Scotland vs Fiji: Player Ratings – Autumn Nations Series
The Autumn Nations Series saw Scotland face Fiji in a captivating clash at Murrayfield. The Scots ultimately emerged victorious, but the Fijian challenge was one that demanded their full attention. Here’s a look at the player ratings from a dramatic encounter:
Scotland
15. Stuart Hogg (7/10): Hogg was a calming presence in the backfield, making crucial tackles and directing the Scottish attack with his characteristic composure. He was particularly impressive in the first half, showing his experience and leadership.
14. Darcy Graham (8/10): Graham was a constant threat on the wing, scoring a crucial try and creating havoc with his pace and agility. His work rate was commendable, contributing both offensively and defensively.
13. Sione Tuipulotu (6/10): Tuipulotu had a solid game, showing his strength in defense and carrying the ball effectively. He was not quite as impactful as some of his teammates, but his presence provided stability.
12. Mark Bennett (7/10): Bennett showcased his dynamism with some clever runs and offloads, creating opportunities for his teammates. He was a key figure in Scotland’s attacking build-up.
11. Duhan van der Merwe (7/10): Van der Merwe was a constant menace on the wing, carrying the ball strongly and putting in some committed tackles. He was unlucky not to add to his try tally.
10. Finn Russell (8/10): Russell was the orchestrator of Scotland’s attacking plays, his vision and accurate kicking crucial in breaking down the Fijian defense. He also demonstrated a strong defensive presence.
9. Ben White (7/10): White was a reliable presence at scrum-half, making accurate passes and keeping the ball moving quickly. He was also effective in the breakdown, winning crucial turnovers.
8. Matt Fagerson (7/10): Fagerson was a tireless worker in the loose, carrying hard and making a number of crucial tackles. He provided the foundation for Scotland’s attacking prowess.
7. Hamish Watson (8/10): Watson was outstanding in the back row, leading the Scottish charge with his ferocious tackling and powerful carries. He was a constant threat in the breakdown.
6. Rory Darge (7/10): Darge had another solid performance, showing his versatility and work rate. He was strong in the lineout and contributed defensively.
5. Grant Gilchrist (7/10): Gilchrist was a powerful presence in the lineout, securing a number of crucial throws. He also provided strength and leadership in the tight.
4. Jonny Gray (7/10): Gray was a force in the lineout, winning possession and setting up Scotland’s attacking platforms. He also made a crucial tackle in the second half.
3. Zander Fagerson (7/10): Fagerson provided a strong scrum presence, anchoring the Scottish pack. He also carried the ball with intent.
2. George Turner (7/10): Turner was a reliable hooker, providing a solid platform at the scrum and winning lineout possession. He was also a threat with ball in hand.
1. Pierre Schoeman (7/10): Schoeman was a dominant force in the scrum, providing a solid base for Scotland's attacking game. He also made some powerful carries.
Fiji
15. Caleb Muntz (6/10): Muntz was a composed presence at fullback, making some crucial tackles and clearing the ball effectively. He was a reliable last line of defense.
14. Josua Tuisova (8/10): Tuisova was a constant threat on the wing, with his pace and power creating havoc for the Scottish defense. He scored a spectacular try and was a key figure in Fiji’s attacking game.
13. Levani Botia (6/10): Botia was a strong runner and was a key figure in Fiji's attacking play, but he was not as impactful as some of his teammates.
12. Vilimoni Botitu (7/10): Botitu was a key figure in Fiji's attacking play, making a number of dangerous runs and offloads. He was a constant threat.
11. Semi Radradra (6/10): Radradra had a quiet game by his usual standards, but he was still a threat with the ball in hand. He was limited by Scotland's strong defense.
10. Ben Volavola (7/10): Volavola was a reliable presence at fly-half, kicking accurately and directing the Fijian attack. He was also a capable defender.
9. Frank Lomani (6/10): Lomani was a dynamic scrum-half, making some incisive runs and offloads. He was a key figure in Fiji’s quick ball game.
8. Viliame Mata (6/10): Mata was a powerful runner in the back row, making a number of important carries. He was also a strong defender.
7. Mesulame Dolokoto (6/10): Dolokoto was a key figure in Fiji's defensive effort, making a number of committed tackles. He also contributed offensively with a number of strong runs.
6. Apisai Domolailai (6/10): Domolailai was a reliable presence in the back row, contributing to Fiji’s defensive efforts and carrying the ball with intent.
5. Tevi Qoro (6/10): Qoro was a key figure in the lineout, winning possession and providing a platform for Fiji's attacking game.
4. Isoa Nasilasila (6/10): Nasilasila was a solid performer in the second row, carrying the ball strongly and making a number of important tackles.
3. Manasa Saulo (6/10): Saulo was a strong presence in the scrum, providing a solid base for Fiji's attacking game. He also carried the ball effectively.
2. Sam Matavesi (6/10): Matavesi was a reliable hooker, providing a solid platform at the scrum and winning lineout possession.
1. Eroni Mawi (6/10): Mawi was a powerful presence in the scrum, providing a solid base for Fiji’s attacking game.
Conclusion
This was a game of two halves. Scotland dominated the first half, but Fiji came back strongly in the second. In the end, the Scots held their nerve to claim victory, with a number of players delivering standout performances. This match highlighted the growing strength of the Scottish team, while Fiji showcased their unique brand of attacking rugby.