Japan fall to late try by Maori

TOKYO (Nov. 8) – A Japan XV fell just short of ending the Maori All Blacks’ impressive winning streak, going down 20-18 on Saturday at a packed Prince Chichibu Memorial Stadium.

A try by Dan Pryor from a quick line-out and a good break by Maori captain Charlie Ngatai three minutes from time broke the locals’ hearts and ensured the Maori’s winning streak against international opposition extends to 18 games.

The winning margin was in marked contrast to the game in Kobe seven days ago and was a reflection of the improved performance of the Brave Blossoms.

From the opening kick-off Japan dominated possession and territory and were unlucky to not to take the lead when Ayumu Goromaru missed a relatively easy penalty and the TMO ruled obstruction in the build-up to a “try” by Keita Inagaki in the 12th minute.

When the Maori then scored two quick tries through Codie Taylor and Nehe Milner-Skudder, it looked like it could be another long day for Eddie Jones’ team.

But the Brave Blossoms didn’t drop their heads and a try by Akihito Yamada just before the break saw the crowd come to life.

Japan started the second half as they finished the first and a penalty try from a scrum five metres out, converted by Goramaru saw them close to within three points.

The Japan fullback then added two penalties in the 54th  and 72nd minutes to give Japan an 18-15 lead and have the crowd thinking an historic victory was on the cards.

But the Maori bounced back and a long infield pass, Ngatai’s break and offload and Pryor’s finish saw them steal the game at the death.