In a bold move, Australia benched a dozen-plus stars and appointed their most inexperienced captain in 64 years. Against the odds, this high-stakes decision proved successful, as Australia's national rugby side overcame their former coach's Japan squad 19-15 in a rain-soaked Tokyo.
This narrow win halts three-match slide and keeps Australia's unblemished track record versus Japan intact. It also prepares the team for the upcoming return to Twickenham, in which the squad's top lineup will strive to replicate last year's dramatic win over the English side.
Facing world No. 13 team, the Wallabies faced a lot to lose after a difficult home season. Head coach Joe Schmidt chose to hand younger players an opportunity, fearing fatigue over a demanding five-week road trip. The shrewd though daring move mirrored a previous Australian attempt in recent years that ended in a historic defeat to Italy.
Japan started strongly, including hooker Hayate Era delivering several monster tackles to unsettle Australia. However, the Wallabies steadied and sharpened, as Nick Champion de Crespigny scoring from close range for an early lead.
Fitness issues struck in the opening period, with locks second-rowers forced off—one with bruised ribs and his replacement Josh Canham. The situation forced the already revamped Wallabies to adjust the team's pack and tactics on the fly.
The Wallabies pressed for long spells near their opponents' try-line, pounding the defense with one-inch attacks yet unable to score for thirty-two rucks. After testing central channels without success, they finally went wide at the set-piece, with Hunter Paisami slicing the line and setting up a teammate for a try that made it 14-3.
A further apparent score by Carlo Tizzano got disallowed twice due to dubious calls, highlighting a frustrating opening period experienced by the Wallabies. Wet conditions, limited strategies, and Japan's ferocious tackling ensured the contest close.
Japan came out with renewed energy in the second period, registering through Shuhei Takeuchi to narrow the gap to six points. The Wallabies hit back soon after with the flanker scoring from a maul to restore a comfortable advantage.
But, the Brave Blossoms responded immediately after the fullback fumbled a kick, allowing Ben Hunter to score. At 19-15, the game hung in the balance, with Japan pressing for a historic victory against Australia.
During the dying stages, Australia dug deep, winning a key set-piece then a penalty. They held on in the face of a storm, clinching a hard-fought win which prepares them well for the upcoming Northern Hemisphere tour.
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