Podcast appearances and mentions of leon macdonald

Leon MacDonald is poised to land at an unexpected destination in his first rugby role since departing the All Blacks in August. Five tests into last year's test season, MacDonald left his post as All Blacks attack coach due to irresolvable differences with head coach Scott Robertson. The Herald reports MacDonald is to join the Western Force in a short-term director of rugby role where he will work with head coach Simon Cron - a fellow New Zealander. Sportstalk host D'Arcy Waldegrave explains further. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Clayton McMillan is set to coach the All Blacks XV squad that will play Irish club Munster and Georgia in November. McMillan replaces Leon MacDonald as coach of the squad. He joined D'Arcy to discuss this new appointment. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Waves were made when Leon MacDonald left the All Blacks coaching group, the move coming as a surprise to most.  Piney caught up with coaching guru Wayne Goldsmith to get his thoughts on the situation, and the importance of a unified front among coaching staff.  He told him that as a general rule, you can fight it out behind closed doors, but as soon as the door opens again there needs to be a unified front and message.  “You get it all out and then as soon as the door handle goes, it's one voice, one team, one message. No ambiguity, absolutely clear.”  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The latest edition of 'The All-Star Panel' features Rugby Writer Phil Gifford and Rowena Duncum.    On this weekend's agenda: What's up with Leon MacDonald's pay out? Do the All Blacks have a chance at Ellis Park on Sunday? And is now the right time for Lydia Ko to retire?  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

WATCH THE FULL EPISODE ON OUR YOUTUBE CHANNEL HERE!ACC Head G Lane joins Manaia Stewart to address the Oasis reunion (0:00) how to properly celebrate your NZ citizenship (6:00) and a bloodbath in the Greatest NZer of All Time (8:28). Then the fellas discuss the payout for Leon MacDonald's sacking (10:42) Throwback to the 2016 Rio Paralympics (17:09) and dish out this week's TAB Hunch (20:49). Finally, they get to your feedback in 'Yours Please' (24:31). Brought to you by Export Ultra - The Beer For Here...See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive Full Show Podcast for Thursday, 29 August 2024, have the Greens rolled over under the pressure of Darleen Tana? Legal expert Andrew Geddis explains what we learnt from this morning's hearing. Air NZ chief executive Greg Foran tells Heather when his planes will finally be on time - and why business is so tough right now. All Blacks assistant coach Jason Holland on the team that's going to take on South Africa this weekend - and what it's like without Leon MacDonald. Plus, the Huddle weighs in on the Government putting up parking infringement fees by 70%. Get the Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive Full Show Podcast every weekday evening on iHeartRadio, or wherever you get your podcasts. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Elliott's landed in Johannesburg and he and Liam assess the stunning news that Leon MacDonald has quit the All Blacks coaching staff after just five tests. Elliott and Liam also offer some thoughts on where the first test between the All Blacks and Springboks will be won and lost, as well as the latest in the NPC and FPC. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's time to be positive! Continuing as SMG (Sydney's Matt Gunn) for the time being as opposed to TMG (Twizel's Matt Gunn), Gunny is back for another episode of Let's Be Positive, where he and It's Only Sport host Martin Devlin do their best to put a positive spin on all the latest happenings in the world of sport. On this episode, Gunny and Marty discuss the former's holiday in his homeland of Australia, the ongoing party in Belmore thanks to the Bulldogs' brilliant 2024 NRL season (so far), more NRL bunker botch-ups, Leon MacDonald departing as All Blacks assistant coach, and more.

Justin Marshall - former All Blacks halfback and current rugby commentator for Sky Sport - joins Martin Devlin on It's Only Sport, looking ahead to the first test between New Zealand and South Africa in 2024. The Springboks will host their old rivals in Johannesburg in a repeat of last year's Rugby World Cup final in Paris, which the Boks won 12-11. Marshall talks to Devlin about what it's like playing in South Africa (specifically at Ellis Park), his confidence levels in New Zealand getting a result in the first test, and selections he would like to see All Blacks coach Scott Robertson make for what will be a physically demanding contest. The two also talk about Leon MacDonald's shock departure as one of Robertson's lead assistant coaches.

The All Blacks insist the sudden departure of assistant coach Leon MacDonald hasn't been a disruption as they prepare to face the World Champion Springboks at Ellis Park.

James McOnie from The Crowd Goes Wild joined Piney to discuss Leon MacDonald's departure from the All Blacks staff, Shaun Johnson saying goodbye to Mt Smart and the Warriors - and the start to the America's Cup. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

FIRST WITH YESTERDAY'S NEWS (highlights from the weekend on Newstalk ZB) Turning Around the Bureaucratic Behemoth/Councils Are No Better/Liam Out on a Limb/When Did We Start Caring About Assistant Coaches?/Having Five Things on Your PlateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the Saturday Morning with Jack Tame Full Show Podcast for Saturday 24 August 2024, Jack is joined by stars of new Kiwi film ‘We Were Dangerous', Erana James and Nathalie Morris, to discuss winning the Special Jury Prize and SXSW 2024 and what it was like to film on Otamahua Quail Island in the South Island.  Jack finds New Zealand Rugby's communication around Leon MacDonald's exit refreshing.  An underrated vegetable is hailed in chef Nici Wickes leek, parmesan and prosciutto tart - with leeks current cheaper price point making it the perfect pairing when splashing out on pastry and other ingredients.  Psychologist Dougal Sutherland emphasises the importance of sleep and shares tips to try and combat sleep disruption.   And, phenomenon of Irish post-punk Fontaines D.C. have released their fourth studio album, Jack finds out how it ranks against their previous universally hailed records.  Get the Saturday Morning with Jack Tame Full Show Podcast every Saturday on iHeartRadio, or wherever you get your podcasts.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the Weekend Sport with Jason Pine Full Show Podcast for 24th August 2024, Leon MacDonald has left the All Blacks coaching staff. Former All Black Jeff Wilson dissects what has happened and what this means for the All Blacks.  Shaun Johnson's Mt Smart career has come to an end. One of his earliest teammates Micheal Luck stops in to chat about his legacy and career  And the Paralympics are about to get underway, Anna Grimaldi is one of our main medal hopefuls, and she stops in to preview the Games.  Get the Weekend Sport with Jason Pine Full Show Podcast every Saturday and Sunday afternoon on iHeartRadio, or wherever you get your podcasts.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There was a lot of hyperbole when the news of Leon MacDonald's departure broke.  "The news sending shockwaves around the rugby world."  The All Blacks were supposedly in turmoil, in chaos, in crisis, in disarray.  But that's not true, is it? Yes, it's unexpected. It's certainly big news, but when you peel it all back, it's one of a number of assistant coaches in the All Blacks set-up departing.  He's not the head coach, he hasn't been sacked, this isn't performance based.   There's nothing improper here. It's just two guys who are passionate about the game of rugby in passionate disagreement on how the most iconic team on the planet should be playing to win test matches.  Sport is all about opinions – my radio show exists largely because of them.  There's no one right way, otherwise everyone would be doing the same thing.  The best thing that happened out of this whole thing was how quickly this was done. If something's not clicking and not working, with no sign the gap can be bridged, why pretend? It's best for everyone to move on in separate directions.  I think it's a very courageous decision by both men, especially Leon MacDonald. He could easily have toed the line, gone against his rugby beliefs and carried on in a job he was unhappy in.  Instead, he trusted his instincts and stuck to his convictions.  That means he's not part of the All Blacks coaching group anymore. This seemingly dream job that turned out to not be what he hoped or expected.  He would have gone into this, both he and Razor would have, with the best of intentions, but sometimes things don't work out.  One of my favourite sayings is "fail quickly". And that's actually the wrong phrase, because there's no failure here, but I think you'll get my drift.  Find out quickly and move on, because not everything you try on is going to fit. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It was a surprise from the All Blacks camp as Leon MacDonald steps away from the coaching set up.   Former All Black and rugby analyst Jeff Wilson joins Piney to discuss what might have led to this outcome.  “I think they're focusing on everyone being exactly on the same page.”  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With the news of Leon MacDonald leaving the All Blacks, conversations across the Tasman have arisen about potentially bringing him into the Wallabies coaching fold.   Our Australian correspondent Adam Peacock passes those whispers along to Piney, as well as a mention of a new Rugby League immortal and the pointy end of the AFL season.  “I think a lot of people in Australian rugby will be well open to the idea.”  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The latest edition of 'The All-Star Panel' features Rugby Writer Phil Gifford and Graeme 'The Sportsfreak' Beasley.   On this weekend's agenda:  Why can't Leon and Razor just get along? Shaun Johnson gets a royal sendoff at Mt Smart Stadium, and Roger Tuivasa-Sheck turns down the Kiwis to represent Toa Samoa.   LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive Full Show Podcast for Friday, 23 August 2024, Kamala Harris has become the official Democratic nominee in the presidential race. US correspondent Simon Marks speaks to Heather from the Democratic National Convention in Chicago. Labour's Chris Hipkins has apologised to councils for the prime minister's criticism of their wasteful spending... saying they deserve better. So who read the room wrong? Restaurateur and chef Al Brown weighs in on the question whether there are too many cafes and restaurants around. Plus the Sports Huddle debates this week's All Blacks shock news after assistant coach Leon MacDonald called it quits after just five tests. Get the Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive Full Show Podcast every weekday evening on iHeartRadio, or wherever you get your podcasts. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

13-year old Jack Tame would never have believed that Scott Robertson and Leon MacDonald weren't getting along.   The year was 2000.  Having survived Y2K, started high school, and become a teenager in the space of a few short months, the highlight of my year was yet to come: May 20th, when the Canterbury Crusaders defeated the ACT Brumbies by a single point at Bruce Stadium in Canberra to become Super Rugby Champions for the third year in a row, the first team to achieve the feat.  It is amazing to go back and look at that starting 15. We didn't know it then, but several of the winning Crusaders would end up becoming successful coaches after their playing careers were done. Winning finalists included Todd Blackadder, Daryl Gibson, and Mark Hammett, all of whom have enjoyed pretty high-profile coaching careers. The Crusaders' second-five-eighth was a guy called Mark Robinson, who in years to come would be appointed the CEO of New Zealand Rugby. We didn't know it then, but in a couple of decades, he would hire his blindside flanker teammate as the All Blacks' coach and his fullback as assistant.   But if you could've told 13-year-old me that two of the guys from that team would end up having a very split after just a month at the helm of the All Blacks, I would never have believed you.   I've gotta say though... as shocked as I was this week to learn that MacDonald and Razor hadn't worked out, from what we know so far, New Zealand Rugby, the All Blacks, and both Scott Robertson and Leon MacDonald deserve our praise and thanks.   I thought that New Zealand Rugby statement and Robertson's subsequent statements were amazing. Of course we'll probably never know the full story, but they didn't sugar-coat anything. No one made up a rubbish excuse – the old ‘more time with the family.' It wasn't nasty or spiteful. But it was honest. They didn't see eye to eye. They have differing views. And after a series of ‘robust' conversations, it wasn't in the best interests of the team to have MacDonald and Robertson working together, resentment building as they pulled in different directions.    It's so easy to imagine an alternative, another World where they didn't recognise or didn't acknowledge things weren't working, they weren't clicking, and whatever tension existed festered and grew into something more damaging. Rumours would start. The odd news report would intimate that something wasn't right. There could be cliques and factions. Players might have split loyalties. And ultimately it would hurt the team.   Again, we don't know everything. But given the frankness of the explanation, it's the best we have. And man, there is so much to be said for calling it early. They didn't battle on for a couple of seasons. They didn't try and fake anything for the rugby-loving public. They called it.   Leon MacDonald clearly has a lot of mana and as a coach he's had success. I'm sure he'll get a great coaching job somewhere different. Obviously 13-year-old me would be gutted to see two of his sporting heroes, split. But 20 years since they won that third title, their collective handling of this situation has been mature and strangely refreshing. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today on the Sports Huddle Heather was joined Oceania Football confederation media manager Matt Brown and Newstalk ZB rugby commentator Paul Allison for a discussion about the following issues of the day - and more! Why do you think Leon Macdonald left? will the All Blacks be better or worse off for it? How good a storyline would it be if he went to the wallabies? How will Shaun Johnson be remembered in the annals of Warriors history? Should Jannik Sinner have been let off like he was? Is New Zealand going to get in behind the America's Cup? will that kick in during the preliminary regatta or just the main event? How good, having Lulu Sun at the ASB classic? LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

NZR GM Of Professional Rugby & Performance Chris Lendrum joined D'Arcy Waldegrave to discuss the sudden departure of Leon MacDonald from the All Blacks.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kudos to NZR.   The news of the result of the schism between Razor and Rangi was a huge surprise. What was even more surprising was that no one knew. Keeping a lid on an internal collapse like that is quite the trick. They must be pleased as punch that their process was sealed to the outside world.   There are aspects to this top floor rupture that have been explained away, but they still leave me in an uncomfortable space.  How did this unravel so fast? This suggests the due diligence around the appointment of Leon MacDonald was lacking. History tells us that the relationship between both coaches had been uneasy at times, namely the 2017 fissure at the Crusaders when Leon bailed on Scott to move to Nelson for family etc. then in a flash, he arrived on the Blues doorstep. Nothing wrong with that, surely a flag though, albeit a pennant, not a Garrison, but a flag nonetheless.   There was also the vacuum that was the absence of Leon not only in person, but in the press release too. It's standard fare for the statements issued around a departing figure to include a vanilla line or two wishing the team the best and thanking NZR for the opportunity. Not this time. Read into that what you will. To me this suggests the split was acrimonious, based on more than just a differing in philosophy.   NZR addressed these concerns and are adamant that although the relationship collapse and subsequent departure was unfortunate, there is nothing more to the story. As The Roots hip-hop group titled their 1999 banger of an album, Things Fall Apart.  I'm sure that whatever happened, the positive aspect here is that before the whole festering boil exploded, it was efficiently lanced.   And we definitely know who wears the trousers in the coaching box. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Well, that was a bit of a shock wasn't it. It seems everyone was a bit taken aback to hear that assistant coach Leon MacDonald would be leaving the All Black's group. Less that 24 hours out from the All Blacks heading to South Africa for two Rugby Championship tests, New Zealand rugby confirmed MacDonald would not continue in the role. Fronting the media, head coach Scott Razor Robertson outlined the reasons why the decision has been made. He said there were differences around the philosophy on rugby, and how it's played, and they didn't quite click in different aspects. Razor added the went through a process, and got to this point, and they believed that Macdonald stepping away was the best thing for the All Black group. Sounds pretty straight forward right – and refreshing to hear what sounds like a legitimate reason rather than a manufactured one. It just didn't work. People have been surprised by MacDonalds departure because they two have known each other for around 27 years. They have played and worked together before, but that doesn't necessarily mean it's going to be plain sailing – especially when you step up into the biggest, most intense job in New Zealand rugby. John Kirwan had this to say about the decision on the Mike Hosking Breakfast this morning ....Incredible courage, I believe, on behalf of both of them if it's not working out, because the status quo would be probably stay there, finish the season. But you know for them to move on this quickly, I think it's the best thing for the team. He's right. Macdonald is a very good coach, one we will probably lose to an overseas team now – but it takes courage to acknowledge if a situation isn't working, and integrity to the right thing for yourself and the team. Of course we're still keen to try and distil down what has happened here. The simple reason why this relationship hasn't worked might just come down to the fact there are too many cooks in the kitchen. Do the All Blacks need 6 coaches? Graham Henry and Steven Hansen were able to run the All blacks successfully on 3 coaches. There had been rumours that players were dealing with too many voices – this simplifies that somewhat. Another suggestion is that it's an adjustment to go from Head Coach to assistant coach. Coaches end up tripping over each other, there are mixed messages, or a coach is left feeling maligned. But regardless of the intricacies of why they have come to this decision – it's hard not to be impressed by it. Good on them for not letting it fester. Good on them for being open and honest about the fact it didn't work. It sounds like the two have departed on decent terms, and now it's time to move on. Will it have an impact on the All Blacks? I doubt it. They have dealt with much more difficult HR issues in the past, and I imagine they will be fully focused on facing South Africa.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The All Blacks coaching group lasted only five tests - Sam looks at the what Leon MacDonald's departure means for the ABs, plus the return of the America's Cup and the farewell of a Warriors great.

Jonty Dine speaks to Lisa Owen about just days before the All Blacks side departs for South Africa, assistant coach Leon MacDonald resigned, in what is being described as a "mutual decision over philosophical differences."

Jonty Dine speaks to Lisa Owen about All Blacks assistant coach Leon MacDonald quitting and head coach Scott Robertson saying his departure is due to things not quite clicking between the former teammates as well as Lydia Ko chasing glory at the home of golf.

All Blacks assistant coach Leon MacDonald quit on Thursday after a falling out over tactics with head coach Scott Robertson. Rugby commentator and writer Tony Johnson spoke to Ingrid Hipkiss.

Leon MacDonald het sy onmiddellike bedanking as Nieu-Zeeland se hulpafrigter aangekondig net voor die twee Rugbykampioenskaps-toetswedstryde teen Suid-Afrika. Die assistente Scott Hansen en Tamati Ellison neem sy verantwoordelikhede oor. Die All Blacks se hoofafrigter, Scott Robertson, sê hy was die afgelope paar weke in eerlike gesprekke betrokke oor verskillende sienings wat betref MacDonald se benadering tot sy rol as die aanvalsafrigter:

WATCH THE FULL EPISODE ON OUR YOUTUBE CHANNEL HERE!Matt Heath joins Manaia Stewart to once again get lost in the weeds - is this even a sports podcast anymore? (0:00) Plus, two harrowing stories relating to the respective downstairs' of Jonah & Sir Ed (12:00). Then the fellas preview SJ's last game (18:53), the Kiwis announcing their upcoming Test schedule (20:43) and what really happened between Razor and Leon MacDonald (22:25)... Finally, they get to your feedback in 'Yours Please' (30:34).Brought to you by Export Ultra - The Beer For Here...See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

All Blacks great Sir John Kirwan says Leon MacDonald's coaching future will have to be overseas after exiting as the All Blacks assistant coach yesterday.  In a shock move, New Zealand Rugby announced MacDonald was stepping down from the role under All Blacks head coach Scott Robertson five tests into the season, and just a week out from their Rugby Championship test against South Africa.  “It's unbelievable...incredible courage I believe on behalf of both of them,” Kirwan told the Mike Hosking Breakfast on Newstalk ZB.  “If it's not working out because the status quo would be probably stay there, finish the season. But for them to move on this quicker, I think it's the best thing for the team.”  ‘Some people just can't be assistants'  Kirwan said there were probably two main reasons for MacDonald to walk away from the role.  “Probably a lack of philosophy around how they are attacking. Once you don't agree on how they're going to attack it's pretty hard to mend,” he told Hosking.  “And the second thing is, I think some people just can't be assistants as well. Leon's been a head coach now for a while, and so it's hard to sometimes go back to being assistant.  Regardless of the timing of his exit, MacDonald will now be highly sought after by any side in need of a coach.  At Super Rugby level, MacDonald led the Blues in 69 games during his four-year tenure, for 45 wins, 23 defeats and a draw.  The Herald understands MacDonald turned down an approach from Scotland in order to sign on with Robertson and the All Blacks.  “I think he'd probably have to go offshore, now. There's no jobs left in New Zealand,” Kirwan added.  The All Blacks face the Springboks at Ellis Park next Sunday in their first meeting since the Rugby World Cup final. That is followed by a second test a week later in Cape Town. Kirwan said losing a coach midseason shouldn't be a major disruption for the players.  “I don't think the players will be affected too much. I think they'll just carry on. I don't think he's going to be replaced, so it'll be one less voice.  “He's [Robertson's] got enough people in there to fill the gap. I just think they'll carry on.”  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the Mike Hosking Breakfast Full Show Podcast for Friday 23rd of August, Sir John Kirwan offers up an explanation as to why Leon McDonald left the All Blacks.  Politics aside, the Democratic National Convention has been a huge spectacle and great for their base. And it looks like it's caused a tangible shift in the polls.  As part of Wrapping the Week with Tim Wilson and Kate Hawkesby, Tim regales us with his expert performance on piano.  Get the Mike Hosking Breakfast Full Show Podcast every weekday morning on iHeartRadio, or wherever you get your podcasts.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tonight on The Huddle, Jordan Williams from the Taxpayers' Union and Ali Jones from Red PR joined in on a discussion about the following issues of the day - and more! Prime Minister Chris Luxon has urged local councils to rein in unnecessary spending. This speech has prompted some backlash - why do we think this is? All Blacks assistant coach Leon MacDonald has stepped down after just a handful of tests. Head coach Scott Robertson says this comes down to coaching differences - what do we think? New research reveals a concerning number of five-year-olds are starting school without the ability to form proper sentences - should we be worried? Is this the fault of ECE teachers - or parents? LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There's shock across the rugby world as Leon MacDonald exited the All Blacks coaching staff - seemingly out of the blue. MacDonald confirmed his departure today, leaving on the eve of the team's departure to South Africa, just five tests into the Scott Robertson era. ZB sports commentator Elliott Smith says it was likely Razor's decision to axe MacDonald. "If he wanted Leon to stay, he could have said - no, we can figure this out. But Leon's gone, this isn't working. It's Scott Robertson's team, he wants to imprint the way he wants to coach on this team." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rugby philosophies going in different directions. That's what All Blacks coach Scott Robertson is singling out as the main reason for Leon MacDonald's surprise departure as one of the team's assistant coaches. The former Blues mentor was part of Robertson's original pitch for the job back in 2019 - while the pair played together for both the Crusaders and All Blacks. Sportstalk host D'Arcy Waldegrave hinted there might be more to Leon MacDonald's abrupt departure. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sports journalist Jamie Wall joins Nights to discuss Leon MacDonald's call to quit the role.

NZ Herald Rugby Writer Gregor Paul joined D'Arcy Waldegrave to discuss the sudden departure of Leon MacDonald from the All Blacks coaching staff. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

D'Arcy Waldegrave returns to recap an exciting week in the world of sports! Highlights for tonight include:    Gregor Paul - New Zealand Herald Rugby Writer - On the sudden departure of Leon MacDonald from the All Blacks.  Talkback  LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In Friday Sport, Weekend Sport host Jason Pine and All Sport Breakfast host Adam Cooper explain to Nick Mills why they believe the All Blacks sudden coaching change has been dealt with well. They also discuss why the Wellington Pride and Lions are wearing special pink jerseys for Sunday's home Farah Palmer Cup and NPC matches in Porirua. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Shock in the All Blacks camp with Leon MacDonald leaving his role as an assistant coach.  New Zealand Rugby announced the move today - saying MacDonald and head coach Scott Robertson have had several weeks of discussions.  Robertson has revealed the pair have different coaching views and the combination wasn't working.  Nick Bewley told Simon Barnett and James Daniels that you could tell from Robertson's body language and deliberate word choices that it's far from an ideal situation.  He said the optics don't look great, but Robertson stressed that he has no ill will or animosity towards MacDonald, and it just came down to a philosophical difference in how the game should be played.  LISTEN ABOVE  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the Early Edition with Ryan Bridge Full Show Podcast for Friday the 23rd of August, All Blacks assistant coach Leon MacDonald has left the team a week before they head to South Africa - what does it mean for the team? Ruby commentator Tony Johnson talks to Ryan.  It's the final day of the Democratic National Convention where Kamala Harris will formerly accept the Democratic nomination for President. We're live to Chicago for the latest.  More changes for the Resources Management Act, but will it make thing easier for our farmers? Mark Hooper from Federated Farmers joins the show to give his thoughts.  Get the Early Edition with Ryan Bridge Full Show Podcast every weekday on iHeartRadio, or wherever you get your podcasts.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The rugby world is reeling from Leon MacDonald's abrupt departure from his role as assistant coach of the All Blacks.   NZ Rugby announced the news yesterday, Scott Robertson telling the media that their coaching techniques didn't quite click.  Rugby Commentator Tony Johnson told Ryan Bridge that there's a couple of schools of thought surrounding the departure.  One is that the issues that saw MacDonald leaving his role as assistant to Robertson in 2017 arose again, this time proving irreconcilable.   Another thought is that there may be too many voices on the coaching panel, which NZR denies.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In a bombshell announcement New Zealand Rugby have confirmed that AB's assistant coach Leon MacDonald has quit the team on the eve of the trip to South Africa. Or is it a bombshell? Jeff Wilson sorts fact from fiction. Whakaari/White Island has been making a nuisance of itself and disrupting air travel in the Bay of Plenty. More and more Gen Z's are getting their career advice from social media platforms like TikTok. Is this a good thing? And we take a deep-dive into world leaders and their planes.

In a shocking move, attack coach Leon MacDonald is departing the All Blacks, effective immediately. MacDonald has only been involved with the national side for five test matches, having been brought on board as an assistant to coach Scott Robertson ahead of the 2024 test season. Rugby reporter Jamie Wall joins Martin Devlin on It's Only Sport to dissect the news and how it may have come about.Then, Devlin works through cuts from Robertson at his stand-up in Christchurch, where he continually affirms how 'great a coach and person' MacDonald is and that things 'simply weren't clicking' between the two.

Kooks, Shaun and Thala break down the Springbok squad selected for the home double against the All Blacks. We discuss whether how match sharp Jaden Hendrikse has looked since coming back to play for the Sharks. We discuss if Steven Kitshoff has to win his place in the 23 back from Gerhard Steenkamp and whether Elrigh Louw has done enough or will Jasper Wiese come straight back into the Bok 23. We discuss why Nico Janse van Rensburg was recalled after being out of the picture for 3 years. We even try to pick our matchday 23s for the Ellis Park game. We then react to Leon MacDonald stepping down as the All Blacks assistant coach and speculate if this is also Rieko Ioane's fault. We also react to the news that the negotiations for Siya Kolisi to rejoin the Sharks have stalled and whether Jacky Lorenzetti will make sure he plays every match from Racing in the future.

Greg Martin - former Wallabies fullback and current Triple M breakfast radio host in Brisbane - joins Martin Devlin on It's Only Sport as he does every Thursday. Two simple-minded, middle-aged men talking about MEN'S things that MATTER. This week, Marto and Marty discuss the surprising news Leon MacDonald is stepping down as All Blacks assistant coach, Ron Coote being named the 14th rugby league Immortal on Wednesday night, and more.

Everybody wanted a piece of champion trainer Leon Macdonald when he saddled his final runners at Morphettville on July 29th, and we were on the list. We caught up with the SA racing legend a few days later and got him started on a sentimental journey. He begins by looking back on an emotional final day at the scene of some of his greatest moments. He says an on course video tribute tested his emotions.  Leon was philosophical about a winless final day. He pays tribute to the young man who'll be filling his shoes at French Cotton Lodge, son-in-law Andrew Gluyas. The one Adelaide major to elude Leon was the historic Goodwood Hcp. He talks of his narrow defeat with Another Award in May. The former trainer acknowledges his long and successful association with veteran jockey Jason “Stubby” Holder. Leon talks at length about Dalasan, the horse who deserved a Gr 1 win but had to settle for four placings at the elite level. He talks of Dalasan's promising half sister. The veteran recalls a freakish trackwork accident in 2021 which left him with a broken hip. Leon says he was shocked and humbled in 2014 when inducted into the Australian Racing Hall Of Fame. He talks of his uncle George Macdonald who greatly influenced his early career.  Leon talks of his first Gr 1 winner French Cotton after whom his Morphettville stables were named. Macdonald talks of another early Gr 1 win with Mine Gold in the Australasian Oaks. He reminisces about his uncle Ab Macdonald who trained  outstanding filly Farmer's Daughter in the 1960's. Leon talks of the job he had before becoming a horse trainer. He wasn't cut out for his job with the Electricity Trust of South Australia. He talks of a long and happy association with owner/breeder and successful businessman Harry Perks. Leon pays Gold Guru the tribute he deserves. He has no doubt the son of Geiger Counter was the best horse he trained.  Second only to Gold Guru as a Macdonald favourite was the ageless Umrum. He loved the dual Gr 1 winner. Leon was a trailblazer in recognising the talents of female jockeys. He pays tribute to riders like Ruth McMillan, Clare Lindop and Raquel Clark. He looks back on a memorable Victoria Derby win with despised outsider Rebel Raider. Leon remembers the deeds of bonny mare Southern Speed who brought him a win in the coveted Caulfield Cup. The former trainer talks of Gr 1 winning filly Go Indy Go. He speaks with affection of the multiple stakes winner Dilly Dally. He pays tribute to one of Dilly Dally's owners, his wife Pam who was always the steadying influence in the Macdonald Racing operation. Leon has fond memories of the tough filly Augusta Proud who gave him a memorable win in the Magic Millions 2YO Classic. He makes special mention of his daughters Sue and Christine. Sue is married to Andrew Gluyas, and Christine is the wife of former ace race caller Terry McAuliffe. It's a laid back chat with a true legend of South Australian racing.

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As his retirement from the training ranks draws closer, Leon MacDonald reminisces on his training career with David Fowler.

Leon MacDonald on Giddy Up (28/06/23) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

South Australian trainer Leon Macdonald joins Matt Stewart and Matt Nevett after announcing his retirement earlier in the week.

The traditional Blues versus Crusaders Super Rugby rivalry has an added element this weekend. Both head coaches are in their final "Super" season before they team up as All Blacks coaches next year. Blues coach Leon MacDonald admits he doesn't like losing to anyone and suggests it's been frosty between him and Scott Robertson this week.  

Code-switching star Roger Tuivasa-Sheck appears to be on the outer at the Blues after confirming his return to rugby league next season. Blues coach Leon MacDonald has named his game day 23 for Saturday's Super Rugby Pacific clash against the Crusaders and Tuivasa-Sheck is missing. We're joined by sports reporter Felicity Reid.  

Incoming All Blacks coach Scott Robertson has finally named the assistants who will make up his coaching team to take over next year. Jason Ryan will stay on and will be joined by Blues coach Leon MacDonald, Hurricanes coach Jason Holland and Crusaders assistant Scott Hansen. MacDonald will lead the All Blacks attack with assistance from Holland, while Hansen will be in charge of defence. We're joined by sports reporter Felicity Reid.  

Next year's All Blacks coaching team has been unveiled, with head coach Scott Robertson calling up four men he's worked closely with before. Forwards specialist Jason Ryan is the only member of this year's coaching group who will stay with the All Blacks. The other assistants will be current Blues head coach Leon MacDonald, Hurricanes head coach Jason Holland and Crusaders assistant Scott Hansen. Hurricanes head coach Jason Holland spoke to Corin Dann.  

The All Blacks coaching team for 2024 has been confirmed. Joining Scott Robertson as assistant coaches will be Jason Ryan, Leon MacDonald, Jason Holland and Scott Hansen. This leaves the Blues and Hurricanes looking for new coaches next season. Former All Blacks coach Alex 'Grizz' Wyllie joined Mike Hosking to discuss whether the coaching lineup is geared for success. LISTEN ABOVE  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scott Robertson and NZ Rugby have confirmed the new assistant coaching lineup for the All Blacks. Blues and Hurricanes coaches Leon MacDonald and Jason Holland will oversee the All Blacks attack when Robertson takes over in 2024. Crusaders assistant Scott Hansen will take charge of the defence, while Jason Ryan remains as forwards coach. Former All Black Steve Gordon likes the look of this coaching team, and appreciates that Robertson got to surround himself with the team he wants. "There's none of that nonsense that's gone on previously, when they've had these forced marriages in coaching staff. Razor has had the ability to pick his own team." LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scott Robertson's coaching team for the All Blacks after this year's World Cup has been locked in. Blues coach Leon Macdonald and Hurricanes coach Jason Holland will be leading the team's attack, forwards coach Jason Ryan is staying on and Crusaders assistant coach Scott Hansen will take over defence. Sportstalk host D'Arcy Waldegrave says the best part of today's announcement was that there were no surprises and it was reasonably well-projected. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What is the fallout for the Super Rugby teams with Scott Robertson pinching their coaches for the All Blacks? All Blacks assistant coach Jason Ryan will be joined by Blues coach Leon MacDonald, Hurricanes coach Jason Holland and Scott Hansen from the Crusaders. Newstalk ZB rugby commentator Elliot Smith joined Kate Hawkesby to discuss. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Blues coach is taking the helm of the All Blacks XV that will play Ireland A and the Barbarians on the upcoming Northern Tour. He spoke to Jason Pine on Sportstalk about how you coach a side that was picked for you by the All Blacks selectors. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Leon MacDonald joined the show to share what people can expect from the All Blacks XV tour.

Leon MacDonald chats with Piney after he was announced coach of the All Blacks XV. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today on Sportstalk: Today was Willie Los'e's funeral, and it was held at Eden Park. Plenty of ZB staff turned up, and it was a positive experience. Plus rugby updates, and Leon MacDonald joins us for an interview. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Warren Huntly is joined by Lindsey Smith, Michael Kent Jnr, Mike Moroney, Dave Eustace, Grahame Begg, James Cummings, Leon MacDonald, JD Hayes, Sam Freedman, and Katherine Coleman,

Former Super Rugby and European Cup star Isa Nacewa believes Ian Foster's survival as All Blacks coach wasn't all about victory over South Africa, it was also about the rise and rise of Joe Schmidt. New Zealand Rugby's announcement that Ian Foster will lead the All Blacks through to the next World Cup came with an important footnote: that Schmidt would progress from being an analyst and selector, to a hands-on role as the side's attack coach. It's a move that Nacewa, who played three incredibly successful seasons under Schmidt at Irish side Leinster between 2010 and 2013, is calling a masterstroke. "I know how much impact Joe Schmidt will have now that he's physically on the field, it will be immense," Nacewa told Newstalk ZB's D'Arcy Waldegrave on Thursday. "I've seen it first hand as a player and I'm seeing it again from a distance." As a player, Nacewa enjoyed the most successful seasons of his career under Schmidt as Leinster romped to 77 wins from 99 matches under his guidance; including three European Cup titles and a Pro12 title. Isa Nacewa (L) Joe Schmidt (C) and Jonathan Sexton (R) celebrate Leinster's Pro12 title victory in 2013. Photo / Photosport Nacewa believes Schmidt's new All Blacks position was a crucial factor in giving the NZR board the confidence to retain Foster as the leader of the coaching setup."The win in South Africa played a part in Fozzie being reinstated; but to me the masterstroke was the appointment of Joe Schmidt. "I am a big Joe Schmidt fan. This is a coach that knows what he wants, knows how to lift players to the level and will take the responsibility on his shoulders to get them there. "He won't say 'hey, I haven't got the players', he'll go 'these players are good enough, give them to me, I'll make a difference' and that is the masterstroke in what Fozzie has done; I believe that will get the All Blacks to a new level." Isa Nacewa believes having Joe Schmidt on the training field with the All Blacks will have an immense impact on the team. Photo / Photosport Schmidt's elevation has not only given Nacewa more faith in the coaching setup, but also boosted his belief in the playing squad. "Prior to all these changes I would have questioned whether they had the players to win the next World Cup - I still think there's a lot of development in the players that is needed - but when you've got someone like Joe Schmidt, hands-on, on the training field making a difference, that's a real wild card." Another example of the impact Schmidt is capable of having on a side can be seen in the performance of the Blues in Super Rugby Aotearoa in 2022, where he helped Leon MacDonald guide the side to its first Super Rugby final since 2003. Schmidt, a former deputy principal of Tauranga Boys College, has a reputation as a no-nonsense leader that has often been unpopular with players due to his hard-nosed approach to fitness, training and game strategy. However, that approach helped Leinster to unprecedented European dominance, it turned around a middling Ireland national team in 2013 and lifted the Blues to success in 2022. NZR and Ian Foster will be hoping Schmidt has the same effect on the All Blacks over the coming World Cup campaign. - Albie Redmore, NZ HeraldSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Chad Lever's sudden disappearance from the riding ranks last September mystified trainers, punters and friends. The popular jockey had been juggling a huge workload for several years to honour commitments on the provincial and country circuit. Ten months ago he knew he'd have to take a break before his health suffered. Chad explains that he's been able to control his weight by riding trackwork and competing in barrier trials for his wife Claire. He explains that the constant travelling and wasting had worn him down. Chad talks of his wife's riding career under the name of Claire Nutman and the training career she always envisaged. He looks back on their New York wedding. He acknowledges Claire's good start as a professional trainer. Chad takes us back to his early days in Port Augusta and the valuable tuition he received from his late grandfather Fred Brodie. He remembers being regaled by Fred's tales of the turf. He looks back on his move to Adelaide and an apprenticeship to top trainer Leon Macdonald. He was horrified to see a glut of apprentices already in Macdonald's care. Chad talks of his fellow apprentices and the bizarre run of injuries that propelled him from number four to number one on the pecking order. He talks of his very first race win at Mt. Gambier. The jockey looks back on a productive apprenticeship. He outrode his claims quickly, and got tremendous support from outside stables. Chad pays tribute to Leon Macdonald and Richard Jolly. He looks back on four Adelaide jockey's premierships- two as a junior and two as a fully fledged rider. He says Simon Price gave him a fright in his second senior quest. The hard working jockey speaks of his delight in winning two city races for his uncle Mick Huxtable. He talks of the best horse he's been on to date. He had two race rides on dual Gr 1 winner Umrum. Chad reflects on his move to NSW at the invitation of trainer Sam Kavanough. He acknowledges valuable early support from Bjorn Baker. He looks back on a five year stint with Chris Waller and his many winners for the premier stable. Chad recalls his decision to concentrate on the out of town tracks, and the clientele he was able to build up in a short time. He looks back on a great run of success. He explains that Claire was his regular chauffeur at the time and was present at the Scone meeting in 2017 when he was involved in a nasty race fall. He looks back on many frustrating months out of the saddle. Chad was still riding regularly when Claire saddled up her first winner as a trainer. He followed instructions to the letter to win on Grace Bay at Gundagai. He talks of a couple of promising fillies in his wife's stable currently. Good to chat with a highly regarded jockey who's made his mark in two states.

If Crusaders coach Scott Robertson and All Blacks coach Ian Foster were TV sets, Foster would be black and white and Razor Robertson would be high-definition full colour.And that's why New Zealand rugby is going to be a lot less colourful between now and January, when Robertson will resume transmission with the Crusaders.I was reading today that he'll be having some knee surgery between now and then and, because of that, he'll be spending quite a bit of time on the couch thinking about rugby.The fact he needs a knee operation makes the breakdancing on Saturday night even more remarkable, doesn't it? I just smiled big time when I saw him busting the moves at Eden Park on Saturday night. I do every time - I think it's brilliant. It's why people love him. He's in the moment.And so when Scott Robertson is on the couch at home recovering from the knee operation, we know he'll be thinking about rugby and next year's Super Rugby season. As he's quoted saying today in the news today: “I don't stop”. That's what he says about himself. He's thinking ahead all the time.And he doesn't just think - he thinks deeply. Which is why we saw the Crusaders decimate the Blues in the Super Rugby Pacific final at the weekend.As Blues coach Leon MacDonald said after the game, it was as if Razor had seen the Blues game plan and knew exactly what needed to be done to pull it apart. Because that's exactly what the Crusaders did.And so the Blues are licking their wounds and Razor is already thinking about his plan for next year.Here's how Crusaders captain Scott Barrett describes it: “In the off-season, that's when Razor gets his beautiful mind working. I'm sure he'll be thinking up plans of how we can get better next season.”But how much of a waste is it going to be having Scott Robertson sitting on his couch thinking deeply about rugby? Thinking deeply about next year, when there is an awful lot of rugby to come before then.Especially, when we're talking about someone I think could easily be described as the best rugby coach in the world right now. The very best. That's what Razor is.And what do we do with the best coach in the world? We park him up for the next six months and put what some might describe as a “safe pair of hands” in charge of our national rugby team.Although, after last year, I'm not even sure we can call Foster a safe pair of hands anymore. Which is why I was delighted to see a piece on nzherald.co.nz this morning by Cameron McMillan, Deputy Head of Sport, saying that Foster needs to get on the phone to Scott Robertson and ask for some help.He's saying that the more Super Rugby titles the Crusaders win, the worse the decision to give Ian Foster the All Blacks coaching job instead of Scott Robertson looks.McMillan says Robertson may have been asked already and he may have said no, but New Zealand Rugby needs to get him involved in the All Blacks in some way, shape or form ASAP. And I couldn't agree more.He says Razor has a brilliant rugby brain and it's wasted between July and January. Again, I couldn't agree more.Scott Robertson is signed up with the Crusaders until 2024, but has an option to leave if he misses out on the All Blacks job after the World Cup next year. And it was to his credit, wasn't it, that he didn't up-sticks when he missed out on the top All Blacks job last time. And Canterbury rugby has been the richer for it.But don't expect him to stick around if he doesn't get the gig next time. Why would he? He's the best rugby coach in the world - he could go anywhere he wants.Which is why I can't believe New Zealand Rugby isn't going all out to get him involved in the All Blacks as soon as possible.The thing is, though, there seem to be plenty of people around the country who don't think he's the person for the job because he's not serious enough for their liking.This all started to come through on social media at the weekend. They don't like the breakdancing. They don't think he takes it all ser...

Hopon Harry makes his Victorian debut in Race 3 at Caulfield on Saturday and we'll get the fallout from Dalasan's disappointing run last weekend.

Clare Lindop & Miles Pfitzner caught up with trainer, Leon Macdonald, jockey, Kayla Crowther & Gabb Nutt from the Maher Eustace team. Plus, best bets and card preview with Lachie Mosley.

Trainer, Leon Macdonald joined Clare & Miles ahead of Goodwood Day at Morphettville.

Jordan has a kōrero with Blues and Northland representative, Josh Goodhue. The lock kicks the show off talking about the injury he picked up in his side's big result against the Crusaders and their mindset before taking it back to his childhood in Kawakawa (14:37). Unlike most promising schoolboys, he took an unconvetntional route out of high school and spent time in England with the Worcester Warriors academy (22:27). After finishing up overseas he signed with his beloved Taniwha where after two seasons he was back in Auckland for Super Rugby. What isn't common knowledge is Goodhue turned down the first contract offer from the Blues a year earlier, revealing he wasn't quite ready at the time to make the jump (28:39). He also talks about how Tana Umaga and Leon MacDonald differ as coaches while crediting the former for playing a big role in the success we're seeing today (35:42). If you enjoy this yarn, then I'd appreciate if you leave the podcast a review! Also, be sure to go back through some of my older interviews with current and former players as well as checking out the Instagram page for more content - @_codewithkingi. Thanks for tuning in, it means more than you know.

Hall of Fame trainer Leon MacDonald, who recently turned 80, joined Matt Stewart & Dan Mielicki to chat about his runners on Australasian Oaks Day before reflecting on his life in racing thus far.

Leon MacDonald joined the show to talk about the Blues' historic win over the Crusaders.

Warren Huntly is joined by Mat de Kock, Tony McEvoy, Gerald Ryan, Leon MacDonald, Lee Creek, Sam Freedman, Mike Moroney, Mat Ellerton, Dom Sutton and Matthew Dale to preview their runners.

Andrew Gluyas, who trains in partnership with Leon Macdonald out of Morphettville, joins Michael Felgate to chat about Tequila Time and Another Award ahead of their Flemington runs on Saturday.

Sam Freedman, Nick Ryan, John O'Shea, JD Hayes, Calvin McEvoy, Ciaron Maher, Phil Stokes, Leon Macdonald, Patrick Payne, Symon Wilde, Joe Pride and Archie Alexander preview their runners with Gareth Hall.

Jordan sits down Canterbury representative and Blue, Sam Darry. The lock shares what it was like progressing through the Crusaders Academy, how he reacted to getting a cold call from Leon MacDonald and why he hates rowing machines.

Blues Coach Leon MacDonald joined D'Arcy Waldegrave to discuss getting Joe Schmidt as his assistant. “To get Joe in is a real bonus for me as well as the team.” LISTEN ABOVE 

Champion jockey Clare Lindop joins The Spring Racing Breakfast to relive her win on Rebel Raider in the 2008 Victoria Derby, which leads into a classic story about Bart Cummings.

Trainer Leon Macdonald joins Andrew Bensley to chat about his star galloper DALASAN ahead of his tilt at the Cox Plate on Saturday.

Co-trainer Andrew Gluyas has runners at Balaklava today, and provides an update on Leon Macdonald following a trackwork incident earlier this month

The long drought is over for the Blues.They're Super Rugby Transtasman champions after toppling the Highlanders 23-15 in the final at Eden Park - their first title in 18 years. Three penalties after halftime put the visitors up by two, before a penalty and a 77th minute try to loose forward Blake Gibson got the Blues over the line.Blues coach Leon MacDonald says it wasn't easy on the heart."It's not easy on the heart. It was a real final, it was real combative, it was physical, with ebbs and flows and a bit of drama. We were thrilled to get there in the end." Broadcaster Tony Kemp joined Elliott Smith to dissect the match, and the competition as a whole - including why he doesn't want it to happen again. LISTEN ABOVE 

If you were gathering evidence that the Blues could be the real deal in 2021, their 31-16 season-opening victory over the Hurricanes would make a strong start to the prosecution's case.A conviction may still be ways away, but by toppling the hosts in Wellington, and doing so with a dominant set-piece performance, savvy discipline and strong defence, there are promising signs for the Blues' second Super Rugby Aotearoa campaign.A counter-argument could be formed that their sloppy opposition provided a few helpful gifts that won't be as forthcoming on future travels. The Hurricanes, as has seemingly been their style since Covid-19 brought Super Rugby Aotearoa into existence, had problems with their discipline, giving away two deserved yellow cards, and their inexperienced halves combination struggled to give space to the likes of Ngani Laumape and promising returnee Julian Savea.Yet, away wins in this competition are extremely valuable, and by joining the Crusaders in nabbing one in the opening week, the Blues have made an early indication that they deserve the status of the second-best team in the competition.For years, the Blues were heavily criticised for not being able to do the little things that conventional rugby wisdom correlates with winning. But by closing out a tight game, winning the clichéd "battle up front", and managing to grind through a significant period of ugly play, the signs are good that Leon MacDonald's men have the substance to build on last season's breakout.That ugly play consisted of a large chunk of the first half, after an electric start which saw a trio of confused Hurricanes forwards attempt to string passes together near their own goaline, Dalton Papalii pouncing on the mistake and scoring – before the Blues decided to try their own Keystone Cops routine, managing to dive over, near and underneath Asafo Aumua as he barged through five defenders and caterpillared his way to the line.Six minutes in, and the game was alive, but the next 34 minutes were bogged down with endless penalties, scrums, and everyone's favourite – scrum penalties. The Hurricanes were the biggest culprits, with the Blues' All Blacks-laden pack dominating the scrum, and after five penalties in six minutes, James Blackwell was sent to the bin after straying offside.Julian Savea's return – showing glimpses of his old self when given space, and even clearer flashbacks when forced to barge over defenders in no space – briefly saw him shifted to the side of the scrum, but against the odds, the Hurricanes held on, and two booming Jordie Barrett penalties gave them an 11-7 halftime lead.It was against the run of play, but more fitting was the start to the second half, where smooth interplay led to a break from Akira Ioane, who went where few have gone before by fending off Ardie Savea. A penalty advantage followed, and a crosskick from Otere Black bounced kindly for Caleb Clarke who dotted down.The whistle continued to favour the Blues five minutes later, as Du'Plessis Kirifi – on for the poor Vaea Fifita - was carded for what busy but communicative referee Paul Williams deemed a "cynical" breakdown infringement on his own line.By then, the well-performed propping duo of James Lay and Nepo Laulala had been replaced by Karl Tu'inukuafe and Ofa Tuungafasi, but their supremacy was just as obvious, as the resulting scrum led to a three-on-one overlap which Stephen Perofeta – impressive on return from injury – finished off.Down by 10, Aumua's second try – firing out of a stalled lineout drive like a bullet – gave the Hurricanes a chance, but their discipline continued to let them down, with an Otere Black penalty making the buffer a safe eight, before Rieko Ioane pounced on a knock-on from a crosskick and raced 65 metres to seal a victory that should be one of many for the Blues in 2021.Blues 31 (Dalton Papalii, Caleb Clarke, Stephen Perofeta, Rieko Ioane tries; Otere Black 4 cons, pen)Hurricanes 16 (Asafo Aumua 2 tries...

Miles & Clare were joined by trainer Leon MacDonald. Plus, Adam Mintz jumped on the line to run through the card at Murray Bridge!

Welcome to The Conversation, with Blues coach Leon MacDonald. Sky Sport presenters Rikki Swannell and Joey Wheeler catch up with one of New Zealand rugby's most promising rugby brains, to find out how he got the best out of Akira Ioane, what it was like switching from the Crusaders to their most-hated rivals, how he almost ended up playing for Wellington, and whether he has a tattoo.

Blues 27Highlanders 24The Blues remain unbeaten in Super Rugby Aotearoa - but only just.Nearly everything Leon MacDonald's men touched in the first half turned to gold as the Blues powered to a 22-10 halftime lead after scoring three tries and controlling the game through precise tactical kicking.At that point, the Blues were so dominant it seemed they would canter to victory but they then went to sleep and were pushed to the brink.The second half turned into a dogfight. In the end, the Highlanders will feel desperately unfortunate not to steal an upset victory after an inspired second half performance.Highlanders first five-eighth Mitchell Hunt scored a solo second-half try to bring his team back into the game but he could not nail a 73rd minute penalty to tie the scores.On the back of two ruck penalties from referee Paul Williams, the Highlanders set up camp in the Blues 22 during the closing stages but they could not find the killer punch.The Blues defended one rolling maul that finished metres out from their line – this effort ultimately the difference between maintaining their seven game unbeaten run and suffering their first defeat in the New Zealand derby competition.Caleb Clarke can claim much of the praise for the Blues victory, having channelled an emotional evening at Eden Park.As the 27,000 strong Eden Park crowd paused pre-kickoff to honour slain Constable Matthew Hunt, who died in the line of duty in Auckland last week, Clarke was in tears.The highly-promising wing lost his grandfather earlier in the day and was clearly a swarm of emotions as he prepared to take on a spirited Highlanders side rejuvenated since lockdown.Clarke is a man of deep faith, and after scoring the opening try he pointed to the sky in tribute. After another memorable performance in which he laid on another try and showcased his talents in the air by snaffling a restart, Clarke should be comforted, somewhat, in the knowledge that his grandfather and family will be immensely proud of his efforts.Despite those efforts, the Highlanders never stopped coming.While their backline wasn't as slick, the visitors' their forward pack competed well all night – No 8 Marino Mikaele Tu'u snaffling turnovers and enjoying a quality battle with opposite Hoskins Sotutu.Blues playmakers Otere Black and Beauden Barrett orchestrated a tactical kicking masterclass, particularly in the first half, as they regularly nudged the ball in behind the inexperienced Highlanders wingers and into the corners to control much of the territory battle in wet conditions.With the Blues applying pressure through the boot, Highlanders fullback Scott Gregory had a night to forget as he shelled several kicks and gifted Dalton Papalii the first of his double after a Sotutu charge down.Blues captain Patrick Tuipulotu and Papalii, who scored two tries, often put their men on the front foot but MacDonald's men far from had it all their own way.Defensively the Blues will rue their sloppy start to the second half when they dropped off several tackles and lost two lineouts which allowed the Highlanders back into the match.The Highlanders did not need a second invitation to exploit big holes in the Blues defence. First Hunt sold a dummy and waltzed through. The Highlanders then had Ngane Punivai's try scrubbed out after a Hunt error at the breakdown was belatedly spotted. From the resulting penalty Rieko Ioane was sent to the bin and Shannon Frizell crashed over to give the Highlanders the lead.The Blues, however, again found the composure to hang on when it mattered most - just as they did in previous wins over the Hurricanes and Chiefs.While they head into the bye unbeaten, the Blues received another reminder of the level they must maintain.Blues 27 (Dalton Papalii 2, Caleb Clarke, Rieko Ioane tries, Otere Black 2 cons, pen)Highlanders 24 (Ash Dixon, Mitchell Hunt, Shannon Frizell tries; Hunt 3 cons, pen)HT: 22-10- text by Liam Napier

For the first time since 2011, the Blues have a winning record through their first five games of the season.But unlike their 2011 campaign, it's been their play away from home that has lifted them from obscurity to looking like a legitimate playoff contender.Their 33-14 win over the Stormers in Cape Town on Sunday morning (NZ time) showed what the side is capable of, dismantling the competition leaders across the park to hand them their first loss of the year.The Blues now hold away wins over the Waratahs, Bulls and Stormers this season, while their two losses have been home defeats at the hands of the Chiefs and Crusaders.Speaking to Radio Sport's Alex Chapman about their opening five rounds, Blues coach Leon MacDonald said the task now was figuring out how to produce the same sort of form they showed in South Africa when they return to New Zealand."If we played like that I think we'd have no trouble winning in New Zealand," MacDonald said. "It's about being consistent. We had our moments against the Chiefs and we didn't quite get it right in the second half."Scoring three tries, the Blues only had one more to their name than the Stormers; however the discipline of the two sides was a major difference as the Blues were able to add 12 points through penalty goals.But while it was a convincing score line, MacDonald said there was plenty of room for his side to improve."We had opportunities down inside their 22 during this game where we didn't execute well enough. We had the chance to finish them off with about 20 minutes to go and we didn't quite nail that."After a two-week visit to South Africa, the Blues now face a prolonged stint in New Zealand for matches against the Hurricanes, Lions and Brumbies, before heading into the bye in week nine. MacDonald was confident if his side kept performing as they were, a win in New Zealand would soon follow."We're showing some growth in a lot of areas. We don't worry about where we're playing, we're just got to turn up every week and perform. The opportunity next week is the Hurricanes and we're going to have to get that right because they're a good team. We've just got to keep playing well and we'll get our win."In other Super Rugby news:The Hurricanes have thumped the Sunwolves 62-15 in their Super Rugby match in Napier.The Wellington-based team fell behind early, before running in 10 tries, with wing Kobus van Wyk scoring a hat-trick.The win is the Hurricanes' third straight.Meanwhile, the Highlanders were exposed in a shock 28-22 Super Rugby loss to the Rebels in Dunedin.After trailing 21-0 halfway through the opening period, the Highlanders threatened to stage a stunning comeback before ultimately crumbling under the presser.The hosts' job made even tougher with two yellow cards in the second half.Meanwhile, major questions surround the state of captain James Lentjes, who was stretchered off the field in the 29th minute with a serious leg injury.The Crusaders and Chiefs had a bye week. 

Trainer Leon Macdonald joins the boys ahead of a big race day

The Blues have beaten the Chiefs for the first time since 2011, a victory which was relatively straightforward in the end and which keeps them in the hunt for an unlikely playoff place.They got home at Eden Park thanks to a disciplined second half and a bit of luck, although they survived a scare when Chiefs loose forward Pita Gus Sowakula was awarded a try with 10 minutes remaining only to have it ruled out due to a knock-on, a decision Chiefs coach Colin Cooper was unhappy about.To make it even better for the Blues was lock Gerard Cowley-Tuioti's late try which turned a fairly comprehensive victory into a bonus point win. It was no more than they deserved because they played with commitment and intensity and flair, too.It is the Blues' second derby victory of the season after their win here against the Highlanders. They have a tougher assignment next weekend against the Crusaders in Christchurch, and their struggles away from home are well documented, but this victory will give them belief at least.It also keeps them in the hunt as they have moved from 14th to ninth. The Chiefs, meanwhile, drop to 13th and are almost certainly out of the scramble for a top-eight position.Virtually the only positive on a night for the Chiefs as their prop Angus Ta'avao celebrated his 100th Super Rugby game was the fact loose forward Sam Cane made a successful return from a broken neck suffered last October.Their biggest problem was creativity; they had too few ideas on attack, especially in the second half, although the Blues should be applauded for keeping them in check, with halfback Jonathan Ruru excellent and first-five Harry Plummer outplaying his opposite Marty McKenzie."We scrambled well and didn't give away too many obvious penalties," Blues coach Leon MacDonald said. "We weren't letting them in and we grew in confidence as we felt we were suffocating them with our defence. We got excited about getting the ball in our hands again and we made the most of it."With midfielder TJ Faiane always alert to an opportunity, the Blues did not lack for attacking options and the pack, led by Patrick Tuipulotu, Alex Hodgman and Ofa Tuungafasi, fired too.Tuungafasi scored an important try in the second half - although it was disputed by the Chiefs, who thought he knocked on - and he and Hodgman played the whole match, a remarkable achievement in the modern age, following Karl Tu'inukuafe's late withdrawal due to illness.Hooker James Parsons was also ruled out late due to a back injury. There was a change for the Chiefs, too, with wing Sean Wainui out after his partner went into labour.And while Chiefs lock Mitchell Brown left the field with a leg injury after only five minutes, it was the visitors who had the better start.The Blues were a bit loose early and retained the infuriating habit of turning attack into defence with one mistake. Mitch Karpik's try, after a mix-up between Rieko Ioane and Melani Nanai, was almost comical.But their perseverance paid off when first-five Plummer went over in the left corner for his first try at this level after a Caleb Clarke turnover and Nanai somehow got the ball down in the other corner to give his side a slim lead at halftime.In the end, outside backs Nanai and Ioane finished on the right side of the ledger with their attacking verve which was nearly irresistible.Cane was a temporary blood replacement for Karpik in the first half and came on for final 26 minutes but not even the All Blacks vice-captain could turn it around for the Chiefs."At 10-8 we were in the fight," Cooper said. "Tries went their way which maybe should have been looked at and weren't looked at. We were awarded a try and unless the TMO got another view, I couldn't understand why Pita Gus's wasn't a try. We didn't get the rub of the green."Blues 23 (Harry Plummer, Melani Nanai, Ofa Tuungafasi, Gerard Cowley-Tuioti tries; Plummer pen)Chiefs 8 (Mitch Karpik try; Marty McKenzie pen)Halftime: 10-8 

There is no stopping these Blues, it seems.Leon MacDonald's new-look outfit have won their fourth in a row by beating the Waratahs at Eden Park tonight in a now typically tense victory which would have shredded the nerves of their supporters and coaches alike.Actually, in the end it was more excruciating than tense, the Blues defending a three-point lead with grit and discipline, two words not normally associated with this franchise.The work of the pack in particular during those final moments as they ran relentlessly close to the ruck was superb and it was enough to get MacDonald's men home for what was perhaps their best win of the year given the circumstances.Their latest success takes them to fifth on the table and it was thoroughly deserved against a side packed with Wallabies who suffered the indignity of losing at home to the Sunwolves last weekend.Remarkably, it is the first time the Blues have strung four wins together in the same season since 2011. They won a total of four last season."Some of our play was outstanding but then through our own errors we let them back into the game and they took their opportunities through their strengths – their kicking game and getting [Israel] Folau into the game," MacDonald said afterwards. "It's pretty hard to stop when they get that going."Fullback Folau was a constant threat and his first-half score took him to 60 tries in Super Rugby; a competition record. The previous record holder was one Doug Howlett, a man familiar in these parts.The Waratahs' Kiwi coach Daryl Gibson felt some decisions in the final moments could have gone either way but added the Blues are a different team this season."There's a lot more backbone to the Blues, no doubt," Gibson said. "To decide to run the clock down with three or four minutes to go; that's pretty gutsy. It shows definitely in their forwards – their willingness to compete at the ruck. There's starting to be a bit more steel in their team."A suspended right wing Tanielu Tele'a? No problem, Caleb Clarke comes in for his first game of the season and scores a stunning try as his side pours on the pressure in the first quarter, suffer a bit of adversity later in the half when the visitors nearly come back on even terms, and then dominate the second half.As usual, Rieko Ioane was again a constant threat with his pace and anticipation. Ma'a Nonu rolled back the years with an energetic performance at second-five which reaped him his first try of the season and his midfield partner TJ Faiane was again assured in his decision making and actions.Apart from loose forward Blake Gibson's knee injury after seven minutes which forced him from the field, it appeared as if MacDonald was about to get his wish and see the Blues take control of the game in the first half.Nonu featured in two assists for two tries – first with a cut-out pass for Tom Robinson in the left corner and then following a beautiful piece of deception to put Clarke under the posts.With their big forwards breaking the advantage line with virtually every carry, and the Waratahs missing tackles and conceding ground, it seemed the Blues could do no wrong, but the second quarter put paid to that.A series of penalties forced them into their own territory, with Folau soaring high, as he so often does, to haul in a Bernard Foley kick to crash over, and Will Miller scoring from a lineout drive.The Blues' new patience was shown when Faiane scored after the break with a try after 14 phases which put his side on the front foot again but again came the Waratahs, this time through wing Alex Newsome.Jake Gordon's try with five minutes remaining put the heat on again, but the Blues held firm. They will travel to Hamilton for a derby against the Chiefs with growing confidence.Blues 32 (Tom Robinson, Caleb Clarke, TJ Faiane, Ma'a Nonu tries; Otere Black 2 pens, 3 cons)Waratahs 29 (Israel Folau, Will Miller, Alex Newsome, Jake Gordon tries; Bernard Foley 3 cons, pen)Halftime: 17-14 

It was a night to forget for Kiwi Super Rugby sides, apart from the Crusaders.The Blues have been walloped 26-7 by the Sharks in Durban, while the Chiefs have been crushed 54-17 by the Brumbies in Canberra.Chiefs skipper Brodie Retallick says the Brumbies took their chances well."Just sometimes on the defence we let them in with an error or we can't get our system right, and that's where they really punished us. So we're going to have to get that right." Blues coach Leon Macdonald is adamant the ship can be righted quickly.His side is winless from the first two rounds of Super Rugby after a 26-7 loss at the hands of the Sharks in Durban."There's a lot of confidence we can turn this around pretty quickly. It's only Round Two, every team's we've got to loss a couple of games every season, and hopefully we can get ours out of the way early and get on a winning streak." The Crusaders have made yet another statement in the Super Rugby competition after easily defeating the Hurricanes 38-22.The Crusaders have now made it 17 straight wins at home continuing their incredible run of form in Christchurch.The Hurricanes managed to stop the Crusaders from earning a bonus point with two late tries of their own to narrow the scoreline.LISTEN TO TONY JOHNSON AND MARTIN DEVLIN DISCUSS ALL THE ACTION ABOVE

The Blues have suffered an excruciating defeat to the defending champion Crusaders in a cliffhanger finish which has frustrated new coach Leon MacDonald but has left him optimistic that better things will happen this season.With two minutes remaining, Blues replacement first-five Harry Plummer missed a penalty from 40m out which would have resulted in a remarkable comeback victory for the Blues, who were down 12-3 at halftime and seemingly out of the match.Sometimes it's the hope that is the cruellest thing and this one will hurt the players and their long-suffering supporters. The Blues' winless streak against New Zealand teams now stretches to 20 matches – their last derby win was in round one of 2016 – and this could hardly have been closer.The miss was tough on debutant Plummer and while he missed an earlier conversion too few will point the finger at him because the Blues had plenty of other chances to win."It's frustrating, obviously, not to get the result we were looking for," MacDonald said afterwards. "It was just a good game – it ebbed and flowed, the momentum, from both teams."It was a strange old game and one which neither side appeared to know how to win. In the end it was probably muscle memory that got the Crusaders home because they were matched up front and occasionally dominated but had a little too much class in the backline."There was a lot more detail there – they were really clear with what they were doing," Crusaders coach Scott Robertson said of the Blues. "I was impressed with them. They had the right people in the right places and you could see their clear game structure; probably more than in other years."The result was perhaps no surprise but the way they had to desperately cling on was and one major casualty was a broken arm for Crusaders and All Blacks prop Tim Perry which will sideline him for what could be a couple of months at least.The Crusaders were awarded two penalty tries by referee Nick Briant – one for a collapsed maul for which impressive blindside flanker Tom Robinson was sinbinned, and one for a collapsed attacking scrum, but they earned the ire of the official too for constant second-half offending and replacement hooker Ben Funnell was yellow carded as a result.Elsewhere there was little between the teams apart perhaps from Crusaders backs Braydon Ennor, George Bridge, David Havili and especially their wing Manasa Mataele, who scored two tries.Down at halftime, the Blues roared back into it via the extremely good Akira Ioane, and a try to replacement prop Ofa Tuungafasi, which allowed the home side to take the lead.But as they generally do, the Crusaders hit back straight away via Mataele before the Blues threatened a grandstand finish when halfback Augustine Pulu went over.Loose forward Ioane, celebrating his 50th game for the Blues, was a standout and appeared to want to get his side home by himself such was his impact. And when Tuungafasi and fellow All Black Karl Tu'inukuafe joined the fray on 50 minutes as the Blues laid siege to the Crusaders' line, the momentum shifted considerably and the returning Ma'a Nonu, who played a full 80 minutes, had a big part to play in it.For MacDonald, there is frustration but also signs that this team is on the right track against a side who have lost just three games under Robertson. This was the Crusaders' 16th consecutive victory; a record-equalling performance."That's a good pack – that Crusaders pack has led them to two titles in two years and they showed that tonight," MacDonald said. "They were put under pressure at scrum time and then they responded – that's why they're the defending champions."Crusaders 24 (Manasa Mataele 2 tries; 2 penalty tries)Blues 22 (Akira Ioane, Ofa Tuungafasi, Augustine Pulu tries; Otere Black pen, con, Harry Plummer con)Halftime: 12-3 

In the long minutes before kick-off tonight, Blues head coach Leon MacDonald and his Crusaders counterpart Scott Robertson will meet on the Eden Park pitch.They will shake hands and make a bit of small talk and then they'll wish each other all the best and return to watching their teams prepare to do battle in an opening match which will help set the tone for their respective seasons.It's what professional rugby coaches do and as good men and good coaches it's difficult to see them deviating from the tradition, but there is no doubt that there will be extra motivation for both. MacDonald was Robertson's assistant as the Crusaders stormed to the Super Rugby title in 2017 before he left Christchurch, to spend more time with his family in Blenheim, and then signed with the Blues less than a year later.To say eyebrows were raised at the Crusaders' Rugby Park headquarters after MacDonald signed to be Tana Umaga's assistant would be a big understatement but things change quickly in professional sport, and it's clear MacDonald saw a quicker pathway to a head coaching role in Auckland.Indeed, that was borne out months later when the new Blues board effectively demoted Umaga and installed MacDonald as head coach.Now, in a brilliant piece of scheduling, they face each other in their opening match of the season. Is it personal? Probably not. Is there extra motivation for victory? Probably. Are they similar personalities? Absolutely not, but they are cut from the same coaching cloth."We haven't talked at all actually," MacDonald said after his team's final significant training run of the week, when asked if any texts had been sent to the man known as "Razor". "We've both been pretty busy and it's been a pretty hectic pre-season with a lot going on. I'm sure we'll touch base before kick-off."MacDonald is known as "Rangi" after the knockabout little character in the Footrot Flatscartoon for his toughness and disregard shown to his wellbeing during his 122 games for the Crusaders and 56 tests for the All Blacks. He was never anything less than brave or fully committed as a fullback and that intensity remains as a coach.Robertson, the former Crusaders and All Blacks loose forward, is a little different as evidenced by his breakdancing celebrations and general laidback approach to life but he is just as intense as MacDonald when it comes to the preparation and wellbeing of his players and the thirst for success.In this they are very similar, their methods shaped by former mentor Robbie Deans whose legacy continues in the form of so many of his former players coaching at this level including Aaron Mauger, Mark Hammett, Daryl Gibson, Tabai Matson and Todd Blackadder."The way you coach is made up of years and years of playing with different teams and under different coaches and I think you form your own formula from that," MacDonald said."There have been things I've learned as a Crusaders player and with my time coaching there but also my time with Tasman as well."I'm very fortunate – I've got a lot of good mentors who I talk to regularly and I'm always trying to improve as a coach. You end up with your own formula in the end."Will MacDonald's knowledge of the Crusaders and their methods count for anything? To an extent, but he can only do so much."I understand the way they play pretty well, obviously. I spent a bit of time down there so you use your knowledge in any game to give yourself an advantage to win it. We're doing our own thing here and concentrating on that. This group of players are very different; they're aspirational and very keen to do well."For Robertson, who was happy to hype up the clash between the pair, the same applies. He said he predicted that MacDonald would select Ma'a Nonu and TJ Faiane in the midfield and he's also likely to know what sort of approach the Blues will take when the game kicks off."It's good to get the hype… it's been a tough few years for them, which is pretty clear, and that's why...

The powerful Lindsay Park training empire has dominated South Australian racing since 1965. Adelaide trainers have always struggled to compete, but Leon Macdonald has managed to win two premierships in his own right. He talks about his life in racing on this week's podcast.