Here, we examine five players who fell short of expectations for their respective countries this weekend…
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#1. Charlie Ewels (England)
RUCK 5/10: “On at the 65 minute mark, yet was immediately under his own posts as Japan crossed for their first try. Solid work at the set-piece, as despite leaking a couple of tries England kept their strength in attack. Dangerous clear out on Michael Leitch at 72 minutes, as he dove at the captain’s legs. Shown a yellow card (and off-field review) as England finished the match with 14 men. The off-field review upgraded the offence to a red card for the Bath man, no mitigation and a high degree of danger.”
Express 2/10: “The forward came off the bench for England in the 66th minute and was sent off just eight minutes later for dangerous play, taking out Michael Leitch.”
Rugby Pass 0/10: ” it was a nightmare for England’s fifth forward replacement as Ewels (0), a 66th-minute sub for Freeman, was yellow carded seven minutes later for a dangerous clear-out on Michael Leitch.”
#2. Jordan Hendrikse (South Africa)
Rugby Pass 5.5/10: “Nervy start from the boot, pushing his first kick to the right hand side of the posts. Looked to build himself into the game, but was found guilty of losing the ball on multiple occasions. Not the worst performance, but will look to push on next time.”
Planet Rugby 3/10: “A mixed bag from the debutant with the nerves well and truly showing. Multiple errors in his game, but there were some positives, including good link-up play for Mapimpi’s try and some great passes. He will be proud to have finally made his debut but perhaps a bit disappointed by his overall performance. He won’t be a one-Test wonder.”
