In the midst of England’s triumphant display against Chile in their Pool D clash at Rugby World Cup 2023, three players found themselves grappling with underperformance. Despite Henry Arundell’s remarkable five-try feat, which propelled England to a resounding 71-0 victory, the spotlight momentarily shifts to the struggles of these individuals.
For the initial 20 minutes, Los Condores valiantly resisted the relentless assault of the English white shirts. However, it was from a scrum near the posts that Owen Farrell, freshly reinstated as captain after a suspension, unleashed a precise pass to Henry Arundell. This maneuver finally shattered Chile’s stubborn defense, signaling the beginning of England’s scoring spree.
England’s front-row stalwarts, Theo Dan and Bevan Rodd, managed to touch down from close quarters, flanking Arundell’s second try as he once again cruised over the try line. Amongst the first-half highlights, full-back Marcus Smith’s exceptional kick-and-collect stood out as a testament to England’s dominance.
The second half witnessed England’s first try emerge from a meticulously executed set-piece. They orchestrated a well-planned maneuver that saw Theo Dan surge over for his second score. Meanwhile, Arundell, a 20-year-old sensation, added three more tries to his name, with his fourth being a delightful chip-and-chase. The influential duo of Marcus Smith and Jack Willis also etched their names on the scoresheet as England showcased their attacking prowess in style.
As the match concluded, it’s worth turning our attention to three players who failed to meet expectations and had a disappointing performance during this clash, contrasting with Arundell’s sensational showing.
#1. Billy Vunipola
Rugby Pass: “A first start since his Dublin red card last month, he stole a lineout ball off a Chile throw in the England 22 to put a stop to early opposition energy. Was described in recent performances as looking leggy and it was similar here with the game there to be won. Exited on 67 minutes.”
Telegraph: “Another returning veteran, Vunipola seemed to be a specialist catcher of restarts. Effective there but quiet otherwise, and was boomed backwards by Augusto Bohme.”
Replacement : Ben Earl