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

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