P***ed off Brian Moore calls out Sir Clive Woodward

12/03/2024 05:14 AM

Rugby legend Brian Moore has launched a scathing critique of Sir Clive Woodward, questioning the Rugby World Cup-winning coach’s recent comments about fixing the English game.

Woodward, known for his outspoken criticism of the Rugby Football Union (RFU), has once again taken aim at the organisation, which has faced mounting scrutiny in recent days.

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“What the Hell Does This Mean?”

In his Mail Online column, Woodward wrote: "Why isn't Martin Johnson on the RFU board? Why aren't guys like Will Greenwood and Matt Dawson involved in the game?' and continued 'The RFU needs no-nonsense figures with rugby experience who will front up to the media, supporters and the clubs on big issues."

Moore, however, was having none of it. The former England hooker responded bluntly:
"I have huge respect for Clive and the three mentioned players but what the hell does this mean?

"None of the aforesaid have legal or medical expertise or, as far as I am aware, experience of operating within complicated organisational governance structures.

"How will 'no-nonsense fronting up' be applied? To what governance roles are they suited and why will any of this succeed?"

“How Utterly Pathetic!”

Moore didn't stop there. He also hit back at Woodward's demand for greater transparency in RFU decision-making:

"He [Woodward] called for transparency, saying – 'We simply don't know who the people who make these decisions are. It has been indicated the RFU doesn't name the decision-makers for fear of social media abuse. How utterly pathetic!'"

But Moore defended the RFU's approach, shedding light on the realities behind the scenes:
"I know that some of the members of this advisory panel were in Clive's successful 2003 team and that they only agreed to help if their identities were not released.

"Should the RFU have broken that agreement, or should they have insisted that panel members be publicly named, in which case they would have been denied the sort of input Clive calls for?"

Moore's blunt style and willingness to challenge his former teammate make it clear: in his eyes, vague soundbites and finger-pointing aren't enough to fix English rugby.

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5. Johnny and Laura Sexton – £6m

Together since their teens, Johnny Sexton and his wife Laura are one of rugby's wealthiest couples. Known for their close-knit family, with three children often seen pitchside, the Sextons met at Rathgar Tennis Club and tied the knot in 2013. From Dublin's Saint Mary's College to University College Dublin, Johnny and Laura have been through it all. Their story, filled with love and commitment, has captivated fans just as much as Johnny's rugby career.

4. Siya and Rachel Kolisi – £10m

With an empire worth an estimated £10 million, Siya and Rachel Kolisi were not just a power couple but partners in philanthropy. Known for their foundation and work in communities, the couple planned to keep collaborating on their projects, even as they transition to a new chapter. Siya recently rejoined the Sharks in South Africa after a stint with French side Racing, but despite their split, Rachel remains the “rock” Siya has always called her.

Though the Kolisis' marriage may be over, their legacy as one of South Africa's most-loved couples will continue to inspire fans across the globe.

3. Mike and Zara Tindall – £20m

Mike Tindall is known not just for his rugby prowess but for his royal connections. As the husband of Zara Phillips, the granddaughter of Queen Elizabeth II, Tindall has become a prominent figure in British media.

Nicknamed "The Fridge" due to his imposing physique, Tindall was a stalwart on the rugby field, famously breaking his nose at least eight times over the course of his career. Since retiring from the sport, he's made a name for himself in the entertainment world, appearing on popular reality shows such as I'm a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here, Bear Grylls: Mission Survive, The Jump, Shark Cage, Celebrity Poker Club, and All-Star Poker Challenge.

Despite his success in sports and entertainment, Tindall's wealth has been largely bolstered by his royal ties, with his net worth estimated at £20 million, according to British media.

2. Jonny and Shelley Wilkinson – £22m

Jonny Wilkinson is a legendary figure in English rugby, with a career spanning 12 seasons at Newcastle Falcons before his move to French club Toulon in 2009. Wilkinson cemented his place in history by leading England to victory in the 2003 Rugby World Cup, becoming a national hero in the process.

In his personal life, Wilkinson has kept a lower profile. He married his long-time girlfriend, Shelley Jenkins, in a private ceremony on the French Riviera in October 2013. The couple now has a son, reportedly named James, and maintain a relatively private family life. Wilkinson’s net worth stands at £22 million, making him one of rugby’s wealthiest figures.

1. Sonny Bill and Alana Williams – £20m

Sonny Bill Williams is a sporting icon from New Zealand, famed not only for his rugby achievements but also for his ventures into boxing. Known for his versatility, Williams has excelled in both rugby union and rugby league, playing as a centre and second-rower, respectively. Additionally, his brief yet successful stint in professional boxing saw him win nine out of 10 heavyweight bouts.

In 2013, Williams married Alana Raffie after a whirlwind four-week romance, following Islamic traditions despite admitting that they were not in love at the time. Their union has since become one of the most talked-about in sports. With a combination of earnings from rugby, boxing, and endorsements, the couple’s net worth is reported to be around £20 million.

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