The Lineout

While for many there will be disappointment that this semi-final weekend sees no participants from the Northern Hemisphere, few can deny that the two match-ups on offer have set the stage for an epic showdown between the four dominant powers of Southern Hemisphere rugby.  A clash between South Africa’s Springboks and New Zealand’s All Blacks is always something to relish and on the World Cup stage it takes on monumental proportions.  Meanwhile, Australia who have looked assured throughout the tournament take on a Pumas side that is playing some of the best rugby of this World Cup.  International Rugby doesn’t get much better than this, and no matter who you have been supporting this past four weeks, I doubt very much that you haven’t picked your team for this weekend and will be cheering them on just as hard as if they were your own team!

South Africa vs New Zealand
Saturday, October 24th
Twickenham

Any match between these two rugby giants always has a certain aura to it and tomorrow’s match on the world’s biggest stage will be no exception. As International Rugby’s greatest rivalry gets set to play out in front of an audience of millions around the world, you can only imagine the kind of pressure the players from the two teams must be feeling. It is going to be big, powerful, bruising and above all a fantastic spectacle.

South Africa come into this match as the underdogs based on their route to the semi-finals and their hit and miss form of the last two years. One day brilliant, the next a shadow of the team they could be, predicting a Springbok performance has become a real challenge. They started this tournament with one of the biggest humiliations in South African rugby history by losing to Japan. The way South Africa have regrouped since that match and built steadily to this point has shown both enormous depth and character, while Fourie du Preez’s quiet but assured leadership has more than compensated for the loss of talismanic Captain Jean de Villiers. There has been the perfect mix of youth and experience in this team, with the battle hardened heads of Du Preez, Du Plessis, Habana and Burger providing the leadership to the rising talents of De Allende, Kriel, Pollard, De Jager and Etzebeth. Add into the mix the power of Duane Vermeulen, Tendai Mtawarira and JP Pietersen and this is a powerhouse team. However, despite this extraordinary depth of talent and experience, against quality opposition South Africa have often looked laboured in this tournament and if they are to beat New Zealand on Saturday it will require an effort akin to their famous victory over the All Blacks at the 1995 World Cup – in short they are going to have to dig deep – very deep!

New Zealand on the other hand look much as they have throughout the four years since they last lifted the Webb Ellis trophy in Auckland in 2011 – unstoppable! Is this the greatest All Black team of all time, if not the greatest rugby team of all time? I personally think that while they may appear superhuman at times and as good as they are, at the end of the day they too are mere mortals and as such can be beaten. It will take a very special and quite extraordinary side to do it but it can be done. There have been times in the last two years, however fleeting where New Zealand have looked vulnerable. Furthermore, one cannot deny that apart from the quarter-final match against France, they have never quite looked like the all-conquering black machine we saw immediately after the 2011 World Cup. If you ask me the only time New Zealand has really been tested in this tournament is in their opening match against Argentina where they looked decidedly vulnerable. In all the matches since then their opposition has been less than top drawer allowing them to essentially cruise to the semi-finals unlike the battle tested South Africans. Therefore it is hard for me to really estimate how good this All Black side actually is. While you cannot deny that they were truly spectacular last weekend against the French, let’s be honest the French hardly tested them. It has been a long time since that opening game against the Pumas and you can be sure that Coach Steve Hansen and his team have analysed that game to death to the point where the frailties seen in that match have surely been addressed.  New Zealand are highly unlikely to be suffering from any kind of complacency especially going into a match against their greatest rivals, but you can’t deny that they have only had to dig deep once so far in this tournament and regardless of their extraordinary skill levels tomorrow will still be the sternest of tests.

In the battle of the forwards, I am giving South Africa a slight edge.  I think the combined experience of Bismarck Du Plessis, Tendai Mtawarira alongside the raw talent and youth of Francois Malherbe will have the better of the Moody, Coles and Franks platform for New Zealand.  Having said that though, Dane Coles defies all logic for New Zealand in his role as hooker as how many times have we seen this extraordinary athlete run almost the full length of a rugby pitch to score a try?  If the scrum breaks down allowing Coles to pop out into the loose anywhere South Africa are going to have to pull out all the stops to contain him.  Nevertheless when it comes to lineout time, Du Plessis has been more reliable for South Africa than Coles.  A fascinating contest awaits between these two.  In the back row, the clash between the raw physicality of South Africa’s Eben Etzebeth and Lood de Jager against the seasoned experience of New Zealand’s Sam Whitelock and Brodie Retallick will be intense, with every lineout throw being a massive contest.  However, based on their passion and energy levels, provided they can keep their discipline I am giving the South African duo the edge here.  There’s little difference in terms of flankers between the two, with South Africa’s Schalk Burger up against New Zealand’s legendary Richie McCaw, while Francois Louw does battle with seasoned All Black campaigner Jerome Kaino, and given the pedigree of the Kiwis I am just giving the All Black pair the edge here.  Lastly at number eight, there is little to choose between South Africa’s Duane Vermeulen and New Zealand’s Kieran Reid.  With Vermeulen still just returning to form after a long layoff from injury I am giving this battle to Reid who is rediscovering some of the best form of his career in this tournament.

The half back battle will be fascinating.  South Africa’s Fourie du Preez and New Zealand’s Aaron Smith are two of the world’s best.  Du Preez may have the better brain but the sheer energy and pace of Aaron Smith gives him an edge that I feel Du Preez lacks.  Meanwhile youth meets experience in the battle between Springbok flyhalf Handre Pollard and his All Black counterpart Dan Carter.  Pollard’s composure under pressure has gotten better with every outing for the Springboks but it simply cannot match up to the genius and experience of Dan Carter who has suddenly found some of the best form of his playing career as he plays his last World Cup for the Men in Black.

In the backs, once more it is an epic battle between youthful raw talent and one of the most experienced centre pairings in International rugby.  There are few if any who can touch New Zealand’s Ma’a Nonu and Conrad Smith but they have looked vulnerable under pressure a few times this year, especially Smith.  South Africa’s Damien De Allende and Jesse Kriel were a revelation in this year’s Rugby Championship but they are going to have to temper their raw talent and youthful enthusiasm if they are to both attack and defend effectively against their New Zealand counterparts.  On the wings, I can’t help feeling that New Zealand’s Nehe Milner-Skudder and Julian Savea are simply too much of a handful for Bryan Habana and JP Pietersen.  South Africa’s speedster Habana will have his work cut out for him trying to contain the dancing feet of Milner-Skudder to the point where I doubt he’ll get much opportunity to run the ball himself.  Meanwhile JP Pietersen will have his hands full trying to defend against New Zealand’s second coming Jonah Lomu in the shape of Julian Savea.  Lastly, Ben Smith at fullback for New Zealand is simply in a class of his own, and sadly I can’t help feeling that the form that South Africa’s Willie le Roux is capable of will still continue to elude him in this match, especially under such enormous pressure.

With both benches packing some serious heavyweights capable of changing a game in the last quarter, the use of the reserve bench will be very interesting as the match unfolds.  Both sides have the ability to instantly change the momentum of the game through their bench as New Zealand wait for the right moment to throw the likes of Sonny Bill Williams and Beauden Barrett into the mix, while South Africa have the exciting prospects of Jan Serfontein and Mr. Reliable under pressure, Pat Lambie.

This is going to be an incredible match and one hopefully that we will all be talking about for many years to come.  While it is a real challenge to call it, I just can’t help feeling that New Zealand at the end of the day are just that more of a complete and versatile team than South Africa.  Therefore, New Zealand by five with the sparks flying for the full eighty minutes!

Argentina vs Australia
Sunday, October 25th
Twickenham

Having watched Argentina’s breathtaking performance against Ireland last week, this one is easy to call if I were to go with my heart. If Argentina bring anything like the finesse and intensity they showed in Cardiff to this match then the game should be theirs. However, the head says that Australia simply has too much experience and overall ability to do anything other than emerge the narrow victors. A huge game awaits and one which is almost impossible to call – but a spectacle is surely on the cards whatever happens.

Australia have looked exceptionally solid this World Cup and the only time where they really looked like buckling under pressure was last Sunday against Scotland. Once more restored to full strength for this match they will be very hard to beat and it is unlikely that the chinks in the Australian armor so evident last Sunday will be so easy to spot this Sunday. Big question marks remain however around the fitness of superstars fullback Israel Folau and number eight David Pocock. If fully fit and able to go the distance they, especially Pocock, will be unstoppable and may well swing the entire game firmly in favour of the Wallabies. If not however, then the Pumas will know they have some extra inroads into what has been for the most part a stellar Australian defence. Although the Australian scrum has improved dramatically in the last year, you still have to wonder if it can really match up to the tank engine that is the one of the Pumas key platforms.

For Argentina they have played some truly spectacular rugby this tournament and are very much a complete side. Powerful up front but now blessed with a back line that has speed and agility, and all linked together through a half back partnership that has a composure and vision which seems almost unshakeable, Argentina is probably fielding their greatest team in a proud rugby history. As someone who was fortunate enough to be in Cardiff last Sunday, I was mesmerized by the almost effortless finesse that the Pumas were able to apply to a clinical dismantling of a spirited Irish side. If both teams play the way they have so far in this tournament this is going to be one hell of a semi-final and as close as they get.

Up front, I can’t help feeling that the front row of Marcos Ayerza, Agustin Creevy and Ramiro Herrera is far superior to their Australian opposition in James Slipper, Stephen Moore and Sekope Kepu. Focused and increasingly better disciplined Argentina should have the edge here, with Creevy in his role as Captain providing enormous inspiration to his teammates. In the back row it should be a fairly equal battle between Rob Simmons and Kane Douglas for Australia and Tomas Lavanini and Guido Petti for the Pumas. Both sets of back rows however are prone to lapses in discipline and the Argentinians slightly more so. If they can keep their discipline though I’ll give this contest to Argentina but if not then hands down the Wallabies should edge it. In the flankers, Pablo Matera for Argentina and Scott Fardy for the Wallabies will provide us with an epic tussle, but on a battle of strength versus skill I’ll give Fardy the edge here. Meanwhile one of the game’s greatest troublemakers and spoilers at the breakdown in the form of Australia’s Michael Hooper should get the better of his opposite Puma number Juan Martin Fernandez Lobbe. Lastly at number eight provided he is fully fit the incomparable David Pocock should get the better of his opposite number Leonardo Senatore even though the Argentinian has shown a phenomenal work rate all tournament.

In the battle of the half backs, despite having considerably more experience Australia are in a 50/50 battle with the Pumas here. Will Genia’s experience for the Wallabies should see him edge out his Argentinian counterpart Martin Landajo, but in the battle of the flyhalves I am giving Argentina the benefit of the doubt. As good as he is for Australia Bernard Foley seems more easily rattled than Argentina’s Nicolas Sanchez whose effortless performance against Ireland last week gets him the nod from me in this contest.

In the backs, Argentina have plenty of promise and as I have been saying all along winger Santiago Cordero has been a real revelation. Matt Giteau’s experience and the raw physicality of Tevita Kuridrani may just give Australia the edge in the battle of the centres, but they don’t call Argentina’s Juan Martin Hernandez “the Magician” for nothing and Marcelo Bosch is dangerous with the boot from anywhere on the pitch. On the wings Santiago Cordero should get the edge over Australia’s Drew Mitchell. The little Argentine winger has the same kind of dancing feet as New Zealand’s Nehe Milner-Skudder which is proving almost impossible to stop coupled with some spectacular vision in terms of how the game is unfolding around him. On the other wing we’ll see the battle between Argentina’s Juan Imhoff versus probably one of the most experienced and competent wingers in the world in the shape of Australia’s Adam Ashley-Cooper. The flair of Argentina’s hat trick king may ultimately not be enough to outdo the experience and sheer talent of Ashley-Cooper. Lastly at fullback, Israel Folau if he is fit and not put under relentless pressure and allowed more of an attacking than defensive role is one of the most dangerous players in the world and should easily get the better of Argentina’s Joaquin Tuculet, despite the latter’s diminutive size dragging three Irish defenders across the try line last Sunday in Cardiff.

There are game changers aplenty on both team’s benches, though if Kurtley Beale shows the kind of form we have seen recently from him for Australia he could end up being the ultimate game breaker. In short this is going to be a thrilling and closely fought contest. Argentina will be emotionally charged for this in no uncertain terms, and it remains to be seen if the X-factor of their passion combined with a dazzling set of skills and crushing forward power will be enough to see off a solid and experienced Australian challenge. As I said at the beginning, my heart says Argentina but my head is saying Australia. Therefore as a result in the closest of games, I’m just giving it to Australia by two!

Yes I know, for regular readers of this blog the first question is what happened to the last week of the pool stages?  A million apologies but between a family holiday and travelling to Cardiff for the Quarter Finals yours truly just simply didn’t get around to covering it hence the silence of the last sixteen days.  Still back in the game again and we’ll pick up the action at the Quarter-Final stages as well as tomorrow look forward to a weekend of spectacular semi-final action.

As exciting as the last week of Pool action was it never really provided us with any surprises in terms of outcomes, and while for many the same could be said of the Quarter-Finals, few predicted the complete annihilation of France by the All Blacks or the clinical thrashing by Argentina of a wounded Ireland.  Furthermore, Wales spirited fight against the Springboks was the stuff of legends and almost till the end had supporters from both camps on the edge of their seats.  Meanwhile very few people had predicted that Scotland would come so agonizingly close to rewriting the history books.  As the Millenium stadium became known as the slaughterhouse this past weekend, Twickenham really lived up to the title of fields of glory!

South Africa vs Wales
Final Score – South Africa 23/Wales 19
Twickenham

It was everything we expected it to be between these two sides – epic, physical and for most of us nerve-wracking till the final whistle. Although Wales were the losers they can still hold their heads high for ensuring that South Africa were never able to relax for even a second from the opening whistle till the very end. Furthermore, the match would see the lead seesaw between the two sides for its entirety. Still in the end there can only be one winner and on the day you could not fault South Africa for just finding that little bit extra to see them home and into a semi-final clash with the mighty All Blacks. Duane Vermeulen’s incredible backward flick pass off the tail of a rolling maul to scrum half and Captain Fourie du Preez will be one of the highlights of the tournament and demonstrated that in terms of creativity South Africa just held the edge over Wales when it mattered most.

It was always going to be physical and from the moment that referee Wayne Barnes blew the opening whistle these two sides went at each other hammer and tongs at a pace that left many wondering if either team could possibly last a full eighty minutes. The intensity of the battle at the breakdown was exhausting to watch, with South Africa’s experience and physicality in the shape of their two locks Eben Etzebeth and Lood de Jager, number eight Duane Vermeulen  and the incredible Schalk Burger on the flank coming to the fore and their better discipline under pressure ensuring that South Africa would win the penalties war especially in the first half. Wales on the other hand were looking slightly more adventurous in open play until time and again some poor execution particularly in terms of passing would let them down at crucial moments.

Despite this it would be Wales who would get the first five pointer of the match through a brilliant try set up by Welsh flyhalf Dan Biggar who continued to be one of the tournament’s superstars. Chasing an up and under of his own Biggar managed to shrug off some weak South African defence before finally providing scrum half Gareth Davies with a brilliant pass to score the first try of the match. Gareth Davies, as he has for Wales throughout their campaign, proved time and again that the loss of first choice Welsh scrum half Rhys Webb for the tournament has not been the disaster many predicted. Meanwhile South Africa were having problems of their own in terms of the execution of their game out wide as twice Fourie Du Preez would miss his target of JP Pietersen on the wing for what would have been certain tries.

Welsh fly half Dan Biggar would take his chances with an opportunistic drop goal on the stroke of half time which would send Wales into the dressing room leading by one point at 13-12. This Welsh side that had performed so well despite so many obstacles certainly looked like they had the heart and character to go all the way.

The Welsh continued in this vein as the second half got underway as penalties were traded but the boot of Dan Biggar seemed to have a degree more accuracy than his South African counterpart Handre Pollard. South Africa then launched a series of punishing physical assaults on the Welsh line, but to their credit the Men in Red once more showed an incredible depth of character as their defence held firm. There was very little between these two sides as they both used every trick in their arsenals both out wide and through the inside channels to get across the try line as the game swung from end to end. Then South Africa just found that little piece of magic and finishing prowess that Southern Hemisphere sides seem so blessed with.

Whether it was a move that had been rehearsed throughout the week or was simply a moment of sheer genius is hard to say, but at the seventy-fifth minute it was the hammer blow South Africa had been looking for all match. For the remaining tense minutes the momentum seemed to firmly swing South Africa’s way and after some sustained forward pressure by South Africa in the final minute it was a simple matter for Captain and scrum half Fourie Du Preez to simply boot the ball into touch and South Africa firmly into the semi-finals.

It was heartbreaking to see the shattered emotions of a Welsh team that has done so much and shown so much character in this tournament, and we can all feel genuinely privileged to have watched them in this World Cup. For South Africa it was sheer joy tempered with the knowledge that perhaps the greatest challenge of their World Cup lies in wait for them next Saturday as they do battle with the All Blacks. They too have shown plenty of grit and determination to come back from that humiliating loss to Japan at the start of the tournament. Fourie du Preez’s quiet but assured leadership has propelled this Springbok team to new heights and the challenge they face next weekend is monumental to say the least, but you can’t help feeling that the momentum and self belief in this team is getting stronger by the minute.

New Zealand vs France
Final Score – New Zealand 62/France 13
Cardiff

There were two sides to this match, a dazzling display by the All Blacks and on the flip side a truly abysmal performance by probably the worst French team I have ever seen in thirty years of watching rugby. I was fortunate enough to be at the match in Cardiff and while there was jubilation amongst the New Zealand supporters there was an air of abject despair mixed with, believe it or not, what one could almost call a sense of relief amongst French supporters. On the train back to Bristol where many of us were staying the French contingent nevertheless managed to find some cheer in the fact that despite their team’s total humiliation, it surely means the end of the current French setup and the glimmerings of a new dawn. In short, if you were French it simply couldn’t get any worse than this and from here on it is time for a clean sweep of French rugby. As one French supporter I spoke to said, if they had won it probably would have meant more agony as the present system which is in tatters would have been allowed to continue however briefly and with it the pain and suffering.

New Zealand are now faced with a quandary however. Their performance in this match truly was something to behold as they ran in nine tries, with winger Julian Savea finally sparked back into life with his own hat-trick of tries. Nevertheless, the fact remains that New Zealand have only been tested once in this tournament, in their opening match against Argentina. France were so utterly hopeless that they hardly provided a genuine challenge to the All Blacks. Therefore as impressive and clinical as this victory was, it was against an opposition that can only be described at best as mediocre. The kind of space New Zealand were afforded in this match simply will not be available next Saturday in Twickenham against a now seasoned and hardened South Africa.

Nevertheless while not much can be said about the French performance it still doesn’t detract from the fact that this was a masterclass display of rugby by the All Blacks irrespective of the inferior quality of the opposition. There were so many standout players for New Zealand from the opening whistle that it is hard to single out anyone in particular. However for me on the wing Nehe Milner-Skudder once more had an absolutely fantastic game and his own try was sheer magic, begging the question as to why was there ever any doubt, despite his lack of Test experience, that he shouldn’t be a shoe-in for New Zealand’s World Cup campaign. Flyhalf Daniel Carter once more blazed back onto the World Stage and showed the sheer class this player possesses, as evidenced by this brilliant offload which set up Julian Savea’s first try.

The man himself, winger Julian Savea blasted his own way onto the Rugby front pages in this match through his three tries. In his second effort which saw him batting away hapless French defenders akin to a certain Jonah Lomu many years ago, Savea has suddenly found all the speed, pace and strength that has often eluded this try scoring machine in the last year. All the other usual suspects in the All Blacks camp stood up and were counted – the lock partnership of Brodie Retallick and Sam Whitelock, flankers Richie McCaw and Jerome Kaino, Kieran Read, scrum half Aaron Smith, fullback Ben Smith, Ma’a Nonu at centre – the list goes on and on. Add to that a bench in the shape of Beauden Barrett and Sonny Bill Williams among others and you are packing more talent than most coaches would know what to do with. Can they be beat? Yes. Will they be beat? Unlikely.

As I say for the French it is time to assign this match to history and start a long and painful process of rebuilding. In some ways their task may be even greater than England’s as they struggle to contain the rampant commercial aspirations of their domestic competition. As for this match itself from a French perspective there is little to report as it was for all intents and purposes a one-sided affair. There were moments of redemption but they rarely looked cohesive as well as desperately few and far between, and by the 60 minute mark it was hard to determine if there actually was even a French team on the pitch. I have always been a great admirer of French rugby, but as evidenced on Saturday, this once proud nation has seriously lost its way. I am sure that I voice the opinion of all neutral supporters when I say that we all hope to see a French side that once more buzzes with the energy and flair that has provided us all with so many memorable moments in the past, return to the fore in the not so distant future. France has reached a low from which there can only be one way out and that hopefully is up, and stadiums will once more resound with cries of “Allez les Bleus” that smack of confidence and exuberance as opposed to despair and a longing for the final whistle to put everyone out of their misery.

Ireland vs Argentina
Final Score – Ireland 20/Argentina 43
Cardiff

As holders of the Northern Hemisphere’s strongest hopes for World Cup glory it was devastating to see Ireland crash out of the tournament in the end with a whimper. There were moments in this match where they showed some real character and appeared to make the loss of such key players as Johnny Sexton and Paul O’Connell almost meaningless, but in the end it was always going to be bridge too far for them. As the last quarter of the match unfolded there was a growing sense of inevitability amongst the Green Army in the stands as Ireland sadly exited with a whisper.

Argentina on the other hand once more showed to the world how far they have come in the last four years through one of the most technically competent and assured performances of total rugby that I have ever had the privilege of witnessing. The fact that at the final whistle they received a standing ovation from not only their own wildly exuberant supporters but also the vast numbers of Irish supporters left in the stands as well, shows you just how much respect this team has generated. Argentina weren’t just good in this match – they were brilliant! As sad and heartbroken as many Irish supporters were to see their heroes make such an early exit, I know many of them will be firmly throwing their weight behind supporting Argentina’s continued quest for glory in this World Cup. In short, it wasn’t just a Pumas team that won on Sunday in Cardiff, it was rugby and the great traditions of our sport in general that really won.

Argentina came out of the blocks in this match running on rocket fuel. Scoring two tries in the first ten minutes is always going to put a serious if not life-threatening dent in the confidence of your opponent. Both tries were set up by winger Santiago Cordero who for me has been one of the most exciting and skillful players in the tournament so far. However, it was the sheer class and skill of finishing by his fellow winger Juan Imhoff, that showed just how much quality of execution the Pumas now possess.

Despite reeling from Argentina’s initial lightning strikes, all credit has to be given to a shell-shocked Ireland for how they fought their way back into the match and remained in contention right until the halfway point of the last quarter. They made an impressive effort of containing Argentina’s massive physical presence, and used their numerical superiority during Argentine prop Ramiro Herrera’s yellow card to full advantage. Luke Fitzgerald’s opening Irish try showed some real class and pace. Fitzgerald came onto the wing early to replace winger Tommy Bowe who was stretchered off. From the minute he came on Fitzgerald was one of the Irish players who really stood out in this match.  Fitzgerald’s efforts, along with centre Robbie Henshaw, Captain Jamie Heaslip, and hooker Rory Best were the key elements in Ireland’s heroic fight back. For me the rest of the Irish squad although never giving up, at times often looked poor in comparison to their Argentinian counterparts. Poor decision-making and woeful lapses in discipline would cost Ireland dearly for much of the match as well as a reluctance to use the outside channels on attack where there were often opportunities.

Argentina on the other hand, apart from the odd errors in discipline as evidenced by Herrera’s yellow card, never really lost their composure. Their breakdown work was absolutely clinical and often left Ireland clutching at straws, while their scrum as always was the stuff of legends. What was interesting for me was how good their lineout work was along with the sheer vision displayed in their running game. Flyhalf Nicolas Sanchez could not put a foot wrong both in his tactical kicking and his shots at goal. In short, one observer, in the papers the following morning, described Argentina’s performance as beautiful rugby and I would have to agree.  As dismayed as I was to see Ireland ultimately put to the sword I was often mesmerized at how Argentina made such brilliant play often look easy.

Ireland did manage to keep themselves in contention and at half time were left with only a ten point deficit which is not exactly a crisis in modern-day Test rugby. Ireland started the second half full of intent and another searing run from Luke Fitzgerald would set up flanker Jordi Murphy for Ireland’s second try. For much of the next 20 minutes the scores would remain tantalizingly close, but at the 68th minute Argentina found those extra gears needed to put the match away and into the history books. Fullback Joaquin Tuculet, somehow managed to drag three Irish defenders with him across the try line, and then flanker and talisman Juan Martín Fernández Lobbe linked up with flying winger Juan Imhoff to seal an historic victory for the Pumas.

The pain of promising so much but ultimately falling short of the mark was there for all to see on the faces of the Irish players at the final whistle in stark contrast to scenes of wild jubilation amongst their Argentinian counterparts. Ireland no doubt felt the loss of so many key players as the tournament reached its crucial stages, but their players still put on a display that for the most part showed some real heart. However, in the end the Pumas blessed with all their key players really demonstrated what a world-class side they have become. They are a pleasure to watch and what this tournament means to each and every one of these players is there for all to see. For me they have easily been one of the most complete sides in the tournament and I feel they could easily get the measure of their semi-final opponents Australia next Sunday at Twickenham. The 2007 Pumas team that made the semi-finals was one of the best Argentina have ever produced, but this team is clearly in a class of its own and is far more complete than the 2007 heroes. Argentina can go all the way in this tournament and I for one believe they could just pull it off. Vamos los Pumas!

Australia vs Scotland
Final Score – Australia 35/Scotland 34
Twickenham

This was one of those games which will forever hang on the outcome of one call. Whether or not it was the right call by referee Craig Joubert will be debated long after this World Cup is over and probably even the next one. It would appear that a mistake was made which ultimately robbed Scotland of a piece of history. However, I like many feel that as brutal as the decision was from a Scottish point of view, I also share the view that in the heat of the moment a referee may call it as he sees it and in so doing make an error of judgement. It is a facet of the modern game and is likely to remain so for many years to come. Scotland found themselves winning but by the narrowest of margins and as a result it is down to how you best manage those margins and if anything the referee himself. Sadly in that respect, Australia probably had the edge on the day and as a result however unjust we may feel it is, it is the Wallabies and not Scotland who will find themselves facing Argentina in the semi-final.

This was an epic match that defied all the pundits’ predictions. Many had predicted a fairly straightforward win for Australia despite the dramatic improvements in Scottish fortunes under Coach Vern Cotter. What we got instead was a match that went down to the very last strand of wire. There is no easy way to put a fine gloss on Scotland’s loss and the sense of injustice that the players and their fans must feel after such a massive performance. However, Scotland must surely be able to take away from this match that they are once more contenders and are only going to improve. Scotland were brave of that there is little question, and although many of their opportunities came from Australian mistakes, the point is that it was Scottish pressure that was forcing those mistakes. Add to that an increasingly potent Scottish attacking threat and Scotland are back with a vengeance and over the next few years, their supporters can and should expect big things from this team.

Australia have been for most observers the complete package this tournament. Their defence as evidenced against Wales has become legendary, while their speed at the breakdown and attacking prowess out wide are serious issues for any opposition to deal with. In the centres Matt Giteau is always a threat and this match showcased Tevita Kuridrani at his barnstorming best. Meanwhile Australia’s rolling maul through their pack of forwards continues to look almost impossible to stop even without the legendary David Pocock. However, there were cracks that were evident in this match and ones which surely the Pumas will be licking their lips over as they lie in wait for the Wallabies next Sunday.

Although putting up a valiant resistance the Scots appeared to be ceding ascendancy to the Wallabies in the early stages of the match as Adam Ashley-Cooper’s try seemed to suggest. However, this was soon followed by some ferocious Scottish pressure in the Australian 22 and some shocking defence which allowed Scottish centre Peter Horne to simply stroll through for Scotland’s first five pointer. Australia’s scrum looked under serious pressure from Scotland and the Scottish forwards in general were making Australia work exceptionally hard. Scotland number eight David Denton was truly outstanding all match for the Men in Blue. Australia however would notch another try up through winger Drew Mitchell who has been having a fantastic tournament in reply to Horne’s audacity. Nevertheless the normally reliable boot of Ben Foley was just not finding the mark on Sunday for the Wallabies whereas Greg Laidlaw was punishing every Australian indiscretion and the Scots found themselves leading 16-15 at halftime much to the joy of an ecstatic Twickenham crowd.

Scotland came out of the blocks firing on all cylinders in the second half but their exuberance was causing them to make a few unforced errors, none more painful than the knock on by Scottish winger Sean Maitland which gave Australia a penalty and in my view a completely unjustified yellow card to Scotland for a perceived deliberate knock on. However, we have discussed the vagaries of refereeing calls above and as unjust as some of them may have appeared it is not the time to revisit them here. However, it did lead to a brief loss of composure amongst the Scots which the Wallabies were able to capitalise on with Drew Mitchell bagging his second try for the Wallabies.

Once the Scots were back to full strength again the momentum was regained and once more it was an even contest as Scotland after some superb work from flyhalf Finn Russell scored their second try through winger Tommy Seymour. However, Australia struck right back through centre Tevita Kuridrani’s bruising try for the Wallabies. Scotland were up against it but definitely not out of the contest trailing 32-27 with ten minutes to go. The heavens opened up and all of a sudden it seemed that Scotland would carve a place in the history books as this happened.

Sure it was an Australian mistake, but talk about seize the day when it matters the most. Mark Bennett was in the right place at the right time and that really should have been the match. From there Scotland should have cemented their place in the history books. However, as heart wrenching as it was, it was not to be Scotland’s day. With such a close scoreline at 34-32 in favour of Scotland and with mere minutes to the final whistle, the utmost concentration was required, and given the fact that many of the referee’s decisions were going against them, Scotland really needed to ensure that the next time the referee’s whistle was heard was to call time on an historic win. An error at the lineout caused it to unravel for Scotland and flyhalf Ben Foley despite the pressure would find that composure that has earned him the nickname of “the Iceman” when he needed it the most. I agree it should have been a scrum and not a penalty but it comes down to those heat of the moment calls that sometimes just don’t go your way.

Australia are now through to the semi-finals at the expense of a Scottish side that provided the Northern Hemisphere’s last heroic stand in this tournament. Scotland will probably feel robbed for a long time to come and you can’t blame them, but they really can take enormous pride in how they showed the rest of the world how far Scottish rugby has come in the very short space of just over a year, which in international rugby is a mere blink of the eye. Scotland will surely be taking some big scalps in the next few years and their supporters have a lot to look forward to.  Australia on the other hand look good but as we saw in this match there are some chinks in a very impressive armor. Either way a truly epic semi-final awaits next Sunday as Australia do battle with the Pumas and I for one can’t wait!

There’s been so much rugby during the course of this third week of Rugby World Cup 2015, that we are going to have to try and condense it all into a slightly briefer version of our daily report card just to keep up as we head into week four and the final round of the Pool stages. So a bit like high speed wine tasting, we’ll keep our comments short and sweet on a week that saw plenty of drama including the blockbuster news of tournament host England being knocked out of the tournament.

Tonga vs Namibia
Final Score – Tonga 35/Namibia 21
Exeter

Tonga – 8/10

The week got off to a flying start with an impressive display from Tonga that thoroughly entertained a sellout crowd in Exeter. Tonga looked really good value for money and ran in five tries that really showcased their skills with winger Telusa Veianu and flanker Jack Ram having a particularly productive afternoon. Tonga looked focused and produced some dazzling displays of running rugby at times. Furthermore despite the frenetic pace of the match, they managed to keep for the most part a good handle on their discipline which has often been their Achilles Heel. In short a solid well structured display from Tonga that produced some sublime rugby at times.

Namibia – 8/10

Full marks to Namibia for once again putting up a courageous fight against superior opposition. Namibia never took their foot off the gas and at one point even looked like they might cause an upset. Furthermore in the process they would run in three fine tries of their own, with inspirational Captain and flanker Jacques Burger providing two of them. As we saw in the match against New Zealand, Namibia have no fear of anyone despite their lowly status in the world rankings. They compete hard in every aspect of the game and as a result get full marks for entertaining the crowds who have turned out to watch them play in this tournament. Even though they lost we’re giving them the same score as Tonga for commitment and effort alone. They were key in making sure that this contest was as entertaining and enthralling at times as it was.

Wales vs Fiji
Final Score – Wales 23/Fiji 13
Cardiff

Wales – 7/10

After their epic performance against England, Wales enjoyed the luxury of a home game in front of the Welsh faithful as they got the job done against a potential Fijian banana skin. Whilst perhaps not as impressive as their victory over England, a Welsh side still reeling from a significant injury count managed to hold off a powerful second half surge from Fiji. Gareth Davies once more had a really good game for Wales, and has made the loss of Rhys Webb look far less of an issue than originally envisaged. Lock Alun Wyn Jones continued to impress and is absolutely critical to Wales in attack and defence. Prop Bradley Davies was lucky to avoid a yellow card and in general the Welsh scrum whether it was a function of fatigue or not struggled at times against the Fijians. Australia’s scrum had the better of England and is a vastly improved unit and Wales will need to be mindful of this come next Saturday. Dan Biggar at flyhalf once again had his GPS boots on and his goalkicking reliability is rightly becoming the envy of the tournament. In general, you have to admit despite coming so quickly off the back of a titanic effort against England, Wales looked sharp for the most part and with a week to recover should be in good shape for Australia. However, as impressive as they were they are going to have to find a couple of extra gears if they want to remotely challenge an Australian side that looks like they have the ability to go all the way.

Fiji – 7/10

Your heart has to go out to Fiji, they have played with enormous resilience and courage in this tournament in a pool that was always going to stretch them to the limits. Their never say die attitude really has been impressive, and their resurgence in the second half of this match was fantastic. Had their execution been just that bit sharper as well as discipline coupled with increased accuracy from flyhalf Ben Volavola in the kicking department, then they may well have pulled off an upset and once again turned Pool A on its head. Nevertheless they can take great consolation in having provided some of the most memorable moments of the tournament so far in the try scoring department and winger Aseli Tikoirotuma’s spectacular run from his 22 and ultimate offload to centre Vereniki Goneva was one of the scores of the tournament. In a stern test against Wales, Fiji really took the initiative in the second half and had they had the likes of missing winger Nemani Nadolo and scrum half Nikola Matawalu it could well have been Fiji’s day.   Furthermore the days of Fiji being pushed around in the scrum seem to be well and truly over. It has been Fiji’s harsh luck to be drawn in Pool A and had they been in any of the other pools we may well have ended up seeing them in the Quarter-Finals. All credit to them, they have entertained us and the tournament has been all the richer with their presence.

France vs Canada
Final Score – France 41/Canada 18
Milton Keynes

France – 7/10

France remain a mystery. Once again they were put to the test and although they emerged the victors they hardly look like a side that will go all the way in this tournament. Blessed with plenty of talent and the odd dash of flair they still have yet to put in a complete performance. Furthermore once Canada fought back, France often looked surprised and it took them a remarkably long time to regroup and regain the ascendancy. Were it not for fly half Freddie Michalak, France would have lacked a degree of control and guidance that they will need against the bigger teams once they get to the knockout stages. France’s saving grace at the moment is the opportunities Michalak is able to create for them coupled to a powerhouse forward pack. I am still not convinced by France’s options in their backs and their ability to create opportunities for France to score tries. Still their scrum is exceptionally sound and Pascal Pape and Louis Picamoles are providing exceptionally hard graft for Les Bleus in the forwards which is proving inspirational to the rest of the pack. Good but definitely not looking like the finished product they need to be to go the distance, the Pool decider against Ireland will tell us a great deal of what France will ultimately do in the tournament.

Canada – 7/10

Another heroic performance from Canada which pushed France hard at times, but sadly still saw them run out of steam in the game’s closing stages. Given their solid effort against Italy only five days earlier it was always going to be a tough call to do it all over again in such a short space of time against France. Still to their credit they gave it everything they had and can hold their heads high. Winger DTH van der Merwe once more scored a spectacular try and has really made a statement this tournament. He is without doubt a world class player and deserves his reputation as a much sought after commodity in European club rugby. I have long argued that scrum half Phil Mack should be Canada’s first choice scrum half and apart from one defensive lapse that contributed to Wesley Fofana’s try early in the game, he provided some excellent service to his team that played a key role in Canda’s charge midway through the game. An intensity I felt that Canada instantly lost once he was replaced by Gordon McRorie. It was a brutal blow for Canada to lose Captain Tyler Ardron so early in the proceedings after he had had such an influence in the Italian game, especially as he will now miss Canada’s last game of the tournament against Romania. Despite the scoreline Canada to a man put up a really solid fight against the French which only really started to cave in the last twenty minutes, as fatigue set in. From there all the problems Canada has seen throughout this year, in terms of breakdowns in discipline and a lack of finishing skills once more reared their ugly heads. Canada also still has a problem of missing too many first phase tackles which makes them have to work even harder in energy sapping defensive stands. They have been enjoyable too watch this tournament and courtesy of DTH van der Merwe have provided us with some of the most memorable moments of the Pool stages. If Canada can find the balance between the demands of its Sevens programme and that of the fifteen a side game, the future could be very bright.

New Zealand vs Georgia
Final Score – New Zealand 44/Georgia 10
Cardiff

New Zealand – 7/10

As tournament favourites New Zealand failed to impress yet again. I am sure they are taking the easy route through a soft pool, but in past World Cups with the favourites tag on them they have tended to put cricket scores on tier two nations in the pool stages. Not so this World Cup. To be fair this is also a reflection of the fact that the Tier Two nations are getting considerably better and the gap although still significant is narrowing. Nevertheless, I have yet to see an all conquering All Black side in this tournament.  Sure they barnstormed their way to the required bonus point and the win in a mere 21 minutes, which is no mean feat, but they just don’t look that driven or motivated.  I am sure that the best is yet to come for the World’s number one team, but the waiting must be proving frustrating for their supporters.  If Georgia actually had backs that could have threatened New Zealand then the result may have been very different.  That being said, Georgia didn’t and despite the fact that at the breakdowns and in the scrums New Zealand were made to work exceptionally hard, they were never in danger of losing the match.  What was worrying for New Zealand was how easily the relentless forward pressure from Georgia forced the All Blacks into numerous handling errors.  Sonny Bill Williams and Julian Savea made a clear statement in this match but against a side that has not much to offer in the backs department it was hard to guage how good a performance by these two it really was.  Waisake Naholo made an emphatic return to an All Black shirt after a remarkable return from injury but even here lack of game time saw him make a few basic mistakes under pressure.  Meanwhile Richie McCaw hobbled off and fly half Dan Carter looked less than flash all night.  I am not writing the All Blacks off by any manner of means, but like most was surprised at the sloppiness of this excecptionally underwhelming display by New Zealand.  New Zealand will cruise into the knockout stages undefeated but after what we have seen so far, they will really have to step it up a few gears and really find some killer instinct if they are to get any further than the Quarter Finals.

Georgia – 7/10

Another impressive outing by Georgia which put tournament favourites New Zealand under all kinds of pressure.  If Georgia had a back line that could match the world class talents of their forwards, then this team could be a real contender.  Having said that, right now they just don’t but I am sure by the time of the next World Cup they will have that aspect of their game addressed.  In the meantime, even without a potent back line Georgia have been real contenders this tournament which just goes to show what a force this country is becoming.  Calls for them to be included in a higher level competition such as the Six Nations are certainly not without merit.  All credit to Georgia, their scrum often dominated New Zealand and their defence was always valiant despite a seeming reluctance by both sides to tackle early on.  Georgia’s back line did have a moment of glory through an opportunistic try by full back Beka Tsiklauri in the opening stages of the game, but that was sadly the only moment of quality back line play from Georgia.  In the end Georgia can take great pride in the fact that they stood up to the All Blacks and made the World Champions look distinctly average for long periods of the match.  Their final match against Namibia should see them comfortably clinch third spot in Pool C and automatic qualification for the tournament in Japan in 2019.

Samoa vs Japan
Final Score – Samoa 5/Japan 26
Milton Keynes

Samoa – 5/10

Samoa promised so much going into this tournament but are in serious danger of exiting with a whimper.  This can only be described as a dismal performance which most of their players and supporters will no doubt want to forget.  Japan essentially dominated a woeful Samoan side racked by poor execution and a complete lack of discipline.  Samoa can’t even use the excuse of a quick turnaround as they were well rested for this crucial fixture.  In short there is nothing really to say about this match from a Samoan perspective.  They simply didn’t show up and as a result are for all intents and purposes on the plane home.  It is hoped for the sake of this proud rugby nation that they can find something in the tank to put in a display against Scotland that although it won’t change Samoa’s fortunes could end up having a huge impact on how Pool B may be determined.

Japan – 8/10

A well rested Japanese side completely outplayed a poor Samoan side.  The only negative aspect of Japan’s performance was the reluctance to take bonus points which were clearly on offer on two occasions and instead take the safer option of kicking for goal.  This conservative approach was certainly not a feature of their heroic effort against South Africa, and with so much at stake in terms of positioning in terms of Pool B, it was perplexing to see Japan take these options on Saturday.  Nevertheless, it was a solid performance from Japan that eclipsed anything Samoa could offer.  Fullback Ayumu Goromaru put in another massive performance for Japan and really is a critical component of Japan’s composure under pressure. Nevertheless he was not as accurate with the boot as he was against South Africa, which made the decision to kick for goal on two occasions when Japan had Samoa on the ropes in defence all the more puzzling. Despite this Japan head into their final game with the USA, in excellent shape. A chance of them making the quarter finals is distinctly possible depending on how the Scots fare against Samoa. Japan should easily get the better of a tired and ill-disciplined USA side reeling from a very physical encounter with South Africa with only four days turnaround. Japan may rue the decision to not check their maths during this game, but their Cinderella story in this World Cup for the moment still looks very much alive.

South Africa vs Scotland
Final Score – South Africa 34/Scotland 16
Newcastle

South Africa – 8/10

South Africa continued their rise from the wreckage which was their opening match against Japan in no uncertain terms.  For all intents and purposes they neutralised a Scottish side that clearly came to put up a challenge but never really looked like threatening a very fired up and focused Springboks side.  It was physical and intense from the get go and South Africa essentially bludgeoned the Scots into submission.  As impressive as it was, you still couldn’t help get the feeling that South Africa’s game play still relies far too much on this overwhelming physical approach and up against more tactically astute sides in the knockout stages this slightly one-dimensional style could be their undoing.  It was a measured and solid performance from South Africa.  They dominated the setpieces and lineouts and Lood de Jager alongside his lock partner Eben Etzebeth had a massive game for the Springboks.  JP Pietersen on the wing had another excellent game and has really been key in defence for South Africa as well as bagging another superb try.  Handre Pollard really came into his own with the boot and had a very assured afternoon at fly half.  I only saw two weak points in this Springbok performance, Jannie du Plessis’ yellow card and some truly shocking defence which resulted in Scotland’s only try.  I like many feel that du Plessis unlike his brother Bismarck really has past his sell by date and he should be making room for a younger generation of Springbok props.  South Africa are back and mean business but I really do feel that they need to use their backs more if they want to get beyond the Quarter Finals, especially if their first knockout opponent ends up being Australia.

Scotland – 6/10

After a stellar opening two games in this World Cup, this was a poor performance from Scotland. They were completely dominated by South Africa in all aspects of the match. They had moments of brilliance but these were more due to South African mistakes than genuine playmaking from the Scots. Scotland’s only try from winger Tommy Seymour set up by a piece of sheer magic from fly half Duncan Weir was definitely one of the highlights of an otherwise brutal physical encounter with the Springboks clearly in charge. Scotland just never really got into the match and even Greg Laidlaw’s usually reliable boot wasn’t working for them. Their scrums got pushed around and they essentially stood no chance in the lineouts and at the breakdowns despite some really solid work from number eight David Denton and Blair Cowan both of whom put in performances that often sparked some Scottish momentum. Fullback Stuart Hogg was always dangerous but suffered from a severe lack of discipline at times and his diving antics at one point totally deserved the stern reprimand he got from referee Nigel Owens. Nevertheless it was still sad to see this star player limp off in the second half with an injury and it is hoped that he will be fighting fit for the remainder of Scotland’s campaign.

England vs Australia
Final Score – England 13/Australia 33
Twickenham

In the biggest match of the tournament so far, the hosts England were once more found sorely lacking in character and ability. It is still harsh justice that they are now out of the tournament but like many I have never really seen anything from England in the last year that really led me to believe they could keep up a consistent run of form to lift the Webb Ellis trophy in their own backyard. Furthermore, as readers of this blog know I have always had serious doubts about Coach Stuart Lancaster’s ability to take this team to World Cup glory as he struggles to find the team he wants and needs. Bizarre selection choices based on reputation rather than form have let England down time and again. The decision to select in my opinion England’s most overrated player Owen Farrell, who often lacks discipline and composure under pressure, was only part of England’s undoing, along with a reliance on an inexperienced flash in the pan player like Sam Burgess to save the day. England were for the most part a shadow of their Wallaby opponents in every aspect of the game. Whereas the Wallabies were clinical and deadly in everything they did, England often looked desperate and lacking conviction in their abilities. As the match wore on they simply dug themselves deeper into their own hole and the Wallabies punished them for it. As I have always felt the minute George Ford at flyhalf came on moving Owen Farrell to centre, England’s attack finally seemed to have some purpose, but it was simply too little too late. Farrell’s sending off for a truly stupid shoulder tackle would be the last straw that would knock England out of the competition even though I agree that Australia’s Michael Hooper should have been carded for the same offence earlier in the match. England now face a meaningless game with Uruguay before the entire English rugby setup is put under the most unforgiving of microscopes for the next few months. Despite the shock of this result England deserved to do so much better and I hope that this major setback will be the catalyst to find the answers as to why England is where it is and how to fix it – a painful but long overdue few months now awaits.

Australia – 10/10

At the end of week three, for me the team that is leading the chase to get their hands on the Webb Ellis trophy is clearly the Wallabies. This was a clinical and ruthless performance which showcased Australia’s depth in both defence and attack. In short they made England look like amateurs for most of Saturday night and there was only ever going to be one result. As far as I was concerned it was a masterclass performance by Australia and the only blemish on it was Michael Hooper’s cynical shoulder charge on Mike Brown’s head, which should have seen a yellow card. It didn’t but at least justice has been served in his citing post the match and resulting one week ban. Nevertheless it still wouldn’t have changed the outcome of this match. Australia were the class act and England the pretenders. Bernard Foley at fly half was absolutely outstanding and his two tries surely made an emphatic statement that Quade Cooper should continue warming the bench for Australia. Australia’s forwards made mincemeat of England’s replies and David Pocock demonstrated time and again why he is the world’s most devastating loose forward. Of particular note for me was another exceptional performance from flanker Scott Fardy, his workrate is rapidly becoming the stuff of legends. I was surprised to see Nick Phipps brought on at scrum half for Will Genia who more than answered all his critics in a superb return to form, while Phipps often looked nervous and made several critical errors which gave England a chance to get back in the game. In short, Australia look good – really good and from what I have seen so far, are in my opinion currently the front runners to take the big prize on October 31st. We wait and see what happens against Wales but Australia must be feeling pretty good about life right now.

Argentina vs Tonga
Final Score – Argentina 45/Tonga 16
Leicester

Argentina – 9/10

I have to be honest, apart from lock Tomas Lavanini’s disciplinary problems, Argentina are looking really good. Lavanini should have got a yellow card and despite his obvious impact in this Pumas side they are really going to have to get such lapses under control if Argentina are to continue to advance in this tournament, which on the basis of this display they are more than capable of doing. Argentina in this match despite some very spirited play from Tonga were clearly in charge of this game. Their legendary scrum passed all the required tests, their lineouts were good coupled with excellent work at the breakdown coupled to a set of backs that are really starting light up this tournament. Nicolas Sanchez at flyhalf for the Pumas made a truly spectacular return to the form we all know he is capable of. Accurate, disciplined and with a keen eye for opportunity he was key to Argentina’s success on Sunday afternoon. Once again for me though, winger Santiago Cordero and number eight Leonardo Senatore were real revelations in this match. Cordero’s speed of step coupled with a willingness to make tackle after tackle in defence has been one of the real highlights of this Pumas squad during this World Cup and he is going to be a major threat. Leonardo Senatore at number eight is another key component of this Pumas side and gains key turnover after turnover for the Pumas while covering the entire park for eighty minutes. Argentina are clearly looking for glory and have so far shown that they have the capability to get results as they go from strength to strength. France and Ireland must surely be feeling that whatever happens in Pool D, there will simply be no easy rides at the quarter finals now.

Tonga – 7/10

Tonga were brave and worthy opponents against an Argentinian side that is starting to look like real contenders for World Cup glory. However, it was a lack of discipline at times and lapses in defence which ultimately meant that Tonga would fall short of the mark. When they had the ball in attack they always looked dangerous and their two tries were excellent value for money. However, it was always going to be a hard task for them to match the intensity and class that the Pumas had on offer. Tonga gave it their all and helped make a match that on the scoreline alone appear one-sided, a thoroughly entertaining and at times tense encounter. Well done Tonga and it seems a shame that a side that has provided some really exciting rugby faces the prospect of only finishing fourth unless Namibia upsets Georgia. The passion inherent in Tongan rugby has been there for all to see throughout this tournament and I like many have thoroughly enjoyed it. New Zealand will have to be mindful of this as Tonga take on the world’s best in their last hurrah of Rugby World Cup 2015.

Ireland vs Italy
Final Score – Ireland 16/Italy 9
London

Underwhelming to say the least is what Irish supporters must have felt about their side’s performance in this match. All credit to Italy who took the game to Ireland in no uncertain terms led by their talismanic Captain Sergio Parisse. Ireland however, just couldn’t seem to string a comprehensive game plan together to match the Italian intensity. There were some standout performances for Ireland with lock Ian Henderson stealing much of the Irish limelight. Peter O’Mahony made a real impression with his try saving tackle on Josh Forno which could have ended up swinging momentum in favor of the Italians, but his high tackle later in the match could well have undone his earlier heroics. Keith Earl’s try got Ireland the gap they needed to win the match but it was the only real highlight of a match where Ireland looked nervous and clearly struggling to contain a rampant Italian side. It was labored and certainly will not be giving the French much to worry about. As Ireland’s first real test of the World Cup they walked away with a win but left far too many question marks on the field!

Italy – 8/10

If anyone ever doubted the impact of Captain Sergio Parisse on Italy’s fortunes then surely this match must have put those to rest. He was as always incredible and lifted a valiant but demoralised Italian side to new heights. Italy although unable to score tries due to some solid Irish defence, otherwise had the better of this match. They were unlucky not to score a try and a last minute error in decision making by lock Josh Forno, coupled with some critical misses by fly half Tommaso Allan at goal, meant that ultimately it would not be Italy’s day. They were close ever so close and really put one of the tournament’s favourites under incredible pressure for the full eighty minutes. What Italy can take enormous heart from is the fact that the loss of Sergio Parisse after 60 minutes did not for a second diminish the intensity of the Italian performance. They played some fantastic rugby for a full eighty minutes leaving Irish supporters sweating in their seats till the final whistle. They now face an epic showdown with Romania and I for one can’t wait. Italy’s World Cup may be over, but with one match left there is still plenty of life left in the Azurri!

There were few if any surprises on Day Eight, especially after the high drama of the previous day and headline stealing showdown between England and Wales.  Australia put a brave but ineffectual Uruguayan side to the sword, while despite struggling at times, Scotland ultimately finished with a clinical display against the United States.  Meanwhile, as expected Ireland ironed out the last of their kinks against Romania with an emphatic win in readiness for getting the business end of their World Cup started this weekend against Italy.

Australia vs Uruguay
Final Score – Australia 65/Uruguay 3
Birmingham

Australia – 8/10

Against a significantly weaker opposition, it was hard to judge Australia’s performance on Sunday. It was a convincing and emphatic win, but one that surprised few while perhaps not convincing many that we know what we can expect from Australia once the tournament really starts to heat up.

Australia got the job done against a valiant but completely outclassed Uruguayan side. Australia looked good for the most part, but nagging questions still remain. Quade Cooper continued his erratic form, brilliant one minute but then careless and sloppy the next. It was a good outing for Dean Mumm on his first Captaincy and like many of his colleagues he put in a good performance.

Australia were effective and at times clinically ruthless in the way they dispatched Uruguay, and Sean McMahon was one of the real standout performers in this match and must surely give Coach Michael Cheika some breathing room should he lose either of his two first choice flankers, David Pocock and Michael Hooper, to injury as the tournament progresses. Ben MacCalman on the other flank also put in a solid effort all afternoon.

In short, there was little to criticise in this Australian performance which for the most part ran to script. The only real variables for me were Quade Cooper and to a certain extent Drew Mitchell. Cooper although showing some real flashes of brilliance at flyhalf showed that for the big pressure games he is likely to be far too much of a liability for the Wallabies. Poor discipline and a 50/50 success rate with the boot means he is unlikely to get too much match time in the two must win Wallaby matches against England and Wales. Plenty of scope for him as a substitute impact player but for the full eighty minutes in two high pressure games he is simply too much of a wild card. Secondly, I thought winger Drew Mitchell, despite his two excellent tries, often lacks the ability to see the game as a whole as it unfolds around him, and tends to suffer from white line fiver resulting in him missing opportunities for the rest of his teammates. This slightly blinkered vision could be a liability causing points to go begging for Australia when up against tougher opposition.

Nevertheless, as Australia approach the real business end of their Pool they surely must feel pretty confident of a spot in the quarter finals. All that remains to be seen is whether or not they emerge from the Pool in first or second place. This Saturday against England will be the decider. Barring any Quade Cooper wobble moments, this Wallaby team really does look exceptionally focused and are going to prove very difficult to beat.

Uruguay – 7/10

Even though they knew that the likelihood of them pulling off an upset was about as likely as Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin having a civilized tea party, Uruguay came into this match with their heads held high and were valiant competitors for a full eighty minutes. However, at times the gulf in quality and experience between the two sides was painfully obvious. Despite that Uruguay played with plenty of heart and courage even though it was for all intents and purposes a one-way Wallaby road show.

There were glimmers of hope for the Uruguayans and a few try scoring opportunities did present themselves but the lack of finishing skills by the South Americans was painfully obvious at times. Furthermore, although they were courageous in the contact areas and on several occasions held their own against the Wallabies, their defence found it hard to really plug the continuous gaps that Australia managed to find.

In short, a team that unfortunately found it hard to shake off its minnow status all afternoon came to this match full of intent and certainly put their hearts and souls into everything they did. They never looked like quitting despite the scoreline and for that we have to salute them. It is unfortunate that they have been drawn in such an overwhelmingly difficult Pool, but they clearly are enjoying the opportunity of showing the rest of the world that they are at this tournament for a reason and not just to make up the numbers. Like many in the stands last Sunday we all hope that they continue to acquit themselves with pride for the remainder of this tournament and that it ends up being a positive experience for the players and the future of rugby in Uruguay. I am pretty sure we will be seeing Uruguay again in Japan in 2019.

Scotland vs USA
Final Score – Scotland 39/USA 16
Leeds

Scotland – 8/10

Another really solid performance from Scotland on Sunday in the second half showed that Scotland’s chances of reaching at least the quarter-finals look exceptionally strong. Composed and efficient and able to cope with some significant pressure from the USA at times, Scotland look solid up front and devastatingly quick with ball in hand. There is no doubt Scotland are building nicely for their all important last two matches with South Africa and Samoa to determine the pecking order of Pool B and who their quarter-final opponents will be.

Scotland won this game comprehensively but a shaky start to proceedings in the first half will concern Coach Vern Cotter as his side despite numerous penalties awarded to them, failed to really assert any kind of authority over a very motivated American team. Given the physical authority of the Springboks, Scotland cannot afford a similar shaky start this weekend against the South Africans. Indeed had the Americans been blessed with better discipline and stronger execution then Scotland would have had to work much harder in the second half than the scoreline would suggest. Nevertheless it is the second half on which I am primarily judging Scotland as they came from behind and clearly took the match by the jugular in a masterful display of composure and authority. This is a talented side that has plenty of potential to really make a statement of how far Scottish rugby has come in the last year.

In many ways Scotland muddled their way through the first half, and often seemed surprised at the speed and ferocity of the American rush defence, with Eagles players putting in some massive hits on their Scottish opponents.  The Eagles were looking good for their lead at half-time with a well-earned try. Scotland had challenged well for the most part but their execution was letting them down hampered by the odd lapses in discipline. Stuart Hogg at fullback was doing plenty of work and constantly sparking Scottish attacks but his passing and accuracy were falling short of the mark.

No doubt a fairly serious tongue lashing was doled out by Coach Vern Cotter in the dressing room, and the Scotland that emerged onto the field looked a very different side. Within minutes they had hit back and quickly began to get themselves in the driving seat with a brilliant try from winger Tim Visser, after that man Hogg had started the movement and found the accuracy in his offloads once more. Sean Maitland would follow with a second try and Scotland were back in the lead and charging hard. Scotland would experience a brief scare from the Americans midway through the second half but solid Scottish defence would see the Eagles’ handling and execution fall apart. From here on, it was all about Scotland till the final whistle, as the Americans exhausted from their earlier heroics rapidly began to fade despite a raft of substitutions. The only blemish to the Scottish performance was the loss of Finn Russell due to injury.

Put aside the inability to find the right gears in the first half, and the Scottish resurgence in the second half and the intensity at which they played gives them a solid score in my opinion. By the end of the second half it was clear that this Scottish team have figured out the way they want to play, and the execution was there for all to see. They will still need to review that first half, and make sure that against South Africa we see eighty minutes of what they are clearly capable of delivering. How far they can ultimately go in this year’s World Cup remains to be seen, but they are surely guaranteed a quarter-final spot unless it all goes horribly wrong against South Africa and more importantly Samoa. In the case of the latter match against Samoa, I have a hunch that it will be Scotland’s day. Nevertheless, Pool B surely still has some twists left in its plot, and Scotland will need to be on their guard as the job is far from done yet.

USA – 7/10

You have to hand it to the Eagles for putting up some bruising resistance that really made it hard for the Scots to find any kind of rhythm in the first half. However, as we have seen time and again from the Eagles they really do have some serious discipline issues which ultimately mar what could have been some outstanding performances and possibly even cause the odd upset. Furthermore, as the pressure starts mounting against them and the discipline starts to crack so too does the handling and execution. In short, a side with some serious promise but lacking the necessary finesse at the moment to really compete and hold their own at this level.

The Americans played a solid first half, which barring some costly disciplinary lapses left them with a deserved 13-6 lead at half time. Fly half AJ MacGinty was providing some solid work with the boot as well as often finding holes in the Scottish defence, which centre Seamus Kelly was able to exploit and turn into some good metres for the Americans. The American forwards were putting in some huge hits on the Scots, and even winger Takudzwa Ngewnya showed that he is not just one of rugby’s fastest men but is also not shy of the odd monster tackle as he flattened Scottish centre Peter Horne. Flanker Andrew Durutalo was having a particularly bruising afternoon on attack as well as pushing Scotland hard at the breakdown. The Americans were quickly up in defense and it was causing Scotland great difficulty in establishing any kind of pattern to their game.

However, it was the second half and a disintegrating display of discipline and execution by the Americans which let them down and surely must be frustrating for their supporters as they have seen this all too often. Even though the Americans briefly rallied midway through the second half, it was cold comfort for their supporters who had rightly believed after the first half that their team was about to deliver so much more.  With two games left the Americans will really need to find those finishing touches as they face first a bruising encounter with South Africa and then the Cinderella story of the tournament Japan.  This is a gutsy and talented Eagles side but they will have to dig very deep for the remainder of the tournament and their final match with Japan should be a classic.

Ireland vs Romania
Final Score – Ireland 44/Romania 10
London

Ireland – 9/10

Ruthless and with some dazzling displays of flair, this was a very good-looking Irish performance.  How good Ireland are at this stage is still hard to tell as with no disrespect to Canada or Romania, they have yet to be really tested.  Nevertheless this was a sound performance from Ireland against a plucky but clearly tired Romanian side still reeling from their efforts against France a few days earlier.

Few doubted Ireland’s ability to win the match but were perhaps surprised to see it take as long as it did for Ireland to notch up the all important bonus point.  Nevertheless, Ireland got the job done and in the process produced some real class with Simon Zebo stealing much of the limelight at times.  Tommy Bowe on the wing stormed back to form after the question marks raised about him during the summer’s warm-up games and Keith Earls on the opposite wing is really starting to show some form and consistency.  Ireland effectively neutralised Romania’s traditional strengths in the scrum and Devin Toner answered his critics by having a standout game especially in the lineouts.  Flanker Chris Henry continues to impress for Ireland and really shows how much depth Ireland has managed to develop in their squad in the last two years. Meanwhile although looking slightly rusty at times, Cian Healy is coming back into the Irish fold after his injury layoff at speed and is likely to be at his fighting best come the critical match-up with France.

Calm and efficient but with the ability to give the noisy crowd plenty to cheer about, it was a polished Irish display which should set them up nicely for their last two games where the real work of this Rugby World Cup begins for Ireland.

Romania – 7/10

Romania were always going to be up against it for this match, as reeling from their impressive encounter with the French only a few days earlier, they were now faced with the task of taking on Pool favourites Ireland.  To give Romania full credit, they gave it everything they had and although outclassed by Ireland, they were worthy competitors who often made Ireland work hard.  Their never say die attitude resulted in a well-earned try late in the match and merited them a lap of honor around Wembley stadium at the end of the match, with the Kodak moment of Romanian scrum half Florin Surugiu proposing to his girlfriend on the pitch.

Romania showed some real pace in winger Adrian Apostol which almost resulted in a try for Romania and managed to set up a lengthy passage of play for them in Ireland’s 22 at one point.  Furthermore, despite the ferocity of the Irish attack particularly in the second half, the Romanians managed to get some significant turnover ball at key moments, once again proving that when it comes to a work rate at the breakdown they are no slackers despite some clearly fatigued bodies.  It was unfortunate that a lack of discipline towards the end would see Romania the recipient of the match’s only yellow card, but they can still take heart in a well worked consolation try through lock Ovidiu Tonita in an exhausting final quarter.

With the benefit of some decent rest ahead of them before their next encounter with Canada, I fully expect to see Romania give the Canucks a serious run for their money as these two teams battle it out for fourth place.  While Canada may have the edge in their backs they are going to have to work hard to create space for them when up against a very physical and effective Romanian forward pack.  Romania are still here to make a statement and Canada and Italy will need to be wise to the real threat this team poses.

For me this was probably the best day of the World Cup to date.  Canada put in a fantastic performance against Italy which sadly still saw them walk away with a narrow loss.  South Africa upped their game significantly to eclipse a Samoan side that for me really didn’t pose much of a threat, but would sadly see the exit from the World Cup of Springbok Captain Jean de Villiers due to injury.  Lastly, Wales gave us the game of the tournament in a thrilling encounter with England which has left the tournament hosts facing the distinct possibility of being knocked out in the Pool stages.  There was drama aplenty as the excitement in this, the most open World Cup ever, continues to mount.

Italy vs Canada
Final Score – Italy 23/Canada 18
Leeds

Italy – 7/10

It may not have been pretty by any stretch of the imagination, but Italy under enormous pressure from Canada emerged with a scrappy but vital win, despite being dominated by Canada for much of the match. In the end, Italy’s big game experience and temperament with veterans like Martin Castrogiovanni and Mauro Bergamasco in the side, showed and helped Italy edge past Canada. They may have got the win but it wasn’t convincing enough that they are likely to cause their next opponents the Irish too many sleepless nights, even with the return of their talismanic Captain and number eight Sergio Parisse.

Canada came into this game full of intent and Italy struggled to assert any kind of authority on the match for long periods of time. As we saw against France, this rapidly turned into frustration and the resulting penalty count was really starting to hurt the Italians. When Italy did manage to keep their discipline they did look a strong side and composure at the breakdown would be ably rewarded by the boot of flyhalf Tommaso Allan who continues to impress in the position. Perhaps the most frustrating aspect of Italy is that they have some significant forward prowess when settled and this was instrumental in scoring Italy’s two tries. However, discipline in the Italian camp is just not consistent coupled with some serious defensive lapses. Italy’s defensive structures often looked confused and poorly organised, and with Canada having the likes of wingers such as DTH van der Merwe in their ranks, this was always going to be a problem. If Italy are to stand any kind of chance against Ireland’s powerful strike runners this weekend, then this really needs to be addressed. Furthermore if the discipline is not fixed then Ireland’s Johnny Sexton will make them pay heavily.

On the plus side, Italy can take great heart from the fact that they managed to hold off a determined Canadian charge which lasted a full eighty minutes. In the final ten minutes of the game they stood their ground despite a ferocious Canadian challenge. In fairness to Italy, when they needed it the most their discipline improved dramatically. There were no real standout performances in terms of individual efforts for me from Italy, but ultimately when it mattered they dug deep as a team and found that extra edge to see off an exceptionally motivated and determined Canadian challenge. It may not have been pretty but it was certainly exciting and as a team Italy finally found some of that cohesion they have been lacking since the absence of Sergio Parisse. While the return of their inspirational Captain this week may not be enough to see off an Irish side just starting to hit all the right notes, if Italy take the positives of this match and apply them this weekend, there is still the outside chance that they could stay in the tournament if France were to slip up against Canada. It’s a slim chance but in a World Cup that has already seen two major upsets, nothing is impossible at this stage.

Canada – 8/10

Once again the losing side gets a higher score than the victors. Canada caught the imagination of the crowd in Leeds on Saturday as they put on a terrific display that kept the Italians scrambling to keep them at bay for the full eighty minutes. However, once again, as it has for the last two years Canada’s finishing and some basic skill levels ultimately let them down and denied them a victory that was well within their reach. Much will be written about Captain Tyler Ardron’s decision at the 70 minute mark when Canada had Italy on the ropes to go for the posts instead of kicking for the corner and going for the try. I thought Ardron had a good game overall as Captain and really led from the front. Whether or not that decision was correct or incorrect is now a moot point, but perhaps given the momentum Canada had I can’t help feeling that it would have been worth taking the risk for the seven points and kick for the corner. Canada had momentum at a key point in the match and the resulting kick for the posts caused them to lose it and Italy to reorganise.

Nevertheless, it was an epic performance from Canada, that had everyone on the edge of their seats for the full eighty minutes, and showed that although Canadian rugby may be struggling to get results at the moment, when it counts they can be excellent value for a big performance. This is what they gave the crowd to a man on Saturday, and although gutted by the loss of a match that for all intents and purposes was theirs for the taking, they can hold their heads high going into the match with France this Thursday.

There were numerous standout performances from Canada on Saturday, but the usual suspects once again came to the fore. In the forwards Hubert Buydens and Ray Barkwill once more put in a massive shift at the coal face and contributed greatly to rattling Italian nerves at the breakdown and in the scrums. Hooker Ray Barkwill for the most part had an exceptionally accurate afternoon in the lineout. Jebb Sinclair and Jamie Cudmore were solid in the second row while Nanyak Dala and John Moonlight were exceptionally troublesome loose forwards. As I have said already I thought Captain Tyler Ardron had a really solid afternoon at number eight and apart from one error in judgement at the 70 minute mark, really led his team by example.

Canada’s backline was a real handful for the Italians all afternoon. Winger DTH van der Merwe was absolutely outstanding and once more scored one of the weekend’s top tries. Phil Mackenzie on the other wing also had a stormer of a match and was very unlucky to be the recipient of a pass that was ever so slightly forward and which resulted in him being denied an otherwise spectacular try. Matt Evans had a good afternoon at fullback and scored his own try that showed a blistering turn of speed. Ciaran Hearn did some solid work at centre and his role in Van der Merwe’s try was critical. The loss of his centerfield partner Connor Braid to injury for the rest of the tournament is a real blow for Canada. I thought flyhalf Nathan Hirayama played a key role in Canada’s efforts on Saturday. His kicking was reliable and his willingness to throw himself into the contact areas was highly commendable. I was initially disappointed not to see Phil Mack starting in the scrum half position, especially when you saw the impact he made when he did come off the bench, but Jamie Mackenzie acquitted himself well as scrum half in this match.

In short it was a really solid and at times thrilling performance from Canada which should have seen them come out on top. There were as always a few missed tackles at key moments, particularly during Italy’s first try, and at times the finishing under pressure just wasn’t there. Still it was a huge step up in terms of performance when compared to Canada’s games over the last two years. Canada can take great heart from this and know that although still a work in progress they have some really exciting prospects for the future. If they can come close to matching this kind of intensity while fixing some of their basic errors, when they play France on Thursday despite the short turnaround, then another upset in this year’s tournament could just be in the works given France’s hot and cold performances at the moment. Unlikely perhaps, but as we saw with the Welsh and the Japanese, self-belief is a powerful force and that is something this Canadian side, despite their recent struggles, has plenty of!

South Africa vs Samoa
Final Score – South Africa 46/Samoa 6
Birmingham

South Africa – 9/10

Despite the shock of their opening loss to Japan, there were very few people, myself included, who really thought that the Springboks were on their way out of this tournament.  They have some problems for sure, but are a long way from being down and out.  As with all the great teams, sometimes a shock like the one South Africa got from Japan is just the tonic to spur them on to bigger and better things.  From the evidence on display in Birmingham this past Saturday, it would seem that South Africa are back with a vengeance.  Nevertheless, as good as they were Samoa by contrast were poor and South Africa still has a great deal of work to do if they intend to be serious contenders for the Webb Ellis trophy at the end of October.

You could sense from the outset that both sides were experiencing a mild case of nerves about this match, and South Africa probably more so.  The game literally exploded from the moment referee Wayne Barnes blew his whistle, and the intensity particularly from South Africa would not let up for the full eighty minutes.  Nevertheless, in their enthusiasm South Africa looked slightly dysfunctional for the opening 15 minutes, with Samoa looking the more composed side.  However, JP Pietersen’s superb intercept of a Samoan pass was the moment that suddenly focused the Springboks and would see them completely dominate the rest of the match, with Pietersen himself running in a further two tries.

For me however, if you had to highlight one South African player in particular it would have to be lock Eben Etzebeth.  His intensity, ruthlessness and phenomenal work rate are truly exceptional and serve as a real catalyst for this Springbok team.  While it was a really solid team effort on Saturday in marked contrast to their antics against Japan, Etzebeth is a real talisman for the team and you can see that his colleagues feed off his tireless energy and commitment.  South Africa’s veterans in the shape of Schalk Burger, Victor Matfield, Fourie du Preez and Jean de Villiers provided the experience and composure to get the team out of the inevitable self-doubt after the loss to Japan and as one commentator aptly put it, probably one of the longest weeks in the history of Springbok rugby.

South Africa were also boosted by the return of Duane Vermeulen at number eight, allowing Schalk Burger to return to his traditional role as one of the most dangerous flankers in international rugby.  Victor Matfield was ably replaced in the second half by Lood de Jager, and the young lock alongside Eben Etzebeth would continue to ensure that lineouts were a complete waste of time for Samoa.  Damian de Allende put on one of his trademark powerhouse displays in centerfield and made plenty of useful carries for South Africa all afternoon as Samoa struggled to bring him down.  Bryan Habana showed his class on the wing with his own try, while Handre Pollard at fly half and fullback Willie le Roux started to show signs of returning to the form we have come to expect from these two players.

It was a dominant performance from a resurgent Springbok side who never really let the Samoans see any kind of daylight whatsoever.  The only downside to a comprehensive South African victory was the loss of Captain Jean de Villiers for the rest of the tournament with a broken jaw.  Still South Africa has enough experience in its squad that, as much as he will be missed, there is no shortage of candidates for the Captain’s job, with either Duane Vermeulen or Victor Matfield probably getting the nod.  Still it was sad to see the departure of one of the sport’s greatest ambassadors and ultimate sportsmen, but he leaves behind an honorable and proud legacy.

It was good to see the Springboks back in this tournament and clearly enjoying themselves – let’s face it a World Cup without the Springboks would be a rather poor affair.  Replacement hooker Schalk Brits’ try perhaps summed up the mood in the camp, as for the entire time he was on the field Brits couldn’t stop smiling and not just because he scored a try himself.  South Africa will have to keep up this momentum against a much tougher opposition in the form of Scotland this Saturday.  They have got their groove back in no uncertain terms, but the ghosts of Japan are there waiting to haunt them should they let their guard down for a minute.  Scotland have some exceptionally dangerous backs and have shown that they are no pushover up front either.  As positive as this victory was for South Africa they will have to up their game yet another gear if they intend to knock Scotland out of the pole position in Pool B this Saturday.  Either way it should be an absolute cracker of a game and after this match it’s plain to see that the Springboks are back, confident, capable and hungry!

Samoa – 6/10

We expected so much from Samoa in this match and for me they failed to deliver by a long margin.  I take the point that it would be hard for any team to match up to a wounded Springbok side with a point to prove, but Samoa really were a shadow of what they could have been last Saturday in Birmingham.  They almost seemed reluctant to rely on their traditional strengths of physicality and speed, and instead preferred a kicking game that clearly wasn’t working for them.  On numerous occasions when their forwards had done some good work in getting them a penalty, they would choose the boot of flyhalf Michael Stanley and three pointers from difficult angles on a day where his accuracy was simply not there.  In the end Samoa never really turned up in this match and once South Africa scored their first try for much of the game almost retreated into a shell.

Samoa started well and for the first fifteen minutes matched the intensity of the Springboks and were even getting the better of the South Africans.  Once JP Pietersen scored his intercept try though the wind really seemed to go out of their sails.  They were competitive and their forwards were getting them some decent opportunities, but for some strange reason they failed repeatedly to capitalise on this momentum and instead chose the soft option of kicking for points.  Given that flyhalf Michael Stanley for the most part had a truly woeful afternoon with the boot, we were left perplexed by the Samoan decision-making.  Fullback Tim Nanai-Williams was clearly a threat all afternoon, yet Samoa never really used his potential.  There was one brief moment in the second half where from deep in his own 22, Nanai-Williams had the crowd on their feet as he showcased his full arsenal of skills, only to have the resulting try disallowed at the end due to a forward pass.  Had it worked it would have been one of the tries of the tournament, but sadly that was the only time we got to see the razzle dazzle that we all know Samoa are more than capable of.

By the sixty-minute mark and the above mentioned breathtaking display of skill from Nanai-Williams, who was their standout player of this match, that was essentially it for the Samoans as South Africa cruised past a tired and disjointed team.  While Samoa always looked dangerous in the loose, South Africa gave them little opportunity in this area and when they did get it, their finishing skills just weren’t quite there.  For a side that had been talked up so much, it was a very disappointing display by Samoa even allowing for the ruthlessness and energy of the Springboks.  For the sake of this proud rugby nation it is hoped that they can find the intensity they need once more for their remaining two encounters with Japan and Scotland and keep their dreams of a quarter-final place alive, but on the basis of this display it is likely to be a tall order.

England vs Wales
Final Score – England 25/Wales 28
Twickenham

Wales – 10/10

In one of the great World Cup games of all time, and one which people will be talking about for years to come, Wales deservedly gets the only prized score of 10 from the Lineout during an action packed second weekend of World Cup rugby.  The performance by Wales against England on Saturday was truly monumental, especially given the seemingly unending run of injuries this Welsh side keeps suffering, and showed a strength of character and team unity under pressure that is quite extraordinary.  How much more punishment this Welsh side can really take remains to be seen, but if they show the kind of commitment and character displayed on Saturday night then Wales could well end up surprising us all.

We always knew this was going to be a close match but many, myself included, felt that ultimately England would win the day and a Welsh side reeling from injuries would be unable to go the distance.  Well they not only went the distance, but managed to do so while picking up even more injuries.  To say that the Welsh assault on England resembled the aftermath of a World War One battlefield at the end of eighty minutes would not be far off the mark.  Ultimately Wales came out on top for two main reasons.  Firstly their ability to adapt, especially once they lost two key players and then suddenly seized the initiative from an England caught completely off guard.  Secondly, the performance of Captain Sam Warburton and his inspirational leadership continues to be the stuff of legends coupled with one of the best displays of goalkicking most of us have ever seen in the shape of flyhalf Dan Biggar.  Furthermore, number eight Taulupe Faletau, was lethal in the loose and easily outperformed his opposite number Billy Vunipola.  Add in to the mix the always super-human performances of Welsh lock Alun Wyn Jones and it is not hard to see where Wales found their inspiration on Saturday night.

Let’s face it England had Wales contained despite the incredible accuracy of Dan Biggar’s boot which was keeping Wales in touch due to England’s Achilles heel in relation to discipline, up to the sixty minute mark and the game was there for the taking by the hosts.  Then this happened and showed just how good Wales are at adapting:

Wales down a winger due to injury to Scott Williams, was forced to slot Lloyd Williams in on the wing, despite him normally playing at scrum half.  In a truly breathtaking display the makeshift winger found the man he should have been replacing at scrum half, Gareth Davies in midfield and the rest was history.  Welsh fans erupted while the English looked on in disbelief.  Despite having players out of position for the remaining twenty minutes Wales continued to take the game to England, while at the same time tackling to a man everything the English threw at them in response.  Dan Biggar’s massive kick from the halfway mark with five minutes to go, coupled with some questionable English decision-making would get Wales the victory and make history in the process.

It was an incredible evening of rugby and one that many of us will remember for years to come.  The Welsh honors list contains all 23 players who put in a massive performance to defeat the odds, and Coach Warren Gatland must surely be enjoying his team’s success after being the subject of so much scorn by the press since the loss of Welsh fullback Leigh Halfpenny prior to the start of the tournament.  The loss of both wingers Scott Williams and Hallam Amos in this match for the rest of the tournament does raise the question of how much more punishment can this incredible Welsh side really sustain?  However, after Saturday night Wales are clearly up against it but despite this there is something special in this squad and its character is a quality that might just be the X-factor to take much further than most people thought was possible.  Either way, Wales’ duel with Australia a week Saturday is something we will all be looking forward to.

England – 6/10

England to be honest have few if any excuses for what happened on Saturday night at Twickenham.  After clearly having the edge in a tight and fiercely contested game, England quite simply lost the plot at the hour mark and Gareth Davies spectacular try was a point from which they seemed incapable of coming back from.  They lost composure, nerves got the better of them and decision-making was well questionable to say the least.  England were not getting the basics right in the last twenty minutes and thus the decision to go for the corner instead of kick to tie the match in the dying minutes of the game was suicidal to say the least.  In a Pool where points difference will be the key, the opportunity to deny Wales points for a win should have been paramount.  Sure you can argue that Japan a week earlier had taken the same gamble, but the stakes faced by the Japanese cannot be compared to those faced by England by any stretch of the imagination.

I have been increasingly puzzled by England in the last year.  A team which on paper promises so much but at crucial moments delivers so little. England were in far better shape going into this game than Wales and certainly up until the sixty minute mark, and yet another slew of injuries to the Welsh, should surely have sewn the game up.  Yet their discipline which had been a problem all night let them down continuously.  Add to that some porous defence in centrefield, and yes I am looking at Brad Barritt here and the physicality of Sam Burgess didn’t seem to do England much good either on Saturday night, and you have to wonder if England really are the threat they have been cracked up to be.  The English scrum once more creaked under pressure and their lineout throwing was just not up to scratch, as evidenced by Wales snuffing out England’s last-ditch attempt to save the game through a lineout.

I still think that Johnny May on the wing, as evidenced by yet another superb try, is really a standout feature of this English World Cup challenge along with Mike Brown at fullback.  However, apart from that I am just not seeing a cohesive team that looks like they could really challenge for the Webb Ellis trophy on October 31st.  I always had question marks around England’s ability to cope with the pressure of being the home nation in a World Cup, and based on Saturday’s performance it would appear those fears are justified.

However, just like the Springboks after their shock defeat by Japan, England will regroup make no mistake about it.  The problem is that for England it will be do or die on Saturday night against an exceptionally tough opposition Australia.  South Africa faced a challenge in Samoa to get their campaign back on track but they are simply not of the same caliber that England will have to face in the shape of Australia.  England will literally be playing a World Cup final on Saturday night at Twickenham and you don’t get much more pressure than that.  I believe they can do it, and get an edgy win but it is going to require a monumental effort from a team that is clearly battling with the weight of expectation.  The Rugby World Cup 2015 final Part 1 is coming to Twickenham and television sets around the globe on Saturday night – whatever you do don’t miss it!

Two days and two matches that for many provided very few surprises.  New Zealand and Argentina calmly and efficiently cemented their hold on the top two positions in Pool C as they took on brave challenges from Namibia and Georgia.  We already knew the class New Zealand has to offer but Argentina were a real revelation on Friday and are already looking exceptionally dangerous, giving their potential Quarter Final opponents France and Ireland plenty to think about.

New Zealand vs Namibia
Final Score – New Zealand 54/Namibia 14
London

New Zealand – 8/10

Clinical and efficient were the two adjectives that best came to mind in a convincing win by the All Blacks over the lowest ranked team in the competition Namibia.  There were unlikely to be any surprises in this match and New Zealand were keen to avoid injury in a match that would have little consequence on their journey to the World Cup.  Having said that they still paid respect to their Namibian opponents who never looked intimidated by the world’s best team and even managed to score an excellent try of their own.  Nevertheless it was New Zealand’s day as they cemented their grip on the top spot in Pool C.

With five tries to their name by half-time New Zealand were clearly in the driving seat with Sonny Bill Williams at centre showcasing his full range of talents, and winger Nehe Milner-Skudder demonstrating that his fumble against Argentina a few days earlier was simply an uncharacteristic one-off mistake.  Williams was the offload king of the night, while Milner-Skudder in getting two tries of his own showed that he is going to be complete handful for opposition defences once New Zealand get to the business end of the tournament.  New Zealand will also be pleased to see winger Julian Savea finally start to make the scoring headlines after a very quiet year so far by his standards, though whether or not he will be able to replicate this against tougher opposition remains to be seen.

Occasional lapses in discipline by New Zealand would ensure that Namibia could at least get some points on the board including their only try, and All Black coach Steve Hansen will no doubt be mindful of this as New Zealand heads into the knockout stages, especially given the fact that it proved costly to them in the match against Argentina.  Namibia were able to compete regularly with New Zealand in the physical aspects of the game and force New Zealand to give away unnecessary penalties.  The All Blacks in their two final pool games will have an excellent opportunity to tighten this area of their game up, as both Tonga and Georgia offer significant challenges in the forward battles.

Despite the scoreline, I can’t really say that we have seen a performance by the All Blacks yet that convinces me that it is the Men from New Zealand who will be lifting the Webb Ellis trophy on October 31st.  Yes they look sharp, but with the job done by the hour mark in this match they clearly took their foot off the gas and almost appeared lazy at times.  Given that they have a relatively easy ride for the Pool stages of this tournament I can only assume that we will see the real threat this New Zealand side poses once we get to the knockout stages, where intensity and ruthlessness coupled with strong finishing will be the order of the day.  Hard to beat yes! But right now invincible? Not quite!

Namibia – 7/10

You have to take your hat off to Namibia for putting up a brave display that showed that despite going up against the best team in the world they were not intimidated by the challenge.  Instead Namibia put in a very solid and respectable effort which really got the crowd behind them, especially when they scored a well deserved try.  It must always be hard to run onto the pitch knowing that a win is pretty much out of the question, but Namibia must be commended for playing this game at full throttle.  The pride in the shirt was there for all to see and they gained the respect of the crowd and New Zealand in a courageous display which showed some real resilience at times.

Namibia often looked good in the breakdown situations and maintained some good composure to earn them some decent penalties which Theuns Kotzè did a good job of converting into points on the board.  However, it was the centre Johan Deysel who would get the real moment of magic for Namibia in the second half.  It was a really well-worked team effort from the lineout that saw Namibia move the ball through a number of phases, with Deysel finishing off in a superb show of strength to spin free from two tackles and get Namibia a try which was a just reflection of the effort they put in all night.  Namibia were not exactly the pushover that perhaps New Zealand expected them to be, and they can feel justifiably proud of their efforts.  With their hardest game out of the way, it is hoped that Namibia can take the positives out of their showing against New Zealand and apply them to their match with Tonga.  Given their focus against the All Blacks, Namibia should certainly be able to consider their upcoming match with Tonga as one in which they will be serious competitors and may even be capable of causing an upset.

Argentina vs Georgia
Final Score – Argentina 54/Georgia 9
Gloucester

Argentina – 9/10

Although we all expected Argentina to win this match, I for one was not expecting them to do it in such an impressive fashion.  To say that Argentina looked sharp was an understatement.  On the basis of this performance, their possible quarter-final opponents France or Ireland, must be feeling slightly concerned.  Argentina are looking very much a complete team and barring any injuries could easily go a long way in this World Cup.  However, having said that Argentina were up against it in the first half and it was only in the second half that they really put the shine into this performance. As good as the Pumas were in this match, to progress beyond the quarter finals they will have to apply the killer instinct they showed in the second half for a full eighty minutes.

What really shone in this match for Argentina, was their defence coupled with some real attacking prowess in the second half.  They were being pushed hard by Georgia in the first half and the fact that barring some disciplinary errors, they managed to prevent Georgia from scoring any tries was no small feat.  If this remarkable defensive structure and ability of the Pumas as seen against the All Blacks continues to improve then they could go far in this World Cup.  Match that to the attacking flair and prowess they showed in the second half and this is a very well-drilled Pumas side.

For me though the real revelation this year for Argentina has been winger Santiago Cordero.  Blessed with a remarkable burst of speed and a sidestep that is going to fox defences all tournament, the Pumas winger will be someone to watch over the coming weeks.  Both of Cordero’s tries were excellent value for money and his efforts were backed up by the proven prowess of Juan Imhoff as he too scored two tries.  Argentina were completely dominant in the second half, and despite a brave challenge from Georgia, as I predicted the depth and pace Argentina have in their current crop of backs would simply be too much for a clearly fatigued Georgian side after their exploits against Tonga.  The Pumas are looking a real threat in this year’s World Cup and you know they are only going to get better as it progresses.  France and Ireland will have to watch the Pumas performances very closely indeed.

Georgia – 6/10

Georgia were valiant competitors in the first half, but the loss of inspirational Captain and number eight Mamuka Gorgodze early in the second half would prove too costly to a Georgian team that were clearly showing the side effects of less than a week’s turnaround after their heroics against Tonga.  Georgia played a solid first half that kept a powerful Argentinian side at bay and saw them trailing the Pumas by only five points at half time.

Argentina were clearly frustrated by the solidity and physicality of the Georgian defence, but were able to find another gear in the second half that Georgia couldn’t match.  Georgia were tired and just didn’t have the same resources or depth as their South American rivals. Georgian Captain Mamuka Gorgodze had yet another inspirational game for his country and the penalty that resulted in perhaps an unfair yellow card against him, sapped Georgia of some critical energy and motivation.  As predicted Georgia put in a massive shift in the forward battles, but as the second half clearly showed, while they can compete with the world’s best up front, they lack the depth and skill in their back line that is needed at this level.  Given the progress that Georgia has made in recent years, I fully expect them to have addressed this by the time of the next World Cup.  However, for this World Cup this weakness may well be their Achilles heel which prevents them getting anything better than as I am predicting a third place finish in Pool C.  Nevertheless this will be a major achievement for a country as passionate about their rugby as Georgia is, and guarantees them automatic qualification for the global showdown in Japan in 2019 and fitting reward for a little country with big rugby ambitions.

Day Four saw two keenly anticipated matches as both Scotland and Australia got their World Cup Campaigns underway.  Scotland took on the heroes of the tournament so far Japan, but the big question is could the Japanese after only four days repeat the miracle of their victory over South Africa?  Meanwhile, Australia would take on Fiji who were smarting from a brave performance against England which meant that they were now fighting to stay in the tournament.  Lastly France did battle with Romania after their important but unimpressive win over Italy.

Scotland vs Japan
Final Score – Scotland 45/Japan 10
Gloucester

Scotland – 8/10

Yes that’s correct Scotland get the highest score of Day Four, which may seem slightly unfair as they were up against a clearly fatigued Japanese team who never really looked like repeating their Day Two heroics against South Africa. However, what I did see in Scotland was a clear purpose and for the most part, especially once they warmed to the task, some really solid execution from a well-drilled and clinical side. This was very much a side with a game plan and the ability to execute it. I have always said that Coach Vern Cotter is likely to make big strides with this team over the coming years and this World Cup is likely to showcase a Scotland on the rise again.

The Scottish backs really stood out in this match and fullback Stuart Hogg was really starting to get into his stride. Fast, elusive and exceptionally dangerous whenever he is allowed space with the ability to spot gaps that others may have missed, Hogg is likely to be one of the tournament’s real stars for Scotland. I also thought winger Tommy Seymour put in a big performance as did Mark Bennett in the centres. Finn Russell at flyhalf is going to be someone we all enjoy watching and he just gets better and better as he continues to mature into the role. Scrum half and Captain Greg Laidlaw is proving to be one of the game’s most reliable players and for the most part provided Scotland with really solid decision-making all afternoon, coupled to a goal kicking boot that rarely misses.

In the forwards flanker David Denton and flanker John Hardie both put in a massive performance all afternoon along with lock Johnny Gray who is rapidly showing that he is even better than his all-star brother Richie Gray. The Scottish scrum took no prisoners all afternoon and clearly had the better of an obviously fatigued Japanese outfit.

In short, despite the fact that they were playing against a tired Japanese team, Scotland looked good value for money on Wednesday, and you know they are only going to get better as the tournament wears on. How far they can ultimately go, really remains to be seen, but they look sharp and well-drilled enough that getting out of the Pool stages should be a given with first place honors a distinct possibility!

Japan – 6/10

Japan were obviously tired and it showed.  They still put up a brave fight but as the game wore on the lack of depth in the team was there for all to see.  Fortunately for them they now have a considerable break before their next match and we all hope this will give them sufficient time to recover and once more challenge to exit the Pool and reach the knockout stages.  The loss of number eight Amanaki Mafi to injury in the second half of this match was very worrying as he really is one of Japan’s key players.  He was a constant threat to Scottish defences when he was on the field and it is hoped that he will be fighting fit again for Japan’s next encounter with the Samoans on October 3rd.

Japan were a constant threat to Scotland despite the Scots pulling away comfortably in the second half as fatigue clearly started to set in amongst the Japanese.  It was telling that at half-time Japan were only trailing Scotland 12-7, and showed that tired as they were Japan are likely to regroup with style for their next encounter.  However, Mafi was key to much of what Japan did well on Wednesday, and Japan will really be sweating over whether or not he will be fit for their next match.  Once Mafi left the field a lot of the sting went out of the Japanese attack and Scotland soon started to pull away.  We increasingly saw a breakdown in discipline and multiple errors.  With Scotland’s Greg Laidlaw rarely missing with the boot, it was now becoming an uphill battle for a weary Japanese side to stay in touch with the scoreline.  The last twenty-five minutes of the match saw Japan sadly unravel completely.  Given their schedule of having to play the Pool’s two top teams in the space of a mere four days, it is hardly surprising.  However, the fact that they got blown off the park so comprehensively in the last quarter must surely be a concern for Coach Eddie Jones, as they still have two tough games ahead of them, especially in the shape of Samoa.

Down but definitely not out is the verdict on the Japanese after their second outing.  Still exceptionally brave and a force to be reckoned with, Japan still have plenty to offer this tournament in terms of excitement.  The next week will give Japan a chance to rest some exhausted bodies and hopefully find once more the fitness and concentration that served them so well against South Africa.

Australia vs Fiji
Final Score – Australia 28/Fiji 13
Cardiff

Australia – 7/10

Australia got the win they needed, but a lot like England’s opening effort, looked good but not so good that you felt you could see them with their hands on the Webb Ellis trophy on October 31st.  They had to struggle at times to withstand a late Fijian comeback, and apart from the wonder weapon of their rolling maul and David Pocock in particular, their back line didn’t exactly strike fear into the hearts of the Fijians.  While they clearly got the better of Fiji in the forward battles, their backs were not as impressive and had a relatively quiet shift, in marked contrast to England’s efforts against the Fijians in this department the week before.

Australia got the job done against Fiji, and in their forward pack they showed that they are a real force to be reckoned with, but their much vaunted back line although solid in defence very rarely looked like they were going to get much further than the Fijian 22.  As a result the Wallabies backs never really looked like scoring, if anything preferring to let the forwards do all the hard work in this area. Nevertheless, from an attacking perspective Australia will take great comfort in the devastating power of their rolling maul and the ability of their number 8, David Pocock to use it to maximum effect. Pocock had an absolutely outstanding evening in the number eight shirt, a role he has really grown into over the last six months. His work at the breakdown was also equally impressive and he was constantly disrupting Fijian forward momentum as well getting Australia turnover after turnover.

In the backs, world-class fullback Israel Folau as always dominated play under the high ball and really is a master tactician in this department. He and Adam Ashley-Cooper were the spearhead of most of Australia’s attacking play against Fiji when the Wallabies were’nt relying on David Pocock and company. Furthermore alongside Matt Giteau in the centres, Folau and Ashley-Cooper were made to work exceptionally hard in defence, especially in the second half when Fiji came back at them with a vengeance after finding their second wind. The defensive work of these three players was one of the cornerstones of Australia’s victory on Wednesday and must surely stand Australia in good stead for their clashes with Wales and England, with Giteau’s boot constantly getting Australia out of jail.

In short, it was a solid workmanlike performance from Australia with their wrecking ball rolling maul being their key offensive weapon. While Australia may have lacked some of the razzle dazzle shown by England against Fiji, it was well organised display that showed plenty of composure under pressure and as a first outing for the Wallabies can be considered a job well done in developing a solid foundation for the two pressure fixtures against Wales and England in the final stages of Pool A.

Fiji – 7/10

They may have lost the match and for all intents and purposes their World Cup journey will end with the Pool stages, but I am giving Fiji a deserved 7/10 simply for the fact that they continue to entertain and inspire us with their never say die attitude. As Australia ended the first half with a commanding lead, you felt that it essentially was all over for Fiji. However once referee Glen Jackson blew his whistle for the start of the second half, and Fiji found their groove again we were all forced to rethink. Fiji ended up putting Australia under enormous pressure and it was a courageous and noble fight to the end.

Sadly for Fiji their heroics caused them to lose two key players, winger Waisea Nayacalevu and scrum half Nikola Matawalu to injury. It is hoped for Fiji’s grandstand finale with Wales that these two players are recovered fully to be put back in the mix. Despite the loss and barring any potential long-term injuries to the players mentioned above, Fiji can still take great pride from their performance on Wednesday. Fly half Ben Volavola’s try was another piece of Fijian attacking flair that we have all come to expect from this group of individuals and the flyhalf was a real standout player for the Pacific Islanders on Wednesday. One thing that I felt Australia did more effectively than England was neutralise the threat posed by winger Nemani Nadolo, he was ever-present but got a lot less opportunity than he did against the English.

In short, it was a brave performance from a Fijian side still slightly weary from their epic opening clash with England and having to play two exceptionally high-octane matches in the space of a few days. It was a courageous stand by Fiji against Australia but one that clearly showed how fatigue and injuries were starting to take their toll. The positive for Fiji is they now have a decent rest before they have to take on Wales and this should see them fighting fit again. Wales will be aware of this and watching their backs accordingly. A Fijian upset is still very much on the cards this tournament and you know their focus is now fully on a Welsh side that is battling an injury list from hell.

France vs Romania
Final Score – France 38/Romania 11
London

France – 6/10

I hear what you may be thinking. A six – but they won the match? Correct but for the second time in a row, a side that should be delivering so much more really failed to impress. They often looked disorganised and sloppy and their forward pack which oozes potential got a lesson in breakdown technique from the Romanians. France came out on top but they appeared to have to work far too hard for it. Sure they may be saving themselves for their big clash with Ireland at the end of the Pool stages but on present form they seem to be placing far too much faith in the opinion that the French are at their most dangerous once we’ve all written them off. Furthermore, I doubt this questionable display of form from the French at the moment is likely to lull the Irish into any kind of false sense of complacency.

France’s impressive forward pack struggled to make an impression on Romania, with the exception of their rolling maul which did seem to be effective. Romania once they found their groove were causing France serious problems at the breakdown and the frustration was clearly causing France to lose their nerve resulting in a series of penalties that began to swing the momentum in favor of the Romanians. Had it not been for some stellar last-ditch defence by some of the French backs the scoreline might have actually hinted at another upset of one of rugby’s superpowers by a minnow.

To be honest it was only the last twenty minutes of the game where France started to look vaguely polished and this was less to do with their own efforts and more to do with the fact that after putting up an impressive fight the Romanians were starting to tire and with it their focus. However, even in this period of the game where France had the clear ascendancy a Romanian side on its last legs would still manage to crack the French defence and score a try. Worrying signs indeed.

For me, from a French perspective there was little if anything to get excited about in this match. They got the win but nobody really stood up and counted. The only real bright spark was that after the loss of Yoann Huget to injury in the game against Italy, France can take some heart in their backs through the work of winger Sofiane Guitome. Guitome was a real revelation for France in both defence and attack and his two tries were highlights of an otherwise turgid display from France. After this display, the question still remains as to when this sleeping giant will turn up, but for now France are not so much dozing as deafening us with their snoring!

Romania – 7/10

Yes you read it correctly, they lost the match but I am still giving them a higher score than France. Unlike the French the Romanians really turned up for this match and gave the spectators something to get excited about. They were committed and made a disjointed French side distinctly uncomfortable on numerous occasions and certainly in the first half were the more structured team. If Romanian goal kicker Florin Vlaicu had been a bit more accurate with the boot in the first half the scoreline might have been radically different. It was only unfortunate that the sheer effort put in by Romania left them without sufficient gas in the tank to make more of a statement than they did by the final quarter of the game. However, I am still giving them a higher score than France based on the committment they put into this match compared to France’s often half-hearted offerings.

You just have to take your hat off to a massive performance from Romania’s forwards.  While their back line never really looked like it would do any serious damage to the French, Romania’s forward pack took the game to France for long periods of time and it completely took the French by surprise.  Considering that France’s forwards had been the bright star of an otherwise lacklustre buildup to the World Cup and the central feature of their win over Italy at the weekend, it was impressive that Romania were able to dictate so much of the play in this area, and in the first half in particular their work at the breakdown was exemplary.  However such a physical onslaught took its cost as fitness levels came into question towards the end of the match with the French starting to get the upper hand in this department.

Nevertheless, Romania deserve full credit for putting up such a determined resistance even if it was against a French side that struggled to fire.  The Romanian forwards deserve full credit for an epic performance, but none more so than lock Valentin Ursache.  Tireless and always with an eye to French weak spots, his try was just reward for getting Romania some well-earned recognition on Wednesday.  Romania still has an exceptionally tough road ahead of them at this World Cup, but their efforts on Wednesday night showed that this country with such a proud history in the sport is down but definitely not out.  Canada and Italy will need to pay Romania the highest respect lest they end up with some very unpleasant surprises.

While it was hard to top the excitement and surprises of Day Two, the third day of this year’s Rugby World Cup provided plenty of drama. Argentina and New Zealand put on a high-octane display to determine who would top Pool C barring any major surprises in front of a record-breaking crowd for a rugby match. Samoa eagerly anticipating their clash with South Africa this coming Saturday made sure they got their campaign off to a winning start against the USA and Wales opened their World Cup with an emphatic win over Uruguay but continued to add more casualties to their growing injury list.

Samoa vs USA
Final Score – Samoa 24/USA 16
Brighton

Samoa – 7/10

Always physical and increasingly fast, Samoa are a consistent force to reckon with as the USA found to their cost once again this Sunday in Brighton. Samoa took the game to the USA for the full eighty minutes and were it not for a lack of finishing skills by the Samoans at key moments, the Pacific Islanders would have come away with an even bigger winning margin. Buoyed by this success and South Africa’s shock defeat to Japan the day before, Samoa will fancy their chances in an increasingly wide open Pool B.

Samoa used their power to dominate much of the possession and territory in this match, often starving the Americans of any sort of quality ball or attacking opportunities. The fact that for the most part they were able to do this for the full eighty minutes bodes well for the rest of their campaign. Fullback Tim Nanai-Williams was a real threat and someone the rest of Samoa’s opponents in this tournament will have to work very hard to contain. Furthermore, despite the intensely physical nature of their attacks Samoa did well to keep the penalty count as low as they did, despite the usual bizarre refereeing style of Irish referee George Clancy. Samoa’s biggest problem in this match was their finishing skills which caused them to see at least two possible tries go astray. If they can get this right they will pose an enormous threat to a wounded and disjointed Springbok side come Saturday.

USA – 6/10

The USA are getting better of that there is little doubt, but against Samoa they often found themselves pushed to focus on defence, an area in which they struggled at times. The Samoan challenge and its intensity however gave them far fewer opportunities to attack. They played a good defensive game at times, but consistently denied any real periods of quality possession by Samoa they had few opportunities to really challenge Samoa on the scoreboard. In addition, despite some progress made this summer, discipline continues to be a problem for this Eagles team even allowing for Irish referee George Clancy’s often questionable calls.

There were some positives for the USA however, primarily in the shape of flyhalf AJ MacGinty who gets better on each outing with the Eagles. His reliable goal kicking was coupled with some superb breaks through the Samoan defences. He has a keen eye for opportunity and how to capitalise on opposition mistakes. MacGinty has been a real find for the Eagles and on only his sixth cap, he is already looking like a real talent for the future for the USA. Chris Wyles provided some solid work on the wing reflected in a superb try from a MacGinty offload. If the USA can fix their discipline problems and more importantly cut down on the missed tackles, they have the potential to be a real competitor in a Pool that is rapidly looking to be the mostly openly contested of this year’s World Cup.

Wales vs Uruguay
Final Score – Wales 54/Uruguay 9
Cardiff

Wales – 7/10

Wales got their World Cup campaign off to a convincing start but in the process increased the body count at the Cardiff infirmary, begging the question how much more injury can this side take and still remain competitive? The result was rarely in doubt and it was unlikely that Uruguay would replicate the heroics of say Japan the day before. Nevertheless all credit must be given to a Uruguayan side that despite the odds stacked against them, made Wales work hard for 80 minutes.

Wales ran in an impressive number of tries especially through some excellent work by hat trick hero, centre Cory Allen, which made his subsequent loss to injury for the rest of Wales’ World Cup campaign even harder to swallow. However Wales can take strength in the fact that prop Samson Lee seems to have returned to full fitness at just the right time, his try and solidity in Wales’ forward pack will be key to their success especially against the physicality of England. Liam Williams had a good afternoon in the fullback position and Wales will be crossing their fingers on his fitness for the rest of the campaign. Gareth Davies also showed some real promise in replacing the injured Six Nations hero Rhys Webb in the scrum half position.

For me however, probably Wales most valuable player surely has to be flanker Justin Tipuric. His work rate is truly phenomenal, and he was influential in all aspects of the good work that Wales did on Sunday. His influence on the team over the coming weeks will be critical to Wales. Tipuric’s own try was just reward for an afternoon of sterling service to the Welsh cause.

Although Wales won this game comfortably they did make far too many errors to really make them look a threat to either England or Australia, despite the considerable promise they showed. If they can improve their efficiency then there is no question that the top two spots in Pool A are still up for grabs and certainly a second place finish is within Wales’ grasp. The importance of Saturday’s game against England is without doubt the make or break moment in Wales’ World Cup ambitions.

Uruguay – 6/10

Although losing by more than a 40 point margin, may be seem like a thrashing you have to take your hat off to the Uruguayans who never gave up and at times put in a truly heroic defensive effort. Furthermore, although it was short-lived we shouldn’t forget that they were actually winning the game at one point 6-0. It is for their courage and determination in the face of overwhelming odds that I feel they are justified a score of 6. They may never have looked like winning, but the obvious pride of all the players at representing their country on such an auspicious stage was there for all to see. It was a courageous performance that deserved the utmost respect. Although the scoreline doesn’t flatter Uruguay they put up a solid defence against the Welsh which was extremely effective at denying Wales quick ball for long periods of time. Despite the odds and being the second lowest ranked team in the competition Uruguay never looked like a pushover. They came to play and were not daunted by their illustrious opponents. It can only be hoped that on the back of this performance Uruguay can continue to dig deep and leave this tournament having gained a greater respect from the rugby world at large.

Argentina vs New Zealand
Final Score – Argentina 16/New Zealand 26
Wembley

Argentina – 8/10

Argentina were easily equal opponents of tournament favourites New Zealand in this match and despite their loss and can feel justifiably proud of a massive performance that almost upset the bookmakers odds. What let them down in the end was the inability to go the distance with New Zealand in attack and a slightly less effective bench than that of their All Black opponents. Despite that their defence was immense and they are going to be a huge problem for other teams to overcome as they head into the knockout stages and barring injuries, get better and better.

Through the power of their scrum and their ability to slow things down at the breakdown, Argentina was able to match New Zealand man for man and for the first half and early stages of the second looked the dominant side despite spending less time in New Zealand’s half than the All Blacks did in theirs. There was no questioning their motivation and how well they had prepared for this match. New Zealand were clearly frustrated by the continuous Argentine pressure to the point where they were forced into disciplinary lapses that you simply don’t expect to see from a team like the All Blacks. Argentina was pushing them hard and New Zealand seemed to be struggling to find the right answers.

As the game headed towards the hour mark though, one had to question whether or not the Herculean effort of Argentina was starting to take its toll on tired bodies. New Zealand have shown they are masters of absorbing pressure for very long periods of time, while waiting patiently for weaknesses in the opposition to develop.

Argentina’s only try of the match just before half time, was a classic example of Argentine forward power and seemed to tip the balance clearly in favour of the Pumas. However, this was the only time the Pumas really looked like scoring. The All Blacks were starting to regroup and get the measure of them and Aaron Smith’s try just before the hour mark would swing the balance of the game back towards New Zealand, leaving Argentina to put all their defensive skills to the test. Although they lost I would argue that defensively Argentina have a very sound platform and there was plenty of evidence on Sunday of how effective it is. Despite the considerable impact of New Zealand’s bench in the last quarter, Argentina were still able to keep the scoreline respectable.

It was a solid team effort from Argentina on Sunday, and it is hard to pick out individuals but there were three that really stood out for me. Mariano Galarza who replaced injured try scorer Guido Petti at lock, had an absolute stormer of a game, tackling everything that moved and being instrumental in slowing New Zealand’s momentum. Leonardo Senatore at number eight was outstanding and was all over the park and excelled at disrupting New Zealand as well as gaining some useful turnover ball for the Pumas. Lastly, winger Santiago Cordero had a huge game. His defence and tackling were superb and he was instrumental in getting Argentina some good attacking phases. An exciting player to watch and someone I think we will be seeing a lot of as the tournament unfolds.

Argentina although not getting the win they were hoping for, really stood out as a team that has the potential and capability to make a serious mark on this competition. Ireland and France will surely have watched this game with trepidation knowing that a quarter-final with the Pumas in their current state is going to be a battle of epic proportions.

New Zealand – 8/10

New Zealand in winning this match after looking decidedly rattled for a long period of the game, showed that they are still the masters of adaptation and closing out big games. Add to that the fact they have so much depth in their squad with the result that their bench is always a deadly weapon and game changer for the last quarter. This is what we saw on Sunday, as New Zealand shaken by the ferocity of the Argentinian challenge, simply found another gear in the shape of their powerhouse bench which ensured that the sting was taken out of any potential Pumas attack and that the South Americans would have to defend like demons for the last twenty minutes.

Despite their precision and superiority in attack, epitomised in the form of Sonny Bill Williams when he came off the bench, New Zealand did not look invincible in this match which surely must give heart to the other teams aspiring to get their hands on the Webb Ellis trophy this year. Don’t get me wrong, they are still one of the world’s best and the consummate masters of turning games around to their advantage. However, as the first half showed rattle them and keep it up and they can be beaten. Richie McCaw’s cynical and disgraceful trip on Argentina’s Juan Martin Fernandez Lobbe, smacked of a side running out of answers.

Nevertheless, New Zealand showed that they can regroup themselves better than any other team even if the situation is unravelling before them. The last twenty minutes of this match was vintage All Blacks and is where any opposition team will need to figure out how to beat them. Sonny Bill Williams efforts after he replaced Ma’a Nonu in centre field were superb. He singlehandedly sliced up the Pumas defences and created the space New Zealand had been looking for all match. I felt that Nehe Milner-Skudder on the wing was unfortunate to get replaced immediately after he lost a Williams hand-off that under normal circumstances he would have caught with his eyes closed. It was evidence of the kind of pressure that the Pumas were putting New Zealand under in defence more than a lack of skill from the young All Black winger.

Aaron Smith as always had a good game at scrum-half, even if he struggled to find the measure of the Pumas in the first forty minutes. Richie McCaw however, I felt started to show that he is losing some of his edge and his reputation for playing on the boundaries of the game’s laws is really starting to catch up with him.  As a result he could even be in danger of becoming a liability for the All Blacks – unlikely but possible. Daniel Carter is still not quite the legend of years gone by though is not far from it and is likely only going to improve as the tournament wears on.

Don’t get me wrong, New Zealand are still the team to beat in this year’s tournament, but it is pretty obvious that they are not the all-conquering juggernaut of two years ago.  On the day there are still four or five teams, Argentina included, who could send New Zealand home empty-handed this year if they’re not careful.

As we all catch our breath from the talking point of the day after Japan’s historic triumph over South Africa, we continue our look at how the teams doing battle on an action packed Day Two fared.  Day Two saw four matches which provided plenty of ecitement and which proved just how competitive this World Cup is going to be!  What perhaps impressed me the most about the day’s actions was the fact that two second tier countries, Georgia and Japan, bagged the best report card scores surpassing traditional giants like Ireland, France and South Africa.

Tonga vs Georgia
Final Score – Tonga 10/Georgia 17
Gloucester

Tonga – 7/10

One of the most interesting things about the opening weekend of this year’s Rugby World Cup is that for all intents and purposes, barring some Namibian miracles, the pecking order of Pool C was determined.  New Zealand and Argentina are likely to finish 1st and 2nd respectively, while as this blog predicted Georgia’s win over Tonga will see them finish third and Tonga and Namibia come in fourth and fifth.  Tonga came into this match as slight favourites between two very physical and passionate sides, but Tonga’s pace in their backs would likely see them get the edge.  However, as it would come down to an epic physical struggle the winner would be the one who kept their composure the best and it that department Georgia held the edge over Tonga.

Early on Tonga were simply committing too many errors, and we saw the same in their recent Pacific Nations campaign.  A proud and passionate side who when it all clicks are impressive, but sadly seem unable to maintain the consistency that their other Pacific Island rivals Fiji and Samoa do on a regular basis.  However, all credit must go to Tonga for a sustained late charge that could well have unseated Georgia had Tonga been able to play like that right from the start.  Sadly it was too little too late, but gained the respect of their opposition and the capacity crowd at Kingsholm Park.  Tonga found some real life in the last quarter and it is for that fight back and a genuine attempt to acquit themselves with honor that I am giving them a 7.

Georgia – 9/10

What the world is rapidly coming to realise is that rugby is big in Georgia – very big!  This little country tucked away in the Caucasus is genuinely passionate about their rugby and is getting better with every World Cup. In addition, for the last few years they have dominated the second tier European competitions.  The big stage is beckoning sooner rather than later for Georgian rugby and their fan favourite status at the last World Cup looks set to continue in this year’s tournament.

Georgia, played a massive game against Tonga and the passion and motivation in these players was clearly there for all to see, none more so than in the figure of their Captain Mamuka Gorgodze who has the same kind of talismanic effect on his team as Italy’s legendary Sergio Parisse.  Georgia are renowned for their physical approach to the game, but are also developing some pace in their back line.  However, it was their clear and clinical domination of the forward aspects of this match that carried them through.  In such a physical encounter as this it is often easy for discipline to break down and Georgia have to be commended for holding their own for the full eighty minutes.  The power of their forwards in getting two superb tries from first Captain and number 8 Mamuka Gorgodze and then Giorgi Tkhilaishvili was exemplary.  Exceptionally strong in the scrums and clinical at the breakdowns and lineouts, Georgia clearly had the edge in terms of execution over Tonga.

Georgia’s entire forward pack deserve honorable mention in this match, but for me Captain Mamuka Gorgodze was the standout player.  His influence on his teammates was immense.  Constantly the rock to which they turned to when things started to unravel, Gorgodze inspired and motivated this team for the full eighty minutes while putting in a massive performance of his own.  As Tonga was fighting hard in the last quarter and putting enormous stress on the Georgian defensive lines, Gorgozde was tireless in his organisation of Georgia’s resistance.  His own joy, pride and elation at the final whistle and commitment to his teammates were images from this World Cup that will live on for years to come.  A great player and a real credit to the game and his country.

Georgia’s next tussle with Argentina is probably a bridge too far but Argentina will know that to take this impressive group of individuals lightly would be a very serious mistake.  Georgia will be competitive up front against Argentina of that there is little doubt, but Argentina’s impressive back line just has too much firepower that Georgia will struggle to match.  Still an exciting match awaits and Georgia will no doubt have, in addition to their very vocal supporters, a significant amount of neutral fans cheering them on.

Ireland vs Canada
Final Score – Ireland 50/Canada 7
Cardiff

Ireland – 8/10

There was little doubt that Ireland would walk away comfortable winners from their opening match, however, I did think that Canada might have put up more of a resistance than their one and only try.  Ireland can however feel pleased that for the most part their defensive structures worked, they sustained no injuries and their discipline against a very physical Canadian side held firm for the most part.  It was clinical and apart from a patch of errors and a gift of a try to Canada, Ireland should be pretty pleased with a good day out.

As many commentators have pointed out ultimately a sound defence will likely be the decider of who lifts the Webb Ellis trophy on October 31st, and in this regard Ireland can feel that Canada was excellent preparation.  Despite the scoreline Canada put up a very spirited and courageous challenge at times that tested Ireland in close defensive formations and out wide.  Apart from one error of judgement by Jared Payne which resulted in Canada’s only try, Ireland were watertight in defence whilst at the same time demonstrating the ability to get enough five pointers when needed.  Johnny Sexton had a solid 50 plus minutes on the field which once again demonstrated his superb game management.

For Ireland there were many standout performances that will make Coach Joe Schmidt feel pretty confident as the calibre of their opponents steadily ramps up during the course of the pool stages, with the ultimate test coming against France.  Flyhalf Johnny Sexton as mentioned did a superb job of constantly keeping Ireland in charge of the match as well as scoring a superb try of his own.  In the forwards, for me Iain Henderson was absolutely immense and I can’t help feeling that come the end of the tournament he may be consistently getting the nod over Devin Toner.  Sean O’Brien is rapidly getting back to his best while Paul O’Connell and Peter O’Mahony are very much the established Captain and his understudy.  In the back line Dave Kearney continues to impress, but I am still not a hundred per cent sure about Luke Fitzgerald and Jared Payne, despite a solid try from the latter.  If Keith Earls can stay fit I think his contribution to Ireland’s cause will increase with every match, while Ian Madigan is also likely to do the same.

In short a good solid Irish effort against a spirited Canadian side.  However, once another feisty challenge from Romania is dealt with then we will really start to see Ireland’s World Cup campaign heat up, but for now they certainly seem to be on track and building nicely.

Canada – 5/10

It was spirited and passionate but ultimately just not good enough to really cause Ireland any major headaches.  Canada despite the potentially humiliating scoreline can walk away with a sense of pride.  They did make Ireland work exceptionally hard at times during this match both in defence and on attack.  However, the gap in skill levels particularly when it came to finishing was there for all to see.  It was a good fight from Canada and having seen Italy’s poor opening effort against France, if Canada can find the finishing skills they so desperately need in a motivated and talented group of players by the time they face Italy, they surely must feel they are in with a chance.

The one thing that really killed Canada in this match though was discipline, and Captain Jamie Cudmore’s yellow card was just simply unacceptable from one of Canada’s most professional and experienced players.  The fact that Canada leaked three tries in his absence says it all.  A bit like Richie McCaw’s deliberate trip on an Argentine player in the All Blacks/Pumas match you are at a loss to explain such behaviour from players of this caliber.

Canada however can take some heart from some stellar performances from prop Hubert Buydens.  He was the epitome of Canada’s effort in defence and as he always does for Canada put in a massive and effective shift at the coal face along with hooker Ray Barkwill.  In the backs, Nathan Hirayama had a fantastic game in the flyhalf position and is a real talent for Canada.  DTH van der Merwe was fantastic on the wing for Canada all night and often proved hard to bring down. Van der Merwe’s work rate was rewarded with his try that was one of the real highlights of the weekend.  Lastly when he came on as a replacement, scrum half Phil Mack provided some impetus and go forward to the rest of his team.  As readers of this blog are well aware I have struggled to understand Coach Kieran Crowley’s preference for Gord McRorie in the starting scrum half berth.  The intensity and speed at the breakdown that Mack brings is in my mind far superior to that of McRorie.  Add to that a crisp delivery to both his forwards and backs with a willingness to go into contact when necessary and for me if Mack had been on from the start, the scoreline might not have been so one-sided.

If Canada can build on this performance and take it to another level then, given Italy’s problems against France, they may well have a chance at upsetting the Italians.  With the return from injury of regular Captain Tyler Ardron for the Italy match, there is the hope that Canada’s run of bad form over the last two years may start to reverse.  In short, Canada is still very much a work in progress and I am not sure we are going to see the end result in this World Cup.

South Africa vs Japan
Final Score – South Africa 32/Japan 34
Brighton

South Africa – 5/10

Where to begin? The Springboks, in what overall has been a dismal year for them, have surely hit rock bottom and it can only be onwards and upwards from here.  Having said this, it in no way detracts from an absolutely brilliant Japanese performance which has rightly caught the imagination of rugby fans around the world.  However, for South Africa they must surely be feeling the pain of a loss which showed them far from their best and looking rather like rugby dinosaurs.

In short, South Africa appeared to approach this match with the wrong attitude thinking that it was merely a warm-up before the real business of their pool began against Samoa and Scotland.  In terms of wake-up calls it doesn’t get much better than this.  Furthermore they seemed completely unable to adapt to the situation they found themselves in.  In the last ten minutes, it was all about Japan who were full of self-belief even though they still essentially had a mountain to climb while the Springboks looked on in stunned disbelief.

There is little to say in terms of positives for South Africa in this match.  They tried to be competitive by relying on the age-old Springbok tactic of bludgeoning supposedly weaker sides into submission.  As a result, so much of their play was so predictable that once Japan got the measure of it, they were easily able to use it to their advantage.  There seemed little semblance of a game plan and how to contain the Japanese.  There was lots of intensity but it didn’t seem to be channeled  into any kind of structure or tactics.  South Africa are still a daunting side but one increasingly easy to read.

If you’re familiar with this blog you will know that I think one of the key problems in the Springbok camp lies in the coaching structure.  I have little if any faith in Coach Heyneke Meyer’s abilities to get South Africa to where it needs to be.  I for one, think much of the political instability plaguing South African rugby is being used as a smokescreen to hide some simple deficiencies in Meyer’s coaching style.  Rooted in the past glories of South African rugby he seems reluctant or ill-equipped to adapt to the demands of the rapidly changing modern game.  Springbok teams increasingly appear devoid of imagination or ingenuity and instead seem to rely on brute strength alone.  Add to that a bizarre obsession with kicking away perfectly good possession time and again, and you suddenly realize that despite having some of the best rugby talent in the world South Africa is essentially without a blueprint for how to use all its skills in the new rugby reality.

I don’t think that South African rugby is per se in decline and they are certainly not out of this tournament yet.  They will regroup as the pride in the jersey is simply too strong.  Perhaps the most useful thing Coach Heyneke Meyer can do in the remaining Pool games is sit down with his players, especially the younger generation and try to master the type of game they want to play.  The French teams of World Cups gone by have often lost complete faith in their coach and seemed to take on the responsibility of coaching themselves with surprisingly positive results.  Perhaps this is what this Springbok team needs to do.  In short, down but not out!  However, the Samoan test on Saturday will be one of the sternest tests this proud team has faced in their history – here’s wishing them well!

Japan – 10/10

In short brilliant!  Japan’s shock defeat of the mighty Springboks has been THE moment of the tournament so far and a piece of rugby history we will all remember for many years to come. To say that this was an exciting game is an understatement. It was a glorious sporting moment that no matter who you were supporting on the day, you knew that rugby ultimately was the winner. As we all sat on the edge of our seats you had to admire the growing self-belief in the Japanese team that they really could pull off one of the biggest upsets in sports history. That last ten minutes was the stuff of legends as Japan set the tournament on fire and emerged very much a worthy winner. It is the hope of every rugby fan that they can live up to the expectations they have created when they face up to Scotland on Wednesday.

The Japanese have really profited under the expert tutelage of Coach Eddie Jones, who is no stranger to South African rugby, having been part of the coaching team that led the Springboks to the 2007 World Cup. For me there were two simple things that the Japanese did so well on Saturday against South Africa. Knowing they could not compete for very long in the scrum against South Africa, when they did scrum they didn’t try to make any forward momentum with the scrum itself. Instead, they would just keep it stable enough for the ball to be quickly squirted out the back and distributed at speed to their back line. The speed at which this was done consistently caught South Africa off-guard who were focused on bulldozing the Japanese backwards and winning scrum penalties, and thus left with little or no time to reorganize their defences. Japan’s speed at the breakdown and quick and accurate passing constantly kept wrongfooting the South African defences. Add to that consistent and reliable goalkicking from Japanese fullback Ayumu Goromaru and South Africa were constantly having to be on the defensive. South Africa did score four tries of their own but the majority came more from defensive errors from the Japanese than a clearly worked set of moves from the South Africans.

The Japanese always kept themselves within reach of South Africa on the scoreboard. However, it was the South Africans who found themselves increasingly frustrated by the fact that the Japanese simply wouldn’t go away. As a result they lost their cohesion in the last ten minutes and the Japanese smelt victory. The decision with literally no more than a few precious minutes left to go for the try and thus the win by Japanese Captain Michael Leitch, was an act of remarkable courage and conviction when a draw was probably a less risky choice. That determination paid off and despite having played a frantic eighty minutes Japan were able to swing the ball from one side of the field to the other to get that match winning try and set the rugby world alight whilst almost making it look easy.

Every single player on that Japanese team played their heart out, but it was Ayumu Goromaru’s clinical composure with the boot and his own glorious try that perhaps more than anything sealed it for the Japanese. Add to that some inspirational leadership amongst the forwards by Captain Michael Leitch and some explosive running from replacement loose forward Amanaki Mafi towards the end of the match and it is little wonder that this Japanese team looked as sharp as they did.

Can Japan do it all over again in just four days as they go up against Scotland on Wednesday? It’s a tall order and I have a horrible feeling that after such a remarkable achievement it may be too much to ask. But then surely the motivation and self-belief in this team right now must be something truly special, so it would be foolish for any of us to dismiss the Japanese. Coach Eddie Jones has no illusions about the mountain he is asking his troops to climb, but Scotland will be extremely wary as Pool B has now become perhaps the most interesting and exciting pool in the tournament.

France vs Italy
Final Score – France 32/Italy 10
Twickenham

France – 7/10

Whichever way you cut it, this was a fairly scrappy game and after the glorious spectacle of the South Africa/Japan game it was rather an anti-climax. Italy’s complete lack of discipline ended up producing a dirge-like affair with Freddie Michalak slotting penalty after penalty for France, with Scott Spedding banging them over from long-range just to add insult to injury to the Italians.

France were not spectacular but against a shambolic Italy they didn’t need to be. It was a travesty that in such a tedious game France would lose winger Yoann Huget to a knee injury that has now ruled him out of the rest of the tournament. The anguish on Huget’s face as he was helped off the field was heartbreaking to see as his World Cup came to such an early end, and his presence will be sorely missed by France in the weeks to come.

Where France really did dominate, was in their forwards. They are immense and their scrum is proving to be a real weapon. At the back of the pack Louis Picamoles is proving his weight in gold and is no doubt going to be one of the players of the tournament at number eight. Freddie Michalak barely put a foot wrong and Scott Spedding at fullback is rapidly developing into a serious threat on attack as well as being a rock solid last line of defence. Add Spedding’s remarkable long-range boot and France can cover all areas of the park from a kicking point of view. The one player I am having a lot of trouble being convinced by is winger Noa Nakaitaci. His runs and breaks are often brilliant but his handling and ball retention often looks sloppy and careless, making him more of a liability than an asset. If he tightens this aspect of his game up then he is a definite threat but otherwise he could end up being the difference between some very narrow wins and losses.

In short, France have heaps of depth in their forwards, but as the injury to Huget showed the resources in the backs are being seriously stretched. Based on this performance they should have no trouble with Romania or Canada but Ireland and thus top spot in the pool is going to be a serious challenge for them. However, as always it’s a long time between now and October 11th when France meet Ireland and as history has shown it would be complete lunacy to write off the French, despite the comfort and inspiration it seems to give them over the years in this tournament.

Italy – 4/10

As mentioned above, I must confess to not really enjoying this game and found little to get excited about from an Italian perspective. For the most part they looked disorganised and their discipline was absolutely awful. Whether this was down to nerves or frustration, is hard to judge, but Italy really did themselves no favours in this match. If they are to put up a decent showing against Ireland then they have an enormous amount of work to do, and based on this performance their next opponents Canada must surely feel they are in with a chance.

Italy did have some moments to cheer about. When they did manage to put forward a cohesive attack they did look threatening, even if their finishing still left a lot to be desired. Furthermore, when not plagued by poor discipline their defence did look respectable. Tommaso Allan is looking more confident at fly half and I felt for the most part had a good game. I thought replacement back Enrico Bacchin put in a very solid shift after being called in early as a replacement for the injured centre Andrea Masi who tragically for Italy has been ruled out of the rest of their World Cup campaign. Giovanbattista Venditti as always impressed on the wing and his try was a real bright spark in an otherwise fairly dismal Italian performance.

I am giving Italy the lowest score of Day Two, as this is a team that should be doing so much better but for a variety of reasons just isn’t. There is no question that the injury count is hurting them badly, especially the continued absence of Captain Sergio Parisse, but they are not the only squad battling injuries. Furthermore, they really need to tighten up their discipline lest any matches with Italy degenerate into dirge like penalty kicking affairs as we saw on Saturday, instead of some positive and exciting running rugby which we know this team is capable of. There is a lot of passion in this team and especially if Sergio Parisse returns they will rise to the occasion. In the meantime, they are left pondering what will surely be a very physical and demanding encounter with the Canadians who will also have a great deal to prove. Plenty of homework for the Azurri this week!

And so it’s finally here! After much anticipation, the most competitive World Cup in the history of the tournament got underway on Friday night in Twickenham in front of an enthralled audience as England got proceedings started against Fiji.  With all the rugby coming at us in the next few weeks as we work our way through the Pool stages, the Lineout won’t be covering each match with a preview/review as per normal, we just don’t have the resources to do that till we get to the more manageable knockout stages of the competition.  Therefore for the Pool stages we will be handing out report cards to the teams involved each match day and a score out of 10 on how we feel they performed, as well as highlighting individual players who really stood out.  On the basis of this we’ll also look ahead to their next match.

Day 1 only saw one match – the tournament opener of England vs Fiji.

England vs Fiji
Final Score – England 35/Fiji 11
Twickenham

England – 7/10

Yes England got the win, but they seemed to really struggle to assert some authority on the match until the last quarter when their bench came on to make a huge impact.  Ultimately they emerged with the bonus point, but the scoreline didn’t really reflect the closeness of the match which really only opened up in England’s favor in the last ten minutes..  Furthermore, in the opening stanzas of the second half one could argue that Fiji had the edge over England.  You surely can put a lot down to opening night nerves for both sides, and especially England who in front of an expectant home crowd have so much to prove.  Nevertheless at times England looked like they were having to work awfully hard to contain a Fijian side determined to cause an upset and as a result only get a score of 7 for their opening match.

England got the match off to a comfortable start as their forward pack made a solid statement of intent through a devastating rolling maul that had Fijian defenders spinning off it right left and centre.  In sheer desperation Fiji had to resort to illegal play to try to stop the English steamroller resulting in England’s first try which was awarded as a penalty try.  Ten minutes later fullback Mike Brown, who for me was unquestionably the man of the match, would score England’s next try and at the end of the first quarter you felt England were in charge.  It was the next forty minutes where Fiji really started to get under England’s skin and the nerves were there for all to see.  Fiji were able to match England in physical intensity and their speedy backs, especially in the form of one man wrecking ball Nemani Nadolo were causing the English defence all kinds of headaches.

Where England will be concerned is that after a stellar twenty minutes where it looked like they had the match sewn up, Fiji managed to claw their way into the match to the point where until a raft of English substitutions came on, the Pacific Islanders looked like they were starting to get the ascendancy.  What England can take great heart from though is the impact of their bench.  Billy Vunipola who came on for Ben Morgan literally single-handedly changed the fortunes of the match for England.  I was disappointed to see Ben Morgan not up to his usual standards but perhaps his return from injury has left him without the stamina and fitness he needs at this level just yet.  Vunipola however put in a massive performance for England and really broke up the Fijian defence, ably assisted by Joe Launchbury who I thought really made a difference once he came on.

What did impress me was England’s back line.  Mike Brown was everywhere and put in an exceptional night’s work in defence and on attack.  His two tries were solid efforts that showed both his strength and ability to break open opposition defences.  He was reliable and abrasive in defence and exceptionally courageous and quick on attack.  Winger Anthony Watson never really got the better of his opposite number Nemani Nadolo, as evidenced by the aerial contest between the two which resulted in Nemani’s try.  I thought Johnny May although not as robust as Brown also put in a good night’s work and showed some real athleticism in his last-ditch tackle on Matawalu ably assisted by Brown which led to the knock on which caused the Fijian’s try to be disallowed.

On that note the subsequent review of the try by the Television Match Official after it had been awarded by referee Jaco Peyper was handled exceptionally poorly.  The officiating through the TMO was really badly done and often sapped the game and players of momentum at key points.  It is hoped that this will be dramatically improved at the tournament wears on.

Two other English replacements worthy of mention were Sam Burgess, who took over from Brad Barritt at centre who I felt had a poor evening.  Burgess immediately lent some much-needed physicality to the midfield and put in some great charging runs and solid tackles.  Owen Farrell also displayed some real quality in his stint as George Ford’s replacement in the second half and his vision and willingness to take the ball into contact while still keeping possession was instrumental in setting up Mike Brown’s second try.

In short a good effort from England, but one which lacked the polish and composure, with the exception of the last ten minutes, of what a World Cup winning side should look like.  The potential is there without any shadow of a doubt and England are only likely to get better with each outing, especially against a fired up but injury stricken Wales this weekend.  England got the job done and kept their World Cup aspirations on track but still don’t quite look the finished product especially in defence, and their scrum did get given a very stern work over by the Fijians.  Meanwhile their breakdown work for long periods was poor in relation to the Fijians success rate in this area.  Lots of homework to do, but they should continue building nicely.

Fiji – 7/10

Despite the scoreline at the end of the match, I still feel that for long periods of this match England and Fiji were evenly matched and hence me giving them the same score as England.  What let them down ultimately was fitness in the last ten minutes and the fact that their bench didn’t quite pack the punch that England’s had.  However, once they got over their initial nerves they looked good from the second quarter of the first half till the final ten minutes.  Despite the yellow card awarded to scrum half Nikola Matawalu, they managed to keep their discipline relatively intact during repeated English physical onslaughts.  Their traditional weakness, the scrum held up exceptionally well against England and the forward battle was an equal contest.  Their rush defence really started to pay dividends as the game wore on and was clearly rattling English nerves.  Apart from initial jitters, their goal kicking through fly half Ben Volavola was relatively consistent as was his tactical game.  Winger Nemani Nadolo’s abilities at goal kicking time were also put to good use.

Overall Fiji looked a strong competitor and like England will only get better as the tournament progresses.  They will be a challenge for Australia, though the Wallabies should have a slightly better understanding now of what to expect and how to prepare for it than England did.  Nikola Matawalu at scrum half, despite his early yellow card, was impressive all night and had he just maintained better control of the ball in his thirty metre dash off the back of a scrum we might have ended up with a very different game.  I thought fly half Ben Volavola had a really solid game for Fiji and his perfectly weighted kick to Nemani Nadolo for Fiji’s only try was one of the best moments of the match.  Nemani Nadolo lived up to all the hype surrounding him, and his one bullocking run down the centre of the field in which he brushed off at least five English defenders, brought back memories of a certain Jonah Lomu.  In short, Nadolo will be a handful for any of the defences he will face in this tournament and just to make life even more difficult for the opposition he also packs a very handy boot.

Whether or not Fiji can really rattle Australia the way they did England, especially as Australia should now have a pretty good idea of what to expect, remains to be seen.  They will be competitive and will be looking to cause an upset but it will be a tough ask against Australia especially with the likes of Scott Fardy, Michael Hooper and David Pocock in the forwards mix for the Wallabies.  However, Wales especially given their injury list must be feeling concerned, and I can’t help feeling that Fiji are more than capable of an upset when the two meet on October 4th.