Russians bracing themselves for a hiding
RUSSIA
Bears usually frighten the life out of anyone who crosses them, but the Russian variety seem set for a severe mauling in the World Cup.
With only one top-rank Aussie of Russian heritage – skipper and Sydney City Roosters prop Ian Rubin - coach Eugene Klebanov's side has a mighty task to get his troops within even 50 points in the matches against group one giants Australia and England.
However, at the time of writing Klebanov was enquiring as to the heritage of seven more Australian players and if their services were secured there is no doubt the Bears would possess more bite.
With or without their `magnificent seven' the feeling persists Russia's development as a rugby league nation would have been better served with a place in the Emerging Nations tournament rather than the main event.
Nonetheless, the Bears are here and will no doubt enjoy the backing of an English crowd renowned for getting behind the underdog (of course their support may mot be so fervent when Russia clash with the hosts!).
Aside from Rubin, others to watch out for include Toulouse winger Mikhail Piscunov and experienced scrum-half Igor Gavrilin.
Realistically, the Bears best chance of making an impression comes in their opening group game against Fiji in Barrow – but even this may prove too much against the free-flowing and pacy South Sea Islanders.