SECOND-ROW:
#4. Tadhg Beirne (Ireland)
RTE 8/10: “We were tempted to give him a nine, but he took a couple of risks too many in giving away a pair of penalties. Otherwise he was outstanding, running in Ireland’s opening try, his third of the tournament. Led the team in tackles with 11 and contributed 11 carries also.”
Independent 8/10: “Back in the second-row, he finished strongly for a try when, regardless of how the game finished, it felt like Ireland particularly needed one. Made more than his fair share of tackles too.”
#5. Theo McFarland (Samoa)
RUCK 9/10: “The Saracens baller brought his Premiership form from last season to the international stage with a standout performance for the Pacific Islanders.”
BACK-ROW:
#6. Marco van Staden (South Africa)
Rugby 365 8/10: “He was incredible today – very industrious. In the last quarter, he slotted in effortlessly at hooker and was successful with all his lineout throws. The flank could’ve had his first World Cup try, however was ruled No Try after obstruction at the maul.”
Honourable mention: Courtney Lawes (England)
#7. Levani Botia (Fiji)
Rugby Pass 9/10: “Ever-present at the breakdown, competing hard for Fiji both on attack and defence. His elevation into the starting line-up proved to be a masterstroke as he was everywhere.”
Honourable mention: Jac Morgan (Wales), Ben Earl (England)
#8. Taulupe Faletau (Wales)
Wales Online: “After months out injured the Cardiff man is getting back to his best. One sensational try-saving tackle kept Portugal at bay early on while he claimed Wales’ bonus point try at the death as he smashed his way past three defenders to touch down.”
Honourable mention: Caelan Doris (Ireland), Taulupe Faletau (Wales), Duane Vermeulen (South Africa), Lewis Ludlam (England)