Josh Lewsey's - French Thoughts -Talking to Zurich
Josh Lewsey MBE
By Kath 31/3/04
March 31 2004
England's Josh Lewsey talks to Zurich and Metro about the French! But, for me, the biggest plus was a rejuvenated Welsh team. Plus It was most peculiar having our post-France match meal at three in the morning. He also talks a bit Waspish?
For immediate
release: 31 March 2004
Issued on behalf of Zurich
Josh Lewsey on www.zurichrugbyclub.com
and in Metro
A sting in the tale.
As another Six Nations ends, the press
are left to pontificate on the success of France. Firstly, I'd say they have
been the best side both throughout the tournament and against us last Saturday
and fully deserved their title.
We have shown over the past few years how hard it is to win the Grand Slam.
Consequently, after lifting the trophy last season, it was with great envy
but no lack of admiration we looked on as French skipper Fabien Pelous raised it
aloft on Saturday night.
However, speaking now as an independent sports fan, the tournament will also be
noted for its competitive nature. Ireland once again proved themselves a
world-class outfit and have rid themselves of the 'nearly men' tag.
The Italians, as I predicted, have progressed from the World Cup and took the
scalp of Scotland. But, for me, the biggest plus was a rejuvenated Welsh team.
They offered glimpses of their capabilities in the World Cup and, the Ireland
game aside, showed not just their natural flair, but a hard-nosed physical
professionalism. This can only bode well for the strength of the Lions next
summer.
It also shows quite clearly that if the domestic structure is right, sooner or
later, the end product will be superior.
It was most peculiar having our post-France match meal at three in the morning.
Although we in Blighty are still comparatively uncivilised with our draconian
drinking hours, even the French struggled with the lamb shank at a time more
usually reserved for kebabs.
Back to Wasps this week and Joe Worsley and myself popped straight back to watch
the boys get a convincing five points against Rotherham. Although we will face
tougher challenges in coming weeks, I can't help but have the utmost respect for
the Rotherham players. Although they have not won a game all season, their
endeavour and work rate deserve far more credit
than they will receive.
I have also been in a struggling Bristol team which wore its heart on its sleeve
every week but still rarely got the bounce of the ball.
This tends to make heads drop and destroy morale. Yet none of that was visible
with Rotherham.
Although this may be small consolation to them, they did break our defensive
line more times than any other team so far this year.
ENDS