There is no doubt Japan will be looking to emulate their electric starts against six-time New Zealand as they go chasing a first victory in York. First to score in both halfs and consistently causing problems with their rolling maul, the Sakura Fifteen certainly have the tools to climb above Spain in Pool C.
In comparison, Spain were left rueing their speed out of the blocks versus Ireland last weekend. Five tries in the final 60 minutes showed just what the Rugby Europe Women’s champions can do. Vibrant all over the field, this one should be great for the neutrals.
Kick-off: 12:00 BST, Sunday, 7 September
Venue: York Community Stadium, York
If you have a ticket already, make sure you read England legend Ellie Kildunne’s top tips on where to eat and drink and what to do to make the most of your trip.
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Japan team:
Japan’s key player: Yuna Sato is a colossus in the second-row, if not in height alone (the 26-year-old measures 1.69m) then in influence. A total of 18 tackles last weekend v New Zealand only told half the story. Expect another big game for Japan’s go-to forward.
Spain team:
Spain’s key player: Outside-centre Claudia Pena Hidalgo gives Spain the go-forward ball their gameplan thrives on. Against Ireland last week she hit the gainline 13 times, and popped up with a momentum-giving try just after half-time. If Spain do find a win, she will no doubt be at the heart of it.
What Japan said:
Japan head coach Lesley McKenzie:
“The girls have started the week well, they’ve finished really strong in the way that we would want to after two tough games and performances. This is the week we’re chasing our best performance and putting it all on the field. The girls have certainly gone about it in the right way this week.
“It’s more about us. No offense to Spain, but this is about us finishing with our standards and our performance. It wouldn’t matter who it’s against or if we have played them before, this week has been about us and the rugby we want to play.
“It’s been phenomenal, it’s been such a great atmosphere. The crowds, the volunteers, the interest in the tournament has been so enjoyable.”
Japan captain Iroha Nagata:
“We want to show everything we’ve built up over the past three years in this last game. It’s also an important match for the future of the Sakura Fifteen, so we absolutely want to win and carry that momentum forward.”
AloJapan.com