Freeley Speaking: A new world order?

USA flanker Todd Clever is pulled down by his ankles by Russian wing Vladimir Ostroushko. Photo / Mark Mitchell

Last night's clash of former foes USA and Russia proved to be an interesting match up in a number of different ways. The build up was clearly wrapped in the Cold War theme which pitted the two political powerhouses together for the first time in a Rugby World Cup.

While most of the commentators were playing out similar cliché lines on television, I was looking forward to the game which promised the unknown. Especially in a tournament which thus far has pulled only one major shock result, with Canada stepping up to defeat Tonga by 25 points to 20.

This was Russia's first game ever in the Rugby World Cup, and they certainly offered an aspect of the unknown with a squad of unknown players. Melbourne Rebels lock Adam Byrnes was perhaps the only recognisable name for most Kiwis.

Completely the opposite could be said of the USA who came into this game after 17 matches overall in the Rugby World Cup and who many considered favourites in this matchup, especially after a courageous defeat to a under par Ireland by just 12 points last Sunday.

The match itself was a match up of brute force of the Russian Bears against the technical skill of the American Eagles.

The Americans will be pleased with the scrappy victory which was played in wet conditions in New Plymouth. The Eagles scored the only five-pointer in the 19th minute - a well taken try by Mike Petri. The Russians held out in the first half barrage only conceding a second penalty and going in 10-3 at half time.

In the second half the Russians threw everything at their American counterparts with poor kicking, and difficult handling conditions the main factors in not denting into the Americans lead.

It was only with 15 minutes to go that Chris Wyles kicked a penalty to leave the game in the Eagle's favour, despite a late penalty from Rachkov to cut the deficit to seven points by full time. Final score: 13-6 to the Eagles

The Russians can certainly take heart from the result and look to capitalise when they play Italy in Nelson next Tuesday, Northampton Saints' new signing Vasily Artemiv certainly looking lively on the wing.

More interestingly I think this result potentially could point to a slight change in world Rugby. So far the most impressive 'minnow' side has come in the form of the USA, under the leadership of former Ireland boss Eddie O'Sullivan, who have won plenty of fans with their first two results at the Rugby World Cup.

Recent figures suggest that uptake for rugby in recent years has exploded with a 56% uptake in US men since 2004. With growth coming from college and youth rugby, the game which has similarities with American football is slowly gaining a reputation as a viable alternative to one of America's most popular sports.

With the Eagles' third ever victory in the tournament last night they are certainly winning some fans in New Zealand and the Rugby world. Could this nation be potential winners come the World Cup in 2023?

We'll just have to wait and see.

Follow Mitch's Rugby World Cup journey around New Zealand on Twitter: @NotSweetChariot