Wales Defeats Japan
Wales secured a scratchy bonus-point victory against Japan, avoiding a statement performance as the World Cup looms in under a year.
Fans hoped for a statement performance from the team, but instead witnessed a disjointed performance that left players marking a Test win on a Sunday morning that has not happened often in recent times.
The squad’s victory helps distance the players from a record-breaking 18-Test losing sequence that stretched between 2023 and 2025. While the overall display lacked fluidity, several individual efforts stood out during the hard-fought encounter.
Individual Standouts Shine
Back-row duo Aaron Wainwright and Jac Morgan excelled on both sides of the ball, while full-back Blair Murray remained a constant attacking threat. Wing Josh Adams chipped in with two tries to bolster the Welsh scoreboard.
Working alongside Max Llewellyn in a novel midfield combination, centre Eddie James flashed moments of his physical strengths. Although that combination did not set the world alight, it warrants further opportunities as preparations continue.
Defensive Workload Figures
Wales spent long periods defending, finishing the match with only 40% in territory and possession. The hosts made 227 tackles compared to Japan’s 115, with Wales finishing with the top eight tacklers in the game.
Jac Morgan topped the official Nations Championship charts with 24 tackles, followed by lock Dafydd Jenkins with 23 and Aaron Wainwright with 20. Wales also forced 10 turnovers, with Alex Mann gaining three, while Lake, Adams and prop Nicky Smith made key tackles.
Debriefing Bonus-Point Wins
Tandy noted afterwards that it is always easier to debrief a bonus-point victory. Having just 40% of possession and territory while spending extended spells defending is something Tandy will find unacceptable for Wales.
| Player | Defensive Metric | Count |
|---|---|---|
| Jac Morgan | Tackles (Nations Championship Chart) | 24 |
| Dafydd Jenkins | Tackles | 23 |
| Aaron Wainwright | Tackles | 20 |
Questions About Wales' Performance and Josh Adams' Tries
Why was the performance described as scratchy?
Wales struggled with territory and possession, holding only 40% in territory and possession while missing a statement performance against Japan.
How many tackles did Wales make during the match?
The hosts recorded 227 tackles compared to Japan’s 115.
Who scored multiple tries for Wales?
Wing Josh Adams popped up to score two tries during the fixture.
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