England after–effects no excuse, say Eagles

THE United States Eagles refused to use their heroics against England as an excuse for their failure to beat Tonga in their World Cup Pool A clash in Montpellier yesterday.

The Americans were seen as favourites following their brave performance against the world champions four days earlier but they looked to be suffering from the after-effects of that clash as they got off to the worst possible start.

They conceded a try after just 72 seconds and found themselves trailing 13-0 after 26 minutes before going on to enjoy long periods of domination with little reward in a 25-15 defeat.