A hard-fought 27-24 victory over Fiji in Marseille has sent England through to the semi-finals of the Rugby World Cup. Fly-half Owen Farrell kicked a crucial late drop goal and penalties to help England fend off a fierce Fijian fightback.
Farrell Silences Critics as England Take Control
Farrell, who was booed when named in the starting lineup, vindicated his selection by guiding England to a promising 14-10 halftime lead. Tries from centers Manu Tuilagi and Joe Marchant rewarded an energetic English attack.
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The first half saw England start brightly, matching Fiji’s intensity. Big hits flew early as both teams battled fiercely at the breakdown. England won an early penalty that Farrell slotted through the posts.
Tuilagi then powered through a tiring Fijian defense for England’s opening try. Despite Fiji responding with a penalty, two more accurate Farrell kicks gave England a handy buffer.
England’s attack flowed well, with smart running lines carving open gaps. A rolling maul preceded slick hands allowing Marchant to score England’s second try on the stroke of halftime.
Fiji Fight Back to Level in Dramatic Finish
The second half started well for England as Farrell stretched their lead. But a relentless Fiji weren’t done yet.
Tries from Peni Ravai and Vilimoni Botitu in a crazy four-minute spell shocked England by leveling it up at 24-24 with 15 minutes left.
As time ticked down, captain Farrell showed nerves of steel by nailing a vital drop goal to put England 27-24 ahead. His late penalty gave England breathing room as Fiji valiantly tried to steal it.
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Wave after wave of Fijian attacks were repelled in the dying moments as England desperately defended their slim lead. Finally, the Pacific Islanders were halted and England could celebrate a famous victory.
England Deliver Gritty Display for Fans in Marseille
In front of an overwhelmingly pro-Englandcrowd in Marseille, England delivered when it mattered. Winger Elliot Daly was lively and flanker Ben Earl rampaged all match.
The players showed determination to grind out the win, rallying after Fiji’s electric fightback. Farrell and England deserve immense credit for holding their nerve under extreme pressure.
The team produced their best display of the tournament so far after an inconsistent 2023. They will need to raise their game against the mighty Springboks.
Epic South Africa Clash Awaits in Repeat of 2019 Final
With Wales and Ireland exiting earlier, England are now the sole home nation left in France. They will face reigning champions South Africa on Saturday in a repeat of the 2019 World Cup final.
The Springboks pose a formidable challenge and represent a steep step up in quality. But England will take confidence from their resilient win over Fiji heading into the blockbuster semi-final showdown.
For England, a place in the World Cup final is at stake. After conquering Fiji, they must now overcome South Africa to keep their dreams of global glory alive. It promises to be an edge-of-your-seat semifinal contest.
