A week ago, Luxembourg moved to the top of Group A following an emphatic 106–5 victory away to Estonia. This Saturday, the Red Lions recorded another win, defeating Norway 41–12 at the Stade de Luxembourg.
With two victories and the maximum five points from each match (awarded for winning while scoring at least four tries), Luxembourg sit at the top of their group with two bonus-point wins. Although they have faced two opponents who were not at the same level, the Red Lions approached both matches with precision and professionalism.
It took ten minutes for Tom Verlaque to open the scoring. Two tries from Franzina and another from Agassi helped Luxembourg establish a commanding 24–0 lead by half-time.
Immediately after the restart, Luxembourg pushed into Norwegian territory and once again demonstrated their quality. Incarte and Lawlor combined effectively, allowing Franzina to complete his hat-trick.
Norway, however, responded almost immediately. Their powerful forwards were rewarded for their hard work when they forced their way over the try line following a lineout, bringing the score to 29–5.
Luxembourg quickly regained control through some excellent combination play, with Thomas Deom breaking through to add another five points.
The Norwegians then exploited a gap in Luxembourg's defence, allowing their number nine to break through and reduce the deficit to 36–12.
Although Luxembourg came under some pressure, the difference in quality between the two sides remained evident. Mattia Reuter demonstrated this shortly afterwards, powering over the try line from close range to seal the final score of 41–12.
After 80 minutes, Luxembourg emerged as deserved winners.
The Red Lions are now in a strong position to qualify for the playoffs. Another bonus-point victory against Finland in April would be enough to secure their place.
