Ireland’s youngsters too strong for Japan

Ireland beat Japan 35-13 yesterday to sweep the two-match series between the 2019 World Cup group rivals.

Ireland, 50-22 winners a week ago, took control with four tries in the first half at Ajinomoto Stadium in Tokyo, venue for the opening match of the 2019 tournament.

Garry Ringrose scored Ireland’s first try less than five minutes in when he picked up an errant Japan pass and ran over from halfway. Josh van der Flier, Kieran Marmion and captain Rhys Ruddock added tries with Paddy Jackson kicking the extras as Ireland took a 28-8 lead at half-time, Japan’s try coming from Kotaro Matsushima.

Japan defended better after the break and were rewarded when Akihito Yamada crossed to cut the lead to 28-13. Sean Reidy scored a late try, converted by Jackson.

Ireland were missing 11 players involved in the Lions tour to New Zealand, and used the Tests to give younger players experience.

Ireland coach Joe Schmidt said: “It was very hot out there and the players were fatiguing early in the game, so it was great to get a good start. Japan were quick off the line, tough at the tackle and made it very hard for us to win the game.”

Australia rallied for two late tries in an unconvincing and error-filled 40-27 win over Italy in Brisbane. It extended Australia’s record against Italy to 17 consecutive victories.

Australia, leading 21-13 at half-time, looked to be coasting when Sefa Naivalu scored his second try early in the second half. But two Italy tries, both coming from Wallaby mistakes, reduced the margin to one point, and the visitors were in the hunt for a time for their first win against Australia.

In Johannesburg, Rudy Paige scored his maiden Test try as South

Africa scored four without reply in a 35-12 win against France that gave them a 3-0 series whitewash.

Argentina ended a five-match losing run by beating Georgia 45-29 in a one-off Test in San Salvador de Jujuy.