The Final Whistle: 18-24.02.13

‘Ay, ay, a scratch, a scratch’

English Rugby – This past saturday marked another step towards the Six Nations crown for England, as they beat France 23-13 at Twickenham. A resilient English performance saw them claw back a half-time deficit to move closer towards their first Grand Slam in a decade. England were far from their best but valiantly saw off a spirited French outfit meaning now only fixtures against Italy and main rivals Wales stand between them and the trophy.

A very happy Swans fan at a chilly Wembley on Sunday.

Swansea City FC – On a momentous Sunday afternoon in North West London, Swansea City eased Bradford City aside and claimed their first major trophy in the club’s hundred year history. A fitting way to celebrate a centenary year, the Swans became the first team from Wales to claim one of England’s top prizes. The match itself was more of a procession as Bradford, despite tremendous performances in previous rounds against Premier League opposition, couldn’t match Swansea’s slick play, conceding five without reply.

David Price – Liverpool’s own David Price saw his undefeated streak come to a screeching halt this week following a second round TKO at the hands of, American, Tony Thompson. The 6ft 8 heavyweight world number 22 may have damaged his hopes of a world title fight any time soon as the veteran Thompson floored him. The Echo Arena was silenced as doubts were raised as to whether the 29-year-old has what it takes to move to the next level.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0-OQT_Z4g-E

David Bowers – David shot to Facebook fame when he managed to get 1 million likes on a picture to ensure he’d be there for Bradford’s cup final clash with Swansea. Unfortunately for Dave the 20,000+ mile round trip from Melbourne to Wembley and back was in vain. Next time it might just be worth watching on the TV.

David Bowers

The JMU swim team – Ending a four-month-long twitter sabbatical, the Uni of Liverpool Swim Team’s twitter feed sparked into life again with a ‘beautiful’, albeit refutable description of the John Moore’s team personal hygiene. Nice.

Too much information?

Paolo practising his angry face.

Paolo Di Canio – The fiery Italian is no stranger to controversy so it’s little surprise that his departure from Swindon also ended in dramatic circumstances. According to reports this week Paolo forced his way into the County Ground and ransacked the manager’s office. Although tearing pictures off the wall isn’t exactly akin to assaulting referee’s, Di Canio’s passion/instability cannot be questioned.

Netball – It’s another important week for Uni 2nd’s. With two fixtures to go they remain level at the top with Keele 1st’s. This Wednesday’s game away to Lancaster Uni 2nd’s is a must win as the girls aim to build upon their impressive goal difference.

Badminton – Whilst the Men’s 1st’s have been the undisputed kings of the league this year, the 2nd’s are still in the hunt to make it a Liverpool Uni lockout. With 4 points separating 2nd – 5th every game is a must win so this week’s home fixture against Uni of Manchester 3rd’s is vital.

Tennis – They may have wrapped up the league title week’s ago but being knocked out of the cup last week wouldn’t have been enjoyable for the Women’s 1st’s. They’ll want to put the first loss of the season behind them and make it a 100% league campaign with a win over Lancaster Uni 1st’s on Wednesday.

*All fixtures taken from BUCS website and accurate as of 24.02.13.

Campbell University’s ‘PGA Golf Management’ Undergraduates pass the time in a well earned break from their studies. Jealous much.

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