CUP OF NATIONS: Hong Kong v Russia

21.11.2015
Hong Kong v Russia in Hong Kong

Venue: Hong Kong Football Club

Results So Far
13.11.2015
Russia 23, Portugal 12
Hong Kong 30, Zimbabwe 11

17.11.2015
Russia 50, Zimbabwe 5
Hong Kong 13, Portugal 6

	P	W	D	L	PF	PA	DIFF	BPL	BPT	PT
RUSSIA	2	2	0	0	73	17	56	0	1	9
HONG KONG	2	2	0	0	43	17	26	0	1	9
PORTUGAL	2	0	0	2	18	36	-18	1	0	1
ZIMBABWE	2	0	0	2	16	80	-64	0	0	0

Preview
Russia’s two test tour of Hong Kong last year was the first time these two teams met in a rugby test match. Russia proved too strong on both occasions.

Russia has won both games so far convincingly and remain the favourites. Hong Kong did well to defeat Portugal mid week although the visitors were unlucky in that game.

Hong Kong will need to play at their best to defeat the Bears.

Previous Encounters
15.11.2014 Russia 39-27 in Hong Kong
08.11.2014 Russia 31-10 in Hong Kong

GWC Rugby Rankings
World Table: Russia 20th, Hong Kong 24th

World Rugby Ranking Points
Russia 61.56, Hong Kong 58.19

Prediction: Russia by 5 points. Score 26-21

TEAMS

Hong Kong Squad

Jack Aikman (Hong Kong Scottish)
Moses Bailey (Hong Kong Cricket Club)
Adam Butterfield (Hong Kong Football Club)
Charles Cheung Ho Ning (Hong Kong Scottish)
Rohan Cook (Hong Kong Cricket Club)*
James Cunningham (Kowloon RFC)*
Jack Delaforce (Hong Kong Cricket Club)
Paul Dwyer (Hong Kong Cricket Club)
Daniel Falvey (Hong Kong Football Club)*
Tobias Fenn (Valley RFC)
Adam Fullgrabe (Kowloon RFC)*
Adrian Griffiths (Hong Kong Cricket Club)
Gavin Hadley (Hong Kong Football Club)
Alexander Harris (Kowloon RFC) 29 tests
Nicholas Hewson (Capt.)( Valley RFC) 31 tests
Benjamin Higgins (Valley RFC)
Charles Higson-Smith (Hong Kong Football Club)
Alexander Kaleca (Hong Kong Scottish)
Matthew Lamming (Hong Kong Cricket Club)18 tests
Christopher McAdam (Kowloon RFC)
Thomas Marshall (Hong Kong Cricket Club)*
Alexander Ng Wai Shing (Valley RFC) 31 tests
Jack Parfitt (Hong Kong Scottish)
Jamie Pincott (Hong Kong Scottish)*
Bradley Raper (Hong Kong Cricket Club)*
Benjamin Rimene (Valley RFC)
Jamie Robinson (Hong Kong Cricket Club)*
Adam Rolston (Valley RFC)
Edmund Rolston (Valley RFC)
Niall Rowark (Hong Kong Football Club)
Tyler Spitz (USRC Tigers)
Jamie Tsang (Kowloon RFC)*

*New test players

Head Coach: Andrew Hall

Russia Squad

Denis Antonov (Slava Moscow)
Vasily Artemyev (Krasny Yar)
Denis Barabantsev (Yenisei-STM) *
Alexander Bezverkhov (Yenisei-STM)
Azamat Bitiev (Krasny Yar)
Daniel Chegodaev (VVA-Moscow)
Leo Derksen (Metallurg Novokuznetsk)*
Vasily Dorofeev (Krasny Yar)
Eugene Elgin (Yenisei-STM) *
Igor Galinovsky (Krasny Yar)
Andrei Garbuzov (Krasny Yar)
Tagir Gadzhiev*(VVA-Moscow)
German Godlyuk (Slava Moscow)
Kirill Gotovtsev (Krasny Yar) *
Viktor Gresev (Krasny Yar)
Nikita Ilienko (Yenisei-STM)
Alexander Ivanov (VVA-Moscow) *
Alexander Khudyakov (Krasny Yar)
Andrew Lizogub (VVA-Moscow)
Alex Makovetskii (Krasny Yar)
Yevgeny Matveyev (VVA-Moscow)
Andrew Otrokov (Krasny Yar)
Vladimir Podrezov (VVA-Moscow)
Vladimir Rudenko (Krasny Yar)
Sergei Sekisov (VVA-Moscow)
Sergey Stepanov (Slava Moscow)
Anton Sychev (Metallurg Novokuznetsk) *
Alexey Volkov (VVA-Moscow)

*New cap

Google translation from http://www.rugby.ru/new/russkij-sostav-sbornoj-rossii-po-regbi-na-sbor-pered-cup-of-nations.html

TEST RUGBY THIS WEEKEND: Saturday 21 November

21.11.2015
Portugal v Zimbabwe in Hong Kong (Cup of Nations)
Hong Kong v Russia in Hong Kong (Cup of Nations)
Spain v Chile in Torrelavega (Friendly)
Malta v Czech Republic in Valette (REC 2A)
Guatemala v El Salvador in Guatemala City (Herman Arrúa Cup)

2015 CUP OF NATIONS: Day 1

13.11.2015
Russia 23, Portugal 12 in Hong Kong
Hong Kong 30, Zimbabwe 11 in Hong Kong

	P	W	D	L	PF	PA	DIFF	BPL	BPT	PT
HONG KONG	1	1	0	0	30	11	19	0	1	5
RUSSIA	1	1	0	0	23	12	11	0	0	4
PORTUGAL	1	0	0	1	12	23	-11	0	0	0
ZIMBABWE	1	0	0	1	11	30	-19	0	0	0

Data from www.rugbyinternational.net

Tournament favourites Hong Kong (hosts) and Russia got their campaign up and running with wins on day one. Hong Kong also got the only bonus point of the day whilst Zimbabwe seemed to struggle with the damp and humid conditions.

Reports
http://www.worldrugby.org/news/123242
http://www.hkrugby.com/news/hong-kong-and-russia-take-early-leads-in-inaugural-hkru-cup-of-nations

Next Two Days

17.11.2015
Zimbabwe v Russia in Hong Kong (Cup of Nations)
Hong Kong v Portugal in Hong Kong (Cup of Nations)

21.11.2015
Portugal v Zimbabwe in Hong Kong (Cup of Nations)
Hong Kong v Russia in Hong Kong (Cup of Nations)

HONG KONG 38, KOREA 37: ARC Top 3

16.05.2015

Hong Kong scored a last minute try to snatch this game away from Korea. The Koreans suffered a red card during the game and a yellow later in the game. This created opportunities that Hong Kong took. The win was not enough to force Korea off the second place on the table.

Sri Lanka, winner of Division 1, has decided not to challenge Hong Kong for a place in ARC Top 3 2016.

KOREA v HONG KONG: Asia Rugby Championship, T3

16.05.2015

Venue: Namdong Rugby Ground, Seoul

Image thanks to www.skyscrapercity.com

Live streaming
http://eversport.tv/rugby/asian-rugby-championship/2015/5/16/top-3-south-korea-vs-hong-kong?video=58326

Preview
This test rugby match will decide 2nd place in the 2015 ARC Top 3. There is not a lot hinging on the loser as Sri Lanka, winner of 2015 ARC Division 1, will not challenge the 3rd place team for a place in the 2016 ARC Top 3.

My records show that Hong Kong has never defeated Korea in Korea in a rugby test match. I can’t see that changing Saturday

Other previews
http://www.asian5nations.com/HKG-set-for-skirmish-in-South-Korea

Last Five Encounters
25.05.2015 Korea 33-26 in Hong Kong (ARC Top 3)
10.05.2014 Hong Kong 39-6 in Hong Kong (Asia 5 Nations)
18.05.2013 Korea 43-27 in Ansan (Asia 5 Nations)
05.05.2012 Korea 21-19 in Hong Kong (Asia 5 Nations)
24.04.2010 Hong Kong 32-8 in Hong Kong (WCQ Asia R2; Asia 5 Nations)

Korea last Five P 5, W 2, L 3
25.04.2015 v Hong Kong W 33-26 in Hong Kong (ARC Top 3)
18.04.2015 v Japan L 30-56 in Incheon (ARC Top 3)
24.05.2014 v Philippines W 52-22 in Makati (WCQ Asia; Asia 5 Nations)
17.05.2014 v Japan L 5-62 in Incheon (WCQ Asia; Asia 5 Nations)
10.05.2014 v Hong Kong L 6-39 in Hong Kong (WCQ Asia; Asia 5 Nations)

Hong Kong Last Five P 5, L 5 
02.05.2015 v Japan L 0-41 in Tokyo (ARC Top 3)
25.04.2015 v Korea L 26-33 in Hong Kong (ARC Top 3)
15.11.2014 v Russia L 27-39 in Hong Kong (Ustinov Cup, 2nd test)
08.11.2014 v Russia L 10-31 in Hong Kong (Ustinov Cup, 1st test)
25.05.2014 v Japan L 8-49 in Tokyo (WCA Asia; Asia 5 Nations)

GWC Rugby Rankings
Asia table: Korea 2nd, Hong Kong 3rd

World Rugby Ranking Points
Korea 58.35, Hong Kong 54.64

Prediction: Korea by 14 points

TEAMS

Hong Kong

1. John Aikman
2. Lachlan Chubb
3. Jack Parfitt
4. Paul Dwyer
5. Adrian Griffiths (Debut)
6. Matt Lamming
7. Toby Fenn
8. Nick Hewson (captain)
9. Lee Ka To
10. Ben Rimene
11. Yiu Kam Shing
12. Max Woodward
13. Jamie Hood
14. Tom McQueen
15. Alex McQueen
16. Alex Harris
17. Wei Hon Sum
18. Jack Nielsen
19. Jack Delaforce
20. Alex Baddeley
21. Damian Bailey
22. Tyler Spitz
23. Niall Rowark
24. Adam Rolston

https://www.facebook.com/hkrugby

Korea Squad Not available

TEST RUGBY RESULTS SATURDAY 2 MAY

02.05.2015
Japan 41, Hong Kong 0 in Tokyo (ARC Top 3)
Andorra 14, Latvia 5 in Riga (REC 2B)
Lithuania 26, Cyprus 20 in Paphos (REC 2B)
British Virgin Is v Curacao in New Town (NACRA Carib.Cup, Sth)-Result to come

ASIA RUGBY CHAMP: Top 3 HONG KONG v JAPAN

02.05.2015

Venue: Tokyo

Referee: Norman Drake (UAE)

Preview
When you look at the opposition both sides has faced over the past year, Japan has a far more extensive world test programme than Hong Kong. Hong Kong has played two tests against Russia last November as they continually seek international opposition. But in terms of who you are facing on the international stage Japan is way above their Asian neighbour.

In recent encounters Hong Kong has always struggled in Tokyo and I can’t see Hong Kong getting near their hosts.

Other Previews
http://www.hkrugby.com/eng/news/4794.php
http://www.japonrugby.net/le-xv-japonais-face-a-hong-kong-2015.php (in French)

Last Five Encounters
25.05.2014 Japan 49-8 in Tokyo (WCQ Asia; Asia 5 Nations)
27.04.2013 Japan 38-0 in Hong Kong (WCQ Asia; Asia 5 Nations)
19.05.2012 Japan 67-0 in Tokyo (Asia 5 Nations)
30.04.2011 Japan 48-22 in Hong Kong (Asia 5 Nations)
22.05.2010 Japan 94-5 in Tokyo (WCQ Asia R2; Asia 5 Nations)

Hong Kong last defeated Japan in 1998, winning 17-16 in Tokyo in a Pacific Rim Championship test match. Hong Kong actually won four games against Japan in the period 1996-1998 during the Pacific Rim competition.

Japan Last Five P 5, W 4, L 1
18.04.2015 v Korea W 56-30 in Incheon (ARC Top 3)
23.11.2014 v Georgia L 24-35 in Tbilisi
15.11.2014 v Romania W 18-13 in Bucharest
21.06.2014 v Italy W 26-23 in Tokyo
14.06.2014 v USA W 37-29 in Halawa

Hong Kong Last Five P 5, W 1, L 4
25.04.2015 v Korea L 26-33 in Hong Kong (ARC Top 3)
15.11.2014 v Russia L 27-39 in Hong Kong (Ustinov Cup, 2nd test)
08.11.2014 v Russia L 10-31 in Hong Kong (Ustinov Cup, 1st test)
25.05.2014 v Japan L 8-49 in Tokyo (WCA Asia; Asia 5 Nations)
10.05.2014 v Korea W 39-6 in Hong Kong (WCA Asia; Asia 5 Nations)

GWC Rugby Rankings
World Table: Japan 13th, Hong Kong 23rd
Asia Table: Japan 1st, Hong Kong 3rd

World Rugby Ranking Points
Japan 74.70, Hong Kong 54.64

Prediction: Japan by 44 points.

TEAMS

Hong Kong

1 WEI Hon Sum Leon (Valley)
2 Alex HARRIS (Kowloon)
3 Jack PARFITT (HKS)
4 Adam BUTTERFIELD (HKFC)
5 Paul DWYER (HKCC)
6 Matthew LAMMING (HKCC)
7 Toby FENN (Valley)
8 Nicholas HEWSON (Valley)
9 LEE Ka To Cado (Kowloon)
10 Ben RIMENE (Valley)
11 Charlie HIGSON-SMITH (HKFC)
12 Max WOODWARD (Valley)
13 Jamie HOOD (HKFC)
14 Tom MCQUEEN (HKCC)
15 Alex MCQUEEN (HKCC)

Replacements
16 John AIKMAN (HKS)
17 Lachlan CHUBB (HKS)
18 Jack NIELSEN (HKCC)
19 Alex BADDELEY (Valley)
20 Damian BAILEY (HKCC)
21 Adam ROLSTON (Valley)
22 Jonny REES (HKFC)
23 Niall ROWARK (HKFC)
24 Jack DELAFORCE (HKCC)

Head Coach: Andy Hall

Adapted from http://www.hkrugby.com/eng/news/4794.php

Japan

1-Masataka Mikami (Toshiba Brave Lupus, 24 caps) 
2-Takeshi Kizu (Kobelco Steelers, 31 caps) 
3-Kensuke Hatakeyama, Capt. (Suntory Sungoliath, 61 caps) 
4-Luke Thompson (Kintetsu Liners, 50 caps) 
5-Shoji Ito (Kobelco Steelers, 29 caps) 
6-Justin Ives (Canon Eagles, 24 caps) 
7-Tsuyoshi Murata (NEC Green Rockets, un cap) 
8-Ryu Koliniasi Holani (Panasonic Wild Knights, 36 caps) 
9-Atsushi Hiwasa (Suntory Sungoliath, 39 caps) 
10-Harumichi Tatekawa (Kubota Spears, 29 caps) 
11-Akihito Yamada (Panasonic Wild Knights, 10 caps) 
12-Yu Tamura (NEC Green Rockets, 27 caps) 
13-Karne Hesketh (Munakata Sanix Blues, 3 caps) 
14-Chihito Matsui (Doshisha Univ., un cap) 
15-Ayumu Goromaru (Yamaha Jubilo, 44 caps)

Remplaçants:

16-Yusuke Nagae (Toyota Industries Shuttles, 17 caps) 
17-Ryuhei Arita (Coca-Cola Red Sparks, 7 caps) 
18-Shinnosuke Kakinaga (Suntory Sungoliath, un cap) 
19-Kazuhiko Usami (Canon Eagles, un cap) 
20-Hayden Hopgood ( ? , 4 caps) 
21-Keisuke Uchida (Panasonic Wild Knights, 9 caps) 
22-Toshiaki Hirose (Toshiba Brave Lupus, 24 caps) 
23-Yoshikazu Fujita (Waseda Univ., 19 caps)

Head Coach: Eddie Jones

Adapted from http://www.japonrugby.net/le-xv-japonais-face-a-hong-kong-2015.php

TEST RUGBY RESULTS: World

25.04.2015
Korea 33, Hong Kong 26 in Hong Kong (ARC Top 3)
Chile 32, Brazil 3 in Santiago (CONSUR A)
Trinidad Tobago 30, Mexico 16 in Port of Spain (NACRA Carib. Champ. Final)

Briefly
Korea edged out home side Hong Kong after building a big lead at half time. The Koreans looked to be a very strong side and managed to hold off a big Hong Kong comeback in the second half.

Chile were too good in a disappointing display by the Brazilians whilst Trinidad Tobago gathered their second Caribbean Championship title when they defeated Mexico. The Mexicans can be proud of their achievement in making th final after being promoted just last season.

ASIA RUGBY CHAMPIONSHIP: Top 3 Hong Kong v Korea

25.04.2015

Venue: Hong Kong Football Club Ground, Hong Kong

Referee: Paul McKay (Singapore)

Preview-Media Release

Hong Kong open Asia Rugby Championship with crucial match v Korea

[23 April 2015, HONG KONG]: Natixis Hong Kong Football Club winger Charlie Higson-Smith and Societe Generale Valley flanker Toby Fenn are set to make their international debut against South Korea on Saturday in the opening encounter for Hong Kong at the revamped Asia Rugby Championship.

The pair will come off the bench as Hong Kong look to start on a winning note in the inaugural Asia Rugby Championship which also includes seven-time Asian Five Nations champions Japan.

Asia’s premier annual rugby competition will see the top three – Japan, Hong Kong and South Korea – play a home-and-away round-robin format to decide bragging rights for the region. Previously the elite competition was contested amongst the top five teams, either home or away.

“The new format will be challenging,” said Hong Kong head coach Andy Hall who has stated he will have to rely on his larger squad of 34 players if Asia’s number two side is to push Japan for supremacy while warding off what is expected to be a tough challenge from the Koreans.

“In previous years we only had to face one-off matches against the likes of Japan and Korea. In those games we found ourselves more fatigued or taking more of a battering than in the other matches in the Top Five so it was a big change,” Hall said.

“We will need now to manage that physical toll better with the intensive home-and-away format. This will require more depth and we are going to need our full 34-man squad for this year’s series,” Hall added.

While the majority of the 23-man squad for the opening encounter, once again captained by No.8 Nick Hewson, has played in the regional competition previously, it will be the first opportunity for Higson-Smith and Fenn.

But they will have to wait for their chance to make a quick impression. Valley openside flanker Fenn will back up Hong Kong Cricket Club’s Matt Lamming while regular wingers Salom Yiu Kam-shing and Tom McQueen will keep Higson-Smith waiting to make his mark.

Experienced campaigner Hewson will lead a powerful set of forwards. The front row trio of John Aikman, Lachlan Chubb and James Cooper, and locks Paul Dwyer and Jack Delaforce will have to be on the ball against a feisty Korean tight five. Hewson will have Valley teammate Alex Baddeley on the blindside with Leighton Asia Hong Kong Cricket Club’s Lamming on the loose.

The halves combination will pair Abacus Kowloon half-back Cado Lee Ka-To at scrum-half with his club-mate Chris McAdam at flyhalf, with last season’s debutant Tyler Spitz and Max Woodward shoring up the midfield. The back three will be Yiu, Tom McQueen and elder brother Alex McQueen at fullback.

“Korea have a big, physical front row. Front rowers are big by definition but the Koreans are big even for front rowers and what is unique is that these guys are paramount to their attacking shape as well. They really look to get them involved so we are going to need to snuff that out,” said Hall.

Expecting a tough challenge up-front, Hong Kong has packed the bench with forwards, the split being five to three backs. Alex Harris, Leon Wei Hon-sum and Jack Nielsen will provide vital back-up to the front row with Bill Brant and Fenn giving cover for other positions.

Apart from winger Higson-Smith, Jamie Hood and Niall Rowark will be the other two backs and will feel at home on their home turf at Hong Kong Football Club.

While it will be the opening match for Hong Kong, their opponents South Korea arrive riding a wave of confidence after pushing Japan all the way in a 56-30 defeat at home last Saturday.

The Koreans will take a lot of heart from that spirited challenge when they led Japan 17-3 in the first quarter and trailed by only two points at the break. They continued to threaten the upset after being within a converted try of leveling the score late in the second half.

“Korea have some momentum after a solid performance against Japan. The Japanese may not have been at their peak as they were starting their season as well, but you don’t stick 30 points on a team inside or around the top 10 in world rugby without turning heads a bit,” said Hall.

Their attacking style will provide Hong Kong with a stern test, especially dangerous new fullback Jang Seong-min who grabbed a brace last week.

Hong Kong’s ability to handle that pressure will be key to their hopes of at least retaining their runners-up spot in Asia. “We are well aware that they are coming into the match with one game under their belt. Any rust they might have had had will have been knocked out by Japan and this gives them an advantage,” Hall said.

“The outcome of this game will be massive. I think both us and Korea know that the games versus Japan are going to be challenging and are targeting each other for two wins. If we can start well and capitalise on that rush of energy, chaos and intensity that are the first 20 minutes of a test match - we will be doing well.

“It is vital that we manage that and are in the game after 20 minutes and preferably in the lead,” concluded Hall.

Hong Kong will host South Korea on Saturday (25 April) at Hong Kong Football Club (kick-off at 16.00). Admission is free.

Hong Kong Squad versus South Korea (April 25):

1. John AIKMAN (HK Scottish), 2. Lachlan CHUBB (HK Scottish), 3. James COOPER (HKCC), 4. Paul DWYER (HKCC), 5. Jack DELAFORCE (HKCC), 6. Alex BADDELEY (Valley), 7. Matt LAMMING (HKCC), 8. Nick HEWSON – captain (Valley), 9. Cado LEE Ka To (Abacus Kowloon), 10. Chris MCADAM (Kowloon), 11. Salom YIU Kam Shing (Valley), 12. Tyler SPITZ (Borrelli Walsh USRC Tigers), 13. Max WOODWARD (Valley), 14. Tom McQUEEN (HKCC), 15. Alex McQUEEN (HKCC), 16. Alex HARRIS (Kowloon), 17. Leon WEI Hon Sum (Valley), 18. Jack NIELSEN (HKCC), 19. Bill BRANT (HKCC), 20. Toby FENN* 21. Jamie HOOD (HKFC), 22. Charlie HIGSON-SMITH* (HKFC), 23. Niall ROWARK (HKFC).

* Hong Kong debut

Sean Moore

Korea

1. Sung Ku (KRU), 2. Kim Jeep (Korea Armed Forces Athletic Corps, KAFAC), 3. Kim Kwang Sik (Honda), 4. Park Soon Chai (NTT), 5. Youn Kwon Woo (Yokogawa), 6. Kim Hyun Soo (KEPCO), 7. Jang Seok Hwan (KAFAC), 8. Hwang In Jo (KEPCO), 9. Lee Myung Jun (Sang Mu), 10 Oh Youn Hyung, 11. Chang Yong Heung (Yonsei Uni), 12. Kim Nam Uk (KEPCO), 13. Kim Sung Soo (KEPCO), 14. Jegal Bin (NTT Communications), 15. Jang Seong Min (Sang Mu), 16. Na Kwan Young (KAFAC), 17. Son Yung Ki (POSCO), 18. Shin Dongwon (KRU), 19. Kim Min Kyu, 20. Kim Jeong Min (captain, KEPCO), 21. Shin Ki Cheol (KRU), 22. Nam Young Soo (Sang Mu), 23. Kim Gwong Min (KEPCO).

https://www.facebook.com/pages/All-about-Rugby-in-Korea/235989379798283

Last Five Encounters
10.05.2014 Hong Kong 39-6 in Hong Kong (Asia 5 Nations)
18.05.2013 Korea 43-27 in Ansan (Asia 5 Nations)
05.05.2012 Korea 21-19 in Hong Kong (Asia 5 Nations)
24.04.2010 Hong Kong 32-8 in Hong Kong (WCQ Asia R2; Asia 5 Nations)
09.05.2009 Korea 36-34 in Seoul (Asia 5 Nations)

Asia Rugby Championship So Far
18.04.2015 Japan 56, Korea 30 in Incheon

GWC Rugby Rankings
Asia Table: Hong Kong 2nd, Korea 3rd

World Rugby Ranking Points
Korea 57.22, Hong Kong 55.79

Prediction: Hong Kong by 3 points. Score 23-20

TEST RUGBY THIS WEEKEND Part 2

25.04.2015
Korea v Hong Kong in Hong Kong (ARC Top 3)
Chile v Brazil in Santiago (CONSUR A)
Mexico v Trinidad Tobago in Port of Spain (NACRA Carib. Championship Final)

Briefly
The big clash between Asia’s No.2 and No.3 teams will be full of interest. The new round robin/home-away structure of the elite level of Asian rugby means every game counts.

Brazil travels to Santiago in another important CONSUR A clash. Last year Brazil upset Chile in Brazil but can they do the same away? Chile has not been playing of recent seasons and Brazil’s good showing against Uruguay last weekend could mean a repeat of last year’s result.

Mexico and Trinidad Tobago square off in the NACRA Caribbean final. Two new teams in this year’s final and as Mexico is just newly promoted to this level this final has more interest in it.

TEST RUGBY RESULTS TIER 2 07-08 NOVEMBER

08.11.2014
New Zealand Maori 20, Japan 18 in Tokyo
Tonga 23, Georgia 9 inTbilisi
United States 27, Romania 17 in Bucharest
Russia 31, Hong Kong 10 in Hong Kong

07.11.2014
Canada 17, Namibia 13 in Colwyn Bay

WORLD CUP QUALIFYING: Repechage Playoffs

02.08.2014
Russia 23, Zimbabwe 15 in Krasnoyarsk (WCQ Repechage 1)
Uruguay 28, Hong Kong 3 in Montevideo (WCQ Repechage 2)

Review
Russia and Uruguay will play a two-leg playoff to sort out who gets the last place at the 2015 Rugby World Cup finals. The first leg will be played in Krasnoyarsk 27/28 September with the second in Montevideo 11/12 October.

Other Reviews
http://www.rugbyworldcup.com/qualifying/news/newsid=2072390.html#uruguay+book+russia+world+cup+showdown

http://www.rugbyworldcup.com/qualifying/news/newsid=2072269.html#russia+book+place+repechage+final

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2015_Rugby_World_Cup_%E2%80%93_Repechage_qualification

http://www.hkrugby.com/eng/news/4246.php

http://www.dailynews.co.zw/articles/2014/08/04/sables-world-cup-dream-shattered

http://www.rugbynews.com.uy/destacadas/el-triunfo-de-la-identidad/ (In Spanish)

http://www.rugbynews.com.uy/destacadas/el-scrum-como-bandera/

Image thanks to South China Morning Post

WORLD CUP QUALIFIERS: Repechage

The Repechage playoffs are to find the final place at the 2015 Rugby World Cup finals to be played in the United Kingdom. The winner will play in Pool A along with England, Wales, Australia and Fiji. Russia qualified as Europe No.3, Zimbabwe as Africa No.2, Hong Kong as Asia No.2 and Uruguay as America’s No.3. The home draw is dependent on teams having the highest IRB Ranking. The winning teams from this weekend will playoff for the final place.

02.08.2014
Russia v Zimbabwe in Krasnorask (WCQ Repechage 1)

Venue: Central Stadium

Referee: Nigel Owens (Wales)

Preview
This is the first meeting between these two teams. Zimbabwe has been playing opposition well below of what Russia has been playing. The Africans playing in the middle of Russia would have been a huge physical and mental struggle. Plus they have had little preparation.

Russia hasn’t exactly set the rugby world on fire with some very ordinary results in the IRB Nations cup but I expect them to be fielding a stronger line up. They will just be too much fro Zimbabwe.

Last Five
Russia
22.06.2014 L 6-13 v Uruguay in Bucharest (IRB Nations Cup)
18.06.2013 L 16-20 v Romania in Bucharest (IRB Nations Cup)
13.06.2013 L 0-66 v Emerging Ireland in Bucharest (IRB Nations Cup)
24.05.2013 W 31-20 v Germany in Hamburg (WCQ Europe R5 Playoff)
15.03.2013 W 34-20 v Belgium in Brussels (WCQ Europe R5; ENC 1A)

Zimbabwe
06.07.2013 W 28-10 v Kenya in Antananarivo (WCQ Africa; Africa Cup 1A)
02.07.2013 L 20-24 v Namibia in Antananarivo (WCQ Africa; Africa Cup 1A)
12.11.2013 W 29-14 v Kenya in Windhoek (IRB Tri-Nations)
08.11.2013 L 26-35 v Namibia in Windhoek (IRB Tri-Nations)
14.07.2013 L 17-29 v Kenya in Antananarivo (WCQ Africa; Africa Cup 1A, Final)

GWC Rugby Rankings
Do not apply

IRB Ranking Points
Russia 63.43, Zimbabwe 55.98

Prediction: Russia by 40 points

Teams

Russia
1 Grigory Tsnobiladze
2 Valery Tsnobiladze
3 Andrey Igretsov
4 Alexander Voytov
5 Andrey Ostrikov
6 Andrey Garbuzov
7 Andrey Temnov
8 Viktor Gresev
9 Alexander Yaniushkin
10 Yuri Kushnariov
11 Denis Simplikevich
12 Alexey Makovetsky
13 Vasily Artemyev
14 Mikhail Babayev
15 Igor Kliuchnikov
16 Stanislav Selsky
17 Innokenty Zykov
18 Artiom Fatakhov
19 Pavel Butenko
20 Alexey Scherban
21 Igor Galinovsky
22 Ramil Gaisin

http://t2rugby.com/viewtopic.php?f=3&t=141&start=25

Zimbabwe Squad

Forwards
Pieter Joubert, Keith Murray, Kevin Nqindi, Jan Ferreira, Graeme Lawler, Jacques Leitao, Lambert Groenewald, Lawrence Cleminson, Sanele Sibanda, Matthew Mandioma, Farai Mudariki, Fortune Chipendu, Kingsley Lang, Takunda Chifokoyo.

Backs
Daniel Hondo (captain), Hilton Mudariki, Guy Cronje, Stephan Hunduza, Riaan O’Neill, Tafadzwa Chitokwindo, Peter Du Toit, Lenience Tambwera, Shayne Makombe, Danny Robertson.

‘The Sables have not been able to get into camp prior to the Russian trip due to financial challenges but are expected to depart for Siberia on Saturday where they are scheduled to hold a five-day training camp.’
http://t2rugby.com/viewtopic.php?f=3&t=141&start=25

Hong Kong v Uruguay in Montevideo (WCQ Repechage 2)

Venue: Estadio Charrúa

Referee: Federico Anselmi (Argentina)

Preview
I expect this to be a much closer contest than the Russia-Zimbabwe match.
’Hong Kong is a solid squad. Having watched them for a few years now, they have improved immensely and if there is any A5N team outside of Japan that could beat Uruguay, it's Hong Kong. Unfortunately I think their biggest loss is not a player, but losing head coach Leigh Jones to become Japan's defence coach is something that will go a long way. Hong Kong play a pretty structured/patterned game that relies off of good set piece. They play a solid in to out drift defence with an occasional blitz. They're system is very similar to the Welsh spread/fan where they prefer to put numbers into the line instead of loading the breakdown. They one or two they put in though will be pests, able to slow and turn over ball.

While Uruguay may boast a better forward pack, Hong Kong will certainly threaten out wide, and are not afraid to let their 7s stars play with the ball. The key for Hong Kong is they can't have any lapses, they need to put in the full 80. As we saw against Japan, 3 tries in about 10 minutes at the end of the first half really took the wind out of their sails. I would say Uruguay is a favorite but I wouldn't be surprised if Hong Kong was able to keep it close right until the end. They're one scrappy bunch. Uruguay beat Kazakhstan something like 44-6 four years ago? I believe Hong Kong 2014 to be better than Kazakhstan 2010.’
Thanks to Martin Dunham at http://t2rugby.com/viewtopic.php?f=3&t=142

‘Peter McKee failed a fitness test so he was dropped, props Stephen Nolan and Alex Ng were unavailable so Bennett and Leung were selected. Scrumhalf Kenneth Hsieh was unavailable, enter Charles Cheung. Centre Lee Jones is still recovering from injury (didn't play in this year's A5N), aiming to return for the A7S. Baddeley had passed his fitness test before departing, securing his spot.’
Again, thanks to Martin Dunham  http://t2rugby.com/viewtopic.php?f=3&t=142

Last Five
Hong Kong
25.05.2014 v Japan L 8-49 in Tokyo (WCQ Asia; Asia 5 Nations)
10.05.2014 v Korea W 39-6 in Hong Kong (WCQ Asia; Asia 5 Nations)
03.05.2013 v Sri Lanka W 41-10 in Colombo (WCQ Asia; Asia 5 Nations)
26.04.2014 v Philippines W 108-0 in Hong Kong (WCQ Asia; Asia 5 Nations)

Uruguay
22.06.2014 v Russia W 13-6 in Bucharest (IRB Nations Cup)
18.06.2014 v Emerging Ireland L 3-51 in Bucharest (IRB Nations Cup)
13.06.2013 v Romania L 16-34 in Bucharest (IRB Nations Cup)
17.05.2014 v Argentina L 9-65 in Montevideo (CONSUR Cup)
10.05.2013 v Chile W 55-13 in Montevideo (CONSUR Cup)

GWC Rugby Rankings
World Table: Uruguay 17th, Hong Kong 23rd

IRB Ranking Points
Uruguay 61.86, Hong Kong 58.47

Prediction: Uruguay by 15 points

Teams

Hong Kong

1. Leon Wei Hon-sum; 2. Alex Harris; 3. James Cooper; 4. Paul Dwyer; 5. Jack Delaforce; 6. Nick Hewson (captain); 7. Matt Lamming; 8. Pale Tauti; 9. Jamie Hood; 10. Chris McAdam; 11. Salom Yiu Kam-shing; 12. Jake Phelps; 13. Lloyd Jones; 14. Rowan Varty; 15. Alex McQueen.
Replacements: 16. Tom Bolland; 17. Jack Bennett; 18. Phil Leung; 19. Bill Brant; 20. Alex Baddeley; 21. Charles Cheng; 22. Niall Rowark; 23. Tom McQueen.
http://t2rugby.com/viewtopic.php?f=3&t=142

Uruguay

1) Alejo Corral ,2) Nicolás Klappenbach(c), 3) Óscar Duran; 4) Matías Palomeque, 5) Franco Lamanna, 6) Juan Gaminara, 7) Diego Magno, 8) Alejandro Nieto; 9) Agustín Ormaechea, 10) Felipe Berchesi; 11) Jerónimo Etcheverry, 12) Alberto Román, 13) Joaquín Prada, 14) Santiago Gibernau; 15) Gastón Mieres.

El banco será con: 16) Arturo Ávalo, 17) Rodolfo De Mula, 18) Carlos Arboleya ,19) Cristofer Soarez de Lima, 20) Juan De Freitas, 21) Guillermo Lijtenstein, 22) Alejo Duran y 23) Santiago Vilaseca.

http://www.rugbynews.com.uy/banner/el-xv-de-los-teros-para-enfrentar-a-hong-kong/

ASIA FIVE NATIONS: World Cup Qualifying, Asia

25.04.2014
Japan v Hong Kong in Tokyo (Asia Five Nations)

Preview
This game decides who takes the Asia 1 qualifying place at the 2015 Rugby World Cup. The loser heads to the repechage round and still has a chance to qualify.

Japan remains undefeated this season in this competition and in fact has never lost a game at this level of Asian rugby and never without a bonus point win. Can Hong Kong burst the Japanese bubble?

In short, no. They could come close, they may event prevent a bonus try win to Japan but this is a hurdle to high for Hong Kong at present. Japan has a vastly superior international programme against tier 2 and tier 1 nations. Hong Kong hosted Belgium last November and before that played in the Emirates Cup where again they played Belgium, hardly a force in world rugby. Japan are in reality light years ahead of their Asian neighbours.

Prediction: Japan by 60 points

TEAMS

Hong Kong

15-Alexander McQueen (Hong Kong CC)
14-Rowan Varty (DeA)
13-Lloyd Jones 
12-Jacobs Phelps (Hong Kong FC)
11-Yiu Kam Shing (Valley FC)
10-Christopher McAdam 
9-Peter McKee 
8-Pale Tauti (Hong Kong CC)
7-Matthew Lamming (Hong Kong CC)
6- Nicholas Hewson, Capt.
5-Paul Dwyer (Hong Kong CC)
4-Jack Delaforce 
3-James Cooper 
2-Alexander Harris 
1-Wei Hon Sum 
Replacements
16-Alex NG Wai Shing 
17-Stephen Nolan 
18-Lachlan Chubb 
19-William Brant (Hong Kong CC)
20-Alexander Baddeley (Valley FC)
21-Hsieh Chun Hang (Hong Kong CC)
22-Thomas McColl (Hong Kong FC)
23-Thomas McQueen

Head Coach: Leigh Jones
Adapted from http://www.japonrugby.net/le-xv-hongkongais-face-au-japon-2014.php

Japan

15-Ayumu Goromaru (Yamaha Jubilo, 36 caps)
14-Yoshikazu Fujita (Waseda, 15 caps) 
13-Male Sau (Melbourne Rebels, Australia, 14 caps) 
12-Harumichi Tatekawa (ACT Brumbies, Australia, 21 caps) 
11-Akihito Yamada (Panasonic Wild Knights, 4 caps) 
10-Yu Tamura (NEC Green Rockets, 20 caps)
9-Atsushi Hiwasa (Suntory Sungoliath, 33 caps)
8-Ryu Koliniasi Holani (Panasonic Wild Knights, 30 caps) 
7-Michael Leitch, Capt. (Toshiba Brave Lupus, 32 caps) 
6-Justin Ives (Canon Eagles, 18 caps)
5-Luke Thompson (Kintetsu Liners, 43 caps) 
4-Hitoshi Ono (Toshiba Brave Lupus, 80 caps) 
3-Kensuke Hatakeyama (Suntory Sungoliath, 53 caps)
2-Shota Horie (Melbourne Rebels, Australia, 28 caps) 
1-Masataka Mikami (Toshiba Brave Lupus, 16 caps) 
Replacements
16-Hisateru Hirashima (Kobelco Steelers, 30 caps) 
17-Takeshi Kizu (Kobelco Steelers, 25 caps) 
18-Hiroshi Yamashita (Kobelco Steelers, 32 caps) 
19-Shoji Ito (Kobelco Steelers, 21 caps) 
20-Shinya Makabe (Suntory Sungoliath, 22 caps) 
21-Hendrik Tui (Suntory Sungoliath, 20 caps) 
22--Keisuke Uchida (Panasonic Wild Knights, 7 caps) 
23-Yasuki Hayashi (Panasonic Wild Knights, 2 caps)

Head Coach: Eddie Jones
Adapted from http://www.japonrugby.net/le-xv-japonais-face-a-hong-kong-2014.php

WORLD CUP QUALIFYING ASIA: Asia Five Nations

03.05.2014
Japan v Philippines in Makatai (WCQ Asia; Asia 5 Nations)
Sri Lanka v Hong Kong in Colombo (WCQ Asia; Asia 5 Nations)

Briefly
There should not be any surprises from round two of this competition. Japan is the outright favourite to both take the title and gain automatic progression to the 2015 Rugby World Cup Finals. The real tussle will be for second place with Korea and Hong Kong the contenders. For the other two teams it will be a matter of survival.

The Philippines were whipped 0-108 by Hong Kong last week. They had ,by Philippines standard, a very inexperienced side especially up front. This situation will continue today against Japan. Their top players are not expected to arrive and take up their positions until the later games. To keep Japan to under 100 points will be nothing short of a miracle. Japan’s main hurdles to overcome is the travel, the heat in Manilla and what looks like a below standard venue and ground. (Can’t find the picture of the ground I saw on one of the forums)

Hong Kong will have a slightly more difficult encounter when they travel to Colombo. They have introduced a few fringe players giving all their squad a run in the first two days. This will be in Sri Lanka’s favour. Sri Lanker will be a lot wiser having got that first game over with and will be tougher playing on their home turf.

Predictions
Japan by 95 v Philippines
Hong Kong by 30 v Sri Lanka

Teams

Japan

1-Masataka Mikami (Toshiba Brave Lupus, 15 caps) 2-Hiroki Yuhara (Toshiba Brave Lupus, 13 caps) 3-Kensuke Hatakeyama (Suntory Sungoliath, 50 caps) 4-Justin Ives (Canon Eagles, 16 caps) 5-Shoji Ito (Kobelco Steelers, 18 caps) 6-Hendrik Tui (Suntory Sungoliath, 18 caps) 7-(c) Michael Leitch (Toshiba Brave Lupus, 29 caps) 8-Hayden Hopgood (Kamaishi Sea Waves, 0 cap) 9-Atsushi Hiwasa (Suntory Sungoliath, 30 caps) 10-Yu Tamura (NEC Green Rockets, 17 caps) 11-Kotaro Matsushima (Suntory Sungoliath, 0 cap) 12-Ryoto Nakamura (Suntory Sungoliath, un cap) 13-Daishi Murata (Suntory Sungoliath, 0 cap) 14-Yoshikazu Fujita (Waseda, 12 caps) 15-Ayumu Goromaru (Yamaha Jubilo, 33 caps)

Remplaçants:

16-Yusuke Nagae (Toyota Shokki Shuttles, 15 caps) 17-Takeshi Kizu (Kobelco Steelers, 22 caps) 18-Hiroshi Yamashita (Kobelco Steelers, 29 caps) 19-Hitoshi Ono (Toshiba Brave Lupus, 77 caps) 20-Kyosuke Horie (Yamaha Jubilo, 0 cap) 21-Keisuke Uchida (Panasonic Wild Knights, 4 caps) 22-Yasuki Hayashi (Panasonic Wild Knights, 0 cap) 23-Toshiaki Hirose (Toshiba Brave Lupus, 18 caps)

Head Coach: Eddie Jones

http://www.japonrugby.net/le-xv-japonais-face-aux-philippines-2014.php

Philippines
1. Robinson-Polkey, David Paz
2. Dacanay, Austin Garnica (Vice Captain)
3. Sinclair, Philip
4. Feeney, David
5. Howorth, Stephen Pagtalunan
6. Anderson, Christopher
7. Bweheni, Timothy
8. Bennetts, Samuel Tuplias
9. Letts, Jake Robrigado
10. Saunders, Oliver Abalos (Captain)
11. Stern, Kenneth Capinpin
12. Coveney, Justin Villazor
13. Saunders, Matthew Abalos
14. Morris, Harry Dionson
15. Aronson, Alexander Norona
16. Power, Glenn Morados (FR)
17. Mitra, Fergus (FR)
18. Melrose, Daniel Apale (FR)
19. Heward, Ashley Matias
20. Seeto, Darran Centillas
21. Gomez, Cleo Ferrer
22. Atandi, Evans
23. Hamilton, John Nebrija

‘No. 7 Tim Bweheni makes his first cap for the Volcano 15s (Volcano #105). He's been a talent on the 7s squad and played matches against HK 'A'. I believe he used to be a wing so openside is an interesting position to see him, I've seen some wings move to the pack before with good results because these guys can cover a lot of ground. Unfortunately, for the forward pack, if you thought they had issues last week well they're gonna in even deeper waters Saturday.

Scrumhalf Jake Letts will extend his caps record to 21 caps (all consecutive) out of 22 Volcano tests. Prop/hooker Austin Dacanay right behind with his 20th cap tomorrow.
 
Flyhalf Oli Saunders was on trial with Saracens, don't know he's still in their sights or not. 11 Harry Morris makes first 15s appearance since 2010, has played tons of 7s for Volcanoes. He has either 7 or 8 caps, missing a team sheet from a game. Rest of backline is same. It is a very good backline, if they can get clean, quick ball. I know Eddie Jones is very respectful of their backline.

Evan Atandi (2011 U18 Volcanoes head coach) if he gets on would make his first cap, as would John Hamilton, become Volcano numbers 106 and 107.’

Thanks to Martin Dunham at http://www.fira-aer-rugby.com/forum2007/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=4221&start=450

Probable Sri Lanka squad to play with Hong Kong

Props: Shehan Dimithri (Navy) and Terence Henry (Havelock)
Hooker: Namal Rajapaksa (C)(Navy)
Locks: Sharo Fernando (Havelock) and Suhiru Anthony (Navy)
Third row: Danushka Perera (Navy), Yoshitha Rajapaksa (Navy) and Dushanth Lewke (CR & FC)
Scrum Half: Roshan Weeraratne (Kandy)
Fly half: Fazil Marija (Kandy)
Centres: Apisai Naqaliva and Joseph Dunn (Fiji)
Wingers: Sandun Herath (Havelock) and Nuwan Hettiarachchi (Navy)
Full back: Waqavulagi Emori (Fiji)
Reserves- Heshan Kalhara, Bilal Hassan, Sudharshan Muththanthri, Hasith Perera, Srinath Sooriyabandara, Chanaka Chandimal, Dinusha Chathuranga and Lee Keegel.
http://www.thepapare.com/index.php/rugb ... -hong-kong

Hong Kong Squad for Sri Lanka:

1. Leon WEI, Hon Sum, 2. Thomas BOLLAND, 3. James COOPER, 4. Jack DELAFORCE, 5. Paul DWYER, 6. Nicholas HEWSON (Captain), 7. Matt LAMMING, 8. Pale TAUTI, 9. Jamie HOOD, 10. Chris MCADAM, 11. Rowan VARTY, 12. Jake PHELPS, 13. Lloyd JONES, 14. Tom MCQUEEN, 15. Tom MCCOLL, 16. Alex NG, Wai Shing, 17. Steve NOLAN, 18. Alex HARRIS, 19. Bill BRANT, 20. Alex BADDELEY, 21. Peter MCKEE, 22. Alex MCQUEEN, 23. Nick WHEATLEY.

ASIA FIVE NATIONS

26.04.2014
Hong Kong 108, Philippines 0 in Hong Kong (WCQ Asia; Asia 5 Nations)
Korea 59, Sri Lanka 3 in Seoul (WCQ Asia; Asia 5 Nations)

Briefly
The above results confirm for me the outdated arrangement for Elite rugby in Asia. Teams like Hong Kong, Korea and Japan are way above the level of the other teams. It is time for a fresh arrangement.

I would envisage Korea and Hong Kong joining the Pacific Nations Cup with Japan. I would place Hong Kong ‘A’, Japan Development XV and Korea ‘A’ into a new Asia Nations Division 1

 

Whilst Japan had a bye they used the gap in the calendar to put on a less than convincing display, going down to a Asia Pacific Dragons XV 29-35 in Osaka in a Non-test international game.

ASIA FIVE NATIONS: WORLD CUP QUALIFYING

26.04.2014
Hong Kong v Philippines in Hong Kong (WCQ Asia; Asia 5 Nations)
Korea v Sri Lanka in Seoul (WCQ Asia; Asia 5 Nations)

Preview
Japan is at very short odds to take out this championship for the fifth year in a row and remain undefeated in that time. In doing so they should occupy the Asia 1 position at the 2015 Rugby World Cup.

Up for grabs is second place. Traditionally that should be fought out between Korea and Hong Kong. It has only been in the last two seasons that we have seen Korea climb back to being the No.2 side in Asia.

Korea faces newly promoted Sri Lanka at home in what should be a comfortable win for them. It will be interesting to see what standard the Sri Lankans bring to the field.

The Philippines survived their first year at the Elite level of Asian rugby. They have continued to improve and have brought in players from USA and Australia. I would expect Hong Hong to be too strong at home for the visitors.

Predictions
Hong Kong by 60 v Philippines
Korea by 30 v Sri Lanka

HONG KONG v BELGIUM 2nd test

21.12.2013
Hong Kong 18, Belgium 12 in Hong Kong (2nd test)

Briefly
Despite scoring two tries to none Belgium could not get passed the boot of Benjamin Rimene who kicked five penalty goals. Hong Kong applied pressure on the Belgian line late in the game after dominating much of the second half and were rewarded with a last minute dropped goal by Chris McAdam.

The two-nil test series result was significant for Hong Kong as Belgium were higher on the IRB Rankings. The results give Hong Kong a good platform in their preparations for the 2014 Asia Five Nations competition and the crucial World Cup qualifying series.

The first placed Asia nation will automatically qualify for the 2015 Rigby World Cup. The second placed team will qualify for the repechage series.

BELGIUM v HONG KONG 2nd test

21.12.2013
Belgium v Hong Kong in Hong Kong (2nd test)

Venue: Hong Kong Football Club

Referee: Akihisa Aso (Japan)

Preview
The pressure is on Belgium to perform after their loss in the first test to Hong Kong.

Anthem line ups from the first test.

Image thanks to http://www.hkrugby.com

Hong Kong preview here at http://www.hkrugby.com/eng/news/3669.php

Action from the first test. Image thanks to http://www.hkrugby.com

GWC Rugby Rankings
World Table: Hong Kong 23rd, Belgium 24th

IRB Ranking Points
Belgium 57.52, Hong Kong 54.56 (as at 16 December before 1st test)

Prediction: Belgium by 8 points

TEAMS

Hong Kong

15. Thomas McColl (Hong Kong Football Club)
14. Alexander McQueen (Hong Kong Cricket Club)
13. Jake Phelps (Hong Kong Football Club)
12. Lee Jones (Valley RFC)
11. Yiu Kam Shing, Salom (Valley RFC)
10. Benjamin Rimene  (Valley RFC)
9. Andrew McCulla (Hong Kong Cricket Club)
8. Pale Tauti (Hong Kong Cricket Club)
7. Matthew Lamming (Hong Kong Cricket Club)
6. Nicholas Hewson (Valley RFC), Capt.
5. Paul Dwyer (Hong Kong Cricket Club)
4. Charles French (Hong Kong Football Club)
3. Stephen Nolan (Hong Kong Football Club)
2. Alexander Harris (Kowloon RFC)
1. Jack Bennett (Valley RFC)
Replacements
16. Thomas Bolland (Hong Kong Football Club)
17. Leon Wei (Kowloon RFC)
18. James Cooper (Hong Kong Cricket Club)
19. William Brant (Hong Kong Cricket Club)
20. James Hood (Hong Kong Football Club)
21. Christopher McAdam (Kowloon RFC)
22. Rowan Varty (Borrelli Walsh Tigers RFC)
23. Andrew Bridle (Valley RFC)
Head Coach: Lee Jones

Adapted from http://www.hkrugby.com/eng/news/3669.php

Belgium Squad

1 Julien BERGER Stade Rochelais (FR)
2 Bertrand BILLI RC Soignies
3 Guillaume BREBANT Boitsfort RC
4 Hendrik BROUWERS Metro-Racing 92 (FR)
5 Christopher BROWN Fréjus - Saint-Raphaël (FR)
6 Michaël DE MOLDER Boitsfort RC
7 Thomas DE MOLDER Section Paloise (FR)
8 Sébastien GUNS Boitsfort RC
9 Dirk HAGHEDOOREN RO Agde (FR)
10 Pierre HENDRICKX Boitsfort RC
11 Maxime JADOT Section Paloise (FR)
12 André KOUEMOU La Hulpe RC
13 Simon MAROTE ASUB Waterloo
14 Julien MASSIMI RC Auxerre (FR)
15 David MERENDA US Marmande (FR)
16 Alain MIRIALLAKIS Waratahs RUFC (AU)
17 Julien MORELLI Bastia XV (FR)
18 Cyrille NANA NJILEM RSC Anderlecht
19 Andrew NEILL Tournefeuille Rugby XV (FR)
20 Guillaume PIRON US Colomiers (FR)
21 Frédéric RONGE Kituro RFC
22 Nicolas MEEUS Kituro RFC
23 Jens TORFS USA Perpignan (FR)
24 Bastian VERMEYLEN Boitsfort RC
25 Matthieu VERSCHELDEN ROC La Voulte-Valence (FR)
26 Norman WENDE RC Massy Essonne (FR)

http://www.rugby.be/