BLOW TO BOKS ... South Africa's hopes were dealt a devastating blow yesterday when star flanker Joe van Niekerk (pictured) was ruled out of the rest of the tournament with a serious knee injury.
Van Niekerk suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee during the Springboks' 60-10 victory
over Samoa on Saturday and will play no further part in the competition.
The 23-year-old backrower is due to return soon to South Africa, where he will see a specialist and undergo an operation. He is likely to be out for up to six months.
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... AND TO IRISH
Ireland's all-time record try-scorer, Denis Hickie, has been ruled out of the tournament with a serious Achilles injury, suffered during the 17-16 loss to Australia.
Flying winger Hickie, who has scored 23 tries for Ireland in 44 appearances, ruptured his right Achilles tendon shortly before halftime of the match against the Wallabies in Melbourne.
Ireland have sent for Ulster wing Tyrone Howe to replace Hickie as they prepare for a quarter-final against France in Melbourne on Sunday.
"It's serious and requires immediate surgery," Ireland coach Eddie O'Sullivan told a press conference yesterday.
"He could be out for up to six months. It's worse than a broken leg."
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QUOTES OF THE DAY
"If nothing is done this time then there is every chance we won't be here in four years."
- Samoa coach John Boe calls for action to help rugby's poorer nations.
"It's definitely the hardest tackle I've taken in my life but I'm still breathing and that's a good sign."
- South Africa first five-eighth Derick Hougaard, after a thumping hit from Samoan hardman Brian Lima.
"He's a big boy. I've not seen thighs that big, that's for sure."
- Scotland winger Kenny Logan is impressed by Fiji superstar Rupeni Caucaunibuca.
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TOP SCORERS POINTS
78 - Frederic Michalak (France)
60 - Chris Paterson (Scotland)
57 - Mat Rogers (Australia)
53 - Elton Flatley (Australia)
51 - Jonny Wilkinson (England), Mike Hercus (US)
50 - Rima Wakarua (Italy)
TRIES
6 - Mils Muliaina (New Zealand)
5 - Chris Latham (Australia), Rogers (Australia)
4 - Pablo Bouza (Argentina), Martin Gaitan (Argentina), Doug Howlett (New Zealand), Caleb Ralph (New Zealand), Lote Tuqiri (Australia), Matt Giteau (Australia).
* Before last night's games.
