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Chris Wyles (Tr 97)

Chris Wyles created a new record during the USA’s final group game against Japan in the World Cup but was more disappointed about his team not doing better.

The Eagles captain and Old Haileyburian scored a try and made another one with a superb long pass for Takudzwa Ngwenya in Sunday’s clash at Gloucester.

It meant that Wyles has now scored four tries in World Cups which is the highest number by any American player in Rugby World Cup matches.

However, the 28-18 win for Japan meant the USA finished bottom of their group with no wins as opposed to the one victory they secured in the 2011 tournament.

Wyles, 32, said: "It came down to consistency and that was the story of our World Cup so you have to give credit to Japan. 

"They showed what you can do with four years of proper preparation. There's talk about our potential and it's about finding the right formula. It's tough for our guys; we need to get everyone on the same level.”

The defeat against Japan came four days after a heavy drubbing against South Africa.

This followed a loss against Scotland after The Eagles led at half-time and an opening reverse against Samoa which saw Wyles score a try.

Wyles, who captained the Haileybury XV in 2001, said: “We need to find consistency. We played well at times. W did so against Samoa and in the first half against Scotland.

"Any time you play in a World Cup it is an amazing experience. Ultimately though you want to come and compete. No-one wants to come and just lose games. We showed some good glimpses of rugby but we need to find a full 80 minutes."

He added: ““It is enjoyable to play in the World Cup – it is an amazing experience.”

 

 

Wyles plays his club rugby for Saracens and was last season’s player of the year.

 

David Rimmer

Originally Written: 12-Oct-2015 09:13, Last Updated: 12-Oct-2015 10:15