Japan and Ireland – Rugby Exchange

On 3 October, a women’s rugby international match between Japan and Ireland was held at Virgin Media Park in Cork, Ireland. Japan lost the match 41–19. Following the national anthems of both countries, the match got underway. In the first half, Japan scored an early try, but subsequently struggled to make headway against Ireland’s strong defence. During this period, Ireland’s fast forwards scored tries to turn the match around. In the second half, Japan scored two tries and mounted a strong fightback, but after 80 minutes of fiercely contested rugby, the match came to an end.

From the Embassy of Japan in Ireland, Ambassador MIYAGAWA Manabu and his wife, Noriko, came to support Sakura Fifteen, the Japanese team. Among the large Irish contingent of supporters, Japanese fans could also be seen in the stands.

Following last week’s match in Galway, the Embassy of Japan in Ireland would like to pay tribute to both the Japanese and Irish teams for their spirited performances and hard-fought contests, and hopes that the friendship between Japan and Ireland will continue to deepen through rugby.

Following their return to Japan, Sakura Fifteen will face Wales, while Ireland will travel to South Africa to take on the Springboks. We wish both teams every success in their upcoming matches.