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CDF Gen Peter Cosgrove throws the ball to ASRU Team members CIS Andrew Bertoncin (Navy) Cpl James Hood (Air Force) and Capt Pete Conroy (Army).Photo by SGT Sybelle Foxcroft, QUR

By Daniel Wheelahan

THE Australian Services Rugby Union (ASRU) squad is undertaking a five-match tour of Canada and the US from October 4-27.

The 27-man squad will play five games in 16 days, with the first match against Pacific Pride, Victoria (effectively the Canadian under-23s), on October 8.

The squad took part in a preparation camp at Randwick Barracks, Sydney, before it departed on October 4. Leading the 2004 tour is former Wallaby, Brig Bob Brown.

ASRU first toured the US in 1984. Six matches were played, during which the team scored 195 points for, and 34 against, with only one loss from six matches – and that to the New Zealand under-21s during an international tournament.

ASRU again toured the United States in 1992 with even greater success. ASRU were undefeated in seven games with 192 points for, and 14 against. Although this year’s match schedule looks a tough assignment, it is hoped the 2004 team can replicate the success of these previous tours.

Match results will also be available on the ASRU web site http://www.servicesrugby.asn.au.

ASRU tour details

Match Schedule:

ASRU Army players
Cpl Joe Rains	front row
Spl Shaun Richardson	front row
Capt Ben Rayward	flanker
Pte Scott McCormick	lock
Tpr Jacob Byrt	lock
Capt Peter Conroy	flanker
Cfn Matt Fraser	flanker
Cpl Adam Monson	flanker
Cpl Tom Navusolo	flanker
Cpl Ben Jones	five-eighth
Tpr Gerard Kelly	half back
Cpl Paul Yates	centre
Cpl Aaron Cimbaljevic	full back