Romania stick with winning side
Romanian Director of Coaching John Phillips predicted a possible upset when he announced an unchanged side for the meeting with Ireland on Friday.
The Romanians are buoyant after their 27-25 defeat of the United States and New Zealander Phillips believes the Irish will still be reeling from their 23-3 defeat to Australia.
"We're in a situation now where Ireland have had a very hard game against Australia," Phillips said.
"We came here with the sole ambition of winning against America and we've done that. Going in against Ireland is really a bonus to us now - so we'll go in with a good, relaxed attitude.
"And who knows? We're certainly capable of winning."
Romanian coach Mircea Paraschiv scrum-half Petre Mitu is the man to unlock the Irish defence, particularly after he starred in the last international between the sides.
Ireland won that match, a World Cup qualifier last November, 53-35 but Mitu rallied his troops for a stirring comeback.
"Last November, Mitu had an exceptional game and judging by his condition now and by the way he plays he could make a fantastic impression here against Ireland," Paraschiv said.
The winner of the match is assured a playoff match in Lens, France, next Wednesday.
Romania team:Mihai Vioreanu; Cristian Sauan, Gabriel Brezoianu, Romeo Gontineac, Gheorghe Solomie; Lucien Vusec, Petre Mitu, Catalin Draguceanu, Erdinci Septar, Adrian Petrache, Tiberiu Brinza, Tudor Constantin (capt), Razvan Mavrodin, Petru Balan, Constantin Stan
1. Max Verstappen ()
