"Played himself out" - Four England players who failed to impress against Chile

Rugby News
Sunday, 24 September 2023 at 09:32
screenshot 2023 09 24 at 093223
Wing Henry Arundell's spectacular performance saw him score an impressive five tries, effectively dismantling the weakest team in Pool D and virtually securing England's spot in the Rugby World Cup quarter-finals.
The 20-year-old sensation's remarkable tally of tries against Chile equals the highest ever achieved by an England men's player in a Test match. This remarkable feat catapulted him to the top of the tournament's try-scoring charts, all in his debut appearance in this campaign.
As anticipated, England displayed their dominance over the spirited but limited Chilean side, utilizing their formidable forward strength and exceptional backline skills to keep the Rugby World Cup newcomers on the defensive for the majority of the match.
However, as the game drew to a close, it's essential to shift our focus to four players who, in stark contrast to Arundell's sensational performance, failed to meet expectations and delivered a disappointing performance during this clash.

#1. Billy Vunipola

Rugby Pass: "A first start since his Dublin red card last month, he stole a lineout ball off a Chile throw in the England 22 to put a stop to early opposition energy. Was described in recent performances as looking leggy and it was similar here with the game there to be won. Exited on 67 minutes."
Telegraph: "Another returning veteran, Vunipola seemed to be a specialist catcher of restarts. Effective there but quiet otherwise, and was boomed backwards by Augusto Bohme."
Replacement : Ben Earl

#2. Max Malins

Planet Rugby: "At times looked out of sorts during the match but for the most part handled himself well throughout the game. Outshone by the other backs in his side."
Rugby Pass: "One of six starters getting their first minutes at the finals, he endured a slow start with some errors."
Telegraph: "An uncertain and error-strewn first 20 minutes was jarring. Malins endeavoured for greater involvement without putting his stamp on the game."
Replacement: Jonny May

#3. Danny Care

Telegraph: "Energetic and eager to snipe around the fringes in the first half, with mixed success. Suffered a couple of scruffy moments at the base of rucks."
Replacement: Alex Mitchell.

#4. Elliot Daly

Telegraph: "Unthinkably, this was only Daly’s fourth England start at outside centre. Distribution went awry at times, though a well-judged grubber laid on Arundell’s third."
Replacement: Joe Marchant
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