Japan who have provided some great memories from this World Cup, especially in their win over South Africa in Brighton. However the Japanese knew ahead of tonight’s match that they would not be able to qualify for the quarter finals, after Scotland defeated Samoa yesterday. Japan nonetheless went about their task as they have done throughout this World Cup, playing adventurous attacking rugby against the USA.
Japan Sign off with Victory over America
USA started the quicker of the two nations and some powerful running reaped its rewards as the Eagles were awarded a penalty. Fly half AJ MacGinty stepped up and gave the Americans a 3-0 lead. Almost immediately Japan scored a try. Gaining the ball after the kick off Japan attacked the American line and Matsushima crossed over to score the game’s opening try. USA fought back and were back in front through a try from winger Takudzwa Ngwenya however MacGinty was unable to add the conversion from the touchline. The Americans did not have the lead for long as they were unable to gather the restart, and Japan mounted pressure before Yoshikazu Fujita crossed to score. Goromaru added the conversion and extended the lead further with a penalty soon after. USA mounted pressure as the half drew to a close, but errors meant they were unable to turn that pressure into points.
Japan extended their lead further just after the interval, the boot of Goromaru once again punishing American ill-discipline. USA hit back as MacGinty reduced the gap to nine points with a penalty. The Eagles were then reduced to 14 men as Eric Fry was sent to the sin bin and Japan decided to go for the corner instead of taking the three points. The Brave Blossoms were instantly rewarded for their boldness as Amanaki Mafi scored from the resultant lineout.
Japan pushed forward searching for a try that would secure them a bonus point, however it was the 14 men of the USA who would cross the white wash as captain Chris Wyles scored to put the Eagles within seven points of Japan. The USA pushed forward looking for a score to bring them level but simple handling errors meant gave Japan the chance to clear their lines. Japan secured their win with a late penalty from Goromaru gave them a 10 point lead. Japan saw out the remaining minutes as they secured their third victory of the 2015 Rugby World Cup.
Japan have made history at this World Cup in more ways than one. Their victory over South Africa is the greatest upset in the history of international rugby. This has inspired record viewing figures for Japan’s pool matches and the nation will now look excitedly towards 2019 when Japan play hosts. Japan have also added a bit of unwanted history as they are the first side to be eliminated from the pool stages after winning three game. The quick turnaround from their game against South Africa to their loss against Scotland, has played a huge part in their elimination and scheduling and equal rest periods is something World Rugby need to address by the time the World Cup reaches Japans shores in four years time.
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