Southern Hemisphere rugby conquers the north
11/12/2024 05:29 AM
Rugby never disappoints, and last weekend was no exception.
Not many would have put their money on a Southern Hemisphere whitewash, but that's exactly what ensued.
The results
Wales seemed set to win their first game of the year before being brought back to earth by a marvellous Fijian performance that ended 24-19 to the South Pacific islanders.
Their neighbours Australia, who had won one game in their last six outings, were also seen as easy-to-beat opponents by England fandom, who were, too, sobered by defeat.
Headed by debutant Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii, Australia scored a try after the horn blew to win 42-37, silencing a packed-out Twickenham crowd – this was arguably the finest rugby game of the weekend.
Next, it was Argentina's turn to stamp the South's dominance, and they did so in style, beating a helpless Italy 50-18.
Springboks were last to feature, beating Scotland 32-15 in what was a messy game of rugby.
Four out of four made it a weekend to remember for Southern Hemisphere rugby – who, apart from Fiji, will have another chance at pipping their northern rivals in a few days time.
Upcoming rugby fixtures
Ireland vs Argentina: Friday, Nov 15, 22:10
Scotland vs Portugal: Saturday, Nov 16, 17:10
England vs South Africa: Saturday, Nov 16, 19:40
France vs New Zealand: Saturday, Nov 16, 22:10
Italy vs Georgia: Sunday, Nov 17, 13:40
Wales vs Australia: Sunday, Nov 17, 18:10
Etzebeth wary of Springboks lack of focus
"We said from the outset Scotland are a quality team, and one of the best in the world", Eben Etzebeth reported after the Springboks rugby game.
"I think [winning by] 17 points flatters us a bit. We [Springboks] knew it would be a grind of a match, and credit to them, they played well today.
"The breakdown was really scrappy, it was a big battle. We talked about it at half time and it went better in the second half. We were isolated because we were late on our reactions towards the breakdown.
"I think that is something we spoke about, being together, getting together and getting into shape because that shape helps you create a clean ball. Our reactions were late.
"We were just a bit asleep. A bit too late. We got better into structure and started getting quick ball. We couldn't get quick ball [in the first half] and that helped the Scottish defence.
"At the end of the day it was a good performance because we beat them [Scotland] by that margin, there are some aspects of the game we are not happy with and will work on.
"The coaches will point that out and there'll be some harsh words, but also good words. Sometimes you need that in a professional team environment."
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