It has been a constant source of frustration for me that the US can't put a decent side together... we have flashes of brilliance, and then... well...
Most of our "athletes" are playing sports that pay big $$$ and most Yanks don't even see a rugby ball until they hit college. Other countries have youth programs, etc & have been playing for most of their lives when they get into serious competitive-level rugby. That's why our basketball teams have been unstoppable- these guys are weaned on the stuff.
How about the NZ/Canada match? Canada looked good through most of the 1st half & then the the Kiwis put it to 'em. I turned it off at the half.