U19 2007 RWC - Russia falls to 2nd North American team
9 Apr 2007
Canada continued their Division B winning run against Russia in front of a sizeable crowd with a 33-5 bonus point victory which will stand them in good stead for a title challenge at the IRB Under 19 World Championship 2007.
The better of the opening exchanges went to Canada, though it was Russia who scored the first points at Upritchard Park, Bangor.
Canada's fly half Nathan Hirayama’s kick was charged down by Russia number 8 Dmitry Gerasimov who ran in a try from the half way line.
Due to the windy conditions both the set pieces and kicking became a lottery. However, Canadian pressure eventually paid off as Russian prop Gennady Berezhnov was shown the yellow card after killing the ball in his own 22. Canadian fly half Hirayama duly kicked the penalty.
Canada quickly took advantage of the extra forward and after a good break managed to keep the ball in hand and successfully mauled over the Russian line, with Kyle Buckley scoring the try.
Early in the second half Canada continued their territorial domination. However, after excellent work by Gerasimov Russia broke away but good scramble defence from the Canadians forced only a kick which caught the wind and went out on the full.
Canada stretched their lead soon after with an impressive five metre lineout steal from second row Thomas Schwitzer who went over unchallenged, which Hirayama converted.
Russia were continually under pressure and the frustration showed as inside centre Sergey Gavryushin was sin binned for joining the ruck from the side.
Canada took advantage of one less man in the backline by spreading the ball wide, eventually constructing an overlap, allowing Jeff Campbell to finish off with space to spare.
Two late tries from Jordan Wilson-Ross and a conversion from Hirayama rounded off a comfortable victory for Canada.
QUOTES
Canada centre Matt Evans: “The four day turnaround was a difficult one but we got a lot of work done since Wednesday and it showed today. We have a lot of heart in this sport. I’m very passionate about the sport and this sort of tournament is vital to Canadian rugby.”
Canada coach Gary Johnston: “I’m really happy with the bonus point and if you want a chance to get into the top flight you need your four tries and we got five so we’re happy.”
