Rugby World Cup #4 Half Way Through Pool Stage

September 19, 2023
  1. South Africa Showing Their Class: both on the field as well as off. It was lovely to see Siya, Eben and Cheslin in the stands watching other games, Faf making a young lad’s dream by signing an autograph, Siya picking up a mobile that had been thrown in front of him to hand it back to the owner after taking a selfie with them and their friends.
    Nienaber has just named his starting XV for the key match against Ireland this weekend with a 7-1 bench – the press and pundits are going to love debating this one!
  2. Ireland: will know if they truly merit their #1 spot at the top of the IRB table after Saturday’s match. According to a rugby pundit, Ireland hasn’t faced any good teams so far this year, so they will need to be judged after their match against South Africa coming up this Saturday night.
    It’s almost THE pool match everyone will be watching for sure.
  3. Fiji: this team has gained so many fans after their win against Australia; they were clinical and lethal in breakdown. Even the great David Campese called them “brilliant”.
  4. Japan: as always their team gave their all and after the match was finished, bowed to their fans in the crowd. Another lovely touch is the inclusion of the french “fleur de lys” on their match jerseys, a lovely tribute to their hosts.
    #Respect
  5. England: the question now everyone seems to be asking is what is the head coach going to do now his captain is available to play after his 3 match ban. With Ford playing so well, it will be hard to move him from his #10 spot.
  6. France: So pleased to see the return of both Cyril Baille and Jonathan Danty after their respective injuries; both are key players for this side and whilst they may not stay on long after the half time resumes, both bring enormous strength back to the team. With bonus points possibly playing an important part in the pool stage, it’s important for us to do well this Thursday.