'Lucky' Australians through to semi-finals

June 19, 2011 - 9:48AM

Paul Alo-Emile of Australia hands off Yann Lesgourgues of France. Photo: Getty Images
The Australian Under-20s will play defending champions New Zealand in the semi-finals of rugby's junior world championship in Italy on Wednesday after claiming the lucky loser's spot in the final four.

The Aussies, who were beaten 31-25 by France in their final pool game, scraped into the finals on a points differential countback to claim the best runner-up spot after finishing on equal points with South Africa.

France, who finished top of their group, reached the semi-finals of the competition for the first time and will face 2008 and 2009 runners-up England at the Stadio Comunale di Monigo on Wednesday before New Zealand meet Australia in a repeat of the 2010 final.

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New Zealand extended their unbeaten run in junior world championship rugby to 18 matches with a 48-15 victory over Argentina in Padova to top Pool A, while England held off South Africa to win 26-20 and top Pool C.



Read more: http://www.smh.com.au/rugby-union/un...#ixzz1PgMAeaCM

France deserved that win. They looked much better with ball in hand. Australia were lucky to make it into the semis. Lets hope they put in a big one against N.Z.

Agree. They played well in patches but France were really good for most of the match and deserved to win.

Hopefully the Aussies can improve a couple of areas to take it up to the Kiwis in the semi.

The Aussie pack had a good game with Saliva Saliva running amok. Pity he is of to the Brumbies next season. The backs looked as if they were playing 7s so it will be a tough assignment Vs NZ. Poms knocking off the Safas was a great win. England & NZ final - warm up for the world cup later this year??

Is his move official yet?

Yes. He did not think that being No3 hooker behind Whits and Cheesy was good for him. Jake White offered him No2 behind Moore so actual game time is a real prospect. Its a pity as he is a talent.

It's always a shame to see talent warehoused when it is thin on the ground- Force or otherwise. Good luck to him.

Just a shame we don't have any hookers in the level 1 academy.

did have one but he packed it in as it was effecting his social life I think - talented lad too. Agree that it is a shame