SPORTS MODE WALLABY FORM GUIDE I’m hoping for a fairytale, I really am, but I just can’t see a Disney movie here. Wallaby coach Michael Cheika is already downplaying the expectations of his team in Japan telling the official RWC website “not much is expected of us”. Maybe that sums up the plight of Australian rugby. Four years ago the Wallabies made the final before being outclassed by New Zealand. Add to that, we’ve won the Webb Ellis Trophy twice (1991 and 1999) - only the All Blacks have a better record with three titles. Australia should be in contention with the other powerhouses. Sadly that’s not the case. The Wallabies should advance past the group stage and to the quarter-finals. But that’s likely where the challenge will end, maybe against England. A pass mark for the Wallabies would be a semi-final position and pride would be restored, but the code needs more than just a semi-final position. CONTENDERS Ireland: Many pundits believe those fun people who like a Guinness or ten, could cause a boilover but the Irish lost to both England and Wales this year. England: Coached by Aussie Eddie Jones, look like potential world beaters one minute but consistency appears to be a real problem after upset losses to Wales and Scotland at Twickenham although they have tremendous depth. Wales: They can sing and play, and loom as the team that could challenge for the overall crown. The Welsh have won their last 14 Tests and are the Six Nations Champions. South Africa: Tough as granite, in the same pool as New Zealand but both teams will advance and can meet in the final. There’s a sense of timing about the Springbok who have come out the other side of a rebuilding phase in terrific shape. New Zealand: Winners! No outlandish prediction here, only the great uncertainty of sport will stop the mighty All Blacks from raising the coveted trophy for a third consecutive time and a fourth overall. Enjoy the Rugby World Cup… Go the Wallabies… Rah Rah! Out played URBANDRIVER 29