15.11.2008
New Zealand v Ireland
Preview
After their impressive 55-0 win against Canada last weekend, Ireland will be out to prove a point at Croke Park. Never before in the history of the game has Ireland defeated New Zealand. On Saturday they face what is probably the complete international rugby team. They are match fit (Ireland could be a little under done here) and have a clear objective of winning a Grand Slam (winning all tests against all home rugby nations). The support of fanatical Irish supporters in the holy grail of Croke Park may not be enough.
Last Five Encounters
07.06.2008 New Zealand 21-11 in Wellington
17.06.2006 New Zealand 27-17 in Auckland
10.06.2006 New Zealand 34-23 in Hamilton
12.11.2005 New Zealand 45-7 in Dublin
22.06.2002 New Zealand 40-8 in Auckland
GWC Rugby Rankings: World Table-New Zealand 1st, Ireland 12th
Prediction: New Zealand by 30 points
Teams, as per Planet-Rugby
Ireland
15 Girvan Dempsey, 14 Tommy Bowe, 13 Brian O'Driscoll, 12 Luke Fitzgerald, 11 Rob Kearney, 10 Ronan O'Gara, 9 Tomas O'Leary, 8 James Heaslip, 7 David Wallace, 6 Alan Quinlan, 5 Paul O'Connell, 4 Donncha O'Callaghan, 3 John Hayes, 2 Rory Best, 1 Marcus Horan. Replacements: 16 Jerry Flannery, 17 Tony Buckley, 18 Stephen Ferris, 19 Shane Jennings, 20 Eoin Reddan, 21 Paddy Wallace, 22 Keith Earls
New Zealand
15 Mils Muliaina, 14 Joe Rokocoko, 13 Conrad Smith, 12 Ma'a Nonu, 11 Sitiveni Sivivatu, 10 Daniel Carter, 9 Jimmy Cowan, 8 Rodney So'oialo, 7 Richie McCaw, 6 Jerome Kaino, 5 Ali Williams, 4 Brad Thorn, 3 Neemia Tialata, 2 Keven Mealamu, 1 Tony Woodcock. Replacements: 16 Corey Flynn, 17 John Afoa, 18 Anthony Boric, 19 Kieran Read, 20 Piri Weepu, 21 Stephen Donald, 22 Isaia Toeava.
Saturday, November 15, 2008
Test Rugby: South Africa v Scotland
15.11.2008
South Africa v Scotland at Murrayfield.
Previews
Last week the All Blacks. This week the Springbox. Life doesn't get any easier for a Scottish side struggling at this level of world rugby.
Last Five Encounters
25.08.2007 South Africa 27-3 at Murrayfield (World Cup Warm Up)
17.06.2006 South Africa 29-15 in Port Elizabeth
10.06.2006 South Africa 36-16 in Durban
27.11.2004 South Africa 45-10 at Murrayfield
14.06.2003 South Africa 28-19 in Johannesburg
Scotland last defeated South Africa at Murrayfield in 2002 winning 21-6. Ah, for them days!
GWC Rugby Rankings: World Table-South Africa 2nd, Scotland 6th
Prediction. Much the same as last week-South Africa by 29 points.
Regret, but time restrictions has limited this coverage.
Teams, as per planet-rugby
Scotland
15 Chris Paterson, 14 Thom Evans, 13 Ben Cairns, 12 Nick De Luca, 11 Rory Lamont, 10 Phil Godman, 9 Mike Blair (c), 8 Ally Hogg, 7 John Barclay, 6 Jason White, 5 Jim Hamilton, 4 Nathan Hines, 3 Euan Murray, 2 Ross Ford, 1 Allan Jacobson. Replacements: 16 Dougie Hall, 17 Alasdair Dickinson, 18 Matt Mustchin, 19 Scott Gray, 20 Rory Lawson, 21 Dan Parks, 22 Hugo Southwell
South Africa
15 Conrad Jantjes, 14 JP Pietersen, 13 Adrian Jacobs, 12 Jean de Villiers, 11 Bryan Habana, 10 Ruan Pienaar, 9 Fourie du Preez, 8 Pierre Spies, 7 Juan Smith, 6 Schalk Burger, 5 Victor Matfield, 4 Bakkies Botha, 3 John Smit (c), 2 Bismarck du Plessis, 1 Tendai Mtawarira. Replacements: 16 Brian Mujati, 17 Gurthro Steenkamp, 18 Andries Bekker, 19 Ryan Kankowski, 20 Ricky Januarie, 21 Frans Steyn, 22 Jaque Fourie.
South Africa v Scotland at Murrayfield.
Previews
Last week the All Blacks. This week the Springbox. Life doesn't get any easier for a Scottish side struggling at this level of world rugby.
Last Five Encounters
25.08.2007 South Africa 27-3 at Murrayfield (World Cup Warm Up)
17.06.2006 South Africa 29-15 in Port Elizabeth
10.06.2006 South Africa 36-16 in Durban
27.11.2004 South Africa 45-10 at Murrayfield
14.06.2003 South Africa 28-19 in Johannesburg
Scotland last defeated South Africa at Murrayfield in 2002 winning 21-6. Ah, for them days!
GWC Rugby Rankings: World Table-South Africa 2nd, Scotland 6th
Prediction. Much the same as last week-South Africa by 29 points.
Regret, but time restrictions has limited this coverage.
Teams, as per planet-rugby
Scotland
15 Chris Paterson, 14 Thom Evans, 13 Ben Cairns, 12 Nick De Luca, 11 Rory Lamont, 10 Phil Godman, 9 Mike Blair (c), 8 Ally Hogg, 7 John Barclay, 6 Jason White, 5 Jim Hamilton, 4 Nathan Hines, 3 Euan Murray, 2 Ross Ford, 1 Allan Jacobson. Replacements: 16 Dougie Hall, 17 Alasdair Dickinson, 18 Matt Mustchin, 19 Scott Gray, 20 Rory Lawson, 21 Dan Parks, 22 Hugo Southwell
South Africa
15 Conrad Jantjes, 14 JP Pietersen, 13 Adrian Jacobs, 12 Jean de Villiers, 11 Bryan Habana, 10 Ruan Pienaar, 9 Fourie du Preez, 8 Pierre Spies, 7 Juan Smith, 6 Schalk Burger, 5 Victor Matfield, 4 Bakkies Botha, 3 John Smit (c), 2 Bismarck du Plessis, 1 Tendai Mtawarira. Replacements: 16 Brian Mujati, 17 Gurthro Steenkamp, 18 Andries Bekker, 19 Ryan Kankowski, 20 Ricky Januarie, 21 Frans Steyn, 22 Jaque Fourie.
Test Rugby: Pacific Islands v France
15.11.2008
Pacific Islands v France in Marseilles
GWC Rugby Rankings: Do not apply
Prediction: France by 14 points
Regret time restrictions has meant a limited covereage
Teams as per planet-rugby
France
15 Maxime Médard, 14 Julien Malzieu, 13 Yannick Jauzion, 12 Benoît Baby, 11 Cedric Heymans, 10 David Skrela, 9 Jean-Baptiste Elissalde, 8 Imanol Harnordoquy, 7 Fulgence Ouedraogo, 6 Thierry Dusautoir, 5 Lionel Nallet (c), 4 Romain Millo-Chluski, 3 Nicolas Mas, 2 Dimitri Szarzewski, 1 Lionel Faure. Replacements:16 Benjamin Kayser, 17 Benoît Lecouls, 18 Sébastien Chabal, 19 Louis Picamoles, 20 Sebastien Tillous-Borde, 21 Damien Traille, 22 Alexis Palisson
Pacific Islands
15 Gavin Williams (SAM), 14 Napolioni Nalaga (FIJ), 13 Seru Rabeni (FIJ), 12 Epi Taione (TGA), 11 Vilimoni Delasau (FIJ), 10 Seremaia Bai (FIJ), 9 Mosese Rauluni (FIJ, cap), 8 Nili Latu (TGA), 7 Sisa Koyamaibole (FIJ), 6 Hale T-Pole (TGA), 5 Kele Leawere (FIJ), 4 Paino Hehea (TGA), 3 Kisi Pulu (TGA), 2 Tanielu Fuga (SAM), 1 Kas Lealamanua (SAM). Replacements: 16 Sunia Koto (FIJ), 17 Census Johnston (SAM), 18 Filipo Levi (SAM), 19 Viliami Vaki (TGA), 20 Sililo Martens (TGA), 21 Kameli Ratuvou (FIJ), 22 Seilala Mapusua (SAM)
Pacific Islands v France in Marseilles
GWC Rugby Rankings: Do not apply
Prediction: France by 14 points
Regret time restrictions has meant a limited covereage
Teams as per planet-rugby
France
15 Maxime Médard, 14 Julien Malzieu, 13 Yannick Jauzion, 12 Benoît Baby, 11 Cedric Heymans, 10 David Skrela, 9 Jean-Baptiste Elissalde, 8 Imanol Harnordoquy, 7 Fulgence Ouedraogo, 6 Thierry Dusautoir, 5 Lionel Nallet (c), 4 Romain Millo-Chluski, 3 Nicolas Mas, 2 Dimitri Szarzewski, 1 Lionel Faure. Replacements:16 Benjamin Kayser, 17 Benoît Lecouls, 18 Sébastien Chabal, 19 Louis Picamoles, 20 Sebastien Tillous-Borde, 21 Damien Traille, 22 Alexis Palisson
Pacific Islands
15 Gavin Williams (SAM), 14 Napolioni Nalaga (FIJ), 13 Seru Rabeni (FIJ), 12 Epi Taione (TGA), 11 Vilimoni Delasau (FIJ), 10 Seremaia Bai (FIJ), 9 Mosese Rauluni (FIJ, cap), 8 Nili Latu (TGA), 7 Sisa Koyamaibole (FIJ), 6 Hale T-Pole (TGA), 5 Kele Leawere (FIJ), 4 Paino Hehea (TGA), 3 Kisi Pulu (TGA), 2 Tanielu Fuga (SAM), 1 Kas Lealamanua (SAM). Replacements: 16 Sunia Koto (FIJ), 17 Census Johnston (SAM), 18 Filipo Levi (SAM), 19 Viliami Vaki (TGA), 20 Sililo Martens (TGA), 21 Kameli Ratuvou (FIJ), 22 Seilala Mapusua (SAM)
Rugby Test: Australia v England
15.11.2008
Australia v England at Twickenham
Preview
There was a time when a clash between these two would have been a clash between the two best rugby nations. Sadly, both teams have slipped in their ratings since they clashed at the final of the 2003 Rugby World Cup. England won this famous match with a Jonny Wilkinson dropped goal in the last minutes of the match. They also played a quarter final match at the 2007 Rugby World Cup, another close match finally won by England, putting Australia out of the finals.
Both teams have a lot to play for. Both teams are struggling at the top level of the game and this week has seen plenty of gamesmanship between the teams especially over their respective forward packs. England once had a pack that could easily crush the Wallabies but tomorrow things could be different.
Last Five Encounters
06.10.2007 England 12-10 in Marseilles (World Cup, Quarter final)
17.06.2006 Australia 34-18 in Melbourne (Cook Cup)
11.06.2006 Australia 34-3 in Sydney (Cook Cup)
12.11.2005 England 26-16 at Twickenham (Cook Cup)
27.11.2004 Australia 21-19 at Twickenham (Cook Cup)
GWC Rugby Rankings: Australia 3rd, England 5th
Prediction: Australia by 7 points
Teams
England: 15 Delon Armitage, 14 Paul Sackey, 13 Jamie Noon, 12 Riki Flutey, 11 Ugo Monye, 10 Danny Cipriani, 9 Danny Care, 8 Nick Easter, 7 Tom Rees, 6 Tom Croft, 5 Tom Palmer, 4 Steve Borthwick, 3 Phil Vickery, 2 Lee Mears, 1 Andrew Sheridan. Replacements: 16 Dylan Hartley, 17 Matt Stevens, 18 Simon Shaw, 19 James Haskell, 20 Michael Lipman, 21 Harry Ellis, 22 Toby Flood
Australia: 15 Adam Ashley-Cooper, 14 Peter Hynes, 13 Ryan Cross, 12 Stirling Mortlock, 11 Drew Mitchell, 10 Matt Giteau, 9 Luke Burgess, 8 Richard Brown, 7 George Smith, 6 Hugh McMeniman, 5 Nathan Sharpe, 4 Mark Chisholm, 3 Al Baxter, 2 Stephen Moore, 1 Benn Robinson. Replacements: 16 Tatafu Polota-Nau, 17 Matt Dunning, 18 Dean Mumm, 19 Wycliff Palu, 20 Sam Cordingley, 21 Quade Cooper, 22 Digby Ioane.
Thanks to http://www.planet-rugby.com/Story/0,18259,3551_4497100,00.html
I regret that time restrictions will result in limited coverage
Australia v England at Twickenham
Preview
There was a time when a clash between these two would have been a clash between the two best rugby nations. Sadly, both teams have slipped in their ratings since they clashed at the final of the 2003 Rugby World Cup. England won this famous match with a Jonny Wilkinson dropped goal in the last minutes of the match. They also played a quarter final match at the 2007 Rugby World Cup, another close match finally won by England, putting Australia out of the finals.
Both teams have a lot to play for. Both teams are struggling at the top level of the game and this week has seen plenty of gamesmanship between the teams especially over their respective forward packs. England once had a pack that could easily crush the Wallabies but tomorrow things could be different.
Last Five Encounters
06.10.2007 England 12-10 in Marseilles (World Cup, Quarter final)
17.06.2006 Australia 34-18 in Melbourne (Cook Cup)
11.06.2006 Australia 34-3 in Sydney (Cook Cup)
12.11.2005 England 26-16 at Twickenham (Cook Cup)
27.11.2004 Australia 21-19 at Twickenham (Cook Cup)
GWC Rugby Rankings: Australia 3rd, England 5th
Prediction: Australia by 7 points
Teams
England: 15 Delon Armitage, 14 Paul Sackey, 13 Jamie Noon, 12 Riki Flutey, 11 Ugo Monye, 10 Danny Cipriani, 9 Danny Care, 8 Nick Easter, 7 Tom Rees, 6 Tom Croft, 5 Tom Palmer, 4 Steve Borthwick, 3 Phil Vickery, 2 Lee Mears, 1 Andrew Sheridan. Replacements: 16 Dylan Hartley, 17 Matt Stevens, 18 Simon Shaw, 19 James Haskell, 20 Michael Lipman, 21 Harry Ellis, 22 Toby Flood
Australia: 15 Adam Ashley-Cooper, 14 Peter Hynes, 13 Ryan Cross, 12 Stirling Mortlock, 11 Drew Mitchell, 10 Matt Giteau, 9 Luke Burgess, 8 Richard Brown, 7 George Smith, 6 Hugh McMeniman, 5 Nathan Sharpe, 4 Mark Chisholm, 3 Al Baxter, 2 Stephen Moore, 1 Benn Robinson. Replacements: 16 Tatafu Polota-Nau, 17 Matt Dunning, 18 Dean Mumm, 19 Wycliff Palu, 20 Sam Cordingley, 21 Quade Cooper, 22 Digby Ioane.
Thanks to http://www.planet-rugby.com/Story/0,18259,3551_4497100,00.html
I regret that time restrictions will result in limited coverage
Test Rugby: Argentina v Italy
15.11.2008
Argentina v Italy in Turin
Preview
This match takes on considerable importance as it gives both teams an opportunity to make up for the disappointments of last weekend. Argentina just lost out to France whilst Italy also pushed the Wallabies very close.
The pressure is perhaps more on Argentina. After their resounding successes at the 2007 Rugby World Cup, the Pumas are struggling to reassert themselves on the international stage. They lost to Italy the last time they met, in Cordoba back in June. With news out this week putting them in contention to be included in the Tri Nations tournament, the Pumas simply have to perform.
As the underdogs, Italy has just a little less at stake. Perhaps the Italian fans are getting impatient for some consistent success. Italy has struggled at the top level of international rugby since their inclusion into the International Championship, now called the 6 Nations.
Last Five Encounters
28.06.2008 Italy 13-12 in Cordoba
09.06.2007 Argentina 24-6 in Mendoza
18.11.2006 Argentina 23-16 in Rome
19.11.2005 Argentina 39-22 in Genoa
17.06.2005 Italy 30-29 in Cordoba.
GWC Rugby Rankings: World Table-Italy 7th, Argentina 9th
Prediction: Argentina by 7 points.
Teams
Italy
15 Andrea Masi (Biarritz Olympique, France) Age 27, 43 Caps
14 Kaine Robertson (Montepaschi Viadana) 28, 33
13 Matteo Pratichetti (Cammi Calvisano) 23, 10
12 Gonzalo Garcia (Cammi Calvisano) 24, 3
11 Mirco Bergamasco (Stade Français, France) 25, 54
10 Andrea Marcato (Benetton Treviso) 25, 9
9 Pablo Canavosio (Montepaschi Viadana) 26, 21
8 Sergio Parisse Capt. (Stade Français, France) 25, 55
7 Mauro Bergamasco (Stade Français, France) 29, 64
6 Josh Sole (Montepaschi Viadana) 28, 31
5 Marco Bortolami (Gloucester RFC, England) 28, 68
4 Carlo Antonio Del Fava (Ulster, Ireland) 27, 31
3 Carlos Nieto (Gloucester RFC, England) 32, 27
2 Fabio Ongaro (Saracens, England) 31, 56
1 Matias Aguero (Saracens, England) 28, 9
Replacements
16 Leonardo Ghiraldini (Cammi Calvisano) 23, 14
17 Andrea Lo Cicero (Racing Metro Paris ) 31, 76
18 Salvatore Perugini (Stade Toulousain, France) 30, 53
19 Tommaso Reato (Femi CZ Rovigo) 23, 4
20 Pietro Travagli (Overmach Parma) 27, 7
21 Luciano Orquera (Brive, France) 27, 11
22 Luke Mclean (Cammi Calvisano) 21, 2
Head Coach: Nik Mallet
Argentina
15 Bernardo Stortoni (Glasgow Warriors, Scotland) Age 30, 24 tests
14 Federico Martin Aramburu (Perpignan, France) 28, 17
13 Gonzalo Tiesi (Harlequins, England) 23, 17
12 Felipe Contepomi, Capt. (Leinster, Ireland) 30, 65
11 Rafael Carballo (Castres Olympique, France) 26, 4
10 Juan Martin Hernandez (Stade Francais, France) 26, 29
9 Nicolas Vergallo (Dax, France) 24, 12
8 Juan Martin Fernandez Lobbe (Sale Sharks, England) 26, 26
7 Rimas Alvarez Kairelis (Perpignan, France) 33, 41
6 Martin Durand (Champagnat) 31, 59
5 Patricio Albacete (Stade Toulousian, France) 27, 27
4 Esteban Lozada (Toulon, France) 26, 11
3 Juan Pablo Orlandi (Rovigo, Italy) 25, 1
2 Mario Ledesma (ASM Clermont Auvergne, France) 35, 67
1 Rodrigo Roncero (Stade Francais, France) 31, 30
Replacements
16 Alberto Basualdo (Stade Toulousian, France) 25, 9
17 Marcos Ayerza (Leicester Tigers, England) 25, 19
18 Alvaro Galindo (Beziers, France) 26, 5
19 Alejandro Campos (Pueyrredon) 25, 3
20 Agustin Figuerola (Club Atletico San Isidro) 23, New Cap
21 Santiago Fernandez (Hindu) 22, New Cap
22 Horacio Agulla (Brive, France) 23, 15
Head Coach: Santiago Phelan
For lists of all international rugby tests played by Argentina, and by Italy, go to www.rugbyinternational.net
Argentina v Italy in Turin
Preview
This match takes on considerable importance as it gives both teams an opportunity to make up for the disappointments of last weekend. Argentina just lost out to France whilst Italy also pushed the Wallabies very close.
The pressure is perhaps more on Argentina. After their resounding successes at the 2007 Rugby World Cup, the Pumas are struggling to reassert themselves on the international stage. They lost to Italy the last time they met, in Cordoba back in June. With news out this week putting them in contention to be included in the Tri Nations tournament, the Pumas simply have to perform.
As the underdogs, Italy has just a little less at stake. Perhaps the Italian fans are getting impatient for some consistent success. Italy has struggled at the top level of international rugby since their inclusion into the International Championship, now called the 6 Nations.
Last Five Encounters
28.06.2008 Italy 13-12 in Cordoba
09.06.2007 Argentina 24-6 in Mendoza
18.11.2006 Argentina 23-16 in Rome
19.11.2005 Argentina 39-22 in Genoa
17.06.2005 Italy 30-29 in Cordoba.
GWC Rugby Rankings: World Table-Italy 7th, Argentina 9th
Prediction: Argentina by 7 points.
Teams
Italy
15 Andrea Masi (Biarritz Olympique, France) Age 27, 43 Caps
14 Kaine Robertson (Montepaschi Viadana) 28, 33
13 Matteo Pratichetti (Cammi Calvisano) 23, 10
12 Gonzalo Garcia (Cammi Calvisano) 24, 3
11 Mirco Bergamasco (Stade Français, France) 25, 54
10 Andrea Marcato (Benetton Treviso) 25, 9
9 Pablo Canavosio (Montepaschi Viadana) 26, 21
8 Sergio Parisse Capt. (Stade Français, France) 25, 55
7 Mauro Bergamasco (Stade Français, France) 29, 64
6 Josh Sole (Montepaschi Viadana) 28, 31
5 Marco Bortolami (Gloucester RFC, England) 28, 68
4 Carlo Antonio Del Fava (Ulster, Ireland) 27, 31
3 Carlos Nieto (Gloucester RFC, England) 32, 27
2 Fabio Ongaro (Saracens, England) 31, 56
1 Matias Aguero (Saracens, England) 28, 9
Replacements
16 Leonardo Ghiraldini (Cammi Calvisano) 23, 14
17 Andrea Lo Cicero (Racing Metro Paris ) 31, 76
18 Salvatore Perugini (Stade Toulousain, France) 30, 53
19 Tommaso Reato (Femi CZ Rovigo) 23, 4
20 Pietro Travagli (Overmach Parma) 27, 7
21 Luciano Orquera (Brive, France) 27, 11
22 Luke Mclean (Cammi Calvisano) 21, 2
Head Coach: Nik Mallet
Argentina
15 Bernardo Stortoni (Glasgow Warriors, Scotland) Age 30, 24 tests
14 Federico Martin Aramburu (Perpignan, France) 28, 17
13 Gonzalo Tiesi (Harlequins, England) 23, 17
12 Felipe Contepomi, Capt. (Leinster, Ireland) 30, 65
11 Rafael Carballo (Castres Olympique, France) 26, 4
10 Juan Martin Hernandez (Stade Francais, France) 26, 29
9 Nicolas Vergallo (Dax, France) 24, 12
8 Juan Martin Fernandez Lobbe (Sale Sharks, England) 26, 26
7 Rimas Alvarez Kairelis (Perpignan, France) 33, 41
6 Martin Durand (Champagnat) 31, 59
5 Patricio Albacete (Stade Toulousian, France) 27, 27
4 Esteban Lozada (Toulon, France) 26, 11
3 Juan Pablo Orlandi (Rovigo, Italy) 25, 1
2 Mario Ledesma (ASM Clermont Auvergne, France) 35, 67
1 Rodrigo Roncero (Stade Francais, France) 31, 30
Replacements
16 Alberto Basualdo (Stade Toulousian, France) 25, 9
17 Marcos Ayerza (Leicester Tigers, England) 25, 19
18 Alvaro Galindo (Beziers, France) 26, 5
19 Alejandro Campos (Pueyrredon) 25, 3
20 Agustin Figuerola (Club Atletico San Isidro) 23, New Cap
21 Santiago Fernandez (Hindu) 22, New Cap
22 Horacio Agulla (Brive, France) 23, 15
Head Coach: Santiago Phelan
For lists of all international rugby tests played by Argentina, and by Italy, go to www.rugbyinternational.net
Test Rugby: Germany v Spain
15.11.2008
Germany v Spain in Madrid (WCQ Europe R1; ENC 1)
Preview
A German team, without a number of their top players, lost 14-27 to A Welsh Clubs XV in Berlin last weekend. The team for this week's game will be much stronger including a number of top players from French clubs, including outstanding player Robert Mohr. This match will be Germany's first test match in the top division of European rugby and will go a long way to test whether the Germans are up to this level of international rugby.
Spain lost 15-42 away to Russia last weekend and will be looking to recover with a sound win at home. They have left out 4 of the players who travelled to Russia, replacing htem with 3 new caps and experienced back Jamie Nava
Previous Encounters
27.05.2006 Spain 36-10 in Madrid (WCQ Euro. R3, Playoff 2nd leg)
13.05.2006 Germany 18-6 in Heidelberg (WCQ Euro. R3, Playoff 1st leg)
26.04.1998 Spain 24-9 in Hannover (WCQ Euro.Pool 3, Rd B)
24.11.1996 Spain 25-17 in Heidelberg (FIRA, Pool A)
13.11.1994 Spain 29-10 in Hannover 9Friendly?)
The last time these two teams met is was for a place in the next round of World Cup 2007 qualifiers. Germany suprised the rugby world with their win in Heidelberg but Spain ran away with the return game in Madrid. You have to go back 12 years before you'll find a European competition between these two teams.
GWC Rugby Rankings: Europe Table-Spain 10th, Germany 12th
Prediction: Spain by 14 points
Teams
Germany
15 Edemoore Takendesa (RG Heidelberg)
14 Matthieu Franke (RC Orleans, France)
13 Kieron Davies (Luton RFC, England)
12 Colin Grzanna (Berliner RC)
11 Clemens von Grumbkow (RC Orleans, France)
10 Thorsten Wiedemann (TSV Handschuhsheim)
9 Mustafa Güngör (RG Heidelberg)
8 Robert Mohr (La Rochelle, France)
7 Gerrit van Look (Berliner RC )
6 Timothy Kasten (Southend RFC, England)
5 Jens Schmidt, Capt. (TSV Handschuhsheim)
4 Bodo Sieber (Univ. of Capetown RFC, Sth. Africa)
3 Alexander Widiker (RC Orleans, France)
2 Timothy Coly (RG Heidelberg)
1 Benjamin Krause (Hannover 78 / 08 Ricklingen)
Replacements
16 Christian Baracat (SC Neuenheim)
17 Marcus Trick (SC Neuenheim)
18 Benjamin Danso (DRC Hannover )
19 Manuel Wilhelm (RG Heidelberg)
20 Lars Eckert (SC Neuenheim)
21 Marten Strauch (SC Neuenheim)
22 Markus Walger (RK Heusenstamm)
Head Coach: Rudolf Finsterer
http://www.totalrugby.de/
http://www.fira-aer-rugby.com/forum2007/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=2909
Spain squad
César Bernasconi (CRC Madrid) Age 32, 16 tests
José Mª Bohorquez (CR Ciencias) 32, 22
Rafael Camacho (CR Ciencias) 30, 25
Juan Cano (CRC Madrid) 23, 17
Javier Canosa (CRC Madrid) 25, 28
Iván Criado (Cetransa El Salvador) 28, 50
Pablo Feijoo (CRC Madrid) 26, 43
Leandro Fernández-Aramburu (CR Ciencias) 28, 7
Juan González (CRC Madrid) 26, 24
Sergio Guerrero (UE Santboiana) New Cap*
Sebastián Hattori (CR Ciencias) 26, New Cap
Ion Insausti (Cetransa El Salvador) 24, 21
Juan Gónzalez Marruecos (CR Ciencias) 22, 2
Ignacio Martín (Gran Parma RC, Italy) 24, 23
Manuel Mazo (CR Ciencias) 23, 11
Igor Mirones (Getxo Artea RT) New Cap*
David Mota (CRC Madrid) 22, 19 *
Jaime Nava (Centransa El Salvador) 25, 24*
Marco Pinto (Clermont Auvergne, France) 20, 1
Camille Riu (UE Santboiana) New Cap*
Javier Salazar (CRC Madrid) 31, 54
César Sempere (CRC Madrid) 23, 31
Sergio Souto (Cetransa El Salvador) 31, 43
Matías Tudela (CRC Madrid) 24, 2
Head Coach: Ged Glynn
* Did not travel to Russia
http://www.fira-aer-rugby.com/forum2007/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=2909
For lists of all international rugby tests played by Germany, and by Spain, go to http://www.rugbyinternational.net/
Germany v Spain in Madrid (WCQ Europe R1; ENC 1)
Preview
A German team, without a number of their top players, lost 14-27 to A Welsh Clubs XV in Berlin last weekend. The team for this week's game will be much stronger including a number of top players from French clubs, including outstanding player Robert Mohr. This match will be Germany's first test match in the top division of European rugby and will go a long way to test whether the Germans are up to this level of international rugby.
Spain lost 15-42 away to Russia last weekend and will be looking to recover with a sound win at home. They have left out 4 of the players who travelled to Russia, replacing htem with 3 new caps and experienced back Jamie Nava
Previous Encounters
27.05.2006 Spain 36-10 in Madrid (WCQ Euro. R3, Playoff 2nd leg)
13.05.2006 Germany 18-6 in Heidelberg (WCQ Euro. R3, Playoff 1st leg)
26.04.1998 Spain 24-9 in Hannover (WCQ Euro.Pool 3, Rd B)
24.11.1996 Spain 25-17 in Heidelberg (FIRA, Pool A)
13.11.1994 Spain 29-10 in Hannover 9Friendly?)
The last time these two teams met is was for a place in the next round of World Cup 2007 qualifiers. Germany suprised the rugby world with their win in Heidelberg but Spain ran away with the return game in Madrid. You have to go back 12 years before you'll find a European competition between these two teams.
GWC Rugby Rankings: Europe Table-Spain 10th, Germany 12th
Prediction: Spain by 14 points
Teams
Germany
15 Edemoore Takendesa (RG Heidelberg)
14 Matthieu Franke (RC Orleans, France)
13 Kieron Davies (Luton RFC, England)
12 Colin Grzanna (Berliner RC)
11 Clemens von Grumbkow (RC Orleans, France)
10 Thorsten Wiedemann (TSV Handschuhsheim)
9 Mustafa Güngör (RG Heidelberg)
8 Robert Mohr (La Rochelle, France)
7 Gerrit van Look (Berliner RC )
6 Timothy Kasten (Southend RFC, England)
5 Jens Schmidt, Capt. (TSV Handschuhsheim)
4 Bodo Sieber (Univ. of Capetown RFC, Sth. Africa)
3 Alexander Widiker (RC Orleans, France)
2 Timothy Coly (RG Heidelberg)
1 Benjamin Krause (Hannover 78 / 08 Ricklingen)
Replacements
16 Christian Baracat (SC Neuenheim)
17 Marcus Trick (SC Neuenheim)
18 Benjamin Danso (DRC Hannover )
19 Manuel Wilhelm (RG Heidelberg)
20 Lars Eckert (SC Neuenheim)
21 Marten Strauch (SC Neuenheim)
22 Markus Walger (RK Heusenstamm)
Head Coach: Rudolf Finsterer
http://www.totalrugby.de/
http://www.fira-aer-rugby.com/forum2007/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=2909
Spain squad
César Bernasconi (CRC Madrid) Age 32, 16 tests
José Mª Bohorquez (CR Ciencias) 32, 22
Rafael Camacho (CR Ciencias) 30, 25
Juan Cano (CRC Madrid) 23, 17
Javier Canosa (CRC Madrid) 25, 28
Iván Criado (Cetransa El Salvador) 28, 50
Pablo Feijoo (CRC Madrid) 26, 43
Leandro Fernández-Aramburu (CR Ciencias) 28, 7
Juan González (CRC Madrid) 26, 24
Sergio Guerrero (UE Santboiana) New Cap*
Sebastián Hattori (CR Ciencias) 26, New Cap
Ion Insausti (Cetransa El Salvador) 24, 21
Juan Gónzalez Marruecos (CR Ciencias) 22, 2
Ignacio Martín (Gran Parma RC, Italy) 24, 23
Manuel Mazo (CR Ciencias) 23, 11
Igor Mirones (Getxo Artea RT) New Cap*
David Mota (CRC Madrid) 22, 19 *
Jaime Nava (Centransa El Salvador) 25, 24*
Marco Pinto (Clermont Auvergne, France) 20, 1
Camille Riu (UE Santboiana) New Cap*
Javier Salazar (CRC Madrid) 31, 54
César Sempere (CRC Madrid) 23, 31
Sergio Souto (Cetransa El Salvador) 31, 43
Matías Tudela (CRC Madrid) 24, 2
Head Coach: Ged Glynn
* Did not travel to Russia
http://www.fira-aer-rugby.com/forum2007/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=2909
For lists of all international rugby tests played by Germany, and by Spain, go to http://www.rugbyinternational.net/
Test Match: Sri Lanka v China Taipei
15.11.2008
Sri Lanka v China Taipei in Tainan (Asia Nations Div.1)
Preview
Sri Lanka only needs to defeat China Taipei by 2 points or more to take out the honours in this winner takes all tournament. Sr Lanka drew 20-20 with Singapore last Tuesday, then Singapore defeated China Taipei 23-22 Thursday to create an interesting finale to this tournament.
China withdrew earlier this week in circumstances believed to be over passport arrangements into China Taipei. China regards this island nation as a part of China whereas the Taiwanese regard themselves as being independent. It begs the question ,yet unanswered, as to where does this leave China? Are they out of the competition now completely, or are they still in?
Previous Encounters
13.10.2002 China Taipei 56-18 in Pusan (Asia Games, Bronze Medal)
18.12.1998 China Taipei 28-10 in Bangkok (Asia Games, Bronze Medal)
17.01.1998 China Taipei 31-27 in Bangkok (WCQ Asia Round B)
26.10.1994 China Taipei 25-9 in Kuala Lumper (14th Asia Camp.)
20.09.1992 China Taipei 35-9 in Hong Kong (13th Asia Champ.)
Sri Lanka has only defeated China Taipei once, and that was back in 1990 when the Sri Lankans caused an upset to defeat the Taiwanese 9-6 on home soil in Colombo. This was where the 12th Asia Championships was held. Perhaps history is about to be made.
GWC Rugby Rankings: Asia Table-Sri lanka 6th, China Taipei 9th
Prediction: I just can't see the Chinese letting this one slip away. China Taipei by 3 points.
Teams
Sri Lanka Squad
Amjad Buksh (Ceylon Rugby & Football Club)
Sashika Cooray (CH and FC)
Ashan de Costa (Ceylon Rugby & Football Club)
Lasintha de Costa (Ceylon Rugby & Football Club)
Kasun de Silva (Ceylon Rugby & Football Club)
Shane Dissanayake (CH and FC)
Nilusha Fernando (Police Sports Club)
Bilal Hassen (Royal)
Ashan Karthelis (Ceylon Rugby & Football Club)
Saliya Kumara (Kandy Sports Club)
Dushanth Lewke, Co Capt. (Ceylon Rugby & Football Club)
Nushal Meepage (Army Sports Club)
Shamil Mohamed (Ceylon Rugby & Football Club)
Reza Mubarak (Ceylon Rugby & Football Club)
Achala Perera (CH and FC)
Danushka Perera (Ceylon Rugby & Football Club)
Dinesh Sanjeewa (CH and FC)
Sajith Saranga (Isipatana College)
Mohamed Shariff (Ceylon Rugby & Football Club)
Chula Susantha (Police Sports Club)
Henry Terrance (Ceylon Rugby & Football Club)
Gayan Weeraratne (Kandy Sports Club)
Dilanka Wijesekera, Co Capt. (CH and FC)
Coaches - Dawje Snyman, Norman Laker
http://www.dailynews.lk/2008/11/07/spo11.asp
China Taipei
Not available
For lists of all Sri Lanka international rugby results, and those of China Taipei, go to www.rugbyinternational.net
Sri Lanka v China Taipei in Tainan (Asia Nations Div.1)
Preview
Sri Lanka only needs to defeat China Taipei by 2 points or more to take out the honours in this winner takes all tournament. Sr Lanka drew 20-20 with Singapore last Tuesday, then Singapore defeated China Taipei 23-22 Thursday to create an interesting finale to this tournament.
China withdrew earlier this week in circumstances believed to be over passport arrangements into China Taipei. China regards this island nation as a part of China whereas the Taiwanese regard themselves as being independent. It begs the question ,yet unanswered, as to where does this leave China? Are they out of the competition now completely, or are they still in?
Previous Encounters
13.10.2002 China Taipei 56-18 in Pusan (Asia Games, Bronze Medal)
18.12.1998 China Taipei 28-10 in Bangkok (Asia Games, Bronze Medal)
17.01.1998 China Taipei 31-27 in Bangkok (WCQ Asia Round B)
26.10.1994 China Taipei 25-9 in Kuala Lumper (14th Asia Camp.)
20.09.1992 China Taipei 35-9 in Hong Kong (13th Asia Champ.)
Sri Lanka has only defeated China Taipei once, and that was back in 1990 when the Sri Lankans caused an upset to defeat the Taiwanese 9-6 on home soil in Colombo. This was where the 12th Asia Championships was held. Perhaps history is about to be made.
GWC Rugby Rankings: Asia Table-Sri lanka 6th, China Taipei 9th
Prediction: I just can't see the Chinese letting this one slip away. China Taipei by 3 points.
Teams
Sri Lanka Squad
Amjad Buksh (Ceylon Rugby & Football Club)
Sashika Cooray (CH and FC)
Ashan de Costa (Ceylon Rugby & Football Club)
Lasintha de Costa (Ceylon Rugby & Football Club)
Kasun de Silva (Ceylon Rugby & Football Club)
Shane Dissanayake (CH and FC)
Nilusha Fernando (Police Sports Club)
Bilal Hassen (Royal)
Ashan Karthelis (Ceylon Rugby & Football Club)
Saliya Kumara (Kandy Sports Club)
Dushanth Lewke, Co Capt. (Ceylon Rugby & Football Club)
Nushal Meepage (Army Sports Club)
Shamil Mohamed (Ceylon Rugby & Football Club)
Reza Mubarak (Ceylon Rugby & Football Club)
Achala Perera (CH and FC)
Danushka Perera (Ceylon Rugby & Football Club)
Dinesh Sanjeewa (CH and FC)
Sajith Saranga (Isipatana College)
Mohamed Shariff (Ceylon Rugby & Football Club)
Chula Susantha (Police Sports Club)
Henry Terrance (Ceylon Rugby & Football Club)
Gayan Weeraratne (Kandy Sports Club)
Dilanka Wijesekera, Co Capt. (CH and FC)
Coaches - Dawje Snyman, Norman Laker
http://www.dailynews.lk/2008/11/07/spo11.asp
China Taipei
Not available
For lists of all Sri Lanka international rugby results, and those of China Taipei, go to www.rugbyinternational.net
Rugby Test: Czech Republic v Poland
15.11.2008
Czech Republic v Poland in Ostrava (WCQ Europe R2, ENC 2A)
Preview
This match will be the Czech Republics first challenge in this Division. They were relegated from ENC 1 at the end of last season. This match marks the beginning of their climb back into the top Level of the European Nations Cup. They began the season by ending a long losing streak, defeating Croatia 47-0 last month in a warm up match.
The Poles are already on the board with a narrow 13-12 win over the Ukraine back in early October, whilst the Ukraine lost 8-9 to belgium in another narrow result. So the indications are that there is not much between these teams. I expect the result to be close.
Previous Encounters
04.11.2000 Poland 34-16 in Gdynia (FIRA B)
20.05.2000 Czech Republic 39-13 in Prague (FIRA C)
24.10.1998 Drawn 18-18 in Bezeg Dolny (FIRA Pool E)
14.03.1998 Poland 28-27 in Lodz (Friendly?)
04.04.1997 Czech Republic 39-32 in Olomouc (Friendly?)
These neighbours have not played each other for nearly eight years. Although to long ago to suggest any form, they do indicate a healthy rivalry back at a time when both nations were more or less on equal footings. In that the the Czech Republic climbed into the top level of European rugby only to be back with the Poles again. So, all in all, a most interesting fixture.
GWC Rugby Rankings: Europe Table-Czech Republic 13th, Poland 17th
Prediction: Czech Republic by 7
Teams
Czech Republic
15 Tomáš Nevický (RC Říčany) Age ?, New Cap
14 Jan Rudolf (RC Tatra Smíchov) 24, 8
13 Václav Jursík (Strasbourg, France) 24, 14
12 Jan Kolář (RC Slavia Praha) 1
11 Michal Schlanger (RC Říčany) 24, 16
10 Pavel Vokrouhlík (RC Sparta Praha) 27, 14
9 Vakhtang Pailodze (RC Sparta Praha) ?, 1
8 Jan Macháček (RC Slavia Praha) 36, 52
7 Miroslav Němeček (US Oyonnax, France) 28, 21
6 Josef Bláha (RC Říčany) 31, 12
5 Robert Voves (Narbonne, France) 27, 21
4 Tomáš Holovský (St. Raphael, France) ?, 2
3 Jan Benda (RC Sparta Praha) ?, 8
2 Ondřej Kutil (US Oyonnax, France) ?, 5
1 Lukáš Rapant (US Oyonnax, France) 25, 15
Replacements
16 Jiří Skall (RC Sparta Praha) 35, 68
17 Roman Šuster (RC Rouen, France) 30, 24
18 Martin Wognitsch (US Oyonnax, France) ?, 1
19 Tomáš Veniger (RC Tatra Smíchov) ?, 4
20 Jiří Buryánek (RC Dragon Brno) 30, 23
21 Tomáš Forst (RC Praga) ?, 1
22 Petr Okleštěk, (Auxerre, France) ?, New Cap
Head Coach: Martin Kafka
Rapant last played for Czech Republic v Spain in September 2006
Adapted from http://www.rugby.cz/ostrava-se-pripravu ... ika-polsko and http://www.fira-aer-rugby.com/forum2007/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=2910
Poland Squad
Dawid Banaszek (Bourgoin, France)
Romuald Berthe (?)
Kamil Bobryk( Budowlani Lodz)
Jurij Buhało (Posnania)
Grzegorz Falk (Juvenia Kraków)
Donald Gargasson (Toulon, France)
Tomasz Hebda (?)
Krzysztof Hotowski (Beaurepaire, France)
Michał Królikowski (Budowlani Lodz)
Michał Krużycki (Bourgoin, France)
Stanislas Krzesinski (Albi, France)
Fabien Kwarta (U.S. Morlaas Rugby, France)
Yaan Levandowski (Cahors, France)
Wojciech Łukasiewicz (Folc AZS Warszawa)
Ciril Monarcha (C.A. Riberacois, France)
Mariusz Motyl (Arka Gdynia)
Paweł Nowak (Arka Gdynia)
Konrad Pisarek (Orkan Sochaczew)
Kazimierz Raszpunda (Pogoń Siedlce)
Bastien Siepielski (?)
Łukasz Szostek (Arka Gdynia)
Cedric Vaissiere (Albi, France)
Marcin Wilczuk (Old Belvedere, Ireland)
Etienne Zyk (Clermont, France)
Head Coach: Tomasz Putra
http://www.pzrugby.pl/seniorzy.reprezentacja.html
For lists of all international rugby tests played by Czech Republic, and by Poland, go to www.rugbyinternational.net
Czech Republic v Poland in Ostrava (WCQ Europe R2, ENC 2A)
Preview
This match will be the Czech Republics first challenge in this Division. They were relegated from ENC 1 at the end of last season. This match marks the beginning of their climb back into the top Level of the European Nations Cup. They began the season by ending a long losing streak, defeating Croatia 47-0 last month in a warm up match.
The Poles are already on the board with a narrow 13-12 win over the Ukraine back in early October, whilst the Ukraine lost 8-9 to belgium in another narrow result. So the indications are that there is not much between these teams. I expect the result to be close.
Previous Encounters
04.11.2000 Poland 34-16 in Gdynia (FIRA B)
20.05.2000 Czech Republic 39-13 in Prague (FIRA C)
24.10.1998 Drawn 18-18 in Bezeg Dolny (FIRA Pool E)
14.03.1998 Poland 28-27 in Lodz (Friendly?)
04.04.1997 Czech Republic 39-32 in Olomouc (Friendly?)
These neighbours have not played each other for nearly eight years. Although to long ago to suggest any form, they do indicate a healthy rivalry back at a time when both nations were more or less on equal footings. In that the the Czech Republic climbed into the top level of European rugby only to be back with the Poles again. So, all in all, a most interesting fixture.
GWC Rugby Rankings: Europe Table-Czech Republic 13th, Poland 17th
Prediction: Czech Republic by 7
Teams
Czech Republic
15 Tomáš Nevický (RC Říčany) Age ?, New Cap
14 Jan Rudolf (RC Tatra Smíchov) 24, 8
13 Václav Jursík (Strasbourg, France) 24, 14
12 Jan Kolář (RC Slavia Praha) 1
11 Michal Schlanger (RC Říčany) 24, 16
10 Pavel Vokrouhlík (RC Sparta Praha) 27, 14
9 Vakhtang Pailodze (RC Sparta Praha) ?, 1
8 Jan Macháček (RC Slavia Praha) 36, 52
7 Miroslav Němeček (US Oyonnax, France) 28, 21
6 Josef Bláha (RC Říčany) 31, 12
5 Robert Voves (Narbonne, France) 27, 21
4 Tomáš Holovský (St. Raphael, France) ?, 2
3 Jan Benda (RC Sparta Praha) ?, 8
2 Ondřej Kutil (US Oyonnax, France) ?, 5
1 Lukáš Rapant (US Oyonnax, France) 25, 15
Replacements
16 Jiří Skall (RC Sparta Praha) 35, 68
17 Roman Šuster (RC Rouen, France) 30, 24
18 Martin Wognitsch (US Oyonnax, France) ?, 1
19 Tomáš Veniger (RC Tatra Smíchov) ?, 4
20 Jiří Buryánek (RC Dragon Brno) 30, 23
21 Tomáš Forst (RC Praga) ?, 1
22 Petr Okleštěk, (Auxerre, France) ?, New Cap
Head Coach: Martin Kafka
Rapant last played for Czech Republic v Spain in September 2006
Adapted from http://www.rugby.cz/ostrava-se-pripravu ... ika-polsko and http://www.fira-aer-rugby.com/forum2007/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=2910
Poland Squad
Dawid Banaszek (Bourgoin, France)
Romuald Berthe (?)
Kamil Bobryk( Budowlani Lodz)
Jurij Buhało (Posnania)
Grzegorz Falk (Juvenia Kraków)
Donald Gargasson (Toulon, France)
Tomasz Hebda (?)
Krzysztof Hotowski (Beaurepaire, France)
Michał Królikowski (Budowlani Lodz)
Michał Krużycki (Bourgoin, France)
Stanislas Krzesinski (Albi, France)
Fabien Kwarta (U.S. Morlaas Rugby, France)
Yaan Levandowski (Cahors, France)
Wojciech Łukasiewicz (Folc AZS Warszawa)
Ciril Monarcha (C.A. Riberacois, France)
Mariusz Motyl (Arka Gdynia)
Paweł Nowak (Arka Gdynia)
Konrad Pisarek (Orkan Sochaczew)
Kazimierz Raszpunda (Pogoń Siedlce)
Bastien Siepielski (?)
Łukasz Szostek (Arka Gdynia)
Cedric Vaissiere (Albi, France)
Marcin Wilczuk (Old Belvedere, Ireland)
Etienne Zyk (Clermont, France)
Head Coach: Tomasz Putra
http://www.pzrugby.pl/seniorzy.reprezentacja.html
For lists of all international rugby tests played by Czech Republic, and by Poland, go to www.rugbyinternational.net
Test Match: Lithuania v Switzerland
15.11.2008
Lithuania v Switzerland in Vilnius (WCQ Europe R4; ENC 3A)
Preview
Lithuania has already caused other nations in this division to take notice. A convincing 26-10 win away over Andorra, who were relegated from ENC 2B last season, has put the Lithuanians into the lead. A home win seems more likely.
Switzerland defeated the German Under 21 side back in September and were expected to set the pace at this level. It makes this match even more compelling.
These two teams have only met once before. Switzerland won a close game 23-21 in Switzerland in 1998 as part of the then FIRA seeding process.
GWC Rugby Rankings: Lithuania 23rd, Switzerland 26th
Prediction: Lithuania too strong at home, to win by 12 points.
Teams
Lithuania Squad
Tomas Astrauskas (RC Salda Siauliai)
Dainius Baltrukenas (RC Klevas Panevezys)
Rokas Daknys (RC Vairas Siauliai)
Ignas Darkintis (RC Vairas Siauliai)
Mindaugas Grigas (RC BaltRex Siauliai)
Vilius Kucinas (RC Vairas Siauliai)
Irmantą Kukulskį (RC BaltRex Siauliai)
Gediminas Liutkus (RC BaltRex Siauliai)
Kestutis Marcisauskas (RC Vairas Siauliai)
Andrius Martinskas (RC Vairas Siauliai)
Mindaugas Misevicius (RC Vairas Siauliai)
Darius Nosys (RC Vairas Siauliai)
Egidijus Petronis (RC Kursiai Klaipeda)
Žygimantą Radžių (RC Salda Siauliai)
Audrius Ramancionis (RC Vairas Siauliai)
Edmundas Scavinskas (RC BaltRex Siauliai)
Paulių Šertvytį (RC BaltRex Siauliai)
Donatas Streckis (RC Kursiai Klaipeda)
Augustiną Terlecką (RC "Geležinis Vilkas" Vilniaus)
Laurynas Tipelis (RC BaltRex Siauliai)
Justinas Vasiliauskas (RC Vairas Siauliai)
Tomas Zibolis (RC BaltRex Siauliai)
Edvardą Žilių (RC BaltRex Siauliai)
Head coach - Anatolijus Smirnovas
Lithuania squad from http://www.kaunas.lt/regbis/
“Seems that Mariaus Andrijausko, Gedimino Marcišausko, Mindaugo Šiumberevičiaus, Aleksandro Čiuchlejaus and Tomo Stungio who were in squad for Andorra are all unavailable”
http://www.fira-aer-rugby.com/forum2007/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=2913
Swiss Team
Not available
For lists of international rugby results played by Lithuania, and by Switzerland, go to www.rugbyinternational.net
Lithuania v Switzerland in Vilnius (WCQ Europe R4; ENC 3A)
Preview
Lithuania has already caused other nations in this division to take notice. A convincing 26-10 win away over Andorra, who were relegated from ENC 2B last season, has put the Lithuanians into the lead. A home win seems more likely.
Switzerland defeated the German Under 21 side back in September and were expected to set the pace at this level. It makes this match even more compelling.
These two teams have only met once before. Switzerland won a close game 23-21 in Switzerland in 1998 as part of the then FIRA seeding process.
GWC Rugby Rankings: Lithuania 23rd, Switzerland 26th
Prediction: Lithuania too strong at home, to win by 12 points.
Teams
Lithuania Squad
Tomas Astrauskas (RC Salda Siauliai)
Dainius Baltrukenas (RC Klevas Panevezys)
Rokas Daknys (RC Vairas Siauliai)
Ignas Darkintis (RC Vairas Siauliai)
Mindaugas Grigas (RC BaltRex Siauliai)
Vilius Kucinas (RC Vairas Siauliai)
Irmantą Kukulskį (RC BaltRex Siauliai)
Gediminas Liutkus (RC BaltRex Siauliai)
Kestutis Marcisauskas (RC Vairas Siauliai)
Andrius Martinskas (RC Vairas Siauliai)
Mindaugas Misevicius (RC Vairas Siauliai)
Darius Nosys (RC Vairas Siauliai)
Egidijus Petronis (RC Kursiai Klaipeda)
Žygimantą Radžių (RC Salda Siauliai)
Audrius Ramancionis (RC Vairas Siauliai)
Edmundas Scavinskas (RC BaltRex Siauliai)
Paulių Šertvytį (RC BaltRex Siauliai)
Donatas Streckis (RC Kursiai Klaipeda)
Augustiną Terlecką (RC "Geležinis Vilkas" Vilniaus)
Laurynas Tipelis (RC BaltRex Siauliai)
Justinas Vasiliauskas (RC Vairas Siauliai)
Tomas Zibolis (RC BaltRex Siauliai)
Edvardą Žilių (RC BaltRex Siauliai)
Head coach - Anatolijus Smirnovas
Lithuania squad from http://www.kaunas.lt/regbis/
“Seems that Mariaus Andrijausko, Gedimino Marcišausko, Mindaugo Šiumberevičiaus, Aleksandro Čiuchlejaus and Tomo Stungio who were in squad for Andorra are all unavailable”
http://www.fira-aer-rugby.com/forum2007/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=2913
Swiss Team
Not available
For lists of international rugby results played by Lithuania, and by Switzerland, go to www.rugbyinternational.net
Test Rugby: Israel v Bulgaria
15.11.2008
Israel v Bulgaria in Pernik (WCQ Europe R5; ENC 3C)
Preview
Israels last test match was against Cyprus back in early September. That match was carried over from earlier in the year, being the ENC 3C-3D playoff. The Israeli 23-14 win lifted them into ENC 3C.
This match is Bulgaria's first for the new season. Last season they were relegated from ENC 3B. The Bulgarians are a tough team to play on their home soil, managing wins at home over Austria and Norway since 2006.
Previous Encounters
08.06.2003 Bulgaria 25-23 in Ibisa, Spain (ENC 3C, Final)
21.05.2000 Israel 37-16 in Herzliya (FIRA D2)
24.04.1999 Isreal 11-10 in Sofia (FIRA D)
There was a time a few years ago when these two teams met in some stirring encounters, famous of which was the ENC 3C final back in 2003 when 3C was the emerging nations division and was held on the Spanish Island of Ibiza in the Balearic Islands. A close encounter saw a Bulgarian win and a promotion. The two teams are now back together again in the same division. I suspect the Bulgarians will be too strong at home.
GWC Rugby Rankings: Europe Table-Bulgaria 32nd, Israel 37th.
Prediction: Bulgaria by 30 points
Teams
Not available
For lists of all international rugby tests played by Israel and by Bulgaria go to http://www.rugbyinternational.net/
Israel v Bulgaria in Pernik (WCQ Europe R5; ENC 3C)
Preview
Israels last test match was against Cyprus back in early September. That match was carried over from earlier in the year, being the ENC 3C-3D playoff. The Israeli 23-14 win lifted them into ENC 3C.
This match is Bulgaria's first for the new season. Last season they were relegated from ENC 3B. The Bulgarians are a tough team to play on their home soil, managing wins at home over Austria and Norway since 2006.
Previous Encounters
08.06.2003 Bulgaria 25-23 in Ibisa, Spain (ENC 3C, Final)
21.05.2000 Israel 37-16 in Herzliya (FIRA D2)
24.04.1999 Isreal 11-10 in Sofia (FIRA D)
There was a time a few years ago when these two teams met in some stirring encounters, famous of which was the ENC 3C final back in 2003 when 3C was the emerging nations division and was held on the Spanish Island of Ibiza in the Balearic Islands. A close encounter saw a Bulgarian win and a promotion. The two teams are now back together again in the same division. I suspect the Bulgarians will be too strong at home.
GWC Rugby Rankings: Europe Table-Bulgaria 32nd, Israel 37th.
Prediction: Bulgaria by 30 points
Teams
Not available
For lists of all international rugby tests played by Israel and by Bulgaria go to http://www.rugbyinternational.net/
Rugby Test: Slovakia v Bosnia Herzegovina
15.11.2008
Slovakia v Bosnia Herzegovina (ENC 3D)
Preview
ENC Divison 3D is the only level of European international rugby that does not qualify for 2011 Rugby World Cup qualification. The incentive is to be the leading side after 2 rounds (2 seasons) and thus be able to be in the World Cup qualifying rounds for 2015.
At this early stage Bosnia Herzegovina, relegated from ENC 3C, look to be way out in front. Their 52-5 win over Monaco, away, back in October, confirmed that. This is their second away game and , provided they can travel with much the same squad that went to Monaco, they should win again.
Slovakia lost to Cyprus 8-38 last year in Cyprus and Cyprus had earlier defeated Monaco 19-10 to give some idea of Slovakia's strength. Most of Slovakia's players either play for the only club in Bratislava or for Czech clubs over the border but they will find the Bosnians too slick.
This is the first time these two teams have met.
GWC Rugby Rankings: Europe Table-Bosnia Herzegovina 38th, Slovakia 40th
Prediction: Bosnia Herzegovina by 40 points.
Teams
Slovakia Squad
Martin Čmiel (RC Havířov, Czech Republic) 2 tests
Ondřej Hankovski (Sokol Mariánské Hory, Czech Rep.) 4
Richard Hladík (Lokomotiva Olomouc, Czech Rep.) New Cap
David Hughes (RC Slovan Bratislava) 3
Richard Januš (RC Lokomotiva Olomouc, Czech Rep.) 3
Jan Klokner (Sokol Mariánské Hory, Czech Rep.) 3
Patrik Kovacs (RC Havířov, Czech Republic) New Cap
Pavel Kozubík (RC Havířov, Czech Republic) 3
Petr Kozubík (RC Havířov, Czech Republic) 3
Josef Kučera (RK Petrovice, Czech Republic) 1
Michal Kučera (Náměšť na Hané, Czech Republic) 1
Tomáš Kurka (RC Lokomotiva Olomouc, Czech Rep.) 3
Martin Majovský (RC Slovan Bratislava) 2
Marcel Mana (Lokomotiva Olomouc, Czech Rep.) 5@
Jan Mandičák (RK Petrovice) New Cap
Martin Mihálik (RC Slovan Bratislava) 1
Viktor Ondroušek (RC Jimi Vyškov, Czech Republic) 5@
Patrik Poledna (Náměšť na Hané, Czech Republic) 4
Daniel Puha (RC Slovan Bratislava) 4
Anthony Puverle (RC Slovan Bratislava) 5@
Jaroslav Stoklásek (RC Zlín, Czech Republic) 5*@
Marek Ujček (RC Slovan Bratislava) New Cap
Head Coach: Pavel Lištván
http://slovan.rugby.cz/slovensko-vs-bosna-hercegovina
* Added to squad
@ Have played in all Slovak tests to date.
Bosnia Herzegovina
Not available
For complete lists of all Slovakia and of all Bosnia Herzegovina test results, go to www.rugbyinternational.net
Slovakia v Bosnia Herzegovina (ENC 3D)
Preview
ENC Divison 3D is the only level of European international rugby that does not qualify for 2011 Rugby World Cup qualification. The incentive is to be the leading side after 2 rounds (2 seasons) and thus be able to be in the World Cup qualifying rounds for 2015.
At this early stage Bosnia Herzegovina, relegated from ENC 3C, look to be way out in front. Their 52-5 win over Monaco, away, back in October, confirmed that. This is their second away game and , provided they can travel with much the same squad that went to Monaco, they should win again.
Slovakia lost to Cyprus 8-38 last year in Cyprus and Cyprus had earlier defeated Monaco 19-10 to give some idea of Slovakia's strength. Most of Slovakia's players either play for the only club in Bratislava or for Czech clubs over the border but they will find the Bosnians too slick.
This is the first time these two teams have met.
GWC Rugby Rankings: Europe Table-Bosnia Herzegovina 38th, Slovakia 40th
Prediction: Bosnia Herzegovina by 40 points.
Teams
Slovakia Squad
Martin Čmiel (RC Havířov, Czech Republic) 2 tests
Ondřej Hankovski (Sokol Mariánské Hory, Czech Rep.) 4
Richard Hladík (Lokomotiva Olomouc, Czech Rep.) New Cap
David Hughes (RC Slovan Bratislava) 3
Richard Januš (RC Lokomotiva Olomouc, Czech Rep.) 3
Jan Klokner (Sokol Mariánské Hory, Czech Rep.) 3
Patrik Kovacs (RC Havířov, Czech Republic) New Cap
Pavel Kozubík (RC Havířov, Czech Republic) 3
Petr Kozubík (RC Havířov, Czech Republic) 3
Josef Kučera (RK Petrovice, Czech Republic) 1
Michal Kučera (Náměšť na Hané, Czech Republic) 1
Tomáš Kurka (RC Lokomotiva Olomouc, Czech Rep.) 3
Martin Majovský (RC Slovan Bratislava) 2
Marcel Mana (Lokomotiva Olomouc, Czech Rep.) 5@
Jan Mandičák (RK Petrovice) New Cap
Martin Mihálik (RC Slovan Bratislava) 1
Viktor Ondroušek (RC Jimi Vyškov, Czech Republic) 5@
Patrik Poledna (Náměšť na Hané, Czech Republic) 4
Daniel Puha (RC Slovan Bratislava) 4
Anthony Puverle (RC Slovan Bratislava) 5@
Jaroslav Stoklásek (RC Zlín, Czech Republic) 5*@
Marek Ujček (RC Slovan Bratislava) New Cap
Head Coach: Pavel Lištván
http://slovan.rugby.cz/slovensko-vs-bosna-hercegovina
* Added to squad
@ Have played in all Slovak tests to date.
Bosnia Herzegovina
Not available
For complete lists of all Slovakia and of all Bosnia Herzegovina test results, go to www.rugbyinternational.net
Test Rugby This Weekend 15 November
15.11.2008
New Zealand v Ireland in Dublin
South Africa v Scotland at Murrayfield
France v Pacific Islands in Marseilles
Australia v England at Twickenham
Argentina v Italy in Turin
Spain v Germany in Madrid (WCQ Europe R1; ENC 1)
China Taipei v Sri Lanka in Tainan (Asia Nations 1)
Czech Republic v Poland in Ostrava (WCQ Euro. R2; ENC 2A)
Lithuania v Switzerland in Kaunus (WCQ Europe R4; ENC 3A)
Israel v Bulgaria in Pernik (WCQ Europe R5; ENC 3C)
Slovakia v Bosnia Herzegovina in Bratislava (ENC 3D)
New Zealand v Ireland in Dublin
South Africa v Scotland at Murrayfield
France v Pacific Islands in Marseilles
Australia v England at Twickenham
Argentina v Italy in Turin
Spain v Germany in Madrid (WCQ Europe R1; ENC 1)
China Taipei v Sri Lanka in Tainan (Asia Nations 1)
Czech Republic v Poland in Ostrava (WCQ Euro. R2; ENC 2A)
Lithuania v Switzerland in Kaunus (WCQ Europe R4; ENC 3A)
Israel v Bulgaria in Pernik (WCQ Europe R5; ENC 3C)
Slovakia v Bosnia Herzegovina in Bratislava (ENC 3D)
Test Rugby This Weekend: 16 November
16.11.2008
Japan v United States in Nagoya
Moldova v Belgium in Chisinau (WCQ Europe R2; ENC 2A)
Japan v United States in Nagoya
Moldova v Belgium in Chisinau (WCQ Europe R2; ENC 2A)
Test Rugby Results
14.11.2008
Scotland 'A' 69, Georgia 3
What a huge disappointment. This was a mismatch in the end. Who is to blame?
Wales 34, Canada 13
More fight from Canada, more questions than answers for Wales?
Scotland 'A' 69, Georgia 3
What a huge disappointment. This was a mismatch in the end. Who is to blame?
Wales 34, Canada 13
More fight from Canada, more questions than answers for Wales?
Friday, November 14, 2008
Test Rugby: Canada v Wales
14.11.2008
Canada v Wales in Cardiff
Previews
Will Canada get a respite against a second string Welsh side on Saturday? I suspect not. There are a number of Welsh players itching to make it into the Welsh side that will face New Zealand a week later. Canada has stuck mostly with the team that were washed away by the Irish last week. Surely they cannot play that poorly again.
Previous Encounters
09.09.2007 Wales 42-17 in Nantes (World Cup, Pool B)
17.11.2006 Wales 61-26 in Cardiff
11.06.2005 Wales 60-3 in Toronto
12.10.2003 Wales 41-10 in Melbourne (World Cup, Pool D)
16.11.2002 Wales 32-21 in Cardiff
GWC Rugby Rankings: World Table-Wales 4th, Canada 17th
Prediction: Wales by 29 points
Teams
Wales
15 Morgan Stoddart (Llanelly Scarlets) Age 23, 2 Tests
14 Leigh Halfpenny (Cardiff Blues) 19, 1
13 Thomas Shanklin (Cardiff Blues) 29, 54
12 Andrew Bishop (Neath Swansea Ospreys) 23, 1
11 Mark Jones (Llanelli Scarlets) 29, 41
10 James Hook (Neath Swansea Ospreys) 23, 27
9 Martin Roberts (Neath Swansea Ospreys) 22, New Cap
8 Ryan Jones, Capt. (Neath Swansea Ospreys) 28, 23
7 Robin Sowden-Taylor (Cardiff Blues) 26, 5
6 Dafydd Jones (Llanelly Scarlets) 28, 31
5 Luke Charteris (Newport Gwent Dragons) 25, 7
4 Ian Gough (Neath Swansea Ospreys) 32, 53
3 Rhys Thomas (Newport Gwent Dragons) 26, 5
2 Richard Hibbard (Neath Swansea Ospreys) 25, 6
1 John Yapp (Cardiff Blue) 25, 8
Replacements
16 Matthew Rees (Llanelly Scarlets) 28, 20
17 Eifion Lewis-Roberts (Sale Sharks) 27, New Cap
18 Alun-Wyn Jones (Neath Swansea Ospreys) 23, 24
19 Andy Powell (Cardiff Blues) 27, 1
20 Dwayne Peel (Sale Sharks, England) 27, 62
21 Dan Biggar (Neath Swansea Ospreys) 19, New cap
22 James Roberts (Cardiff Blues) 21, 4
Head Coach: Warren Gatland
Yapp last played for Wales v Argentina, June 2006.
Canada
15 James Pritchard (Bedford Blues, England) Aged 27, 22 tests
14 Ciaran Hearn (Castaway Wanderers) 22, 1
13 Bryn Keys Bryn Keys (Velox Valhallians) 22, 3
12 Ryan Smith (Calgary Irish) 28, 38
11 Justin Mensah-Coker (Plymouth Albion, England) 24, 11
10 Ander Monro (Colorno, Italy) 26, 10
9 Edward Fairhurst (Cornish Pirates, England) 29, 38
8 Aaron Carpenter (Cowichan RFC) 24, 18
7 Adam Kleeberger (University of Victoria) 24, 13
6 Jebb Sinclair (Castaway Wanderers) 22, 2
5 Joshua Jackson (Bordeaux Begles, France) 27, 19
4 Tyler Hotson (Northern Suburbs RFC, Australia) 23, 3
3 Jon Thiel (Bayside Sharks) 33, 43
2 Patrick Riordan, Capt. (University of Victoria) 28, 19
1 Kevin Tkachuk (Glasgow Warriors, Scotland) 31, 41
Replacements
16 Michael Pletch (Velox Valhallians) 25, 18
17 Frank Walsh (Vandals RFC) 31, 2
18 Michael Burak (Cornish Pirates, England) 27, 16
19 Sean Michael Stephen (Plymouth Albion, England) 25, 14
20 Morgan Williams (James Bay Athletic Association) 32, 54
21 Matthew Evans (Hartpury College, England) 20, 1
22 Dean Van Camp (Velox Valhallians) 25, 6
Head Coach: Kieran Crowley
For full lists of all Wales, and of Canada's international rugby tests go to http://www.rugbyinternational.net/
Canada v Wales in Cardiff
Previews
Will Canada get a respite against a second string Welsh side on Saturday? I suspect not. There are a number of Welsh players itching to make it into the Welsh side that will face New Zealand a week later. Canada has stuck mostly with the team that were washed away by the Irish last week. Surely they cannot play that poorly again.
Previous Encounters
09.09.2007 Wales 42-17 in Nantes (World Cup, Pool B)
17.11.2006 Wales 61-26 in Cardiff
11.06.2005 Wales 60-3 in Toronto
12.10.2003 Wales 41-10 in Melbourne (World Cup, Pool D)
16.11.2002 Wales 32-21 in Cardiff
GWC Rugby Rankings: World Table-Wales 4th, Canada 17th
Prediction: Wales by 29 points
Teams
Wales
15 Morgan Stoddart (Llanelly Scarlets) Age 23, 2 Tests
14 Leigh Halfpenny (Cardiff Blues) 19, 1
13 Thomas Shanklin (Cardiff Blues) 29, 54
12 Andrew Bishop (Neath Swansea Ospreys) 23, 1
11 Mark Jones (Llanelli Scarlets) 29, 41
10 James Hook (Neath Swansea Ospreys) 23, 27
9 Martin Roberts (Neath Swansea Ospreys) 22, New Cap
8 Ryan Jones, Capt. (Neath Swansea Ospreys) 28, 23
7 Robin Sowden-Taylor (Cardiff Blues) 26, 5
6 Dafydd Jones (Llanelly Scarlets) 28, 31
5 Luke Charteris (Newport Gwent Dragons) 25, 7
4 Ian Gough (Neath Swansea Ospreys) 32, 53
3 Rhys Thomas (Newport Gwent Dragons) 26, 5
2 Richard Hibbard (Neath Swansea Ospreys) 25, 6
1 John Yapp (Cardiff Blue) 25, 8
Replacements
16 Matthew Rees (Llanelly Scarlets) 28, 20
17 Eifion Lewis-Roberts (Sale Sharks) 27, New Cap
18 Alun-Wyn Jones (Neath Swansea Ospreys) 23, 24
19 Andy Powell (Cardiff Blues) 27, 1
20 Dwayne Peel (Sale Sharks, England) 27, 62
21 Dan Biggar (Neath Swansea Ospreys) 19, New cap
22 James Roberts (Cardiff Blues) 21, 4
Head Coach: Warren Gatland
Yapp last played for Wales v Argentina, June 2006.
Canada
15 James Pritchard (Bedford Blues, England) Aged 27, 22 tests
14 Ciaran Hearn (Castaway Wanderers) 22, 1
13 Bryn Keys Bryn Keys (Velox Valhallians) 22, 3
12 Ryan Smith (Calgary Irish) 28, 38
11 Justin Mensah-Coker (Plymouth Albion, England) 24, 11
10 Ander Monro (Colorno, Italy) 26, 10
9 Edward Fairhurst (Cornish Pirates, England) 29, 38
8 Aaron Carpenter (Cowichan RFC) 24, 18
7 Adam Kleeberger (University of Victoria) 24, 13
6 Jebb Sinclair (Castaway Wanderers) 22, 2
5 Joshua Jackson (Bordeaux Begles, France) 27, 19
4 Tyler Hotson (Northern Suburbs RFC, Australia) 23, 3
3 Jon Thiel (Bayside Sharks) 33, 43
2 Patrick Riordan, Capt. (University of Victoria) 28, 19
1 Kevin Tkachuk (Glasgow Warriors, Scotland) 31, 41
Replacements
16 Michael Pletch (Velox Valhallians) 25, 18
17 Frank Walsh (Vandals RFC) 31, 2
18 Michael Burak (Cornish Pirates, England) 27, 16
19 Sean Michael Stephen (Plymouth Albion, England) 25, 14
20 Morgan Williams (James Bay Athletic Association) 32, 54
21 Matthew Evans (Hartpury College, England) 20, 1
22 Dean Van Camp (Velox Valhallians) 25, 6
Head Coach: Kieran Crowley
For full lists of all Wales, and of Canada's international rugby tests go to http://www.rugbyinternational.net/
Test Rugby: Georgia v Scotland 'A'
14.11.2008
Georgia v Scotland 'A'
Preview
This will be Georgia's first visit to Scotland and the first time they have ever played a Scottish XV.
Although this match is being played in the 'Window of November' (try explaining that to a soccer fan!) word has it that Georgia will not be able to call upon some of their top French-based players because Scotland 'A' is not actually a full test side.
I would have thought a test match is a test match. It doesn't seem right to me. What are your views?
Prediction: Scotland 'A' by 2 points.
Teams
Scotland 'A'
15 Ruaridh Jackson (Glasgow Warriors)
14 Nikki Walker (Neath Swansea Ospreys, Wales) *
13 Max Evans (Glasgow Warriors)
12 Rob Dewey (Ulster, Ireland)*
11 Mark Robertson (Edinburgh)
10 Gordon Ross (Saracens, England)*
9 Mark McMillan (Glasgow Warriors)
8 Johnnie Beattie (Glasgow Warriors)
7 Kelly Brown (Glasgow Warriors)
6 Richie Vernon (Glasgow Warriors)
5 Alastair Kellock, Capt. (Glasgow Warriors)
4 Craig Hamilton (Edinburgh)*
3 Geoff Cross (Edinburgh)
2 Phil Fitzgerald (Toulon, France)
1 Ed Kalman (Glasgow Warriors)
Replacements
16 Andrew Kelly (Edinburgh)
17 Gavin Kerr (Edinburgh)*
18 Dan Turner (Glasgow Warriors)
19 Scott Newlands (Edinburgh)
20 Colin Gregor (Glasgow Warriors)
21 Andrew Henderson (Glasgow Warriors)*
22 Simon Webster (Edinburgh)*
Head Coach:
* Scottish internationals. Henderson and Kerr have both played 50 or more tests.
Thanks to http://www.fira-aer-rugby.com/forum2007/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=2784&st=0&sk=t&sd=a&start=150
Georgia
15 Otar Barkalaia (Figerac, France) Age 24, 33 tests
14 Irakli Chkhikvadze (Aia) 21, 10
13 Sandro Todua (Lelo) 21, 6
12 Davit Katcharava (Enisey-STM-Krasnoyarsk) 23, 20
11 Irakli Machkhaneli (Agen, France) 27, 27
10 Lasha Malaghuradze (Kochebi) 22, 9
9 Irakli Abusseridze, Capt. (Orleans, France) 31, 53
8 Dimitri Bassilaia (ASM Clermont-Auvergne, France) 23, 6
7 Besso Udessiani (Chalon, France) 29, 33
6 Rati Urushadze (Enisey-STM-Krasnoyarsk) 33, 30
5 Kakha Uchava (Farul Constanta, Romania) 32, 10
4 Ilia Zedguinidze (Auch, France) 31, 48
3 Guram Kavtidze, (Lyon, France) New Cap
2 Irakli Natriashvili (Farul Constanta, Romania) 25, 11
1 Davit Gasviani (Bobigny, France) 27, 11
Replacements
16 Davit Dadunashvili (Massy, France) 26, 20
17 Vassil Kakovini (University) ?, New Cap
18 Shalva Sutiashvili (Massy, France) 24, 9
19 Simon Maissuradze (ASM Clermont-Auvergne, Fr.) 22, 7
20 Bidzina Samkharadze (Farul Constanta, Romania) 25, 34
21 Merab Kvirikashvili (Pau, France) 25, 28
22 Guiorgui Shkinini (Khuligana) 25, 30
Head Coach: Tim Lane
http://www.fira-aer-rugby.com/forum2007/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=2784&st=0&sk=t&sd=a&start=165
Zedguinidze was a late call up. He last played for Georgia v Ireland at the 2007 Rugby World Cup in France, after which he retired.
For complete lists of all test matches played by Scotland, Scotland XV's and Georgia go to http://www.rugbyinternational.net/
Georgia v Scotland 'A'
Preview
This will be Georgia's first visit to Scotland and the first time they have ever played a Scottish XV.
Although this match is being played in the 'Window of November' (try explaining that to a soccer fan!) word has it that Georgia will not be able to call upon some of their top French-based players because Scotland 'A' is not actually a full test side.
I would have thought a test match is a test match. It doesn't seem right to me. What are your views?
Prediction: Scotland 'A' by 2 points.
Teams
Scotland 'A'
15 Ruaridh Jackson (Glasgow Warriors)
14 Nikki Walker (Neath Swansea Ospreys, Wales) *
13 Max Evans (Glasgow Warriors)
12 Rob Dewey (Ulster, Ireland)*
11 Mark Robertson (Edinburgh)
10 Gordon Ross (Saracens, England)*
9 Mark McMillan (Glasgow Warriors)
8 Johnnie Beattie (Glasgow Warriors)
7 Kelly Brown (Glasgow Warriors)
6 Richie Vernon (Glasgow Warriors)
5 Alastair Kellock, Capt. (Glasgow Warriors)
4 Craig Hamilton (Edinburgh)*
3 Geoff Cross (Edinburgh)
2 Phil Fitzgerald (Toulon, France)
1 Ed Kalman (Glasgow Warriors)
Replacements
16 Andrew Kelly (Edinburgh)
17 Gavin Kerr (Edinburgh)*
18 Dan Turner (Glasgow Warriors)
19 Scott Newlands (Edinburgh)
20 Colin Gregor (Glasgow Warriors)
21 Andrew Henderson (Glasgow Warriors)*
22 Simon Webster (Edinburgh)*
Head Coach:
* Scottish internationals. Henderson and Kerr have both played 50 or more tests.
Thanks to http://www.fira-aer-rugby.com/forum2007/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=2784&st=0&sk=t&sd=a&start=150
Georgia
15 Otar Barkalaia (Figerac, France) Age 24, 33 tests
14 Irakli Chkhikvadze (Aia) 21, 10
13 Sandro Todua (Lelo) 21, 6
12 Davit Katcharava (Enisey-STM-Krasnoyarsk) 23, 20
11 Irakli Machkhaneli (Agen, France) 27, 27
10 Lasha Malaghuradze (Kochebi) 22, 9
9 Irakli Abusseridze, Capt. (Orleans, France) 31, 53
8 Dimitri Bassilaia (ASM Clermont-Auvergne, France) 23, 6
7 Besso Udessiani (Chalon, France) 29, 33
6 Rati Urushadze (Enisey-STM-Krasnoyarsk) 33, 30
5 Kakha Uchava (Farul Constanta, Romania) 32, 10
4 Ilia Zedguinidze (Auch, France) 31, 48
3 Guram Kavtidze, (Lyon, France) New Cap
2 Irakli Natriashvili (Farul Constanta, Romania) 25, 11
1 Davit Gasviani (Bobigny, France) 27, 11
Replacements
16 Davit Dadunashvili (Massy, France) 26, 20
17 Vassil Kakovini (University) ?, New Cap
18 Shalva Sutiashvili (Massy, France) 24, 9
19 Simon Maissuradze (ASM Clermont-Auvergne, Fr.) 22, 7
20 Bidzina Samkharadze (Farul Constanta, Romania) 25, 34
21 Merab Kvirikashvili (Pau, France) 25, 28
22 Guiorgui Shkinini (Khuligana) 25, 30
Head Coach: Tim Lane
http://www.fira-aer-rugby.com/forum2007/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=2784&st=0&sk=t&sd=a&start=165
Zedguinidze was a late call up. He last played for Georgia v Ireland at the 2007 Rugby World Cup in France, after which he retired.
For complete lists of all test matches played by Scotland, Scotland XV's and Georgia go to http://www.rugbyinternational.net/
Thursday, November 13, 2008
Rugby Test: Asia Nations: Singapore 23, China Taipei 22
Chinese Taipei defenders Wang Jen-Hsi (white & blue jersey left) and Wang Kuo-Feng (white & blue jersey right) try to bring down Singapore winger Jonathon Chen intoday's HSBC Asian Five Nations Division I Tournament in Tainan, Chinese Taipei. Singapore won today's match 23 - 22 after a last second try.HSBC Asian Five Nations Division I
Singapore Survive Second Scare
From Sean Moore
13.11.2008
13.11.2008
Singapore 23, China Taipei 22
Singapore have survived a second scare to become the comeback side in the HSBC Asian Five Nations Division I Tournament after edging hosts Chinese Taipei with a last minute try to win the second match of the round robin tournament today in Tainan.
The win comes less than 48 hours after Singapore clawed back a draw against Sri Lanka with another 40th minute try in the opening match of the Asian Five Nations Division I Tournament played on Tuesday night, 11 November.
Nearly 400 fans were treated to another thriller today as both teams exchanged scores in perfect conditions. At the outset, Singapore looked as if they were still suffering from the effects of their Tuesday night heroics, as they conceded a try to Chinese Taipei from the kick-off through veteran centre Wu Chih-Chien. The try was not converted giving Chinese Taipei a 5 – nil lead. But Singapore bounced back, turning the tables with some consistent pressure on the Chinese Taipei defence for the second ten minutes of the first half. Despite the steady pressure, Chinese Taipei held the visitors to two penalties to bring the score to Singapore 6 – Chinese Taipei 5.
The Guinness Singapore Rugby Lions soon reverted to its successful game plan of earlier in the week, looking to the forward pack to make the hard yards and wear down Chinese Taipei’s consistent defensive line. In the 31st minute good interplay between the back row of No. 8 Ben Wheeler and flankers Andrew Bennett and Rong Jing Xiang opened up a gap for centre Daniel Thiam who further penetrated the defence before popping up to full-back Gareth Pritchard who crossed over for Singapore’s first try. The conversion by fly half John Forrester was successful, bringing the score to 13 – 5 Singapore.
Just five minutes later Chinese Taipei’s pacey backline finally found some breathing room amongst the Singapore defence, as centre Wang Jen-Hsi beautifully wrong-footed the opposition before dishing to winger Wang Kuo-Feng who crossed the line and moved behind the posts before touching down. The conversion was good bringing the score at halftime to 13 – 12 Singapore.
After a slow start to the second half by both teams, Chinese Taipei drew first blood through sharp centre Wang Jen-Hsi who successfully chased down an up and under that was bobbled by Singapore full back Pritchard. Wang picked up beautifully and finished off untouched from the 22-metre line. The successful conversion by fly half Chang Wei-Cheng put Chinese Taipei in the lead 19 – 13.
After a slow start to the second half by both teams, Chinese Taipei drew first blood through sharp centre Wang Jen-Hsi who successfully chased down an up and under that was bobbled by Singapore full back Pritchard. Wang picked up beautifully and finished off untouched from the 22-metre line. The successful conversion by fly half Chang Wei-Cheng put Chinese Taipei in the lead 19 – 13.
Long passages of play resumed before Singapore broke the impasse with another penalty through Forrester to bring the score to 19 – 16 in favour of the hosts. Frustration seeped in on both sides with two yellow cards being awarded in the 34th and 36th minute to Chinese Taipei hooker Chiu Po-Chih and Singapore fly half Forrester respectively. After Forrester was sent to the bin, Chinese Taipei kicked drop goal through fly half Chang Wei-Cheng to bring the score to 22 – 16 and seemingly put the game out of reach.
But in a replay of their last minute comeback from Match I, Singapore again rallied to drive the ball down field before hooker Gaspar Tan plunged over the line to bring the score to 22 – 21 Chinese Taipei. With Singapore’s fly-half and first choice kicker in the bin, the duties were left to Singapore centre Mohammed Ismail who calmly slotted his kick from the 22 to edge Singapore into the lead for good, 23 – 22.
The victory sees the Guinness Singapore Rugby Lions exit the HSBC Asian Five Nations Division I Tournament undefeated with a record of one win and one draw. Singapore’s tops the table with 8 points (5 points from a win and 3 points from their earlier draw). Sri Lanka lies in second place with 3 points from their draw versus Singapore. The hosts Chinese Taipei are in third place with 1 point, the result of a bonus point for losing by seven points or less.
In case of a tie on the Tournament table, (and in light of the previous draw between Singapore and Sri Lanka), the winner will be determined by points differential, then tries differential, most tries, most converted tries, most points scored and the least amount of first yellow and then red cards. If the table is still drawn a winner will be determined by the toss of a coin.
Sri Lanka now meets Chinese Taipei in the last match of the HSBC Asian Five Nations Tournament on Saturday, 15 November 2008, at 3.00pm. The winner of the Division I Tournament earns automatic promotion to the elite HSBC Asian Five Nations Top 5 competition alongside reigning champions Japan, as well as Korea, Hong Kong and Kazakhstan. The Top 5 competition is a Home and Away series that takes place every weekend from the last week of April through May 2009.
Test Rugby: Slovenia 18, Austria 9, with pics
Austria's ball with Slovenian defence moving in, from left, Potnik, Kos, Zavrsan, Sambol, Duh and Krsmanovic, with Miljus on the deck.
Gobec high after the ball.
Slovenia attacking: From left Djuratovic, Miljus, Magusar, Jovic and No.14 Kos. Photos and info from Alexander Jug. View his excellent blog on Slovenian rugby at http://www.slo-rugby.com
Slovenia has now collected its third victory in ENC 3B with this win. Are they looking at moving up another level at the end of 2010? Are they that good? Post your opinion on this result. If you were at the game what are your post match thoughts?
Slovenia has now collected its third victory in ENC 3B with this win. Are they looking at moving up another level at the end of 2010? Are they that good? Post your opinion on this result. If you were at the game what are your post match thoughts?
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Test Result: Sri Lanka and Singapore Draw Opening Match of HSBC Asian Five Nations Division I
Match action from today's HSBC Asian Five Nations Division I clash between Sri Lanka (white) and Singapore (dark jerseys) in Tainan.
Singapore (dark jerseys) prepare for the match against Sri Lanka with the National Anthem. Captain Chris Gilbert is at far left, No. 8 Ben Wheeler is 8th from left.Tainan, Chinese Taipei, Nov 11 2008
From Sean Moore, Asia5Nations Press.
Sri Lanka and Singapore have drawn the opening match of the round robin HSBC Asian Five Nations Division I tonight in a game played in cool, blustery conditions at the Tainan Rugby Stadium.
A strong crowd of nearly 500 people that assembled for a match played on neutral ground between two visiting teams was thrilled with the see-saw encounter that saw two tries scored in the 40th minute of both the first and second halves. The latter try brought Singapore back from the brink to level their opener against top seeds Sri Lanka 20 – 20.
The two teams were evenly matched throughout with Sri Lanka looking more dangerous in the backline but Singapore, led by captain Chris Gilbert in the second row and hard-charging Ben Wheeler at No. 8, dominant in the forward pack particularly in the opening interval.
As the end of the first half approached, the score was seemingly settled at 3 – all, the result of single successful penalties from several attempts by both kickers, Sri Lanka winger Riza Mubarak and Singapore fly half John Forrester. But in the 38th minute Singapore lock Steve Horsfall was sent to the bin for hands in the ruck by Arabian Gulf Rugby Football Union referee Scott Herbert, creating a crucial bit of daylight in Singapore’s forward defence which was cannily exploited by Sri Lankan fly half Ashan De Costa whose scything run cutting back against Singapore’s defensive line resulted in the game’s first try on the stroke of the 40th minute. The try was successfully converted by Mubarak to bring the halftime score to 10 – 3 Sri Lanka.
The excitement continued in the second half with both teams sharing the lead and enjoying long stretches of possession. Singapore No. 8 Ben Wheeler, a familiar face to Asian rugby fans from his commentary work for regional broadcaster ESPN, continued his man of the match worthy performance wreaking some creative destruction on the Sri Lankan defence in what must have been double digit carries that invariably dragged defenders along behind him. Wheeler was everywhere around the park frequently popping up in mismatches against the Sri Lankan backline and threatened to score several times during the game.
In the 18th minute of the second half, Wheeler did what every good No. 8 should do, picking up and running strong side from a Singapore scrum 10 metres out from the Sri Lankan sticks. Finally pulled down at the 5-metre marker, Wheeler popped up perfectly to Singapore lock Chris Gilbert who finished the move for a fantastic captain’s try. After Forrester’s conversion the score was level at 10 all.
Conceding the try finally fired the Sri Lankan forwards who turned the tables yet again by exerting continuous periods of pressure and ball retention against Singapore. In the 30th minute the pressure told as Sri Lanka scored from a beautiful flowing move that saw hooker Achala Perera pop into the backline for a perfectly timed crash ball before dishing to centre Lasintha De Costa who then offloaded to flying winger Chula Susantha. Despite having plenty of work yet to do, Susantha ducked and dodged from just past the Singapore 22 to put Sri Lanka back in the lead 17 – 10.
Four minutes later, a successful penalty by Sri Lankan substitute Saliya Kumara brought the score to 20 – 10 and seemingly out of Singapore’s reach. The game seemed to be on course for a stately finish with Singapore earning a bonus point for a loss within seven points when fly-half Forrester nailed another penalty to claw back to 20 – 13.
In the 38th minute Singapore began a wide sweeping move from a successful lineout that petered out when the Sri Lankan defence conceded a penalty in the tackle. Singapore opted for the touch finder and won the lineout channeling it into a driving maul. Sri Lanka brought the maul to ground but ball was recycled quickly and strong crash play from Mohammed ‘Izzy’ Ismail A Kadir straightened the line for Singapore. Another Singaporean half-break forced the Sri Lankan defence to concede another penalty, this time for hands in the ruck.
Singapore called for the scrum with Wheeler taking the pick up but being stopped just short of the line. Quick recycled ball ended up in the hands of fullback Gareth Pritchard who dove over the line for another 40th minute try bringing Singapore to within two points of the draw at 20 – 18. The pressure was squarely on fly-half Forrester but he calmly slotted the conversion to bring the game to the 20 – all draw.
The exciting finish delighted the crowd but must have left the Chinese Taipei XV, who were watching from the stands, knowing that they will have their work cut out against both teams. The draw leaves both teams level on the Tournament table with 3 points. Matches on Thursday (Chinese Taipei v Singapore) and Saturday (Chinese Taipei v Sri Lanka) are yet to come.
The winner of the Division I Tournament earns automatic promotion to the elite HSBC Asian Five Nations Top 5 competition alongside reigning champions Japan, as well as Korea, Hong Kong and Kazakhstan. The Top 5 competition is a Home and Away series that takes place every weekend from the last weekend of April throughout May 2009.
My Note: China withdrew from the tournament.
Draw
Thursday 13 Nov. China Taipei v Singapore
Saturday 15 Nov. Sri lanka v China Taipei
So the question is where does this leave China. Do they get a further opportunity to participate?
From Sean Moore, Asia5Nations Press.
Sri Lanka and Singapore have drawn the opening match of the round robin HSBC Asian Five Nations Division I tonight in a game played in cool, blustery conditions at the Tainan Rugby Stadium.
A strong crowd of nearly 500 people that assembled for a match played on neutral ground between two visiting teams was thrilled with the see-saw encounter that saw two tries scored in the 40th minute of both the first and second halves. The latter try brought Singapore back from the brink to level their opener against top seeds Sri Lanka 20 – 20.
The two teams were evenly matched throughout with Sri Lanka looking more dangerous in the backline but Singapore, led by captain Chris Gilbert in the second row and hard-charging Ben Wheeler at No. 8, dominant in the forward pack particularly in the opening interval.
As the end of the first half approached, the score was seemingly settled at 3 – all, the result of single successful penalties from several attempts by both kickers, Sri Lanka winger Riza Mubarak and Singapore fly half John Forrester. But in the 38th minute Singapore lock Steve Horsfall was sent to the bin for hands in the ruck by Arabian Gulf Rugby Football Union referee Scott Herbert, creating a crucial bit of daylight in Singapore’s forward defence which was cannily exploited by Sri Lankan fly half Ashan De Costa whose scything run cutting back against Singapore’s defensive line resulted in the game’s first try on the stroke of the 40th minute. The try was successfully converted by Mubarak to bring the halftime score to 10 – 3 Sri Lanka.
The excitement continued in the second half with both teams sharing the lead and enjoying long stretches of possession. Singapore No. 8 Ben Wheeler, a familiar face to Asian rugby fans from his commentary work for regional broadcaster ESPN, continued his man of the match worthy performance wreaking some creative destruction on the Sri Lankan defence in what must have been double digit carries that invariably dragged defenders along behind him. Wheeler was everywhere around the park frequently popping up in mismatches against the Sri Lankan backline and threatened to score several times during the game.
In the 18th minute of the second half, Wheeler did what every good No. 8 should do, picking up and running strong side from a Singapore scrum 10 metres out from the Sri Lankan sticks. Finally pulled down at the 5-metre marker, Wheeler popped up perfectly to Singapore lock Chris Gilbert who finished the move for a fantastic captain’s try. After Forrester’s conversion the score was level at 10 all.
Conceding the try finally fired the Sri Lankan forwards who turned the tables yet again by exerting continuous periods of pressure and ball retention against Singapore. In the 30th minute the pressure told as Sri Lanka scored from a beautiful flowing move that saw hooker Achala Perera pop into the backline for a perfectly timed crash ball before dishing to centre Lasintha De Costa who then offloaded to flying winger Chula Susantha. Despite having plenty of work yet to do, Susantha ducked and dodged from just past the Singapore 22 to put Sri Lanka back in the lead 17 – 10.
Four minutes later, a successful penalty by Sri Lankan substitute Saliya Kumara brought the score to 20 – 10 and seemingly out of Singapore’s reach. The game seemed to be on course for a stately finish with Singapore earning a bonus point for a loss within seven points when fly-half Forrester nailed another penalty to claw back to 20 – 13.
In the 38th minute Singapore began a wide sweeping move from a successful lineout that petered out when the Sri Lankan defence conceded a penalty in the tackle. Singapore opted for the touch finder and won the lineout channeling it into a driving maul. Sri Lanka brought the maul to ground but ball was recycled quickly and strong crash play from Mohammed ‘Izzy’ Ismail A Kadir straightened the line for Singapore. Another Singaporean half-break forced the Sri Lankan defence to concede another penalty, this time for hands in the ruck.
Singapore called for the scrum with Wheeler taking the pick up but being stopped just short of the line. Quick recycled ball ended up in the hands of fullback Gareth Pritchard who dove over the line for another 40th minute try bringing Singapore to within two points of the draw at 20 – 18. The pressure was squarely on fly-half Forrester but he calmly slotted the conversion to bring the game to the 20 – all draw.
The exciting finish delighted the crowd but must have left the Chinese Taipei XV, who were watching from the stands, knowing that they will have their work cut out against both teams. The draw leaves both teams level on the Tournament table with 3 points. Matches on Thursday (Chinese Taipei v Singapore) and Saturday (Chinese Taipei v Sri Lanka) are yet to come.
The winner of the Division I Tournament earns automatic promotion to the elite HSBC Asian Five Nations Top 5 competition alongside reigning champions Japan, as well as Korea, Hong Kong and Kazakhstan. The Top 5 competition is a Home and Away series that takes place every weekend from the last weekend of April throughout May 2009.
My Note: China withdrew from the tournament.
Draw
Thursday 13 Nov. China Taipei v Singapore
Saturday 15 Nov. Sri lanka v China Taipei
So the question is where does this leave China. Do they get a further opportunity to participate?
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Rugby Tests: Asia Division 1-The Games
12.11.2008
China v Singapore in Tainan
Preview
All we know is that the Chinese team could be a little below full strength due to the fact that Chinese rugby players from the armed forces have been excluded from the team due to political reasons.
One thing for certain is that China is a rising power in Asian rugby, mirroring its economic rise. I remember the thrill of hearing of China's first international rugby match back in 1997. They lost 3-33 to Singapore. Since then they have, with an occasional hiccup, gradually rising to be a serious contender for promotion to the top level of Asian rugby in 1999.
With a bit of luck these two teams can put all their recent troubles behind them and go out and have a darn good game of rugby. That's what it's all about after all, isn't it?
Previous Encounters
16.06.2007 China 36-20 in Singapore (Asia Nations Div.3)
19.05.2001 China 33-6 in Guangzhou (SC Tri-Nations/Asia Shield)
25.06.2000 China 15-13 in Aomori (Asia Championship, Div.2)
01.11.1997 Singapore 33-3 in Singapore (Friendly)
GWC Rugby Rankings: Asia Table-Singapore 7th, China 8th
Prediction: China to sneak in, a win by 2 points
Teams
Not available
For a complete list of all China's and of Singapore's international rugby test matches, go to http://www.rugbyinternational.net/
China Taipei v Sri Lanka in Tainan
Preview
Historically China-Taipei has been the number 3 nations in Asian rugby, behind Korea and Japan. In recent years this situation has changed as the game has spread across Asia since the first Asian Championships in 1969. China Taipei now finds itself struggling to hold onto a place in this division, one level below the top five. Recent losses to Hong Kong, and last year to both Kazakhstan and China back this up.
Sri Lanka comes to the far East with all sorts of political problems within its union. As has been explained in another thread, they arrived with two captains as a result of a serious public fued over team selection that threatened to bury rugby in this nation. Its difficult to tell how this will affect the team; it may just be the glue that helps it to stick together. Sri Lanka's recent record puts it into the position of favourite for this tournament. Recent losses has only been to teams in Division 1; Kazakhstan 17-24 and Hong Kong 14-42 in the last two seasons.
Previous Encounters
13.10.2002 China-Taipei 56-18 in Pusan (Asia Games)
18.12.1998 China-Taipei 26-20 in Bangkok (Asian Games-Bronze medal)
17.01.1998 China-Taipei 31-27 in Bangkok (WCQ Asia R2)
26.10.1994 China Taipei 25-9 in Kuala Lumper (14th Asia Champ.)
20.09.1992 China Taipei 35-9 in Hong Kong (13th Asia Champ.)
GWC Rugby Rankings: Sri Lanka 6th, China Taipei 9th
Prediction: With Sri Lanka's troubles and China-Taipei playing in fron of their home crowd will just be enough for the Chinese
China Taipei to win by 3 points.
For a complete list of all China-Taipei's and of Sri lanka's test results go to www.rugbyinternational.net
China v Singapore in Tainan
Preview
All we know is that the Chinese team could be a little below full strength due to the fact that Chinese rugby players from the armed forces have been excluded from the team due to political reasons.
One thing for certain is that China is a rising power in Asian rugby, mirroring its economic rise. I remember the thrill of hearing of China's first international rugby match back in 1997. They lost 3-33 to Singapore. Since then they have, with an occasional hiccup, gradually rising to be a serious contender for promotion to the top level of Asian rugby in 1999.
With a bit of luck these two teams can put all their recent troubles behind them and go out and have a darn good game of rugby. That's what it's all about after all, isn't it?
Previous Encounters
16.06.2007 China 36-20 in Singapore (Asia Nations Div.3)
19.05.2001 China 33-6 in Guangzhou (SC Tri-Nations/Asia Shield)
25.06.2000 China 15-13 in Aomori (Asia Championship, Div.2)
01.11.1997 Singapore 33-3 in Singapore (Friendly)
GWC Rugby Rankings: Asia Table-Singapore 7th, China 8th
Prediction: China to sneak in, a win by 2 points
Teams
Not available
For a complete list of all China's and of Singapore's international rugby test matches, go to http://www.rugbyinternational.net/
China Taipei v Sri Lanka in Tainan
Preview
Historically China-Taipei has been the number 3 nations in Asian rugby, behind Korea and Japan. In recent years this situation has changed as the game has spread across Asia since the first Asian Championships in 1969. China Taipei now finds itself struggling to hold onto a place in this division, one level below the top five. Recent losses to Hong Kong, and last year to both Kazakhstan and China back this up.
Sri Lanka comes to the far East with all sorts of political problems within its union. As has been explained in another thread, they arrived with two captains as a result of a serious public fued over team selection that threatened to bury rugby in this nation. Its difficult to tell how this will affect the team; it may just be the glue that helps it to stick together. Sri Lanka's recent record puts it into the position of favourite for this tournament. Recent losses has only been to teams in Division 1; Kazakhstan 17-24 and Hong Kong 14-42 in the last two seasons.
Previous Encounters
13.10.2002 China-Taipei 56-18 in Pusan (Asia Games)
18.12.1998 China-Taipei 26-20 in Bangkok (Asian Games-Bronze medal)
17.01.1998 China-Taipei 31-27 in Bangkok (WCQ Asia R2)
26.10.1994 China Taipei 25-9 in Kuala Lumper (14th Asia Champ.)
20.09.1992 China Taipei 35-9 in Hong Kong (13th Asia Champ.)
GWC Rugby Rankings: Sri Lanka 6th, China Taipei 9th
Prediction: With Sri Lanka's troubles and China-Taipei playing in fron of their home crowd will just be enough for the Chinese
China Taipei to win by 3 points.
For a complete list of all China-Taipei's and of Sri lanka's test results go to www.rugbyinternational.net
Asia Division 1; Fun and Games in Tainan
There is a major rugby tournament on in China Taipei. The national mens 15s teams from China, Sri Lanka and Singapore are due in the capital of China Taipei, Tainan. There they will do battle in a tournament that decides the structure of Asian rugby in 2009. The winner moves up and joins the Five Nations Division, replacing the Arabian Gulf. The loser moves down to Division 2 to be replaced by Thailand. The loser, in other words, will be out of The World Cup 2011 qualifying process. The trouble is nobody knows for sure the structure of this tournament.
The Asia RU web site has not been updated since July, both in news and fixtures. The other site a5nrugby.com is offline being updated, so there is hope there. All we know is the opening round matches are..
12.11.2008
China-Taipei v Sri Lanka
Singapore v China.
We don't know if it will be a knock out or round robin. I have found the Singaporan Team on their web site which I will include below. As far as the other teams go, well, we will have to wait and see.
You need a google translation for the Chinese web site. All they are letting on is that their team defeated a Beijing 'Brothers' team 119-5 in a warm up game, 25 October. Apparently they needed to forward their team list to the China Taipei ambassador before final selection. My understanding is that no military personal from mainland China can enter China Taipei. Which means a good number of the Chinese best players won't go because they belong to the army team. Hmmm.
Forget the China-Taipei Rugby Union Website. You needn't bother with the translation because (a) there is nothing about the team anyway, and (b) its a load of gobble-dee gook. I think they might be having problems with their web site!
Now for Sri Lanka. There is nothing on the main Sri Lankan Rugby Site except for a huge list of what must have been a training squad. On http://www.srilankasports.com/ there appears to be huge handbag sessions over the selection of the captain of the side. There have been accusations, resignations, and the press have got stuck in as well. My understanding is that the team will have TWO captains, one for each match (which indicates that probably there will be the round on the 12th, followed by a final on the 15th or 16th) but as it took half a minute for each article to appear on srilankansports.com I gave up.
So, if you are an enlightened one from these nations let us know what's happening, and let us know your teams.
Singapore Squad
(Couldn't get all the club affiliations)
Norman Sin (Bedok Kings RFC)
Mark Lee (Bedok Kings RFC)
Nicholas Dance (Bucks RFC)
Gaspar Tan (Bedok Kings RFC)
Mohamed Suhaimi Bin Amran (Singapore Cricket Club)
Christopher Gilbert (Capt) (Wanderers RFC)
Steven Horsfall (Singapore Cricket Club))
Jeremy Chan (Bedok Kings RFC)
Rong Jing Xiang (Bedok Kings RFC)
Andrew Bennett
Romi Musa
Jonathan Lee (Singapore Cricket Club)
Benjamin Wheeler
Tong Chin Hong (Bedok Kings RFC)
Andrew Lee (Bedok Kings RFC)
John Forrester (Bedok Kings RFC)
Daniel Thiam (Bedok Kings RFC)
Mohamed Ismail Kadir (Wanderers RFC)
Lionel Robinson (Singapore Cricket Club)
Jonathan Chen (Bedok Kings RFC)
Eric Ng (Bedok Kings RFC)
Peter Williams (Bucks RFC)
Gareth Pritchard
Mohamed Zaki Bin Mahmood (Singapore Cricket Club)
http://www.singaporerugby.com/news/?aid=52316&sec=144&ssec=372&mth=11&yr=2008
Warm up games
Oct 25 Royal Selangor Select XV 38, Singapore 21 in Kuala Lumpur
4 Nov. Guiness Cup XV 24, Singapore Select 18 in Singapore
The Asia RU web site has not been updated since July, both in news and fixtures. The other site a5nrugby.com is offline being updated, so there is hope there. All we know is the opening round matches are..
12.11.2008
China-Taipei v Sri Lanka
Singapore v China.
We don't know if it will be a knock out or round robin. I have found the Singaporan Team on their web site which I will include below. As far as the other teams go, well, we will have to wait and see.
You need a google translation for the Chinese web site. All they are letting on is that their team defeated a Beijing 'Brothers' team 119-5 in a warm up game, 25 October. Apparently they needed to forward their team list to the China Taipei ambassador before final selection. My understanding is that no military personal from mainland China can enter China Taipei. Which means a good number of the Chinese best players won't go because they belong to the army team. Hmmm.
Forget the China-Taipei Rugby Union Website. You needn't bother with the translation because (a) there is nothing about the team anyway, and (b) its a load of gobble-dee gook. I think they might be having problems with their web site!
Now for Sri Lanka. There is nothing on the main Sri Lankan Rugby Site except for a huge list of what must have been a training squad. On http://www.srilankasports.com/ there appears to be huge handbag sessions over the selection of the captain of the side. There have been accusations, resignations, and the press have got stuck in as well. My understanding is that the team will have TWO captains, one for each match (which indicates that probably there will be the round on the 12th, followed by a final on the 15th or 16th) but as it took half a minute for each article to appear on srilankansports.com I gave up.
So, if you are an enlightened one from these nations let us know what's happening, and let us know your teams.
Singapore Squad
(Couldn't get all the club affiliations)
Norman Sin (Bedok Kings RFC)
Mark Lee (Bedok Kings RFC)
Nicholas Dance (Bucks RFC)
Gaspar Tan (Bedok Kings RFC)
Mohamed Suhaimi Bin Amran (Singapore Cricket Club)
Christopher Gilbert (Capt) (Wanderers RFC)
Steven Horsfall (Singapore Cricket Club))
Jeremy Chan (Bedok Kings RFC)
Rong Jing Xiang (Bedok Kings RFC)
Andrew Bennett
Romi Musa
Jonathan Lee (Singapore Cricket Club)
Benjamin Wheeler
Tong Chin Hong (Bedok Kings RFC)
Andrew Lee (Bedok Kings RFC)
John Forrester (Bedok Kings RFC)
Daniel Thiam (Bedok Kings RFC)
Mohamed Ismail Kadir (Wanderers RFC)
Lionel Robinson (Singapore Cricket Club)
Jonathan Chen (Bedok Kings RFC)
Eric Ng (Bedok Kings RFC)
Peter Williams (Bucks RFC)
Gareth Pritchard
Mohamed Zaki Bin Mahmood (Singapore Cricket Club)
http://www.singaporerugby.com/news/?aid=52316&sec=144&ssec=372&mth=11&yr=2008
Warm up games
Oct 25 Royal Selangor Select XV 38, Singapore 21 in Kuala Lumpur
4 Nov. Guiness Cup XV 24, Singapore Select 18 in Singapore
Rugbt Test: Canada v Wales
14.11.2008
Canada v Wales in Cardiff
Previews
It is not looking good for Canada. A 55-0 thrashing last weekend against Ireland who rarely threatened in last years 6 Nations Championship was a very sorry report for the Canadians. What an inform 6 Nations Championship winning team like Wales could do to them makes ones head slump into one's hands.
Previous Encounters
09.09.2007 Wales 42-17 in Nantes (World Cup, Pool B)
17.11.2006 Wales 61-26 in Cardiff
11.06.2005 Wales 60-3 in Toronto
12.10.2003 Wales 41-10 in Melbourne (World Cup, Pool D)
16.11.2002 Wales 32-21 in Cardiff
Canada has actually defeated Wales in Cardiff. They caused a mother of a suprise in 1993 when they won 26-24 at the then Cardiff Arms Park, the holy site of Welsh rugby. They came close 25-28 in Toronto in 1997 in what could be called the Black days of Welsh rugby. Ain't going to happen this Saturday.
Why pitch the Canadians at such a high level? I can't see the logic. What are your thoughts?
Canada v Wales in Cardiff
Previews
It is not looking good for Canada. A 55-0 thrashing last weekend against Ireland who rarely threatened in last years 6 Nations Championship was a very sorry report for the Canadians. What an inform 6 Nations Championship winning team like Wales could do to them makes ones head slump into one's hands.
Previous Encounters
09.09.2007 Wales 42-17 in Nantes (World Cup, Pool B)
17.11.2006 Wales 61-26 in Cardiff
11.06.2005 Wales 60-3 in Toronto
12.10.2003 Wales 41-10 in Melbourne (World Cup, Pool D)
16.11.2002 Wales 32-21 in Cardiff
Canada has actually defeated Wales in Cardiff. They caused a mother of a suprise in 1993 when they won 26-24 at the then Cardiff Arms Park, the holy site of Welsh rugby. They came close 25-28 in Toronto in 1997 in what could be called the Black days of Welsh rugby. Ain't going to happen this Saturday.
Why pitch the Canadians at such a high level? I can't see the logic. What are your thoughts?
Sunday, November 9, 2008
Test Result: France 12, Argentina 6
Well the French achieved their aim. They defeated Argentina. That they did. But I believe there was a lot of kicking and as a spectacle I understand there wasn't much rugby played. Post your opinions of the game here.
Rugby Result: New Zealand 32, Scotland 6
Where do both teams go from here? For Scotland they didn't really get near the New Zealand back-up test side. A great chance to pull off a first win against the All Blacks didn't eventuate. How can Scotland become a better team? Is this one of the All Blacks great sides? Post your opinion.
Test Result: South Africa 20, Wales 15
South Africa found the Welsh a tough nut to crack. Is this Welsh side good enough to win the 6 Nations again? Are the South Africans getting close to being as great a side as the 2007 Rugby World Cup winning side? What is you opinion?
Test Rugby: Australia 30, Italy 20
This Australian side is not nearly as good as the Aussie sides of 1991 and 1999. They do not have the depth as the All Blacks. So where doe this put Italian rugby? The Italians are reputed to have the best pack, or one of the best in the world. Where does Italy go from here? What is your opinion?
Test Rugby: England 39, Pacific Islands 13
I haven't yet seen the game, or any others yet this weekend. But surely the result must be very disappointing for the Islanders. Should the Pacific Island concept be persevered with or should effor go into making Fiji, Samoa and Tonga more competitive in their own rights? After all, these nations individually will contest the Rugby World Cup, not a combined side. Your thoughts?
Test Rugby: Ireland 55, Canada 0
This result is a disaster for Canada. On paper they looked as though they would be competitive but the score line suggests an easy win for Ireland. So what went wrong for Canada? Is Portugal really the level they should be playing at? This was close to being their top side. And what about Wales nex weekend? I shudder!! Your thought?
Test Result: USA 43, Uruguay 9
Without their European-based players and with half the team that did so well at the IRB Nations Cup in Bucharest in June, Uruguay slumped to a loss in the USA. The IRB Nations Cup is supposed to help raise the standard of rugby for selected Tier 2 rugby nations. In Uruguay's case this has clearly failed. Why?
Test Result: Argentina 'A' 71, Chile 3
South American rugby is in crisis. Both Chile and Uruguay were easily defeated by Argentina 'A' and the USA respectively. How can Chile become a rugby power in South America? Post your opinion.
Test Rugby: Russia 42, Spain 15
The Russians are back. As expected the Russians were too good for the Spanish side at home. Spain still has a long way to go to be a Division winner at this level. How challenging to Georgia and Romania will the Russians be this year? Post your thoughts.
Rugby Result: Welsh Clubs 27, Germany 14
I read a report which described this game of rugby as a dreadful game, played at a very low level. That I find disappointing. For the game to grow world-wide the game must be an attractive entertainment for spectators. What happened in this game? Post your opinion now?
Test Result: Netherlands 29, Latvia 10
Two wins in a row! That is how the Dutch record stands so far this season. It's a long way to go but can the Dutch fight their way back into Division 2A. This Latvian team had their two star players back from Russian club rugby. So what went wrong for them? Post your opinion here.
Lithuania 26, Andorra 10
With this result Lithuania, who are newly promoted to ENC 3A, are now a promotion contender in 2010. Its a long way off but to defeat a team at home who spent time in ENC 2B 26-10 is some achievement. So what is contributing to Lithuania's rise in the world of rugby? Post your thoughts.
Rugby Test Results This Weekend 8 Nov.
A huge number of test matches this weekend has kept me busy. So at last they are all previewed below with full team lists,data and comment. And now the results, so far...
08.11.2008
France 12, Argentina 6 in Marseilles
New Zealand 32, Scotland 6 at Murrayfield
South Africa 20, Wales 15 in Cardiff
Australia 30, Italy 20 in Padova
England 39, Pacific Islands 13 at Twickenham
Ireland 55, Canada 0 at Limerick
United States 43, Uruguay 9 in Salt Lake City
Russia 42, Spain 15 in Moscow (WCQ Europe R1, ENC 1)
Argentina ‘A’ 71, Chile 3 in Conception (CONSUR A)
Welsh Districts 27, Germany 14 in Berlin
Netherlands 29, Latvia 10 in Jelgava (WCQ Europe R3, ENC 2B)
Lithuania 26, Andorra 10 in Andorra La vela (WCQ Europe R4, ENC 3A)
Slovenia 18, Austria 9 in Vienna (WCQ Europe R5, ENC 3B)
Azerbaijan v Slovakia in Baku (ENC 3D) Postponned
08.11.2008
France 12, Argentina 6 in Marseilles
New Zealand 32, Scotland 6 at Murrayfield
South Africa 20, Wales 15 in Cardiff
Australia 30, Italy 20 in Padova
England 39, Pacific Islands 13 at Twickenham
Ireland 55, Canada 0 at Limerick
United States 43, Uruguay 9 in Salt Lake City
Russia 42, Spain 15 in Moscow (WCQ Europe R1, ENC 1)
Argentina ‘A’ 71, Chile 3 in Conception (CONSUR A)
Welsh Districts 27, Germany 14 in Berlin
Netherlands 29, Latvia 10 in Jelgava (WCQ Europe R3, ENC 2B)
Lithuania 26, Andorra 10 in Andorra La vela (WCQ Europe R4, ENC 3A)
Slovenia 18, Austria 9 in Vienna (WCQ Europe R5, ENC 3B)
Azerbaijan v Slovakia in Baku (ENC 3D) Postponned
Saturday, November 8, 2008
Test Rugby: France v Argentina
08.11.2008
France v Argentina in Marseilles
Preview
Argentine rugby is still riding a high after their fabulous and popular successes at the 2007 Rugby World Cup. They managed to defeat France twice at that tournament and although their performances so far in 2008 have not been earth shattering, with a full strength side now available, they could perform yet again a humbling victory over their old rivals.
France are rebuilding towards the 2011 Rugby World Cup. This squad has a new look about it with a number of players who toured Australia down under been given another chance. Against the experience Argentineans they could well be short of a gallop.
Last Five Encounters
19.10.2007 Argentina 34-10 in Paris (World Cup, Playoff 3rd-4th)
07.09.2007 Argentina 17-12 in Paris (World Cup, Pool D)
25.11.2006 France 27-26 in Paris
20.11.2004 France 24-14 in Marseilles
21.06.2003 Argentina 32-31 in Buenos Aires
GWC Rugby Rankings: World Table-Argentina 8th, France 9th
Prediction: The heart must be with Argentina. Los Pumas to win by 3 points.
Teams
Argentina
15 Bernardo Stortoni (Glasgow Warriors, Scotland) age 30, 23 tests
14 Francisco Leonelli (Saracens, England) 30, 13
13 Gonzalo Tiesi (Harlequins, England) 23, 16
12 Felipe Contepomi, Capt. (Leinster, Ireland) 30, 64
11 Horacio Agulla (Brive, France) 23, 14
10 Juan Martin Hernandez (Stade Francais, France) 26, 28
9 Nicolas Vergallo (Dax, France) 24, 11
8 Juan Martin Fernandez Lobbe (Sale Sharks, England) 26, 25
7 Alvaro Galindo (Racing Metro, France) 26, 5
6 Martin Durand (Champagnat) 31, 58
5 Patricio Albacete (Stade Toulousian, France) 27, 26
4 Rimas Alvarez Kairelis (Perpignan, France) 33, 40
3 Juan Pablo Orlandi (Rovigo, Italy) 25, New Cap
2 Mario Ledesma (ASM Clermont Auvergne, France) 35, 66
1 Rodrigo Roncero (Stade Francais, France) 31, 29
Replacements
16 Alberto Basualdo (Stade Toulousian, France) 25, 9
17 Marcos Ayerza (Leicester Tigers, England) 25, 18
18 Esteban Lozada (Toulon) 26, 10
19 Alejandro Campos (Pueyrredon) 25, 3
20 Agustín Figuerola (Club Atletico San Isidro) 23, New Cap
21 Federico Aramburú (Perpignan, France) 28,
22 Rafael Carballo (Castres Olympique, France) 26, 4
Head Coach: Santiago Phelan
French Squad
Benoit Baby (Clermont Auvergne) age 25, 3 tests
Fabien Barcella (Auch) 24, 2
Lionel Beauxis (Stade Français) 22, 11
Sebastien Chabal (Sale Sharks, England) 30, 38
Thierry Dusautoir (Stade Toulousain) 27, 14
Jean-Baptiste Elissalde (Stade Toulousain) 31, 32
Lionel Faure (Sale Sharks, England) 30, 4
Imanol Harinordoquy (Biarritz Olympique) 28, 48
Cédric Heymans (Stade Toulousain) 30, 40
Yannick Jauzion (Stade Toulousain) 30, 52
Benjamin Kayser (Leicester Tigers, England) 24, 2
Benoit Lecouls (Biarritz Olympique) 30, 2
Julien Malzieu (Clermont Auvergne) 25, 3
Nicolas Mas (Perpignan) 28, 18
Maxime Médard ((Stade Toulousain) 21, New Cap
Romain Millo-Chluski (Stade Toulousain) 25, 1
Lionel Nallet, Capt. (Castres Olympique) 32, 39
Fulgence Ouedraogo (Montpellier) 22, 8
Alexis Palisson (CA Brive) 21, 2
Morgan Parra (Bourgoin) 20, 3
Louis Picamoles (Montpellier) 22, 5
Dimitri Szarzewski (Stade Français) 25, 27
François Trinh-Duc (Montpellier) 21, 7
Head Coach: Marc Lièvremont
Unavailable, not selected or injured
Jérôme Thion, William Servant (Injured), Frédéric Michalak, Vincent Clerc (Injured)
Baby last played a test for France v Australia, July 2005, whilst Millo-Chluski played his only test for France v South Africa in June 2005.
For lists of all France and Argentina test rugby results go to http://www.rugbyinternational.net/
France v Argentina in Marseilles
Preview
Argentine rugby is still riding a high after their fabulous and popular successes at the 2007 Rugby World Cup. They managed to defeat France twice at that tournament and although their performances so far in 2008 have not been earth shattering, with a full strength side now available, they could perform yet again a humbling victory over their old rivals.
France are rebuilding towards the 2011 Rugby World Cup. This squad has a new look about it with a number of players who toured Australia down under been given another chance. Against the experience Argentineans they could well be short of a gallop.
Last Five Encounters
19.10.2007 Argentina 34-10 in Paris (World Cup, Playoff 3rd-4th)
07.09.2007 Argentina 17-12 in Paris (World Cup, Pool D)
25.11.2006 France 27-26 in Paris
20.11.2004 France 24-14 in Marseilles
21.06.2003 Argentina 32-31 in Buenos Aires
GWC Rugby Rankings: World Table-Argentina 8th, France 9th
Prediction: The heart must be with Argentina. Los Pumas to win by 3 points.
Teams
Argentina
15 Bernardo Stortoni (Glasgow Warriors, Scotland) age 30, 23 tests
14 Francisco Leonelli (Saracens, England) 30, 13
13 Gonzalo Tiesi (Harlequins, England) 23, 16
12 Felipe Contepomi, Capt. (Leinster, Ireland) 30, 64
11 Horacio Agulla (Brive, France) 23, 14
10 Juan Martin Hernandez (Stade Francais, France) 26, 28
9 Nicolas Vergallo (Dax, France) 24, 11
8 Juan Martin Fernandez Lobbe (Sale Sharks, England) 26, 25
7 Alvaro Galindo (Racing Metro, France) 26, 5
6 Martin Durand (Champagnat) 31, 58
5 Patricio Albacete (Stade Toulousian, France) 27, 26
4 Rimas Alvarez Kairelis (Perpignan, France) 33, 40
3 Juan Pablo Orlandi (Rovigo, Italy) 25, New Cap
2 Mario Ledesma (ASM Clermont Auvergne, France) 35, 66
1 Rodrigo Roncero (Stade Francais, France) 31, 29
Replacements
16 Alberto Basualdo (Stade Toulousian, France) 25, 9
17 Marcos Ayerza (Leicester Tigers, England) 25, 18
18 Esteban Lozada (Toulon) 26, 10
19 Alejandro Campos (Pueyrredon) 25, 3
20 Agustín Figuerola (Club Atletico San Isidro) 23, New Cap
21 Federico Aramburú (Perpignan, France) 28,
22 Rafael Carballo (Castres Olympique, France) 26, 4
Head Coach: Santiago Phelan
French Squad
Benoit Baby (Clermont Auvergne) age 25, 3 tests
Fabien Barcella (Auch) 24, 2
Lionel Beauxis (Stade Français) 22, 11
Sebastien Chabal (Sale Sharks, England) 30, 38
Thierry Dusautoir (Stade Toulousain) 27, 14
Jean-Baptiste Elissalde (Stade Toulousain) 31, 32
Lionel Faure (Sale Sharks, England) 30, 4
Imanol Harinordoquy (Biarritz Olympique) 28, 48
Cédric Heymans (Stade Toulousain) 30, 40
Yannick Jauzion (Stade Toulousain) 30, 52
Benjamin Kayser (Leicester Tigers, England) 24, 2
Benoit Lecouls (Biarritz Olympique) 30, 2
Julien Malzieu (Clermont Auvergne) 25, 3
Nicolas Mas (Perpignan) 28, 18
Maxime Médard ((Stade Toulousain) 21, New Cap
Romain Millo-Chluski (Stade Toulousain) 25, 1
Lionel Nallet, Capt. (Castres Olympique) 32, 39
Fulgence Ouedraogo (Montpellier) 22, 8
Alexis Palisson (CA Brive) 21, 2
Morgan Parra (Bourgoin) 20, 3
Louis Picamoles (Montpellier) 22, 5
Dimitri Szarzewski (Stade Français) 25, 27
François Trinh-Duc (Montpellier) 21, 7
Head Coach: Marc Lièvremont
Unavailable, not selected or injured
Jérôme Thion, William Servant (Injured), Frédéric Michalak, Vincent Clerc (Injured)
Baby last played a test for France v Australia, July 2005, whilst Millo-Chluski played his only test for France v South Africa in June 2005.
For lists of all France and Argentina test rugby results go to http://www.rugbyinternational.net/
Rugby Test: New Zealand v Scotland
08.11.2008
New Zealand v Scotland at Murrayfield
Preview
Controversy is never far away from a rugby game. New Zealand's decision to rest key players and field basically a second Xv against Scotland has drawn criticism. It does look odd in the context of New Zealand being very upset about the possibility of France sending a below strength side on their Southern tour in 2009.
New Zealand will field three new test players in their starting XV with a number of others having only a handful of tests. First choice players McCaw and Carter sit on the bench. The depth of New Zealand rugby is such that Scotland will need to play out of their skins to achieve what would be an historic first win over the Kiwis.
Scotland field an experienced side in all areas except mid field. This will be the area that New Zealand will attack. If ever Scotland has the opportunity to gain this first test victory their best chance looks like Murrayfield on Saturday. I just can't see it happening.
Last Five Encounters
23.09.2007 New Zealand 40-0 at Murrayfield (World Cup, Pool C)
26.11.2005 New Zealand 29-10 at Murrayfield
24.11.2001 New Zealand 37-6 at Murrayfield
01.07.2000 New Zealand 48-14 in Auckland
24.06.2000 New Zealand 69-20 in Dunedin.
GWC Rugby Rankings: World Table-New Zealand 1st, Scotland 6th
Prediction: New Zealand by 24 points
Teams
New Zealand
15 Isaia Toeava (Auckland) Aged 22, 18 tests
14 Anthony Tuitavake (North Harbour) 26, 5
13 Richard Kahui (Wakato) 23, 6
12 Ma'a Nonu (Wellington) 26, 29
11 Joe Rokocoko (Auckland) 25, 48
10 Stephen Donald Stephen Donald (Waikato) 24, 7
9 Piri Weepu (Wellington) 24, 25
8 Liam Messam (Waikato) 24, New Cap
7 Adam Thomson (Otago) 26, 8
6 Kieran Read (Canterbury) 23, New Cap
5 Alistair Williams (Canterbury) 27, 57
4 Anthony Boric (North Harbour) 24, 8
3 John Afoa (Auckland) 24, 9
2 Keven Mealamu, Capt. (Auckland) 29, 40
1 Jamie Mackintosh (Southland) 23, New Cap
Replacements
16 Corey Flynn (Canterbury) 27, 3
17 Neemia Tialata (Wellington) 25, 28
18 Ross Filipo (Wellington) 29, 3
19 Richard McCaw (Canterbury) 27, 66
20 Andrew Ellis (Canterbury) 24, 8
21 Daniel Carter (Canterbury) 26, 55
22 Cory Jane (Wellington) 25, 1
Head Coach: Graham Henry
Rokocoko last played test rugby for New Zealand v France in the 2007 Rugby World Quarter Final. Filipo last played for New Zealand v Australia in Melbourne in June 2007. Flynn last played test rugby for New Zealand v Italy, November 2004.
Scotland
15 Christopher Paterson (Gloucester, England) Age 30, 88 tests
14 Thomas Evans (Glasgow Warriors) 24, 1
13 Benjamin Cairns (Edinburgh Gunners) 23, 2
12 Nicholas De Luca (Edinburgh Gunners) 24, 3
11 Sean Lamont (Northampton Saints, England) 26, 31
10 Phillip Goodman (Edinburgh Gunners) 26, 9
9 Michael Blair, Capt. (Edinburgh Gunners) 27, 50
8 Simon Taylor (Stade Francais, France) 29, 60
7 John Barclay (Glasgow Warriors) 21, 4
6 Jason White (Sale Sharks, England) 30, 67
5 James Hamilton (Leicester Tigers, England) 25, 15
4 Nathan Hines (Perpignan, France) 31, 53
3 Euan Murray (Northampton Saints, England) 28, 22
2 Ross Ford (Glasgow Warriors) 24, 21
1 Allan Jacobson (Edinburgh Gunners) 30, 30
Replacements
16 Douglas Hall (Glasgow Warriors) 28, 20
17 Alasdair Dickinson (Gloucester, England) 24, 4
18 Matthew Mustchin (Edinburgh Gunners) 31, 2
19 Scott Gray (Northampton Saints, England) 30, 1
20 Rory Lawson (Gloucester, England) 27, 11 or
20 Mark McMillan (Glasgow Warriors) 25, New Cap
21 Daniel Parks (Glasgow Warriors) 30, 44
22 Hugo Southwell (Edinburgh Gunners) 28, 42
Head Coach: Frank Hadden
Not available: Christopher Cusiter (injury),
Gray, born in Zimbabwe and played rugby league in Australia, played his only test v Australia in 2004. Mustchin, born in New Zealand, was a team mate of Richie McCaw for Canterbury before moving to Scotland
New Zealand v Scotland at Murrayfield
Preview
Controversy is never far away from a rugby game. New Zealand's decision to rest key players and field basically a second Xv against Scotland has drawn criticism. It does look odd in the context of New Zealand being very upset about the possibility of France sending a below strength side on their Southern tour in 2009.
New Zealand will field three new test players in their starting XV with a number of others having only a handful of tests. First choice players McCaw and Carter sit on the bench. The depth of New Zealand rugby is such that Scotland will need to play out of their skins to achieve what would be an historic first win over the Kiwis.
Scotland field an experienced side in all areas except mid field. This will be the area that New Zealand will attack. If ever Scotland has the opportunity to gain this first test victory their best chance looks like Murrayfield on Saturday. I just can't see it happening.
Last Five Encounters
23.09.2007 New Zealand 40-0 at Murrayfield (World Cup, Pool C)
26.11.2005 New Zealand 29-10 at Murrayfield
24.11.2001 New Zealand 37-6 at Murrayfield
01.07.2000 New Zealand 48-14 in Auckland
24.06.2000 New Zealand 69-20 in Dunedin.
GWC Rugby Rankings: World Table-New Zealand 1st, Scotland 6th
Prediction: New Zealand by 24 points
Teams
New Zealand
15 Isaia Toeava (Auckland) Aged 22, 18 tests
14 Anthony Tuitavake (North Harbour) 26, 5
13 Richard Kahui (Wakato) 23, 6
12 Ma'a Nonu (Wellington) 26, 29
11 Joe Rokocoko (Auckland) 25, 48
10 Stephen Donald Stephen Donald (Waikato) 24, 7
9 Piri Weepu (Wellington) 24, 25
8 Liam Messam (Waikato) 24, New Cap
7 Adam Thomson (Otago) 26, 8
6 Kieran Read (Canterbury) 23, New Cap
5 Alistair Williams (Canterbury) 27, 57
4 Anthony Boric (North Harbour) 24, 8
3 John Afoa (Auckland) 24, 9
2 Keven Mealamu, Capt. (Auckland) 29, 40
1 Jamie Mackintosh (Southland) 23, New Cap
Replacements
16 Corey Flynn (Canterbury) 27, 3
17 Neemia Tialata (Wellington) 25, 28
18 Ross Filipo (Wellington) 29, 3
19 Richard McCaw (Canterbury) 27, 66
20 Andrew Ellis (Canterbury) 24, 8
21 Daniel Carter (Canterbury) 26, 55
22 Cory Jane (Wellington) 25, 1
Head Coach: Graham Henry
Rokocoko last played test rugby for New Zealand v France in the 2007 Rugby World Quarter Final. Filipo last played for New Zealand v Australia in Melbourne in June 2007. Flynn last played test rugby for New Zealand v Italy, November 2004.
Scotland
15 Christopher Paterson (Gloucester, England) Age 30, 88 tests
14 Thomas Evans (Glasgow Warriors) 24, 1
13 Benjamin Cairns (Edinburgh Gunners) 23, 2
12 Nicholas De Luca (Edinburgh Gunners) 24, 3
11 Sean Lamont (Northampton Saints, England) 26, 31
10 Phillip Goodman (Edinburgh Gunners) 26, 9
9 Michael Blair, Capt. (Edinburgh Gunners) 27, 50
8 Simon Taylor (Stade Francais, France) 29, 60
7 John Barclay (Glasgow Warriors) 21, 4
6 Jason White (Sale Sharks, England) 30, 67
5 James Hamilton (Leicester Tigers, England) 25, 15
4 Nathan Hines (Perpignan, France) 31, 53
3 Euan Murray (Northampton Saints, England) 28, 22
2 Ross Ford (Glasgow Warriors) 24, 21
1 Allan Jacobson (Edinburgh Gunners) 30, 30
Replacements
16 Douglas Hall (Glasgow Warriors) 28, 20
17 Alasdair Dickinson (Gloucester, England) 24, 4
18 Matthew Mustchin (Edinburgh Gunners) 31, 2
19 Scott Gray (Northampton Saints, England) 30, 1
20 Rory Lawson (Gloucester, England) 27, 11 or
20 Mark McMillan (Glasgow Warriors) 25, New Cap
21 Daniel Parks (Glasgow Warriors) 30, 44
22 Hugo Southwell (Edinburgh Gunners) 28, 42
Head Coach: Frank Hadden
Not available: Christopher Cusiter (injury),
Gray, born in Zimbabwe and played rugby league in Australia, played his only test v Australia in 2004. Mustchin, born in New Zealand, was a team mate of Richie McCaw for Canterbury before moving to Scotland
Rugby Test: South Africa v Wales
08.11.2008
South Africa v Wales in Cardiff
Preview
World Cup holders South Africa has given Wales full respect in naming a very strong side to battle the Welsh dragon on Saturday. South Africa have made their intentions clear-they wish to take Europe by storm again almost a year after winning the Web Ellis Trophy.
Wales are without a few regulars due to injury and have named two new caps in their starting lineup. The 2007-08 6 Nations Champions have a number of experienced players on the bench whom they will need as the Springbox superior match fitness will tell later on in the match.
Latest: Gavin Henson has been a late withdrawl. His place is taken by Tom Shanklin with Roberts moving to inside centre and Andrew Bishop moves on to the bench.
Last Five Encounters
14.06.2008 South Africa 37-21 in Pretoria
07.06.2008 South Africa 43-17 in Bloemfontein
24.11.2007 South Africa 34-12 in Cardiff
19.11.2005 South Africa 33-16 in Cardiff
06.11.2004 South Africa 38-36 in Cardiff
GWC Rugby Rankings: World Table-South Africa 2nd, Wales 4th
Prediction: South Africa by 13
Teams
Wales
15 Lee Byrne (Neath Swansea Ospreys) Age 28, 19 tests
14 Leigh Halfpenny (Cardiff Blues) 19, New Cap
13 Thomas Shanklin (Cardiff Blues) 29, 54
12 James Roberts (Cardiff Blues) 21, 3
11 Shane Williams (Neath Swansea Ospreys) 31, 58
10 Stephen Jones (Llanelly Scarlets) 31, 72
9 Gareth Cooper (Gloucester, England) 29, 37
8 Andrew Powell (Cardiff Blues) 27, New Cap
7 Martyn Williams (Cardiff Blues) 33, 81
6 Ryan Jones, Capt. (Neath Swansea Ospreys) 28, 22
5 Ian Evans (Neath Swansea Ospreys) 24, 14
4 Alun-Wyn Jones (Neath Swansea Ospreys) 23, 23
3 Adam Jones (Neath Swansea Ospreys) 27, 49
2 Matthew Rees (Llanelly Scarlets) 28, 19
1 Gethin Jenkins (Cardiff Blues) 28, 60
Replacements
16 Richard Hibbard (Neath Swansea Ospreys) 25, 6
17 Duncan Jones (Neath Swansea Ospreys) 30, 52
18 Ian Gough (Neath Swansea Ospreys) 32, 52
19 Dafydd Jones (Llanelly Scarlets) 28, 31
20 Dwayne Peel (Sale Sharks, England) 27, 61
21 James Hook (Neath Swansea Ospreys) 23, 26
22 Andrew Bishop (Neath Swansea Ospreys) 23, 1
Head Coach: Warren Gatland
Not selected Mark Jones (injured), Huw Bennett (injury)
Adam Jones will play his 50th test match.
South Africa
15 Conrad Jantjes (Golden Lions) Age 28, 21 tests
14 JP Pietersen (Natal Sharks) 22, 21
13 Adrian Jacobs (Western Province) 27, 18
12 Jean de Villiers Western Province) 26, 43
11 Bryan Habana (Blue Bulls) 24, 43
10 Ruan Pienaar (Natal Sharks) 24, 24
9 Fourie du Preez (Blue Bulls) 26, 42
8 Pierre Spies (Blue Bulls) 23, 16
7 Juan Smith (Free State Cheetahs) 26, 52
6 Schalk Burger (Western Province) 25, 46
5 Victor Matfield (Toulon, France) 29, 77
4 Bakkies Botha (Blue Bulls) 28, 52
3 John Smit, Capt. (Clermont-Ferrand, France) 30, 78
2 Bismarck du Plessis (Natal Sharks) 24, 18
1 Tendai Mtawarira (Natal Sharks) 22, 7
Replacements
16 Brian Mujati (Western Province) 23, 9
17 Gurthro Steenkamp (Blue Bulls) 27, 18
18 Andries Bekker (Wtsern Province) 25, 10
19 Ryan Kankowski (Natal Sharks) 22, 4
20 Ricky Januarie (Western Province) 26, 31
21 Francois Steyn (Natal Sharks) 21, 24
22 Jaque Fourie (Golden Lions) 25, 39
Head Coach: Pieter de Villiers
For full lists of all Wales and South Africa test results go to http://www.rugbyinternational.net/
South Africa v Wales in Cardiff
Preview
World Cup holders South Africa has given Wales full respect in naming a very strong side to battle the Welsh dragon on Saturday. South Africa have made their intentions clear-they wish to take Europe by storm again almost a year after winning the Web Ellis Trophy.
Wales are without a few regulars due to injury and have named two new caps in their starting lineup. The 2007-08 6 Nations Champions have a number of experienced players on the bench whom they will need as the Springbox superior match fitness will tell later on in the match.
Latest: Gavin Henson has been a late withdrawl. His place is taken by Tom Shanklin with Roberts moving to inside centre and Andrew Bishop moves on to the bench.
Last Five Encounters
14.06.2008 South Africa 37-21 in Pretoria
07.06.2008 South Africa 43-17 in Bloemfontein
24.11.2007 South Africa 34-12 in Cardiff
19.11.2005 South Africa 33-16 in Cardiff
06.11.2004 South Africa 38-36 in Cardiff
GWC Rugby Rankings: World Table-South Africa 2nd, Wales 4th
Prediction: South Africa by 13
Teams
Wales
15 Lee Byrne (Neath Swansea Ospreys) Age 28, 19 tests
14 Leigh Halfpenny (Cardiff Blues) 19, New Cap
13 Thomas Shanklin (Cardiff Blues) 29, 54
12 James Roberts (Cardiff Blues) 21, 3
11 Shane Williams (Neath Swansea Ospreys) 31, 58
10 Stephen Jones (Llanelly Scarlets) 31, 72
9 Gareth Cooper (Gloucester, England) 29, 37
8 Andrew Powell (Cardiff Blues) 27, New Cap
7 Martyn Williams (Cardiff Blues) 33, 81
6 Ryan Jones, Capt. (Neath Swansea Ospreys) 28, 22
5 Ian Evans (Neath Swansea Ospreys) 24, 14
4 Alun-Wyn Jones (Neath Swansea Ospreys) 23, 23
3 Adam Jones (Neath Swansea Ospreys) 27, 49
2 Matthew Rees (Llanelly Scarlets) 28, 19
1 Gethin Jenkins (Cardiff Blues) 28, 60
Replacements
16 Richard Hibbard (Neath Swansea Ospreys) 25, 6
17 Duncan Jones (Neath Swansea Ospreys) 30, 52
18 Ian Gough (Neath Swansea Ospreys) 32, 52
19 Dafydd Jones (Llanelly Scarlets) 28, 31
20 Dwayne Peel (Sale Sharks, England) 27, 61
21 James Hook (Neath Swansea Ospreys) 23, 26
22 Andrew Bishop (Neath Swansea Ospreys) 23, 1
Head Coach: Warren Gatland
Not selected Mark Jones (injured), Huw Bennett (injury)
Adam Jones will play his 50th test match.
South Africa
15 Conrad Jantjes (Golden Lions) Age 28, 21 tests
14 JP Pietersen (Natal Sharks) 22, 21
13 Adrian Jacobs (Western Province) 27, 18
12 Jean de Villiers Western Province) 26, 43
11 Bryan Habana (Blue Bulls) 24, 43
10 Ruan Pienaar (Natal Sharks) 24, 24
9 Fourie du Preez (Blue Bulls) 26, 42
8 Pierre Spies (Blue Bulls) 23, 16
7 Juan Smith (Free State Cheetahs) 26, 52
6 Schalk Burger (Western Province) 25, 46
5 Victor Matfield (Toulon, France) 29, 77
4 Bakkies Botha (Blue Bulls) 28, 52
3 John Smit, Capt. (Clermont-Ferrand, France) 30, 78
2 Bismarck du Plessis (Natal Sharks) 24, 18
1 Tendai Mtawarira (Natal Sharks) 22, 7
Replacements
16 Brian Mujati (Western Province) 23, 9
17 Gurthro Steenkamp (Blue Bulls) 27, 18
18 Andries Bekker (Wtsern Province) 25, 10
19 Ryan Kankowski (Natal Sharks) 22, 4
20 Ricky Januarie (Western Province) 26, 31
21 Francois Steyn (Natal Sharks) 21, 24
22 Jaque Fourie (Golden Lions) 25, 39
Head Coach: Pieter de Villiers
For full lists of all Wales and South Africa test results go to http://www.rugbyinternational.net/
Test Rugby: Australia v Italy
08.11.2008
Australia v Italy in Padova
Previews
Italy has before it the best opportunity to win a rugby test against Australia. Although still searching for the fly-half to ignite the backline, Italy has a very powerful pack that should dominate the Australians tomorrow. If they can use the ball won they could stretch a young Australian side.
Australia dominated the All Blacks in the first half in Hong Kong last weekend. There is simply not the depth in this Wallaby side on the bench to sustain a full 80 minute game and against a strong pack they will, like they did last weekend, tire. This could well be one of the closest matches of the weekend.
Last Five Encounters
11.11.2006 Australia 25-18 in Rome.
25.06.2005 Australia 69-21 in Melbourne
23.11.2002 Australia 34-3 in Genoa
23.10.1996 Australia 40-18 in Padova
25.06.1994 Australia 20-7 in Melbourne
GWC Rugby Rankings: World Table-Australia 3rd, Italy 7th
Prediction: A close one-Australia by 5 points.
Teams
Australia
15 Adam Ashley-Cooper (ACT Brumbies) Age 24, 19 tests
14 Lachlan Turner (NSW Waratahs) 21, 2
13 Stirling Mortlock, Capt. (ACT Brumbies) 31, 72
12 Timana Tahu (NSW Waratahs) 28, 3
11 Digby Ioane (WA Western Force) 23, 1
10 Berrick Barnes (Queensland Reds) 22, 12
9 Luke Burgess (NSW Waratahs) 24, 7
8 Richard Brown (WA Western Force) 23, 2
7 Philip Waugh (NSW Waratahs) 28, 72
6 Dean Mumm (NSW Waratahs) 24, 6
5 Hugh McMeniman (Queensland Reds) 24, 17
4 Mark Chisholm (ACT Brumbies) 26, 36
3 Matthew Dunning (NSW Waratahs) 29, 41
2 Stephen Moore (Queensland Reds) 25, 29
1 Benjamin Alexander (ACT Brumbies) 23, 2
Replacements
16 Tatafu Polota-Nau (NSW Waratahs) 23, 8
17 Sekope Kepu (NSW Waratahs) 22, New Cap
18 Wycliff Palu (NSW Waratah) 25, 24
19 David Pocock (WA Western Force) 20, 1
20 Matthew Giteau (WA Western Force) 25, 61
21 Quade Cooper (Queensland Reds) 20, New Cap
22 James O’Connor (WA Western Force) 18, New Cap
Head Coach: Robbie Deans
Ioane played his only test for Australia v Wales, June 2007
18 year old O’Connor will become Australia’s second youngest Wallaby if he takes the field.
Italy
15 Andrea Masi (Biarritz Olympique, France) Age 27, 42 Caps
14 Kaine Robertson (Montepaschi Viadana) 28, 32
13 Gonzalo Canale (Clermont Auvergne, France) 26, 41
12 Gonzalo Garcia (Cammi Calvisano) 24, 2
11 Mirco Bergamasco (Stade Français, France) 25, 53
10 Andrea Marcato (Benetton Treviso) 25, 8
9 Pablo Canavosio (Montepaschi Viadana) 26, 20
8 Sergio Parisse, Capt. (Stade Français, France) 25, 54
7 Mauro Bergamasco (Stade Français, France) 29, 63
6 Joshua Sole (Montepaschi Viadana) 28, 30
5 Marco Bortolami (Gloucester RFC, England) 28, 67
4 Carlo Antonio Del Fava (Ulster, Ireland) 27, 30
3 Carlos Nieto (Gloucester RFC, England) 32, 26
2 Leonardo Ghiraldini (Cammi Calvisano) 23, 13
1 Salvatore Perugini (Stade Toulousain, France) 30, 52
Replacements
16 Fabio Ongaro (Saracens, England) 31, 55
17 Matias Aguero (Saracens, England) 28, 8
18 Tommaso Reato (Femi CZ Rovigo) 23, 3
19 Alessandro Zanni (Cammi Calvisano) 24, 24
20 Giulio Toniolatti (AlmavivA UR Capitolina) 24, New Cap
21 Luciano Orquera (Brive, France) , 10
22 Matteo Pratichetti (Cammi Calvisano) 23, 10
Head Coach: Nick Mallett
Orquera last played for Italy v Tonga, November 2005.
For complete lists of all rugby tests played by Australia and by Italy, go to http://www.rugbyinternational.net/
Australia v Italy in Padova
Previews
Italy has before it the best opportunity to win a rugby test against Australia. Although still searching for the fly-half to ignite the backline, Italy has a very powerful pack that should dominate the Australians tomorrow. If they can use the ball won they could stretch a young Australian side.
Australia dominated the All Blacks in the first half in Hong Kong last weekend. There is simply not the depth in this Wallaby side on the bench to sustain a full 80 minute game and against a strong pack they will, like they did last weekend, tire. This could well be one of the closest matches of the weekend.
Last Five Encounters
11.11.2006 Australia 25-18 in Rome.
25.06.2005 Australia 69-21 in Melbourne
23.11.2002 Australia 34-3 in Genoa
23.10.1996 Australia 40-18 in Padova
25.06.1994 Australia 20-7 in Melbourne
GWC Rugby Rankings: World Table-Australia 3rd, Italy 7th
Prediction: A close one-Australia by 5 points.
Teams
Australia
15 Adam Ashley-Cooper (ACT Brumbies) Age 24, 19 tests
14 Lachlan Turner (NSW Waratahs) 21, 2
13 Stirling Mortlock, Capt. (ACT Brumbies) 31, 72
12 Timana Tahu (NSW Waratahs) 28, 3
11 Digby Ioane (WA Western Force) 23, 1
10 Berrick Barnes (Queensland Reds) 22, 12
9 Luke Burgess (NSW Waratahs) 24, 7
8 Richard Brown (WA Western Force) 23, 2
7 Philip Waugh (NSW Waratahs) 28, 72
6 Dean Mumm (NSW Waratahs) 24, 6
5 Hugh McMeniman (Queensland Reds) 24, 17
4 Mark Chisholm (ACT Brumbies) 26, 36
3 Matthew Dunning (NSW Waratahs) 29, 41
2 Stephen Moore (Queensland Reds) 25, 29
1 Benjamin Alexander (ACT Brumbies) 23, 2
Replacements
16 Tatafu Polota-Nau (NSW Waratahs) 23, 8
17 Sekope Kepu (NSW Waratahs) 22, New Cap
18 Wycliff Palu (NSW Waratah) 25, 24
19 David Pocock (WA Western Force) 20, 1
20 Matthew Giteau (WA Western Force) 25, 61
21 Quade Cooper (Queensland Reds) 20, New Cap
22 James O’Connor (WA Western Force) 18, New Cap
Head Coach: Robbie Deans
Ioane played his only test for Australia v Wales, June 2007
18 year old O’Connor will become Australia’s second youngest Wallaby if he takes the field.
Italy
15 Andrea Masi (Biarritz Olympique, France) Age 27, 42 Caps
14 Kaine Robertson (Montepaschi Viadana) 28, 32
13 Gonzalo Canale (Clermont Auvergne, France) 26, 41
12 Gonzalo Garcia (Cammi Calvisano) 24, 2
11 Mirco Bergamasco (Stade Français, France) 25, 53
10 Andrea Marcato (Benetton Treviso) 25, 8
9 Pablo Canavosio (Montepaschi Viadana) 26, 20
8 Sergio Parisse, Capt. (Stade Français, France) 25, 54
7 Mauro Bergamasco (Stade Français, France) 29, 63
6 Joshua Sole (Montepaschi Viadana) 28, 30
5 Marco Bortolami (Gloucester RFC, England) 28, 67
4 Carlo Antonio Del Fava (Ulster, Ireland) 27, 30
3 Carlos Nieto (Gloucester RFC, England) 32, 26
2 Leonardo Ghiraldini (Cammi Calvisano) 23, 13
1 Salvatore Perugini (Stade Toulousain, France) 30, 52
Replacements
16 Fabio Ongaro (Saracens, England) 31, 55
17 Matias Aguero (Saracens, England) 28, 8
18 Tommaso Reato (Femi CZ Rovigo) 23, 3
19 Alessandro Zanni (Cammi Calvisano) 24, 24
20 Giulio Toniolatti (AlmavivA UR Capitolina) 24, New Cap
21 Luciano Orquera (Brive, France) , 10
22 Matteo Pratichetti (Cammi Calvisano) 23, 10
Head Coach: Nick Mallett
Orquera last played for Italy v Tonga, November 2005.
For complete lists of all rugby tests played by Australia and by Italy, go to http://www.rugbyinternational.net/
International Rugby: England v Pacific Islands
08.11.2008
England v Pacific Islands at Twickenham
Review
The Pacific Island team is made up of international rugby players from the three main Pacific rugby nations; Fiji, Samoa and Tonga. The concept is based upon the British and Irish Lions who tour every four years. The Islanders are all professionals based either in Europe or Japan. That should make them three times stronger than any of the original nations. But the reality is that in the past the Pacific Island team has not, for whatever reason, performed as well as expected. Again, very much like the Lions, on potential the Islanders should be world beaters, but on the paddock rarely so.
Having said that the Island team is full of experience. Most will be familiar with whatever the weather holds for Twickenham and you can be sure the tackles will be hard and England will be a sore bunch of lads at the end of the game. If the Islanders can add to the pressure their tackling can have on the opposition and score points then there is their strength. Up front they will struggle against the England pack.
Its a new look England team. There are four new caps in the starting line up with another waiting on the bench. Under new management, England is a blend of experience and new players. Some the inexperienced are certainly not youthful as England manager Martin Johnson has caste the net to include a few new foreign players. It's all part of the plan to get the England team back to World Cup 2003 standard. He has three years in which to do this.
It should be a close game.
Previous Encounters. This is the first time these two teams have met.
GWC Rugby Rankings-Does not apply
Prediction. Anything could happen. If England keep cool under pressure they should win by 5 points.
Teams
Pacific Islands
15. Kameli Ratuvou (Saracens, Fiji) Age 25, 16 tests (Fiji), 3 (PIR)
14. Sailosi Tagicakibau (London Irish, Samoa) 25, 12, 1
13. Seru Rabeni (Leicester, Fiji) 29, 26, 6
12. Seilala Mapusua (London Irish, Samoa) 26, 6, 4
11. Vilimoni Delasau (Clermont Auvergne, Fiji) 31, 28, 0
10. Pierre Hola ( Kobe Japan, Tonga) 30, 34, 0
9. Mosese Raulini (Saracens, Fiji) 32, 42, 6
8. Finau Maka (Stade Toulousain, Tonga) 30, 4, 0
7. Nili Latu (NEC Japan, Tonga) 26, 17, 3
6. Semisi Naevo (NEC Japan, Fiji) 32, 9, 0
5. Kele Leawere (Hino Motors Japan, Fiji) 34, 23, 0
4. Filipo Levi (Ricoh Japan, Samoa) 28, 8, 2
3. Census Johnston (Saracens, Samoa) 27, 17, 1
2. Aleki Lutui (Worcester, Tonga) 29, 23, 6
1. Justin Va’a (Glasgow, Samoa) 29, 13, 3
Replacements
16. Sunia Koto (London Welsh, Fiji) 28, 22, 0
17. Kisi Pulu (Perpignan, Tonga) 29, 20, 0
18. Hale T Pole (Ospreys, Tonga) 29, 10, 2
19. George Stowers (Kobe Japan, Samoa) 29, 5, 0
20. Sililo Martens (Llanelli Scarlets, Tonga) 31, 27, 0
21. Seremaia Bai (Clermont Auvergne, Fiji) 29, 26, 5
22. Epi Taione (Harlequins, Tonga) 29, 17, 3
Coach: Quiddus Fielea
http://pacificislanders.co.nz/
Martens last played for Tonga v Canada at the 2003 Rugby World Cup. A number of the players have not been available for the Pacific Nations during 2008. Raulini, Taione and Levi were not named in the original squad.
England
15 Delon Armitage (London Irish) Age 24, New Cap
14 Paul Sackey (London Wasps) 29, 15
13 James Noon (Newcastle Falcons) 29, 33
12 Riki Flutey (London Wasps) 28, New Cap
11 Ugo Monye (Harlequins) 25, New Cap
10 Daniel Cipriani (London Wasps) 21, 3
9 Daniel Care (Harlequins) 21, 2
8 Nicholas Easter (Harlequins) 33, 16
7 Thomas Rees (London Wasps) 24, 11
6 Thomas Croft (Leicester Tigers) 22, 4
5 Nicholas Kennedy (London Irish) 27, New Cap
4 Steven Borthwick, Capt. (Bath Rugby) 28, 40
3 Matthew Stevens (Bath Rugby) 26, 28
2 Lee Mears (Bath Rugby) 29, 24
1 Andrew Sheridan (Sale Sharks) 29, 25
Replacements
16 Dylan Hartley (Northampton Saints) 22, New Cap
17 Phillip Vickery (London Wasps) 32, 64
18 Thomas Palmer (London Wasps) 29, 10
19 James Haskell (London Wasps) 23, 8
20 Michael Lipman (Bath Rugby) 25, 7
21 Harold Ellis (Leicester Tigers) 26, 18
22 Tobias Flood (Newcastle Falcons) 22, 18
Coach: Martin Johnson
New Zealand born Flutey is a former Junior All Black, New Zealand Maori and Wellington Hurricanes Super 14 player who has gained selection after qualifying on residency. Hartley is another born in New Zealand and represented Bay of Plenty at U18’s.
Not considered due to injury-Nik Abendanon, Mathew Tait, George Chuter, Luke Narraway
You can see the full lists of international rugby tests for both the Pacific Islands, the Pacific Nations of Fiji, Samoa and Tonga, as well as England at http://www.rugbyinternational.net/
England v Pacific Islands at Twickenham
Review
The Pacific Island team is made up of international rugby players from the three main Pacific rugby nations; Fiji, Samoa and Tonga. The concept is based upon the British and Irish Lions who tour every four years. The Islanders are all professionals based either in Europe or Japan. That should make them three times stronger than any of the original nations. But the reality is that in the past the Pacific Island team has not, for whatever reason, performed as well as expected. Again, very much like the Lions, on potential the Islanders should be world beaters, but on the paddock rarely so.
Having said that the Island team is full of experience. Most will be familiar with whatever the weather holds for Twickenham and you can be sure the tackles will be hard and England will be a sore bunch of lads at the end of the game. If the Islanders can add to the pressure their tackling can have on the opposition and score points then there is their strength. Up front they will struggle against the England pack.
Its a new look England team. There are four new caps in the starting line up with another waiting on the bench. Under new management, England is a blend of experience and new players. Some the inexperienced are certainly not youthful as England manager Martin Johnson has caste the net to include a few new foreign players. It's all part of the plan to get the England team back to World Cup 2003 standard. He has three years in which to do this.
It should be a close game.
Previous Encounters. This is the first time these two teams have met.
GWC Rugby Rankings-Does not apply
Prediction. Anything could happen. If England keep cool under pressure they should win by 5 points.
Teams
Pacific Islands
15. Kameli Ratuvou (Saracens, Fiji) Age 25, 16 tests (Fiji), 3 (PIR)
14. Sailosi Tagicakibau (London Irish, Samoa) 25, 12, 1
13. Seru Rabeni (Leicester, Fiji) 29, 26, 6
12. Seilala Mapusua (London Irish, Samoa) 26, 6, 4
11. Vilimoni Delasau (Clermont Auvergne, Fiji) 31, 28, 0
10. Pierre Hola ( Kobe Japan, Tonga) 30, 34, 0
9. Mosese Raulini (Saracens, Fiji) 32, 42, 6
8. Finau Maka (Stade Toulousain, Tonga) 30, 4, 0
7. Nili Latu (NEC Japan, Tonga) 26, 17, 3
6. Semisi Naevo (NEC Japan, Fiji) 32, 9, 0
5. Kele Leawere (Hino Motors Japan, Fiji) 34, 23, 0
4. Filipo Levi (Ricoh Japan, Samoa) 28, 8, 2
3. Census Johnston (Saracens, Samoa) 27, 17, 1
2. Aleki Lutui (Worcester, Tonga) 29, 23, 6
1. Justin Va’a (Glasgow, Samoa) 29, 13, 3
Replacements
16. Sunia Koto (London Welsh, Fiji) 28, 22, 0
17. Kisi Pulu (Perpignan, Tonga) 29, 20, 0
18. Hale T Pole (Ospreys, Tonga) 29, 10, 2
19. George Stowers (Kobe Japan, Samoa) 29, 5, 0
20. Sililo Martens (Llanelli Scarlets, Tonga) 31, 27, 0
21. Seremaia Bai (Clermont Auvergne, Fiji) 29, 26, 5
22. Epi Taione (Harlequins, Tonga) 29, 17, 3
Coach: Quiddus Fielea
http://pacificislanders.co.nz/
Martens last played for Tonga v Canada at the 2003 Rugby World Cup. A number of the players have not been available for the Pacific Nations during 2008. Raulini, Taione and Levi were not named in the original squad.
England
15 Delon Armitage (London Irish) Age 24, New Cap
14 Paul Sackey (London Wasps) 29, 15
13 James Noon (Newcastle Falcons) 29, 33
12 Riki Flutey (London Wasps) 28, New Cap
11 Ugo Monye (Harlequins) 25, New Cap
10 Daniel Cipriani (London Wasps) 21, 3
9 Daniel Care (Harlequins) 21, 2
8 Nicholas Easter (Harlequins) 33, 16
7 Thomas Rees (London Wasps) 24, 11
6 Thomas Croft (Leicester Tigers) 22, 4
5 Nicholas Kennedy (London Irish) 27, New Cap
4 Steven Borthwick, Capt. (Bath Rugby) 28, 40
3 Matthew Stevens (Bath Rugby) 26, 28
2 Lee Mears (Bath Rugby) 29, 24
1 Andrew Sheridan (Sale Sharks) 29, 25
Replacements
16 Dylan Hartley (Northampton Saints) 22, New Cap
17 Phillip Vickery (London Wasps) 32, 64
18 Thomas Palmer (London Wasps) 29, 10
19 James Haskell (London Wasps) 23, 8
20 Michael Lipman (Bath Rugby) 25, 7
21 Harold Ellis (Leicester Tigers) 26, 18
22 Tobias Flood (Newcastle Falcons) 22, 18
Coach: Martin Johnson
New Zealand born Flutey is a former Junior All Black, New Zealand Maori and Wellington Hurricanes Super 14 player who has gained selection after qualifying on residency. Hartley is another born in New Zealand and represented Bay of Plenty at U18’s.
Not considered due to injury-Nik Abendanon, Mathew Tait, George Chuter, Luke Narraway
You can see the full lists of international rugby tests for both the Pacific Islands, the Pacific Nations of Fiji, Samoa and Tonga, as well as England at http://www.rugbyinternational.net/
Test Rugby: Canada v Ireland
08.11.2008
Canada v Ireland in Limerick
Preview
The Canadians are fresh from a 21-13 victory over Portugal last weekend. Coming into their squad are a number of European-based players drafted in during the November club release period. This will bolster a side who will need to play out of their skins to defeat this Irish Side.
Ireland is a strange side. They haven't been going too well lately and yet they persist with an ageing pack. They don't have much choice as the older brigade are doing very well thank you for their provinces Munster and leinster in European club competition. So I think we are going to see more of the ho hum from Ireland unless of course new boss Declan Kidney can inject new life into them.
Incidentaly three of the Irish are all hovering on 84 test caps. I wonder if there is a race in it? Who'll be the first to their century. Mind you just ahead of those boys is one John Hayes on 86. Problem is he is 35 years young and..ar..well..you see, its me knees!
All in all a good outing for the Irish without too many problems but be careful, those Canadians might just outlast some of those ageing knees.
Prevoius Encounters
19.05.2007 Ireland 'A' 39-20 in Exeter (Churchill Cup)
17.06.2000 Drawn 27-27 in Toronto
30.11.1997 Ireland 33-11 in Dublin
02.09.1988 Ireland XV 24-21 in Victoria
30.05.1987 Ireland 46-19 in Dunedin (World Cup)
GWC Rugby Rankings: World Table-Ireland 12th, Canada 17th
Prediction: Ireland by 25 points
Teams
Ireland
15 Keith Earls (Munster) Age 21, New Cap
14 Thomas Bowe (Neath Swansea Ospreys, Wales) 24, 15
13 Brian O'Driscoll, Capt. (Leinster) 29, 84
12 Luke Fitzgerald (Leinster) 21, 4
11 Robert Kearney (Leinster) 23, 8
10 Ronan O'Gara (Munster) 31, 84
9 Eoin Reddan (London Wasps, England) 28, 12
8 James Heaslip (Leinster) 24, 10
7 Shane Jennings (Leinster) 27, 1
6 Stephen Ferris (Ulster) 23, 5
5 Paul O'Connell (Munster) 29, 54
4 Donncha O'Callaghan (Munster) 29, 47
3 Anthony Buckley (Munster) 28, 9
2 Jeremy Flannery (Munster) 30, 23
1 Marcus Horan (Munster) 31, 58
Replacements
16 Rory Best (Ulster) 26, 24
17 John Hayes (Munster) 35, 86
18 Alan Quinlan (Munster) 34, 25
19 David Wallace (Munster) 32, 47
20 Peter Stringer (Munster) 31, 84
21 Patrick Wallace (Ulster) 29, 10
22 Shane Horgan (Leinster) 30, 63
Head Coach: Declan Kidney
http://www.irishrugby.ie/13910_14940.php
Canada
15 James Pritchard (Bedford Blues, England) Aged 27, 21 tests
14 Ciaran Hearn (Castaway Wanderers) , New Cap
13 Bryn Keys (Velox Valhallians) 22, 2
12 Ryan Smith (Calgary Irish) 28, 37
11 Justin Mensah-Coker (Plymouth Albion, England) 24, 10
10 Ander Monro (Colorno, Italy) 26, 9
9 Edward Fairhurst (Cornish Pirates, England) 29, 37
8 Aaron Carpenter (Cowichan RFC) 24, 17
7 Adam Kleeberger (University of Victoria) 24, 12
6 Sean Michael Stephen (Plymouth Albion, England) 25, 13
5 Joshua Jackson (Bordeaux Begles, France) 27, 18
4 Michael Burak (Cornish Pirates, England) 27, 15
3 Jon Thiel (Bayside Sharks) 33, 42
2 Patrick Riordan, Capt. (University of Victoria) 28, 18
1 Kevin Tkachuk (Glasgow Warriors, Scotland) 31, 40
Replacements
16 Michael Pletch (Velox Valhallians) 25, 17
17 Frank Walsh (Vandals RFC) ?, 1
18 Tyler Hotson (Northern Suburbs RFC, Australia) 23, 2
19 Jebb Sinclair (Castaway Wanderers) 22, 1
20 Morgan Williams (James Bay Athletic Association) 32, 54
21 Matthew Evans (Hartpury College, England) 20, New Cap
22 Phillip Mackenzie (University of Victoria) 21, 1
Head Coach: Kieran Crowley
Regulars Jamie Cudmore, Colin Yukes, David Spicer, DTH van der Merwe and Luke Tait are unavailable
For a list of all international rugby matches played by Ireland, and by Canada, go to www.rugbyinternational.net
Canada v Ireland in Limerick
Preview
The Canadians are fresh from a 21-13 victory over Portugal last weekend. Coming into their squad are a number of European-based players drafted in during the November club release period. This will bolster a side who will need to play out of their skins to defeat this Irish Side.
Ireland is a strange side. They haven't been going too well lately and yet they persist with an ageing pack. They don't have much choice as the older brigade are doing very well thank you for their provinces Munster and leinster in European club competition. So I think we are going to see more of the ho hum from Ireland unless of course new boss Declan Kidney can inject new life into them.
Incidentaly three of the Irish are all hovering on 84 test caps. I wonder if there is a race in it? Who'll be the first to their century. Mind you just ahead of those boys is one John Hayes on 86. Problem is he is 35 years young and..ar..well..you see, its me knees!
All in all a good outing for the Irish without too many problems but be careful, those Canadians might just outlast some of those ageing knees.
Prevoius Encounters
19.05.2007 Ireland 'A' 39-20 in Exeter (Churchill Cup)
17.06.2000 Drawn 27-27 in Toronto
30.11.1997 Ireland 33-11 in Dublin
02.09.1988 Ireland XV 24-21 in Victoria
30.05.1987 Ireland 46-19 in Dunedin (World Cup)
GWC Rugby Rankings: World Table-Ireland 12th, Canada 17th
Prediction: Ireland by 25 points
Teams
Ireland
15 Keith Earls (Munster) Age 21, New Cap
14 Thomas Bowe (Neath Swansea Ospreys, Wales) 24, 15
13 Brian O'Driscoll, Capt. (Leinster) 29, 84
12 Luke Fitzgerald (Leinster) 21, 4
11 Robert Kearney (Leinster) 23, 8
10 Ronan O'Gara (Munster) 31, 84
9 Eoin Reddan (London Wasps, England) 28, 12
8 James Heaslip (Leinster) 24, 10
7 Shane Jennings (Leinster) 27, 1
6 Stephen Ferris (Ulster) 23, 5
5 Paul O'Connell (Munster) 29, 54
4 Donncha O'Callaghan (Munster) 29, 47
3 Anthony Buckley (Munster) 28, 9
2 Jeremy Flannery (Munster) 30, 23
1 Marcus Horan (Munster) 31, 58
Replacements
16 Rory Best (Ulster) 26, 24
17 John Hayes (Munster) 35, 86
18 Alan Quinlan (Munster) 34, 25
19 David Wallace (Munster) 32, 47
20 Peter Stringer (Munster) 31, 84
21 Patrick Wallace (Ulster) 29, 10
22 Shane Horgan (Leinster) 30, 63
Head Coach: Declan Kidney
http://www.irishrugby.ie/13910_14940.php
Canada
15 James Pritchard (Bedford Blues, England) Aged 27, 21 tests
14 Ciaran Hearn (Castaway Wanderers) , New Cap
13 Bryn Keys (Velox Valhallians) 22, 2
12 Ryan Smith (Calgary Irish) 28, 37
11 Justin Mensah-Coker (Plymouth Albion, England) 24, 10
10 Ander Monro (Colorno, Italy) 26, 9
9 Edward Fairhurst (Cornish Pirates, England) 29, 37
8 Aaron Carpenter (Cowichan RFC) 24, 17
7 Adam Kleeberger (University of Victoria) 24, 12
6 Sean Michael Stephen (Plymouth Albion, England) 25, 13
5 Joshua Jackson (Bordeaux Begles, France) 27, 18
4 Michael Burak (Cornish Pirates, England) 27, 15
3 Jon Thiel (Bayside Sharks) 33, 42
2 Patrick Riordan, Capt. (University of Victoria) 28, 18
1 Kevin Tkachuk (Glasgow Warriors, Scotland) 31, 40
Replacements
16 Michael Pletch (Velox Valhallians) 25, 17
17 Frank Walsh (Vandals RFC) ?, 1
18 Tyler Hotson (Northern Suburbs RFC, Australia) 23, 2
19 Jebb Sinclair (Castaway Wanderers) 22, 1
20 Morgan Williams (James Bay Athletic Association) 32, 54
21 Matthew Evans (Hartpury College, England) 20, New Cap
22 Phillip Mackenzie (University of Victoria) 21, 1
Head Coach: Kieran Crowley
Regulars Jamie Cudmore, Colin Yukes, David Spicer, DTH van der Merwe and Luke Tait are unavailable
For a list of all international rugby matches played by Ireland, and by Canada, go to www.rugbyinternational.net
Rugby Test: Uruguay v USA
08.11.2008
Uruguay v United States at Salt Lake City
Preview
Uruguay arrive in the US of A without their overseas-based players and with only half the team that did so well at the IRB Nations Cup in Bucharest in June. The Uruguyans lost 6-10 to Romania, 18-20 to Georgia before defeating Russia 23-19. Not bad going! So what's the problem? Well, according to this article-money. http://www.gainline.us/gainline/2008/11/uruguayans-lack-experience-cash.html
On their way to the USA the Uruguyans lost 13-40 to a Buenos Aires Selection in Buenos Aires.
The USA have, predictably, made some big changes since they lost 10-26 to Canada back in June in the Churchill Cup playoff for 5th/6th. That meant the USA came dead last! They have been able to call upon a number of foreign-based players (no money worries?) and mix them with a blend of new comers. In addition a squad of some fifty players have been muscling it out in the back of beyond getting themselves selected for either the full test team or for a USA 'A' side that will play the New Zealand Heartland team in the curtain raiser. On the basis of money and preparation alone the USA look to be streets ahead of the South American visitors.
Previous Encounters
07.10.2006 USA 33-7 in Stanford (WCQ America, repecharge 2nd leg)
01.10.2006 USA 42-13 in Montevideo (WCQ America, repecharge, 1st leg)
30.08.2003 USA 31-17 in Buenos Aires (Pan-American Series)
31.08.2002 Uruguay 10-9 in Montevideo (WCQ America R4)
17.08.2002 USA 28-24 in San Francisco (WCQ America R4)
Looks like the good old World Cup tussles between these two nations are a thing of the past.
GWC Rugby Rankings: World Table-USA 18th, Uruguay 23rd
Prediction: USA by 35 points.
Teams
Uruguay Squad
Juan Miguel Alvarez (Carasco Polo) Age 28,
Carlos Arboleya (Trebol) 23,
Matias Arocena (Old Christians) 23,
Francisco Bulanti (Trebol) 24,
Juan Campomar (Old Boys) 26,
Ignacio Conti (Carasco Polo) 30,
Francisco De Posadas (Old Boys) 26,
Martin Espiga (Old Christians) 23,
Jeronimo Etcheverry (Carasco Polo) 20,
Matias Fonseca (Los Cuervos) 20,
Nicholas Klappembach (Champagnat) 26,
Enrico Laitano (Carasco Polo) 23,
Leandro Leivas (Old Christians) 20,
Pablo Lemoine, Capt. (Montevideo Cricket) 33, *
Martin Llovet (Old Christians) 22,
Manuel Martinez (Old Christians) 23,
Nicholas Morales (Trebol) 24,
Joaquin Pastore (Old Boys) 26,
Gonzago Peyrou (Champagnat) 25,
Juan Rombys (Trebol) 21,
Mario Sagario (Carasco Polo) 21,
Rodrigo Sanchez (Carasco Polo) 31, *
Head Coach: Guillermo Garcia
I do not have sufficient data to show each player’s test caps.
* 2003 World Cup team
The Team was defeated 40-13 by a Buenos Aires Selection in Bunenos Aires 1 November. Overseas players not selected Sebastian Levaggi (Venezzia, Italy), Nicolas Brignoni (Oyonax, France), Alfredo Giuria (L’Aquila, Italy), Santiago Rodino (US Cognac, France) and Ivo Dugonjic (Pucaru Stade Gaulois). All these overseas-based players played for Uruguay in the IRB Nations Cup held in Bucharest. Another eight from that squad do not appear above. Alberico Passadore, who was head coach for IRB Nations Cup has also gone.
USA
15 Christopher Wyles (Saracens, England) Age 25, 10 tests
14 Takudzwa Ngwenya (Biarritz, France) 23, 6
13 Paul Emerick (Parma, Italy) 28, 29
12 Junior Sifa (Midleton) 25, New Cap
11 Gavin DeBartolo (Eastern Suburbs) 26, 2
10 Michael Hercus (IBM, Japan) 29, 39
9 Michael Petri (New York Athletic Club) 23, 4
8 Patrick Quinn (Denver Barbarians) 26, 1
7 Todd Clever, Capt. (Xerox Lions) 25, 24
6 Inaki Basauri (Agen, France) 24, 3
5 John Van der Giessen (Denver Barbarians) 26, 2
4 Hayden Smith (Saracens, England) 23, New Cap
3 Matekitonga Moeakiola (Pukekohe RFC, NZ) 30, 7
2 Mark Crick (Potomac Athletic Club) 33, 6
1 Mike MacDonald (Leeds Carnegie, England) 27, 50
Replacements
16 Joseph Welch (Cal) 24, New Cap
17 Shawn Pittman (San Francisco Golden Gate) 20, New Cap
18 Alec Parker (Gentlemen of Aspen) 34, 50
19 J.J. Gagiano (Univ.of Cape Town, Sth Africa) 23, New Cap
20 Chad Erskine (Rotherham, England) 27, 7
21 Valenese Malifa (Belmont Shore) 22, 5
22 Salesi Sika (Beziers, France) 27, 19
Head Coach: Scott Johnson
Erskine last played for USA v South Africa at the 2007 Rugby World Cup as did veteran Parker. Basauri last played for USA v Tonga at the 2007 Rugby World Cup.Quins’ only test for the USA was v England Saxons, June 2007
For complete lists of all rugby test results for both USA and Uruguay go to http://www.rugbyinternational.net/
Uruguay v United States at Salt Lake City
Preview
Uruguay arrive in the US of A without their overseas-based players and with only half the team that did so well at the IRB Nations Cup in Bucharest in June. The Uruguyans lost 6-10 to Romania, 18-20 to Georgia before defeating Russia 23-19. Not bad going! So what's the problem? Well, according to this article-money. http://www.gainline.us/gainline/2008/11/uruguayans-lack-experience-cash.html
On their way to the USA the Uruguyans lost 13-40 to a Buenos Aires Selection in Buenos Aires.
The USA have, predictably, made some big changes since they lost 10-26 to Canada back in June in the Churchill Cup playoff for 5th/6th. That meant the USA came dead last! They have been able to call upon a number of foreign-based players (no money worries?) and mix them with a blend of new comers. In addition a squad of some fifty players have been muscling it out in the back of beyond getting themselves selected for either the full test team or for a USA 'A' side that will play the New Zealand Heartland team in the curtain raiser. On the basis of money and preparation alone the USA look to be streets ahead of the South American visitors.
Previous Encounters
07.10.2006 USA 33-7 in Stanford (WCQ America, repecharge 2nd leg)
01.10.2006 USA 42-13 in Montevideo (WCQ America, repecharge, 1st leg)
30.08.2003 USA 31-17 in Buenos Aires (Pan-American Series)
31.08.2002 Uruguay 10-9 in Montevideo (WCQ America R4)
17.08.2002 USA 28-24 in San Francisco (WCQ America R4)
Looks like the good old World Cup tussles between these two nations are a thing of the past.
GWC Rugby Rankings: World Table-USA 18th, Uruguay 23rd
Prediction: USA by 35 points.
Teams
Uruguay Squad
Juan Miguel Alvarez (Carasco Polo) Age 28,
Carlos Arboleya (Trebol) 23,
Matias Arocena (Old Christians) 23,
Francisco Bulanti (Trebol) 24,
Juan Campomar (Old Boys) 26,
Ignacio Conti (Carasco Polo) 30,
Francisco De Posadas (Old Boys) 26,
Martin Espiga (Old Christians) 23,
Jeronimo Etcheverry (Carasco Polo) 20,
Matias Fonseca (Los Cuervos) 20,
Nicholas Klappembach (Champagnat) 26,
Enrico Laitano (Carasco Polo) 23,
Leandro Leivas (Old Christians) 20,
Pablo Lemoine, Capt. (Montevideo Cricket) 33, *
Martin Llovet (Old Christians) 22,
Manuel Martinez (Old Christians) 23,
Nicholas Morales (Trebol) 24,
Joaquin Pastore (Old Boys) 26,
Gonzago Peyrou (Champagnat) 25,
Juan Rombys (Trebol) 21,
Mario Sagario (Carasco Polo) 21,
Rodrigo Sanchez (Carasco Polo) 31, *
Head Coach: Guillermo Garcia
I do not have sufficient data to show each player’s test caps.
* 2003 World Cup team
The Team was defeated 40-13 by a Buenos Aires Selection in Bunenos Aires 1 November. Overseas players not selected Sebastian Levaggi (Venezzia, Italy), Nicolas Brignoni (Oyonax, France), Alfredo Giuria (L’Aquila, Italy), Santiago Rodino (US Cognac, France) and Ivo Dugonjic (Pucaru Stade Gaulois). All these overseas-based players played for Uruguay in the IRB Nations Cup held in Bucharest. Another eight from that squad do not appear above. Alberico Passadore, who was head coach for IRB Nations Cup has also gone.
USA
15 Christopher Wyles (Saracens, England) Age 25, 10 tests
14 Takudzwa Ngwenya (Biarritz, France) 23, 6
13 Paul Emerick (Parma, Italy) 28, 29
12 Junior Sifa (Midleton) 25, New Cap
11 Gavin DeBartolo (Eastern Suburbs) 26, 2
10 Michael Hercus (IBM, Japan) 29, 39
9 Michael Petri (New York Athletic Club) 23, 4
8 Patrick Quinn (Denver Barbarians) 26, 1
7 Todd Clever, Capt. (Xerox Lions) 25, 24
6 Inaki Basauri (Agen, France) 24, 3
5 John Van der Giessen (Denver Barbarians) 26, 2
4 Hayden Smith (Saracens, England) 23, New Cap
3 Matekitonga Moeakiola (Pukekohe RFC, NZ) 30, 7
2 Mark Crick (Potomac Athletic Club) 33, 6
1 Mike MacDonald (Leeds Carnegie, England) 27, 50
Replacements
16 Joseph Welch (Cal) 24, New Cap
17 Shawn Pittman (San Francisco Golden Gate) 20, New Cap
18 Alec Parker (Gentlemen of Aspen) 34, 50
19 J.J. Gagiano (Univ.of Cape Town, Sth Africa) 23, New Cap
20 Chad Erskine (Rotherham, England) 27, 7
21 Valenese Malifa (Belmont Shore) 22, 5
22 Salesi Sika (Beziers, France) 27, 19
Head Coach: Scott Johnson
Erskine last played for USA v South Africa at the 2007 Rugby World Cup as did veteran Parker. Basauri last played for USA v Tonga at the 2007 Rugby World Cup.Quins’ only test for the USA was v England Saxons, June 2007
For complete lists of all rugby test results for both USA and Uruguay go to http://www.rugbyinternational.net/
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