#2. Courtney Lawes
RUCK 8.5/10: “Simply epic. Lawes had one of the games of his life on Borthwick’s blindside flank. Lawes flew into tackles from kick off, as England’s line-speed was something to marvel at. He was dumped into touch by a trio of Fijian defenders, yet bounced back to steal the ball multiple times at the breakdown. A huge 48thminute turnover halted a flying Fijian attack, as did his effort on the 58th minute, with the Pacific Islanders battling hard to fight back. Constantly offering an option in attack, Lawes was sublime today.”
Planet Rugby 9/10: “Absolutely vital for this Red Rose outfit because of his lineout and breakdown work. One of their primary carriers as well. A colossus in Marseille.”
Evening Standard 8/10: “One turnover stunned Fiji and completely turned the early momentum on its head in Marseille. Measured and merciless.”