Japan beat Spain to finish World Cup on high

Pool C of the Women’s Rugby World Cup

Japan (5) 29

Cons: Otsuka, Yamamoto, Kitano, Imakugi, Nduka, Nagata, Kitano, Kitano,

Spain (14) 21

In York, Japan’s memorable victory over Spain ended their Women’s Rugby World Cup campaign.

After losing their opening two games in England, the bottom two teams in Pool C had already failed to advance to the knockout stages.

Through full-back Sora Nishimura, Japan, who started with speed and urgency, scored the opening try.

Cristina Blanco Herrera, a hooker for Spain, and Monica Castelo, a lock, scored twotries for them at half-time.

However, Iroha Nagata and Wako Kitano’s steadfast side opened the scoring with tries in the second half.

Komachi Imakugi’s wing and number eight Jennifer Nduka’s spirited try extended Japan’s lead.

Victoria Rosell Martinez scored the final try for Juan Gonzalez’ side.

“Throughout the entire game, Spain put a lot of pressure on us, but I think we were able to leave it out.” Japan’s captain Nagata praised the work that was done today.

“This performance is for the next generation of girls rugby in Japan.” I’m delighted to receive the outcome today that will help us move forward with the next generation.

Replacements: Kagawa, Mine, Nagata, Sakurai, Saito, Tsukui, Yamamoto, and Taniguchi.

Spain: C Perez, Hidalgo, Ducher, Piquero, De Corres, Antolinez, Blanco (capt), Bracic, Castelo, Alameda, Baquet, Garcia, Capell, C Perez, Baquet, Baquet, and C Perez.

Amber Stamp-Dunstan (Wales) and Holly Wood (England) serve as assistant referees.