their countries , that matters most for them . `` When that flag is waving and the anthem plays before the game , if that does n't get you going , you need to see a cardiologist , '' former Eagles player and coach Jack Clark told CNN . `` It 's just one of those moments where you feel not only a lot of responsibility , but you feel really privileged to have that responsibility . '' Lelos making strides Georgia did not make an appearance in the Rugby World Cup until 2003 , but the they became an overnight sensation during that year 's tournament with their passionate play , despite not actually winning a match . The Lelos , named after an indigenous Georgian sport similar to rugby , also qualified for the 2007 finals and nearly caused a sensation by coming within a whisker of beating established nation Ireland . Just 11 days later , they beat Namibia 30-0 to record their first World Cup success . For a nation that considers rugby to be a minority sport , Georgia are supported by an intensely loyal fan base and host a number of players who regularly
-LRB- CNN -RRB- -- As the powerhouses of the rugby world continue to battle over the Web Ellis trophy in the knockout stages of the World Cup , some of the sport 's less-fancied teams are making their way home after a valiant , if unsuccessful , fight in the group stages . Since the tournament began in 1987 , only four nations have walked away as world champions : New Zealand , South Africa , Australia and England . Canada 's Canucks , Georgia 's Lelos or the U.S. Eagles were never the bookmakers ' favorites to win the Cup and for obvious reasons . These emerging nations do not compete anywhere near as regularly as the elite sides and , along with tactical and experience deficiencies , face a daunting challenge to emerge from the bruising challenge of the pool matches in the world 's most prestigious event . But these teams do have heart and motivation and -- perhaps most of all -- they have the joy and passion of national pride . Whether or not they walk away with wins , it 's being there , representing their nations and improving the standard of rugby within