As the dust settles on the third round of the PREM season, the standout performers have carved their names into the latest Planet Rugby Team of the Week. The weekend kicked off with Sale Sharks' crushing victory over Newcastle Red Bulls, setting a high bar for the thrilling clashes that followed, including Bristol Bears' narrow victory over Exeter Chiefs and Harlequins' decisive win against London rivals Saracens.
At fullback, Tom de Glanville's performance for Bath was pivotal, pushing him closer to an England spot. "He's taking giant strides towards that England call-up," his coach noted. On the wing, Anthony Belleau's explosive half-game performance for Northampton Saints earned him a spot after two weeks on the fringe, despite playing out of position.
Center spots were grabbed by Will Joseph of Gloucester, who dazzled even in defeat, and Ollie Lawrence of Bath, who was instrumental despite wearing a different number during the game. Tom Roebuck of Sale Sharks shone on the opposite wing, snagging a hat-trick and showing versatility in his gameplay.
Harlequins' fly-half Marcus Smith delivered a masterclass at his preferred No. 10, proving his mettle with a "sharp" performance that had both fans and critics nodding in approval. "Marcus was just outstanding today, really showing what he's capable of when he's in his element," his coach commented.
"Marcus was just outstanding today, really showing what he's capable of when he's in his element."
Northampton's Alex Mitchell, another standout at scrum-half, displayed his worth with dynamic play around the ruck. The forward pack was dominated by Sale Sharks' Sam Dugdale at No. 8 and Tom Pearson of Northampton Saints at flanker, who was described as a "wrecking ball" in their derby win.
"He's a wrecking ball, on both sides of the ball," remarked his coach.
The second row saw Ewan Richards of Bath and Guido Petti of Harlequins making significant impacts for their teams, while the front row honors were clinched by Ellis Genge of Bristol Bears and Asher Opoku-Fordjour of Sale Sharks. Hooker Nathan Jibulu also from Sale, rounded out the team with a dynamic showing that has propelled him into the England conversation.
This week's lineup not only highlighted individual brilliance but also set the stage for intense competition as the season progresses, with players pushing hard for both club success and international call-ups.
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As the dust settles on the third round of the PREM season, the standout performers have carved their names into the latest Planet Rugby Team of the Week. The weekend kicked off with Sale Sharks' crushing victory over Newcastle Red Bulls, setting a high bar for the thrilling clashes that followed, including Bristol Bears' narrow victory over Exeter Chiefs and Harlequins' decisive win against London rivals Saracens.
At fullback, Tom de Glanville's performance for Bath was pivotal, pushing him closer to an England spot. "He's taking giant strides towards that England call-up," his coach noted. On the wing, Anthony Belleau's explosive half-game performance for Northampton Saints earned him a spot after two weeks on the fringe, despite playing out of position.
Center spots were grabbed by Will Joseph of Gloucester, who dazzled even in defeat, and Ollie Lawrence of Bath, who was instrumental despite wearing a different number during the game. Tom Roebuck of Sale Sharks shone on the opposite wing, snagging a hat-trick and showing versatility in his gameplay.
Harlequins' fly-half Marcus Smith delivered a masterclass at his preferred No. 10, proving his mettle with a "sharp" performance that had both fans and critics nodding in approval. "Marcus was just outstanding today, really showing what he's capable of when he's in his element," his coach commented.
"Marcus was just outstanding today, really showing what he's capable of when he's in his element."
Northampton's Alex Mitchell, another standout at scrum-half, displayed his worth with dynamic play around the ruck. The forward pack was dominated by Sale Sharks' Sam Dugdale at No. 8 and Tom Pearson of Northampton Saints at flanker, who was described as a "wrecking ball" in their derby win.
"He's a wrecking ball, on both sides of the ball," remarked his coach.
The second row saw Ewan Richards of Bath and Guido Petti of Harlequins making significant impacts for their teams, while the front row honors were clinched by Ellis Genge of Bristol Bears and Asher Opoku-Fordjour of Sale Sharks. Hooker Nathan Jibulu also from Sale, rounded out the team with a dynamic showing that has propelled him into the England conversation.
This week's lineup not only highlighted individual brilliance but also set the stage for intense competition as the season progresses, with players pushing hard for both club success and international call-ups.