20 things we miss about rugby in the 90s - Page 3 of 4 - Ruck

20 things we miss about rugby in the 90s

11. Western Samoa shock Wales – RWC 1991

Wales, and the rest of the world of rugby, were stunned when massive underdogs Western Samoa pulled off a shock victory over the Welsh in the group stages of the 1991 tournament, coming out on top in a closely contested match that ended 16-13. Wales were playing at home and expected to win easily, but the Samoans had different ideas.

12. NEWCASTLE’S TITLE-WINNING TEAM

Coached by Rob Andrew and spearheaded by Jonny Wilkinson, the Falcons just edged past Bath on the final day to win the first edition of the Premiership title. It was a star-studded side that also included rugby legends Pat Lam, Doddie Weir and Gary Armstrong.

See where they are now.

13. JONAH LOMU RUGBY (PS1)

The daddy. The first big rugby game to come to home games consoles was Codemaster’s Jonah Lomu Rugby, and it was received with almost unconditional love when released in 1997. It was a major developer’s first go at a rugby game, and they nailed it.


14. THIS T-SHIRT

In 1999 Wales flanker Colin Charvis was suspended for two weeks following a punch-up with Roberto Grau in the opening match of the World Cup. Days later, Gareth Thomas showed his support with this ‘Free Colin Charvis’ t-shirt


15. MANDELA HANDS PIENAAR THE TROPHY

The truly remarkable tale of rugby uniting a racially divided country reached its pinnacle when South Africa beat New Zealand 15-12 in a closely fought final in 1995. Nelson Mandela in his Springboks jersey presenting the trophy to captain Francois Pienaar perfectly symbolised the ‘Rainbow Nation’ that the country had become.null

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