RUGBYINTERNATIONAL.NET

GETTING THE RECORD STRAIGHT

JULY 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.manusamoa.com.ws/    www.planet-rugby.com   http://teivovo.com/  

 

www.rugby.co.ck

 

 

Updated 05.08.2005

 

Latest Results

30.07.2005

South Africa 22, Australia 16 in Pretoria (Tri-Nations)

Fiji 21, Samoa 15  in Suva (WCQ Oceania Rnd 3)

Cook Islands 47,Tahiti 22 in Tahiti (WCQ Oceania Rnd 1B)

 

29.07.2005

Solomon Islands 20, Vanuatu 12 in Vanuatu (WCQ Oceania Rnd 1A)

 

23.07.2005

South Africa 33, Australia 20 in Johannesburg (Mandela Cup)

South Africa Students 30, Africa Leopards 15 in Johannesburg

Ivory Coast 33, Zimbabwe 3 in Abidjan (WCQ Africa Rnd 1B, Pool A)

Niue 55, Tahiti 8 in Niue (WCQ Oceania Rnd 1B)

 

22.07.2005

Samoa 30,Tonga 19 in Nuku’alofa (WCQ Oceania Rnd 3)

 

16.07.2005

Fiji 24,Tonga 19 at Nuku’alofa (WCQ Oceania Rnd 3)

 

Coming Up

06.08.2005

South Africa v New Zealand in Capetown (Tri-Nations)

Cook Islands v Niue in Rarotonga (WCQ Oceania Rnd 1B)

Uganda v Zimbabwe in Harare (WCQ Africa Rnd 1B Playoff 1st leg)

 

 

OTHER MATCHES COMING UP JUST TO HAND (31.07)

World Cup Qualifiers-Africa 1B Playoff-Uganda and Zimbabwe

06.08.2004 Uganda v Zimbabwe in Harare

20.08.2004 Zimbabwe v Uganda in Kampala

Thanks to Paul Sigombe, CAR

 

OTHER MATCHES COMING UP JUST TO HAND (17.07)

World Cup Qualifiers-Oceania

Round 1A

29.07.2005 Vanuatu v Solomon Islands in Vanuatu

13.08.2005 Solomon Islands v Papua New Guinea in Solomon Islands

20.08.2005 Papua New Guinea v Vanuatu in Port Moresby

 

Round 1B

23.07.2005 Niue v Tahiti in Niue

30.07.2005 Tahiti v Cook Islands in Tahiti

06.08.2005 Cook Islands v Niue in Rarotonga

 

03.09.2005 Winner 1A v Winner 1B

 

THIS WEEKEND 30/31 JULY

 

 

30.07.2005

South Africa 22, Australia 16 in Pretoria (Tri-Nations)

South Africa won by 6 points. I predicted South Africa by 7

 

South Africa continued on its winning way against Australia at home. This time it was to begin its defence of the Trophy it won in 2004 by taking out the first Tri-Nations game for 2005.

 

South Africa takes on New Zealand in Capetown next weekend in the second Tri-Nations match for 2005. Another home win will put South Africa in a very good position leading up to its two away games.

 

Match previews

http://www.planet-rugby.com/News/story_45095.shtml

http://www.sarugby.net/default.asp?des=article&id=152886

http://www.rugby.com.au/matches/tournaments/tri_nations/2005/springboks_v_qantas_wallabies,22764.html

http://www.scrum.com/news/news_detail.asp?newsid=32268

 

Point scorers

 

South Africa:

Try: Paulse

Conversion: Montgomery

Penalty goals: Montgomery (3)

Dropped goals: Montgomery, Pretorius

 

Australia:

Try: Smith

Conversion: Giteau

Penalty goals: Giteau (3)

 

Teams

 

South Africa

15 Percy Montgomery, 14 Breyton Paulse, 13 Jaque Fourie, 12 Jean de Villiers [22 Wayne Julies], 11 Bryan Habana, 10 André Pretorius, 9 Fourie du Preez [20 Enrico Januarie], 8 Jacques Cronjé [19 Schalk Burger], 7 Juan Smith, 6 Joe van Niekerk, 5 Victor Matfield [18 Albert van den Berg], 4 Bakkies Botha, 3 CJ van der Linde [16 Gary Botha], 2 John Smit, 1 Gurthro Steenkamp.

Replacements not used: 17 Lawrence Sephaka, 21 Jaco van der Westhuyzen,

Coach: Jake White

 

Australia

15 Chris Latham, 14 Wendell Sailor [22  Drew Mitchell], 13 Morgan Turinui [21 Stirling Mortlock], 12 Matt Giteau, 11 Lote Tuqiri, 10 Stephen Larkham, 9 George Gregan (captain), 8 John Roe [19 Rocky Elsom], 7 George Smith, 6 Phil Waugh, 5 Nathan Sharpe, 4 Daniel Vickerman [18 Mark Chisholm], 3 Matt Dunning [17 Al Baxter], 2 Jeremy Paul [16 Stephen Moore], 1 Bill Young.

Replacement not used: 20 Chris Whitaker,

Coach: Eddie Jones

 

Referee: Paul Honiss (New Zealand)

 

Match reviews

http://www.planet-rugby.com/Tournaments/Tri_Nations/story_45113.shtml

 

Last Five Encounters

23.07.2005 South Africa 33-20 in Johannesburg (Mandela Cup)

09.07.2005 Australia 30-12 in Sydney (Mandela Cup)

21.08.2004 South Africa 23-19 in Durban (Tri-Nations)

31.07.2004 Australia 30-26 in Perth (Tri-Nations)

02.08.2003 Australia 29-9 in Brisbane (Tri-Nations)

 

Australia Last Five

23.07.2005 v South Africa L 20-33 in Johannesburg (Mandela Cup)

09.07.2005 v South Africa W 30-12 in Sydney (Mandela Cup)

02.07.2005 v France W 37-31 in Brisbane

25.06.2005 v Italy W 69-21 in Melbourne

11.06.2005 v Samoa W 74-7 in Sydney

 

South Africa Last Five

23.07.2005 v Australia W 33-20 in Johannesburg (Mandela Cup)

09.07.2005 v Australia L 12-30 in Brisbane (Mandela Cup)

25.06.2005 v France W 27-13 in Port Eizabeth

18.06.2005 v France D 25-25 in Durban

11.06.2005 v Uruguay W 134-3 in East London

 

GWC Rankings: World Table- South Africa 2nd, Australia 3rd-No Change

 

Fiji 21, Samoa 15 in Suva (WCQ Oceania Rnd 3)

Fiji won by 6 points. I predicted Fiji by 2.

 

Fiji defeated Pacific neighbour Samoa in wet conditions to regain some ground lost when they were defeated 36-10 by Samoa two weeks ago. The win was not enough to prevent Samoa taking out first place in the tournament.

 

Reviews

http://teivovo.com/results_international/2005/0730_fiji_samoa.html

 

 

Crowd: 5,500

 

Point scorers

 

Fiji

Tries: Bai, Kunavore

Conversion: Bai;

Penalty goals: Bai (3)

 

Samoa

Penalty goals: Warren (5)

 

Teams

 

Fiji

15 Norman Ligairi, 14 Mosese Luveitasau, 13 Maleli Kunavore, 12 Seremaia Bai, 11 Kameli Ratuvou, 10 Jack Prasad [21 Nicky Little], 9 Mosese Rauluni Capt., 8 Sisa Koyamaibole, 7 Aca Ratuva, 6 Jone Qovu, 5 Isoa Domolailai [22 Josevata Tora], 4 Ifereimi Rawaqa [18 Langi Peters], 3 Bill Cavubati, 2 Bill Gadolo, 1 Josese Bale.

Replacements not used: 16 Sunia Koto, 17 Jone Railomo, 19 Akapusi Qera, 20 Saiasi Fuli,

Coach: Wayne Pivac

 

Samoa

15 Tanner Vili, 14 Lome Fa’atau [22 David Lemi], 13 Anitele’a Tuilagi [21 Faleto’ese Talapusi], 12 Terry Fanolua, 11 Alesana Tuilagi, 10 Roger Warren, 9 Notise Tauafao [20 John Senio], 8 Semo Sititi Capt., 7 Iosefa Taina [19 Daniel Farani], 6 Simaika Mikaele [16 Loleni Tafunai], 5 Daniel Leo, 4 Opeta Palepoi, 3 Census Johnston, 2 Jonathan Meredith, 1 Justin Va’a [17 Donald Kerslake],

Replacement not used: 18 Paul Tupai,

Coach: Michael Jones

 

Referee: Scott Young (Aust)

 

Last Five Encounters

09.07.2005 Samoa 36-10 in Apia (WCQ Oceania Rnd 3)

12.06.2004 Fiji 29-3 in Suva (Pacific Tri-Nations)

22.06.2002 Samoa 22-12 in Suva (WCQ Oceania Rnd 2; Pacific Tri-Nations)

01.06.2002 Fiji 17-16 in Apia (WCQ Oceania Rnd 2; Pacific Tri-Nations)

08.07.2001 Fiji 28-17 in Tokyo (Pacific Rim Final)

 

Fiji Last Five

16.07.2005 v Tonga W 24-19 in Nuku’alofa (WCQ Oceania Rnd 3)

09.07.2005 v Samoa L 10-36 in Apia (WCQ Oceania Rnd 3)

25.06.2005 v Tonga W 19-11 in Suva (WCQ Oceania Rnd 3)

10.06.2005 v New Zealand L 0-91 in Albany

03.06.2005 v NZ Maoris L 27-29 in Suva

 

Samoa Last Five

22.07.2005 v Tonga W 30-19 in Nuku’alofa (WCQ Oceania Rnd 3)

09.07.2005 v Fiji W 36-10 in Apia (WCQ Oceania Rnd 3)

02.07.2005 v Tonga W 50-28 in Apia (WCQ Oceania Rnd 3)

11.06.2005 v Australia L 7-74 in Sydney

12.06.2004 v Fiji L 3-29 in Apia (Pacific Tri-Nations)

 

GWC Rugby Rankings: World Table-Samoa 17th, Fiji 18th-CHANGE

                                      Pacific Table-Samoa 3rd, Fiji 4th-CHANGE

 

Previews

http://teivovo.com/team_fiji/2005/0722_fiji_team_v_samoa.html

http://teivovo.com/team_fiji/2005/0728_fiji_samoa_teams.html

http://www.planet-rugby.com/News/story_45090.shtml

http://www.planet-rugby.com/News/story_45089.shtml

 

 

Cook Islands 47,Tahiti 22 in Papeete (WCQ Oceania Rnd 1B)

Cook Islands won by 25 points. I predicted Cook Islands by 80.

 

Tahiti last played international rugby back in 2003. The Cook Islands will be too strong.

 

Last Five Encounters

30.08.2003 Cook Islands 56-18 in Auckland (Oceania Cup, Eastern Zone)

02.06.2001 Cook Islands 86-0 in Rarotonga (WCQ Oceania Rnd 1A)

20.02.1997 Cook Islands 40-0 in Papeete (WCQ Pacific Zone, Rnd A)

1982 Cook Islands 42-24

1982 Tahiti 28-14

 

Cook Islands Last Five

28.08.2004 v Niue W 50-5 in Rarotonga (Oceania Cup, Eastern Zone)

06.09.2003 v Niue L 14-17 in Auckland (Oceania Cup, Eastern Zone)

03.09.2003 v New Caledonia W 55-5 in Auckland (Oceania Cup, E. Zone)

30.08.2003 v Tahiti W 56-18 in Auckland (Oceania Cup, Eastern Zone)

26.10.2002 v Papua New Guinea W 21-13 in Rarotonga (WCQ Ocea. Rnd 3)

 

Tahiti Last Five

06.09.2003 v New Caledonia W 18-17 in Auckland. (Oceania Cup, E., 3rd/4th)

03.09.2003 v Niue L 8-78 in Auckland (Oceania Cup, Eastern Zone)

30.08.2003 v Cook Islands L 18-56 in Auckland (Oceania Cup, Eastern Zone)

16.06.2001 v Niue L 6-41 in Papeete (WCQ Oceania 1A)

02.06.2001 v Cook Islands L 0-86 in Rarotonga (WCQ Oceania 1A)

 

Prediction: Cook Islands by 80 points.

 

Preview at http://www.rugby.co.ck/index.php?option=content&task=view&id=71&Itemid=2

http://www.cinews.co.ck/sports.htm#2

 

Teams

 

Cook Islands Squad (22 will go to Tahiti)

Shadow Timi Tunui (Arorangi),

Ali Napa (Arorangi)

Terry Aberahama (Avatiu)

Vano Rima (Tupapa)

Kore Herrmann (Tupapa)

Mana Hosking (Takuvaine)

Stephen Nookura (Arorangi)

Aaron Hansen (Avatiu)

Turori Matutu (Tupapa)

Teokotai Tuaivi Jnr. Tupapa)

Thomas Toa (Ngatangia)

Andrew Iroa (Tupapa)

Terry Piri (Avatiu)

Apii Vakai (Takuvaine)

Ben Maaka (Avatiu)

Simiona Nicholas (Arorangi)

Sammy Rarawa (Tupapa)

Jason Tou (Avatiu)

Nooaremaki Varu – John (Arorangi)

Kipa Maurangi (Tupapa)

Louis Nicholas (Avatiu)

Tai Daniels (Wellington, New Zealand)

Augustine Heather (Wellington, New Zealand)

Nick Connel (Auckland, New Zealand)

Gene Lutton (Wellington, New Zealand)

Adam Vardey  ( Wellington, New Zealand)

Junior Greig (Auckland, New Zealand)

Bryan Adams (Auckland, New Zealand)

Dylan Peyroux (Thames Valley, New Zealand)

Stanley Wright (Auckland, New Zealand)

Coach: George Metuarau (Wellington, New Zealand)

 

Thanks to www.rugby.co.ck

 

29.07.2005

Solomon Islands 20, Vanuatu 12 in Vanuatu (WCQ Oceania Rnd 1A)

 

 

THIS WEEKEND 23/24 JULY

 

23.07.2005

South Africa 33, Australia 20 at Ellis Park in Johannesburg (Mandela Cup)

South Africa won by 13 points. I predicted South Africa by 7.

 

Is it just possible we are getting too much more of the same. By the end of the southern season Australia and South Africa will have met four times. Is it becoming boring? A lot more interest could have been created with a 2 test tour to South Africa by Australia (an extended squad of say 33), both tests being for the Mandela Trophy (a worthy cause), the last test being the opener for the Tri-Nations as well, plus a handful of provincial games (a-la Lions tour to NZ-very popular tour) taking the game to places in South Africa worthy of a touring national team, i.e. Pietermartizburg, Soweto, Welkom, Paarl, Kimberley to name a few, and spreading the game around the world.

 

Last Five Encounters

21.08.2004 South Africa 23-19 in Durban (Tri-Nations)

31.07.2004 Australia 30-26 in Perth (Tri-Nations)

02.08.2003 Australia 29-9 in Brisbane (Tri-Nations)

12.07.2003 South Africa 26-22 in Cape Town (Tri-Nations)

17.08.2002 South Africa 33-31 in Johannesburg (Tri-Nations)

 

Australia Last Five

09.07.2005 v South Africa W 30-12 in Sydney (Mandela Cup)

02.07.2005 v France W 37-31 in Brisbane

25.06.2005 v Italy W 69-21 in Melbourne

11.06.2005 v Samoa W 74-7 in Sydney

27.11.2004 v England W 21-19 at Twickenham (Cook Cup)

 

South Africa Last Five

09.07.2005 v Australia L 12-30 in Brisbane (Mandela Cup)

25.06.2005 v France W 27-13 in Port Eizabeth

18.06.2005 v France D 25-25 in Durban

11.06.2005 v Uruguay W 134-3 in East London

04.12.2004 v Argentina W 39-7 in Buenos Aires

 

GWC Rankings: World Table-Australia 2nd, South Africa 3rd

 

Australia has the better record so far this season. History will show that Australia has found winning on South Africa soil difficult in recent years.

 

Prediction: South Africa by 7

 

Teams

 

South Africa:

15 Percy Montgomery, 14 Breyton Paulse, 13 Jaque Fourie, 12 Jean de Villiers, 11 Bryan Habana, 10 Andre Pretorius, 9 Enrico Januarie, 8 Joe van Niekerk, 7 Juan Smith, 6 Solly Tyibilika, 5 Victor Matfield, 4 Bakkies Botha, 3 Eddie Andrews, 2 John Smit (captain), 1 Gurthro Steenkamp.

Replacements: 16 Hanyani Shimange, 17 Lawrence Sephaka, 18 Albert van den Berg, 19 Schalk Burger, 20 Fourie du Preez, 21 Jaco van der Westhuyzen, 22 Wayne Julies

Coach: Jake White

 

Australia:

15 Chris Latham, 14 Wendell Sailor, 13 Stirling Mortlock, 12 Matt Giteau, 11 Lote Tuqiri, 10 Stephen Larkham, 9 George Gregan (captain), 8 David Lyons, 7 George Smith, 6 Rocky Elsom, 5 Nathan Sharpe, 4 Mark Chisholm, 3 Al Baxter, 2 Jeremy Paul, 1 Bill Young.

Replacements: 16 Stephen Moore, 17 Matt Dunning, 18 John Roe, 19 Phil Waugh, 20 Chris Whitaker, 21 Mark Gerrard, 22 Drew Mitchell.

Coach: Eddie Jones

 

Referee: Steve Walsh (New Zealand)

 

Team data thanks to www.planet-rugby.com

 

Match previews

http://www.planet-rugby.com/News/story_44977.shtml

 

http://www.rugby.com.au/matches/tournaments/bundaberg_rum_rugby_series/2005/springboks_v_qantas_wallabies,22743.html

 

http://www.sarugby.net/default.asp?des=article&id=152242

 

 

South Africa Students 30, Africa Leopards 15 at Ellis Park in Johannesburg

Students won by 15 points. I was SPOT ON !

 

This match is a wonderful stage for African rugby. The Leopards, with a few South Africans, have been selected from those African nations playing in the CAR competitions. It is the first time such a team has been assembled and playing it as a curtain raiser for the South Africa-Australia test match is most appropriate

 

Teams

 

South Africa Students:

15 Michael Gallinetti (Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University), 14 Pierre Spies (Tukkies), 13 Lafras Uys (Tukkies), 12 Tabang Molefe (TUT), 11 M Matsaung (TUT), 10 Naas Olivier (Pukke), 9 Mthunzi Mashalaba (University of the Western Cape), 8 Nelis Nel (Pukke), 7 Craig Kleu (UCT), 6 Frikkie Maartens (Johannesburg), 5 Gerhard Mostert (Pukke), 4 Bosman Grobler (Tukkies), 3 Nico de Villiers (Maties), 2 Louwtjie Louw (Shimlas), 1 Kalafo Tlaitane (Tukkies).

Replacements: 16 Henoe Stoffberg (Maties), 17 Brendan Booysen (CPUT), 18 Michael Killian (Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University), 19 Damien Cloete (CPUT), 20 Henry Grimes (TUT), 21 Tembelani Mayosi (UCT), 22 Pellow van der Westhuizen (Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University).

Coaches: Kolie Brand (Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University), David Dobela (Eastern Cape).

 

NB: (Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University includes the University of Port Elizabeth, CPUT includes Peninsula Technikon, TUT includes Pretoria Technikon, and Johannesburg includes RAU.

 

The African Leopards

15 Steve Sargos (Senegal), 14 Allan Musoke (Uganda), 13 Hicham Housni (Morocco), 12 Hendrik Meyer (Namibia), 11 Hary Nirina Jacquot (Madagascar), 10 Morné Steyn (South Africa), 9 Ismaeel Dolley (South Africa), 8 Abdel Boutati (Morocco), 7 Jean-Emmanuel Bahoken (Cameroon), 6 Jan Hendrik Duvenhage (Namibia), 5 Yogan Correa (Senegal), 4 John Lloyd (Tanzania), 3 Arnold Tchoungong Kanga (Cameroon), 2 Jalil Narjissi (captain) (Morocco), 1 Heinke van der Merwe (South Africa).

Replacements: 16 Jeremy Desai (South Africa), 17 Harry Vermaas (South Africa), 18 Cliff Milton (South Africa), 19 Neorgeyundo Armitage (Zambia), 20 Ryan de la Harpe (Namibia), 21 Innocent Simiyu (Kenya), 22 Kais Aissa (Tunisia).

Coaches: Deon Davids (South Africa), Alain Hyardet (France).

 

The student side has a number of age group players and provincial players. The Leopards may start well but I expect the experience of the South Africans to win out in the end.

 

Prediction: Students by 15 points

 

Related Stories

http://www.thestandard.co.zw/read.php?st_id=2840

 

 

Ivory Coast 33, Zimbabwe 3 in Abidjan (WCQ Africa Rnd 1B, Pool A)

The Ivory Coast won by 30 points. I predicted Ivory Coast by 7.

 

Zimbabwe, who played in the 1987 and 1991 Rugby World Cups, have been eliminated by losing this game.

 

Ivory Coast is ranked one place above Zimbabwe on the GWC Rugby Rankings Africa table. Their squad includes eleven professionals from French clubs including Grebo Olivier, Kangah Daniel, Tian Sylvère, Dako Johnatan, Dogui Bedel, Azand Duwel, Monner Sylvain and Soulama Aboubacar.

 

Previous Encounters

16.09.1998 Zimbabwe 32-0 in Casablanca (WCQ Africa Rd D)

18.06.1994 Ivory Coast 17-10 in Casablanca (WCQ Africa)

05.05.1990 Zimbabwe 22-9 in Harare (WCQ Africa)

 

Zimbabwe Last Five

25.06.2005 v Senegal W 21-15 in Harere (WCQ Africa Rnd 1B, Pool B)

25.09.2004 v Namibia L 8-68 in Windhoek

11.09.2004 v Uganda in Harare W 17-0

29.08.2004 v Madagascar L18-23 in Antanaviro

24.07.2004 v Kenya in Bulawayo W 24-15 (Friendly)

 

Ivory Coast Last Five

01.05.2004 v Cameroun W 17-10 in Abidjan (CAR Div.1, Pool A)

27.03.2004 v Morocco L 6-11 in Casablanca (CAR Div.1, Pool A)

07.03.2004 v Tunisia W 8-3 (CAR Div.1, Pool A)

01.06.2003 v Morocco L 16-18 in Abidjan (CAR Div.1, Pool A)

01.06.2002 v Morocco L 21-23 in Casablanca (WCQ Afr, R3, Nth. CAR 1 Nth)

 

GWC Rugby Rankings: Africa Table-Ivory Coast 8th, Zimbabwe 9th

 

Match previews and related stories

http://allafrica.com/stories/200507220371.html

 

http://allafrica.com/stories/200507210508.html

 

http://allafrica.com/stories/200507200231.html

 

http://news.abidjan.net/article/?n=139074 (in French)

 

http://www.zimbabweherald.com/index.php?id=45429&pubdate=2005-07-23

 

http://www.thestandard.co.zw/read.php?st_id=2839

 

 

Prediction: Ivory Coast will be short of match practice. Zimbabwe has to travel and they do not travel well. They are also missing their star centre Gilbert Nyamutsamba who is out with injury.  Ivory Coast by 7

 

Teams

 

Zimbabwe Squad

D Cloete, E Chirenje, W Magasa, W Mbanje, T Nemadire, E Munyoro, J Kambasha, R Kumpasa, N Mutiba, M Madzviva, M Dyke, M Ndiweni, J Hitz, D Mangenje, G Hewitt, S Ndlovu, R Gurumani, A Makovere, E Mukandi, A Dube, C Makotose, A Sairai

 

Ivory Coast

Coach: Abou Camara

 

Referee: Mancini Stefano (Italy)

 

Niue 55, Tahiti 8 in Niue (WCQ Oceania Rnd 1B)

Niue far too strong for the visiting Tahitians

 

GWC Rugby Rankings: Pacific Table-Niue 7th, Tahiti 8th

 

Articles

http://www.tahitipresse.pf/

 

Related News-Solomon Islands

 

‘The national rugby union squad lost 30-5 to the Honiara Select in second trial match in Honiara on Wednesday.

Honiara Select earlier lost 23-5 to the national squad.

The trial match is to test the squad in their build up for the World Cup play off against Vanuatu and PNG in July and August respectively.

The national squad play against Vanuatu in Port Vila on July 29.

Solomon Islands will later host the PNG Pukpuks on August 13th 2005.

Winner of the Oceania West (SI, PNG and Vanuatu) will play against the winner of Oceania East which includes Cook Islands, Niue and Tahiti later this year. Winner of the two groups will then play the third runner up from any of Tonga, Fiji or Samoa for a place in the 2007 Rugby World Cup in France’

Thanks to http://www.solomonstarnews.com/drupal-4.4.1/?q=node/view/3553

 

22.07.2005

Samoa 30, Tonga 19 in Nuku’alofa (WCQ Oceania Rnd 3) HT 24-13

Samoa’s comfortable win puts them in a good position to win the World Cup Oceania qualifying series. Fiji will need to defeat Samoa by 36 points in Suva next weekend to finish top of the table. Both Samoa and Fiji are guaranteed a place in France 2007 but Tonga will now have to play a series of repechages to qualify.

 

Point Scorers

 

Samoa:

Tries: Lemi, Farani, Fa'atau

Conversions: Warren (3)

Penalty goals: Warren (3)

 

Tonga:

Try: Va'enuku

Conversion: Apikotoa

Penalty goals: Apikotoa (4)

 

Teams

 

Manu Samoa:

15 Tanner Vili, 14 Lome Fa'atau, 13 Apoua Stewart, 12 Anitelea Tuilagi, 11 David Lemi, 10 Roger Warren, 9 John Senio, 8 Daniel Farani, 7 Simaika Mikaele, 6 Paul Tupai, 5 Daniel Leo, 4 Opeta Palepoi (captain), 3 Census Johnston, 2 Loleni Tafunai, 1 Justin Va’a.

Replacements: 16 Jonathon Meredith, 17 Jamie Parkinson, 18 Semo Sititi, 19 Iosefa Taina, 20 Notise Tauafao, 21 Lolenese Talapusi, 22 Alesana Tuilagi

Coaches: Michael Jones, Peter Fatialofa

 

Tonga:

15 Sila Va'enuku, 14 Seti Kiole, 13 Andrew Ma'ilei, 12 Sefa Vaka, 11 Taniela Tulia, 10 Fangatapu’ Apikotoa, 9 Soane Havea, 8 Matini Tupou, 7 Chris Hala'ufia, 6 Sione Niu Tonga, 5 Mosese Makasini, 4 Lisiate Fa'aoso, 3 Taufa'ao Filise, 2 Aleki Lutui,Capt., 1 Kisi Pulu.

Replacements: 16 Viliami Ma'asi, 17 Fotu’aika Naitoko, 18 Benhur Kivalu, 19 Rodney Mahe, 20 Siaosi Taufa, 21 Hudson Tonga’uiha, 22 Sione Taukapo.

Coaches: Viliami Ofahengaue, Siaosi Atiola, Tevita Va'enuku

 

Referee: Craig Joubert (South Africa)

 

Team lists thanks to www.planet-rugby.com and www.matangitonga.to

 

Match reviews

http://www.planet-rugby.com/News/story_44979.shtml

 

http://www.manusamoa.com.ws/

 

http://www.time.net.my/channel/sports/newrugbysport/rugby-news.cfm?ID=3181

 

http://www.matangitonga.to/article/sports/rugby/ikale220705.shtml

 

 

THE WEEKEND 16 JULY

 

16.10.2005

Fiji 24, Tonga 19 at Nuku’alofa (WCQ Oceania Rnd 3)

Fiji had to survive a tremendous late comeback from Tonga late in the second half to win this game. Fiji led 24-0 with 20 minutes left on the clock.

 

Fiji coach Wayne Pivac made a number of changes to his line up for this return match against Tonga in Nuku’alofa.

 

Fiji

15 Jo Tora, 14 Mosese Luveitasau, 13 Epeli Ruivadra, 12 Seremaia Bai, 11 Maikeli Nadridri, 10 Jack Prasad, 9 Moses Rauluni (capt), 8 Jone Qovu, 7 Aca Ratuva, 6 Akapusi Qera, 5 Ifereimi Rawaqa, 4 Akuila Matanibukaca, 3 Bill Cavubati, 2 Bill Gadolo, 1 Josese Bale.

Replacements: 16 Sunia Koto, 17 Ravuama Samo, 18 Langi Peters, 19 Apolosi Satala, 20 Jacob Rauluni, 21 Nicky Little, 22 Norman Ligairi.

Coach: Wayne Pivac

 

 Referee: Jonathan Kaplan (South Africa)

 

Thanks to www.planet-rugby.com

 

Preview here http://www.fijitimes.com/story.aspx?id=24626

 

SOUTH AFRICA SQUAD V AUSTRALIA

South Africa v Australia 23 July, Ellis Park, Johannesburg. Mandela Trophy.

 

Forwards: Eddie Andrews, Bakkies Botha, Gary Botha, Schalk Burger, Jacques Cronjé, Os du Randt, Victor Matfield, Hanyani Shimange, John Smit (captain), Gurthro Steenkamp, Solly Tyibilika, Albert van den Berg, CJ van der Linde, Joe van Niekerk, Juan Smith.

Backs: De Wet Barry, Jean de Villiers, Fourie du Preez, Jaque Fourie, Bryan Habana, Enrico Januarie, Marius Joubert, Wayne Julies, Percy Montgomery, Breyton Paulse, Andre Pretorius, Jaco van der Westhuyzen.

Coach: Jake White

 

AFRICAN LEOPARDS (12.07)

The following players have been selected to play for the African Leopards against South African Students, 23 July, Ellis Park, Johannesburg. This will be a curtain-raiser for the South Africa-Australia Mandela Trophy return match

 

The team is made up mainly of players involved in the CAR Tournaments held throughout Africa.

 

Mhonda Munyaradsi (Botswana)

Jean Emmanuel Bahoken (Cameroun)

Arnold Tchoungong Kamga (Cameroun)

Innocent Simiyu (Kenya)

Derrick Wamalwa (Kenya)

Jacquot Hary Nirina (Madagascar)

Ernest Rakotonasolo (Madagascar)

Abdel Boutati (Morocco)

Hicham Housni (Morocco)

Jalil Narjissi (Morocco)

Jan Henrik Duvenhage (Namibia)

Ryan De la Harpe (Namibia)

Hendrick Meyer (Namibia)

Yogan Corea (Senegal)

Steve Sargos (Senegal)

Mxoli Sangoni (South Africa)

Heinke van der Merwe (South Africa)

John Lloyd (Tanzania)

Kaiss Aissa (Tunisia)

Lofti Benm’salem (Tunisia)

Allan Musoke (Uganda)

John Musoke (Uganda)

Neorgeyundo Armitage (Zambia)

 

Team Management:

Manager:        Mr Paul Sigombe                  Uganda

Manager:        Mr Said Zniber                      Morocco

Coach:            Mr Deon Davids                    South Africa

Coach:            Mr Alain Hyardet                   France

 

Thanks to Paul Sigombe, CAR

 

THE WEEKEND 09/10 JULY

 

09.07.2005

New Zealand 38, British & Irish Lions 19 in Auckland (3rd Test)

New Zealand achieved a clean sweep in the test series against the British and Irish Lions. The Lions left Europe with great expectations. They will return in the manner in which the 1966 and 1983 Lions team returned from New Zealand. Beaten in all tests.

 

Point scorers

 

New Zealand:

Tries: Umaga (2), Smith, Williams, Gear

Conversions: McAlister (5)

Penalty goal: McAlister

 

Lions:

Try: Moody

Conversion: S Jones

Penalty goals: S Jones (5)

 

Teams

 

New Zealand

15 Mils Muliaina, 14 Rico Gear, 13 Conrad Smith, 12 Tana Umaga, Capt. 11 Sitiveni Sivivatu, 10 Luke McAlister, 9 Byron Kelleher [20 Justin Marshall], 8 Sione Lauaki [19 Marty Holah], 7 Rodney So'oialo, 6 Jerry Collins, 5 Ali Williams, 4 Chris Jack [18 James Ryan], 3 Greg Somerville, 2 Keven Mealamu, 1 Tony Woodcock [17 Campbell Johnstone].

Replacements not used: 16 Derren Witcombe, 21 Nick Evans, 22 Doug Howlett

Coach: Graham Henry

 

British & Irish Lions:

15 Geordan Murphy (Ireland) [21 Ronan O'Gara (Ireland)], 14 Mark Cueto (England), 13 Will Greenwood (England), 12 Gareth Thomas, Capt. (Wales) [22 Shane Horgan (Ireland)], 11 Josh Lewsey (England), 10 Stephen Jones (Wales), 9 Dwayne Peel (Wales), 8 Ryan Jones (Wales) [18 Martin Corry (England)], 7 Lewis Moody (England) [19 Martyn Williams (Wales)] , 6 Simon Easterby (Ireland) [20 Matt Dawson (England)], 5 Paul O'Connell (Ireland), 4 Donncha O'Callaghan (Ireland), 3 Julian White (England), 2 Shane Byrne (Ireland) [16 Gordon Bulloch (Scotland)], 1 Gethin Jenkins (Wales) [17 Graham Rowntree (England)].

Coach: Sir Clive Woodward

 

Referee: Jonathan Kaplan (South Africa)

 

Team and match thanks to www.planet-rugby.com

 

Last Five Encounters

02.07.2005 New Zealand 48-18 in Wellington

25.06.2005 New Zealand 21-3 in Christchurch

03.07.1993 New Zealand 30-13 in Auckland

26.06.1993 British & Irish Lions 20, New Zealand 7 in Wellington

12.06.1993 New Zealand 20-18 in Christchurch

 

New Zealand Last Five

02.07.2005 v British & Irish Lions W 48-18 in Wellington

25.06.2005 v British & Irish Lions W 21-3 in Christchurch

10.06.2005 v Fiji W 91-0 in Albany

27.11.2004 v France W 45-6 in Paris

20.11.2004 v Wales W 26-25 in Cardiff

 

British & Irish Lions Last Five

02.07.2005 v New Zealand L 18-48 in Wellington

25.06.2005 v New Zealand L 3-21 in Christchurch

23.05.2005 v Argentina D 25-25 in Cardiff

14.07.2001 v Australia L 23-29 in Sydney

07.07.2001 v Australia L 14-35 in Sydney

 

Results data from our own data base

 

Australia 30, South Africa 12 at Telstra Stadium in Sydney HT 18-3

South Africa came back strongly into this game in the second half after allowing Australia to build up a good lead in the first half. Poor goal kicking by the Australians allowed the South Africans to keep the score line within reach.

 

Steven Larkham again showed why he is one of the best fly halves in the game. His running and kicking were superb. South Africa looked ponderous in the first half but could well have taken the game in the second. In the end Australia were much the better team and deserved to win.

 

Matt Rogers and Wendell Sailor both had excellent games

 

When Drew Mitchell came on in the second half to replace Morgan Turinui he was making his test debut.

 

Point scorers

 

Australia:

Tries: Giteau (2), Larkham, Rogers, Mitchell

Conversion: Giteau

Penalty goal: Giteau

 

South Africa:

Penalty goals: Montgomery (4)

 

Teams

 

Australia:

15 Mat Rogers, 14 Wendell Sailor, 13 Morgan Turinui [22 Drew Mitchell], 12 Matt Giteau [21 Mark Gerrard], 11 Lote Tuqiri, 10 Stephen Larkham, 9 George Gregan Capt. [20 Chris Whitaker], 8 David Lyons, 7 George Smith [19 Phil Waugh], 6 Rocky Elsom, 5 Nathan Sharpe, 4 Mark Chisholm, 3 Al Baxter, 2 Jeremy Paul, 1 Bill Young [17 Matt Dunning].

Replacements not used: 16 Stephen Moore, 18 John Roe,

Coach: Eddie Jones

 

South Africa

15 Percy Montgomery [22 Brent Russell], 14 Jean de Villiers [21 Jaque Fourie], 13 Marius Joubert, 12 De Wet Barry, 11 Bryan Habana, 10 Jaco van der Westhuyzen, 9 Enrico Januarie [20 Fourie du Preez], 8 Jacques Cronjé, 7 Danie Rossouw [19 Joe van Niekerk], 6 Schalk Burger, 5 Victor Matfield, 4 Bakkies Botha [18 Albert van den Berg], 3 Lawrence Sephaka [17 CJ van der Linde], 2 John Smit, Capt. 1 Os du Randt [16 Hanyani Shimange].

Coach: Jake White

 

Referee: Kelvin Deaker (New Zealand)

 

Team starting line ups and point scoring data thanks to www.planet-rugby.com

Replacements thanks to http://www.sarugby.net

 

Samoa 36, Fiji 10 in Apia (WCQ Oceania Rd 3) HT 19-10

Samoa overwhelmed Fiji in Apia Saturday. Roger Warren scored 21 points.

 

Point Scorers

 

Samoa

Tries: Tuilagi, Tafunai, Sititi

Conversions: Warren (3)

Penalty goals: Warren (4)

Dropped goal: Warren

 

Fiji

Try: Ligairi

Conversion: Little

Penalty goal: Little

 

Teams

 

Fiji

15 Norman Ligairi, 14 Mosese Luveitasau [21 Jo Tora], 13 Epeli Ruivadra, 12 Seremaia Bai, 11 Vilimoni Delasau [22. Maikeli Nadridri], 10 Nicky Little, 9 Jacob Rauluni, Capt. [20 Mosese Rauluni], 8 Sisa Koyamaibole [19 Jone Qovu], 7 Apolosi Satala, 6 Akapusi Qera, 5 Isoa Domolailai [18 Langi Peters], 4 Ifereimi Rawaqa, 3 Bill Cavubati, 2 Sunia Koto [16 Bill Gadolo], 1 Josese Bale.

Replacement not used: 17 Ravuama Samo,

Coach: Wayne Pivac

 

Thanks to http://teivovo.com/

 

Samoa

15. Lolo Lui,  14. Brian Lima, 13. Anitelea Tuilagi, 12. Terry Fanolua, 11. Alesana Tuilagi, 10. Roger Warren, 9. Notise Tauafao, 8. Semo Sititi, Capt., 7. Iosefa Taina, 6. Simaika Mikaele, 5. Opeta Palepoi, 4. Daniel Leo, 3. Muliufi Salanoa, 2. Jonathan Meredith, 1.Justin Va’a. 

Replacements:

16. Loleni Tafunai 17. Donald Kerslake 18. Pelu Taele 19. Daniel Farani 20. John Senio 21. Lorenese Talapusi 22. David Lemi

Coach: Michael Jones

 

Samoa team list thanks to http://www.manusamoa.com.ws/

Match report http://teivovo.com/results_international/2005/0709_samoa_fiji.html

 

Ivory Coast 20, Senegal 6 in Dakar (WCQ Africa Rnd 1B, Pool A)

 

Point Scorers

 

Ivory Coast: 2T, 2C, 2pg

 

Senegal 2pg

 

Preview here in French http://www.lesoleil.sn/article.php3?id_article=775

 

Théo Mendy, returns to the Senegalese line up.

 

Referee: Franck Maclillo

 

Thanks to Paul Sigombe, Tournaments Director, CAR

 

10.07.2005

Uganda 18, Madagascar 14 in Antanavaro (WCQ Africa Rnd 1B, Pool B) HT 8-7

 

Point Scorers

 

Uganda: 3T, 1pg

 

Madagascar: 2T, 2C

 

Teams

 

Uganda

15 Brian Tindikahwa, 14 John Musoke, 13 Timothy Mudola, 12 John Musoke,11 Anthony Kinene, 10 Edmond Tumusine, 9 Gamma Faisai, 8 Peter Magona, 7 Robert Seguya, 6 Mathais Ochwo, 5 Moses Soita, 4 Victor Wadia, 3 Brian Makalama, 2 Tumuhainhwe Deogratius, 1 Fred Muddola.

Replacements:16 Ronald Adigas, 17 Jonathan Kamukama, 18 Tobi Ojok, 19 Ronnie Mwiska, 20 Bonny Moro, 21 Tony Lugya, 22 Mark Oweny,

Coach: Yayiro Kasasa

 

Madagascar

15 Jacquis Bayard, 14 Jean Rakotomanana, 13 Jean Rakotonirina, 12 RodolpheRandriamanantena, 11 Mahita Randrianantoandro, 10 Valerio Randrianasolo, 9 Mario Rakotomalala, 8 Antonio Rakotozanany, 7 Ibrahim Randrianiaina, 6 Tolotra Ramaromiantso, 5 Jean André Rasedinah, 4 Berichon Botomila, 3 Mamy Andriatsimijalimanana, 2 Edgar Razafindrakoto, 1 Santoni Rakotomanga.

Replacements: 16 Sidoni Rakotoarisoa, 17 Jacquot Hary, 18 Alain Rakotonirina, 19 Romuald Rafaralahy, 20 Ernest Rakotonasolo, 21 Mboazafy Rakotoarivelo, 22 Harison Rakoto,

Coach: Jean Marc Louvet

 

Referee: Christopher Mofu Mwamba (Zambia)

 

Thanks to Paul Sigombe, Tournaments Director, CAR

Review here in French http://www.madagascar-tribune.com  go to archives and then to 11.07.2005 and 09.07.2005

 

 

BOLIVIA AND ECUADOR TO JOIN THE RUGBY WORLD SOON (09.07)

 

This piece of news, from Seb Lauzier,  was taken from the IRB website and dated 30 June 2005

 

Over the past two decades Bolivia and Ecuador have, like many of their neighbours, seen political turmoil, civil unrest and fiscal deficit. Problems, however, seem to breed solutions in the region.

 

Ecuador continues to export bananas and petrol, while Bolivia's newly discovered natural gas reserves are to be sold to markets throughout the North. It is more than possible that out of this mindset of survival and regeneration comes a natural ebullience, from which Rugby can only benefit.

 

Indeed, an entirely different kind of natural gas is currently being discovered throughout parts of Bolivia as the sport's popularity spreads and gains momentum with every dashing sprint.

 

"It is very exciting to see Rugby being played and enjoyed in more countries in the South American region," said Jorge Braceras, IRB Regional Development Manager for the region.

 

"At the moment Bolivia and Ecuador are still in the early stages, but once they reach a basic level of formal institutional organisation we can look to build from there. Where there is interest, there is a way forward." ‘

 

http://www.irb.com/InTouch/Regions/050629+SL+bolecu.htm

 

COUNTRY LISTS UPDATED (08/07)

The following countries have had their lists of international rugby results updated.

 

Andorra, Argentina, Canada, Czech Republic, Denmark, France 2001-, Georgia, Guam, India, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Jamaica, Japan, Kazakhstan, Kenya, Madagascar, Malaysia, Mali, New Zealand and New Zealand XV

 

We are having technical difficulties with the lists for..

 

Australia 2001-, British Isles and Burkino Faso

 

NEWS ARCHIVES (07.07)

The news archive page for June is now available on the links to the left. News archive pages for February, March, April and May of this year are also available.

 

COUNTRY LISTS UPDATES (05/07)

The following countries have had their list of results updated. Go to alphabetical listings above.

 

Armenia, Argentina XV, Bahamas, Benin, Bermuda, Cayman Islands, England XV and Fiji

 

The South African squad to Australia (03.07)

Forwards: Bakkies Botha, Gary Botha, Schalk Burger, Jacques Cronjé, Os du Randt, Victor Matfield, Danie Rossouw, Lawrence Sephaka, Juan Smith, John Smit (captain), Gurthro Steenkamp, Hanyani Shimange, Albert van den Berg, CJ van der Linde, Joe van Niekerk.

 

Backs: De Wet Barry, Jean de Villiers, Fourie du Preez, Jaque Fourie, Bryan Habana, Enrico Januarie, Marius Joubert, Wayne Julies, Percy Montgomery, Breyton Paulse, Andre Pretorius, Brent Russell, Jaco van der Westhuyzen

 

THE WEEKEND 02/03 JULY

03.07.2005

Norway v Finland in Helsinki (FIRA-AER Division 3)

Norway will be confident of taking out this final European international rugby match of the 2004-05 season.

 

GWC Rankings: Europe Table-Norway 37th, Finland 38th

 

Prediction: Norway by 15 points.

 

02.07.2005

New Zealand 48, British Isles 18 in Wellington(2nd Test)

New Zealand won by 30 points. I predicted New Zealand by 8.

 

This was a truly awesome display by the All Blacks. The Lions just simply did not have the pace or the power to catch up to the New Zealanders. The New Zealanders now have a 2-0 lead in the 3 match series. The Lions will go home with all sorts of records achieved against them.

 

Can the British & Irish Lions salvage their tour and defeat the All Blacks in Wellington? With the growing list of injured and suspended it looks to be a daunting task.

 

New Zealand first-five Dan Carter was the man of the match with a near faultless displayed and toppled Jonny Wilkinson off the ‘best in this position’ mantle.

 

Can New Zealand improve? If they do they will become a frightening team capable of defeating anybody. Nobody would have last night!

 

The Lions were a better unit than last week, but then so were the All Blacks-much better!

 

Teams

New Zealand:

15 Mils Muliaina, 14 Rico Gear, 13 Tana Umaga (captain), 12 Aaron Mauger, 11 Sitiveni Sivivatu, 10 Dan Carter, 9 Byron Kelleher, 8 Rodney So'oialo, 7 Richie McCaw, 6 Jerry Collins, 5 Ali Williams, 4 Chris Jack, 3 Greg Somerville, 2 Keven Mealamu, 1 Tony Woodcock.

Replacements: 16 Derren Witcombe, 17 Campbell Johnstone, 18 Jono Gibbes, 19 Sione Lauaki, 20 Justin Marshall, 21 Ma'a Nonu, 22 Leon MacDonald

Coach: Graham Henry

 

British & Irish Lions:

15 Josh Lewsey (England), 14 Jason Robinson (England), 13 Gareth Thomas, Capt. (Wales), 12 Gavin Henson  (Wales), 11 Shane Williams (Wales), 10 Jonny Wilkinson (England), 9 Dwayne Peel (Wales), 8 Ryan Jones (Wales), 7 Lewis Moody (England), 6 Simon Easterby (Ireland), 5 Donncha O’Callaghan (Ireland), 4 Paul O’Connell (Ireland), 3 Julian White (England), 2 Steve Thompson (England), 1 Gethin Jenkins (Wales).

Replacements: 16 Shane Byrne (Ireland), 17 Graham Rowntree ( England), 18 Martin Corry (England), 19 Martyn Williams (Wales), 20 Matt Dawson (England), 21 Stephen Jones (Wales), 22 Shane Horgan (Ireland).

Coach: Sir Clive Woodward

 

Referee: Andrew Cole (Australia)

 

Last Five Encounters

25.06.2005 New Zealand 21-3 in Christchurch

03.07.1993 New Zealand 30-13 in Auckland

26.06.1993 British & Irish Lions 20, New Zealand 7 in Wellington

12.06.1993 New Zealand 20-18 in Christchurch

16.07.1983 New Zealand 38-6 in Auckland

 

New Zealand Last Five

25.06.2005 v British & Irish Lions W 21-3 in Christchurch

10.06.2005 v Fiji W 91-0 in Albany

27.11.2004 v France W 45-6 in Paris

20.11.2004 v Wales W 26-25 in Cardiff

13.11.2004 v Italy W 59-10 in Rome

 

British & Irish Lions Last Five

25.06.2005 v New Zealand L 3-21 in Christchurch

23.05.2005 v Argentina D 25-25 in Cardiff

14.07.2001 v Australia L 23-29 in Sydney

07.07.2001 v Australia L 14-35 in Sydney

30.06.2001 v Australia W 29-13 in Brisbane

 

Team data thanks to www.planet-rugby.com

 

Australia 37, France 31 in Brisbane

Australia won by 6 points. I predicted Australia by 15.

 

This was a fast and free-flowing rugby match with some superb moments of rugby brilliance. Australia deserved to win but with a little more luck France could have taken this match.

 

The French threw all caution to the wind right from the start and never gave up. They showed that quick and skilled inter passing among players ( a skill developed by the famous French teams of the fifties) is an exciting an effective means of attack. The poor French tackling at crucial moments was probably their only real weakness.

 

Australia played a calm and unhurried game which won then the honours in the end. But it could have easily gone the other way.

 

and France have provided a history of stirring matches.

 

Denis Avril played his first cap for France. George Smith will play his 50th test for Australia.

 

Teams

France:

15 Nicolas Brusque, 14 Julien Laharrague, 13 Yannick Jauzion, 12 Benoit Baby, 11 Cedric Heymans, 10 Frederic Michalak, 9 Jean Baptiste Elissalde (captain), 8 Julien Bonnaire, 7 Olivier Magne, 6 Remy Martin, 5 Pascal Pape, 4 Gregory Lamboley, 3 Denis Avril, 2 Dimitri Swarzewski, 1 Olivier Milloud.

Replacements: 16 Sebastien Bruno, 17 Sylvain Marconnet, 18 Thibault Privat, 19 Yannick Nyanga, 20 Dimitri Yachvili, 21 Damien Traille, 22 Julien Candelon

Coach: Bernard Laporte

 

Australia:

15 Chris Latham, 14 Wendell Sailor, 13 Stirling Mortlock, 12 Matt Giteau, 11 Lote Tuqiri, 10 Stephen Larkham, 9 George Gregan (captain), 8 David Lyons, 7 George Smith, 6 Rocky Elsom, 5 Nathan Sharpe (vice-captain), 4 Mark Chisholm, 3 Al Baxter, 2 Jeremy Paul, 1 Bill Young.

Replacements: 16 Stephen Moore, 17 Matt Dunning, 18 Al Campbell, 19 John Roe, 20 Chris Whitaker, 21 Morgan Turinui, 22 Mat Rogers.

Coach: Eddie Jones

 

Last Five Encounters

13.11.2004 France 27-14 in Paris

29.06.2002 Australia 31-25 in Sydney

22.06.2002 Australia 29-17 in Melbourne

17.11.2001 France 14-13 in Marseilles

04.11.2000 Australia 18-13 in Paris

Australia Last Five

25.06.2005 v Italy W 69-21 in Melbourne

11.06.2005 v Samoa W 74-7 in Sydney

27.11.2004 v England W 21-19 at Twickenham (Cook Cup)

20.11.2004 v Scotland W 31-17 in Glasgow

13.11.2004 v France L 14-27 in Paris

 

France Last Five

25.06.2005 v South Africa L 13-27 in Port Elizabeth

18.06.2005 v South Africa D 30-30 in Durban

19.03.2005 v Italy W 56-13 in Rome (6 Nations International Championship)

12.03.2005 v Ireland W 26-19 in Dublin (6 Nations International Championship)

26.02.2005 v Wales L 18-24 in Paris (6 Nations International Championship)

 

GWC Rankings: World Table-France 3rd, Australia 5thCHANGE

 

Samoa 50, Tonga 28 at Apia Park Stadium in Apia (WCQ Oceania Rnd 3)

Samoa won by 22 points.I predicted Samoa by 7.

 

Samoa were too strong for Tonga in Apia today. The educated boot of Roger Warren and a fine forward effort told against a brave Tongan team.

 

Samoa now look forward to the clash with Fiji.

 

There were ten local players in the Samoan squad of 22, six of them in the starting line up. In a warm up match in Auckland following a training camp, they defeated Samoa A 27-19.

 

GWC Rankings: World Table-Samoa 18th, Tonga 19th

                           Pacific Table-Samoa 4th, Tonga 5th

 

Teams

 

Samoa

15 Lolo Lui, 14 Lome Faatau, 13 Anitelea Tuilagi, 12 Terry Fanolua, Capt., 11 Alesana Tuilagi, 10 Roger Warren, 9 Notise Tauafao, 8 Filisoa Faaiu, 7 Iosefa Taina, 6 Simaika Mika, 5 Opeta Palepoi, 4 Daniel Leo, 3 Muliufi Salanoa, 2 Jonathan Meredith, 1 Justin Vaa.

Replacements: 16 Loleni Tafunai, 17 Donald Kerslake, 18 Pelu Taele,19  Daniel Farani, 20 John Senio, 21 Faletoese Talapusi, 22 David Lemi.

Coach: Michael Jones

 

Match preview and a review here http://www.manusamoa.com.ws/

 

Referee: Matt Goddard (Australia)

 

Canada 22, Argentina ‘A’15 in Calgary HT 9-0

Canada won by 7 points. I predicted Argentina ‘A’ by 16.

 

In front of a very disappointingly small crowd Canada managed a memorable victory over an Argentinean side well below full strength.

 

Point Scorers

 

Canada

Try: Smith

Conversion: Daypuck

Penalty Goals: Daypuck (5)

 

Argentina ‘A’

Tries: Tiesi (2)

Conversion: Juan Fernández Miranda

Penalty Goal: Juan Fernández Miranda

 

GWC Rankings: Do not apply

Teams

Canada

15, Derek Daypuck (Castaway-Wanderers),14 Quentin Fyffe (Calgary Irish), 13. Akio Tyler (Capilano), 12. Matt King (Balmy Beach), 11. Kris Witkowski (Pacific Pride), 10 Ryan Smith (Brampton Beavers), 9. Morgan Williams, Capt. (Saracens, England), 8. Aaron Carpenter (Brantford), 7. Mike Langley (Capilano), 6. Mike Webb (Swilers), 5. Josh Jackson (Leonessa Brescia, Italy), 4 Mike Burak (U.B.C. Old Boy Ravens) [19. Oliver Atkinson (Aurora Barbarians)], 3. Garth Cooke (Benevento, Italy) [17 Mike Pletch (London St Georges)], 2. Aaron Abrams (Castaway-Wanderers), 1. Kevin Tkachuk (Glasgow Warriors, Scotland) [16. Casey Dunning (Pacific Pride)].

Replacements not used: 18 Sean-Michael Stephen (Oakville Crusaders),

20. Pat Fleck (Meralomas), 21. Ed Fairhurst (University of Victoria), 22. David Moonlight (University of Victoria).

Coach: Ric Suggitt

 

Argentina ‘A’

15 Francisco Leonelli, 14 Rafael Carballo, 13 Miguel Avramovic, 12 Gonzalo Tiesi, 11 Lucio López Fleming, 10 Juan de la Cruz Fernández Miranda, 9 Agustín Pichot (captain), 8 Pablo Bouza, 7 Augusto Petrilli, 6 Genaro Fessia, 5 Jaime Arocena [19 Simón Bofelli], 4 Santiago Artese [18 Gastón Llanos], 3 Martín Rospide [17 Leopoldo De Chazal], 2 Agustín Costa Repetto, 1 Pablo Henn [16 Sebastián Rondinelli].

Replacements not used: 20 Matías Albina, 21 Francisco Bosch, 22 Juan Martín Berberian.

Coach Marcelo Loffreda 

 

Referee: Rob Dickson (Scotland)

Match review http://www.rugbycanada.ca/index.php?lang=en&page_id=10&news_id=1008