Russians Enjoy
Riding The Learning Curve

Russian coach Evgeny Klebanov believes that Sunday's European Nations Cup clash with England A at Odsal will be a great experience for his team. The Russian side lost their opening fixture 74-4 at Wales last week, and come up against an England A side who suffered a narrow defeat to Australia on Tuesday.

Long-serving coach Klebanov believes that Sunday's Odsal encounter will help to continue the development of the Russian game against John Kear's side.

"For us this tournament is all about the development of Rugby League in Russia," he said. "We feel that we are on the right track.

"We will use this experience and others to improve our standard of playing and coaching Rugby League.

"These games are vital to our ongoing development. We would rather play one game against England than five games against other teams because these are the opportunities that allow us to test our improvement.

"The players of England A are among the best in the world and in order for us to gain a place in that elite in years to come we must play against the best.

"Our performance against Wales was below the standard that we expect and we are determined to be better prepared for Sunday's game."

The game also gives the Russian side the chance to play in the famous Odsal bowl, and Klebanov is honoured to be appearing at Bradford Bulls' home.

"We will be honoured and privileged to play against England A at Bradford Bulls' home stadium on Sunday," he added.

"For many of our players the experience of playing at Odsal Stadium, the home of the Tetley's Super League champions, will assist them in their own development."