TEST RUGBY RESULTS: Saturday 27 March

27.03.2010
Romania 48, Spain 3 in Bucharest (WCQ Europe R5; ENC 1)
Cyprus 15, Bosnia Herzegovina 0 in Paphos (ENC 3D)

Briefly
Romania proved too strong for Spain. The Romanians blew away my theory that they would be tired and non motivated. The Romanians are certainly one of the form teams in European rugby. They have remained undefeated during the second round of ENC 1 and look a good prospect to sweep all before them in the repecharge playoffs for the final Rugby World Cup Finals berth.

Cyprus will play in ENC 3C for 2010-12. They defeated Bosnia Herzegovina today to earn promotion. The disappointed Bosnians will remain in 3D.

INTERNATIONAL TEST RUGBY IN BUCHAREST

27.03.2010
Spain v Romania in Bucharest (WCQ Europe R5; ENC 1)

Referee: John Lacey (Ireland)

Venue: Stadionul Arcul de Triumf

Preview
The Spain-Romania test match is a catch up game that was postponed from February 6 due to a snow covered pitch. Nothing is hinging on this game. Romania only need the point for turning up to move past Portugal and take the vital third place in ENC 1. Romania will then wait 'till May for the result of the Ukraine-Lithuania match, the Playoff for 1st ENC 2A v Best-of-The-rest. Contrary to what I wrote on Friday's post, Romania will play the winner of that match to decide who will play the other repechage team (Asia 2 v Uruguay) later in the year.

Romania's biggest hurdle will be motivation. Having already qualified for the repechages they could be caught off guard by a Spanish side seeking to win two in a row.

Last Five Encounters
07.02.2009 Romania 19-10 in Madrid (WCQ Europe R5; ENC 1)
23.02.2008 Romania 17-11 in Madrid (ENC 1)
10.03.2007 Romania 50-14 in Bucharest (ENC 1)
14.10.2006 Romania 43-20 in Madrid (WCQ Europe R5, Pool B)
06.03.2004 Romania 50-10 in Bucharest (ENC 1)
Spain last defeated Romania in 1992. In Madrid they won 6-0.

GWC Rugby Rankings
Europe Table-Romania 7th, Spain 11th

Prediction: Romania, struggling, by 8 points.

Teams

Spain
15 Pedro Martin (Aviron Bayonnais, France)
14 Benjamín Pardo (Vrac Quesos Entrepinares)
13 Juan Cano (CRC Madrid)
12 Javier Canosa (CRC Madrid)
11 Ignacio Martín (Parma R.C., Italy)
10 Manuel Mazo (CR Ciencias)
9 Hernán Quirelli (CR La Vila)
8 Matthew Cook (C.R. La Vila)
7 Federico Negrillo (Bera Bera R.T)
6 Rafael Camacho (CR Ciencias)
5 Jesús Recuerda (CR Ciencias)
4 Leandro Fernandez.-Aramburu, Capt. (CR Ciencias)
3 Jesús Moreno (Bourdeaux Begles, France)
2 José Mª.Bohorquez (CR Ciencias)
1 Anthony Pradalie (Perigueux, France)
Replacements
16 Marco Pinto (ASM Clermont Auvergne, France)
17 David Gurgenadze (CRC Madrid)
18 César Bernasconi (CRC Madrid)
19 Carlos Souto (CR El Salvador)
20 Sale Ibarra (CR El Salvador)
21 Iván Criado (CR El Salvador)
22 Ignacio Gutiérrez (Vrac Quesos Entrepinares)
Head Coach: Geoff Glynn

Adapted from http://www.ferugby.com/

Romania
15. Florin Vlaicu (Steaua Bucuresti)
14. Catalin Fercu (CSU Arad)
13. Ionut Dimofte (Baia Mare)
12. Robert Dascalu (Steaua Bucuresti)
11. Stefan Ciuntu (Baia Mare)
10. Iulian Dumitras (Albi, France)
9. Lucian Sarbu (Somillau, France)
8. Daniel Carpo (Farul Constanta)
7. Mihai Macovei (Baia Mare)
6. Viorel Lucaci (Steaua Bucuresti)
5. Cristian Petre (AS Beziers, France)
4. Sorin Socol, Capt. (FC Oloronais, France)
3. Dragos Dima (FC Oloronais, France)
2. Bogdan Zebega (Steaua Bucuresti)
1. Cezar Popescu (Saint Medard en Jalles, France)
Replacements
16. Andrei Radoi (Baia Mare)
17. Mihaita Lazar (Saint Etienne, France)
18. Valentin Ursache (Baia Mare)
19. Cosmin Ratiu (Dinamo Bucuresti)
20. Valentin Ivan (Dinamo Bucuresti)
21. Danut Dumbrava (Steaua Bucuresti)
22. Csaba Gal (Baia Mare)
Head Coach: Serge Lairle

Adapted from http://frr.ro/2010/03/26/schimbari-in-echipa-romaniei-inainte-de-meciul-cu-spania/

TEST RUGBY THIS WEEKEND: 27 March

27.03.2010
Spain v Romania in Bucharest (WCQ Europe R5; ENC 1)
Cyprus v Bosnia Herzegovina in Paphos (ENC 3D)

Briefly
The Spain-Romania test match is a catch up game that was postponed from February 6 due to a snow covered pitch. Nothing is hinging on this game. Romania only need the point for turning up to move past Portugal and take the vital third place in ENC 1. Romania will then wait 'till May for the result of the Ukraine-Lithuania match, the Playoff for 1st ENC 2A v Best-of-The-rest. Romania will play the winner of that match to decide the third European team at the 2011 Rugby World Cup finals.

Perhaps Cyprus and Bosnia Herzegovina are not in the top European bracket of international rugby. No matter. They will play for the ENC 3D title to determine who will be promoted to ENC 3C for 2010-12. Bosnia Herzegovina were relegated from 3C at the end of the 2008-10 ENC series and will be determined to regain their place. They firstly have to overcome a Cyprus team new to international rugby. Cyprus won the away encounter 8-6 and thus have a 2 point, 1 try advantage over their opponents. Of the two matches this is the more interesting game.

RUGBY TEST RESULTS: At A Glance, for Saturday 20 March

20.03.2010
France 12, England 10 in Paris (6 Nations)
Scotland 23, Ireland 20 in Dublin (6 Nations)
Wales 33, Italy 10 in Cardiff (6 Nations)
Spain 21, Germany 17 in Heidelberg (WCQ Europe R5; ENC 1)
Georgia 36, Russia 8 in Trabzon (WCQ Europe R5; ENC 1)
Romania 20, Portugal 9 in Lisbon (WCQ Europe R5; ENC 1)

Briefly
France hung on against a determined, fired up English side to take the Grand Slam. Just hours before Scotland upset Ireland and guaranteed the French the title. Wales defeated Italy 33-10 to end the 2010 Six Nations International Championship.

Georgia gave Russia a good hiding 36-8 in Trabzon, Turkey, spoiling the Russians' World Cup qualifying celebrations. Both Georgia and Russia automatically qualify for the finals. Romania virtually secured the vital third place in ENC 1 to play the winner of the Ukraine-Lithuania game coming up soon, to determine the Europe 3 place. They defeated Portugal 20-9.

TEST RUGBY THIS WEEKEND: 6 Nations, World Cup Qualifying

20.03.2010
France v England in Paris (6 Nations)
Ireland v Scotland in Dublin (6 Nations)
Wales v Italy in Cardiff (6 Nations)
Germany v Spain in Heidelberg (WCQ Europe R5; ENC 1)
Georgia v Russia in Trabzon (WCQ Europe R5; ENC 1)
Portugal v Romania in Lisbon (WCQ Europe R5; ENC 1)

Briefly (I'll be committed elsewhere Friday-Saturday and may not be able to provide full previews-teams, data etc)
Only England stands in the way of the French marching to a Grand Slam. The Grand Slam is where one team defeats all other teams in this competition. France will win the competition even if England wins in Paris. It's just a question of the Grand Slam. England can only be described as plodders compared to the French, especially in the try scoring table. For France the winning of the championship title wont be the same unless they win the Grand Slam. For England only a convincing win will win over the England media and fans who have just about had enough of England's solid but pedestrian performances. What's happened to that English flare?

Ireland will want to finish a disappointing season with a win, and a good win. Scotland could do with an upset win to lift them off the bottom of the table. At the moment they have a firm grip on the Wooden Spoon.

Italy has nothing to lose in Cardiff. The Welsh are down after their big loss to Ireland last weekend. This will be Italy's chance to win two games in a row in a 6 Nations Championship, something they haven't done before. I feel sorry for Wales. This is the team, France apart, who has displayed real flare and initiative, even for only half of each match. They haven't been able to put that ability into points. Sadly results count not how the game is played. Goes well against my personal rugby ethos. It's better to lose with flare rather than just lose. Sadly our rugby is all about winning now, at all costs.

The big clash in the European Nations Cup is that between Georgia and Russia. Played at a neutral venue (Turkey) this game will be the one both have been waiting for. Both teams share top spot on the points table. Both teams have faulted recently. Russia was pinned down to a 21-21 draw with Romania a few weeks ago and then the Romanians upset an off-beat Georgian side last weekend. Georgia's 8 point win against Russia this time last year gives them a slight advantage. This means Russia must win by 9 or more points to take the table lead. As far as the 2011 Rugby World Cup finals are concerned the result matters not. Both teams have qualified. This is to decide the 2009-10 winner of the Cup. And of course pride.

Further down the ladder Germany is fighting for survival, a fight I fear they're most likely to lose. The scenarios has been outlined by FIRA-AER forum member 'Occams Stubble' at http://www.fira-aer-rugby.com/forum2007/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=3382

'So the relegation situation is:
Germany loses, draws, or wins by 10 or fewer points - Germany relegated
Germany wins by 11, Spain scores more tries - Germany relegated
Germany wins by 11, equal tries, Romania fails to defeat Spain by at least 259* - Germany relegated
Germany wins by 11, scores more tries, Romania fails to defeat Spain - Germany relegated
Germany wins by 12 or more, Romania fails to defeat Spain - Germany relegated
Germany wins by 11, scores more tries, Romania defeats Spain - Spain relegated
Germany wins by 12, Romania defeats Spain - Spain relegated'

Spain performed well enough up 'till the game against Portugal. Spain won by 11 against Germany last year in Madrid and may well find the going tough against a German side that looks stronger than the one that faced Russia.

Romania now looks like the team that could gain the vital third place in this competition. Third place will give the Romanians a back-door chance of qualifying for the 2011 Rugby World Cup. This is the first time the Romanians have had to fight for a place in the finals.

Portugal holds a one point aggregate advantage over the Romanians but recently the Romanians have come home with a charge. Firstly a 21-21 draw with Russia made us sit up and then last week they defeated Georgia 22-10. The Romanians also have a game in hand, against Spain, which one would expect them to win. Suddenly Portugal's chances of making the finals look slim.

So my pre match predictions are..

France by 14 v England and gains the Grand Slam.
Ireland by 14 v Scotland, and hands the Wooden Spoon to the Scots.
Wales by 28 v Italy, finally winning with all that flare.
Georgia by 3 v Russia to take the ENC title.
Romania by 12 v Portugal, moving into third place.
Spain by 22 v Germany, sending the Germans into ENC 2A for 2010-12.

If you want to join an excellent tipping competition, try www.fira-aer-rugby.com/forum2007

TEST RUGBY RESULTS: Saturday 13 March

13.03.2010
Ireland 27, Wales 12 in Dublin (6 Nations)
England 15, Scotland 15 at Murrayfield (6 Nations;Calcutta Cup-Retained by England)
Romania 22, Georgia 10 in Bucharest(WCQ Europe R5; ENC 1; Antim Cup-Won by Romania)
Portugal 33, Spain 15 in Madrid (WCQ Europe R5; ENC 1)
Russia 48, Germany 11 in Sochi (WCQ Europe R5; ENC 1)
Greece 17, Luxembourg 9 in Athens (ENC 3C)

TEST RUGBY: World Cup Qualifier Romania v Georgia

13.03.2010
Georgia v Romania in Bucharest (WCQ Europe R5; ENC 1;Antim Cup)

Venue: Stadionul National Arcul de Triumf.

Referee: J.T.McDowell (Ireland)

Preview
I do hope the weather is fine in Bucharest because this is a vital clash in this competition. Georgia has already qualified for the 2011 Rugby World Cup Finals. Romania needs to win to stay in contention for the vital 3rd playoff position.

The Romanians will also be determined to change their fortunes against the Georgians who have overtaken them in the standings for European rugby. The symbol of rugby supremacy between these two nations is the Antim Cup, held presently by Georgia.

Romanians prepare for their vital clash against Georgia. Image thanks to www.ffr.ro

Last Five Encounters
14.03.2009 Georgia 28-23 in Tblissi (WCQ Europe R5; ENC 1)
09.02.2008 Georgia 22-7 in Tblissi (ENC 1)
03.02.2007 Georgia 20-17 in Bucharest (ENC 1)
07.10.2006 Romania 20-8 in Bucharest (WCQ Europe R5, Pool B)
25.02.2006 Romania 35-10 in Bucharest (ENC 1)

GWC Rugby Rankings
World Table-Georgia 17th, Romania 20th
Europe Table-Georgia 7th, Romania 9th

Prediction: I expect a slugout of a match with Georgia just holding off the determined Romanians. Georgia by 5 points

Teams

Georgia
15. Merab Kvirikashvili
14. Malkhaz Urjukashvili
13. David Kacharava
12. Tedore Zibzibadze
11.Irakli Mackhaneli
10. Lasha Malaguradze
9.Irakli Abuseridze, Capt.
8. Besarion Udesiani
7. Giorgi Chkhaidze
6. Grigori Labadze
5.Giorgi Nemsadze
4. Ilia Zedginidze
3. Anton Peikrishvili
2. Iuri Natriashvili
1.David Kinchagishvili
Replacements
16.Jaba Bregvadze
17. Goderdzi Shvelidze
18. Levan Datunashvili
19. Lasha Tavartkiladze
20. Bidzina Samkharadze
21. Irakli Giorgadze
22.Aleksandre Todua

Head Coach: Tim Lane

http://frr.ro/2010/03/12/romania-vs-georgia/

Romania
15. Iulian Dumitras
14. Catalin Fercu
13. Ionut Dimofte
12. Robert Dascalu
11. Stefan Ciuntu
10. Dan Dumbrava
9. Sarbu Lucian
8. Daniel Carpo
7. Ovidiu Tonita
6. Stelian Burcea
5. Valentin Ursache
4. Sorin Socol, Capt.
3. Paulica Ion
2. Marius Tincu
1. Dragos Dima
Replacements
16. Cezar Popescu
17. Mihaita Lazar
18. Cristian Petre
19. Mihai Macovei
20. Valentin Ivan
21. Csaba Gal
22. Florin Vlaicu
23. Bogdan Zebega

Head Coach: Serge Lairle

http://frr.ro/2010/03/12/romania-vs-georgia/

TEST RUGBY: Iberian Derby

13.03.2010
Portugal v Spain in Madrid (WCQ Europe R5; ENC 1)

Venue: Estádio Universitário De Madrid

Referee:

Preview
Spain and Portugal have always fought a tough game in this now annual rugby fixture. This year there is a lot riding on the game above the usual local pride. Portugal is within a whisker of Romania in gaining the 3rd spot in ENC 1. That 3rd place team will play either Ukraine or Lithuania for a chance to playoff for a place in the 2011 Rugby World Cup finals.

Last Five Encounters
15.03.2009 Portugal 24-19 in Lisbon (WCQ Europe R5; ENC 1)
10.05.2008 Spain 21-17 in Madrid (ENC 1)
03.02.2007 Portugal 21-18 in Lisbon (ENC 1)
21.03.2004 Portugal 35-19 in Ibiza (ENC 1)
22.03.2003 Portugal 40-38 in Lisbon (ENC 1)

Portugal has won on Spanish soil a number of times in recent years but not in Madrid. Portugal last won in the Spanish capital, 9-3 back in 1966.

GWC Rugby Rankings.
Europe Table-Portugal 10th, Spain 11th.

Prediction: A real close one, Portugal by 2 points.

Teams

Portugal Squad
Eduardo Acosta (GD Direito)
António Aguilar (GD Direito)
Pedro Cabral (CD University Lisboa)
João Correia, Capt. (GD Direito)
Bernardo Duarte (Agronomia)
Francisco Fernandes (Tyrosse, France)
Gonçalo Foro (CD University Lisboa)
Joe Gardener (Agronomia)
Tiago Girão (CD University Lisboa)
João Junior (CD University Lisboa)
Pedro Leal (GD Direito)
David Mateus (Belenenses)
Diogo Mateus (Belenenses)
Francisco Mira (Agronomia)
Ivo Morais (Chateaurenard, France)
Frederico Oliveira (CD University Lisboa)
Salvador Palha (GD Direito)
David Penalva (Auch, France)
Duarte Cardoso Pinto (Agronomia)
José Pinto (GD Direito)
Miguel Portela (GD Direito)
Jorge Segurado (GD Direito)
Juan Severino (Agronomia)
Pedro Silva (Belenenses)
Rafael Simões (Belenenses)
Conrad Stickling (Cascais)
Gonçalo Uva (GD Direito)
Vasco Uva (GD Direito)
Head Coach: Tomaz Morais

Spain Squad
Martín Aceña (C.R. La Vila)
Javier Acevedo (Vrac Quesos Entrepinares)
Carlos Arenas (CR Ciencias)
César Bernasconi (CRC Madrid)
R.T.Bizkaia (Bera Bera R.T)
José Mª.Bohorquez (CR Ciencias)
Rafael Camacho (CR Ciencias)
Juan Cano (CRC Madrid)
Javier Canosa (CRC Madrid)
Mathieu Cidre (Carcassonaise, France)
James Cook (C.R. La Vila)
Leandro Fernandez.-Aramburu (CR Ciencias)
Gautier Gibouin (Bourdeaux Begles, France)
Mathieu Gratton (Graulhetois, France)
David Gurgenadze (CRC Madrid)
Sebastián Hattori (CR Ciencias)
Ignacio Martín (Parma R.C., Italy)
Pedro Martin (Aviron Bayonnais, France)
Manuel Mazo (CR Ciencias)
Igor Mirones (Bera Bera R.T)
Jaime Nava (Alcobenas)
Federico Negrillo (Bera Bera R.T)
Benjamín Pardo (Vrac Quesos Entrepinares)
Anthony Pradalie (Perigueux, France)
Jesús Recuerda (CR Ciencias)
Head Coach: Geoff Glynn

RUGBY TEST: Germany v Russia

13.03.2010
Germany v Russia in Sochi (WCQ Europe R5; ENC 1)

Venue: Metreveli Stadium

Referee: Pascal Gauzere (France)

Preview
Russia will certainly win this game. They drew their last game in Sochi, 21-21 with Romania, and celebrated their automatic entry into the 2011 Rugby World Cup finals. Germany will be no match for the Russians

The Russians have not called upon their France-based players. Coach Nerush will take the opportunity to play some fringe players who have not had regular playing time.

Germany just can't pull themselves out of the serious doldrums that has seen them lose all their games this season by wide margins. This is the end of the road of the dream they had when this competition began. It was to be a new dawn for German rugby. Not so. It may well be the end of their coach Rudolph Finsterer who brought the team into this level of international rugby. The opposition have just been too strong.

To compound Germany's problems the team will travel without regulars Pipa, Davies and Takaendesa, all injured. Kieron Davies, Michael Poppmeier, Marcus trick and Alexander Pipa are unavailable for personal reasons, whilst Bodo Sieber, the France professionals Tussac Damien and Robert Mohr were unable to get clearences from their foreign-based clubs, and finally Robert Elloway has exams. This will certainly be a new-look German side, an opportunity to blood new players for the future. But I fear they'll get a hammering.

Previous Encounters
02.05.2009 Russia 53-0 in Hanover (WCQ Europe R5; ENC 1)
16.04.2000 Russia 89-6 in Moscow (FIRA B)
04.05.1994 Russia 67-5 in Bucharest (WCQ Europe)
25.10.1992 Russia 18-15 in Moscow (FIRA 1A)

Prior to 1992 Russia played against both East Germany (W 2) and West Germany (W 4, L1)

GWC Rugby Rankings
World Table-Russia 19th, Germany 25th
Europe Table-Russia 8th, Germany 12th

Prediction: Russia by 95

Teams

Russia Squad
Vasily Artemiev (VVA-Podmoskovje)
Mikhail Babaev (VVA-Podmoskovje)
Vladimir Botvinnikov (Enisey-STM-Krasnoyarsk)
Artem Fatakhov (VVA-Podmoskovje)
Victor Gresev (VVA-Podmoskovje)
Alexander Gvosdovskiy (Krasny Yar)
Alexander Khrokin (VVA-Podmoskovje)
Igor Kluchnikov (VVA-Podmoskovje)
Alexey Korobeynikov (Enisey-STM-Krasnoyarsk)
Vladislav Korshunov (VVA-Podmoskovje)
Kirill Kushnarev (VVA-Podmoskovje)
Yuriy Kushnarev (VVA-Podmoskovje)
Andrey Kuzin (VVA-Podmoskovje)
Alexey Makovetskiy (Krasny Yar)
Evgeny Matveev (VVA-Podmoskovje)
Nikita Medkov (Slava Moscow)
Georgy Minadze (Imperia Penza)
Vladimir Ostroushko (Yug Krasnodar)
Alexey Panasenko (VVA-Podmoskovje)
Evgeny Pronenko (Enisey-STM-Krasnoyarsk)
Alexander Shakirov (VVA-Podmoskovje)
Andrey Temnov (Enisey-STM-Krasnoyarsk)
Alexey Travkin (VVA-Podmoskovje)
Sergey Trishin (VVA-Podmoskovje)
Alexander Voytov (VVA-Podmoskovje)
Alexander Yanushkin (VVA-Podmoskovje)

Head Coach: Nikolay Nerush

http://rugby.ru/news/id_1231/

Germany Squad
Kehoma Brenner (RG Heidelberg)
Anjo Buckman (Heidelberger RK)
Timothy Coly (RG Heidelberg)
Mustafa Güngör (RG Heidelberg)
Raphael Hackl (Berliner RC)
Alexander Hauck (SC Frankfurt 1880)
Lukas Hinds-Johnson (RK 03 Berlin)
Jamie Ben Houston (SC Frankfurt 1880)
Benjamin Krause (DSV 1878 Hannover)
Steffen Liebig (Heidelberger RK)
Alexander Metz (TSV Handschuhsheim)
Gilles Pagnon (RC Orléans, France)
Rafael Pyrasch (DSV 1878 Hannover)
Lukas Rosenthal (RK 03 Berlin)
Patrick Schliwa (Heidelberger RK)
Benjamin Simm (DSV 1878 Hannover)
Mark Sztyndera (SC Frankfurt 1880)
Clemens von Grumbkow (I Cavalieri Prato, Italy)
Rolf Wacha (SC Frankfurt 1880)
Christopher Weselek (RG Heidelberg)
Alex Widiker (RC Orléans, France)
Manuel Wilhelm (RG Heidelberg)

Head Coach: Rudolph Finsterer

TEST RUGBY RESULTS; 26-27 February

27.02.2010
Ireland 20, England 16 at Twickenham (6 Nations)
Italy 16, Scotland 12 in Rome (6 Nations)
Russia 21, Romania 21 in Sochi (WCQ Europe R5; ENC 1)
Portugal 69, Germany 0 in Heusenstamm (WCQ Europe R5; ENC 1)
Georgia 17, Spain 9 in Tblissi (WCQ Europe R5; ENC 1)
Greece 31, Finland 10 in Patras (ENC 3C)

26.02.2010
France 26, Wales 20 in Cardiff (6 Nations)

Briefly
Ireland struck back following their Paris disaster two weeks earlier to defeat England at Twickenham. This result keeps alive Ireland's hope of retaining the 6 Nations Trophy. It also eliminates England as a contender.

France will need to fall dramatically for them not to take the title. They had to withstand a typical Welsh comeback to remain undefeated. The Grand Slam looks to be within their grasp.

Italy finally won a 6 Nations game. Again it was Scotland who suffered at the hands of the Azzuri in Rome. Woeful Scotland looks like being a wooden spoon holder this season.

	P	W	D	L	PF	PA	PD	PT
FRANCE	3	3	0	0	77	39	+38	6
ENGLAND	3	2	0	1	60	49	+11	4
IRELAND	3	2	0	1	59	60	-1	4
WALES	3	1	0	2	68	77	-9	2
ITALY	3	1	0	2	39	58	-19	2
SCOTLAND	3	0	0	3	57	67	-10	0

6 Nations Next Round

13.03.2010
Ireland v Wales in Dublin
England v Scotland at Murrayfield
14.03.2010
France v Italy in Paris

Russia and Romania fought out a dramatic 21-21 all draw in Bucharest. The quality of play was not high but the thrilling finish was dramatic. The result means Russia automatically qualifies for the 2011 Rugby World Cup Finals. This will be Russia's first time at a Rugby World Cup finals tournament. Romania looks a likely repecharge contender.

Georgia maintained its lead in the European Nations Cup with a close 17-9 win against Spain. Spain would have to be one of the most improved European teams this season.

	P	W	D	L	PF	PA	DIFF	PT
GEORGIA	8	7	1	0	286	102	184	23
RUSSIA	8	5	1	1	235	128	107	22
PORTUGAL	8	4	1	3	213	114	99	17
ROMANIA	7	3	1	3	192	114	78	15
SPAIN	7	1	0	6	106	201	-96	9
GERMANY	8	0	0	8	30	382	-283	8

World Cup Qualifying Round 5, ENC 1 Next Round

13.03.2010
Romania v Georgia in Bucharest
Spain v Portugal in Madrid
Russia v Germany in Sochi

Greece continued its winning way in ENC 3C with a comfortable 31-10 win over visitors Finland. Bulgaria leads the competition but Greece has a game in hand.

	P	W	D	L	PF	PA	DIFF	PT
BULGARIA	6	4	0	2	134	97	37	14
GREECE	5	4	0	1	111	77	34	13
ISRAEL	4	4	0	0	136	26	110	12
LUXEMBOURG	6	2	0	4	72	112	-40	10
FINLAND	7	0	0	7	73	224	-120	7

ENC 3C Next Games

13.03.2010
Greece v Luxembourg in Greece (venue TBC)

INTERNATIONAL TEST RUGBY THIS WEEKEND

26.02.2010
France v Wales in Cardiff (6 Nations)

27.02.2010
Ireland v England at Twickenham (6 Nations)
Scotland v Italy in Rome (6 Nations)
Romania v Russia in Sochi (WCQ Europe R5; ENC 1)
Portugal v Germany in Heusenstamm (WCQ Europe R5; ENC 1)
Spain v Georgia in Tblissi (WCQ Europe R5; ENC 1)
Finland v Greece in Patras (ENC 3C)

Briefly
After a two week rest all the major European rugby teams are back out on the paddock. The World Cup qualifying process has reached a crucial stage for ENC 1 teams, whilst the 6 Nations International Championship also resumes.

	P	W	D	L	PF	PA	PD	PT
FRANCE	2	2	0	0	51	19	+32	4
ENGLAND	2	2	0	0	44	29	+15	4
IRELAND	2	1	0	1	39	44	-5	2
WALES	2	1	0	1	48	51	-3	2
SCOTLAND	2	0	0	2	45	51	-16	0
ITALY	2	0	0	2	23	46	-23	0

The France-England clash in the last round on the 20th March is looming as the possible Championship decider. In the meantime a mouth-watering clash between Ireland and England this weekend is crucial to both teams. For Ireland a loss will virtually rule them out of contention. For England a win is vital to keep within striking distance of France.

France travels to Cardiff on Friday to face Wales. Wales bounced back two weeks ago to defeat Scotland in a game in which they produced an amazing recovery in the second half to come from behind and win. Wales will need to produce a better start to their game if they are to defeat France. The money will still be on France to win and to continue to set the pace in this competition.

Scotland and Italy will clash to virtually decide, yet again, which team will hold up the bottom of the points table and take the wooden spoon. Italy's grand performance against England two weeks ago look to be favoured to defeat Scotland on their home ground.

	P	W	D	L	PF	PA	DIFF	PT
GEORGIA	7	6	1	0	269	93	176	20
RUSSIA	7	5	0	1	214	107	107	19
PORTUGAL	7	3	1	3	144	114	30	14
ROMANIA	6	3	0	3	171	93	78	12
SPAIN	6	1	0	5	97	184	-87	8
GERMANY	7	0	0	7	30	313	-283	7

Romania's clash with Russia will feature in this weekend's ENC 1 clashes. Romania must win to keep its chances of gaining an automatic place in the 2011 World Cup Finals. It's crunch time for Germany. They must win against Portugal at home to keep alive its chances of staying in the ENC 1 competition for 2010-12. Portugal must hold it's third place position in order to qualify for the World Cup repecharges. A win will bring it closer to Romania who they will play on the 20th March in what could be that decider. Spain has a tough job ahead of it when it faces competition leader Georgia at home. A Georgian win looks the most likely outcome.

Finland travels to Greece to face the home side in an ENC 3C encounter.

My coverage of these games this weekend will be limited due to other commitments.

INTERNATIONAL RUGBY RESULTS: Saturday 13 February

13.02.2010
France 33, Ireland 10 in Paris (6 Nations)
Wales 31, Scotland 24 in Cardiff (6 Nations)
Russia 38, Spain 20 in Madrid (WCQ Europe R5; ENC 1) HT 20-13
Georgia 16, Portugal 10 in Lisbon (WCQ Europe R5; ENC 1)
Romania 67, Germany 5 in Constanta (WCQ Europe R5; ENC 1) HT 20-5

Just Quickly
Ireland's 6 Nations rugby bubble was burst in Paris by a dominant French side. The French, as I predicted, rose to the occasion and played magnificent rugby, outplaying an Irish side that has been dumped back down to earth. Ireland will now go through much soul searching and team changes before they take on England next weekend. Now, that will be a game!

Frances' rugby team is now up there as possible Championship winners. The rugby test England v France looks like the BIG rugby encounter.

Wales came back from 9-21 to defeat Scotland in another amazing game of test rugby. Wales showed great fighting spirit to please the fans and now place them as a 6 Nations contender.

Russia were too strong for Spain in Madrid. Georgia struggled against Portugal without looking like losing. Portugal just can't quite deliver killer blows against Russia and Georgia. They can keep close but not win.

In appalling conditions in Constanta Germany basically held the Romanians in the first half but lack a physical presence to match the tougher Romanian forwards in the second half. Reports say mud, rain and strong winds. Just like the good old days!

	P	W	D	L	PF	PA	DIFF	PT
GEORGIA	7	6	1	0	269	93	176	20
RUSSIA	7	5	0	1	214	107	107	19
PORTUGAL	7	3	1	3	144	114	30	14
ROMANIA	6	3	0	3	171	93	78	12
SPAIN	6	1	0	5	97	184	-87	8
GERMANY	7	0	0	7	30	313	-283	7

ENC Comment

From 'Natal" at http://www.fira-aer-rugby.com/forum2007/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=3356&st=0&sk=t&sd=a&start=15

"Pretty hard to see anyone tripping up Georgia and Russia now. I think there are just two remaining doubts:
1) Who will finish top? A question that will be decided probably by the final match in Trabzon.
2) Who will finish third? An uphill battle for Romania who realistically will have to beat either Russia or Georgia as well as their final match in Portugal to steal the spot".

Add you comment about this weekend's test rugby.

Who do you think will win the 6 Nations Championship?

Who do you think will qualify from ENC 1 for the Rugby World Cup? (3 teams)

What do you think about changing the 6 Nations-ENC 1 window from February-March, to say April-May?

RUGBY TEST MATCH: The Russians Travel to Spain

13.02.2010
Russia v Spain in Madrid (WCQ Europe R5; ENC 1)

Referee: Timothy Hayes (Wales)

Venue: Madrid University Stadium

Preview
So what is the situation with the ENC 1 teams re qualifying for the 2011 Rugby World Cup finals? Says 'nils' from FIRA-AER forum, "In a nutshell, if Russia win and Portugal lose, basically it will leave Portugal and Romania fighting for the repechage spot while Georgia and Russia will be a daylight ahead of them".

ENC 1 Points Table 2008-10

	P	W	D	L	PF	PA	DIFF	PT
GEORGIA	6	5	1	0	253	83	170	17
RUSSIA	6	5	0	1	176	87	89	16
PORTUGAL	6	3	1	2	134	98	36	13
ROMANIA	5	2	0	3	104	88	16	9
SPAIN	5	1	0	4	77	151	-74	7
GERMANY	6	0	0	6	25	246	-221	6

Table from http://www.rugbyinternational.net/

Russia struggled against Portugal last weekend whilst Spain had the day off due to heavy snowfall in Bucharest. Russia easily defeated Spain in their first round encounter and will have the advantage of more test play since the two teams last met. With the same squad as played Portugal, two additions have been made to the squad.

Spain has enlisted a number of players who play for French clubs. This is a move by the Spanish Rugby Federation to lift the standard of their first team.

Last Five Encounters
08.11.2008 Russia 42-15 in Moscow (WCQ Europe R5; ENC 1)
08.03.2008 Russia 42-16 in Krasnodar (ENC 1)
10.02.2007 Russia 39-14 in Madrid (ENC 1)
14.02.2004 Russia 36-6 in Krasnodar (ENC 1)
15.02.2003 Russia 52-19 in Madrid (ENC 1)

Data from http://www.rugbyinternational.net/

Spain last defeated Russia 38-22 in an amazing game in Krasnodar in 2002. Spain had just lost to Russia 36-3 a month before and were expected to be slaughtered by the Russians. What a turnaround!

GWC Rugby Rankings
Europe Table-Russia 8th, Spain 11th

Prediction: The Russians will not find the Spanish an easy team anymore. Russian to win by 6 points.

Teams

Spain Squad
Martin Aceña (CR La Vila)
Leandro Fernandez Aramburu (Ciencias Sevilla)
José Bohorquez (Ciencias Sevilla)
Rafael Camacho (Ciencias Sevilla)
Javier Canosa (CRC Madrid)
Mathieu Cidre (US Carcassonne, France)
Matthew Cook (CR La Vila)
Damien Elgoyhen (St Jean de Luz, France)
Pablo Feijoo (CRC Madrid)
Marco Pinto Ferrer (ASM Clermont Espoirs, France)
Mathieu Gratton (SC Graulhet, France)
David Gurgenadze (CRC Madrid)
Martin Heredia (Costa del Sol)
Mathieu Lopez (Stade Montois, France)
Ignacio Martin (Parma, Italy)
Pedro Martin (Aviron Bayonnais Espoirs, France)
Jesus Moreno (Union Bordeaux-Begles, France)
Jaime Nava (Alcombendas Rugby)
Alejandro Onega (CRC Madrid)
Benjamin Pardo (Valladolid RAC)
Jesus Recuerda (Ciencias Sevilla)
Cesar Sempere (Montpellier HRC, France)
Sergio Souto (El Salvador)
Julien Tourtoulou (US Colomiers, France)
Head Coach: Geoff Glynn

Adapted from http://www.ferugby.com/documento_index.php?volver=si&titulo=null&fichero=/noticias/2009-2010/02-febrero/CONVOCATORIA_Esp_Rus.pdf

Russia
Possible lineup-same as v Portugal?
15. Igor Kluchnikov (VVA-Podmoskovje)
14. Vasily Artemiev (VVA-Podmoskovje)
13. Mikhail Babaev (VVA-Podmoskovje)
12. Sergey Trishin (VVA-Podmoskovje)
11. Alexander Gvozdovskiy (Krasny Yar)
10. Yuriy Kushnarev (VVA-Podmoskovje)
9. Alexander Yanushkin (VVA-Podmoskovje)
8. Andrey Temnov (Enisey-STM-Krasnoyarsk)
7. Andrey Ostrikov (Stade Aurillacois, France)
6. Victor Gresev (VVA-Podmoskovje)
5. Kirill Kulemin (Castres, France)
4. Alexander Voytov (VVA-Podmoskovje)
3. Evgeny Pronenko (Enisey-STM-Krasnoyarsk)
2. Vladislav Korshunov, Capt. (VVA-Podmoskovje)
1. Carlo Maglakelidze (Impera Penza)
Replacements
16. Evgeny Matveev (VVA-Podmoskovje)
17. Alexander Khrokin (VVA-Podmoskovje)
18. Alexey Travkin (VVA-Podmoskovje)
19. Artem Fatakhov (VVA-Podmoskovje)
20. Alexander Shakirov (VVA-Podmoskovje)
21. Alexey Korobeynikov (Enisey-STM-Krasnoyarsk)
22. Andrey Kuzin (VVA-Podmoskovje)
Head Coach: Nicolay Neyrush

Added to squad from that v Portugal
Andrey Garbuzov flanker Krasny Yar
Alexey Makovetskiy center Krasny Yar

Adapted from http://rugby.ru/news/id_1217/

INTERNATIONAL RUGBY: Portugal Faces Georgia

13.02.2010
Georgia v Portugal in Lisbon (WCQ Europe R5; ENC 1)

Referee: A.Small (England)

Venue: Lisbon University Stadium

Preview
Georgia crushed Germany last weekend 77-3 in a grand display of forward power. Last weekend Russia defeated Portugal 14-10 in a scrappy game. Portugal did not play well and Russia did not make the most of their opportunities. This week Georgia will travel to Lisbon to face a Portuguese team that must win to keep close to the leaders.

The Portuguese team has been training in France this week. Their flight from Nice to Lisbon Thursday had to be postponed due to the poor weather in Europe this week. The team arrived on Friday.

In the first round Georgia struggles against the Portuguese in Tblissi drawing the game 20-20. Georgia has a very strong team travelling to Lisbon and after their big win over Germany they will be out to secure their place at the top of the ENC 1 table.

Georgia struggles to a 20-20 draw against Portugal last year. Image thanks to http://rugby-pt-lobos.blogspot.com

Last Five Encounters
14.02.2009 Drawn 20-20 in Tblissi (WCQ Europe R5; ENC 1)
23.02.2008 Georgia 11-6 in Lisbon (ENC 1)
02.02.2008 Georgia 31-3 in Tblissi (ENC 1)
25.11.2006 Drawn 11-11 in Lisbon (WCQ Europe R5, Playoff 2nd leg)
11.11.2006 Georgia 17-3 in Tblissi (WCQ Europe R5, Playoff 1st leg)

Data from www.rugbyinternational.net

GWC Rugby Rankings
World Table-Georgia 17th, Portugal 20th
Europe Table- Georgia 7th, Portugal 9th

Prediction: Georgia is a much stronger unit from last season and will win by 11 points.

Teams

Portugal Squad
Eduardo Acosta (GD Direito)
António Aguilar (GD Direito)
Pedro Cabral (CD University Lisboa)
Lionel Campergue (Pau, France)
João Correia, Capt. (GD Direito)
Francisco Fernandes (Tyrosse)
Gonçalo Foro (CD University Lisboa)
Joe Gardener (Agronomia)
João Júnior (CD University Lisboa)
Diogo Mateus (OS Belenenses)
Pedro Leal (GD Direito)
Frederico Oliveira (CD University Lisboa)
David Mateus (OS Belenenses)
Juan Murre (Auch, France)
Salvador Palha (GD Direito)
David Penalva (Auch, France)
José Pinto (GD Direito)
Juan Severino (Agronomia)
Pedro Silva (OS Belenenses)
Conrad Stickling (Cascais, France)
Gonçalo Uva (GD Direito)
Vasco Uva (GD Direito)
Head Coach: Tomaz Morais

Adapted from http://www.fpr.pt/noticias/noticia.asp?opm=25&id=7862&id2=25

In
David Mateus BELENENSES
Eduardo Acosta GD DIREITO
Lionel Campergue PAU (FRA)

Out
Cardoso Pinto (Agronomia)
Tiago Girão (CD University Lisboa)
Thomas da Costa (Lourdes, France)

Georgia
15 Merab Kvirikashvili (Figeac, France)
14 Malkhaz Urjukashvili (Figeac, France)
13 Davit Katcharava (Nice Cote d'Azur, France)
12 Tedo Zibzibadze (Perigueux, France)
11 Irakli Machkhaneli (Saint-Etienne, France)
10 Lasha Malaghuradze (Béziers, France)
9 Irakli Abuseridze, Capt. (Auxerre, France)
8 Besarion Udesiani (Saint-Etienne, France)
7 Giorgi Chkhaidze (Montpellier, France)
6 Grigol Labadze (Marseille-Vitrolles, France)
5 Ilia Zedginidze (Carqueiranne Hyeres, France)
4 Giorgi Nemsadze (Massy, France)
3 Davit Zirakashvili (Clermont Auvergne, France)
2 Akvsent Giorgadze (Castres, France)
1 Davit Khinchagishvili (Brive, France)
Replacements
16 Anton Peikrishvili (Agen, France)
17 Davit Kubriashvili (Toulon, France)
18 Levan Datunashvili (Aurillac, France)
19 Lasha Tavartkiladze (Farul Constanta, Romania)
20 Bidzina Samkharadze (Farul Constanta, Romania)
21 Irakli Giorgadze (Champberry, France)
22 Alexandre Todua (Lelo)
Head Coach: Tim Lane

Adapted from, and thanks to http://www.heavensgame.com/fira-aer/2010-european-nations-cup-portugal-v-georgia

I recommend you visit Jeremy's site http://www.heavensgame.com/. Jeremy is dedicated to rugby around the world, being particularly interested in the development of the game away from the 'mainstream' nations. He also covers the cross nation competitions, especially in Europe.

RUGBY TEST: ENC 1 Germany v Romania

13.02.2010
Germany v Romania in Bucharest (WCQ Europe R5; ENC 1)

Referee: Passacantando (Italy)

Venue: Constructorul-Cleopatra Stadium

Preview
The snow has continued to fall in Bucharest. It's been cold and icy all this week. As a result the game has been transferred to the seaside city of Constanta. The decision was made by the Romanian Rugby Federation with FIRA-AER's approval. This situation, and last week's postponement, has raised the question, by DRV Director Volker Himmer, of playing the ENC games away from the cold month of February to later in the season. A point I heartily agree with. The forecast for Constanta is for rain, and heavy rain at that. Conditions will not be easy.

Snow again in Bucharest. Just like last week. Game moves to Constanta. Image thanks to www.rugby.ro

For Germany the World Cup dream is over. Well and truly! Its 77-3 thrashing by Georgia last week highlighted the gap between ENC 1 and the division below, ENC 2A. So now for Germany any hope of remaining in the European Nations Cup 1st division will be dependent on the outcome of the two remaining home games. With the focus now on the games against Portugal and Spain, they will want to make a good showing in this game. The beginning of the campaign to remain in ENC begins here in Constanta.

The Germans have had to go away from Tblissi and have a major rethink. They have brought in some experienced forwards in Mohr, Trick and Brenner. The last time Germany played in Bucharest they lost 6-60 to Romania. Unless the Germans can lift their game I fear the score line will be something similar.

Romania has kept much to the same squad that couldn't play against Spain last week. They will want to put in a very good performance. Romania must catch competition leaders Georgia and Russia if they are to make the 2011 Rugby World Cup finals. If they miss out it would be for the first time since the first World Cup in 1987.

The Romanians played Germany in snow in Heidelberg last year, and won 22-0. Image thanks to www.totalrugby.de

Last Five Encounters
14.02.2009 Romania 22-0 in Heidelberg (WCQ Europe R5; ENC 1)
02.05.1994 Romania 60-6 in Bucharest (WCQ Europe)
27.03.1983 Romania 26-12 in Heidelberg (FIRA A)
04.04.1982 Romania 60-18 in Bucharest (FIRA A)
27.10.1973 Romania 33-9 in Heidelberg (FIRA Nations Cup)

Germany first played Romania in 1936, and won 37-9!

Data from www.rugbyinternational.net

GWC Rugby Rankings
World Table-Romania 21st, Germany 25th
Europe Table-Romania 10th, Germany 12th

Prediction: A better showing by Germany but the Romanians will prevail by 30 points.

Teams

Romania
15. Iulian Dumitras (Albi, France)
14. Ionut Botezatu (Baia Mare)
13. Ionut Dimofte (Baia Mare)
12. Robert Dascalu (Steaua Bucuresti)
11. Catalin Fercu (Arad)
10. Florin Vlaicu (Steaua Bucuresti)
9. Lucian Sirbu (Somillau, France)
8. Mihai Macovei (Baia Mare)
7. Ovidiu Tonita (Perpignan, France)
6. Stelian Burcea (Arad)
5. Cristian Petre (AS Beziers, France)
4. Sorin Socol, Capt. (FC Oloronais, France)
3. Silviu Florea (US Montauban, France)
2. Marius Tincu (Perpignan, France)
1. Bogdan Balan (US Montauban, France)
Replacements
16. Paulica Ion (London Irish, England)
17. Bogdan Zebega (Steaua Bucuresti)
18. Valentin Ursache (Baia Mare)
19. Daniel Carpo (Constanta Farul)
20. Valentin Calafeteanu (Arad)
21. Stefan Ciuntu (Baia Mare)
22. Constantin Gheara (Constanta Farul)
23. Dragos Dima (FC Oloronais, France)
Head Coach: Serge Lairle

Germany Squad
Kehoma Brenner (RG Heidelberg)
Timothy Coly (RG Heidelberg)
Kieron Davies (Ampthill RUFC, England)
Robert Elloway (Cornish Pirates, England)
Mustafa Güngör, Capt. (RG Heidelberg)
Raphael Hackl (Berliner RC)
Alexander Hauck (SC Frankfurt 1880)
Lukas Hinds-Johnson (RK 03 Berlin)
James Houston (SC Frankfurt 1880)
Benjamin Krause (Hannover 78)
Christopher Liebig (Heidelberger RK)
Steffen Liebig (Heidelberger RK)
Alexander Metz (TSV Handschuhsheim)
Robert Mohr (RC Rochelais-Atlantique, France)
Raphael Pyrasch (Hannover 78)
Benjamin Simm (Hannover 78)
Mark Sztyndera (SC Frankfurt 1880)
Edmoore Takaendesa (RG Heidelberg)
Marcus Trick (SC Neuenheim)
Clemens von Grumbkow (RC Prato, Italy)
Alexander Widiker (RC Orléans, France)
Manuel Wilhelm (RG Heidelberg)
Head Coach: Rudolph Finsterer

Thanks to http://www.rugby-journal.de/index.php/basis/meldung/rumaenien_gegen_deutschland_in_constanza/

Out
Shalva Didebashvili (unavailable)
Daniel Preussner
Patrick Schliwa
Rolf Wacha
Lukas Rosenthal
Matthieu Franke

In
Robert Mohr
Marcus Trick
Alexander Metz
Christopher Liebig
Robert Elloway
Kehoma Brenner

TEST RUGBY: PORTUGAL TRAVELS TO RUSSIA

06.02.2010
Portugal v Russia in Sochi (WCQ Europe R5; ENC 1)

Referee: F.Maciello (France)

Venue: Metreveli Stadium

Preview
Portugal and Russia will face each other in the Black Sea resort city of Sochi, selected to host this rugby test match due to its warmer than elsewhere in Russia climate. Russia will look to consolidate its position just behind Georgia and above Romania in this competition. Portugal lies behind Romania and above Spain. A win to Portugal will push it closer to the leaders and a vital World Cup qualifying playoff position.

Sochi from the Black Sea. Rugby in Russia in a warmer climate. Image thanks to http://en.wikipedia.org

The Russian squad training and playing in Southern Africa during January including a test against Namibia.
v Blue Bulls Xv Lost 21-36 (The Bulls' team was not their strongest)
23.01 v Namibia in Windhoek, Lost 15-30.

Portugal had two warm up games against English sides in January.
25.01 v Oxford University in Lisbon Won 24-18
31.01 v English Students in Lisbon Won 21-18

Last Five Encounters
07.02.2009 Russia 18-14 in Lisbon (WCQ Euroe R5; ENC 1)
01.02.2008 Russia 41-26 in Krasnodar (ENC 1)
12.05.2007 Russia 21-13 in Lisbon (ENC 1)
28.10.2006 Portugal 26-23 in Lisbon (WCQ Europe R5, Pool A)
13.06.2006 Russia 37-17 in Lisbon (IRB Nations Cup)

GWC Rugby Rankings
World Table-Portugal 19th, Russia 20th
Europe Table-Portugal 8th, Russia 9th

Prediction: Portugal to give the Russian Bears a big surprise, winning by 7 points.

Teams

Russia

15. Igor Kluchnikov (VVA-Podmoskovje)
14. Vasily Artemiev (VVA-Podmoskovje)
13. Mikhail Babaev (VVA-Podmoskovje)
12. Sergey Trishin (VVA-Podmoskovje)
11. Alexander Gvozdovskiy (Krasny Yar)
10. Yuriy Kushnarev (VVA-Podmoskovje)
9. Alexander Yanushkin (VVA-Podmoskovje)
8. Andrey Temnov (Enisey-STM-Krasnoyarsk)
7. Andrey Ostrikov (Stade Aurillacois, France)
6. Victor Gresev (VVA-Podmoskovje)
5. Kirill Kulemin (Castres, France)
4. Alexander Voytov (VVA-Podmoskovje)
3. Evgeny Pronenko (Enisey-STM-Krasnoyarsk)
2. Vladislav Korshunov, Capt. (VVA-Podmoskovje)
1. Carlo Maglakelidze (Impera Penza)
Replacements
16. Evgeny Matveev (VVA-Podmoskovje)
17. Alexander Khrokin (VVA-Podmoskovje)
18. Alexey Travkin (VVA-Podmoskovje)
19. Artem Fatakhov (VVA-Podmoskovje)
20. Alexander Shakirov (VVA-Podmoskovje)
21. Alexey Korobeynikov (Enisey-STM-Krasnoyarsk)
22. Andrey Kuzin (VVA-Podmoskovje)

Head Coach: Nicolay Neyrush

Adapted from http://rugby.ru/news/id_1215/
and thank to ‘nnu’ at http://www.fira-aer-rugby.com/forum2007/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=3342&st=0&sk=t&sd=a&start=30

Portugal
15. Joe Gardener (Agronomia)
14. Frederico Oliveira (CD University Lisboa)
13. Pedro Silva (OS Belenenses)
12. Diogo Mateus (OS Belenenses)
11. António Aguilar (GD Direito)
10. Cardoso Pinto (Agronomia)
9. José Pinto (GD Direito)
8. Juan Severino (Agronomia)
7. Vasco Uva (GD Direito)
6. Tiago Girão (CD University Lisboa)
5. David Penalva (Auch, France)
4. Conrad Stickling (Cascais, France)
3. Juan Murre (Auch, France)
2. João Correia (cap.) (GD Direito)
1. Francisco Fernandes (Tyrosse)
Replacements
16. João Júnior (CD University Lisboa)
17. Thomas da Costa (Lourdes, France)
18. Gonçalo Uva (GD Direito)
19. Salvador Palha (GD Direito)
20. Pedro Leal (GD Direito)
21. Pedro Cabral (CD University Lisboa)
22. Gonçalo Foro (CD University Lisboa)

Head Coach: Tomaz Morais

Adapted from http://www.fpr.pt/noticias/noticia.asp?opm=25&id=7847&id2=25
and thanks to ‘mestre’ at http://www.fira-aer-rugby.com/forum2007/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=3342&st=0&sk=t&sd=a&start=30

For complete lists of all international rugby test matches played by Russia and Portugal go to www.rugbyinternational.net

INTERNATIONAL RUGBY: SPAIN NEEDS TO WIN

06.02.2010
Spain v Romania in Bucharest (WCQ Europe R5; ENC 1)

Referee: John Lacey (Ireland)

Venue: Stadium Arcul de Triumf

Preview
At the halfway stage of this competition it looks like Spain and Germany will battle to avoid relegation. Their clash on the 20th of March could well be the decider. Spain will want to take advantage of a poor Romanian season so far and win this match, thus moving a little away from the relegation zone.

Romania has continued with its old policy of including France-based players when selecting the national side. Many old hands are back in business. Romania struggled in June during the IRB Nations Cup, even with many of its France-based players selected. Their 19-24 defeat by Italy 'A' was a close game but their 6-33 loss to the same team in November was of particular concern. Teams from ENC 1 would gauge their development by the results of matches against any Italian team. This is due to Italy's place in the 6 Nations-usually at the bottom of the table.

This slide in form by Romania has not lifted the spirit of Bucharesti fans, especially as they need to fire since losing their top ENC spot to Russia and Georgia during Round 1. In fact at this stage, Romania are is gross danger of losing their place at a Rugby World Cup for the first time since 1987. A good win on Saturday is vital.

Spain has continued to struggle below the top teams in this competition, Georgia, Russia and Romania. In the first round they could only defeat Germany. I note that more Spanish players are plying their trade with French clubs. Like Romania and Georgia, this may have to be the pathway for Spanish progress.

If Spain is going to have a chance to bump the Romanians this will be it. Spain will want to cash in on poor recent Romanian form. It will be tough.

Snow is forecast for this game on Saturday. Heavy falls during the week prompted all available hands to shift the snow including the Romania Rugby president, Alin Petrache

Heavy snow fell in Bucharest during the week. Image thanks to www.ro

Last Five Encounters
07.02.2009 Romania 19-10 in Madrid (WCQ Europe R5; ENC 1)
23.02.2008 Romania 17-11 in Madrid (ENC 1)
10.03.2007 Romania 50-14 in Bucharest (ENC 1)
14.10.2006 Romania 43-20 in Madrid (WCQ Europe R5, Pool B)
06.03.2004 Romania 50-10 in Bucharest (ENC 1)
Spain last defeated Romania in 1992. In Madrid they won 6-0.

GWC Rugby Rankings
Europe Table-Romania 10th, Spain 11th

Prediction: A tough uncompromising clash. It will be close but Romania to win by 7 points.

Teams

Romania Squad

Forwards:
Cezar Popescu (Saint Medard en Jalles, France)
Dragos Dima (FC Oloronais, France)
Silviu Florea (US Montauban, France)
Paulica Ion (London Irish, England)
Mihai Lazar (Saint Etienne Caserugby, France)
Marius Tincu (Perpignan, France)
Andrei Radoi (CSM Baia Mare)
Socol Sorin (FC Oloronais, France)
Augustin Petrichei (UR Marmande Castaeljaloux, France)
Cristian Petre (AS Beziers, France)
Valentin Ursache (CSM Baia Mare)
Stelian Burcea (CSU Arad)
Daniel Carpo (RCJ Constanta Farul)
Mihai Macovei (CSM Baia Mare)
Ovidiu Tonita (Perpignan, France)
Alexandru Manta (Lyon, France)
Sergiu Ursache (Casino di Venezia, Italy)

Backs
Lucian Sirbu (Somillau, France)
Valentin Calafeteanu (CSU Arad)
Iulian Dumitras (Albi, France)
Daniel Dumbrava (CSA Steaua Bucuresti)
Ionut Dimofte (CSM Baia Mare)
Csaba Gal (CSM Baia Mare)
Robert Dascalu (CSA Steaua Bucuresti)
Constantin Gheara (RCJ Constanta Farul)
Ionel Cazan (CSA Steaua Bucuresti)
Catalin Fercu (CSU Arad)
Stefan Ciuntu (CSM Baia Mare)
Catalin Nicolae (RCJ Constanta Farul)
Florin Vlaicu (CSA Steaua Bucuresti)
Ionut Botezatu (CSM Baia Mare)
Head Coach:

http://www.fira-aer-rugby.com/forum2007/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=3343&st=0&sk=t&sd=a&start=15

Spain Squad

Forwards
Martin Aceña (CR La Vila)
José-Maria Bohorquez (Ciencias Sevilla)
Rafael Camacho (Ciencias Sevilla)
Mathieu Cidre (US Carcassonne, France)
Matthew Cook (CR La Vila)
Damien Elgohyen (St Jean de Luz Olympique, France)
Leandro Fernandez-Aramburu (Ciencias Sevilla)
David Gurgenadze (CRC Madrid)
Jesus Moreno (Union Bordeaux-Bègles, France)
Alejandro Onega (CRC Madrid)
Marco Pinto (ASM Clermont Espoirs, France)
Jesus Recuerda (Ciencias Sevilla)
Sergio Souto (Cetransa El Salvador)
Julien Tourtoulou (US Colomiers, France)

Backs
Pablo Feijoo (CRC Madrid)
Mathieu Lopez (Stade Montois, France)
Cesar Sempere (Montpellier HRC, France)
Mathieu Gratton (SC Graulhet, France)
Martin Heredia (Costa del Sol RC)
Benjamin Pardo (Valladolid RAC)
Jaime Nava (Alcombendas Rugby)
Javier Canosa (CRC Madrid)
Pedro Martin (Aviron Bayonnais Espoirs, France)
Ignacio Martin (Overmarch Parma, Italy)
Head Coach:

http://www.fira-aer-rugby.com/forum2007/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=3343&st=0&sk=t&sd=a&start=15

For a complete list of all international test rugby results for Romania and Spain, go to www.rugbyinternational.net

RUGBY TEST: GERMANY WILL STRUGGLE

06.02.2010
Germany v Georgia in Tblissi (WCQ Europe, Round 5; ENC 1)

Referee: Pechambert (France)

Venue: National Stadium

Preview
Playing a rugby test against Georgia on their home turf is a daunting prospect. For Germany, struggling at this level of international rugby competition, it could become a matter of survival on the rugby ground.

This will a particularly difficult match for Germany as they are missing a number of regulars from last season. They would appear to be in a rebuilding phase, especially up front. To have to rebuild half way through a competition is not an easy task. The Germans did not play a test during the November window and their only warm up game, v British Army, was cancelled due to the bad weather.

Georgia played two matches in November( v Argentina 'A' and v Italy 'A') plus played three matches in the USA in June(Churchill Cup). They are well ahead of their rivals as far as preparation goes. Georgia has at their disposal a very strong line up with most regulars available. They will just have too much experience and strength up front for the visitors.

Georgia were too physical for the Germans when they last met.
Image thanks to 'FLIDTA RISXVA' at http://www.fira-aer-rugby.com/forum2007/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=3341

Previous Encounters
07.02.2009 Georgia 38-5 in Heidelberg (WCQ Europe R5; ENC 1)
15.10.1995 Georgia 14-3 in Tblissi (FIRA B1)

GWC Rugby Rankings
World Table-Georgia 17th, Germany 25th
Europe Table-Georgia 7th, Germany 12th

Prediction: Georgia by 40 points

Teams

Germany
15 Raphael Hackl (Berliner RC)
14 Mark Sztyndera (SC Frankfurt 1880)
13 Clemens von Grumbkow (RC Prato, Italy)
12 Edmoore Takaendesa (RG Heidelberg)
11 Benjamin Simm (DSV 78 Hannover)
10 Kieron Davies (Ampthill RUFC)
9 Mustafa Güngör, Capt. (RG Heidelberg)
8 Alexander Hauck (SC Frankfurt 1880)
7 Shalva Didebashvili (SC Neuenheim)
6 James Ben Houston (SC Frankfurt 1880)
5 Daniel Preussner (SC Frankfurt 1880)
4 Manuel Wilhelm (RG Heidelberg)
3 Timothy Coly (RG Heidelberg)
2 Alexander Widiker (RC Orléans, France)
1 Benjamin Krause (DSV 78 Hannover)
Replacements
16 Patrick Schliwa (Heidelberger RK)
17 Rolf Wacha (SC Frankfurt 1880)
18 Lukas Hinds-Johnson (RK 03 Berlin)
19 Lukas Rosenthal (RK 03 Berlin)
20 Rafael Pyrasch (DSV 78 Hannover)
21 Steffen Liebig (Heidelberger RK)
22 Matthieu Franke (RC Orléans, France)

Head Coach: Rudolph Finsterer

Adapted from http://www.totalrugby.de/content/view/2494/37/
And..http://www.rugby-journal.de/index.php/basis/meldung/kader_fuer_spiel_gegen_georgien/

Missing regulars from 2008-09
Benjamin Brierley (wing), Bodo Sieber (lock), Timothy Kasten (flank), Jens Schmidt (lock and captain), Kehoma Brenner (flank) and Pierre Faber (prop).

Georgia
15 Merab Kvirikashvili
14 Malkhaz Urjukashvili
13 Davit Katcharava
12 Irakli Giorgadze
11 Irakli Machkhaneli
10 Lasha Malaghuradze
9 Irakli Abuseridze
8 Besarion Udesiani
7 Giorgi Chkhaidze
6 Grigol Labadze
5 Ilia Zedginidze
4 Giorgi Nemsadze
3 Davit Zirakashvili
2 Akvsent Giorgadze
1 Davit Khinchagishvili
Replacements
16 Iuri Natriashvili
17 Kubriashvili
18 Levan Datunashvili
19 Lasha Tavartkiladze
20 Bidzina Samkharadze
21 Tedo Zibzibadze
22 Alexandre Todua

Head Coach:

Adapted from http://www.rugby.ge/2010_mokled/0205_GEO4GER-XV.htm
And.. http://www.rugby.ge/2010_mokled/0125_GEO4GER.htm
with help from ‘Oliver’ at http://www.fira-aer-rugby.com/forum2007/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=3341

Missing
Gorgodze out with a ban, Prop Kubriashvli from Toulon, Rati Urushadze and Goderzi Shvelidze.

For a complete list of all international test rugby results for both Germany and Georgia, go to www.rugbyinternational.net