Why take off key players?
PARIS, FRANCE - OCTOBER 15: Peato Mauvaka of France runs with the ball during the Rugby World Cup France 2023 Quarter Final match between France and South Africa at Stade de France on October 15, 2023 in Paris, France. (Photo by Aurelien Meunier/Getty Images)
The main factor in France being edged out by South Africa in last weekend's quarter-final classic was that there was a drop-off after key players Uini Atonio, Greg Alldritt, Charles Ollivon, and brilliant hooker Peato Mauvaka were subbed-off in the second-half.
They all looked as if they had gas in the tank, and the French bench could not match their output.
Another questionable decision in a match requiring maximum breakdown impact was the exclusion of the best wing turn-over specialist in the world, Gabin Villiere, for the less abrasive youngster, Louis Bielle-Biarrey.
