THIS WEEKEND 17 NOVEMBER

This weekend is relatively quiet weekend after the hurly burly of international tournaments in Asia and America over the last few weeks.

The Netherlands occupies bottom place in FIRA-AER European Nations Cup Division 2A. They are prime candidates for the Wooden Spoon and relegation to 2B in May. On Saturday they face Division leaders Moldova who are now looking favourites to take the title and a place in Division 1 for 2008-10. Despite being a home game the Dutch do not look strong enough to mount a serious challenge to the East Europeans.

Malta is another wooden spoon holder. This time it’s in Division 2B and they face Latvia at home. In this division playing at home does not necessarily give the host team an advantage especially at the top of the table. Malta may spring a surprise though on the Latvians who, with only one loss, are still in with a chance to challenge the Poles.

Hungary looks to be the only real challenge Lithuania faces in Division 3B. Although they are playing at home it is difficult to see bottom placed Bulgaria threaten the Hungarians this Saturday. Having said that Bulgaria dispatched Norway at home in round one.

17.11.2007

Moldova 15, Netherlands 13 in Amsterdam (ENC 2A)

Moldova won by 2 points. I predicted Moldova by 7

Reviews

GWC Rugby Rankings: Europe Table- Moldova 15^th, Netherlands 22nd

Malta 16, Latvia 13 in Marsa (ENC 2B)

Malta won by 3 points. I predicted Latvia by 6.

Reviews

GWC Rugby Rankings: Europe Table- Latvia 19^th, Malta 20th CHANGE

Hungary 32, Bulgaria 6 in Etropole (ENC 3B)

Hungary won by 26 points. I predicted Hungary by 20.

Reviews

GWC Rugby Rankings: Europe Table- Hungary 29^th, Bulgaria 32nd