Rugby Test Match: New Zealanders at Twickers

21.11.2009
New Zealand v England at Twickenham

Referee: Jonathan Kaplan (South Africa)

Preview
Where does England go from last weekend's ordinary display against Argentina? Probably not a lot further according to the media this week. Martin Johnson has made a few cosmetic changes but has largely stuck with the team that played Argentina. I'm not sure that recalling 36 year old Simon Shaw is the answer to England's prayers, but the veteran did have a good series for the Lions against the South Africans in June.

Is Simon Shaw going to make a difference for England? Image thanks to www.planet-rugby.com

New Zealand has made wholesale changes to the team that struggled against Italy. Back come their test veterans and back should come that ruthless All Black machine that swept Europe last season.Although France may be more of a prize for the All Blacks next weekend, they will still want to be thorough and clinical against England. They will want to win and win well.

It's been a while since England won against New Zealand at Twickenham. England may just want to limit the damage that this All Black side could do. Saturday does not look being the day that will change.

Last Five Encounters
29.11.2008 New Zealand 32-6 at Twickenham
21.06.2008 New Zealand 44-12 in Christchurch
14.06.2008 New Zealand 37-20 in Auckland
05.11.2006 New Zealand 41-20 at Twickenham
19.11.2005 New Zealand 23-19 at Twickenham

England last defeated New Zealand, 15-13, in Wellington 2003. They drew 26-26 with the Kiwis at Twickenham in 1997, and England last defeated New Zealand at Twickenham, 15-9 in 1993.

GWC Rugby Rankings: World Table-New Zealand 3rd, England 6th

Prediction: The Kiwis are not up to the standard of the All Black team last season. They'll still win though, by 12 points.

Teams

New Zealand
15 Mils Muliaina
14 Zachery Guildford
13 Conrad Smith
12 Ma'a Nonu
11 Sitiveni Sivivatu
10 Daniel Carter
9 James Cowan
8 Kieran Read
7 Richie McCaw (capt)
6 Adam Thomson
5 Thomas Donnelly
4 Bradley Thorn
3 Owen Franks
2 Andrew Hore
1 Tony Woodcock
Replacements
16 Aled de Malmanche
17 John Afoa
18 Anthony Boric
19 Jerome Kaino
20 Andrew Ellis
21 Stephen Donald
22 Tamati Ellison
Head Coach: Graham Henry

England
15 Mark Cueto
14 Matthew Banahan
13 Daniel Hipkiss
12 Ayoola Erinle
11 Ugo Monye
10 Jonny Wilkinson
9 Paul Hodgson
8 James Haskell
7 Lewis Moody
6 Joseph Worsley
5 Steve Borthwick, Capt.
4 Simon Shaw
3 Duncan Bell
2 Dylan Hartley
1 Timothy Payne
Replacements
16 Steven Thompson
17 Paul Doran-Jones
18 Courtney Lawes
19 Thomas Croft
20 Daniel Care
21 Andrew Goode
22 Louis Deacon
Head Coach: Martin Johnson

International Rugby: Australians in Scotland

21.11.2009
Australia v Scotland at Murrayfield

Referee: Romain Poite (France)

Preview
The Australians were very disappointed to lose the game against Ireland (ending in a 20-20 draw) in the last movement of the match. The Grand Slam went out the window with that draw but now they look to remain undefeated in the remaining internationals. Veteran George Smith moves up into the pack from the bench with David Pocock injured.

100 test veteran George Smith returns to the Australian starting lineup. Image thanks to www.rugby.com.au

For Scotland the cupboard has been bare a long time when it comes to Australia. It's been 27 years since the Blues defeated the Golds. They won against Fiji last week, more clinically than with style. The team remains virtually unchanged from last weekend. New coach Andy Robinson and an expectant Murrayfield crowd will be willing the Scots on to a famous victory. The test really comes this Saturday.

Last Five Encounters
25.11.2006 Australia 44-15 at Murrayfield
20.11.2004 Australia 31-17 in Glasgow
06.11.2004 Australia 31-14 at Murrayfield
19.06.2004 Australia 34-13 in Sydney
13.06.2004 Australia 35-15 in Melbourne

Scotland last defeated Australia, 12-7, in Brisbane in 1982

GWC Rugby Rankings: World Table-Australia 4th, Scotland 9th

Prediction: A right real tussle awaits Murrayfield. Australia by 10 points

Teams

Scotland
15 Rory Lamont (Toulon, France) Aged 27, 19 tests
14 Sean Lamont (Llanelly Scarlets, Wales) 27, 34
13 Alexander Grove (Worcester Warriors, England) 21, 1
12 Graeme Morrison (Glasgow Warriors) 27, 17
11 Simon Danielli (Ulster, Ireland) 31, 21
10 Philip Godman (Edinburgh Gunner) 27, 18
9 Christopher Cusiter, Capt. (Glasgow Warriors) 27, 45
8 John Barclay (Glasgow Warriors) 22, 12
7 John Beattie (Glasgow Warriors) 23, 5
6 Alasdair Strokosch (Gloucester, England) 26, 12
5 Alastair Kellock (Glasgow Warriors) 28, 18
4 Nathan Hines (Leinster, Ireland) 32, 59
3 Moray Low (Glasgow Warriors) 25, 3
2 Ross Ford (Edinburgh Gunners) 25, 30
1 Allan Jacobsen (Edinburgh Gunners) 31, 37
Replacements
16 Douglas Hall (Glasgow Warriors) 29, 29
17 Kyle Traynor (Edinburgh Gunners) 23, 1
18 Jason White (Clermont Auvergne, France) 31, 75
19 Richard Vernon (Glasgow Warriors) 22, 1
20 Rory Lawson (Gloucester, England) 28, 15
21 Chris Paterson (Edinburgh Gunners) 31, 96
22 Nick De Luca (Edinburgh Gunners) 25, 11
Head Coach: Andy Robinson

Australia
15 Adam Ashley-Cooper (ACT Brumbies)
14 Peter Hynes (Queensland Reds)
13 Digby Ioane (Queensland Reds)
12 Quade Cooper (Queensland Reds)
11 Drew Mitchell (NSW Waratahs)
10 Matthew Giteau (ACT Brumbies)
9 Wil Genia (Queensland Reds)
8 Wycliff Palu (NSW Waratahs)
7 George Smith (ACT Brumbies)
6 Rocky Elsom, Capt. (ACT Brumbies)
5 Mark Chisholm (ACT Brumbies)
4 James Horwill (Queensland Reds)
3 Benjamin Alexander (ACT Brumbies)
2 Steven Moore (ACT Brumbies)
1 Benn Robinson (NSW Waratahs)
Replacements
16 Tatafu Polota-Nau (NSW Waratahs)
17 Sekope Kepu (NSW Waratahs)
18 Dean Mumm (NSW Waratahs)
19 Richard Brown (WA Western Force)
20 Luke Burgess (NSW Waratahs)
21 Ryan Cross (WA Western Force)
22 James O'Connor (WA Western Force)
Head Coach: Robbie Deans

Test Rugby: Argentina in Wales

21.11.2009
Argentina v Wales in Cardiff

Venue: Millennium Stadium

Referee: George Clancey (Ireland)

Preview
This test match could well be one of the closest of the weekend.

Argentina went down to England 9-16 in a dull game last weekend, whilst Wales struggled to overcome Samoa 17-13. Argentina posses, along with Italy, one of the most feared test packs. And like Italy they struggle in the backs, with many of their stalwart players not available or retired.

Wales will be desperate for this win. They bring back a number of experienced players who did not play v Samoa. Stephan Jones, Shane Williams, Martyn Williams and Duncan Jones are household names, and shore up the Welsh team.

Last Five Encounters
18.08.2007 Wales 27-20 in Cardiff (World Cup Warm up)
17.06.2006 Argentina 45-27 in Buenos Aires
11.06.2006 Argentina 27-25 in Puerto Madryn
19.06.2004 Wales 35-20 in Buenos Aires
12.06.2004 Argentina 50-44 in Tucaman

GWC Rugby Rankings: World Table-Argentina 7th, Wales 8th

Prediction: Wales will falter in the forwards. Argentina by 3 points

Teams

Wales
15 James Hook (Neath Swansea Ospreys) Age 24, 35 tests
14 Leigh Halfpenny (Cardiff Blues) 20, 8
13 James Roberts (Cardiff Blues) 22, 14
12 Jonathan Davies (Llanelly Scarlets) 21, 3
11 Shane Williams (Neath Swansea Ospreys) 32, 66
10 Stephan Jones (Llanelly Scarlets) 31, 81
9 Gareth Cooper (Gloucester, England) 30, 43
8 Ryan Jones, Capt. (Neath Swansea Ospreys) 28, 34
7 Martyn Williams (Cardiff Blue) 34, 89
6 Andrew Powell (Cardiff Blues) 28, 10
5 Luke Charteris (Newport Gwent Dragons) 25, 16
4 Alun-Wyn Jones (Neath Swansea Ospreys) 24, 33
3 Paul James (Neath Swansea Ospreys) 25, 3
2 Matthew Rees (Llanelly Scarlets) 28, 32
1 Gethin Jenkins (Cardiff Blues) 28, 70
Replacements
16 Huw Bennett (Neath Swansea Ospreys) 25, 25
17 Duncan Jones (Neath Swansea Ospreys) 31, 55
18 Jonathan Thomas (Neath Swansea Ospreys) 26, 47
19 Duncan Lydiate (Newport gwent Dragons) 21, New cap
20 Dwayne Peel (Sale Sharks, England) 28, 70
21 Andrew Bishop (Neath Swansea Ospreys) 24, 6
22 Thomas James (Cardiff Blues) 22, 6
Head Coach: Warren Gatland

Argentina
15 Horacio Agulla (Brive, France)
14 Lucas Borges (Albi, France)
13 Gonzalo Tiesi (Harlequins, England)
12 Martin Rodriguez (Rosario)
11 Mauro Comuzzi (Pucara)
10 Santiago Fernandez (Hindu)
9 Agustin Figuerola (Club Atletico San Isidro)
8 Juan Fernandez Lobbe, Capt. (Toulon, France)
7 Alfredo Abadie (Rovigo, Italy)
6 Tomas Leonardi (San Isidro Club)
5 Patricio Albacete (Toulouse, France)
4 M Sambucetti (Bristol, England)
3 Martin Scelzo (Clermont Auvergne, France)
2 Mario Ledesma (Clermont Auvergne, France)
1 Rodrigo Roncero (Stade Francais, France)
Replacements:
16 Alberto Vernet Basualdo (Toulouse, France)
17 Marcos Ayerza (Leicester Tigers, England)
18 Manuel Carizza (Biarritz, France)
19 Alejandro Campos (Montauban, France)
20 Alfredo Lalanne (London Irish, England)
21 Benjamin Urdapilleta (C.U.B.A.)
22 Federico Martin Aramburu (Dax, France)
Head Coach: Santiago Phelan

Test Match: Italy Can Expect Backlash from South Africans

21.11.2009
South Africa v Italy in Udine

Venue: Stadio Friuli

Referee: Alain Rolland (Ireland)

Preview
South Africa is yet to win a game on its northern tour. They have lost to Leicester and Saracens in mid-week games, and then lost to France last weekend. They are a position whereby a loss against Italy would give the team one of the poorest performances in Europe.

Italy can expect the South Africans to play a determined game, to erase the failures they've experienced on tour so far.

Never far from controversy, another below-par performance from South Africa, however, will have the memories forgetting the Tri Nations success for 2009, and the knives out for the South African coach

Peter de Villiers could well have the fingers pointing at him again. Image thanks to www.sarugby.net

But can Italy win? They were dominant in the forwards against the All Blacks last weekend. The Italian pack would have to be one of the strongest in the world. It in the backs where they come unstuck. Coach Nik Mallett has made changes in the backline, still searching for combinations that will test the opposition defence. To date they have registered nil in that area. It's in this area that the better organised South Africans will eventually succeed. History is against Italy. Twenty-six points is the closest they've got to South Africa in the last ten years. Perhaps Saturday will see them get the closest ever.

Last Five Encounters
21.06.2008 South Africa 26-0 in Capetown
17.11.2001 South Africa 54-26 in Genoa
30.06.2001 South Africa 60-14 in Port Elizabeth
19.06.1999 South Africa 101-0 in Durban
12.06.1999 South Africa 74-3 in Port Elizabeth

GWC Rugby Rankings: South Africa 2nd, Italy 10th

Prediction: South Africa by 13 points.

Teams

Italy
15 Luke McLean
14 Matteo Pratichetti
13 Alberto Sgarbi
12 Gonzalo Garcia
11 Mirco Bergamasco
10 Craig Gower
9 Simon Picone
8 Sergio Parisse, Capt.
7 Alessandro Zanni
6 Simone Favaro
5 Quintin Geldenhuys
4 Carlo Antonio Del Fava
3 Martin Castrogiovanni
2 Fabio Ongaro
1 Salvatore Perugini
Replacements
16 Leonardo Ghiraldini
17 Ignacio Rouyet
18 Antonio Pavanello
19 Josh Sole
20 Mauro Bergamasco
21 Tito Tebaldi
22 Gonzalo Canale
Head Coach: Nik Mallett

South Africa
15 Zane Kirchner (Blue Bulls)
14 JP Pietersen (Natal Sharks)
13 Jaque Fourie (Golden Lions)
12 Adi Jacobs (Natal Sharks)
11 Bryan Habana (Western Stormers)
10 Morne Steyn (Blue Bulls)
9 Fourie du Preez (Blue Bulls)
8 Ryan Kankowski (Natal Sharks)
7 Danie Rossouw (Blue Bulls)
6 Heinrich Brussow (Free State Cheetahs)
5 Andries Bekker (Western Stormers)
4 Bakkies Botha (Blue Bulls)
3 John Smit, Capt. (Natal Sharks)
2 Adriaan Strauss (Free State Cheetahs)
1 Wian du Preez (Free State Cheetahs)
Replacements
16 Tendai Mtawarira (Natal Sharks)
17 BJ Botha (Ulster, Ireland)
18 Victor Matfield (Blue Bulls)
19 Jean Deysel (Natal Sharks)
20 Francois Hougaard (Blue Bulls)
21 Ruan Pienaar (Natal Sharks)
22 Wynand Olivier (Blue Bulls)
Head Coach: Peter de Villiers

Rugby Test: Samoans Travel to France

21.11.2009
Samoa v France in Paris

Venue: Stade de France

Referee: David Pearson (England)

Preview
Samoa playing France in a test match is a rare occurrence indeed. It has been ten years since the Samoans faced a French side, their only encounter.

France has made a number of changes to their starting XV from the team that were successful against South Africa last weekend. Coach Lievremont will blood a few new players ringing the changes again as is his fashion. The pack won't be as savage as it was against South Africa but the backs look a more potent combination.

Samoa has had the benefit of a game and a week's preparation under its belt. Can they improve on their 13-17 loss to Wales? They may well do but at the moment the French are at a level above the other European teams.(except perhaps Ireland)

Previous Encounters
12.06.1999 France 39-22 in Apia

GWC Rugby Rankings: World Table-France 1st, Samoa 12th

Prediction: France by 14 points

Teams

France
15 Damien Traille
14 Vincent Clerc
13 Yann David
12 Maxime Mermoz
11 Cédric Heymans
10 Francois Trinh-Duc
9 Julien Dupuy
8 Louis Picamoles
7 Imanol Harinordoquy
6 Thierry Dusautoir, Capt.
5 Romain Millo-Chluski
4 Lionel Nallet
3 Nicolas Mas
2 William Servat
1 Fabien Barcella
Replacements
16 Dimitri Szarzewski
17 Sylvain Marconnet
18 Sébastien Chabal
19 Julien Bonnaire
20 Morgan Parra
21 David Marty
22 Maxime Médard
Head Coach: Marc Lièvremont

Samoa
15 Lolo Lui
14 David Lemi
13 Henry Fa'afili
12 Seilala Mapusua
11 Alesana Tuilagi
10 Fa'atonu Fili
9 Junior Polu
8 Henry Tuilagi
7 Ofisa Treviranus
6 Jonathan Fa'amatuainu
5 Kane Thompson
4 Filipo Levi
3 Cencus Johnston
2 Mahonri Schwalger, Capt.
1 Justin Va'a
Replacements
16 Andrew Williams
17 Jeremiah Fatialofa
18 Iosefa Tekori
19 Misioka Timoteo
20 Uale Mai
21 Fuimaolo-Sapolu
22 Titi Esau
Head Coach: Fuimaono Titimaea Tafua

Rugby Test Match: Fiji Take on the Irish

21.11.2009
Fiji v Ireland in Dublin

Venue: Croke Park

Referee: Marius Jonker (South Africa)

Preview
The last time these two teams met Ireland game the Islanders a fearful beating. That was back in 2002. Ireland wasn't at its strongest on that day whilst Fiji face a team that has changed dramatically in the last seven years.

Ireland has predictably made many changes from the team that drew 20-20 with Australia last Sunday. Some old veterans have been drafted into this side, including D'Arcy, Cullen, Horgan and Trimble. This match against a struggling Fijian side is a good opportunity to try out some new combinations. Special interest will be on new fly half Sexton, who is being groomed to one day to replace the great O'Gara.

Fiji has made a number of changes to the team that lost to Scotland last weekend. They have a new front row whilst veteran Norman Ligairi returns at fullback. Prop Deacon Manu is unavailable due to his wife being about to have a baby

Despite Ireland's changes the team is probably just as strong as the team that came back strongly against Australia. I can't see them losing against a disorganised Fijian team that just hasn't played enough together this year.

Previous Encounters
16.11.2002 Ireland 64-17 in Dublin
18.11.1995 Ireland 44-8 in Dublin
19.10.1985 Ireland XV 16-15 in Dublin
09.06.1978 Ireland XV 8-0 in Suva
Fiji has never defeated Ireland or any Irish sides.

GWC Rugby Rankings: World Table-Ireland 5th, Fiji 11th

Prediction: Ireland by 30 points

Teams

Ireland
15 Robert Kearney (Leinster) Age 24, 17 tests
14 Shane Horgan (Leinster) 31, 64
13 Brian O'Driscoll, Capt. (Leinster) 30, 93
12 Gordon D'Arcy (Leinster) 29, 42
11 Keith Earls (Munster) 22, 3
10 Jonathan Sexton (Leinster) 24, 1
9 Eion Reddan (Leinster) 29, 17
8 James Heaslip (Leinster) 25, 19
7 Denis Leamy (Munster) 28, 43
6 Stephan Ferris (Ulster) 24, 14
5 Paul O'Connell (Munster) 30, 63
4 Leo Cullen (Leinster) 31, 20
3 John Hayes (Munster) 36, 95
2 Jeremy Flannery (Munster) 31, 32
1 Thomas Court (Ulster) 29, 5
Replacements
16 Sean Cronin (Connacht) 23, 1
17 Anthony Buckley (Munster) 29, 13
18 Donncha O'Callaghan (Munster) 30, 56
19 S O'Brien (Leinster) 22, New cap
20 Thomas O'Leary (Munster) 26, 9
21 Patrick Wallace (Ulster) 30, 17
22 Andrew Trimble (Ulster) 25, 23
Head Coach: Declan Kidney

Trimble last played for Ireland v England in the Six Nations match, March 2008. Shane Horgan played only once for Ireland last season, coming on as a replacement in Ireland’s first game v Canada, in November. Leo Cullen goes back even further, last playing for Ireland v Argentina, 2^nd test in Buenos
Aires, in June 2007.

Fiji
15 - Norman Ligairi (Brive, France)
14 - Vereniki Goneva (Nadi)
13 - Gabiriele Lovobalavu (Toulon, France)
12 - Seremaia Bai, Capt. (Clermont Auvergne, France)
11 - Nasoni Roko (Yokogawa, Japan)
10 - Nicky Little (Padova, Italy)
9 - Mosese Rauluni (Saracens, England)
8 - Asaeli Boko (Nadroga)
7 - Akapusi Qera (Gloucester, England)
6 - Apolosi Satala (Gloucester, England)
5 - Ifereimi Rawaqa (World, Japan)
4 - Wame Lewaravu (London Welsh, England)
3 - Viliame Seuseu (Nadi)
2 - Viliame Veikoso (Nadi)
1 - Asaike Tarogi (Suva)
Replacements
16 - Isireli Ledua (Northland, Fiji)
17 - Graham Dewes (Esher RFC, England)
18 - Leone Nakarawa (Suva)
19 - Samu Bola (Suva)
20 - Waisale Vatuvoka (Naitasiri)
21 - Josh Matavesi (Exeter Chiefs, England)
22 - Timoci Nagusa (Ulster, Ireland)
Head Coach: Samuela Domoni

http://www.irishrugby.ie/13910_18958.php

International Rugby: Can Japan Make it Two in a Row?

21.11.2009
Canada v Japan in Tokyo

Venue: Prince Chichibu Memorial Rugby Ground

Referee: Vincent Munro (New Zealand) 1st test

Preview
I cannot believe that Canada could play two bad games in a row. Japan played extremely well last Sunday in the first test, but I'd expect Canada to up their game. The score line of 46-8 was unbelievable. Canadian captain Pat Riordan talks about the game. "The team supporters at home should know the guys are well aware of the shortfall and disappointed in the result. That to play your best and lose is one thing.... but to play poorly and lose is much more difficult as all true rugby players know. According to the official rugby web site, players needed stitches following some brutal training seesions post that result. Looks like we can expect the Canaks to jump out of the starting gate fired up on Saturday.

Canadian captain Pat Riordan reflects on a bad outing last Saturday. Image thanks to www.rugbycanada.ca

Japan certainly looked impressive in the first test. Coach John Kirwan was pleased with all aspects of the display except the lineouts. Japan were dominant at scrum time and were first to the ball in the loose. They played the game at a hectic pace and fed on the Canadian's mistakes as the visitors tried to play an expansive game.

Kirwan has a few changes to the squad of 22. Tupuailei moves into centre with Ryan Nicholls moving in a place. Yoshida has a run at scrum half whilst two new players move onto the bench. Kirwan is still blooding new players whilst maintaining the nucleus of the team that played so well last Sunday.

I'd expect the Canadians to play a tighter game and try to out muscle the Japanese up front.

Last Five Encounters
15.11.2009 Japan 46-8 in Sendai
25.09.2007 Drawn 12-12 in Bordeaux (World Cup, Pool B)
29.05.2005 Canada 15-10 in Tokyo (Super Cup, Final)
30.05.2004 Japan 34-21 in Tokyo (Superpowers Cup, Final)
08.07.2001 Japan 39-7 in Tokyo (Pacific Rim; Playoff 3rd-4th)

GWC Rugby Rankings: World Table-Japan 13th, Canada 15th

Prediction: Canada will be a different team but psychologically Japan has the advantage, Japan by 10.

Teams

Japan
15 Go Aruga (Suntory) Age 25, 13 Tests
14 Kosuke Endo (Toyota) 28, 24
13 Alisi Tupuailei (Honda) 29, 1
12 Ryan Nicholas (Suntory) 30, 16
11 Hirotoki Onozawa (Suntory) 31, 53
10 Shaun Webb (Coca-Cola) 27, 15
9 Tomoki Yoshida (Toshiba) 27, 19
8 Takashi Kukutani, Capt. (Toyota) 29, 27
7 Philip O’Reilly (Yokogawa) 29, 10
6 Michael Leitch (Tokai Univ.) 21, 8
5 Toshizumi Kitagawa (Toyota) 28, 24
4 Hitoshi Ono (Toshiba) 31, 36
3 Kensuke Hatakeyama (Suntory) 24, 9
2 Shota Horie (Sanyo) 23, 1
1 Naoki Kawamata (Sanyo) 24, 4
Replacements
16 Takeshi Kizu (Tokai Univ.) New cap
17 Hisateru Hirashima (Kobe) 26, 9
18 Shinya Makabe (Suntory) 22, New cap
19 Toetuíu Taufa (Kintetsu) 28, 8
20 Yuki Yatomi (Yamaha) 24, 13
21 James Arlidge (Newport, Wales) 30, 15
22 Ayumu Goromaru (Yamaha) 23, 9
Head Coach: John Kirwan

http://www.rugbyjapan.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=723&Itemid=31

Canada
15 James Pritchard (Bedford Blues, England) Age 30, 30 Tests
14 Ciaran Hearn (Castaway Wanderers) 23, 9
13 Matthew Evans (Hartpury College, England) 21, 7
12 Nicholas Blevins ((Velox Valhallians) 20, 1
11 Justin Mensah-Coker (Moseley, England) 25, 19
10 Ander Monro (Castaway Wanderers) 28, 18
9 Sean White (James Bay Athletic Assoc.) 21, 1
8 Aaron Carpenter (Coventry, England) 26, 29
7 Adam Kleeberger (Rotherham Titans, England) 25, 22
6 Nanyak Dala (Castaway Wanderers) 25, 8
5 Tyler Hotson (Plymouth Albion, England) 24, 11
4 Jebb Sinclair (Castaway Wanderers) 23, 10
3 Douglas Woolridge (Cowichan) 23, 3
2 Pat Riordan, Capt. (University of Victoria) 30, 25
1 Kevin Tkachuk (Glasgow Warriors, Scotland) 33, 51
Replacements
16 Mchael Pletch (Velox Valhallians) 26, 23
17 Daniel Pletch (Oakville Crusaders) 26, 23
18 Chauncey OíToole (Castaway Wanderers) 23, 3
19 Marc MacSween (Balmy Beach) 23, New cap
20 Phil Mack (University of Victoria) 24, 5
21 Nathan Hirayama (University of Victoria) 21, 3
22 Sean Duke (University of Victoria) 21, 4
Head Coach: Kieran Crowley

http://www.rugbyjapan.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=723&Itemid=31

Rugby Match: Uruguay Have Uphill Struggle

21.11.2009
Uruguay v United States in Lauderhill (WCQ Americas R2; Playoff, 2nd leg)

Venue: Broward County Regional Park

Referee:

Preview
United States won the first leg 27-22 last weekend and so have an aggregate 5 point lead. They have not made any changes to their starting lineup from last weekend. USA coach Eddie O'Sullivan (ex Ireland) explains.“With just a five- point spread between the teams we have to approach this game as a one-off final, As far as we are concerned the score is 0-0 with 80 minutes remaining. It’s all to play for.”

The USA won a tight struggle against Uruguay in the first leg. Image thanks to http://www.usarugby.org/

Uruguay will struggle to win the away leg. They need to win by 6 points or more to gain the second America's place at the 2010 Rugby World Cup

Last Five Encounters
14.11.2009 USA 27-22 in Montevideo (WCQ Americas R2, Playoff, 2nd leg)
08.11.2008 USA 43-9 in Salt Lake City
07.10.2006 USA 33-7 in Stanford (WCQ America, Playoff, 1st leg)
11.10.2006 USA 42-13 in Montevideo (WCQ America, Playoff, 2nd leg)
30.08.2003 USA 31-17 in Buenos Aires (Pan American Series)

GWC Rugby Rankings: World Table-United States 16th, Uruguay 23rd

Prediction: Uruguay does not have a good record away v USA. USA by 20 points.

Teams

United States
15. Chris Wyles (Saracens, England)
14. Takudzwa Ngwenya (Biarritz Olympic, France)
13. Paul Emerick (Parma FC, Italy)
12. Junior Sifa (Middleton RFC)
11. Kevin Swiryn (Old Puget Sound Beach RFC)
10. Mike Hercus (Sunshine Coast Stingrays, Australia)
9. Tim Usasz (Nottingham RFC, England)
8. Nic Johnson (Denver Barbarians)
7. Todd Clever (Golden Lions)
6. Louis Stanfill (New York Athletic Club)
5. Hayden Smith (Saracens, England)
4. John Van der Giessen (SC Albigeois, France)
3. Will Johnson (Oxford University, England)
2. Phil Thiel (Life University)
1. Mate Moeakiola (Pearl City RFC)
Replacements
16. Brian McClenahan (Olympic Club)
17. Jacob Sprague (Mystic River RFC)
18. Alec Parker (Gentlemen of Aspen)
19. Jonathan ‘JJ’ Gagiano (FC Roma, Italy)
20. Mike Petri (New York Athletic Club)
21. Nese Malifa (Belmont Shore RFC)
22. Pate Tuilevuka (Provo Steelers)
Head Coach: Eddie O’Sullivan

Uruguay
Carlos Arboleya (Trébol)
Nicolás Brignioni (Oyonnax, France)
Juan Campomar (Old Boys)
Rodrigo Capo (Castres, France)
Alejo Corral (San Isidro Club, Argentina)
Juan De Freitas (Champagnat)
Martín Espiga (Old Christian's)
Jerónimo Etcheverry (Carrasco Polo)
Matías Fonseca (Los Cuervos)
Santiago Gibernau (Carrasco Polo)
Alfredo Giuria (Los Cuervos)
Juan Horta (Old Christian's)
Tomás Jolivet (Old Boys)
Juan Llovet (Old Christian's)
Manuel Martinez (Old Christian's)
Nicolás Morales (Trébol)
Joaquín Pastore, Capt. (Old Boys)
Carlos Protasi (Carrasco Polo)
Juan Rombys (Trébol)
Mario Sagario (Dax, France)
Rodrigo Sanchez (Carrasco Polo)
Alejandro Silveira (Los Cuervos)
Head Coach: Felipe Puig

http://www.fira-aer-rugby.com/forum2007/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=3283

Test Match: Argentina Jaguars visit Portugal

21.11.2009
Argentina 'A' v Portugal

Venue: Estadio Universitario de Lisboa

Referee:

Preview
The IRB's programme to foster international rugby contacts for tier 2 nations sees Argentina 'A' making a tour of Europe. They have already played Georgia, losing 22-24. This being the last match of their tour.

Portugal has selected a stronger side than that that played Namibia (lost 9-12) earlier in the month. A number of France-based players are playing, including Beca and Rubela who will be making their test debuts if they play. Also returning is 35 year old veteran Portela, who last played in Portugal's 2007 Rugby World Cup team.

Portela last played for Portugal at the 2007 World Cup. Image thanks to www.fpr.pt

Argentina 'A' has selected a team fairly different to that which lost by 2 points to Georgia last weekend. Looks like everybody gets a run.

Francisco Albarracin training for Argentina 'A'. Image thanks to www.uar.com.ar

Previous Encounter
14.06.2006 Argentina 'A' 34-29 in Lisbon (IRB Nations Cup)

GWC Rugby Rankings do not apply.

Prediction: Argentina 'A' by 5 points

Teams

Argentina ‘A’ Squad
Gastón De Robertis
Matías Cortese
Nahuel Tetaz Chaparro
Hugo Schierano
Tomás Roan
Rodrigo Bruno
Agustín Guzmán
Leonardo Senatore, Capt.
Francisco Albarracin
Santiago González Iglesias
Francisco Merello
Miguel Avramovic
Juan Pablo Estelles
Belisario Agulla
Joaquín Tuculet
Replacements
Álvaro Tejeda
Juan Gómez
Mariano Galarza
Rodrigo Baez
Martín Landajo
Nicolás Sanchez
Gabriel Ascárate
Coaches: José Orengo and Raúl Pérez

http://www.uar.com.ar/noticias4.asp?notcod=20091119170728

Portugal Squad
Eduardo Acosta (GD Direito) Age 31, 10 tests
Aurelien Beco (Limoges, France) 23, New Cap
Pedro Cabral (CD University Lisboa) 26, 22
João Correia, Capt. (GD Direito) 28, 46
Thomaz Da Costa (Lourdes, France) 25, 1
David dos Reis (Nimes, France) 32, 3
Gonçalo Foro (CD University Lisboa) 27, 17
Tiago Girão (CD University Lisboa) 24, 20
João Junior (CD University Lisboa) 23, 6
Pedro Leal (GD Direito) 25, 34
David Mateus (OS Belenenses) 29, 32
Diogo Mateus (OS Belenenses) 29, 65
Juan Murre (Auch, France) 29, 16
Salvador Palha (GD Direito) 25, 11
Duarte Cardoso Pinto (AEIS Agronomia) 27, 41
Miguel Portela (GD Direito) 35, 57
Emmanuel Rebelo (Dijon, France) 28, New Cap
Jorge Segurado (GD Direito) 25, 6
Francisco Serra (Académica) 23, 1
Juan Severino (AEIS Agronomia) 27, 24
Pedro Silva (OS Belenenses) 24, 8
Gonçalo Uva (GD Direito) 24, 41
Vasco Uva (GD Direito) 26, 56
Head Coach: Tomaz Morais

Back in- Murre, dos Reis, Beca (debut), Rebelo (debut)-all France-based, Portela (veteran, returning), Serra. Still no Spachuck

Out of squad (from v Namibia)
Hugo Valente (OS Belenenses)
João Uva (OS Belenenses)
Frederico Oliveira (CD University Lisboa)
Lourenço Kadosh (AEIS Agronomia)
Sebastião Cunha (OS Belenenses)
Pedro Carvalho (GD Direito)
António Aguilar (GD Direito)

http://www.fpr.pt/noticias/noticia.asp?opm=25&id=7708&id2=25

Test Rugby: Georgia Face a Big Italian Test

20.11.2009
Georgia v Italy 'A' in Palmanova

Venue: Stadio Bruseschi, Udine

Referee:

Preview
Georgia will be fresh from their important 24-22 win over the Argentine Jaguars last weekend. They will need to be at their best to defeat this Italian side away. The Italian 'A' side were convincing winners over Romania last weekend but will find the Georgian's a much stronger team.

Italian 'A' coach Guidi has made only one change in the lineup that so convincingly defeated Romania last week. Tommaso Reato comes into the second row in place of Antonio Pavanello who has moved the Italian first's team bech for Saturdays game against South Africa.

Italy 'A' lineup v Georgia on Friday. Image thanks to www.federugby.it

Last Five Encounters
20.06.2008 Georgia 25-3 (v Italy 'A')in Bucharest (IRB Nations Cup)
16.06.2007 Georgia 22-20( v Italy 'A') in Bucharest (IRB Nations Cup)
06.09.2003 Italy 32-22 in Astia
27.01.2000 Italy XV 51-7 in Livorno
11.04.1998 Italy XV 31-14 in L'Aquilla (WCQ Europe Pool 2, Rnd B)

GWC Rugby Rankings do not apply

Prediction: Georgia by 2

Teams

Italy 'A'
15 Paolo Buso (Futura Park Rugby Roma) 1 test
14 Tommaso Benvenuti (Benetton Treviso)
13 Roberto Quartaroli (Rugby Parma) 3
12 Andrea Pratichetti (Femi-CZ Rovigo)
11 Michele Sepe (MPS Viadana) 2
10 Riccardo Bocchino (Femi-CZ Rovigo)
9 Fabio Semenzato (Benetton Treviso)
8 Manoa Vosawai (Rugby Parma) 5
7 Paul Derbyshire (Petrarca Padova) 1
6 Francesco Minto(Rugby Parma)
5 Valerio Bernabo’, Capt. (Futura Park Rugby Roma) 13
4 Tommaso Reato (Femi-CZ Rovigo) 9
3 Lorenzo Cittadini (Benetton Treviso) 1
2 Davide Giazzon (Rugby Parma)
1 Michele Rizzo (Benetton Treviso) 2
Replacements
16 Tommaso D’apice (Futura Park Rugby Roma)
17 Massimiliano Ravalle (Femi-CZ Rovigo)
18 Plinio Sciamanna (MPS Viadana)
19 Mantvydas Tveraga (Rugby Parma)
20 Agustin Cavalieri (Petrarca Padova)
21 Edoardo Gori (Consiag I Cavalieri Prato)
22 Enrico Patrizio (Petrarca Padova) 4

Head Coach: Gianluca Guidi

http://www.federugby.it/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=720:italia-a-domani-a-palmanova-sfida-alla-georgia-raisportpiu-diretta-ore-19&catid=110:italia-a&Itemid=416

Georgia
Official team list not yet available

International Rugby This Weekend 20-22 November

20.11.2009
Scotland ‘A’ v Tonga in Galashiels
Italy ‘A’ v Georgia in Palmanova

21.11.2009
New Zealand v England at Twickenham
Australia v Scotland at Murrayfield
Argentina v Wales in Cardiff
South Africa v Italy in Udine
Samoa v France in Paris
Fiji v Ireland in Dublin
Canada v Japan in Tokyo (2^nd test)
Uruguay v United States in Lauderhill (WCQ Americas R2, Playoff 2^nd leg)
Argentina ‘A’ v Portugal in Lisbon

22.11.2009
Switzerland v Armenia in Yverdon (ENC 3A)

International Test Rugby: Tongan's to Face Scotland 'A'

20.11.2009
Tonga v Scotland 'A' in Galashiels

Venue: Netherdale

Referee:

Preview
Players selected for Scotland 'A' for Fridays international rugby match against the touring Tongan side, will be playing with Scotland's head coach Andy Robinson in the stands. This will be there opportunity to impress the coach ahead of next Saturday's test against Argentina. Scotland will play Australia at Murrayfield on Saturday.

Scotland 'A' coach has selected a fairly experienced side with seven players who part of the winning IRB Nations side that went to Bucharest in June. In addition ten players have played tests for Scotland.

Is it that nobody interviews the Tongans. Or are they just secretive, or perhaps shy? For whatever reason not a peep out of Tonga.

Previous Encounters
05.06.1993 Scotland XV 22-5 in Nuku'alofa
28.09.1974 Scotland XV 44-8 at Murrayfield

GWC Rugby Rankings do not apply

Prediction: No rest for Tonga. Scotland 'A' by 30 points.

Teams

Scotland A
15 Jim Thompson (Edinburgh)
14 Thom Evans (Glasgow Warriors)
13 Ben Cairns (Edinburgh)
12 John Houston (Edinburgh)
11 Nikki Walker (Neath Swansea Ospreys, Wales)
10 Hugo Southwell (Stade Francais, France)
9 Rory Lawson (captain, Gloucester)
8 Allister Hogg (Edinburgh)
7 Alan MacDonald (Edinburgh)
6 Kelly Brown (Glasgow Warriors)
5 Richie Gray (Glasgow Warriors
4 Scott MacLeod (Edinburgh)3 Geoff Cross (Edinburgh)
2 Scott Lawson (Gloucester)
1 Jon Welsh (Glasgow Warriors)
Replacements
16 Andrew Kelly (Edinburgh)
17 Edward Kalman (Glasgow Warriors)
18 Craig Hamilton (Edinburgh)
19 Roddy Grant (Edinburgh)
20 Greig Laidlaw (Edinburgh)
21 Colin Gregor (Glasgow Warriors)
22 Mark Robertson (Edinburgh)
Head Coach: Sean Lineen

http://www.scotlandrugbyteam.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1525&Itemid=9

Tonga
Team list as yet not available

International Rugby Results: Sunday 15 November 2009

15.11.2009
Australia 20, Ireland 20 in Dublin
Japan 46, Canada 8 in Sendai

Reviews
What a way to celebrate your 100th international test! In the last stanza of play, Irish captain Brian O'Driscoll scored a try that ended Australia's hopes of a Grand Slam tour. Yet another Australia-Irish test match was decided in the last minutes of play.

The great shock of the weekend for me was Japan's thrashing of Canada. My friend and writer of the RiJ newsletter featured on my web site www.rugbyinternational.net, Ian McDonnell sums up the play. "Japan put on a fine display of running rugby with three tries in each half to romp home 46-8. To put it mildly, Canada were disappointing and failed to be competitive with the home side. Canada struggled at scrum time and also succumbed to the constant Japanese pressure while letting in six tries was totally unacceptable. On the other hand, Japan were wayward at the lineout but this soft Canadian side let Japan control the game and so Japan were made to look good. Credit where credit is due though with halfback Tomoki Yoshida playing one of his best games for Japan, Shaun Webb is taking a stranglehold on the No.10 jersey and veteran wing Hirotoki Onozawa once again proved he is one of the best wings Japan has produced. No.8 Takashi Kikutani is improving as the leader to take Japan to the 2011 RWC, while young flanker Michael Leitch is proving he could very well be the captain of Japan come 2015 and even 2019".

Can Canada bounce back next weekend?

Test Rugby: Australia take on Ireland

15.11.2009
Australia v Ireland in Dublin

Venue: Croke Park

Referee: Jonathan Kaplan (South Africa)

Preview
Test rugby matches between Australia and Ireland have a sentimental and endearing aspect. Many Irish families migrated to Australia during the 19th and 20th centuries with many Irish names appearing on the Australia's team list. There have been close World Cup encounters between these two rugby nations and many test matches where the Irish saved some of their best efforts just for Australia.

The last time Ireland defeated Australia was back in 2006, in Dublin, and it was a convincing win. Since then the Irish have gone on, earlier this year, to achieve their first Grand Slam in over fifty years, defeating all home rugby nations. A second string Irish side won comfortably against Canada and the USA in June, whilst Ireland 'A' backed this up in June with a win over the England Saxons to take the Churchill Cup. The depth in Irish rugby is the best it has ever been.

Into the Irish team come three new players who will blend in with the old. Ireland still has its veterans; O'Driscoll, about to play his 100th test match having played 7 tests also for the Lions), O'Gara, closing in on the 1,00th test point milestone, and 36 year old Horan in the front row, back playing rugby after a 5 week ban for stomping. This is an excellent Irish team who will play with passion against one of their more friendlier foe, the Aussies. They may have the home crowd going crazy for them at the hallowed Croke Park but Ireland has not played as a team since March.

Australia is on a mission. The mission is to achieve its own Grand Slam, a victory against each of the home unions. Today's match will be a sterner test that that from England last weekend. They way in which their forward pack dominated must be causing some concern to the Irish. In Ireland they surely face the toughest test of all home nations.

Last Five Encounters
14.06.2008 Australia 18-12 in Melbourne
19.11.2006 Ireland 21-6 in Dublin.
24.06.2006 Australia 37-15 in Perth
19.11.2005 Australia 30-14 in Dublin
07.06.2003 Australia 45-16 in Brisbane

GWC Rugby Rankings: World Table-Australia 3rd, Ireland 5th

Prediction: Australia, just, by 2 points

Teams

Ireland
15 Robert Kearney (Leinster) Age 24, 16 tests
14 Thomas Bowe (Neath Swansea Ospreys, Wales) 25, 23
13 Brian O'Driscoll, Capt. (Leinster) 30, 92
12 Patrick Wallace (Ulster) 30, 16
11 Luke Fitzgerald (Leinster) 22, 12
10 Ronan O'Gara (Munster) 32, 92
9 Thomas O'Leary (Munster) 26, 8
8 James Heaslip (Leinster) 25, 18
7 David Wallace (Munster) 33, 55
6 Stephen Ferris (Ulster) 24, 13
5 Paul O'Connell (Munster) 30, 62
4 Donncha O'Callaghan (Munster) 30, 55
3 John Hayes (Munster) 36, 94
2 Jeremy Flannery (Munster) 31, 31
1 Cian Healy (Leinster) 22, New cap
Replacements
16 Sean Cronin (Connacht) 23, New cap
17 Thomas Court (Ulster) 29, 4
18 Leo Cullen (Leinster) 31, 19
19 Denis Leamy (Munster) 28, 42
20 Eoin Reddan (Leinster) 29, 16
21 Jonathan Sexton (Leinster) 24, New cap
22 Keith Earls (Munster) 22, 2
Head Coach: Declan Kidney

http://www.scrum.com/scrum/rugby/story/105502.html

Australia
15 Adam Ashley-Cooper (ACT Brumbies)
14 Peter Hynes (Queensland Reds)
13 Digby Ioane (Queensland Reds)
12 Quade Cooper (Queensland Reds)
11 Drew Mitchell (NSW Waratahs)
10 Matthew Giteau (ACT Brumbies)
9 Wil Genia (Queensland Reds)
8 Wycliff Palu (NSW Waratahs)
7 David Pocock (WA Western Force)
6 Rocky Elsom, Capt. (ACT Brumbies)
5 Mark Chisholm (ACT Brumbies)
4 James Horwill (Queensland Reds)
3 Benjamin Alexander (ACT Brumbies)
2 Steven Moore (ACT Brumbies)
1 Benn Robinson (NSW Waratahs)
Replacements
16 Tatafu Polota-Nau (NSW Waratahs)
17 Matthew Dunning (WA Western Force)
18 Dean Mumm (NSW Waratahs)
19 George Smith (ACT Brumbies)
20 Luke Burgess (NSW Waratahs)
21 Ryan Cross (WA Western Force)
22 James O'Connor (WA Western Force)
Head Coach: Robbie Deans

International Rugby: Canada Begins Tour of Japan

15.11.2009
Canada v Japan in Sendai (First Test)

Venue: Yurtec Stadium

Referee: Keith Brown (New Zealand)

Preview
Canada played its first two international rugby tests against Japan, back in early 1932. Japan won both tests, 9=-8 and 38-5. Over the years contests between these two Pacific nations have been close.

The last time these two rugby nations met was during pool play at the 2007 Rugby World Cup. "In a dramatic ending, replacement centre Koji Taira scored in the corner and it was then left to inside centre Shotaro Onishi, who was suffering from rib damage, to land the pressure kick from 5 metres in from the right-hand touchline. To the glee and tears of all his team mates and staff the kick raised the flags giving Japan a well deserved 12-all draw".

Japan looks to be lacking experience in the front row. They have an experienced and dangerous looking backline that could do damage if allowed to. But for me the game will be won by Canada in the forwards. This is a very experienced forward pack. Mind you. I said the same this time last year when the USA arrived in town. They were defeated by what I said was an inexperienced Japanese side that would struggle in the forwards. Having said that, this Canadian side looks more balanced than the USA team.

Former All Black Kieran Crowley is now head coach of Canada. Image thanks to www.rugbycanada.ca

Last Five Encounters
25.09.2007 Drawn 12-12 in Bordeaux (World Cup, Pool B)
29.05.2005 Canada 15-10 in Tokyo (Super Cup, Final)
30.05.2004 Japan 34-21 in Tokyo (Superpowers Cup, Final)
08.07.2001 Japan 39-7 in Tokyo (Pacific Rim; Playoff 3rd-4th)
15.07.2000 Canada 62-18 in Toronto (Pacific Rim)

GWC Rugby Rankings: World Table-Japan 13th, Canada 15th

Prediction: Very close. Canada by 5 points.

Teams:

Canada
15 James Pritchard (Bedford Blues, England) Age 30, 29 Tests
14 Ciaran Hearn (Castaway Wanderers) 23, 8
13 Matthew Evans (Hartpury College, England) 21, 7
12 Bryn Keys (Moseley, England) 24, 7
11 Justin Mensah-Coker (Moseley, England) 25, 18
10 Ander Monro (Castaway Wanderers) 28, 17
9 Phil Mack (University of Victoria) 24, 4
8 Aaron Carpenter (Coventry, England) 26, 28
7 Adam Kleeberger (Rotherham Titans, England) 25, 21
6 Chauncey OíToole (Castaway Wanderers) 23, 2
5 Tyler Hotson (Plymouth Albion, England) 24, 10
4 Joshua Jackson (Bordeaux, France) 29, 21
3 Daniel Pletch (Oakville Crusaders) 26, 22
2 Pat Riordan, Capt. (University of Victoria) 30, 24
1 Kevin Tkachuk (Glasgow Warriors, Scotland) 33, 50
Replacements
16 Mchael Pletch (Velox Valhallians) 26, 22
17 Douglas Woolridge (Cowichan) 23, 2
18 Jebb Sinclair (Castaway Wanderers) 23, 9
19 Nanyak Dala (Castaway Wanderers) 25, 7
20 Sean White (James Bay Athletic Assoc.) 21, New Cap
21 Sean Duke (University of Victoria) 21, 3
22 Nathan Hirayama (University of Victoria) 21, 2
Head Coach: Kieran Crowley

http://www.rugbyjapan.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=718&Itemid=31

Japan
15 Go Aruga (Suntory) Age 25, 12 Tests
14 Kosuke Endo (Toyota) 28, 23
13 Ryan Nicholas (Suntory) 30, 15
12 Koji Taira (Suntory) 26, 17
11 Hirotoki Onozawa (Suntory) 31, 52
10 Shaun Webb (Coca-Cola) 27, 14
9 Fumiaki Tanaka (Sanyo) 24, 14
8 Takashi Kukutani, Capt. (Toyota) 29, 26
7 Philip O’Reilly (Yokogawa) 29, 9
6 Michael Leitch (Tokai Univ.) 21, 7
5 Toshizumi Kitagawa (Toyota) 28, 23
4 Hitoshi Ono (Toshiba) 31, 35
3 Kensuke Hatakeyama (Suntory) 24, 8
2 Shota Horie (Sanyo) 23, New cap
1 Naoki Kawamata (Sanyo) 24, 3
Replacements
16 Yoshimitsu Yasue (Kobe) 25, 2
17 Hisateru Hirashima (Kobe) 26, 8
18 Daniel Quate (Toyota) 29, New cap
19 Toetuíu Taufa (Kintetsu) 28, 7
20 Tomoki Yoshida (Toshiba) 27, 18
21 Alisi Tupuailei (Honda) 29, New cap
22 James Arlidge (Newport, Wales) 30, 14
Head Coach: John Kirwan

http://www.rugbyjapan.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=718&Itemid=31

Rugby Test Results: Saturday November 14

14.11.2009
New Zealand 20, Italy 6 in Milan
England 16, Argentina 9 at Twickenham
Scotland 23, Fiji 10 at Murrayfield
Europe XV v French Barbarians in Brussels (Non test-FIRA’s 75^th Birthday)
United States v Uruguay in Montevideo (WCQ Americas, R2 Playoff, 1^st leg) HT 13-3 to USA
Georgia 24, Argentina ‘A’ 22 in Tblissi
Namibia 18, Tunisia 13 in Tunis (WCQ Africa & Africa Cup Final, 1^st Leg)
Moldova 45, Czech Republic 30 in Chisinau (WCQ Europe R4; ENC 2A)
Norway 12, Austria 9 in Vienna (ENC 3B)
Monaco v Cyprus in Menton (ENC 3D)
Egypt v Libya in Tripoli/Cairo-Some doubt about this fixture

Brief Reviews
Nothing startling from the tier 1 nations. New Zealand struggled for combination against a spirited Italian side, who played well in fron of a sell-out 80,000 capacity crowd in the local football stadium. England stumbled and stuttered against Argentina, who will be a better side for this outing-watch out Wales! Scotland were predictable in their win against a weakened Fijian side (I can't believe players can have visa problems in this day!).

In the World Cup qualifiers, the biggest surprise was Moldova's win over Czech Republic, and the size of the win. Namibia did well to win in Tunis and will now surely qualify for a World Cup finals place with the return game at home in two week's time. The USA look to have the match under some sort of control with a 13-3 lead at halftime against Uruguay in Montevideo.

Georgia won well against the strong Argentine Jaguars, a win they simply had to have, whilst Norway edged their way past fellow relegation contender Austria. There are a few more results to be finalised.

International Rugby: New Zealand Make Big Changes for Italy

14.11.2009
New Zealand v Italy in Milan

Venue: San Siro Stadium (Football)

Referee: Stuart Dickinson (Australia)

Preview
New Zealand has made wholesales changes to its team that will face Italy. A number of players will be making their test debuts for the Kiwis. In all honesty I doubt it will matter a drop. Italy are in for a tough match.

This Kiwi side is beginning to look alarmingly, for the opponents anyway, like that great side that Grand-slammed its way around the home nations this time last year. In 2008 it didn't matter whether New Zealand fielded their first, their second, or their Grannies, they still won all their test matches comfortably and more. Same again? They are hardened by a Tri Nations campaign and a local provincial championship the envy of the world. Make no mistake. The All Blacks will fire tomorrow.

So what about Italy. They'll have a huge crowd to support them. They have a forward pack that will rumble the opposition all over the park, and they have a fly half-scrum half combination which looks finally to have solved the problems Italy has had in that area. Yes, they compete, but in the end, if things get sticky, just look at the All Black bench!

Last Five Encounters
27.06.2009 New Zealand 27-6 in Christchurch
08.09.2007 New Zealand 76-14 in Marseilles (World Cup, Pool C)
11.10.2003 New Zealand 70-7 in Melbourne (World Cup, Pool D)
08.06.2002 New Zealand 65-10 in Hamilton
25.11.2000 New Zealand 56-19 in Rome

GWC Rugby Rankings: World Table-New Zealand 2nd, Italy 10th

Prediction: No contest. New Zealand by 30 points.

Teams

Italy
15 Luke McLean
14 Kaine Robertson
13 Gonzalo Canale
12 Gonzalo Garcia
11 Mirco Bergamasco
10 Craig Gower
9 Tito Tebaldi
8 Sergio Parisse
7 Mauro Bergamasco
6 Alessandro Zanni
5 Quintin Geldenhuys
4 Carlo Antonio Del Fava
3 Martin Castrogiovanni
2 Leonardo Ghiraldini
1 Salvatore Perugini
Replacements
16 Fabio Ongaro
17 Ignacio Rouyet
18 Antonio Pavanell
19 Simone Favaro
20 Simon Picone
21 Kristopher Burton
22 Alberto Sgarbi
Head Coach: Nik Mallett

New Zealand
15 Cory Jane
14 Benjamin Smith
13 Tamati Ellison
12 Luke McAlister
11 Sitiveni Sivivatu
10 Michael Delany
9 Andrew Ellis
8 Rodney So'oialo
7 Tanerau Latimer
6 Liam Messam
5 Anthony Boric
4 Thomas Donnelly
3 Neemia Tialata
2 Corey Flynn
1 Wyatt Crockett.
Replacements
16 Andrew Hore
17 John Afoa
18 Jason Eaton
19 Richie McCaw
20 James Cowan
21 Stephen Donald
22 Mils Muliaina
Head Coach: Graham Henry

Test Match: Argentina Face England at Twickenham

14.11.2009
Argentina v England at Twickenham

Referee: Nigel Owens (Wales)

Preview
The quality of a team is not necessarily the 15 players who line up for their anthems. It's the next fifteen players in the squad waiting to take somebody's place. This theory is about to be tested when England and Argentina walk out onto Twickenham.

England's injury woes has been well documented. Johnson has selected the best available players and he has largely stuck to the team that failed against Australia last weekend. Another loss and the English fan and media will start to get stuck into M.J.

Argentina will also be playing without some name players. Out are Hernández and Leguizamon. The question is just how good are the next rung of players. The point though is..do not underestimate Argentina! England has done that on occasions in the past and has paid the price. Watch out for that Argentine pack! They'll push you all over the park.

This will be the third time this year these two teams have met. The score so far is 1-1. It couldn't be closer

Last Five Encounters
13.06.2009 Argentina 24-22 in Salta
06.06.2009 England 37-15 in Manchester
11.11.2006 Argentina 25-18 at Twickenham
22.06.2002 England 26-18 in Buenos Aires
25.11.2000 England 19-0 at Twickenham

GWC Rugby Rankings: World Table-England 7th, Argentina 8th

Prediction: England to just outlast the Argies, and win by 5 points.

Teams

England
15 Ugo Monye
14 Mark Cueto
13 Daniel Hipkiss
12 Shane Geraghty
11 Matthew Banahan
10 Jonny Wilkinson
9 Paul Hodgson
8 James Haskell
7 Lewis Moody
6 Thomas Croft
5 Steve Borthwick, Capt.
4 Louis Deacon
3 Duncan Bell
2 Dylan Hartley
1 Timothy Payne
Replacements
16 Steven Thompson
17 Paul Doran-Jones
18 Courtney Lawes
19 Joseph Worsley
20 Daniel Care
21 Andrew Goode
22 Ayoola Erinle
Head Coach: Martin Johnson

Argentina
15 Horacio Agulla
14 Lucas Borges
13 Gonzalo Tiesi
12 Martin Rodriguez
11 Mauro Comuzzi
10 Santiago Fernandez
9 Alfredo Lalanne
8 Juan Fernandez Lobbe, Capt.
7 Alfredo Abadie
6 Tomas Leonardi
5 Patricio Albacete
4 Esteban Lozada
3 Martin Scelzo
2 Mario Ledesma
1 Rodrigo Roncero
Replacements:
16 Alberto Vernet Basualdo
17 Marcos Ayerza
18 Manuel Carizza
19 Alejandro Campos
20 Agustin Figuerola
21 Benjamin Urdapilleta
22 Federico Martin Aramburu
Head Coach: Santiago Phelan

World Test Rugby: Scotland Faces Fiji

14.11.2009
Fiji v Scotland at Murrayfield

Referee: Chris White (England)

Preview
Both Scotland and Fiji go into this match with the future in mind. My ranking system has Scotland just a touch above Fiji. The IRB ranking system (well, that's the system they are going to use to rank teams before the World Cup-sadly not mine), has Fiji just a touch above Scotland. So both teams have a lot to play for. With two years out from the 2011 Rugby World Cup, these two teams have rarely made their mark beyond the quarter finals. Both teams are rebuilding.

Fiji is having injury and selection woes that has reduced the team to 27 players available for selection against Scotland. "Saracens star Kameli Ratuvou pulled out for personal reasons and was replaced by Josh Matavesi. Gabriel Lovobalavu replaced Wise Luveniyali while France-based duo Norman Ligairi and Vilimone Delasau can’t travel to Scotland because of visa problems". Added to this, backrower Talei is injured as is Jone Qovu

Scotland has a new coach, a new captain and , hopefully, a new approach to their international game. There is a place for last year's captain Mike Blair on the bench. Also on the bench are Chris Paterson, a veteran of 95 tests for Scotland, and Jason White, a former captain, with 74 test caps. That's a decent sort of bench to rely on. Their recent record, actually there record for more than a decade, has seen a Scottish side under performing. Today's match signals a new start for Scotland.

This is going to be one heck of a ding-dong battle between two teams who play their rugby very differently from each other. Watch out for an explosive Fijian team hell-bent of lifting themselves in the rankings (or maintaining them). Watch out for a new-look Scotland embarking on a new era.

Chris Cusiter to lead Scotland into a new era? Image thanks to http://www.scottishrugby.org/

Last Five Encounters
01.11.2003 Scotland 22-20 in Sydney (World Cup, Pool B)
24.11.2002 Scotland 36-22 at Murrayfield
26.05.1998 Fiji 51-26 in Suva
29.05.1993 Scotland XV 29-10 in Suva
28.10.1989 Scotland 38-17 at Murrayfield

GWC Rugby Rankings: World Table-Scotland 9th, Fiji 11th

Prediction: Scotland will outlast an inexperienced Fijian side, sadly affected by injury and players with visa problems. Scotland by 16 points.

Teams

Scotland
15 Rory Lamont (Toulon, France) Aged 27, 18 tests
14 Sean Lamont (Llanelly Scarlets, Wales) 27, 33
13 Alexander Grove (Worcester Warriors, England) New cap
12 Graeme Morrison (Glasgow Warriors) 27, 16
11 Simon Danielli (Ulster, Ireland) 31, 20
10 Philip Godman (Edinburgh Gunner) 27, 17
9 Christopher Cusiter, Capt. (Glasgow Warriors) 27, 44
8 John Beattie (Glasgow Warriors) 23, 4*
7 John Barclay (Glasgow Warriors) 22, 11
6 Alasdair Strokosch (Gloucester, England) 26, 11
5 Alastair Kellock (Glasgow Warriors) 28, 17
4 Nathan Hines (Leinster, Ireland) 32, 58
3 Moray Low (Glasgow Warriors) 25, 2
2 Ross Ford (Edinburgh Gunners) 25, 29
1 Allan Jacobsen (Edinburgh Gunners) 31, 36
Replacements
16 Douglas Hall (Glasgow Warriors) 29, 28
17 Kyle Traynor (Edinburgh Gunners) 23, New cap
18 Jason White (Clermont Auvergne, France) 31, 74
19 Richard Vernon (Glasgow Warriors) 22, New cap
20 Michael Blair (Edinburgh Gunners) 28, 58
21 Chris Paterson (Edinburgh Gunners) 31, 95
22 Nick De Luca (Edinburgh Gunners) 25, 10
Head Coach: Andy Robinson

* Last played for Scotland 2007-08

Not considered through injury: Ben Cairns, Alasdair Dickinson, Max Evans, Jim Hamilton, Ruaridh Jackson and Euan Murray

http://www.scottishrugby.org/content/view/596/2/

Fiji
15 Joshua Matavesi
14 Vereneki Goneva
13 Gabirieli Lovobalavu
12 Seremaia Bai, Capt
11 Napolioni Nalaga
10 Nicky Little
9 Moses Rauluni
8 Asaeli Boko
7 Akapusi Qera
6 Josefa Domolailai
5 Ifereimi Rawaqa
4 Wame Lewaravu
3 Deacon Manu
2 Vili Veikoso
1 Alefoso Yalayalatabua
Replacements:
16 Graham Dewes
17 Sereli Ledua
18 Leone Nakarawa
19 Samu Bola
20 Waisale Vatuvoka
21 Jonetani Ratu
22 Nasoni Roko

Head Coach: Samuela Domoni

World Cup Rugby: USA and Uruguay Begin Quest

14.11.2009
United States v Uruguay in Montevideo (WCQ America's R2, Playoff 1st leg)

Venue:

Referee:

Image thanks to www.uru.org.uy

Preview
Whilst some World Cup eyes are focus on Tunis for the first Namibia-Tunisia clash, eyes will also be on the first America's playoff clash between Uruguay and the USA. The winner of this series will qualify for a place in the 2011 Rugby World Cup Finals as Americas 2. The loser goes into the draw for the very last place at the finals.

The USA arrived in Montevideo without two long stalwarts of USA rugby, front-rower Mike MacDonald, and utility back Salesi Sika. Whilst they will be difficult to replace, USA coach Eddie O'Sullivan (ex Ireland fame) says his squad has had plenty of match play over the summer and autumn.

Uruguay has the home advantage but it's history against the USA is not good. They lost 9-43 away this time last year and has not defeated the USA since 2002. They do not have as many Europe-based players (the USA squad boasts 19 European club past or present experience). They do have the home advantage and they will need to win and win well.

Last Five Encounters
08.11.2008 USA 43-9 in Salt Lake City
07.10.2006 USA 33-7 in Stanford (WCQ America, Playoff, 1st leg)
11.10.2006 USA 42-13 in Montevideo (WCQ America, Playoff, 2nd leg)
30.08.2003 USA 31-17 in Buenos Aires (Pan American Series)
31.08.2002 Uruguay 10-9 in Montevideo (WCQ America R4)

These results tell us that the USA has an advantage over their southern rivals.

GWC Rugby Rankings: World Table-USA 16th, Uruguay 23rd

Prediction: USA by 15 points

Teams

USA Squad
Cory Blair (Huntington Beach RFC)
Todd Clever (Golden Lions)
Pat Danahy (Life University)
Paul Emerick (Parma FC, Italy)
J.J. Gaganio (FC Roma, Italy)
Mike Hercus (Gold Coast Stingrays, Australia)
Nicholas Johnson (Denver Barbarians RFC)
William Johnson (Oxford University, England)
Brian McClenahan (Olympic Club)
Nese Malifa (Belmont Shore RFC)
Mate Moeakiola (Pearl City RFC)
Taku Ngwenya (Biarritz Olympic, France)
Alec Parker (Gentlemen of Aspen)
Mike Petri (New York Athletic Club Rugby)
Shawn Pittman (Bayside RFC)
Junior Sifa (Midleton RFC)
Hayden Smith (Saracens, England)
Jacob Sprague (Mystic River RFC)
Louis Stanfill (New York Athletic Club Rugby)
Roland Suniula (Pearl City RFC)
Kevin Swiryn(Old Puget Sound Beach RFC)
Phil Thiel (Life University)
AlipateTuilevuka(Provo Steelers)
Timothy Usasz (Nottingham RFC, England)
John Van Der Giessen (SC Albigeois, France)
Christopher Wyles (Saracens, England)
Head Coach: Eddie O’Sullivan

Not considered due to injury:
Chris Biller (unattached)

Considered but unavailable:
Colin Hawley (California), Mike MacDonald (Leeds Carnegie), Salesi Sika (Castres Olympic)

http://www.usarugby.org/default.asp

Uruguay
15-Jerónimo Etchverry
14-Martín Crosa
13-Juan Llovet
12-Joaquín Pastore
11-Leandro Leivas
10-Nicolás Morales
9-Juan Campomar
8-Rodrigo Capó (capitán)
7-Alfredo Giuria
6-Nicolás Brignoni
5-Matías Fonseca
4-Carlos Protasi
3-Mario Sagario
2-Martín Espiga
1-Rodrigo Sànchez
Replacements
16-Carlos Arboleya
17-Alejo Corral
18-Juan Alzueta
19-Juan Horta
20-Manuel Martinez
21-Alejandro Silveira
22-Tomás Jolivet
Head Coach: Felipe Puig

http://www.uru.org.uy/noticias/315/titulares_para_manana