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
Friday, June 12, 2009
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.
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