OTHER TEST RUGBY THIS WEEKEND

22.02.2014
Scotland v Italy in Rome (6 Nations)
Russia v Georgia in Tbilisi (WCQ Europe R5; ENC 1A)
Spain v Romania in Cluj (WCQ Europe R5; ENC 1A)

Briefly
Scotland v Italy in Rome (6 Nations)

This could well have been one of the feature test rugby matches this weekend but I had to limit myself to three major previews. Scotland may well be dreading a trip to Rome. It has not been a happy ground for the Scots in recent past. Italy has a habit of upsetting Scotland especially at home. Scotland have reached a new low in their test rugby. Fans will be hoping for a rise in their fortunes but not today in Rome.I predict a win to Italy by 5 points.

Russia v Georgia in Tbilisi (WCQ Europe R5; ENC 1A)

More interesting than any result is the fact that Russia is entering ‘enemy’ territory. Just a few years ago these two nations were at way. Although a brief encounter it was bloody and destructive and has left a smouldering resentment between these two nations.

To avoid problems this fixture has been played on neutral territory but today Russia travels to Tiblissi to face what will likely be a hostile reaction from the crowd.

Georgia are expected to win but I couldn’t image the scenes if Russia, well against the run of form, were to win. Heaven forbid!

Prediction: Georgia by 20 points

Spain v Romania in Cluj (WCQ Europe R5; ENC 1A)

I can’t see Spain winning away in Romania. Despite a strong France-based contingent the Spanish just haven’t gelled this season. They lost to Russia at home. The following week Russia were defeated 34-3 by Romania at home so I expect the Romanians to win comfortably.

Prediction; Romania by 35 points