The USA Eagles put their loss to Ireland behind them as they beat RWC debutants Russia 13-6 in New Plymouth earlier today. The only try of the match was scored by halfback Mike Petri.
The game started in decent conditions but by the end it was made very difficult for both sides, and it times became scrappy. Chris Wyles managed to convert the Petri try though, and kicked two other penalties.
The Russian lineout failed to fire as the USA stole their ball on a few occasions, with some great work from Saracens lock Hayden Smith. In the loose captain Todd Clever was all over the place, as was prop Mike MacDonald, who came away with the Man of the Match honours for his efforts.
Unfortunately Clever may find himself in a spot of both after he put in a later and high shoulder shortly before full time. It was spotted by touch judge Craig Joubert, but only a penalty was given at the time. A citing may well be on the cards, which would rule him out of their next match, against Australia, and be a huge blow for the squad who value his leadership so highly.
The try that the USA scored was great to watch, with excellent handling and support lines. You can watch that, and the rest of the highlights from the match, on the official RWC website now.
Below is a quick look at the tackle that has resulted in Todd Clever being cited.
