Russia's Jones: US match all about first-phase possession

Russia technical director Kingsley Jones believes the Bears can emerge victorious from their first ever World Cup finals match – if they can secure set-piece possession against the United States in New Plymouth.

Thursday’s Pool C clash has been dubbed ’the clash of the superpowers’ due to the political rivalry between the nations, but the reality is that this contest may prove Russia’s only chance of leaving the tournament with a win to their name as their pool is also populated by heavyweights Italy, Ireland and Australia.