Ireland secure 10-point Nations Championship haul after beating Japan

WEB DESK: Ireland secured a maximum 10-point haul from their opening two Nations Championship matches after defeating Japan 36-20 in a hard-fought encounter in Newcastle, Australia, on Saturday.

A much-changed Ireland side produced a five-try performance to claim a bonus-point victory, with head coach Andy Farrell handing international debuts to four players during the clash.

Japan, who entered the match on the back of a victory over Italy, once again impressed against the world’s third-ranked side and remained in contention until the final stages, trailing by just six points with 10 minutes remaining.

Farrell described the result as a relief, praising his players for overcoming a difficult challenge from Japan.

“Delighted to get the win for all sorts of reasons, the four debutants and all the changes, because Japan are a good side that put us under pressure,” Farrell said.

Japan made a strong start at the neutral venue, with winger Taira Main breaking through the Irish defence for a 60-metre try. However, Ireland responded through their forward power as flanker Nick Timoney and prop Tom O’Toole crossed the line, before centre Robbie Henshaw added another try to give Ireland a 19-13 lead at halftime.

Ireland continued to dominate through their forwards after the break, with debutant number eight Sean Jansen scoring his first Test try from close range.

Japan fought back before the hour mark when replacement hooker Hayate Era crossed the line, reducing the gap to six points and keeping Eddie Jones’ side within reach.

However, Ireland sealed the victory with a penalty before replacement hooker Tom Stewart scored a late try to secure the bonus point.

Despite the defeat, Japan impressed at scrum time and created problems for Ireland, who will now turn their attention towards their upcoming clash against New Zealand at Eden Park.

Ireland also faced challenges at the lineout, with hooker Ronan Kelleher twice failing to deliver straight throws.

Props Billy Bohan and Sam Illo, along with back-row Bryn Ward, made their international debuts off the bench for Ireland.

Japan will host France in Tokyo next Saturday in their third Nations Championship fixture.