Hogg scores in win over Samoa

By Mark Stevens
30/9/19

Exeter Chiefs star Stuart Hogg helped Scotland revive their Rugby World Cup campaign with a 34-0 victory over Samoa in Kobe.

Having been well beaten by Ireland in their opening Pool A fixture, Gregor Townsend's side produced a polished display against the South Sea Islanders, running in four tries to secure the all-important bonus point.

Japan’s stunning upset of Ireland on Saturday shattered the expected permutations of the pool and the Scots knew they needed to get a big win on the board after their dismal defeat to the Irish in their opener.

Winger Sean Maitland and scrum-half Greig Laidlaw scored converted tries with full-back Hogg landing a 40-metre drop goal in the first half. Two penalty tries after the break helped ensure all five points for the Scots, who sit third in the pool, a point behind Ireland and three behind hosts Japan.

Samoa's cause was not helped with the dismissal of winger Ed Fidow, who was the offender for both penalty tries. He was shown a yellow card for the first then given his marching orders after crashing into Maitland with his knees to stop the Scot getting over the line in the 74th minute.

The Scots next play Russia on October 9 before taking on hosts Japan four days later in a match that could decide who goes through to the quarter-finals.