Test Rugby: Bledisloe Cup

18.09.2009
Australia v New Zealand in Wellington

Venue: Westpac Stadium

Referee: Craig Joubert (South Africa)

Preview
Well the Tri Nations title is not at stake in this test match. South Africa has already walked off with that Trophy. That being the case what really is the point of this game? Aaha! Funny old game this. There is always something at stake in this grand game of rugby, especially at the international level. And this game is no exception.

Firstly, there is the wooden spoon. If Australia win, this their 500th test match, they avoid last place in the Tri Nations competition for 2009. That dubious honour will go to..er..New Zealand? Surely not! Unthinkable! Wash your mouth out!

Then there are the coaching jobs. Being a coach at the international level is probably like being on a merry-go-round that could stop and bump you off at any point of the journey. Both coaches have had a rocky season. And one of them has been put on notice by his bosses.

Robbie Deans looks to be the most secure of the two. That 21-6 win over South Africa, a result which propelled Australia to the top of the GWC Rugby Rankings, saw his team dominate up front, an area of weakness in the team prior. That game saw a young team finally come of age. That gives the Aussies the edge. But lets see what might happen if they lose, and more importantly how they lose. The knives that were out among the Aussie media and the fans only an unhappy month ago may only have been partly sheathed and they'll emerge at the slightest stumble.

Is Robbie Deans on the up and up? Image thanks to www.rugby.com.au

Graham Henry and his team are on the back foot. New Zealand CEO Steve Tew has announced that the present All Black coaching team's performance will be under review at the end of this Tri Nation's series. The word is that most New Zealand rugby fans would be happy to see Henry go. With only two years to go until the Rugby World Cup, now, and only now, could changes be made. If the All Blacks lose it will be their third loss at home in a row, a situation that has never happened before. Oh dear! I can feel the pressure way over here in Australia! That would be a black day indeed and Henry and his coaching team will surely be asked to leave.

Is Graham Henry on his way out? Image thanks to www.allblacks.com

Australia has not made any changes to their starting line up that successfully defeated South Africa two weeks ago. New Zealand has made five changes, most of them in the forwards. Enough said.

Last Five Encounters
22.08.2009 New Zealand 19-18 in Sydney (Bledisloe Cup and Tri Nations)
18.07.2009 New Zealand 22-16 in Auckland (Bledisloe Cup and Tri Nations)
01.11.2008 New Zealand 19-14 in Hong Kong (Bledisloe Cup)
13.09.2008 New Zealand 28-24 in Brisbane (Bledisloe Cup and Tri Nations)
12.08.2008 New Zealand 39-10 in Auckland (Bledisloe Cup & Tri Nations)

New Zealand has dominated Australia since July 2008, winning all last five encounters. Is this about to change?

GWC Rugby Rankings: Australia 1st, New Zealand 3rd

Prediction: Australia by 3, and New Zealand heads into gloom, Henry is sacked, New Zealand rebuild in time to take the 2011 Rugby World Cup.

Teams

New Zealand
15 Mils Muliaina, 14 Cory Jane, 13 Isaia Toeava, 12 Ma'a Nonu, 11 Joe Rokocoko, 10 Dan Carter, 9 Jimmy Cowan, 8 Kieran Read, 7 Richie McCaw (captain), 6 Adam Thomson, 5 Tom Donnelly, 4 Brad Thorn, 3 Neemia Tialata, 2 Andrew Hore, 1 Tony Woodcock.
Replacements: 16 Aled de Malmanche, 17 John Afoa, 18 Jason Eaton, 19 Rodney So'oialo, 20 Brendon Leonard, 21 Stephen Donald, 22 Hosea Gear.
Head Coach: Graham Henry

Australia
15 James O'Connor, 14 Lachie Turner, 13 Adam Ashley-Cooper, 12 Berrick Barnes, 11 Drew Mitchell, 10 Matt Giteau, 9 Will Genia, 8 George Smith (c), 7 David Pocock, 6 Rocky Elsom, 5 Mark Chisholm, 4 James Horwill, 3 Ben Alexander, 2 Tatafu Polota-Nau, 1 Benn Robinson.
Replacements: 16 Stephen Moore, 17 Pek Cowan, 18 Dean Mumm, 19 Wycliff Palu, 20 Luke Burgess, 21 Quade Cooper, 22 Peter Hynes.
Head Coach: Robbie Deans

Test Rugby Result: Ukraine Take The Lead

12.09.2009
Ukraine 19, Poland 12 in Kiev (WCQ Europe R4; ENC 2A)

Review
The first half ended 0-0 after some dreadful goal kicking attempts by the Ukraine were unsuccessful. Poland scored a try early in the second half to lead 7-0. The Ukraine then took control to eventually lead 19-7 before Poland scored a late try. The win places the Ukraine at the top of the 2A table and now favoured to take the 2A title, to proceed to World Cup qualifying Round 4 finals and to take its place again in European Nations Cup Division 1 for 2010-12.

Ukraine - Poland - 19:12
Points: Hotovski (try) 45, (0:5), Krzhesinski (conversion) 46, (0:7), Yanchiy (try) 52 (5:7), Yanchiy (try) 65, (10:7), Masyukov (conversion) 65, (12:7), Sukhikh (try) 77, (17:7), Masyukov (conversion) 77, (19:7), Gargasson (try), 81 (19:12).

Thanks to http://www.rugby.org.ua/

Ukraine
Unavailable

Watch Video of Poland National Rugby Team

15.11.2008 Poland 13, Czech Republic 7 in Ostrava

10.05.2008 Poland 29, Malta 16 in Malta

I could not find any video of Ukraine national rugby team.

Tri Nations Rugby: New Zealand Are Out

12.09.2009
South Africa 32, New Zealand 29 in Hamilton (Tri Nations)

Review
New Zealand lost any hope of a Tri Nations title when they went down to South Africa in Hamilton. New Zealand needed to win, needed to gain a bonus point and needed to prevent South Africa gaining a bonus point. None of these things happened. New Zealand lost and South Africa won the Tri Nations Trophy.

New Zealand were down 12-29 at one stage but fought back well in the second half. The difference between these two teams? South Africa pounced on any mistakes made and New Zealand made most of the mistakes.

Next week the two old foes New Zealand and Australia square off for the Bledisloe Cup. The Tri Nations are done and dusted for 2009

South Africa captain John Smit, with a little help, holds up the Tri Nations Trophy
Image thanks to www.sarugby.co.za

Rugby Test Match: Crucial Tri Nations Game for New Zealand

12.09.2009
New Zealand v South Africa in Hamilton (Tri Nations)

Venue: Waikato Stadium

Preview
The Tri Nations equation-New Zealand must win this game against South Africa and the next, and win one with a bonus point, and not allow South Africa any bonus point in this match, to have any chance of taking the Tri Nations. Lose today and it will be all over for New Zealand.

South African coach Peter de Villiers is in hot water again after making some forgettable comments whilst based in Hamilton. To say there is a little feeling across the Tasman is an under statement! Perhaps this is how the coach motivates his charges. The South Africans will need some charging after their forgettable performance against Australia in Brisbane last weekend.

South Africa need to score four tries like this to shut All Blacks out of Tri Nations

From captain Smit being hoisted all over the set scrums to a general lack of urgency, the Springbox will need to lift their game considerably if they are to defeat a freshened All Black side.

New Zealand are missing a few key players. To cover injury they have moved Stephen Donald to second five-eight outside mystro Daniel Carter. Despite this the backline boasts more test caps than any previous backline. The constant change in backline combinations over the past year is not helping fluidity. The All Black forwards are raring to go but they could well meet a motivated pack South Africa pack that has, up to last Saturday, swept all before it.

Richie McCaw will need to lead the All Blacks to a convincing win. Image thanks to http://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/rugby/

Last Five Encounters
01.08.2009 South Africa 31-19 in Durban (Tri Nations)
25.07.2009 South Africa 28-19 in Bloemfontein (Tri Nations)
16.08.2008 New Zealand 19-0 in Capetown (Tri Nations)
12.07.2008 South Africa 30-28 in Dunedin (Tri Nations)
05.07.2008 New Zealand 19-8 in Wellington (Tri Nations)

GWC Rugby Rankings: World Table-South Africa 1st, New Zealand 2nd

Prediction: New Zealand by 2-No bonus points, so it will come down to NZ v Aussie next weekend.

Teams

New Zealand
15 Mils Muliaina, 14 Josevata Rokocoko, 13 Ma'a Nonu, 12 Stephen Donald, 11 Sitiveni Sivivatu, 10 Dan Carter, 9 Jimmy Cowan, 8 Kieran Read, 7 Richie McCaw (c), 6 Jerome Kaino, 5 Isaac Ross, 4 Brad Thorn, 3 Owen Franks, 2 Andrew Hore, 1 Tony Woodcock.
Replacements: 16 Aled de Malmanche, 17 John Afoa, 18 Adam Thomson, 19 Rodney So'oialo, 20 Brendon Leonard, 21 Isaia Toeava, 22 Cory Jane.
Head Coach: Graham Henry

South Africa
15 Frans Steyn, 14 Odwa Ndungane, 13 Jaque Fourie, 12 Jean de Villiers, 11 Bryan Habana, 10 Morné Steyn, 9 Fourie du Preez, 8 Pierre Spies, 7 Juan Smith, 6 Heinrich Brüssow, 5 Victor Matfield, 4 Bakkies Botha, 3 John Smit (captain), 2 Bismarck du Plessis, 1 Tendai Mtawarira.
Replacements: 16 Chiliboy Ralepelle, 17 Jannie du Plessis, 18 Danie Rossouw, 19 Schalk Burger, 20 Ricky Januarie, 21 Adi Jacobs, 22 Ruan Pienaar.
Head Coach: Peter De Villiers

Test Rugby.ENC Round 2 Begins

12.09.2009
Poland v Ukraine in Kiev (WCQ R4; ENC 2A)

Venue: Stadium Spartak

Live-Video On-line 16-00 LT(15-00 EUT) (14-00 GT) http://prl.org.ua/translations/
(Thanks to 'Zhulavskyy' http://www.fira-aer-rugby.com/forum2007/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=3195)

Preview
Round two of the European Nations Cup gets underway in Kiev, Saturday. Both Poland and Ukraine are contenders for the next round of World Cup qualification.

All teams in Division 2A will have to wait for the outcome of Division 2B. The winner of 2B will later play Lithuania who qualified from Round 3. The Round 4 final will be between the winner of the 2A division and the winner of 2B v Lithuania. But first we have to find a winner of 2A.

At the halfway stage of ENC 2A both Poland and Ukraine share top place with a loss and 3 wins each. Ukraine achieved a narrow 1 point win against Poland in Poland in the very first game in 2A in October last year. The scene is set for an opening game in Round 2 that could well decide the eventual division winner.

Poland has a long association with France. There are many Poles living in France. The Polish rugby team has drawn a number of France-based players into their squad for this game and the warm-up match, lost 9-38 against French regional side Roussillon.

Poland v Roussillon/foto: Krzysztof Lewandowski, www.rugby.info.pl/

The Ukraine does not the advantage of a pool of foreign-based players. Their team is based around champion club Olimpia with a sprinkling from other clubs, a player based in Russia and the other based in Tiraspol, the breakaway region of Moldova.

Some comments from FIRA-AER forum
"Some people think that having the national team with majority of players from a single club is an advantage, because the players know each other well. I don't think so however. Notably absent are any players from RC Obolon (Khmelnitsky), which is the national champion in Rugby-7 and could probably provide some quick backline runners." Rugger IA

Poland ENC 2A Round One Results
04.10.2008 v Ukraine in Lotz L 12-13
15.11.2008 v Czech Republic in Ostrava W 13-7
16.05.2009 v Moldova in Chisinau W 30-28
30.05.2009 v Belgium in Gdansk W 14-3

Ukraine 2A Round One Results
04.10.2008 v Poland in Lotz W 13-12
01.11.2008 v Belgium in Brussels L 8-9
21.03.2009 v Czech Republic in Odessa W 20-10
09.05.2009 v Moldova in Kiev W 32-0

Last Five Encounters Ukraine v Poland
04.10.2008 Poland 13-12 in Lotz (WCQ Euro.R4)
25.10.2003 Ukraine 24-13 in Lotz (ENC 2A)
19.10.2002 Poland 20-11 in Kiev (ENC 2A)
19.05.2001 Ukraine 9-3 in ? (FIRA B)
01.05.1999 Ukraine 37-18 in Kiev (FIRA Pool E)

GWC Rugby Rankings: Europe Table-Poland 13th, Ukraine 14th

Prediction: Poland by 2 points

Teams

Ukraine Squad
Vitaliy Dotsenko (RC Olymp-RSC KhTZ)
Serhiy Garkavy (RC Olymp-RSC KhTZ)
Vladyslav Grabovsky (RK Sokol)
Volodymyr Kashlyuk (RC Aviator)
Mykola Kirsanov (RC Olymp-RSC KhTZ)
Vadym Kolyshkyn (RC Olymp-RSC KhTZ)
Oleg Kosarev (RC Olymp-RSC KhTZ)
Vyacheslav Krasylnyk (RC Olymp-RSC KhTZ)
Maksym Kravchenko (RC Olymp-RSC KhTZ)
Oleksandr Lomakin (RC Olymp-RSC KhTZ)
Oleg Lytvynenko (RC Olymp-RSC KhTZ)
Oleksandr Lyubyy (RC Olymp-RSC KhTZ)
Dzhaba Malaguradze (RC Kredo 63)
Pavlo Masyukov (RCKredo-63)
Andriy Melnykov (RC Olymp-RSC KhTZ)
Dmytro Mokretsov (RK Sokol)
Oleksandr Myshynev (RC Olymp-RSC KhTZ)
Vadym Mysyk (Olimp-Electronmash, Tiraspol)
Vitaliy Orlov (Enisey-STM Krasnoyarsk, Russia)
Oleksandr Polyansky (RC Kredo 63)
Vyacheslav Ponomarkenko (RC Olymp-RSC KhTZ)
Serhiy Sukhykh (RC Olymp-RSC KhTZ)
Oleksandr Tsapenko (RC Olymp-RSC KhTZ)
Serhiy Tserkovny (RC Olymp-RSC KhTZ)
Maksym Tyurikov (RC Olymp-RSC KhTZ)
Serhiy Yanchyy (RC Aviator)
Vitaliy Zadvirny (RC Argo-NAU)
Ivan Zaliznyak (RC Olymp-RSC KhTZ)
Head Coach:

http://www.fira-aer-rugby.com/forum2007/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=3195

Poland Squad
Dawid Banaszek (Villeurbane, France)
Olivier Barbier (Maisons Laffite, France)
Aleksander Bartoszewicz (Orkan Sochaczew)
Romuald Berthe (Bobigny, France)
Kamil Bobryk (Epernay, France)
Jurij Bukhalo (Posnania Poznań)
Grzegorz Falk (Juvenia Kraków)
Donald Gargasson (Toulon, France)
Krzysztof Hotowski (Nevers, France)
Grzegorz Janiec (Lechia Gdańsk)
Piotr Jurkowski (Lechia Gdańsk)
Stanislas Krzesiński (Mazamet, France)
Kacper Ławski (Budowlani Łódź)
Yann Lewandowski (Cahors, France
Stanisław Niedźwiecki (Budowlani Lublin)
Tomasz Nowak (Posnania)
Eric Piorkowski (Castres, France)
Tomasz Rokicki (Lechia Gdańsk)
Bastien Siepielski (Marmand, France)
Tomasz Stępień (Budowlani Łódź)
Cedric Vaissiere (Albi, France)
Marcin Wilczuk (Ogniwo Sopot)

Head Coach: Tomasz Putra

http://www.pzrugby.pl/seniorzy.reprezentacja.html

Test Rugby: Australia Defeat South Africa

05.09.2009
Australia 21, South Africa 6 in Brisbane (Tri Nations)

In one of the biggest upsets of the season the Australian rugby team defeated South Africa 21-6 at Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane. The Australians played magnificently in all areas of play, effectively shutting out the Springbox with some brilliant defence and grand counter attack play. The Australians played with commitment and enthusiasm qualities lacking in previous games this season. It was the perfect 50th birthday gift for their coach Robbie Deans.

South Africa were in the hunt in the first half and were always within striking range during that spell. The second half belonged to Australia who scored two great tries and forced the Springbox into playing outside their comfort zone-having to spin the ball to create opportunities. But in doing this they also made mistakes and the final Australian try was scored because of such a mistake.

South Africa now move to New Zealand to play a test they must win to ensure they win the Tri Nations. If New Zealand win their next two games they take the Trophy. Suddenly a dead rubber has come alive. All eyes will be on Hamilton, New Zealand next weekend.

Australian captain George Smith had a magnificent day. Image thanks to http://www.rugby.com.au/

Test Match Rugby: Australia in Real Trouble

05.09.2009
Australia v South Africa in Brsibane (Tri Nations)

Australian rugby is in trouble following last week's loss to South Africa in Perth. Head Coach Robbie Deans as made some expected changes but those changes mean less experienced players are in for more experienced, although out of form, players. The lack of depth and experience in Australian rugby may well be cruelly exposed in Brisbane

Will Genia means a change at halfback for Australia but his inclusion adds to the number of very inexperienced Australia rugby test players.
Image thanks to http://www.rugby.com.au/qantas_wallabies/photo_galleries/2009/qantas_wallabies_v_springboks_2,133709.html

South Africa are at the top of their game. But Springbox captain John Smit believes that the winning margins on the field show that there isn't a great deal between the teams."You look at the points difference and the games played - the fact that we've won four - but there certainly is not that kind of difference on the field between the three teams. The three teams are still hosting the top three spots in world rugby and at any one stage we could have lost and we still can lose a game."

So, can Australia lift their performance for one last bash at the Springbox before the Aussies regroup. Australia will play against New Zealand in Wellington and again in Tokyo for the decider of the Bledisloe Cup. Then they head to Europe for tests against England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales for a Grand Slam tour.

For South Africa a comfortable win here will land the Tri Nations in their grasp. A win here will only leave New Zealand between South Africa and a first Tri Nations Grand Slam.

Experienced players like Victor Matfield over shadow the less experienced Wallabies.
Image thanks to http://www.sarugby.net/gallery.aspx?page=0&leagueid=&fixturescatid=&resultscatid=&vidcatid=&piccat=&statscatid=2,9&statsteam=South Africa&newscat=

Last Five Encounters
29.08.2009 South Africa 32-25 in Perth (Tri Nations)
08.08.2009 South Africa 27, Australia 19 in Capetwon (Tri Nations)
30.08.2008 South Africa 53, Australia 8 in Johannesburg (Tri Nations)
23.08.2008 Australia 27-15 in Durban (Tri Nations)
19.07.2008 Australia 16-9 in Perth (Tri Nations)

Last Five Tests in Brisbane
15.07.2006 Australia 49-0 (Tri Nations)
02.08.2003 Australia 29-9 (Tri Nations)
27.07.2002 Australia 38-27 (Tri Nations)
17.07.1999 Australia 32-6 (Tri Nations)
02.08.1997 Australia 32-20 (Tri Nations)

South Africa last won in Brisbane back in 1971 when they won 14-6

GWC Rugby Rankings: World Table-South Africa 1st, Australia 3rd

Prediction: South Africa by 12

Teams

Australia
15 James O'Connor, 14 Lachie Turner, 13 Adam Ashley-Cooper, 12 Berrick Barnes, 11 Drew Mitchell, 10 Matt Giteau, 9 Will Genia, 8 George Smith (capt), 7 David Pocock, 6 Rocky Elsom, 5 Mark Chisholm, 4 James Horwill, 3 Ben Alexander, 2 Tatafu Polota-Nau, 1 Benn Robinson.
Replacements: 16 Stephen Moore, 17 Pek Cowan, 18 Dean Mumm, 19 Wycliff Palu, 20 Luke Burgess, 21 Quade Cooper, 22 Peter Hynes.
Head Coach: Robbie Deans

South Africa
15 Ruan Pienaar, 14 Odwa Ndungane, 13 Jaque Fourie, 12 Jean de Villiers, 11 Bryan Habana, 10 Morne Steyn, 9 Fourie du Preez, 8 Pierre Spies, 7 Juan Smith, 6 Heinrich Brüssow, 5 Victor Matfield, 4 Bakkies Botha, 3 John Smit (c), 2 Bismarck du Plessis, 1 Tendai Mtawarira.
Replacements: 16 Chiliboy Ralepelle, 17 Jannie du Plessis, 18 Danie Rossouw, 19 Schalk Burger, 20 Ricky Januarie, 21 Adi Jacobs, 22 Frans Steyn .
Head Coach: Peter de Villiers

Rugby Test: France XV Too Good

02.09.2009
France XV 50, Brazil 6 in Embu (Friendly)

The touring French Federal team ended their Brazilian tour with a convincing win against the home side.

Image thanks to http://www.rugbymania.com.br/2009/ver_noticia08.asp?codigo=2452

Rugby Test: France XV Too Good for Brazil

The two teams prepare for the National anthems

29.08.2009
France XV 36, Brazil 3 in São Jose dos Campos (Friendly)

The touring France Amateur side won comfortably 36-3 against Brazil's national rugby team on Saturday.

Brazil win the ball at a ruck.

Images thanks to and full report at http://www.rugbymania.com.br/2009/ver_noticia08.asp?codigo=2428

Test Rugby Results 29 August

29.08.2009
South Africa 32, Australia 25 in Perth (Tri Nations)

After building a comfortable 22-6 lead at half time South Africa cruised to a win over Australia in Perth. The result knocks Australia out of trophy contention, whilst places a South African hand, and more, on the Trophy. South Africa's fourth try and bonus point will be vital if the outcome against New Zealand is a loss.

Uganda 18, Kenya 13 in Kampala (Elgon Cup, 2nd Leg)

Kernya went into this game with an eight point aggregate advantage so despite losing they retain the cup which is a symbol of rugby supremacy in East Africa.

International Test Rugby: South Africa on Trek

29.08.2009
South Africa v Australia in Perth (Tri Nations)

Venue: Subiaco Oval

Preview
Australia may be out of contention for the Tri Nations Trophy but they have pride to play for when they take on the South Africans in Perth.

South Africa needs only to win one of their three remaining test matches on this three test tour to Australasia to take the Trophy. South Africa does not usually travel well so the Kiwis will be watching keenly and will be hoping Australia can to them a big favour and win this test.

Australia has an uphill struggle without leading players Stirling Mortlock, Nathan Sharp and Berrick Barnes. Like New Zealand, their back-up players are struggling to cope with international rugby at this level. Coach Robbie Deans is rapidly running out of quality players to plug the gaps caused by injury.

Robbie Deans will again be under the spotlight if the Aussies under perform again
Photo thanks to www.planet-rugby.com

Last Five Encounters
08.08.2009 South Africa 27-19 in Capetown (Tri Nations)
20.08.2008 South Africa 53-8 in Johannesburg (Tri Nations)
23.08.2008 Australia 27-15 in Durban (Tri Nations)
19.07.2008 Australia 16-9 in Perth (Tri Nations)
07.07.2007 Australia 25-17 in Sydney (Tri Nations)

GWC Rugby Rankings: South Africa 1st, Australia 3rd

Prediction: South Africa by 9 points

Teams

Australia
15 James O'Connor, 14 Lachie Turner, 13 Ryan Cross, 12 Adam Ashley Cooper, 11 Peter Hynes, 10 Matt Giteau, 9 Luke Burgess, 8 Richard Brown, 7 George Smith (c), 6 Rocky Elsom, 5 Mark Chisholm, 4 James Horwill, 3 Ben Alexander, 2 Stephen Moore, 1 Benn Robinson.
Replacements: 16 Tatafu Polota Nau, 17 Al Baxter, 18 Dean Mumm, 19 David Pocock, 20 Will Genia, 21 Quade Cooper, 22 Drew Mitchell.
Head Coach: Robbie Deans

South Africa
15 Ruan Pienaar, 14 JP Pietersen, 13 Jaque Fourie, 12 Jean de Villiers, 11 Bryan Habana, 10 Morné Steyn, 9 Fourie du Preez, 8 Pierre Spies, 7 Juan Smith, 6 Heinrich Brüssow, 5 Victor Matfield, 4 Bakkies Botha, 3 John Smit (c), 2 Bismarck du Plessis, 1 Tendai Mtawarira.
Replacements: 16 Chiliboy Ralepelle, 17 Jannie du Plessis, 18 Andries Bekker, 19 Schalk Burger, 20 Ricky Januarie , 21 Adi Jacobs, 22 Frans Steyn.
Head Coach: Peter de Villiers

Test Rugby: Elgon Cup 2nd Leg

29.08.2009
Kenya v Uganda in Kampala (Elgon Cup, 2nd leg)

Venue:

Preview
Kenya travels to Kampala with an eight point advantage having won the first leg 30-22 in Nairobi two weeks ago. Kenya has not won in Kampala since 2005. Winning away between these two teams is very difficult to do.

Last Five Encounters
15.08.2009 Kenya 30-22 in Nairobi (Elgon Cup)
16.08.2008 Kenya 39-20 in Nairobi (Elgon Cup, 2nd leg)
24.05.2008 Uganda 20-3 in Kampala (Elgon Cup, 1st leg)
26.08.2007 Uganda 24-12 in Antananaviro (CAR Africa Cup, semi-final)
11.08.2007 Kenya 35-15 in Nairobi (Elgon Cup, 2nd leg)

GWC Rugby Rankings: Africa Table-Kenya 4th, Uganda 5th

Prediction: Uganda by 5 points

Teams
Neither team lists are available at this time

Test Match Rugby: France Amateur in Brazil

The French Amateur rugby selection, based on non-professional players from competition Federale 1, will play two friendly tests in Brazil against the home national side.

Brazil participated, earlier in the year, in the World Cup Qualifying rounds of America Zones, held in Chile and Uruguay. This competition was also for CONSUR A.
Results
25 April v Chile in Santiago Lost 3-79
29 April v Uruguay in Montevideo L 3-71
2 May v Paraguay in Montevideo W 36-21 (Not WCQ, CONSUR A only)

The Brazilian team celebrate after their 2008 victory over Trinidad-Tobago which allowed them to qualify for the World Cup Qualifying tournament in Montevideo 2009.

29.08.2009
France Amateur v Brazil at l’Estádio da ADC Parahyba, São Jose dos Campos

Prediction: France Amateur by 30 points

Teams

France Amateur Squad
Mehdi Ameur (ES Catalane)
Bertrand Artero (Carcassonne)
Guillaume August (US Tyrosse)
Benat Auzqui (Peyrehorade)
Fabio Da Silva (Villeurbanne)
Renaud Delmas (Périgueux)
Guillaume Dulay (Valence D’Agen)
Rémi Escudier (Périgueux)
Nicolas Frecaut (SO Chambéry)
Jean Gourdouze (Chateaurenard)
Baptiste Giacobbi (AC Bobigny)
Bertrand Igau (ES Argelès Gazost)
Régis Laborde (Marmande)
Jean-Baptiste Lafite (Périgueux)
Julien Lesgourgues (Tyrosse)
Christophe Marchand (Marmande)
Nicolas Mateos (Marmande)
Joris Matheron (Chateaurenard)
Sylvain Peguillan (Lavaur)
Simon Pinet (Orléans)
Guillaume Pszonak (Montluçon)
Clément Rivier (Stade Dijon)
Vincent Roitg (ES Catalane)
David Vaudaine (Marseille)
Richard Wild (USA Limoges)
Ludovic Zanni (Chateaurenard)

Head Caoch: Yves Ajac

Brazil Squad
Alejandro Arce (Desterro)
Fabio Bernardis (São José)
Erick Cogliandro (São José)
Rejes Comoretto (Desterro)
João Luis Da Ros (Desterro)
Gabriel Cristiano da Silva (Unibrasil/CRC)
Henrique Dantas (São José)
Rafael Dawailibi (São José)
Gregory Dornelles (San Diego)
André Fujita (São José)
Daniel Gregg (Niterói)
Danilo Lima (Rio Branco)
Diego Lopes (Pasteur)
Aleksander Lotto (SPAC)
Fernando Martins (São José)
Julian Menutti (Bandeirantes)
Ramiro Mina (Bandeirantes)
Julian Morales-Meletti (Pasteur)
Fernando Portugal (Bandeirantes)
Lucas Rodrigues Duque (São José)
Pedro Rosa (Bandeirantes)
Bruno Rossi (São José)
Leonardo Serrano (Bandeirantes)
Juan Tomas (Bandeirantes)
Felipe Zeni (Pasteur)

Head Coach: Pierre Paparemborde

Test Rugby Result: New Zealand defeats Australia-Just!

22.08.2009
New Zealand 19, Australia 18 in Sydney (Bledisloe Cup; Tri Nations)

Review
New Zealand defeated Australia 19-18 scoring a penalty goal only minutes from the end of this pulsating test match. Australia held a points advantage for most of the game. Ahead 12-3 at halftime they tackled the All Blacks relentlessly forcing many errors and turnovers. But the Aussies just didn't get enough possession to score a try.

New Zealand scored the only try mid-way through the second half and then held off a desperate last minute Australian attack that very nearly succeeded in producing a try. It was a great game of rugby full of action.

Test Rugby: Tri Nations Do or Die

22.08.2009
New Zealand v Australia in Sydney (Bledisloe Cup; Tri Nations)

Venue: Sydney

Preview
There is so much hinging on this test match. The team that losers will almost certainly bow out of any Tri Nations contentions. Also up for grabs is the Bledisloe Cup, the trophy that is the symbol of rugby rivalry between Australia and New Zealand.

Both Australia and New Zealand have been playing test rugby recently with their backs to the wall. The pressure is on for both teams to perform now that the half way point to the 2011 Rugby World Cup has been reached.

New Zealand is bringing Daniel Carter back into test rugby after a 10 month break mostly due to injury. The pressure will be on him to perform and to help turn the tide for this under performing All Black side. The pressure is also on head coach Graham Henry. Another loss would put real doubts in the minds of New Zealanders that this may not be the man to lead the All Blacks into a Rugby World Cup.

Australian coach Robbie Deans is also under pressure from the Australian press and Wallaby fans. Another loss and he will also be under the spotlight.

Last Five Encounters
18.07.2009 New Zealand 22-16 in Auckland (Bledisloe Cup, Tri Nations)
01.11.2008 New Zealand 19-14 in Hong Kong (Bledisloe Cup)
13.09.2008 New Zealand 28-24 in Brisbane (Bledisloe Cup, Tri Nations)
12.08.2008 New Zealand 39-10 in Auckland (Bledisloe Cup, Tri Nations)
26.07.2008 Australia 34-19 in Sydney (Bledisloe Cup, Tri Nations)

Last year Australia walked over the All Blacks in the Sydney test. New Zealand won the 2005 test in Sydney 30-13.

GWC Rugby Rankings: World Table-New Zealand 2nd, Australia 3rd
Oceania Table-New Zealand 1st, Australia 2nd

Prediction: New Zealand by 7

Teams

Australia
15 James O'Connor
14 Lachlan Turner
13 Adam Ashley-Cooper
12 Berrick Barnes
11 Drew Mitchell
10 Matt Giteau
9 Luke Burgess
8 Richard Brown
7 George Smith, Capt.,
6 Rocky Elsom
5 Nathan Sharpe
4 James Horwill
3 Alistair Baxter
2 Stephen Moore
1 Benn Robinson

Replacements
16 Tatafu Polota-Nau
17 Benjamin Alexander
18 Dean Mumm
19 David Pocock
20 William Genia
21 Ryan Cross
22 Peter Hynes
Head Coach: Robbie Deans

New Zealand
15 Mils Muliaina
14 Josevata Rokocoko
13 Conrad Smith
12 Luke McAlister
11 Sitiveni Sivivatu
10 Daniel Carter
9 James Cowan
8 Kieran Read
7 Richard McCaw, Capt.,
6 Jerome Kaino
5 Isaac Ross
4 Bradley Thorn
3 Owen Franks
2 Andrew Hore
1 Tony Woodcock

Replacements
16 Aled de Malmanche
17 John Afoa
18 Jason Eaton
19 Rodney So'oialo
20 Brendon Leonard
21 Stephen Donald
22 Ma'a Nonu
Head Coach: Graham Henry

Test Rugby: Elgon Cup Kenya v Uganda

15.08.2009
Kenya v Uganda in Nairobi (Elgin Cup, 1st leg)

Venue: Rugby Football Union of East Africa (RFUEA) grounds

Poster thanks to Fred Ollows, Kenya RFU.

Preview
The Elgon Cup is played for annually by Kenya and Uganda. Played over two legs, the team with the highest aggregate takes the Trophy. At present it is held by Kenya. Mt Elgon straddles the Kenya-Uganda border.

Strangely, this trophy is being played for after the main hustle and bustle of competitive African rugby. In the past the first leg was used as a warm-up to African Cup matches, with the second leg played later.

Last year Uganda qualified for the finals of both the World Cup African qualifiers and of the African Cup. In the final this year they faced Tunisia, for the first time, home and away, and were outclassed by their northern foes. Kenya failed to qualify last year and found themselves one tier lower than their western neighbours, playing for the 'African Trophy' in Safi, the Moroccan tourist resort. They lost 11-29 to Morocco in the final.

So neither Uganda nor Kenya come into this match with the heady reputations they built in 2005 and 2006. Both will be out to prove a point-supremacy of East African rugby. Kenya has fared better than Uganda in this tussle in the past, even when Uganda has been, as per 2008, superior in other aspects of African rugby. Much must be made of home ground advantage, a major factor in these test matches.

Kenya women play Uganda women in the curtain-raiser.

Previous Encounters
16.08.2008 Kenya 39-20 in Nairobi (Elgon Cup, 2nd leg)
24.05.2008 Uganda 20-3 in Kampala (Elgon Cup, 1st leg)
26.08.2007 Uganda 24-12 in Antananaviro (CAR Africa Cup, Semi-final)
11.08.2007 Kenya 35-15 in Nairobi (Elgon Cup 2nd leg)
26.05.2007 Uganda 29-10 in Kampala (Elgon Cup, 1st leg)

GWC Rugby Rankings: Africa Table-Uganda 4th, Kenya 7th

Prediction: Kenya by 5 points

Teams

Kenya Squad
Dennis Abenga (Nakuru RFC)
Biko Adema (Nondescripts RUFC)
Patrice Agunda (Kenya Harlequin FC)
Edwin Alubaka (Kenya Commercial Bank)
Andrew Amonde (Kenya Commercial Bank)
Lavin Asego (Mwamba RFC)
Michael Aung, Capt. (Nondescripts RUFC)
Naftaly Bondo (Kenya Harlequin FC)
Charles Kanyi (Nondescripts RUFC)
Daniel Kiptoo (Kenya Harlequin FC)
Wilson Kopondo (Mean Machine)
Vincent Mose (Impala RFC)
Peter Mutai (Kenya Commercial Bank)
Joel Ng'ang'a (Kenya Harlequin FC)
Victor Oduor (Kenya Harlequin FC)
Paul Oimbo (Impala RFC)
Vincent Ong'era (Kenya Harlequin FC)
Allan Onyango (Kenya Harlequin FC)
Anthony Ogot (Kenya Commercial Bank)
Horace Otieno (Mwamba)
Nato Simiyu (Impala RFC)
Dan Weku (Impala RFC)
Head Coach: Michael Otieno

http://www.kenyarfu.com/

Uganda
Ronald Adigasi (Entebbe Mongers)
Eric Butime
Dennis Etuket (G4S Pirates)
Brain Jjemba
Paul Kabazzi
Lenny Kikonyogo
Joel Kimuli (G4S Pirates)
Athony Kinene (G4S Pirates)
Benon Kizza
Allan Matsiko (UTL Kobs)
Solomon Mawanda (G4S Pirates) Aged 21
Alex Mubiru (MTN Heathens)
Ronald Mwisaka (MTN Heathens) Aged 27
Oscar Ochulu
Mathias Ochwo (MTN Heathens) Aged 27
Brain Odong (UTL Kobs)
Romano Ogwal
Jonathan Onen
Scot Oluoch
Robert Sseguya (MTN Heathens)
Moses Soita (Capt)
Michael Wokorach (MTN Heathens)
Head Coach: Yayiro Musisi Kasasa

http://www.monitor.co.ug/artman/publish/sports/Cranes_poised_to_end_poor_run_89629.shtml

Other comments on the game

From http://www.rugbykenya.blogspot.com/

"Both the Kenya Rugby Football Union and the Uganda Rugby Union have decided to go on with the planned Elgon Cup fixtures despite the untimely withdrawal of East African Breweries as the sponsor for the matches. This leaves the two unions to dig deep into their pockets to foot the expenses to be incurred. The players may also have to forego some of the comfort they are accustomed to during such assignments. The Women's teams from both countries are also scheduled to curtain raise for the Men and this increases the expenses. Both unions will now rely heavily on the gate takings to offset the costs. As such we must all turn out in large numbers to support the teams on both sides of Migingo the border.

It is good that an experienced sevens trio have got the back row job. They should use their superior fitness, one on one tackling skills and advanced ball contesting experience to make every break down a nightmare for the Ugandans (I wish). The mid-field pairing is interesting.. I have doubts as to how Agunda will weather the rush defence and ruthless tackling the Ugandan backs are famed for, but let's give him the benefit of the doubt. Adema should combine well with Mose from the back and either of his wingers. If only the two used some brain at times and not just brawn, they may cause a nightmare for the Ugandans out wide. Asego's control and position finding will be key as well as his ability to move the ball quickly into space from congested areas.

The forwards battle will be mighty and I think will be drawn between the two sides. I don't think the forwards are very imaginative save for "go to Kiptoo" so we expect a lot of that. And the South African influence on the Ugandan game will also make that their preferred route. There will be no mixing of play between the forwards and the backs, the players either completely unwilling to comprehend such tactics or the technical team unable to translate it for them. So expect to see a lot of staccato play interspersed with sheer moments of brilliance from the backs".

Canadian Rugby Players Head Overseas

Below is the full list of Canadian rugby players who will be with professional sides in Europe. Seven new players join the professional ranks.

Magners League
Kevin Tkachuk - Glasgow Warriors
DTH Van der Merwe – Glasgow Warriors

Guinness Championship

James Pritchard – Fullback - Bedford Blues
Scott Franklin – Prop - Cornish Pirates
Justin Mensah-Coker – Wing – Moseley
Bryn Keys – Centre - Moseley
Sean Michael Stephen – Back Row - Plymouth Albion
Tyler Hotson – Lock - Plymouth Albion
Stu Alut - Lock – Birmingham & Solihull
Ryan Tomlinson - Centre - Birmingham-Solihull
Oliver Atkinson – Lock – Coventry
Aaron Carpenter - #8 – Coventry
Phil MacKenzie – Wing - Coventry
Adam Kleeberger – Back Row - Rotherham Titans

English National 1
Chuck Baumberg – Fly Half – Esher

French Top 14
Jamie Cudmore - Clermont Auvergne

French Div 2
Josh Jackson – Lock - Bordeaux-Begles
Luke Tait – Lock - Stade Montois

Italian Super 10
Phil Murphy - #8 – Viadana
Michael Barbieri – Prop – Benetton Treviso

College Players
Stan McKeen – Flanker – Oxford University Law
Matt Evans – Hartpury College

Academy Sides
Richard Townsend – Gloucester Academy/Hartpury College

Source
http://www.rugbycanada.ca/leagues/newsletter.cfm?clientID=3817&leagueID=13651&page=37068

Rugby Test Result: South Africa in control of Tri Nations

08.08.2009
South Africa 29, Australia 17 in Capetown (Tri Nations)

Review
South Africa placed itself in control of the Tri Nations competition with this win over Australia. Although out-scored 2 tries to 1, the South Africans were magnificent on defence and forced the Australians into many errors, many of which kicking mystro Morne Steyn converted into points, 24 of them.

An early try by Australia had the feel of an upset on the way. It was short-lived. By halftime South Africa had built up a handy lead. Australia lifted their game in the second half but South Africa maintained a tight defence and forced Australia into further errors.

South Africa now head off to Australia and New Zealand to play the final tests. A win in one of them will ensure it the title.

Rugby Test Match: South Africa v Australia

08.08.2009
Australia v South Africa in Capetown (Tri Nations)

Venue: Newlands Rugby Ground

Preview
It's difficult to see beyond a South African win here. Australia has struggled in the forwards against the All Blacks and the All Blacks have struggled against South Africa. Unless the Aussies play a blinder and the Springbox have a dreadful day I can't see Australia winning.

A win here will put South Africa firmly in control of the competition with a win away in the next three weeks sealing the trophy. The last time Australia played in South Africa was late August last year. They lost 8-53!

Last Five Encounters
30.08.2008 South Africa 53-8 in Johannesburg (Tri Nations)
23.08.2008 Australia 27-15 in Durban (Tri Nations)
19.07.2008 Australia 16-9 in Perth (Tri Nations)
07.07.2007 Australia 25-17 in Sydney (Tri Nations)
16.06.2007 South Africa 22-19 in Capetown (Tri Nations)

GWC Rugby Rankings: World Table-South Africa 1st, Australia 3rd

Prediction: South Africa by 13 points

Teams


Morne Steyn has been South Africa's key player against the All Blacks. Can he cause the demise of the Wallabies as well?
Image thanks to http://www.sarugby.net/

South Africa:
15 Frans Steyn, 14 JP Pietersen, 13 Jaque Fourie, 12 Jean de Villiers, 11 Bryan Habana, 10 Morné Steyn, 9 Fourie du Preez, 8 Pierre Spies, 7 Juan Smith, 6 Heinrich Brüssow, 5 Victor Matfield, 4 Bakkies Botha, 3 John Smit (c), 2 Bismarck du Plessis, 1 Tendai Mtawarira.
Replacements: 16 Chiliboy Ralepelle, 17 Jannie du Plessis, 18 Andries Bekker, 19 Danie Rossouw, 20 Ricky Januarie, 21 Ruan Pienaar, 22 Adi Jacobs.
Head Coach: Peter de Villiers

Ali Baxter will lead the Australian front row in their battle with the Springbox.
Image thanks to http://www.rugby.com.au/

Australia:
Adam Ashley-Cooper, 14 Lachie Turner, 13 Stirling Mortlock (c), 12 Berrick Barnes, 11 Drew Mitchell, 10 Matt Giteau, 9 Luke Burgess, 8 Wycliff Palu, 7 George Smith, 6 Richard Brown, 5 Nathan Sharpe, 4 James Horwill, 3 Al Baxter, 2 Stephen Moore, 1 Benn Robinson.
Replacements: 16 Tatafu Polota-Nau, 17 Ben Alexander, 18 Dean Mumm, 19 David Pocock, 20 Will Genia, 21 Peter Hynes, 22 James O'Connor.
Head Coach: Robbie Deans

Test Rugby 1 August 2009: New Zealand v South Africa

South Africa

15 Frans Steyn, 14 JP Pietersen, 13 Jaque Fourie, 12 Jean de Villiers, 11 Bryan Habana, 10 Morné Steyn, 9 Fourie du Preez, 8 Pierre Spies, 7 Juan Smith, 6 Heinrich Brüssow, 5 Victor Matfield, 4 Bakkies Botha, 3 John Smit (c), 2 Bismarck du Plessis, 1 Tendai Mtawarira.

Replacements: 16 Chiliboy Ralepelle, 17 Jannie du Plessis, 18 Andries Bekker, 19 Danie Rossouw, 20 Ricky Januarie, 21 Adi Jacobs, 22 Wynand Olivier.

Head Coach: Peter de Villiers

New Zealand

15 Mils Muliaina, 14 Joe Rokocoko, 13 Conrad Smith, 12 Ma'a Nonu, 11 Sitiveni Sivivatu, 10 Stephen Donald, 9 Jimmy Cowan, 8 Rodney So'oialo, 7 Richie McCaw (capt), 6 Jerome Kaino, 5 Isaac Ross, 4 Brad Thorn, 3 Owen Franks, 2 Andrew Hore, 1 Tony Woodcock.

Replacements: 16 Keven Mealamu, 17 John Afoa, 18 Jason Eaton, 19 Kieran Read, 20 Piri Weepu, 21 Luke McAlister, 22 Cory Jane.

Head Coach: Graham Henry