November 3, 2024 – Rugby fans were treated to an exciting weekend of international clashes on November 2, with England battling New Zealand in a nail-biting contest at Twickenham, while Scotland hosted Fiji in a dominant performance at Scottish Gas Murrayfield Stadium. Both matches delivered high-intensity action and memorable moments, making it a day to remember in the rugby calendar.
England vs. New Zealand: A Twickenham Thriller
In what could only be described as a match of fine margins, New Zealand narrowly defeated England with a final score of 24-22 at Twickenham Stadium. England, coming off strong performances in recent tests, aimed to turn the tide against the All Blacks, who consistently rank among rugby’s most formidable sides.
The match started with both teams displaying physicality and tactical discipline, setting the tone for an intense battle. England took control in the second half and established a solid 22-14 lead with just over ten minutes left on the clock. George Ford’s tactical management and accuracy with the boot had been crucial in putting England ahead, but the game was far from over.
New Zealand’s relentless spirit and high-pressure gameplay shone through in the final minutes. Winger Mark Tele’a scored a vital try, narrowing England’s lead. Damian McKenzie then stepped up, converting the try and adding a penalty kick to push New Zealand into a 24-22 lead. England had opportunities to regain control, but Ford missed both a penalty and a drop-goal attempt in the dying minutes, leaving the English side and their fans devastated as the final whistle blew. The All Blacks celebrated a hard-fought win, showcasing once again their ability to perform under pressure.
Scotland vs. Fiji: Darcy Graham Steals the Show
Meanwhile, in Edinburgh, Scotland delighted their home crowd with a dominant 57-17 win over Fiji at Murrayfield. This match marked the return of Scotland’s prolific winger, Darcy Graham, who came back from injury to make an immediate impact, scoring four tries and proving a key component of Scotland’s relentless attack.
Scotland’s fluid ball movement and high tempo were on display from the start, making it difficult for Fiji to keep up. Fiji, known for their explosive playing style, managed to put up some resistance and had moments of resurgence. However, Scotland’s clinical execution and disciplined defense kept the visitors at bay, while Graham’s pace and precision in finishing tries provided Scotland with a comfortable lead.
Graham’s four-try haul was a personal triumph, as he seamlessly picked up where he left off before his injury. His dynamic performance electrified the crowd and underscored Scotland’s depth in attacking talent. With Graham leading the charge, Scotland’s comprehensive win reinforced their standing as a team to watch in the upcoming international tests.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for England, New Zealand, Scotland, and Fiji?
For England, the close loss to New Zealand will undoubtedly prompt a reassessment as they prepare for future matches. George Ford and his teammates showed they could challenge top-tier opponents, but they’ll need to sharpen their decision-making in crunch time. Head Coach Steve Borthwick is likely to focus on consistency and capitalizing on opportunities as they regroup for upcoming tests.
New Zealand, on the other hand, will be buoyed by their performance. Snatching a win from the jaws of defeat is emblematic of their resilience and mental toughness. The All Blacks continue to set high standards for international rugby, and this victory only strengthens their position heading into their next challenges.
Scotland’s emphatic victory over Fiji will boost their confidence as they continue to build momentum. With Darcy Graham back in action and firing on all cylinders, Scotland looks well-equipped to face higher-ranked teams in the coming weeks. Fiji, though resilient, will seek to tighten their defense and refine their strategy as they regroup after the heavy defeat.
Final Thoughts
The weekend’s international rugby encounters provided a blend of suspense and spectacle, with New Zealand’s narrow escape in Twickenham contrasting Scotland’s sweeping triumph at Murrayfield. As the rugby season unfolds, fans can expect more of these thrilling battles that highlight the sport’s global appeal and the teams’ relentless drive for excellence.