The two top ex-pat rugby sides in Tokyo, the Tokyo Crusaders and the Yokohama Country and Athletic Club, play one another on Dec. 7 for the MacFadyen Cup at the YCAC's ground in Yamate.

The game is played in honor of Gareth MacFadyen, who died in December 2000 as a result of burns inflicted during a Christmas party in Auckland. Ironically he was also celebrating the fact that his employers, Merrill Lynch, were sending him back to Tokyo.

A graduate of Otago University, MacFadyen first played for the Crusaders in 1996, and during his three years here made a great many friends in the rugby community.

"Gareth was outstanding as a player and a person and was close to many Cru' and YCAC players. We always enjoy playing a match in his memory," said Derek Simmons of the Crusaders.

In the past two years Gareth's parents have been flown up from New Zealand for the game but although "Ian and Sue will not be coming up this year . . . the game is still big, and for a reason," added Tim Openshaw.

The Crusaders won the first playing of the cup 6-5, but lost the trophy last year, when a last-minute try helped the YCAC to a 10-5 victory.

The many years of experience on display and the importance of the game should ensure a tough physical game and provide a fitting memorial for MacFadyen. And whatever the outcome, both sides will, in true rugby tradition, adjourn to the watering holes of Tokyo and raise a glass (or two) to a mate.