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

Test Rugby: Argentina Jaguars Ready to Pounce in Georgia

14.11.2009
Argentina 'A' v Georgia in Tblissi

Venue: Estadio National Dinamo de Tbilisi.

Referee: Marius Jonker (South Africa)

Preview
The Argentinian Jaguars visit Georgia to help celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the formation of the Georgian rugby union. That was back in the Soviet Union era. Georgia played its first international rugby match in 1991.

This will be the first time that an Argentinean side has visited Georgia and only the second time senior men's teams from Argentina and Georgia have met on a rugby field.

The Jaguars have had a busy year and now arrive in Europe to play a test against Georgia, and then two against Portugal. They have had successes against Namibia at home (twice), against Chile and Uruguay to take the CONSUR A title, then Uruguay again (twice) and now to Europe.

This will be Georgia's first test since they contested the Churchill Cup back in June. With some 16 top players not available, Georgia struggled. I'd expect the team to be near full strength, and that they will test the 2009 Jaguars.

Georgians prepare in the National Stadium, Tblissi. Image thanks to www.uar.com.ar

Previous Encounter
11.09.2007 Argentina 33-3 in Lyon (World Cup, Pool D)

GWC Rugby Rankings do not apply

Prediction: Nothing in it. Georgia by 3 points

Teams

Argentina 'A'
15 Martín Bustos Moyano
14 Belisario Agulla
13 Miguel Avramovic
12 Matías Viazzo
11 Tomás De Vedia
10 Ignacio Mieres
9 Martín Landajo
8 Leonardo Senatore (Capt.)
7 Rodrigo Bruno
6 Ignacio Pasman
5 Mariano Galarza
4 Tomás Roan
3 Juan Gómez
2 Álvaro Tejeda
1 Pablo Henn
Replacements
16 Matías Cortese
17 Nahuel Tetaz Chaparro
18 Hugo Schierano
19 Agustín Guzmán
20 Francisco Albarracín
21 Santiago González Iglesias
22 Francisco Merello
Coaches: José Orengo and Raúl Pérez

http://www.uar.com.ar/noticias4.asp?notcod=20091112134157

Georgia Squad
Irakli Abusseridze
George Chkhaidze
Levan Datunashvili
Revaz Gigauri
Akvsent Giorgadze
Mamuka Gorgodze
Davit Kacharava
David Khichaguishvili
Merab Kvirikashvili
Guia Labadze
Irakli Machkhaneli
Lasha Malaguradze
Irakli Natriashvili
George Nemsadze
Davit Qubriashvili
Bidzina Samkharadze
Goderdzi Shvelidze
Sandro Todua
Makho Urjukashvili
Rati Urushadze
Ilia Zedguinidze
Tedo Zibzibadze
Head Coach: Tim Lane

http://www.rugbyrugby.com/news/story_131109180318.php, and thanks to ‘scorpion’ at http://www.fira-aer-rugby.com/forum2007/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=2784&start=390

International Rugby Results for 13 November

13.11.2009
France 20, South Africa 13 in Toulouse
Wales 17, Samoa 13 in Cardiff
Ireland 'A' 48, Tonga 19 in Belfast
Italy 'A' 33, Romania 6 in Piacenza
Georgia 'A' 26, Ukraine 10 in Tblissi

Reviews
France defeat the World No.1 team!
Wales struggle and stutter against Samoa
A big win for Italy 'A'. Oh dear! Where does this leave Romania? They had many of their France-based players on the paddock.
Georgia 'A' s result was predicted.

World Cup Rugby: Will it be Tunisia or Namibia?

14.11.2009
Namibia v Tunisia in Tunis (WCQ Africa & Africa Cup; Final, 1st leg)

Venue: Stade National de rugby d’El Menzah

Referee:

Preview
The winner of this series (game 2 in Windhoek, November 28) will qualify directly into the Rugby World Cup finals. The loser still gets another chance. They will play the winner of Europe R6 for a final World Cup finals place.

Namibia warmed up for this crucial game with a 12-9 win over Portugal in Lisbon. Traditionally they have not performed well against the Tunisians but have won all their home fixtures. Namibia will want to win here in Tunis but they will at least push the Tunisians as close as they can, knowing they have the home advantage for the second leg.

The Namibian team prior to leaving for Portugal and Tunisia. Image thanks to www.namibiasport.com.na

Tunisia has the uphill battle. They must win, and win well, for their home fixture knowing they have never won away in Windhoek before. This game shapes up to be a cracker. I would love to be in Tunis Saturday.

Last Five Encounters
07.10.2006 Namibia 23-15 in Windhoek (WCQ Africa R2, Grp B; Africa Cup, Grp B)
01.07.2006 Tunisia 24-7 in Tunis (WCQ Africa R2, Group B; Africa Cup Group B)
12.10.2002 Tunisia 24-17 in Tunis (WCQ Africa R4)
28.09.2002 Namibia 26-19 in Windhoek (WCQ Africa R4)
18.04.1998 Namibia 20-17 in Tunis (WCQ Africa Rnd C)

Traditionally both these teams has found it difficult to win in each other's patch.

Because it's been a while since these two teams faced each other lets look at recent performances

Namibia's Last Five Tests
27.06.2009 Won 54-14 v Ivory Coast in Windhoek (WCQ Africa R2 & Africa Cup Semi Final)
14.06.2009 Drew with Ivory Coast 13-13 in Abidjan (WCQ Africa R2 & Africa Cup Semi Final)
15.05.2009 Lost 7-19 v Argentina XV in Buenos Aires
08.05.2009 Lost 8-67 v Argentina XV in Buenos Aires
02.08.2008 Won 35-21 v Zimbabwe in Windhoek (WCQ Africa R1, Pool A)

Tunisia's Last Five Tests
27.06.2009 Won 38-13 v Uganda in Tunis (WCQ Africa R2 & Africa Cup Semi-Final)
13.06.2009 Won 41-17 v Uganda in Kampala (WCQ Africa R2 & Africa Cup Semi Final)
30.05. 2009 Won 15-7 v Romanian XV in Tunis
02.08.2008 Won 44-15 v Kenya in Tunis (WCQ Africa R1, Pool C)
14.06.2008 Won 16-12 v Cameroun in Yaounde (WCQ Africa R1, Pool C)

Tunisia has the better win/loss record but against weaker teams.

GWC Rugby Rankings: World Table-Namibia 18th, Tunisia 27th
Africa Table-Namibia 2nd, Tunisia 3rd

Prediction: .It will be tough. It will be close. Tunisia by 3 points

Teams

Namibia
15. Chrysander Botha (Kudus RFC)
14. Bradley Langenhoven
13. Piet van Zyl (French Club)
12. Tinus Venter
11. Heini Bock
10. Emile Wessels
9. Jurie van Tonder
8. Tinus du Plessis (Rotherham Titans RFC, England)
7. Jacques Nieuwenhuis (English club)
6. Jacques Burger (Northern Transvaal Bulls, SA)
5. Nico Esterhuyse (Boland Cavaliers, SA)
4. Wacca Kazombiaze (Birmingham & Solihull RFC, England)
3. Jane du Toit
2. Hugo Horn (Rotherham Titans RFC, England)
1. Kees Lensing (Castres, France)
Replacements:
16. Shaun Esterhuizen (Stellenbosch University, SA)
17. Marius Visser
18. Heinz Koll (Wanderers RFC) *
19. PJ van Lill
20. Eugene Jantjies (Farul Constanta, Romania)
21. Robert Herridge (United Rugby Club)*
22. David Philander
Head Coach: John Williams

* New caps

http://www.rugbyworldcup.com/qualifying/news/newsid=2034333.html#unbelievable+price+awaits+african+qualifier, and thanks to ‘Quentin’ at http://www.fira-aer-rugby.com/forum2007/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=3279

Tunisia
15. Sabeur Charrada
14. Haithem Cheili
13. Amor Hamdi
12. Amor Mezgar
11. Abbes Kherfani
10. Lofti Bensellem
9. Sabri Gmir
8. Moured Souid
7. Mohamed Ben Hmida
6. Kaled Zegden
5. Abdelmajid Zemzem
4. Amara Dridi
3. Akram Aouamri
2. Aziz Kassar
1. Hedi Souid (captain)
Replacements:
16. Noktar Guetari
17. Sari Limevi
18. Chahir Aouadi
19. Amine Gharsallah
20. Mohamed Ali Kochlef
21. Aimen Gloulou
22. Mohamed Garali.
Head Coach: Danie de Villiers

http://www.rugbyworldcup.com/qualifying/news/newsid=2034333.html#unbelievable+price+awaits+african+qualifier, and thanks to ‘Quentin’ at http://www.fira-aer-rugby.com/forum2007/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=3279

International Rugby Test: Moldova Look to Win

14.11.2009
Czech Republic v Moldova in Chisinau (WCQ Europe R4; ENC 2A)

Venue: Stadionul "Dinamo"

Referee: Bargaunas (Romania)

Preview
Realistically, neither of these teams has a chance of qualifying for the next World Cup qualifying round. The emphasis will be to avoid relegation and team-build for next season.

Moldova is at the bottom of ENC 2A and are in danger of relegation. They recently lost to Belgium, whereas the Czech Republic were convincing winners over Poland, above them in the 2A table. Although winning in Chisinau is not easy the Czech should win but narrowly.

Previous Encounter
22.11.2008 Czech Republic 11-9 in Prague (WCQ Europe R4; ENC 2A)

GWC Rugby Rankings: Europe Table-Czech Republic 14th, Moldova 17th

Prediction: Czech Republic by 5 points

Teams

Czech Republic Squad
Jan Benda (RC Sparta Praha)
Jiří Buryánek (RC Dragon Brno)
Jíří Černý (RC Tatra Smíchov)
Tomáš Holovský (St. Raphael, France)
Michal Jirman (RC Slavia Praha)
Milan Jirman (RC Slavia Praha)
Václav Jursík (Strasbourg, France)
Ondřej Kutil (Oyonnax, France)
Vojtěch Mára (RC Tatra Smíchov)
Miroslav Němeček (US Oyonnax, France)
Karel Nešpor (RC Slavia Praha)
Petr Okleštěk (RC Auxerre, France)
Vakhtang Pailodze (RC Sparta Praha)
Michal Průša (Bellegrade, France)
Hayden Roche (Civil Service RFC, England)
Jan Rohlík (RC Říčany)
Pavel Šťatný (Lannemezan, France)
Roman Šuster (Auch, France)
Lubos Svoboda (JIMI Vyškov)
Pavel Vokrouhlík (RC Sparta Praha)
Robert Voves (Narbonne, France)
Martin Wognitsch (US Oyonnax, France)
Head Coach: Martin Kafka

Sources: http://www.rugbyunion.cz/nominace-do-moldavie, http://www.ragby.cz/narodni-tym-odcestoval-do-kiseneva and thanks to ‘vis Maior’ at http://www.fira-aer-rugby.com/forum2007/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=3276

Moldova
Team not available

Rugby Test: Austria Desperate to Avoid Relegation

14.11.2009
Norway v Austria in Vienna (ENC 3B)

Venue: Wiener Sportclub Stadion

Referee: Jelavic (Croatia)

Preview
Both teams will be desperate to win this test match as both are in danger of relegation. Austria is at the bottom of the table in Pool ENC 3B. In recent years Norway has held a slight advantage over their southern rival.

This pool has been an unpredictable one. Hungary and Slovenia are at the top of the table but Austria has defeated Slovenia whilst Norway defeated Denmark, who then defeated Hungary. The final result will see the strongest team standing. Despite the upsets it probably won't be either Norway or Austria.

Previous Encounters
11.10.2008 Norway 11-3 in Oslo (WCQ Europe R1; ENC 3B)
26.04.2008 Drawn 3-3 in Vienna (ENC 3B)
09.06.2007 Norway 22-8 in Oslo (ENC 3B)
09.06.2001 Austria 51-7 in Oslo (WCQ Europe R1; FIRA Pool 2)

GWC Rugby Rankings: Europe Table-Austria 31st, Norway 33rd

Prediction: Norway by 4 points

Teams



Norway Squad
Patrice Balauze (Oslo RK)
Kristoffer Borsheim (Stavanger RK)
James Buncle (London Scottish RFC, England)
Wesley Chibaya (Tønsberg RK)
Andy De Vries (London Scottish RFC, England)
Alex Diessner (Stavanger RK)
Lewis Eaton (Stavanger RK)
Andrei Hanger (Cheltenham RFC, England)
Karl Harper (Oslo RK)
Neal Hughes (Stavanger RK)
Dave Hume (Bergen RK)
Francis Hunt (Oslo RK)
Stein Ove Kristensen (Trondheim RK)
Eivind Lunde (Stavanger RK)
Erlend Meldalen (OSI Rugby)
Andrew Olsen (London Scottish RFC, England)
Pascal Raclin (Oslo RK)
Neil Ryan (Tønsberg RK)
Stian Røstberg (Bergen RK)
Fredrik Skovly (Oslo RK)
Håkon Stengrimsen (Holstebro RK)
Roger Yttervik (Tønsberg RK)
Head Coach: John Chappell

http://www.rugby.no/les.asp?ID=711

Austria Squad
Dieter Albert
Musheg Aslanyan
Mottet Benoit
Johannes Dachler
Milad fal Farkondeh
Andreas Gaul
Rudi Glock
Alberto Gomez
Marius Johannik
Georg Kaiser
Michael Kerschbaumer
Martin Leidl
Jako Liska
Patrick Maurer
Max Navas
Wilfried Payer
Alexis Rigaud
Carli Sinnbruner
Yvan Wever
Amir Yassari
Rafa Yavala
Julian Zöchling
Head Coach: Gael Mouysset