The short version
- Wales defeated Japan 29-5 to complete a double-header victory in the WXV Global Series.
- The win ends a nine-match losing streak for Wales, with their only other defeat coming against the USA.
- Japan remains winless under head coach Toshizumi Kitagawa and has not won since May.
Wales concluded their WXV Global Series campaign with a decisive 29-5 victory over Japan in Kumagaya City, securing back-to-back wins against the same opponent. The result represents a stark contrast to earlier struggles for Sean Lynn’s squad, which had endured nine consecutive Test matches without a win prior to a recent encounter with South Africa. This performance underscores a rapid transformation in team dynamics and competitive standing within the tiered international structure.
The match began with high intensity as both sides exchanged early scoring opportunities. Welsh wing Nel Metcalfe crossed for the opening try after capitalizing on a loose goalline drop-out by Japan, while Japanese hooker Moe Nagaoka responded quickly to touch down from a maul within the first fifteen minutes. The early exchanges highlighted the physical nature of the contest, with Wales establishing dominance through their forward pack and set-piece execution.
Wales extended their lead before halftime through coordinated attacks involving key players. Hooker Kelsey Jones scored her second try in as many games following pressure from Lleucu George’s kicking game and a crucial turnover by Lisa Neumann. Wing Amy Williams also added to the tally after being found in space by Seren Lockwood, demonstrating effective ball movement despite some disjointed play from the visiting backline. The maul proved particularly dominant, allowing Wales to gain consistent ground against the Japanese defense.
The second half saw Japan struggle with discipline, which ultimately impacted their ability to compete effectively. Jennifer Nduka received a yellow card for accumulated penalties, creating an opportunity for Wales to secure a bonus-point try. Prop Sisilia Tuipulotu crossed from close range to extend the lead significantly, showcasing the power of the Welsh forwards who continued to drive the game forward even as conditions improved throughout the afternoon.
Despite facing numerical disadvantages late in the match, Wales maintained defensive resilience. Replacements Keira Bevan and Hannah Dallavalle were both shown yellow cards during the final ten minutes, reducing the team to thirteen players. Bevan was penalized while on a warning, while Dallavalle received her sin-binning for a blatant hair-pull incident. These infractions allowed Japan to apply pressure in the dying moments, but they failed to capitalize on their temporary advantage.
Co-captain Kate Williams praised the team’s attacking rugby and set-piece performance, noting that discipline issues slowed momentum in the second half. She emphasized pride in the defensive effort shown despite being outnumbered, highlighting grit and determination as key factors in holding off Japan’s late surge. Alex Callender played a pivotal role in securing crucial turnovers during these critical phases, ensuring Wales retained control until the final whistle.
For Japan, the loss extends their winless streak to several months, with no victories recorded since May under head coach Toshizumi Kitagawa. The Sakura Fifteen faced challenges throughout the double-header, struggling to contain Wales’ forward dominance and set-piece efficiency. Their inability to convert pressure into points during periods of Welsh indiscipline further compounded difficulties, leaving them searching for solutions ahead of future competitions.
Looking ahead, Wales enters subsequent fixtures with renewed confidence following this comprehensive turnaround. The ability to overcome adversity, including late-game penalties, suggests growing maturity within the squad. Meanwhile, Japan must address persistent issues related to discipline and defensive organization if they hope to reverse their current fortunes. Both teams will carry lessons from this series into upcoming international engagements.
The WXV Global Series continues to serve as a vital platform for development among tier-two nations, providing valuable experience against diverse playing styles. Wales’ success in this format reflects strategic adjustments made by coaching staff and improved cohesion among players. As the competition progresses, these outcomes will likely influence broader perceptions of team capabilities and potential trajectories within global rugby hierarchies.
Sources behind this briefing
Go to the original reporting
- BBC Sport↗Wales complete Japan double to end WXV on a high
