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Much-changed Wales struggled to a bonus-point World Cup victory over impressive Portugal in Nice.

Portugal excelled in the first half, but were trailing 14-3 at the break after Wales tries by Louis Rees-Zammit and captain Dewi Lake.
Flanker Jac Morgan, a late inclusion for the injured Tommy Reffell, scored before Portugal flanker Nicolas Martins crashed over.

Taulupe Faletau secured the bonus point with a late fourth try.

Portugal finished with 14 men after wing Vincent Pinto was shown a late red card for a reckless high boot on Josh Adams.

While Wales were incredibly underwhelming, Portugal deserve the plaudits for their adventurous attacking approach.

Wales had defeated Portugal 102-11 on the only other occasion they faced each other in 1994. There was never going to be a repeat of that.

There were eight places between the two sides in World Rugby's rankings going into the game, but you would not have thought that after witnessing the contest on the French Riviera.

Portugal, who had semi-professional players in their ranks and are coached by former France wing Patrice Lagisquet, had come through qualification to start only a second World Cup campaign after appearing in the 2007 tournament.

Wales had started their 2023 adventure with a thrilling victory over Fiji in Bordeaux, Warren Gatland initially made 13 changes to the starting side with only number eight Faletau and wing Rees-Zammit starting.

That became 12 alterations when Wales had to cope with disruption after flanker Reffell pulled out late in the warm-up with squad co-captain Morgan replacing him in the starting side.

Wales defence coach Mike Forshaw had warned his side about what had happened to a much-changed France side who struggled against Uruguay on Thursday evening before winning 27-12 and similar events transpired.

It was a chance for Wales players to push their case for selection against Australia in Lyon on 24 September.

Not many would have improved their cases based on this performance, which was littered with mistakes and plagued by a malfunctioning line-out. Late inclusion Morgan managed to impress with a man-of-the-match display.

With Pool C still possibly being decided on points difference, Wales will be interested spectators when Fiji face Australia in Saint-Etienne on Sunday.
 
Ireland continued their winning start to the World Cup with a bonus-point victory over Tonga on a landmark night for Johnny Sexton in Nantes.

The Six Nations Grand Slam winners moved clear with early tries from Tadhg Beirne, Caelan Doris and Mack Hansen. Sexton added a fourth.

Vaea Fifita scored for Tonga before half-time but James Lowe, Bundee Aki - with two - and Rob Herring capped another resounding Ireland win.

While the Irish encountered more headaches here than they did in their 12-try destruction of Romania, Andy Farrell will be pleased that his side moved on to 10 points before next week's eagerly anticipated encounter with holders South Africa in Paris.

Crucially, the world's number one-ranked team again appeared to avoid injuries to key players with Farrell even afforded the luxury of ending Sexton's night at half-time after the out-half's record-breaking contribution.

Tonga, who did not play last week, will look to bounce back when they take on Scotland in Nice on Sunday week.
 

South Africa 76-0 Romania: Cobus Reinach scores second-fastest World Cup hat-trick​


South Africa scrum-half Cobus Reinach scored a hat-trick inside 25 minutes as his side cruised past Romania with an 12-try win in Pool B in Bordeaux.

Reinach's treble is the second-quickest in World Cup history - he holds the record after scoring three after 20 minutes against Canada four years ago.

Makazole Mapimpi also completed a hat-trick in the second half in a 76-0 win.

In a destructive display, the holders had secured a bonus-point try in the 11th minute and led 33-0 at half-time.

The defending champions, who had beaten Scotland 18-3 in their World Cup opener last week, made 14 changes for the match against Romania in rainy Bordeaux, with only Damian Willemse keeping his place.

They dominated from the off, with Reinach crossing inside three minutes before Mapimpi added a second try moments later.

Reinach went over again in the ninth minute and, after Willemse scored a bonus-point try two minutes later, the scrum-half completed his hat-trick, peeling off a scrum to cross with 25 minutes played.

South Africa did not let up after the restart. Deon Fourie rolled over the line in the 43rd minute and the three-time winners secured a penalty try moments later.

Grant Williams put his side 52-0 up after 55 minutes, diving in following a brilliant solo run, and added another try seven minutes later.

Mapimpi also added his second in the 64th minute, sprinting from the halfway line and going over in the corner.

He completed his hat-trick three minutes later, before Willie le Roux crossed with seven minutes remaining for the final score of a heavily one-sided game.

South Africa, second in Pool B, face leaders Ireland in their next match in six days' time, while Romania play Scotland after a week off.

 
Australia 15-22 Fiji: Flying Fijians beat the Wallabies for the first time at Rugby World Cup.

Fiji beat Australia for just the third time in their history as they blew Pool C wide open with a thrilling win at the Rugby World Cup.

Fine kicking from Simione Kuruvoli put Fiji 12-8 up at half-time before Josua Tuisova crossed after the restart.

Lalakai Foketi went over late on to cut the deficit to 22-15 but Eddie Jones' side could not mount a comeback.

Fiji's first-ever World Cup win over the Wallabies moves them above their opponents into second in Pool C.

The pair are locked together on six points after two matches with Fiji ahead thanks to their head-to-head record.


BBC
 
England edged closer to the Rugby World Cup quarter-finals, but did little to impress in a scrappy 34-12 win over Japan in Nice.

Lewis Ludlam forced his way over from close range for the only try of a first half littered with England errors.
Rikiya Matsuda's boot had Japan within a point at 13-12 early in the second half before a fortuitous try from captain Courtney Lawes, after the ball had bounced off the head of Joe Marler, gave England some breathing space.

Freddie Steward collected a cross-kick to deftly dot down and end any hopes Japan had of another Rugby World Cup upset to follow their famous scalping of South Africa in 2015 and Joe Marchant dived over in the final play of the match.

But it was neither a scoreline or a performance to worry any of the tournament's main contenders.

If anything, it will have confirmed to market leaders France, Ireland and South Africa that they are still operating several levels above England.

The whistles and jeers that followed several of England's decisions to kick away attacking ball suggested some of their fans were similarly unimpressed.

Two victories from two matches against arguably their two strongest Pool D rivals means Steve Borthwick's side are well set for the quarter-finals.

But they will need steep and stark improvement against Chile and Samoa to be in shape for the step up to knockout rugby.
 
Italy 38-17 Uruguay: Second-half fightback secures Rugby World Cup win.

Italy produced a stirring second-half comeback to beat Uruguay in Nice and go top of Pool A at the Rugby World Cup.

After Lorenzo Pani went over for Italy, Uruguay profited from two Italian yellow cards to lead 17-7 at half-time.

The momentum swung when Uruguay captain Andres Vilaseca was sent to the sin bin, after which Italy ran in three quick scores to earn a bonus point.

Michele Lamaro, Monty Ioane, Lorenzo Cannone and Juan Ignacio Brex all crossed after the break.

Italy and hosts France both have two wins from two in the group, although Italy are in top spot by virtue of the two bonus points taken from their matches.

France play minnows Namibia in their third pool game on Thursday, while Italy are next in action against third-placed New Zealand on 29 September.
 
France are on the brink of reaching the World Cup quarter-finals after claiming the biggest win of the tournament so far with a 96-0 victory over Namibia.

The hosts led by 54 points at half-time after a thrilling opening 40 minutes.

Damian Penaud scored a hat-trick, while Jonathan Danty, Charles Ollivon and Louis Bielle-Biarry all scored twice.

Antoine Dupont, Thibaud Flament, Baptiste Couilloud and Melvyn Jaminet also crossed before a penalty try took their total tally to 14 in Marseille.
 
Argentina 19-10 Samoa: Emiliano Boffelli stars as Pumas kickstart World Cup campaign.

Emiliano Boffelli scored 16 points as Argentina kept their quarter-final hopes alive with a hard-earned victory over Samoa in Saint-Etienne in Pool D.

The Pumas recovered from their opening game defeat by England to kickstart their campaign at a rain-drenched Stade Geoffroy-Guichard.

Argentina wing Boffelli converted his own try and kicked three penalties.

Sama Malolo powered over late on to set up a frantic finish but Nicolas Sanchez's penalty sealed victory.

Former Australia fly-half Christian Leali'ifano missed two of his three penalties in the first half as Argentina led by 10 points at the break.

The Pumas remain fourth in the table despite what is only their second ever win over the Pacific Islanders, who stay second behind leaders England.
 
Portugal missed a last-minute penalty as they were denied a first World Cup win after staging a stirring comeback against Georgia in Toulouse.

After being 13-0 down, Portugal wing Raffaele Storti looked set to be the hero with two superb solo tries as his side led in the dying stages.

But a 79th-minute try awarded by the TV match official drew Georgia level.
Portugal full-back Nuno Sousa Guedes missed the crucial penalty kick seconds after the restart.
Georgia took just 75 seconds to open the scoring as record try-scorer Akaki Tabutsadze charged over in the corner for his 30th try in 33 Tests.
A conversion and two penalties from Tedo Abzhandadze put Georgia 13-0 up but after wasting countless visits into the Portugal 22, Georgia were stunned when Storti beat three men to race over brilliantly from distance.
Portuguese prop Francisco Fernandes was yellow carded for a dangerous tackle on Shalva Mamukashvili but even in his absence Portugal were on top.
 
Wing Henry Arundell scored five tries as England sliced apart Pool D's weakest opposition to all but qualify for the Rugby World Cup quarter-finals.

The 20-year-old's clutch of scores against Chile matches the most scored by an England men's player in a Test and moves him to the top of the tournament try-scoring standings in his first appearance of the campaign.

England, as expected, were far too strong for the spirited, but limited Chile, as their forward power and backline edge had the Rugby World Cup debutants in near-constant retreat.

While Arundell's feat will steal the headlines, the pick of their 11 tries came from Marcus Smith, who raced on to his own kick after a searing break from his new role as a full-back.

England will complete their pool-stage campaign in a fortnight's time against Samoa, and could even be assured of their last-eight place before then should other results work their way.

This performance will give coach Steve Borthwick plenty to consider during England's break week as an exciting backline, containing warp-speed Arundell and Smith's defence-breaking agility, bristled with threat, admittedly against weak opposition.

Owen Farrell didn't miss a beat on his return to the team after a four-match ban and England combined all three of their main playmakers to good effect - Farrell, Smith and George Ford - after the latter was introduced off the bench in the 55th minute.
 
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Ireland remain in pole position to top Pool B after they beat holders South Africa in a low-scoring but riveting World Cup slugfest in Paris.

With Ireland struggling, Manie Libbok's penalty edged South Africa ahead in the first half before Mack Hansen's try.

Cheslin Kolbe hit back for the Boks but after Libbok failed to convert, Johnny Sexton's penalty put Ireland ahead.

In a nail-biting finish, Ireland's defence absorbed pressure before Jack Crowley's penalty sealed an epic win.
 
Scotland saw off stubborn Tonga with a bonus-point victory to keep alive their hopes of progressing from Pool B at the World Cup.

On a warm afternoon in Nice, George Turner, Duhan van der Merwe, Kyle Steyn and Rory Darge delivered the required four tries before the interval.

Tonga played with admirable commitment and led briefly when Solomone Kata responded to Turner's early score, but missed tackles and ill-discipline let them down, with Afusipa Taumoepeau and Vaea Fifita both shown yellow cards, the latter upgraded to red after the final whistle.

Ben Tameifuna and George Horne traded scores in a largely scruffy second period before Blair Kinghorn and Darcy Graham added some late gloss.
 
Wales became the first team to reach the 2023 World Cup quarter-finals as they celebrated a record win over Australia in Lyon.

Gareth Anscombe kicked 23 points and tries from Gareth Davies, Nick Tompkins and Jac Morgan sealed a last-eight place with a game remaining in Pool C.

Australia managed just two penalties from Ben Donaldson.

Eddie Jones' side are on the brink of becoming the first Australia team to suffer pool stage elimination.

The woeful Wallabies were humbled by Wales, who are celebrating a fourth consecutive World Cup quarter-final qualification under Warren Gatland as head coach.

This display must rank as one of Wales' finest performances under the New Zealander and the result beats their previous record win against Australia, a 28-3 triumph in 1975.

Captain Morgan was again outstanding, while number eight Taulupe Faletau showed his class.

The only negative for Wales was a worrying injury that forced talismanic fly-half Dan Biggar off in the first half, but his withdrawal allowed Anscombe to excel with six penalties, a conversion and a drop-goal.

A victory over Georgia on 7 October in Nantes will officially ensure Wales finish as group winners but only two match points will be required.

That would set up a probable quarter-final against Argentina, Japan or Samoa in Marseille the following weekend, with England clear favourites to win Pool D.
 
England reached the quarter-finals of the Rugby World Cup thanks to a Japan win over Samoa which boosted the Brave Blossoms' own knockout chances.

Japan saw off the Pacific Islanders with tries from Pieter Labuschagne, Michael Leitch and Kazuki Himeno, along with strong kicking by Rikiya Matsuda.

Samoa, who had winger Ben Lam sent off, rallied late on but must now beat England for a chance of progressing.
But this result means England cannot be overtaken at the top of Pool D.

Samoa can no longer match their current total of 14 points, while Steve Borthwick's men have a superior head-to-head record over Japan and Argentina.

It removes the pressure from England's final pool game, against the Samoans on 7 October, and means Borthwick could rest players for that game before a likely quarter-final against Fiji.
 
Superb New Zealand scored an incredible 14 tries and hit 96 points against Italy in Pool A to move to the cusp of the World Cup quarter-finals.

Knowing a defeat would see them eliminated, the All Blacks raced into a pulsating 49-3 half-time lead.

They ultimately ran out 96-17 victors with scrum-half Aaron Smith scoring a hat-trick after just 33 minutes.

The All Blacks will guarantee a spot in the knockouts with a win over Uruguay in their final pool match on Thursday.

Italy must beat hosts France in their next match to reach a first World Cup quarter-final.

The All Blacks' win sees them jump up to second in Pool A, level on points with Italy who they now have a superior head-to-head record over.
 
Australia 34-14 Portugal: Wallabies keep slim Rugby World Cup knockout hopes alive with win

Australia kept their slim hopes of reaching the Rugby World Cup quarter-finals alive with a physical win over Portugal in their final pool match.

The Wallabies beat an impressive Portugal 34-14 to go second in Pool C.

But third-placed Fiji need just one point from their own match against Portugal next week to overtake Australia and advance instead.

Portugal had taken an early lead but Eddie Jones' side ran in five tries to secure a bonus-point win in St Etienne.

Australia led 24-7 at half-time and secured a fourth bonus-point try in the 47th minute.

Portugal, who missed a late penalty in a thrilling 18-18 draw with Georgia last time out, again started fast as they hunted a first World Cup win.

Pedro Bettencourt crossed over in the corner after some deft attacking to put the underdogs 7-3 up in the 11th minute.

But they were temporarily reduced to 14 men when Bettencourt was yellow carded for leading with his shoulder on a high tackle on Izaia Perese.

He survived a bunker review but while he was in the sin bin Richie Arnold, Dave Porecki and Angus Bell all crossed to put Australia in control.

Portugal's Nicolas Martins had a try in the corner ruled out after going into touch just before the break which would have cut the deficit to 10, and Fraser McReight added another Australia try after the restart to secure a vital bonus-point.

Portugal had a second try disallowed in the 58th minute when hooker Mike Tadjer lost control of the ball in his finish, but they ended strongly as Australia's Matt Faessler and Samu Kerevi were both shown late yellow cards, allowing Rafael Simoes to add a second try against 13.

Once Australia returned to 15 though they wrestled back the momentum and Marika Koroibete went over for the final score with seven minutes remaining.

Australia started their World Cup with a convincing win over Georgia, but were then beaten 22-15 by Fiji before suffering a record 40-6 loss to Wales.

That victory for Fiji means they only have to match Australia's points tally to advance thanks to their superior head-to-head record.

That means Australia's match with Portugal will in all likelihood be their last at this year's World Cup, having now played all four of their pool matches.

They have never before failed to advance to the knockout stages of a World Cup.

The Wallabies are led by Jones, who took England to the World Cup final in 2019 and also led Australia to a home final in 2003.

Asked after the match how his team would prepare this week, not knowing their World Cup fate, Jones said: "I've never experienced this before so I really don't know.

"We're anticipating we'll be in the quarter-finals so we have plans to have three days off and then three days training.

"We'll see on Sunday night. Portugal played with plenty of spirit tonight so you never know."
 
South Africa are on the brink of the Rugby World Cup quarter-finals after a bonus-point victory over Tonga.

The Springboks scored three first-half tries through Cobus Reinach, Canan Moodie and Deon Fourie against a much-improved Tonga.

The vital fourth try came through Jesse Kriel before Willie le Roux, Marco van Staden and Kwagga Smith went over.
The game between Scotland and Ireland next Saturday will decide the final order of Pool B.

Gregor Townsend's side now need to beat Ireland and deny Andy Farrell's side a bonus point in Paris next Saturday to qualify. If they manage it, Springboks will top the pool.

However, a combination of a bonus-point win for Scotland and a losing bonus point for Ireland will leave all three sides on 15 points, meaning it will come down to points difference for the top spot and head-to-head for the second spot.

Tonga came into the World Cup with hopes as high as ever thanks to the recruitment of former All Blacks George Moala, Vaea Fifita, Malakai Fekitoa, Charles Piutau and Augustine Pulu following a change in World Rugby's birthright amendment rule.

But they have suffered three heavy defeats to Ireland, Scotland and now South Africa. Next Sunday's match against Romania, who have also lost all their games, will offer an opportunity to end their disappointing tournament on a high.
 
New Zealand 73-0 Uruguay: All Blacks reach Rugby World Cup quarter-finals with 11-try win

Damian McKenzie, Richie Mo'unga, Will Jordan and Cam Roigard scored first-half tries in Lyon.

A second-half hat-trick from Leicester Fainga'anuku helped put the All Blacks out of sight, with McKenzie one of the star performers.

New Zealand will finish second in Pool A if France avoid defeat against Italy on Friday to top the group.

They will play Ireland or Scotland, who meet on Saturday in Paris, or defending champions South Africa in the last eight.

Uruguay leave the competition with their heads held high, after impressing for large periods against France and Italy before a second-half fightback against Namibia.

Defeat against New Zealand was their heaviest in the pool stage.
 
France cruised to top spot in Pool A at the World Cup as they beat Italy 60-7.

The hosts faced elimination if they had lost but put any nerves to bed in Lyon with 31 unanswered points in the first half, going on to score eight tries for a bonus-point victory.

France advance to the quarter-finals unbeaten and ahead of New Zealand in the group stage rankings.

They will face the runners-up from Pool B - South Africa, Ireland or Scotland - on 15 October.

"Four games, four wins," said France captain Charles Ollivon. "This was an elimination match for us, we had no right to make mistakes.

"We wanted to play with intensity and we did, and we kept it up for 80 minutes. It's very positive and sets us up for the next stage. We really want to be there."


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BBC
 
Rugby World Cup: Wales v Georgia
Wales (17) 43
Tries: Francis, L Williams, Rees-Zammit 3, North Cons: Costelow 5 Pen: Costelow
Georgia (7) 19
Tries: Sharikadze, Karkadze, Niniashvili Cons: Matkava 2

A bonus-point victory over Georgia saw Wales complete a clean sweep of World Cup pool matches.

Louis Rees-Zammit scored a hat-trick as Warren Gatland's side topped Pool C to set up a likely quarter-final meeting with Argentina or Japan.

Tomas Francis, Liam Williams and George North also crossed for Wales.

Georgia threatened a second-half comeback after tries from Merab Sharikadze, Vano Karkadze and Davit Niniashvili.

But they depart a disappointing World Cup without a win.

Wales will learn their last-eight fate on Sunday, when Argentina take on Japan in a virtual quarter-final play-off, also at Nante's Stade de Beaujoire.

Samoa also have a slim chance of progression should they beat Pool D winners England and other results go their way.
 
Owen Farrell has broken Jonny Wilkinson's record to become England's all-time leading points scorer.

Farrell kicked a penalty in England's World Cup Pool D match against Samoa to reach 1,181 points and surpass Wilkinson's record.

The England captain could have claimed the record earlier in the game but missed his conversion attempt following Ollie Chessum's opening try in Lille.

Wilkinson scored 1,179 points in 91 Tests for England from 1998 to 2011

Source: BBC Sports
 
Rugby World Cup: Ireland 36-14 Scotland - Imperious Irish crush Scots to reach quarter-finals


Rugby World Cup, Pool D: Ireland v Scotland
Ireland: (26) 36
Tries: Lowe, Keenan 2, Henderson, Sheehan, Ringrose Cons: Sexton 3
Scotland: (0) 14
Tries: Ashman, Price Cons: Russell 2


Imperious Ireland dismantled Scotland with a display of clinical brilliance to reach the World Cup quarter-finals and send their opponents crashing out of the tournament.

A 17th consecutive victory ensures that the world's number one side finish top of Pool B to set up a meeting with New Zealand next Saturday (20:00 BST).

Ireland got off to a dream start in Paris as James Lowe crashed over for the opening try after only two minutes.

The loss to injury of Blair Kinghorn and captain Jamie Ritchie further hampered the Scots before two more Hugo Keenan tries and one from Iain Henderson all but ended the contest by half-time.

Dan Sheehan and Garry Ringrose also touched down to rub salt into the Scottish wounds before replies from Ewan Ashman and Ali Price at least made the score more respectable.

Scotland's defeat means holders South Africa qualify as runners-up to face Pool A winners France.
 
Argentina beat Japan to finish second in Pool B and qualify for the Rugby World Cup quarter-finals

Source: Sky Sports
 
A hat-trick from Mateo Carreras carried Argentina into a World Cup quarter-final with Wales as they beat Japan in their winner-takes-all Pool D match.

Argentina, who will play Wales in Marseille on Saturday, finished second in the group behind England after a pulsating encounter in Nantes.

Newcastle Falcons wing Carreras scored two brilliantly taken tries but Japan fought back to stay in touch.

However, another superb finish from Carreras sealed victory for the Pumas.

Argentina, who lost to England in their opening match of the World Cup, have now won three games in a row heading into the knockout stages.

We like to be a fighting team and we fight for everything, but the resilience of this team is what makes the difference here, Argentina captain Julian Montoya said.

Beaten captain Kazuki Himeno said he was really proud of the boys and the effort they put in.

We are disappointed about the result, the Japan number eight added. The fans' support is appreciated as it has been huge for us.

We have tried to climb up the Mount Everest summit. However, the legacy and the culture of Japanese rugby will continue.
 
Portugal pulled off a Rugby World Cup shock in Toulouse - but a losing bonus point was enough to send Fiji into a quarter-final against England.

The result also confirmed Australia's early exit from the World Cup, making it the first time the Wallabies have ever gone out before the knockout stage.
 
Wales have been knocked out of the Rugby World Cup after losing in a quarter final against Argentina 29-17.
Warren Gatland's side had been tipped as the favourites before the clash in Marseille.

But after their defeat, Argentina now progress to the last four in France to face either Ireland or New Zealand, who play later this evening.

A breakaway try by Nicolás Sánchez sealed the victory for Argentina, with Emiliano Boffelli kicking the resulting conversion to put them nine points ahead.

Source: Sky News
 
Ireland 24-28 New Zealand: All Blacks break Irish hearts and set up Argentina semi-final

Ireland's World Cup dream was ended by New Zealand for the second tournament in a row as the All Blacks deservedly beat their rivals in Paris to set up a semi-final against Argentina.

As the world's top-ranked team, Ireland were fancied to claim another statement win but Andy Farrell's side failed to break their quarter-final curse on another heartbreaking night against the All Blacks in the World Cup.

Defeat also brings the curtain down on the career of Ireland captain Johnny Sexton, who cut a dejected figure at full-time as the agony of one last knockout defeat took over.

New Zealand, however, remain on course for a fourth title as tries by Leicester Fainga'anuku, Ardie Savea and Will Jordan helped them set up a last-four meeting with the Pumas at Stade de France on Friday.
 
A brilliant game which should have been the final but to IRB incompetence became a QF. All the best sides are on the one side of the draw and all the average ones on the other. AB big game mentality won over a top Irish team, fighting a history of failure.
 
Congrats to the All Blacks, great resolve. My God did they dominate the breakdown. This is resilient NZ side, these are the KO games they'd have lost in the past, especially after receiving two yellows. They'll take some stopping now. Hopefully we meet in the final @Aman 😉
 
What a test match. Congratulations to the Springboks, commiserations to France. Semi finals here we come
 
I don't watch a lot of rugby but that South Africa v France match was brutal.

What entertainment, what a spectacle.

Brilliant to watch.
 
Saj said:
I don't watch a lot of rugby but that South Africa v France match was brutal.

What entertainment, what a spectacle.

Brilliant to watch.
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These should have been the SFs. Incredible will power, power, creativity and brutality to provide 2 of the greatest rugby games ever played.
 
Argentina 6-44 New Zealand: All Blacks cruise into record fifth final

Will Jordan scored an impressive hat-trick as seven-try New Zealand crushed Argentina at Stade de France to reach a record fifth Rugby World Cup final.

The three-time winners were disciplined in defence and ruthless in attack as Jordan, Jordie Barrett and Shannon Frizell scored first-half tries.

Aaron Smith added a fourth after the break before Frizell crossed again and Jordan became the leading try scorer.

The All Blacks will face either South Africa or England in next week's final.

Argentina, playing in their third World Cup semi-final, saw lots of the ball in the opening stages without penetrating the New Zealand defence.

Michael Cheika's side were limited to two Emiliano Boffelli penalties as the All Blacks soaked up the early pressure before cutting loose on the counter-attack.

The All Blacks could have surpassed their own record for the biggest winning margin in a World Cup semi-final late on, but Richie Mo'unga spurned the opportunity.

The fly-half could have thrown a simple pass for Jordan to score a fourth try, which would have levelled the 43 point difference in the 1987 win over Wales with a conversion to come, but Argentina overturned the ball after he opted to carry into contact himself.

The Pumas will have the chance to equal their best ever finish from the last time the tournament was staged in France in 2007 with victory in the third/fourth place play-off, against the loser from the other semi-final.

New Zealand, meanwhile, could become the most successful nation in World Cup history with a fourth title when they return to the Stade de France next weekend.
 
Can South Africa do the double over England today.

Boks the favourites it seems.
 
These are the games the Proteas would never win. The Boks are a different breed, incredible gallbladder
 

Rugby World Cup: England 15-16 South Africa - Springboks fightback shatters brave England​


England fell agonisingly short of a supreme upset and a fifth Rugby World Cup final as South Africa came on strong to snatch victory in Paris.

England were canny and committed in the first half, raining down kicks into the South Africa backfield, forcing a steady supply of penalties.

Owen Farrell converted four to send his side into the break with a 12-6 lead.

The Springboks chopped and changed their line-up after the break, but a Farrell drop-goal edged England further clear and to the brink of a seismic shock.

However, an RG Snyman try 10 minutes from time cut the underdogs' lead to 15-13 before the Boks' scrum power earned Handre Pollard the match-winning penalty in the 77th minute.
 
i tuned in to watch the semi final, and it was very entertaining, makes even sharper the contrast to how non-exciting all of the cricket world cup games have been so far. look forward to watching the final.
 
Tactical match between S Africa and England.

England seemed to run out of steam at the end and the Boks never give up do they.

Should be a great final.
 
ElRaja said:
i tuned in to watch the semi final, and it was very entertaining, makes even sharper the contrast to how non-exciting all of the cricket world cup games have been so far. look forward to watching the final.
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I don't understand what people enjoy in the Rugby WC, even rugby itself. As a TV spectacle, the atmosphere is great but the game itself is incredibly dull - the constant stop-start nature of it. I don't get it.

Maybe it's one of those sports that you can't get into unless you follow it from childhood.
 
RexRex said:
I don't understand what people enjoy in the Rugby WC, even rugby itself. As a TV spectacle, the atmosphere is great but the game itself is incredibly dull - the constant stop-start nature of it. I don't get it.

Maybe it's one of those sports that you can't get into unless you follow it from childhood.
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yes, becos there is not much stop start in cricket......

this comment explains so much about the rest of your posts.
 
RexRex said:
I don't understand what people enjoy in the Rugby WC, even rugby itself. As a TV spectacle, the atmosphere is great but the game itself is incredibly dull - the constant stop-start nature of it. I don't get it.

Maybe it's one of those sports that you can't get into unless you follow it from childhood.
Click to expand...
i havnt followed it from childhood, but you have to appreciate the athleticism of the players, like scrumming 70 minutes into a game and you can see their legs shaking from the effort, then running the break fast to score, just the sheer physicality of it, is quite inspiring to me.
 
RexRex said:
I don't understand what people enjoy in the Rugby WC, even rugby itself. As a TV spectacle, the atmosphere is great but the game itself is incredibly dull - the constant stop-start nature of it. I don't get it.

Maybe it's one of those sports that you can't get into unless you follow it from childhood.
Click to expand...
Once you understand the rules, it's not that difficult.

It's not a game for sissies though. The level of intensity in close games is unmatched by anything, not even football. As a spectator who has a stake in it (eg. your country is playing), no other sport is more nerve wracking.
 
Jo_Don said:
Once you understand the rules, it's not that difficult.

It's not a game for sissies though. The level of intensity in close games is unmatched by anything, not even football. As a spectator who has a stake in it (eg. your country is playing), no other sport is more nerve wracking.
Click to expand...

I know the rules, always have.

Tried watching several games of this rugby wc but it was so tedious. I just find it to be a sport for rubes. But as you said I don't have a stake in it.
 
Never watched rugby before in my life but watched the SA-France and SA-ENG game highlights out of curiosity.

Those highlights were very entertaining. The sheer physicality, power, speed, strength, the crowd. No idea what the hell is going on but it seems like a fun sport.
 
RexRex said:
I know the rules, always have.

Tried watching several games of this rugby wc but it was so tedious. I just find it to be a sport for rubes. But as you said I don't have a stake in it.
Click to expand...
Did your country participate in the World Cup?
 
7-1 split is very risky. Libbok misses out. We're screwed if Pollard breaks down, can Damian Willem se do a job there? Reinach isn't the 23 either, Faf will have to play the full 80.
 
Wishing both teams all the best, I hope we win but I think the ABs are the favourites for this win.

If we can keep the scoreboard tight until the 50th minute mark then our forwards will have a say. NZ will look to minimize the scrum though.
 
Argentina 23-26 England: England overcome Pumas to win Rugby World Cup bronze-medal match

Argentina (10) 23
Tries: Cubelli, Carreras Pens: Boffelli 2, Sanchez; Cons: Boffelli 2
England (16) 26
Tries: Earl, Dan Pens: Farrell 4; Cons: Farrell 2

England completed their Rugby World Cup campaign with a victory as they narrowly overcame a proud Argentina performance in the third-place play-off in Paris.

Ben Earl slid over as England shot out into an early 13-0 lead, but Argentina clawed their way back as Tomas Cubelli and Santiago Carreras's tries helped put them within a score for the final 30 minutes.

Owen Farrell's boot kept England's noses just about in front as he exchanged penalties with Nicolas Sanchez in a nervy final quarter.

Backed by a believing crowd, Argentina launched a late assault on England's line but Sanchez pushed a penalty to tie the scores wide to allow Steve Borthwick's side to finish France 2023 with a win.

It is the first time England have occupied third place in the Rugby World Cup.

England's only previous appearance in the bronze-medal match - against France in 1995 - ended in a 19-9 defeat.
 
Rugby WC final underway:

  1. New Zealand and South Africa both aiming to win record fourth World Cup
  2. Siya Kolisi bidding to claim back-to-back titles after leading Springboks to victory in 2019
  3. New Zealand's Sam Whitelock seeking third World Cup triumph after wins in 2011 and 2015
  4. Springboks pick seven forwards and only one back on bench

So far..

New Zealand 0-0 South Africa
 
Back to back World Champions!! We've beaten the world number 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 to reclaim our title. That has never been done before. The greatest triumph in World Cup history.

First side to win 4 RWC as well. Incredible Bokke!
 
New Zealand 11-12 South Africa: Springboks win record fourth Rugby World Cup in dramatic final

South Africa clinched a record fourth Rugby World Cup title by doing just enough to deny 14-man New Zealand and retain their crown in a helter-skelter final in Paris.

The Springboks seemed to have control when, with Handre Pollard's dead-eyed goalkicking having already given them a 9-3 lead, Sam Cane caught Jesse Kriel high in the 27th minute.

The New Zealand captain was shown a red card on review and another Pollard penalty left the All Blacks a man down, nine points behind and in deep trouble.

But New Zealand rallied, rode their luck and dragged themselves back into the game. Richie Mo'unga kicked a penalty before the break and Beauden Barrett scooped up a loose ball and slid in after the interval to cut South Africa's lead to 12-11.

Both teams pushed for a decisive score in an enthralling, lactic-drenched final quarter, but neither found one, with Jordie Barrett missing a long-range 73rd-minute penalty and the Springboks clinging on for a third successive one-point victory in the knockout stages.

 
What a final that was.

All Blacks threw it away when the skipper got sent off and they had to play a large part of the match with 14 men. It was always going to be an uphill battle for them.

Boks are mentally so tough, an incredible team.
 
New Zealand number eight Ardie Savea was named men's player of the year at the World Rugby Awards on Sunday.

The 30-year-old beat Ireland's Bundee Aki, France's Antoine Dupont and South Africa's Eben Etzebeth to the prize.

Savea scored three tries at the Rugby World Cup as the All Blacks reached their first final since 2015, losing 12-11 to South Africa in Saturday's tense showpiece in Paris.


BBC
 
Eddie Jones: Australia head coach resigns following early Rugby World Cup exit

Australia went out in the pool stage of the Rugby World Cup, the first time in the tournament's history that they had failed to reach the knockout stage.

Jones began a second spell in charge of the Wallabies in January and will step down on 25 November.

In a statement, Rugby Australia thanked Jones for his "commitment to the Wallabies in 2023" and wished him "the best in his future endeavours".

The statement added that an announcement over the future of Australia's caching staff would be made "in due course".


BBC
 
England wing Jonny May has retired from international rugby following the World Cup

The 33-year-old, who made his debut in 2013, is England men's second highest try-scorer of all time behind Rory Underwood with 36 in 78 Tests.

May was left out of England's World Cup squad in France before being called up as injury cover for Anthony Watson.

"Words can't describe the journey that I've been on so I won't try to put it into words," May said.

"All I want to say from the bottom of my heart is a huge thank you to everybody who has been a part of this journey with me.

"It's an honour and a dream to represent my country and, although I won't be out there on the pitch any more physically, I will always feel connected to this team in spirit."


BBC
 

Barbarians rugby player Api Ratuniyarawa in court charged with sexual assault hours before he was due to play in Cardiff​

A rugby player has appeared in court charged with sexual assault hours before he was due to play for the Barbarians against Wales in Cardiff.

Api Ratuniyarawa was released on bail and will appear at Cardiff Crown Court on 4 December.

South Wales Police said: "Api Ratuniyarawa, 37, from West Northamptonshire, was due to appear at Cardiff Magistrates' Court this morning charged with sexual assault by penetration and sexual assault by touching."

The Fiji international had been due to be on the Barbarians bench for the match at the Principality Stadium, and Wales international Aaron Shingler was called up to replace him.

Barbarians said in a statement: "As soon as we were contacted by South Wales Police we co-operated fully, assisting them with their enquiries.

"On their advice, we can't comment any further as the investigation is ongoing."

Wales Online said the charges against Ratuniyarawa related to alleged incidents at a Cardiff bar in the early hours of Thursday morning.

Ratuniyarawa played for London Irish last season after signing from Northampton Saints.

news.sky.com

Barbarians rugby player Api Ratuniyarawa in court charged with sexual assault hours before he was due to play in Cardiff

It is reported the charges against Api Ratuniyarawa related to alleged incidents at a Cardiff bar in the early hours of Thursday morning.
news.sky.com news.sky.com
 
Saj said:
What a final that was.

All Blacks threw it away when the skipper got sent off and they had to play a large part of the match with 14 men. It was always going to be an uphill battle for them.

Boks are mentally so tough, an incredible team.
Click to expand...
Such a contrast to their cricket team :/
 
Sam Cane: New Zealand captain banned for three games after World Cup final red card

Cane intends to complete a tackling course which will reduce the ban by one game, meaning he will miss two matches for new side Suntory Sungoliath in Japan.

The flanker was sent off for a high tackle on Jesse Kriel in the 12-11 defeat by South Africa last month.

He has taken a sabbatical from Waikato Chiefs to spend a season in Japan.

The 31-year-old is likely to make his Suntory debut against Urayasu D-Rocks on 2 December.

Cane, the first player to be sent off in a men's World Cup final, said after the match: "Unfortunately it is something I am going to have to live with forever."


BBC
 
The Rugby Football League says it is "exploring all options" after Samoa turned down its invite for a three-match series in England next autumn.

It means England currently have no international fixtures scheduled for 2024.

Samoa instead intend to compete in the 2024 edition of the Pacific Shield alongside the likes of Australia, New Zealand, Fiji and Papua New Guinea.

RFL chair Simon Johnson said the decision was "disappointing".

"We can't afford to dwell on it. They have made their decision," he said.

"We now owe it to Shaun Wane and the players, and to England supporters, to deliver meaningful international rugby league in 2024, and we are working with RL Commercial and [governing body] the IRL to make that happen.

"We'll make further announcements as soon as there are any positive developments."

England won their series 3-0 against Tonga, which was held in October and November in St Helens, Huddersfield and Leeds.

Both England's men's and women's teams will tour Australia in 2025.

New Zealand and Australia have also agreed to visit England in consecutive years after the 2026 World Cup.


BBC
 
South Africa's former rugby star Hannes Strydom has died in a car accident at the age of 58. He was part of the Springbok team that famously won the 1995 Rugby World Cup after the end of apartheid in 1994.

Source: BBC
 
Ireland flanker Peter O'Mahony has stepped down as Munster captain after 10 years in the role.

O'Mahony, 34, first captained his province in 2011 before taking on the responsibility full-time after Doug Howlett's departure in 2013.

Munster head coach Graham Rowntree has not yet confirmed O'Mahony's replacement as skipper.

"Captaining Munster has been a dream come true for me," said O'Mahony, who has 101 caps for Ireland.

"I grew up watching and idolising the Munster team and in particular the people who were leading the team.

"People like Mick Galwey, Jim Williams, then on to the likes of ROG [Ronan O'Gara] and Paul [O'Connell], who I had the privilege of playing with at the start of my career."

O'Mahony, who captained Munster to last season's United Rugby Championship title, added: "I can remember the day I was asked to be captain like it was yesterday and discussing it with Paul to get his approval.

"From that day to this it's been an utter privilege and has never been something I've taken for granted.

"However, having given a huge amount of thought to it, I think it is the right time to step back from the role to share my experiences and give the same guidance that I received when I took on the role."



www.bbc.com

O'Mahony ends 10-year stint as Munster captain

Peter O'Mahony steps down as Munster captain after 10 years in the role, saying it has been a "dream come true" to skipper his province.
www.bbc.com www.bbc.com
 

Six Nations 2024: Scarlets' Wales flanker Plumtree set to miss tournament start​


Wales back row Taine Plumtree is set to miss at least the start of the Six Nations after Scarlets coach Dwayne Peel revealed he is likely to need surgery.

Plumtree, 23, suffered a shoulder issue in their United Rugby Championship (URC) loss to Lions earlier this month.

Peel says he will be out for "months", although no exact time was given.

"He is not going to be fit for a while and likely to need surgery on his shoulder," said Peel.

Wales open their Six Nations campaign against Scotland on Saturday, 3 February in Cardiff. Scarlets have seven games before that with three URC matches and four more in Europe's Challenge Cup.

Plumtree had initially picked up a shoulder injury in Wales' World Cup warm-up match against England in August, which effectively ruled him out of the tournament.

He has won two caps and was part of the Wales squad that defeated Barbarians in an uncapped fixture in early November after the World Cup, coming on as a second-half replacement for Dan Lydiate.

Head coach Warren Gatland is searching for a big blind-side flanker as he assesses his back-row options.

Exeter and Wales flanker Christ Tshiunza, who played at lock during the World Cup in France, will be out until the new year with a broken foot.

Number eight Taulupe Faletau is not expected back until at least early January after suffering a broken arm during the World Cup win against Georgia in early October.

Uncapped number eight Morgan Morris has been in impressive form for Ospreys again this season.

Plumtree has scored four tries in five matches for Scarlets since arriving from New Zealand.

He was born in Swansea while his father John was still coaching the All Whites and announced his return to Wales in late June 2023.

Plumtree immediately linked up with Warren Gatland's Wales training squad and featured in two warm-up internationals and the win against Barbarians.

"He has been good for us," said Peel.

"He is a good athlete, there are areas of his game that need to be refined and he knows that.

"He is prepared to work, he is a good character within the group and been a good fit for us and Wales where you are going to have a player in a year or so who will be very competitive."

Source: BBC
 

Rugby World Cup referee Tom Foley receives death threats​

A referee says he has received death threats towards him and his young family since he was involved in the Rugby World Cup Final.

Tom Foley was the television match official for the game between South Africa and New Zealand last month.

World Rugby has recorded more than 2,000 direct threats against match officials in recent weeks.

Mr Foley, who is from Somerset, said having to warn his children's school about potential threats was "not fair".

He said the comments and messages he had received included threats to hunt him down and hopes he would die in a car crash.

'Complete cowardice'
Another social media user said: "May they live very short lives."

Mr Foley, who has been a professional referee for more than 20 years, said he had never experienced anything on this level before.

He wants social media users to have to provide identification so they can be traced.

"You can't hide behind this faceless façade. It's cowardice. It's complete cowardice.

"They wouldn't say it to you in the street. So why do they feel that they can say it online?"

Social media platforms say they are committed to tackling abuse, but expert at Introtweet, Pete Andrews, said the situation was "as bad as it has probably ever been".

"The platforms themselves do introduce features and there are things that we can do to have some control to be able to stop these things happening to a certain extent, but there is definitely a long way to go with it," he said.

Source: BBC
 

Owen Farrell: England captain to miss 2024 Six Nations to prioritise mental wellbeing​


England captain Owen Farrell has made himself unavailable for the 2024 Six Nations "in order to prioritise his and his family's mental wellbeing".

His club side Saracens said Farrell "has decided to take a break from international rugby" and "will have the full support of everyone at the club".

The 32-year-old will continue playing for and captaining Saracens.

"Everyone at England Rugby is fully behind Owen's decision," said England head coach Steve Borthwick.

"Since making his debut, he has been an integral part of the England set-up for over a decade and the demands on elite athletes are extremely challenging.

"He is an exemplary player, captain and leader and always gives his all for his country.

"It is with typical courage that Owen has made this decision to open up in this manner. Together with all of us at England Rugby, I will do everything I can to ensure that he has the support he requires going forward."

England start their Six Nations campaign on 3 February in Italy and end it with a game in France on 16 March.

Farrell, who succeeded Dylan Hartley as England captain under Eddie Jones in 2019, became the country's all-time record points scorer during the World Cup last month, surpassing Jonny Wilkinson's career haul of 1,179 points with a penalty against Samoa in their Pool D match.

The fly-half and centre moved to second in the all-time international points-scoring list behind New Zealand's Dan Carter, who has a tally of 1,598, by the end of the competition.

He has retained his role as captain since 2019 but had to miss England's opening two World Cup games after being suspended for a dangerous tackle during the warm-up win over Wales in August.

England reached the semi-finals of the tournament in France before being beaten by South Africa.

The Saracens playmaker, who made his international debut in 2012 and has 112 caps, was also on the losing side against the Springboks when he guided England to the final of the 2019 World Cup in Japan.

Source: BBC
 
He has played enough rugby to know what's best for him. It must be a good decision in the long run not only for him personally but I think for the England Rugby as well.
 
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