Narrow loss in first rugby European Nations Cup match
The Estonian national rugby team has lost its maiden match in the European Nations Cup having qualified for the first time ever last year.
Estonia was due to play Greece on Saturday, but with the Southern European team failing to show up, Estonia played hosts Montenegro instead, losing narrowly 29-27. Greece were ejected from the International Rugby Board for financial irregularities.
Senior team member Ragnar Toompere said the game was one of the most brutal he has played in for years. “In reality we were a little better, but struggled to convert our chances, but they had a very impressive public with rockets flying and loud music, which eventually helped them to keep hold of the narrow lead.”
Montenegro will take on Slovakia in the final on Tuesday and Estonia will play against Montenegro's second side in the third-fourth place game.
Estonia beat Belarus 59-12 in Tallinn last year to qualify for the tournament.
Estonia is out in full force in Montenegro for the tournament with the foreign legion of British-based players all taking part.
Editor: J.M. Laats