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Dave Pocock goes in for his first try for the Wallabies (AAP Image/Dave Hunt)
The Wallabies will look to keep pressure on Ireland with a solid win this afternoon when they face Russia in their final match of the pool stage. Join us from the lunchtime kick-off of 12.30pm AEST for live scores and a blog of all the action as it happens.
Australia cruised to a 67-5 win over the USA last Friday night and should do similiar this afternoon, and Robbie Deans will simply be hoping his banged-up outfit do not pick up any more injuries.
Wycliff Palu has already been ruled out of the tournament while there are major concerns over the quarter-final prospects of Anthony Fainga’a, Pat McCabe, Digby Ioane and Rob Horne.
The extent of the backline crisis means that regular backrower Radike Samo will start on the wing, although the return of James O’Connor from a minor hamstring complaint will strengthen the backline.
In the forwards David Pocock, Scott Higginbotham and James Horwill have all recovered from various ailments and they’ll be tested by a Russian pack who has shown they can compete with the better sides.
Coach Nikolay Nerush has named a strong side for the Bears’ final game and he’ll look to skipper Vladislav Korshunov to lead from the front.
In their first Rugby World Cup, Russia has exceeded expectations despite a couple of heavy losses to Italy and Ireland and will be heartened by their progress on the world stage.
Barring a major upset tomorrow, the Wallabies will face the Springboks in Wellington next Sunday and this afternoon is an opportunity to tune up in preparation.
The return of Higginbotham and Pocock is significant, and the Australian pack will get a chance to prepare for what is sure to be a torrid time against the Springboks.
While the backline looks somewhat decimated, it shall be interesting to observe the combination between Quade Cooper and Berrick Barnes, who impressed in his first game back last Friday night.
As a minnow, Russia have not been afforded the same rest as the Wallabies and a heavy schedule should begin to tell in the latter stages of this one.
With a classier, fitter squad the Wallabies should comfortably dispatch of the Bears this afternoon and confidently stride toward the business end of the tournament.
Will it be a walk in the park for the Wallabies? Is Samo going to monster the Russian defence out wide? Join us from the early kick-off time of 12.30pm AEST for live scores and an interactive blog and post your thoughts below as we take in all of the action from the Wallabies’ last pool match in Nelson.
Join The Roar rugby editor Christy Doran, former Wallaby Matt Toomua and a cast of regular and special guests as they look at the biggest issues in the game on The Roar Rugby Podcast. If you’re looking for great odds on the next game check out Aussie bookmaker PlayUp. Chances are you’re about to lose. Set a deposit limit.