INTERNATIONAL RUGBY: Czech Republic After Second Win

19.03.2011
Czech Republic v Moldova in Chisinau (ENC 1B)

Venue: Dinamo Stadium

Referee: M.Mitrea (Italy)

Preview
The Czech Republic travels to Moldova with a very good win against Germany in Germany only a week before. They are without three key players at scrum-half, hooker and fullback but generally this is a strong side.

Moldova has made a few changes to the side that lost 5-20 to Belgium away on 12 February.

Both sides have lost to Belgium and both have defeated Poland. This division is another very even competition.Moldova has the home advantage which just be enough.

Previous Encounters
14.11.2009 Moldova 45-30 in Chisinau (WCQ Europe R4; ENC 2A)
22.11.2008 Czech Republic 11-9 in Prague (WCQ Europe R4; ENC 2A)

Last Five Czech Republic
12.03.2011 v Germany W 29-23 in Heidelberg (ENC 1B)
20.11.2010 Netherlands W 25-13 in Amsterdam (ENC 1B)
13.11.2010 v Belgium L 12-24 in Prague (ENC 1B)
09.10.2010 v Poland W 20-15 in Prague (ENC 1B)
10.04.2010 v Ukraine W 27-16 in Prague (WCQ Europe R4; ENC 2A)

Last Five Moldova
12.02.2011 v Belgium L 5-20 in Brussels (ENC 1B)
13.11.2010 v Poland W 36-25 in Gdansk (ENC 1B)
24.04.2010 v Ukraine W 28-19 in Anenii-Na (WCQ Europe R4; ENC 2A)
14.11.2009 v Czech Republic W 45-30 in Chisinau (WCQ Europe R4; ENC 2A)

GWC Rugby Rankings
Europe Table-Czech Republic 15th, Moldova 16th

IRB Ranking Points
Czech Republic 54.70, Moldova 52.50

Prediction: Moldova by 1 point

Teams

Czech Republic
15 Petr Čížek (RC Praga)
14 Irakli Sulamanidze (RC Sparta Praha)
13 Jan Kolář (RC Slavia Praha)
12 Petr Okleštěk (RK Petrovice)
11 Michal Jirman (RC Slavia Praha)
10 Pavel Vokrouhlík (RC Sparta Praha)
9 Vachtang Pailodze (RC Sparta Praha)
8 Karel Opravil (RC Říčany)
7 Martin Wognitsch (Oyonnax, France)
6 Karel Nešpor (RC Slavia Praha)
5 Robert Voves (Narbonne, France)
4 Tomáš Holovský (St. Rafael, France)
3 Jan Benda (Sparta Praha)
2 Michal Průša (RC Tatra Smíchov)
1 Roman Šuster, Capt. (Aurillac, France)
Replacements from
16 L.Macháček (RC Havířov),
17 Petr Hocke (RC Tatra Smíchov)
18 Radim Backa (RC Praga)
19 Jakub Procházka (RC Tatra Smíchov)
20 Vojtěch Havel (RC Tatra Smíchov)
21 Milan Jirman (RC Slavia Praha)
22 Martin Pekárek (Říčany),
23 Zbynek Schutz (RC Slavia Praha)
Head Coach: Martin Kafka

Not selected from v Germany
Haiden Roche (Civil Service RFC, England)
Jan Rohlík (RC Říčany)
Ondřej Kutil (Annecy, France)
Bench-Petra Hocke (RC Tatra Smíchov)

Moldova Squad

Fullback:
Eugen Ghicu (USEFS Blumarine)

Wings:
Mihai Gheorghieş (UTM Chişinău)
Veaceslav Lozinschi (USEFS Blumarine)

Centre:
Andrian Baltag (RC Lokomotiv “Spartak’’ Russia)
Vitalie Baleca (USEFS Blumarine)
Alexandru Bulgac (USEFS Blumarine)
Roman Cobjîlă (CSM Arad, Romania)

Fly-halves:
Octavian Manoli (UTM Chişinău)
Alexandru Gagăuz (RC Lokomotiv “Spartak’’ Russia)
Alexandru Breazu (R.C.Ciorescu)

Scrum-Half
Nicolae Chirilă (Imperia Penza, Russia)
Nicolae Caburgan (USEFS Blumarine)
Eduard Toderică (Enisey-STM-Krasnoyarsk, Russia)

3rd Row:
Victor Arhip (USEFS Blumarine)
Oleg Prepeliţă (RC Lokomotiv “Spartak’’ Russia)
Sergiu Castraveţ (RC Lokomotiv “Spartak’’ Russia)
Alexandru Colţ (Olimp-Electromaş,Tiraspol)

2nd Row:
Andrei Romanov (VVA-Podmoskovje, Russia)
Veaceslav Titica (Krasny Yar, Russia)
Maxim Gargalîc (ASEM Chişinău)
Andrei Mahu (ASEM Chişinău)

Props:
Vadim Cobîlaş (Sale Sharks, England)
Maxim Cobîlaş (VVA-Podmoskovje, Russia)
Gheorghe Gajion (UTM Chişinău)
Igor Orghianu (ASEM Chişinău )
Anaton Bajutin (Olimp-Electromaş,Tiraspol)

Hookers:
Dumitru Vasilachi (RC Kredo 63, Ukraine)
Dumitru Arhip (Enisey-STM-Krasnoyarsk, Russia)
Ion Dascal (USEFS Blumarine)

http://www.rugby.md/index.php?pagina=7&articol=312

RUGBY TEST MATCH: Andorra Travels to Switzerland

19.03.2011
Andorra v Switzerland in Nyon (ENC 2B)

Venue: Centre Sportif de Colovray

Referee: S.Goffinet (Belgium)

Preview

	P	W	D	L	PF	PA	DIFF	BT	BL	PT
ANDORRA	3	2	0	1	76	47	29	1	1	10
ARMENIA	2	1	0	1	52	42	10	0	1	5
SWITZ.	2	1	0	1	45	45	0	0	1	5
SLOVENIA	2	1	0	1	40	25	15	0	0	4
SERBIA	3	1	0	2	46	90	-44	0	0	4

This is a very even competition for ENC 2B. Andorra sits on top of the points table but only because they have played and extra game to the other nations who have also lost one game, played two. Andorra has the disadvantage of playing away. they have found winning away difficult.

Last Five Encounters
08.05.2010 Andorra 10-0 in Andorra La Vela (ENC 3A)
14.03.2009 Switzerland 32-9 in Avusi (WCQ Europe R2; ENC 3A)
05.05.2001 Switzerland 38-25 in Switzerland (WCQ Europe Rnd A; FIRA Pool 1)
26.09.1998 Switzerland 15-14 in Andorra La Vela (FIRA D)
29.10.1992 Switzerland 10-0 in Andorra La Vela (WCQ 1995)

Andorra Last Five
19.02.2011 v Serbia W 42-25 in Andorra La Vela (ENC 2B)
13.11.2010 v Armenia L 15-12 in Abovian (ENC 2B)
09.10.2010 v Slovenia W 22-7 in Andorra La Vela (ENC 2B)
08.05.2010 v Switzerland W 10-0 in Andorra La Vela (ENC 3A)
03.04.2010 v Armenia L 17-26 in Abovian (ENC 3A)

Switzerland Last Five
20.11.2010 v Serbia L 15-18 in Belgrade (ENC 2B)
02.10.2010 v Armenia W 30-27 in Lausanne (ENC 2B)
08.05.2010 v Andorra L 0-10 in Andorra La Vela (ENC 3A)
22.11.2009 v Armenia W 18-0 in Yverdon (ENC 3A)
24.10.2009 v Serbia L 8-13 in Belgrade (ENC 3A)

GWC Rugby Rankings
Europe Table-Switzerland 24th, Andorra 26th

IRB Ranking Points
Andorra 43.77, Switzerland 41.36

Prediction: Switzerland by 3 points

Teams

Switzerland Squad
Clement Bartschi (AS Villeurbanne)
Schelte Betten (GC Zürich)
Josh Bjornson (GC Zürich)
Cyril Coulot (RC Yverdon)
Andreas Dahinden (RC Stade Lausanne)
Jacky Dervey (RC Stade Lausanne)
Gabriel Fox (RC Fribourg)
Alessio Giorgerini (RC Stade Lausanne)
Mathieu Guyou-Kreis (RCA Cergy-Pontoise, France)
Hanno Kung (GC Zürich)
Cyril Lafuye (U.S. Oyonnax, France)
Cyril Lin (Lannemezan, France)
Ismael Meyer (RC Stade Lausanne)
Julien Molina (RC Nyon)
Ghislain Montiel (Peyrehorade, France)
David Mossière (Union Sigean Port-la-Nouvelle, France)
Jesse Nicholas (GC Zürich)
Steve Pascucci (RC Genf)
Simon Perrod (U.S. Oyonnax Espoirs, France)
Aymeric Pont (RC Avusy)
Frantz Ruegsegger (RC Bern)
Bryan Seale (RC Nyon)
Lukas Steiger (RC Bern)
Head Coach: Philip Filiatre

Adapted from http://www.suisserugby.com/news/19-march-in-nyon-swiss-rugby-party-around-swi/282.html

Andorra
No reply from Andorra RFU for my request for squad list.

RUGBY TEST MATCH: Swiss Team to Play Andorra

Clement Bartschi (AS Villeurbanne)
Schelte Betten (GC Zürich)
Josh Bjornson (GC Zürich)
Cyril Coulot (RC Yverdon)
Andreas Dahinden (RC Stade Lausanne)
Jacky Dervey (RC Stade Lausanne)
Gabriel Fox (RC Fribourg)
Alessio Giorgerini (RC Stade Lausanne)
Mathieu Guyou-Kreis (RCA Cergy-Pontoise, France)
Hanno Kung (GC Zürich)
Cyril Lafuye (U.S. Oyonnax, France)
Cyril Lin (Lannemezan, France)
Ismael Meyer (RC Stade Lausanne)
Julien Molina (RC Nyon)
Ghislain Montiel (Peyrehorade, France)
David Mossière (Union Sigean Port-la-Nouvelle, France)
Jesse Nicholas (GC Zürich)
Steve Pascucci (RC Genf)
Simon Perrod (U.S. Oyonnax Espoirs, France)
Aymeric Pont (RC Avusy)
Frantz Ruegsegger (RC Bern)
Bryan Seale (RC Nyon)
Lukas Steiger (RC Bern)
Head Coach: Philip Filiatre

‘On 5 and 6 March the national team trained in Magglingen to prepare for the match against Andorra. Currently ranked second, the national team can quite rightly believe in their chances to being promoted to group 2A.

The majority of players in the Swiss squad are playing for Swiss clubs in the domestic championship, added to this are players from French clubs (level fédéral and espoirs). These young players intend to show their commitment and the efforts they put into the national team, with the aim to not only win but also to show the full range of rugby, making it a spectacle to watch for the fans, and all this put into place by national coach Philip Filiatre’

From Christophe Secat, team manager.

http://www.suisserugby.com/news/19-march-in-nyon-swiss-rugby-party-around-swi/282.html

RUGBY WORLD CUP: Christchurch Won’t Be Hosting

This is very sad news for Cantabrians. I, as a Kiwi, know just how passionate Cantabrians are about their rugby. Nowhere in New Zealand is their more passion for this magnificent game. To have the games off the Christchurch agenda is a sad blow for Cantabrians.

MEDIA RELEASE
March 16, 2011

Decision on Christchurch's hosting of RWC 2011 matches

• Stadium Christchurch requires extensive repairs, timeframes uncertain
• Quarter-finals reallocated to Eden Park
• Pool matches to be reallocated to other RWC 2011 venues
• Existing ticket holders to be offered refund or tickets to reallocated matches

Rugby World Cup 2011 (RWC 2011) Tournament partners have today reluctantly decided that Christchurch will be unable to host the seven matches scheduled to be played at Stadium Christchurch and these will be rescheduled to be played at other venues in New Zealand.

The decision was unanimously supported by Tournament owners the International Rugby Board, the New Zealand Government, the New Zealand Rugby Union (NZRU) and Tournament organiser Rugby New Zealand 2011 (RNZ 2011).

This follows a detailed review of reports assessing damage to key Tournament facilities and infrastructure caused by the devastating 6.3 magnitude earthquake that struck the city on February 22 and advice from the stadium operator, Vbase that it could not provide an absolute assurance that all necessary remedial work could be completed in time for RWC 2011. A copy of the correspondence received yesterday from Vbase can be found here.

International Rugby Board Chairman Bernard Lapasset travelled to Christchurch for today’s announcement.

“Yesterday we were informed by Stadium Christchurch operator Vbase that it could not guarantee that the extensive repairs required for both the stadium structures and the playing surface could be completed in time. That information means that Tournament partners have been left with no choice but to make the difficult decision to reallocate the seven matches due to be played in Christchurch.

“This has been a hard decision for all involved, given the place of Canterbury in New Zealand Rugby and the tremendous enthusiasm and support that the people of Christchurch have displayed for RWC 2011. The thoughts of the global Rugby family continue to be with the people of Christchurch and everyone affected as they focus on the city’s rebuilding process and repair of key public services and facilities.”

Ticket purchasers for all Christchurch matches will be offered the option of a refund or the opportunity to secure tickets to the relevant reallocated matches. RNZ 2011 has confirmed there will be sufficient availability of tickets to rescheduled matches for those wanting to take up that option. Full details will be provided by the end of March. For further ticketing information please visit http://www.rugbyworldcupnews.com/mail/link.php?M=197424&N=516&L=59&F=H.
Vbase has indicated that the repair timeframes are so tight there would be no leeway for work delays or for any risks. This prevents Vbase giving assurances that it can meet its RWC 2011 obligations.

Among the “risks” identified by Vbase:

• Ongoing investigation required that might reveal the need for further work in relation to structures and playing surface
• Complexity of a work programme that includes superficial and structural repairs and full replacement of the playing surface
• Availability of resources (labour, material and equipment) and timeliness of securing consents
• Aftershocks that might impact on the work programme

“We know Cantabrians are passionate about Rugby and we know that many wanted the matches to remain as a way to unite and heal their shattered city,” said RNZ 2011 Chairman Brian Roche.

“However, we needed to weigh up the risks of continuing with matches in Christchurch with just 25 weeks to kick-off to the world’s third largest sporting event. Sadly, we collectively agreed the risks were too great. The timeframes for repairs were too tight, the uncertainty too much.”

“Our hearts go out to Canterbury fans today given the inevitable disappointment this decision will cause for many,” said NZRU CEO and RNZ 2011 director Steve Tew.

“Tournament partners are looking into a number of initiatives that will give Cantabrians a chance to be part of our Stadium of Four Million. We still want them to play a part in hosting a successful Tournament and to share in the excitement of this event.”

Contingency planning is at an advanced stage, but the process of allocation of matches is complex with many factors to consider, including accommodation, transport and broadcast logistics.

Eden Park is confirmed as the venue for the quarter-finals of October 8 and 9 and a decision regarding where the five pool matches will now be played will be taken jointly by the Tournament’s partners as soon as feasibly possible, likely before the end of March.

“Eden Park was the only logical alternative to stage two of the Tournament’s premier matches given the ground capacity and visitor accommodation demands associated with these quarter-final matches,,” said RNZ 2011 CEO Martin Snedden.

“We are working hard to ensure as many pool matches as reasonably possible remain in the South Island. A key consideration in all of this is to reschedule matches in a way that minimises the impact on other matches and therefore causes the least disruption to existing arrangements for teams and travelling.

“We appreciate this is a time of great uncertainty for fans which is why we are trying to resolve all issues as quickly as possible.

“We are enormously grateful for the support of all our partners in New Zealand during this difficult process and in particular the strenuous efforts by Vbase in attempting to meet our requirements.”

Ends

Further information

- Media Q & As
- Stadium Christchurch playing surface and accommodation
- Letter from Vbase
...................................
Official Travel and Hospitality Programme:

Fans wanting to guarantee their place at RWC 2011 can do so through the Official Travel & Hospitality Programme. A range of official RWC 2011 travel packages are available which include travel and accommodation options. Alternatively, companies wanting a complete RWC 2011 experience can choose from a number of exciting ticket-inclusive hospitality packages on offer, including the exclusive Eden Park Pavilion. For more information about the Official Travel & Hospitality Programme, please visit http://www.rugbyworldcupnews.com/mail/link.php?M=197424&N=516&L=77&F=H.

About Rugby New Zealand 2011 Ltd: Rugby New Zealand 2011 Ltd (RNZ 2011) was established in June 2006 and is the organisation responsible for the planning and delivery of Rugby World Cup 2011 (RWC 2011) in New Zealand on behalf of its shareholders, the New Zealand Rugby Union and the New Zealand Government. RNZ 2011 is governed by a Board of Directors. The New Zealand Rugby Union was selected as the Host Union for RWC 2011 by the International Rugby Board (IRB) Council in November 2005.

About IRB Rugby World Cup: The IRB Rugby World Cup is the third largest sports event in the world. The inaugural Tournament took place in 1987 and it is held every four years. In 2007 the sixth tournament was held in France and enjoyed a cumulative worldwide broadcast audience of more than 4 billion.
For the latest on RWC 2011 visit http://www.rugbyworldcupnews.com/mail/link.php?M=197424&N=516&L=11&F=H.

TEST RUGBY VIDEO: Spain 25, Portugal 10

14 minutes of highlights.

TEST RUGBY THIS WEEKEND: Saturday 19 March

19.03.2011
Italy v Scotland at Murrayfield (6 Nations)
England v Ireland in Dublin (6 Nations)
Wales v France in Paris (6 Nations)
Georgia v Russia in Sotchi (ENC 1A)
Spain v Romania in Bucharest (ENC 1A)
Ukraine v Portugal in Lisbon (ENC 1A)
Germany v Belgium in Brussels/Vise (ENC 1B)
Czech Republic v Moldova in Chisinau (ENC 1B)
Andorra v Switzerland in Nyon (ENC 2B)

Briefly
Can Italy make history by winning two 6 Nations Championship matches in a row? Or will Scotland dampen their day at Murrayfield? Wales and France will battle it out in Paris for mostly pride because I don’t either team is eligible to win anything now. That leads us to THE match in the 6 Nations. Can Ireland defeat England at their new stadium in Dublin? If they do it won’t take the Championship away from England but it will stop the grabbing The Grand Slam.

Georgia has already won the 2011 chapter of the European Nations Cup. They will be looking to wrap up the competition with their own ‘Grand Slam’ by winning all their games. And this will be on Russian soil (just), the first time the game between Russia and Georgia has not been played on foreign soil since 2008. For the other four teams its just about pride.

Elsewhere, ENC 1B is turning into another even contest with Belgium and Germany being defeated last weekend. These two teams meet and on form anything could happen. The same applies to Moldova v Czech Republic. Picking a winner in the 1B competition is becoming hard work.

Finally, Andorra travel to Nyon to take on the Swiss in another topsy-turvy competition.

SIX NATIONS TEST RUGBY: England Hold On

13.03.2011
England 22, Scotland 16 at Twickenham (6 Nations; Calcutta Cup)

Briefly
England just held off Scotland long enough to secure a win and keep their Grand Slam hopes alive. It was a brave performance by Scotland and a stuttering one from England. Ireland now stands in England’s way.

6 NATIONS TEST RUGBY: Calcutta Cup Clash

12.03.2011
Scotland v England at Twickenham (6 Nations; Calcutta Cup)

Referee: Romain Poite (France)

Preview
Few matches on the international test rugby calendar inspire more passion that a Calcutta Match at Twickenham. The two teams, England and Scotland, got things going back in 1871 when they played the first recognized test rugby match. On Saturday England will play for a chance of bagging a Championship title and the prospect of a Grand Slam. Scotland arrives at Twickenham to have a bash at the ‘old enemy’. I’d love to be there!

Despite the cry of passion Scotland’s recent record has not enthused Scottish fans. The fact is that since that remarkable win against South Africa in November, Scotland has barely fired a spark. They have lost all games at Murrayfield and realistically they don’t, on paper, stand much of a chance at Twickenham. Well, that is just the sort of situation from which Scotland can pounce a win. England be ware!

As for England the good form they showed in November has continued. They dispatched France who were looking to be their nearest rival and everybody else so far. The massive forward pack has been finally complemented by a backline with some spirit, skill and even flare. Ye Gods! England are finally, since 2007, showing some decent form.

Last Five Encounters
13.03.2010 Drawn 15-15 at Murrayfield (6 Nations; Calcutta Cup)
21.03.2009 England 26-12 at Twickenham (6 Nations; Calcutta Cup)
08.03.2008 Scotland 15-9 at Murrayfield (6 Nations; Calcutta Cup)
07.02.2007 England 42-20 at Twickenham (6 Nations; Calcutta Cup)
25.02.2006 Scotland 18-12 at Murrayfield (6 Nations; Calcutta Cup)

Scotland has to go back as far as 1983 for a win at Twickenham.

England Last Five
26.02.2011 v France W 17-9 at Twickenham (6 Nations)
12.02.2011 v Italy W 59-13 at Twickenham (6 Nations)
04.02.2011 v Wales W 26-19 in Cardiff (6 Nations)
27.11.2010 v South Africa L 11-21 at Twickenham
20.11.2010 v Samoa W 26-13 at Twickenham

Scotland Last Five
27.02.2011 v Ireland L 18-21 at Murrayfield (6 Nations)
12.02.2011 v Wales L 6-24 at Murrayfield (6 Nations)
05.02.2011 v France L 21-34 in Paris (6 Nations)
27.11.2010 v Samoa W 19-16 at Aberdeen
20.11.2010 v South Africa W 21-17 at Murrayfield

GWC Rugby Rankings
World Table-England 2nd, Scotland 8th
Europe Table-England 1st, Scotland 6th

IRB Ranking Points
England 83.98, Scotland 77.96

Prediction: There have been upset results in test rugby all weekend. So I’m saying, Scotland by 3 points.

Teams

England
15 Benjamin Foden, 14 Christopher Ashton, 13 Michael Tindall, Capt. 12 Shontayne Hape, 11 Mark Cueto, 10 Tobias Flood, 9 Benjamin Youngs , 8 Nicholas Easter ,
7 James Haskell, 6 Thomas Wood, 5 Thomas Palmer, 4 Louis Deacon, 3 Daniel Cole, 2 Dylan Hartley, 1 Alexander Corbisiero.
Replacements
16 Steven Thompson, 17 Paul Doran-Jones, 18 Simon Shaw, 19 Thomas Croft, 20 Daniel Care, 21 Jonny Wilkinson, 22 Matthew Banahan.
Head Coach: Martin Johnson

Scotland
15 Christopher Paterson, 14 Simon Danielli, 13 Joseph Ansbro, 12 Sean Lamont, 11 Max Evans, 10 Ruaridh Jackson, 9 Rory Lawson, 8 Kelly Brown, 7 John Barclay,
6 Nathan Hines, 5 Alastair Kellock (capt), 4 Richard Gray, 3 Moray Low, 2 Ross Ford, 1 Allan Jacobsen.
Replacements
16 Scott Lawson, 17 Geoffrey Cross, 18 Richard Vernon, 19 Alasdair Strokosch, 20 Michael Blair, 21 Daniel Parks, 22 Nicholas De Luca.
Head Coach: Andy Robinson

TEST RUGBY RESULTS 12 MARCH 2011

12.03.2011
Italy 22, France 21 in Rome (6 Nations)
Wales 19, Ireland 13 in Cardiff (6 Nations)
Georgia 18, Romania 13 in Tblissi (ENC 1A)
Spain 25, Portugal 10 in Madrid (ENC 1A)
Russia 41, Ukraine 5 in Odessa (ENC 1A)
Poland 28, Belgium 21 in Gdansk (ENC 1B)
Czech Republic 29, Germany 23 in Heidelberg (ENC 1B)
Cyprus 55, Bulgaria 8 in Paphos (ENC 2D)

Briefly
Upsets, upsets, upsets!!
Italy scored their first win over France in the 6 Nations competition. Italy entered the competition in 2000. Italy had defeated France prior to that but it was an historic day for Italian rugby.

Wales were a little fortunate in their win over Ireland. An incorrect refereeing decision in which the wrong ball was thrown into a quick lineout which resulted in the winning try, saw Ireland lose.

Georgia won the 2011 ENC 1A competition with a good win over Romania. With one game in hand they cannot be overtaken on the points table. And Georgia can thank Spain for that as the Spanish caused a 25-10 upset win over neighbours Portugal.

Russia won well against the Ukraine whilst in Division 1B Poland upset competition leaders Belgium 28-21 whilst Czech Republic upset Germany 29-23.

In the other ENC game, in 2D, Cyprus crushed closest rival Bulgaria 55-8 at home to give them a huge lead.

Tomorrow Scotland face England at Twickenham in the 6 Nations Tournament and for the Calcutta Cup.

6 NATIONS RUGBY TEST MATCH: The French are in Rome

12.03.2011
France v Italy in Rome (6 Nations; Garibaldi Trophy)

Venue: Stadio Flaminio

Referee: Bryce Lawrence (New Zealand)

Preview
Italy and France clash in Rome and it can all be summed up in one sentence. A comfortable win for France.

Sadly Italy just hasn’t taken the opportunities to win their games when provided. They should have defeated both Ireland and Wales in February but couldn’t finish off the advantage gained, or take points when offered. Oh for a goal kicker!

France lost the chance for another Grand Slam when they last two weeks ago at Twickenham. The French though haven’t really fired although they certainly have returned from the disaster that was the test match against Australia last November.

It’s going to be a massive confrontation up front. Italy usually hold their own or dominate the opposition. But against France they face, along with England, one of the world’s most formidable packs.

Last Five Encounters
14.03.2010 France 46-20 in Paris (6 Nations; Garibaldi Cup)
21.03.2009 France 50-8 in Rome (6 Nations; Garibaldi Trophy)
09.03.2008 France 25-13 in Paris (6 Nations; Garibaldi Trophy)
03.02.2007 France 39-3 in Rome (6 Nations; Garibaldi Trophy)
25.02.2006 France 37-12 in Paris (6 Nations)

France Last Five
26.02.2011 v England L 9-17 at Twickenham (6 Nations)
13.02.2011 v Ireland W 25-22 in Dublin (6 Nations)
05.02.2011 v Scotland W 34-21 in Paris (6 Nations)
27.11.2010 v Australia L16-59 in Paris
20.11.2010 v Argentina W 15-9 in Paris

Italy Last Five
26.02.2011 v Wales L 16-24 in Rome (6 Nations)
12.02.2011 v England L 13-59 at Twickenham (6 Nations)
05.02.2011 v Ireland L 11-13 in Rome (6 Nations)
27.11.2010 v Fiji W 24-16 in Modena
20.11.2010 v Australia L 14-32 in Florence

GWC Rugby Rankings
World Table-France 5th, Italy 10th
Europe Table-France 2nd, Italy 6th

IRB Ranking Points
France 82.87, Italy 72.16

Prediction: France by 30 points

Teams

Italy
15 Andrea Masi, 14 Tommaso Benvenuti, 13 Gonzalo Canale, 12 Gonzalo Garcia, 11 Mirco Bergamasco, 10 Luciano Orquera, 9 Fabio Semenzato, 8 Sergio Parisse,Capt.
7 Robert Barbieri, 6 Alessandro Zanni, 5 Carlo Antonio Del Fava, 4 Santiago Dellape, 3 Martin Castrogiovanni, 2 Carlo Festuccia, 1 Andrea Lo Cicero.
Replacements
16 Leonardo Ghiraldini, 17 Salvatore Perugini, 18 Quintin Geldenhuys, 19 Paul Derbyshire, 20 Pablo Canavosio, 21 Kristopher Burton, 22 Luke McLean.
Head Coach: Nik Mallett

France:
15 Maxime Médard, 14 Yoann Huget, 13 Aurelien Rougerie, 12 Yannick Jauzion, 11 Vincent Clerc, 10 Francois Trinh-Duc, 9 Morgan Parra, 8 Sébastien Chabal, 7 Julien Bonnaire, 6 Thierry Dusautoir, Capt. 5 Lionel Nallet, 4 Julien Pierre, 3 Nicolas Mas, 2 William Servat, 1 Sylvain Marconnet
Replacements
16 Guilhem Guirado, 17 Luc Ducalcon, 18 Jerome Thion, 19 Imanol Harinordoquy, 20 Julien Tomas, 21 Damien Traille, 22 Clement Poitrenaud
Head Coach: Marc Lièvremont

6 NATIONS RUGBY: Ireland in Wales

12.03.2011
Ireland v Wales in Cardiff (6 Nations)

Venue: Millennium Stadium

Referee: Jonathan Kaplan (South Africa)

Preview
Wales and Ireland have a recent history of close encounters. There is never much between these two teams. Failing major hiccups with either England or France, these two teams are virtually out of contention for the main title this year. Ireland are still in with a chance to take the Triple Crown, the title for the best teams out of England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales.They will be playing for pride and a build up to the 2011 Rugby World Cup. There should be very little in it. I expect Ireland to just squeak in.

Last Five Encounters
13.03.2010 Ireland 27-12 in Dublin (6 Nations)
21.03.2009 Ireland 17-15 in Cardiff (6 Nations)
08.03.2008 Wales 16-12 in Dublin (6 Nations)
04.02.2007 Ireland 19-9 in Cardiff (6 Nations)
26.02.2006 Ireland 31-5 in Dublin (6 Nations)

Wales last defeated Ireland in Cardiff in 2005. The score was 32-20. This win has been the only Welsh victory against Ireland in Cardiff since 1983.

Ireland Last Five
27.02.2011 v Scotland W 21-18 at Murrayfield (6 Nations)
13.02.2011 v France L 22-25 in Dublin (6 Nations)
05.02.2011 v Italy W 31-11 in Rome (6 Nations)
28.11.2010 v Argentina W 29-9 in Dublin
20.11.2010 v New Zealand L 18-38 in Dublin

Wales Last Five
26.02.2011 v Italy W 24-16 in Rome (6 Nations)
12.02.2011 v Scotland W 24-6 at Murrayfield (6 Nations)
04.02.2011 v England L 19-26 in Cardiff (6 Nations)
27.11.2010 v New Zealand L 25-37 in Cardiff
19.11.2010 v Fiji in Cardiff D 16-16

GWC Rugby Rankings
World Table- Wales 6th, Ireland 8th
Europe Table-Ireland 3rd, Wales 4th

IRB Ranking Points
Ireland 81.95, Wales 79.57

Prediction: Ireland by 3 points

Teams

Wales
15 Lee Byrne, 14 Leigh Halfpenny, 13 James Roberts, 12 Jonathan Davies, 11 Shane Williams, 10 James Hook, 9 Michael Phillips, 8 Ryan Jones, 7 Samuel Warburton,
6 Daniel Lydiate, 5 Alun-Wyn Jones, 4 Bradley Davies, 3 Craig Mitchell, 2 Matthew Rees, Capt,. 1 Paul James.
Replacements
16 Richard Hibbard, 17 John Yapp, 18 Jonathan Thomas, 19 Robert McCusker, 20 Dwayne Peel, 21 Stephen Jones, 22 Morgan Stoddart.
Head Coach: Warren Gatland

Ireland
15 Luke Fitzgerald, 14 Tommy Bowe, 13 Brian 0'Driscoll, Capt. 12 Gordon D'Arcy, 11 Keith Earls, 10 Ronan O'Gara, 9 Eoin Reddan, 8 James Heaslip, 7 David Wallace,
6 Sean O'Brien, 5 Paul O'Connell, 4 Donncha O'Callaghan, 3 Michael Ross, 2 Rory Best, 1 Cian Healy.
Replacements
16 Sean Cronin, 17 Thomas Court, 18 Leo Cullen, 19 Denis Leamy, 20 Peter Stringer, 21 Jonathan Sexton, 22 Patrick Wallace.
Head Coach: Declan Kidney

RUGBY TEST MATCH: Romanians Travel to Georgia

12.03.2011
Romania v Georgia in Tblissi (ENC 1A, Antim Cup)

Venue: Mikhei Meskhi Stadium, Vake

Referee: David Wilkinson ( Ireland)

Preview
Georgia has been the pace-maker so far in this competition. They struggled past Portugal two weeks ago in Lisbon but were in control of much of that match. They have crushed both Spain and the Ukraine by convincing margins. The Romanians have a tough tussle on their hands.

Both teams have key players off with injuries but Romania appears to be the most effected. Georgia has a vastly more experienced side and the Romanians will struggle to match it with their hosts.

Georgia has dominated Romania since before the 2007 Rugby World Cup. Last season saw Romania rise back to the top position in this competition, taking the 2009-10 title. Their 22-10 win in Bucharest was impressive. Despite that and their recent 33-3 win over Russia, I can’t see the Romanians getting past Georgia although I predict it will be a tight finish.

Also at stake is the Antim Cup which Romania wrestled off Georgia in that 22-10 win. ‘It is named after the Romanian Orthodox Metropolitan Anthim the Iberian, who came from Georgia’. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Antim_Cup

Last Five Encounters
13.03.2010 Romania 22-10 in Bucharest (WCQ Europe R5; ENC 1; Antim Cup)
14.03.2009 Georgia 28-12 in Tblissi (WCQ Europe R5; ENC 1; Antim Cup)
09.02.2008 Georgia 22-7 in Tblissi (ENC 1; Antim Cup)
03.02.2007 Georgia 20-17 in Bucharest (ENC 1; Antim Cup)
07.10.2006 Romania 20-8 in Bucharest (WCQ Europe R5, Pool B)

Romania Last Five
26.02.2011 v Russia W 33-3 in Bucharest (ENC 1A)
05.02.2011 v Portugal L 17-24 in Lisbon (ENC 1A)
27.11.2010 v Uruguay W 39-12 in Bucharest (WCQ Repechage, final, 2nd leg)
13.11.2010 v Uruguay D 21-21 in Montevideo (WCQ Repechage, Final, 1st leg)
17.07.2010 v Tunisia W 56-13 in Bazau (WCQ Repechage)

Georgia Last Five
26.02.2011 v Portugal W 13-12 in Lisbon (ENC 1A)
12,02,2011 v Spain W 60-0 in Tblissi (ENC 1A)
05.02.2011 v Ukraine W 62-3 in Tblissi (ENC 1A)
27.11.2010 v USA in Tblissi W 19-17 (Friendly)
20.11.2010 v Canada in Tblissi W 22-15 (Friendly)

GWC Rugby Rankings
World Table-Georgia 15th, Romania 19th
Europe Table-Georgia 7th, Romania 9th

IRB Ranking Points
Georgia 69.07, Romania 65.44

Prediction: Georgia by 6 points

Teams

Georgia
15. Bessik Khamashuridze (Aia Kutaissi)
14 Irakli Machkhaneli (Macon, France)
13 David Kacharava (Nice, France)
12 Tedo Zibzibadze (Perigueux, France)
11 Lexso Gugava (Lelo)
10 Merab Kvirikashvili (Figeac, France)
9 Irakli Abuseridze, Capt (Auxerre, France)
8 Mamuka Gorgodze (Montpellier, France)
7 Grigol Labadze (Marseille Vitrol, France)
6 Shalva Sutiashvili (Massy, France)
5 Vakhtang Maisuradze (St Nazaire, France)
4 Levan Datunashvili (Figeac, France)
3 David Zirakashvili (Clermont Ferrand, France)
2 Jaba Bregvadze (Visol-Kochebi)
1 David Khinchigashvili (Brive, France)
Replacements
16 Irakli Natriashvili (Steau Bucaresti)
17 George Zhghenti (Montpellier, France)
18 George Nemsadze (Montauban, France)
19 Giorgi Chkhaidze (Montpellier, France)
20 Bidzina Samkharadze (Staeu Bucaresti)
21 Irakli Chkhikvadze (Aia Kutaissi)
22 Lasha Malaguradze (Beziers, France)
Head Coach: Richie Dixon

Adapted from http://www.fira-aer-rugby.com/forum2007/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=3714&st=0&sk=t&sd=a&start=15

Romania
15 Iulian Dumitras (Lourdes, France)
14 Lemnaru Madalin (Timisoara)
13 Ionel Cazan (Steaua Bucaresti)
12 Robert Dascalu (Steaua Bucaresti)
11 Catalin Fercu (Timisoara)
10 Florin Vlaicu (Steaua Bucaresti)
9 Florin Surugiu (CSM Bucaresti)
8 Daniel Carpo (RCJ Constanta Farul)
7 Daniel Ianus (Steaua Bucuresti)
6 Mihai Macovei (CSM Baia Mare)
5 Cristian Petre, Capt. (Saint Etienne, France)
4 Valentin Ursache (Baia Mare)
3 Dragos Dima (Blagnac, France)
2 Bogdan Zebega (Steaua Bucuresti)
1 Nicolae Nere (Steaua Bucaresti)
Replacements
16 Andrei Radoi (Baia Mare)
17 Vasile Mariscariu (Bobigny, France)
18 Sorin Socol (Lourdes, France)
19 Valentin Poparlan (CSM Bucuresti)
20 Valentin Calafeteanu (Timisoara)
21 Csaba Gal (Baia Mare)
22 Danut Dumbrava (Steaua Bucaresti)
Head Coach: Romeo Gontineac

http://www.fira-aer-rugby.com/forum2007/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=3714&st=0&sk=t&sd=a&start=15

INTERNATIONAL RUGBY MATCH: ENC Iberian Local Derby

12.03.2011
Portugal v Spain in Madrid (ENC 1A)

Venue: Estadio Universidad Complutense

Referee: M.Dordolo (Italy)

Preview
This local Iberian derby is always a hotly contest rugby game. The series goes back to 1935 when these two teams first met.

Following their narrow 12-13 loss to Georgia two weeks ago, Portugal are tucked in behind the leaders Georgia in second place. They have caused a minor stir in European rugby by defeating both Russia and Romania last month. Portugal are expected to win but I predict that Spain will rise to the occasion and give Portugal a hell of a game.

Spain is going through a rebuilding stage. New coach, Kiwi Errol Brain, has introduced a number of players from France with Spanish heritage. The move has not met with great success although it is early days. He has, for this match, reintroduced some old hands from 2009-10.

Last Five Encounters
13.03.2010 Portugal 33-15 in Madrid (WCQ Europe R5; ENC 1)
15.03.2009 Portugal 24-19 in Lisbon (WCQ Europe R5; ENC 1)
10.05.2008 Spain 21-17 in Madrid (ENC 1)
03.02.2007 Portugal 21-18 in Lisbon (ENC 1)
21.03.2004 Portugal 35-19 in Ibiza (ENC 1)

Portugal Last Five
26.02.2011 v Georgia L 12-13 in Lisbon (ENC 1A)
12.02.2011 v Russia W 21-19 in Sochi (ENC 1A)
05.02.2011 v Romania W 24-17 in Lisbon (ENC 1A)
27.11.2010 v Canada L 20-23 in Lisbon (Friendly)
20.11.2010 v Namibia W 24-12 in Lisbon (Friendly)

Spain Last Five
26.02.2011 v Ukraine W 35-13 in Madrid (ENC 1A)
12.02.2011 v Georgia L 0-60 in Tblissi (ENC 1A)
05.02.2011 v Russia L 24-28 in Madrid (ENC 1A)
27.11.2010 v Namibia W 23-20 in Palma de Malorca (Friendly)
13.11.2010 v Canada L 22-60 in Madrid (Friendly)

GWC Rugby Rankings
World Table-Portugal 18th, Spain 21st
Europe Table-Portugal 8th, Spain 11th

IRB Ranking Points
Portugal 62.95, Spain 58.53

Prediction: Portugal by 7 points.

Teams

Spain Squad
Martín Aceña, Capt. (C.R. La Vila) age 27, 12 tests
Beñat Auzqui (US Tyrosse, France) 27, 3
Mattín Auzqui (US Dax, France) 28, 4
Adrien Ayestaran (Biarritz Olimpique, France) 22, 3
Juan Cano (Lille Metropol) 25, 23
Javier Canosa (CRC Madrid) 28, 40
Matthew Cook (C.R. La Vila) 32, 11
Pablo Feijoo (El Salvador) 28, 48
Gauthier Gibouin (Unión Bourdeaux Begles, France) 21, 8
Ignacio Gutiérrez-Muller (VRAC Quesos Entrepinares) 24, 4
Martín Heredia (Costa Del Sol R.C.) 25, 7
Andoni Jorajuria (Biarritz Olimpique, France) 22, 4
Brice Labadie (Stade Montois, France) 21, New cap
Unai Lasa (Bera Bera RT) 22, 1
Pedro Martin (Ordizia RE) 24, 11
Rodrigo Martinez (CR La Vila) 32, 3
Jesús Moreno (Leeds Carnegie, England) 24, 7
Ramón Narváez (CR Majadahonda) 23, New cap
Federico Negrillo (Bizkaia Gernika R.T) 28, 9
Jesús Recuerda (Lille Metropole Rugby, France) 24,11
Mathieu Roca (Stade Aurillacois, France) 22, 2
Fabien Rofes (Montpellier, France) 29, 1
Carlos Jose Blanco Smith (Universidade Vigo) 26, new cap
Sergio Souto (El Salvador) 34, 50
Head Coach: Regis Sonnes

Adapted from http://www.ferugby.com

Portugal
António Aguilar (GD Direito)
Anthony Alves (Montauban, France)
Julien Bardy (Clermont Ferrand, France)
Lionel Campergue (Pau, France)
Rui D’Orey (GD Direito)
Bernardo Duarte (AEIS Agronomia)
Adérito Esteves (GD Direito)
Gonçalo Foro (CD University Lisboa)
Joe Gardener (Aubenas)
Tiago Girão (CD University Lisboa)
João Junior (CD University Lisboa)
Jacques Le Roux (AEISA Agronomia)
Pedro Leal (GD Direito)
Carl Murray (CD University Lisboa)
Juan Murre (El Salvador)
Frederico Oliveira (CD University Lisboa)
José Pinto (GD Direito)
Juan Severino (AEISA Agronomia)
Pedro Silva (CF Belenenses)
Bernardo Silveira (CD University Lisboa)
Cristian Spachuk (Colomiers Rugby, France)
Gonçalo Uva (Montpellier, France)
Vasco Uva (GD Direito)
Head Coach: Errol Brain

Adapted from http://www.ferugby.com

TEST RUGBY: Russia Meets Ukraine

12.03.2011
Russia v Ukraine in Odessa (ENC 1A)

Venue: Spartak Stadium

Referee: E.Gauzins (France)

Preview
The temperature in Odessa has struggled to reach zero this week and the stadium has been covered to protect the surface. These two nations find themselves holding up the competition ladder at the rear. The Ukraine has a game in hand but has lost both whilst Russia has a win and two losses. For the Ukraine promotion back into ENC 1A has brought the same difficulties and disappointments that caused its relegation. To add to their woes their rugby union president resigned in January.

Russia’s form has been of some concern. With an appearance at the 2011 Rugby World Cup (a first finals tournament for the Russians) only some months away, their form does not gender much confidence. The standard of their play is poor, which contrasts to that of 2009. They started the competition with a narrow win over Spain but since has lost narrowly to Portugal and heavily to Romania. Coach Nerush has taken the opportunity to rest players and try some new combinations. A good win here in Odessa is crucial to regaining some confidence and to start a proper build up to the finals.

For the Ukraine this match at home is an opportunity to gain some confidence and give a much-changed and below-strength Russia side a fright. A win to Ukraine would be a huge upset but cannot be ruled out. They have nothing to lose!

Ukraine face an uphill struggle against the Russians.

Last Five Encounters
30.09.2006 Russia 37-17 in Moscow (WCQ Europe R4, Playoff 2nd leg)
23.09.2006 Russia 25-11 in Odessa (WCQ Europe R4, Playoff 1st Leg)
27.05.2006 Russia 55-12 in Kiev (ENC 1)
11.06.2005 Russia 72-0 in Moscow (ENC 1)
18.09.1999 Russia 71-5 in Krasnoyarsk (FIRA B)

Russia Last Five
26.02.2011 v Romania L 3-33 in Bucharest (ENC 1A)
12.02.2011 v Portugal L 19-21 in Sotchi (ENC 1A)
05.02.2011 v Spain W 28-24 in Madrid (ENC 1A)
06.11.2010 v Japan L 3-75 in Tokyo (Friendly)
19.06.2010 v Uruguay W 38-19 in Harrison (Churchill Cup, Playoff 5th-6th)

Ukraine Last Five
26.02.2011 v Spain L 13-35 in Madrid (ENC 1A)
05.02.2011 v Georgia L 3-62 in Tblissi (ENC 1A)
05.06.2010 v Romania L 7-61 in Bucharest (WCQ Europe R5, semi-final 2nd leg)
22.05.2010 v Romania L 3-33 in Kiev (WCQ Europe R5, Semi-final 1st leg)
08.05.2010 v Lithuania W 27-16 in Sialuiaia (WCQ Europe R4, Final)

GWC Rugby Rankings
Europe Table-Russia 10th, Ukraine 17th

IRB Ranking Points
Russia 63.40, Ukraine 53.86

Prediction: Russia by 15 points

Teams

Ukraine Squad
Ievgen Chaika (RC Kredo 63)
Sergii Garkavyi (RC Olymp-RSC KhTZ)
George Gegidze (RC Kredo 63)
Andriy Golishchyev (RC Imperia Penza, Russia)
Sergii Ianchyi (RC Aviator)
Zurab Kikacheishvili (RC Kredo 63)
Mykola Kirsanov, Capt. (RC Olymp-RSC KhTZ)
Oleg Kosariev (RC Olymp-RSC KhTZ)
Vitaliy Krasnodemskyi (RC Aviator)
Maksim Kravchenko (RC Olymp-RSC KhTZ)
Viacheslav Krasylnyk (RC Olymp-RSC KhTZ)
Roman Kulakivskyi (RC Kredo 63)
Oleksandr Lomakin (RC Olymp-RSC KhTZ)
Jaba Malaguradze (RC Kredo 63)
Sergiy Manzhos (RC Olymp-RSC KhTZ)
Denys Masiukov (RC Kredo 63)
Pavlo Masiukov (RC Kredo 63)
Oleksandr Mishynov (RC Olymp-RSC KhTZ)
Sergiy Monastyrov (RC Kredo 63)
Oleksii Novokreshchenov (RC Kredo 63)
Vitaliy Orlov (RC Enisey-Stm, Krasnoyarsk, Russia)
Oleksandr Polianskyi (RC Kredo 63)
Vyacheslav Ponomarenko (RC Olymp-RSC KhTZ)
Ruslan Radchuk (RC Kredo 63)
Igor Snisarenko RC Olimp-Electromash, Tiraspol)
Sergii Sukhikh (RC Olymp-RSC KhTZ)
Oleksandr Tsapenko (RC Olymp-RSC KhTZ)
Sergiy Tserkovniy (RC Olymp-RSC KhTZ)
Eduard Vertiletskyi (RC Kredo 63)
Ivan Zaliznyak (RC Olymp-RSC KhTZ)

Russia
15. Igor Klyuchnikov (VVA-Podmoskovje)
14. Vasily Artemiev (VVA-Podmoskovje)
13. Andrey Kuzin (VVA-Podmoskovje)
12. Alex Makovetsky (Krasny Yar)
11. Vladimir Ostroushko (Yug Krasnodar)
10. Konstantin Rachkov (Mountauban, France)
9. Alexander Shakirov (VVA-Podmoskovje)
8. Vyacheslav Grachev
7. Artem Fatakhov (VVA-Podmoskovje)
6. Andrew Temnov (Enisey-STM-Krasnoyarsk)
5. Andrew Garbuzov (Krasny Yar)
4. Alexander Voytov (VVA-Podmoskovje)
3. Ivan Prischepenko (Enisey-STM-Krasnoyarsk)
2. Vladislav Korshunov, Capt. (VVA-Podmoskovje)
1. Sergei Popov (Slava Moskow)
Replacements
16. Alexander Khrokin (VVA-Podmoskovje)
17. Alex Travkin (VVA-Podmoskovje)
18. Yevgeny Matveyev (VVA-Podmoskovje)
19. Alex Panasenko (VVA-Podmoskovje)
20. Alexander Yanyushkin (VVA-Podmoskovje)
21. Yuri Kushnarev (VVA-Podmoskovje)
22. Igor Galinovsky (Krasny Yar)
Head Coach: Nikolay Nerush

http://www.fira-aer-rugby.com/forum2007/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=3719&st=0&sk=t&sd=a&start=0

ENC RUGBY: Poland face the Competition Leaders

12.03.2011
Belgium v Poland at Gdansk (ENC 1B)

Venue: Stadion Narodowy

Referee: B.Bessot (France)

Preview
Poland hosts the competition leaders Belgium in Gdansk. Apart from a very good, and surprise, 22-17 win over Germany last start, the Pole’s record is not impressive. The win in Frankfurt may well be a turning point for Polish rugby. A good win or at least a close encounter would confirm the rise of Polish rugby.

Belgium come to Poland as competition leaders. The Belgians appear to be making another rise in European rugby after a few seasons in the doldrums. On form Belgium should win.

Last Five Encounters
24.04.2010 Belgium 29-8 in Brussels (WCQ Europe R4; ENC 2A)
30.05.2009 Poland 14-3 in Gdansk (WCQ Europe R4; ENC 2A)
16.10.1999 Poland 43-14 in Brussels (FIRA C)
28.03.1998 Poland 30-10 in Gdansk (WCQ Europe Pool 2, Rnd B)
28.10.1995 Poland 30-10 in Lodz (FIRA A2)

Belgium Last Five
13.11.2010 Czech Republic W 24-12 in Prague (ENC 1B)
06.11.2010 Canada L 12-43 in Brussels (Friendly)
24.04.2010 Poland W 29-8 in Brussels (WCQ Europe R4; ENC 2A)
03.04.2010 Czech Republic W 19-16 in Prague (WCQ Europe R4; ENC 2A)
31.10.2009 Moldova W 14-3 in Brussels (WCQ Europe R4; ENC 2A)

Poland Last Five
20.11.2010 Germany W 22-17 in Frankfurt (ENC 1B)
13.11.2010 Moldova L 25-36 in Gdansk (ENC 1B)
09.10.2010 Czech Republic L 15-20 in Prague (ENC 1B)
24.04.2010 Belgium L 8-29 in Brussels (WCQ Europe R4, ENC 2A)
25.10. 2009 Czech Republic L 5-19 in Varsovie (WCQ Europe R4; ENC 2A)

GWC Rugby Rankings
Europe Table-Poland 12th, Germany 14th

IRB Ranking Points
Belgium 56.78, Poland 51.33

Prediction: Belgium by 12 points

Teams

Belgium Squad
Thibaut Andre (Soignies)
Jérôme Cauwe (ASUB Rugby Waterloo)
Christophe Debaty (Limoges, France)
Mika Demolder (Boitsfort)
Thomas Dienst (Lille, France)
Noam Dubart (Brussels University Club)
Denis Eppe (ROC Ottignies)
Pieter Feys (Dendermonde)
Carlos Fierro (Rugby Olympique de Grasse, France)
Sébastien Guns (Boitsfort)
Julien Hanchir (Millau, France)
Pierre Hendrikx (Boitsfort)
Maxime Jadot (Pau, France)
Nicolas Meeus (Kituro)
Andrew Neal (Tournefeuille, France)
Romain Orban (Kituro)
Pierre Plasman (Dendermonde)
Frédéric Rongé (Kituro)
Bastian Vermeylen (Boitsfort)
Mathieu Verschelden (ASUB Rugby Waterloo)
Norman Wende (Saint-Etienne, France)
Alan Williams (Montluçon, France)
Kevin Williams (Brussels University Club)
Head Coach: Richard McClintock

Belgium squad adapted from http://www.rugby.be/

Poland Squad
Mateusz Bartoszek (Albi, France)
Alexandre Beccuau (Orleans, France)
Romuald Berthe (Bobigny, France)
Jean Boutes (Bayonne, France)
Kamil Bobryk (Eperney, France)
David Chartier (Bayonne, France)
Merab Gabunia (Budowlani Łódź)
Donald Gargasson (La Seyne-sur-Mer, France)
Krzysztof Hotowski (Nevers, France)
Grzegorz Janiec (Lechia Gdańsk)
Tom Jankowski (Ampthill RUFC)
Michał Krużycki (Bobigny, France)
Kacper Ławski (Budowlani Łódź)
Wojciech Łukasiewicz (Orkan Sochaczew)
Paweł Najdek Posnania Poznań
Wojciech Piotrowicz (Budowlani Lublin)
Dawid Popławski (Albi, France)
Bastien Siepielski (Marmande, France)
Łukasz Szostek (Arka Gdynia)
Cedric Vaissiere (Albi, France)
Marcin Wilczuk (Portsmouth RFC, England)
Mariusz Wilczuk (Lechia Gdańsk)
Jan Cal
Emil Kowalewski
Head Coach: Tomas Putra

Adapted from http://www.pzrugby.pl/reprezentacja/seniorzy/index.html

ENC RUGBY: Czech Republic take on Germans

12.03.2011
Czech Republic v Germany in Heidelberg (ENC 1B)

Venue: Städtisches Stadion Fritz-Grunebaum-Sportpark

Referee: Raduta (Romania)

Preview
This is the second ENC 1B encounter this weekend.

Germany were relegated from the ENC first division at the end of the 2009-10 season. Their campaign to regian first division status began disastrously back in November with a 17-22 loss to Poland. Since then they bounced back to win easily over Netherlands. They will be without their star player Clemens von Grumbkow, out because of injury. Mathieu Franke returns to the team after a two-year absence because of injuries.

The team had a warm-up game against the New Zealand Ambassadors XV, made up of New Zealanders based in Germany, and lost 19-43. Playing on their home turf I’d expect the Germans to win.

The Czechs will be coming to Germany confident they can win. The records say they can. They have recorded wins over Netherlands and Poland (who defeated Germany), and a loss to competition leaders Belgium. The side has a healthy mix of France-based players of considerable experience, especially forward.

It will be a close tussle.

Czech Republic lost to Belgium in early 2010.

Last Five Encounters
08.04.2001 Germany 30-17 in Constance (FIRA B)
19.10.1997 Germany 31-17 in Hanover (WCQ Europe Pool 3)
10.05.1997 Germany 14-9 in Prague (FIRA Final, 9th-10th Playoff)
24.09.1995 Germany 28-17 in Hanover (FIRA B1)
23.10.1994 Czech Republic 12-5 in Ricany (FIRA A2)

Last Five Germany
11.12.2010 Hong Kong W 34-13 in Heidelberg (Friendly)
27.11.2010 Netherlands W 29-10 in Amsterdam (ENC 1B)
20.11.2010 Poland L 17-22 in Frankfurt (ENC 1B)
30.03.2010 Spain L 17-21 in Heidelberg (WCQ Europe R5; ENC 1)
13.03.2010 Russia L 11-48 in Sochi (WCQ Europe R5; ENC 1)

Last Five Czech Republic
20.11.2010 Netherlands W 25-13 in Amsterdam (ENC 1B)
13.11.2010 Belgium L 12-24 in Prague (ENC 1B)
09.10.2010 Poland W 20-15 in Prague (ENC 1B)
10.04.2010 Ukraine W 27-16 in Prague (WCQ Europe R4; ENC 2A)
03.04.2010 Belgium L 16-19 in Prague (WCQ Europe R4; ENC 2A)

GWC Rugby Rankings
Europe Table-Germany 13th, Czech Republic 15th

IRB Ranking Points
Germany 54.26, Czech Republic 53.30

Prediction: Germany by 6 points

Teams

Germany
15 Guillaume Franke (RC Orleans, France)
14 Marten Strauch (SC Neuenheim)
13 Gilles Pagnon (RC Draguignan, France)
12 Benjamin Simm (DSV Hannover 78)
11 Mathieu Franke (RC Orleans)
10 Fabian Heimpel (RG Heidelberg)
9 Tim Menzel (US Colomiers, France)
8 Timothy Kasten (Heidelberger RK)
7 Alexander Hauck (SC Frankfurt 1880)
6 Kehoma Brenner (Heidelberger RK)
5 Jens Schmidt (TSV Handschuhsheim)
4 Daniel Armitage (Heidelberger RK)
3 Patrick Schliwa (Heidelberger RK)
2 Alexander Widiker, Capt. (Heidelberger RK)
1 Arthur Zeiler (Heidelberger RK)
Replacements
16 Sven-Uwe Wetzel (TSV Handschuhsheim)
17 Benjamin Krause (DSV Hannover 78)
18 Jannis Läpple (SC Frankfurt 1880)
19 Alexander Hug (TSV Handschuhsheim)
20 Mustafa Güngör (RG Heidelberg)
21 Anjo Buckman (Heidelberger RK)
22 Bastian Himmer (RG Heidelberg)
Head Coach: Head Coach: Torsten Schippe

http://www.totalrugby.de/content/blogsection/5/33/

Czech Republic
15 Jan Rohlík (RC Říčany)
14 Irakli Sulamanidze (RC Sparta Praha)
13 Jan Kolář (RC Slavia Praha)
12 Petr Okleštěk (RK Petrovice)
11 Michal Jirman (RC Slavia Praha)
10 Pavel Vokrouhlík (RC Sparta Praha)
9 Haiden Roche (Civil Service RFC, England)
8 Jakub Procházka (RC Tatra Smíchov)
7 Martin Wognitsch (Oyonnax, France)
6 Karel Nešpor (RC Slavia Praha)
5 Robert Voves (Narbonne, France)
4 Tomáš Holovský (St. Rafael, France)
3 Jan Benda (Sparta Praha)
2 Ondřej Kutil (Annecy, France)
1 Roman Šuster, Capt. (Aurillac, France)
Replacements
16 Michal Průša (RC Tatra Smíchov)
17 Petra Hocke (RC Tatra Smíchov)
18 Radim Backa (RC Praga)
19 Vojtěch Havel (RC Tatra Smíchov)
20 Vachtang Pailodze (RC Sparta Praha)
21 Milan Jirman (RC Slavia Praha)
22 Zbynek Schutz (RC Slavia Praha)
Head Coach: Martin Kafka

ENC RUGBY: Bulgaria v Cyprus

12.03.2011
Bulgaria v Cyprus in Paphos (ENC 2D)

Venue: Pafiakos Stadium

Referee: Frasineanu (Romania)

Preview
These two teams have never met before. Both teams are undefeated in this division and both have won comfortably over Greece recently. This match is building as a clash of the leaders.

Cyprus has home advantage and has won their last eight matches. Their 33-13 over Greece in November came as a surprise as the Greeks were a highly favoured side at this level. Cyprus won so convincingly that they stepped into their shoes as the favoured side. Not bad for a nation who only started their international rugby matches in 2007.

Cyprus caused a major upset in 2007 when they defeated Greece 39-3 in their first international rugby test.

Bulgaria have also reached a highly respected position at this level. They have won their last three test matches, including two in a row against neighbours Greece. The Bulgarians do not travel well. They will find Cyprus a handful away.

Bulgaria were successful against Luxembourg in their last outing. Image thanks to www.352luxmag.lu

Without team lists it’s difficult to pin point strengths and weaknesses for both sides.

Bulgaria Last Five
13.11.2010 v Luxembourg W 18-8 in Luxembourg (ENC 2D)
06.11.2010 v Greece W 25-22 in Pernik (ENC 2D)
24.04.2010 v Greece W 18-15 in Pernik (ENC 3C)
10.04.2010 v Israel L 10-50 in Netanya (ENC 3C)
24.10.2009 v Luxembourg W 25-12 in Pernik (ENC 3C)

Cyprus Last Five
20.11.2010 v Greece W 33-13 in Athens (ENC 2D)
27.03.2010 v Bosnia Herzegovina W 15-0 in Paphos (ENC 3D)
06.03.2010 v Azerbaijan W 59-0 in Paphos (ENC 3D)
14.11.2009 v Monaco W 44-5 in Menton(ENC 3D)
21.03.2009 v Bosnia Herzegoivina W 8-6 in Zenica (ENC 3D)

GWC Rugby Rankings
Europe Table-Bulgaria 34th, Cyprus 35th

Prediction: Cyprus by 3 points

Teams not available

TEST MATCHES THIS WEEKEND: 12-13 March

12.03.2011
France v Italy in Rome (6 Nations)
Ireland v Wales in Cardiff (6 Nations)
Romania v Georgia in Tblissi (ENC 1A)
Portugal v Spain in Madrid (ENC 1A)
Russia v Ukraine in Odessa (ENC 1A)
Belgium v Poland in Gdansk (ENC 1B)
Czech Republic v Germany in Heidelberg (ENC 1B)
Bulgaria v Cyprus in Paphos (ENC 2D)

13.03.2011
Scotland v England at Twickenham (6 Nations)

Briefly
In 6 Nations rugby, England may find Scotland a tough nut to crack as they strive towards a Championship title and also a Grand Slam. France should brush aside Italy in Rome whilst Ireland and Wales fight it out in Cardiff more for pride than anything.

Romania’s clash with Georgia in Tblissi will be the highlight of the European Nations Cup. Georgia is well in the lead on the points table but Romania has a game in hand. Their clash with the Ukraine was postponed because of a frozen pitch. Romania has a huge task ahead of it playing in rugby-mad Georgia. Both are off to the 2011 Rugby World Cup finals and both will be out to prove themselves worthy finalists. Portugal and Spain play an Iberian derby with Portugal favoured to win whilst Russia faces the Ukraine in Odessa.

In other ENC matches, Belgium and Poland meet in Poland with Belgium, the Division 1B table leaders favoured to win. The Czech Republic could find Germany and handful away whilst Bulgaria travels to Cyprus for their ENC 2D clash. Both teams are undefeated so the result here will be crucial.