A win 13-6 from the USA (ranked 17) against Russia (ranked 20)... but could have turned out the other way!
- the referee was fine,
- the Russian iron curtain held on surprising well, except against one early try by the USA,
- the Russian butter fingers dropped too many balls in the USA 22m,
- the USA got too many penalties (justified) for offside, side entry etc in tackle and ruck situations. This aspect of the rugby game is the hardest to master for North American players who watch American or Canadian football....
- the USA got lucky when one American arm stayed around a Russian neck for quite a few seconds... dangerous high tackle should have brought a yellow card and Russians playing 15 against 14 Americans for 10 minutes in the second half...
- the Russian kicker missed two easy penalties right in front of the posts, which could have meant a score of 13-12 for USA. So when Russia got a penalty in the last minute, they could have gone for a conversion for the win, from the 22m line, but not so easy, from the left side.
Looks like you can bet safely on Australia and Ireland for the two to advance in this group. Still, don't miss Australia - Ireland game Saturday morning...
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