🏉 Ireland beat Japan 36–20

Japan 20 – 36 Ireland

Ireland secured a commanding Nations Championship victory over Japan, running out comfortable winners in a match that saw the visitors establish early control before the hosts mounted a spirited second-half fightback. Japan started brightly with Taira Main touching down in the opening minutes, but Ireland responded with tries from Nick Timoney and Tom O'Toole to edge ahead. Robbie Henshaw extended Ireland's advantage before the break, leaving the scoreline finely poised at the interval.

The second half belonged to Ireland, who added further tries through Sean Jansen to establish a commanding lead. Japan's Hayate Era kept the hosts in the contest with a try, but Ireland's dominance was evident as they pushed relentlessly forward. A late flourish saw Tom Stewart score in the dying moments, with Harry Byrne's conversion sealing a performance that demonstrated Ireland's attacking prowess and ability to control the game's tempo when it mattered most.

Scorers

Japan: Tries — Hayate Era, Taira Main. Conversions — Takuro Matsunaga (2). Penalties — Takuro Matsunaga (2).
Ireland: Tries — Tom Stewart, Sean Jansen, Robbie Henshaw, Tom O'Toole, Nick Timoney. Conversions — Harry Byrne, Ciaran Frawley (3). Penalties — Harry Byrne.

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— The Irish Rugby Fans team 🇿🇦