Banzai! Japan humble mighty South Africa in epic rugby clash
JAPAN stunned the world yesterday by defeating mighty South Africa at the Rugby World Cup in one of the greatest upsets in sporting history.
In a thrilling match in sundrenched Brighton that set the tournament alight, Japan left their fans weeping with joy after securing victory 34-32 with a stunning try in the final seconds.
Reflecting the sentiments of fans across the globe, former England star Lewis Moody tweeted: ‘I honestly do not believe what I’m seeing.’
Harry Potter author J.K. Rowling added: ‘You couldn’t write this...’
Japan, ranked 13th and nicknamed the Brave Blossoms, had not won a World Cup match for 24 years – though the Springboks have twice won the tournament and are among the favourites this year.
South Africa coach Heyneke Meyer said after the match: ‘Their defence was awesome but we have let our country down – it’s not good enough.’ Under the guidance of Australian coach Eddie Jones, Japan impressed with their ferocious but creative rugby.
In their next Pool B clash they will take on Scotland at Gloucester.
Karne Hesketh’s last-minute try produced a shock that will rank among the most remarkable moments in sporting history. Three members of Japan’s squad were not even born when they last won a World Cup match in 1991. They led 10-7 midway through the first half thanks to a try from their New Zealandborn captain Michael Leitch. Japan then trailed by only two points at half-time, and took a 13-12 lead after the break. A try from Japan’s
Ayumu Goromaru brought the team level at 29-29 with just ten minutes to play.
South African Handre Pollard’s kicked penalty five minutes from time seemed to have spared the Springboks humiliating defeat.
Japan never gave up, however, and when Hesketh scored in the corner the Japanese fans, many wearing bright red wigs, went wild.
Afterwards, England’s 2003 World Cup star Jonny Wilkinson said: ‘A brilliant performance by Japan, simple as that. My heart is still racing after that last few minutes. World Cups are great and no one is safe.’