TOKYO: Ireland ran five tries past Japan for a 35-13 win to sweep the two-test series yesterday, a performance they will hope to repeat when the two sides meet again at the 2019 World Cup.
The tourists struck in the third minute through a try by centre Gary Ringrose who finished off an interception which the visitors won in Japan’s half.
Ireland scored three more tries in the first-half through Josh van der Flier, Kieran Marmion and captain Rhys Ruddock.
Japan hit back in the 23rd minute after the hosts won a line out deep in Irish territory, setting up a rampaging run by lock Uwe Helu which centre Kotaro Matsushima completed with a sweeping try in the right corner.
Jumpei Ogura also converted a penalty in the half past to add three points for Japan.
Intent
The home side came back with more intent in the second half, which it dominated for long stretches by kicking less and keeping the ball in hand.
Wing Akihito Yamada pounced on a chip kick from Rikiya Matsuda to touch down on the right corner in the 62nd minute.
While Japan’s performance was an improvement since being thrashed by Ireland 50-22 a week ago in Shizuoka, their comeback stalled after Yamada’s try.