short, I'll still back him for the future. Remember, it's about how he performs following his debut, as much as its about standing up and being counted on his debut. Something AR's management never seemed to understand...
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Every 1 @ Rotherham, Have been saying for years that, Strets would play for England 1 day!
In his 1st season for us he scored 18 tries in 22 appearances & 26 tries in 40 starts in total.
Every 1 could tell that he was something special in the making & now is chance as arisen, because of the unfortunate injury to Billy!
He as bulked out quite a bit since leaving us! But still may seem a little on the small size, but looks can be deceiving! ;)
He is lightening quick, but also quite strong in the tackle, his short time @ Quinn鈥檚 can only have enhanced his natural skills, which has thrown him into the England set up!
Half way through his last season @ Rotherham we knew he was being signed up by Quinn鈥檚, I told mate of mine (Who鈥檚 a Quinn鈥檚 fan) that they were getting a diamond from us & to tell all his mates about him!
He said that he hadn't heard anything, but would look out for him! He doesn't need much finding now! lol
Rotherham as a home game against Sedgley Park tomorrow, I hope it will be a special day for Strets, our club (Roth), Quinn鈥檚 & his family & friends.
All the best Dave! You deserve it on merit, Fella!
He shouldn't let us down!
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great debate but can the postings be put up a little quicker - it helps the dicussion gather mommentum. At the momment it has all the dynamism of the over 40's Loose Head Prop.
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I lived with Strett through University. He has more front than anyone else I know. This will not intimidate him in the slightest. I'd back him to have a big influence on the match.
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Jonny Booth - It's not just your predictive powers that you are annoying everyone with.
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It won't be long before Dave Strettle is a regular in the England side. He is like a young Jason Robinson with amazing footwork and speed. At the Stoop, when Strettle receives the ball, there is an feeling of anticipation and he doesn't disappoint. Being a Quins supporter and slightly biased I believe Dave Strettle is one of the most exciting rugby players in the Northern Hemisphere
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Strets has been immense for Quins this year. We all worried that he would have defensive frailties when we first saw him because he looks lightweight. However, he has proved to haven hidden strength. Last week he was up up against Ben Cohen and Northampton targeted him with everything they could throw at him but Cohen was made to look third rate in comparison and could not bully him even though he tried very hard.
The only way to get experience is to play and at 23 he is a good deal older than Tait was when he made his debut. He may well make mistakes tomorrow in the cauldron that is Croke Park but he is equally likely to produce a bit magic if and when he gets the ball.
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All you guys are getting things out of perspective.
This match is going to be decided by the forwards.
Neither Wilkinson nor Strettle can do much if they do not get the ball.
The england pack did not perform too well against the Italians, so the real question is " How good is the Italian pack"
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David Strettle is more than capable of lighting up Croke Park. He might even embarrass BOD and D'Arcy a few times - Joy! A shrewd selection by Ashton, again.
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Im pleased we get to see a bit more new blood.
I do worry when coaches go backwards so to ignore Ben Cohen for example takes a lot of thought. Its always easy to go back but thats the problem that has dogged our results prior to AR leaving.
With a World Cup around the corner and the dismal record under AR (Who I think took us back to the beginning again) new blood is welcome.
It means we may lose a few games but there is no way to avoid it given the current situation.
Ireland will give us a good test, and thats exactly what we need. A tough away game to build the teams synergy. I want to see signs of Intelligent Forward Dominance, fast ball, pace and constant phases using the whole team. I dont want to see Mr Corry wandering off on one of his solo missions and giving away turnover.
Im looking forward to FAZ and HRH Tindall V BOD and GD. So I hope thw wholw team is used and we some forwards and backs scoring and our defence holds strong. Im sure it will be a great sporting crowd in a fantastic venue.
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Good to see Ashton having the courage to pick an out and out winger, rather than shoving Tait in out of position!
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i think you are all to pesimistick and should have a little aith in strettle, i have known him for a while and do not doubt his ability to perform on saturday, he has worked hard for this his whole life. it is exactly what england needs, new blood, rather than bringing players back out of retirment!
also luke swan... have alittle faith! he is not nick named "the strettle express" for nothing !!
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as a Rotherham fan who has seen David play many many times, i think he will take it all in his stride, don`t be suprized if he scores, he is the natural heir to the right wing throne, we all new he`d play for England one day, well done
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sorry post 85
but it's hard to have faith in a team thats been beaten so much over the past few years. As for the new players coming in who were meant to save English rugby (Tait, Varndell, Palmer etc) all have not repeated their club form at international level nor would I expect them to without international experience. Remeber a young Wilkinson on the tour of hell? (76-0 oh the shame and to the Ozzie's as well!)
I expect the same to happen to strettle though I hope for Englands sake he is the firecracker the Quins season ticket holders say he is.
A quick message to the Toby Flood fans, he is no replacement for Wilkinson and never will be not even charlie hodgeson at his best was as good as an average jonny.
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post 87. "..all have not repeated their club form at international level nor would I expect them to without international experience....
A quick message to the Toby Flood fans, he is no replacement for Wilkinson and never will be..."
How do you know that until he actually gets international experience?
JW is a very fine rugby player but we do him and English rugby a disservice if we elevate him to some untouchable exalted status. At some point a reliable no 2 will have to be found, and can only be found by being played at international level. TF is 21; you should allow talent to develop rather than lumbering it with such dogmatic opinion.
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As a Rotherham fan I dont think we ever had a quicker winger than Dave Strettle. I am sure he will not let England down. Its a pity there is not a transfer market in Rugby Union. We might have got a few quid for him
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Saw David play in Amsterdam 7s and thought he would make the big scene someday, saw him again at the world games and was sure of it. Since then he has rushed thru the premiership, England 7s, Saxons and now England. BRILLIANT Player, and will certainly not budge an inch. His pace is electrifying, he is exactly hat England needs at this time. Watch out for this man.
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Derek at 11 - WHAT?!?!
"the locals living beside Croke Park, most of whom are Sinn Fein supporters..."
You are either Irish and taking the mick completely (I hope), or English and completely clueless!
I too hope Jonny is fit so that the English media can have no excuses when we kick England's ass today!
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As yet another Quins STH I have to reflect the response of many Quins and Rotherham fans. Strettle has managed to displace some excellent players in the Quins side and has proven to be a massive hit with the fans at the Stoop.
Lets just hope he can stand up to the pressure of Croke Park (along with the rest of the squad) and get enough ball to show what he is capable of.
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It's funny listening to all the irish supporters saying: i would've prefered to beat a full strength england team rather than a weakened one. As a neutral i would tip it to be a close game and i certainly heard any english supporters saying: oh im glad brian o'driscolls back so we can play a full strength irish team!
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Well, in the case wilkinson doesn't make it, dear old Toby needs the chance. Naturally he doesn't have the experience yet, but having seen him kick 8 from 8 and create a good few tries against Sale not so long ago, he obviously can play. One of those tries incidently followed Floods pop out of the tackle after catching his own chip ahead to a certain young centre/winger/fullback (depending upon time of day) who proceeded to mesmerize Jason Robinson before scoring under the posts, something in fact he has done in every game I've seen against sale.... Wonder if he gets off the bench today?
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People r talking abour BOD & Darcy but don`t 4get that they can`t play without the ball & FAZ & TINDALL are not pushovers these 2 guys can defend & can turnover ball themselves.
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I am neither a quins supporter nor a STH as I live in Wales so I like to watch the Magners league but I think Ashton has made a good decision based on the facts - yes there are other players who could fill in for JR but Cueto certainly is not right for this game - I would have preferred to see a full strength English side take on the Irish but itll just make the victory all the more pleasing with JR out - JW is in so that is great but when you look at it he is not gonna have too much to do - this is Ireland not Italy - Ireland are one of the best teams in the game at the moment and I will be surprised if they give much away but in terms of Flood's ability - sure he can fill in and do a good job in Wilko's place but JW brings hope and I would suggest control to the game - his very presence on the field reassures the rest of the squad not to mention the fans - he also gets stuck in to help out in the rucks and mauls but JW brings what no-one else can to the side (except perhaps Martin Johnson - the best captain England has had in a long time) he brings hope and the feeling of invincibility - yes that can be a danger but as long as England realise they are not invincible and the feeling is just a bouyoncy aid (which after the Italy game they should) something to keep them above water long enough to get help in this case long enough to keep them going until they have won the game.
Ireland as already said are a great team but England have it all to play for the Grandslam, the triple crown, the championship even the World Cup - should England take the Grandslam this year which they can do then it gives renewed hope for the World Cup that maybe just maybe we wont actually lose the title this year after all - or if we do then it will be to a worthy team like NZ All Blacks not to a developing team like Wales for example. Ireland on the other hand have the triple crown and the championship - arguably thats it - they already have a team capable of reaching the RWC Final and they dont need to improve it - Ireland though not Grandslam winners recently have a group of fans that believe in their team and have seen their team go from strength to to strength England fans have watched their steam slowly descend from World Champions to World Laughing Stock - the only team to go from heros to zeros as quickly as they have since the RWC began (sources are not so reliable so that could be wrong) but England now have a team that are hungry for the Grandslam that feel they can beat IRELAND and can indeed as long as they concentrate on the game at hand and not on the other things surrounding this game.
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Well done Strettle. I knew you wouldnt be fazed..
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Well done Strett, Rotherham rugby club went crackers when he scored yesterday. Notice how the Irish kept targetting him early but he rose to the challenge.
Pity he didn't get more ball.
Question: If you do away with promotion and relegation what would be the incentive for academys like Rotherham's to strike up arrangements like they have with Sheffield Hallam University and bring on the likes of Strett?
Excellent debut Strett and always remember to " Run reight fast!"
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He always had lightening pace at Lymm High and was always astounding to watch in school games. Keep it up!
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