The truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth., 20 Dec 2008
I purchased this book as a Christmas present to myself, and as soon as it arrived I could not resist having a brief read of the publisher's notes on the dust cover. This resulted in me being unable to put the book down until I had read through to the last page. Alun Carter's account of the events of the last twelve years inside the WRU management structure confirms what all Welsh Rugby Fans suspect; 1.maximum interference with no clear line of responsibility for the coaches, 2.senior players interfering with coaches decisions and training plans.

Good management practices dictate that management structures should be clearly defined with responsibilities and accountabilities pushed as far down the management structure as possible. In addition,the player's role is to work in harmony and constructively with their coaches and complete tasks assigned to them.

This book provides an honest account of how the foregoing was missing within past coaching regimes. It also clearly brings to the fore the sheer volume of work prepared by the analyst for pre match planning to formulate a sound game plan. Even this work was dismissed by some of the coaches and sabotaged by senior players.

Welsh Rugby, it would seem, is now on the correct track with the new dynamic coaching staff in place. Could the events of the past twelve years happen again? With the disharmony that currently exists YES IT COULD. Will we ever learn from past mistakes? The lifeblood of a proud rugby nation is at stake. This book is a must read for all rugby fans in Wales and beyond and it will not sit comfortably with many in the top heavy WRU hierarchy.

BRILLIANT READ!, 11 Dec 2008
ALUN CARTER'S SEEING RED IS A REAL PAGE TURNER AND A MUST FOR ANY WELSH RUGBY FAN.IT IS AN HONEST AND WORTS AND ALL ACCOUNT OF THE WRU THE COACHES AND PLAYERS INVOLVED OVER THE PAST 12 YEARS. I HAVE READ MANY RUGBY BOOKS AND NONE OF THEM HAVE COME CLOSE TO IT. IT IS ALSO A GREAT INSIGHT TO THE MODERN GAME OF RUGBY, AND THE PREPARATION OF THE PLAYERS THROUGH TECHNOLOGY AND A VAST BACKROOM STAFF. A BRILLIANT READ!

Not so Grand!!, 10 Nov 2008
Alun Carter gives a real insiders view as to some of the more remarkable comings and goings on the episodes of Welsh rugby over the last 12 years. He does not pull many punches on his opinions of those who he feels have somewhat let the national team down during his spell as an analyst. He is very critical of the likes of Steve Hansen, Scott Johnson, Gareth Jenkins and Gareth 'Alfie' Thomas whilst he sings the praises of Graham Henry, Mike Ruddock and Clive Griffiths.

Carter gives a damning indictment on the player power that ultimately led to the resignation of a Grand Slam winning coach in Ruddock and tells of how some players were not willing to undertake tasks that were being asked of them by coaches who had a proven track record at domestic level.

Welsh rugby has seen some explosive episodes in the last few years and Carter tells it as he has seen it from the inside. This is a book that may not go down too well with some within the rugby hierarchy of Wales but for the genuine fan of the Welsh national team who has been dismayed with the events of recent years this is an account well worth reading.

The truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth., 20 Dec 2008
I purchased this book as a Christmas present to myself, and as soon as it arrived I could not resist having a brief read of the publisher's notes on the dust cover. This resulted in me being unable to put the book down until I had read through to the last page. Alun Carter's account of the events of the last twelve years inside the WRU management structure confirms what all Welsh Rugby Fans suspect; 1.maximum interference with no clear line of responsibility for the coaches, 2.senior players interfering with coaches decisions and training plans.

Good management practices dictate that management structures should be clearly defined with responsibilities and accountabilities pushed as far down the management structure as possible. In addition,the player's role is to work in harmony and constructively with their coaches and complete tasks assigned to them.

This book provides an honest account of how the foregoing was missing within past coaching regimes. It also clearly brings to the fore the sheer volume of work prepared by the analyst for pre match planning to formulate a sound game plan. Even this work was dismissed by some of the coaches and sabotaged by senior players.

Welsh Rugby, it would seem, is now on the correct track with the new dynamic coaching staff in place. Could the events of the past twelve years happen again? With the disharmony that currently exists YES IT COULD. Will we ever learn from past mistakes? The lifeblood of a proud rugby nation is at stake. This book is a must read for all rugby fans in Wales and beyond and it will not sit comfortably with many in the top heavy WRU hierarchy.

BRILLIANT READ!, 11 Dec 2008
ALUN CARTER'S SEEING RED IS A REAL PAGE TURNER AND A MUST FOR ANY WELSH RUGBY FAN.IT IS AN HONEST AND WORTS AND ALL ACCOUNT OF THE WRU THE COACHES AND PLAYERS INVOLVED OVER THE PAST 12 YEARS. I HAVE READ MANY RUGBY BOOKS AND NONE OF THEM HAVE COME CLOSE TO IT. IT IS ALSO A GREAT INSIGHT TO THE MODERN GAME OF RUGBY, AND THE PREPARATION OF THE PLAYERS THROUGH TECHNOLOGY AND A VAST BACKROOM STAFF. A BRILLIANT READ!

Not so Grand!!, 10 Nov 2008
Alun Carter gives a real insiders view as to some of the more remarkable comings and goings on the episodes of Welsh rugby over the last 12 years. He does not pull many punches on his opinions of those who he feels have somewhat let the national team down during his spell as an analyst. He is very critical of the likes of Steve Hansen, Scott Johnson, Gareth Jenkins and Gareth 'Alfie' Thomas whilst he sings the praises of Graham Henry, Mike Ruddock and Clive Griffiths.

Carter gives a damning indictment on the player power that ultimately led to the resignation of a Grand Slam winning coach in Ruddock and tells of how some players were not willing to undertake tasks that were being asked of them by coaches who had a proven track record at domestic level.

Welsh rugby has seen some explosive episodes in the last few years and Carter tells it as he has seen it from the inside. This is a book that may not go down too well with some within the rugby hierarchy of Wales but for the genuine fan of the Welsh national team who has been dismayed with the events of recent years this is an account well worth reading.

A really good read, 13 Oct 2008
As a Welshman and a huge rugby fan I obviously think Shane Williams is some sort of god. However, when I got this book as a gift I was just thought "why?" how interesting could it really be?! I read the first chapter about the recent tour to South Africa, which was brilliantly written, but i thought it was just what i had expected, Shane Williams writing about rugby. But after this there isn't really much talk of rugby, well, there obviously is, but not in the manner you would've thought. The route that he took to get to be the superstar he is today is not a clear-cut as you would think.
Once i picked the book up, i read it for literally hours on end. It really is a fantastic book. I would highly suggest if you're a rugby fan like me.....except yours will not be as good as mine because mine is signed by the man himself: P

The truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth., 20 Dec 2008
I purchased this book as a Christmas present to myself, and as soon as it arrived I could not resist having a brief read of the publisher's notes on the dust cover. This resulted in me being unable to put the book down until I had read through to the last page. Alun Carter's account of the events of the last twelve years inside the WRU management structure confirms what all Welsh Rugby Fans suspect; 1.maximum interference with no clear line of responsibility for the coaches, 2.senior players interfering with coaches decisions and training plans.

Good management practices dictate that management structures should be clearly defined with responsibilities and accountabilities pushed as far down the management structure as possible. In addition,the player's role is to work in harmony and constructively with their coaches and complete tasks assigned to them.

This book provides an honest account of how the foregoing was missing within past coaching regimes. It also clearly brings to the fore the sheer volume of work prepared by the analyst for pre match planning to formulate a sound game plan. Even this work was dismissed by some of the coaches and sabotaged by senior players.

Welsh Rugby, it would seem, is now on the correct track with the new dynamic coaching staff in place. Could the events of the past twelve years happen again? With the disharmony that currently exists YES IT COULD. Will we ever learn from past mistakes? The lifeblood of a proud rugby nation is at stake. This book is a must read for all rugby fans in Wales and beyond and it will not sit comfortably with many in the top heavy WRU hierarchy.

BRILLIANT READ!, 11 Dec 2008
ALUN CARTER'S SEEING RED IS A REAL PAGE TURNER AND A MUST FOR ANY WELSH RUGBY FAN.IT IS AN HONEST AND WORTS AND ALL ACCOUNT OF THE WRU THE COACHES AND PLAYERS INVOLVED OVER THE PAST 12 YEARS. I HAVE READ MANY RUGBY BOOKS AND NONE OF THEM HAVE COME CLOSE TO IT. IT IS ALSO A GREAT INSIGHT TO THE MODERN GAME OF RUGBY, AND THE PREPARATION OF THE PLAYERS THROUGH TECHNOLOGY AND A VAST BACKROOM STAFF. A BRILLIANT READ!

Not so Grand!!, 10 Nov 2008
Alun Carter gives a real insiders view as to some of the more remarkable comings and goings on the episodes of Welsh rugby over the last 12 years. He does not pull many punches on his opinions of those who he feels have somewhat let the national team down during his spell as an analyst. He is very critical of the likes of Steve Hansen, Scott Johnson, Gareth Jenkins and Gareth 'Alfie' Thomas whilst he sings the praises of Graham Henry, Mike Ruddock and Clive Griffiths.

Carter gives a damning indictment on the player power that ultimately led to the resignation of a Grand Slam winning coach in Ruddock and tells of how some players were not willing to undertake tasks that were being asked of them by coaches who had a proven track record at domestic level.

Welsh rugby has seen some explosive episodes in the last few years and Carter tells it as he has seen it from the inside. This is a book that may not go down too well with some within the rugby hierarchy of Wales but for the genuine fan of the Welsh national team who has been dismayed with the events of recent years this is an account well worth reading.

A really good read, 13 Oct 2008
As a Welshman and a huge rugby fan I obviously think Shane Williams is some sort of god. However, when I got this book as a gift I was just thought "why?" how interesting could it really be?! I read the first chapter about the recent tour to South Africa, which was brilliantly written, but i thought it was just what i had expected, Shane Williams writing about rugby. But after this there isn't really much talk of rugby, well, there obviously is, but not in the manner you would've thought. The route that he took to get to be the superstar he is today is not a clear-cut as you would think.
Once i picked the book up, i read it for literally hours on end. It really is a fantastic book. I would highly suggest if you're a rugby fan like me.....except yours will not be as good as mine because mine is signed by the man himself: P


A rare insight into the mind of a modern great, 30 Dec 2008
Ronan O'Gara is something of a rugby enigma, a player of superb quality who has become synonymous with the Heinekken Cup and yet also the victim of unjust criticism and doomed never to receive the recognition he is due.

This autobiography is a great opportunity for a true rugby fan, whether a Munster or Ireland supporter, a Neutral or a grudging admirer, the book offers a chance to really get an insight into this great players life. I say life, because the work bucks the trend of recent sporting biographies to focus purely on the players career and instead provides a warts and all account of life as a professional player. The work is refreshingly honest and Ronan is quick point out his mistakes and regrets as his is to highlight his greatest moments.

For a career that has spanned so long a period there are dozens of choice moments and periods to read on, from his on-field rivalry with David Humphries, to the Munster saga that underpins his professional career, the World Cup in 2007 and more.

The work only gets 4 stars as I felt it has been written a little prematurely, Ronan still has several playing years left and one would hope plenty more stories to tell, and the suspicion is that with Ronan being so private an individual he won't write them down for a second volume. That aside this is a fantastic read and is a must have for fans of rugby.

The truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth., 20 Dec 2008
I purchased this book as a Christmas present to myself, and as soon as it arrived I could not resist having a brief read of the publisher's notes on the dust cover. This resulted in me being unable to put the book down until I had read through to the last page. Alun Carter's account of the events of the last twelve years inside the WRU management structure confirms what all Welsh Rugby Fans suspect; 1.maximum interference with no clear line of responsibility for the coaches, 2.senior players interfering with coaches decisions and training plans.

Good management practices dictate that management structures should be clearly defined with responsibilities and accountabilities pushed as far down the management structure as possible. In addition,the player's role is to work in harmony and constructively with their coaches and complete tasks assigned to them.

This book provides an honest account of how the foregoing was missing within past coaching regimes. It also clearly brings to the fore the sheer volume of work prepared by the analyst for pre match planning to formulate a sound game plan. Even this work was dismissed by some of the coaches and sabotaged by senior players.

Welsh Rugby, it would seem, is now on the correct track with the new dynamic coaching staff in place. Could the events of the past twelve years happen again? With the disharmony that currently exists YES IT COULD. Will we ever learn from past mistakes? The lifeblood of a proud rugby nation is at stake. This book is a must read for all rugby fans in Wales and beyond and it will not sit comfortably with many in the top heavy WRU hierarchy.

BRILLIANT READ!, 11 Dec 2008
ALUN CARTER'S SEEING RED IS A REAL PAGE TURNER AND A MUST FOR ANY WELSH RUGBY FAN.IT IS AN HONEST AND WORTS AND ALL ACCOUNT OF THE WRU THE COACHES AND PLAYERS INVOLVED OVER THE PAST 12 YEARS. I HAVE READ MANY RUGBY BOOKS AND NONE OF THEM HAVE COME CLOSE TO IT. IT IS ALSO A GREAT INSIGHT TO THE MODERN GAME OF RUGBY, AND THE PREPARATION OF THE PLAYERS THROUGH TECHNOLOGY AND A VAST BACKROOM STAFF. A BRILLIANT READ!

Not so Grand!!, 10 Nov 2008
Alun Carter gives a real insiders view as to some of the more remarkable comings and goings on the episodes of Welsh rugby over the last 12 years. He does not pull many punches on his opinions of those who he feels have somewhat let the national team down during his spell as an analyst. He is very critical of the likes of Steve Hansen, Scott Johnson, Gareth Jenkins and Gareth 'Alfie' Thomas whilst he sings the praises of Graham Henry, Mike Ruddock and Clive Griffiths.

Carter gives a damning indictment on the player power that ultimately led to the resignation of a Grand Slam winning coach in Ruddock and tells of how some players were not willing to undertake tasks that were being asked of them by coaches who had a proven track record at domestic level.

Welsh rugby has seen some explosive episodes in the last few years and Carter tells it as he has seen it from the inside. This is a book that may not go down too well with some within the rugby hierarchy of Wales but for the genuine fan of the Welsh national team who has been dismayed with the events of recent years this is an account well worth reading.

A really good read, 13 Oct 2008
As a Welshman and a huge rugby fan I obviously think Shane Williams is some sort of god. However, when I got this book as a gift I was just thought "why?" how interesting could it really be?! I read the first chapter about the recent tour to South Africa, which was brilliantly written, but i thought it was just what i had expected, Shane Williams writing about rugby. But after this there isn't really much talk of rugby, well, there obviously is, but not in the manner you would've thought. The route that he took to get to be the superstar he is today is not a clear-cut as you would think.
Once i picked the book up, i read it for literally hours on end. It really is a fantastic book. I would highly suggest if you're a rugby fan like me.....except yours will not be as good as mine because mine is signed by the man himself: P


A rare insight into the mind of a modern great, 30 Dec 2008
Ronan O'Gara is something of a rugby enigma, a player of superb quality who has become synonymous with the Heinekken Cup and yet also the victim of unjust criticism and doomed never to receive the recognition he is due.

This autobiography is a great opportunity for a true rugby fan, whether a Munster or Ireland supporter, a Neutral or a grudging admirer, the book offers a chance to really get an insight into this great players life. I say life, because the work bucks the trend of recent sporting biographies to focus purely on the players career and instead provides a warts and all account of life as a professional player. The work is refreshingly honest and Ronan is quick point out his mistakes and regrets as his is to highlight his greatest moments.

For a career that has spanned so long a period there are dozens of choice moments and periods to read on, from his on-field rivalry with David Humphries, to the Munster saga that underpins his professional career, the World Cup in 2007 and more.

The work only gets 4 stars as I felt it has been written a little prematurely, Ronan still has several playing years left and one would hope plenty more stories to tell, and the suspicion is that with Ronan being so private an individual he won't write them down for a second volume. That aside this is a fantastic read and is a must have for fans of rugby.

Interesting history, but slight dull anacdotes, 11 Feb 2003
I enjoyed this book. A number of the stories are interesting from a historical perspective. However it is a far from a complete history (it does not set out to be) and the stories themselves are often rather dull. The stories build up, and then you realise they go no further.

Still they certainly avoid hyperbol and I would recommend it to a big fan of Rugby Union (no Rugby League at all).

Excellent read - short stories of Rugby through the ages, 13 Dec 2001
An entertaining book of funny short stories. The type of book that you can 'dip' into night after night.
Although meant for fans of the game, it can be enjoyed by non-rugby fans.
It starts from the early days of Rugby Union with the (dis) organisations trying to set up a world-wide game in the days when travelling was long and difficult. It takes us through to the professional era with stories about the modern teams & players we all know.
We meet the "characters" of the rugby world throughout this book.
My personal favourite is the Scottish player who won his first cap just before going off to fight in WWII. After the war he was invited to play again - it was expected that he would have brought the jersey he had worn 6 years peviousily! (washed of course!)

Haynes Rugby Union Manual

The truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth., 20 Dec 2008
I purchased this book as a Christmas present to myself, and as soon as it arrived I could not resist having a brief read of the publisher's notes on the dust cover. This resulted in me being unable to put the book down until I had read through to the last page. Alun Carter's account of the events of the last twelve years inside the WRU management structure confirms what all Welsh Rugby Fans suspect; 1.maximum interference with no clear line of responsibility for the coaches, 2.senior players interfering with coaches decisions and training plans.

Good management practices dictate that management structures should be clearly defined with responsibilities and accountabilities pushed as far down the management structure as possible. In addition,the player's role is to work in harmony and constructively with their coaches and complete tasks assigned to them.

This book provides an honest account of how the foregoing was missing within past coaching regimes. It also clearly brings to the fore the sheer volume of work prepared by the analyst for pre match planning to formulate a sound game plan. Even this work was dismissed by some of the coaches and sabotaged by senior players.

Welsh Rugby, it would seem, is now on the correct track with the new dynamic coaching staff in place. Could the events of the past twelve years happen again? With the disharmony that currently exists YES IT COULD. Will we ever learn from past mistakes? The lifeblood of a proud rugby nation is at stake. This book is a must read for all rugby fans in Wales and beyond and it will not sit comfortably with many in the top heavy WRU hierarchy.

BRILLIANT READ!, 11 Dec 2008
ALUN CARTER'S SEEING RED IS A REAL PAGE TURNER AND A MUST FOR ANY WELSH RUGBY FAN.IT IS AN HONEST AND WORTS AND ALL ACCOUNT OF THE WRU THE COACHES AND PLAYERS INVOLVED OVER THE PAST 12 YEARS. I HAVE READ MANY RUGBY BOOKS AND NONE OF THEM HAVE COME CLOSE TO IT. IT IS ALSO A GREAT INSIGHT TO THE MODERN GAME OF RUGBY, AND THE PREPARATION OF THE PLAYERS THROUGH TECHNOLOGY AND A VAST BACKROOM STAFF. A BRILLIANT READ!

Not so Grand!!, 10 Nov 2008
Alun Carter gives a real insiders view as to some of the more remarkable comings and goings on the episodes of Welsh rugby over the last 12 years. He does not pull many punches on his opinions of those who he feels have somewhat let the national team down during his spell as an analyst. He is very critical of the likes of Steve Hansen, Scott Johnson, Gareth Jenkins and Gareth 'Alfie' Thomas whilst he sings the praises of Graham Henry, Mike Ruddock and Clive Griffiths.

Carter gives a damning indictment on the player power that ultimately led to the resignation of a Grand Slam winning coach in Ruddock and tells of how some players were not willing to undertake tasks that were being asked of them by coaches who had a proven track record at domestic level.

Welsh rugby has seen some explosive episodes in the last few years and Carter tells it as he has seen it from the inside. This is a book that may not go down too well with some within the rugby hierarchy of Wales but for the genuine fan of the Welsh national team who has been dismayed with the events of recent years this is an account well worth reading.

A really good read, 13 Oct 2008
As a Welshman and a huge rugby fan I obviously think Shane Williams is some sort of god. However, when I got this book as a gift I was just thought "why?" how interesting could it really be?! I read the first chapter about the recent tour to South Africa, which was brilliantly written, but i thought it was just what i had expected, Shane Williams writing about rugby. But after this there isn't really much talk of rugby, well, there obviously is, but not in the manner you would've thought. The route that he took to get to be the superstar he is today is not a clear-cut as you would think.
Once i picked the book up, i read it for literally hours on end. It really is a fantastic book. I would highly suggest if you're a rugby fan like me.....except yours will not be as good as mine because mine is signed by the man himself: P


A rare insight into the mind of a modern great, 30 Dec 2008
Ronan O'Gara is something of a rugby enigma, a player of superb quality who has become synonymous with the Heinekken Cup and yet also the victim of unjust criticism and doomed never to receive the recognition he is due.

This autobiography is a great opportunity for a true rugby fan, whether a Munster or Ireland supporter, a Neutral or a grudging admirer, the book offers a chance to really get an insight into this great players life. I say life, because the work bucks the trend of recent sporting biographies to focus purely on the players career and instead provides a warts and all account of life as a professional player. The work is refreshingly honest and Ronan is quick point out his mistakes and regrets as his is to highlight his greatest moments.

For a career that has spanned so long a period there are dozens of choice moments and periods to read on, from his on-field rivalry with David Humphries, to the Munster saga that underpins his professional career, the World Cup in 2007 and more.

The work only gets 4 stars as I felt it has been written a little prematurely, Ronan still has several playing years left and one would hope plenty more stories to tell, and the suspicion is that with Ronan being so private an individual he won't write them down for a second volume. That aside this is a fantastic read and is a must have for fans of rugby.

Interesting history, but slight dull anacdotes, 11 Feb 2003
I enjoyed this book. A number of the stories are interesting from a historical perspective. However it is a far from a complete history (it does not set out to be) and the stories themselves are often rather dull. The stories build up, and then you realise they go no further.

Still they certainly avoid hyperbol and I would recommend it to a big fan of Rugby Union (no Rugby League at all).

Excellent read - short stories of Rugby through the ages, 13 Dec 2001
An entertaining book of funny short stories. The type of book that you can 'dip' into night after night.
Although meant for fans of the game, it can be enjoyed by non-rugby fans.
It starts from the early days of Rugby Union with the (dis) organisations trying to set up a world-wide game in the days when travelling was long and difficult. It takes us through to the professional era with stories about the modern teams & players we all know.
We meet the "characters" of the rugby world throughout this book.
My personal favourite is the Scottish player who won his first cap just before going off to fight in WWII. After the war he was invited to play again - it was expected that he would have brought the jersey he had worn 6 years peviousily! (washed of course!)

Great little read, 01 Nov 2008
Having grown up using a Haynes manual to help repair an old Peugot 106, I saw this and thought I'd pick it up, in the hope that I could pick up some wisdom to help my 7 year old's rugby skills.

I found it really very helpful - clearly written, interesting (particularly like the balance between great player biogs and the more technical stuff.

Oh, and for a part time player like myself, it actually has the rules of the game published...and given that I am still playing to 1980s rules, it has proved to be quite illuminating!

Players, Parents, Coaches and Officals - A essential part of your rugby toolkit!, 30 Oct 2008
After reading lots of rugby related books as a player, coach and ref I can honestly recommend this one as essential reading. How they got so much info into 200 odd pages is testiment to the Haynes formulae of providing clear and informative information and to the authors love and authorative grasp of the game. Bang upto date with current rugby stars views, ELV's explored, great colour pictures and even a section to cover the refs signals... its got something for everyone. Even Martin Johnson a man known for using few words is gushing in his introduction...and you know what he's dead right...even if he is still the scary man in the changing rooms! Enjoy.

The truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth., 20 Dec 2008
I purchased this book as a Christmas present to myself, and as soon as it arrived I could not resist having a brief read of the publisher's notes on the dust cover. This resulted in me being unable to put the book down until I had read through to the last page. Alun Carter's account of the events of the last twelve years inside the WRU management structure confirms what all Welsh Rugby Fans suspect; 1.maximum interference with no clear line of responsibility for the coaches, 2.senior players interfering with coaches decisions and training plans.

Good management practices dictate that management structures should be clearly defined with responsibilities and accountabilities pushed as far down the management structure as possible. In addition,the player's role is to work in harmony and constructively with their coaches and complete tasks assigned to them.

This book provides an honest account of how the foregoing was missing within past coaching regimes. It also clearly brings to the fore the sheer volume of work prepared by the analyst for pre match planning to formulate a sound game plan. Even this work was dismissed by some of the coaches and sabotaged by senior players.

Welsh Rugby, it would seem, is now on the correct track with the new dynamic coaching staff in place. Could the events of the past twelve years happen again? With the disharmony that currently exists YES IT COULD. Will we ever learn from past mistakes? The lifeblood of a proud rugby nation is at stake. This book is a must read for all rugby fans in Wales and beyond and it will not sit comfortably with many in the top heavy WRU hierarchy.

BRILLIANT READ!, 11 Dec 2008
ALUN CARTER'S SEEING RED IS A REAL PAGE TURNER AND A MUST FOR ANY WELSH RUGBY FAN.IT IS AN HONEST AND WORTS AND ALL ACCOUNT OF THE WRU THE COACHES AND PLAYERS INVOLVED OVER THE PAST 12 YEARS. I HAVE READ MANY RUGBY BOOKS AND NONE OF THEM HAVE COME CLOSE TO IT. IT IS ALSO A GREAT INSIGHT TO THE MODERN GAME OF RUGBY, AND THE PREPARATION OF THE PLAYERS THROUGH TECHNOLOGY AND A VAST BACKROOM STAFF. A BRILLIANT READ!

Not so Grand!!, 10 Nov 2008
Alun Carter gives a real insiders view as to some of the more remarkable comings and goings on the episodes of Welsh rugby over the last 12 years. He does not pull many punches on his opinions of those who he feels have somewhat let the national team down during his spell as an analyst. He is very critical of the likes of Steve Hansen, Scott Johnson, Gareth Jenkins and Gareth 'Alfie' Thomas whilst he sings the praises of Graham Henry, Mike Ruddock and Clive Griffiths.

Carter gives a damning indictment on the player power that ultimately led to the resignation of a Grand Slam winning coach in Ruddock and tells of how some players were not willing to undertake tasks that were being asked of them by coaches who had a proven track record at domestic level.

Welsh rugby has seen some explosive episodes in the last few years and Carter tells it as he has seen it from the inside. This is a book that may not go down too well with some within the rugby hierarchy of Wales but for the genuine fan of the Welsh national team who has been dismayed with the events of recent years this is an account well worth reading.

A really good read, 13 Oct 2008
As a Welshman and a huge rugby fan I obviously think Shane Williams is some sort of god. However, when I got this book as a gift I was just thought "why?" how interesting could it really be?! I read the first chapter about the recent tour to South Africa, which was brilliantly written, but i thought it was just what i had expected, Shane Williams writing about rugby. But after this there isn't really much talk of rugby, well, there obviously is, but not in the manner you would've thought. The route that he took to get to be the superstar he is today is not a clear-cut as you would think.
Once i picked the book up, i read it for literally hours on end. It really is a fantastic book. I would highly suggest if you're a rugby fan like me.....except yours will not be as good as mine because mine is signed by the man himself: P


A rare insight into the mind of a modern great, 30 Dec 2008
Ronan O'Gara is something of a rugby enigma, a player of superb quality who has become synonymous with the Heinekken Cup and yet also the victim of unjust criticism and doomed never to receive the recognition he is due.

This autobiography is a great opportunity for a true rugby fan, whether a Munster or Ireland supporter, a Neutral or a grudging admirer, the book offers a chance to really get an insight into this great players life. I say life, because the work bucks the trend of recent sporting biographies to focus purely on the players career and instead provides a warts and all account of life as a professional player. The work is refreshingly honest and Ronan is quick point out his mistakes and regrets as his is to highlight his greatest moments.

For a career that has spanned so long a period there are dozens of choice moments and periods to read on, from his on-field rivalry with David Humphries, to the Munster saga that underpins his professional career, the World Cup in 2007 and more.

The work only gets 4 stars as I felt it has been written a little prematurely, Ronan still has several playing years left and one would hope plenty more stories to tell, and the suspicion is that with Ronan being so private an individual he won't write them down for a second volume. That aside this is a fantastic read and is a must have for fans of rugby.

Interesting history, but slight dull anacdotes, 11 Feb 2003
I enjoyed this book. A number of the stories are interesting from a historical perspective. However it is a far from a complete history (it does not set out to be) and the stories themselves are often rather dull. The stories build up, and then you realise they go no further.

Still they certainly avoid hyperbol and I would recommend it to a big fan of Rugby Union (no Rugby League at all).

Excellent read - short stories of Rugby through the ages, 13 Dec 2001
An entertaining book of funny short stories. The type of book that you can 'dip' into night after night.
Although meant for fans of the game, it can be enjoyed by non-rugby fans.
It starts from the early days of Rugby Union with the (dis) organisations trying to set up a world-wide game in the days when travelling was long and difficult. It takes us through to the professional era with stories about the modern teams & players we all know.
We meet the "characters" of the rugby world throughout this book.
My personal favourite is the Scottish player who won his first cap just before going off to fight in WWII. After the war he was invited to play again - it was expected that he would have brought the jersey he had worn 6 years peviousily! (washed of course!)

Great little read, 01 Nov 2008
Having grown up using a Haynes manual to help repair an old Peugot 106, I saw this and thought I'd pick it up, in the hope that I could pick up some wisdom to help my 7 year old's rugby skills.

I found it really very helpful - clearly written, interesting (particularly like the balance between great player biogs and the more technical stuff.

Oh, and for a part time player like myself, it actually has the rules of the game published...and given that I am still playing to 1980s rules, it has proved to be quite illuminating!

Players, Parents, Coaches and Officals - A essential part of your rugby toolkit!, 30 Oct 2008
After reading lots of rugby related books as a player, coach and ref I can honestly recommend this one as essential reading. How they got so much info into 200 odd pages is testiment to the Haynes formulae of providing clear and informative information and to the authors love and authorative grasp of the game. Bang upto date with current rugby stars views, ELV's explored, great colour pictures and even a section to cover the refs signals... its got something for everyone. Even Martin Johnson a man known for using few words is gushing in his introduction...and you know what he's dead right...even if he is still the scary man in the changing rooms! Enjoy.

Golden Nugget Shares Insights on Life and Rugby, 10 May 2008
This is an excellent book that I could not put down once I began reading it. Williams has been through so much both in his rugby career where he is a Welsh legend after having now played a key part in two Grand Slam teams (although this book was written before Warren Gatland had persuaded him to come out of retirement and play in the historic 2008 Six Nations campaign), and in life where he has lost his beloved mother and brother. What you get with Martyn is an honest evaluation of the highs and lows, the emotions of euphoria and heartache that he has experienced in his life both on and off the pitch. We get some fascinating insights into his take on some of his fellow rugby legends, including Gareth Thomas, Stephen Jones, Colin Charvis, Gethin Jenkins, Shane Williams, Neil Jenkins, Robert Howley, Dwayne Peel, Tom Shanklin, Iestyn Harris, Gavin Henson, and Jonah Lomu (who played a season with him at the Blues). Equally riveting is his take on the numerous coaches he has worked with, and the enormous debt he owes to two of them. Having read his book I have a much better understanding of the circumstances leading up to Mike Ruddock's shock resignation in February 2006, and how all the hype and irresponsible speculation in the press at that time could not destroy the bond of friendship and loyalty that he and the other senior members of the national team had built up over several years of lows and highs in Welsh fortunes. Reading the book only reinforced my opinion that the modest lad from Pontypridd truly deserves the accolade of "The Magnificent Seven".

In 7 heaven, 02 Mar 2008
I purchased this book for my brother-in-laws birthday but started to read and could not put it down.it was as gripping as watching him play

The truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth., 20 Dec 2008
I purchased this book as a Christmas present to myself, and as soon as it arrived I could not resist having a brief read of the publisher's notes on the dust cover. This resulted in me being unable to put the book down until I had read through to the last page. Alun Carter's account of the events of the last twelve years inside the WRU management structure confirms what all Welsh Rugby Fans suspect; 1.maximum interference with no clear line of responsibility for the coaches, 2.senior players interfering with coaches decisions and training plans.

Good management practices dictate that management structures should be clearly defined with responsibilities and accountabilities pushed as far down the management structure as possible. In addition,the player's role is to work in harmony and constructively with their coaches and complete tasks assigned to them.

This book provides an honest account of how the foregoing was missing within past coaching regimes. It also clearly brings to the fore the sheer volume of work prepared by the analyst for pre match planning to formulate a sound game plan. Even this work was dismissed by some of the coaches and sabotaged by senior players.

Welsh Rugby, it would seem, is now on the correct track with the new dynamic coaching staff in place. Could the events of the past twelve years happen again? With the disharmony that currently exists YES IT COULD. Will we ever learn from past mistakes? The lifeblood of a proud rugby nation is at stake. This book is a must read for all rugby fans in Wales and beyond and it will not sit comfortably with many in the top heavy WRU hierarchy.

BRILLIANT READ!, 11 Dec 2008
ALUN CARTER'S SEEING RED IS A REAL PAGE TURNER AND A MUST FOR ANY WELSH RUGBY FAN.IT IS AN HONEST AND WORTS AND ALL ACCOUNT OF THE WRU THE COACHES AND PLAYERS INVOLVED OVER THE PAST 12 YEARS. I HAVE READ MANY RUGBY BOOKS AND NONE OF THEM HAVE COME CLOSE TO IT. IT IS ALSO A GREAT INSIGHT TO THE MODERN GAME OF RUGBY, AND THE PREPARATION OF THE PLAYERS THROUGH TECHNOLOGY AND A VAST BACKROOM STAFF. A BRILLIANT READ!

Not so Grand!!, 10 Nov 2008
Alun Carter gives a real insiders view as to some of the more remarkable comings and goings on the episodes of Welsh rugby over the last 12 years. He does not pull many punches on his opinions of those who he feels have somewhat let the national team down during his spell as an analyst. He is very critical of the likes of Steve Hansen, Scott Johnson, Gareth Jenkins and Gareth 'Alfie' Thomas whilst he sings the praises of Graham Henry, Mike Ruddock and Clive Griffiths.

Carter gives a damning indictment on the player power that ultimately led to the resignation of a Grand Slam winning coach in Ruddock and tells of how some players were not willing to undertake tasks that were being asked of them by coaches who had a proven track record at domestic level.

Welsh rugby has seen some explosive episodes in the last few years and Carter tells it as he has seen it from the inside. This is a book that may not go down too well with some within the rugby hierarchy of Wales but for the genuine fan of the Welsh national team who has been dismayed with the events of recent years this is an account well worth reading.

A really good read, 13 Oct 2008
As a Welshman and a huge rugby fan I obviously think Shane Williams is some sort of god. However, when I got this book as a gift I was just thought "why?" how interesting could it really be?! I read the first chapter about the recent tour to South Africa, which was brilliantly written, but i thought it was just what i had expected, Shane Williams writing about rugby. But after this there isn't really much talk of rugby, well, there obviously is, but not in the manner you would've thought. The route that he took to get to be the superstar he is today is not a clear-cut as you would think.
Once i picked the book up, i read it for literally hours on end. It really is a fantastic book. I would highly suggest if you're a rugby fan like me.....except yours will not be as good as mine because mine is signed by the man himself: P


A rare insight into the mind of a modern great, 30 Dec 2008
Ronan O'Gara is something of a rugby enigma, a player of superb quality who has become synonymous with the Heinekken Cup and yet also the victim of unjust criticism and doomed never to receive the recognition he is due.

This autobiography is a great opportunity for a true rugby fan, whether a Munster or Ireland supporter, a Neutral or a grudging admirer, the book offers a chance to really get an insight into this great players life. I say life, because the work bucks the trend of recent sporting biographies to focus purely on the players career and instead provides a warts and all account of life as a professional player. The work is refreshingly honest and Ronan is quick point out his mistakes and regrets as his is to highlight his greatest moments.

For a career that has spanned so long a period there are dozens of choice moments and periods to read on, from his on-field rivalry with David Humphries, to the Munster saga that underpins his professional career, the World Cup in 2007 and more.

The work only gets 4 stars as I felt it has been written a little prematurely, Ronan still has several playing years left and one would hope plenty more stories to tell, and the suspicion is that with Ronan being so private an individual he won't write them down for a second volume. That aside this is a fantastic read and is a must have for fans of rugby.

Interesting history, but slight dull anacdotes, 11 Feb 2003
I enjoyed this book. A number of the stories are interesting from a historical perspective. However it is a far from a complete history (it does not set out to be) and the stories themselves are often rather dull. The stories build up, and then you realise they go no further.

Still they certainly avoid hyperbol and I would recommend it to a big fan of Rugby Union (no Rugby League at all).

Excellent read - short stories of Rugby through the ages, 13 Dec 2001
An entertaining book of funny short stories. The type of book that you can 'dip' into night after night.
Although meant for fans of the game, it can be enjoyed by non-rugby fans.
It starts from the early days of Rugby Union with the (dis) organisations trying to set up a world-wide game in the days when travelling was long and difficult. It takes us through to the professional era with stories about the modern teams & players we all know.
We meet the "characters" of the rugby world throughout this book.
My personal favourite is the Scottish player who won his first cap just before going off to fight in WWII. After the war he was invited to play again - it was expected that he would have brought the jersey he had worn 6 years peviousily! (washed of course!)

Great little read, 01 Nov 2008
Having grown up using a Haynes manual to help repair an old Peugot 106, I saw this and thought I'd pick it up, in the hope that I could pick up some wisdom to help my 7 year old's rugby skills.

I found it really very helpful - clearly written, interesting (particularly like the balance between great player biogs and the more technical stuff.

Oh, and for a part time player like myself, it actually has the rules of the game published...and given that I am still playing to 1980s rules, it has proved to be quite illuminating!

Players, Parents, Coaches and Officals - A essential part of your rugby toolkit!, 30 Oct 2008
After reading lots of rugby related books as a player, coach and ref I can honestly recommend this one as essential reading. How they got so much info into 200 odd pages is testiment to the Haynes formulae of providing clear and informative information and to the authors love and authorative grasp of the game. Bang upto date with current rugby stars views, ELV's explored, great colour pictures and even a section to cover the refs signals... its got something for everyone. Even Martin Johnson a man known for using few words is gushing in his introduction...and you know what he's dead right...even if he is still the scary man in the changing rooms! Enjoy.

Golden Nugget Shares Insights on Life and Rugby, 10 May 2008
This is an excellent book that I could not put down once I began reading it. Williams has been through so much both in his rugby career where he is a Welsh legend after having now played a key part in two Grand Slam teams (although this book was written before Warren Gatland had persuaded him to come out of retirement and play in the historic 2008 Six Nations campaign), and in life where he has lost his beloved mother and brother. What you get with Martyn is an honest evaluation of the highs and lows, the emotions of euphoria and heartache that he has experienced in his life both on and off the pitch. We get some fascinating insights into his take on some of his fellow rugby legends, including Gareth Thomas, Stephen Jones, Colin Charvis, Gethin Jenkins, Shane Williams, Neil Jenkins, Robert Howley, Dwayne Peel, Tom Shanklin, Iestyn Harris, Gavin Henson, and Jonah Lomu (who played a season with him at the Blues). Equally riveting is his take on the numerous coaches he has worked with, and the enormous debt he owes to two of them. Having read his book I have a much better understanding of the circumstances leading up to Mike Ruddock's shock resignation in February 2006, and how all the hype and irresponsible speculation in the press at that time could not destroy the bond of friendship and loyalty that he and the other senior members of the national team had built up over several years of lows and highs in Welsh fortunes. Reading the book only reinforced my opinion that the modest lad from Pontypridd truly deserves the accolade of "The Magnificent Seven".

In 7 heaven, 02 Mar 2008
I purchased this book for my brother-in-laws birthday but started to read and could not put it down.it was as gripping as watching him play

LBND - Honest?, 16 Dec 2008
I echo all the above about the detail, emotion, humour, variety of topic covered and sincerity of feeling. But at the risk of sounding harsh to Lol, I do wonder how honest he was over the circumstances of the 1999 newspaper 'sting'. For instance, he says the 'drugs' stories were based on adolescent transgressions by others into which he inserted himself - fine, but he makes no attempt to explain the 'Amsterdam' incident (I can't be more explicit, kids could be reading this) with fellow Lions. And his response to the 'honeytap' allegation, is quite interesting too: speaking of his attitude toward journalist Louise Oswald; he says there was no offer of intimacy (as it were) from her, he didn't find her attractive, and, they weren't given the opportunity anyway. All of which immediately raised 3 questions in my mind: 1) what if she had offered 'it' on a plate? 2) What if you had found her attractive, (we all occasionally fancy someone other than our partner.) And 3) what if you had been left alone together? WOULD YOU HAVE AT LEAST BEEN TEMPTED??? If someone accused me of being even tempted in such circumstances, my only response would be, 'no way, because I love my wife far too much and wouldn't even contemplate another woman.'
I'm sorry to sound like a heretic and blight the unbroken praise of all previous reviews, but to any thinking reader, these are surely questions that must come to mind.
But, that said, I looked forward to this book for well over a year, and, was not disappointed.

Solid but dull, 14 Nov 2008
I looked forward to Lawrence Dallaglio's book but found it quite tedious at times. He is great man, and I will always remember him as the ultimate rugby warrior but David Walsh does not do him any great favours with this worthy but stodgy effort

a good read, 01 Nov 2008
I love this book. I dont know a great deal about rugby but this didn't prevent me from engaging with the narrative. L.D. is a likable guy, who has made a few mistakes in his time, but achieved alot. However, its not a rags to riches story, as he was educated at a rather prestigeous school and was privy to alot of advantages others growing up in his era were not.

Although, this is not to deny his hard work and talent. It just gets my goat when people place the pauper card, when they are so clearly not.

I do love this book and have read it a few times now.

I'd reccomend it. :)

Ok but holds back...., 26 Aug 2008
I remember the 2003 World Cup campaign well and Lawrence Dallaglio was one of the English heroes who played a big part in it. He was (proudly) the only player to have played every minute of every match - although there were reasons for this!

I enjoy biographies and have read several of sporting legends (Ali, Armstrong...er Tony Cascarino) but none has been that exceptional. Sadly, this is the case here too as while it has its moments, it quite workman-like although generally readable.

He came from a secure and loving family and is at pains to point this out. His parents were very supportive and they worked hard to give him the best education they could afford. He admits he did not give them a good return on their investment and cruised through school, only excelling on the rugby pitch. He tells us about the tragic loss of his sister in the Marchioness and the devastating effect it had on him then, and to this day. His mother's long and brave fight for a full public enquiry is an eye-opener in the face of indolence and opposition from the authorities, though Dallaglio admits he played little part in this.

His arrival at and career with his beloved Wasps club side is well documented. You have to admire the man for staying at the club he adored although there do not appear to have been many offers from other clubs! Sometimes, it can be a bit of a mates backslapping tome, as he tells of his love of a "pint and a yarn" with his friends but he seems to have made no enemies whatsoever on the way. If he did, he didn't tell us.....

I was also a bit disappointed in the way the News of the World "drug dealer" scandal was glossed over, Dallaglio blaming the drink entirely. As one NOTW lawyer said, being drunk does not give you an in-depth knowledge of the drugs world. If he had addressed specific allegations made in the papers, his explanations would have had more credibility. It cost him the England captaincy but he is one of those players who just wanted to play for the white shirt at all costs, and you get the impression he really meant that.

There are interesting passages on his relationship with Clive Woodward, an extremely clever and talented coach. It was a rocky ride at times but the mutual respect was there. Johnny Wilkinson comes across as a shy character who doesn't enjoy the limelight (shouldn't be such a good goal kicker then should he!)

Club fans will enjoy the accounts of battles against Leicester and the Toulose etc, whilst international fans will enjoy the World Cup and Lions accounts equally as much.

A good read for the England and Wasps rugby fan though it could have been better had the surface been scratched a bit deeper.








Disappointing, 02 Mar 2008
I am a bit amazed by some of the other reviews of this book. I am a big rugby fan and having been given this for Christmas 2007 was looking forward to insightful read of a insiders view of the 2003 rugby build up and how he really found it breaking into the senior game from the junior ranks. It reads like someone desperately trying to remember some of the past and also some of the really big games are brushed over in 1-2 pages if that. the News of the World incident receives many pages more other important events in his life, which quite frankly I would rather read about. All in all disappointing.

The truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth., 20 Dec 2008
I purchased this book as a Christmas present to myself, and as soon as it arrived I could not resist having a brief read of the publisher's notes on the dust cover. This resulted in me being unable to put the book down until I had read through to the last page. Alun Carter's account of the events of the last twelve years inside the WRU management structure confirms what all Welsh Rugby Fans suspect; 1.maximum interference with no clear line of responsibility for the coaches, 2.senior players interfering with coaches decisions and training plans.

Good management practices dictate that management structures should be clearly defined with responsibilities and accountabilities pushed as far down the management structure as possible. In addition,the player's role is to work in harmony and constructively with their coaches and complete tasks assigned to them.

This book provides an honest account of how the foregoing was missing within past coaching regimes. It also clearly brings to the fore the sheer volume of work prepared by the analyst for pre match planning to formulate a sound game plan. Even this work was dismissed by some of the coaches and sabotaged by senior players.

Welsh Rugby, it would seem, is now on the correct track with the new dynamic coaching staff in place. Could the events of the past twelve years happen again? With the disharmony that currently exists YES IT COULD. Will we ever learn from past mistakes? The lifeblood of a proud rugby nation is at stake. This book is a must read for all rugby fans in Wales and beyond and it will not sit comfortably with many in the top heavy WRU hierarchy.

BRILLIANT READ!, 11 Dec 2008
ALUN CARTER'S SEEING RED IS A REAL PAGE TURNER AND A MUST FOR ANY WELSH RUGBY FAN.IT IS AN HONEST AND WORTS AND ALL ACCOUNT OF THE WRU THE COACHES AND PLAYERS INVOLVED OVER THE PAST 12 YEARS. I HAVE READ MANY RUGBY BOOKS AND NONE OF THEM HAVE COME CLOSE TO IT. IT IS ALSO A GREAT INSIGHT TO THE MODERN GAME OF RUGBY, AND THE PREPARATION OF THE PLAYERS THROUGH TECHNOLOGY AND A VAST BACKROOM STAFF. A BRILLIANT READ!

Not so Grand!!, 10 Nov 2008
Alun Carter gives a real insiders view as to some of the more remarkable comings and goings on the episodes of Welsh rugby over the last 12 years. He does not pull many punches on his opinions of those who he feels have somewhat let the national team down during his spell as an analyst. He is very critical of the likes of Steve Hansen, Scott Johnson, Gareth Jenkins and Gareth 'Alfie' Thomas whilst he sings the praises of Graham Henry, Mike Ruddock and Clive Griffiths.

Carter gives a damning indictment on the player power that ultimately led to the resignation of a Grand Slam winning coach in Ruddock and tells of how some players were not willing to undertake tasks that were being asked of them by coaches who had a proven track record at domestic level.

Welsh rugby has seen some explosive episodes in the last few years and Carter tells it as he has seen it from the inside. This is a book that may not go down too well with some within the rugby hierarchy of Wales but for the genuine fan of the Welsh national team who has been dismayed with the events of recent years this is an account well worth reading.

A really good read, 13 Oct 2008
As a Welshman and a huge rugby fan I obviously think Shane Williams is some sort of god. However, when I got this book as a gift I was just thought "why?" how interesting could it really be?! I read the first chapter about the recent tour to South Africa, which was brilliantly written, but i thought it was just what i had expected, Shane Williams writing about rugby. But after this there isn't really much talk of rugby, well, there obviously is, but not in the manner you would've thought. The route that he took to get to be the superstar he is today is not a clear-cut as you would think.
Once i picked the book up, i read it for literally hours on end. It really is a fantastic book. I would highly suggest if you're a rugby fan like me.....except yours will not be as good as mine because mine is signed by the man himself: P


A rare insight into the mind of a modern great, 30 Dec 2008
Ronan O'Gara is something of a rugby enigma, a player of superb quality who has become synonymous with the Heinekken Cup and yet also the victim of unjust criticism and doomed never to receive the recognition he is due.

This autobiography is a great opportunity for a true rugby fan, whether a Munster or Ireland supporter, a Neutral or a grudging admirer, the book offers a chance to really get an insight into this great players life. I say life, because the work bucks the trend of recent sporting biographies to focus purely on the players career and instead provides a warts and all account of life as a professional player. The work is refreshingly honest and Ronan is quick point out his mistakes and regrets as his is to highlight his greatest moments.

For a career that has spanned so long a period there are dozens of choice moments and periods to read on, from his on-field rivalry with David Humphries, to the Munster saga that underpins his professional career, the World Cup in 2007 and more.

The work only gets 4 stars as I felt it has been written a little prematurely, Ronan still has several playing years left and one would hope plenty more stories to tell, and the suspicion is that with Ronan being so private an individual he won't write them down for a second volume. That aside this is a fantastic read and is a must have for fans of rugby.

Interesting history, but slight dull anacdotes, 11 Feb 2003
I enjoyed this book. A number of the stories are interesting from a historical perspective. However it is a far from a complete history (it does not set out to be) and the stories themselves are often rather dull. The stories build up, and then you realise they go no further.

Still they certainly avoid hyperbol and I would recommend it to a big fan of Rugby Union (no Rugby League at all).

Excellent read - short stories of Rugby through the ages, 13 Dec 2001
An entertaining book of funny short stories. The type of book that you can 'dip' into night after night.
Although meant for fans of the game, it can be enjoyed by non-rugby fans.
It starts from the early days of Rugby Union with the (dis) organisations trying to set up a world-wide game in the days when travelling was long and difficult. It takes us through to the professional era with stories about the modern teams & players we all know.
We meet the "characters" of the rugby world throughout this book.
My personal favourite is the Scottish player who won his first cap just before going off to fight in WWII. After the war he was invited to play again - it was expected that he would have brought the jersey he had worn 6 years peviousily! (washed of course!)

Great little read, 01 Nov 2008
Having grown up using a Haynes manual to help repair an old Peugot 106, I saw this and thought I'd pick it up, in the hope that I could pick up some wisdom to help my 7 year old's rugby skills.

I found it really very helpful - clearly written, interesting (particularly like the balance between great player biogs and the more technical stuff.

Oh, and for a part time player like myself, it actually has the rules of the game published...and given that I am still playing to 1980s rules, it has proved to be quite illuminating!

Players, Parents, Coaches and Officals - A essential part of your rugby toolkit!, 30 Oct 2008
After reading lots of rugby related books as a player, coach and ref I can honestly recommend this one as essential reading. How they got so much info into 200 odd pages is testiment to the Haynes formulae of providing clear and informative information and to the authors love and authorative grasp of the game. Bang upto date with current rugby stars views, ELV's explored, great colour pictures and even a section to cover the refs signals... its got something for everyone. Even Martin Johnson a man known for using few words is gushing in his introduction...and you know what he's dead right...even if he is still the scary man in the changing rooms! Enjoy.

Golden Nugget Shares Insights on Life and Rugby, 10 May 2008
This is an excellent book that I could not put down once I began reading it. Williams has been through so much both in his rugby career where he is a Welsh legend after having now played a key part in two Grand Slam teams (although this book was written before Warren Gatland had persuaded him to come out of retirement and play in the historic 2008 Six Nations campaign), and in life where he has lost his beloved mother and brother. What you get with Martyn is an honest evaluation of the highs and lows, the emotions of euphoria and heartache that he has experienced in his life both on and off the pitch. We get some fascinating insights into his take on some of his fellow rugby legends, including Gareth Thomas, Stephen Jones, Colin Charvis, Gethin Jenkins, Shane Williams, Neil Jenkins, Robert Howley, Dwayne Peel, Tom Shanklin, Iestyn Harris, Gavin Henson, and Jonah Lomu (who played a season with him at the Blues). Equally riveting is his take on the numerous coaches he has worked with, and the enormous debt he owes to two of them. Having read his book I have a much better understanding of the circumstances leading up to Mike Ruddock's shock resignation in February 2006, and how all the hype and irresponsible speculation in the press at that time could not destroy the bond of friendship and loyalty that he and the other senior members of the national team had built up over several years of lows and highs in Welsh fortunes. Reading the book only reinforced my opinion that the modest lad from Pontypridd truly deserves the accolade of "The Magnificent Seven".

In 7 heaven, 02 Mar 2008
I purchased this book for my brother-in-laws birthday but started to read and could not put it down.it was as gripping as watching him play

LBND - Honest?, 16 Dec 2008
I echo all the above about the detail, emotion, humour, variety of topic covered and sincerity of feeling. But at the risk of sounding harsh to Lol, I do wonder how honest he was over the circumstances of the 1999 newspaper 'sting'. For instance, he says the 'drugs' stories were based on adolescent transgressions by others into which he inserted himself - fine, but he makes no attempt to explain the 'Amsterdam' incident (I can't be more explicit, kids could be reading this) with fellow Lions. And his response to the 'honeytap' allegation, is quite interesting too: speaking of his attitude toward journalist Louise Oswald; he says there was no offer of intimacy (as it were) from her, he didn't find her attractive, and, they weren't given the opportunity anyway. All of which immediately raised 3 questions in my mind: 1) what if she had offered 'it' on a plate? 2) What if you had found her attractive, (we all occasionally fancy someone other than our partner.) And 3) what if you had been left alone together? WOULD YOU HAVE AT LEAST BEEN TEMPTED??? If someone accused me of being even tempted in such circumstances, my only response would be, 'no way, because I love my wife far too much and wouldn't even contemplate another woman.'
I'm sorry to sound like a heretic and blight the unbroken praise of all previous reviews, but to any thinking reader, these are surely questions that must come to mind.
But, that said, I looked forward to this book for well over a year, and, was not disappointed.

Solid but dull, 14 Nov 2008
I looked forward to Lawrence Dallaglio's book but found it quite tedious at times. He is great man, and I will always remember him as the ultimate rugby warrior but David Walsh does not do him any great favours with this worthy but stodgy effort

a good read, 01 Nov 2008
I love this book. I dont know a great deal about rugby but this didn't prevent me from engaging with the narrative. L.D. is a likable guy, who has made a few mistakes in his time, but achieved alot. However, its not a rags to riches story, as he was educated at a rather prestigeous school and was privy to alot of advantages others growing up in his era were not.

Although, this is not to deny his hard work and talent. It just gets my goat when people place the pauper card, when they are so clearly not.

I do love this book and have read it a few times now.

I'd reccomend it. :)

Ok but holds back...., 26 Aug 2008
I remember the 2003 World Cup campaign well and Lawrence Dallaglio was one of the English heroes who played a big part in it. He was (proudly) the only player to have played every minute of every match - although there were reasons for this!

I enjoy biographies and have read several of sporting legends (Ali, Armstrong...er Tony Cascarino) but none has been that exceptional. Sadly, this is the case here too as while it has its moments, it quite workman-like although generally readable.

He came from a secure and loving family and is at pains to point this out. His parents were very supportive and they worked hard to give him the best education they could afford. He admits he did not give them a good return on their investment and cruised through school, only excelling on the rugby pitch. He tells us about the tragic loss of his sister in the Marchioness and the devastating effect it had on him then, and to this day. His mother's long and brave fight for a full public enquiry is an eye-opener in the face of indolence and opposition from the authorities, though Dallaglio admits he played little part in this.

His arrival at and career with his beloved Wasps club side is well documented. You have to admire the man for staying at the club he adored although there do not appear to have been many offers from other clubs! Sometimes, it can be a bit of a mates backslapping tome, as he tells of his love of a "pint and a yarn" with his friends but he seems to have made no enemies whatsoever on the way. If he did, he didn't tell us.....

I was also a bit disappointed in the way the News of the World "drug dealer" scandal was glossed over, Dallaglio blaming the drink entirely. As one NOTW lawyer said, being drunk does not give you an in-depth knowledge of the drugs world. If he had addressed specific allegations made in the papers, his explanations would have had more credibility. It cost him the England captaincy but he is one of those players who just wanted to play for the white shirt at all costs, and you get the impression he really meant that.

There are interesting passages on his relationship with Clive Woodward, an extremely clever and talented coach. It was a rocky ride at times but the mutual respect was there. Johnny Wilkinson comes across as a shy character who doesn't enjoy the limelight (shouldn't be such a good goal kicker then should he!)

Club fans will enjoy the accounts of battles against Leicester and the Toulose etc, whilst international fans will enjoy the World Cup and Lions accounts equally as much.

A good read for the England and Wasps rugby fan though it could have been better had the surface been scratched a bit deeper.








Disappointing, 02 Mar 2008
I am a bit amazed by some of the other reviews of this book. I am a big rugby fan and having been given this for Christmas 2007 was looking forward to insightful read of a insiders view of the 2003 rugby build up and how he really found it breaking into the senior game from the junior ranks. It reads like someone desperately trying to remember some of the past and also some of the really big games are brushed over in 1-2 pages if that. the News of the World incident receives many pages more other important events in his life, which quite frankly I would rather read about. All in all disappointing.

Quality Read, 15 Jun 2008
This book, without a doubt has been the best sporting autobiography I have read to date. It made me laugh, it gave me an insight into how England and Leicester Tigers functioned and it gave a funny account of many players.
For all England rugby fans, this is a must read. Healey has great confidence in his own ability and this is portrayed in the text. A true English legend and a book I didn't want to end.

Healey the entertainer, 25 Mar 2008
If Martin Johnston's book hasn't managed to put you off rugby biography's(Zzzzz)then this is well worth a read- essential for any rugby fan. Funny, informative, poignant in places- a true legend of the game.

Pretty much what i expected, 18 Feb 2008
I wouldn't want to say this is a bad/good book, and i wouldn't want to say whether I like/dislike Mr Healey after reading it. I think this book is an example of 'What is says on the tin'. We all know Austin has built a career on playing practical jokes and slating every other human being, and this book just goes to confirm this.

As i mentioned earlier, i wouldn't want to judge the guy purely by this book but it does appear that he has trouble accepting a slating and a practical joke from a fellow human being, even if it is at the same level of nastiness as he has played on other people. All of that said, he is still very forthright in his views on many different coaches in rugby, but i started to lose respect for his oppinions of other people the more the book went on, because you are never sure whether it is personal or objective.

Either way, the book is a bit of fun and it was an easy read, so if you fancy reading this then go ahead and you will get exactly what you expected.

Amazing read, 28 Oct 2007
This book was witty funny and a realy enjoyable read. from his witty banter with all of his team mates the ins and outs of lecester duyring his 10 year period there. a must read for any rugby fan.

An excellent autobiography, 30 Jan 2007
An excellent autobiography - certainly one of the best, if not the best, rugby autobiography that I can recall. Healey's honest,amusing and often ironic self assessment of himself during his rugby career is an enjoyable and interesting read. One to recommend to all sports fans alike.

The truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth., 20 Dec 2008
I purchased this book as a Christmas present to myself, and as soon as it arrived I could not resist having a brief read of the publisher's notes on the dust cover. This resulted in me being unable to put the book down until I had read through to the last page. Alun Carter's account of the events of the last twelve years inside the WRU management structure confirms what all Welsh Rugby Fans suspect; 1.maximum interference with no clear line of responsibility for the coaches, 2.senior players interfering with coaches decisions and training plans.

Good management practices dictate that management structures should be clearly defined with responsibilities and accountabilities pushed as far down the management structure as possible. In addition,the player's role is to work in harmony and constructively with their coaches and complete tasks assigned to them.

This book provides an honest account of how the foregoing was missing within past coaching regimes. It also clearly brings to the fore the sheer volume of work prepared by the analyst for pre match planning to formulate a sound game plan. Even this work was dismissed by some of the coaches and sabotaged by senior players.

Welsh Rugby, it would seem, is now on the correct track with the new dynamic coaching staff in place. Could the events of the past twelve years happen again? With the disharmony that currently exists YES IT COULD. Will we ever learn from past mistakes? The lifeblood of a proud rugby nation is at stake. This book is a must read for all rugby fans in Wales and beyond and it will not sit comfortably with many in the top heavy WRU hierarchy.

BRILLIANT READ!, 11 Dec 2008
ALUN CARTER'S SEEING RED IS A REAL PAGE TURNER AND A MUST FOR ANY WELSH RUGBY FAN.IT IS AN HONEST AND WORTS AND ALL ACCOUNT OF THE WRU THE COACHES AND PLAYERS INVOLVED OVER THE PAST 12 YEARS. I HAVE READ MANY RUGBY BOOKS AND NONE OF THEM HAVE COME CLOSE TO IT. IT IS ALSO A GREAT INSIGHT TO THE MODERN GAME OF RUGBY, AND THE PREPARATION OF THE PLAYERS THROUGH TECHNOLOGY AND A VAST BACKROOM STAFF. A BRILLIANT READ!

Not so Grand!!, 10 Nov 2008
Alun Carter gives a real insiders view as to some of the more remarkable comings and goings on the episodes of Welsh rugby over the last 12 years. He does not pull many punches on his opinions of those who he feels have somewhat let the national team down during his spell as an analyst. He is very critical of the likes of Steve Hansen, Scott Johnson, Gareth Jenkins and Gareth 'Alfie' Thomas whilst he sings the praises of Graham Henry, Mike Ruddock and Clive Griffiths.

Carter gives a damning indictment on the player power that ultimately led to the resignation of a Grand Slam winning coach in Ruddock and tells of how some players were not willing to undertake tasks that were being asked of them by coaches who had a proven track record at domestic level.

Welsh rugby has seen some explosive episodes in the last few years and Carter tells it as he has seen it from the inside. This is a book that may not go down too well with some within the rugby hierarchy of Wales but for the genuine fan of the Welsh national team who has been dismayed with the events of recent years this is an account well worth reading.

A really good read, 13 Oct 2008
As a Welshman and a huge rugby fan I obviously think Shane Williams is some sort of god. However, when I got this book as a gift I was just thought "why?" how interesting could it really be?! I read the first chapter about the recent tour to South Africa, which was brilliantly written, but i thought it was just what i had expected, Shane Williams writing about rugby. But after this there isn't really much talk of rugby, well, there obviously is, but not in the manner you would've thought. The route that he took to get to be the superstar he is today is not a clear-cut as you would think.
Once i picked the book up, i read it for literally hours on end. It really is a fantastic book. I would highly suggest if you're a rugby fan like me.....except yours will not be as good as mine because mine is signed by the man himself: P


A rare insight into the mind of a modern great, 30 Dec 2008
Ronan O'Gara is something of a rugby enigma, a player of superb quality who has become synonymous with the Heinekken Cup and yet also the victim of unjust criticism and doomed never to receive the recognition he is due.

This autobiography is a great opportunity for a true rugby fan, whether a Munster or Ireland supporter, a Neutral or a grudging admirer, the book offers a chance to really get an insight into this great players life. I say life, because the work bucks the trend of recent sporting biographies to focus purely on the players career and instead provides a warts and all account of life as a professional player. The work is refreshingly honest and Ronan is quick point out his mistakes and regrets as his is to highlight his greatest moments.

For a career that has spanned so long a period there are dozens of choice moments and periods to read on, from his on-field rivalry with David Humphries, to the Munster saga that underpins his professional career, the World Cup in 2007 and more.

The work only gets 4 stars as I felt it has been written a little prematurely, Ronan still has several playing years left and one would hope plenty more stories to tell, and the suspicion is that with Ronan being so private an individual he won't write them down for a second volume. That aside this is a fantastic read and is a must have for fans of rugby.

Interesting history, but slight dull anacdotes, 11 Feb 2003
I enjoyed this book. A number of the stories are interesting from a historical perspective. However it is a far from a complete history (it does not set out to be) and the stories themselves are often rather dull. The stories build up, and then you realise they go no further.

Still they certainly avoid hyperbol and I would recommend it to a big fan of Rugby Union (no Rugby League at all).

Excellent read - short stories of Rugby through the ages, 13 Dec 2001
An entertaining book of funny short stories. The type of book that you can 'dip' into night after night.
Although meant for fans of the game, it can be enjoyed by non-rugby fans.
It starts from the early days of Rugby Union with the (dis) organisations trying to set up a world-wide game in the days when travelling was long and difficult. It takes us through to the professional era with stories about the modern teams & players we all know.
We meet the "characters" of the rugby world throughout this book.
My personal favourite is the Scottish player who won his first cap just before going off to fight in WWII. After the war he was invited to play again - it was expected that he would have brought the jersey he had worn 6 years peviousily! (washed of course!)

Great little read, 01 Nov 2008
Having grown up using a Haynes manual to help repair an old Peugot 106, I saw this and thought I'd pick it up, in the hope that I could pick up some wisdom to help my 7 year old's rugby skills.

I found it really very helpful - clearly written, interesting (particularly like the balance between great player biogs and the more technical stuff.

Oh, and for a part time player like myself, it actually has the rules of the game published...and given that I am still playing to 1980s rules, it has proved to be quite illuminating!

Players, Parents, Coaches and Officals - A essential part of your rugby toolkit!, 30 Oct 2008
After reading lots of rugby related books as a player, coach and ref I can honestly recommend this one as essential reading. How they got so much info into 200 odd pages is testiment to the Haynes formulae of providing clear and informative information and to the authors love and authorative grasp of the game. Bang upto date with current rugby stars views, ELV's explored, great colour pictures and even a section to cover the refs signals... its got something for everyone. Even Martin Johnson a man known for using few words is gushing in his introduction...and you know what he's dead right...even if he is still the scary man in the changing rooms! Enjoy.

Golden Nugget Shares Insights on Life and Rugby, 10 May 2008
This is an excellent book that I could not put down once I began reading it. Williams has been through so much both in his rugby career where he is a Welsh legend after having now played a key part in two Grand Slam teams (although this book was written before Warren Gatland had persuaded him to come out of retirement and play in the historic 2008 Six Nations campaign), and in life where he has lost his beloved mother and brother. What you get with Martyn is an honest evaluation of the highs and lows, the emotions of euphoria and heartache that he has experienced in his life both on and off the pitch. We get some fascinating insights into his take on some of his fellow rugby legends, including Gareth Thomas, Stephen Jones, Colin Charvis, Gethin Jenkins, Shane Williams, Neil Jenkins, Robert Howley, Dwayne Peel, Tom Shanklin, Iestyn Harris, Gavin Henson, and Jonah Lomu (who played a season with him at the Blues). Equally riveting is his take on the numerous coaches he has worked with, and the enormous debt he owes to two of them. Having read his book I have a much better understanding of the circumstances leading up to Mike Ruddock's shock resignation in February 2006, and how all the hype and irresponsible speculation in the press at that time could not destroy the bond of friendship and loyalty that he and the other senior members of the national team had built up over several years of lows and highs in Welsh fortunes. Reading the book only reinforced my opinion that the modest lad from Pontypridd truly deserves the accolade of "The Magnificent Seven".

In 7 heaven, 02 Mar 2008
I purchased this book for my brother-in-laws birthday but started to read and could not put it down.it was as gripping as watching him play

LBND - Honest?, 16 Dec 2008
I echo all the above about the detail, emotion, humour, variety of topic covered and sincerity of feeling. But at the risk of sounding harsh to Lol, I do wonder how honest he was over the circumstances of the 1999 newspaper 'sting'. For instance, he says the 'drugs' stories were based on adolescent transgressions by others into which he inserted himself - fine, but he makes no attempt to explain the 'Amsterdam' incident (I can't be more explicit, kids could be reading this) with fellow Lions. And his response to the 'honeytap' allegation, is quite interesting too: speaking of his attitude toward journalist Louise Oswald; he says there was no offer of intimacy (as it were) from her, he didn't find her attractive, and, they weren't given the opportunity anyway. All of which immediately raised 3 questions in my mind: 1) what if she had offered 'it' on a plate? 2) What if you had found her attractive, (we all occasionally fancy someone other than our partner.) And 3) what if you had been left alone together? WOULD YOU HAVE AT LEAST BEEN TEMPTED??? If someone accused me of being even tempted in such circumstances, my only response would be, 'no way, because I love my wife far too much and wouldn't even contemplate another woman.'
I'm sorry to sound like a heretic and blight the unbroken praise of all previous reviews, but to any thinking reader, these are surely questions that must come to mind.
But, that said, I looked forward to this book for well over a year, and, was not disappointed.

Solid but dull, 14 Nov 2008
I looked forward to Lawrence Dallaglio's book but found it quite tedious at times. He is great man, and I will always remember him as the ultimate rugby warrior but David Walsh does not do him any great favours with this worthy but stodgy effort

a good read, 01 Nov 2008
I love this book. I dont know a great deal about rugby but this didn't prevent me from engaging with the narrative. L.D. is a likable guy, who has made a few mistakes in his time, but achieved alot. However, its not a rags to riches story, as he was educated at a rather prestigeous school and was privy to alot of advantages others growing up in his era were not.

Although, this is not to deny his hard work and talent. It just gets my goat when people place the pauper card, when they are so clearly not.

I do love this book and have read it a few times now.

I'd reccomend it. :)

Ok but holds back...., 26 Aug 2008
I remember the 2003 World Cup campaign well and Lawrence Dallaglio was one of the English heroes who played a big part in it. He was (proudly) the only player to have played every minute of every match - although there were reasons for this!

I enjoy biographies and have read several of sporting legends (Ali, Armstrong...er Tony Cascarino) but none has been that exceptional. Sadly, this is the case here too as while it has its moments, it quite workman-like although generally readable.

He came from a secure and loving family and is at pains to point this out. His parents were very supportive and they worked hard to give him the best education they could afford. He admits he did not give them a good return on their investment and