4. Wales 13 – 16 Western Samoa: 1991 Rugby World Cup
The original and best for the Pacific Islanders, as this upset announced Oceania’s intentions on the world stage. In what would be a trailblazing template for the aforementioned victories of Tonga and Fiji, Western Samoa achieved the initial upset victory, over an established rugby nation on the grandest stage.
The nation of Wales consider this loss to be arguably the darkest time in the history of their rugby team. One of the most prestigious and proud teams were undone by the ultimate underdogs, with the odds firmly stacked against them. This defeat was made all the more worse, as it took place in Cardiff Arms Park, the historic ground in the heart of the Welsh capital.
This match would go on to have lasting consequences, as Western Samoa finished second in the group, and progressed into the knock-out stages with the Wallabies. Wales were rightfully dejected, as they were outperformed by a side who had ventured to their maiden Rugby World Cup. The Western Samoan team was bolstered with the likes of now Bristol Bears Head Coach Pat Lam, former All Black Frank Bunce and Apollo Perelini who lived up to his moniker as ‘The Terminator’,
Western Samoa lived up to their reputation as tough tacklers, stopping the Welsh momentum firmly in it’s tracks. Wales halfbacks Robert Jones and Mark Ring were targeted, as earth-shaking collisions could be heard to the very back of the Cardiff Arms Park rafters. Western Samoa found the way to the try-line through To’o Vaega and Sila Vaifale.
Wales managed to get a hold of the game in the latter stages, with Arthur Jones and Ieuan Evans scoring tries for the hosts. However, the all-important points came from the boot of Mathew Vaea, who was far more accurate than the heavily hit Mark Ring. Western Samoa maintained their structure, and saw out the remainder of the match with resilient defence, despite the best efforts of an illustrious Wales side.
Reports from that day state how it was quipped “Thank heavens Wales weren’t playing the whole of Samoa”. Wales, who had come away from the 1987 Rugby World Cup with bronze medals, were now eliminated by a nation with 168,000 people.
This match stands the test of time, with it’s historical significance marking it as the first Rugby World Cup upset, an originator of it’s kind.