Wins for Canada, Tonga, Fiji and Georgia on day one of U20 Trophy
The World Rugby U20 Trophy got off to a fantastic start in the Lisbon sunshine on Tuesday with plenty of exciting rugby on offer and important wins registered for Canada, Georgia, Tonga and Fiji.The opener at Estadio Universitario de Lisboa was a tough, competitive affair with the Canucks eventually running out winners 35-20 against Namibia. These are two big sides who seem to enjoy the physical challenge but in the end, Canada’s superior pace in the back line was the difference and they managed fewer mistakes than their African opponents.
A huge Tonga side towered over Hong Kong but Hugo Stiles’ team betrayed that physical difference and matched the Pacific Islanders for large periods of the game. Indeed, they led until mid-way through the first half and Tonga needed strong defence throughout to keep HK at a safe distance. But ultimately, the relentless tide of red shirts won through 35-16.
Meanwhile, over in CAR Rugby do Jamor, an unforgiving Georgia beat Uruguay 46-12 and then pre-tournament favourites Fiji suffered a scare from hosts Portugal. Trailing 19-9 at half-time, Portugal came right back up to level terms in the second half in front of their excited home support before Fiji stepped on the gas again, eventually winning the game 34-19.
The U20 Trophy involves eight teams from all over the world battling it out for promotion to next year’s U20 Championship. This year’s tournament runs from 12-24 May with matches taking place at two venues in the Portuguese capital, CAR Rugby do Jamor and Estadio Universitario de Lisboa.
Supporters have been watching live streaming of the tournament around the world. With two venues in use on each of the four match days, all games are available to view via the Portuguese Rugby Union (FPR) website.
