Rugby world cup Japan 2019 Discussion Thread

Current score: Fiji 27 Uruguay 30
First big upset of the tournament!!

A very this open game, and possibly the best and most competitive one so far, both sides feel the bonus try point is needed to decide position in finishing order, plus ranking position!! and Uruguay came out on top they will be full of confidence after that win. They should climb the rankings after that win!!

i believe that Reece Hodge will have his citing hearing in Tokyo today in reference to the incident in the Fiji game. Aussie coach Cheika is confident that he will escape any further punishment, but depending how bad it looked on TV to any of you guys, I would be surprised if he wasn't suspended for it as many former referees have said it was automatic red and if he escapes punishment, World Rugby need to look at their frame work on high tackles again and I should think the referee from that game should also be hauled in to explain why he thought that tackle was legitimate when he should have sent him off immediately. I accept Rugby is a contact sport but all contact sports must have a code where dangerous play needs to be punished for what it is.

Uruguay were superb - big rap for them!! Despite Fiji's shortcomings, be in no doubt, Uruguay won that on their own merit. This again highlights the urgency of changing the International structure, to ensure they - and the other T2 nations have a firmer foothold on the fixture list!

Gus Pichot was interviewed before the game, and gave several good reasons why Japan - and this location today was chosen. It certainly resonated! He though - along with Bill Beaumont, and the IRB in general - have to now ensure that performances like that today are properly rewarded. Sean Fitzpatrick said it was quote: a shame that Uruguay (etc) do not play more at this level! No Sean, it is a scandal, and must change! Perhaps NZ might step up and lead that change?? The IRB simply should have no choice!

How to achieve this?? You will have noticed what my thoughts on it are! I am interested to know how others see the future in this respect??

NB I wish C Doyle would stop turning teams into qualifiers before they have actually earned the points! Today, again, he was at his usual 'well done Uruguay' but the tier one nations will move on to the QF from this group! Wouldn't be certain at all! It is this attitude that will see things stay the same, when change is badly/urgently needed!!

(23-09-2019 21:29 )babelover48 Wrote:  Didn't think you would!!

Any news on Reece Hodge?

(25-09-2019 17:17 )babelover48 Wrote:  Any news on Reece Hodge?

Banned for 3 weeks so misses the rest of the Group games

He's very lucky - could have been a lot worse when you consider how bad that tackle was

TODAY'S GAMES : - (KO TIME UK TIMES)
ITALY V CANADA (KO 8:45)
ENGLAND v USA (KO 11:15)

I Would say that both games are winnable for both England and Italy, but I think Canada might spring a surprise over Italy. I think the USA might pressure England for a while, but I think England should improve on their Tonga game with a performance that makes a statement.

RESULT

ITALY 47 CANADA 8

(26-09-2019 11:21 )babelover48 Wrote:  RESULT

ITALY 47 CANADA 8

Canada were profligate to say the least! In addition to the spilt ball with a clear run to the line, they had at least 3 clear cut additional chances they should have scored from!!

Even a tier 2 team should be expected to convert these chances at this level, but it also speaks to the lack of composure that comes from a lack of experience overall. We need to see a structure (as previously considered) that allows Canada, and the others, to develop skills in these one percenter situations!