Seven try win over Germany in Sochi sets Russia up for title challenge ahead of their Round 3 match
A great day of live international rugby on Rugbyeurope.tv kicked off in thrilling fashion as Russia pushed themselves into the European Nations Cup 2016 championship picture with a seven try victory over Germany in Sochi. A hat trick for Russia Number 8 Anton Rudoi helped his side to a comfortable 46-20 win over a Germany team now in danger of relegation to ENC 1B.
Following Russia’s bonus point win, championship leaders Georgia travelled to Lisbon to take on Portugal. Portugal had the better of a tense first half, leading 3-0 at the break, before Georgia turned on the style, scoring four second half tries to secure an excellent 29-3 win.
The best game of the day was in Madrid, as a title chasing Romanian team came out on top in a thrilling match against a tough Spanish team. Losing 13-5 at half time, Romania fought back well with fly half Florin Vlaicu ultimately sealing the 21-18 win with a penalty ten minutes from full time.
Following a week break, the European Nations Cup will return on Saturday 27 February with three exciting games, all broadcast live and free of charge on Rugbyeurope.tv
Germany will host Portugal in a game sure to have big implications in the relegation battle. Germany sit just four points behind Portugal in the 2014-2016 standings, and know that a win in Round 3 would give them a great chance of staying in ENC 1A.
Spain face a difficult away game against a strong Georgia side looking to take a step closer to the European Nations Cup 2016 championship title. Spain know that a loss next week will knock them out of the 2016 title picture, and are sure to bring their best game to Tbilisi.
The highlight of the day is Russia’s visit to Iasi to take on a Romanian side with title aspirations. Both sides are unbeaten so far in 2016 and know that a win could be a big boost to their championship hopes. With Georgia set to take on Russia and Romania in the final two rounds, this match could decide who challenges for the title when the competition comes to a close in March.
Round 2 Match Results
- Russia 46 Germany 20
- Portugal 3 Georgia 29
- Spain 18 Romania 21
Round 3 Match Fixtures (Saturday 27 February)
- Georgia v Spain 13.00 UTC
- Romania v Russia 15.00 UTC
- Germany v Portugal 15.30 UTC
The European Nations Cup (ENC) 1A 2016, takes place at the same time as the RBS 6 Nations Tournament. Organised across a two-year period, the ENC 1A will crown the European Champion, after the second leg running from 6th February until 19 March 2016.