16.11.2008
United States v Japan at Nagoya (1st of 2 tests)
Preview
The USA arrived in Japan last week having just broken a rather embarrasing drought of victories. Not since October 2006 had the Americans won a game when they took the field in Salt lake City against the Uruguyans last Saturday. The 43-9 win, against a team missing all of their European-based players, and a welcomed relief for coach Scott Johnson and the USA rugby administration, may not have been the test they really needed. Johnson has been able to call upon most of his regulars for this months tests against Japan. The outcomes may not be much of a guide either.
Japanese coach, former All Black great John Kirwan, was unable to call upon seventeen of his Asia 5 Nations and Pacific Nations squads when he named a squad of thirty to do battle with the Americans. The Japanese starting line up includes four new test players with another three on the bench. This will leave the Japanese seriously under done to have call upon so many new caps or players with limited international experience.
You can be sure that the USA will concentrate their efforts in the scrum and use muscle to wear the Japanese down whilst Japan will try to outrun their heavier opponents. I can't see the Americans losing this first test.
Last Five Encounters
27.10.2003 USA 39-26 in Gosford (World Cup, Pool B)
17.05.2003 USA 69-27 in San Francisco (Superpowers Cup)
27.05.2000 USA 36-21 in Osaka (Pacific Rim)
12.06.1999 Japan 47-31 in Honolulu (Pacific Rim)
13.06.1998 Japan 25-21 in San Francisco (Pacific Rim)
GWC Rugby Rankings: World Table-Japan 14th, United States 18th
Prediction: USA by 22 points
The Teams
Japan
15. Kaoru Matsushita (Yamaha) 24, New Cap
14. Kosuke Endo (Toyota) 27, 21
13. Koji Taira (Suntory) 25, 10
12. Ryan Nicholas (Suntory) 29, 7
11. Koji Tomioka (Yamaha) 28, New Cap
10. Shaun Webb (World) 26, 7
9. Fumiaki Tanaka (Sanyo) 23, 6
8. Ryu Holani (Sanyo) 27, 6
7. Takashi Kikutani, Capt. (Toyota) 28, 16
6. Hajime Kiso (Yamaha) 30, 31
5. Toshizumi Kitagawa (Toyota) 27, 15
4. Luke Thompson (Kintetsu) 27, 11
3. Kensuke Hatakeyama (Suntory) 23, New Cap
2. Yusuke Aoki (Suntory) 25, 10
1. Hisateru Hirashima (Kobe Steel) 25, New Cap
Replacements
16. Naonori Mizuyama (NEC) 26, 2
17. Naoki Kawamata (Sanyo) 23, New Cap
18. Tomoaki Taniguchi (Toyota) 26, 11
19. Michael Leitch (Tokai University) 20, New cap
20. Tomoki Yoshida (Toshiba) 26, 14
21. Masakazu Irie (Sanyo) 27, New Cap
22. Bryce Robins (NEC) 28, 19
Head Coach: John Kirwan
USA
15.Christopher Wyles (Saracens, England) Age 25, 11 tests
14. Takudzwa Ngwenya (Biarritz, France) 23, 7
13. Paul Emerick (Overmach Parma, Italy) 28, 30
12. Junior Sifa (Middleton) 25, 1
11. Gavin DeBartolo (Eastern Suburbs) 26, 3
10. Michael Hercus (IBM, Japan) 29, 40
9. Michael Petri (NYAC) 23, 5
8. Patrick Quinn (Denver Barbarians) 26, 2
7. Todd Clever, Capt. (Xerox Lions) 25, 25
6. Inaki Basauri (Agen, France) 24, 4
5. John Van der Giessen (Denver Barbarians) 26, 3
4. Hayden Smith (Saracens, England) 23, 1
3. Matekitonga Moeakiola (Unattached) 30, 8
2. Mark Crick (Potomac Athletic Club) 33, 7
1. Michael MacDonald (Leeds Carnegie, England) 27, 51
Reserves
16. Joseph Welch (Cal) 24, New Cap
17. Shawn Pittman (Chuckanut Bay) 20, 1
18. Alexander Parker (Gentlemen of Aspen) 34, 51
19. J.J. Gagiano (Univ. of Capetown, Sth Africa) 23, 1
20. Chad Erskine (Rotherham, England) 27, 8
21. Valenese Malifa (Belmont Shore) 22, 5
22. Thretton Palamo (Biarritz, France) 20, 1
Head Coach: Scott Johnson
Palamo played his only test for the USA as a 19 year old against South Africa during the 2007 Rugby World Cup.
For full lists of all the international rugby tests played by Japan, and by the USA, go to www.rugbyinternational.net
Sunday, November 16, 2008
Test Results This weekend 14-15 Nov.
15.11.2008
New Zealand 22, Ireland 3
South Africa 14, Scotland 10
Australia 28, England 14
Argentina 22, Italy 14
Spain 22, Germany 11
France 42, Pacific Islands 17
China Taipei 35, Sri Lanka 23
Poland 13, Czech Republic 7
Lithuania 33, Switzerland 0
Israel 11, Bulgaria 8
Bosnia Herzegovina 46, Slovakia 32
14.11.2008
Scotland 'A' 69, georgia 3
Wales 34, Canada 13
New Zealand 22, Ireland 3
South Africa 14, Scotland 10
Australia 28, England 14
Argentina 22, Italy 14
Spain 22, Germany 11
France 42, Pacific Islands 17
China Taipei 35, Sri Lanka 23
Poland 13, Czech Republic 7
Lithuania 33, Switzerland 0
Israel 11, Bulgaria 8
Bosnia Herzegovina 46, Slovakia 32
14.11.2008
Scotland 'A' 69, georgia 3
Wales 34, Canada 13
Saturday, November 15, 2008
Test rugby: New Zealand v Ireland
15.11.2008
New Zealand v Ireland
Preview
After their impressive 55-0 win against Canada last weekend, Ireland will be out to prove a point at Croke Park. Never before in the history of the game has Ireland defeated New Zealand. On Saturday they face what is probably the complete international rugby team. They are match fit (Ireland could be a little under done here) and have a clear objective of winning a Grand Slam (winning all tests against all home rugby nations). The support of fanatical Irish supporters in the holy grail of Croke Park may not be enough.
Last Five Encounters
07.06.2008 New Zealand 21-11 in Wellington
17.06.2006 New Zealand 27-17 in Auckland
10.06.2006 New Zealand 34-23 in Hamilton
12.11.2005 New Zealand 45-7 in Dublin
22.06.2002 New Zealand 40-8 in Auckland
GWC Rugby Rankings: World Table-New Zealand 1st, Ireland 12th
Prediction: New Zealand by 30 points
Teams, as per Planet-Rugby
Ireland
15 Girvan Dempsey, 14 Tommy Bowe, 13 Brian O'Driscoll, 12 Luke Fitzgerald, 11 Rob Kearney, 10 Ronan O'Gara, 9 Tomas O'Leary, 8 James Heaslip, 7 David Wallace, 6 Alan Quinlan, 5 Paul O'Connell, 4 Donncha O'Callaghan, 3 John Hayes, 2 Rory Best, 1 Marcus Horan. Replacements: 16 Jerry Flannery, 17 Tony Buckley, 18 Stephen Ferris, 19 Shane Jennings, 20 Eoin Reddan, 21 Paddy Wallace, 22 Keith Earls
New Zealand
15 Mils Muliaina, 14 Joe Rokocoko, 13 Conrad Smith, 12 Ma'a Nonu, 11 Sitiveni Sivivatu, 10 Daniel Carter, 9 Jimmy Cowan, 8 Rodney So'oialo, 7 Richie McCaw, 6 Jerome Kaino, 5 Ali Williams, 4 Brad Thorn, 3 Neemia Tialata, 2 Keven Mealamu, 1 Tony Woodcock. Replacements: 16 Corey Flynn, 17 John Afoa, 18 Anthony Boric, 19 Kieran Read, 20 Piri Weepu, 21 Stephen Donald, 22 Isaia Toeava.
New Zealand v Ireland
Preview
After their impressive 55-0 win against Canada last weekend, Ireland will be out to prove a point at Croke Park. Never before in the history of the game has Ireland defeated New Zealand. On Saturday they face what is probably the complete international rugby team. They are match fit (Ireland could be a little under done here) and have a clear objective of winning a Grand Slam (winning all tests against all home rugby nations). The support of fanatical Irish supporters in the holy grail of Croke Park may not be enough.
Last Five Encounters
07.06.2008 New Zealand 21-11 in Wellington
17.06.2006 New Zealand 27-17 in Auckland
10.06.2006 New Zealand 34-23 in Hamilton
12.11.2005 New Zealand 45-7 in Dublin
22.06.2002 New Zealand 40-8 in Auckland
GWC Rugby Rankings: World Table-New Zealand 1st, Ireland 12th
Prediction: New Zealand by 30 points
Teams, as per Planet-Rugby
Ireland
15 Girvan Dempsey, 14 Tommy Bowe, 13 Brian O'Driscoll, 12 Luke Fitzgerald, 11 Rob Kearney, 10 Ronan O'Gara, 9 Tomas O'Leary, 8 James Heaslip, 7 David Wallace, 6 Alan Quinlan, 5 Paul O'Connell, 4 Donncha O'Callaghan, 3 John Hayes, 2 Rory Best, 1 Marcus Horan. Replacements: 16 Jerry Flannery, 17 Tony Buckley, 18 Stephen Ferris, 19 Shane Jennings, 20 Eoin Reddan, 21 Paddy Wallace, 22 Keith Earls
New Zealand
15 Mils Muliaina, 14 Joe Rokocoko, 13 Conrad Smith, 12 Ma'a Nonu, 11 Sitiveni Sivivatu, 10 Daniel Carter, 9 Jimmy Cowan, 8 Rodney So'oialo, 7 Richie McCaw, 6 Jerome Kaino, 5 Ali Williams, 4 Brad Thorn, 3 Neemia Tialata, 2 Keven Mealamu, 1 Tony Woodcock. Replacements: 16 Corey Flynn, 17 John Afoa, 18 Anthony Boric, 19 Kieran Read, 20 Piri Weepu, 21 Stephen Donald, 22 Isaia Toeava.
Test Rugby: South Africa v Scotland
15.11.2008
South Africa v Scotland at Murrayfield.
Previews
Last week the All Blacks. This week the Springbox. Life doesn't get any easier for a Scottish side struggling at this level of world rugby.
Last Five Encounters
25.08.2007 South Africa 27-3 at Murrayfield (World Cup Warm Up)
17.06.2006 South Africa 29-15 in Port Elizabeth
10.06.2006 South Africa 36-16 in Durban
27.11.2004 South Africa 45-10 at Murrayfield
14.06.2003 South Africa 28-19 in Johannesburg
Scotland last defeated South Africa at Murrayfield in 2002 winning 21-6. Ah, for them days!
GWC Rugby Rankings: World Table-South Africa 2nd, Scotland 6th
Prediction. Much the same as last week-South Africa by 29 points.
Regret, but time restrictions has limited this coverage.
Teams, as per planet-rugby
Scotland
15 Chris Paterson, 14 Thom Evans, 13 Ben Cairns, 12 Nick De Luca, 11 Rory Lamont, 10 Phil Godman, 9 Mike Blair (c), 8 Ally Hogg, 7 John Barclay, 6 Jason White, 5 Jim Hamilton, 4 Nathan Hines, 3 Euan Murray, 2 Ross Ford, 1 Allan Jacobson. Replacements: 16 Dougie Hall, 17 Alasdair Dickinson, 18 Matt Mustchin, 19 Scott Gray, 20 Rory Lawson, 21 Dan Parks, 22 Hugo Southwell
South Africa
15 Conrad Jantjes, 14 JP Pietersen, 13 Adrian Jacobs, 12 Jean de Villiers, 11 Bryan Habana, 10 Ruan Pienaar, 9 Fourie du Preez, 8 Pierre Spies, 7 Juan Smith, 6 Schalk Burger, 5 Victor Matfield, 4 Bakkies Botha, 3 John Smit (c), 2 Bismarck du Plessis, 1 Tendai Mtawarira. Replacements: 16 Brian Mujati, 17 Gurthro Steenkamp, 18 Andries Bekker, 19 Ryan Kankowski, 20 Ricky Januarie, 21 Frans Steyn, 22 Jaque Fourie.
South Africa v Scotland at Murrayfield.
Previews
Last week the All Blacks. This week the Springbox. Life doesn't get any easier for a Scottish side struggling at this level of world rugby.
Last Five Encounters
25.08.2007 South Africa 27-3 at Murrayfield (World Cup Warm Up)
17.06.2006 South Africa 29-15 in Port Elizabeth
10.06.2006 South Africa 36-16 in Durban
27.11.2004 South Africa 45-10 at Murrayfield
14.06.2003 South Africa 28-19 in Johannesburg
Scotland last defeated South Africa at Murrayfield in 2002 winning 21-6. Ah, for them days!
GWC Rugby Rankings: World Table-South Africa 2nd, Scotland 6th
Prediction. Much the same as last week-South Africa by 29 points.
Regret, but time restrictions has limited this coverage.
Teams, as per planet-rugby
Scotland
15 Chris Paterson, 14 Thom Evans, 13 Ben Cairns, 12 Nick De Luca, 11 Rory Lamont, 10 Phil Godman, 9 Mike Blair (c), 8 Ally Hogg, 7 John Barclay, 6 Jason White, 5 Jim Hamilton, 4 Nathan Hines, 3 Euan Murray, 2 Ross Ford, 1 Allan Jacobson. Replacements: 16 Dougie Hall, 17 Alasdair Dickinson, 18 Matt Mustchin, 19 Scott Gray, 20 Rory Lawson, 21 Dan Parks, 22 Hugo Southwell
South Africa
15 Conrad Jantjes, 14 JP Pietersen, 13 Adrian Jacobs, 12 Jean de Villiers, 11 Bryan Habana, 10 Ruan Pienaar, 9 Fourie du Preez, 8 Pierre Spies, 7 Juan Smith, 6 Schalk Burger, 5 Victor Matfield, 4 Bakkies Botha, 3 John Smit (c), 2 Bismarck du Plessis, 1 Tendai Mtawarira. Replacements: 16 Brian Mujati, 17 Gurthro Steenkamp, 18 Andries Bekker, 19 Ryan Kankowski, 20 Ricky Januarie, 21 Frans Steyn, 22 Jaque Fourie.
Test Rugby: Pacific Islands v France
15.11.2008
Pacific Islands v France in Marseilles
GWC Rugby Rankings: Do not apply
Prediction: France by 14 points
Regret time restrictions has meant a limited covereage
Teams as per planet-rugby
France
15 Maxime Médard, 14 Julien Malzieu, 13 Yannick Jauzion, 12 Benoît Baby, 11 Cedric Heymans, 10 David Skrela, 9 Jean-Baptiste Elissalde, 8 Imanol Harnordoquy, 7 Fulgence Ouedraogo, 6 Thierry Dusautoir, 5 Lionel Nallet (c), 4 Romain Millo-Chluski, 3 Nicolas Mas, 2 Dimitri Szarzewski, 1 Lionel Faure. Replacements:16 Benjamin Kayser, 17 Benoît Lecouls, 18 Sébastien Chabal, 19 Louis Picamoles, 20 Sebastien Tillous-Borde, 21 Damien Traille, 22 Alexis Palisson
Pacific Islands
15 Gavin Williams (SAM), 14 Napolioni Nalaga (FIJ), 13 Seru Rabeni (FIJ), 12 Epi Taione (TGA), 11 Vilimoni Delasau (FIJ), 10 Seremaia Bai (FIJ), 9 Mosese Rauluni (FIJ, cap), 8 Nili Latu (TGA), 7 Sisa Koyamaibole (FIJ), 6 Hale T-Pole (TGA), 5 Kele Leawere (FIJ), 4 Paino Hehea (TGA), 3 Kisi Pulu (TGA), 2 Tanielu Fuga (SAM), 1 Kas Lealamanua (SAM). Replacements: 16 Sunia Koto (FIJ), 17 Census Johnston (SAM), 18 Filipo Levi (SAM), 19 Viliami Vaki (TGA), 20 Sililo Martens (TGA), 21 Kameli Ratuvou (FIJ), 22 Seilala Mapusua (SAM)
Pacific Islands v France in Marseilles
GWC Rugby Rankings: Do not apply
Prediction: France by 14 points
Regret time restrictions has meant a limited covereage
Teams as per planet-rugby
France
15 Maxime Médard, 14 Julien Malzieu, 13 Yannick Jauzion, 12 Benoît Baby, 11 Cedric Heymans, 10 David Skrela, 9 Jean-Baptiste Elissalde, 8 Imanol Harnordoquy, 7 Fulgence Ouedraogo, 6 Thierry Dusautoir, 5 Lionel Nallet (c), 4 Romain Millo-Chluski, 3 Nicolas Mas, 2 Dimitri Szarzewski, 1 Lionel Faure. Replacements:16 Benjamin Kayser, 17 Benoît Lecouls, 18 Sébastien Chabal, 19 Louis Picamoles, 20 Sebastien Tillous-Borde, 21 Damien Traille, 22 Alexis Palisson
Pacific Islands
15 Gavin Williams (SAM), 14 Napolioni Nalaga (FIJ), 13 Seru Rabeni (FIJ), 12 Epi Taione (TGA), 11 Vilimoni Delasau (FIJ), 10 Seremaia Bai (FIJ), 9 Mosese Rauluni (FIJ, cap), 8 Nili Latu (TGA), 7 Sisa Koyamaibole (FIJ), 6 Hale T-Pole (TGA), 5 Kele Leawere (FIJ), 4 Paino Hehea (TGA), 3 Kisi Pulu (TGA), 2 Tanielu Fuga (SAM), 1 Kas Lealamanua (SAM). Replacements: 16 Sunia Koto (FIJ), 17 Census Johnston (SAM), 18 Filipo Levi (SAM), 19 Viliami Vaki (TGA), 20 Sililo Martens (TGA), 21 Kameli Ratuvou (FIJ), 22 Seilala Mapusua (SAM)
Rugby Test: Australia v England
15.11.2008
Australia v England at Twickenham
Preview
There was a time when a clash between these two would have been a clash between the two best rugby nations. Sadly, both teams have slipped in their ratings since they clashed at the final of the 2003 Rugby World Cup. England won this famous match with a Jonny Wilkinson dropped goal in the last minutes of the match. They also played a quarter final match at the 2007 Rugby World Cup, another close match finally won by England, putting Australia out of the finals.
Both teams have a lot to play for. Both teams are struggling at the top level of the game and this week has seen plenty of gamesmanship between the teams especially over their respective forward packs. England once had a pack that could easily crush the Wallabies but tomorrow things could be different.
Last Five Encounters
06.10.2007 England 12-10 in Marseilles (World Cup, Quarter final)
17.06.2006 Australia 34-18 in Melbourne (Cook Cup)
11.06.2006 Australia 34-3 in Sydney (Cook Cup)
12.11.2005 England 26-16 at Twickenham (Cook Cup)
27.11.2004 Australia 21-19 at Twickenham (Cook Cup)
GWC Rugby Rankings: Australia 3rd, England 5th
Prediction: Australia by 7 points
Teams
England: 15 Delon Armitage, 14 Paul Sackey, 13 Jamie Noon, 12 Riki Flutey, 11 Ugo Monye, 10 Danny Cipriani, 9 Danny Care, 8 Nick Easter, 7 Tom Rees, 6 Tom Croft, 5 Tom Palmer, 4 Steve Borthwick, 3 Phil Vickery, 2 Lee Mears, 1 Andrew Sheridan. Replacements: 16 Dylan Hartley, 17 Matt Stevens, 18 Simon Shaw, 19 James Haskell, 20 Michael Lipman, 21 Harry Ellis, 22 Toby Flood
Australia: 15 Adam Ashley-Cooper, 14 Peter Hynes, 13 Ryan Cross, 12 Stirling Mortlock, 11 Drew Mitchell, 10 Matt Giteau, 9 Luke Burgess, 8 Richard Brown, 7 George Smith, 6 Hugh McMeniman, 5 Nathan Sharpe, 4 Mark Chisholm, 3 Al Baxter, 2 Stephen Moore, 1 Benn Robinson. Replacements: 16 Tatafu Polota-Nau, 17 Matt Dunning, 18 Dean Mumm, 19 Wycliff Palu, 20 Sam Cordingley, 21 Quade Cooper, 22 Digby Ioane.
Thanks to http://www.planet-rugby.com/Story/0,18259,3551_4497100,00.html
I regret that time restrictions will result in limited coverage
Australia v England at Twickenham
Preview
There was a time when a clash between these two would have been a clash between the two best rugby nations. Sadly, both teams have slipped in their ratings since they clashed at the final of the 2003 Rugby World Cup. England won this famous match with a Jonny Wilkinson dropped goal in the last minutes of the match. They also played a quarter final match at the 2007 Rugby World Cup, another close match finally won by England, putting Australia out of the finals.
Both teams have a lot to play for. Both teams are struggling at the top level of the game and this week has seen plenty of gamesmanship between the teams especially over their respective forward packs. England once had a pack that could easily crush the Wallabies but tomorrow things could be different.
Last Five Encounters
06.10.2007 England 12-10 in Marseilles (World Cup, Quarter final)
17.06.2006 Australia 34-18 in Melbourne (Cook Cup)
11.06.2006 Australia 34-3 in Sydney (Cook Cup)
12.11.2005 England 26-16 at Twickenham (Cook Cup)
27.11.2004 Australia 21-19 at Twickenham (Cook Cup)
GWC Rugby Rankings: Australia 3rd, England 5th
Prediction: Australia by 7 points
Teams
England: 15 Delon Armitage, 14 Paul Sackey, 13 Jamie Noon, 12 Riki Flutey, 11 Ugo Monye, 10 Danny Cipriani, 9 Danny Care, 8 Nick Easter, 7 Tom Rees, 6 Tom Croft, 5 Tom Palmer, 4 Steve Borthwick, 3 Phil Vickery, 2 Lee Mears, 1 Andrew Sheridan. Replacements: 16 Dylan Hartley, 17 Matt Stevens, 18 Simon Shaw, 19 James Haskell, 20 Michael Lipman, 21 Harry Ellis, 22 Toby Flood
Australia: 15 Adam Ashley-Cooper, 14 Peter Hynes, 13 Ryan Cross, 12 Stirling Mortlock, 11 Drew Mitchell, 10 Matt Giteau, 9 Luke Burgess, 8 Richard Brown, 7 George Smith, 6 Hugh McMeniman, 5 Nathan Sharpe, 4 Mark Chisholm, 3 Al Baxter, 2 Stephen Moore, 1 Benn Robinson. Replacements: 16 Tatafu Polota-Nau, 17 Matt Dunning, 18 Dean Mumm, 19 Wycliff Palu, 20 Sam Cordingley, 21 Quade Cooper, 22 Digby Ioane.
Thanks to http://www.planet-rugby.com/Story/0,18259,3551_4497100,00.html
I regret that time restrictions will result in limited coverage
Test Rugby: Argentina v Italy
15.11.2008
Argentina v Italy in Turin
Preview
This match takes on considerable importance as it gives both teams an opportunity to make up for the disappointments of last weekend. Argentina just lost out to France whilst Italy also pushed the Wallabies very close.
The pressure is perhaps more on Argentina. After their resounding successes at the 2007 Rugby World Cup, the Pumas are struggling to reassert themselves on the international stage. They lost to Italy the last time they met, in Cordoba back in June. With news out this week putting them in contention to be included in the Tri Nations tournament, the Pumas simply have to perform.
As the underdogs, Italy has just a little less at stake. Perhaps the Italian fans are getting impatient for some consistent success. Italy has struggled at the top level of international rugby since their inclusion into the International Championship, now called the 6 Nations.
Last Five Encounters
28.06.2008 Italy 13-12 in Cordoba
09.06.2007 Argentina 24-6 in Mendoza
18.11.2006 Argentina 23-16 in Rome
19.11.2005 Argentina 39-22 in Genoa
17.06.2005 Italy 30-29 in Cordoba.
GWC Rugby Rankings: World Table-Italy 7th, Argentina 9th
Prediction: Argentina by 7 points.
Teams
Italy
15 Andrea Masi (Biarritz Olympique, France) Age 27, 43 Caps
14 Kaine Robertson (Montepaschi Viadana) 28, 33
13 Matteo Pratichetti (Cammi Calvisano) 23, 10
12 Gonzalo Garcia (Cammi Calvisano) 24, 3
11 Mirco Bergamasco (Stade Français, France) 25, 54
10 Andrea Marcato (Benetton Treviso) 25, 9
9 Pablo Canavosio (Montepaschi Viadana) 26, 21
8 Sergio Parisse Capt. (Stade Français, France) 25, 55
7 Mauro Bergamasco (Stade Français, France) 29, 64
6 Josh Sole (Montepaschi Viadana) 28, 31
5 Marco Bortolami (Gloucester RFC, England) 28, 68
4 Carlo Antonio Del Fava (Ulster, Ireland) 27, 31
3 Carlos Nieto (Gloucester RFC, England) 32, 27
2 Fabio Ongaro (Saracens, England) 31, 56
1 Matias Aguero (Saracens, England) 28, 9
Replacements
16 Leonardo Ghiraldini (Cammi Calvisano) 23, 14
17 Andrea Lo Cicero (Racing Metro Paris ) 31, 76
18 Salvatore Perugini (Stade Toulousain, France) 30, 53
19 Tommaso Reato (Femi CZ Rovigo) 23, 4
20 Pietro Travagli (Overmach Parma) 27, 7
21 Luciano Orquera (Brive, France) 27, 11
22 Luke Mclean (Cammi Calvisano) 21, 2
Head Coach: Nik Mallet
Argentina
15 Bernardo Stortoni (Glasgow Warriors, Scotland) Age 30, 24 tests
14 Federico Martin Aramburu (Perpignan, France) 28, 17
13 Gonzalo Tiesi (Harlequins, England) 23, 17
12 Felipe Contepomi, Capt. (Leinster, Ireland) 30, 65
11 Rafael Carballo (Castres Olympique, France) 26, 4
10 Juan Martin Hernandez (Stade Francais, France) 26, 29
9 Nicolas Vergallo (Dax, France) 24, 12
8 Juan Martin Fernandez Lobbe (Sale Sharks, England) 26, 26
7 Rimas Alvarez Kairelis (Perpignan, France) 33, 41
6 Martin Durand (Champagnat) 31, 59
5 Patricio Albacete (Stade Toulousian, France) 27, 27
4 Esteban Lozada (Toulon, France) 26, 11
3 Juan Pablo Orlandi (Rovigo, Italy) 25, 1
2 Mario Ledesma (ASM Clermont Auvergne, France) 35, 67
1 Rodrigo Roncero (Stade Francais, France) 31, 30
Replacements
16 Alberto Basualdo (Stade Toulousian, France) 25, 9
17 Marcos Ayerza (Leicester Tigers, England) 25, 19
18 Alvaro Galindo (Beziers, France) 26, 5
19 Alejandro Campos (Pueyrredon) 25, 3
20 Agustin Figuerola (Club Atletico San Isidro) 23, New Cap
21 Santiago Fernandez (Hindu) 22, New Cap
22 Horacio Agulla (Brive, France) 23, 15
Head Coach: Santiago Phelan
For lists of all international rugby tests played by Argentina, and by Italy, go to www.rugbyinternational.net
Argentina v Italy in Turin
Preview
This match takes on considerable importance as it gives both teams an opportunity to make up for the disappointments of last weekend. Argentina just lost out to France whilst Italy also pushed the Wallabies very close.
The pressure is perhaps more on Argentina. After their resounding successes at the 2007 Rugby World Cup, the Pumas are struggling to reassert themselves on the international stage. They lost to Italy the last time they met, in Cordoba back in June. With news out this week putting them in contention to be included in the Tri Nations tournament, the Pumas simply have to perform.
As the underdogs, Italy has just a little less at stake. Perhaps the Italian fans are getting impatient for some consistent success. Italy has struggled at the top level of international rugby since their inclusion into the International Championship, now called the 6 Nations.
Last Five Encounters
28.06.2008 Italy 13-12 in Cordoba
09.06.2007 Argentina 24-6 in Mendoza
18.11.2006 Argentina 23-16 in Rome
19.11.2005 Argentina 39-22 in Genoa
17.06.2005 Italy 30-29 in Cordoba.
GWC Rugby Rankings: World Table-Italy 7th, Argentina 9th
Prediction: Argentina by 7 points.
Teams
Italy
15 Andrea Masi (Biarritz Olympique, France) Age 27, 43 Caps
14 Kaine Robertson (Montepaschi Viadana) 28, 33
13 Matteo Pratichetti (Cammi Calvisano) 23, 10
12 Gonzalo Garcia (Cammi Calvisano) 24, 3
11 Mirco Bergamasco (Stade Français, France) 25, 54
10 Andrea Marcato (Benetton Treviso) 25, 9
9 Pablo Canavosio (Montepaschi Viadana) 26, 21
8 Sergio Parisse Capt. (Stade Français, France) 25, 55
7 Mauro Bergamasco (Stade Français, France) 29, 64
6 Josh Sole (Montepaschi Viadana) 28, 31
5 Marco Bortolami (Gloucester RFC, England) 28, 68
4 Carlo Antonio Del Fava (Ulster, Ireland) 27, 31
3 Carlos Nieto (Gloucester RFC, England) 32, 27
2 Fabio Ongaro (Saracens, England) 31, 56
1 Matias Aguero (Saracens, England) 28, 9
Replacements
16 Leonardo Ghiraldini (Cammi Calvisano) 23, 14
17 Andrea Lo Cicero (Racing Metro Paris ) 31, 76
18 Salvatore Perugini (Stade Toulousain, France) 30, 53
19 Tommaso Reato (Femi CZ Rovigo) 23, 4
20 Pietro Travagli (Overmach Parma) 27, 7
21 Luciano Orquera (Brive, France) 27, 11
22 Luke Mclean (Cammi Calvisano) 21, 2
Head Coach: Nik Mallet
Argentina
15 Bernardo Stortoni (Glasgow Warriors, Scotland) Age 30, 24 tests
14 Federico Martin Aramburu (Perpignan, France) 28, 17
13 Gonzalo Tiesi (Harlequins, England) 23, 17
12 Felipe Contepomi, Capt. (Leinster, Ireland) 30, 65
11 Rafael Carballo (Castres Olympique, France) 26, 4
10 Juan Martin Hernandez (Stade Francais, France) 26, 29
9 Nicolas Vergallo (Dax, France) 24, 12
8 Juan Martin Fernandez Lobbe (Sale Sharks, England) 26, 26
7 Rimas Alvarez Kairelis (Perpignan, France) 33, 41
6 Martin Durand (Champagnat) 31, 59
5 Patricio Albacete (Stade Toulousian, France) 27, 27
4 Esteban Lozada (Toulon, France) 26, 11
3 Juan Pablo Orlandi (Rovigo, Italy) 25, 1
2 Mario Ledesma (ASM Clermont Auvergne, France) 35, 67
1 Rodrigo Roncero (Stade Francais, France) 31, 30
Replacements
16 Alberto Basualdo (Stade Toulousian, France) 25, 9
17 Marcos Ayerza (Leicester Tigers, England) 25, 19
18 Alvaro Galindo (Beziers, France) 26, 5
19 Alejandro Campos (Pueyrredon) 25, 3
20 Agustin Figuerola (Club Atletico San Isidro) 23, New Cap
21 Santiago Fernandez (Hindu) 22, New Cap
22 Horacio Agulla (Brive, France) 23, 15
Head Coach: Santiago Phelan
For lists of all international rugby tests played by Argentina, and by Italy, go to www.rugbyinternational.net
Test Rugby: Germany v Spain
15.11.2008
Germany v Spain in Madrid (WCQ Europe R1; ENC 1)
Preview
A German team, without a number of their top players, lost 14-27 to A Welsh Clubs XV in Berlin last weekend. The team for this week's game will be much stronger including a number of top players from French clubs, including outstanding player Robert Mohr. This match will be Germany's first test match in the top division of European rugby and will go a long way to test whether the Germans are up to this level of international rugby.
Spain lost 15-42 away to Russia last weekend and will be looking to recover with a sound win at home. They have left out 4 of the players who travelled to Russia, replacing htem with 3 new caps and experienced back Jamie Nava
Previous Encounters
27.05.2006 Spain 36-10 in Madrid (WCQ Euro. R3, Playoff 2nd leg)
13.05.2006 Germany 18-6 in Heidelberg (WCQ Euro. R3, Playoff 1st leg)
26.04.1998 Spain 24-9 in Hannover (WCQ Euro.Pool 3, Rd B)
24.11.1996 Spain 25-17 in Heidelberg (FIRA, Pool A)
13.11.1994 Spain 29-10 in Hannover 9Friendly?)
The last time these two teams met is was for a place in the next round of World Cup 2007 qualifiers. Germany suprised the rugby world with their win in Heidelberg but Spain ran away with the return game in Madrid. You have to go back 12 years before you'll find a European competition between these two teams.
GWC Rugby Rankings: Europe Table-Spain 10th, Germany 12th
Prediction: Spain by 14 points
Teams
Germany
15 Edemoore Takendesa (RG Heidelberg)
14 Matthieu Franke (RC Orleans, France)
13 Kieron Davies (Luton RFC, England)
12 Colin Grzanna (Berliner RC)
11 Clemens von Grumbkow (RC Orleans, France)
10 Thorsten Wiedemann (TSV Handschuhsheim)
9 Mustafa Güngör (RG Heidelberg)
8 Robert Mohr (La Rochelle, France)
7 Gerrit van Look (Berliner RC )
6 Timothy Kasten (Southend RFC, England)
5 Jens Schmidt, Capt. (TSV Handschuhsheim)
4 Bodo Sieber (Univ. of Capetown RFC, Sth. Africa)
3 Alexander Widiker (RC Orleans, France)
2 Timothy Coly (RG Heidelberg)
1 Benjamin Krause (Hannover 78 / 08 Ricklingen)
Replacements
16 Christian Baracat (SC Neuenheim)
17 Marcus Trick (SC Neuenheim)
18 Benjamin Danso (DRC Hannover )
19 Manuel Wilhelm (RG Heidelberg)
20 Lars Eckert (SC Neuenheim)
21 Marten Strauch (SC Neuenheim)
22 Markus Walger (RK Heusenstamm)
Head Coach: Rudolf Finsterer
http://www.totalrugby.de/
http://www.fira-aer-rugby.com/forum2007/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=2909
Spain squad
César Bernasconi (CRC Madrid) Age 32, 16 tests
José Mª Bohorquez (CR Ciencias) 32, 22
Rafael Camacho (CR Ciencias) 30, 25
Juan Cano (CRC Madrid) 23, 17
Javier Canosa (CRC Madrid) 25, 28
Iván Criado (Cetransa El Salvador) 28, 50
Pablo Feijoo (CRC Madrid) 26, 43
Leandro Fernández-Aramburu (CR Ciencias) 28, 7
Juan González (CRC Madrid) 26, 24
Sergio Guerrero (UE Santboiana) New Cap*
Sebastián Hattori (CR Ciencias) 26, New Cap
Ion Insausti (Cetransa El Salvador) 24, 21
Juan Gónzalez Marruecos (CR Ciencias) 22, 2
Ignacio Martín (Gran Parma RC, Italy) 24, 23
Manuel Mazo (CR Ciencias) 23, 11
Igor Mirones (Getxo Artea RT) New Cap*
David Mota (CRC Madrid) 22, 19 *
Jaime Nava (Centransa El Salvador) 25, 24*
Marco Pinto (Clermont Auvergne, France) 20, 1
Camille Riu (UE Santboiana) New Cap*
Javier Salazar (CRC Madrid) 31, 54
César Sempere (CRC Madrid) 23, 31
Sergio Souto (Cetransa El Salvador) 31, 43
Matías Tudela (CRC Madrid) 24, 2
Head Coach: Ged Glynn
* Did not travel to Russia
http://www.fira-aer-rugby.com/forum2007/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=2909
For lists of all international rugby tests played by Germany, and by Spain, go to http://www.rugbyinternational.net/
Germany v Spain in Madrid (WCQ Europe R1; ENC 1)
Preview
A German team, without a number of their top players, lost 14-27 to A Welsh Clubs XV in Berlin last weekend. The team for this week's game will be much stronger including a number of top players from French clubs, including outstanding player Robert Mohr. This match will be Germany's first test match in the top division of European rugby and will go a long way to test whether the Germans are up to this level of international rugby.
Spain lost 15-42 away to Russia last weekend and will be looking to recover with a sound win at home. They have left out 4 of the players who travelled to Russia, replacing htem with 3 new caps and experienced back Jamie Nava
Previous Encounters
27.05.2006 Spain 36-10 in Madrid (WCQ Euro. R3, Playoff 2nd leg)
13.05.2006 Germany 18-6 in Heidelberg (WCQ Euro. R3, Playoff 1st leg)
26.04.1998 Spain 24-9 in Hannover (WCQ Euro.Pool 3, Rd B)
24.11.1996 Spain 25-17 in Heidelberg (FIRA, Pool A)
13.11.1994 Spain 29-10 in Hannover 9Friendly?)
The last time these two teams met is was for a place in the next round of World Cup 2007 qualifiers. Germany suprised the rugby world with their win in Heidelberg but Spain ran away with the return game in Madrid. You have to go back 12 years before you'll find a European competition between these two teams.
GWC Rugby Rankings: Europe Table-Spain 10th, Germany 12th
Prediction: Spain by 14 points
Teams
Germany
15 Edemoore Takendesa (RG Heidelberg)
14 Matthieu Franke (RC Orleans, France)
13 Kieron Davies (Luton RFC, England)
12 Colin Grzanna (Berliner RC)
11 Clemens von Grumbkow (RC Orleans, France)
10 Thorsten Wiedemann (TSV Handschuhsheim)
9 Mustafa Güngör (RG Heidelberg)
8 Robert Mohr (La Rochelle, France)
7 Gerrit van Look (Berliner RC )
6 Timothy Kasten (Southend RFC, England)
5 Jens Schmidt, Capt. (TSV Handschuhsheim)
4 Bodo Sieber (Univ. of Capetown RFC, Sth. Africa)
3 Alexander Widiker (RC Orleans, France)
2 Timothy Coly (RG Heidelberg)
1 Benjamin Krause (Hannover 78 / 08 Ricklingen)
Replacements
16 Christian Baracat (SC Neuenheim)
17 Marcus Trick (SC Neuenheim)
18 Benjamin Danso (DRC Hannover )
19 Manuel Wilhelm (RG Heidelberg)
20 Lars Eckert (SC Neuenheim)
21 Marten Strauch (SC Neuenheim)
22 Markus Walger (RK Heusenstamm)
Head Coach: Rudolf Finsterer
http://www.totalrugby.de/
http://www.fira-aer-rugby.com/forum2007/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=2909
Spain squad
César Bernasconi (CRC Madrid) Age 32, 16 tests
José Mª Bohorquez (CR Ciencias) 32, 22
Rafael Camacho (CR Ciencias) 30, 25
Juan Cano (CRC Madrid) 23, 17
Javier Canosa (CRC Madrid) 25, 28
Iván Criado (Cetransa El Salvador) 28, 50
Pablo Feijoo (CRC Madrid) 26, 43
Leandro Fernández-Aramburu (CR Ciencias) 28, 7
Juan González (CRC Madrid) 26, 24
Sergio Guerrero (UE Santboiana) New Cap*
Sebastián Hattori (CR Ciencias) 26, New Cap
Ion Insausti (Cetransa El Salvador) 24, 21
Juan Gónzalez Marruecos (CR Ciencias) 22, 2
Ignacio Martín (Gran Parma RC, Italy) 24, 23
Manuel Mazo (CR Ciencias) 23, 11
Igor Mirones (Getxo Artea RT) New Cap*
David Mota (CRC Madrid) 22, 19 *
Jaime Nava (Centransa El Salvador) 25, 24*
Marco Pinto (Clermont Auvergne, France) 20, 1
Camille Riu (UE Santboiana) New Cap*
Javier Salazar (CRC Madrid) 31, 54
César Sempere (CRC Madrid) 23, 31
Sergio Souto (Cetransa El Salvador) 31, 43
Matías Tudela (CRC Madrid) 24, 2
Head Coach: Ged Glynn
* Did not travel to Russia
http://www.fira-aer-rugby.com/forum2007/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=2909
For lists of all international rugby tests played by Germany, and by Spain, go to http://www.rugbyinternational.net/
Test Match: Sri Lanka v China Taipei
15.11.2008
Sri Lanka v China Taipei in Tainan (Asia Nations Div.1)
Preview
Sri Lanka only needs to defeat China Taipei by 2 points or more to take out the honours in this winner takes all tournament. Sr Lanka drew 20-20 with Singapore last Tuesday, then Singapore defeated China Taipei 23-22 Thursday to create an interesting finale to this tournament.
China withdrew earlier this week in circumstances believed to be over passport arrangements into China Taipei. China regards this island nation as a part of China whereas the Taiwanese regard themselves as being independent. It begs the question ,yet unanswered, as to where does this leave China? Are they out of the competition now completely, or are they still in?
Previous Encounters
13.10.2002 China Taipei 56-18 in Pusan (Asia Games, Bronze Medal)
18.12.1998 China Taipei 28-10 in Bangkok (Asia Games, Bronze Medal)
17.01.1998 China Taipei 31-27 in Bangkok (WCQ Asia Round B)
26.10.1994 China Taipei 25-9 in Kuala Lumper (14th Asia Camp.)
20.09.1992 China Taipei 35-9 in Hong Kong (13th Asia Champ.)
Sri Lanka has only defeated China Taipei once, and that was back in 1990 when the Sri Lankans caused an upset to defeat the Taiwanese 9-6 on home soil in Colombo. This was where the 12th Asia Championships was held. Perhaps history is about to be made.
GWC Rugby Rankings: Asia Table-Sri lanka 6th, China Taipei 9th
Prediction: I just can't see the Chinese letting this one slip away. China Taipei by 3 points.
Teams
Sri Lanka Squad
Amjad Buksh (Ceylon Rugby & Football Club)
Sashika Cooray (CH and FC)
Ashan de Costa (Ceylon Rugby & Football Club)
Lasintha de Costa (Ceylon Rugby & Football Club)
Kasun de Silva (Ceylon Rugby & Football Club)
Shane Dissanayake (CH and FC)
Nilusha Fernando (Police Sports Club)
Bilal Hassen (Royal)
Ashan Karthelis (Ceylon Rugby & Football Club)
Saliya Kumara (Kandy Sports Club)
Dushanth Lewke, Co Capt. (Ceylon Rugby & Football Club)
Nushal Meepage (Army Sports Club)
Shamil Mohamed (Ceylon Rugby & Football Club)
Reza Mubarak (Ceylon Rugby & Football Club)
Achala Perera (CH and FC)
Danushka Perera (Ceylon Rugby & Football Club)
Dinesh Sanjeewa (CH and FC)
Sajith Saranga (Isipatana College)
Mohamed Shariff (Ceylon Rugby & Football Club)
Chula Susantha (Police Sports Club)
Henry Terrance (Ceylon Rugby & Football Club)
Gayan Weeraratne (Kandy Sports Club)
Dilanka Wijesekera, Co Capt. (CH and FC)
Coaches - Dawje Snyman, Norman Laker
http://www.dailynews.lk/2008/11/07/spo11.asp
China Taipei
Not available
For lists of all Sri Lanka international rugby results, and those of China Taipei, go to www.rugbyinternational.net
Sri Lanka v China Taipei in Tainan (Asia Nations Div.1)
Preview
Sri Lanka only needs to defeat China Taipei by 2 points or more to take out the honours in this winner takes all tournament. Sr Lanka drew 20-20 with Singapore last Tuesday, then Singapore defeated China Taipei 23-22 Thursday to create an interesting finale to this tournament.
China withdrew earlier this week in circumstances believed to be over passport arrangements into China Taipei. China regards this island nation as a part of China whereas the Taiwanese regard themselves as being independent. It begs the question ,yet unanswered, as to where does this leave China? Are they out of the competition now completely, or are they still in?
Previous Encounters
13.10.2002 China Taipei 56-18 in Pusan (Asia Games, Bronze Medal)
18.12.1998 China Taipei 28-10 in Bangkok (Asia Games, Bronze Medal)
17.01.1998 China Taipei 31-27 in Bangkok (WCQ Asia Round B)
26.10.1994 China Taipei 25-9 in Kuala Lumper (14th Asia Camp.)
20.09.1992 China Taipei 35-9 in Hong Kong (13th Asia Champ.)
Sri Lanka has only defeated China Taipei once, and that was back in 1990 when the Sri Lankans caused an upset to defeat the Taiwanese 9-6 on home soil in Colombo. This was where the 12th Asia Championships was held. Perhaps history is about to be made.
GWC Rugby Rankings: Asia Table-Sri lanka 6th, China Taipei 9th
Prediction: I just can't see the Chinese letting this one slip away. China Taipei by 3 points.
Teams
Sri Lanka Squad
Amjad Buksh (Ceylon Rugby & Football Club)
Sashika Cooray (CH and FC)
Ashan de Costa (Ceylon Rugby & Football Club)
Lasintha de Costa (Ceylon Rugby & Football Club)
Kasun de Silva (Ceylon Rugby & Football Club)
Shane Dissanayake (CH and FC)
Nilusha Fernando (Police Sports Club)
Bilal Hassen (Royal)
Ashan Karthelis (Ceylon Rugby & Football Club)
Saliya Kumara (Kandy Sports Club)
Dushanth Lewke, Co Capt. (Ceylon Rugby & Football Club)
Nushal Meepage (Army Sports Club)
Shamil Mohamed (Ceylon Rugby & Football Club)
Reza Mubarak (Ceylon Rugby & Football Club)
Achala Perera (CH and FC)
Danushka Perera (Ceylon Rugby & Football Club)
Dinesh Sanjeewa (CH and FC)
Sajith Saranga (Isipatana College)
Mohamed Shariff (Ceylon Rugby & Football Club)
Chula Susantha (Police Sports Club)
Henry Terrance (Ceylon Rugby & Football Club)
Gayan Weeraratne (Kandy Sports Club)
Dilanka Wijesekera, Co Capt. (CH and FC)
Coaches - Dawje Snyman, Norman Laker
http://www.dailynews.lk/2008/11/07/spo11.asp
China Taipei
Not available
For lists of all Sri Lanka international rugby results, and those of China Taipei, go to www.rugbyinternational.net
Rugby Test: Czech Republic v Poland
15.11.2008
Czech Republic v Poland in Ostrava (WCQ Europe R2, ENC 2A)
Preview
This match will be the Czech Republics first challenge in this Division. They were relegated from ENC 1 at the end of last season. This match marks the beginning of their climb back into the top Level of the European Nations Cup. They began the season by ending a long losing streak, defeating Croatia 47-0 last month in a warm up match.
The Poles are already on the board with a narrow 13-12 win over the Ukraine back in early October, whilst the Ukraine lost 8-9 to belgium in another narrow result. So the indications are that there is not much between these teams. I expect the result to be close.
Previous Encounters
04.11.2000 Poland 34-16 in Gdynia (FIRA B)
20.05.2000 Czech Republic 39-13 in Prague (FIRA C)
24.10.1998 Drawn 18-18 in Bezeg Dolny (FIRA Pool E)
14.03.1998 Poland 28-27 in Lodz (Friendly?)
04.04.1997 Czech Republic 39-32 in Olomouc (Friendly?)
These neighbours have not played each other for nearly eight years. Although to long ago to suggest any form, they do indicate a healthy rivalry back at a time when both nations were more or less on equal footings. In that the the Czech Republic climbed into the top level of European rugby only to be back with the Poles again. So, all in all, a most interesting fixture.
GWC Rugby Rankings: Europe Table-Czech Republic 13th, Poland 17th
Prediction: Czech Republic by 7
Teams
Czech Republic
15 Tomáš Nevický (RC Říčany) Age ?, New Cap
14 Jan Rudolf (RC Tatra Smíchov) 24, 8
13 Václav Jursík (Strasbourg, France) 24, 14
12 Jan Kolář (RC Slavia Praha) 1
11 Michal Schlanger (RC Říčany) 24, 16
10 Pavel Vokrouhlík (RC Sparta Praha) 27, 14
9 Vakhtang Pailodze (RC Sparta Praha) ?, 1
8 Jan Macháček (RC Slavia Praha) 36, 52
7 Miroslav Němeček (US Oyonnax, France) 28, 21
6 Josef Bláha (RC Říčany) 31, 12
5 Robert Voves (Narbonne, France) 27, 21
4 Tomáš Holovský (St. Raphael, France) ?, 2
3 Jan Benda (RC Sparta Praha) ?, 8
2 Ondřej Kutil (US Oyonnax, France) ?, 5
1 Lukáš Rapant (US Oyonnax, France) 25, 15
Replacements
16 Jiří Skall (RC Sparta Praha) 35, 68
17 Roman Šuster (RC Rouen, France) 30, 24
18 Martin Wognitsch (US Oyonnax, France) ?, 1
19 Tomáš Veniger (RC Tatra Smíchov) ?, 4
20 Jiří Buryánek (RC Dragon Brno) 30, 23
21 Tomáš Forst (RC Praga) ?, 1
22 Petr Okleštěk, (Auxerre, France) ?, New Cap
Head Coach: Martin Kafka
Rapant last played for Czech Republic v Spain in September 2006
Adapted from http://www.rugby.cz/ostrava-se-pripravu ... ika-polsko and http://www.fira-aer-rugby.com/forum2007/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=2910
Poland Squad
Dawid Banaszek (Bourgoin, France)
Romuald Berthe (?)
Kamil Bobryk( Budowlani Lodz)
Jurij Buhało (Posnania)
Grzegorz Falk (Juvenia Kraków)
Donald Gargasson (Toulon, France)
Tomasz Hebda (?)
Krzysztof Hotowski (Beaurepaire, France)
Michał Królikowski (Budowlani Lodz)
Michał Krużycki (Bourgoin, France)
Stanislas Krzesinski (Albi, France)
Fabien Kwarta (U.S. Morlaas Rugby, France)
Yaan Levandowski (Cahors, France)
Wojciech Łukasiewicz (Folc AZS Warszawa)
Ciril Monarcha (C.A. Riberacois, France)
Mariusz Motyl (Arka Gdynia)
Paweł Nowak (Arka Gdynia)
Konrad Pisarek (Orkan Sochaczew)
Kazimierz Raszpunda (Pogoń Siedlce)
Bastien Siepielski (?)
Łukasz Szostek (Arka Gdynia)
Cedric Vaissiere (Albi, France)
Marcin Wilczuk (Old Belvedere, Ireland)
Etienne Zyk (Clermont, France)
Head Coach: Tomasz Putra
http://www.pzrugby.pl/seniorzy.reprezentacja.html
For lists of all international rugby tests played by Czech Republic, and by Poland, go to www.rugbyinternational.net
Czech Republic v Poland in Ostrava (WCQ Europe R2, ENC 2A)
Preview
This match will be the Czech Republics first challenge in this Division. They were relegated from ENC 1 at the end of last season. This match marks the beginning of their climb back into the top Level of the European Nations Cup. They began the season by ending a long losing streak, defeating Croatia 47-0 last month in a warm up match.
The Poles are already on the board with a narrow 13-12 win over the Ukraine back in early October, whilst the Ukraine lost 8-9 to belgium in another narrow result. So the indications are that there is not much between these teams. I expect the result to be close.
Previous Encounters
04.11.2000 Poland 34-16 in Gdynia (FIRA B)
20.05.2000 Czech Republic 39-13 in Prague (FIRA C)
24.10.1998 Drawn 18-18 in Bezeg Dolny (FIRA Pool E)
14.03.1998 Poland 28-27 in Lodz (Friendly?)
04.04.1997 Czech Republic 39-32 in Olomouc (Friendly?)
These neighbours have not played each other for nearly eight years. Although to long ago to suggest any form, they do indicate a healthy rivalry back at a time when both nations were more or less on equal footings. In that the the Czech Republic climbed into the top level of European rugby only to be back with the Poles again. So, all in all, a most interesting fixture.
GWC Rugby Rankings: Europe Table-Czech Republic 13th, Poland 17th
Prediction: Czech Republic by 7
Teams
Czech Republic
15 Tomáš Nevický (RC Říčany) Age ?, New Cap
14 Jan Rudolf (RC Tatra Smíchov) 24, 8
13 Václav Jursík (Strasbourg, France) 24, 14
12 Jan Kolář (RC Slavia Praha) 1
11 Michal Schlanger (RC Říčany) 24, 16
10 Pavel Vokrouhlík (RC Sparta Praha) 27, 14
9 Vakhtang Pailodze (RC Sparta Praha) ?, 1
8 Jan Macháček (RC Slavia Praha) 36, 52
7 Miroslav Němeček (US Oyonnax, France) 28, 21
6 Josef Bláha (RC Říčany) 31, 12
5 Robert Voves (Narbonne, France) 27, 21
4 Tomáš Holovský (St. Raphael, France) ?, 2
3 Jan Benda (RC Sparta Praha) ?, 8
2 Ondřej Kutil (US Oyonnax, France) ?, 5
1 Lukáš Rapant (US Oyonnax, France) 25, 15
Replacements
16 Jiří Skall (RC Sparta Praha) 35, 68
17 Roman Šuster (RC Rouen, France) 30, 24
18 Martin Wognitsch (US Oyonnax, France) ?, 1
19 Tomáš Veniger (RC Tatra Smíchov) ?, 4
20 Jiří Buryánek (RC Dragon Brno) 30, 23
21 Tomáš Forst (RC Praga) ?, 1
22 Petr Okleštěk, (Auxerre, France) ?, New Cap
Head Coach: Martin Kafka
Rapant last played for Czech Republic v Spain in September 2006
Adapted from http://www.rugby.cz/ostrava-se-pripravu ... ika-polsko and http://www.fira-aer-rugby.com/forum2007/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=2910
Poland Squad
Dawid Banaszek (Bourgoin, France)
Romuald Berthe (?)
Kamil Bobryk( Budowlani Lodz)
Jurij Buhało (Posnania)
Grzegorz Falk (Juvenia Kraków)
Donald Gargasson (Toulon, France)
Tomasz Hebda (?)
Krzysztof Hotowski (Beaurepaire, France)
Michał Królikowski (Budowlani Lodz)
Michał Krużycki (Bourgoin, France)
Stanislas Krzesinski (Albi, France)
Fabien Kwarta (U.S. Morlaas Rugby, France)
Yaan Levandowski (Cahors, France)
Wojciech Łukasiewicz (Folc AZS Warszawa)
Ciril Monarcha (C.A. Riberacois, France)
Mariusz Motyl (Arka Gdynia)
Paweł Nowak (Arka Gdynia)
Konrad Pisarek (Orkan Sochaczew)
Kazimierz Raszpunda (Pogoń Siedlce)
Bastien Siepielski (?)
Łukasz Szostek (Arka Gdynia)
Cedric Vaissiere (Albi, France)
Marcin Wilczuk (Old Belvedere, Ireland)
Etienne Zyk (Clermont, France)
Head Coach: Tomasz Putra
http://www.pzrugby.pl/seniorzy.reprezentacja.html
For lists of all international rugby tests played by Czech Republic, and by Poland, go to www.rugbyinternational.net
Test Match: Lithuania v Switzerland
15.11.2008
Lithuania v Switzerland in Vilnius (WCQ Europe R4; ENC 3A)
Preview
Lithuania has already caused other nations in this division to take notice. A convincing 26-10 win away over Andorra, who were relegated from ENC 2B last season, has put the Lithuanians into the lead. A home win seems more likely.
Switzerland defeated the German Under 21 side back in September and were expected to set the pace at this level. It makes this match even more compelling.
These two teams have only met once before. Switzerland won a close game 23-21 in Switzerland in 1998 as part of the then FIRA seeding process.
GWC Rugby Rankings: Lithuania 23rd, Switzerland 26th
Prediction: Lithuania too strong at home, to win by 12 points.
Teams
Lithuania Squad
Tomas Astrauskas (RC Salda Siauliai)
Dainius Baltrukenas (RC Klevas Panevezys)
Rokas Daknys (RC Vairas Siauliai)
Ignas Darkintis (RC Vairas Siauliai)
Mindaugas Grigas (RC BaltRex Siauliai)
Vilius Kucinas (RC Vairas Siauliai)
Irmantą Kukulskį (RC BaltRex Siauliai)
Gediminas Liutkus (RC BaltRex Siauliai)
Kestutis Marcisauskas (RC Vairas Siauliai)
Andrius Martinskas (RC Vairas Siauliai)
Mindaugas Misevicius (RC Vairas Siauliai)
Darius Nosys (RC Vairas Siauliai)
Egidijus Petronis (RC Kursiai Klaipeda)
Žygimantą Radžių (RC Salda Siauliai)
Audrius Ramancionis (RC Vairas Siauliai)
Edmundas Scavinskas (RC BaltRex Siauliai)
Paulių Šertvytį (RC BaltRex Siauliai)
Donatas Streckis (RC Kursiai Klaipeda)
Augustiną Terlecką (RC "Geležinis Vilkas" Vilniaus)
Laurynas Tipelis (RC BaltRex Siauliai)
Justinas Vasiliauskas (RC Vairas Siauliai)
Tomas Zibolis (RC BaltRex Siauliai)
Edvardą Žilių (RC BaltRex Siauliai)
Head coach - Anatolijus Smirnovas
Lithuania squad from http://www.kaunas.lt/regbis/
“Seems that Mariaus Andrijausko, Gedimino Marcišausko, Mindaugo Šiumberevičiaus, Aleksandro Čiuchlejaus and Tomo Stungio who were in squad for Andorra are all unavailable”
http://www.fira-aer-rugby.com/forum2007/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=2913
Swiss Team
Not available
For lists of international rugby results played by Lithuania, and by Switzerland, go to www.rugbyinternational.net
Lithuania v Switzerland in Vilnius (WCQ Europe R4; ENC 3A)
Preview
Lithuania has already caused other nations in this division to take notice. A convincing 26-10 win away over Andorra, who were relegated from ENC 2B last season, has put the Lithuanians into the lead. A home win seems more likely.
Switzerland defeated the German Under 21 side back in September and were expected to set the pace at this level. It makes this match even more compelling.
These two teams have only met once before. Switzerland won a close game 23-21 in Switzerland in 1998 as part of the then FIRA seeding process.
GWC Rugby Rankings: Lithuania 23rd, Switzerland 26th
Prediction: Lithuania too strong at home, to win by 12 points.
Teams
Lithuania Squad
Tomas Astrauskas (RC Salda Siauliai)
Dainius Baltrukenas (RC Klevas Panevezys)
Rokas Daknys (RC Vairas Siauliai)
Ignas Darkintis (RC Vairas Siauliai)
Mindaugas Grigas (RC BaltRex Siauliai)
Vilius Kucinas (RC Vairas Siauliai)
Irmantą Kukulskį (RC BaltRex Siauliai)
Gediminas Liutkus (RC BaltRex Siauliai)
Kestutis Marcisauskas (RC Vairas Siauliai)
Andrius Martinskas (RC Vairas Siauliai)
Mindaugas Misevicius (RC Vairas Siauliai)
Darius Nosys (RC Vairas Siauliai)
Egidijus Petronis (RC Kursiai Klaipeda)
Žygimantą Radžių (RC Salda Siauliai)
Audrius Ramancionis (RC Vairas Siauliai)
Edmundas Scavinskas (RC BaltRex Siauliai)
Paulių Šertvytį (RC BaltRex Siauliai)
Donatas Streckis (RC Kursiai Klaipeda)
Augustiną Terlecką (RC "Geležinis Vilkas" Vilniaus)
Laurynas Tipelis (RC BaltRex Siauliai)
Justinas Vasiliauskas (RC Vairas Siauliai)
Tomas Zibolis (RC BaltRex Siauliai)
Edvardą Žilių (RC BaltRex Siauliai)
Head coach - Anatolijus Smirnovas
Lithuania squad from http://www.kaunas.lt/regbis/
“Seems that Mariaus Andrijausko, Gedimino Marcišausko, Mindaugo Šiumberevičiaus, Aleksandro Čiuchlejaus and Tomo Stungio who were in squad for Andorra are all unavailable”
http://www.fira-aer-rugby.com/forum2007/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=2913
Swiss Team
Not available
For lists of international rugby results played by Lithuania, and by Switzerland, go to www.rugbyinternational.net
Test Rugby: Israel v Bulgaria
15.11.2008
Israel v Bulgaria in Pernik (WCQ Europe R5; ENC 3C)
Preview
Israels last test match was against Cyprus back in early September. That match was carried over from earlier in the year, being the ENC 3C-3D playoff. The Israeli 23-14 win lifted them into ENC 3C.
This match is Bulgaria's first for the new season. Last season they were relegated from ENC 3B. The Bulgarians are a tough team to play on their home soil, managing wins at home over Austria and Norway since 2006.
Previous Encounters
08.06.2003 Bulgaria 25-23 in Ibisa, Spain (ENC 3C, Final)
21.05.2000 Israel 37-16 in Herzliya (FIRA D2)
24.04.1999 Isreal 11-10 in Sofia (FIRA D)
There was a time a few years ago when these two teams met in some stirring encounters, famous of which was the ENC 3C final back in 2003 when 3C was the emerging nations division and was held on the Spanish Island of Ibiza in the Balearic Islands. A close encounter saw a Bulgarian win and a promotion. The two teams are now back together again in the same division. I suspect the Bulgarians will be too strong at home.
GWC Rugby Rankings: Europe Table-Bulgaria 32nd, Israel 37th.
Prediction: Bulgaria by 30 points
Teams
Not available
For lists of all international rugby tests played by Israel and by Bulgaria go to http://www.rugbyinternational.net/
Israel v Bulgaria in Pernik (WCQ Europe R5; ENC 3C)
Preview
Israels last test match was against Cyprus back in early September. That match was carried over from earlier in the year, being the ENC 3C-3D playoff. The Israeli 23-14 win lifted them into ENC 3C.
This match is Bulgaria's first for the new season. Last season they were relegated from ENC 3B. The Bulgarians are a tough team to play on their home soil, managing wins at home over Austria and Norway since 2006.
Previous Encounters
08.06.2003 Bulgaria 25-23 in Ibisa, Spain (ENC 3C, Final)
21.05.2000 Israel 37-16 in Herzliya (FIRA D2)
24.04.1999 Isreal 11-10 in Sofia (FIRA D)
There was a time a few years ago when these two teams met in some stirring encounters, famous of which was the ENC 3C final back in 2003 when 3C was the emerging nations division and was held on the Spanish Island of Ibiza in the Balearic Islands. A close encounter saw a Bulgarian win and a promotion. The two teams are now back together again in the same division. I suspect the Bulgarians will be too strong at home.
GWC Rugby Rankings: Europe Table-Bulgaria 32nd, Israel 37th.
Prediction: Bulgaria by 30 points
Teams
Not available
For lists of all international rugby tests played by Israel and by Bulgaria go to http://www.rugbyinternational.net/
Rugby Test: Slovakia v Bosnia Herzegovina
15.11.2008
Slovakia v Bosnia Herzegovina (ENC 3D)
Preview
ENC Divison 3D is the only level of European international rugby that does not qualify for 2011 Rugby World Cup qualification. The incentive is to be the leading side after 2 rounds (2 seasons) and thus be able to be in the World Cup qualifying rounds for 2015.
At this early stage Bosnia Herzegovina, relegated from ENC 3C, look to be way out in front. Their 52-5 win over Monaco, away, back in October, confirmed that. This is their second away game and , provided they can travel with much the same squad that went to Monaco, they should win again.
Slovakia lost to Cyprus 8-38 last year in Cyprus and Cyprus had earlier defeated Monaco 19-10 to give some idea of Slovakia's strength. Most of Slovakia's players either play for the only club in Bratislava or for Czech clubs over the border but they will find the Bosnians too slick.
This is the first time these two teams have met.
GWC Rugby Rankings: Europe Table-Bosnia Herzegovina 38th, Slovakia 40th
Prediction: Bosnia Herzegovina by 40 points.
Teams
Slovakia Squad
Martin Čmiel (RC Havířov, Czech Republic) 2 tests
Ondřej Hankovski (Sokol Mariánské Hory, Czech Rep.) 4
Richard Hladík (Lokomotiva Olomouc, Czech Rep.) New Cap
David Hughes (RC Slovan Bratislava) 3
Richard Januš (RC Lokomotiva Olomouc, Czech Rep.) 3
Jan Klokner (Sokol Mariánské Hory, Czech Rep.) 3
Patrik Kovacs (RC Havířov, Czech Republic) New Cap
Pavel Kozubík (RC Havířov, Czech Republic) 3
Petr Kozubík (RC Havířov, Czech Republic) 3
Josef Kučera (RK Petrovice, Czech Republic) 1
Michal Kučera (Náměšť na Hané, Czech Republic) 1
Tomáš Kurka (RC Lokomotiva Olomouc, Czech Rep.) 3
Martin Majovský (RC Slovan Bratislava) 2
Marcel Mana (Lokomotiva Olomouc, Czech Rep.) 5@
Jan Mandičák (RK Petrovice) New Cap
Martin Mihálik (RC Slovan Bratislava) 1
Viktor Ondroušek (RC Jimi Vyškov, Czech Republic) 5@
Patrik Poledna (Náměšť na Hané, Czech Republic) 4
Daniel Puha (RC Slovan Bratislava) 4
Anthony Puverle (RC Slovan Bratislava) 5@
Jaroslav Stoklásek (RC Zlín, Czech Republic) 5*@
Marek Ujček (RC Slovan Bratislava) New Cap
Head Coach: Pavel Lištván
http://slovan.rugby.cz/slovensko-vs-bosna-hercegovina
* Added to squad
@ Have played in all Slovak tests to date.
Bosnia Herzegovina
Not available
For complete lists of all Slovakia and of all Bosnia Herzegovina test results, go to www.rugbyinternational.net
Slovakia v Bosnia Herzegovina (ENC 3D)
Preview
ENC Divison 3D is the only level of European international rugby that does not qualify for 2011 Rugby World Cup qualification. The incentive is to be the leading side after 2 rounds (2 seasons) and thus be able to be in the World Cup qualifying rounds for 2015.
At this early stage Bosnia Herzegovina, relegated from ENC 3C, look to be way out in front. Their 52-5 win over Monaco, away, back in October, confirmed that. This is their second away game and , provided they can travel with much the same squad that went to Monaco, they should win again.
Slovakia lost to Cyprus 8-38 last year in Cyprus and Cyprus had earlier defeated Monaco 19-10 to give some idea of Slovakia's strength. Most of Slovakia's players either play for the only club in Bratislava or for Czech clubs over the border but they will find the Bosnians too slick.
This is the first time these two teams have met.
GWC Rugby Rankings: Europe Table-Bosnia Herzegovina 38th, Slovakia 40th
Prediction: Bosnia Herzegovina by 40 points.
Teams
Slovakia Squad
Martin Čmiel (RC Havířov, Czech Republic) 2 tests
Ondřej Hankovski (Sokol Mariánské Hory, Czech Rep.) 4
Richard Hladík (Lokomotiva Olomouc, Czech Rep.) New Cap
David Hughes (RC Slovan Bratislava) 3
Richard Januš (RC Lokomotiva Olomouc, Czech Rep.) 3
Jan Klokner (Sokol Mariánské Hory, Czech Rep.) 3
Patrik Kovacs (RC Havířov, Czech Republic) New Cap
Pavel Kozubík (RC Havířov, Czech Republic) 3
Petr Kozubík (RC Havířov, Czech Republic) 3
Josef Kučera (RK Petrovice, Czech Republic) 1
Michal Kučera (Náměšť na Hané, Czech Republic) 1
Tomáš Kurka (RC Lokomotiva Olomouc, Czech Rep.) 3
Martin Majovský (RC Slovan Bratislava) 2
Marcel Mana (Lokomotiva Olomouc, Czech Rep.) 5@
Jan Mandičák (RK Petrovice) New Cap
Martin Mihálik (RC Slovan Bratislava) 1
Viktor Ondroušek (RC Jimi Vyškov, Czech Republic) 5@
Patrik Poledna (Náměšť na Hané, Czech Republic) 4
Daniel Puha (RC Slovan Bratislava) 4
Anthony Puverle (RC Slovan Bratislava) 5@
Jaroslav Stoklásek (RC Zlín, Czech Republic) 5*@
Marek Ujček (RC Slovan Bratislava) New Cap
Head Coach: Pavel Lištván
http://slovan.rugby.cz/slovensko-vs-bosna-hercegovina
* Added to squad
@ Have played in all Slovak tests to date.
Bosnia Herzegovina
Not available
For complete lists of all Slovakia and of all Bosnia Herzegovina test results, go to www.rugbyinternational.net
Test Rugby This Weekend 15 November
15.11.2008
New Zealand v Ireland in Dublin
South Africa v Scotland at Murrayfield
France v Pacific Islands in Marseilles
Australia v England at Twickenham
Argentina v Italy in Turin
Spain v Germany in Madrid (WCQ Europe R1; ENC 1)
China Taipei v Sri Lanka in Tainan (Asia Nations 1)
Czech Republic v Poland in Ostrava (WCQ Euro. R2; ENC 2A)
Lithuania v Switzerland in Kaunus (WCQ Europe R4; ENC 3A)
Israel v Bulgaria in Pernik (WCQ Europe R5; ENC 3C)
Slovakia v Bosnia Herzegovina in Bratislava (ENC 3D)
New Zealand v Ireland in Dublin
South Africa v Scotland at Murrayfield
France v Pacific Islands in Marseilles
Australia v England at Twickenham
Argentina v Italy in Turin
Spain v Germany in Madrid (WCQ Europe R1; ENC 1)
China Taipei v Sri Lanka in Tainan (Asia Nations 1)
Czech Republic v Poland in Ostrava (WCQ Euro. R2; ENC 2A)
Lithuania v Switzerland in Kaunus (WCQ Europe R4; ENC 3A)
Israel v Bulgaria in Pernik (WCQ Europe R5; ENC 3C)
Slovakia v Bosnia Herzegovina in Bratislava (ENC 3D)
Test Rugby This Weekend: 16 November
16.11.2008
Japan v United States in Nagoya
Moldova v Belgium in Chisinau (WCQ Europe R2; ENC 2A)
Japan v United States in Nagoya
Moldova v Belgium in Chisinau (WCQ Europe R2; ENC 2A)
Test Rugby Results
14.11.2008
Scotland 'A' 69, Georgia 3
What a huge disappointment. This was a mismatch in the end. Who is to blame?
Wales 34, Canada 13
More fight from Canada, more questions than answers for Wales?
Scotland 'A' 69, Georgia 3
What a huge disappointment. This was a mismatch in the end. Who is to blame?
Wales 34, Canada 13
More fight from Canada, more questions than answers for Wales?
Friday, November 14, 2008
Test Rugby: Canada v Wales
14.11.2008
Canada v Wales in Cardiff
Previews
Will Canada get a respite against a second string Welsh side on Saturday? I suspect not. There are a number of Welsh players itching to make it into the Welsh side that will face New Zealand a week later. Canada has stuck mostly with the team that were washed away by the Irish last week. Surely they cannot play that poorly again.
Previous Encounters
09.09.2007 Wales 42-17 in Nantes (World Cup, Pool B)
17.11.2006 Wales 61-26 in Cardiff
11.06.2005 Wales 60-3 in Toronto
12.10.2003 Wales 41-10 in Melbourne (World Cup, Pool D)
16.11.2002 Wales 32-21 in Cardiff
GWC Rugby Rankings: World Table-Wales 4th, Canada 17th
Prediction: Wales by 29 points
Teams
Wales
15 Morgan Stoddart (Llanelly Scarlets) Age 23, 2 Tests
14 Leigh Halfpenny (Cardiff Blues) 19, 1
13 Thomas Shanklin (Cardiff Blues) 29, 54
12 Andrew Bishop (Neath Swansea Ospreys) 23, 1
11 Mark Jones (Llanelli Scarlets) 29, 41
10 James Hook (Neath Swansea Ospreys) 23, 27
9 Martin Roberts (Neath Swansea Ospreys) 22, New Cap
8 Ryan Jones, Capt. (Neath Swansea Ospreys) 28, 23
7 Robin Sowden-Taylor (Cardiff Blues) 26, 5
6 Dafydd Jones (Llanelly Scarlets) 28, 31
5 Luke Charteris (Newport Gwent Dragons) 25, 7
4 Ian Gough (Neath Swansea Ospreys) 32, 53
3 Rhys Thomas (Newport Gwent Dragons) 26, 5
2 Richard Hibbard (Neath Swansea Ospreys) 25, 6
1 John Yapp (Cardiff Blue) 25, 8
Replacements
16 Matthew Rees (Llanelly Scarlets) 28, 20
17 Eifion Lewis-Roberts (Sale Sharks) 27, New Cap
18 Alun-Wyn Jones (Neath Swansea Ospreys) 23, 24
19 Andy Powell (Cardiff Blues) 27, 1
20 Dwayne Peel (Sale Sharks, England) 27, 62
21 Dan Biggar (Neath Swansea Ospreys) 19, New cap
22 James Roberts (Cardiff Blues) 21, 4
Head Coach: Warren Gatland
Yapp last played for Wales v Argentina, June 2006.
Canada
15 James Pritchard (Bedford Blues, England) Aged 27, 22 tests
14 Ciaran Hearn (Castaway Wanderers) 22, 1
13 Bryn Keys Bryn Keys (Velox Valhallians) 22, 3
12 Ryan Smith (Calgary Irish) 28, 38
11 Justin Mensah-Coker (Plymouth Albion, England) 24, 11
10 Ander Monro (Colorno, Italy) 26, 10
9 Edward Fairhurst (Cornish Pirates, England) 29, 38
8 Aaron Carpenter (Cowichan RFC) 24, 18
7 Adam Kleeberger (University of Victoria) 24, 13
6 Jebb Sinclair (Castaway Wanderers) 22, 2
5 Joshua Jackson (Bordeaux Begles, France) 27, 19
4 Tyler Hotson (Northern Suburbs RFC, Australia) 23, 3
3 Jon Thiel (Bayside Sharks) 33, 43
2 Patrick Riordan, Capt. (University of Victoria) 28, 19
1 Kevin Tkachuk (Glasgow Warriors, Scotland) 31, 41
Replacements
16 Michael Pletch (Velox Valhallians) 25, 18
17 Frank Walsh (Vandals RFC) 31, 2
18 Michael Burak (Cornish Pirates, England) 27, 16
19 Sean Michael Stephen (Plymouth Albion, England) 25, 14
20 Morgan Williams (James Bay Athletic Association) 32, 54
21 Matthew Evans (Hartpury College, England) 20, 1
22 Dean Van Camp (Velox Valhallians) 25, 6
Head Coach: Kieran Crowley
For full lists of all Wales, and of Canada's international rugby tests go to http://www.rugbyinternational.net/
Canada v Wales in Cardiff
Previews
Will Canada get a respite against a second string Welsh side on Saturday? I suspect not. There are a number of Welsh players itching to make it into the Welsh side that will face New Zealand a week later. Canada has stuck mostly with the team that were washed away by the Irish last week. Surely they cannot play that poorly again.
Previous Encounters
09.09.2007 Wales 42-17 in Nantes (World Cup, Pool B)
17.11.2006 Wales 61-26 in Cardiff
11.06.2005 Wales 60-3 in Toronto
12.10.2003 Wales 41-10 in Melbourne (World Cup, Pool D)
16.11.2002 Wales 32-21 in Cardiff
GWC Rugby Rankings: World Table-Wales 4th, Canada 17th
Prediction: Wales by 29 points
Teams
Wales
15 Morgan Stoddart (Llanelly Scarlets) Age 23, 2 Tests
14 Leigh Halfpenny (Cardiff Blues) 19, 1
13 Thomas Shanklin (Cardiff Blues) 29, 54
12 Andrew Bishop (Neath Swansea Ospreys) 23, 1
11 Mark Jones (Llanelli Scarlets) 29, 41
10 James Hook (Neath Swansea Ospreys) 23, 27
9 Martin Roberts (Neath Swansea Ospreys) 22, New Cap
8 Ryan Jones, Capt. (Neath Swansea Ospreys) 28, 23
7 Robin Sowden-Taylor (Cardiff Blues) 26, 5
6 Dafydd Jones (Llanelly Scarlets) 28, 31
5 Luke Charteris (Newport Gwent Dragons) 25, 7
4 Ian Gough (Neath Swansea Ospreys) 32, 53
3 Rhys Thomas (Newport Gwent Dragons) 26, 5
2 Richard Hibbard (Neath Swansea Ospreys) 25, 6
1 John Yapp (Cardiff Blue) 25, 8
Replacements
16 Matthew Rees (Llanelly Scarlets) 28, 20
17 Eifion Lewis-Roberts (Sale Sharks) 27, New Cap
18 Alun-Wyn Jones (Neath Swansea Ospreys) 23, 24
19 Andy Powell (Cardiff Blues) 27, 1
20 Dwayne Peel (Sale Sharks, England) 27, 62
21 Dan Biggar (Neath Swansea Ospreys) 19, New cap
22 James Roberts (Cardiff Blues) 21, 4
Head Coach: Warren Gatland
Yapp last played for Wales v Argentina, June 2006.
Canada
15 James Pritchard (Bedford Blues, England) Aged 27, 22 tests
14 Ciaran Hearn (Castaway Wanderers) 22, 1
13 Bryn Keys Bryn Keys (Velox Valhallians) 22, 3
12 Ryan Smith (Calgary Irish) 28, 38
11 Justin Mensah-Coker (Plymouth Albion, England) 24, 11
10 Ander Monro (Colorno, Italy) 26, 10
9 Edward Fairhurst (Cornish Pirates, England) 29, 38
8 Aaron Carpenter (Cowichan RFC) 24, 18
7 Adam Kleeberger (University of Victoria) 24, 13
6 Jebb Sinclair (Castaway Wanderers) 22, 2
5 Joshua Jackson (Bordeaux Begles, France) 27, 19
4 Tyler Hotson (Northern Suburbs RFC, Australia) 23, 3
3 Jon Thiel (Bayside Sharks) 33, 43
2 Patrick Riordan, Capt. (University of Victoria) 28, 19
1 Kevin Tkachuk (Glasgow Warriors, Scotland) 31, 41
Replacements
16 Michael Pletch (Velox Valhallians) 25, 18
17 Frank Walsh (Vandals RFC) 31, 2
18 Michael Burak (Cornish Pirates, England) 27, 16
19 Sean Michael Stephen (Plymouth Albion, England) 25, 14
20 Morgan Williams (James Bay Athletic Association) 32, 54
21 Matthew Evans (Hartpury College, England) 20, 1
22 Dean Van Camp (Velox Valhallians) 25, 6
Head Coach: Kieran Crowley
For full lists of all Wales, and of Canada's international rugby tests go to http://www.rugbyinternational.net/
Test Rugby: Georgia v Scotland 'A'
14.11.2008
Georgia v Scotland 'A'
Preview
This will be Georgia's first visit to Scotland and the first time they have ever played a Scottish XV.
Although this match is being played in the 'Window of November' (try explaining that to a soccer fan!) word has it that Georgia will not be able to call upon some of their top French-based players because Scotland 'A' is not actually a full test side.
I would have thought a test match is a test match. It doesn't seem right to me. What are your views?
Prediction: Scotland 'A' by 2 points.
Teams
Scotland 'A'
15 Ruaridh Jackson (Glasgow Warriors)
14 Nikki Walker (Neath Swansea Ospreys, Wales) *
13 Max Evans (Glasgow Warriors)
12 Rob Dewey (Ulster, Ireland)*
11 Mark Robertson (Edinburgh)
10 Gordon Ross (Saracens, England)*
9 Mark McMillan (Glasgow Warriors)
8 Johnnie Beattie (Glasgow Warriors)
7 Kelly Brown (Glasgow Warriors)
6 Richie Vernon (Glasgow Warriors)
5 Alastair Kellock, Capt. (Glasgow Warriors)
4 Craig Hamilton (Edinburgh)*
3 Geoff Cross (Edinburgh)
2 Phil Fitzgerald (Toulon, France)
1 Ed Kalman (Glasgow Warriors)
Replacements
16 Andrew Kelly (Edinburgh)
17 Gavin Kerr (Edinburgh)*
18 Dan Turner (Glasgow Warriors)
19 Scott Newlands (Edinburgh)
20 Colin Gregor (Glasgow Warriors)
21 Andrew Henderson (Glasgow Warriors)*
22 Simon Webster (Edinburgh)*
Head Coach:
* Scottish internationals. Henderson and Kerr have both played 50 or more tests.
Thanks to http://www.fira-aer-rugby.com/forum2007/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=2784&st=0&sk=t&sd=a&start=150
Georgia
15 Otar Barkalaia (Figerac, France) Age 24, 33 tests
14 Irakli Chkhikvadze (Aia) 21, 10
13 Sandro Todua (Lelo) 21, 6
12 Davit Katcharava (Enisey-STM-Krasnoyarsk) 23, 20
11 Irakli Machkhaneli (Agen, France) 27, 27
10 Lasha Malaghuradze (Kochebi) 22, 9
9 Irakli Abusseridze, Capt. (Orleans, France) 31, 53
8 Dimitri Bassilaia (ASM Clermont-Auvergne, France) 23, 6
7 Besso Udessiani (Chalon, France) 29, 33
6 Rati Urushadze (Enisey-STM-Krasnoyarsk) 33, 30
5 Kakha Uchava (Farul Constanta, Romania) 32, 10
4 Ilia Zedguinidze (Auch, France) 31, 48
3 Guram Kavtidze, (Lyon, France) New Cap
2 Irakli Natriashvili (Farul Constanta, Romania) 25, 11
1 Davit Gasviani (Bobigny, France) 27, 11
Replacements
16 Davit Dadunashvili (Massy, France) 26, 20
17 Vassil Kakovini (University) ?, New Cap
18 Shalva Sutiashvili (Massy, France) 24, 9
19 Simon Maissuradze (ASM Clermont-Auvergne, Fr.) 22, 7
20 Bidzina Samkharadze (Farul Constanta, Romania) 25, 34
21 Merab Kvirikashvili (Pau, France) 25, 28
22 Guiorgui Shkinini (Khuligana) 25, 30
Head Coach: Tim Lane
http://www.fira-aer-rugby.com/forum2007/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=2784&st=0&sk=t&sd=a&start=165
Zedguinidze was a late call up. He last played for Georgia v Ireland at the 2007 Rugby World Cup in France, after which he retired.
For complete lists of all test matches played by Scotland, Scotland XV's and Georgia go to http://www.rugbyinternational.net/
Georgia v Scotland 'A'
Preview
This will be Georgia's first visit to Scotland and the first time they have ever played a Scottish XV.
Although this match is being played in the 'Window of November' (try explaining that to a soccer fan!) word has it that Georgia will not be able to call upon some of their top French-based players because Scotland 'A' is not actually a full test side.
I would have thought a test match is a test match. It doesn't seem right to me. What are your views?
Prediction: Scotland 'A' by 2 points.
Teams
Scotland 'A'
15 Ruaridh Jackson (Glasgow Warriors)
14 Nikki Walker (Neath Swansea Ospreys, Wales) *
13 Max Evans (Glasgow Warriors)
12 Rob Dewey (Ulster, Ireland)*
11 Mark Robertson (Edinburgh)
10 Gordon Ross (Saracens, England)*
9 Mark McMillan (Glasgow Warriors)
8 Johnnie Beattie (Glasgow Warriors)
7 Kelly Brown (Glasgow Warriors)
6 Richie Vernon (Glasgow Warriors)
5 Alastair Kellock, Capt. (Glasgow Warriors)
4 Craig Hamilton (Edinburgh)*
3 Geoff Cross (Edinburgh)
2 Phil Fitzgerald (Toulon, France)
1 Ed Kalman (Glasgow Warriors)
Replacements
16 Andrew Kelly (Edinburgh)
17 Gavin Kerr (Edinburgh)*
18 Dan Turner (Glasgow Warriors)
19 Scott Newlands (Edinburgh)
20 Colin Gregor (Glasgow Warriors)
21 Andrew Henderson (Glasgow Warriors)*
22 Simon Webster (Edinburgh)*
Head Coach:
* Scottish internationals. Henderson and Kerr have both played 50 or more tests.
Thanks to http://www.fira-aer-rugby.com/forum2007/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=2784&st=0&sk=t&sd=a&start=150
Georgia
15 Otar Barkalaia (Figerac, France) Age 24, 33 tests
14 Irakli Chkhikvadze (Aia) 21, 10
13 Sandro Todua (Lelo) 21, 6
12 Davit Katcharava (Enisey-STM-Krasnoyarsk) 23, 20
11 Irakli Machkhaneli (Agen, France) 27, 27
10 Lasha Malaghuradze (Kochebi) 22, 9
9 Irakli Abusseridze, Capt. (Orleans, France) 31, 53
8 Dimitri Bassilaia (ASM Clermont-Auvergne, France) 23, 6
7 Besso Udessiani (Chalon, France) 29, 33
6 Rati Urushadze (Enisey-STM-Krasnoyarsk) 33, 30
5 Kakha Uchava (Farul Constanta, Romania) 32, 10
4 Ilia Zedguinidze (Auch, France) 31, 48
3 Guram Kavtidze, (Lyon, France) New Cap
2 Irakli Natriashvili (Farul Constanta, Romania) 25, 11
1 Davit Gasviani (Bobigny, France) 27, 11
Replacements
16 Davit Dadunashvili (Massy, France) 26, 20
17 Vassil Kakovini (University) ?, New Cap
18 Shalva Sutiashvili (Massy, France) 24, 9
19 Simon Maissuradze (ASM Clermont-Auvergne, Fr.) 22, 7
20 Bidzina Samkharadze (Farul Constanta, Romania) 25, 34
21 Merab Kvirikashvili (Pau, France) 25, 28
22 Guiorgui Shkinini (Khuligana) 25, 30
Head Coach: Tim Lane
http://www.fira-aer-rugby.com/forum2007/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=2784&st=0&sk=t&sd=a&start=165
Zedguinidze was a late call up. He last played for Georgia v Ireland at the 2007 Rugby World Cup in France, after which he retired.
For complete lists of all test matches played by Scotland, Scotland XV's and Georgia go to http://www.rugbyinternational.net/
Thursday, November 13, 2008
Rugby Test: Asia Nations: Singapore 23, China Taipei 22
Chinese Taipei defenders Wang Jen-Hsi (white & blue jersey left) and Wang Kuo-Feng (white & blue jersey right) try to bring down Singapore winger Jonathon Chen intoday's HSBC Asian Five Nations Division I Tournament in Tainan, Chinese Taipei. Singapore won today's match 23 - 22 after a last second try.HSBC Asian Five Nations Division I
Singapore Survive Second Scare
From Sean Moore
13.11.2008
13.11.2008
Singapore 23, China Taipei 22
Singapore have survived a second scare to become the comeback side in the HSBC Asian Five Nations Division I Tournament after edging hosts Chinese Taipei with a last minute try to win the second match of the round robin tournament today in Tainan.
The win comes less than 48 hours after Singapore clawed back a draw against Sri Lanka with another 40th minute try in the opening match of the Asian Five Nations Division I Tournament played on Tuesday night, 11 November.
Nearly 400 fans were treated to another thriller today as both teams exchanged scores in perfect conditions. At the outset, Singapore looked as if they were still suffering from the effects of their Tuesday night heroics, as they conceded a try to Chinese Taipei from the kick-off through veteran centre Wu Chih-Chien. The try was not converted giving Chinese Taipei a 5 – nil lead. But Singapore bounced back, turning the tables with some consistent pressure on the Chinese Taipei defence for the second ten minutes of the first half. Despite the steady pressure, Chinese Taipei held the visitors to two penalties to bring the score to Singapore 6 – Chinese Taipei 5.
The Guinness Singapore Rugby Lions soon reverted to its successful game plan of earlier in the week, looking to the forward pack to make the hard yards and wear down Chinese Taipei’s consistent defensive line. In the 31st minute good interplay between the back row of No. 8 Ben Wheeler and flankers Andrew Bennett and Rong Jing Xiang opened up a gap for centre Daniel Thiam who further penetrated the defence before popping up to full-back Gareth Pritchard who crossed over for Singapore’s first try. The conversion by fly half John Forrester was successful, bringing the score to 13 – 5 Singapore.
Just five minutes later Chinese Taipei’s pacey backline finally found some breathing room amongst the Singapore defence, as centre Wang Jen-Hsi beautifully wrong-footed the opposition before dishing to winger Wang Kuo-Feng who crossed the line and moved behind the posts before touching down. The conversion was good bringing the score at halftime to 13 – 12 Singapore.
After a slow start to the second half by both teams, Chinese Taipei drew first blood through sharp centre Wang Jen-Hsi who successfully chased down an up and under that was bobbled by Singapore full back Pritchard. Wang picked up beautifully and finished off untouched from the 22-metre line. The successful conversion by fly half Chang Wei-Cheng put Chinese Taipei in the lead 19 – 13.
After a slow start to the second half by both teams, Chinese Taipei drew first blood through sharp centre Wang Jen-Hsi who successfully chased down an up and under that was bobbled by Singapore full back Pritchard. Wang picked up beautifully and finished off untouched from the 22-metre line. The successful conversion by fly half Chang Wei-Cheng put Chinese Taipei in the lead 19 – 13.
Long passages of play resumed before Singapore broke the impasse with another penalty through Forrester to bring the score to 19 – 16 in favour of the hosts. Frustration seeped in on both sides with two yellow cards being awarded in the 34th and 36th minute to Chinese Taipei hooker Chiu Po-Chih and Singapore fly half Forrester respectively. After Forrester was sent to the bin, Chinese Taipei kicked drop goal through fly half Chang Wei-Cheng to bring the score to 22 – 16 and seemingly put the game out of reach.
But in a replay of their last minute comeback from Match I, Singapore again rallied to drive the ball down field before hooker Gaspar Tan plunged over the line to bring the score to 22 – 21 Chinese Taipei. With Singapore’s fly-half and first choice kicker in the bin, the duties were left to Singapore centre Mohammed Ismail who calmly slotted his kick from the 22 to edge Singapore into the lead for good, 23 – 22.
The victory sees the Guinness Singapore Rugby Lions exit the HSBC Asian Five Nations Division I Tournament undefeated with a record of one win and one draw. Singapore’s tops the table with 8 points (5 points from a win and 3 points from their earlier draw). Sri Lanka lies in second place with 3 points from their draw versus Singapore. The hosts Chinese Taipei are in third place with 1 point, the result of a bonus point for losing by seven points or less.
In case of a tie on the Tournament table, (and in light of the previous draw between Singapore and Sri Lanka), the winner will be determined by points differential, then tries differential, most tries, most converted tries, most points scored and the least amount of first yellow and then red cards. If the table is still drawn a winner will be determined by the toss of a coin.
Sri Lanka now meets Chinese Taipei in the last match of the HSBC Asian Five Nations Tournament on Saturday, 15 November 2008, at 3.00pm. The winner of the Division I Tournament earns automatic promotion to the elite HSBC Asian Five Nations Top 5 competition alongside reigning champions Japan, as well as Korea, Hong Kong and Kazakhstan. The Top 5 competition is a Home and Away series that takes place every weekend from the last week of April through May 2009.
Test Rugby: Slovenia 18, Austria 9, with pics
Austria's ball with Slovenian defence moving in, from left, Potnik, Kos, Zavrsan, Sambol, Duh and Krsmanovic, with Miljus on the deck.
Gobec high after the ball.
Slovenia attacking: From left Djuratovic, Miljus, Magusar, Jovic and No.14 Kos. Photos and info from Alexander Jug. View his excellent blog on Slovenian rugby at http://www.slo-rugby.com
Slovenia has now collected its third victory in ENC 3B with this win. Are they looking at moving up another level at the end of 2010? Are they that good? Post your opinion on this result. If you were at the game what are your post match thoughts?
Slovenia has now collected its third victory in ENC 3B with this win. Are they looking at moving up another level at the end of 2010? Are they that good? Post your opinion on this result. If you were at the game what are your post match thoughts?
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