Photo: World Rugby

When the Lights Went Out – South Africa vs Canada – RWC 1995

Rugby World Cup 1995 hosts and winners, South Africa enjoyed an unbeaten campaign in their debut RWC tournament. However, their match against Canada in the pool stage has gone down in the memory of many for the wrong reasons.

Played at Boet Eramus Stadium in Port Elizabeth, South Africa, the contest is well-known for a brawl late in the match. The incident saw multiple red cards handed-out by referee David McHugh. James Dalton (South Africa), Gareth Rees (Canada) and Rod Snow (Canada) were all sent-off.

Notwithstanding, the on-field brawl was not the only drama that stood out from the match; indeed, the contest itself was delayed after the stadium’s floodlights went out while players from both teams were preparing for the match.

The match was able to be played with South Africa winning the contest 20-0. It occurred after the South Africans were getting through the period by training on bikes in the dressing room. The Canadians had no such opportunity as no such facilities existed in their training room.

About Americas Rugby News

Formally created in June 2015, this website's goal is to increase media exposure of the Tier 2 rugby nations, and create a hub with a focus on the stories of rugby in the Americas - North, Central and South.

Check Also

Tarucas Run Riot Against Yacare to Remain Alive in SRA 2026

With three of the four Semi Finals’ slots taken, Los Tarucas needed to win their …