Japan fall to Fiji in PNC

TORONTO (July 29) – Japan will play Tonga for third spot in the Pacific Nations Cup after they just fell short of reaching the final.

The Brave Blossoms went down 27-22 to Fiji in the second of three games at BMO Field, though just as in last week’s loss to the United States, they had a chance to win the game at the end.

Fiji’s defense held firm, however, despite being down to 13 men, to ensure Japan finished the pool stage with one win and two narrow losses.

Three penalties from Ayumu Goromaru had seen the Brave Blossoms get off to the ideal start on a hot and humid day in Toronto.

But the Fijians bounced back with three tries in eight minutes through Tevita Cavubati, Josh Matavesi and Metuisela Talebula. Matavesi converted all three and also kicked a penalty as Fiji led 24-9 up at the break.

The second half saw Japan raise their game and Akihito Yamada went over in the 47th minute following some good work by Hendrik Tui at a scrum five metres out.

Goromaru missed the conversion but then traded penalties with Josh Matevisi to make it 27-17 with 20 minutes remaining.

Tui followed up on his assist with a try of his own as he crossed following a period of pressure in the 67th minute to set up a grandstand finish.

But despite dominating the final 13 minutes they were unable to cross for the crucial score.