Japan’s Brave Blossoms defeated the ‘Ikale Tahi 21 – 16 in a highly contested match in the city of Higashiosaka on 29 July.

The hosts dominated the first half with two unconverted tries and one penalty, whilst scrumhalf Sonatane Takulua scored a try to trail the Brave Blossoms 13 – 5 at halftime.

In the second-half, William Havili booted two penalites to close the gap for the ‘Ikale Tahi 11 – 13.

But the Brave Blossoms maintained their composure, with a try from debutant Semisi Masirewa putting the hosts ahead by 18 – 11.

Hooker Sam Moli closed the gap for Tonga to 18 – 16 after scoring a try in the 57^th minute, but failed to score any further.

A penalty conversion from Rikiya Matsuda kept extended Japan’s lead to 21 – 16.

The win vindicates Japan’s 24 – 22 loss to Samoa last week, while Tonga suffer their second consecutive loss - defeated 36 – 20 at the hands of the Flying Fijians last week.