Gloucester’s 20-year-old prop, Afolabi Fasogbon, made headlines with a bold display of confidence during their clash with Bristol Bears, waving off England star Ellis Genge after outmuscling him in a scrum.
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The England U20 sensation was a standout, earning a crucial scrum penalty for the Cherry & Whites in the second half. Fasogbon’s commanding performance saw him overpower one of the nation’s top front-rowers, drawing plenty of attention.
As Genge, England’s vice-captain, was subbed off by Bristol boss Pat Lam, Fasogbon added a cheeky wave, sending the crowd into raptures.
One supporter commented: “Fasogbon waving Genge off. I don’t think it’ll be long until those two are in England camp together going at it.”
Another added: “The way Afo stood over Genge after Genge got gobby and pumped at scrum time, then waved him off the pitch. Thing of beauty.”
But Genge has come in for much praise after his post-match exchange with the tyro prop emerged. It showed the 29-year-old approaching Fasogbon after the match before faking to shape up and box him. The pair then burst into laughter before embracing.
Genge whispered what looked to be words of praise and encouragement into his opposite number’s ear before appearing to sign it off with “you were f*****g great”.
Despite the intense on-field battle, Genge has received widespread praise for his sportsmanship following the match. A post-match exchange between the 29-year-old England star and the young prop captured a heartwarming moment.
After the final whistle, Genge approached Fasogbon, playfully pretending to square up for a boxing match. The tension quickly turned to laughter as the two props shared a warm embrace.
Genge was seen whispering what appeared to be words of encouragement into the youngster’s ear, finishing with the compliment, “You were f*****g great,” in a classy show of respect.
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NIGEL OWENS DREAM XV:
In his remarkable lineup, Owens features three Welsh luminaries – Alun Wyn Jones, Shane Williams, and Gethin Jenkins. Additionally, he acknowledges the contributions of Lee Byrne, Dwayne Peel, and Leigh Halfpenny to the sport.
Notably, a striking facet of Owens’ chosen players is their collective leadership qualities, with the majority of the selected individuals having served as captains for their respective nations.
Fullback: Israel Folau (Australia)
Owens said: “For me, it’s nip and tuck between Halfpenny and Folau, next to nothing to choose between them. Leigh is brilliant because under the high ball and with his kicking at goal under pressure. He may not always break the line when running but puts his body on the line in defence and is a top-notch match-winner.
“But I go for Folau – only just, I should stress – because of his ability to seemingly beat his man every time he gets the ball in his hand. He’s such an exciting player and like Leigh he is one of the best under the high ball.
“It’s a toss of a coin for me… and it’s come down in Folau’s favour.”
Winger: Stuart Hogg (Scotland)
Owens said: “How can you fail to be impressed when watching Hogg play. He’s so exciting as he burst into that line and, of course, was named Six Nations player of the tournament.
“I know he’s a full-back for Scotland, but he is so quick and direct he could easily play on the wing. He reminds me a bit of Shane Williams with some of the things he does.
“When you see who is on the other wing in my team, you’ll see how they would work brilliantly in tandem.”
Outside-centre: Brian O’Driscoll (Ireland)
Owens said: “Not only is he one of the greatest centres in the history of rugby union but he’s a fantastic man off the field as well. O’Driscoll has been a wonderful ambassador for the sport and a real leader. He always respected referees and set the right example for others to follow.
“A legend of the game who conducted himself superbly, on and off the pitch.”
Inside-centre: Ma’a Nonu (New Zealand)
Owens said: “He’s another brilliant player and after every game, win or lose, he would come up and give me a hug. Ma’a has always found time at after-match functions or at breakfast if we’ve been staying at the same hotel to come over and have a chat.
“What a player, mind, too. One of the stalwarts of the New Zealand side for so many years.”
Winger: Shane Williams (Wales)
Owens said: “When people ask me who is the best player I have refereed it’s pretty much an impossible task to pick one because I’ve been lucky enough to take charge of so many greats.
“But if I’m pushed, I would pick Shane for what he achieved after coming from football at 17 or 18 years of age.
“He was in the mould of Gerald Davies in how he left defenders gasping for air as he beat them with those dazzling sidesteps. Nobody would fancy defending against a back three of Shane, Hogg and Folau, I can tell you that.”