The News Review:
- Super 14 takes Euro hit
- Ulster stand Toulouse out in Cup cash dash.(SPORT)
- End of an era as Shields heads North.(SPORT)
Super 14 takes Euro hit
NEWS.com.au – May 27, 2007
Playmaking backs are also high on the recruiting list with the 10 English Premiership clubs next season likely to field as few as three homegrown flyhalves. The situation will only get worse for southern hemisphere operations as money flows into northern club coffers as rugby rides an unprecedented wave of popularity. Leading French club Stade Francais had four sell-out crowds of 79000 this season while last weekend’s Heineken Cup final between Leicester and London Wasps drew a record club crowd of 82000 at Twickenham. The money available in France is so great that second division side Toulon has been able to offer huge contracts to Wallaby captain George Gregan and former champion All Blacks Oliver and Justin Marshall. Springbok Victor Matfield the world’s best lock is also contemplating a move after leading the Bulls to the Super 14 title this year. Earlier this season Toulon signed former All Blacks captain Tana Umaga to an eight-game contract reputedly worth $A700000. Club crowds in England are up across the board with most clubs planning extensive upgrades to their small and outdated grounds to increase revenue.
Ulster stand Toulouse out in Cup cash dash.(SPORT)
highbeam.com – May 27, 2007
find Sunday Life (Belfast Northern Ireland) articles. Byline: PETER BILLS REPORTS SO the Heineken Cup has been saved and everyone should rejoice.
End of an era as Shields heads North.(SPORT)
highbeam.com – May 27, 2007
All inquiries regarding rights should be directed to the Gale Group. (Hide copyright information) Byline: CIARAN DONAGHY HOOKER Paul Shields has enjoyed an illustrious career with Ulster. He is one of an exclusive band of players to reach a century of caps for the Province he enjoyed Celtic League and Cup success was an integral part of the side that claimed some of the biggest scalps in Europe during the memorable Heineken Cup occasions and represented Ireland twice. Shields is now ready to embark on a new adventure after signing a three year contact with former European Cup winners Northampton. The former Ulster Schools captain is looking forward to the challenge as the Saints look to emulate London Harlequins and Leeds by bouncing straight back to the.