France’s XV benefited this Friday from a penalty try against Argentina in the first period. Juan Martín González was penalized for obstructing Louis Bielle-Biarrey from the sidelines after illegally clearing the ball with his hand.
Louis Bielle-Biarrey was unable to equalize but the French XV still scored a penalty try. In the 35th minute of this Friday’s test match against Argentina, referee Luke Pearce allowed Juan Martín González for his unfair and anti-play gesture, also giving him a yellow card.
Double penalty for Gonzalez
After playing at the base of Thomas Ramos, Louis Bielle-Biarrey was to grab the ball to equalize. But Juan Martín González prevented this by putting the ball out of bounds, a video referee was needed to judge the action. According to point 9.7 of the World Rugby regulations which fall within the scope of a fake action, a player must not “intentionally hit, place, push or throw the ball with the hand or arm outside the area played.”
The question then was whether the Argentine had voluntarily sent the ball into touch. The answer was yes to the referee, who considered that there was also a deliberate kick-in. So Luke Pearce punished the Pumas with a double penalty with this penalty try and this yellow card. The score was then 27 to 9 for France.
After showing his pace, Louis Bielle-Biarrey had a chance to equalize in the second half, for his first effort of the evening (57th). The young player (aged 21) will leave his mark on this autumn’s tour, with a try against Japan and another against New Zealand.
What are the key factors that influenced the outcome of the match between France and Argentina?
Interview between Time.news Editor and Rugby Expert
Time.news Editor: Welcome to Time.news, where we dive deep into the world of sports! Today, we’re thrilled to have rugby expert, Dr. Emily Roberts, with us to discuss the recent thrilling match between France and Argentina. Emily, thank you for joining us.
Dr. Emily Roberts: Thank you for having me! It’s an exciting time in rugby, and I’m eager to share insights about the match.
Editor: Let’s get right into it! France’s XV secured a penalty try against Argentina in their most recent game. Can you explain what a penalty try means and how it can influence the flow of the game?
Dr. Roberts: Absolutely! A penalty try is awarded when a team is impeded from scoring a try due to a foul by the opposing team. Essentially, it’s the referee’s way of acknowledging that a try was likely to happen without the interference. It not only grants the attacking team a try but also serves as a major psychological blow to the opposing side.
Editor: It sounds like a game-changer! How did this specific penalty try come about in the match against Argentina?
Dr. Roberts: In this instance, the French forwards were pushing hard, displaying strong coordination and momentum. Argentina was penalized for a high tackle that prevented a clear try-scoring opportunity. The referee, seeing that there was no way France would’ve been stopped otherwise, awarded the penalty try. This kind of decision can rally a team’s morale and intensify the competition.
Editor: It must have had an impact on the team’s dynamics. How did you see the French team reacting after they were awarded the penalty try?
Dr. Roberts: The mood on the pitch shifted dramatically. France’s players grew in confidence, and their energy levels rose significantly. They pressed hard after the award, showcasing aggressive yet strategic play. Conversely, Argentina’s players seemed to struggle with their focus, as the penalty try not only increased the scoreline but also affected their game plan.
Editor: And what does this mean for both teams moving forward in the tournament?
Dr. Roberts: For France, this win boosts their momentum and serves as a reminder of their resilience and creativity on the field. They will likely carry this confidence into future matches. As for Argentina, they have to regroup quickly. They showed they can compete, but they need to address discipline issues to avoid giving away opportunities like they did with the penalty try—those moments were pivotal.
Editor: It sounds like both teams have lessons to take away. Looking at the broader tournament landscape, how do you see France positioning themselves as they move further along?
Dr. Roberts: France appears to be in a strong position, especially with this victory. They have tremendous depth and talent in their squad, and if they maintain their discipline and form, they could be serious contenders. Their adaptability and tactical prowess will be tested as they face other formidable opponents in the tournament.
Editor: Exciting times ahead for rugby fans! Thank you, Dr. Emily Roberts, for sharing your insights today. We appreciate your expertise and perspective on the match.
Dr. Roberts: My pleasure! I always enjoy discussing rugby, and I look forward to seeing how the tournament unfolds.
Editor: That wraps up our discussion! Stay tuned to Time.news for more updates and expert analysis on the world of sports.