RWC2023 quarterfinal - England v Fiji: Top Performers

After a loss to Fiji in the pool stages England came back in the quarterfinals to book a last-four place in the Rugby World Cup 2023 edging over Fiji with a 30-24 win at Stade de Marseille.  

Let us have a look at some of the top performers from the clash. 

Alex Mitchell - England:  

Alex gave great service to his teammates today. He was quick to the breakdowns and helped England to stay on the front for most of the time he was on the field by keeping the game flowing and delivering quick balls to keep the Fiji defense rattled and busy. 

He made a total of 41 passes, carried the ball 4 times and won 1 turnover. 

Owen Farrel - England: 

Farrell earned himself the man of the match title and some might disagree but in tight games like a World Cup quarterfinal you need the experience which he brings. Farrell and Mitchell made a good half-back combination and controlled the game for England. 

Farrel only managed to make 32 metres in the game but what earned him the MOTM title was a drop-goal in the tense moments of the game to basically seal the victory for England. He also managed to get 2 try assists and managed to slot over 5 penalty goals securing 20 points for England.  

Ben Earl - England:  

The big and strong 8th man was key in England's victory, he matched Fiji’s physicality both in attack and defense. Earl came close to burying Fiji in the last minutes of the game when he picked up a loose pass and darted down the field but was caught in the opponents 22.  

Earl made the most metres in the game and beat the most defenders.   

Metres gained: 99 

Defenders beaten: 7 

Clean breaks: 2 

Tackles: 14 

Semi Radradra - Fiji:  

Radradra is a key asset to the Flying Fijians. The 31-year-old was excellent in defense and attack. England had a hard time keeping him under wraps, especially the young full-back Marcus Smith who had to change his shirt twice.  

Metres gained: 78 

Defenders beaten: 7 

Clean breaks: 2 

Offloads: 4 

Tackles: 14 

Vilimoni Botitu - Fiji:  

Botitu had an excellent game considering that this was only his fourth game as a fly-half and not many wingers can pull that off.  

Metres gained: 56 

Tries: 1 

Try assist: 1 

Defenders beaten: 2 

Passes: 20 

Offloads: 2 

Turnovers won: 1 

Viliame Mata - Fiji: 

Mata had an outstanding performance today which helped Fiji stay in the game. He scored Fiji’s opening try with a sweet dummy that opened up a path for him to fly over the try line.  

Metres gained: 18 

Tries: 1 

Defenders beaten: 1 

Clean breaks: 1 

Offloads: 1 

Turnovers won: 3 

Tackles: 10