Eddie Jones sidesteps Farrell and Francis incidents, preferring to instead praise World Rugby for its tier two work

Eddie Jones has avoided commenting on foul play and instead given praise to World Rugby’s attempts to make tier two nations such as the USA more competitive against the likes of England.

Jones’ charges followed up Sunday’s 35-3 win over Tonga with a 45-7 dismissal of the Americans in which opposition back row John Quill was red-carded for a high tackle on Owen Farrell near the end of a contest where England’s Piers Francis could face a potential citing for an earlier high challenge.

“This World Cup is unique because of the conditions and you are seeing the tier two countries physically better prepared,” said Jones. “We have played Tonga and the USA and all of them have big, physical packs and are fitter than they have ever been and it is a great thing for the World Cup.

“It is a credit to World Rugby – they don’t get too many credits and they deserve credit for driving tier two development. It is great for the game.

“In World Rugby, it is like a little brother who always wants more and look at tier two at the World Cup and they are better prepared, with young players coming through. While it’s not perfect it is going in the right direction.

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“We are pleased where we are, with 10 points after two games and conceded just one try after two fantastic experiences. It is a great occasion and we are humbled to be part of it. We are in a good position and know that we will have to play better in our next game.”

Asked how Farrell was following the high hit the received from Quill, Jones quipped: “I think we are about to BBQ part of his nose. I think someone found a little bit. He is missing part of his nose, which is unfortunate, but he is married with a child, so he is going to be OK.”

Quill will now attend a hearing before an independent judicial committee comprising Nigel Hampton QC (New Zealand, chair), former international coach Frank Hadden (Scotland) and former referee Valeriu Toma (Romania)  in Tokyo on a date to be agreed with the player and his representatives.

How England's players rated in their win over USA in Kobe https://t.co/n8bRa8aGFP

— RugbyPass (@RugbyPass) September 26, 2019

Regarding Francis potentially being cited for foul play, Jones added: “We never discuss that area and leave that to whoever it is and take whatever is handed out.”

England’s next group match comes against Argentina in Tokyo on October 5. “We will look at the conditions against Argentina. It is going to be a wet weather game and we will pick a team to play wet weather rugby.

“We understand they will be playing for their lives and are a passionate and proud rugby country. What is important is that we match their passion and play with a fair bit of control. They are a difficult team to beat.”

WATCH: Eddie Jones’ post-match interview following England’s win over the USA