Sakura Women claimed first blood | #ARWC2017 | Japan v Hong Kong

In the first of the 2-match series of the Asia Rugby Women’s Championship, the Sakura Women claimed first blood with a 58 – 0 victory over the Hong Kong Women in Odawara, Japan.

An early try to Kurogi in the corner for Japan followed by further tries to Hirano, Saito before the water break saw Japan establish a healthy 17 – 0 lead. Suzuki continued the scoring for Japan after quick ball from the lineout and a slick back line move to move the Sakura Women further ahead, 22 – 0.

A string of unforced errors through constant knock-ons stemmed the flow of points momentarily and allowed Hong Kong to gain some vital possession and territory. But a second try to captain, Saito on the strike of half-time, converted by Shimzu saw Japan take a 29 – 0 half-time lead.

And the second half continued in the same vein as the first with Kurogi scoring in the first minute and take Japan out to a 34 – 0 lead. A further try finished off by Nagato after some great offloads quickly followed by a try in the corner to Kato and another to Hirano saw Japan extend out to 51 – 0 lead.

A late try to Nagato, converted by Shimizu saw Japan complete the romp over Hong Kong winning 58 – 0.

With both teams having an eye on upcoming Women’s Rugby World Cup in Ireland next month, the Championship is proving a vital warm up tool for both sides as they hone their game plans for the bigger prize on the world stage.

Japan v Hong Kong

Match 2 will kick off at 18.00 next Saturday at King’s Park in Hong Kong.

Photo credit : ©JRFU,2017