2. Beno Obano – Bath Rugby
The Bath loose-head had a stunning run out against Ulster, and was duly awarded the Player of the Match for his efforts. Obano’s was unfaltering at the set-piece, most notably the maul and scrum. The 29-year-old urged his men on up front, and muscled the rolling maul over Ulster try-line for Tom Dunn’s second half score. Obano was excellent scrummaging wise, and repeatedly sent Ulster tight-head Tom O’Toole back-peddling against the shove.
Obano overpowered the Ireland international prop, and presented his abilities against a top calibre tight-head. It has been more than two years since Obano experienced an England cap, with his third and most recent test coming against Canada in the Summer of 2021. The Bath man has previously featured in the Six Nations, with one appearence under Eddie Jones against Scotland, in the 2021 campaign. Obano has been continuing to prove his skillset against top calibre opposition, and this strong effort in Bath’s victory over the Belfast side has helped out his England contention for a possible Six Nations return next February.
3. Henry Slade – Exeter Chiefs
Henry Slade continued on with his fine form this past weekend, and once again produced the goods when it mattered the most. In a mirror image of Exeter’s last-ditch win against Gloucester from three weeks ago, Slade stepped up to the tee to nail the match-winning kick in the closing moments. Slade has well and truly thrown his hat into the ring for a return to the England squad, after missing out on the Rugby World Cup. The centre is a leading contender for Joe Marchant’s outside centre vacancy, and had a classy showing in Toulon.
Slade ran the show in the centre of the park, and sent his forwards on thumping carries over the gain-line. The 30-year-old also backed himself to go alone, and has formed a nice midfield partnership with Welsh young gun Joe Hawkins. Slade’s two slotted conversions were crucial for the win at the Stade Mayol, with the Chiefs recording a memorable victory. An honourable Exeter mention is in order for Harvey Skinner, as the fly half scored a try to remember following a well-timed interception. Also, Max Norey made good on his Champions Cup debut, as the hooker powered over for a try which set up the dramatic finale.