While France’s 33-9 victory over the USA today brought plenty of entertainment, there was one concern as once again at this tournament Fukuoka Hakatanomori Stadium’s pitch rapidly deteriorated.
USA were within touching distance right up until the hour mark before Gaël Fickou pushed France into an unassailable lead but viewers and players were both highly critical of the field’s condition over the course of the game.
Finally Gael Fickou breaks through the American resistance to make it a little more comfortable for France.
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— eir Sport (@eirSport) October 2, 2019
During the course of today’s clash, the grass consistently cut up while a strip had to be replaced.
— Will Kelleher (@willgkelleher) October 2, 2019
— RugbyUnplugged.com (@RugbyUnplugged) October 2, 2019
— Alan Dymock (@AlanDymock) October 2, 2019
Per Rugby World, France prop Cyril Baille was not impressed by the surface.
It was very tough, very difficult. When scrummaging the ground would come up, it wasn’t firm, and it was hard when trying to push.
As for the result itself, France now lie in second place on nine points after two Pool C games. They take on Tonga next week before finishing the group stages against England.