UNCONVENTIONAL WORLD RECORDS

Sandakan.biz by Chris Kwan: http://www.vixa.com/sdk/
Any SabahNet equivalent?

sms jokes/points to ponder received recently

malaysia boleh! penyelidik di jabatan pertanian stesen lagut sebrang, tenom telah berjaya mengahwinkan pokok avokado dengan pokok kedundong, hasilnya Kadoh Agundong.

research shows men are fatter than women becos every night men get fresh milk and 2 big papayas while women only get 1 banana, 2 peanuts and 1 teaspoon of mayonaisse.

pak lah jadi pm ke-5 pada 5 ramadhan, hari ke-5 (jumaat), setelah 5 penggal jadi MP (78-82, 82-86, 86-91, 91-96, 96-99)

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what does it mean when a girl offers PEPSI to a guy? Please Enter Penis Slowly Inside - ask for more!

Unfortunately, this is an urban legend: http://urbanlegends.about.com/library/blbyol9.htm
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1994’s Most Bizarre Suicide

At the 1994 annual awards dinner given by the American Association for Forensic Science, AAFS president Don Harper Mills astounded his audience in San Diego with the legal complications of a bizarre death. Here is the story:

On 23 March 1994, the medical examiner viewed the body of Ronald Opus and concluded that he died from a shotgun wound to the head. The decedent had jumped from the top of a ten-story building intending to commit suicide (he left a note indicating his despondency). As he fell past the ninth floor, his life was interrupted by a shotgun blast through a window, which killed him instantly. Neither the shooter nor the decedent was aware that a safety net had been erected at the eighth floor level to protect some window washers and that Opus would not have been able to complete his suicide anyway because of this.

Ordinarily, Dr. Mills continued, a person who sets out to commit suicide ultimately succeeds, even though the mechanism might not be what he intended. That Opus was shot on the way to certain death nine stories below probably would not have changed his mode of death from suicide to homicide. But the fact that his suicidal intent would not have been successful caused the medical examiner to feel that he had a homicide on his hands. The room on the ninth floor whence the shotgun blast emanated was occupied by and elderly man and his wife. They were arguing and he was threatening her with the shotgun. He was so upset that, when he pulled the trigger, he completely missed his wife and pellets went through the window striking Opus. When one intends to kill subject A but kills subject B in the attempt, one is guilty of the murder of subject B.

When confronted with this charge, the old man and his wife were both adamant that neither knew that the shotgun was loaded. The old man said it was his long standing habit to threaten his wife with the unloaded shotgun. He had no intention to murder her - therefore, the killing of Opus appeared to be an accident. That is, the gun had been accidentally loaded.

The continuing investigation turned up a witness who saw the old couple’s son loading the shotgun approximately six weeks prior to the fatal incident. It transpired that the old lady had cut off her son’s financial support and the son, knowing the propensity of his father to use the shotgun threateningly, loaded the gun with the expectation that his father would shoot his mother. The case now becomes one of murder on the part of the son for the death of Ronald Opus.

There was an exquisite twist. Further investigation revealed that the son, one Ronald Opus, had become increasingly despondent over the failure of his attempt to engineer his mother’s murder. This led him to jump off the ten- story building on March 23, only to be killed by a shotgun blast through a ninth story window.

The medical examiner closed the case as a suicide.

Muslim answer to Barbie dolls - Razanne

online Razanne merchant + pics
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original newsstory:
http://story.news.yahoo.com/news?tmpl=story&cid=519&ncid=519&e=10&u=/ap/20031008/ap_on_re_us/muslim_barbie

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This is an original mailblog, no forwards

Britney Spears Says She’s Not a Virgin: sheesh…….she finally publicly admitted what we’ve known, or at least suspected for so long……..

http://story.news.yahoo.com/news?tmpl=story&u=/nm/20030708/en_nm/people_spears_dc_4

Useful information on startup programs in Windows, including how to identify these programs, how to disable them:

http://www.pacs-portal.co.uk/startup_pages/startup_full.htm

Rugby World Cup 2003, Australia (Rubgy Union)

www.rugbyworldcup.com

Semifinals start 15 Nov 2003

New Zealand 10-22 Australia (stunning upset!)
1 Tries 1
1 Conversions 1
1 Penalties 5
0 Drop Goals 0
7 Scrums 10
48% Possession 52%
55% Territory 45%
0 Yellow Cards 0
0 Red Cards 0

AUS 22 v NZL 10: What they said

Australia captain George Gregan

On Australia’s against-the-odds victory over New Zealand:

“It was a massive effort by everyone, I think everyone in the 22 was used tonight. New Zealand have been the world’s best team this year, so it was a great effort. It has given us the opportunity to play for the ultimate prize and that’s next week, so we don’t want to get too carried away.”

On whether the team had worked on its defence in the week’s lead-up to the match.

“We worked hard on that aspect. Defence wins big matches at the end of a Tournament. And they (New Zealand) have some dangerous players, Carlos, Justin, every single one of their back line, Gerry Collins … you have got to get off the line, otherwise they get good go forward.”

Australia centre and try scorer Stirling Mortlock

On the game:

“I really enjoyed it out there … I felt we got some really good ball … it was good fun.

“All week we had a strong game plan and a good preparation and to our credit, we put it into play.”

On his intercept try:

“I made sure I dived very early.”

On the win:

“It’s very satisfying, but now there’s a job in front of us. We need to be prepared.”

All Black captain Reuben Thorne

On the game:

“I thought we prepared well all week but they showed a lot of character out there tonight. They (Australia) defended with there lives.”

“We just couldn’t hold the ball enough tonight.”

On New Zealand’s fans:

“Thanks to everyone who supported us, we’re sorry.”

All Black fly half Carlos Spencer

On the mood after the loss:

“Our boys are pretty down tonight, we’re pretty disappointed. They shut us down and didn’t let us play our game. Credit to Australia they played well.

On his game:

“It’s frustrating for me but it’s hard to play without the ball.”

The Wallabies booked their second finals berth in as many Rugby World Cups with a 22 � 10 win over the All Blacks in front of a capacity crowd at Sydney�s Telstra Stadium tonight.

It’s the fourth time a host nation has made it through to the final.

Bustling defence and domination of the line out and set pieces denied the All Blacks any rhythm in attack.

The defending champions led 13-7 at the break courtesy of a try to centre Stirling Mortlock and 8 points from the boot of Elton Flatley.

Three second half penalties from Flatley to Leon MacDonald�s one, secured the Wallabies passage to the final.

Wallaby fly half Stephen Larkham and Mortlock created plenty of headaches for the All Blacks defence throughout the match with clever angled running.

In contrast, the Wallabies miserly defence led admirable by flankers George Smith and Phil Waugh starved the All Blacks back line of much needed attacking opportunities.

Australian captain George Gregan said prior to the match that the Wallabies won�t win the match in the first 20 minutes but they could lose it.

The world�s most capped scrum half should have been happy with his side�s first twenty minutes.

The much-anticipated Wallabies expansive running game unfolded in the first minute with the Wallabies spreading it wide from the first play.

First, inside centre Elton Flatley broke the line in the second minute, then it was Stirling Mortlock�s turn but the Australian centre was called back after Wallabies No. 2 Brendan Cannon was penalised for blocking All Blacks fly half Carlos Spencer.

Anxious moment

Australia survived an anxious moment early when the All Blacks sent the ball quickly to the right flank but a Lote Tuqiri covering tackle forced a Mils Muliaina knock on in goal.

Moments later Mortlock intercepted a Spencer pass and raced the full length of the field to score. Flatley easily converted to give the Wallabies a 7-0 lead after 10 minutes.

All Blacks number 8 Jerry Collins and Ali Williams pulled of some big hits early, Collins earning the ire of English referee Chris White with a high shot on Wallabies second rower Nathan Sharpe in the 22nd minute.

Two Flatley penalty goals extended the Wallabies lead to 13-0. MacDonald missed with two penalty goal attempts.

All Blacks hit back

Australia paid dearly for a simple turnover just before the break, All Blacks skipper Reuben Thorne crossing for a converted try after a Larkham mistake.

Bustling defence from the defending champions didn�t allow the All Blacks to find any rhythm in attack in the first half, while Larkham and Mortlock have created plenty of headaches for the All Blacks defence with clever angled running.

Australia also dominated the line out and the set pieces to control the game at the break.

Another good start

Australia began the second half as they did the first running with ball in hand, Mortlock again finding space in the opening phases before a Flatley penalty extended Australia�s lead to nine in the 42nd minute.

The Wallabies then had to defend grimly as the All Blacks put several good attacking phases together but were unable to cross the Wallabies line.

Flatley�s fourth penalty goal from as many attempts gave Australia a 19-7 lead after 52 minutes. MacDonald quickly responded with a penalty goal of his own to reduce the lead to nine.

On the hour Flatley�s deadly accurate boot gave Australia a 12 point lead after the All Blacks were penalised in front of their own goal posts.

Australia suffered a late blow with Mortlock limping from the field with nine minutes on the clock.

Scores

Australia 22
Tries: Mortlock
Conversions: Flatley (1)
Penalties: Flatley (5)

Defeated

New Zealand 10
Tries: Thorne
Conversions: MacDonald (1)
Penalties: MacDonald (1)

—————————————————————————
France 7-24 England (another upset!)
1 Tries 0
1 Conversions 0
0 Penalties 5
0 Drop Goals 3
10 Scrums 13
40% Possession 60%
40% Territory 60%
2 Yellow Cards 0
0 Red Cards 0

Jonny Wilkinson was the hero for England with all of their points in a 24-7 defeat of France at a rain lashed Telstra Stadium in Sydney that ended their 12 year wait for a second Rugby World Cup final appearance.

The England fly half won the battle of the kickers with Fr�d�ric Michalak, collecting three drop goals, two of them with his �wrong� right foot, and five penalties to give England the chance to avenge the 12-6 defeat in the 1991 final by Australia at Twickenham.

Wilkinson�s haul took his tally for the Tournament to 98 points, five shy of the benchmark of Michalak, who had a poor night with the boot, missing four penalties before he was hauled off with 17 minutes remaining in favour of Gerald Merceron.

England adapted better to the terrible conditions, and the French ill-discipline was a factor, with both wing Christophe Dominici and flanker Serge Betsen sin binned.

Dominici was first to see Paddy O�Brien�s yellow card, the wing tripping Jason Robinson in the 23rd minute and injuring himself in the process so Clement Poitrenaud ultimately replaced him.

Betsen had scored the only try of the match in the 10th minute, but then turned villain when, having been warned by referee O�Brien for not rolling away, he took Wilkinson out with a late tackle in the 53rd minute.

Passions ran high with such a prize at stake and there were a few minor confrontations in the opening minutes, England prop Phil Vickery having to leave the field with blood coming from his nose in the fifth minute.

This merely allowed Jason Leonard onto the field for his 112th cap to surpass the previous record of French centre Philippe Sella who, ironically, made his last appearance against England in the 1995 RWC third/fourth place playoff.

France committed an error deep in their own 22 when their scrum pushed before the ball was put in, giving England a free kick which they worked through a couple of phases before Wilkinson kicked a drop goal with his right foot in the ninth minute.

The heavens opened in Sydney, just as they had done two hours before kick off when temperatures halved to 16 degrees celsius, as Michalak converted Betsen�s early try � his only successful kick of the night.

Michalak then missed with his first two penalty attempts, the second coming after England captain Martin Johnson, making his record 17th consecutive RWC appearance, infringed again in the ruck.

England went in 12-7 ahead at half time and the pressure seemed to be getting to both kickers in the first 10 minutes of the second period with Wilkinson missing two penalties to one by his opposite number Michalak.

England had been criticised for their performances to this point, but lived up to their billing as pre Tournament favourites and retiring French captain Fabien Galthi� admitted immediately afterwards that �the best team won the match�.

France: 7

Tries: Betsen
Conversions: Michalak

England: 24

Penalties: Wilkinson (5)
Drop goals: Wilkinson (3)

Clive Woodward (ENG) - Coach

On the victory over France:

�A lot of the game is commonsense. It is a huge night for England and we are very pleased about the final next week and we are ready for Australia.

�The English fans are incredible. This is better than Twickenham. It is a happy change room. We came here to win, so it is a good day and we are happy to be in the final.�

On the conditions:

�It rains in France too. I have been there on holiday. Tonight we played the conditions and we played pretty well. I am confident this team can beat anyone, anywhere at any time, in any conditions.�

Martin Johnson (ENG) - Captain

On the victory over France:

�We kicked the ball well today. The second half was mainly in their half. We would like to have scored a try, but, oh well, we are into the final.

�We weren’t happy to see the rain before the game. We were lucky he [France's Fr�d�ric Michalak] missed his kicks … that�s part of the game.�

On Jonny Wilkinson:

�People said to him during the week - ‘Have you turned the corner?’ … he’s the best fly half in the world. We are lucky to have him. I’m just glad he’s on our side.�

Bernard Laporte (FRA) - Coach

On the conditions:

�It was not so easy to play. It is much better for us to have a dry ball for long passes. The wet ball was very difficult for us. When it is not so good, it puts the pressure on the team. We prefer the sun.

On the French discipline after two yellow cards:

�We make many faults when playing under such pressure, minute after minute. Jonny Wilkinson has a very good ability to put the teams under pressure. He played a great match. It was fantastic for him.�

Fabien Galthi� (FRA) - Captain

�Today the best team won the match … won the pressure of the match. The weather conditions were quite difficult for us. England were better than us.

�We are disappointed, but the World Cup is for England. It is difficult for us to play in the rain, we like to run with the ball and to make moves, so today it was difficult for us.�

Tony Marsh (FRA) - Centre

�We are pretty disappointed. We made a lot of mistakes, we couldn’t put it together. They [England] put a lot of pressure on us.

�We wanted to play expansively, but the conditions weren�t good for that. They played better rugby.�

—————————————————————————
QF starting 8 Nov 2003

Quarterfinalists are all professional rugby players

New Zealand 29-9 South Africa
3 Tries 0
1 Conversions 0
3 Penalties 3
1 Drop Goals 0
15 Scrums 10
62% Possession 38%
55% Territory 45%
0 Yellow Cards 0
0 Red Cards 0

New Zealand first into the semis

08/11/2003
By Derek Tipper

The All Blacks are the first team through to Rugby World Cup semi finals with a comprehensive 29-9 win over South Africa in the first quarter final from the Telstra Dome in Melbourne tonight.

It is the first time South Africa have failed to make the RWC semi finals and the fifth time New Zealand have made it through.

A Carlos Spencer through the legs pass for a Joe Rokocko try on 71 minutes summed up the night for South Africa, outplayed by a more confident and ultimately better organised All Black XV.

The All Blacks led 13-6 at half time, inside centre Leon MacDonald contributing all the points with a try, two penalties and a conversion, while rookie Springbok fly half Derick Hougaard kicked two penalties.

South Africa opened the second half the more aggressive of the two teams, missing a golden opportunity inside the first minute, Jorrie Muller deciding to hold on with the line open and scrum half van der Westhuizen unmarked and screaming for the ball on his left.

Width against brawn

It was a classic battle of attacking width against defensive brawn, the attack winning three tries to none.

The All Black display was not without defensive muscle, twice repelling Springbok attacks from 10 metres. South Africa opted for the lineout from penalties within kicking range twice in a minute and failed to convert either into a try.

All Black hooker Keven Mealamu topped off a fabulous game with ball in hand, scoring the second New Zealand try on 59 minutes with a 20 metre try from classic pick and drive play.

Mealumu was the best of a generally good XV, number 8 Jerry Collins and fly half Spencer also very effective. For South Africa none were better than skipper Corne Krige.

Scoring opportunity

It was left to inside centre Aaron Mauger to start the second half scoring, dropping a goal from 20 metres on 44 minutes to make the score 16-6.

Kees Meeuws was held up over the line on 52 minutes and Marshall knocked on a metre out a minute later as the All Blacks built pressure inside the Springbok half for a full 10 minutes.

New Zealand forced the promised Springbok defensive �wall of green� to do most of its work in their own territory for much of the half, the All Blacks converting only one of four breaks.

A late 50 metre pick and drive operation by the Springboks went six phases, producing a scrum inside the All Black 22 from which scrum half Joost van der Westhuizen went in to touch a metre from the corner post.

Hougaard kicked a penalty in the final seconds of the half.

New Zealand had the better of the opening

New Zealand had the better of the opening ten minutes, enjoying 77 percent of possession, the Springboks missing seven tackles as the All Blacks employed an effective pick and drive strategy against a defence not willing to overcommit bodies at the breakdown.

Justin Marshall made a long break on seven minutes but failed to find a flying Rokocoko, the All Blacks taking the first points through a Leon MacDonald penalty when Springbok hands were caught playing the ball on the ground, 3-0 New Zealand.

As if bored by the cut and thrust of the opening, All Black fly half Carlos Spencer attacked the line on 16 minutes, slicing through with a dummy inside and a change of pace to beat flanker Danie Rossouw and Victor Matfield on the left before sending MacDonald in under the posts for a 10-0 lead.

The All Blacks exploited the fast rushing defence of inside centre De Wet Barry, first Aaron Mauger found space and then MacDonald sliced through but both times the ball carriers ran away from their support and the play broke down.

New Zealand now play the winner of Australia and Scotland in Sydney on Saturday 15 November at Telstra Stadium.

The South Africans are eliminated at the earliest stage of their RWC history.

post match comments

All Black coach John Mitchell; On his feelings after the 29-9 defeat of South Africa:
“I’m happy, but you always look to improve. You only get a small window of enjoyment, so you take it when it comes.”

On the forwards’ performance: “I was very impressed with the forward pack. They were superb tonight.”

On the performance of the South Africans: “This was a better South African side than we experienced earlier in the year.”

New Zealand fly half Carlos Spencer: “We had the space and we used it. The guys were positive and turned it into points. The combinations really paid off and worked well for us.”

South Africa coach Rudolf Straeuli
On the defeat: “I am disappointed because we came here to win the Tournament and did not. We won a lot of hearts on and off the field. Maybe (the team) has come together a year too soon, but I am proud of the boys, they are true ambassadors for South Africa.”

On the reception the Springboks will receive when they return home: “For both countries rugby is something that goes back in our heritages and history. We will be disappointed back home. We have to look forward and not let the emotion ride us.”

————————
Australia 33-16 Scotland
3 Tries 1
3 Conversions 1
4 Penalties 2
0 Drop Goals 1
11 Scrums 7
52% Possession 48%
44% Territory 56%
0 Yellow Cards 0
0 Red Cards 0

Australia join All Blacks in semis

Australia defeated Scotland 33-16 in their sudden death clash at Brisbane�s Suncorp Stadium tonight in front of a sell out crowd.

The Wallabies scored three tries to one in the 17 point win, setting up a semi final clash with New Zealand at Telstra Stadium in Sydney next Saturday, November 15.

The defending champions recorded their 11th consecutive RWC win, eclipsing their previous Tournament record by one, which they jointly held with New Zealand and South Africa.

The Wallabies struggled in the first half, coming up against a tenacious Scotland side intent on upsetting the home nation’s back to back title ambitions.

But tries to centre Stirling Mortlock in the 47th minute and skipper George Gregan on the hour, broke the 9-9 half time deadlock, putting the result beyond doubt.

Elton Flatley collected 18 points from three conversions and four penalties.

Tight first half

In a tryless first half both sides were intent on spreading the ball wide early, with only last minute defence ending impressive attacking plays.

Scotland came out with all guns blazing but it was the Wallabies who posted first points through fly half Elton Flatley, kicking a penalty in the 4th minute after Scotland number 8, Simon Taylor was penalised for offside play.

Scotland attempted to counter only minutes later after wing Kenny Logan put the ball into the Wallabies in goal area but Wendell Sailor was their to cover it up.

From the ensuing play Australia�s left wing Lote Tuqiri made a break down the left flank only to be brought down in a great covering tackle by Scotland fly half Chris Paterson.

Scotland rewarded

Scotland�s early pressure was rewarded with a penalty to Paterson in the 13th minute to level the scores at 3-3.

The Wallabies, suffering early line out jitters, were denied a certain try in the 15th minute after full back Mat Rogers knocked on with Sailor in support, after Tuqiri had earlier injected himself into the back line.

Tuqiri was impressive with the ball in hand gaining ground each time he touched the ball.

Flatley and Paterson traded penalties to square it up at 6-6 before a Flatley penalty edged the Wallabies ahead 9-6.

A huge 48 metre Paterson drop goal again levelled the scores two minutes from the break.

Wallabies get it together

Seven minutes after the break Stirling Mortlock dashed 60 metres to score the first try of the match after good work from flanker Phil Waugh at the breakdown. The Flatley conversion gave Australia some breathing space at 16-9.

On the hour Wallaby captain George Gregan capitalised on another incisive Tuqiri run toeing the ball ahead from the ensuing breakdown before diving on the ball to score beside the posts. Flatley easily converted to put the result beyond doubt.

Number 8 David Lyons was rewarded with a try, crashing over in the 65th minute, to extend Australia�s lead to 24 points.

Scotland rallied with a late try to Australian-born replacement Rob Russell but it was all in vain.

Waugh and Tuqiri were the best of the Australians, ably supported by number 8 David Lyons.

Australia suffered a late blow with replacement fly half Matt Giteau leaving the field injured with eight minutes remaining.

AUS 33 SCO 16: What They Said

Australia captain George Gregan

On the performance:

“Well we are in the Semi Finals. You’ve got to be happy with that. It was a tough game, they came out exactly how we expected. We were a little bit ill-disciplined in the first half, but we started the second half really well and we went on from there and that was good.”

On concerns at half time:

“We just didn’t have possession at that stage. We hadn’t put many phases on them. We realised the opportunities. It was just a matter of being disciplined, being patient and they would come. That did occur with the try on the pressure on play to Stirlo (Stirling Mortlock).”

On playing the All Blacks in the Semi Final:

“I guess it’s a match both teams probably knew that at some stage we were going to meet. We haven’t been talking about it, but it’s on and we can’t wait to be back home in Sydney playing against the All Blacks. They’re always great games and there’s a massive, massive prize at the end of this.”

Scotland captain Bryan Redpath

On the 33-16 defeat by Australia:

“I think the boys beat us down to the ground. I think we missed tackles and you can’t afford to do that against Australia. But we managed to hang on and score a try at the end.”

On Australia’s performance:

“We were beaten by the better side on the night and we certainly wish them all the best.”

On Scotland’s overall performance at the Tournament:

“We’ve had an exceptional Tournament. I think every game has been top class. Full credit to the organisers and all the Australian public.”

———————————————–

England 28-17 Wales (3-10 halftime)

1 Tries 3
1 Conversions 1
6 Penalties 0
1 Drop Goals 0
5 Scrums 10
63% Possession 37%
57% Territory 43%
0 Yellow Cards 0
0 Red Cards 0

England�s call to arms
10/11/2003
By Mick Donohoe

England booked a place in the final four with a 28-17 win over Wales last night at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane, but not before giving their supporters and coach Clive Woodward some anxious moments.

Trailing 10-3 at half time, a try to centre Will Greenwood, his 30th Test try giving him a share of second place with Jeremy Guscott on England’s international try-scoring list, and 23 points from the boot of fly half Jonny Wilkinson got them over the line.

After his side conceded three tries, more than they have in the last five games against Wales, frustrated Woodward is looking for a big improvement ahead of their semi final against a white hot France at Sydney�s Telstra Stadium on 16 November.

“I’m disappointed with what happened in the first half and only marginally more pleased with the second half,� Woodward said.

In form France

England face an in-form Les Bleus outfit brimming with confidence after easily disposing of Ireland 43-21 in the other quarter final played yesterday.

“The French fully know that England are going down to play against them in the semi final of the World Cup,” Woodward said. “It’s about what happens during the 80 minutes of the game. I don’t really care if they are favourites or not favourites.

“Clearly, we were not at our best today and we made some very fundamental errors, but I am also very confident that we can sit down, have a clear the air meeting next week, and beat France.

“We’re winning these games through sheer bloody-mindedness. If we play like we did tonight against France we’ll have no chance - but I don’t think for one moment we will play like that against France.”

Close shave

Despite the narrow escape against Wales, Woodward is confident his side can lift another notch and qualify for their first RWC final since 1991.

“Did the Welsh rattle us? Well we won the game. We hold our hands up - we didn’t play well and we made some fundamental errors,” Woodward said.

“I thought Wales were outstanding. They played very well and had nothing to lose. It was probably the best Wales performance I’ve seen since I’ve been in charge and that includes Wembley in 1999.

“France will probably be red-hot favourites to win it, but they haven’t played England yet. I think we’ll get through.

“We’ve won every game so far, without playing anywhere near what we are capable of. I believe we can put it right, and we need to get it right.”

Catt delivers

On a brighter note, veteran England utility back Mike Catt has presented Woodward with a selection headache after he helped change the course of the game in the second half against the Red Dragons.

Catt, 32, comfortably slotted into the midfield between Jonny Wilkinson and Greenwood and played like he�d been there for the whole Tournament.

“Whatever comes my way, comes my way,” Catt said after his starring role.|

“It was a lot easier for me, having watched the game in the first 40 minutes, to come on and change the way things were being played. I had that advantage.”

Wilkinson hot

Meanwhile, Wilkinson�s six penalties, one drop goal and one conversion took him to 143 Rugby World Cup points in total and fifth position on the all-time table.

He has scored 74 points at Rugby World Cup 2003 to add to his 69 from the 1999 Tournament.

Scotland�s Gavin Hastings leads the all-time list with 227 points from Australia�s Michael Lynagh (195), and New Zealand fly halves Grant Fox (170) and Andrew Mehrtens (163). France wonderboy Frederic Michalak is 10th with 101 points.

Greenwood chases try scoring record

For Greenwood only wing Rory Underwood, with 49 in 85 appearances, has scored more tries for his country.

Greenwood also became England’s leading try-scorer in games against Wales - surpassing Underwood by taking his total to seven in five appearances.

The son of former England captain and national coach Richard Greenwood also shares third place in the RWC 2003 try scoring list with five, alongside teammate Josh Lewsey, Chris Latham (Australia), Mat Rogers (Australia) and Joe Rokocoko (New Zealand).

All Blacks Doug Howlett and Mils Muliaina share the lead with six tries apiece.

Martin Johnson (ENG) - Captain

On whether the match was tough:

“Particularly in the first half, they defended well. We had a lot of ball, a lot of territory, but we struggled. In the second half, we pretty much dominated.”

On Wales’ performance:

“Their defence was fabulous. Credit to them. They played very well.”

Clive Woodward (ENG) - Coach

On whether he was relieved with the result:

“Extremely relieved. It’s a World Cup game. We had to win the match. We’re not playing anywhere near where we can and we’re still winning. I think that’s a sign of a good team.”

On what he said at half-time with England losing 10-3:

“There were pretty harsh words at half time, a bit of colourful language, but we got the job done.”

On the upcoming match against France:

“If we play like today, we’ve got no chance, so we’ve got to up the ante. ”

Mike Catt (ENG) - Centre

On the match and the Welsh performance:

“It was very very tough, we never underestimated the Welsh, they came in as underdogs and played very, very well.”

On the mood in the England dressing room at half time:

“It was very composed to be honest.”

“We knew where we wanted to be, in a Semi Final at a World Cup and we’ve got a chance to be in it now.”

Phil Vickery (ENG) - prop

On whether the match was tough:

“Extremely tough. We always knew they would be tough. They certainly came out and gave it their all, as we did.”

On the first half:

“We made the mistakes. They scored the tries and you can’t really grumble about it.”

Steve Hansen (WAL) - Coach

On the result:

“Obviously I’m very proud of them … we didn’t get up but they (Wales) played very well.”

“It was good (rugby) from both teams … both sides came to play and they did.”

Colin Charvis (WAL) - Captain

On Wales’ performance:

“The guys are very disappointed in the result. We thought we had a good chance, especially going in at half time, but unfortunately England were a bit too strong for us in the second half.”

On the future of Welsh rugby:

“We have accomplished a lot over the last few weeks … now we have a Six Nations tournament to look forward to … I think in a few years this (Wales team) will be a good side.”

Stephen Jones (WAL) - flyhalf

On the Welsh loss:

“We’re bitterly disappointed that we lost the game considering we created chances.”

On why England won:

“From a Welsh perspective we defended well in the first half… (we knew) that we had to keep defending (in the second half) and we tired.”

England down spirited Welsh

09/11/2003

England has booked a semi final showdown against France with a 28-17 victory over Wales tonight at Suncorp Stadium.

The steady boot of Jonny Wilkinson brought the English home with six second half penalties included in his 23 personal point haul. Wilkinson was also aided by replacement Mike Catt who was brought on as substitute at half time for Dan Luger.

The 32 year old Catt gave his side an extra dimension in attack and his kicking in general play was exceptional.

The English juggernaut rolled on in the second half as they gained control of the match through Wilkinson�s accuracy, however when the Welsh scored a try through Martyn Williams the Welsh finished the game in a flurry.

Although they finished on the wrong end of the scoreboard the Welsh did score three tries to one, with Will Greenwood scoring England�s sole five pointer. Greenwood finished a great run by electrifying fullback Jason Robinson who beat four defenders with sheer pace from a searing kick return.

An upset on the cards from the first whistle

Wales came close to causing the upset of the Tournament with a spirited performance.
They started with the same vigour that pushed the All Blacks last week as the game opened with great intensity.

The nerves showed on both kickers with Jonny Wilkinson and Stephen Jones hitting the post on their first attempts on goal.

Wilkinson was on target with his second attempt and England were up 3-0 after 17 minutes.

England had plenty of possession and were and able to put together plenty of phases, at one stage completing ten phases and then nine, but the Welsh defence stayed strong.

Wing Williams a standout

The Welsh then set the cat amongst the pigeons when Jones scored a great counter attacking try. Wing Shane Williams, who was a stand out all match, collected a kick with only Ben Kay in front of him and the speedster showed a clean pair of heels. Some slick passing then found the fly half and the crowd erupted as he dived over.

With a game plan set on disrupting the English structure, the Welsh had the monument and when Colin Charvis dived over the Red Dragons were ecstatic.

England will now play France in the second semi final next Sunday at Telstra Stadium for a chance to play in the RWC final.

England 28

Tries: Greenwood

Conversions: Wilkinson

Penalties: Wilkinson 6

Drop goals: Wilkinson

Defeated

Wales 17

Tries: Stephen Jones, Colin Charvis, Martyn Williams

Conversions: Iestyn Harris

———————————————————————————

France 43-21 Ireland
4 Tries 3
4 Conversions 3
5 Penalties 0
0 Drop Goals 0
6 Scrums 14
45% Possession 55%
55% Territory 45%
1 Yellow Cards 0
0 Red Cards 0

France triumph over gutsy Ireland

09/11/2003

Watertight in defence and lethal in attack, the French were just too much for their Irish opponents in the sudden death quarter final winning 43-21 at Melbourne�s Telstra Dome.

The 27-0 first half performance of France was cemented 10 minutes after the break when prop Jean Jacques Crenca helped his side go to 37 points to nil.

But with the vocal Irish supporters covering the stadium en masse the men in green showed they had no intention of this match being their last of RWC 2003.

Ireland won the second half, scoring three times, once through Kevin Maggs and twice through Brian O�Driscoll but it was too late and the unrelenting French go into the semi finals in Sydney on Sunday 15 November as feared opponents.

The first half French dominance

For the first 25 minutes Les Bleus battered the Irish line, their tight five securing 63 percent of the possession and 74 percent of the territory and whilst making only one successful incursion in that period, wore the Irish down.

From there the two teams were more evenly placed by means of time with the ball but on the scoreboard it was all France as they eased out to 27 unanswered points at half time with Olivier Magne, Christophe Dominici and Imanol Harinordoquy scoring tries.

The Irish make a game of it

After the break and Crenca’s early try, Ireland lifted their game to the delight of their supporters.

Kevin Maggs refused to listen to French reasoning, choosing a great angle and bullocking 25 metres through the defence for Ireland’s first try.

Then O�Driscoll in the 65th minute dived full stretch over the tryline from a David Humphreys grubber kick, grounding the ball with one hand just millimetres from the deadball line.

The players

In a game littered with brilliant individual French performances, it was the leadership of Fabien Galthie in his fourth Rugby World Cup, the kicking game of French fly half Frederic Michalak who scored his 100th tournament point, and the ever present flanker Olivier Magne who showed France to be a real chance to take out this RWC.

Ireland have now played their last match of the RWC 2003 but will fly home with the heads of O�Driscoll and captain Keith Wood held high after gutsy performances to help their side win the final 40 minutes.

France 43
Tries: Olivier Magne, Christophe Dominici, Imanol Harinordoquy, Jean Jacques Crenca
Conversions: Frederic Michalak (5)
Penalties: Frederic Michalak (4)

Ireland 21
Tries: Kevin Maggs, Brian O’Driscoll (2)
Conversions: David Humphreys (3)

France 43 v Ireland 21: What they said

09/11/2003

Keith Wood (IRE) - Captain

On the loss to France:

“It’s very disappointing. But you know we just didn’t play in the first half. I think we can hold our heads up. We tried really hard in the second half, we tried our damnedest…it just didn’t come off.”

Brian O’Driscoll (IRE) - Centre

On the team’s effort:

“It wasn’t enough. It was all uphill after the first half. Full credit to the French, they took their opportunities.”

On the French performance:

“They finished the little gaps they made for themselves. The better team won on the night.”

Frederic Michalak (FRA) - Flyhalf

On the Semi Finals:

“I’m delighted to be in a World Cup Semi Final as a young player. It is fantastic and also for the team.”

Fabien Galthie (FRA) - Captain

On the impressive performance against Ireland in the Quarter Final:

“(I am) very happy for the French team. We knew today would be hard, but we started really well and we played a very good first half. The second was a little bit more difficult because we were very tired, but it’s OK because we scored 43 points to 21. I am very happy for French football and for our country.”

Keith Wood (IRE) - Captain on his future:

On the highlight of his career:

“I’ve had a lot of great times. I think this World Cup and this group of players was very special. It is very sad that it ends on a downer.”

On how long he has known about his retirement:

“The truth of the whole thing is that I took the advice of my surgeon. He has been talking to me the whole time. About two years ago when Eddie (O’Sullivan) got the job as coach I knew I wanted to get to the World Cup. The biggest chance was that I would retire at the end of the World Cup.”

On why he is retiring:

“My heart and my head is willing, but my body has had enough. The injury to the shoulder is an injury waiting to happen and I’ve had someone looking down on me I think.”

On the loss to France:

“Early on we were in it on the scoreboard, but to be brutally frank we were just hanging on.”

On the future of Irish rugby:

“I think there is something there. We will target the next World Cup.”

On what he will do after retiring:

“I am going to take a bit of a step away from rugby for a while. I don’t have the temperament for a coach. Eddie might be cranky, but not as cranky as me.”

Eddie O’Sullivan (IRE) - Coach

On Keith Wood’s retirement:

“I think we just lost a legend in the game of rugby. His name will live on. I think we’ve just seen the retirement of a legend.”

On the French side’s strength:

“Their scrum was incredibly powerful. We were pulled and dragged everywhere.”

“We were punchdrunk in every shape and form. It took a lot of character in the second half to come out and play good rugby.”

On the French side’s prospects in the Semi Final:

“They’ve always had flair. They’ve always had power. There’s something about this French side that’s menacing. They’ve got phenomenal speed and class. If they can get that kind of form in the next round, it will take a hell of a side to beat them. I think France can beat England [if England beats Wales] and England know it.”

On whether Irish rugby is moving forward:

“We’re going forward. In the bigger picture Irish rugby is going forward. The French are timing their run in this World Cup really well.”

On captain Keith Wood’s build-up to this Tournament:

“He’s been through hell to get here. He was dead twice over (following injuries). Nobody put more into this World Cup than Keith WOOD.”

Bernard Laporte (FRA) - Coach

On the injury to lock Olivier Brouzet (FRA):

“He has suffered a bruised shoulder and the injury seems serious enough for him to be in doubt for the Semi Final at this stage.”

On France�s prospects for the rest of RWC 2003:

“We have yet to win the World Cup, but we don’t care who the opposition is. We have the means to win and we will give it all we’ve got. The more you play in a game, the more mistakes you are bound to make.”

Fabien Pelous (FRA) - lock

On the French performance:

“We played the match as we expected. It felt like we were playing again some of the moves that we had been practising at training all week.”

Frederic Michalak (FRA) - flyhalf - on the French performance:

“We wanted to see what we could do when we took charge of a game. It’s a shame we slackened off towards the end.”

———————–

Most high profile player: Tana Umaga, New Zealand, vice Captain, born 27:5:73, 1.87m,
101kg, Centre.

Others: Joe Rokocoko (nzl), Date of Birth 06/06/83, Place of Birth Nadi, Fiji; Height 189
Weight 98, Position Wing

Best flyhalf in the world: Jonny Wilkinson, 24 (England)

notable results in group stage
Pool A
Australia 24-8 Argentina (South American Champions)
Australia 17-16 Ireland
Ireland 16-15 Argentina
Australia 142-0 Namibia (record)

Pool B
France 61-18 Fiji
Classy French overpower Fiji; 11/10/2003
France have defeated Fiji 61-18 in front of 46,795 vocal supporters in their Pool B clash at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane. Three tries from French centre Yannick Jauzion and 26 points off the boot of fly half Frederic Michalak were the highlights of a polished French performance. Fiji started both halves in good fashion but were brought undone by French flair and some ill-discipline of their own in the seven tries to two defeat .

Scotland 32-11 Japan (Asian champions)
Scotland beat spirited Japan
12/10/2003 Scotland were given the fright of their lives by a spirited and committed Japanese side before opening their Rugby World Cup 2003 campaign with a 32-11 victory at Dairy Farmers Stadium in Townsville.

The Scots would have expected to have made easier work of a side ranked nine places below them in the official IRB World Rankings, but were never allowed to pull away from a Japanese side willing to try anything.

Chris Paterson was the hero for Scotland, scoring a try in each half in the first ever rugby international held in Townsville and adding another five points with the boot to give Scotland victory in this hotly contested Pool B encounter.

However don�t let the score fool you. Scotland only put some distance between themselves and Japan with three tries in the final 14 minutes, the Cherry Blossoms� defence having kept them out for more than 50 minutes.

Japan�s defence was one of many positives they could draw from the game, as was the free flowing back play with Takeomi Ito and wings Hirotoki Onozawa and Daisuke Ohata unlucky not to gain reward on several occasions after scintillating breaks.

Onozawa did eventually break through with his side�s only try � fly half Keiji Hirose scoring their other points with two first half penalties � in the 55th minute after a sweeping back line move.

Their impressive display earned a standing ovation from the crowd with Scotland�s players applauding their opponents from the field, knowing they were fortunate to escape with a victory.

Scotland: 32
Tries: Paterson (2), Grimes, Taylor, Danielli
Conversions: Paterson, Townsend
Penalties: Paterson
Japan: 6
Tries: Onozawa
Penalties: Hirose (2)

Fiji 19-18 USA; Fiji escape as Hercus misses kick. U.S. fly-half Mike Hercus misses a last minute conversion attempt, enabling Fiji to scramble a 19-18 pool B victory in the World Cup game in Brisbane. An opportunist try by left wing Riaan van Zyl, converted by Hercus, had given the Americans a 13-3 lead early in the second half and a real chance of only their second win in four tournaments. The Americans won their debut match 21-18 against Japan at Brisbane during the inaugural 1987 World Cup but have lost every match since.
France 51-29 Japan
Fiji 41-13 Japan
France 51-9 Scotland
USA 39-26 Japan
Scotland 22-20 Fiji
France 41-14 USA

Pool C
England 25-6 South Africa
England 35-22 Samoa (big scare for England)
South Africa 60-10 Samoa (Springboks turn on the style)

Pool D
Wales 27-20 Tonga
New Zealand 70-7 Italy
New Zealand 91-7 Tonga
New Zealand 68-6 Canada
New Zealand 53-37 Wales (at one point Wales leading 34-33 only to concede 3 tries in last quarter)

http://www.my.emb-japan.go.jp/EN/Press_Release/YLP2003.htm

quotes of the year. Note: wont be funny if u dont know the background story
2003 - kau binatang kah?
1998 - i dont want her, she’s black
1997 - “mau cari itu lagu Elvis Presley bah” AND “dia dahagakan seks bah tu”
1993 - sudahlah dangerous, bahaya lagi
1984 - Pat, no, please, Pat, noooo, argggggggghhhhhhhh!
1983 - jangan duduk situ!
1981 - kalau saya amput, salah lah!

songs of the year (KDM) - updated 6 july 2005
2005 - Ivy Alexandra?
2004 - Clarice J Matha - “adaa” (?)
2003 - hain jasli - “dendang tanak mosikin”
2002 - jestie alexius - kosorou ko nopo doho
1992 - evaristus gungkit - kada tilombuso sinduol nu
1984 - hain jasli - ika noh koupusanku
1982 - john gaisah - oi gidi
1981 - francis landong - nung noilaan ku da
1976 - justin lusah - jambatan tamparuli

peavey basic 112 bass amp - paid deposit RM400 at LB Music City 9th October. Monthly instalment by 9th of each month, min RM50, proposed RM200/mth. Beck already agreed verbally.