Japan beating South Africa has to go down as one of the biggest shocks ever. What a great finish aswell, with the Japanese pressuring the try line for so long, and just getting over for the win in 80+ minutes. To think the bookies where giving Japan a 43 point start on the handicap before the game, it seems unbelievable that they won
Take nothing for granted that's for sure. That result has to be up there with one of the all time upsets for me. Ireland took care of business which was good too along with the bonus point I missed all the day's action unfortunately but will catch up later tonight. I suppose from an Irish perspective, we want France to handle Italy now, then we beat the Italians and that will suffice to see us through.
Japan where pretty heroic to be fair. They really turned what looked a dull game on paper into a great match, the last 5 mins where as good as it's gonna get with the Japanese trailing by 3 but piling the pressure on the South Africans who where defending the try line with everything they had. Even though they where big underdogs you always felt the pressure would pay off in the end, and it did with the last play of the game. South Africa probably didn't play there best, but Japan did find an extra gear that you wouldn't have thought they had, especially towards the end, so I think it was abit of both to be fair
The South Africans had, without a shadow of doubt, been on the Saké the night before............... ..............but well done Japan, great stuff!
Worth noting that Japan Rugby Union, in an effort to take their game to the next level, hired former Australian coach Eddy Jones. They came into the WC with big hopes, but I don't think too many people thought they'd live up to the faith they had in themselves. Brilliant stuff.
The Japanese had been out for fish and chips the night before ! (In my hometown) that really is a dinner of champions
Uruguay are taking it to the Welsh now, 6-0 up after 10 mins. The handicap betting gave Uruguay a 67 point start. I wonder how long it will be until the flood gates open
Well it's only 12 after 35 mins, but we will see. You'd expect Uruguay to tire more in the 2nd half, as most of them aren't even proffesionals. If I was predicting now, I'd go with about a 45 point win for Wales
All Blacks are fabulous but first game against a side that turn matches into scruffy, physical affairs? Not for me. I wouldnt take the risk despite NZ being capable of putting 50+ on them when on song.
