Samoa battle to victory against resilient Russia

Samoa were made to work by Russia to get their World Cup campaign off to a winning start in Pool A. A second half flourish saw the Islanders run out 9-34 winners in Kumagaya.

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Wales ease to opening win over Georgia

Wales kicked off their Rugby World Cup campaign with a facile 43-14 bonus point win over Georgia at City of Toyota Stadium. Wales sit joint top of Pool D with their next opponents Australia.

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England labour to bonus point victory over Tonga

England were far from impressive in the opening Pool C game against Tonga despite picking up a 35-3 bonus-point win. Manu Tuilagi went over twice in Sapporo.

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Italy overcome early scare to beat spirited Namibia

Italy drew on all their experience to get their World Cup campaign off to a winning start as they defeated a spirited Namibia 47-22 in Pool B.

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New Zealand outmuscle South Africa in heavyweight thriller

New Zealand showed their pedigree with a 23-13 win over South Africa in Pool B at the Rugby World Cup. The defending Champions were pushed all the way by a Springbok side that will be real contenders in Japan.

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