England, Scotland and Ireland face elimination from rugby World Cup

0 Comments | AFP, September, 2007

PARIS (AFP) — The northern hemisphere rugby powerhouses face a nightmare scenario this week - possible elimination from the World Cup before the quarter-finals.

The biggest scalp would be that of world champions England, who face the in-form Tongans, with defeat meaning the ignominious tag of being the first titleholder to exit at the first hurdle.

However, the most precariously placed is Triple Crown winners Ireland, who have to score four tries and beat Argentina - a side that have not conceded one so far, even in the 17-12 win over France - to progress.

Wales and Scotland also face do-or-die matches.

The Welsh take on the unpredictable Fijians while the Scots face their Six Nations bogey team Italy.

England looked to be a slightly improved...