Russia overcame an early setback to dominate Ukraine and take a 38-19 bonus point win at home in their European Nations Cup rugby match Saturday.
The win puts the Bears level on points with leaders Romania and Spain, although both teams will play later Saturday.
Russia coach Kingsley Jones elected not to recall any of the four Russians playing in the English Premiership for the Ukraine game, in favor of experimenting with newer players.
Ukraine have lost all their games since rejoining the top division in 2010, but had a glimmer of hope when an early try gave them a 5-0 lead after 15 minutes.
Russia responded with a try from Denis Antonov on his debut as captain, before further tries from Mikhail Babaev and Denis Simplikevich gave Russia a 21-12 lead at half time.
Second-half tries from Andrey Otrokov, on his international debut, and Evgeny Titov extended the lead, while Anton Ryabov kicked 11 points before he was replaced on 67 minutes.
Russia’s next match will take place March 17 against reigning ENC champions Georgia, who face Romania later Saturday in a repeat of their 2011 World Cup game.
