ASIA RUGBY CHAMPIONSHIP: Division 1, Final Day

09.05.2015

Philippines v Sri Lanka in Manila (ARC Division 1, Final)

Referee:

Preview
Sri Lanka and the Philippines were the two teams that were demoted to Division 1 following the revamping of the Asia Rugby Championship. So it is no real surprise that they square off to find the winner of Division 1. My understanding is that the winner has the right to challenge, or not, the last placed team in the ARC Top 3. As from 2016, as I understand it, that challenge will be compulsory.

When these two teams met last year Philippines won by one point, a controversial second conversion attempt of a last minute try.

Historically Philippines has the better record and with the home advantage I expect them to win.

Previous Encounters
17.05.2014 Philippines 26-25 in Colombo (WCQ Asia; Asia 5 Nations)
21.04.2012 Philippines 28-18 in Manila (WCQ Asia; Asia Nations Div.1)

GWC Rugby Rankings
Asia Table: Philippines 4th, Sri Lanka 7th

World Rugby Ranking Points
Sri Lanka 46.95, Philippines 45.57

Prediction: Philippines by 13 points. Score 33-20

TEAMS

Philippines Team list not available

Sri Lanka Squad

Randika Alwis (Army Sports Club)
Suhiru Anthony (Navy Sports Club)
Dinusha Chathuranga (Navy Sports Club)
Kavindu de Costa (Havelock Sports Club)
Shehan Dimithri (Kandy Sports Club)
Ganuka Disanayaka (Havelock Sports Club)
Sharo Fernando (Navy Sports Club)
Sandun Herath (Havelock Sports Club)
Kishore Jahan (Kandy Sports Club)
Shahsika Jayawardane
Fazil Marija, Capt. (Kandy Sports Club)
Jason Melder (Havelock Sports Club)
Riza Mubarak (Navy Sports Club)
Achala Perera (Navy Sports Club)
Dulaj Perera (Havelock Sports Club)
Lavanga Perera (Kandy Sports Club)
Dushmantha Priyadarshana (Havelock Sports Club)
Kanchana Ramanayaka (Colombo Rugby & Cricket Club)
Danushka Ranjan (Havelock Sports Club)
Nigel Ratwatte (Kandy Sports Club)
Henry Terence (Navy Sports Club)
Buwanaka Udangamuwa (Kandy Sports Club)
Roshan Weeraratne (Kandy Sports Club)
Dulanjala Wijesinghe (Army Sports Club)
Sean Wijesinghe

Kazakhstan v Singapore (Playoff 3rd-4th)

Referee:

Preview
The stakes are high as the losing team will be relegated to ARC Division 2. It will be a case of the strength of the Kazakh forward pack verses the fleet footed Singapore backs. It’ll be close.

Previous Encounters
09.05.2009 Kazakhstan 22-19 in Singapore (Asia 5 Nations)
08.06.2006 Kazakhstan 29-0 in Singapore (Asia Tournament, Tier 3)
22.11.2002 Singapore 30-14 in Bangkok (Asia Champ., Div.2, Playoff 3rd-4th)

GWC Rugby Rankings
Asia Table: Singapore 5th, Kazakhstan 8th

World Rugby Ranking Points
Kazakhstan 48.91, Singapore 44.54

Prediction: Singapore by 4 points. Score 26-22

TEAMS

Singapore Squad

1 Alvin, Ho Yao Wei (Wanderers RFC) 2 tests
2 Robertson, James (Singapore Cricket Club) 4
3 Leong Rong Xian, Reiner (Oldham RFC) 4
4 Muhammad Hasif Bin Azman (Wanderers RFC) 5
5 Tan Soon Heng, Gaspar (Bedok Kings RFC) 20
6 Lee Chang You (Oldham RFC) Debut
7 Lee Yew Loong, Gabriel (Singapore Cricket Club) 12
8 Julian Albert (XV Gaulois) 4
9 Roberts, Matthew (Wanderers RFC) 5
10 Nick Rose (Wanderers RFC) Debut
11 Mohamed Ashraf Nasser (Saint Andrews RFC) 7
12 Alexander Richard (Bucks RFC) Debut
13 Etheredge, Simon (Singapore Cricket Club) 3
14 Mc Feely, Peter (Singapore Cricket Club) 9
15 Mohammad Suhaimi Bin Amran (Singapore Cricket Club) 11
16 Kay Teck Yuan, Jonathan (Singapore Cricket Club) 1
17 Marah Muhammad Fahmy (Oldham RFC) 2
18 Mohammad Saifuludin Khalid (Wanderers RFC) 1
19 Edward Carne (Dorking RFC, England) 1
20 Graham Stewart (Wanderers RFC) Debut
21 Thomas Child (Wanderers RFC) Debut
22 Groen, Nicholas (Bedok Kings RFC) 10
23 Samuel, Lau Biyong (Bedok Kings) 3
24 Tiah Nan Hong (Wanderers RFC) Debut
25 Mickael Benkimoun (XV Gaulois) Debut
Adapted from http://www.singaporerugby.com/2015/05/s ... u2015.html

Kazakhstan squad not available

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Kazakhstan v Singapore in Manila (ARC Div.1, Playoff 3^rd-4^th)

ASIA RUGBY CHAMPIONSHIP: Division 1, Day 1 Results

06.05.2015
Sri Lanka 35, Kazakhstan 14 in Manilla (ARC Div.1, Semi-final 1)
Philippines 20, Singapore17 in Manilla (ARC Div.1, Semi-final 2)-After extra time

Review. Copied directly.

The Philippines and Sri Lanka booked their spots in the Asia Rugby Championship Division I final after opening wins over Singapore and Kazakhstan respectively today at the new Philippine Sports Stadium outside of Manila.


The Philippines and Sri Lanka booked their spots in the Asia Rugby Championship Division I final after opening wins over Singapore and Kazakhstan respectively today at the new Philippine Sports Stadium outside of Manila.

Sri Lanka were made to work hard for their 35-14 win over Kazakhstan, despite having a man advantage for most of the match after Kazakhstan hooker Rustam Kurbanov was shown a red card for stamping after 20 minutes.

Sri Lanka had opened the scoring with two quick tries. Wing Lavanga Perera scored in the 7th minute followed by centre Danushka Ranjan two minutes later. Fullback Riza Mubarak converted the first to push the second seeds to a 12-0 lead after ten minutes.

Kazakhstan rallied for a massive effort despite being reduced to 14 men – and later 13 – when flanker Daulet Akymbekov was sin-binned moments after Kurbanov was ejected.

Sri Lanka could only manage one more try in the first half with Ranjan crossing over to complete an early brace. Mubarak added the conversion to bring the score at the break to 22-7 after Kazakhstan captain Serik Zhanseitov pulled his side back from the brink with a try from in close in the 30th minute. Fullback Ivan Olkhovskiy added the extras for his side.

Kazakhstan struck first in the second half with prop Ruslan Galiyev again scoring off of set piece play where the bulky Kazakh forwards gave them a natural advantage over the fleet Sri Lankans. Olkhovskiy’s conversion closed the deficit further to 22-14.

But the experienced Sri Lankans maintained their composure better in the second half, making Kazakhstan pay for any indiscipline. Sri Lanka slotted two penalties late in the half through Kanchana Ramanayaka and Dulaj Perera to push ahead to 28-14. Perera crossed over for a final try in the last minute. Ramanayaka’s conversion brought the final score to 35-14 and sent Sri Lanka on to the final.

Sri Lanka coach Johan Taylor commented on the result saying, “It wasn’t perfect but the main goal was to win and we achieved that, so we will look at the positives and erase the negatives from this afternoon.

“I thought our handling was pretty good and we did reasonably well in our scrums and lineouts against a bigger Kazakhstan pack. We did well in those three areas and I’m fairly happy with our performance,” Taylor added.

The second semi final was a thrilling encounter with fourth seeds Singapore pushing the hosts and top seed Philippines through two ten-minute periods of sudden death extra time before the result was finally confirmed.

Singapore enjoyed the early run of play, posting a 10-0 lead at halftime after tries from flanker Alexander Cook and winger Tom Child. The hosts meanwhile left several scoring opportunities begging as their handling deserted them for large stretches in the first stanza.

The Volcanoes first try didn’t come until early in the second half when flanker Terry Carroll capitalized on a man advantage after Singapore centre Graham Harkness was sent to the sin bin. Captain Oliver Saunders added the conversion to close the gap to 7-10.

But the Volcanoes then conceded their brief advantage as no 8 Ashley Heward was binned for failing to wrap in the tackle. Harkness returned from his spell in the bin to help spark Singapore’s first try of the second half, figuring in a nice flowing move that eventually put prop James Robertson over for the try. Scrumhalf Suhaimi Amran added the extras to push Singapore out to 17-7 with 20 minutes remaining.

The game came into its own in the last quarter with both sides pushing desperately for the win. Reserve wing Alex Aronson entered the match in the 60th minute for the home side and would prove to be the difference maker.

Aronson coolly slotted his first penalty in the 32nd minute to close the gap to 17-10 and was again on the spot in the 40th minute to cap some good work in close by the Volcanoes with a nice jinking run that brought the hosts to within two points of Singapore. Aronson converted his own try to level the scores as regulation time expired, sending the game into extra time.

Singapore attacked furiously in the first ten minutes of extra time but the Philippines defence held fast, leaving the score still drawn through 90 minutes and pushing the match into a second ten-minute golden point period.

Inspired by a large and vocal audience, the Volcanoes finally found some space against a brave Singapore defence with a series of sustained attacks that forced Singapore to concede a penalty. Aronson converted the penalty from just outside the Singapore 22 metre line to give his side a memorable win and send them through to the final against Sri Lanka on Saturday (18.00 Philippines time).

Although Singapore staked its claim today and were in contention to the last the final will be a fitting affair as the Philippines and Sri Lanka were both part of the former Asian Five Nations Top Five format last year.

In 2014, the Volcanoes pipped Sri Lanka 27-26 – benefiting from successfully being able to re-take a conversion of another last-gasp try after Sri Lanka had prematurely charged a failed first attempt to eke out an away win in Colombo and finish fourth behind Japan, Hong Kong and South Korea.

In 2015 both Sri Lanka and the Philippines were relegated due to the revamped format where the premier Division is now reserved for the top three sides - Japan, Hong Kong and South Korea, playing on a home-and-away format.

Fittingly the two sides will again face off to see who can claim boasting rights as the top Asian team outside of the premier competition.

http://www.arfu.com/news/2015/05/top-5- ... division-i

Saturday’s Fixtures
Sri Lanka v Philippines (Final)
Kazakhstan v Singapore (Playoff 3rd-4th)

ASIA RUGBY CHAMPIONSHIP: Division 1

6 –9 May

Image thanks to https://www.facebook.com/PhilippineRugby

Philippine Sports Stadium.
Image thanks to https://www.facebook.com/PhilippineRugby

The Asia Rugby Championship Division 1 is being played in Manila.It has come as a surprise that this is the only ARC tournament that is not round robin.

Sri Lanka and the hosts The Philippines are the favoured teams. Singapore are always strong. Kazakhstan were strong a few years back but their standard has slipped.

Day two on Saturday will see the winners playoff for the Division 1 title whilst the two losing teams will fight it out to avoid relegation.

Games Day One
Sri Lanka v Kazakhstan

Referee:

Last Five Encounters
06.04.2013 Sri Lanka 49-18 in Colombo (WCQ Asia; Asia Nations Div.1)
15.05.2011 Kazakhstan 34-18 in Almaty (Asia 5 Nations)
10.11.2007 Kazakhstan 24-17 in Colombo (Asiad Cup)
08.05.2007 Kazakhstan 71-6 in Almaty (Asia Nations Div.2)
12.11.2005 Sri Lanka 24-12 in Almaty (WCQ Asia D3 playoff, 2nd leg)

The rivalry between these two nations goes back to 2002.

GWC Rugby Rankings
Asia Table: Sri Lanka 7th, Kazakhstan 8th

World Rugby Ranking Points
Kazakhstan 48.91, Sri Lanka 46.95

Prediction: Sri Lanka by 15 points. Score 41-26

TEAMS

The Sri Lanka 15s squad:
Randika Alwis (Army Sports Club)
Suhiru Anthony (Navy Sports Club)
Dinusha Chathuranga (Navy Sports Club)
Kavindu de Costa (Havelock Sports Club)
Shehan Dimithri (Kandy Sports Club)
Ganuka Disanayaka (Havelock Sports Club)
Sharo Fernando (Navy Sports Club)
Sandun Herath (Havelock Sports Club)
Kishore Jahan (Kandy Sports Club)
Shahsika Jayawardane
Fazil Marija, Capt. (Kandy Sports Club)
Jason Melder (Havelock Sports Club)
Riza Mubarak (Navy Sports Club)
Achala Perera (Navy Sports Club)
Dulaj Perera (Havelock Sports Club)
Lavanga Perera (Kandy Sports Club)
Dushmantha Priyadarshana (Havelock Sports Club)
Kanchana Ramanayaka (Colombo Rugby & Cricket Club)
Danushka Ranjan (Havelock Sports Club)
Nigel Ratwatte (Kandy Sports Club)
Henry Terence (Navy Sports Club)
Buwanaka Udangamuwa (Kandy Sports Club)
Roshan Weeraratne (Kandy Sports Club)
Dulanjala Wijesinghe (Army Sports Club)
Sean Wijesinghe
Stand by
Ashoka Jayalal (Army Sports Club)
Hirantha Perera
Rohan Theagarajah (Havelock Sports Club)
Reserves
Rahul de Silva (Colombo Rugby & Cricket Club)
Anuradha Herath (Colombo Rugby & Cricket Club)
Ganidu Lakshan

Kazakhstan Squad not available

Philippines v Singapore

Referee:

Preview
Singapore spent a week in Perth preparing for this game. They played Western Force ‘A’.

Previous Encounter
15.04.2012 Philippines 37-20 in Manilla (WCQ Asia; Asia Nations Div.1)

GWC Rugby Rankings
Asia Table: Philippines 4th, Singapore 5th

World Rugby Ranking Points
Philippines 45.57, Singapore 44.54

Prediction: Philippines by 12 points. Score 30-18

TEAMS

Philippines

15. Gareth Holegate (Alabang Eagles) 27, 3
14. Jeff Gregson (Broadstreet RFC, England) 26, 3
13. Timothy Bweheni (Alabang Eagles) 28, 2
12. Justin Coveney (West Red Sparks, Japan) 29, 16
11. Harry Morris (Alabang Eagles) 30, 10
10. Oliver Saunders, (Capt.) (Easts RFC, Sydney, NSW) 28, 15
9. Jake Letts (Alabang Eagles) 27, 23
8. Steven Howorth (Cornish All Blacks RFC, England) 24, 10
7. Benjamin Mudie (Alabang Eagles ) 24, Debut
6. Terry Carroll (Northern Outlaws, Noosa, Queensland) 23, 6
5. Ashley Heward (Burgess Hill RFC, England) 21, 4
4. David Feeney (Manila Nomads) 30, 7
3. Matthew Bellenie (Brighton RFC, England) 25, 7
2. Michael Duhig (Brothers OBRC, Queensland) 29, 17
1. Austin Dacanay (Tampa Krewe RFC, Florida, USA) 38, 22

Replacements
16. Masayuki Sekiguchi (Alabang Eagles) 33, 1
17. Philip Abraham (Abu Dhabi Harlequins RFC, UAE) 31, 10
18. David Robinson-Polkey (Maungarua RFC, New Zealand) 26, 7
19. Fred Morris (Pavours RFC, England) 28, 6
20. Christopher Anderson (Manila Nomads) 31, 4
21. Cleo Gomez (Gordon RFC, NSW) 26, 7
22. Daniel Matthews (Eastwood RFC, Sydney, NSW) 22, Debut
23. Alexander Aronson (CBRE Mavericks) 24, 8

Head Coach: Stu Woodhouse

Information thanks to Jake Letts, Philippines RFU
Team list from https://www.facebook.com/PhilippineRugby

Singapore Squad

1 Alvin, Ho Yao Wei (Wanderers RFC) 2 tests
2 Robertson, James (Singapore Cricket Club) 4
3 Leong Rong Xian, Reiner (Oldham RFC) 4
4 Muhammad Hasif Bin Azman (Wanderers RFC) 5
5 Tan Soon Heng, Gaspar (Bedok Kings RFC) 20
6 Lee Chang You (Oldham RFC) Debut
7 Lee Yew Loong, Gabriel (Singapore Cricket Club) 12
8 Julian Albert (XV Gaulois) 4
9 Roberts, Matthew (Wanderers RFC) 5
10 Nick Rose (Wanderers RFC) Debut
11 Mohamed Ashraf Nasser (Saint Andrews RFC) 7
12 Alexander Richard (Bucks RFC) Debut
13 Etheredge, Simon (Singapore Cricket Club) 3
14 Mc Feely, Peter (Singapore Cricket Club) 9
15 Mohammad Suhaimi Bin Amran (Singapore Cricket Club) 11
16 Kay Teck Yuan, Jonathan (Singapore Cricket Club) 1
17 Marah Muhammad Fahmy (Oldham RFC) 2
18 Mohammad Saifuludin Khalid (Wanderers RFC) 1
19 Edward Carne (Dorking RFC, England) 1
20 Graham Stewart (Wanderers RFC) Debut
21 Thomas Child (Wanderers RFC) Debut
22 Groen, Nicholas (Bedok Kings RFC) 10
23 Samuel, Lau Biyong (Bedok Kings) 3
24 Tiah Nan Hong (Wanderers RFC) Debut
25 Mickael Benkimoun (XV Gaulois) Debut

Management

Head Coach - Afeaki Inoke Unaanga
Assistant Coach - Forrester, James
Assistant Backs Coach - Mee, Casey Jonathan
Manager – Yazid Rosli
Head Physio - Walter, Joan Margaret
Physio – Sam Brennan

Adapted from http://www.singaporerugby.com/2015/05/s ... u2015.html

TEST RUGBY THIS SATURDAY

24.05.2014
Korea v Philippines in Makati (Asia Five Nations)
Chile v Argentina in Santiago (CONSUR Cup)
Germany v Russia in Hamburg (WCQ Europe R5 Playoff)
Trinidad & Tobago v Barbados in Port of Spain (Caribb. Champ., South League)
Swaziland v Lesotho in Maruso (Friendly)

Briefly
There will be an interesting battle between Korea and Philippines. Whilst the Philippines defeated Sri Lanka away by one point last weekend, and as a result they would have grounds for some optimism, it would be a brave soul to not predict a Korean win.

At steak is a place in the 2015 Asian Elite rugby competition which will feature and home-away series involving Asia three top teams. At the moment Japan is No.1 followed by Hong Kong. Korea is favoured to be the third nation. The game be a close encounter in stages but I just can’t see the Philippines overpowering the Koreans.

Prediction: Korea by 20 points.

Argentina should not experiences any scary moments in their game against Chile. The Chileans have not performed well in 2014 and although playing away from home the Jaguars (well in effect Argentina ‘A’) should have no problems.

Prediction: Argentina by 35 points

The Germany-Russia clash is covered elsewhere on this blog.

Barbados lost 19-48 to Guyana at home last weekend and now have to travel to Trindad for a showdown with the local side. Last year they lost this game at home 6-19 so it will be an uphill struggle for the Barbadians.

Prediction: Trinidad and Tobago by 26 points.

Will it be played? After a number of postponnements, the match awaited Lesotho-Swaziland return game should be played today in Maruso. I’d expect the home side to win a good struggle.

Prediction: Swaziland by 10 points.

WORLD CUP QUALIFYING, ASIA: ASIA FIVE NATIONS

17.05.2014
Japan v Korea in Incheon (Asia Five Nations)
Sri Lanka v Philippines in Colombo (Asia Five Nations)

Preview
Sadly there is not a lot at stake in the above two nations. Next year’s Asia Elite will only consist of Japan, Hong Kong and Korea. Sri Lanka and the Philippines will be in the First Division along with the top Division 1 teams from this year.

Predictions
I can’t see Korea getting anywhere near Japan after their 30-point loss to Hong Kong last weekend. Hong Kong are probably a 20-30 point scoreline below Japan on a good day so I’m predicting an easy win to Japan.
Japan by 30 points.

Sri Lanka and The Philippines will be a lot closer. Sri Lanka gets the nod as they are playing at home. Sri Lanka by 20 points

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

ASIA 5 NATIONS RESULTS: Saturday 18 May

18.05.2013
Korea 43, Hong Kong 22 in Seoul (WCQ Asia; Asia 5 Nations)
Philippines 24, United Arab Emirates 8 in Manilla (WCQ Asia; Asia 5 Nations)

Briefly
Korea established itself as No.2 nation in Asia moving up from 3rd last year. In Manilla the Philippines pushed the UAE down to Asia Nations Division 1 for 2014. They will remain in Asia 5 Nations for another season and a chance to qualify for the repechage section of the 2015 Rugby World Cup qualifying stages.

PHILIPPINES and UAE BATTLE FOR ASIA 5 NATIONS SPOT

18.05.2013
United Arab Emirates v Philippines in Manilla (WCQ Asia; Asia 5 Nations)

Venue: Rizal Memorial Stadium

Referee: Taku Otsuki (Japan)

Preview (Adapted from media esa press release)
The loser of the game between UAE and the Philippines in Manila will miss out on the chance to qualify for the 2015 Rugby World Cup finals.The loser being relegated to Division One. Sri Lanka, winners of Division One this season, will be promoted to the elite division.

Philippines coach Jarred Hodges was enthusiastic about his team’s chances and the Volcanoes’ debut season in the Top 5, saying, “It's been fantastic. We have learnt a lot about ourselves and identified areas we need to work on if we are to be a major player in the next two to three years.

“We have improved week on week but it is now time to string two 40-minute halves together. We know that if we can compete for 80 minutes we're going to win more games than we lose. The set piece remains an area that we need to work on and the guys are working hard to improve their skill sets.”

Hodges knows that the UAE forwards are strong and will be intent on exploiting any perceived weakness in their opposition up front. 

“The UAE team is very experienced and has been in the top flight for a number of years. They have played the relegation match before and have always got the result, so that’s going to help them. They’re big and physical, so we’re going to need to be up for the contest.

“But I’m confident that this week at home, people are going to see a different side. We have made a few personnel changes that will strengthen us; guys who have been injured and are now fit to give it a go. I think we will surprise people.

UAE coach Duncan Hall was equally sanguine about his side’s prospects:  “We have made good progress on the field, but unfortunately it doesn't reflect in the scorelines. The competition gets harder every year and you need to lift your own standards to keep up. But it is always an honour to be in the top division and we very much enjoy punching above our weight and I am sure the Philippines do as well.”

Both UAE and the Philippines are winless and all it needs is a simple victory this weekend to keep hold of their places at the top table - ensuring that the teams will be putting everything they have out on the pitch on Saturday night.

Philippines Volcanoes no 8 Michael de Guzman carries the ball v South Korea. De Guzman has been recalled to the injury-hit Philippines side.

Philippines coach Hodges said: “The relegation match is obviously important in terms of what happens next year. But is it the be-all and end-all? No it's not. Philippine rugby has got a stronghold and is growing all the time in the country. We’ll continue beyond next year whatever the result may be. But we would like to make sure that we continue in the top flight - that is for sure.

UAE coach Hall said, “I have been asked recently, would we be better playing in the division below and have more even matches? On the one hand, the answer is yes. It is very difficult to ask players to go into a competition where you are possibly going to lose three games and you have a chance of winning one. But that is the way it is and we look forward every year to that challenge.

“We all want to play in the top division and our aim is to stay there. But it is very difficult as we are working off a small pool of qualified players.”

“But being up in the Top 5 - and staying there, gives us credibility as a union and encourages players who qualify to give up their time and be a part of a great concept and a great competition,” Hall added.

Other previews
http://www.prfu.com/1/post/2013/05/volcanoes-fight-to-stay-in-top-5-of-asia.html

Philippines Volcanoes flyhalf Alex Aronson.

Prediction: Philippines by 10 points

TEAMS

Philippines
1. Abraham, Philip Benares

2. Hagan, Graeme Santillan

3. Bellenie, Matthew Orag

4. Feeney, David

5. Howorth, Stephen Pagtalunan

6. Carroll, Terrence Javier

7. Hitch, Christopher Baltazar

8. Ward, Jake Pingal

9. Letts, Jake Robrigado

10. Aronson, Alexander Noroña

11. Holgate, Gareth dela Rosa

12. Saunders, Benjamin Abalos

13. Olivier, Patrice Ortiz

14. Matthews, Joseph Bembo

15. Letts, Michael Robrigado (c)

 

16. Dacanay, Austin Garnica

17. Duhig, Michael Estrada

18. Robinson-Polkey, David

19. Perry, Nicholas Ergina

20. De Guzman, Michael

21. Gomez, Cleo Ferrer

22. Coveney, Justin Villazor

23. Saunders, Matthew Abalos

Comment
’Surprised to see both Coveney and Matt Saunders on the bench. Also curious about the status of James Price at scrumhalf. Jake Letts is no slouch, and has only missed one test match in the history of Philippines test rugby but Price has proven himself quite a talent the past couple of seasons. No film from the Korea game so no word on whether he was injured or just didn't play well.’

martin.dunham10

 

http://www.fira-aer-rugby.com/forum2007/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=4221&sid=84982fdb371fe0e1897de788d5b79d06&start=210

United Arab Emirates

15 Steve Smith, 14 Jono Bester, 13 Harry Woods, 12 Chris Burch 11 Malcolm Greenslade, 10 James Ham, 9 Gareth Armstrong, 1 Graham Murphy, 2 Jonathan Greenwood, 3 Dan Boatwright, 4 Anthony Murphy, 5 Ed Talbot, 6 Renier Els, 7 David Knight, 8 Jamie Clarke

Replacements 16 Ollie Delapp, 17 Chris Jones Griffiths, 18 Brett Bowie, 19 David Matasio, 20 Mark Weissenborn, 21 Sean Hurley, 22 Cyrus Homayoun, 23 Antoine Berthuile

http://www.thenational.ae/sport/uae-sport/uae-rugby-vice-captain-brett-williams-to-miss-asian-five-nations-decider-in-philippines

Other Previews
http://www.thenational.ae/sport/uae-sport/uae-rugby-vice-captain-brett-williams-to-miss-asian-five-nations-decider-in-philippines

KOREA 62, PHILIPPINES 19

‘2' KOR 7 Kim Jeong Min try, converted by KOR 10 Oh Youn Hyung, 7-0 Korea
11' KOR 11 Kim Gwong Min try, conversion unsuccessful, 12-0 Korea
??' PHI 5 David Feeney try, conversion missed, 12-5 Korea
23' KOR 3 Heo Woong try, converted by Oh Youn Hyung, 19-5 Korea
25' KOR 9 Yang Young Hun, conversion good (probably by Oh), 26-5 Korea
30' KOR 14 Lee Jung Min, Korea 31-5 Korea
34' Kim Gwong Min second try, add the conversion, 38-5 Korea
40' KOR penalty, 41-5 Korea
HALFTIME: KOREA 41 (6T, 4C, 1P) - 5 (1T) PHILIPPINES
44' Lee Jung Min second try, converted by Oh, 48-5 Korea
55' Try and conversion by Oh, 55-5 Korea
65' PHI 3 Mat Bellenie try, converted by PHI 10 Alex Aronson, Korea 55-12
72' KOR 19 Han Kun Kyu try, conversion by KOR 21 Oh Ji Myeong, 62-12 Korea
75' PHI 13 Patrice Olivier try, Aronson converts, 62-19 Korea
FULL TIME: KOREA 62 (9T, 7C, 1P) - 19 (3T, 2C) PHILIPPINES
Hong Kong-Korea for 2nd place next week, and UAE at Philippines for 4th place.’

Thanks to Martin Dunham at http://www.fira-aer-rugby.com/forum2007/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=4221&start=195

PHILIPPINES v KOREA: World Cup Qualifying Asia; Asia 5 Nations

11.05.2013

Venue: Ansan Wa Stadium, Ansan

Referee: Taku Otsuki (Japan)

Preview
I am picking that the Philippines-UAE clash on the 18th May in Manilla will decide who stays and who goes in Asia 5 Nations for 2014 and that the Hong Kong-Korea on the same day will decide who the runner up in this competition will be.

Japan has already taken top spot in the 2013 Asia 5 Nations and now qualifies for the 2015 Rugby World Cup finals to be played in England. The runner up in this competition qualifies for the repechage playoffs.

At this stage bonus points are going to be vital if results are close. For today’s game Korea are certain winners but must gather a bonus point going into their vital clash against Hong Kong next weekend.

Philippines must score 4 tries today. That has to be their aim. If possible they must get to within 7 points of Korea. That would earn an extra bonus point. That is more unlikely than scoring four tries but these must be their aims.

Prediction: Korea by 50 points

TEAMS

Korea

1. Kwang Sik KIM 2. Min Kyu KIM 3. Woong HEO 4. Soon Chai PARK (Capt) 5. Kwon Woo YOUN 6. Young Nam YOU 7. Jeong Min KIM 8. In Jo HWANG 9. Young Hun YANG 10. Youn Hyung OH 11. Gwong Min KIM 12. Nam Uk KIM 13. Bin REGAL 14. Jung Min LEE 15. Sung Min JANG 16. Sung Ku PARK 17. Jin Hyun CHO 18. Myeong Hwan KIM 19. Kun Kyu HAN 20. Byoung Joon LEE 21. Ji Myeong OH 22. Jae Beom IM 23. Dae Yeong YANG

Philippines

1. Austin DACANAY 2. Graeme HAGAN 3. Matthew BELLENIE 4. David FEENEY 5. Nicholas PERRY 6. Terrence CARROLL 7. Darran SEETO 8. Christopher HITCH 9. James PRICE 10. Alexander ARONSON 11. Gareth HOLGATE 12. Justin COVENEY 13. Patrice OLIVIER 14. Joseph MATTHEWS 15. Michael LETTS (Capt) 16. David ROBINSON-POLKEY 17. Michael DUHIG 19. Daniel RODRIGUEZ 20. Michael DE GUZMAN 21. Jake LETTS 22. Ben SAUNDERS 23. Jefferey GREGSON 24. Paul INGRAM

http://www.asian5nations.com/node/806

Hong Kong blow past Philippines Volcanoes in Week 3 of HSBC A5N Top 5

[Manila, Philippines, May 4 2013]: Hong Kong stayed on target to finishing second in the HSBC Asian Five Nations (HSBC A5N) Top Five competition after they comfortably defeated the Philippines 59-20 in Manila on Saturday.

A seven-try blitz in the second half paved the way for Hong Kong whose dominant pack laid the foundation for the victory, which ensured they would remain in the Top Five competition for next year’s Rugby World Cup qualifiers.

“The scoreline flattered us in the end,” said Hong Kong head coach Leigh Jones. “I don’t think they deserved to shift 50 points. But I’m proud of my guys. They adapted to the conditions and came out in the second half fighting. They came of age today.”

A brace of tries from winger Jonny Rees sparked Hong Kong into action in the second half. Rees was on hand to complete fine work from centres David Whiteford and Ally Maclay as Hong Kong silenced the crowd at Rizal Stadium taking control of the match for the first time.

Hong Kong wing Jonny Rees relishes the moment as he crosses over for a try v the Philippines.

Number eight 8 Pale Tauti touched down soon after before Whiteford, who had a fine game, scored himself as Hong Kong strengthened its stranglehold on the match.

Hong Kong No 8 Pale Tauti crossing over for a try in HKG's 59-20 over Top 5 debutants Philippines.

Seb Alfonsi, skipper Tom McColl and substitute winger Dennis Chang also touched down as the Philippines, down to 14 men, was blown aside. Mike Glancy knocked over five conversions before Niall Rowark took over the duties added two more.

Hong Kong had struggled to a 14-10 lead at the break being unable to break down a spirited defence from the home team cheered on by a vociferous crowd.

A dominant pack helped Hong Kong take the slender lead into the second-half with Japanese referee awarding the visitors two penalty tries as the Volcanoes collapsed scrums with their tryline under threat.

The second try came about after Philippines winger Joseph Matthews thought he had scored a breakaway try, only to see his effort overruled by the referee for an earlier offside penalty.

The turnaround was huge. From potentially stretching their lead to 10 points, the Philippines suddenly found themselves trailing by four points at the break.

Winger Patrice Olivier, a last-minute replacement for the injured Matt Saunders, was the hometown hero in the first half after he latched on to a neat chip kick from the left-foot of lock forward David Feeney and beat opposite number Jonny Rees to the tryline.

Flyhalf Alexander Aronson, who had knocked over a penalty earlier, added the extra points to give the Philippines the lead for the second time in the game. That was the only time they enjoyed it for Hong Kong came storming back in the second half to nail an easy win.

Philippines fullback Michael Letts gave some cheer to the home crowd in the second half when he scored his side's second try goalled by Aronson but it was small consolation.

Hong Kong rugby's latest cap, winger Dennis Chang, scoring on his debut v Philippines Volcanoes.

Hong Kong coach Leigh Jones now has set his sights on finishing the Top Five in style by securing runner-up spot behind Japan.

“I think there is more in the tank from these guys. I don’t think it is over and we will be going to Korea for our final game in a fortnight aiming to win,” Jones said.

Philippines Volcanoes mark first home HSBC A5N Top 5 match against Hong Kong

04.05.2013
Hong Kong v Philippines in Manilla (WCQ Asia; Asia Five Nations)

Venue: Rizal Memorial Stadium

Referee: Taizo Hirabayashi (Japan)

[Manila, Philippines, May 3, 2013]:  A proud record of never having lost a home game in the HSBC Asian Five Nations (HSBC A5N) will be under severe examination at the Rizal Stadium on Saturday when the Philippines takes on Hong Kong in the Top Five competition.

The Philippines Rugby Football Union estimates a crowd of around 4,000 to turn up for the first home outing in the Top Five. The vocal crowd support, along with the expected hot and humid conditions with temperatures likely to reach 35 degrees centigrade, will prove a tricky combination for favourites Hong Kong to overcome.

“Hong Kong will always be a challenge but we are hoping the conditions at home will help us in our first home game at the Premier level,” said Matt Cullen, former PRFU coach and current chairman of selectors.

“The home support will be a huge advantage to the boys. We have never lost a game in the A5N playing at home and I hope that record will be extended. But it will be tough,” Cullen admitted.

The Philippines promoted from Division One last year were given a rude baptism by Japan a fortnight ago in Fukuoka being routed by a record 121-0 including 18 tries.

They have since re-grouped and have been in camp for the last two weeks preparing for the Hong Kong game, the second of four matches this season in the elite competition, which also includes South Korea and the United Arab Emirates.

“It was a huge learning curve for us coming up against Japan but I know the guys have bounced back and are looking forward to this game. It will be very competitive for we know Hong Kong are strong, but this is the level of competition you can expect at the top end,” Cullen said.

The Philippines will field a largely unchanged side to that which ran out against Japan with fullback Michael Letts leading the team which comprises primarily Filipino heritage players, (those players of mixed Filipino-international parentage), six of whom ply their trade in Japan’s professional Top League.

The Philippines will miss their Australian coach Jarred Hodges who has had to rush back home due to a serious illness in the family with assistant coach Stuart Woodhouse taking over the reins for this weekend’s test match.

“The plan is to try and keep up our intensity for more than the first 20 minutes we showed in the Japan game,” said Cullen. “If we can keep this intensity for the entire first half, then we can re-assess at the break and go out and attack Hong Kong.”

Hong Kong will be back at full-strength with the return of loosehead props Ian Ridgway and Jack Bennett, both of whom have yet to figure in this season’s campaign.

Head coach Leigh Jones has also had to make a couple of enforced changes in the backline with Mike Glancy replacing Niall Rowark at flyhalf while centre Stewart Megaw is out for the rest of the competition with a broken hand picked up in last week’s 38-0 defeat to Japan.

Megaw is replaced by Ally Maclay who will partner David Whiteford in midfield. Maclay’s position on the wing will be taken up by Sebastien Alfonsi.

Jones is not underestimating the threat posed by the Philippines and has warned his team to expect a stern test. Hong Kong has a 1-1 record so far in the competition having beaten UAE 53-7 in their opener a fortnight ago.

“The Philippines were in Japan’s faces for the first 20 to 25 minutes and we can expect a torrid time. We will have to keep our shape and composure in the opening minutes if we are to come out winners,” Jones said.

Cullen added: “Our aim is to stay up this year so that we can have a crack at World Cup qualifying next year. To do this we have to win at least one game. We ran South Korea close the last time we played them (in 2011) losing by a couple of tries, the last of which came at the death in that game, and we feel we can beat UAE who we play last at home on May 18. But our hope is that we won’t have to enter that game in a must-win position.”

GWC Rugby Rankings
Asia Table-Hong Kong 3rd, Philippines 8th

IRB Ranking Points
Hong Kong 55.65, Philippines 44.35

Prediction: Hong Kong by 35 points

TEAMS

Hong Kong

15		Thomas McCill (Capt.)	Kowloon
14		John Rees	Kowloon
13		Alastair Maclay	Hong Kong Football Club
12		David Whiteford	Hong Kong Scottish
11		Sebastien Alfonsi	DEA Tigers
10		Michael Glancy	Hong Kong Scottish
9		Peter McKee	Hong Kong Football Club
8		Pale Tauti	DEA Tigers
7		Matthew Lamming	Hong Kong Cricket Club
6		Alexander Baddeley	Valley
5		Charles French	Hong Kong Cricket Club
4		William Hunt	Hong Kong Football Club
3		James Cooper	DEA Tigers
2		Thomas Bolland	Hong Kong Football Club
1		Ian Ridgeway
16		Alexander Harris	Kowloon
17		Jack Bennett
18		Stephen Nolan	Hong Kong Football Club
19		Daniel Watson	Hong Kong Football Club
20		Matthew Stockdale	Kowloon
21		Kirk Munro
22		Niall Rowark	Valley
23		Charles Cheung	DEA Tigers
		HEAD COACH: Leigh Jones

Philippines

15		Michael Letts (Capt.)	Kamaishi, Japan
14		Joseph Matthews	Queanbeyan RFC, Australia
13		Gareth Holgate	Kyudun, Japan
12		Justin Coveney	Western Red Sharks, Japan
11		Matthew Saunders	NTT, Japan
10		Alexander Aronson	California Golden Bears RFC, USA
9		James Price	Kyudun, Japan
8		Christopher Hitch	Warnervale RFC, Australia
7		Darran Seeto	Gordon Highlanders RFC, Austr.
6		Terrence Carroll	Western Bulldogs RLFC, Austr.
5		David Feeney	Manilla Nomads
4		Stephen Howorth	St Austell RFC, England
3		Matthew Bellenie	Brighton RFC, England
2		Graeme Hagan	Pattaya Panthers
1		Austin Dacanay	Tampa Crewe RFC, USA
16		David Robinson-Polkey	Mt Wellington RFC, New Zealand
17		Michael Duhig	Brothers RFC, Australia
18		Joshua Bautista	Santa Rosa, USA
19		Daniel Rodriguez
20		Christopher Hettell
21		Jake Letts	Kamaishi, Japan
22		Benjamin Saunders	West Tigers RLFC, Australia
23		Jefferey Gregson	Coventry RFC, England
		HEAD COACH Stuart Woodhouse (interim)