It's that time of year again and in what is now surely a tradition to rival the turkey, the tree and all the trimmings, we're delighted to herald the return the ESPNscrum Festive Countdown for your amusement.

Once again, we'll be counting down the days until the big one with an assortment of trivia and novelties to brighten your day - sadly, chocolate not included. Check out our latest offering below and be sure to check back tomorrow for your latest dose of festive fun!

Ashley-Cooper's miracle tackle

Australia's Adam Ashley-Cooper produced a superb 'two for the price of one' tackle during his side's 26-19 Rugby Championship victory over South Africa back in September. Ashley-Cooper took down replacement Springboks winger Lwazi Mvovo and then outside centre Jean de Villiers in one slick - if bordering on illegal - challenge that prevented what looked for all money like a try. "There's been a few jokes about it, two-for-one special," Ashley-Cooper joked after the game. "I can't explain it. I was a bit lucky. I committed to one and ended up making another."

Quote Unquote

"I'm treated really well at the Dragons whereas, maybe if you went abroad you are just a lump of meat."
- Wales and Dragons flanker Dan Lydiate was happy to remain at home back in August but he has since clearly had a change of heart having confirmed he will be leaving the region for pastures new - most likely France - at the end of the season.

Trivia Time

Who is the most yellow-carded player in the history of Test rugby? Click here for the answer

And something you may have missed...

ESPNscrum endeavours to bring you an intoxicating mix of news, views and analysis and one or two of these gems may have passed you by over the last 12 months - but don't worry, we've dusted them off for your pleasure.

Punches, Cuddles and Clermont
"I'm definitely no angel that's for sure. Everything I've done I've assumed the responsibility and I'm never going to point any fingers except at myself"
Tom Hamilton talks to Clermont Auvergne's second-row enforcer Jamie Cudmore about his rambunctiousness and chopping down trees.

Picture Perfect

We've also trawled the archives for some of the best shots of year for your visual pleasure - here we re-live when the Nude Blacks took on the Springbox ahead of the All Blacks' Rugby Championship clash with the Springboks in Dunedin in September. Dunedin is clearly one crazy town.