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The Planet Rugby Awards 2008
It's that time of year again when we reward all those kind enough to have provided entertainment over the past 12 months, wittingly or not!
A glance back at 2008 - Part Two
If 2008 did not exactly reach the peaks of 2007, it didn't disappoint for intrigue either. There were no World Cups, few extraordinary moments, few moments of pure drama to remember, but plenty of events that will be recalled further down the line as moments that may have defined the years to come. Certainly it will be remembered as the year the south pulled clear again in terms of performance and ability. But why?
A glance back at 2008 - Part One
If 2008 did not exactly reach the peaks of 2007, it didn't disappoint for intrigue either. There were no World Cups, few extraordinary moments, few moments of pure drama to remember, but plenty of events that will be recalled further down the line as moments that may have defined the years to come. Certainly it will be remembered as the year the south pulled clear again in terms of performance and ability. But why?
Match Officials: 2009 Six Nations
The International Rugby Board (IRB) has released the list officials for the 2009 Six Nations, which kicks off when England host Italy at Twickenham on 7 February.
State of the nation - Ireland
The future does not look good for Ireland at the moment. A 50-point whitewash of Canada did not disguise the shortcomings evident in defeat to New Zealand or in victory over Argentina, nor the sense of unease still hanging round the team from last year's World Cup.
BOD seeks World Cup redemption
Ireland centre and skipper Brian O'Driscoll admits his team should be disappointed by their World Cup record but hopes 2011 will be different.
Ireland prepared for another Pool scrap
Declan Kidney fears Ireland will be targeted by lesser nations after being drawn alongside Australia at the 2011 World Cup.
Lions boss keeping positive
Gerald Davies, who will manage the British and Irish Lions to South Africa next year, has said that the home nations must not get depressed by another set of disappointing results in the November internationals.
Four Munstermen stay loyal
The Irish Rugby Football Union and Munster Rugby have announced that Paul O'Connell, Denis Leamy, David Wallace and John Hayes have all agreed terms for new contracts to remain playing their club rugby in Ireland with Munster.
Kidney keeping things in perspective
Declan Kidney believes keeping a balanced perspective when Ireland win or lose is crucial to restoring the team's confidence.
O'Callaghan reveals a hatred for Pumas
Donncha O'Callaghan has exposed the depth of hostility between Ireland and Argentina.
O'Driscoll hails Irish spirit
Ireland captain Brian O'Driscoll praised his side's spirit and fighting qualities as they held off Argentina to claim a deserved 17-3 victory at Croke Park on Saturday.
BOD standing tall
Brian O'Driscoll said Ireland refused to be intimidated by Argentina during their 17-3 victory after being criticised for their capitulation to New Zealand.
Ireland control heat to stay in pot two
Ireland shrugged off both factors of three years away and also the grunt of Argentina to secure their place in rugby's second tier as they won 17-3 at Croke Park on Saturday.
Murphy expects aerial warfare
Ireland full-back Geordan Murphy is braced for an aerial bombardment when Ireland collide with Argentina at Croke Park on Saturday.
