Spain stole the headlines this weekend in Rugby Europe as they took a huge step towards Rugby World Cup 2019 qualification, while Georgia cemented first place in the table with victory over Germany. As the official match ball supplier to all of Rugby Europe's 15s and 7s competitions (with the Rhino Vortex Elite) we take a quick look at what happened in Europe last weekend...
Spain see off Romania in crunch clash
Spain ran out convincing 22-10 winners against Rugby Europe Championship rivals Romania to take the lead in the race to secure a spot at Rugby World Cup 2019 in Japan. Taking an early score through prop Benat Auzqui in front of 15,000 fans in Madrid, Spain doubled their lead only minutes later when a mistimed defensive kick allowed Sebastian Ascarat to pounce for a second try with not even eight minutes on the clock. Brad Linklater kept the points coming with the boot to help Spain ease to a 22-3 lead and only a late score by Romania in the 76th minute narrowed the margin.
Highlights of Spain v Romania
Russia’s back on form
After the disappointing defeat to Spain the previous week, Russia took just seven minutes to score their first try in a 48-7 victory over Belgium in Krasnodar. Asserting their dominance in the tight and loose, Russia were 19-0 up at half-time and never looked like losing control. Belgium scored first in the second half but Russia responded within minutes with their running power proving decisive in this convincing win.
Highlights of Russia v Belgium
Georgia make light work of Germany
Fresh from their scrummaging session with England, Georgia's pack was again the mainstay of their straightforward 64-0 away win over Germany. The hosts, playing in Offenbach, did well to fight the tide limiting the visitors to just three tries and a 19-0 lead at half-time. After the break, the floodgates opened as the powerful Georgians added 45 points to their total to secure a resounding win and cement their place at the top of the Rugby Europe Championship table.
Highlights of Germany v Georgia
What's next?
The only game in Rugby Europe this weekend sees Portugal face Switzerland on Saturday 24th February. The following week a full programme resumes including the clash of the championship so far. The top two come together on Saturday 3rd March as Georgia host Spain, while Russia visit Romania and Germany travel to Belgium.
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