International Rugby News
HOUSTON (USA Rugby Release) – The first Men's Eagles starting XV under new head coach John Mitchell has been announced, with nine Rugby World Cup veterans set to complement a slew of talent new to the senior setup Saturday, Feb. 6, against Argentina in the inaugural Americas Rugby Championship.
Houston, Texas – The USA U20 (aka Junior All American) team to face Canada's U20s in Austin, Texas has been named.
Refereeing remains under the microscope for international 7s as officials continues to be inconsistent in their management of games.
This was brought home to the USA team, which saw clear infractions against them not called, and even stuff like not even attempting to retreat 10 meters on a penalty and throwing the ball away not receiving a yellow card.
February brings World Rugby’s adjustments to the Rugby Laws in the Northern Hemisphere.
Most of the changes this year as minor and won’t affect players all very much.
Front Row
The replacement laws for front row players have been changed only slightly and one part (uncontested scrums) separated out into its own section.
In the recent Saracens 19-13 win over Bath in the Aviva Premiership in England, USA players had a big influence - Hayden Smith came on to solidify the lineout, and Chris Wyles made several big players throughout the game, but the man who really stood out was Titi Lamositele.