21.03.2015
Georgia 15, Romania 6 in Bucharest (REC 1A)
Russia 21, Portugal 8in Sochi (REC 1A)
Spain 48, Germany 16 in Madrid (REC 1A)
Briefly
Georgia are the 2015 REC winners. They battled to a hard fought win against Romania. Russia and Spain comfortably won their final games.
21.03.2015
Venue: Madrid
Last Five Encounters
20.03.2010 Spain 21-17 in Heidelberg (WCQ Europe R5; ENC 1)
15.11.2008 Spain 22-11 in Madrid (WCQ Europe R5; ENC 1)
27.05.2006 Spain 36-10 in Madrid (WCQ Europe R3A; Playoff 2nd leg)
13.05.2006 Germany 18-6 in Heidelberg (WCQ Europe R3A; Playoff 1st leg)
26.04.1998 Spain 24-9 in Hanover (WCQ Europe Pool 3)
Germany last defeated Spain in Spain way back in 1957! They won 16-3 in Barcelona. They won in Madrid in 1952 by 17-8.
Spain Last Five P 5, W 2, L 3
14.03.2015 v Portugal W 19-8 in Coimbra (REC 1A)
28.02.2015 v Georgia L 13-26 in Madrid (REC 1A)
14.02.2015 v Romania L 8-29 in Bucharest (REC 1A)
07.02.2015 v Russia W 43-20 in Madrid (REC 1A)
22.06.2014 v Argentina Jaguars L 7-41 in Tbilisi (Tbilisi Cup)
Germany Last Five P 5, L 5
14.03.2015 v Romania L 12-17 in Bucharest (REC 1A)
28.02.2015 v Portugal L 3-8 in Lisbon (REC 1A)
14.02.2015 v Russia L 22-46 in Pforzheim (REC 1A)
07.02.2015 v Georgia L 8-64 in Tbilisi (REC 1A)
29.10.2014 v Namibia L 20-58 in Windhoek
Germany has lost their last six test matches. Their last victory was against Netherlands in May last year.
GWC Rugby Rankings
World Table:
Europe Table:
World Rugby Ranking Points
Prediction: Spain by 27 points: Score 44-17
TEAMS
Not available
21.03.2015
Venue: Sochi
Referee:
last Five Encounters
08.03.2014 Russia 34-18 in Sochi (WCQ Europe R5; ENC 1A)
09.03.2013 Russia 31-23 in Coimbra (WCQ Europe R5; ENC 1A)
11.02.2012 Russia 33-32 in Lisbon (ENC 1A)
12.02.2011 Portugal 21-19 in Sochi (ENC 1A)
06.02.2010 Russia 14-10 in Sochi (WCQ Europe R5; ENC 1)
Portugal Last Five P 5, W 2, L 3
14.03.2015 v Spain L 8-19 in Coimbra (REC 1A)
28.02.2015 v Germany W 8-3 in Lisbon (REC 1A)
14.02.2015 v Georgia L 15-20 in Tbilisi (REC 1A)
07.02.2015 v Romania L 10-37 in Lisbon (REC 1A)
22.11.2014 v Namibia W 29-20 in Lisbon
Russia Last Five P 5, W 3, L 2
14.03.2015 v Georgia L 0-33 in Tbilisi (REC 1A)
28.02.2015 v Romania W 16-13 in Krasnodar (REC 1A)
14.02.2015 v Germany W 46-22 in Pforzheim (REC 1A)
07.02.2015 v Spain L 20-48 in Madrid (REC 1A)
15.11.2014 v Hong Kong W 39-27 in Hong Kong
GWC Rugby Rankings
World Table: Russia 19th, Portugal 22nd
Europe Table: Russia 8th, Portugal 11th
World Rugby Ranking Points
Russia 64.65, Portugal 57.40
Prediction: Russia by 8 points: Score 35-27
TEAMS
Not available
21.03.2015
Image thanks to http://frr.ro/2015/03/19/povestea-georgiei-de-la-david-dzagnidze-la-mamuka-gorgodze/
Venue: Bucharest
Referee:
Preview
The major clash and virtual final of the REC Division 1 2015 Championship
Last Five Encounters
15.03.2014 Georgia 22-9 in Tbilisi (WCQ Europe R5; ENC 1A; Antim Cup)
16.03.2013 Drawn 9-9 in Bucharest (WCQ Europe R5; ENC 1A; Antim Cup)
10.03.2012 Georgia 19-13 in Bucharest (ENC 1A; Antim Cup)
28.09.2011 Georgia 25-6 in Palmerston North (World Cup, Pool B)
12.03.2011 Georgia 18-11 in Tbilisi (ENC 1A; Antim Cup)
Romania last defeated Georgia in March 2010, winning 22-10 in Bucharest.
Georgia Last Five P 5, W 5
14.03.2015 v Russia W 33-0 in Tbilisi (REC 1A)
28.02.2015 v Spain W 26-13 in Madrid (REC 1A)
14.02.2015 v Portugal W 20-15 in Tbilisi (REC 1A)
07.02.2015 v Germany W 64-8 in Heusenstamm (REC 1A)
23.11.2014 v Japan W 35-24 in Tbilisi
Georgia has won its last five games in a row.
Romania Last Five P 5, W 4, L 1
14.03.2015 v Germany W 17-12 in Bucharest (REC 1A)
28.02.2015 v Russia L 13-16 in Krasnodar (REC 1A)
14.02.2015 v Spain W 29-8 in Bucharest (REC 1A)
07.02.2015 v Portugal W 37-10 in Lisbon (REC 1A)
22.11.2014 v Canada W 18-9 in Bucharest
GWC Rugby Rankings
World Table: Georgia 15th, Romania 17th
Europe Table: Georgia 7th, Romania 9th
World Rugby Ranking Points
Georgia 71.27, Romania 67.11
Prediction: Georgia by 6 points. Score: 16-10
TEAMS
Romania Extended Squad
Props:
Alexandru Tarus (RCM Timisoara) – 6 caps, debut: 2013-Romania-Argentina Jaguars, IRB Nations Cup
Paulica Ion (Perpignan)- 69 caps, debut: 2003-Romania-Argentia, Cupa Mondiala
Mihaita Lazar (Castres) -42 caps, debut: 2008-Romania-Cehia, CEN
Horatiu Pungea (Lyon)-24 caps, debut: 2012-Romania-Japonia, Partida test
Andrei Ursache (Carcassonne) -18 caps, debut: 2012-Romania-Portugalia, CEN
Hookers:
Andrei Radoi (Ealing Traifinders)-41 caps, debut: 2008-Romania-Cehia, CEN
Otar Turashvili (Farul Constanta)-17 caps, debut: 2012-Romania-Uruguay, IRB Nations Cup
Locks:
Marius Antonescu (Tarbes)- 5 caps, debut: 2014-Romania-Emerging Ireland, IRB Nations Cup
Alin Coste (Carcassonne)-30 caps,debut: 2007-Portugalia-Romania, CEN
Valentin Poparlan (RCM Timisoara)- 44 caps, debut: 2007-Romania-Namibia, IRB Nations Cup
Marius Sirbe (Blagnac)- 37 caps, debut: 2008-Romania-Cehia, CEN
Backrow:
Stelian Burcea (RCM Timisoara)- 48 caps, debut: 2006-Romania-Franta, Partida test
Viorel Lucaci (Steaua Bucuresti)- 37 caps, debut: 2009-Romania-Fiji, Partida test
Mihai Macovei (Massy)- 59 caps, debut: 2006-Romania-Ucraina, CEN
Vlad Nistor (Castres)- 11 caps, debut: 2013-Romania-Rusia, IRB Nations Cup
Valentin Ursache (Oyonnax)- 58 caps, debut: 2004-Romania-Italia, Partida test
Scrumhalves:
Vali Calafeteanu (RCM Timisoara)- 69 caps, debut: 2004-Romania-Japonia, Partida test
Florin Surugiu (CSM Bucuresti)- 46 caps,debut: 2008: Romania-Uruguay, IRB Nations Cup
Flyhalves:
Danut Dumbrava (Steaua Bucuresti)- 67 caps, debut: 2002-Tara Galilor-Romania, Partida test
Centres:
Robert Dascalu (Steaua Bucuresti)- 49 caps, debut: 2006-Ucraina-Romania,CEN
Csaba Gal (Universitatea Cluj)- 79 caps, debut: 2005-Irlanda-Romania,Partida test
Florin Ionita (Steaua Bucuresti)- 15 caps, debut: 2013-Romania-Rusia, IRB Nations Cup
Florin Vlaicu (Farul Constanta)- 77 caps, debut: 2006-Ucraina-Romania,CEN
Wingers:
Adrian Apostol (Farul Constanta)- 15 caps, debut: 2011-Romania-Namibia, IRB Nations Cup
Ionut Botezatu (Stiinta Baia Mare)- 23 caps, debut: 2009-Germania-Romania, CEN
Robert Neagu (Farul Constanta)-1 cap, debut 2014-Romania-USA, Partida test
Fullbacks :
Dorin Manole (Orthez)- 24 caps, debut: 2009-Germania-Romania, CEN
Sabin Stratila (Farul Constanta)- 1 cap,debut: 2015-Germania-Romania, REC
http://t2rugby.com/viewtopic.php?f=3&t=384&start=250
Georgia
1.Mikheil Nariashvili (Montpellier), 2.Irakli Natriashvili (Tulle), 3.David Zirakashvili (Clermont), 4.Giorgi Nemsadze (Tarbes), 5.Kote Mikautadze (Toulon), 6.Shalva Sutiashvili (Massy), 7.Giorgi Tkhilaishvili (Batumi), 8.Mamuka Gorgodze (Toulon), 9.Vasil Lobzhanidze (Armazi Tbilisi), 10.Lasha Malaghuradze (Bagneres) , 11.Sandro Todua (Lelo Saracens), 12.Merab Sharikadze (Aurillac) , 13.Davit Katcharava (Yenisey) , 14.Tamaz Mtchedlidze (Agen), 15.Merab Kvirikashvili (Montlucon).
Rezerve: 16.Zurab Zhvania (Stade Francais), 17.Kakha Asieshvili (Brive),18.Levan Chilachava (Toulon), 19.Levan Datunashvili (Aurillac), 20.Lasha Lomidze (Beziers), 21.Giorgi Begadze (Kochebi), 22.Giorgi Aptsiauri (AIA Kutaisi), 23.Beka Bitsadze (Lokomotivi Tbilisi)
http://frr.ro/2015/03/20/echipa-georgiei-in-partida-contra-stejarilor/
21.03.2015
Wales v Italy in Rome (6 Nations)
Ireland v Scotland at Murrayfield (6 Nations)
France v England at Twickenham (6 Nations)
Georgia v Romania in Bucharest (REC 1A)
Portugal v Russia in Sochi (REC 1A)
Germany v Spain in Madrid (REC 1A)
Cayman Islands v USA South in Atlanta (Caribbean Champ., North)
Trinidad Tobago v Barbados in St Michael (Caribbean Champ.,South)
Bermuda v Bahamas in Nassau (Caribbean Cup, North)
St Vincent & Grenadines v St Lucia in TBA (Caribbean Cup, South)
British Virgin Islands v Curacao in TBA (Carribean Cup, South)
Briefly
This weekend sees the final rounds of Europe’s two main test rugby competitions.
| P | W | D | L | PF | PA | PD | PT | |
| ENGLAND | 4 | 3 | 0 | 1 | 102 | 65 | 37 | 6 |
| IRELAND | 4 | 3 | 0 | 1 | 79 | 46 | 33 | 6 |
| WALES | 4 | 3 | 0 | 1 | 85 | 73 | 12 | 6 |
| FRANCE | 4 | 2 | 0 | 2 | 68 | 46 | 22 | 4 |
| ITALY | 4 | 1 | 0 | 3 | 42 | 121 | -79 | 2 |
| SCOTLAND | 4 | 0 | 0 | 4 | 63 | 88 | -25 | 0 |
The 6 Nations Championship concludes with all games on Saturday. Three teams can win this competition-England, Ireland or Wales. England has the toughest fixture whilst Ireland and Wales will be aiming to score big wins against Italy and Scotland respectively.
| P | W | D | L | PF | PA | DIFF | B | PT | |
| GEORGIA | 4 | 4 | 0 | 0 | 143 | 36 | 107 | 1 | 17 |
| ROMANIA | 4 | 3 | 0 | 1 | 96 | 46 | 50 | 3 | 15 |
| SPAIN | 4 | 2 | 0 | 2 | 83 | 83 | 0 | 1 | 9 |
| RUSSIA | 4 | 2 | 0 | 2 | 82 | 111 | -29 | 1 | 9 |
| PORTUGAL | 4 | 1 | 0 | 3 | 44 | 79 | -35 | 1 | 5 |
| GERMANY | 4 | 0 | 0 | 4 | 45 | 138 | -93 | 1 | 1 |
14.03.2015
Georgia 33, Russia 0 in Tbilisi (REC 1A)
Spain 19, Portugal 8 in Coimbra (REC 1A)
Romania 17, Germany12 in Heidelberg (REC 1A)
Reviews
After a slow and sluggish start Georgia proved too strong for Russia in Tbilisi. Georgia remain undefeated so far in this competition.
Spain won the Iberian derby in the university city of Coimbra whilst Romania had to struggle against a much improved German side.
Next weekend is the final round
21.03.2015
Georgia v Romania in Bucharest
Portugal v Russia in Sochi
Germany v Spain in Madrid
14.03.2015
Venue: Mikheil Meskhi Stadium, Tbilisi
Referee: Nigel Hennessy (Wales)
Preview
There are fewer more intense rivalries on the rugby field than a Russia-Georgia match up. New Zealand v South Africa and England v Wales to name just two. Russia is coming off a win against previously undefeated Romania whilst Georgia has been less than convincing in their last two outings.
Russia has gone for an experienced side for this important game. This is an ageing side where many will not play in the qualifying rounds for the next World Cup.
Georgia has been able to recall experienced players Mamuka Gorgodze, David Zirkashvili and Vakhtang Maisuradze. This is a very strong side.
The atmosphere in Tbilisi will be electric and so it will be at the ground. It should be a cracker.
Other Preview
http://www.rugbyeurope.eu/article-735.htm
Last Five Encounters
22.02.2014 Georgia 36-10 in Tbilisi (WCQ Europe R5; ENC 1A)
23.02.2013 Georgia 23-9 in Sochi (WCQ Europe R5; ENC 1A)
17.03.2012 Georgia 46-0 in Tbilisi (ENC 1A)
19.03.2011 Georgia 15-9 in Sochi (ENC 1A)
20.03.2010 Georgia 36-8 in Trabzon, Turkey (WCQ Europe R5; ENC 1)
Russia last defeated Georgia in 1993 when they won 15-9 in Gdansk, Poland, in a World Cup qualifying match. Russia has never won in Georgia.
Russia Last Five P 5, W 4, L 1
28.02.2015 v Romania W 16-13 in Krasnodar (REC 1A)
14.02.2015 v Germany W 46-22 in Pforzheim (REC 1A)
07.02.2015 v Spain L 20-48 in Madrid (REC 1A)
15.11.2014 v Hong Kong W 39-27 in Hong Kong
08.11.2014 v Hong Kong W 31-10 in Hong Kong
Georgia Last Five P 5, W 4, L 1
28.02.2015 v Spain W 26-13 in Madrid (REC 1A)
14.02.2015 v Portugal W 20-15 in Tbilisi (REC 1A)
07.02.2015 v Germany W 64-8 in Heusenstamm (REC 1A)
23.11.2014 v Japan W 35-24 in Tbilisi
16.11.2014 v Ireland L 7-49 in Dublin
GWC Rugby Rankings
World Table: Georgia 15th, Russia 19th
Europe Table: Georgia 7th, Russia 8th
World Rugby Ranking Points
Georgia 71.19, Russia 64.73
Prediction: Georgia by 22 points.
TEAMS
Georgia
15- Merab Kvirikashvili (Montlucon Rugby, France)
14- Giorgi Aptsiauri (AIA RC)
13- Davit Kacharava (Enisey-STM-Krasnoyarsk, Russia)
12- Merab Sharikadze (Stade Aurillacois, France)
11- Alexander Khutsishvili (Kochebi RC)
10- Lasha Khmaladze (Lelo Saracens)
9- Vasil Lobjanidze (Armazi RC)
8- Beka Bitsadze (Locomotive RC)
7- Mamuka Gorgodze (RC Toulonnais, France)
6- Shalva Sutiashvili, (Capt.) (RC Massy, France)
5- Vakhtang Maisuradze (SC Albi, France)
4- Giorgi Nemsadze (Tarbes Pyrénées Rugby, France)
3- Davit Zirakashvili (ASM Clermont Auvergne, France)
2- Simon Maisuradze (Stade Bagnerais, France)
1-Mikheil Nariashvili (Montpellier Hérault Rugby, France)
Replacements
16- Zurab Zhvania (Stade Francais, France)
17- Karlen Asieshvili (CA Brive, France)
18- Levan Chilachava (RC Toulonnais, France)
19- Konstantin Mikautadze (RC Toulonnais, France)
20- Lasha Lomidze (AS Béziers Hérault, France)
21- Vazha Khutsishvili (Kharebi Rustavi)
22- Tamaz Mchedlidze (SU Agen, France)
23- Muraz Giorgadze (Armazi RC)
Head Coach: Milton Haig
Adapted from http://t2rugby.com/viewtopic.php?f=3&t=45&start=400
Russia
1-Sergey Novoselov (Enisey-STM)
2- Stanislav Selsky (Enisey-STM)
3- Innokenty Zykov (Enisey-STM)
4- Andrey Garbuzov (Krasny Yar)
5- Andrey Ostrikov (Sale Sharks, England)
6- Andrey Temnov (Enisey-STM, captain)
7- Pavel Butenko (Enisey-STM)
8- Viktor Gresev (Krasny Yar)
9- Alexey Shcherban (Enisey-STM)
10- Ramil Gaisin (Enisey-STM)
11- Igor Kurashov (Enisey-STM)
12- Vladimir Rudenko (Krasny Yar)
13- Dimitry Gerasimov (Enisey-STM)
14- Mikhail Babaev (VVA-Podmoskovye)
15- Vasily Artemyev (Krasny Yar)
Replacements
16- Vladislav Korshunov (VVA-Podmoskovye)
17 Sergey Sekisov (VVA-Podmoskovye_
18- Andrey Igretsov (Slava-CSP)
19- Artem Fatakhov (VVA-Podmoskovye)
20- Nicholas Serkov (Enisey-STM)
21- Rushan Yagudin (Krasny Yar)
22- Yuri Kushnarev (Enisey-STM)
23- Andrey Otrokov (Krasny Yar)
Head Coach: Raphael Saint-Andre
Adapted from http://www.rugby.ru/
14.03.2015
Venue: Heidelberg
Referee: Lloyd Linton (Scotland)
Preview
Romania should have little difficulty defeating Germany Saturday. The Romanians will be smarting from their defeat by Russia two weeks ago and keen to remain close to Georgia at the top of the division.
Germany put in an impressive effort against Portugal away last weekend and could well be a handful for the Romanians early on in the match.
Other Previews
http://www.rugbyeurope.eu/article-737.htm
Previous Encounters
13.02.2010 Romania 67-5 in Constanta (WCQ Europe R5; ENC 1)
14.02.2009 Romania 22-0 in Heidelberg (WCQ Europe R5; ENC 1)
12.05.1994 Romania 60-6 in Bucharest (WCQ Europe)
27.03.1983 Romania 26-12 in Heidelberg (FIRA A)
04.04.1982 Romania 60-18 in Bucharest (FIRA A)
Germany and Romania have a long test rugby history. Their first encounter was 1936 when Germany won 37-9 in Hamburg.
Germany Last Five P 5, L 5
28.02.2015 v Portugal L 3-8 in Lisbon (REC 1A)
14.02.2015 v Russia L 22-46 in Pforzheim (REC 1A)
07.02.2015 v Georgia L 8-64 in Tbilisi (REC 1A)
29.10.2014 v Namibia L 20-58 in Windhoek
24.05.2014 v Russia L 20-31 in Hamburg (WCQ Europe R5 Playoff)
Romania Last Five P 5, W 3, L 2
28.02.2015 v Russia L 13-16 in Krasnodar (REC 1A)
14.02.2015 v Spain W 29-8 in Bucharest (REC 1A)
07.02.2015 v Portugal W 37-10 in Lisbon (REC 1A)
22.11.2014 v Canada W 18-9 in Bucharest
15.11.2014 v Japan L 13-18 in Bucharest
GWC Rugby Rankings
World Table: Romania 17th, Germany 27th
Europe Table: Romania 9th, Germany 16th
World Rugby Ranking Points
Romania 67.03, Germany 54.87
Prediction: Romania by 21 points
TEAMS
Romania
1. Constantin Pristavita, 2. Andrei Radoi, 3. Paulica Ion, 4. Valentin Popirlan, 5. Marius Sirbe, 6. Viorel Lucaci, 7. Vlad Nistor, 8. Stelian Burcea, 9. Florin Surugiu, 10. Danut Dumbrava, 11. Ionut Botezatu, 12. Florin Vlaicu, 13. Csaba Gal, 14. Adrian Apostol, 15. Sabin Stratila
Rezerve: 16. Otar Turashvili, 17. Mihai Dico, 18. Alexandru Tarus, 19. Marius Antonescu, 20. Daniel Ianus, 21. Valentin Calafeteanu, 22. Robert Dascalu, 23. Dorin Manole
Head Coach: Lyn Howells
Test debut: Sabin Stratila
http://frr.ro/2015/03/12/sabin-stratila-isi-face-debutul-printre-stejari/
Germany Squad
Club affiliations First
Aberdeen Scotland (SCO): Matthias Schösser
CA St. Etienne (F): Chris Howells
Hannover 78: Phil Szczesny
Heidelberger RK: Sean Armstrong, Kehoma Brenner, Anjo Buckman, Samy Füchsel, Robert Hittel, Steffen Liebig, Pierre Mathurin, Robert Mohr, Hendrik van der Merwe, Clemens von Grumbkow, Arthur Zeiler
Heidelberger TV: Benedikt Scherrer
M-Three Rugby San Dona (I): Umberto Pilla
R.C. Strasbourg (F): Mika Tyumenev
San Isidro Club (ARG): Alan Kessen
SC Frankfurt 1880: Janis Läpple, Kieran Manawatu
SC Neuenheim: Sam Harris, Marten Strauch
Stourbridge RFC (ENG): Dale Garner
TV Pforzheim: Robert May, Carlos Soteras-Merz, Jeremy Te Huia, Timo Vollenkemper
USAP Perpignan (F): Tim Menzel
Head Coach: Kobus Potgieter
14.03.2015
Ireland v Wales in Cardiff (6 Nations)
Scotland v England at Twickenham (6 Nations; Calcutta Cup)
Russia v Georgia in Tbilisi (REC 1A)
Spain v Portugal in Lisbon (REC 1A)
Romania v Germany in Heidelberg (REC 1A)
Moldova v Belgium in Brussels (REC 1B)
Ivory Coast v Senegal in Toulouse (Friendly)
15.03.2015
France v Italy in Rome (6 Nations; Garibaldi Cup)
Briefly
The 6 Nations International Championship heads into the fourth round this weekend. Ireland head to Wales in what could decide the competition winner. Ireland needs to win to keep their ‘Grand Slam’ intentions alive.
Scotland travels to Twickenham to face England in the traditional Calcutta match. Both sides lost two weekends ago but Scotland’s performance against Italy was woeful. Expect a big lift from the Scots for this one.
Sunday’s France v Italy clash in Rome has a mouth watering prospect of a possible Italian win. Playing at home lifts the Italians and after defeating Scotland two weeks ago they are on a high. France has lost to Ireland and Wales and are struggling.
The Rugby Europe Championship continues with the Russia-Georgia clash being top of the bill. Georgia hasn’t set the world on fire in their last two encounters whilst Russia has defeated Germany and Romania to lift their performances. These two nations actually fought a war only a few years ago. The Russians can expect a ‘warm’ reception in Tbilisi.
The Spain-Portugal clash looks even but Spain has been playing the better rugby lately but Portugal has got the home advantage.
Romania should have too much strength for a struggling Germany.
Moldova travelled to Amsterdam two weeks ago with a weakened squad and lost. They do not travel well. If they lose to Belgium this weekend their hopes for promotion to the elite level of European rugby will take a dive yet again.
In a friendly encounter in France Senegal faces their African cousins the Ivory Coast. I’d expect all players to be France-based. Both these African nations will contest the African Cup Division 1B in early July.
28.02.2015
Georgia 26, Spain 13 in Madrid (REC 1A)
Russia 16, Romania 13 in Russia (REC 1A)
Portugal 8, Germany 3 in Lisbon (REC 1A)
Netherlands 18, Moldova 10 in Amsterdam (REC 1B)
Review
Russia caused the upset of the day with a 16-13 win in Krasnodar. Romania were on the back foot from the start when coach Lyn Howells, all the management staff and one player failed to get visa clearances.
Georgia managed to overcome a greatly improved Spain in Madrid whilst Portugal struggled all the way against another big improver Germany.
Moldova again showed their weakness when playing away from home. Without top players they showed a lack of depth and went down to Netherlands. Until Moldova can solve these problems they will really struggle if they get promoted to Division 1A
28.02.2014
Venue: Madrid
Referee: Alexandre Ruiz (France)
Preview
Traditionally Georgia has won comfortably against Spain but of late they have struggled. Spain has lifted their game with new coach Santos and are using their France-based players wisely.
Spain began this competition well with a good win over Russia but the old problem of selection issues saw the team weakened against Romania who won comfortably. Spain would have been encourage by the fight Portugal showed against Georgia two weeks ago.
In the Spanish lineup Barrera and Heredia are out injured and replaced by Mora and Lopez.
Georgia introduce two new caps into their side. They are scrum half Lobzhanidze and win Khutsishvili, both local players.
Last Five Encounters
14.06.2014 Georgia 23-13 in Tbilisi (IRB Tbilisi Cup)
08.03.2014 Georgia 24-17 in Madrid (WCQ Europe R5; ENC 1A)
09.03.2013 Georgia 61-18 in Tbilisi (WCQ Europe R5; ENC 1A)
11.02.2012 Spain 25-18 in Madrid (ENC 1A)
12.02.2011 Georgia 60-0 in Tbilisi (ENC 1A)
Georgia Last Five P 5, W 3, L 2
14.02.2015 v Portugal W 20-15 in Tbilisi (REC 1A)
07.02.2015 v Germany W 64-8 in Heusenstamm (REC 1A)
23.11.2014 v Japan W 35-24 in Tbilisi
16.11.2014 v Ireland L 7-49 in Dublin
08.11.2014 v Tonga L 9-23 in Tbilisi
Spain Last Five P 5, W 1, L 4
14.02.2015 v Romania L 8-29 in Bucharest (REC 1A)
07.02.2015 v Russia W 43-20 in Madrid (REC 1A)
22.06.2014 v Argentina Jaguars L 7-41 in Tbilisi (Tbilisi Cup)
18.06.2014 v Emerging Italy L 0-37 in Tbilisi (Tbilisi Cup)
14.06.2014 v Georgia L 13-23 in Tbilisi (Tbilisi Cup)
GWC Rugby Rankings
World Table- Georgia 15th, Spain 21st
Europe Table- Georgia 7th, Spain 9th
IRB Ranking Points
Georgia 70.76, Spain 62.04
Prediction: Georgia by 10 points
Teams
Georgia
1.Mikheil Nariashvili (Montelier, 21 caps)
2. Zura Zhvania (Stade Francais, 13 caps)
3. David Zirakashvili (ASM Clermont, 44 caps)
4. Vakhtang Maisuradze (Albi, 22 caps)
5. Giorgi Nemsadze (Tarbes, 44 caps)
6. Giorgi Tkhilaishvili (Batumi RC, GEO, 16 caps)
7. Shalva Sutiashvili (Massy, 44 caps)
8. Beka Bitsadze (Locomotive RC, GEO, 9 caps)
9. Vasil Lobzhanidze (Armazi RC, GEO, Uncapped)
10. Lasha Khmaladze (Lelo Saracens, GEO, 34 caps)
11. Alexandre Khutsishvili (Kochebi RC, GEO, Uncapped)
12. Merab Sharikadze (Aurilliac, 28 caps)
13. David Kacharava (Enisey STM, 76 caps)
14. Sandro Todua (Lelo Saracens, GEO, 45 caps)
15. Giorgi Aptsiauri (AIA RC, GEO, 1 cap)
Substitutes
16. Shalva Mamukashvili (Sale Sharks, 27 caps)
17. Levan Chilachava (Toulon, 18 caps)
18. David Kubriashvili (Stade Francais, 38 caps)
19. Kote Mikautadze (Toulon, 26 caps)
20. Dimitri Basilaia (Perpignan, 36 caps)
21. Giorgi Begadze (Kochebi RC, GEO, 28 caps)
22. Lasha Malaguradze (Bagnier, 51 caps)
23. Tamaz Mcedlidze (Agen, 21 caps)
Head Coach: Milton Haig
Spain
1. Franck Labbe
2. Beñat Auzqui
3. Jesús Moreno
4. David González
5. Jesús Recuerda (c)
6. Gautier Gibouin
7. Ignacio Villanueva
8. Jaime Nava
9. Guillaume Rouet
10. Daniel Snee
11. Sergi Aubanell
12. Thibaut Visensang
13. Marcos Poggi
14. Julen Goia
15. Bradley Linklater
Suplentes
16. Agustín Ortiz
17. Juan Anaya
18. Fernando López
19. Manuel Mora
20. Javier de Juan
21. Ángel López
22. Pablo Fontes
23. Pablo Feijóo
Head Coach: Santiago Santos
Adapted from http://www.ferugby.es/noticias2.php?titulo=Alineaciones España-Georgia
28.02.2015
Venue: Krasnodar
Referee: Ian Davies (Wales)
| P | W | D | L | PF | PA | DIFF | B | PT | |
| ROMANIA | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 66 | 18 | 48 | 2 | 10 |
| GEORGIA | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 84 | 23 | 61 | 1 | 9 |
| SPAIN | 2 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 51 | 49 | 2 | 1 | 5 |
| RUSSIA | 2 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 66 | 65 | 1 | 1 | 5 |
| PORTUGAL | 2 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 25 | 57 | -32 | 1 | 1 |
| GERMANY | 2 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 30 | 110 | -80 | 0 | 0 |
Preview
Romania leads the points table at this stage whilst Russia props up the middle. Romania, along with Georgia, are the favourites in this competition.
Romania has had the edge over the Russian’s in recent test history. Since the 2011 Rugby World Cup (in which Russia attended for the first time) Russia has slipped in performances. Against Germany two weeks ago they were well behind until the last quarter. From there they romped away from a tired and eventually ragged German outfit. They will struggle against the Romanians in the forwards.
Romania will continue to build their performances leading up to their clash with Georgia.
Last Five Encounters
18.06.2014 Romania 20-18 in Bucharest (IRB Nations Cup)
08.02.2014 Romania 34-3 in Krasnodar (WCQ Europe R5; ENC 1A)
08.06.2013 Romania 30-20 in Bucharest (IRB Nations Cup)
09.02.2013 Romania 29-14 in Bucharest (WCQ Europe R5; ENC 1A)
25.02.2012 Romania 25-0 in Sotchi (ENC 1A)
Russia last defeated Romania in 2009 winning 28-19 in Bucharest. In 2008 Russia defeated Romania 12-8 in Krasnodar.
Romania Last Five P 5, W 3, L 2
14.02.2015 v Spain W 29-8 in Bucharest (REC 1A)
07.02.2015 v Portugal W 37-10 in Lisbon (REC 1A)
22.11.2014 v Canada W 18-9 in Bucharest
15.11.2014 v Japan L 13-18 in Bucharest
08.11.2014 v United States in Bucharest L 17-27
Russia Last Five P 5, W 3, L 2
14.02.2015 v Germany W 46-22 in Pforzheim (REC 1A)
07.02.2015 v Spain L 20-48 in Madrid (REC 1A)
15.11.2014 v Hong Kong W 39-27 in Hong Kong
08.11.2014 v Hong Kong W 31-10 in Hong Kong
12.10.2014 v Uruguay L 27-36 in Montevideo (WCQ Repechage R2)
GWC Rugby Rankings
World Table-Romania 17th, Russia 19th
Europe Table-Romania 8th, Russia 10th
Rugby World Ranking Points
Romania 68.19, Russia 63.57
Prediction: Romania by 12 points.
Teams
Russia
1-Sergey Novoselov (Enisey-STM)
2- Stanislav Selsky (Enisey-STM)
3- Innokenty Zykov (Enisey-STM)
4- Denis Antonov (Slava-CSP)
5- Andrey Ostrikov (Sale Sharks, England)
6- Andrey Temnov (Enisey-STM, captain)
7- Pavel Butenko (Enisey-STM)
8- Viktor Gresev (Krasny Yar)
9- Alexey Shcherban (Enisey-STM)
10- Ramil Gaisin (Enisey-STM)
11- Igor Kurashov (Enisey-STM)
12- Vladimir Rudenko (Krasny Yar)
13- Dimitry Gerasimov (Enisey-STM)
14- Mikhail Babaev (VVA Saracens)
15- Vasily Artemyev (Krasny Yar)
16- Vladislav Korshunov (VVA Saracens)
17- Alexey Volkov (VVA Saracens)
18- Andrey Igretsov (Slava-CSP)
19- Artem Fatakhov (VVA Saracens)
20- Andrey Garbuzov (Krasny Yar)
21- Rushan Yagudin (Krasny Yar)
22- Andrey Otrokov (Krasny Yar)
23- Yuri Kushnarev (Enisey-STM)
http://t2rugby.com/viewtopic.php?f=3&t=374
Romania
1Mihăiţă Lazăr
2. Andrei Rădoi
3. Horaţiu Pungea
4. Valentin Popârlan
5. Marius Sîrbe
6. Viorel Lucaci (căpitan)
7. Vlad Nistor
8. Stelian Burcea
9. Valentin Calafeteanu
10. Dănuţ Dumbravă
11. Ionuţ Botezatu
12. Csaba Gal
13. Robert Dascălu
14. Adrian Apostol
15. Dorin Manole.
Rezerve vor fi:
16. Otar Turaşvili
17. Constantin Pristaviţă
18. Alexandru Ţăruş
19. Marius Antonescu
20. Andrei Gorcioaia
21. Grigoraş Diaconescu
22. Florin Ioniţă
23. Sabin Strătilă
Head Coach: Lyn Howells
http://www.cugetliber.ro/stiri-sport-care-este-primul-xv-al-stejarilor-in-meciul-cu-rusia-248523
28.02.2015
Venue: Lisbon
Referee:Giuseppe Vivarini (Italy)
Preview
| P | W | D | L | PF | PA | DIFF | B | PT | |
| ROMANIA | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 66 | 18 | 48 | 2 | 10 |
| GEORGIA | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 84 | 23 | 61 | 1 | 9 |
| SPAIN | 2 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 51 | 49 | 2 | 1 | 5 |
| RUSSIA | 2 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 66 | 65 | 1 | 1 | 5 |
| PORTUGAL | 2 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 25 | 57 | -32 | 1 | 1 |
| GERMANY | 2 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 30 | 110 | -80 | 0 | 0 |
Germany and Portugal hold up the bottom of the ladder in this competition. On present form both look to be the contenders for relegation in 2016. That is a long way off but this encounter today could well give some indication as to where these two teams sit.
Germany travels to Lisbon without some keys players. Robert Mohr and Alan Kessen are out injured. Damien Tussas (US Montauban, France) and Matthias Schösser (Aberdeen, Scotland) are not available. Some players do return. Samy Füchsel (Heidelberger RK) Umberto Pilla (Rugby San Dona, Italy), Captain Sean Armstrong, back Anjo Buckman (Heidelberger RK), Phil Szczesny (Hannover 78) and Kieron Manawatu (SC 1880 Frankfurt).
Portugal stumbled at home to Romania in the first round but gave Georgia a hell of a fright in Tbilisi two weeks ago. They showed excellent defence and constantly put Georgia off their game. If they continue to improve Germany may well find them a handful.
Last Five Encounters
27.02.2010 Portugal 69-0 in Heusenstamm (WCQ Europe R5; ENC 1)
12.02.2009 Portugal 44-6 in Lisbon (WCQ Europe R5; ENC 1)
04.04.1998 Portugal 30-6 in Lisbon (WCQ Europe Pool 3, Round B)
13.05.1995 Portugal 26-16 in Heidelberg (FIRA A2)
17.04.1994 Germany 20-18 in Lisbon (FIRA A2)
Germany Last Five P 5, W 1, L 4
14.02.2015 v Russia L 22-46 in Pforzheim (REC 1A)
07.02.2015 v Georgia L 8-64 in Tbilisi (REC 1A)
29.10.2014 v Namibia L 20-58 in Windhoek
24.05.2014 v Russia L 20-31 in Hamburg (WCQ Europe R5 Playoff)
10.05.2014 v Netherlands W 17-7 in Amsterdam (WCQ Europe R4 Playoff)
Portugal Last Five P 5, W 1, L 4
14.02.2015 v Georgia L 15-20 in Tbilisi (REC 1A)
07.02.2015 v Romania L 10-37 in Lisbon (REC 1A)
22.11.2014 v Namibia W 29-20 in Lisbon
15.03.2014 v Spain L 24-28 in Lisbon (WCQ Europe R5; ENC 1A)
08.03.2014 v Russia L 18-34 in Sochi (WCQ Europe R5; ENC 1A)
GWC Rugby Rankings
World Table: Portugal 22nd, Germany 27th
Europe Table-Portugal 11th, Germany 15th
Rugby World Ranking Points
Portugal 57.94, Germany 55.30
Prediction: Portugal by 28 points
Teams
Portugal Squad
1 Afonso Sousa GDS Cascais
2 Bruno Medeiros CDUL
3 Diogo Toorn CDUL
4 Duarte Marques AEIS Técnico
5 Francisco Fernandes Béziers
6 Francisco Sousa GDS Cascais
7 Francisco Appleton CDUL
8 Francisco Pinto de Magalhães CDUL
9 Gonçalo Foro CDUL
10 Julien Bardy ASM Clermont
11 João Almeida CDUL
12 João Bernardo Afonso GDS Cascais
13 João Travassos GD Direito
14 Maxime Tonieta US Oynnax
15 Miguel Vilaça CDUL
16 Mike Tadjer RC Massy
17 Nuno Penha e Costa CDUL
18 Nuno Taful GDS Cascais
19 Pedro Ávila AS Clermont
20 Salvador Vassalo GDS Cascais
21 Tomás Appleton CDUL
22 Tony Martins Limoges
23 Vasco Uva GD Direito
24 José Almeida RC Lousã
Head Coach:João Pinto
Germany Squad
Heidelberger RK: Arthur Zeiler, Alexander Widiker, Samy Füchsel, Kehoma Brenner, Sean Armstrong, Hendrik van der Merwe, Clemens von Grumbkow, Steffen Liebig, Robert Hittel, Anjo Buckman
TV Pforzheim: Rob May, Jeremy Te Huia
Hannover 78: Phil Szczesny
Heidelberger TV: Benedikt Scherrer
SC 1880 Frankfurt: Kieron Manawatu
False Bay (SA): Michael Poppmeier
M-Three Rugby San Dona (I): Umberto Pilla
US Colmiers (F): Chris Hilsenbeck
USA Perpignan (F): Tim Menzel
SO Chambéry (F): Julius Nostadt
CA St. Etienne (F): Chris Howells
USON Rugby Plus SASP (F): Paul Bosch
Stourbridge RFC (ENG): Dale Garner
Head Coach: Kobus Potgieter
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