In a dramatic turn of events, Ireland’s crucial World Cup pool stage encounter with Scotland plunged into utter chaos, marked by a massive on-field brawl that erupted mere moments into the second half.
The catalyst for this explosive confrontation was none other than Ollie Smith, who attempted a rather audacious maneuver by trying to trip Irish skipper Johnny Sexton as he raced past him.
Sexton, the seasoned fly-half, did not take kindly to this underhanded tactic. He vehemently protested against Smith’s crafty attempt and, in a fiery response, forcefully shoved Smith. This incendiary action set off a chain reaction, resulting in a brawl that saw nearly every one of the 30 players involved, engaging in heated exchanges, pushing, and shoving along the sidelines.
While Sexton and Smith were undeniably the central figures in this tumultuous episode, the violence didn’t confine itself to the pitch. In a shocking move reminiscent of WWE theatrics, Scottish prop Pierre Schoeman sent Ireland’s Dan Sheehan flying over the advertising boards.
As the dust settled, opinions on the incident remained deeply divided, with a wide spectrum of reactions ranging from condemnation to more nuanced viewpoints.
One fan wrote: “Big time. That trip on Sexton was sly & cowardly.”
Another said: “Sexton is a dirty little toe rag.”
A third commented: “93 year old Sexton couldn’t lose face, therefore he shoved the Scot that then kicked it all off. It was bound to happen at some point in this game anyway.”
“Although the trip was wrong, so was the retaliation, Sexton caused all the following trouble and should have been binned.”
Rugby’s Ultimate Sh**house XV
Not everyone can be a role model for the future generation of sporting stars out there, but perhaps being a role model is the last thing on the mind of an international rugby star the moment he steps onto the pitch.
There are, however, a select few who have really had zero disregard for those watching or indeed for their opponents over the years, and they ought to be singled out for their often reckless and ultimately cold-blooded actions.
These actions have even garnered respect from many onlookers, such has been their complete lack of consideration for those on the receiving end of their unsportsmanlike conduct.
Here is the ultimate rugby shithouse starting XV.
Rugby’s Ultimate Sh*thouse XV
BACK-THREE:
- 15. Mike Brown (England)
- 14. Liam Williams (Wales)
- 11. Yoan Huget (France)
Honourable mentions: Alessana Tuilagi (Samoa), Duncan McRae (Australia)
CENTRE:
- 13. Austin Healey (England)
- 12. Owen Farrell (England)
Honourable mentions: Manu Tuilagi (England), Mathieu Bastareaud (France)