Rugby World Cup: There was a clear lack of consistency from referees in the application of the game’s rules in the opening series of games
Rugby World Cup: Irish fans may grapple with transport alternatives due to French air traffic control strike
Friday night, and the waiting was over, at last we were underway. France v New Zealand took some time to get going, apart from an extraordinarily quick try by the men in black. But when it did we were treated to a fine spectacle, befitting of the opening match. Some referees are lucky, and some are unlucky, with all the latters’ errors being doubly magnified because decisions have affected the final scoreline. The South African, and his fellow officials, used up a large slice of their good fortune, in my opinion, on three important occasions.
And then there were was a five-pointer to debate. Assistant Karl Dickson advised a French side entry as they swarmed in attack. It did not seem to meet the clear and obvious criteria, but Peyper whistled it. New Zealand kicked to touch, won the lineout, then manufactured a truly wondrous try, Mark Telea’s second. That’s eight questionable points in total, but the decisions didn’t matter as France were ultimately in the clear by 14. Lady Luck just might not be so kind next time.
Finn Russell: was fortunate not to earn a yellow card and a visit to the sin bin in Scotland's Rugby World Cup defeat to South Africa in Marseille. Photograph: Cameron Spencer/Getty Images
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