Colin Renton

5 days ago | theoffsideline.com | Colin Renton

by COLIN RENTONGreig Laidlaw’s URAYASU D-Rocks secured their survival in Japan Division One after a tense promotion/relegation play-off over two legs ended in a 69-64 win. Division Two winners Toyota Industries Corporation Shuttles Aichi squeezed home by a single point in the first leg and led 14-0 after 22 minutes of the second match. However, D-Rocks rallied to lead 17-14 at half time on the way to a 27-21 win that sees Laidlaw’s men retain their top-flight status.

2 weeks ago | theoffsideline.com | Colin Renton

by COLIN RENTONThe Welsh Rugby Union has added to the uncertainty surrounding the future of its professional sides by announcing that it is stopping the current funding agreement with two teams. A statement from the governing body reveals that Ospreys and Scarlets did not sign the new Professional Rugby Agreement by the deadline of 8th May. As a result, the WRU has issued a two-year notice to terminate the current arrangement.

3 weeks ago | theoffsideline.com | Colin Renton

by COLIN RENTONMLR outfit, New England Free Jacks, have appointed Ryan Martin as head coach but have agreed that he can also remain in his current role with Northland Taniwha in New Zealand’s NPC. The NPC runs from July to October and therefore falls outside the MLR season. As a result, he will be able to do both jobs without any overlap between the two. Martin will return to New Zealand in July when the MLR concludes.

1 month ago | theoffsideline.com | Colin Renton

by COLIN RENTONScotland back-row, Evie Gallagher, is on a four-strong shortlist for the Women’s Six Nations Player of the Championship award. The 24-year-old topped the charts for defensive rucks and breakdown steals, despite missing the match against France after being red-carded for a reckless tackle in the game with Wales. The other contenders are England winger Abby Dow, French lock Manaé Feleu, and Irish back-row Aoife Wafer. Votes close on Tuesday 6 May at 10pm – details HERE.

1 month ago | theoffsideline.com | Colin Renton

by COLIN RENTONThe My Name’5 Doddie Foundation will have a significant presence at the Howden Melrose Sevens which take place on May 24th. The Doddie Club hospitality tent will feature an awareness table where raffle tickets will be for sale. In addition, volunteers from the charity will conduct bucket collections around the ground and the foundation will have a stand in the Fanzone’s main tent area, offering merchandise to raise funds for research to find a cure for motor neurone disease (MND).