Our personal favourite is Johnny Sexton’s first against France in Paris
South African scrum-half Francois Hougaard has followed the likes of Brian O’Driscoll and Chris Ashton in winning the World Rugby Try of the Year.
The competition for the best Test match five-pointer was narrowed into a five-person shortlist earlier this month. The judging panel this year was made up of Alan Quinlan, Dan Parks and Seilala Mapusua and Jeff Wilson.
Hougaard brought the Ellis Park crowd to its feet when, in the 12th minute, he dived under the posts to finish off a move that had begun near his own tryline and involved the entire backline. South Africa went on to win the match 27-25.
World Rugby chairman Bernard Lapasset congratulated Hougaard on his achievement while providing a handy play-by-play. ‘It started from deep within the Springboks’ own 22. There was wonderful elusive running, lightning passing, rapid recycling, a deft kick ahead, which was expertly gathered and then a well-timed run from Francois finished it off in style.
‘It was a real team effort that demonstrated ambition, enterprise and no little skill against the number one side in the world. In short, it was a try that was truly deserving of this accolade.’
