RUGBYINTERNATIONAL.NET

GETTING THE RECORD STRAIGHT

MARCH 2005

THE GAME OF RUGBY IS RAPIDLY EXPANDING WORLD WIDE. THIS WEB SITE'S MAIN FUNCTION IS THE RESEARCHING, COLLECTING, COLLATING, RECORDING AND UPDATING OF INTERNATIONAL RUGBY RESULTS AND RECORDS

Web sites I recommend this month

http://www.fira-aer-rugby.com Web site for Spanish Rugby Federation. In Spanish. Excellent coverage.

 

Updated 31.03.2005

 

Latest Results

26.03.2005

Spain 76, Slovenia 6 in Ljubljiana (WCQ Euro. Rnd 2, Pool A)

Senegal 6, Cameroun 0 in Yuande or Duala (WCQ Africa Rnd 1A, North)

 

19.03.2005

Men

Wales 32, Ireland 20 in Cardiff (6 Nations International Championship)

France 56, Italy 13 in Rome (6 Nations International Championship)

England 43, Scotland 22 at Twickenham (6 Nations Int. Championship)

Romania 97, Ukraine0 in Bucharest (European Nations Cup)

Czech Republic 11, Russia 7 in Prague (European Nations Cup)

Serbia-Montenegro 11, Switzerland 11 in Belgrade (WCQ Euro. Rnd 2, Pool D)

 

Women

England 22, Scotland 10 at Twickenham (6 Nations Women)

France 39, Spain 0 in Barcelona (6 Nations Women)

 

18.03.2005

Women

Ireland 11, Wales 6 in Cardiff (6 Nations Women)

 

13.03.2005

MEN

Wales 46, Scotland 22 at Murrayfield (6 Nations International Championship)

 

WOMEN

France 34, Ireland 0 in Dublin (6 Nations Women)

Scotland 22, Wales 5 at Murrayfield (6 Nations Women)

 

12.03.2005

MEN

France 26, Ireland 19 in Dublin (6 Nations International Championship)

England 39, Italy 7 at Twickenham (6 Nations International Championship)

Czech Republic 42, Ukraine 5 in Kiev (European Nations Cup)

Georgia 20, Romania 13 in Tibilissi (European Nations Cup)

Luxembourg v Austria in Cessange (WCQ Euro. Rnd 2, Pool B)-called off-To May 7

Switzerland 43, Bulgaria 3 in Geneva (WCQ Euro. Rnd 2, Pool D)

Senegal 48, Nigeria 6 in Dakar (WCQ Africa Rnd 1A North)

Swaziland 24, Zambia 23 in Mbabane (WCQ Africa Rnd 1A South)

 

WOMEN

England 76, Spain 0 at Amber Court, London (6 Nations Women)

 

Coming Up

02.04.2005

Germany v Denmark in Heidelberg (WCQ Euro. Rnd 2, Pool B)

 

THE WEEKEND 26 MARCH

 

26.03.2005

Spain 76, Slovenia 6 in Ljubljiana (WCQ Euro. Rnd 2, Pool A) HT 43-0

Spain won by 70 points. I predicted Spain by 25.

 

This was easy win to Spain in the first encounter between these nations.

 

Spain added new cap Jose Ignacio Inchausti and recalled Jorge Prieto who last played last season. Those who were in the squad against Andorra but who were included for this match were Igor De La Sota, Benjamín Pardo, Javier Canosa, Sebastián Loubsens, César Caballero (Centransa El Salvador) and José Mª.Bohorquez.

 

Slovenia added Dejan Đukić, Peter Gobec, Tit Hočevar (from London Welsh) and Aljaž Kralj to the squad that faced Croatia, whilst Darko Maslakovič, Damjan Jovič, Luka Pleška (from Llandovery RFC, Wales), Suljič, Renato Djuran and Okič were not selected.

 

Point scorers

 

Spain

Tries: Martin (2), Feijoo (2), Criado, Prieto, Souto, Ichausti, Tisane, penalty, Mota

Conversions: Roque (9)

Penalty goal: Roque

 

Slovenia

Penalty goals: Krajnc (2)

 

Spain

15 César Sempere (Centransa El Salvador) [22 Jose Ignacio Inchausti (Alcobendas Racing Centra)], 14 Ignacio Martín (Atletico Bera Bera) [21 Antonio Beltrán (Metro-Racing de París, France)], 13 Ferrán Velazco (Centransa El Salvador), 12 Jamie Nava (Alcobendas Racing Centra) [20 David Mota (C.R. Liceo Frances)], 11 Jorge Prieto (Madrid 2012), 10 Esteban Roque (Centransa El Salvador), 9 Pablo Feijoo (Atletico Bera Bera), 8 Iván Criado (Centransa El Salvador) [19 Santiago Serrano (UE Santbioana)], 7 Juan González (Madrid 2012) [18 Nicolás Tisane (Oyonnax, France)], 6 Sergio Souto (Centransa El Salvador), 5 Andrew Ebbet (Alcobendas Racing Centra), 4 Igor Isasi (Ordizia), 3 Igor Alberro (Atletico Bera Bera) [17 Vicente Lázaro (UE Santbioana)], 2 Mathieu Cidre (Beziers, France) [16 Diego Zarzosa (Centransa El Salvador)], 1 Manuel Serrano (Centransa El Salvador).

Coach: Geoff Glynn

 

Slovenia

15 Marko Maslakovič (RK Ljubljana), 14 Urban Magušar (RFC Bežigrad),

13 Miroslav Lazic (RK Ljubljana), 12 Žarko Krsmanovič (RK Ljubljana),

11 Aljaž Kralj (RK Ljubljana), 10 Darko Krajnc (RK Ljubljana), 9 Nace Kirn

8 Peter Kavčič (RK Ljubljana), 7 Borut Grgic, 6 Peter Gobec (RK Ljubljana),

5 Siniša Djukič (RK Ljubljana), 4 Dejan Đukić (RK Ljubljana), 3 Goran Djuratovič (RK Ljubljana), 2 Luka Arko (RK Ljubljana), 1 Damjan Ahačič (RK Ljubljana),

Replacements: 16 Uroš Mikič (RK Ljubljana), 17 Dejan Mrak (RK Ljubljana),

18 Blaž Perko (RK Ljubljana), 19 Jošt Slapnicar (RK Ljubljana), 20 Klemen Šobak (RK Ljubljana), 21 Urban Volavšek (RK Ljubljana), 22 Damjan Volavšek (RK Ljubljana).

Coach: Jure Mahkota

 

Referee: Briquet Campin (France)

 

Thanks to http://www.rugby-klub-ljubljana.si/glavna.htm via Nicola Papodic, Slovenia RFU, to http://www.ferugby.com and to http://www.fira-aer-rugby.com/eng/index1.htm

Final Slovenia lineup thanks to http://www.ferugby.com

 

 

Senegal 6, Cameroun 0 in Duala (WCQ Africa Rnd 1A, North)

Senegal won by 6 points. I predicted Cameroun by 12.

 

Senegal were the surprise winners in this close encounter. Cameroun were unable, for financial reasons, to call upon many of their France-based players.

 

This was the first time these two nations met at the international level.

 

Cameroun were successful in winning the CAR 2nd division in 2003 after cruising past Togo, Ghana, Mauritania and Mali in the northern zone and then defeating Zambia, the southern zone finalist. In 2004 Cameroun competed in Division 1 for the first time with surprisingly close matches against Tunisia (3-20), Cote de Ivorie (10-17) and finally Morocco (6-18). These results indicated a rapid rise in the standard of Cameroun rugby no doubt aided by a call up of France-based players.

 

Senegal’s big win over Nigeria last weekend would indicate, along with a similar policy of recruitment of France-based players, that they are heading in the same direction.

 

The Senegalese made three changes to the squad that assembled in Dakar and then defeated Nigeria 46-6 last weekend. In came prop Djibril Preira  from Mantes La Jolie in France, winger Abass Dieye from the Senegalese club Caimans and lock Magnamé Koita  from the famous Beziers club in France. Not selected were Babacar Ndiongue (Caimans), Ibrahima Sadio (Jambars) and Moustapha Sene (Jambars), all from local clubs.

 

Cameroun

15 Pierre Mbem (Kangourou Yaoundé), 14 Thomas Mpono (Yaoundé Academy Rugby), 13 Serges Yakan (Yaoundé Academy Rugby), 12 Bertrand Omgba Omgba (Yaoundé Academy Rugby), 11 Pierre Bisseck (Kangourou Yaoundé), 10 Jacquillard Tchouffa (Marcassins Douala), 9 Messanga Manga (Yaoundé Academy Rugby), 8 Watchou Tchale (Aurillac, France) [19 Yannick Linjeck (Yaoundé Academy Rugby)], 7 Augustin Limaleba (Yaoundé Academy Rugby) [22 Emile Boade (Yaoundé Academy Rugby)], 6 Victor Ntsama (Yaoundé University Club), 5 Hilaire Nyatto (Yaoundé University Club), 4 Ngambo Adamou (Yaoundé University Club), 3 Simplice Nganou (Bologne, Italy) [18 Thierry Tameu (Force XV Douala)], 2 Amadou Gbetkom (Buffalo Douala) [16 Mepewou], 1 Wilfred Membi (Yaoundé Academy Rugby).

Replacements not used: 17 Ernest Ngong (Yaoundé Academy Rugby),

20 Alain Tsimi (Yaoundé Academy Rugby), 21 Touko Ngaleu (Force XV Douala),

 

Senegal Squad

Moussa Cisse (PUC Paris, France), Louny Preira (Paris PUC, France), Mouhamadou Diarra (Pau, France), Biram-Victor Samb (Castelnaudary, France), Marfouth Cissoko (Caimans), Steeve Sargos (Oyonax, France), Demba Diouf (St Junien, France), Yogane Correa (Albi, France), Felix Mendy (Aix-en-Provence, France), Gabriel Seck (Martigues, France), John Roux (Nissan, France), Papa Mbow (Caimans), Gora Samb (Caimans, Senegal), Florentimou Gomis (RC Las, France), Carlos Mendy (SMUC Marseille, France), Seydou Tall (Jambars), Assane Dieye (Jambars), Mamadou Pouye (Gignac, France), Hamet Sy (PUC Paris, France),

 

Coaches: Jean-marc Foucras (Castres), Leon Lopy (Aix-en-Provence), Alexis

Arnal (Jambars, Senegal)

 

Senegalese squad thanks to Virginie Bordet-Faye, Federation Senegalese Rugby

 

GWC Rankings: Africa Table-Cameroun 6th, Senegal 18th  - CHANGE

 

 

THE WEEKEND 18/19 MARCH

·        Romania v Ukraine details (21.03)

·        Serbia-Mont. Point scorers and team details (21.03)

·        Russia replacements listed (24.03)

 

Wales 32, Ireland 20 in Cardiff (6 Nations International Championship)

Wales won by 12 points. I predicted Wales by 14.

 

This was THE game of this competition. Wales withstood a last desperate rally by Ireland to hold on after dominating most of the match.

 

Wales has gained a Grand Slam for the first time since 1978 and look to be ushering a new era of Welsh rugby. The valleys will be alive with singing and celebration for some time to come.

 

Point scorers:

 

Wales

Tries: G Jenkins, Morgan

Conversions: S Jones (2)

Penalty goals: S Jones (4), Henson

Dropped goal: Henson

 

Ireland

Tries: Horan, Murphy

Conversions: Humphreys (2)

Penalty goal: O'Gara

 

The teams:

 

Wales

15 Kevin Morgan, 14 Mark Taylor, 13 Tom Shanklin, 12 Gavin Hanson, 11 Shane Williams, 10 Stephen Jones, 9 Dwayne Peel, 8 Michael Owen (captain), 7 Martyn Williams, 6 Ryan Jones, 5 Robert Sidoli, 4 Brent Cockbain, 3 Adam Jones [17John Yapp], 2 Mefin Davies [16 Robin McBryde], 1 Gethin Jenkins.

Unused replacements: 18 Jonathan Thomas, 19 Robin Sowden-Taylor, 20 Mike Phillips, 21 Ceri Sweeney, 22 Haldane Luscombe.

Coach: Mike Ruddock

 

Ireland

15 Geordan Murphy, 14 Girvan Dempsey, 13 Brian O'Driscoll (captain), 12 Kevin Maggs, 11 Denis Hickie, 10 Ronan O'Gara [21 David Humphreys], 9 Peter Stringer, 8 Anthony Foley [19 Eric Miller], 7 Johnny O'Connor, 6 Simon Easterby, 5 Paul O'Connell [18 Donncha O'Callaghan], 4 Malcolm O'Kelly, 3 John Hayes, 2 Shane Byrne [16 Frankie Sheahan], 1 Reggie Corrigan

[17 Marcus Horan].

Unused replacements: 20 Guy Easterby, 22 Gavin Duffy.

 

Referee: Chris White (England)

 

Point scorers and team data thanks to www.planet-rugby.com

 

LAST FIVE ENCOUNTERS-From the data base

22.02.2004 Ireland 36-15 in Dublin (6 Nations International Championship)

16.08.2003 Ireland 35-12 in Dublin (Friendly)

22.03.2003 Ireland 25-24 in Cardiff (6 Nations International Championship)

03.02.2002 Ireland 54-10 in Dublin (6 Nations International Championship)

13.10.2001 Ireland 36-6 in Cardiff (6 Nations International Championship)

 

France 56, Italy 13 in Rome (6 Nations International Championship)

France won by 43 points. I predicted France by 25.

 

France were dominant in winning their final match in this competition. They also played their best rugby. They have gone from strength-to-strength in this competition.

 

Italy will carry the 6 Nations’ wooden spoon into the next season.

 

Point scorers

 

France

Tries: Nyanga, Jauzion, Laharrague, Marty 2, Lamboley, Mignoni

Conversions: Yachvili (4), Michalak (2)

Penalty goals: Yachvili (2)

 

Italy

Try: Robertson

Conversion: Peens

Penalty goals: Peens (2)

 

Teams

 

France

15 Julien Laharrague, 14 Cédric Heymans, 13 David Marty, 12 Yannick Jauzion, 11 Christophe Dominici [22 Damien Traille], 10 Yann Delaigue

 [21 Frédéric Michalak], 9 Dimitri Yachvili [20 Pierre Mignoni], 8 Julien Bonnaire, 7 Yannick Nyanga [19 Grégory Lamboley], 6 Serge Betsen, 5 Jérôme Thion, 4 Fabien Pelous [18 Pascal Papé], 3 Nicolas Mas [17 Pieter de Villiers], 2 Sébastien Bruno [16 William Servat], 1 Sylvain Marconnet.

Coach: Bernard Laport

 

Italy

15 Gert Peens, 14 Paul Kaine Robertson [22 Roberto Pedrazzi], 13 Andrea Masi, 12 Simon Picone [22 Roberto Pedrazzi temp.], 11 Ludovico Nitoglia, 10 Luciano Orquera, 9 Alessandro Troncon  [20 Paul Griffen], 8 Sergio Parisse, 7 David Dal Maso [19 Silvio Orlando], 6 Aaron Persico, 5 Marco Bortolami (captain), 4 Santiago Dellape [18 Carlo Antonio Del Fava], 3 Salvatore Perugini, 2 Fabio Ongaro [16 Carlo Festuccia], 1 Andrea Lo Cicero [17 Martin Castrogiavanni].

Unused replacement:  21 Roland De Marigny

Coach: John Kirwan

 

Point scorers and team data thanks to www.planet-rugby.com

 

Referee: Donal Courtney (Ireland)

 

LAST FIVE ENCOUNTERS

21.02.2004 France 25-0 in Paris (6 Nations International Championship)

23.03.2003 France 53-27 in Rome (6 Nations International Championship)

02.02.2002 France 33-12 in Paris (6 Nations International Championship)

03.03.2001 France 30-19 in Rome (6 Nations International Championship)

02.04.2000 France 43-21 in Paris (6 Nations International Championship)

 

England 43, Scotland 22 at Twickenham (6 Nations International Championship and Calcutta Cup)

England won by 21 points. I predicted England by 20.

 

The Calcutta Cup, one of the oldest trophies in the world of International rugby, will stay another year with England.

 

Point scorers

 

England

Tries: Noon (3), Worsley, Lewsey, Ellis, Cueto

Conversions: Hodgson (4)

 

Scotland

Tries: S Lamont, Craig, Taylor

Conversions: Paterson (2)

Penalty goal: Paterson

 

Teams

 

England

15 Iain Balshaw [22 Ollie Smith], 14 Mark Cueto, 13 Jamie Noon, 12 Olly Barkley, 11 Josh Lewsey, 10 Charlie Hodgson [21 Andy Goode], 9 Harry Ellis [20 Matt Dawson], 8 Martin Corry (captain), 7 Lewis Moody [19 Andy Hazell], 6 Joe Worsley, 5 Ben Kay [18 Steve Borthwick], 4 Danny Grewcock, 3 Duncan Bell [17 Mike Worsley], 2 Steve Thompson [16 Andy Titterrell], 1 Matt Stevens.

Coach: Andy Robinson

 

Scotland

15 Chris Paterson, 14 Rory Lamont, 13 Andy Craig, 12 Hugo Southwell,

11 Sean Lamont, 10 Gordon Ross, 9 Mike Blair, 8 Simon Taylor, 7 Allister Hogg [19 Jon Petrie], 6 Jason White, 5 Scott Murray [18 Stuart Grimes],

4 Nathan Hines, 3 Gavin Kerr, 2 Gordon Bulloch, 1 Tom Smith [17 Bruce Douglas].

Unused replacements: 16 Robbie Russell, 20 Graeme Beveridge, 21 Dan Parks, 22 Andrew Henderson.

Coach: Matt Williams

 

Referee: Alain Rolland (Ireland)

 

Point scorers and team data thanks to www.planet-rugby.com

 

LAST FIVE ENCOUNTERS

21.02.2004 England 35-13 at Murrayfield (6 Nations Int. Championship & Calcutta Cup)

22.03.2003 England 40-9 at Twickenham (6 Nations Int. Championship & Calcutta Cup)

02.02.2002 England 29-3 at Murrayfield (6 Nations Int. Championship & Calcutta Cup)

03.03.2001 England 43-3 at Twickenham (6 Nations Int. Championship & Calcutta Cup)

02.04.2000 Scotland 19-13 at Murrayfield (6 Nations Int. Championship & Calcutta Cup)

 

Romania 97, Ukraine 0 in Bucharest (European Nations Cup)

Romania won by 97 points. I predicted Romania by 45.

 

The Romanians fielded a new-look side and totally dominated a dispirited Ukrainian team. The Romanians were only 4 points short of passing their record win (100-0 v Bulgaria 1976).

 

Point scorers

 

Romania

Tries: Ghoic (2), Tincu (2), Tofan (2), Brezoianu, Dumbrava, Curea, Todorescu, Paulica, Tudori, Mersoiu, Balan, Sauan

Conversions: Dumbrava (8), Tofan (2), Curea

 

Romania

15 Danut Dumbrava (Steaua Bucuresti), 14 Ioan Teodorescu (Univ. Cluj)

[21 Cristian Sauan (Rugby Rovigo)], 13 Gabriel Brezoianu (Dax), 12 Vali Maftei (Aurillac) [20 Ionut Tofan (Metro Racing)], 11 Vasile Ghioc (Dinamo Bucuresti) [22 Stefan Dimitru (Steaua Bucuresti)], 10 Darie Curea (Steaua Bucuresti), 9 Lucian Sirbu (Metro Racing) [19 Valentin Calafeteanu (Dinamo Bucuresti)], 8 Sorin Socol (Agen Capt.), 7 Marian Tudori (Perigueux),

6 Costica Mersoiu (Perigueux) [16 Bogdan Zebega (Steaua Bucuresti)],

5 Cristian Petre (Tarbes), 4 Cornel Tatu (Steaua Bucuresti) [18 George Oprisor (Perpignan)] 3 Marcel Socaciu (Rugby Rovigo), [17 Bogdan Balan (Bordeaux Begles]), 2 Marius Tincu (Pau), 1 Ion Paulica (Steaua Bucuresti

Coach: Daniel Santamans

 

 

Ukraine

15 Andriy Tyshchenko (RC Argo-NAU, Kiev), 14 Volodymyr Cherednychenko (RC Argo-NAU, Kiev), 13 Maksym Bilmovych (RC Argo-NAU, Kiev)

[22 Oleksandr Umarov], 12 Oleksandr Votchych [20 Oleg Kvasnytsya (RC Obolon-Univ., Khmelnitskiv)], 11 Sergiy Monastyrov (RC Aviator, Kiev)

[18 Anatoliy Dmytrychenko], 10 Oleksiy Symonovych (RC Epokha-Politechnik), 9 Maksym Kravchenko (RC Legion XTZ, Kharkov), 8 Vasyl Titov (RC Aviator, Kiev), 7 Vadym Kolyshkin (RC Legion XTZ, Kharkov), 6 Sergiy Kureza (RC Aviator, Kiev), 5 Oleksander Kushnir (RC Epokha-Rolitechnik, Kiev) [17 Oleksandr Polyanskyy (RC Kredo-63, Odessa)], 4 Volodymyr Yakymenko, 3 Sergiy Bubela (RC Obolon-Univ., Khmelnitskiv), 2  Oleg Rybchynskiy (RC Argo-NAU, Kiev),1 Dmytro Fedishyn (RC Legion XTZ, Kharkov),

Replacements not used: 16 Oleg Mushynskiy (RC Aviator, Kiev),

19 Kostiantyn Dobrokhanskiy (RC Epokha-Politechnik, Kiev), 21 Oleksander Migunov (RC Obolon-Univ., Khmelnitskiy),

Coach: Vladamir Muha

 

Referee M. Borreani (France)

 

Both line ups thanks to ‘cris’. Match details thanks to www.fira-aer-rugby.com

 

PREVIOUS ENCOUNTER

30.05.1998 Romania 39-17 in Kiev (WCQ Europe Pool 2, Rnd B)

 

Czech Republic 11, Russia 7 in Prague (European Nations Cup)

Czech Republic won by 4 points. I predicted Russia by 4 points.

 

The Czech Republic could win its second game against Russia in a row in Prague on Saturday. Fresh from a good win over Ukraine the Czechs, new to the competition only 2 seasons ago, will be keen to improve their placing.

 

Russia is weakened by the appearance of their 7’s team in Hong Kong. They will still provide tough opposition. I expect this game to be close.

 

LAST FIVE ENCOUNTERS

14.06.2003 Czech Republic 27-13 in Prague (European Nations Cup)

05.05.2002 Russia 37-17 in Prague (WCQ Europe Rnd 3, Pool A)

29.05.1999 Russia 52-13 in Prague (FIRA Pool E)

27.10.1996 Russia 37-14 in Moscow (FIRA Classification Pool B)

29.07.1978 USSR 18-4 in Kharkov

 

GWC Rankings: Europe Table-Russia 10th, Czech Rep. 11th  CHANGE

 

 

Russia

15 Alexander Kazantsev (VVA-Podmoskovje), 14 Alexander Gvozdovskiy (Krasniy Yar),13 Oleg Kobzev (VVA-Podmoskovje), 12 Denis Akulov (Enisy-STM), 11 Maxim Ouskov (Penza) 10 Sergey Sugrobov (Slava), 9 Andrey Bykanov (Slava), 8 Alexey Sarychev (Krasniy Yar), 7 Viatcheslav Grachev (Montauban, France), 6 Andrey Garbuzov (Krasniy Yar), 5 Alexander Voitov (VVA-Podmoskovje), 4 Andrey Lugin (Penza), 3 Alexey Travkin (VVA-Podmoskovje), 2 Roman Romak (Enisy-STM),1 Oleg Shukaylov  (Krasniy Yar).

Replacements:16 Alexander Khrokin (VVA-Podmoskovje), 17 Michail Golossov, 18 Dmitrij Maĺyakin (Penza), 19 Alexander Shakirov (Enisy-STM), 20 Sergej Vasilev (Krasniy Yar), 21 Dmitrij Loskutov (Penza),

22 Maxim Uskov (Penza)

 

Coach: Mironov Igor

 

Czech Republic

15 Tomas Krejčí (St Saturnin, France), 14 Michal Schlanger (RC Petrovice Praha), 13 Martin Pekárek (RC Ricany), 12 Antonin Brabec (Tatra Smichov),

11 Martin Jágr (RC Toulon, France),10 Martin Kafka (Metro-Racing, France), 9 Pavel Syrový (RC Sparta), 8 Miroslav Němeček (Bracknell RFC, England), 7 Ladislav Vondrášek (Bracknell RFC, England), 6 Jan Žíla (Tatra Smichov),

5 Josef Weber (RC Dragon Brno), 4 Robert Voves (St Nazaire, France), 3 Jan Kubálek (RC Ricany), 2 Lukas Rapant (St Nazaire, France),1 Jiri Skall (RC Sparta).

Replacements: 16 Jan Oswald (Tatra Smichov), 17 Indrák (Pwhelli, Wales),, 18 Jean-Baptist Soucek (Miélan, France), 19 Patrik Leroch (RC Havířov), 20 Viceslav Dosedla (RC Dragon Brno), 21 Jan Rohlík (St Nazaire, France), 22 Jaroslav Tomčík (RC Havířov).

Coach:

 

Referee M. Gabbei (Germany)

 

Team lists thanks to www.rugby.ro , http://www.czechrugby.info/?article_group_id=968863 and friends at FIRA-AER forum.

 

Serbia-Montenegro 11, Switzerland 11 in Kucevo (WCQ Euro. Rnd 2, Pool D) HT 6-8

Match drawn. I predicted Switzerland by 15 points.

 

Serbia-Montenegro did well to hold the strong visiting Swiss team.

 

Switzerland’s 43-3 win against Bulgaria last weekend was its third game in the World Cup Qualifying group, Pool D. Last October they lost 15-20 to Poland and, surprisingly, 8-17 to Malta at home.

 

Serbia-Montenegro’s last match in this competition was a 33-10 win against Bulgaria last November.

 

Point Scorers

 

Serbia-Montenegro

Tries: Mihajlovic

Penalty goals: Stefanovic (2)

 

Teams

 

Serbia-Montenegro

15 Nenad Matejic, 14 Aleksandar Stefanovic, 13 Milan Milosavljevic, 12 Milan Rastovac, 11 Sasa Djukic, 10 Marko Kapor, 9 Dejan Karatrajkovski, 8 Aleksandar Jakisic, 7  Jerko Labus, 6 Aleksandar Poprecica [Grujic Dragan], 5 Aleksandar Mihajlovic, 4 Danilo Bulatovic [Mihael Stanisic], 3  Branislav Acimovic [Obradovic Aleksandar],  2 Bojan Lukic, 1 Milenkovic Djordje.

Replacements not used: Vladimir Dumic, Stiglic Dejan,  Kristija Zagar, Nikola Orlandic

Switzerland (Not available)

Referee: Cortabarria (Spain)

Crowd: 400

 

Thanks to Dragan Pavlovic, Serbia-Montenegro RFU

 

LAST FIVE ENCOUNTERS

25.05.2001 Yugoslavia 13-10 in Belgrade (FIRA Pool 3, WCQ Euro. Rnd 1)

1997 Switzerland 29-13 in Nyon (FIRA Silver)

01.03.1997 Yugoslavia 8-0 in Pancevo (WCQ Euro Pool 1, Rnd A)

07.05.1986 Yugoslavia 13-6 in Zenica (FIRA Grp C)

27.11.1982 Yugoslavia 36-19 in Split (FIRA Grp C)

 

THE WEEKEND 12/13 MARCH

 

13.03.2005

Wales 46, Scotland 22 at Murrayfield (6 Nations International Championship)

Wales won by 24 points. I predicted Wales by 17.

 

An easy win to Wales who can now smell the Grand Slam title with only Ireland next weekend standing in the way. That game will be a cracker.

 

Scotland named new cap Rory Lamont to join his brother Sean in the side, the only change from the team that defeated Italy.

 

Wales were forced to make two changes. Kevin Morgan moved to fullback to take the place of injured captain Gareth Thomas. Rhys Williams moved from the bench to take Morgan’s place with Haldane Luscombe moving on to the bench.

 

The injured Cooper was replaced, on the bench, by Mike Phillips.

 

Michael Owen took over the captaincy.

 

Last Five Encounters

14.02.2004 Wales 23-10 in Cardiff (6 Nations International Championship)

30.08.2003 Wales 23-9 in Cardiff (Friendly)

08.03.2003 Scotland 30-22 at Murrayfield (6 Nations International Championship)

06.04.2002 Scotland 27-22 in Cardiff (6 Nations International Championship)

17.02.2001 Drawn 28-28 at Murrayfield  (6 Nations International Championship)

 

GWC Rankings: World Table-Wales 6th, Scotland 11th

                           Europe Table-Wales 1st, Scotland 7th

 

Prediction: Wales by 17

 

The Teams

 

Scotland

15 Chris Paterson (Edinburgh Rugby), 14 Rory Lamont (Glasgow Rugby), 13 Andy Craig (Glasgow Rugby), 12 Hugo Southwell (Edinburgh Rugby), 11 Sean Lamont (Glasgow Rugby), 10 Dan Parks (Glasgow Rugby), 9 Chris Cusiter (The Borders), 8 Allister Hogg (Edinburgh Rugby), 7 Jon Petrie (Glasgow Rugby), 6 Simon Taylor (Edinburgh Rugby), 5 Scott Murray (Edinburgh Rugby), 4 Stuart Grimes (Newcastle, England), 3 Gavin Kerr (Leeds, England), 2 Gordon Bulloch (Glasgow Rugby, captain), 1 Tom Smith (Northampton, England).

Replacements: 16 Robbie Russell (London Irish, England), 17 Bruce Douglas (The Borders), 18 Nathan Hines (Edinburgh Rugby), 19 Jon Dunbar (Leeds, England), 20 Mike Blair (Edinburgh Rugby), 21 Gordon Ross (Leeds, England), 22 Andrew Henderson (Glasgow Rugby).

Coach: Matt Williams

 

Wales

15 Kevin Morgan (Dragons), 14 Rhys Williams (Cardiff Blues), 13 Tom Shanklin (Cardiff Blues), 12 Gavin Hanson (Ospreys), 11 Shane Williams (Ospreys), 10 Stephen Jones (Clermont Auvergne, France), 9 Dwayne Peel (Llanelli Scarlets), 8 Michael Owen (Dragons) (captain), 7 Martyn Williams (Cardiff Blues), 6 Ryan Jones (Ospreys), 5 Robert Sidoli (Cardiff Blues), 4 Brent Cockbain (Ospreys), 3 Adam Jones (Ospreys), 2 Mefin  Davies (Gloucester, England), 1 Gethin Jenkins (Cardiff Blues).

Replacements: 16 Robin McBryde (Llanelli Scarlets), 17 John Yapp (Cardiff Blues), 18 Jonathan Thomas (Ospreys), 19 Robin Sowden-Taylor (Cardiff Blues), 20 Mike Phillips (Llanelli Scarlets), 21 Ceri Sweeney (Dragons), 22 Haldane Luscombe (Dragons).

Coach: Mike Ruddick

 

Referee: Jonathan Kaplan (South Africa)

 

12.03.2005

France 26, Ireland 19 in Dublin (6 Nations International Championship)

France won by 7 points. I predicted Ireland by 7

 

France has burst the Irish bubble to win against the odds in Dublin. This win puts an end to Ireland’s Grand Slam chances but they are still in with a chance to take the Triple Crown and the Championship when they take on Wales next weekend.

 

France made a number of changes from the team that lost to Wales. Benoit Baby oin his first test cap replacing Rougerie. Dominici changed wings and Haymans came into the vacant wing position. In the replacements, Milloud, Harinodoguy and Grandclaude were replaced by de Villiers, Pape and Marty.

 

Fabien Pelous played his 100th test and 32nd as captain.

 

For Ireland Kevin Maggs replaced the injured Shane Horgan in their only change.

 

Last Five Encounters (From the data base)

14.02.2004 France 35-17 in Paris (6 Nations International Championship)

09.11.2003 France 43-21 in Melbourne (World Cup, Quarter-final)

08.03.2003 Ireland 15-12 in Dublin (6 Nations International Championship)

06.04.2002 France 44-5 in Paris (6 Nations International Championship)

17.02.2001 Ireland 22-15 in Dublin (6 Nations International Championship)

 

GWC Rankings: World Table-Ireland 1st, France 6th-  Change

                           Europe Table-France 2nd, Ireland 3rd    Change

 

Prediction: Ireland by 7

 

Teams

 

France

15 Julien Laharrague (Brive), 14 Christophe Dominici (Stade Français),

13 Benoit Baby (Toulouse), 12 Yannick Jauzion (Toulouse), 11 Cédric Heymans (Toulouse), 10 Yann Delaigue (Castres), 9 Dimitri Yachvili (Biarritz), 8 Julien Bonnaire (Bourgoin), 7 Yannick Nyanga (Béziers), 6 Serge Betsen (Biarritz), 5 Jérôme Thion (Biarritz), 4 Fabien Pelous (Toulouse, captain), 3 Nicolas Mas (Perpignan), 2 Sébastien Bruno (Sale, England), 1 Sylvain Marconnet (Stade Français).

Replacements: 16 William Servat (Toulouse), 17 Pieter de Villiers (Stade Francais),18 Pascal Papé (Bourgoin),19 Grégory Lamboley (Toulouse),

20 Pierre Mignoni (Clermont-Auvergne), 21 Frédéric Michalak (Toulouse),

22 David Marty.

Coach: Bernard Laport

 

Ireland

15 Geordan Murphy (Leicester), 14 Girvan Dempsey (Leinster), 13 Brian O'Driscoll (Leinster, capt), 12 Kevin Maggs (Ulster), 11 Denis Hickie (Leinster), 10 Ronan O'Gara (Munster), 9 Peter Stringer (Munster), 8 Anthony Foley (Munster), 7 Johnny O'Connor (Wasps), 6 Simon Easterby (Llanelli),

5 Paul O'Connell (Munster), 4 Malcolm O'Kelly (Leinster), 3 John Hayes (Munster), 2 Shane Byrne (Leinster), 1 Reggie Corrigan (Leinster),

Replacements: 16 Frankie Sheahan (Munster), 17 Marcus Horan (Munster), 18 Donncha O'Callaghan (Munster), 19 Eric Miller (Leinster), 20 Guy Easterby (Leinster), 21 David Humphreys (Ulster), 22 Gavin Duffy (Harlequins).

Coach: Eddie O’Sullivan

 

Referee: Tony Spreadbury (England)

 

Teams lists thanks to www.planet-rugby.com

 

England 39, Italy 7 at Twickenham (6 Nations International Championship)

England won by 32 points. I predicted England by 20.

 

Italy are still without a win in this competition and now face France in their final match, not a happy prospect for them.

 

England was never going to lose this game. Have they done enough to silence the critics?

 

England made only once change to the team that lost to Ireland; Ollie Smith replaced Ben Cohen in the reserves.

 

Italy had a less than encouraging week. Coach John Kirwan is another coach under media and public scrutiny as Italy desperately seeks a win in this competition this year. Their selection worries continued when Robertson and Mirco Bergamasco dropped out of the team following injuries at training on Wednesday. Bergamasco had replaced Stoica with Robertson moving into the vacant wing. Barbini came off the bench for Bergamasco whilst Roberto Pedrazzi was rushed up from Italy to take Robertson’s place on the wing. Pozebon, who was already with the team, moved on to the bench.

 

Previously, Gert Peens was selected at fullback ahead of De Marigny to ease Italy’s goal kicking woes. In addition Prop Peragini replaced Castrogiovanni whilst lock Antonio De Fava replaced Dellape to win his first test cap.

 

Point scorers

 

England

Tries: Cueto 3, Balshaw, Hazell

Conversions: Hodgson (2), Goode

Penalty goal: Hodgson

 

Italy

Try: Troncon

Conversion: Peens

 

Teams

 

England

15 Iain Balshaw (Leeds), 14 Mark Cueto (Sale), 13 Jamie Noon (Newcastle) [22 Ollie Smith (Leicester)],12 Olly Barkley (Bath), 11 Josh Lewsey (London Wasps), 10 Charlie Hodgson (Sale) [21 Andy Goode (Leicester)], 9 Harry Ellis (Leicester) [20 Matt Dawson (London Wasps)], 8 Martin Corry (Leicester, captain), 7 Lewis Moody (Leicester), 6 Joe Worsley (London Wasps) [19 Andy Hazell (Gloucester)], 5 Ben Kay (Leicester), 4 Danny Grewcock (Bath) [18 Steve Borthwick (Bath)], 3 Matt Stevens (Bath), 2 Steve Thompson (Northampton) [16 Andy Titterrell (Sale)], 1 Graham Rowntree (Leicester) [17 Duncan Bell (Bath)]. 

Coach: Andy Robinson

 

Italy

15 Gert Peens (Conad L’Aquila), 14 Roberto Pedrazzi (Overmach Parma), 13 Matteo Barbini (Carrera Petrarca Padova) [22 Walter Pozzebon (Benetton Treviso)], 12 Andrea Masi (Arix Viadana), 11 Ludovico Nitoglia (Ghial Calvisano), 10 Luciano Orquera (Carrera Petrarca Padova), 9 Alessandro Troncon (Benetton Treviso), 8 Sergio Parisse (Benetton Treviso), 7 David Dal Maso (Benetton Treviso) [20 Silvio Orlando (Benetton Treviso)], 6 Aaron Persico (Agen), 5 Marco Bortolami (Narbonne, captain), 4 Carlo Antonio Del Fava (Overmach Parma), 3 Salvatore Perugini (Ghial Calvisano) [17 Martin Castrogiavanni (Ghial Calvisano)], 2 Fabio Ongaro (Benetton Treviso) [16 Giorgio Intoppa (Ghial Calvisano)] [18 Mario Savi (Arix Viadana)], 1 Andrea Lo Cicero (Conad L’Aquila)

Replacements not used: 19 Santiago Dellape (Agen), 21 Paul Griffen (Ghial Calvisano),

Coach: John Kirwan

 

Referee: Mark Lawrence (South Africa)

 

Team data thanks to www.planet-rugby.com

 

Last Five Encounters (From the data base)

15.02.2004 England 50-9 in Rome (6 Nations International Championship)

09.03.2003 England 40-5 at Twickenham (6 Nations International Championship)

06.04.2002 England 45-9 in Rome (6 Nations International Championship)

17.02.2001 England 80-23 at Twickenham (6 Nations International Championship)

18.03.2003 England 59-12 in Rome (6 Nations International Championship

 

Czech Republic 42, Ukraine 5 in Prague (European Nations Cup) HT 16-5

Czech Republic won by 37 points. I predicted the Czechs by 15.

 

An easy win for the Czech Republic. Ukraine will remain at the bottom of the table and face relegation.

 

Teams

 

Czech Republic

15 Tomas Krejčí (St Saturnin, France), 14 Martin Jágr (RC Toulon, France), 13 Martin Pekárek (RC Ricany), 12 Antonin Brabec (Tatra Smichov),

11 Michal Schlanger (RC Petrovice Praha ), 10 Martin Kafka (Metro-Racing, France), 9 Pavel Syrový (RC Sparta), 8 Miroslav Němeček (Bracknell RFC, England), 7 Ladislav Vondrášek (Bracknell RFC, England), 6 Jan Žíla (Tatra Smichov), 5 Robert Voves (St Nazaire, France), 4 Josef Weber (RC Dragon Brno), 3 Jan Kubálek (RC Ricany), 2 Lukas Rapant (St Nazaire, France),

1 Jiri Skall (RC Sparta),

Replacements: 16 Jean-Baptist Soucek (Miélan, France), 17 Indrák

(Pwhelli, Wales),18 Jan Oswald (Tatra Smichov),

19 Patrik Leroch (RC Havířov), 20 Viceslav Dosedla (RC Dragon Brno),

21 Jaroslav Tomčík (RC Havířov), 22 Zdenik Žák (RC Sparta),

Coach Christian Galonnier

 

Ukraine

15 Andriy Tyshchenko (RC Argo-NAU, Kiev), 14 Oleg Kvasnytsya (RC Obolon-Univ., Khmelnitskiv), 13 Oleksander Migunov (RC Obolon-Univ., Khmelnitskiy), 12 Oleksiy Symonovych (RC Epokha-Politechnik), 11 Sergiy Monastyrov (RC Aviator, Kiev), 10 Maksym Bilmovych (RC Argo-NAU, Kiev), 9 Maksym Kravchenko (RC Legion XTZ, Kharkov), 8 Artur Martyrosyan (RC Legion XTZ, Kharkov), 7 Vadym Mazaltsev (RC Dragons, Brno, Czech Rep.),

6 Sergiy Kureza (RC Aviator, Kiev), 5 Andriy Melnykov (RC Legion XTZ, Kharkov), 4 Oleksander Kushnir (RC Epokha-Rolitechnik, Kiev),

3 Oleg Rybchynskiy (RC Argo-NAU, Kiev), 2 Dmytro Krasnoshchek (RC Argo-NAU, Kiev), 1 Oleksandr Polyanskyy (RC Kredo-63, Odessa).

Replacements: 16 Oleg Mushynskiy (RC Aviator, Kiev), 17 Oleksiy Zybalo (RC Credo-63, Odessa), 18 Dmytro Fedishyn (RC Legion XTZ, Kharkov),

19 Vasyl Titov (RC Aviator, Kiev), 20 Kostiantyn Dobrokhanskiy (RC Epokha-Politechnik, Kiev), 21 Vadym Kolyshkin (RC Legion XTZ, Kharkov), 22 Volodymyr Cherednychenko (RC Argo-NAU, Kiev)

Coach: Vladamir Muha

 

Thanks to Dimitri Samoylenko, Ukraine RFU

 

Extra data for Czech players thanks to ‘waldy’ and ‘nicoach’.

 

Previous Encounters (From the data base)

03.11.2001 Czech Republic 26-8 in Prague (FIRA/WCQ Euro.Rnd 2, Pool A)

14.10.2000 Czech Republic 35-3 in Prague (FIRA Div.B)

26.09.1998 Ukraine 27-22 in Prague (FIRA Pool E)

 

 

Georgia 20, Romania 13 in Tblissi (European Nations Cup and Antim Cup) HT 6-6

Georgia won by 7 points. I predicted Romania by 14

 

This result was a surprise win to Georgia, who held on against a Romanian team who failed to take the many opportunities available to score in the match. They would be pondering how they lost this one.

 

Romania outplayed Georgia in the front row, where the home team suffered injuries, but it was a few lucky breaks that swayed the game Georgia’s way. Romania surprised by not using any off the bench.

 

Georgia has now soared up the GWC Rankings on the World Table from 22nd up to 9th with Romania slipping to 10th, still ahead of Scotland and Italy. On the European Table they rise to 5th, also ahead now of Romania, Italy and Scotland.

 

Point scorers

 

Georgia

Tries: Labadze, Zibzibadze

Conversion: Jimsheladze (2)

Penalty goals: Jimsheladze (2)

 

Romania

Try: Socol

Conversion: Tofan

Penalty goal: Tofan (2)

 

Teams

 

Georgia

15 Otar Barkalaya (Lelo), 14 Malkhaz Urjukashvili, (Academy), 13 Tedo Zibzibadze (Gourdon France) 12 Irakli Guiorgadze (Bourg-en-Bresse France) [21 Lasha Pirpilashvili (Lelo)], 11 Irakli Machkhaneli (Academy), 10 Paliko Jimsheladze (Bobigny, France), 9 Orakli Abusseridze (Orleans, France,

8 Besso Udesiani (Chalon, France), 7 Zviad Maissuradze (Walsall, England)

[19 Rati Urushadze (Enissei STM, Russia)], 6 Guia Labadze (Toulon, France),

5 Mamuka Gorgodze (Lelo) [18 Levan Datunashvili (Vierzon, France)], 4 Ilia Zdguinidze Capt.(Orleans, France), 3 David Zerakashvili (Clermont, France), 2 Akvsenti Guiorgadze (Rovigo, Italy), 1 Mamuka Magrakvelidze (Montpellier, France) [16 Mikheil Sujashvili (Enissei STM, Russia)]  [17 Avtandil Kopaliani (Chalon, France)].

Replacements not used: 20 Bidzina Samkharadze (Walsall, England), 22 Zviad Koberidze (Locomotivi),

Coaches: Malkhaz Tcheishvili & David Chavleishvili

 

Romania

15. Danut Dumbrava (Steaua Bucuresti), 14. Cristian Sauan (Rugby Rovigo), 13. Vali Maftei (Aurillac), 12. Romeo Gontineac (Aurillac), 11. Ioan Teodorescu (U Cluj), 10. Ionut Tofan (Metro Racing), 9. Lucian Sirbu (Metro Racing), 8. Florin Corodeanu (Grenoble), 7. Marian Tudori (Perigueux), 6. Costica Mersoiu (Perigueux), 5. Cristian Petre (Tarbes), 4. Sorin Socol (Agen Capt.), 3. Marcel Socaciu (Rugby Rovigo), 2. Marius Tincu (Pau), 1.Petru Balan (Biarritz)

Replacements:16. Cezar Popescu (Tarbes), 17. Razvan Mavrodin (Tarbes), 18. Bogdan Balan (Bordeaux Begles), 19. George Oprisor (Perpignan), 20. Iulian Andrei (Steaua Bucuresti), 21. Darie Curea (Steaua Bucuresti), 22. Vasile Ghioc (Dinamo Bucuresti)

Coach: Daniel Santamans

 

Last Five Encounters (From the data base)

27.03.2004 Romania 25-18 in Iasi (European Nations Cup)

30.03.2003 Romania 19-6 in Tblissi (European Nations Cup)

06.04.2002 Romania 31-23 in Tblissi (European Nations Cup)

08.04.2001 Georgia 31-20 in Bucharest (European Nations Cup)

02.04.2000 Romania 23-20 in Tblissi (European Nations Cup)

 

Referee: Giulio De Santis (Italy) Crowd: 30,000 (approx.)

 

Thanks to http://www.georgianlelos.com and ‘Qu ‘Qaflan’.

 

Luxembourg v Austria in Cessange (WCQ Euro. Rnd 2, Pool B)

NOTE-Match called off due to frozen pitch

 

Switzerland 40, Bulgaria 3 in Geneva (WCQ Euro. Rnd 2, Pool D) HT 9-3

Switzerland won by 37 points. I predicted Switzerland by 50.

 

This match was nearly called off due to bad weather. The Swiss found an alternative ground in Nyon so the match went ahead.

 

This was an easy win to Switzerland. Mathieu Guyou-Kries was seriously injured with a double fracture of the leg.

 

Point scorers

 

Switzerland

Tries: Macculi, A. Vincent, Viard, Mowat, I.Wise

Conversions: Zumthor (3)

Penalty goals: Zumthor (3)

 

Bulgaria (Unavailable)

 

Teams

 

Switzerland

15 Sebastien Ferrand (Lyon, France), 14 Sebastien Burkhalter (Bobigny, France) [20 Iain Mowat (Hermance)], 13 Benjamin Martin (Geneva)

[22 Sthephane Jaouhar (Hermance)], 12 Mathieu Guyou-Kries (Massy, France) [21 Iain Wise (Hermance)], 11 Raphael Viard (Rioms, France),

10 Jerome Zumthor (Mazamet, France), 9 Laurent Grand Pierre (Geneva),

8 Arnaud Vincent (Toulon, France), 7 Jerome Farine (Nyon) [19 Ramiro Dip (Zurich)], 6 Sebastien Macculi (Fribourg), 5 Sergio Hosel (Zurich) [17 Frank Vincent (Strasbourg, France)], 4 Romain Vincent (La Seyne, France), 3 Schelt Betten (Zurich) [18 Luc Wielenmann (Clermont UC, France)], 2 Renard Voise (Massy, France) [16 Yohann Mazza (Annecy, France], 1 Pierre Dubost (Chambery, France).

Coach: John Etheridge

 

Bulgaria

15 Aleksov Bogdanov (Pernik), 14 Odadzhiyski Nikolaev (Locomotiv Sofia), 13 Tsintsov Zdravkov (Mercuri), 12 Krushkin Genadiev (Locomotiv Sofia), 11 Damyanov Jliev (Locomotiv Sofia), 10 Borisov Nikolov (Pernik), 9 Dzenkov Dzenkov (Pernik), 8 Ivanov Lubenov (Locomotiv Sofia), 7 Asenov Elenchov (Locomotiv Sofia), 6 Andreev Tenchev (Locomotiv Sofia), 5 Angelov Mitkov (Pernik), 4 Simeonov Potrov (Locomotiv Sofia), 3 Kabzimalov Georgiev (Locomotiv Sofia), 2 Parizov Zhivkov (Locomotiv Sofia),1 Tsenov Dimitrov (Locomotiv Sofia).

Replacements: 16 Petrov Dimitrov (Pernik), 17 Damyanov Jliev (Berkovitza),

18 Stefanov Bozidarov (Locomotiv Sofia),19 Borisov Nikolov (Berkovitza),

20 Cholakov Plamenov (Vantra), 21 Mladenov V. Petrov (Vantra),

22 Mladenov G. Petrov (Vantra),

Coach Mihailov Krumov     

 

Referee: M.Schauder (Israel)

 

Previous Encounters

14.10.2000 Switzerland 90-9 in Pernik (FIRA Pool 3, WCQ Euro. Rnd 1)

21.11.1998 Switzerland 48-8 in Nyon (FIRA Pool D)

 

Senegal 48, Nigeria 6 at Stade Léopold Sédar Senghor in Dakar (WCQ Africa Rnd 1A North)

Senegal won by 42 points. I predicted Senegal by 7

 

Before a crowd of 20,000,Senegal and Nigeria, for the first time, participated in a Rugby World Cup qualifier. This was an historic occasion for both nations.

 

Senegal, with sixteen players out of the twenty-two based with French clubs, proved far too experienced for the Nigerians and ran out easy winners.” We are very disappointed”, said Nigeria Coach Ntiense Williams. “The Senegalese did a good home work [job] and their investment paid off for them. I’m happy for them. They have also being a very good host “.

 

The Nigerians had to remain in Dakar for a week due to flight connection problems and were still waiting refunding of the flight tickets from CAR.

 

Nigeria learned a lot from the experience. “It’s a very good learning curve and we will build on this. You are bound to have some teething problems in your development and we are not an exception. The Stadium was electrifying with even the Presidents (of Senegal) daughter in attendance and cheering on.”

 

Point scorers

 

Senegal

Tries: Correa (2), Diarra (2), Cissoko

Conversions: Sargos (2)

Penalty goals: Sargos (4)

Dropped goal: Sargos

 

Nigeria

Penalty goals: Alhassan (2)

 

Teams

 

Senegal (The Lions)

15 Moussa Cisse (PUC Paris, France), 14 Louny Preira (Paris PUC, France), 13 Mouhamadou Diarra (Pau, France), 12 Biram-Victor Samb (Castelnaudary, France), 11 Marfouth Cissoko (Caimans), 10 Steeve Sargos (Oyonax, France), 9 Demba Diouf (St Junien, France), 8 Yogane Correa (Albi, France), 7 Felix Mendy (Aix-en-Provence, France), 6 Gabriel Seck (Martigues, France), 5 John Roux (Nissan, France), 4 Papa Mbow (Caimans), 3 Gora Samb (Caimans, Senegal), 2 Florentimou Gomis (RC Las, France), 1 Carlos Mendy (SMUC Marseille, France).

Replacements: 16 Seydou Tall (Jambars), 17 Assane Dieye (Jambars), 18 Babacar Ndiongue (Caimans), 19 Ibrahima Sadio (Jambars), 20 Mamadou Pouye (Gignac, France), 21 Hamet Sy (PUC Paris, France), 22 Moustapha Sene (Jambars).

Coaches: Jean-marc Foucras (Castres), Leon Lopy (Aix-en-Provence), Alexis

Arnal (Jambars, Senegal)

 

Nigeria (The Eagles)

15. Eusebuis Yayock, 14. Gbenga Hammed, 13. Tata Alhassan, 12. Maalik Ahmed, 11. Onyekweli Uche (Capt.), 10. Azeez Ladipo, 9. Sani Halilu,

8. Prince Ogbonna, 7. Emmanuel Godwin [17 Micheal Gaza], 6. Udebhulu John, 5. Sunday Bernard, 4. Mojekwu Ifeayi, 3. Muogbo Osita [16. Dalley Fatai], 2. Emeka Chikaodi, 1 Isa Alhassan.

Replacements not used: 18. Ojada Staintmicheal, 19. Simon Joseph, 20. Lateef Yusuf, 21. Segun Samuel, 22. Paul Adagbo

Coach: Ntiense Williams

 

Referee: Boulbaba (Tunisia)

 

Thanks to Ntiense Williams, Coach, Nigeria RFU and Guédel Ndiaye,

President of Senegalese Rugby Union

 

Previous Encounter

05.10.2003 Nigeria 8-6 in Bamako (CAR Div.2, North; Pool A)

 

Swaziland 24, Zambia 23 in Mbabane (WCQ Africa Rnd 1A South)

Swaziland won by 1 point. I predicted Zambia by 20

 

A major upset. Zambia team management has blamed lack of international match preparation for this loss and has called upon ZRU to organise a friendly before their next match against Botswana.

 

‘There was no wind to speak of but it was very humid. Zambia started very physical and tried to muscle their way through. They were big. Swaziland tackled hard. It got a little silly with Zambia throwing punches. Marius Uys went off for blood and had stitches to his mouth. Had to be taken to hospital for surgery!!! The Zambians were sure of a win when they arrived but were unable to control the game. The Swazi's were disciplined and kept control, changing the pace of play and shutting down key players. We have worked hard at training to raise our game in the last twenty minutes. This we did and Zambia had nothing to offer. They gained two yellow cards. The try in the last two minutes sent the whole crowd wild. Shell shocked is a good description of the Zambians at the final whistle’

From Michael Collinson, coach Swaziland team, edited by Gary Carbines, Rugbyinternational.net

 

Point scorers

 

Swaziland

Tries: Way, Munroe

Conversion: Pocock

Penalty goals: Pocock (4)

 

Zambia

Try: Chipili, Busange

Conversion: Mulambe, Mwila

Penalty goal: Phiri, Mulambe (2)

 

Teams

 

Zambia Squad

Lazarous Chiti, Chiluba Kangwa (Nchanga), Grey Phiri, Langford Kashinka (Arrows), Ronnel Armengol, Nyondo Armitage, Happy Chipili, Chris Chileshe, John Kambaenda, Chancey Mulama, Alex Mwila, Lawrence Njovu (All Diggers), Chipo Mubagwe, Richard Kapoma (Both  Buffaloes),Longa Chikwamo, Lazarous Ngoma (Both Chibuluma) ,Anthony Kalengo (Green Eagles), Mumba Mufumbwe, Patrick Chimalilo, Ronald Chishimba, Musonda Chileshe (Ndola Wanderers), Darren Young (Wits University, South Africa), Owen Busenge (Raiders, South Africa).

Thanks to Kalumiana Kalumiana

 

Swaziland

15 Maswazi Dlamini, 14 Garth Way, 13 Sean Fitz Patrick, 12 Michael Takis,

11 Mario De Sousa [17 Stones Munroe], 10 Barry Takis, 9 Conrad Badenhorst [21 Michael Nann], 8 Derek Takis, 7 Bruce Blignaut [19 Steven Martin], 6 Marias Uys [16 Louis Von Wissell], 5 Stef Jordaan [22 Cliff Koen], 4 Muzi Dlamini, 3 Mark Pocock, 2 Louis Martin [18 Stuart Hulley],1 Luke Martin,

Replacement not used: 20 Tyrone Reid,

Coach: Michael Nann

 

Thanks to Michael Collinson, Swaziland RFU and Kalumiana Kalumiana.

 

Zambia reaction to the loss (Thanks to ‘Quentin’)

http://www.times.co.zm/news/viewnews.cgi?category=17&id=1110751237

 

Previous Encounter

21.09.2002 Zambia 61-9 in Lusaka (CAR South, Div.2)

 

GWC Rankings: Africa Table-Zambia 8th, Swaziland 13th-  Change

 

Referee: Cameron Kotze (Namibia)

 

08/03 WEATHER MAY HINDER

The prospect of snow may yet cause a disruption of play when Luxembourg plays Austria this weekend in Cessange in a Rugby World Cup qualifier.

 

The same weather problem may also interfere with the Switzerland v Bulgaria game, also a Rugby World Cup Qualifier, due to be played in Geneva, according to Norbett Li-Marchetti of the Swiss RFU. The Bulgarians, according to Pepa Montchilova, Bulgaria RFU, are waiting for word from Vienna as to whether the game will go ahead. Wednesday is the deadline for travel arrangements to be made. It doesn’t look hopeful.

 

THE WEEKEND 26/27 FEBRUARY

 

27.02.2005

Ireland 19, England 13 in Dublin (6 Nations International Championship)

Ireland won by 6 points. I predicted Ireland by 15

 

A tense match resulted in a try a piece and a win to Ireland in which the lead changed hands many times. In the end Ireland sneaked ahead on kicks and England, the World Cup holders, slumped to their third straight loss in this tournament. The result could mean a Wales v Ireland showdown for the 6 Nations Trophy. Ireland will have to defeat France in Dublin in two weeks time for this to happen.

 

Point scorers

 

Ireland

Try: O’Drsicoll

Conversion: O’Gara

Penalty goals: O’Gara (2)

Dropped goal: O’Gara (2)

 

England

Try: Corry

Conversion: Hodgson

Penalty goal: Hodgson

Dropped goal: Hodgson

 

The teams

 

Ireland

15 Geordan Murphy (Leicester), 14 Girvan Dempsey (Leinster), 13 Brian O’Driscoll (Leinster) Capt, 12 Shane Horgan (Leinster), 11 Denis Hickie (Leinster), 10 Ronan O'Gara (Munster), 9 Peter Stringer (Munster),

8 Anthony Foley (Munster), 7 Johnny O’Connor (London Wasps),

6 Simon Easterby (Llanelli), 5 Paul O'Connell (Munster), 4 Malcolm O'Kelly (Leinster), 3 John Hayes (Munster), 2 Shane Byrne (Leinster), 1 Reggie Corrigan (Leinster) [17 Marcus Horan (Munster)].

Replacements not used: 16 Frankie Sheahan (Munster), 18 Donncha O'Callaghan (Munster), 19 Eric Miller (Leinster), 20 Guy Easterby (Leinster), 21 David Humphreys (Ulster), 22 Kevin Maggs (Ulster),

Coach: Eddie O’Sullivan

 

England

15 Jason Robinson (Sale) (captain), 14 Mark Cueto (Sale), 13 Jamie Noon (Newcastle), 12 Olly Barkley (Bath), 11 Josh Lewsey (Wasps), 10 Charlie Hodgson (Sale), 9 Harry Ellis (Leicester) [20 Matt Dawson (Wasps)], 8 Martin Corry (Leicester), 7 Lewis Moody (Leicester), 6 Joe Worsley (Wasps), 5 Ben Kay (Leicester), 4 Danny Grewcock (Bath) 3 Matt Stevens (Bath), 2 Steve Thompson (Northampton), 1 Graham Rowntree (Leicester).

Replacements not used: 16 Andy Titterrell (Sale), 17 Duncan Bell (Bath),

18 Steve Borthwick (Bath), 19 Andy Hazell (Gloucester), 21 Andy Goode (Leicester), 22 Ben Cohen (Northampton). 

Coach: Andy Robinson

 

Referee: Jonathan Kaplan (South Africa)

 

26.02.2005

Scotland 18, Italy 10 at Murrayfield (6 Nations International Championship)

Scotland won by 8 points. I predicted Italy by 3.

 

In a dull match Scotland overcame Italy in cold, wet conditions to hand them back the wooden spoon they ‘won’ last season.

 

Point scorers

 

Scotland

Penalty goals: Paterson (6)

 

Italy

Try: Masi

Conversion: De Marigny

Penalty: De Marigny

 

Teams

Scotland

15 Chris Paterson (Edinburgh Rugby), 14 Simon Webster (Edinburgh Rugby), 13 Andy Craig (Glasgow Rugby), 12 Hugo Southwell (Edinburgh Rugby)

[22 Ben Hinshelwood (Worcester, England)]. 11 Sean Lamont (Glasgow Rugby), 10 Dan Parks (Glasgow Rugby) [21 Gordon Ross (Leeds, England)], 9 Chris Cusiter (The Borders) [20 Mike Blair (Edinburgh Rugby)], 8 Allister Hogg (Edinburgh Rugby), 7 Jon Petrie (Glasgow Rugby), 6 Simon Taylor (Edinburgh Rugby) [19 Jon Dunbar (Leeds, England)], 5 Scott Murray (Edinburgh Rugby) [18 Nathan Hines (Edinburgh Rugby)], 4 Stuart Grimes (Newcastle, England), 3 Gavin Kerr (Leeds, England) [17 Bruce Douglas (The Borders)], 2 Gordon Bulloch Capt. (Glasgow Rugby), 1 Tom Smith (Northampton, England).

Replacement not used: 16 Robbie Russell (London Irish, England),

Coach: Matt Williams

 

Italy

15 Roland de Marigny (Overmach Parma), 14 Mirco Bergamasco (Stade Français, France) [22 Kaine Robertson (Arix Viadana)], 13 Cristian Stoica (Montpellier, France) [21 Roberto Pedrazzi (Overmach Parma)], 12 Andrea Masi (Arix Viadana), 11 Ludovico Nitoglia (Ghial Calvisano), 10 Luciano Orquera (Carrera Petrarca Padova) [20 Paul Griffen (Ghial Calvisano)], 9 Alessandro Troncon (Benetton Treviso), 8 Sergio Parisse (Benetton Treviso), 7 David Dal Maso (Benetton Treviso), 6 Aaron Persico (Agen, France), 5 Marco Bortolami (Narbonne, France) (captain), 4 Santiago Dellapè (Agen, France) [18 Carlo Antonio Del Fava (Overmach Parma)], 3 Martin Castrogiovanni (Ghial Calvisano) [16 Salvatore Perugini (Ghial Calvisano)], 2 Fabio Ongaro (Benetton Treviso), 1 Andrea Lo Cicero (Conad L’Aquila)

Replacements not used: 17 Giorgio Intoppa (Ghial Calvisano), 19 Silvio Orlando (Benetton Treviso),

 

Coach: John Kirwan

 

Referee: Stuart Dickinson (Australia)

 

Thanks to www.planet-rugby.com

 

 

Wales 24, France 18 in Paris (6 Nations International Championship)

Wales won by 6 points. I predicted Wales by 3

 

Wales continued its march towards a 6 Nations showdown with Ireland after a come-from-behind win in Paris.

 

This was an exciting match fully justifying the electric build up. The French played like the French can in the first half, to lead at halftime 15-6, but wilted under a grand Welsh fight-back.

 

Point scorers

 

Wales:

Tries: M Williams (2)

Conversion: S.Jones

Penalty goals: S Jones (3)

Dropped goal: S.Jones

 

France

Tries: Yachvili, Rougerie

Conversion: Yachvili

Penalty goal: Yachvili

Dropped goal: Michalak

 

Teams

 

Wales

15 Gareth Thomas (Toulouse, captain) [22 Rhys Williams (Dragons)], 14 Kevin Morgan (Dragons) [21 Ceri Sweeney (Dragons) temp.], 13 Tom Shanklin (Blues), 12  Gavin Henson (Ospreys), 11 Shane Williams (Ospreys), 10 Stephen Jones (Clermont Auvergne), 9 Dwayne Peel (Scarlets) [20 Gareth Cooper (Dragons)], 8 Michael Owen (Dragons), 7 Martyn Williams (Blues), 6 Ryan Jones (Ospreys) [18 Jonathan Thomas (Ospreys)], 5 Rob Sidoli (Blues), 4 Brent Cockbain (Ospreys), 3 Adam Jones (Ospreys) [17 John Yapp (Blues)], 2 Mefin Davies (Gloucester) [16 Robin McBryde (Scarlets)], 1 Gethin Jenkins (Blues).

Replacement not used: 19 Robin Sowden-Taylor (Blues),

Coach: Mike Ruddock

 

France:

15 Julien Laharrague (Brive), 14 Aurelien Rougerie (Clermont-Auvergne), 13 Yannick Jauzion (Toulouse), 12 Damien Traille (Biarritz) [22 Jean-Philippe Grandclaude (Perpignan)], 11 Christophe Dominici (Stade Français), 10 Yann Delaigue (Castres) [21 Frédéric Michalak (Stade Toulousain)], 9 Dimitri Yachvili (Biarritz), 8 Julien Bonnaire (Bourgoin) [19 Imanol Harinordoquy (Biarritz)], 7 Yannick Nyanga (Béziers), 6 Serge Betsen (Biarritz), 5 Jérôme Thion (Biarritz) [18 Grégory Lamboley (Stade Toulousain)], 4 Fabien Pelous (Stade Toulousain, captain), 3 Nicolas Mas (Perpignan) [17 Olivier Milloud (Bourgoin)], 2 Sébastien Bruno (Sale, England) [16 William Servat (Stade Toulousain)], 1 Sylvain Marconnet (Stade Français).

Replacement not used: 20 Pierre Mignoni (Clermont-Auvergne),

Coach: Bernard Laporte

 

Referee: Paul Honiss (New Zealand)

 

Thanks to www.planet-rugby.com

 

Portugal 19, Czech Republic 13 in Lisbon (European Nations Cup) HT 7-5

Portugal won by 6 points. I predicted Portugal by 20

 

Point scorers

 

Portugal

Tries: Malheiro, Carvalho, penalty

Conversions: Malheiro, Leal

 

Czech Republic

Try: Schlanger, Rohlik

Penalty goal: Kafka

 

Teams

 

Portugal

15 Goncalo Malheiro (Madrid 2012, Spain) [22 Pedro Leal (CD Direto)], 14 Miguel Portela (CD Direto), 13 Diogo Mateus (Belenenses), 12 Frederico Sousa (CD Direto) [21 Nuno Garvao (Belenenses)], 11 Pedro Carvalho (CD Direto),10 Martim Tome (CD Direto), 9 Luis Pissarra Capt. (AEIS Agronomia), 8 Vasco Uva (CD Direto), 7 Diogo Coutinho (CD Direto) [20 Sebastiao Cunha (Belenenses)], 6 Paulo Murinello (CD University Lisboa) [19 Antonio Cunha (Belenenses)], 5 Lourenco Andrade (Belenenses) [18 Goncalo Uva ((CD Direto)],, 4 Marcello Dorey (CD University Porto) 3 Joaquim Ferreira (CD University Porto) [17 Cristian Spachuck (Belenenses)],  2 Miguel Moura (Benefica) [16 Paulo Santos (Belenses)],1 Joao Correia (CD Direto).

Coach:

 

Czech Republic

15 Tomas Krejčí (St Saturnin, France 9 caps), 14 Jan Rohlík (St Nazaire, France 18) [21 Zdenik Žák (RC Sparta ?)], 13 Martin Pekárek (RC Ricany 28), 12 Antonin Brabec (Tatra Smichov 39) [22 Viceslav Dosedla (RC Dragon Brno 3)], 11 Michal Schlanger (RC Petrovice Praha 1), 10 Martin Kafka (Metro-Racing, France 21), 9 Pavel Syrový (RC Sparta 24) [20 Jaroslav Tomčík (RC Havířov 1)], 8 Patrik Leroch (RC Havířov 0), 7 Miroslav Němeček (Bracknell RFC, England 5), 6 Ladislav Vondrášek (Bracknell RFC, England 34) [19 Vlastimil Madry (RC Sparta 1)], 5 Josef Weber (RC Dragon Brno 0), 4 Robert Voves ((St Nazaire, France 10), 3 Pavel Šťastný (L’Isle Jourdain, France 17) [18 Jan Kubálek (RC Ricany 1)], 2 Lukas Rapant (St Nazaire, France 10) [16 Jan Oswald (Tatra Smichov 18)], 1 Roman Šuster (St Nazaire, France 15 caps) [17 Jiri Skall (RC Sparta 50)],

 

Coach: Christian Galonnier

 

Referee: Meersman (Belgium)

 

Thanks to www.rugby.cz ,‘Vis Maior’, www.fpr.pt and Juraj Rázga

Gen. Secretary Czech RFU.

 

Romania 33, Russia 10 in Timosoara (European Nations Cup) HT 13-10

Romania won by 23 points. I predicted Romania by 40

 

This match was played on a very muddy ground. Russia held the Romanians in the first half but the relentless forward pressure from the home side told in the end. On a firm ground the Romanians, so dominant were they in the second half, could have scored many more points.

 

Romania

Tries: Teodorescu (2), Mavrodin, Tonita, Sauan

Conversion: Dumbrava

Penalty goals: Tofan, Dumbrava

 

Russia

Try: Ouskov

Conversion: Sugrobov

Penalty goal: Sugrobov

 

Teams

 

Romania

15 Danut Dumbrava (Steaua Bucuresti), 14 Cristian Sauan (Rugby Rovigo, Italy) [22 Stefan Dumitru (Steaua Bucuresti)], 13 Gabriel Brezoianu (US Dax, France), 12 Valentin Maftei (Aurillac, France), 11 Ioan Teodorescu (Univ. Cluj), 10. Ionut Tofan (Metro Racing, France) [21 Darie Curea (Steaua Bucuresti)], 9 Lucian Sirbu (Metro Racing, France) [20 Iulian Andrei (Steaua Bucuresti)], 7 Marian Tudori (Perigueux, France), 8 Ovidiu Tonita (Perpignan, France) [19 George Oprisor (Perpignan, France)], 6 Costica Mersoiu (Perigueux, France),  5 Cristian Petre (Tarbes, France), 4. Sorin Socol Capt.(Agen, France),  3 Marcel Socaciu (Rugby Rovigo, Italy), 2 Razvan Mavrodin (Tarbes, France) [17 Bogdan Zebega (Steaua Bucuresti)], 1 Cezar Popescu (Tarbes, France) [16 Ion Paulica (Steaua Bucuresti)].

Replacement not used: 18 Bogdan Balan (Bordeaux Begles, France),

Coach: Daniel Santamans

 

 

Unavailable either injured or not playing: Petru Balan, Marius Tincu, Alin Petrache and Florin Corodeanu. Alin Petrache appears to have retired from international rugby.

 

Russia

15 Dmitriy Loskutov (Penza), 14 Alexander Gvozdovskiy (Krasniy Yar),

13 Oleg Kobzev (VVA-Podmoskovje), 12 Denis Akulov (Enisy-STM),

11 Maxim Ouskov (Penza) [22 Alexander Kazantsev (VVA-Podmoskovje)], 10 Sergey Sugrobov (Slava), 9 Alexander Shakirov (Enisy-STM) [19 Dmitriy Malyakin (Penza)], 8 Alexey Sarychev (Krasniy Yar) [21 Artem Lubkov (Krasniy Yar)], 7 Viatcheslav Grachev (Montauban, France), 6 Andrey Garbuzov (Krasniy Yar), 5 Alexander Voitov (VVA-Podmoskovje) [20 Andrey Bykanov (Slava)], 4 Andrey Lugin (Penza), 3 Alexey Travkin (VVA-Podmoskovje) [17 Alexander Khrokin (VVA-Podmoskovje)], 2 Roman Romak (Enisy-STM),1 Oleg Shukaylov  (Krasniy Yar) [18 Sergey  Vasilev (Krasniy Yar)].

Replacement not used: 16 Sergey Novoselov (Enisy-STM),

Coach: Mironov Igor

 

Referee: Didier Mene (France)

 

Thanks to ‘cris’ for both teams, and to www.fira-aer.com for match details.

 

Georgia 65, Ukraine 0 in Tibillisi (European Nations Cup) HT 28-0

Georgia won by 65 points. I predicted Georgia by 30

 

Georgia, with a rearranged combination themselves, completely outplayed a below-strength Ukrainian team in Tbillisi.

 

Teams

 

Georgia

15 Bessik Khamashuridze (Unaffiliated 37) [22 David Kiknadze (Academy 3)], 14 Lexo Gugava (Locomotivi 7) [21 Luka Khachirashvili (Locomotivi/ Knights GRL 0)], 13  Tedo Zibzibadze (Gourdon France 34), 12 Lasha Pirpilashvili (Lelo 5), 11 Irakli Machkhaneli (Academy 12), 10 Otar Barkalaia (Lelo 9), 9 Irakli Abusseridze (Orleans France 27) [20 George Katcharava (Unaffiliated 0)], 8 Besso Udessiani (Chalon, France 9), 7 Rati Urushadze (Enissei STM, Russia 6), 6 Vassil Katsadze (Albi, France 33) [19 Zviad Maissuradze (Walsall, England 6)], 5 Mamuka Gorgodze (Lelo 11) [18 Levan Datunashvili (Vierzon, France 2)], 4 Ilia Zedguinidze Capt. (Orleans, France 33), 3 David Zerakashvili (Clermont, France 3) [17 Avtandil Kopaliani (Chalon, France 4)], 2 Akvsenti Guiorgadze (Rovigo Italy 36), 1 Mikheil Sujashvili (Lelo 2) [16 Levan Javelidze (Nantes, France 9)].

Coaches: Malkhaz Tcheishvili & David Chavleishvili

 

Two players, Magrakvelidze and Shvelidze, were allowed to play for their French clubs, Mtchedishvili was injured, the others not selected. In came a mostly new front row in Kopaliani, Javelidze and Zerakashvili, lock Datunashvili and utility flanker/back Katsadze.

 

In the backs Pirilashvili and rugby league player Khachivashvili moved in whilst Urjukashvili and Guiorgadze were not selected.

 

Thanks to http://www.georgianlelos.com and ‘Qu ‘Quafan’.

 

Ukraine

15 Andriy Tyshchenko (RC Argo-NAU, Kiev), 14 Oleh Kvasnytsya (RC Obolon-Univ., Khmelnitskiv), 13 Jaroslav Pereguda (Argo-NAU, Kiev), 12 Andriy Polosenko (RC Argo-NAU, Kiev), 11 Sergiy Monastyrov (RC Aviator, Kiev), 10 Maksym Bilmovych (RC Argo-NAU, Kiev), 9 Maksym Kravchenko (RC Legion XTZ, Kharkov), 8 Artur Martyrosyan (RC Legion XTZ, Kharkov), 7 Vitalii Zadvirnyi (RC Argo-NAU, Kiev), 6 Sergiy Kureza (RC Aviator, Kiev), 5 Andriy Melnykov (RC Legion XTZ, Kharkov), 4 Volodymyr Koshelia (RC Argo-NAU, Kiev), 3 Sergiy Bubela (RC Obolon-Univ., Khmelnitskiv), 2 Dmytro Krasnoshchek (RC Argo-NAU, Kiev), 1 Oleksandr Polyanskyy (RC Kredo-63, Odessa).

Replacements: 16 Dmytro Levichev (RC Aviator, Kiev), 17 Oleksiy Zybalo (RC Credo-63, Odessa), 18 Dmytro Fedishyn (RC Legion XTZ, Kharkov),

19 Vasyl Titov (RC Aviator, Kiev), 20 Valerii Maksiuk (RC Aviator, Kiev), 21 Vadym Kolyshkin (RC Legion XTZ, Kharkov), 22 Volodymyr Cherednychenko (RC Argo-NAU, Kiev)

Coach: Vladamir Muha

 

Thanks to Dimitri Samoylenko, Ukraine RFU