England fielded a makeshift side against Chile with a number of players impressing enough that they should feature in the team that faces against Samoa.
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In a remarkable display of rugby prowess, England triumphed over Chile in their Pool D encounter in Lille during the Rugby World Cup 2023, securing their third consecutive victory. The final scoreline of 71-0 not only solidified their dominance but also served as a testament to their growing confidence, further buoyed by the return of their suspended captain, Owen Farrell.
For a gritty 20 minutes, Los Condores valiantly resisted the relentless pressure exerted by England’s white-clad warriors. However, the deadlock was ultimately shattered when Owen Farrell, orchestrating play from a scrum strategically positioned in front of the posts, unleashed a precise pass that found its mark in the form of Henry Arundell. With this immaculate delivery, Arundell dashed across the try line, breaking Chile’s resistance.
England’s front-row stalwarts, Theo Dan and Bevan Rodd, made their mark with tries scored from close quarters, flanking Arundell’s second score. However, it was the first-half magic of full-back Marcus Smith, highlighted by a sublime kick-and-collect maneuver, that left spectators spellbound.
In the second half, England continued to flourish, leveraging their set-piece prowess to secure their opening try post-interval. A well-executed lineout play paved the way for Theo Dan’s second score as he bulldozed over the try line. Arundell, a youthful 20-year-old sensation, dazzled with three additional tries, including a delightful chip-and-chase spectacle. The charismatic contributions of Marcus Smith and Jack Willis further exemplified England’s flair and style.
As this captivating contest draws to a close, Chile now prepares to wrap up their pool games in their maiden Rugby World Cup campaign, facing Argentina in Nantes on September 30th.
#1. Henry Arundell replaces Jonny May
Telegraph: “Bagged five tries, with a classy fourth the pick of the bunch, and still left one feeling as though he can grow into a more devastating force at this level.”
Rugby Pass: “After two anonymous starts, where we weren’t shy in marking him poorly, he must get top marks here for his five-try display. His first two were walk-ins but the 20-year-old still deserved credit for them as he showed there were no nerves on this occasion unlike before. His first was especially important in the context of this game as well, grabbing a looping Farrell pass to badly pierce surging Chilean optimism at 0-0. His chip kick and regather on the hour was the pick of his scores, though. If the regular England played with the intent of getting the ball to the wingers, he would ne a shoo-in for the rest of the tournament Borthwick unfortunately prefers a much narrower attack.”
Planet Rugby: “Prolific personified. The youngster absolutely sparkled for England, equalling the record for most tries in a World Cup game for his country, crossing the line FIVE times. It was a perfect day for the superstar who scored everything from walk-ins to well-executed chips and chases. Historic day for the wing.”