TEST RUGBY THIS SATURDAY

24.05.2014
Korea v Philippines in Makati (Asia Five Nations)
Chile v Argentina in Santiago (CONSUR Cup)
Germany v Russia in Hamburg (WCQ Europe R5 Playoff)
Trinidad & Tobago v Barbados in Port of Spain (Caribb. Champ., South League)
Swaziland v Lesotho in Maruso (Friendly)

Briefly
There will be an interesting battle between Korea and Philippines. Whilst the Philippines defeated Sri Lanka away by one point last weekend, and as a result they would have grounds for some optimism, it would be a brave soul to not predict a Korean win.

At steak is a place in the 2015 Asian Elite rugby competition which will feature and home-away series involving Asia three top teams. At the moment Japan is No.1 followed by Hong Kong. Korea is favoured to be the third nation. The game be a close encounter in stages but I just can’t see the Philippines overpowering the Koreans.

Prediction: Korea by 20 points.

Argentina should not experiences any scary moments in their game against Chile. The Chileans have not performed well in 2014 and although playing away from home the Jaguars (well in effect Argentina ‘A’) should have no problems.

Prediction: Argentina by 35 points

The Germany-Russia clash is covered elsewhere on this blog.

Barbados lost 19-48 to Guyana at home last weekend and now have to travel to Trindad for a showdown with the local side. Last year they lost this game at home 6-19 so it will be an uphill struggle for the Barbadians.

Prediction: Trinidad and Tobago by 26 points.

Will it be played? After a number of postponnements, the match awaited Lesotho-Swaziland return game should be played today in Maruso. I’d expect the home side to win a good struggle.

Prediction: Swaziland by 10 points.