Octavian Morariu, president of Association of European Rugby FIRA, attended the match between Georgia and Romania. Before that, he met Georgia’s officials.  

He is sure Georgia and Romania approached the first level teams but the future perspectives seem vague without developing the club rugby.

Octavian Morariu: Today was a great rugby day. The Georgian team played better than Romania and won deservedly. This match is very important for my organization and me. We want to show the world that we are professionals and we want to change something. In FIRA we are working on the engine which will take us to the new stage. This match proved these two teams are at different age. Such matches are not held even at 6 Nations. I met the Prime Minister, minister of Sport and Gia Nizharadze and your goal is obvious.

The both teams have grown since the previous World Cup and today they showed us high level game. We are focused on developing the club rugby. We must develop a format which will give a chance to the Georgian and the Romanian clubs to play at European Cups.  

6 Nations teams have already felt our breath and we must work hard to oppress them. This year you will face Ireland. We must use such chances and the goal will become reachable. If the quality is good, I know, 6 Nations will not refuse to add us. We must maintain stability. Georgia is very close to the first level teams. I know your diligence and I am sure you will move to the highest level soon but it needs time and patience”.

Zura Ksovreli