All blacks 패, 왈라비도 패, 럭비월드컵 뭐니~

England stun Aussies, France beat All Blacks

Stephen Jonesat Stade Velodrome

RUGBY has seen some days, but there has never been a day like this. It started with Europe and the northern hemisphere facing humiliation, struggling desperately to find even one semi-finalist in the World Cup. It started with England on the point of departure from a tournament in which they have played with mediocrity at best.

Late last night, however, the Vieux Port area in Marseilles, a horseshoe of quays, bars and restaurants around a glamorous yacht basin, was ringed first by disbelieving and delirious English fans celebrating a stunning 12-10 victory over Australia.

Yet in Marseilles, and indeed in Cardiff, the surprises were only just beginning. France, who had to travel to Wales after struggling in their pool in their own World Cup, knocked out tournament hot favourites New Zealand 20-18. It was a shock result and guarantees Europe a team in the final. England and France meet at the Stade de France next Saturday at 8pm, with the other semi-final between the winners of today’s South Africa-Fiji and Argentina-Scotland games.

In Marseilles there was, remarkably for the French and English, a joint celebration. Hostilities will soon resume but, for one night only, there was a shared brotherhood of achievement.

England smashed Australia up front and Andrew Sheridan gave one of the most frightening exhibitions of scrummaging and fronton power the sport has ever seen. Jonny Wilkinson, whose form was patchy, kicked all England’s points and became the highest scorer in World Cup history. England were ferocious in the scrum and in the contact areas, but they also played sharp and lively attacking rugby. “I’m delighted for the players; we put a tremendous amount of work in and have reaped the rewards,” said Brian Ashton, England’s coach. Phil Vickery, the captain, added: “We won through belief, doggedness and determination.”

France absorbed early New Zealand pressure and struck late with tries by Yannick Jauzion and Thierry Dusatoir. It was a result that will resonate through the rugby world, and France will return to Paris today to a heroes’ welcome.

Soon, these old enemies will turn their sights on each other. For now, they are part of a celebration anywhere sporting glories are tasted to the full.