Czechia defeated Poland 34-24 at the Stadion Romana Sebrleho, in Lanskroune, second rower Dominik Radil’s try eight minutes from time sealing victory after the hosts had held a ten point lead at the break.

Czechia men’s head coach for the game, Tomáš Adamec, said: “The beginning of the match was under our control, but then we slackened our emphasis on defending and supporting the attack. The Polish players stopped making mistakes and the score of the match was almost even. Given that it was our second game in a single weekend, I have to take my hat off to the whole team, as several players played in both.”

“It was a good game played in the right spirit,” added Poland men’s head coach Dean Reacher. “I’m pleased with some elements of the game but frustrated with others. We can’t pass over possession so cheaply and simply expect to win the game. Defensively we stood up for the contest, but our fitness levels have a major impact in order for players to sustain this.”