England claimed the top spot in Pool D by defeating Japan 34-12 at Stade de Nice this past Sunday.
At halftime, England was in the lead 13-9, thanks to an early try by Lewis Ludlam and George Ford’s accurate kicking, earning him the title of Mastercard Player of the Match.
Japan’s fly-half, Rikiya Matsuda, added his fourth penalty shortly after halftime, narrowing the gap to just one point. However, Courtney Lawes responded with England’s second try, benefitting from a fortunate bounce off prop Joe Marler’s head.
Freddie Steward capitalized on George Ford’s precise cross-field kick, scoring in the corner, while Joe Marchant secured the bonus-point try in the final play of the game, securing England’s second victory at Rugby World Cup 2023.
Now, let’s assess four players who had a disappointing performance during the match.
#1. Jonny May
Express 5/10: “Clumsy late challenge on Lemeki handed Rikiya Matsuda a simple penalty and added to the self-inflicted pressure on England.”
Mail Online 4/10: “Did not touch the ball in the first 40 minutes and conceded a penalty for a late hit that gifted territory to Japan.”
Rugby Pass 4/10: “Not a game for wingers. When is it ever in the Borthwick era? Didn’t feature in the opening half apart from a leap to cover a Japan cross kick that went into touch and then a late clip on a clearing kicker that gave the opposition a scored penalty from where the ball landed. “
The Guardian 5/10: “Didn’t touch the ball in the first half, though gave a needless penalty away, but more involved in second. Is in the side to chase kicks.”
Replacement: Henry Arundell