(JD Black photo)

The USA has named its starting lineup for Saturday’s RWCQ match against Canada in Charleston, SC.

It’s the first match of a crucial home and away series.

It not only marks a great opportunity for the Eagles to get a leg up on their North American rivals before facing them on Canadian soil, but will also be broadcast live on ESPN in HD and will prove vital in showcasing the sport to the American public.

“This summer has been non-stop rugby. The boys have worked very hard to get here and we are really starting to see the benefits of getting so much time together,” captain Todd Clever said.

“It’s fantastic to be featured on the ‘big stage’ and this is a huge step in boosting exposure to our sport and increasing its following on a national level. The team is looking forward to playing in Charleston again and celebrating America’s birthday with our fans.”

Led by Clever at flanker, the forward pack is very similar to the lineup the US used in its most recent test match against Georgia with the only difference being that Louis Stanfill moves to the other side of the scrum and Hayden Smith slots in at lock.

On the bench, Brian McClenahan will serve as the replacement hooker and JJ Gagiano takes a spot as a forward reserve.

The American backline is also very similar as it sees only two changes, with Sevens standout Kevin Swiryn stepping in at wing and Roland Suniula getting a start at inside center. Ata Malifa is the only change on the bench for the backs, as he takes the place of his twin brother Nese.

You can buy tickets for the game at www.tickets.com

USA:
15. Chris Wyles (Saracens FC)
14. Takudzwa Ngwenya (Biarritz Olympic)
13. Paul Emerick (Overmach Parma)
12. Roland Suniula (Pearl City RFC)
11. Kevin Swiryn (Old Puget Sound Beach)
10. Mike Hercus (Sunshine Coast Stingrays)
9. Tim Usasz (Nottingham RFC)
1. Mate Moeakiola (Park City Haggis)
2. Chris Biller (California)
3. Shawn Pittman (Bayside RFC)
4. John van der Giessen (Denver Barbarians)
5. Hayden Smith (Saracens FC)
6. Louis Stanfill (New York Athletic Club)
7. Todd Clever (Xerox Lions) Captain
8. Nic Johnson (Denver Barbarians)

Replacements:
16. Brian McClenahan (Olympic Club)
17. Mike MacDonald (Leeds Carnegie RFC)
18. Alec Parker (Gentlemen of Aspen)
19. JJ Gagiano (Univ. of Cape Town)
20. Mike Petri (New York Athletic Club)
21. Ata Malifa (Belmont Shore RFC)
22. Alipate Tuilevuka (Provo Steelers)