20.06.2009
New Zealand v France in Wellington (2nd test)
Preview
The All Blacks will be hurting deeply after their loss to France last weekend. Excuses don't hold any weight with me for the All Black's display. Last November it didn't matter whether the Kiwis fielded their top lineup or the 'Second XV', they won their test matches regardless.
You can expect a different performance from the Kiwis this week. I'd expect the All Blacks to be a fired up, sharper outfit. Another loss will see heads rolling. France on the other hand will go about their business with a quiet confidence that this team will win this test series in New Zealand. This will be an absorbing test match.
Last Five Encounters
13.06.2009 France 27-22 in Dunedin
06.10.2007 France 20-18 in Cardiff (World Cup, Quarter-final)
09.06.2007 New Zealand 61-10 in Wellington
02.06.2007 New Zealand 42-11 in Auckland
18.11.2006 New Zealand 23-11 in Paris
GWC Rugby Rankings: World Table-France 1st, New Zealand 2nd
Prediction: New Zealand by 7 points
Teams
New Zealand
15 Mils Muliaina, Capt. (Waikato) Age 28, 69 tests
14 Cory Jane (Wellington) 26, 2
13 Conrad Smith (Wellington) 27, 23
12 Ma'a Nonu (Wellington) 27, 33
11 Josevata Rokocoko (Auckland) 26, 53
10 Stephen Donald (Waikato) 25, 9
9 Jimmy Cowan (Southland) 27, 22
8 Kieran Read (Canterbury) 24, 4
7 Tanerau Latimer (Bay of Plenty) 23, 1
6 Jerome Kaino (Auckland) 26, 15
5 Isaac Ross (Canterbury) 24, 1
4 Brad Thorn (Canterbury) 34, 24
3 Neemia Tialata (Wellington) 26, 32
2 Keven Mealamu (Auckland) 30, 44
1 Tony Woodcock (North Harbour) 28, 49
Replacements
16 Aled de Malmanche (Waikato) 23, New cap
17 John Afoa (Auckland) 25, 14
18 Bryn Evans (Hawkes Bay) 24, 1
19 George Whitelock (Otago) 23, New cap
20 Piri Weepu (Wellington) 25, 29
21 Luke McAlister (North Harbour) 25, 23
22 Isaia Toeava (Couties Manukau) 22, 1
Head Coach: Graham Henry
Injured: Richie McCaw (the usual captain), Rodney So'oialo, Richard Kaku, Ali Williams, Sitiveni Sivivatu, Anthony Boric, Andy Ellis, Corey Flynn and Adam Thompson.
France
15 Maxime Medard (Toulouse) Age 21, 9 tests
14 Vincent Clerc (Toulouse) 27, 33
13 Maxime Mermoz (Perpignan) 22, 2
12 Damien Traille (Biarritz) 29, 69
11 Cedric Heymans (Toulouse) 30, 49
10 Francois Trinh-Duc (Montpellier) 21, 11
9 Julien Dupuy (Leicester, England) 25, 1
8 Louis Picamoles (Montpellier) 22, 13
7 Fulgence Ouedraogo (Montpellier) 22, 15
6 Thierry Dusautoir, Capt. (Toulouse) 27, 23
5 Romain Millo-Chluski (Toulouse) 25, 8
4 Sebastien Chabal (Sale) 30, 47
3 Nicolas Mas (Perpignan) 28, 24
2 William Servat (Toulouse) 30, 22
1 Fabien Barcella (Biarritz) 24, 7
Replacements
16 Dimitri Szarzewski (Stade Français) 25, 35
17 Thomas Domingo (Clermont-Auvergne) 23, 3
18 Remy Martin (Bayonne) 29, 21
19 Damien Chouly (Perpignan) 22, 2
20 Dimitri Yachvili (Biarritz) 28, 38
21 Florian Fritz (Toulouse) 24, 16
22 Mathieu Bastareaud (Stade Français) 20, 3
Head Coach: Marc Lièvremont
Friday, June 19, 2009
Rugby Test: Italians out to Impress
20.06.2009
Italy v Australia in Melbourne (2nd test)
Preview
Italy were very competitive against Australia in the first test, especially in the forwards. Their backs lacked penetration. Nik Mallett the Italian coach has made up to ten changes from the first test side in an attempt to inject more urgency and fluidity in their play which was rather one-dimentional in the first test.
The Ausralian looked very sharp, especially in their backs, last weekend. Poor finishing and a strong challenege from Italy up front limited their domination of the match. The Aussies will be looking for a more polished performance and will be expecting a better performance from their forwards. Robbie Deans has made a number of changes which include leaving Matt Giteau and Sterling Mortlock out of the squad altogether. The move is to rest key players ahead of vital tests to come for Australia. As a result the Aussie may well struggle again against this side both in the forwards, an now, in the backs.
Last Five Encounters
13.06.2009 Australia 31-8 in Canberra
08.11.2009 Australia 30-20 in Padova
11.11.2006 Australia 25-18 in Rome
25.06.2005 Australia 69-20 in Melbourne
GWC Rugby Rankings: World Table-Australia 8th, Italy 10th
Prediction: Australia by 14 points
Teams
Australia
15 James O'Connor (WA Western Force) Age 19, 2 tests
14 Lachie Turner (NSW Waratahs) 22, 3
13 Ryan Cross (WA Western Force) 29, 11
12 Quade Cooper (Queensland Reds) 21, 4
11 Peter Hynes (Queensland Reds) 26, 13
10 Berrick Barnes (Queensland Reds) 23, 14
9 Luke Burgess (NSW Waratahs) 25, 12
8 George Smith, Capt. (ACT Brumbies) 28, 96
7 David Pocock (WA Western Force) 21, 3
6 Peter Kimlin (ACT Brumbies) 23, 1
5 Dean Mumm (NSW Waratahs) 25, 11
4 James Horwill (Queensland Reds) 24, 10
3 Ben Alexander (ACT Brumbies) 24, 5
2 Tatafu Polota-Nau (NSW Waratahs) 24, 11
1 Pekahou Cowan (WA Western Force) 23, new cap
Replacements
16 Stephen Moore (ACT Brumbies) 26, 34
17 Benn Robinson (NSW Waratahs) 24, 19
18 Nathan Sharpe (WA Western Force) 31, 74
19 Phil Waugh (NSW Waratahs) 29, 74
20 Josh Valentine (WA Western Force) 26, 4
21 Matt Giteau (WA Western Force) 26, 65
22 Adam Ashley-Cooper (ACT Brumbies) 25, 23
Head Coach: Robbie Deans James O'Connor
Italy
15 Luke McLean (Calvisano) Age 21, 9 tests
14 Giulio Rubini (Overmach Parma) 21, 3
13 Gonzalo Canale (Clermont-Auvergne, France) 26, 47
12 Gonzalo Garcia (Calvisano) 24, 9
11 Alberto Sgarbi (Treviso) 21, 3
10 Craig Gower (Bayonne, France) 31, 1
9 Tito Tebaldi (Parma) ?, 1
8 Sergio Parisse, Capt. (Stade Francais, France) 25, 63
7 Simone Favaro (Rovigo) ?, New Cap
6 Jean Francois Montauriol (Venise) 24, 1
5 Marco Bortolami (Gloucester, England) 28, 75
4 Tommaso Reato (Rovigo) 23, 9
3 Fabio Staibano (Castres, France) ?, 1
2 Franco Sbaraglini (Treviso) 26, 2
1 Matias Aguero (Saracens, England) 28, 11
Replacements
16 Leonardo Ghiraldini (Calvisano) 23, 20
17 Salvatore Perugini (Toulouse, France) 30, 61
18 Quintin Geldenhuys Quintin Geldenhuys (Viadana) ?, 1
19 Alessandro Zanni (Calvisano) 24, 32
20 Giulio Toniolatti (Roma) 24, 3
21 Kris Burton (Prato) ?, 1
22 Roberto Quartaroli (Overmach Parma) ?, 1
Head Coach: Nik Mallett
Italy v Australia in Melbourne (2nd test)
Preview
Italy were very competitive against Australia in the first test, especially in the forwards. Their backs lacked penetration. Nik Mallett the Italian coach has made up to ten changes from the first test side in an attempt to inject more urgency and fluidity in their play which was rather one-dimentional in the first test.
The Ausralian looked very sharp, especially in their backs, last weekend. Poor finishing and a strong challenege from Italy up front limited their domination of the match. The Aussies will be looking for a more polished performance and will be expecting a better performance from their forwards. Robbie Deans has made a number of changes which include leaving Matt Giteau and Sterling Mortlock out of the squad altogether. The move is to rest key players ahead of vital tests to come for Australia. As a result the Aussie may well struggle again against this side both in the forwards, an now, in the backs.
Last Five Encounters
13.06.2009 Australia 31-8 in Canberra
08.11.2009 Australia 30-20 in Padova
11.11.2006 Australia 25-18 in Rome
25.06.2005 Australia 69-20 in Melbourne
GWC Rugby Rankings: World Table-Australia 8th, Italy 10th
Prediction: Australia by 14 points
Teams
Australia
15 James O'Connor (WA Western Force) Age 19, 2 tests
14 Lachie Turner (NSW Waratahs) 22, 3
13 Ryan Cross (WA Western Force) 29, 11
12 Quade Cooper (Queensland Reds) 21, 4
11 Peter Hynes (Queensland Reds) 26, 13
10 Berrick Barnes (Queensland Reds) 23, 14
9 Luke Burgess (NSW Waratahs) 25, 12
8 George Smith, Capt. (ACT Brumbies) 28, 96
7 David Pocock (WA Western Force) 21, 3
6 Peter Kimlin (ACT Brumbies) 23, 1
5 Dean Mumm (NSW Waratahs) 25, 11
4 James Horwill (Queensland Reds) 24, 10
3 Ben Alexander (ACT Brumbies) 24, 5
2 Tatafu Polota-Nau (NSW Waratahs) 24, 11
1 Pekahou Cowan (WA Western Force) 23, new cap
Replacements
16 Stephen Moore (ACT Brumbies) 26, 34
17 Benn Robinson (NSW Waratahs) 24, 19
18 Nathan Sharpe (WA Western Force) 31, 74
19 Phil Waugh (NSW Waratahs) 29, 74
20 Josh Valentine (WA Western Force) 26, 4
21 Matt Giteau (WA Western Force) 26, 65
22 Adam Ashley-Cooper (ACT Brumbies) 25, 23
Head Coach: Robbie Deans James O'Connor
Italy
15 Luke McLean (Calvisano) Age 21, 9 tests
14 Giulio Rubini (Overmach Parma) 21, 3
13 Gonzalo Canale (Clermont-Auvergne, France) 26, 47
12 Gonzalo Garcia (Calvisano) 24, 9
11 Alberto Sgarbi (Treviso) 21, 3
10 Craig Gower (Bayonne, France) 31, 1
9 Tito Tebaldi (Parma) ?, 1
8 Sergio Parisse, Capt. (Stade Francais, France) 25, 63
7 Simone Favaro (Rovigo) ?, New Cap
6 Jean Francois Montauriol (Venise) 24, 1
5 Marco Bortolami (Gloucester, England) 28, 75
4 Tommaso Reato (Rovigo) 23, 9
3 Fabio Staibano (Castres, France) ?, 1
2 Franco Sbaraglini (Treviso) 26, 2
1 Matias Aguero (Saracens, England) 28, 11
Replacements
16 Leonardo Ghiraldini (Calvisano) 23, 20
17 Salvatore Perugini (Toulouse, France) 30, 61
18 Quintin Geldenhuys Quintin Geldenhuys (Viadana) ?, 1
19 Alessandro Zanni (Calvisano) 24, 32
20 Giulio Toniolatti (Roma) 24, 3
21 Kris Burton (Prato) ?, 1
22 Roberto Quartaroli (Overmach Parma) ?, 1
Head Coach: Nik Mallett
International Rugby: Churchill Cup
20.06.2009
England Saxons v Ireland 'A' in Denver (Final)
Preview
Both these teams deserve to be in the final. They have consistently put distance between themselves and their opponents who have mostly been full national teams. It must be of concern for the IRB that neither Canada nor the USA figured in this final.
The Saxons will be out to win this tournament for the second year in a row. Ireland 'A' has an unblemished record in its two matches so this final should be a cracker.
Prediction: Saxons by 7
Teams
England Saxons
15 Nick Abendanon (Bath Rugby)
14 Noah Cato (Saracens)
13 Dominic Waldouck (London Wasps)
12 Brad Barritt (Saracens)
11 Tom Varndell (Leicester Tigers)
10 Stephen Myler (Northampton Saints)
9 Micky Young (Newcastle Falcons)
8 Luke Narraway (Gloucester Rugby)
7 Ben Woods (Leicester Tigers)
6 Phil Dowson (Newcastle Falcons, captain)
5 Nick Kennedy (London Irish)
4 Stuart Hooper (Bath Rugby)
3 Dan Cole (Leicester Tigers)
2 Rob Webber (London Wasps)
1 David Flatman (Bath Rugby)
Replacements:
16 Tom Mercey (Saracens)
17 Joe Ward (London Wasps)
18 Dean Schofield (Sale Sharks)
19 Tom Guest (Harlequins)
20 Joe Simpson (London Wasps)
21 Danny Cipriani (London Wasps)
22 Shane Geraghty (London Irish)
Head Coach: Stuart Lancaster
Adapted from http://www.rfu.com/index.cfm/fuseaction/RFUHome.England_Detail/StoryID/22958
Canada won well against Georgia but hten lost the crucial game against Ireland 'A'. Last year they played in the 5th-6th playoff so I guess you could say they have improved. Argentina 'A' pushed the Saxons in their first game and then won comfortable against the USA. This should be another fairly even contest
Prediction: Argentina 'A' by 7
Teams
Canada
15. James Pritchard (Bedford Blues, England)
14. Sean Duke (University of Victoria)
13. DTH van der Merwe (Glasgow Warriors, Scotland)
12. Bryn Keys (Moseley, England)
11. Matt Evans (Hartpury College/Cowichan, BC)
10. Ander Monro (Colorno, Italy)
9. Ed Fairhurst (Cornish Pirates, England)
8. Aaron Carpenter (Coventry, England)
7. Nanyak Dala (Castaway Wanderers)
6. Stan McKeen (Oxford University, England)
5. Tyler Hotson (UBC Old Boy Ravens)
4. Jebb Sinclair (Castaway Wanderers)
3. Dan Pletch (Niagara Thunder)
2. Mike Pletch (Velox Valhallians)
1. Frank Walsh (Vandals)
Replacements
16. Pat Riordan (University of Victoria)
17. Doug Wooldridge (Cowichan)
18. Stuart Ault (Moseley, England)
19. Chauncey O’Toole (Castaway Wanderers)
20. Adam Kleeberger (University of Victoria)
21. Dean Van Camp (Velox Valhallians)
22. Phil Mack (James Bay AA)
Coach: Kieran Crowley
Argentina 'A'
15 Lucas Barrera Oro
14 Francisco Merello
13 Matías Viazzo
12 Benjamín Urdapilleta
11 Tomás De Vedia
10 Ignacio Mieres
9 Martín Landajo
8 Tomás Leonardi
7 Leonardo Senatore
6 Alejandro Campos
5 Carlos Cáceres
4 Mariano Sambucetti
3 Pedro Ledesma
2 Agustín Creevy (capitán)
1 Juan Figallo
Replacements
16 Mauricio Guidone
17 Juan Gómez
18 Tomás Roan
19 Agustín Guzmán
20 Francisco Cubelli
21 Horacio San Martín
22 Belisario Agulla
Coaches: José Orengo, Raúl Pérez
Adapted from http://www.uar.com.ar/noticias4.asp?notcod=20090619201117
United States v Georgia in Denver (Playoff for 5th-6th)
Preview
Neither team has played well at this tournament and deserve this placing. It will make for an interesting first-ever encounter between these two nations. With their normal line-up Georgia would win but with some sixteen front-line players not here in Denver I'd expect a more even contest
Prediction: USA by 7
Teams
United States
15 Chris Wyles (Saracens, England)
14 Takudzwa Ngwenya (Biarritz, France)
13 Paul Emerick (Overmach Parma, Italy)
12 Salesi Sika (Agen, France)
11 Colin Hawley (Univ. of California)
10 Mike Hercus (Sunshine Coast, Australia)
9 Tim Usasz (Nottingham, England)
8 Nic Johnson (Denver Barbarians)
7 Todd Clever, Capt. (Xerox Lions)
6 J.J. Gagiano (Univ. of Cape Town, Sth Africa)
5 John van der Giessen (Denver Barbarians)
4 Louis Stanfill (New York Athletic Club)
3 Shawn Pittman (Bayside)
2 Chris Biller (Univ. of California)
1 Matekitonga Moeakiola (Park City Haggis)
Reserves
16 Joe Welch (Belmont Shore)
17 Mike MacDonald (Leeds Carnegie, England)
18 Hayden Smith (Saracens, England)
19 TBA
20 Mike Petri (New York Athletic Club)
21 Malenese Malifa (Belmont Shore)
22 Alipate Tuilevuka (Provo Steelers)
Head Coach: Eddie O’Sullivan
Adapted from http://www.gainline.us/
Georgia Squad
Dimitri Bassilaia (Morlass, France) Aged 24, 11 Tests
Jaba Bregvadze () 23, 1 (07-08)
David Dadunashvili (Massy, France) 26, 21
Levan Datunashvili (Aurillac, France) 26, 27
George Elizbarashvili () 25, 16 (07-08)
David Gasviani () 28, 11
Lexo Gugava () 26, 10 (06-07)
Rezo Guigauri () 25, 21 (07-08)
Irakli Gundishvili , New Cap
George Jhghenti () 25, 7 (06-07)
Vassil Kakovini (University) ?, 1 (07-08)
David Katcharava (Enisey STM-Krasnoyarsk) 24, 26
Lasha Khmaladze () 22, 2
Merab Kvirikashvili (Massy, France) 26, 33
Guia Labadze [Capt] 36, 52
Simon Maissuradze (ASM Clermont-Auvergne, France) 22, 8
Zviad Maissuradze () 28, 23 (07-08)
Lasha Malaghuradze (Beziers, France) 23, 15
Irakli Machkhaneli (Agen, France) 28, 32
Irakli Natriashvili (Farul Constanta, Romania) 25, 17
George Nemsadze () 25, 8 (07-08)
Zero Petriashvili , New Cap
George Rokhvadze () 21, 20 (07-08)
Temur Sokhadze () 24, 8- (06-07)
Sandro Todua (Lelos) 22, 10
Kakhaber Uchava (Farul Constanta, Romania) 32, 14
Rati Urushadze [Vice Capt] (Enisey STM-Krasnoyarsk) 34, 36
Charles-Edouard Yachvili *
Head Coach: Tim Lane
Note: Stats as at beginning of tournament
* New cap
Years in () indicates when last played for Georgia
Not all stats complete
England Saxons v Ireland 'A' in Denver (Final)
Preview
Both these teams deserve to be in the final. They have consistently put distance between themselves and their opponents who have mostly been full national teams. It must be of concern for the IRB that neither Canada nor the USA figured in this final.
The Saxons will be out to win this tournament for the second year in a row. Ireland 'A' has an unblemished record in its two matches so this final should be a cracker.
Prediction: Saxons by 7
Teams
England Saxons
15 Nick Abendanon (Bath Rugby)
14 Noah Cato (Saracens)
13 Dominic Waldouck (London Wasps)
12 Brad Barritt (Saracens)
11 Tom Varndell (Leicester Tigers)
10 Stephen Myler (Northampton Saints)
9 Micky Young (Newcastle Falcons)
8 Luke Narraway (Gloucester Rugby)
7 Ben Woods (Leicester Tigers)
6 Phil Dowson (Newcastle Falcons, captain)
5 Nick Kennedy (London Irish)
4 Stuart Hooper (Bath Rugby)
3 Dan Cole (Leicester Tigers)
2 Rob Webber (London Wasps)
1 David Flatman (Bath Rugby)
Replacements:
16 Tom Mercey (Saracens)
17 Joe Ward (London Wasps)
18 Dean Schofield (Sale Sharks)
19 Tom Guest (Harlequins)
20 Joe Simpson (London Wasps)
21 Danny Cipriani (London Wasps)
22 Shane Geraghty (London Irish)
Head Coach: Stuart Lancaster
Adapted from http://www.rfu.com/index.cfm/fuseaction/RFUHome.England_Detail/StoryID/22958
Ireland 'A' team not available at present
Canada v Argentina 'A' in Denver
Canada won well against Georgia but hten lost the crucial game against Ireland 'A'. Last year they played in the 5th-6th playoff so I guess you could say they have improved. Argentina 'A' pushed the Saxons in their first game and then won comfortable against the USA. This should be another fairly even contest
Prediction: Argentina 'A' by 7
Teams
Canada
15. James Pritchard (Bedford Blues, England)
14. Sean Duke (University of Victoria)
13. DTH van der Merwe (Glasgow Warriors, Scotland)
12. Bryn Keys (Moseley, England)
11. Matt Evans (Hartpury College/Cowichan, BC)
10. Ander Monro (Colorno, Italy)
9. Ed Fairhurst (Cornish Pirates, England)
8. Aaron Carpenter (Coventry, England)
7. Nanyak Dala (Castaway Wanderers)
6. Stan McKeen (Oxford University, England)
5. Tyler Hotson (UBC Old Boy Ravens)
4. Jebb Sinclair (Castaway Wanderers)
3. Dan Pletch (Niagara Thunder)
2. Mike Pletch (Velox Valhallians)
1. Frank Walsh (Vandals)
Replacements
16. Pat Riordan (University of Victoria)
17. Doug Wooldridge (Cowichan)
18. Stuart Ault (Moseley, England)
19. Chauncey O’Toole (Castaway Wanderers)
20. Adam Kleeberger (University of Victoria)
21. Dean Van Camp (Velox Valhallians)
22. Phil Mack (James Bay AA)
Coach: Kieran Crowley
Argentina 'A'
15 Lucas Barrera Oro
14 Francisco Merello
13 Matías Viazzo
12 Benjamín Urdapilleta
11 Tomás De Vedia
10 Ignacio Mieres
9 Martín Landajo
8 Tomás Leonardi
7 Leonardo Senatore
6 Alejandro Campos
5 Carlos Cáceres
4 Mariano Sambucetti
3 Pedro Ledesma
2 Agustín Creevy (capitán)
1 Juan Figallo
Replacements
16 Mauricio Guidone
17 Juan Gómez
18 Tomás Roan
19 Agustín Guzmán
20 Francisco Cubelli
21 Horacio San Martín
22 Belisario Agulla
Coaches: José Orengo, Raúl Pérez
Adapted from http://www.uar.com.ar/noticias4.asp?notcod=20090619201117
United States v Georgia in Denver (Playoff for 5th-6th)
Preview
Neither team has played well at this tournament and deserve this placing. It will make for an interesting first-ever encounter between these two nations. With their normal line-up Georgia would win but with some sixteen front-line players not here in Denver I'd expect a more even contest
Prediction: USA by 7
Teams
United States
15 Chris Wyles (Saracens, England)
14 Takudzwa Ngwenya (Biarritz, France)
13 Paul Emerick (Overmach Parma, Italy)
12 Salesi Sika (Agen, France)
11 Colin Hawley (Univ. of California)
10 Mike Hercus (Sunshine Coast, Australia)
9 Tim Usasz (Nottingham, England)
8 Nic Johnson (Denver Barbarians)
7 Todd Clever, Capt. (Xerox Lions)
6 J.J. Gagiano (Univ. of Cape Town, Sth Africa)
5 John van der Giessen (Denver Barbarians)
4 Louis Stanfill (New York Athletic Club)
3 Shawn Pittman (Bayside)
2 Chris Biller (Univ. of California)
1 Matekitonga Moeakiola (Park City Haggis)
Reserves
16 Joe Welch (Belmont Shore)
17 Mike MacDonald (Leeds Carnegie, England)
18 Hayden Smith (Saracens, England)
19 TBA
20 Mike Petri (New York Athletic Club)
21 Malenese Malifa (Belmont Shore)
22 Alipate Tuilevuka (Provo Steelers)
Head Coach: Eddie O’Sullivan
Adapted from http://www.gainline.us/
Georgia Squad
Dimitri Bassilaia (Morlass, France) Aged 24, 11 Tests
Jaba Bregvadze () 23, 1 (07-08)
David Dadunashvili (Massy, France) 26, 21
Levan Datunashvili (Aurillac, France) 26, 27
George Elizbarashvili () 25, 16 (07-08)
David Gasviani () 28, 11
Lexo Gugava () 26, 10 (06-07)
Rezo Guigauri () 25, 21 (07-08)
Irakli Gundishvili , New Cap
George Jhghenti () 25, 7 (06-07)
Vassil Kakovini (University) ?, 1 (07-08)
David Katcharava (Enisey STM-Krasnoyarsk) 24, 26
Lasha Khmaladze () 22, 2
Merab Kvirikashvili (Massy, France) 26, 33
Guia Labadze [Capt] 36, 52
Simon Maissuradze (ASM Clermont-Auvergne, France) 22, 8
Zviad Maissuradze () 28, 23 (07-08)
Lasha Malaghuradze (Beziers, France) 23, 15
Irakli Machkhaneli (Agen, France) 28, 32
Irakli Natriashvili (Farul Constanta, Romania) 25, 17
George Nemsadze () 25, 8 (07-08)
Zero Petriashvili , New Cap
George Rokhvadze () 21, 20 (07-08)
Temur Sokhadze () 24, 8- (06-07)
Sandro Todua (Lelos) 22, 10
Kakhaber Uchava (Farul Constanta, Romania) 32, 14
Rati Urushadze [Vice Capt] (Enisey STM-Krasnoyarsk) 34, 36
Charles-Edouard Yachvili *
Head Coach: Tim Lane
Note: Stats as at beginning of tournament
* New cap
Years in () indicates when last played for Georgia
Not all stats complete
Test Match Rugby This Weekend, 20-21 June
20.06.2009
British and Irish Lions v South Africa in Durban (1st test)
New Zealand v France in Wellington (2nd test)
Australia v Italy in Melbourne (2nd test)
England Saxons v Ireland 'A' in Denver (Churchill Cup Final) Non-test
Argentina 'A' v Canada in Denver (Churchill Cup, Playoff 3rd-4th)
United States v Georgia in Denver (Churchill Cup, Playoff 5th-6th)
21.06.2009
Italy 'A' v Romania in Bucharest (IRB Nations Cup)
Russia v Uruguay in Bucharest (IRB Nations Cup)
France 'A' v Scotland 'A' in Bucharest (IRB Nations Cup) Non-test
British and Irish Lions v South Africa in Durban (1st test)
New Zealand v France in Wellington (2nd test)
Australia v Italy in Melbourne (2nd test)
England Saxons v Ireland 'A' in Denver (Churchill Cup Final) Non-test
Argentina 'A' v Canada in Denver (Churchill Cup, Playoff 3rd-4th)
United States v Georgia in Denver (Churchill Cup, Playoff 5th-6th)
21.06.2009
Italy 'A' v Romania in Bucharest (IRB Nations Cup)
Russia v Uruguay in Bucharest (IRB Nations Cup)
France 'A' v Scotland 'A' in Bucharest (IRB Nations Cup) Non-test
Thursday, June 18, 2009
Rugby Test Matches: Pacific Nations Results 18 June
18.06.2009
Junior All Blacks 45, Fiji 17 in Lautoka
Review
The Junior AB's recorded an impressive win over a strong Fijian side. They now look to be the pace-setters for this tournament.
Samoa 34, Japan 15 in Sigatoka
Review
This was a match that see-sawed right through towards the end of the second half. Samoa came back strongly against a Japanese side that looked to have the match in hand when they led 15-12 mid-way through the second half. A strong Samoan finish saw them win comfortably in the end.
Junior All Blacks 45, Fiji 17 in Lautoka
Review
The Junior AB's recorded an impressive win over a strong Fijian side. They now look to be the pace-setters for this tournament.
Samoa 34, Japan 15 in Sigatoka
Review
This was a match that see-sawed right through towards the end of the second half. Samoa came back strongly against a Japanese side that looked to have the match in hand when they led 15-12 mid-way through the second half. A strong Samoan finish saw them win comfortably in the end.
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Test Rugby: Pacific Nations Cup-Japan v Samoa
18.06.2009
Japan v Samoa in Sigatoka
Preview
This will be Japan's first game at this tournament. They came fresh from some easy wins in the Asia Five Nations compeition but will find Samoa a much different propspect. The Samoans are fresh from a very tough one point loss to the Junior All Blacks on Saturday. When the two teams met in last years competition in Apia, a high-scoring match resulted in Samoa winning 37-31.
Previous Encounters
05.07.2008 Samoa 37-31 in Apia (Pacific Nations Cup)
16.06.2007 Samoa 13-3 in Sendai (Pacific Nations Cup)
17.06.2006 Samoa 53-9 in New Plymouth (Pacific Five Nations)
04.07.2001 Samoa 47-8 in Tokyo (Pacific Rim Semi-final)
10.06.2000 Samoa 68-9 in Apia (Pacific Rim)
GWC Rugby Rankings: World Table-Samoa 13th, Japan 14th
Prediction: Samoa by 8 points
Teams
Japan
15 Jack Tarrant (Mitsubishi Sagamihara)
14 Hirotoki Onozawa (Suntory)
13 Koji Taira (Suntory)
12 Ryan Nicholas (Suntory)
11 Koji Tomioka
10 Shaun Webb (World/Coca-Cola)
9 Fumiaki Tanaka (Sanyo)
8 Takashi Kukutani (Capt.) (Toyota)
7 Touetsu Taufa (Kintetsu)
6 Michael Leitch (Tokai University)
5 Luke Thompson (Kintetsu)
4 Yuji Kitagawa (Kanto Gakuin University)
3 Hisateru Hirashima (Kobe)
2 Yusuke Aoki (Suntory)
1 Hiroshi Yamashita (Kobe)
Replacements
Not confirmed
Head Coach: John Kirwan
Constructed from http://www.rugbyjapan.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=601&Itemid=2
Samoa
1. Justin Vaa
2. Mahonri Schwalger
3. Fosi Palaamo
4. Daniel Leo
5. Filipo Levi
6. William Brame
7. Ofisa Treviranus
8. George Stowers, Capt.
9. Notise Tauafao
10. Uale Ma’i
11. Henry Faafili
12. Eliota Fuimaono
13. Gavin Williams
14. Sailosi Tagicakibau
15. Lolo Lui.
Reserves
16. Ernest Skelton
17. Andrew Williams
18. Jonathan Faamatuainu
19. Semo Sititi
20. Junior Poluleuigaga
21. Reupena Levasa
22. Esera Lauina
Head Coach: Fuimaono Tafua.
http://www.samoarugbyunion.ws/index.php?option=com_content&task=blogcategory&id=32&Itemid=254
Japan v Samoa in Sigatoka
Preview
This will be Japan's first game at this tournament. They came fresh from some easy wins in the Asia Five Nations compeition but will find Samoa a much different propspect. The Samoans are fresh from a very tough one point loss to the Junior All Blacks on Saturday. When the two teams met in last years competition in Apia, a high-scoring match resulted in Samoa winning 37-31.
Previous Encounters
05.07.2008 Samoa 37-31 in Apia (Pacific Nations Cup)
16.06.2007 Samoa 13-3 in Sendai (Pacific Nations Cup)
17.06.2006 Samoa 53-9 in New Plymouth (Pacific Five Nations)
04.07.2001 Samoa 47-8 in Tokyo (Pacific Rim Semi-final)
10.06.2000 Samoa 68-9 in Apia (Pacific Rim)
GWC Rugby Rankings: World Table-Samoa 13th, Japan 14th
Prediction: Samoa by 8 points
Teams
Japan
15 Jack Tarrant (Mitsubishi Sagamihara)
14 Hirotoki Onozawa (Suntory)
13 Koji Taira (Suntory)
12 Ryan Nicholas (Suntory)
11 Koji Tomioka
10 Shaun Webb (World/Coca-Cola)
9 Fumiaki Tanaka (Sanyo)
8 Takashi Kukutani (Capt.) (Toyota)
7 Touetsu Taufa (Kintetsu)
6 Michael Leitch (Tokai University)
5 Luke Thompson (Kintetsu)
4 Yuji Kitagawa (Kanto Gakuin University)
3 Hisateru Hirashima (Kobe)
2 Yusuke Aoki (Suntory)
1 Hiroshi Yamashita (Kobe)
Replacements
Not confirmed
Head Coach: John Kirwan
Constructed from http://www.rugbyjapan.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=601&Itemid=2
Samoa
1. Justin Vaa
2. Mahonri Schwalger
3. Fosi Palaamo
4. Daniel Leo
5. Filipo Levi
6. William Brame
7. Ofisa Treviranus
8. George Stowers, Capt.
9. Notise Tauafao
10. Uale Ma’i
11. Henry Faafili
12. Eliota Fuimaono
13. Gavin Williams
14. Sailosi Tagicakibau
15. Lolo Lui.
Reserves
16. Ernest Skelton
17. Andrew Williams
18. Jonathan Faamatuainu
19. Semo Sititi
20. Junior Poluleuigaga
21. Reupena Levasa
22. Esera Lauina
Head Coach: Fuimaono Tafua.
http://www.samoarugbyunion.ws/index.php?option=com_content&task=blogcategory&id=32&Itemid=254
Rugby Test Result: British and Irish Lions in South Africa
16.06.2009
British and Irish Lions 20, Southern Kings 8 in Port Elizabeth
British and Irish Lions 20, Southern Kings 8 in Port Elizabeth
Test Rugby: Pacific Nations Cup-Fiji v Junior All Blacks
18.06.2009
Fiji v Junior All Blacks in Lautoka
Fiji v Junior All Blacks in Lautoka
Preview
Fiji made the more impressive start to this competition out of the two. They powered their way over Tonga with what looked like a fairly good Fijian side containing a good supply of overesaes-based players. The Junior All Blacks had to work hard for their win against Samoa. Could this match tomorrow turn out to be the final?
Previous Encounters
03.06.2006 Junior All Blacks 35-17 in Suva (Pacific Five Nations)01.08.1970 Junior All Blacks 20-9 in Wellington
Prediction: Fiji by 3 points
Teams
Junior All Blacks
15. Tamati Ellison (captain)
14. Rene Ranger
13. Anthony Tuitavake
12. Ryan Crotty
11. Hosea Gear
10. Stephen Brett
9. Chris Smylie
8. Victor Vito
7. Karl Lowe
6. Jason Eaton
5. Tom Donnelly
4. Jeremy Thrush
3. Ben Franks
2. Hikawera Elliot
1. John Schwalger
Reserves
16. Ged Robinson
17. James McGougan
18. Sione Lauaki
19. Alando Soakai
20. Sean Romans
21. Colin Slade
22. Robbie Fruean
Coaches: Ian Foster, Colin Cooper
http://www.allblacks.com/news/10294/Junior-All-Blacks-team-named-to-play-Fiji
Fiji
1 Graham Dewes
2 Sunia Koto
3 Viliame Seuseu
4 Ifereimi Rawaqa
5 Kele Leawere, Capt.
6 Leone Nakarawa
7 Netani Talei
8 Sakiusa Masi
9 Nemia Kenatale
10 Alipate Nolea
11 Timoci Nagusa
12 Seru Rabeni
13 Waisale Suka
14 Filimoni Bolavucu
15 Iliesa Keresoni
Reserves
16 Sireli Ledua
17 Alefoso Yalayalatabua
18 Josefa Domolailai
19 Anthony Wise
20 Jone Daunivucu
21 Waisea Luveniyali
22 Vereniki Goneva
Head Coach: Ilivasi Tabua
http://www.fijilive.com/sports/rugby/news/2009/06/17/10191.Fijilive
Rugby Test Matches: IRB Nations Cup 16 June
16.06.2009
France 'A' 20, Romania 16
Scotland 'A' 27, Uruguay 3
Italy 'A' 35, Russia 3
France 'A' 20, Romania 16
Scotland 'A' 27, Uruguay 3
Italy 'A' 35, Russia 3
Monday, June 15, 2009
Test Rugby This Week
16.06.2009
France 'A' v Romania in Bucharest (IRB Nations Cup)
Scotland 'A' v Uruguay in Bucharest (IRB Nations Cup)
Italy 'A' v Russia in Bucharest (IRB Nations Cup)
18.06.2009
Fiji v Junior All Blacks in Lautoka (Pacific Nations Cup)
Japan v Samoa in Sigatoka (Pacific Nations Cup)
France 'A' v Romania in Bucharest (IRB Nations Cup)
Scotland 'A' v Uruguay in Bucharest (IRB Nations Cup)
Italy 'A' v Russia in Bucharest (IRB Nations Cup)
18.06.2009
Fiji v Junior All Blacks in Lautoka (Pacific Nations Cup)
Japan v Samoa in Sigatoka (Pacific Nations Cup)
Churchill Cup Rugby: Ireland 'A' Makes Final
14.06.2009
Ireland 'A' 40, Georgia 5 in Denver
Review
Ireland 'A' will play England Saxons in the Churchill Cup final on Saturday. Georgia fielded an relatively inexperienced side due to the fact that sixteen top players could not be released from their French clubs.
Other matches on Saturday will be Argentina 'A' v Canada for 3rd-4th, whilst Georgia will face the USA for 5th-6th.
Ireland 'A' 40, Georgia 5 in Denver
Review
Ireland 'A' will play England Saxons in the Churchill Cup final on Saturday. Georgia fielded an relatively inexperienced side due to the fact that sixteen top players could not be released from their French clubs.
Other matches on Saturday will be Argentina 'A' v Canada for 3rd-4th, whilst Georgia will face the USA for 5th-6th.
International Rugby Results: 14 June
14.06.2009
Ivory Coast 13, Namibia 13 in Abidjan (WCQ Africa R2; Africa Cup SF)
The Ivory Coast came back twice the level the scores and still place themselves in with a chance to qualify for the final. They will need to win in Windhoek on the 27 June to accomplish that. It will be a tough task as I suspect the Coasters will not travel as well as the Namibians.
England Saxons 56, United States 17 in Denver (Churchill Cup)
The sorry state of USA rugby continues. The Saxons have booked themselves into the final next Saturday, thus defending the title they won last year. For the third year in a row the USA will battle, probably Georgia, for the wooden spoon.
To come: Ireland 'A' v Georgia
Ivory Coast 13, Namibia 13 in Abidjan (WCQ Africa R2; Africa Cup SF)
The Ivory Coast came back twice the level the scores and still place themselves in with a chance to qualify for the final. They will need to win in Windhoek on the 27 June to accomplish that. It will be a tough task as I suspect the Coasters will not travel as well as the Namibians.
England Saxons 56, United States 17 in Denver (Churchill Cup)
The sorry state of USA rugby continues. The Saxons have booked themselves into the final next Saturday, thus defending the title they won last year. For the third year in a row the USA will battle, probably Georgia, for the wooden spoon.
To come: Ireland 'A' v Georgia
Sunday, June 14, 2009
Test Rugby Results 12-13 June
12.06.2009
Romania 17, Uruguay 11 in Bucharest (IRB Nations Cup)
Scotland 'A' 49, Russia 7 in Bucharest (IRB Nations Cup) Non test
France 'A' 31, Italy 'A' 15 in Bucharest (IRB Nations Cup) Non test
13.06.2009
France 27, New Zealand 22 in Dunedin
Argentina 24, England 22 in Salta
Australia 31, Italy 8 in Canberra
British and Irish Lions 26, Western province 23 in Capetown
Junior All Blacks 17, Samoa 16 in Apia(Pacific Nations Cup)
Fiji 36, Tonga 22 in Nuku'alofa (Pacific Nations Cup)
Tunisia 41, Uganda 17 in Kampala (WCQ Africa R2; Africa Cup SF)
Ivory Coast v Namibia-Looks like its on Sunday
Nothing in from Tashkent
Brief Reviews
Ouch! France win in Dunedin. Looks like the French were stronger and the All Blacks weaker than I thought. They'll be some deep down soul-searching going on in Dunedin today!
I expected Argentina to win. The Pacific Nations Cup could be a very even competition this year. Fiji upset Tonga whilst Samoa nearly did the unthinkable-upset the Junior AB's, which would have given the Kiwis a 0-2 weekend.
Tunisia, as I expected, were too strong for the Ugandans. Uganda's team was not as strong as last years but even so they tell me the Tunisians were impressive.
Australia struggled to overcome a determined yet defensive Italian side. I watched the first half late last night and really in that half Italy had very few options outside their pack.
Romania 17, Uruguay 11 in Bucharest (IRB Nations Cup)
Scotland 'A' 49, Russia 7 in Bucharest (IRB Nations Cup) Non test
France 'A' 31, Italy 'A' 15 in Bucharest (IRB Nations Cup) Non test
13.06.2009
France 27, New Zealand 22 in Dunedin
Argentina 24, England 22 in Salta
Australia 31, Italy 8 in Canberra
British and Irish Lions 26, Western province 23 in Capetown
Junior All Blacks 17, Samoa 16 in Apia(Pacific Nations Cup)
Fiji 36, Tonga 22 in Nuku'alofa (Pacific Nations Cup)
Tunisia 41, Uganda 17 in Kampala (WCQ Africa R2; Africa Cup SF)
Ivory Coast v Namibia-Looks like its on Sunday
Nothing in from Tashkent
Brief Reviews
Ouch! France win in Dunedin. Looks like the French were stronger and the All Blacks weaker than I thought. They'll be some deep down soul-searching going on in Dunedin today!
I expected Argentina to win. The Pacific Nations Cup could be a very even competition this year. Fiji upset Tonga whilst Samoa nearly did the unthinkable-upset the Junior AB's, which would have given the Kiwis a 0-2 weekend.
Tunisia, as I expected, were too strong for the Ugandans. Uganda's team was not as strong as last years but even so they tell me the Tunisians were impressive.
Australia struggled to overcome a determined yet defensive Italian side. I watched the first half late last night and really in that half Italy had very few options outside their pack.
Saturday, June 13, 2009
Test Rugby: Argentina Will Be Tougher at Home
13.06.2009
England v Argentina in Salta (2nd of 2 tests)
Preview
Originally I picked England to win by 7. Then I saw that three very experienced players were included into the Argentine front and middle rows which gives this Argentine side a more solid look that was at Manchester last weekend. Also Argentina did not play as bad as the scoreline suggested. They made a few wrong options and were outplayed in the loose.
I feel that has tipped the match Argentina's way. Also playing out in the provinces will be tough on the English-Salta will be a bit like Dunedin, New Zealand-Argentina's equivalent of 'The House of Pain'.
Last Five Encounters
06.06.2009 England 37-15 in Manchester (1st test)
11.11.2006 Argentina 25-18 at Twickenham
22.06.2002 England 26-18 in Buenos Aires
25.11.2000 England 19-0 at Twickenham
07.06.1997 Argentina 33-13 in Buenos Aires
GWC Rugby Rankings: World Table-England 3rd, Argentina 9th
Prediction: Argentina by 7 points
Teams
Argentina
15 Horacio Agulla (Brive, France) 24, 18
14 Francisco Leonelli (Saracens, England) 31, 15
13 Gonzalo Tiesi (Harlequins, England) 24, 19
12 Santiago Fernández (Hindú Club) 23, 2
11 Gonzalo Camacho (B.A.C.R.C.) ?, 1
10 Juan Martín Hernández (Stade Francais, France) 27, 31
9 Alfredo Lalanne (San Isidro Club) 26, 1
8 Juan Fernández Lobbe, Capt’(Sale Sharks, England) 27, 29
7 Juan Manuel Leguizamón (Stade Francais, France) 25, 30
6 Genaro Fessia (Córdoba Athletic) 27, 1
5 Patricio Albacete (Stade Toulousian, France) 27, 30
4 Rimas Álvarez Kairelis (Perpignan, France) 34, 43
3 Marcos Ayerza (Leicester Tigers, England) 26, 22
2 Mario Ledesma (ASM Clermont Auvergne, France) 36, 69
1 Rodrigo Roncero (Stade Francais, France) 32, 33
Replacements
16 Alberto Vernet Basualdo (Stade Toulousian, France) 26, 11
17 Juan Pablo Orlandi (Rovigo, Italy) 26, 4
18 Manuel Carizza (Biarritz Olympique, France) 24, 11
19 Esteban Lozada (Toulon, France) 27, 14
20 Nicolás Vergallo (Dax, France) 25, 15
21 Miguel Avramovic (Montauban, France) 27, 12
22 Lucas González Amorosino (Pucará) ?, 1
Head Coach: Santiago Phelan
England
15 Delon Armitage (London Irish) Age 24, 10 tests
14 Mark Cueto (Sale Sharks) 28, 30
13 Daniel Hipkiss (Leicester Tigers) 26, 8
12 Thomas May (Newcastle Falcons) 29, 1
11 Matthew Banahan (Bath Rugby) 22, 1
10 Andrew Goode (CA Brive, France) 28, 15
9 Daniel Care (Harlequins) 21, 10
8 Nicholas Easter (Harlequins) 33, 26
7 Steffon Armitage (London Irish) 23, 2
6 Christopher Robshaw (Harlequins) , New Cap
5 Louis Deacon (Leicester Tigers) 28, 7
4 Steven Borthwick, Capt. (Saracens) 28, 50
3 Julian White (Leicester Tigers) 35, 50
2 Dylan Hartley (Northampton Saints) 22, 10
1 Timothy Payne (London Wasps) 29, 11
Replacements
16 George Chuter (Leicester Tigers) 32, 20
17 David Wilson (Newcastle Falcons) 23, 1
18 Benjamin Kay (Leicester Tigers) 33, 61
19 James Haskell (London Wasps) 23, 18
20 Paul Hodgson (London Irish) 26, 2
21 Samuel Vesty (Leicester Tigers) 26, 1
22 Mathew Tait (Sale Sharks) 22, 30
Head Coach: Martin Johnson
England v Argentina in Salta (2nd of 2 tests)
Preview
Originally I picked England to win by 7. Then I saw that three very experienced players were included into the Argentine front and middle rows which gives this Argentine side a more solid look that was at Manchester last weekend. Also Argentina did not play as bad as the scoreline suggested. They made a few wrong options and were outplayed in the loose.
I feel that has tipped the match Argentina's way. Also playing out in the provinces will be tough on the English-Salta will be a bit like Dunedin, New Zealand-Argentina's equivalent of 'The House of Pain'.
Last Five Encounters
06.06.2009 England 37-15 in Manchester (1st test)
11.11.2006 Argentina 25-18 at Twickenham
22.06.2002 England 26-18 in Buenos Aires
25.11.2000 England 19-0 at Twickenham
07.06.1997 Argentina 33-13 in Buenos Aires
GWC Rugby Rankings: World Table-England 3rd, Argentina 9th
Prediction: Argentina by 7 points
Teams
Argentina
15 Horacio Agulla (Brive, France) 24, 18
14 Francisco Leonelli (Saracens, England) 31, 15
13 Gonzalo Tiesi (Harlequins, England) 24, 19
12 Santiago Fernández (Hindú Club) 23, 2
11 Gonzalo Camacho (B.A.C.R.C.) ?, 1
10 Juan Martín Hernández (Stade Francais, France) 27, 31
9 Alfredo Lalanne (San Isidro Club) 26, 1
8 Juan Fernández Lobbe, Capt’(Sale Sharks, England) 27, 29
7 Juan Manuel Leguizamón (Stade Francais, France) 25, 30
6 Genaro Fessia (Córdoba Athletic) 27, 1
5 Patricio Albacete (Stade Toulousian, France) 27, 30
4 Rimas Álvarez Kairelis (Perpignan, France) 34, 43
3 Marcos Ayerza (Leicester Tigers, England) 26, 22
2 Mario Ledesma (ASM Clermont Auvergne, France) 36, 69
1 Rodrigo Roncero (Stade Francais, France) 32, 33
Replacements
16 Alberto Vernet Basualdo (Stade Toulousian, France) 26, 11
17 Juan Pablo Orlandi (Rovigo, Italy) 26, 4
18 Manuel Carizza (Biarritz Olympique, France) 24, 11
19 Esteban Lozada (Toulon, France) 27, 14
20 Nicolás Vergallo (Dax, France) 25, 15
21 Miguel Avramovic (Montauban, France) 27, 12
22 Lucas González Amorosino (Pucará) ?, 1
Head Coach: Santiago Phelan
England
15 Delon Armitage (London Irish) Age 24, 10 tests
14 Mark Cueto (Sale Sharks) 28, 30
13 Daniel Hipkiss (Leicester Tigers) 26, 8
12 Thomas May (Newcastle Falcons) 29, 1
11 Matthew Banahan (Bath Rugby) 22, 1
10 Andrew Goode (CA Brive, France) 28, 15
9 Daniel Care (Harlequins) 21, 10
8 Nicholas Easter (Harlequins) 33, 26
7 Steffon Armitage (London Irish) 23, 2
6 Christopher Robshaw (Harlequins) , New Cap
5 Louis Deacon (Leicester Tigers) 28, 7
4 Steven Borthwick, Capt. (Saracens) 28, 50
3 Julian White (Leicester Tigers) 35, 50
2 Dylan Hartley (Northampton Saints) 22, 10
1 Timothy Payne (London Wasps) 29, 11
Replacements
16 George Chuter (Leicester Tigers) 32, 20
17 David Wilson (Newcastle Falcons) 23, 1
18 Benjamin Kay (Leicester Tigers) 33, 61
19 James Haskell (London Wasps) 23, 18
20 Paul Hodgson (London Irish) 26, 2
21 Samuel Vesty (Leicester Tigers) 26, 1
22 Mathew Tait (Sale Sharks) 22, 30
Head Coach: Martin Johnson
Test Match Rugby: Frogs out to eat a Kiwi
Am I allowed to say that? Ah well.
13.06.2009
France v New Zealand in Dunedin (1st test of 2)
Venue: Carisbrook
Referee: George Clancy (Ireland)
Preview
Much has been written about this game. I have read with interest as many media outlets have claimed this to be the weakest All Black side ever to assemble and that this is France's chance to avenge all the losses they have endured in the years they've been touring down under since the 90's.
Well, first I don't believe their is such a beast as a weak All Black side. Some are just stronger than others. At times the All Blacks have let their guard down and allowed the opposite to slip in as it were (most notably at Rugby World Cup semi-finals) but never were they a weak side.
So now down to business. Just how much less stronger is this All Black side and just how much stronger is this weak French side from the weak French side that didn't fare well at the 6 Nations Championship.
The first advantage New Zealand has is the venue. The Australians dented the pride of Dunedin's a little when they won there last year but it is still a formidible venue for overseas teams to play at. First there is the weather (usually cold to freezing, dark and wet). Then there is the crowd (partizan, vocal and unyealding).
Next advantage, and ably put by the French team manager when asked about this depleted All Black side. "I respect the All Blacks too much to think new players will be fragile. A player with the black jersey on the back is like a big monster. We're going to see 15 big monsters," said Ntamack. And not to mention some of the reserve monsters waiting on the bench.
It will be a new-look All Black side. They might not win by as many points as when they have all they available players, but then France has their problems also.
This French side is dripping with experience and that has been a fortunate situation. Luckily Toulouse was not involved in the French Top 14 final otherwise France would have been in a very weakened position. Only a few players were involved in the final and they are not available until the second test. But France has also had its injury worries.
Regular captain Lionel Nallet, loose forward Imanol Harinordoquy, scrum-half Morgan Parra, fly half David Skrela, flanker Julien Bonnaire and wing Aurelien Rougerie have all been left behind in France nursing injuries. They are all first choice selections and France is a weaker side as a result. France's main advantage is their experience in this side and their unpredictability. You just never know when a French side fires up. And when they do.......
In summary, if France has an opportunity to win a test again in New Zealand I guess Saturday is their best opportunity for some time. But I'm betting on New Zealand to take this test even by a slim margin. Look out for the outcry back in France if their team loses. The roar will be deafening!
New Zealand has extra motivation. It was France who pushed them out of the 2007 Rugby World Cup with that 20-18 win in Cardiff. Be zee aware les monsters seeking revenge!
Last Five Encounters
06.10.2007 France 20-18 in Cardiff (World Cup Semi-final)
04.06.2007 New Zealand 61-10 in Wellington
02.06.2007 New Zealand in Auckland 42-11
18.11.2006 New Zealand 23-11 in Paris
11.11.2006 New Zealand 47-3 in Lyon
GWC Rugby Rankings: World Table-New Zealand 1st, France 5th
Prediction: New Zealand by 7 points.
Teams
France
15 Maxime Medard (Toulouse) Age 21, 8 tests
14 Cedric Heymans (Toulouse) 30, 48
13 Mathieu Bastareaud (Stade Français) 20, 3
12 Damien Traille (Biarritz) 29, 68
11 Vincent Clerc (Toulouse) 27, 32
10 Francois Trinh-Duc (Montpellier) 21, 10
9 Julien Dupuy (Leicester, England) 25, New Cap
8 Louis Picamoles (Montpellier) 22, 12
7 Fulgence Ouedraogo (Montpellier) 22, 14
6 Thierry Dusautoir, Capt. (Toulouse) 27, 22
5 Romain Millo-Chluski (Toulouse) 25, 7
4 Pascal Pape (Stade Français) 28, 20
3 Sylvain Marconnet (Stade Français) 32, 74
2 William Servat (Toulouse) 30, 21
1 Fabien Barcella (Biarritz) 24, 6
Replacements
16 Dimitri Szarzewski (Stade Français) 25, 35
17 Nicolas Mas (Perpignan) 28, 23
18 Sebastien Chabal (Sale) 30, 46
19 Julien Puricelli (Bayonne) ? , New Cap
20 Dimitri Yachvili (Biarritz) 28, 37
21 Yannick Jauzion (Toulouse) 30, 60
22 Alexis Palisson (Brive) 21, 5
Head Coach: Marc Lièvremont
New Zealand
15 Mils Muliaina, Capt. (Waikato) Age 28, 68 tests
14 Joe Rokocoko (Auckland) 26, 52
13 Isaia Toeava (Auckland) 23, 20
12 Ma'a Nonu (Wellington) 27, 32
11 Corey Jane (Wellington) 26, 1
10 Stephen Donald (Waikato) 25, 8
9 Jimmy Cowan (Southland) 27, 21
8 Liam Messam (Waikato) 25, 1
7 Adam Thomson (Otago) 27, 8
6 Kieran Read (Canterbury) 24, 3
5 Isaac Ross (Canterbury) 24, New Cap
4 Brad Thorn (Canterbury) 34, 23
3 Neemia Tialata (Wellington) 26, 31
2 Andrew Hore (Taranaki) 30. 36
1 Tony Woodcock (North Harbour) 28, 48
16 Keven Mealamu (Auckland) 30, 43
17 John Afoa (Auckland) 25, 13
18 Bryn Evans (Hawkes Bay) 24, New Cap
19 Tanerau Latimer (Bay of Plenty) 23, New Cap
20 Piri Weepu (Wellington) 25, 28
21 Luke McAlister (North Harbour) 25, 22
22 Lelia Masaga(Counties Manukau) 22, New Cap
Head Coach: Graham Henry
Injured: Richie McCaw (the usual captain), Rodney So'oialo, Richard Kaku, Conrad Smith, Ali Williams, Sitiveni Sivivatu, Anthony Boric and Andy Ellis and Corey Flynn
13.06.2009
France v New Zealand in Dunedin (1st test of 2)
Venue: Carisbrook
Referee: George Clancy (Ireland)
Preview
Much has been written about this game. I have read with interest as many media outlets have claimed this to be the weakest All Black side ever to assemble and that this is France's chance to avenge all the losses they have endured in the years they've been touring down under since the 90's.
Well, first I don't believe their is such a beast as a weak All Black side. Some are just stronger than others. At times the All Blacks have let their guard down and allowed the opposite to slip in as it were (most notably at Rugby World Cup semi-finals) but never were they a weak side.
So now down to business. Just how much less stronger is this All Black side and just how much stronger is this weak French side from the weak French side that didn't fare well at the 6 Nations Championship.
The first advantage New Zealand has is the venue. The Australians dented the pride of Dunedin's a little when they won there last year but it is still a formidible venue for overseas teams to play at. First there is the weather (usually cold to freezing, dark and wet). Then there is the crowd (partizan, vocal and unyealding).
Next advantage, and ably put by the French team manager when asked about this depleted All Black side. "I respect the All Blacks too much to think new players will be fragile. A player with the black jersey on the back is like a big monster. We're going to see 15 big monsters," said Ntamack. And not to mention some of the reserve monsters waiting on the bench.
It will be a new-look All Black side. They might not win by as many points as when they have all they available players, but then France has their problems also.
This French side is dripping with experience and that has been a fortunate situation. Luckily Toulouse was not involved in the French Top 14 final otherwise France would have been in a very weakened position. Only a few players were involved in the final and they are not available until the second test. But France has also had its injury worries.
Regular captain Lionel Nallet, loose forward Imanol Harinordoquy, scrum-half Morgan Parra, fly half David Skrela, flanker Julien Bonnaire and wing Aurelien Rougerie have all been left behind in France nursing injuries. They are all first choice selections and France is a weaker side as a result. France's main advantage is their experience in this side and their unpredictability. You just never know when a French side fires up. And when they do.......
In summary, if France has an opportunity to win a test again in New Zealand I guess Saturday is their best opportunity for some time. But I'm betting on New Zealand to take this test even by a slim margin. Look out for the outcry back in France if their team loses. The roar will be deafening!
New Zealand has extra motivation. It was France who pushed them out of the 2007 Rugby World Cup with that 20-18 win in Cardiff. Be zee aware les monsters seeking revenge!
Last Five Encounters
06.10.2007 France 20-18 in Cardiff (World Cup Semi-final)
04.06.2007 New Zealand 61-10 in Wellington
02.06.2007 New Zealand in Auckland 42-11
18.11.2006 New Zealand 23-11 in Paris
11.11.2006 New Zealand 47-3 in Lyon
GWC Rugby Rankings: World Table-New Zealand 1st, France 5th
Prediction: New Zealand by 7 points.
Teams
France
15 Maxime Medard (Toulouse) Age 21, 8 tests
14 Cedric Heymans (Toulouse) 30, 48
13 Mathieu Bastareaud (Stade Français) 20, 3
12 Damien Traille (Biarritz) 29, 68
11 Vincent Clerc (Toulouse) 27, 32
10 Francois Trinh-Duc (Montpellier) 21, 10
9 Julien Dupuy (Leicester, England) 25, New Cap
8 Louis Picamoles (Montpellier) 22, 12
7 Fulgence Ouedraogo (Montpellier) 22, 14
6 Thierry Dusautoir, Capt. (Toulouse) 27, 22
5 Romain Millo-Chluski (Toulouse) 25, 7
4 Pascal Pape (Stade Français) 28, 20
3 Sylvain Marconnet (Stade Français) 32, 74
2 William Servat (Toulouse) 30, 21
1 Fabien Barcella (Biarritz) 24, 6
Replacements
16 Dimitri Szarzewski (Stade Français) 25, 35
17 Nicolas Mas (Perpignan) 28, 23
18 Sebastien Chabal (Sale) 30, 46
19 Julien Puricelli (Bayonne) ? , New Cap
20 Dimitri Yachvili (Biarritz) 28, 37
21 Yannick Jauzion (Toulouse) 30, 60
22 Alexis Palisson (Brive) 21, 5
Head Coach: Marc Lièvremont
New Zealand
15 Mils Muliaina, Capt. (Waikato) Age 28, 68 tests
14 Joe Rokocoko (Auckland) 26, 52
13 Isaia Toeava (Auckland) 23, 20
12 Ma'a Nonu (Wellington) 27, 32
11 Corey Jane (Wellington) 26, 1
10 Stephen Donald (Waikato) 25, 8
9 Jimmy Cowan (Southland) 27, 21
8 Liam Messam (Waikato) 25, 1
7 Adam Thomson (Otago) 27, 8
6 Kieran Read (Canterbury) 24, 3
5 Isaac Ross (Canterbury) 24, New Cap
4 Brad Thorn (Canterbury) 34, 23
3 Neemia Tialata (Wellington) 26, 31
2 Andrew Hore (Taranaki) 30. 36
1 Tony Woodcock (North Harbour) 28, 48
16 Keven Mealamu (Auckland) 30, 43
17 John Afoa (Auckland) 25, 13
18 Bryn Evans (Hawkes Bay) 24, New Cap
19 Tanerau Latimer (Bay of Plenty) 23, New Cap
20 Piri Weepu (Wellington) 25, 28
21 Luke McAlister (North Harbour) 25, 22
22 Lelia Masaga(Counties Manukau) 22, New Cap
Head Coach: Graham Henry
Injured: Richie McCaw (the usual captain), Rodney So'oialo, Richard Kaku, Conrad Smith, Ali Williams, Sitiveni Sivivatu, Anthony Boric and Andy Ellis and Corey Flynn
Friday, June 12, 2009
Test Match: Italians in Australia
13.06.2009
Italy v Australia in Canberra
Previews
This will only be the third test match played in Canberra. The weather is promising to be freezing for Australia's first test match of the season.
The way Australia tore into the Barbarians last weekend has made the rugby world sit up and take notice of this Australian side. This is a slick combination with Matt Giteau now making fly half his masterly position.
Italy arrived in Australia minus a few of their top players out with injury or unavailable. This team is short on success and confidence. Facing up to this Australian side will be a major challenge for the Azzuri.
Last Five Encounters
08.11.2008 Australia 30-20 in Padova
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
GWC Rugby Rankings: World Table-Australia 7th, Italy 10th
Prediction: Australia by 50 points
Teams
Australia
15 James O'Connor (WA Western Force)
14 Lachlan Turner (NSW Waratahs)
13 Stirling Mortlock, Capt. (ACT Brumbies)
12 Berrick Barnes (Queensland Reds)
11 Drew Mitchell (WA Western Force)
10 Matt Giteau (WA Western Force)
9 Luke Burgess (NSW Waratahs)
8 Richard Brown (WA Western Force)
7 George Smith (ACT Brumbies)
6 Dean Mumm (NSW Waratahs)
5 Nathan Sharpe (WA Western Force)
4 James Horwill (Queensland Reds)
3 Alistair Baxter (NSW Waratahs)
2 Stephen Moore (ACT Brumbies)
1 Benn Robinson (NSW Waratahs)
Replacements
16 Tatafu Polota-Nau (NSW Waratahs)
17 Benjamin Alexander (ACT Brumbies)
18 Peter Kimlim (ACT Brumbies) New Cap
19 David Pocock (WA Western Force)
20 Joshua Valentine (WA Western Force)
21 Quade Cooper (Queensland Reds)
22 Adam Ashley-Cooper (ACT Brumbies)
Head Coach; Robbie Deans
Italy
15- Luke McLean (Calvisano) 21, 8
14- Kaine Robertson (Viadana) 28, 37
13- Mirco Bergamasco (Stade Francais, France) age 25, 61 tests
12- Matteo Pratichetti (Calvisano) 23, 17
11- Alberto Sgarbi (Treviso) 21, 2
10- Craig Gower (Bayonne, France) 31, New Cap
9- Pablo Canavosio (Viadana) 26, 25
8- Sergio Parisse, Capt. (Stade Francais, France) 25, 62
7- Mauro Bergamasco (Stade Francais, France) 29, 71
6- Alessandro Zanni (Calvisano) 24, 31
5-Carlo Antonio Del Fava (Ulster, Ireland) 27, 36
4- Quintin Geldenhuys (Viadana) , New Cap
3- Fabio Staibano (Castres, France)
2- Leonardo Ghiraldini (Calvisano) 23, 19
1- Salvatore Perugini (Toulouse, France) 30, 60
Replacements
16- Franco Sbaraglini (Treviso) 26, 1
17- Ignacio Rouyet (Viadana) 30, 2
18- Marco Bortolami (Gloucester, England) 28, 74
19- Paul Derbyshire (Padova) , New Cap
20- Tito Tebaldi (Parma) , New Cap
21- Kristopher Burton (Prato) , New Cap
22- Gonzalo Garcia (Calvisano) 24, 8
Head Coach: Nick Mallett
Italy v Australia in Canberra
Previews
This will only be the third test match played in Canberra. The weather is promising to be freezing for Australia's first test match of the season.
The way Australia tore into the Barbarians last weekend has made the rugby world sit up and take notice of this Australian side. This is a slick combination with Matt Giteau now making fly half his masterly position.
Italy arrived in Australia minus a few of their top players out with injury or unavailable. This team is short on success and confidence. Facing up to this Australian side will be a major challenge for the Azzuri.
Last Five Encounters
08.11.2008 Australia 30-20 in Padova
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
GWC Rugby Rankings: World Table-Australia 7th, Italy 10th
Prediction: Australia by 50 points
Teams
Australia
15 James O'Connor (WA Western Force)
14 Lachlan Turner (NSW Waratahs)
13 Stirling Mortlock, Capt. (ACT Brumbies)
12 Berrick Barnes (Queensland Reds)
11 Drew Mitchell (WA Western Force)
10 Matt Giteau (WA Western Force)
9 Luke Burgess (NSW Waratahs)
8 Richard Brown (WA Western Force)
7 George Smith (ACT Brumbies)
6 Dean Mumm (NSW Waratahs)
5 Nathan Sharpe (WA Western Force)
4 James Horwill (Queensland Reds)
3 Alistair Baxter (NSW Waratahs)
2 Stephen Moore (ACT Brumbies)
1 Benn Robinson (NSW Waratahs)
Replacements
16 Tatafu Polota-Nau (NSW Waratahs)
17 Benjamin Alexander (ACT Brumbies)
18 Peter Kimlim (ACT Brumbies) New Cap
19 David Pocock (WA Western Force)
20 Joshua Valentine (WA Western Force)
21 Quade Cooper (Queensland Reds)
22 Adam Ashley-Cooper (ACT Brumbies)
Head Coach; Robbie Deans
Italy
15- Luke McLean (Calvisano) 21, 8
14- Kaine Robertson (Viadana) 28, 37
13- Mirco Bergamasco (Stade Francais, France) age 25, 61 tests
12- Matteo Pratichetti (Calvisano) 23, 17
11- Alberto Sgarbi (Treviso) 21, 2
10- Craig Gower (Bayonne, France) 31, New Cap
9- Pablo Canavosio (Viadana) 26, 25
8- Sergio Parisse, Capt. (Stade Francais, France) 25, 62
7- Mauro Bergamasco (Stade Francais, France) 29, 71
6- Alessandro Zanni (Calvisano) 24, 31
5-Carlo Antonio Del Fava (Ulster, Ireland) 27, 36
4- Quintin Geldenhuys (Viadana) , New Cap
3- Fabio Staibano (Castres, France)
2- Leonardo Ghiraldini (Calvisano) 23, 19
1- Salvatore Perugini (Toulouse, France) 30, 60
Replacements
16- Franco Sbaraglini (Treviso) 26, 1
17- Ignacio Rouyet (Viadana) 30, 2
18- Marco Bortolami (Gloucester, England) 28, 74
19- Paul Derbyshire (Padova) , New Cap
20- Tito Tebaldi (Parma) , New Cap
21- Kristopher Burton (Prato) , New Cap
22- Gonzalo Garcia (Calvisano) 24, 8
Head Coach: Nick Mallett
Rugby Test Match: Fiji take on Tonga
13.06.2009
Fiji v Tonga in Nuku'alofa (Pacific Nations Cup)
Preview
Fiji and Tonga begin their Pacific Nations Cup campaign in Nuku'alofa before both teams head to Fiji to complete the tournament.
Fiji's position in Oceania rugby has slipped over the last few years. The Fijians have not defeated Tonga since 2005. The Fijians will still be hurting over this situation and I expect a huge game from them.
Last Five Encounters
05.07.2008 Tonga 27-16 in Nuku'alofa (Pacific Nations Cup)
16.06.2007 Tonga 21-15 in Lautoka (Pacific Nations Cup)
10.06.2006 Tonga 24-23 in Gosford (Pacific Five Nations)
16.07.2005 Fiji 24-19 in Nuku'alofa (WCQ Oceania R3)
25.06.2005 Fiji 19-11 in Suva (WCQ Oceania R3)
GWC Rugby Rankings: World Table-Tonga 11th, Fiji 12th
Oceania Table-Tonga 4th, Fiji 5th
Prediction: Fiji by 7 points
Teams
Fiji
15. Taniela Rawaga, Full Back
14. Filimoni Bolavucu, Right Wing
13. Waisale Sukanaveita, Right Centre
12. Seru Rabeni, Left Centre
11. Timoci Nagusa, Left Wing
10. Alipate Noilen, Fly Half
9. Jone Daunivucu, Scrum Half
8. Netani Talei, Number Eight
7. Malakai Volau, Right Flanker
6. Semisi Saukawa, Left Flanker
5. Kelemete Leawere, Right Lock
4. Josefa Domolailai, Left Lock
3. Viliame Seuseu, Tighthead Prop
2. Sunia Koto, Hooker
1. Graham Dewes, Loosehead Prop
Replacements
16. Isireli Ledua, Front Row Forward
17. Aleposo Yalayalatabua, Front Row Forward
18. Leone Nakarawa, Lock Forward
19. Sakiusa Matadigo, Utility Forward
20. Nemia Ranuku, Scrum Half
21. Waisea Luvenivali, Utility Back
22. Ilikena Bolakoro, Utility Back Fiji
Head Coach, Ilivasi Tabua
http://www.matangitonga.to/article/sports/rugby/20090611_pacific_cup_tonga-fiji.shtml
Tonga 'Ikale Tahi
15. Vungakoto Lilo, Full Back
14. 'Alipate Fatafehi, Right Wing
13. Hudson Tonga'uiha, Right Centre
12. Epeli Taione, Left Centre
11. Tevita Halaifonua, Left Wing
10. Fangatapu 'Apikotoa, Fly Half
9. Sililo Marten, Scrum Half
8. Chris Hala'ufia, Number Eight
7. Nili Latu, Captain/Right Flanker
6. Hale Pole, Vice Captain/Left Flanker
5. Sione Timani, Right Lock
4. Joshua Afu, Left Lock
3. Po'alo'i Taula, Tighthead Prop
2. 'Ilaisa Ma'asi, Hooker
1. Toma Toke, Loosehead Prop
Replacements
16. Viliami Ma'asi, Front Row Forward
17. Makoni Finau, Front Row Forward
18. 'Opeti Fonua, Lock Forward
19. Pasuka Mapakaitolo, Utility Forward
20. Mahe Fangupo, Scrum Half
21. Kaiongo Tupou, Utility Back
22. Joseph Vaka, Utility Back
Head Coach, Quddus Fielea.
http://www.matangitonga.to/article/sports/rugby/20090611_pacific_cup_tonga-fiji.shtml
Fiji v Tonga in Nuku'alofa (Pacific Nations Cup)
Preview
Fiji and Tonga begin their Pacific Nations Cup campaign in Nuku'alofa before both teams head to Fiji to complete the tournament.
Fiji's position in Oceania rugby has slipped over the last few years. The Fijians have not defeated Tonga since 2005. The Fijians will still be hurting over this situation and I expect a huge game from them.
Last Five Encounters
05.07.2008 Tonga 27-16 in Nuku'alofa (Pacific Nations Cup)
16.06.2007 Tonga 21-15 in Lautoka (Pacific Nations Cup)
10.06.2006 Tonga 24-23 in Gosford (Pacific Five Nations)
16.07.2005 Fiji 24-19 in Nuku'alofa (WCQ Oceania R3)
25.06.2005 Fiji 19-11 in Suva (WCQ Oceania R3)
GWC Rugby Rankings: World Table-Tonga 11th, Fiji 12th
Oceania Table-Tonga 4th, Fiji 5th
Prediction: Fiji by 7 points
Teams
Fiji
15. Taniela Rawaga, Full Back
14. Filimoni Bolavucu, Right Wing
13. Waisale Sukanaveita, Right Centre
12. Seru Rabeni, Left Centre
11. Timoci Nagusa, Left Wing
10. Alipate Noilen, Fly Half
9. Jone Daunivucu, Scrum Half
8. Netani Talei, Number Eight
7. Malakai Volau, Right Flanker
6. Semisi Saukawa, Left Flanker
5. Kelemete Leawere, Right Lock
4. Josefa Domolailai, Left Lock
3. Viliame Seuseu, Tighthead Prop
2. Sunia Koto, Hooker
1. Graham Dewes, Loosehead Prop
Replacements
16. Isireli Ledua, Front Row Forward
17. Aleposo Yalayalatabua, Front Row Forward
18. Leone Nakarawa, Lock Forward
19. Sakiusa Matadigo, Utility Forward
20. Nemia Ranuku, Scrum Half
21. Waisea Luvenivali, Utility Back
22. Ilikena Bolakoro, Utility Back Fiji
Head Coach, Ilivasi Tabua
http://www.matangitonga.to/article/sports/rugby/20090611_pacific_cup_tonga-fiji.shtml
Tonga 'Ikale Tahi
15. Vungakoto Lilo, Full Back
14. 'Alipate Fatafehi, Right Wing
13. Hudson Tonga'uiha, Right Centre
12. Epeli Taione, Left Centre
11. Tevita Halaifonua, Left Wing
10. Fangatapu 'Apikotoa, Fly Half
9. Sililo Marten, Scrum Half
8. Chris Hala'ufia, Number Eight
7. Nili Latu, Captain/Right Flanker
6. Hale Pole, Vice Captain/Left Flanker
5. Sione Timani, Right Lock
4. Joshua Afu, Left Lock
3. Po'alo'i Taula, Tighthead Prop
2. 'Ilaisa Ma'asi, Hooker
1. Toma Toke, Loosehead Prop
Replacements
16. Viliami Ma'asi, Front Row Forward
17. Makoni Finau, Front Row Forward
18. 'Opeti Fonua, Lock Forward
19. Pasuka Mapakaitolo, Utility Forward
20. Mahe Fangupo, Scrum Half
21. Kaiongo Tupou, Utility Back
22. Joseph Vaka, Utility Back
Head Coach, Quddus Fielea.
http://www.matangitonga.to/article/sports/rugby/20090611_pacific_cup_tonga-fiji.shtml
Test Rugby: Ugandans Not at Full Strength
13.06.2009
Tunisia v Uganda in Kampala (WCQ Africa R2; Africa Cup SF)
Preview
Uganda will be without a number of experienced players who are unavailable for this match. They include Allan Musoke, Timothy Mudoola and Tony Luggya, players who played such a big part in Uganda's successful bid to qualify for this round. Uganda will struggle against the bigger and more experienced Tunisians.
For their part Tunisia warmed up for this encounter with a 15-7 win over a Romanian Under 23 side in Tunis last weekend. Playing away from home in Africa can give the opposition at least a 7 point lead before the game is underway. Despite this I think the Ugandans are a weaker team than last year and the Tunisians should win.
Previous Encounters: These two teams have never met before
GWC Rugby Rankings: Africa Table-Uganda 4th, Tunisia 6th
Prediction: Tunisia by 15 points.
Teams
Uganda
15 Simon Wakabi (UTL Kobs)
14 P.Kabaze
13 S. Olwoch
12 Anthony Kinene (G4S Pirates)
11 John Musoke (Rhinos)
10 Joel Kimuli (G4S Pirates)
9 Robert Seguya (MTN Heathens)
8 Moses Soita (G4S Pirates)
7 Mathias Ochwo (MTN Heathens)
6 Joel Anguyo (UTL Kobs)
5 R.Mwisaka (MTN Heathens)
4 E.Butime
3 O.Ochulu
2 S.Mawanda (G4S Pirates)
1 Ronald Adigasi (Entebbe Mongers)
Replacements
16 A.Irumba (Wits University, Sth Africa)
17 Gideon Kamya (Bracknell RFC, England)
18 Alex Mubiru (MTN Heathens)
19 Phillip Karumuna (G4S Pirates)
20 Dennis Etuket (G4S Pirates)
21 R.Ogwal
22 Bishop Onen (MTN Heathens)
Head Coach: Chester Williams
Tunisia squad
Akram Aouamri, Aziz Kassar, Anouar Ben N’hila, Amara Dridi, Abdelmajid Zemzem, Amine Gharsallah, Imed Fhal, Khaled Zegden, Mohamed Ben Hmida, Mohamed Kochlef, Mohamed Chargui,Mokhtar Gtari,Yousri Soughir, Kherfani Abbès, Aymen Gloulou, Amor Mozgar, Haïthem Chelly, Kais Aissa, Lotfi Ben M’sallem, Nasreddine Hammami, Sabri Gmir, Sabeur Charrada.
Head Coach: Danie De Villiers
http://www.lapresse.tn/index.php?opt=15 ... news=95111
Tunisia v Uganda in Kampala (WCQ Africa R2; Africa Cup SF)
Preview
Uganda will be without a number of experienced players who are unavailable for this match. They include Allan Musoke, Timothy Mudoola and Tony Luggya, players who played such a big part in Uganda's successful bid to qualify for this round. Uganda will struggle against the bigger and more experienced Tunisians.
For their part Tunisia warmed up for this encounter with a 15-7 win over a Romanian Under 23 side in Tunis last weekend. Playing away from home in Africa can give the opposition at least a 7 point lead before the game is underway. Despite this I think the Ugandans are a weaker team than last year and the Tunisians should win.
Previous Encounters: These two teams have never met before
GWC Rugby Rankings: Africa Table-Uganda 4th, Tunisia 6th
Prediction: Tunisia by 15 points.
Teams
Uganda
15 Simon Wakabi (UTL Kobs)
14 P.Kabaze
13 S. Olwoch
12 Anthony Kinene (G4S Pirates)
11 John Musoke (Rhinos)
10 Joel Kimuli (G4S Pirates)
9 Robert Seguya (MTN Heathens)
8 Moses Soita (G4S Pirates)
7 Mathias Ochwo (MTN Heathens)
6 Joel Anguyo (UTL Kobs)
5 R.Mwisaka (MTN Heathens)
4 E.Butime
3 O.Ochulu
2 S.Mawanda (G4S Pirates)
1 Ronald Adigasi (Entebbe Mongers)
Replacements
16 A.Irumba (Wits University, Sth Africa)
17 Gideon Kamya (Bracknell RFC, England)
18 Alex Mubiru (MTN Heathens)
19 Phillip Karumuna (G4S Pirates)
20 Dennis Etuket (G4S Pirates)
21 R.Ogwal
22 Bishop Onen (MTN Heathens)
Head Coach: Chester Williams
Tunisia squad
Akram Aouamri, Aziz Kassar, Anouar Ben N’hila, Amara Dridi, Abdelmajid Zemzem, Amine Gharsallah, Imed Fhal, Khaled Zegden, Mohamed Ben Hmida, Mohamed Kochlef, Mohamed Chargui,Mokhtar Gtari,Yousri Soughir, Kherfani Abbès, Aymen Gloulou, Amor Mozgar, Haïthem Chelly, Kais Aissa, Lotfi Ben M’sallem, Nasreddine Hammami, Sabri Gmir, Sabeur Charrada.
Head Coach: Danie De Villiers
http://www.lapresse.tn/index.php?opt=15 ... news=95111
International Rugby Test: Namibians to Be Tested By Ivory Coast
13.06.2009
Namibia v Ivory Coast in Abidjan (WCQ Africa R2; Africa Cup SF)
Preview
Although they haven't faced each other on a rugby ground, these two teams have an interesting history shared. It was Ivory Coast's shock 13-12 win against Namibia in 1994 which effectively eliminated them from the 1995 Rugby World Cup in South Africa. Two days later Morocco sealed the Namibians fate by holding them to a 16-16 draw. It was all heart-stopping stuff.
Namibia recently played two tests against the Argentine Jaguars, their 'A' team which is now in the USA, playing in the Churchill Cup tournament. Namibia were outplayed 7-62 in the first test but come back strongly to lose the second 8-19. Some of these players had the experience of playing against a South African XV for a Namibian Invitation side last weekend.
Namibia are without some their South African-based players including regular captain Badenhorst who played for Natal Sharks against the British and Irish Lions on Wednesday.
The Ivory Coast is placing a strong selection on the park with a number of France-based players. They will have the strong advantage of a home game but I expect the more experienced Namibians to just pull through.
Previous Encounters
12.09.1998 Namibia 22-10 in Casablanca (WCQ Africa RD)
16.06.1994 Ivory Coast 13-12 in Casablanca (WCQ Africa R2)
GWC Rugby Rankings: Africa Table-Namibia 2nd, Ivory Coast 6th
Prediction: Namibia by 8 points
Namibia v Ivory Coast in Abidjan (WCQ Africa R2; Africa Cup SF)
Preview
Although they haven't faced each other on a rugby ground, these two teams have an interesting history shared. It was Ivory Coast's shock 13-12 win against Namibia in 1994 which effectively eliminated them from the 1995 Rugby World Cup in South Africa. Two days later Morocco sealed the Namibians fate by holding them to a 16-16 draw. It was all heart-stopping stuff.
Namibia recently played two tests against the Argentine Jaguars, their 'A' team which is now in the USA, playing in the Churchill Cup tournament. Namibia were outplayed 7-62 in the first test but come back strongly to lose the second 8-19. Some of these players had the experience of playing against a South African XV for a Namibian Invitation side last weekend.
Namibia are without some their South African-based players including regular captain Badenhorst who played for Natal Sharks against the British and Irish Lions on Wednesday.
The Ivory Coast is placing a strong selection on the park with a number of France-based players. They will have the strong advantage of a home game but I expect the more experienced Namibians to just pull through.
Previous Encounters
12.09.1998 Namibia 22-10 in Casablanca (WCQ Africa RD)
16.06.1994 Ivory Coast 13-12 in Casablanca (WCQ Africa R2)
GWC Rugby Rankings: Africa Table-Namibia 2nd, Ivory Coast 6th
Prediction: Namibia by 8 points
Teams
Ivory Coast (Just some of the players)
Some of the foreign-based players in Ivory Coast squad:
Babou Edgar, Prop & hooker, Gennevilliers
Diomandé Olivier, hooker, Racing Metro 92
Dogoui Bedel, wing, Chateaurenard
Edouard Sydney, wing & centre, Lannemezan
Meité Bakary, back-row, Domont
Oulouma Jean Maurice, wing & full-back, Oyonnax
Tian Silvere, out-half & full-back, Oyonnax
Tian Landry, centre & full-back, US Bressane
Yavo Guy Pacôme, Prop, Canada
http://www.fira-aer-rugby.com/forum2007/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=3116
Namibia Squad
Chrysander Botha (Kudus)
McGrath van Wyk (Western Suburbs)
Piet van Zyl (Boland Cavaliers, SA)
David Philander
Llewellyn Winckler (Stellenbosch University, SA)
Godwin Walters (Western Suburbs)
Jurie van Tonder (United Rugby Club)
Tinus du Plessis (2007:Stellenbosch University, SA)
Jacques Burger (Northern Transvaal Bulls, SA)
Jacques Nieuwenhuis (Aurillac, France)
Nico Esterhuyse (Boland Cavaliers, SA)
Wacca Kazombiaze (Birmingham & Solihull, England)
Marius Visser (Border Bulldogs, SA)
Hugo Horn (Rotherham Titans, England)
Kees Lensing (Castres, France)
Tinus Venter
Jacky Bock (Reho Falcons)
Eugene Jantjies (Farul Constanta, Romania)
PJ van Lill
Andre de Klerk
Johnny Redelinghuis (2007:Kimberley Tech, SA)
Shaun Esterhuizen (Stellenbosch University, SA)
Head Coach: John Williams
http://www.namibiasport.com.na/?q=node/7944 and thanks to ‘unrankedarmenia’s’ detective work at http://www.fira-aer-rugby.com/forum2007/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=3116
Test Rugby: Asia Regions 2
13.06.2009
Uzbekistan v Krygyzstan in Tashkent (Asia Regions 2, Final)
Preview
I'ts going to be difficult to predict this outcome. On Tuesday Kyrgyzstan had a comfortable 38-21 win over newcomers Mongolia but then that win was predicted. Last year these two teams drew 15-15.
GWC Rugby Rankings: Asia Table-Both teams are placed 21st
Prediction: Uzbekistan to squeeze through in front of their home crowd, by 2 points
Teams as yet are unavailable
The extra Match
Mongolia v Uzbekistan 'B' in Tashkent
Preview
This will go into my list of test matches for Mongolia. I'll go for the Mongolians to win their first test match by 5 points.
Uzbekistan v Krygyzstan in Tashkent (Asia Regions 2, Final)
Preview
I'ts going to be difficult to predict this outcome. On Tuesday Kyrgyzstan had a comfortable 38-21 win over newcomers Mongolia but then that win was predicted. Last year these two teams drew 15-15.
GWC Rugby Rankings: Asia Table-Both teams are placed 21st
Prediction: Uzbekistan to squeeze through in front of their home crowd, by 2 points
Teams as yet are unavailable
The extra Match
Mongolia v Uzbekistan 'B' in Tashkent
Preview
This will go into my list of test matches for Mongolia. I'll go for the Mongolians to win their first test match by 5 points.
International Rugby Matches: Other IRB Nation's Games
12.06.2009
Scotland 'A' v Russia in Bucharest
Preview
As far as I'm aware, and going on last year's tournament, Russia will not be awarding test caps for this game. This is a formidible looking Scotland 'A' side. The Russians are going to have their hands full catching the Scottish backs although I would expect them to have some parity in the forwards. Having said that the Russians are without their usual front row; prop Alexander Khrokin, hooker and captain Vladislav Korshunov and prop Ivan Prishchepenko.
Prediction: Scotland 'A' to win by 32 points.
Teams
Scotland 'A'
15 Jim Thompson (Edinburgh)
14 Rob Dewey (Glasgow Warriors)
13 Ben Cairns (Edinburgh)
12 Alex Grove (Worcester Warriors)
11 Simon Webster (Edinburgh)
10 Ruaridh Jackson (Glasgow Warriors)
9 Chris Cusiter (Perpignan) CAPTAIN
8 Richie Vernon (Glasgow Warriors)
7 Alan MacDonald (Edinburgh Rugby)
6 Kelly Brown (Glasgow Warriors)
5 Al Kellock (Glasgow Warriors)
4 Craig Hamilton (Edinburgh)
3 Moray Low (Glasgow Warriors)
2 Scott Lawson (Gloucester)
1 Kyle Traynor (Edinburgh)
Replacements
16 Andrew Kelly (Edinburgh)
17 Stuart Corsar (Doncaster Knights)
18 James Eddie (Glasgow Warriors)
19 Roddy Grant (Edinburgh)
20 Rory Lawson (Gloucester)
21 David Blair (Edinburgh)
22 Nick De Luca (Edinburgh)
Head Coach: Andy Robinson
http://www.scotlandrugbyteam.org/content/view/791/2/
Russia Squad
Mikhail Babaev (VVA-Podmoskovje) Aged 22, 15 tests
Sergey Bazhenov (Enisey-STM-Krasnoyarsk) 23, 8
Vladimir Botvinikov(Enisey-STM-Krasnoyarsk) 24, 6
Artem Fatakhov (Enisey-STM-Krasnoyarsk) 29, 11
Igor Galinovskiy (Krasny Yar-Krasnoyarsk) 22, 3?
Dmitry Gerasimov (Enisey-STM-Krasnoyarsk) 20, 3
Victor Gresev (VVA-Podmoskovje) 22, 14
Alexander Gvozdovskiy (Krasny Yar-Krasnoyarsk) 27, 10
Igor Kluchnikov (VVA-Podmoskovje) 27, 25
Kirill Kushnarev (VVA-Podmoskovje) 26, 10
Yuriy Kushnarev (VVA-Podmoskovje) 23, 21
Andrey Kuzin (VVA-Podmoskovje) 29, 21
Andrey Lugin (VVA-Podmoskovje) 28, 6
Carlo Maglakelidze(Penza) ?
Evgeny Matveev (VVA-Podmoskovje) 24, 12
Georgiy Minadze (Penza) ?
Victor Motorin (VVA-Podmoskovje) 32, 19
Vladimir Ostroushko(Yug-Krasnodar) 22, 1?
Alexey Panasenko (VVA-Podmoskovje) 25, 5
Evgeny Pronenko (Enisey-STM-Krasnoyarsk) 24, 1
Alexander Shakirov (VVA-Podmoskovje) 27, 16
Alexey Travkin (VVA-Podmoskovje) 31, 23
Sergey Trishin (VVA-Podmoskovje) 23, 13
Alexey Volkov (VVA-Podmoskovje) 22, 4
Alexander Voytov (VVA-Podmoskovje) 26, 16
Alexander Yanushkin (VVA-Podmoskovje) 25, 19
Coach: Nikolay Nerush
12.06.2009
France 'A' v Italy 'A' in Bucharest
Preview
If their strength is reflected in the senior partners then the Italians could be in for a tough match
Prediction: France 'A' by 32 points
Teams
France 'A'
Florian Denos (Bourgoin) – Yohan Huget (Agen), Lionel Mazars (Castres), Fabrice Estebanez (Brive), Romain Martial (Narbonne) – (10) Regis Lespinas (Montauban), (9) Julien Tomas (Montpellier - cap) – Raphael Lakafia (Grenoble), Stève Malonga (Castres), Irahim Diarra (Montauban) – Aliki Fakate (Lyon), Guillaume Villaceca (Perpignan) – Luc Ducalcon (Castres), Jean-Philippe Genevois (Bourgoin), Aretz Iguiniz (Bayonne)
Rezerve: Brice Mach (Montauban), Yohan Montès (Toulouse), Marc Baget (Bayonne), Romain Cabannes (Biarritz), Julien Audy (Montauban), Romain Sola (Agen), Jérôme Porical (Perpignan)
http://www.fira-aer-rugby.com/forum2007/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=3150
Italy 'A'
15 Paolo BUSO (Cammi Calvisano,1 cap)
14 Andrea BACCHETTI (Femi CZ Rovigo, 2 caps)
13 Andrea PRATICHETTI (Cammi Calvisano)
12 Samuele PACE (MPS Viadana, 3 caps)
11 Michele SEPE (AlmavivA UR Capitolina, 2 caps)
10 Riccardo BOCCHINO (AlmavivA UR Capitolina)
9 Michael WILSON (Saracens)
8 Robert BARBIERI (Benetton Treviso, 7 caps)
7 Francesco MINTO (Overmach Cariparma)
6 Agustin CAVALIERI (Carrera Petrarca Padova)
5 Valerio BERNABO’ (Cammi Calvisano, 13 caps)
4 Antonio PAVANELLO (Benetton Treviso, 3 caps)
3 Alberto DE MARCHI (Overmach Cariparma)
2 Luigi FERRARO (MPS Viadana)
1 Michele RIZZO (Carrera Petrarca Padova, 2 caps)
a disposizione
16 Andrea DE MARCHI (Femi CZ Rovigo)
17 Davide GIAZZON (Overmach Cariparma)
18 Andrea CECCATO (Benetton Treviso)
19 Manoa VOSAWAI (Overmach Cariparma, 5 caps)
20 Lance PERSICO (MPS Viadana)
21 Fabio SEMENZATO (Benetton Treviso)
22 Riccardo PAVAN (Overmach Cariparma, 1 cap)
23 Mantvydas TVERAGA (Overmach Cariparma)
24 Alessio GALANTE (Plusvalore Gran Parma, 2 caps)
25 Alberto CHIESA (AlmavivA UR Capitolina)
26 Massimiliano RAVALLE (Overmach Cariparma)
Head Coach: Gianluca Guidi
http://www.federugby.it/news.asp?i=73040&s=2
Scotland 'A' v Russia in Bucharest
Preview
As far as I'm aware, and going on last year's tournament, Russia will not be awarding test caps for this game. This is a formidible looking Scotland 'A' side. The Russians are going to have their hands full catching the Scottish backs although I would expect them to have some parity in the forwards. Having said that the Russians are without their usual front row; prop Alexander Khrokin, hooker and captain Vladislav Korshunov and prop Ivan Prishchepenko.
Prediction: Scotland 'A' to win by 32 points.
Teams
Scotland 'A'
15 Jim Thompson (Edinburgh)
14 Rob Dewey (Glasgow Warriors)
13 Ben Cairns (Edinburgh)
12 Alex Grove (Worcester Warriors)
11 Simon Webster (Edinburgh)
10 Ruaridh Jackson (Glasgow Warriors)
9 Chris Cusiter (Perpignan) CAPTAIN
8 Richie Vernon (Glasgow Warriors)
7 Alan MacDonald (Edinburgh Rugby)
6 Kelly Brown (Glasgow Warriors)
5 Al Kellock (Glasgow Warriors)
4 Craig Hamilton (Edinburgh)
3 Moray Low (Glasgow Warriors)
2 Scott Lawson (Gloucester)
1 Kyle Traynor (Edinburgh)
Replacements
16 Andrew Kelly (Edinburgh)
17 Stuart Corsar (Doncaster Knights)
18 James Eddie (Glasgow Warriors)
19 Roddy Grant (Edinburgh)
20 Rory Lawson (Gloucester)
21 David Blair (Edinburgh)
22 Nick De Luca (Edinburgh)
Head Coach: Andy Robinson
http://www.scotlandrugbyteam.org/content/view/791/2/
Russia Squad
Mikhail Babaev (VVA-Podmoskovje) Aged 22, 15 tests
Sergey Bazhenov (Enisey-STM-Krasnoyarsk) 23, 8
Vladimir Botvinikov(Enisey-STM-Krasnoyarsk) 24, 6
Artem Fatakhov (Enisey-STM-Krasnoyarsk) 29, 11
Igor Galinovskiy (Krasny Yar-Krasnoyarsk) 22, 3?
Dmitry Gerasimov (Enisey-STM-Krasnoyarsk) 20, 3
Victor Gresev (VVA-Podmoskovje) 22, 14
Alexander Gvozdovskiy (Krasny Yar-Krasnoyarsk) 27, 10
Igor Kluchnikov (VVA-Podmoskovje) 27, 25
Kirill Kushnarev (VVA-Podmoskovje) 26, 10
Yuriy Kushnarev (VVA-Podmoskovje) 23, 21
Andrey Kuzin (VVA-Podmoskovje) 29, 21
Andrey Lugin (VVA-Podmoskovje) 28, 6
Carlo Maglakelidze(Penza) ?
Evgeny Matveev (VVA-Podmoskovje) 24, 12
Georgiy Minadze (Penza) ?
Victor Motorin (VVA-Podmoskovje) 32, 19
Vladimir Ostroushko(Yug-Krasnodar) 22, 1?
Alexey Panasenko (VVA-Podmoskovje) 25, 5
Evgeny Pronenko (Enisey-STM-Krasnoyarsk) 24, 1
Alexander Shakirov (VVA-Podmoskovje) 27, 16
Alexey Travkin (VVA-Podmoskovje) 31, 23
Sergey Trishin (VVA-Podmoskovje) 23, 13
Alexey Volkov (VVA-Podmoskovje) 22, 4
Alexander Voytov (VVA-Podmoskovje) 26, 16
Alexander Yanushkin (VVA-Podmoskovje) 25, 19
Coach: Nikolay Nerush
12.06.2009
France 'A' v Italy 'A' in Bucharest
Preview
If their strength is reflected in the senior partners then the Italians could be in for a tough match
Prediction: France 'A' by 32 points
Teams
France 'A'
Florian Denos (Bourgoin) – Yohan Huget (Agen), Lionel Mazars (Castres), Fabrice Estebanez (Brive), Romain Martial (Narbonne) – (10) Regis Lespinas (Montauban), (9) Julien Tomas (Montpellier - cap) – Raphael Lakafia (Grenoble), Stève Malonga (Castres), Irahim Diarra (Montauban) – Aliki Fakate (Lyon), Guillaume Villaceca (Perpignan) – Luc Ducalcon (Castres), Jean-Philippe Genevois (Bourgoin), Aretz Iguiniz (Bayonne)
Rezerve: Brice Mach (Montauban), Yohan Montès (Toulouse), Marc Baget (Bayonne), Romain Cabannes (Biarritz), Julien Audy (Montauban), Romain Sola (Agen), Jérôme Porical (Perpignan)
http://www.fira-aer-rugby.com/forum2007/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=3150
Italy 'A'
15 Paolo BUSO (Cammi Calvisano,1 cap)
14 Andrea BACCHETTI (Femi CZ Rovigo, 2 caps)
13 Andrea PRATICHETTI (Cammi Calvisano)
12 Samuele PACE (MPS Viadana, 3 caps)
11 Michele SEPE (AlmavivA UR Capitolina, 2 caps)
10 Riccardo BOCCHINO (AlmavivA UR Capitolina)
9 Michael WILSON (Saracens)
8 Robert BARBIERI (Benetton Treviso, 7 caps)
7 Francesco MINTO (Overmach Cariparma)
6 Agustin CAVALIERI (Carrera Petrarca Padova)
5 Valerio BERNABO’ (Cammi Calvisano, 13 caps)
4 Antonio PAVANELLO (Benetton Treviso, 3 caps)
3 Alberto DE MARCHI (Overmach Cariparma)
2 Luigi FERRARO (MPS Viadana)
1 Michele RIZZO (Carrera Petrarca Padova, 2 caps)
a disposizione
16 Andrea DE MARCHI (Femi CZ Rovigo)
17 Davide GIAZZON (Overmach Cariparma)
18 Andrea CECCATO (Benetton Treviso)
19 Manoa VOSAWAI (Overmach Cariparma, 5 caps)
20 Lance PERSICO (MPS Viadana)
21 Fabio SEMENZATO (Benetton Treviso)
22 Riccardo PAVAN (Overmach Cariparma, 1 cap)
23 Mantvydas TVERAGA (Overmach Cariparma)
24 Alessio GALANTE (Plusvalore Gran Parma, 2 caps)
25 Alberto CHIESA (AlmavivA UR Capitolina)
26 Massimiliano RAVALLE (Overmach Cariparma)
Head Coach: Gianluca Guidi
http://www.federugby.it/news.asp?i=73040&s=2
Rugby Test: Pacific Nations About to Begin
12.06.2009
Junior All Blacks v Samoa in Apia (Pacific Nations Cup)
Preview
This match Samoa does not classify as a 'test' match. Which is a strange situation considering the strength of the Junior All Black side.
Samoa's problems are usually centred around how many of their overseas-based players are able, willing or fit enough to return home for this series. Traditionally the Samoan, Fijian and Tongan sides for this tournament are not as strong as say their World Cup squads. Having said that a good number of overseas players are in the squad. "The forward core is made up of overseas-based players with veteran Fosi Palaamo making a great comeback with Mahonri Schwalger and Census Johnston making up the front row. The backs see the return of Henry Faafili and Gavin Williams alongside European Player of the Year, Seilala Mapusua" as per http://www.samoarugbyunion.ws/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=275&Itemid=1
Previous Encounters
27.05.2007 Junior AB 31-10 in Apia (Pacific Nations Cup)
09.06.2006 Junior AB 56-12 in Albany (Pacific Five Nations)
GWC Rugby Rankings: Do not apply
Prediction: Junior All Blacks by 20 points
Teams
Junior All Blacks coaches Ian Foster and Colin Cooper have named their side to play Samoa in their opening Pacific Nations Cup match in Apia on Friday at 4.00pm (local time/ Saturday 3.00pm New Zealand time).
The team
Israel Dagg, Rene Ranger, Anthony Tuitavake, Tamati Ellison (captain), Hosea Gear, Colin Slade, Chris Smylie, Victor Vito, George Whitelock, Jason Eaton, Tom Donnelly, Jeremy Thrush, Ben Franks, Aled De Malmanche, Jacob Ellison
Reserves: Hikawera Elliot, John Schwalger, Craig Clarke, Alando Soakai, Stephen Brett, Ryan Crotty. The last reserve is yet to be confirmed.
http://www.allblacks.com/news/10248/Powerful-Junior-All-Blacks-side-named
Manu Samoa Squad
Andrew Williams
Mahonri Schwalger
Fosi Palaamo
Census Johnston
Ernest Skelton
Justin Va’a
Filipo Levi
Joe Tekori
Jonathan Faamatuainu
Daniel Leo
Ofisa Treviranus
Misioka Timoteo
William Brame
Semo Sititi
George Stowers (Capt)
Junior Poluleuligaga
Notise Tauafao
Angelo Lani Malifa
Ki Anufe
Eliota Sapolu
Seilala Mapusua
Gavin Williams (V/Capt)
Henry Faafili
Alesana Tuilagi
Esera Lauina
Reupena Levasa
Lolo Lui
Uale Mai
Head Coach: Fuimaono Titimaea Tafua
Junior All Blacks v Samoa in Apia (Pacific Nations Cup)
Preview
This match Samoa does not classify as a 'test' match. Which is a strange situation considering the strength of the Junior All Black side.
Samoa's problems are usually centred around how many of their overseas-based players are able, willing or fit enough to return home for this series. Traditionally the Samoan, Fijian and Tongan sides for this tournament are not as strong as say their World Cup squads. Having said that a good number of overseas players are in the squad. "The forward core is made up of overseas-based players with veteran Fosi Palaamo making a great comeback with Mahonri Schwalger and Census Johnston making up the front row. The backs see the return of Henry Faafili and Gavin Williams alongside European Player of the Year, Seilala Mapusua" as per http://www.samoarugbyunion.ws/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=275&Itemid=1
Previous Encounters
27.05.2007 Junior AB 31-10 in Apia (Pacific Nations Cup)
09.06.2006 Junior AB 56-12 in Albany (Pacific Five Nations)
GWC Rugby Rankings: Do not apply
Prediction: Junior All Blacks by 20 points
Teams
Junior All Blacks coaches Ian Foster and Colin Cooper have named their side to play Samoa in their opening Pacific Nations Cup match in Apia on Friday at 4.00pm (local time/ Saturday 3.00pm New Zealand time).
The team
Israel Dagg, Rene Ranger, Anthony Tuitavake, Tamati Ellison (captain), Hosea Gear, Colin Slade, Chris Smylie, Victor Vito, George Whitelock, Jason Eaton, Tom Donnelly, Jeremy Thrush, Ben Franks, Aled De Malmanche, Jacob Ellison
Reserves: Hikawera Elliot, John Schwalger, Craig Clarke, Alando Soakai, Stephen Brett, Ryan Crotty. The last reserve is yet to be confirmed.
http://www.allblacks.com/news/10248/Powerful-Junior-All-Blacks-side-named
Manu Samoa Squad
Andrew Williams
Mahonri Schwalger
Fosi Palaamo
Census Johnston
Ernest Skelton
Justin Va’a
Filipo Levi
Joe Tekori
Jonathan Faamatuainu
Daniel Leo
Ofisa Treviranus
Misioka Timoteo
William Brame
Semo Sititi
George Stowers (Capt)
Junior Poluleuligaga
Notise Tauafao
Angelo Lani Malifa
Ki Anufe
Eliota Sapolu
Seilala Mapusua
Gavin Williams (V/Capt)
Henry Faafili
Alesana Tuilagi
Esera Lauina
Reupena Levasa
Lolo Lui
Uale Mai
Head Coach: Fuimaono Titimaea Tafua
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Test Matches: IRB Nations Cup Starts
12.06.2009
Uruguay v Romania in Bucharest
Preview
Romania appears to have started a new era by including a number of France-based players who have not played test rugby, or very little, since the 2007 Rugby World Cup. This is a change in policy with the heralding in of a new President of the union and a new coach.
Uruguay v Romania in Bucharest
Preview
Romania appears to have started a new era by including a number of France-based players who have not played test rugby, or very little, since the 2007 Rugby World Cup. This is a change in policy with the heralding in of a new President of the union and a new coach.
Uruguay arrived with their usual mix of youth and experience. It's good to see some of their overseas-based players available.
Last year's test between these two nations was a very close affair. I expect Romania, with the inclusion of many very experienced players, to be too strong for the visitors.
Previous Encounter
11.06.2008 Romania 10-6 in Bucharest (IRB Nations Cup)
GWC Rugby Rankings: World Table-Romania 19th, Uruguay 23rd
Prediction: Romania by 16 points.
Teams
Romania Squad
Mihai Adăscăliţei (Dinamo Bucharest) age 25, 2 tests
Petru Bălan (Dax, France) 32, 53 #
Valentin Calafeteanu (Dinamo Bucharest) 23, 20
Daniel Carpo (RCJ Farul Constanţa) 24, 9
Ştefan Ciuntu (Dinamo Bucarest) 22, 12
Alin Coste (Narbonne, France) 20, 8
Robert Dascălu (Steaua Bucarest) 24, 18
Dragoş Dima (Orthez, France) 29, 25 @
Ionuţ Dimofte (CSM Baia Mare) 23, 30
Iulian Dumitraş (Pau, France) 23, 33
Dan Dumitru (Oyonax, France) 26
Cătălin Fercu (Steaua Bucarest) 21, 25
Csaba Gal Dinamo Bucarest) 23, 14
Alexandru Manta (Brive,France) 31, 25
Răzvan Mavrodin (Tarbes, France) 34, 47 ^
Cătălin Nicolae (Farul Constanţa) 28, 6
Ion Paulică (London Irish, England) 25, 33
Cristian Petre (Beziers, France) 28, 60
Augustin Petrichei (Beziers, France) 28, 17 #
Cezar Popescu (Agen, France) 31, 31 ^
Vasile Rus (CSA Steaua Bucharest) 25, 3 *
Lucian Sirbu (Beziers, France) 31, 51 ^
Sorin Socol (Pau, France) 30, 42 ^ (as captain)
Marius Tincu (Perpignan, France) 30, 32 *
Ovidiu Toniţa (Perpignan, France) 28, 42 ^
Alexandru Tudori (Dinamo Bucharest) 29, 30
Florin Vlaicu (Steaua Bucarest) 22, 20
Head Coach:
Notes
* Last played for Romania 2007-08
^ Last played for Romania at 2007 Rugby World Cup
# Last played for Romania 2006-07
@ Last played for Romania 2005-06
Răzvan Mavrodin (Tarbes) - also assistant coach for the forwards
Marius Tincu (Perpignan) - he will not play in the first match (his last game was Saturday in the TOP14 final)
http://www.fira-aer-rugby.com/forum2007/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=3150
And data from http://www.rugbyinternational/ database
Uruguay team not available at present
More reviews later for Scotland 'A' v Russia, and Italy 'A' v France 'A'
International Rugby Results:Churchill Cup
10.06.2009
Ireland 'A' 30, Canada 19 in Denver
Argentina 'A' 35, United States 14 in Denver
Ireland 'A' 30, Canada 19 in Denver
Argentina 'A' 35, United States 14 in Denver
Test Rugby This Weekend 12-13-14 June
I don't know how you are all going to stay awake with all this international rugby happening around our globe.
12.06.2009
Samoa v Junior All Blacks in Samoa (Pacific Nations Cup)
Uruguay v Romania in Bucharest (IRB Nations Cup)
Scotland 'A' v Russia in Bucharest (IRB Nations Cup)
Italy 'A' v France 'A' in Bucharest (IRB Nations Cup)
The Pacific Nations Cup gets underway tomorrow. A couple of matches are being played offshore but mostly, due to cost-cutting, they will mostly be played in Fiji.
The IRB Nations Cup pits the strongest 'A' teams from France, Italy and Scotland against Romania, Uruguay and Russia. Now that the Emerging Springbok are not playing this year fields will be even.
13.06.2009
New Zealand v France in Dunedin
England v Argentina in Salta
Australia v Italy in Canberra
Tonga v Fiji in Nuku'alofa (Pacific Nations Cup)
Uganda v Tunisia in Kampala (WCQ Africa R2; Africa Cup SF)
Ivory Coast v Namibia in Abidjan (WCQ Africa R2; Africa Cup SF)
Uzbekistan v Kyrgyzstan in Tashkent (Asia Regions 2 Final)
Uzbekistan 'B' v Mongolia in Tashkent (Friendly)
The teams from the Northern Hemisphere begin their southern tours on Saturday. At first impression one would think that France are not taking their best side down under. They were because the French Top 14 final between Perpignan and Clermont-Auvergne only involved a few French test players. But injuries has forced a number of players to withdraw. The result is this is not the strongest of French teams but, unlike the last couple of tours, its not their weakest either.
England against Argentina in Argentina is a totally different proposition to playing Argentina in Manchester. The strange thing is that both teams will suffer jet lag. Still I expect the Argies to be far more competitive in front of a provincial crowd in Salta.
Italy has a very hard tour ahead of it. Injuries have hit the Italians and they look like continuing their losing streak.
Fiji and Tonga clash in Nuku'alofa whilst the Junior AllBlacks start their Pacific Nations campaign in Apia. Elsewhere the Africa World Cup qualifying process goes into the third round. Tunisia travel to Kampala to take on the Ugandans, whilst Namibia (the favourite) travels to Ivory Coast to tackle a team with a number of French-based players in the squad.
12.06.2009
Samoa v Junior All Blacks in Samoa (Pacific Nations Cup)
Uruguay v Romania in Bucharest (IRB Nations Cup)
Scotland 'A' v Russia in Bucharest (IRB Nations Cup)
Italy 'A' v France 'A' in Bucharest (IRB Nations Cup)
The Pacific Nations Cup gets underway tomorrow. A couple of matches are being played offshore but mostly, due to cost-cutting, they will mostly be played in Fiji.
The IRB Nations Cup pits the strongest 'A' teams from France, Italy and Scotland against Romania, Uruguay and Russia. Now that the Emerging Springbok are not playing this year fields will be even.
13.06.2009
New Zealand v France in Dunedin
England v Argentina in Salta
Australia v Italy in Canberra
Tonga v Fiji in Nuku'alofa (Pacific Nations Cup)
Uganda v Tunisia in Kampala (WCQ Africa R2; Africa Cup SF)
Ivory Coast v Namibia in Abidjan (WCQ Africa R2; Africa Cup SF)
Uzbekistan v Kyrgyzstan in Tashkent (Asia Regions 2 Final)
Uzbekistan 'B' v Mongolia in Tashkent (Friendly)
The teams from the Northern Hemisphere begin their southern tours on Saturday. At first impression one would think that France are not taking their best side down under. They were because the French Top 14 final between Perpignan and Clermont-Auvergne only involved a few French test players. But injuries has forced a number of players to withdraw. The result is this is not the strongest of French teams but, unlike the last couple of tours, its not their weakest either.
England against Argentina in Argentina is a totally different proposition to playing Argentina in Manchester. The strange thing is that both teams will suffer jet lag. Still I expect the Argies to be far more competitive in front of a provincial crowd in Salta.
Italy has a very hard tour ahead of it. Injuries have hit the Italians and they look like continuing their losing streak.
Fiji and Tonga clash in Nuku'alofa whilst the Junior AllBlacks start their Pacific Nations campaign in Apia. Elsewhere the Africa World Cup qualifying process goes into the third round. Tunisia travel to Kampala to take on the Ugandans, whilst Namibia (the favourite) travels to Ivory Coast to tackle a team with a number of French-based players in the squad.
Test Rugby Result: A first for Mongolia
09.06.2009
Kyrgyzstan 38, Mongolia 21 in Tashkent (Asia Regions 2)
Review
My supposed itinerary for this tournament has been shot down in flames. Mongolia played its first ever test match against Kyrgyzstan and lost by a respectable 21-38. The IRB website states that the final on Saturday will be between Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan which leaves me pndering..what happened to Jordan?
"Also notable is that Wednesday's match was the first full 15-aside international Test match refereed by Gabriel Lee Wing Yi, Asia’s number one ranked female referee and the first ever Asian Rugby Football Union men’s Test match to be refereed by a female match official."
"Lee had her work cut out in her first Test as an entertaining match was disfigured by the awarding of six yellow cards for a variety of infringements. "
Six yellow cards must be some kind of a record. Still it's good to see women referees officiating at mens rugby tests. I can't recall other women refereeing mens rugby tests.
Kyrgyzstan 38, Mongolia 21 in Tashkent (Asia Regions 2)
Review
My supposed itinerary for this tournament has been shot down in flames. Mongolia played its first ever test match against Kyrgyzstan and lost by a respectable 21-38. The IRB website states that the final on Saturday will be between Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan which leaves me pndering..what happened to Jordan?
"Also notable is that Wednesday's match was the first full 15-aside international Test match refereed by Gabriel Lee Wing Yi, Asia’s number one ranked female referee and the first ever Asian Rugby Football Union men’s Test match to be refereed by a female match official."
"Lee had her work cut out in her first Test as an entertaining match was disfigured by the awarding of six yellow cards for a variety of infringements. "
Six yellow cards must be some kind of a record. Still it's good to see women referees officiating at mens rugby tests. I can't recall other women refereeing mens rugby tests.
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
Test Rugby Coming Up 9-10 June
09.06.2009
Mongolia v Uzbekistan in Tashkent (Asia Regions 2)
Jordan v Kyrgyzstan in Tashkent (Asia Regions 2)
10.06.2009
Canada v Ireland 'A' in Denver (Churchill Cup, Pool A) Non-test
United States v Argentina 'A' in Denver (Churchill Cup, Pool B)
Previews
Mongolia and Jordan play their first international test rugby matches in Tashkent. The winner from this tournament will most likely be promoted to a new Asia Nations Division 4 in 2010.
In keeping with its test match policy from the past I expect Canada will not be awarding test caps for this match, important though it may be.
The Canadians got their tournament off to a good start with a convincing 42-10 over a Georgian side missing key players. They will find the Irish tougher. Only three weeks ago Canada lost to the full Irish side 6-25.
In the other Churchill Cup game the USA takes on Argentina 'A'. The USA Eagles will have had to have pulled up well from their heavy loss to Wales on Saturday to be competitive. They will the Jaguars just as tough as the Welsh.
Predictions:
Uzbekistan by 20 v Mongolia
Kygyzstan by 30 v Jordan
Ireland 'A' by 3 v Canada
Argentina 'A' by 15 v USA
Mongolia v Uzbekistan in Tashkent (Asia Regions 2)
Jordan v Kyrgyzstan in Tashkent (Asia Regions 2)
10.06.2009
Canada v Ireland 'A' in Denver (Churchill Cup, Pool A) Non-test
United States v Argentina 'A' in Denver (Churchill Cup, Pool B)
Previews
Mongolia and Jordan play their first international test rugby matches in Tashkent. The winner from this tournament will most likely be promoted to a new Asia Nations Division 4 in 2010.
In keeping with its test match policy from the past I expect Canada will not be awarding test caps for this match, important though it may be.
The Canadians got their tournament off to a good start with a convincing 42-10 over a Georgian side missing key players. They will find the Irish tougher. Only three weeks ago Canada lost to the full Irish side 6-25.
In the other Churchill Cup game the USA takes on Argentina 'A'. The USA Eagles will have had to have pulled up well from their heavy loss to Wales on Saturday to be competitive. They will the Jaguars just as tough as the Welsh.
Predictions:
Uzbekistan by 20 v Mongolia
Kygyzstan by 30 v Jordan
Ireland 'A' by 3 v Canada
Argentina 'A' by 15 v USA
Monday, June 8, 2009
Test Rugby Results Update
06.06.2009
Canada 42, Georgia 10 in Denver (Churchill Cup)
Information to hand has the Asia Regions 2 tournament starting Tuesday 9 June with Mongolia being added to the tournament, giving four teams.
With the media giving Mongolia v Uzbekistan as the first game and the tournament over 5 days (9-13 June) I predict the following draw, based on other Asia tournaments below the 5 nations.
9 June: Mongolia v Uzbekistan
Jordan v Krygyzstan
13 June: Winner v Winner
Loser v Loser
Winner of the 13 June game possibly going into an Asia Nations Division 4
Canada 42, Georgia 10 in Denver (Churchill Cup)
Information to hand has the Asia Regions 2 tournament starting Tuesday 9 June with Mongolia being added to the tournament, giving four teams.
With the media giving Mongolia v Uzbekistan as the first game and the tournament over 5 days (9-13 June) I predict the following draw, based on other Asia tournaments below the 5 nations.
9 June: Mongolia v Uzbekistan
Jordan v Krygyzstan
13 June: Winner v Winner
Loser v Loser
Winner of the 13 June game possibly going into an Asia Nations Division 4
Sunday, June 7, 2009
Rugby Tests: Early Results 6 June
06.06.2009
Updated 9:15am
England 37, Argentina 15 in Manchester
British and Irish Lions 26, Free State Cheetahs 24 in Bloemfontein
Australia 55, Barbarians (UK) RFC 7 in Sydney
Wales 48, United States 15 in Bridgeview, Illnois
England Saxons 28, Argentina 'A' 20 in Denver (Churchill Cup)
Lithuania 6, Netherlands 3 in Vilnius (WCQ Euro.R3 Playoff)
Malaysia 43, China 15 in Kuala Lumpur (Asia Nations Div.2)
India 44, Pakistan 3 in Kuala Lumpur (Asia Nations Div.2)
To Come
Georgia v Canada in Denver (Churchill Cup)
Uzbekistan v Kyrgyzstan in Tashkent (Asia Regions 2)
Updated 9:15am
England 37, Argentina 15 in Manchester
British and Irish Lions 26, Free State Cheetahs 24 in Bloemfontein
Australia 55, Barbarians (UK) RFC 7 in Sydney
Wales 48, United States 15 in Bridgeview, Illnois
England Saxons 28, Argentina 'A' 20 in Denver (Churchill Cup)
Lithuania 6, Netherlands 3 in Vilnius (WCQ Euro.R3 Playoff)
Malaysia 43, China 15 in Kuala Lumpur (Asia Nations Div.2)
India 44, Pakistan 3 in Kuala Lumpur (Asia Nations Div.2)
To Come
Georgia v Canada in Denver (Churchill Cup)
Uzbekistan v Kyrgyzstan in Tashkent (Asia Regions 2)
Saturday, June 6, 2009
Test Match Rugby: Pumas Ready to Pounce the Lions
06.06.2009
Argentina v England in Manchester
Preview
Argentina have prepared a very experienced side to take on the English in test matches in Manchester and then in the Argentinean city of Salta.
England suffered defeat at the hands of the Barbarains last weekend. Coach Martin Johnson has made changes and with enough old hands still available England will need to improve on that display and some more if they are going to defeat Argentina.
Argentina returns to the ground where they last played England and caused an upset by winning 25-18. Martin Johnson will be very wary of the Pumas. That last match at Twickenham caused the demise of an England coach. Will history repeat itself?
Last Five Encounters
11.11.2006 Argentina 25-18 at Twickenham
15.11.2000 England 19-0 at Twickenham
07.06.1997 Argentina 33-13 in Buenos Aires
31.05.1997 England 46-20 in Buenos Aires
14.12.1996 England 20-18 at Twickenham
Teams
Argentina
15 Horacio Agulla (Brive, France) Aged 24, 17 Tests
14 Federico Martín Aramburu (Dax, France) 29, 19
13 Gonzalo Tiesi (Harlequins, England) 24, 18
12 Miguel Avramovic (Montauban, France) 27, 11
11 Gonzalo Camacho (B.A.C.R.C.) ?, New Cap
10 Juan Martín Hernández (Stade Francais, France) 27, 30
9 Nicolás Vergallo (Dax, France) 25, 14
8 Juan Martín Fernández Lobbe, Capt. (Sale Sharks, England) 27, 28
7 Juan Manuel Leguizamon (Stade Francais, France) 25, 29
6 Álvaro Galindo (Racing Metro, France) 27, 7
5 Patricio Albacete (Stade Toulousian, France) 27, 29
4 Manuel Carizza (Biarritz Olympique, France) 24, 10
3 Juan Pablo Orlandi (Rovigo, Italy) 26, 3
2 Alberto Vernet Basualdo (Stade Toulousian, France) 26, 10
1 Rodrigo Roncero (Stade Francais, France) 32, 32
Replacements
16 Eusebio Guiñazu (Sporting Union Agen, France) 27, 13
17 Marcos Ayerza (Leicester Tigers, England) 26, 21
18 Esteban Lozada (Toulon, France) 27, 13
19 Alejandro Abadie(Capitolina, Italy) 24, 1
20 Alfredo Lalanne (San Isidro Club) 26, 1
21 Santiago Fernández (Hindú Club) 23, 2
22 Lucas González Amorosino (Pucará) ?, 1
Head Coach: Santiago Phelan
Injured: Felipe Contepomi (Toulon)
England
15 Delon Armitage (London Irish) Age 24, 9 tests
14 Mark Cueto (Sale Sharks) 28, 29
13 Daniel Hipkiss (Leicester Tigers) 26, 7
12 Thomas May (Newcastle Falcons) 29, New Cap
11 Matthew Banahan (Bath Rugby) 22, New Cap
10 Andrew Goode (CA Brive, France) 28, 14
9 Daniel Care (Harlequins) 21, 9
8 Nicholas Easter (Harlequins) 33, 25
7 Steffon Armitage (London Irish) 23, 1
6 James Haskell (London Wasps) 23, 17
5 Louis Deacon (Leicester Tigers) 28, 6 +
4 Steven Borthwick, Capt. (Saracens) 28, 49
3 David Wilson (Newcastle Falcons) 23, New Cap
2 Dylan Hartley (Northampton Saints) 22, 9
1 Timothy Payne (London Wasps) 29, 10
Replacements
16 Julian White (Leicester Tigers) 35, 49
17 Steven Thompson (CA Brive, France) 30, 42
18 Benjamin Kay (Leicester Tigers) 33, 60 *
19 Jordan Crane (Leicester Tigers) 22, 1
20 Paul Hodgson (London Irish) 26, 1 *
21 Samuel Vesty (Leicester Tigers) 26, New Cap
22 Mathew Tait (Sale Sharks) 22, 29
Head Coach: Martin Johnson
* Last played for England 2007-08 season
+ Last played for England 2006-07 season
Argentina v England in Manchester
Preview
Argentina have prepared a very experienced side to take on the English in test matches in Manchester and then in the Argentinean city of Salta.
England suffered defeat at the hands of the Barbarains last weekend. Coach Martin Johnson has made changes and with enough old hands still available England will need to improve on that display and some more if they are going to defeat Argentina.
Argentina returns to the ground where they last played England and caused an upset by winning 25-18. Martin Johnson will be very wary of the Pumas. That last match at Twickenham caused the demise of an England coach. Will history repeat itself?
Last Five Encounters
11.11.2006 Argentina 25-18 at Twickenham
15.11.2000 England 19-0 at Twickenham
07.06.1997 Argentina 33-13 in Buenos Aires
31.05.1997 England 46-20 in Buenos Aires
14.12.1996 England 20-18 at Twickenham
GWC Rugby Rankings: World Table-England 4th, Argentina 9th
Prediction: Argentina by 7 points.Teams
Argentina
15 Horacio Agulla (Brive, France) Aged 24, 17 Tests
14 Federico Martín Aramburu (Dax, France) 29, 19
13 Gonzalo Tiesi (Harlequins, England) 24, 18
12 Miguel Avramovic (Montauban, France) 27, 11
11 Gonzalo Camacho (B.A.C.R.C.) ?, New Cap
10 Juan Martín Hernández (Stade Francais, France) 27, 30
9 Nicolás Vergallo (Dax, France) 25, 14
8 Juan Martín Fernández Lobbe, Capt. (Sale Sharks, England) 27, 28
7 Juan Manuel Leguizamon (Stade Francais, France) 25, 29
6 Álvaro Galindo (Racing Metro, France) 27, 7
5 Patricio Albacete (Stade Toulousian, France) 27, 29
4 Manuel Carizza (Biarritz Olympique, France) 24, 10
3 Juan Pablo Orlandi (Rovigo, Italy) 26, 3
2 Alberto Vernet Basualdo (Stade Toulousian, France) 26, 10
1 Rodrigo Roncero (Stade Francais, France) 32, 32
Replacements
16 Eusebio Guiñazu (Sporting Union Agen, France) 27, 13
17 Marcos Ayerza (Leicester Tigers, England) 26, 21
18 Esteban Lozada (Toulon, France) 27, 13
19 Alejandro Abadie(Capitolina, Italy) 24, 1
20 Alfredo Lalanne (San Isidro Club) 26, 1
21 Santiago Fernández (Hindú Club) 23, 2
22 Lucas González Amorosino (Pucará) ?, 1
Head Coach: Santiago Phelan
Injured: Felipe Contepomi (Toulon)
England
15 Delon Armitage (London Irish) Age 24, 9 tests
14 Mark Cueto (Sale Sharks) 28, 29
13 Daniel Hipkiss (Leicester Tigers) 26, 7
12 Thomas May (Newcastle Falcons) 29, New Cap
11 Matthew Banahan (Bath Rugby) 22, New Cap
10 Andrew Goode (CA Brive, France) 28, 14
9 Daniel Care (Harlequins) 21, 9
8 Nicholas Easter (Harlequins) 33, 25
7 Steffon Armitage (London Irish) 23, 1
6 James Haskell (London Wasps) 23, 17
5 Louis Deacon (Leicester Tigers) 28, 6 +
4 Steven Borthwick, Capt. (Saracens) 28, 49
3 David Wilson (Newcastle Falcons) 23, New Cap
2 Dylan Hartley (Northampton Saints) 22, 9
1 Timothy Payne (London Wasps) 29, 10
Replacements
16 Julian White (Leicester Tigers) 35, 49
17 Steven Thompson (CA Brive, France) 30, 42
18 Benjamin Kay (Leicester Tigers) 33, 60 *
19 Jordan Crane (Leicester Tigers) 22, 1
20 Paul Hodgson (London Irish) 26, 1 *
21 Samuel Vesty (Leicester Tigers) 26, New Cap
22 Mathew Tait (Sale Sharks) 22, 29
Head Coach: Martin Johnson
* Last played for England 2007-08 season
+ Last played for England 2006-07 season
Rugby Match: British and Irish lions 3rd Tour match
06.06.2009
British and Irish Lions v Free State Cheetahs in Bloemfontein
Preview
This British and Irish lions combination will need to outdo their Wednesday team in the way it delt with the opposition. The pressure is on this combination to dominate the opposition and score trys. The Cheetahs will provide sterner opposition than the Golden Lions did last Wednesday but in the end the tourists will have too much skill, and especially, strength up front.
Prediction: British and Irish Lions by 15 points.
Teams
Cheetahs
15 Hennie Daniller, 14 Danwel Demas, 13 Corne Uys, 12 Meyer Bosman, 11 JW Jonker, 10 Jaques-Louis Potgieter, 9 Tewis De Bruyn, 8 Hendro Scholtz (captain), 7 Francois Uys, 6 Heinrich Brüssow, 5 David De Villiers, 4 Nico Breedt, 3 Kobus Calldo, 2 Adriaan Strauss, 1 Wian Du Preez.
Replacements: 16 Richardt Strauss, 17 WP Nel, 18 Frans Viljoen, 19 Kabamba Floors, 20 Gerrie Odendaal, 21 Louis Strydom, 22 Fabian Juries.
British and Irish Lions
15 Lee Byrne, 14 Leigh Halfpenny, 13 Keith Earls, 12 Luke Fitzgerald, 11 Shane Willians, 10 James Hook, 9 Harry Ellis, 8 Andy Powell, 7 Joe Worsley, 6 Stephen Ferris, 5 Donncha O'Callaghan, 4 Paul O'Connell, 3 Euan Murray, 2 Ross Ford, 1 Andy Sheridan.
Replacements: 16 Matthew Rees, 17 Adam Jones, 18 Simon Shaw, 19 Nathan Hines, 20 Mike Blair, 21 Ronan O'Gara, 22 Gordon D'Arcy.
British and Irish Lions v Free State Cheetahs in Bloemfontein
Preview
This British and Irish lions combination will need to outdo their Wednesday team in the way it delt with the opposition. The pressure is on this combination to dominate the opposition and score trys. The Cheetahs will provide sterner opposition than the Golden Lions did last Wednesday but in the end the tourists will have too much skill, and especially, strength up front.
Prediction: British and Irish Lions by 15 points.
Teams
Cheetahs
15 Hennie Daniller, 14 Danwel Demas, 13 Corne Uys, 12 Meyer Bosman, 11 JW Jonker, 10 Jaques-Louis Potgieter, 9 Tewis De Bruyn, 8 Hendro Scholtz (captain), 7 Francois Uys, 6 Heinrich Brüssow, 5 David De Villiers, 4 Nico Breedt, 3 Kobus Calldo, 2 Adriaan Strauss, 1 Wian Du Preez.
Replacements: 16 Richardt Strauss, 17 WP Nel, 18 Frans Viljoen, 19 Kabamba Floors, 20 Gerrie Odendaal, 21 Louis Strydom, 22 Fabian Juries.
British and Irish Lions
15 Lee Byrne, 14 Leigh Halfpenny, 13 Keith Earls, 12 Luke Fitzgerald, 11 Shane Willians, 10 James Hook, 9 Harry Ellis, 8 Andy Powell, 7 Joe Worsley, 6 Stephen Ferris, 5 Donncha O'Callaghan, 4 Paul O'Connell, 3 Euan Murray, 2 Ross Ford, 1 Andy Sheridan.
Replacements: 16 Matthew Rees, 17 Adam Jones, 18 Simon Shaw, 19 Nathan Hines, 20 Mike Blair, 21 Ronan O'Gara, 22 Gordon D'Arcy.
International Rugby: The Barbarians in Australia
06.06.2009
Barbarians (UK) RFC v Australia in Sydney-Non Test
Preview
This is certainly a strange match for Australia to be warming up with prior to their tests against Italy, France and then the Tri Nations. The Baabaas are fresh from a 33-26 win against England last weekend and will provide worthy opposition. These two teams play for a trophy, the Nick Shehadie Cup.
Prediction: Barbarians by 7 points
Teams
Australia
15 Adam Ashley-Cooper (ACT Brumbies)
14 Lachlan Turner (NSW Waratahs)
13 Stirling Mortlock, Capt. (ACT Brumbies)
12 Berrick Barnes (Queensland Reds)
11 Drew Mitchell (WA Western Force)
10 Matt Giteau (WA Western Force)
9 Luke Burgess (NSW Waratahs)
8 Richard Brown (WA Western Force)
7 George Smith (ACT Brumbies)
6 Matthew Hodgson (WA Western Force)
5 Nathan Sharpe (WA Western Force)
4 James Horwill (Queensland Reds)
3 Alistair Baxter (NSW Waratahs)
2 Stephen Moore (ACT Brumbies)
1 Benn Robinson (NSW Waratahs)
Replacements
16 Tatafu Polota-Nau (NSW Waratahs)
17 Benjamin Alexander (ACT Brumbies)
18 Dean Mumm (NSW Waratahs)
19 David Pocock (WA Western Force)
20 Joshua Valentine (WA Western Force)
21 Quade Cooper (Queensland Reds)
22 James O'Connor (WA Western Force)
Head Coach; Robbie Deans
Barbarians
15 Geordan Murphy (Leicester Tigers, Ireland)
14 Iain Balshaw (Gloucester, England)
13 Sonny Bill Williams (Toulon)
12 Seilala Mapusua (London Irish, Samoa)
11 Josh Lewsey (London Wasps, England)
10 Luke McAlister (Sale Sharks, New Zealand)
9 Chris Whitaker (Leinster, Australia)
8 Rocky Elsom (ACT Brumbies, Australia)
7 Phil Waugh, Capt (Waratahs, Australia)
6 Jerry Collins (Toulon, New Zealand)
5 Paul Tito (Cardiff Blues)
4 Chris Jack (Saracens, New Zealand)
3 BJ Botha (Ulster, South Africa)
2 Sebastien Bruno (Sale Sharks, France)
1 Clarke Dermody (London Irish, New Zealand).
Replacements
16 Schalk Brits (Stormers, South Africa)
17 Greg Somerville (Gloucester, New Zealand)
18 Martin Corry (Leicester Tigers, England)
19 Serge Betsen (London Wasps, France)
20 Justin Marshall (Saracens, New Zealand)
21 Glen Jackson (Saracens)
22 Ben Blair (Cardiff Blues, New Zealand)
David Lyons (Llanelly Scarlets, Australia) is on standby for Rocky Elsom.
Head Coach: David Young
Barbarians (UK) RFC v Australia in Sydney-Non Test
Preview
This is certainly a strange match for Australia to be warming up with prior to their tests against Italy, France and then the Tri Nations. The Baabaas are fresh from a 33-26 win against England last weekend and will provide worthy opposition. These two teams play for a trophy, the Nick Shehadie Cup.
Prediction: Barbarians by 7 points
Teams
Australia
15 Adam Ashley-Cooper (ACT Brumbies)
14 Lachlan Turner (NSW Waratahs)
13 Stirling Mortlock, Capt. (ACT Brumbies)
12 Berrick Barnes (Queensland Reds)
11 Drew Mitchell (WA Western Force)
10 Matt Giteau (WA Western Force)
9 Luke Burgess (NSW Waratahs)
8 Richard Brown (WA Western Force)
7 George Smith (ACT Brumbies)
6 Matthew Hodgson (WA Western Force)
5 Nathan Sharpe (WA Western Force)
4 James Horwill (Queensland Reds)
3 Alistair Baxter (NSW Waratahs)
2 Stephen Moore (ACT Brumbies)
1 Benn Robinson (NSW Waratahs)
Replacements
16 Tatafu Polota-Nau (NSW Waratahs)
17 Benjamin Alexander (ACT Brumbies)
18 Dean Mumm (NSW Waratahs)
19 David Pocock (WA Western Force)
20 Joshua Valentine (WA Western Force)
21 Quade Cooper (Queensland Reds)
22 James O'Connor (WA Western Force)
Head Coach; Robbie Deans
Barbarians
15 Geordan Murphy (Leicester Tigers, Ireland)
14 Iain Balshaw (Gloucester, England)
13 Sonny Bill Williams (Toulon)
12 Seilala Mapusua (London Irish, Samoa)
11 Josh Lewsey (London Wasps, England)
10 Luke McAlister (Sale Sharks, New Zealand)
9 Chris Whitaker (Leinster, Australia)
8 Rocky Elsom (ACT Brumbies, Australia)
7 Phil Waugh, Capt (Waratahs, Australia)
6 Jerry Collins (Toulon, New Zealand)
5 Paul Tito (Cardiff Blues)
4 Chris Jack (Saracens, New Zealand)
3 BJ Botha (Ulster, South Africa)
2 Sebastien Bruno (Sale Sharks, France)
1 Clarke Dermody (London Irish, New Zealand).
Replacements
16 Schalk Brits (Stormers, South Africa)
17 Greg Somerville (Gloucester, New Zealand)
18 Martin Corry (Leicester Tigers, England)
19 Serge Betsen (London Wasps, France)
20 Justin Marshall (Saracens, New Zealand)
21 Glen Jackson (Saracens)
22 Ben Blair (Cardiff Blues, New Zealand)
David Lyons (Llanelly Scarlets, Australia) is on standby for Rocky Elsom.
Head Coach: David Young
Friday, June 5, 2009
Rugby Test: Wales face the USA
06.06.2009
Wales v United States in Bridgeview, Illinois
Preview
Wales ends its North American tour with a test against the USA. The USA Eagles will be keen to put in a solid performance against the Welsh before their Churchill Cup matches begin Wednesday.
The last times these two teams met the Welsh slaughtered a USA team fresh from a Superpowers win against a formidible Romanian side.
Prevoius Encounters
04.06.2005 Wales 77-3 in Hartford
18.11.2000 Wales 42-11 in Cardiff
12.07.1997 Wales 28-23 in San Francisco
05.07.1997 Wales 30-20 in Wilmington
11.01.1997 Wales 34-14 in Cardiff
The USA has never defeated Wales.
GWCRugby Rankings: World Table-Wales 6th, USA 20th
Prediction: Wales will have too much class, to win by 15 points.
Teams
USA
15 – Chris Wyles (Saracens, England)
14 – Gavin DeBartolo (Eastern Suburbs)
13 – Alipate Tuilevuka (Provo Steelers)
12 – Roland Suniula (Pearl City RFC)
11 – Kevin Swiryn (Old Puget Sound Beach)
10 – Ata Malifa (Belmont Shore RFC)
9 – Mike Petri (New York Athletic Club) Captain
8 – Nic Johnson (Denver Barbarians RFC)
7 – Peter Dahl (Belmont Shore RFC)
6 – Louis Stanfill (New York Athletic Club)
5 – Hayden Smith (Saracens, England)
4 – John Van Der Giessen (Denver Barbarians)
3 – Will Johnson (Oxford University, England)
2 – Chris Biller (California)
1 –Matekitonga Moeakiola (Park City Haggis)
Replacements:
16 – Brian McClanahan (Olympic Club)*
17 – Mike MacDonald (Leeds Carnegie, England)
18 – Courtney Mackay (Counties Manukau, NZ)
19 – J.J. Gagiano (Univ. of Cape Town, Sth Africa)
20 – Tim Usasz (Nottingham, England)
21 – Mike Hercus (Sunshine Coast Singrays, Australia)
22 – Junior Sifa (Middleton RFC)
Head Coach: Eddie O’Sullivan
* New Cap
http://www.usarugby.org/
Wales
15 - Daniel Evans (Llanelly Scarlets)
14 - Mark Jones (Llanelly Scarlets)
13 - Jonathan Davies (Llanelly Scarlets)
12 - Andrew Bishop (Neath Swansea Ospreys)
11 - Tom James (Cardiff Blues)
10 - Nicky Robinson (Cardiff Blues)
9 - Dwayne Peel (Sale Sharks, England)
8 - Ryan Jones (Neath Swansea Ospreys) Captain
7 - Robin Sowden-Taylor (Cardiff Blues)
6 - Dafydd Jones (Llanelly Scarlets)
5 - Deiniol Jones (Cardiff Blues)
4 - Ian Gough (Neath Swansea Ospreys)
3 - John Yapp (Cardiff Blues)
2 - Gareth Williams (Cardiff Blues)
1 - Duncan Jones (Neath Swansea Ospreys)
Replacements:
16 - Richard Hibbard (Neath Swansea Ospreys)
17 - Craig Mitchell (Neath Swansea Ospreys)
18 - Luke Charteris (Newport Gwent Dragons)
19 - Sam Warburton (Cardiff Blues)*
20 - Gareth Cooper (Gloucester Rugby, England)
21 - Dan Biggar (Neath Swansea Ospreys)
22 - Jonathan Spratt (Neath Swansea Ospreys)
* New Cap
Head Coach: Robin McBryde (temp.)
For a complete list of all international test match results for both USA and Wales, go to www.rugbyinternational.net
Wales v United States in Bridgeview, Illinois
Preview
Wales ends its North American tour with a test against the USA. The USA Eagles will be keen to put in a solid performance against the Welsh before their Churchill Cup matches begin Wednesday.
The last times these two teams met the Welsh slaughtered a USA team fresh from a Superpowers win against a formidible Romanian side.
Prevoius Encounters
04.06.2005 Wales 77-3 in Hartford
18.11.2000 Wales 42-11 in Cardiff
12.07.1997 Wales 28-23 in San Francisco
05.07.1997 Wales 30-20 in Wilmington
11.01.1997 Wales 34-14 in Cardiff
The USA has never defeated Wales.
GWCRugby Rankings: World Table-Wales 6th, USA 20th
Prediction: Wales will have too much class, to win by 15 points.
Teams
USA
15 – Chris Wyles (Saracens, England)
14 – Gavin DeBartolo (Eastern Suburbs)
13 – Alipate Tuilevuka (Provo Steelers)
12 – Roland Suniula (Pearl City RFC)
11 – Kevin Swiryn (Old Puget Sound Beach)
10 – Ata Malifa (Belmont Shore RFC)
9 – Mike Petri (New York Athletic Club) Captain
8 – Nic Johnson (Denver Barbarians RFC)
7 – Peter Dahl (Belmont Shore RFC)
6 – Louis Stanfill (New York Athletic Club)
5 – Hayden Smith (Saracens, England)
4 – John Van Der Giessen (Denver Barbarians)
3 – Will Johnson (Oxford University, England)
2 – Chris Biller (California)
1 –Matekitonga Moeakiola (Park City Haggis)
Replacements:
16 – Brian McClanahan (Olympic Club)*
17 – Mike MacDonald (Leeds Carnegie, England)
18 – Courtney Mackay (Counties Manukau, NZ)
19 – J.J. Gagiano (Univ. of Cape Town, Sth Africa)
20 – Tim Usasz (Nottingham, England)
21 – Mike Hercus (Sunshine Coast Singrays, Australia)
22 – Junior Sifa (Middleton RFC)
Head Coach: Eddie O’Sullivan
* New Cap
http://www.usarugby.org/
Wales
15 - Daniel Evans (Llanelly Scarlets)
14 - Mark Jones (Llanelly Scarlets)
13 - Jonathan Davies (Llanelly Scarlets)
12 - Andrew Bishop (Neath Swansea Ospreys)
11 - Tom James (Cardiff Blues)
10 - Nicky Robinson (Cardiff Blues)
9 - Dwayne Peel (Sale Sharks, England)
8 - Ryan Jones (Neath Swansea Ospreys) Captain
7 - Robin Sowden-Taylor (Cardiff Blues)
6 - Dafydd Jones (Llanelly Scarlets)
5 - Deiniol Jones (Cardiff Blues)
4 - Ian Gough (Neath Swansea Ospreys)
3 - John Yapp (Cardiff Blues)
2 - Gareth Williams (Cardiff Blues)
1 - Duncan Jones (Neath Swansea Ospreys)
Replacements:
16 - Richard Hibbard (Neath Swansea Ospreys)
17 - Craig Mitchell (Neath Swansea Ospreys)
18 - Luke Charteris (Newport Gwent Dragons)
19 - Sam Warburton (Cardiff Blues)*
20 - Gareth Cooper (Gloucester Rugby, England)
21 - Dan Biggar (Neath Swansea Ospreys)
22 - Jonathan Spratt (Neath Swansea Ospreys)
* New Cap
Head Coach: Robin McBryde (temp.)
For a complete list of all international test match results for both USA and Wales, go to www.rugbyinternational.net
International Rugby: Churchill Cup 2009
06.06.2009
Argentina 'A' v England Saxons in Denver (Pool A)
Canada v Georgia in Denver (Pool B)
Preview
The other teams in the competition, United States and Ireland 'A' begin their games on Wednesday 10th June.
Argentina 'A' v England Saxons
The Argentina Jaguars come from a successful CONSUR A campaign where they easily accounted for Chile and Uruguay. Prior they were successfaul against Namibia in a two-test series. So they come into this tournament fit and with match play behind them.
Prediction: Jaguars by 5 points.
Teams
England Saxons
15 Nick Abendanon (Bath Rugby)#
14 Tom Varndell (Leicester Tigers)#
13 Dominic Waldouck (London Wasps)
12 Shane Geraghty (London Irish)#
11 Matt Smith (Leicester Tigers)*
10 Danny Cipriani (London Wasps)#
9 Joe Simpson (London Wasps)*
8 Luke Narraway (Gloucester Rugby)#
7 Ben Woods (Leicester Tigers)
6 Chris Jones (Sale Sharks)
5 Stuart Hooper (Captain, Bath Rugby)
4 Peter Short (Bath Rugby)
3 Dan Cole (Leicester Tigers)*
2 Rob Webber (London Wasps)
1 David Flatman (Bath Rugby)#
Replacements
16 Tom Mercey (Saracens)
17 Mark Lambert (Harlequins)*
18 Neil Briggs (Sale Sharks)*
19 Tom Guest (Harlequins)
20 Phil Dowson (Newcastle Falcons)
21 Micky Young (Newcastle Falcons)*
22 Stephen Myler (Northampton Saints)
*Denotes uncapped for England Saxons
# Test player
http://www.rfu.com/index.cfm/fuseaction/RFUHome.England_Detail/StoryID/22814
Argentina 'A' v England Saxons in Denver (Pool A)
Canada v Georgia in Denver (Pool B)
Preview
The other teams in the competition, United States and Ireland 'A' begin their games on Wednesday 10th June.
Argentina 'A' v England Saxons
The Argentina Jaguars come from a successful CONSUR A campaign where they easily accounted for Chile and Uruguay. Prior they were successfaul against Namibia in a two-test series. So they come into this tournament fit and with match play behind them.
Prediction: Jaguars by 5 points.
Teams
England Saxons
15 Nick Abendanon (Bath Rugby)#
14 Tom Varndell (Leicester Tigers)#
13 Dominic Waldouck (London Wasps)
12 Shane Geraghty (London Irish)#
11 Matt Smith (Leicester Tigers)*
10 Danny Cipriani (London Wasps)#
9 Joe Simpson (London Wasps)*
8 Luke Narraway (Gloucester Rugby)#
7 Ben Woods (Leicester Tigers)
6 Chris Jones (Sale Sharks)
5 Stuart Hooper (Captain, Bath Rugby)
4 Peter Short (Bath Rugby)
3 Dan Cole (Leicester Tigers)*
2 Rob Webber (London Wasps)
1 David Flatman (Bath Rugby)#
Replacements
16 Tom Mercey (Saracens)
17 Mark Lambert (Harlequins)*
18 Neil Briggs (Sale Sharks)*
19 Tom Guest (Harlequins)
20 Phil Dowson (Newcastle Falcons)
21 Micky Young (Newcastle Falcons)*
22 Stephen Myler (Northampton Saints)
*Denotes uncapped for England Saxons
# Test player
http://www.rfu.com/index.cfm/fuseaction/RFUHome.England_Detail/StoryID/22814
Argentina team not yet available
Canada v Georgia
Georgia is the new team in this competition. They are fresh from a very successful European season in which they topped the European Nations Cup Division 1 table. They will have one disadvantage against Canada. Georgia last played as a team against Russia in late March. Canada has had a recent outings against Ireland and Wales.
Georgia has left out of this squad a number of experienced players needing a rest after a long winter of test matches and French club committments. The squad is a mix of experienced and new players, with some being recalled to the international scene.
Prediction: Georgia by 7 points
Teams
Canada
15. James Pritchard (Bedford Blues)
14. Dean Van Camp (Velox Valhallians)
13. Ciaran Hearn (Castaway Wanderers)
12. DTH van der Merwe (Glasgow Warriors, Scotland)
11. Sean Duke (University of Victoria, Vancouver, BC)
10. Ander Monro (Colorno, Italy)
9. Ed Fairhurst (Cornish Pirates, England)
8. Aaron Carpenter (Brantford Harlequins)
7. Adam Kleeberger (University of Victoria)
6. Nanyak Dala (Castaway Wanderers)
5. Mike Burak (Unattached)
4. Tyler Hotson (UBC Old Boy Ravens)
3. Andrew Tiedemann (University of Victoria)
2. Pat Riordan, Capt (University of Victoria)
1. Kevin Tkachuk (Glasgow Warriors, Scotland)
Replacements:
16. Mike Pletch (Velox Valhallians)
17. Doug Wooldridge (Cowichan RFC)
18. Stuart Ault (Rotherham Titans, England)
19. John Moonlight (University of Victoria/Pickering, ON)
20. Matt Evans (Hartpury College, England)
21. Bryn Keys (Moseley RFC, England)
22. Phil Mack (James Bay AA)
Head Coach: Kieran Crowley
Georgia team not yet available
For complete lists of all international rugby test matches played by Canada and Georgia go to www.rugbyinternational.net.
Rugby Test: Lithuania's Big Test
06.06.2009
Netherlands v Lithuania in Vilnius (WCQ Euro.R3 Playoff)
Preview
This is the biggest game that Lithuania will have played to date. As winner of the Round 2 playoff against Israel (19-3) Lithuania now face the might of Netherlands rugby. The Dutch arrived at the top of European Nations Cup Division 2B (ENC 2B) at the halfway stage and thus play the leader of ENC 3A for this World Cup showdown.
Netherlands will be favourites but few would be shocked if Lithuania won. Calling upon players from a small club base with few overseas-based players, Lithuania has built up their strength with an experienced and tough bunch of forwards with a quick strong backline. I love the underdog.
Previous Encounter
14.05.2005 Netherlands 51-11 in Klaipeda (WCQ Euro.R3, Pool C)
GWC Rugby Rankings: Europe Table-Netherlands 18th, Lithuania 21st.
Prediction: My heart is with Lithuania, the Baltic Boys to win by 2 points
Teams
Netherlands
15. Bart Viguurs (RC the Dukes)
14. Sep Visser (RC Hilversum)
13. Gerard Viguurs (RC the Dukes)
12. Thomas Hulselmans (RC Hilversum)
11. Bas Cornelisse (RC ’t Gooi)
10. Anton Werth (RC ’t Gooi)
9. Jay-Jay Boske (RC Hilversum)
8. Jason Knox (RC 't Gooi)
7. Chappy Van Vliet (Marseille Vitrolls RC, France
6. Tjebbe Jehee (LRC DIOK)
5. Boudewijn de Rouw (RC the Dukes)
4. Koen Buseman (Haagsche RC)
3. Costin Buburuzan (RC the Dukes)
2. Miquèl van der Cruijsen (RC ’t Gooi)
1. Allard Jonkers, Capt. (RC ‘t Gooi)
Replacements
16. Merijn Loose (LRC DIOK)
17. Bart-Jan Alting (RC Hilversum)
18. Hendrik-Jan Hogewerf (Castricum RC)
19. Stefan Vos (RC the Dukes)
20. Roy van Leyan (RC ‘t Gooi)
21. Floris van der (URC)
22. Thomas Laauwen (Amsterdamse RC)
Head Coach: Hugues Dispas
Lithuania team not yet available
Netherlands v Lithuania in Vilnius (WCQ Euro.R3 Playoff)
Preview
This is the biggest game that Lithuania will have played to date. As winner of the Round 2 playoff against Israel (19-3) Lithuania now face the might of Netherlands rugby. The Dutch arrived at the top of European Nations Cup Division 2B (ENC 2B) at the halfway stage and thus play the leader of ENC 3A for this World Cup showdown.
Netherlands will be favourites but few would be shocked if Lithuania won. Calling upon players from a small club base with few overseas-based players, Lithuania has built up their strength with an experienced and tough bunch of forwards with a quick strong backline. I love the underdog.
Previous Encounter
14.05.2005 Netherlands 51-11 in Klaipeda (WCQ Euro.R3, Pool C)
GWC Rugby Rankings: Europe Table-Netherlands 18th, Lithuania 21st.
Prediction: My heart is with Lithuania, the Baltic Boys to win by 2 points
Teams
Netherlands
15. Bart Viguurs (RC the Dukes)
14. Sep Visser (RC Hilversum)
13. Gerard Viguurs (RC the Dukes)
12. Thomas Hulselmans (RC Hilversum)
11. Bas Cornelisse (RC ’t Gooi)
10. Anton Werth (RC ’t Gooi)
9. Jay-Jay Boske (RC Hilversum)
8. Jason Knox (RC 't Gooi)
7. Chappy Van Vliet (Marseille Vitrolls RC, France
6. Tjebbe Jehee (LRC DIOK)
5. Boudewijn de Rouw (RC the Dukes)
4. Koen Buseman (Haagsche RC)
3. Costin Buburuzan (RC the Dukes)
2. Miquèl van der Cruijsen (RC ’t Gooi)
1. Allard Jonkers, Capt. (RC ‘t Gooi)
Replacements
16. Merijn Loose (LRC DIOK)
17. Bart-Jan Alting (RC Hilversum)
18. Hendrik-Jan Hogewerf (Castricum RC)
19. Stefan Vos (RC the Dukes)
20. Roy van Leyan (RC ‘t Gooi)
21. Floris van der (URC)
22. Thomas Laauwen (Amsterdamse RC)
Head Coach: Hugues Dispas
Lithuania team not yet available
Rugby Match: Asia Div.2 Final
06.06.2009
China v Malaysia in Kuala Lumpur (Asia Nations Div.2; Final)
Preview
China made a slow start to this tournament with a laboured win over Pakistan in heat after arriving late the night before. China were expected to be a force in Asia Nations Div.1 last year but under controversial circumstances did not show and were relegated. I expect them to be too much for the Malaysians
Previous Encounters
05.11.2007 China 56-6 in Colombo (Asiad Cup)
09.06.2007 China 52-23 in Beijing (Asia Nations Div.3)
25.10.1998 Malaysia 32-25 in Singapore (Asia Champ, Sect.B, G1)
GWC Rugby Rankings: Asia Table-China 9th, Malaysia 11th
Prediction: China too strong, to win by 40 points.
Teams
Not available as yet
For a list of all international rugby test matches played by these two nations go to www.rugbyinternational.net
China v Malaysia in Kuala Lumpur (Asia Nations Div.2; Final)
Preview
China made a slow start to this tournament with a laboured win over Pakistan in heat after arriving late the night before. China were expected to be a force in Asia Nations Div.1 last year but under controversial circumstances did not show and were relegated. I expect them to be too much for the Malaysians
Previous Encounters
05.11.2007 China 56-6 in Colombo (Asiad Cup)
09.06.2007 China 52-23 in Beijing (Asia Nations Div.3)
25.10.1998 Malaysia 32-25 in Singapore (Asia Champ, Sect.B, G1)
GWC Rugby Rankings: Asia Table-China 9th, Malaysia 11th
Prediction: China too strong, to win by 40 points.
Teams
Not available as yet
For a list of all international rugby test matches played by these two nations go to www.rugbyinternational.net
International Rugby: India and Pakistan
06.06.2009
India v Pakistan in Kuala Lumpur (Asia Nations Div.2; 3rd-4th)
Preview
The rivalry in everyway is always close between these two Asian Nations. Whether its in cricket or in politics the competition is fierce. Now rugby union has joined these two teams in a struggle which will decide who stays in Division 2, and who is relegated to Division 3 for 2010.
Last year India won 92-0 against a struggling Pakistani side. Pakistan lost the first match of this year's tournament 19-24 to a tired Chinese side in sweltering heat. That result would have been a confidence boost to the Pakistanis who would love to take a match back from their sub-continental rivals.
Previous Encounters
14.06.2008 India 92-0 in Bangkok (Asia Nations Div.2, 3rd-4th)
04.11.2007 India 19-0 in Colombo (Asiad Shield)
30.10.2004 India 56-3 in Hong Kong (19th Asia Champ., Playoff)
31.10.2003 India 52-15 in Kandy (Friendly)
GWC Rugby Rankings: Asia Table-India 13th, Pakistan 14th
Prediction: India has a clear history in these encounters but I expect the Pakistanis to be far more competitive than last year.
India to win by 14 points.
Teams
Not yet available
For a list of all international test rugby played by these two nations go to www.rugbyinternational.net
India v Pakistan in Kuala Lumpur (Asia Nations Div.2; 3rd-4th)
Preview
The rivalry in everyway is always close between these two Asian Nations. Whether its in cricket or in politics the competition is fierce. Now rugby union has joined these two teams in a struggle which will decide who stays in Division 2, and who is relegated to Division 3 for 2010.
Last year India won 92-0 against a struggling Pakistani side. Pakistan lost the first match of this year's tournament 19-24 to a tired Chinese side in sweltering heat. That result would have been a confidence boost to the Pakistanis who would love to take a match back from their sub-continental rivals.
Previous Encounters
14.06.2008 India 92-0 in Bangkok (Asia Nations Div.2, 3rd-4th)
04.11.2007 India 19-0 in Colombo (Asiad Shield)
30.10.2004 India 56-3 in Hong Kong (19th Asia Champ., Playoff)
31.10.2003 India 52-15 in Kandy (Friendly)
GWC Rugby Rankings: Asia Table-India 13th, Pakistan 14th
Prediction: India has a clear history in these encounters but I expect the Pakistanis to be far more competitive than last year.
India to win by 14 points.
Teams
Not yet available
For a list of all international test rugby played by these two nations go to www.rugbyinternational.net
Test Rugby: Asia Regions 2
06.06.2009
Kyrgyzstan v Uzbekistan in Tashkent (Asia Regiona 2)
Preview
Whilst newcomer Jordan is the unknown factor in this tournament, these two teams slugged it out for draw in last years tournament and I expect a right old tussle again. It could be that the winner of this tournament may make up a new Asia Nations Division 4 for 2010.
These two teams have met once before
10.10.2008 Drawn 15-15 Beshkek (Asia Regions)
GWC Rugby Rankings: Asia Table-Both at 21st place
Prediction: Uzbekistan by 7
Teams
Not available at present
For a list of all international rugby tests played by these two nations go to www.rugbyinternational.net
Kyrgyzstan v Uzbekistan in Tashkent (Asia Regiona 2)
Preview
Whilst newcomer Jordan is the unknown factor in this tournament, these two teams slugged it out for draw in last years tournament and I expect a right old tussle again. It could be that the winner of this tournament may make up a new Asia Nations Division 4 for 2010.
These two teams have met once before
10.10.2008 Drawn 15-15 Beshkek (Asia Regions)
GWC Rugby Rankings: Asia Table-Both at 21st place
Prediction: Uzbekistan by 7
Teams
Not available at present
For a list of all international rugby tests played by these two nations go to www.rugbyinternational.net
Test Rugby This Weekend 6 June
06.04.2009
England v Argentina in Manchester
Australia v Barbarians (UK) RFC in Sydney-Non Test
Free State Cheetahs v British and Irish Lions in Bloemfontein
United States v Wales in Bridgeview, Illinois
Canada v Georgia in Denver (Churchill Cup, Pool A)
Argentina 'A' v England Saxons in Denver (Church. Cup, Pool B-Non Test)
Lithuania v Netherlands in Vilnius (WCQ Euro. R3 Playoff)
China v Malaysia in Kuala Lumpur (Asia Nations Div.2, Final)
India v Pakistan in Kuala Lumpur (Asia Nations Div.2, 3rd-4th)
Kyrgystan v Uzbekistan in Tashkent (Asia Regions 2)
Previews
Argentina prepare to sink their puma teeth into a vunerable England outfit fresh from a 26-33 defeat at the hands of the Barbarians. Argentina has what would appear to be a strong side whilst England are rebuilding with a youthful side.
The British and Irish lions take on the Free State Cheetahs in their third tour match. On Wednesday they gave the lowly Golden Lions a 74-10 hiding, wiping out the stutters and floundering of their first match. The Cheetahs will provide stiffer opposition.
Wales complete their North American tour with a test against the USA. The USA Eagles performed well enough losing 10-27 to Ireland last weekend and will want to improve on that performance with the Churchill Cup just around the corner. For the last two seasons the USA has finished last in the Cup and will want to see progress being made this year.
The Churchill Cup gets underway this weekend. Georgia is the new team in the competition and will face Canada on Saturday. Argentina 'A' and last year's winner England Saxons do battle in the other pool match. Unlike previous tournaments, the 2009 version will be held in one venue, Denver, Colorado, USA.
The saga of Lithuanian rugby continues on the shores of the warm summer Baltic shores. Well, actually just a little inland in Vilnius. Lithuania has now played an amazing fourteen rugby tests on the trot without defeat, going back to 2006. Two weeks ago they defeated Israel in the World Cup qualifying match in Netanya, winning the Round 2 playoff. Now they face the Netherlands at home for the Round three playoff. Whereas Israel was below them in the rankings, the Netherlands were the leaders of the European Nations Cup Division 2B at the halfway stage thus qualifying for the playoff. This is a division ABOVE Lithuania. The boys from the Baltics will have a tough match ahead of them but it would not surprise the rugby world if they won, and thus qualified for playoffs next season.
China and Malaysia square off in Kuala Lumpur in the Asia Nations Division 2 final. A jaded Chinese side struggled against Pakistan but will be a different propsect on Saturday. India and Pakistan playoff for 3rd-4th, the loser will drop to the third division for 2010.
And finally an Asian regional rugby tournement gets away in Tashkent on Saturday. Uzbekistan, the host, faces Kyrgyzstan in the first game. The other participant, Jordan, fresh from a 94-0 warmup against a Palestinian club side, plays their first game next Wednesday.
I'll post some more detailed previews in the next day or so, time permitting.
England v Argentina in Manchester
Australia v Barbarians (UK) RFC in Sydney-Non Test
Free State Cheetahs v British and Irish Lions in Bloemfontein
United States v Wales in Bridgeview, Illinois
Canada v Georgia in Denver (Churchill Cup, Pool A)
Argentina 'A' v England Saxons in Denver (Church. Cup, Pool B-Non Test)
Lithuania v Netherlands in Vilnius (WCQ Euro. R3 Playoff)
China v Malaysia in Kuala Lumpur (Asia Nations Div.2, Final)
India v Pakistan in Kuala Lumpur (Asia Nations Div.2, 3rd-4th)
Kyrgystan v Uzbekistan in Tashkent (Asia Regions 2)
Previews
Argentina prepare to sink their puma teeth into a vunerable England outfit fresh from a 26-33 defeat at the hands of the Barbarians. Argentina has what would appear to be a strong side whilst England are rebuilding with a youthful side.
The British and Irish lions take on the Free State Cheetahs in their third tour match. On Wednesday they gave the lowly Golden Lions a 74-10 hiding, wiping out the stutters and floundering of their first match. The Cheetahs will provide stiffer opposition.
Wales complete their North American tour with a test against the USA. The USA Eagles performed well enough losing 10-27 to Ireland last weekend and will want to improve on that performance with the Churchill Cup just around the corner. For the last two seasons the USA has finished last in the Cup and will want to see progress being made this year.
The Churchill Cup gets underway this weekend. Georgia is the new team in the competition and will face Canada on Saturday. Argentina 'A' and last year's winner England Saxons do battle in the other pool match. Unlike previous tournaments, the 2009 version will be held in one venue, Denver, Colorado, USA.
The saga of Lithuanian rugby continues on the shores of the warm summer Baltic shores. Well, actually just a little inland in Vilnius. Lithuania has now played an amazing fourteen rugby tests on the trot without defeat, going back to 2006. Two weeks ago they defeated Israel in the World Cup qualifying match in Netanya, winning the Round 2 playoff. Now they face the Netherlands at home for the Round three playoff. Whereas Israel was below them in the rankings, the Netherlands were the leaders of the European Nations Cup Division 2B at the halfway stage thus qualifying for the playoff. This is a division ABOVE Lithuania. The boys from the Baltics will have a tough match ahead of them but it would not surprise the rugby world if they won, and thus qualified for playoffs next season.
China and Malaysia square off in Kuala Lumpur in the Asia Nations Division 2 final. A jaded Chinese side struggled against Pakistan but will be a different propsect on Saturday. India and Pakistan playoff for 3rd-4th, the loser will drop to the third division for 2010.
And finally an Asian regional rugby tournement gets away in Tashkent on Saturday. Uzbekistan, the host, faces Kyrgyzstan in the first game. The other participant, Jordan, fresh from a 94-0 warmup against a Palestinian club side, plays their first game next Wednesday.
I'll post some more detailed previews in the next day or so, time permitting.
Thursday, June 4, 2009
Rugby Test: Jordan Plays warm up match.
Please note I incorrectly advertised this match as Jordan's first test match. Thanks to Laith from the Jordan Rugby Union this has been corrected.
03.06.2009
Jordan 94 Beit Jala Lions 0 (Palestine) in Amman (Non-test)
Review
A walkover by the Jordanian team.
Preview
Jordan will play a warm-up game when it hosts a visiting Palestine rugby club, the Beit Jala Lions. The lions are based on The West Bank in Palestine. They visited Cyprus in 2008 and lost a club match 0-66. Jordan will play its first ever test when it plays Uzbekistan this coming Saturday
The Jordan Rugby Union became an associate member of the Asia Rugby Union last year. Prior to this their players played for Arabian Gulf. With the planned demise of the AGRFU were are likely to see national teams formed in Lebanon
Jordan
Ahmad Hamouqa
Feisal Sadoun
Ghaoth Jalajel
Mohammad Almajed
Saleh Fleifel
Laith Jalajel
Maen Mola
Motaz Almajed
Basel Hatoug
Taher Hamdan
Zaid Arabiat
Bidal Alzyadat
Jawdat Bibi
Freih Kawar
Bashar Zreigat
Omar Alassi
Firas Almugrabi
Mohammad Alnajjar
Zaid Zuraiqat
Farah Nushaiwat
Qais Aljbour
Abdullah Abdelameer
Rony Alghadban
The coach is Mr. Duaine Lindsay...
03.06.2009
Jordan 94 Beit Jala Lions 0 (Palestine) in Amman (Non-test)
Review
A walkover by the Jordanian team.
Preview
Jordan will play a warm-up game when it hosts a visiting Palestine rugby club, the Beit Jala Lions. The lions are based on The West Bank in Palestine. They visited Cyprus in 2008 and lost a club match 0-66. Jordan will play its first ever test when it plays Uzbekistan this coming Saturday
The Jordan Rugby Union became an associate member of the Asia Rugby Union last year. Prior to this their players played for Arabian Gulf. With the planned demise of the AGRFU were are likely to see national teams formed in Lebanon
Jordan
Ahmad Hamouqa
Feisal Sadoun
Ghaoth Jalajel
Mohammad Almajed
Saleh Fleifel
Laith Jalajel
Maen Mola
Motaz Almajed
Basel Hatoug
Taher Hamdan
Zaid Arabiat
Bidal Alzyadat
Jawdat Bibi
Freih Kawar
Bashar Zreigat
Omar Alassi
Firas Almugrabi
Mohammad Alnajjar
Zaid Zuraiqat
Farah Nushaiwat
Qais Aljbour
Abdullah Abdelameer
Rony Alghadban
The coach is Mr. Duaine Lindsay...
Test Rugby: Malaysia and China win.
03.06.2009
China 24, Pakistan 19 in Kuala Lumpur (Asia Nations Div.2)
Malaysia 43, India 29 in Kuala Lumpur (Asia Nations Div.2)
Reviews
China were a jaded side after their late arrival for this tournament. They did well to overcome a defiant Pakistan. China will be a more dangerous oufit this Saturday when they will face malaysia in the final.
Malaysia had to work hard to overcome India 43-29 with the match only being decided in the last ten minutes. Malaysia will have an uphill battle to win against a Chinese side that can only improve.
India and Pakistan will battle it out for a place in next years Asia Nations Division 2. The loser of this match will be relegated to Division 3 in 2010.
China 24, Pakistan 19 in Kuala Lumpur (Asia Nations Div.2)
Malaysia 43, India 29 in Kuala Lumpur (Asia Nations Div.2)
Reviews
China were a jaded side after their late arrival for this tournament. They did well to overcome a defiant Pakistan. China will be a more dangerous oufit this Saturday when they will face malaysia in the final.
Malaysia had to work hard to overcome India 43-29 with the match only being decided in the last ten minutes. Malaysia will have an uphill battle to win against a Chinese side that can only improve.
India and Pakistan will battle it out for a place in next years Asia Nations Division 2. The loser of this match will be relegated to Division 3 in 2010.
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
Test Rugby: Asia Nations Rugby Tournament Ready To Go.
What: Asia Nations Division 2
Venue: Stadium UiTM Shah Alam
Who: Malaysia, China, India, Pakistan
GWC Rugby Rankings: Asia Table
China 9th
Malaysia 11th
India 13th
Pakistan 14th
Today 3 June
China v Pakistan -Prediction: China by 50 points
Malaysia v India -Prediction: Malaysia by 14 points.
Saturday 6 June
Winner v Winner (Winner promoted to Division 1 2010)
Loser v Loser (Loser may face relegation to Division 3 2010)
Squads
India
Venue: Stadium UiTM Shah Alam
Who: Malaysia, China, India, Pakistan
GWC Rugby Rankings: Asia Table
China 9th
Malaysia 11th
India 13th
Pakistan 14th
Today 3 June
China v Pakistan -Prediction: China by 50 points
Malaysia v India -Prediction: Malaysia by 14 points.
Saturday 6 June
Winner v Winner (Winner promoted to Division 1 2010)
Loser v Loser (Loser may face relegation to Division 3 2010)
Squads
Malaysian Rugby Team. Image thanks to http://www.mru.org.my/ver3/
Malaysia
Ahmad Farhan bin Azizan
Ardyanshah Mohd Arifin
Azizan bin Abdul
Azman bin Osman
Dinesvaran Krishnan
Frankie Joilin
Helberth bin Jemlit
Khairul Nizar bin Shamsudin
Lee Wai Meng
Mohd Azli bin Ibrahim
Mohd Fairuz bin Abd Rahman
Mohd Faiz bin Shamsukidir
Mohd Khuzaidi bin Abdullah
Mohd Nizam bin Muhd Aziz
Mohd Saifudin bin Sahrini
Mohd. Azwan bin Azimi, Captain
Nacani Seniu
Nik Safuan Ismade bin Nik Man
Paul Wellington
Sarizan bin Yasir
Semi Seruvakula Sovunidakua
Shahizam bin Tukiran
Stanie James Majanau
Timoci Nacokula
Head Coach Dean Herewini
Pakistan Nations Rugby Team. Image thanks to http://www.pakistanrugby.com/
Pakistan
Aftab Ashraf Qureshi
Agha Nawazish Ali
Ahmed Khan Niazi
Anwaar-Ul-Haq Zafar
Arsalan Zahid,
Azmat Khan Niazi
Bilal Mehmood Butt
Fouzan Majeed Wain
Juniad Malik
Hashim Niazi.
Kashif Khawaja (Captain)
Mansoor Aziz Ahmed
Mansoor Rehan
Moazzam Ali Shah
Mohammed Junaid Liaqat
Mohammed Yasir Fida
Muhammad Babar
Muhammad Manan Naseem (Vice Captain)
Salman Majeed Wain
Shakeel Ahmed
Siar Riaz
Syed Usama Ahmed
Syed Xeeshan Rizvi
Taimur Zia Butt
Umer Islam
Umer Usman
Zaheer Uddi
Head Coach: Rizwak Malik
IndiaNasser Hussain (capt)
Parvinder Singh
Sandeep Singh
Amit Lochab
Balaram Gopinathan
Hemant Kumar
Surinder Singh
Sukhdeep Singh
Kamaldeep Dagar
Rohit Suvach
Charanjit Singh
Karl Tata
Naresh Kumar
Suresh Sajwan
Ranjit Jhambale
Gautam Dagar
Ganesh Sawant
Tudu Sailen
Zafar Khan
Sujai Lama
Bikash Jena
Pritom Roy
Rohaan Sethna
Thimmaiah Thiman
Coaches: Hendre Marnitz and Norman Laker
China Team not available
Test Rugby This Weekend 6 June
06.06.2009
England v Argentina in Manchester
United States v Wales in Bridgeview, Illinois
Canada v Georgia in Ottawa (Churchill Cup, Pool A)
Argentina 'A' v England Saxons in Ottawa (Church.Cup, Pool B)-Non Test
Lithuania v Netherlands in Vilnius (WCQ Euro.R3 Playoff)
Winner v Winner and Loser v Loser from Kuala Lumper
Kyrgystan v Uzbekistan in Tashkent (Asia Regions 2)
Jordan v Beit Jala Lions RFC (Palestine) (Friendly)
Previews
What a rich and varied world of rugby we have nowadays. We now have test rugby from the land of its origin, England, through to the wild steppes of Asia, Tashkent.
Speaking of England we have the unusual sight of a test match in the middle of England in summer. Some may say it ain't cricket and cricket it certainly isn't. Cricket fans arriving at Old Trafford in Manchester will find themselves watching a test match between England and Argentina in what looks like a deliberate move to uniform the season of the playing of the game at the international level. Lets hope Argentina place a stronger side on the paddock from the won that lost to South Africa and Italy this time last year.
Wales ends its North American tour with a test against the USA whilst just up the road in Canada the Churchill Cup gets underway. Followers of the game in Georgia will be watching their team keenly as they enter this competition for the first time.
In Europe the final World Cup qualifier for 2009 will be played in Vilnius. The so far undefeated Lithuanians face a huge hurdle in the form of Netherlands who seem to be working their way back up to the top level of European rugby. The winner will play the winner of ENC Division 2A next year.
Kuala Lumpur hosts the 2009 Asia Nations Division 2 tournament. Malaysia, as host nation, will do battle with China, Pakistan and India. China, the only new team, were relegated from Division 1 last year as they failed to turn up for that tournament amid controversy. It will be interesting to see if Pakistan can improve on their 92-0 thrashing at the hands of India in last years tournament. There may even be a new Division 3 next year so last place here in Kuala Lumpur could mean relegation.
Asia Regions Tournament No.2 kicks off in Tashkent involving Uzbekistan, the team I can't spell Kyrgyzstan, and newcomer to the international scene, Jordan. Jordan begins its international career by playing a Palestinain club today in Amman.
England v Argentina in Manchester
United States v Wales in Bridgeview, Illinois
Canada v Georgia in Ottawa (Churchill Cup, Pool A)
Argentina 'A' v England Saxons in Ottawa (Church.Cup, Pool B)-Non Test
Lithuania v Netherlands in Vilnius (WCQ Euro.R3 Playoff)
Winner v Winner and Loser v Loser from Kuala Lumper
Kyrgystan v Uzbekistan in Tashkent (Asia Regions 2)
Jordan v Beit Jala Lions RFC (Palestine) (Friendly)
Previews
What a rich and varied world of rugby we have nowadays. We now have test rugby from the land of its origin, England, through to the wild steppes of Asia, Tashkent.
Speaking of England we have the unusual sight of a test match in the middle of England in summer. Some may say it ain't cricket and cricket it certainly isn't. Cricket fans arriving at Old Trafford in Manchester will find themselves watching a test match between England and Argentina in what looks like a deliberate move to uniform the season of the playing of the game at the international level. Lets hope Argentina place a stronger side on the paddock from the won that lost to South Africa and Italy this time last year.
Wales ends its North American tour with a test against the USA whilst just up the road in Canada the Churchill Cup gets underway. Followers of the game in Georgia will be watching their team keenly as they enter this competition for the first time.
In Europe the final World Cup qualifier for 2009 will be played in Vilnius. The so far undefeated Lithuanians face a huge hurdle in the form of Netherlands who seem to be working their way back up to the top level of European rugby. The winner will play the winner of ENC Division 2A next year.
Kuala Lumpur hosts the 2009 Asia Nations Division 2 tournament. Malaysia, as host nation, will do battle with China, Pakistan and India. China, the only new team, were relegated from Division 1 last year as they failed to turn up for that tournament amid controversy. It will be interesting to see if Pakistan can improve on their 92-0 thrashing at the hands of India in last years tournament. There may even be a new Division 3 next year so last place here in Kuala Lumpur could mean relegation.
Asia Regions Tournament No.2 kicks off in Tashkent involving Uzbekistan, the team I can't spell Kyrgyzstan, and newcomer to the international scene, Jordan. Jordan begins its international career by playing a Palestinain club today in Amman.
Monday, June 1, 2009
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