Americas Rugby News Rugby news from across the Americas!
The business end of the season is upon is. Nervous clubs, players and supporters can be identified at the top, bottom and in between in the Pro D2. A number of scenarios exist for both promotion and relegation. If that were not compelling enough there is added reason to follow closely as a number of players from the Americas are to be involved.
An interesting Friday encounter will see last year’s third division sides, Vannes and Charante battling-it-out. Canadian Conor Trainor is to start for the home side in the mid-field. He is to be joined by USA prop Eric Fry on the bench. Also included is Argentina’s Javier Lagioiosa. Two Argentine backs will start for Charente in the form of Sebastián Poet and Facundo Panceyra Garrido.
Canada will have another World Cup veteran on Friday. Taking to the field for Oyonnax will be Jamie Cudmore. The workhorse has been contributing heavily to the club’s quest to earn promotion back to the Top 14.
Further former Top 14 clubs Mont de Marsan and Narbonne are also to be in action on Friday. Representing the home side will be Carlos Muzzio at Loose Head prop. The USA will also have a player involved with David Tameilau named on the bench for Narbonne.
Albi’s dream of a return to the Top 14 looks like being on hold for now. The club’s performances this season see it fighting off relegation. Their opponents on Friday, Montauban are just two points outside of the Semi Finals. Argentine prop Damian Arias will feature as a replacement for Montauban.
The 4th placed Colomiers host the 8th placed Aurillac. In another Friday clash more players from the Americas will take to the field. Agustín Costa Repetto will start at hooker for Colomiers. Fellow Argentine front-rower, Ariel Castellina will feature as a replacement.
The round will come to a close on Sunday with Carcassonne hosting Agen. Lineups for this match are due out on Saturday. Americas representation is expected.
