Bits & Pieces
A review of the debutants from the weekend’s action, a new record for King Richie, and a multitude of squad changes ahead of this week. Hold on to your hats!
This & That
Some musings from around the rugby world about odd selections, replacements, anthems, hakas, uniforms, dual cards, and a certain punch-up involving a couple Tier 2 nations somewhere in eastern Europe.
Team of the Week
There was a ridiculous amount of rugby to watch this weekend and a load of players to comb through, but at last the team of the week has been selected.
In Review
Some great attacking rugby was played this weekend, though no doubt some defensive coaches will be losing some sleep. Read on for brief reviews of the five remaining test matches.
Tonga Blow It In Bucharest
Poor discipline and missed opportunities cost Tonga as they crashed to defeat in a see-saw battle in Bucharest. Florin Vlaicu kicked 14 points including a late penalty for the win.
Wales Flattened By Springboks
Wales were outmuscled in Cardiff as they failed to cope with the strength of a committed South African side, with only the boot of Leigh Halfpenny keeping them in touch.
Eagles Fly In The Face Of Defeat
Rugby was the winner in Philadelphia on Saturday night as the Eagles and Maori put on a thrilling show for the more than 18,000 fans in attendance at PPL Park.
Fiji Fail To Impress In Lisbon
Fiji coasted to victory in Lisbon but for the most part it looked more like a casual vacation stroll as they failed to put the outclassed Lobos to the sword.
Canucks Lose Scrap In Tbilisi
An ugly all-out brawl that saw two players sent off, including Canadian captain Tyler Ardron, and another injured marred a poor spectacle for rugby in the driving rain of Tbilisi.
Match Preview – USA vs NZ Maori
The Maori finish their North American tour with a stop in the cream cheese capital, facing the Eagles at the scenic PPL Park in what should provide some solid entertainment.