With a daring strategy, Australia benched a dozen-plus stars and appointed their most inexperienced captain in 64 years. Despite the risks, this high-stakes decision paid off, as the Wallabies defeated their former coach's Japanese squad by four points in wet and windy Tokyo.
The close victory halts a three-game slide and maintains the Wallabies' perfect track record against Japan unbroken. It also prepares the team for next week's fixture to rugby's hallowed ground, where the squad's top XV will strive to repeat previous dramatic triumph over the English side.
Up against world No. 13 team, the Wallabies had much to lose after a difficult home season. Head coach the team's strategist opted to hand younger stars an opportunity, concerned about tiredness during a grueling five-week road trip. The shrewd yet risky move echoed an earlier Wallabies attempt in recent years that resulted in a historic defeat to Italy.
Japan began strongly, including front-rower a key forward delivering multiple monster tackles to unsettle the visitors. However, the Australian team regained composure and improved, with Nick Champion de Crespigny scoring from close range for a 7-0 lead.
Fitness issues struck in the opening period, as two second-rowers forced off—one with bruised ribs and his replacement the other with concussion. This required the already reshuffled side to adjust their forward lineup and tactics mid-match.
Australia pressed repeatedly near their opponents' try-line, hammering the defensive wall with one-inch attacks but failing to score over thirty-two rucks. After probing the middle without success, they eventually spread the ball from a scrum, and Hunter Paisami slicing through before setting up Josh Flook for a try that made it 14-3.
Another potential try by a flanker was disallowed on two occasions because of questionable calls, summing up an aggravating opening period for Australia. Wet conditions, narrow tactics, and the Brave Blossoms' courageous defense kept the contest tight.
The home team came out with more vigor after halftime, scoring through a forward to narrow the gap to six points. The Wallabies responded soon after through Tizzano scoring close in to re-establish a comfortable lead.
But, Japan responded immediately after the fullback fumbled a grubber, letting a winger to cross. With the score 19-15, the game was on a knife-edge, with Japan pressing for their first-ever victory against the Wallabies.
In the dying stages, Australia showed character, winning a crucial scrum then a penalty. They held on in the face of a storm, sealing a gritty win which prepares the squad well for their Northern Hemisphere tour.
