RUGBY TEST MATCH: Israel May Struggle.

01.05.2010
Israel v Luxembourg in Luxembourg (ENC 3C)

Venue: Josy Barthel Stadium

Referee: Murinello (Portugal)

Image thanks to www.rugby.lu

	P	W	D	L	PF	PA	DIFF	PT
ISRAEL	6	6	0	0	205	36	169	18
GREECE	8	5	0	3	143	123	20	18
BULGARIA	8	5	0	3	162	162	0	18
LUXEMBOURG	7	2	0	5	81	129	-48	11
FINLAND	7	0	0	7	73	224	-120	7

Preview
Israel will travel without seven key players from the squad that was so convincing against Greece. Roi Alterlevi, Nathan Amos, Gilad Goldstein, Julien Maffi, Alon Okon, Mordechai Radashkovich and Yonatan Radashkovich are either injured or unavailable for the trip north. This has placed considerable pressure on selections, especially in the forwards. Regular back and captain Nimrod Kaplan moves into the forwards at number eight, whilst Ran Berzak, David Jacobi, Eyal Koren, Fabian Maguid, Ziv Melling and Adam Rubin have been brought into the squad to cover those unavailable.

Luxembourg lost 14-42 to Belgium A a few weeks ago. They have managed only two wins in the two years, both against Finland who will be relegated at the end of the competition.

Israel were too good for Luxembourg when they played in Israel in the first round, winning 30-0. Although I would expect Israel to win they have a much changed and younger team from two weeks ago.

Previous Encounters
21.03.2009 Israel 30-0 in Netanya (WCQ Europe R1; ENC 3C)
03.05.2008 Israel 20-12 in Netanya (ENC 3C)
20.05.2007 Luxembourg 25-16 in Cessange (ENC 3C)
29.10.2005 Luxembourg 19-3 in Cessange (ENC 3C)
01.06.2002 Luxembourg 31-19 in Cessange (FIRA B, Pool B)

These two teams first met in 1996. Israel won, in Herzliya, by 20-12 in FIRA B5 match.

GWC Rugby Rankings
Europe Table-Israel 28th, Luxembourg 36th

Prediction: Israel by 7 points.

Teams


Israel Squad
Nesi Abravanel
Oren Alt
Amir Beutler
Ran Berzak
Oren Brodhurst
Matan Brosh
Michael Eli
Stav Gurtovoy
Oz Hayman
David Jacobi
Amit Kakoun
Nimrod Kaplan (Capt.)
Eyal Koren
Omri Lotan
Fabian Maguid
Guy Matisis
Ziv Melling
Omer Halfi Mendelsohn
Adrian Rainstein
Adam Rubin
Jonathan Shaki
Miron Shtiglitz

Head Coach: Raanan Penn

Luxembourg squad not available as yet

INTERNATIONAL TEST RUGBY THIS WEEKEND: 30 April-2 May

30.04.2010
Hong Kong v Arabian Gulf in Bahrain (WCQ Asia R2; Asia5Nations)

01.05.2010
Japan v Korea in Gyeongsung (WCQ Asia R2; Asia5Nations)
Sweden v Croatia in Enkoping (ENC 2B)
Hungary v Norway in Esztergom (ENC 3B)
Luxembourg v Israel in Luxembourg (ENC 3C)

02.05.2010
Cayman Islands v Bermuda in Grand Cayman (Friendly)

TEST RUGBY RESULTS: Saturday 24 April

24.04.2010
Moldova 28, Ukraine 19 in Anenii-Noi (WCQ Europe R4; ENC 2A)
Belgium 29, Poland 8 in Brussels (WCQ Europe R4; ENC 2A)
Hong Kong 32, Korea 8 in Hong Kong (WCQ Asia R2; Asia5Nations)
Kazakhstan 40, Arabian Gulf 28 in Almaty (WCQ Asia R2; Asia5Nations)
Croatia 16, Netherlands 14 in Split (ENC 2B)
Malta 27, Latvia 10 in Paola (ENC 2B)
Lithuania 77, Serbia 5 in Pancevo (ENC 3A)
Denmark 24, Austria 13 in Odense (ENC 3B)
Bulgaria 18, Greece 15 in Pernik (ENC 3C)-Updated 26.04.2010

Briefly
Well now! Talk about upsets. The form book was thrown out as favoured teams were toppled on Saturday.

Moldova started it all by defeating Ukraine in front of their home crowd. With the Division 2A trophy already in their hands (they were actually awarded the title officially after the game) the Ukraine were promptly defeated.

In a close game in Split the home team were leading 16-9 towards the end before the Netherlands scored to give them the necessary points and promotion. So far the results suggest some very even divisions. Perhaps it's time to rethink how the ENC is being run. An article on this coming up soon.

Belgium were too good at home for Poland. The Moldova-Poland match is now crucial to decide promotion-relegation.

Lithuania walked all over Serbia away and so achieved its 18th successive test match victory and a new world record. They next challenge the Ukraine in the next stage of Rugby World Cup qualifying. I think the Ukrainians must be a little concerned.

Malta defeated Latvia at home whilst Denmark were too strong for Austria at home. The Greece-Bulgaria result is not yet known.

And another upset. Hong Kong easily defeated Korea 32-8 at home in a Major upset. After a good tussle Kazakhstan finally overcame The Arabian Gulf by 40-28. Apart from Japan, Asia5Nations look interestingly even so far. The battle for 2nd place and a chance for a 2011 Rugby World Cup finals place is on!

All results thanks to the guys at www.fira-aer-rugby.com/forum2007

RUGBY TEST: Balkan Neighbours Clash

24.04.2010
Greece v Bulgaria in Pernik (ENC 3C)

Venue:

Referee: Grumbinas (Lithuania)

Preview
Both these teams suffered defeat at the hands of Israel who will win this division and move to ENC 3B for 2010-12. Neither team is in any danger of relegation so it will all be a question of national pride, something that won't be missing in this clash of the Balkan neighbours.

Previous Encounter
11.04.2009 Greece 41-18 in Alexandroupoli (WCQ Europe R1; EMC 3C)

GWC Rugby Rankings
Europe Table-Greece 34th, Bulgaria 35th

Prediction: Greece by 7 points

Teams

Bulgaria Squad
Fullback
Svetoslav Odadzhiyski (RC National S.A.) born 1984, age 25

Wingers-Centres
Svetoslav Blagoev (Lokomotiv RC) born1986, age 24
Hristian Ivanov (Lokomotiv RC) born1986, age 24
Petar Nikolov (RC National Sports Academy) born 1990, age 19
Ivaylo Ivanov (RC National Sports Academy) born1987, age 22
Lyudmil Zlatkov (Valyatsite RC, Pernik) born1988, age 21

Fly half
Vasil Borisov (Valyatsite RC, Pernik) born 1990, age 19
Radoslav Damyanov (Varna RC) born 1985, age 24

Scrum half
Georgi Sotirov (Valyatsite RC, Pernik) born 1972, age 37
Martin Stoyanov (Varna RC) born 1989, age 20

No.8
Antonio Ivanov (Varna RC) born1969, age 40

Flankers
Krasimir Angelov (Valyatsite RC, Pernik) born 1982, age 29
Asen Asenov (RC National Sports Academy) born 1978, age 31
Martin Todorov (Valyatsite RC, Pernik) born1988, age 21

Lock
Brice Benelli (Lokomotiv RC) born 1985, age 24
Yavor Dragnev (Varna RC) born 1977, age 32

Front Row
Danail Andreev (RC National Sports Academy) born 1983, age 26
Momchil Kamburov(RC National Sports Academy) born 1976, age 34
Roman Para (RC National Sports Academy) born 1982, age 27
Tihomir Simeonov (Lokomotiv RC) born 1974, age 35

Hooker
Simeon Georgiev (Valyatsite RC, Pernik) born 1985, age 24
Vladislav Parizov (Lokomotiv RC) born 1980, age 29

Head Coach: Lyudmil Stankov

Changes from squad v Greece
Momchil Kamburov in for Plamen Iliev
Svetoslav Blagoev in for Daniel Simeonov (Scrum half)
Hristian Ivanov in for Daniel Simeonov (Centre)

Greece Squad details not yet available

TEST RUGBY RESULTS: Saturday 17 April

17.10.2010
Latvia 31, Sweden 27 in Riga (ENC 2B)
Netherlands 19. Malta 0 in Amsterdam (ENC 2B)
Sri Lanka 23, Singapore 16 in Singapore (Asia Nations Div.1, Final)
Malaysia 35, China Taipei 8 in Singapore (Asia Nations Div.1, 3^rd/4^th/Relegation)
Switzerland v Lithuania in Switzerland (ENC 3A)-postponed
Israel 39, Greece 0 in Netanya (ENC 3C)

Briefly
Latvia edged out a weakened Swedish side in Riga to throw relegation prospects wide open in ENC 2B. Five top Swedish players could not get flights from England to Riga. Swedish RU officials were forced to ferry in extra players from Sweden-based clubs.The Netherlands were too good for a determined but tired Maltese side who had travelled by bus from England to Amsterdam, again the travel arrangements disrupted by the cloud of volcanic ash over Europe.

	P	W	D	L	PF	PA	DIFF	PT
NETHERLANDS	7	7	0	0	205	74	131	21
CROATIA	6	5	0	1	131	83	48	16
MALTA	7	3	0	4	105	146	-41	13
SWEDEN	7	1	0	6	130	150	-47	9
LATVIA	7	1	0	6	87	210	-120	9

The Croatia-Netherlands game next weekend will be crucial to the outcome of ENC 2B. Croatia, having lost 12-18 to Netherlands in the first round will need to win by 7 points or more, and then defeat Sweden in Sweden to take the title and move to ENC 2A for 2010-12. The Netherlands just have the one game next weekend and must win to take the title.

Sweden has now lost their last three games in a row. Both Sweden and Latvia have a game to play. Latvia's is against Malta. If both Latvia and Sweden lose their next game Latvia will be relegated based on Sweden's 21-5 earlier win.

Israel gained promotion to ENC 3B for the 2010-12 competitions with a convincing 19-0 win over Greece.

In Asia, Sri Lanka will be the new team in Asia 5 Nations for 2011. They powered their way with a 23-16 win over the more fancied Singapore team. Malaysia's easy 35-8 win over China Taipei sees the Chinese side relegated to Asia Nations Division 2 for 2011.

Edited 20 April. Israel 39, Greece 0, not 19-0 as was previously posted.

TEST RUGBY: Israel on a High

17.04.2010
Greece v Israel in Netanya (ENC 3C)

Venue: Wingate Institute Stadium

Referee: Stefano Traversi (Italy)

Preview

	P	W	D	L	PF	PA	DIFF	PT
GREECE	6	5	0	1	128	86	42	16
ISRAEL	5	5	0	0	186	36	150	15
BULGARIA	7	4	0	3	144	147	-3	15
LUXEMBOURG	7	2	0	5	81	129	-48	11
FINLAND	7	0	0	7	73	224	-120	7

Realistically Greece and Israel are the only two teams in contention for promotion to ENC 3B for 2010-12.

Israel will be a hard team to defeat at home. Last week's 50-10 win over Bulgaria showed that this team is capable of winning its way through to promotion to ENC 3B for 2010-12. They are regarding this game as even bigger than the World Cup qualifying clashes last season against Slovenia and Lithuania. 'It's the biggest game in the history of the National team', said vice-captain Stas Gurtovoy. Forward Oren Broadhurst is expected back from injury. This is the only change from last week's squad that defeated Bulgaria.

Israel were too strong for Bulgaria last weekend. Image thanks to http://sports.walla.co.il/?w=//1664117/646409/5/@@/media

Greek coach, former French test prop Olivier Magne, has brought back South African-based prop Mikele Jorgo to boost the forwards for this important clash.

Fiotakis, Sotiriadis and Pelekanos remain from the very first Greek international rugby team that played an Austrian XV in October 2005.

Previous Encounter
22.11.2008 Israel 25-10 in Kfissia (WCQ Europe R1; ENC 3C)

GWC Rugby Rankings
Europe Table-Israel 28th, Greece 34th

Prediction: Israel by 24 points

Teams

Greece
15-Kostas Makrikostas (Athens Rugby)
14-Christos Fiotakis (Nice Cote d'Azur, France)
13-Thomas Mamakopoulos (Massy, France)
12-Romain Huet (Athens Rugby)
11-Krgyris Saliarelis (Spartans)
10-Georgos Tsatsaronis (Athens Rugby)
9-Vassilis Katsakos (Athens Rugby)
8-Pantelis Arfaras (Rhodes Kolossoi )
7-Nikos Mavreas (Athens Rugby)
6-Philip Sotiriadis, Capt. (Athens Rugby)
5-Kostas Karandreas (Athens Rugby)
4-Michalis Pelekanos (Athens Rugby)
3-Stathis Papadopoulos (Iraklis)
2-Dimitris Katsafrakis (Athens Rugby)
1-Mikele Jorgo (Wits University, South Africa)
Replacements
16-Vangelis Nastas (Athens Rugby)
17- Pantazis Kontakis (Athens Rugby)
18-Nikos Chadtzinikolaou (Rhodes Kolossoi )
19-Dimitris Roussos (Rhodes Kolossoi )
20-Beka Bekaouri (Iraklis)
21-Jineuk Yi (Attica Springboks)
22-Giannis Rizos (Athens Rugby)

Head Coach: Olivier Magne

http://www.sportingreece.com/kb/article.asp?fIndex=4145

Israel
Nessi Abarbanel (Raanana) born 1987, age 22
Oren Alt (ASA Tel Aviv) born 1971, age 38
Roi Alterlevi (Kibbutz Yizreel) born 1982, age 27
Nathan Amos (Rainey OBRFC, Northern Ireland) born 1978, age 31
Amir Beautler (Kibbutz Yizreel) born 1982, age 27
Oren Brodhurst (Kibbutz Yizreel) born 1984, age 25
Matan Brosh (Barnes RFC, England) born 1981, age 28
Michael Eli (Ashkelon RC) born 1989, age 20
Gilad Goldstein (Raanana) born 1985, age 24
Stav Gurtovoy, V.Capt.(ASATel Aviv) born 1981, age 28
Oz Hayman (ASA Tel Aviv) born 1985, age 24
Amit Kakoun (Kibbutz Yizreel) born 1990, age 19
Nimrod Kaplan, Capt. (London Scottish, England) born 1985, age 24
Omri Lotan (ASA Tel Aviv) born1984, age 25
Julien Maffi (ASA Tel Aviv) born 1982, age 27
Guy Matisis (ASA Tel Aviv) born 1987, age 22
Omer Halfi Mendelson (Raanana) born 1985, age 24
Alon Okon (ASA Tel Aviv) born 1985, age 24
Mordechai Radashkovich (ASA Tel Aviv) born 1984, age 25
Yonatan Radashkovich (ASA Tel Aviv) born 1988, age 21
Adrienne Rainstein (Haifa Technion) born 1989, age 20
Yonatan Shaki (Haifa Technion) born 1983, age 26
Miron Shtiglitz (ASA Tel Aviv) born 1977, age 32
Coach Raanan Penn

Special thanks to Julian Shapiro, Israel RU, and to Matan Brosh.

TEST RUGBY THIS WEEKEND

17.04.2010
Latvia v Sweden in Riga (ENC 2B)
Netherlands v Malta in Amsterdam (ENC 2B)
Singapore v Sri Lanka in Singapore (Asia Nations Div.1; Final)
Malaysia v China Taipei in Singapore (Asia Nations Div.1; 3rd-4th)
Switzerland v Lithuania in Basel (ENC 3A)
Israel v Greece in Netanya (ENC 3C)

TEST RUGBY RESULTS: Saturday 10 April

10.04.2010
Czech Republic 27, Ukraine 16 in Prague (WCQ Europe R4; ENC 2A)
Poland v Moldova in Sochaczew (WCQ Europe R4; ENC 2A)-postponed-death of Polish President
Armenia 20, Serbia 19, in Abovian (ENC 3A)
Israel 50, Bulgaria 10, in Netanya (ENC 3C)

Briefly
The world rugby community were saddened to hear that just prior to the test match in Sochaczew news reached the stadium that the Polish president was killed in a plane crash over Russia. The Poland v Moldova match was postponed and will be rescheduled.

The 2A ENC competition proved just how close the teams are. Last week Belgium upset Czech Republic. This week it was the Czechs' turn to upset. This time competition leaders Ukraine were upset 27-16.

Armenia struggled to overcome a tough Serbia outfit by a single point whilst Israel won easily, a little surprisingly, 50-10 over Bulgaria. Israel are now firm favourites to glide into ENC 3B for 2010-12.

TEST RUGBY: Bulgarians Travel to Israel

10.04.2010
Bulgaria v Israel in Netanya (ENC 3C)

Venue: Wingate Institute

Referee: F.Himmer (Germany)

Preview

	P	W	D	L	PF	PA	DIFF	PT
GREECE	6	5	0	1	128	86	42	16
BULGARIA	6	4	0	2	134	97	37	14
ISRAEL	4	4	0	0	136	26	110	12
LUXEMBOURG	7	2	0	5	81	129	-48	11
FINLAND	7	0	0	7	73	224	-120	7

The outcome of this game is crucial to this competition. Israel are the only side undefeated. They have a dream run as they will play their remaining games in a trot rather than the usual broken season. They also play this game at home, an advantage. They have a new, young captain in 24 year old Kaplan. He has wide experience playing in Sydney as well now in England.

Israel rode a high last May when they pushed their way to an unprecedented position in the 2011 Rugby World Cup qualifying stage. Having led their pool at the half way stage they won the right to play Slovenia, the winner of the division above them.To the astonishment of the rugby world they won. Next came Lithuania. 23 May 2008 was a grand day in Israeli rugby history. They hosted Lithuania, two divisions above them, to see who would proceed to the next stage. In fron of a record home crowd they lost bravely 3-19 to a team who were themselves to go on to defeat the Netherlands 6-3. It was a grand day indeed. Will Israel be able to match the standards they set that month? A huge crowd will surely turn out to see if the magic can continue.

Bulgaria are in a tight spot. Another loss would almost certainly rule them out of promotion prospects. They bring an experienced bunch who will test the home side fully. They are led by 40 year old Antonia Ivanov.

Previous Encounters
15.11.2008 Israel 11-8 in Pernik (WCQ Europe R1; ENC 3C)
08.06.2003 Bulgaria 25-23 in Ibisa, Spain (ENC 3C, Final)
21.05.2000 Israel 37-16 in Herzilya (FIRA D2)
24.04.1999 Israel 11-10 in Sofia (FIRA D)

GWC Rugby Rankings
Europe Table- Israel 28th, Bulgaria 35th

Prediction: Israel by 10 points.

Teams

Bulgaria Squad
Danail Andreev (RC National Sports Academy) Front row, born 1983, age 26
Krasimir Angelov (Valyatsite RC, Pernik) Flanker, born 1982, age 29
Asen Asenov (RC National Sports Academy) Flanker, born 1978, age 31
Brice Benelli (Lokomotiv RC) Lock, born 1985, age 24
Vasil Borisov (Valyatsite RC, Pernik) Fly half, born 1990, age 19
Radoslav Damyanov (Varna RC) Fly half born 1985, age 24
Yavor Dragnev (Varna RC) Lock, born 1977, age 32
Hristo Georgiev (Lokomotiv RC) Lock, born 1988, age 21
Simeon Georgiev (Valyatsite RC, Pernik) Hooker, born 1985, age 24
Plamen Iliev (Lokomotiv RC) Front row, born 1972, age 37
Antonio Ivanov (Varna RC) Number eight, born1969, age 40
Ivaylo Ivanov (RC National Sports Academy) Wing, born 1987, age 22
Ivo Lazov (Lokomotiv RC) Scrum half, born 1988, age 21
Petar Nikolov (RC National Sports Academy) Wing, born 1990, age 19
Svetoslav Odadzhiyski (RC National S.A.) Fullback, born 1984, age 25
Roman Para (RC National Sports Academy) Front row, born 1982, age 27
Vladislav Parizov (Lokomotiv RC) Hooker, born 1980, age 29
Daniel Simeonov (Valyatsite RC, Pernik) Centre, born 1983, age 26
Tihomir Simeonov (Lokomotiv RC) Front row, born 1974, age 35
Georgi Sotirov (Valyatsite RC, Pernik) Scrum half, born 1972, age 37
Martin Stoyanov (Varna RC) Centre, born 1989, age 20
Lyudmil Zlatkov (Valyatsite RC, Pernik) Wing, born1988, age 21

Staff
Head Coach: Lyudmil Stankov
Doctor: Vladimir Videnov
Referee: Dimitar Petrov
Coach and DTN: Dariel Yanev
Manager: Tzvetan Bouzovsky

Special thanks to Dariel Yanev, Bulgaria RFU

Israel Squad
Nessi Abarbanel (Raanana) born 1987, age 22
Oren Alt (ASA Tel Aviv) born 1971, age 38
Roi Alterlevi (Kibbutz Yizreel) born 1982, age 27
Nathan Amos (Rainey OBRFC, Northern Ireland) born 1978, age 31
Amir Beautler (Kibbutz Yizreel) born 1982, age 27
Oren Brodhurst (Kibbutz Yizreel) born 1984, age 25
Matan Brosh (Barnes RFC, England) born 1981, age 28
Michael Eli (Ashkelon RC) born 1989, age 20
Gilad Goldstein (Raanana) born 1985, age 24
Stav Gurtovoy, V.Capt.(ASATel Aviv) born 1981, age 28
Oz Hayman (ASA Tel Aviv) born 1985, age 24
Amit Kakoun (Kibbutz Yizreel) born 1990, age 19
Nimrod Kaplan, Capt. (London Scottish, England) born 1985, age 24
Omri Lotan (ASA Tel Aviv) born1984, age 25
Julien Maffi (ASA Tel Aviv) born 1982, age 27
Guy Matisis (ASA Tel Aviv) born 1987, age 22
Omer Halfi Mendelson (Raanana) born 1985, age 24
Alon Okon (ASA Tel Aviv) born 1985, age 24
Mordechai Radashkovich (ASA Tel Aviv) born 1984, age 25
Yonatan Radashkovich (ASA Tel Aviv) born 1988, age 21
Adrienne Rainstein (Haifa Technion) born 1989, age 20
Yonatan Shaki (Haifa Technion) born 1983, age 26
Miron Shtiglitz (ASA Tel Aviv) born 1977, age 32
Head Coach: Raanan Penn

Special thanks to Julian Shapiro, Israel RU, and to Matan Brosh.

INTERNATIONAL RUGBY THIS WEEKEND

09.04.2010
Tunisia v Arabian Gulf in Dubai (Friendly)

10.04.2010
Czech Republic v Ukraine in Prague (WCQ Europe R4; ENC 2A)
Poland v Moldova in Poland (WCQ Europe R4; ENC 2A)
Serbia v Armenia in Abovian (ENC 3A)
Bulgaria v Israel in Netanya (ENC 3C)

Briefly
Tunisia travels to the Middle East as part of their World Cup qualifying bid. They face Romania in June as part of the repechage phase og qualifying. Arabian Gulf will use the game to prepare for its clashes in the Asia5Nations competition and hopefully a place in the World Cup finals.

The race to find the winner of ENC 2A resumes this Saturday. Ukraine, Czech Republic, Moldova and Poland play matches with the Ukraine sitting as hot favourite. The winner of ENC 2A will play Lithuania in May to find the other repecharge qualifier.

Serbia travels to Armenia where the local team defeated Andorra last weekend to pull itself further away from relegation. Serbia needs to win as four teams in this division battle to prevent relegation.

Bulgaria travels to Israel to face the home side who are yet to be defeated in this division. Israel are looking as favourites to be promoted to Division 3B for 2010-12.

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)

INTERNATIONAL RUGBY: Luxembourg Travels to Greece

13.03.2010
Luxembourg v Greece in Athens

Venue: Olympic Stadium

Referee: Csaba Priskin (Hungary)

Preview
Greece is in the leading group of three teams in this competition. Israel is the only team undefeated. Bulgaria leads the table with Greece one point behind. A win to Greece will take it to the top of the competition.

Greece will announce its team on Friday. Coach Olivier Magne (former French test player) will be without wing Fiotakis, captain for the game v Finland, due to injury. Number eight Phillipos Sotiriadis will captain the side.

Sotriadis will lead the Greek side. Image thanks to http://www.sportingreece.com/

Luxembourg is well off the pace but is not in danger of relegation. The wooden spoon belongs to Finland. The Duchy will field one new player, Christophe Balthazard.

Previous Encounter
25.04.2009 Greece 17-14 in Luxembourg (WCQ Europe R1; ENC 3C)

GWC Rugby Rankings
Europe Table-Greece 34th, Luxembourg 36th

Prediction: Greece by 14 points

Teams

The squad of Luxembourg
Nicholas Abel
Christophe Balthazard (Debut)
Julien da Col
Alan Dunn
Chris Ellis
Bryan Fage
Nicholas Geoffreys
Alex Goodhew
Flavien Grimmer
Stuart kelly
William Lafaysse
Christian Lowe
Adam Marcus
Michael Minehan
Christophe Narcisse
Saman Rezapour
Nicolas Rivallan
Thibaud Sacaze
Nigel Sharplin
Timothée Siete
Adrien Timmermans
Philippe Vimond

Head Coach: Marty Davis

http://www.rugby.lu/news_fiche.asp?newsID=144

Greece Squad not yet available

For complete lists of all international rugby test matches by Greece, and by Luxembourg, go to http://www.rugbyinternational.net/

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.

Rugby Test: Finland Play in Luxembourg

07.11.2009
Finland v Luxembourg in Luxembourg (ENC 3C)

Venue: Stade Josy Barthel

Referee: Donovan (Denmark)

Preview
For these two teams this is the match that will probably decide who is relegated to ENC 3D for 2010-12.

Both teams have lost to Bulgaria in this the second round. Luxembourg played away whilst Finland, looking the weaker of the two, lost heavily to the Eastern Europeans at home. On the strength of that Luxembourg, playing at home, looks the likely winner.

Marty Davis, the coach of Luxembourg is fortunate to have Bond and Timmermans back in the backline after injury.

Luxembourg is actually one of the smallest nations playing rugby but there are now about 700 registered players in Luxembourg a big increase from 2000 when there was only 200 so the sport in the Grand Duchy is seeing a real growth, “which we want to see reflected in the success of [the] national team”, said Davis in an interview with station.lu. Ten out of the 22 players in the squad were born in Luxembourg.

Finland has struggled in this division and has lost its last six internationals. This test will be a desperate struggle for a win to lift them away from relegation.

Sources-http://www.station.lu/index.php?p=edito&id=13195
http://www.fira-aer-rugby.com/forum2007/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=3262

Previous Encounters
04.10.2008 Luxembourg 27-19 in Helsinki (WCQ Europe R1; ENC 3C)
24.05.2008 Finland 11-10 in Helsinki (ENC 3C)
30.09.2006 Luxembourg 18-8 in Cessange (ENC 3C)

GWC Rugby Rankings: Europe Table-Luxembourg 36th, Finland 37th

Prediction: Luxembourg by 16 points.

Teams

Luxembourg Squad
Nicholas Abel
William Bond
Julien Da Col
Alan Dunn
Christopher Ellis
Bryan Fage
Jonathan Flynn
Nicholas Geoffreys
Alexander Goodhew
Flavien Grimmer
Willy Lafaysse
Christian Lowe
Scott Mckinlay
Michael Minehan
Christophe Narcisse
Glenn Nordahl
Saman Rezapour
Nicolas Rivoallan
Euan Roger
Nigel Sharplin
Adrien Timmerman
Philippe Vimond

Head Coach: Marty Davis

http://www.rugby.lu/news_fiche.asp?newsID=142

Finland
Team not available at this time.
Head Coach: Lee Bolger

Rugby Match: Bulgaria v Luxembourg

24.10.2009
Bulgaria v Luxembourg in Pernik (ENC 3C)

Venue: Stadium Dimova Mihala

Referee: Pikhovkin (Russia)

Preview
Of these two teams Bulgaria looks more likely to topple group 3C leaders Israel and Greece. Bulgaria has performed strongly against bottom team Finland in their last two outings and looks the likely winner at home against their northern rivals.

Luxembourg arrived in Sofia without a few leading players. Injuries to Jonathan Harris, Joe Lister, Adrian Timmermans, William Bond and Loic Herve mean five new players, Christopher Ellis, Michael Minehan, Bryan Fage, Alan Dunn and Philip Vimond receive their first national call up.

Unfortunately there is no media outlet for the Bulgarian national side. All that can be gleaned is that 10 of their squad come from the leading club side, Valiacite Pernik.

Thanks to both 'Quentin' and 'Dick Dastardly' at http://www.fira-aer-rugby.com/forum2007/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=3245

Last Five Encounters
29.11.2008 Bulgaria 18-10 in Luxembourg (WCQ Europe R1; ENC 3C)
24.04.2004 Luxembourg 39-5 in Cessange (ENC 3B)
18.10.1997 Luxembourg 39-6 in Sofia (FIRA Bronze A)
1993 Bulgaria 16-13 in Luxembourg (FIRA C1)
1989 Bulgaria 13-4 in ? (FIRA C)
* Note a match noted as 1992 and won 18-11 by Bulgaria is not officially in Luxembourg's list.
Data from www.rugbyinternational.net

GWC Rugby Rankings: Europe Table-Bulgaria 35th, Luxembourg 36th

Prediction: Bulgaria by 24 points

Teams

Luxembourg
15. Michael Minehan
14. Nicholas Geoffreys
13. Bryan Fage
12. Flavien Grimmer
11. Willy Lafaysse
10. Christian Lowe
9. Euan Roger
8. Julien Da Col
7. Scott Mckinlay
6. Jonathan Flynn
5. Glenn Nordahl
4. Christopher Ellis
3. Nicolas Rivoallan
2. Saman Rezapour
1. Christophe Narcisse
Replacement
16. Steve Ridolfi
17. Nicholas Abel
18. Nigel Sharplin
19. Alan Dunn
20. Philippe Vimond
21. Alexander Goodhew
22. Stephane Decaris
Head Coach: Marty Davis
Jan Micsenyecz (Physio)
Adam Marcus (Manager)

Bulgaria squad not available at this time.

International Rugby: Bulgaria Too Good For Finland

03.10.2009
Bulgaria 36, Finland 13 in Helsinki (ENC 3C)

Review
Bulgaria put their away hoodoo to rest with a convincing 36-13 win over hosts Finland. The win places Bulgaria within reach of the top teams in this division. For Finland the result puts them well within the danger zone of relegation.

Test Rugby. Finland Host Bulgaria

03.10.2009
Bulgaria v Finland in Helsinki (ENC 3C)

Venue: Myllypuro

Referee:

Preview
Both Bulgaria and Finland dropped out of World Cup 2011 contention after Israel headed the European Nations Cup 3C table at the half way stage. Bulgaria easily accounted for the Fins at home, 29-10, when they meet in the first round.

Finland has struggled in this division. They lost their home games narrowly and were not competitive in their away games, losing their last game, against Israel away, by 8-70. Israel went on to defeat Slovenia but then fall to Lithuania in their World Cup playoff matches.

Bulgaria's form has been up and down. They are situated in the middle of the division, losing to Israel narrowly at home, and then winning well against Luxembourg away. This was followed by a humiliating 18-40 loss to newcomers Greece away but just over the border, to then register a good win against Finland at home.

Finland will not be easy to defeat on their home ground. Bulgaria has proven it can win away from home and should be able to win this away match in Helsinki. On form they would be favourites to win.

Previous Encounters
24.05.2009 Bulgaria 29-10 in Pernik (WCQ Europe R1; ENC 3C)
30.10.2004 Bulgaria 50-3 in Sofia (WCQ Europe R1)
18.09.2004 Bulgaria 42-3 in Helsinki (WCQ Europe R1)
06.06.2003 Bulgaria 42-3 in Ibisa, Spain (ENC 3C, Pool C, semi-final)

Bulgaria has an historical advantage over the northerners but Finland has bridged the gap significantly in their last encounter.

GWC Rugby Rankings: Europe Table-Bulgaria 34th, Finland 37th

Prediction: Bulgaria by 9 points

Teams

Finnish squad to play Bulgaria. Image thanks to http://rugbyliitto.sporttisaitti.com/

Finland
15. Mikko Järvi (Tampere RUC)
14. Rami Aro (Enköping, SWE)
13. Antti Lammi (Jyväskylä RC)
12. Thomas Finell, Capt. (Helsinki Warriors RC)
11. Matthew Jordan (Helsinki Warriors RC)
10. Ilkka Tuomaala (Vaasa RC)
9. Topi Karjalainen (Lahti Sisu RC)
8. Petri Virrankoski (Tampere RUC)
7. Erik Pekkola (Helsinki RC)
6. Stephen Whittaker (Helsinki RC)
5. Stuart Reynish (Helsinki Warriors RC)
4. Ville Siiskonen (Helsinki RC)
3. Riku Ryynänen (Helsinki Warriors RC)
2. Semu Salmivalli (Tampere RUC)
1. Juha Rainvuori (Helsinki Warriors RC)
Replacements
16. Micke Holmström (Helsinki RC)
17. Christian Skogholm (Göteborg, Sweden)
18. Mauno Konttila (Tampere RUC)
19. Andras Devenyi (Helsinki RC)
20. Valtteri Valtia (Helsinki Warriors RC)
21. Jim Harper (Jyväskylä RC)
22. Lars Margolis (Hamilton College Exiles RFC, USA)

Head Coach: Lee Bolger

Bulgaria team details not available as yet

Test Rugby Results: 2 May

02.05.2009
Russia 53, Germany 0 in Hannover (WCQ Euro.R5; ENC 1)
Japan 59, Hong Kong 6 in Hong Kong (Asia 5 Nations)
Kazakhstan 30, Korea 27 in Almaty (Asia 5 Nations)
Uruguay 43, Chile 9 in Montevideo (WCQ Am.R2; CONSUR A Prelim.)
Brazil 36, Paraguay 21 in Montevideo (CONSUR A Preliminary)
Croatia 23, Sweden 13 in Spli (WCQ Euro.R3; ENC 2B)
Lithuania 50, Serbia 9 in Vilnius (WCQ Euro.R2; ENC 3A)
Israel 70, Finland 8 in Netanya (WCQ Euro.R1; ENC 3C)

Rugby Test: The Fins Travel to Israel

02.05.2009
Finland v Israel at Netanya (WCQ Euro.R1; ENC 3C)


Preview
There is more interest in Israel's clash with Slovenia next weekend. Israel has already qualified for the next round playoff and face the ENC 3B first round winner from the Adriatic. Israel will be usung this match as a warm up for this vital clash.

Little rests on the result of this match. Finland has struggled so far in this round. There only real hope is to catch the Israelies under prepared and unmotivated.


Previous Encounters
31.05.2008 Israel 22-12 in Netanya (ENC 3C)
02.06.2007 Finland 27-20 in Helsinki (ENC 3C)
02.06.2004 Israel 24-15 in Beauvais (ENC 3C, Semi-final)


GWC Rugby Rankings: Europe Table-Israel 32nd, Finland 37th


Prediction: Israel by 16 points.


Teams are unavaliable.

International Test Rugby This Weekend 2 May

02.05.2009
Russia v Germany in Hannover (WCQ Euro.R5; ENC 1)
Hong Kong v Japan in Hong Kong (Asia5Nations)
Kazakhstan v Korea in Almaty (Asia5Nations)
Uruguay v Chile in Montevideo (WCQ Am.R2; CONSUR A Prelim.)
Brazil v Paraguay in Montevideo (CONSUR A Preliminary)
Croatia v Sweden in Split (WCQ Euro. R3; ENC 2B)
Lithuania v Serbia in Vilnius (WCQ Euro.R2; ENC 3A)
Israel v Finland in Netanya (WCQ Europe R1; ENC 3C)