In New Zealand, everyone is crazy about Will Jordan. Author of a hat-trick in the semi-final, the Crusaders winger has already equaled the record of legends Jonah Lomu, Bryan Habana and Julian Savea with 8 tries scored since the start of the World Cup. A historic performance that he could further improve in the grand final against the Springboks at the Stade de France on Saturday (9 p.m.). “He’s a unique player. You know that something can happen every time he touches the ball,” greeted his teammate Rieko Ioane, under the spell. “He showed all his class and we will make sure that he scores again next week (in the final). “Will once again proved what an excellent finisher he is,” summed up his coach Ian Foster. 31 tries in 30 selections, this is Jordan’s exceptional record in the silver fern jersey. To lift the Webb Ellis Trophy, South Africa will have to find a solution.
Saturday evening, the All Blacks made short work of Argentina (44-6) in the semi-final, scoring seven tries. Proof of their total domination, the New Zealanders beat 51 Pumas defenders during the match, the highest total for a team at this stage of the competition. While Will Jordan scored a hat-trick – the third in a World Cup semi-final – Mark Telea was content to break tackles. 14 to the Kiwis winger’s credit, also a record since his compatriot John Kirwan in 1991 against Australia.
Winner at the last minute of England (16-15) this Saturday, South Africa will defend its world title against the All Blacks in a final which promises a huge fight. Trailing 6-15, the Springboks came from behind against the XV de la Rose before snatching success thanks to a penalty from Handré Pollard. A reversal of the situation which was well worth a scene of collective jubilation in the locker room at the Stade de France.
