Ireland's Jamie Smith closes in on Japan's Takamasa Okubo
Photo: Stephen Scullion
17 APRIL 2007
By Ryan Jennings
Host nation Ireland restored some pride with a 31-10 win over Japan in Division A at the IRB Under 19 World Championship 2007 at Shaw’s Bridge.
Ireland were ahead after six minutes when Paul Ryan put in a fine tackle and turnover in the Japan 22, before offloading to wing Paddy Brophy, who easily finished off in the corner.
Minutes later Brophy scored again when he was on the end of a fine back move and after impressive handling by Jamie Smith he was able to outpace the Japanese covering defence.
Ireland began to throw the ball about with self assured confidence and it was Eoin O’Malley, starting at fly half after playing his previous games at centre, who finished off a great piece of work by hooker Michael Sherry.
Japan kept attacking and after captain and scrum half Tappei Higashide took a quick tap penalty, his side were awarded an attacking lineout from which they mauled Jumpei Ohira over the line.
Fourth Try
Ireland scored their fourth try after good work from the Irish pack as half time approached. Smith ran a good line, before passing to winger Alan Gaughan whose offload allowed Patrick Mallon to score from close range.
Japan began the second period brightly and it was only due to excellent scramble defence by Niall Morris that Japan did not score.
Their pressure eventually paid off soon after as Japan again mauled over the Irish line following a well taken lineout with Norimasa Kuribayashi touching down.
O’Malley sealed the win for Ireland when he went over for his second try of the match, which he converted himself.
Ireland will now face Scotland for ninth place, the second time they have played in this tournament, whilst Japan will play Fiji to avoid finishing bottom.
QUOTES
Ireland head coach Charlie McAleese: “We had a hard draw throughout the tournament but I’m proud of how the boys have done up until this point. We’ll prepare now for a tough game against Scotland and I’m sure they’ll be gunning for us.”
Ireland centre Jamie Smith: “There’s obviously more pressure on us as we’re playing at home and we did have a point to prove after the South Africa game.”
Japan head coach Mitsutake Hagimoto. “It’s hard for us against teams like Ireland and New Zealand here but I’ve enjoyed being here at the tournament.”
Japan captain Tappei Higashide. “We have improved a lot throughout the tournament and we have that to be pleased about that. There have been tough matches for us.”
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