Ireland beats Japan 35-13 in second test of two-match series

Published On: June 24, 2017 02:57 PM NPT By: Associated Press

TOKYO, June 24: Ireland beat Japan 35-13 on Saturday to sweep the two-match series between the 2019 Rugby World Cup group rivals.

Ireland, a 50-22 winner a week ago, took control with four tries in the first half at Ajinomoto Stadium, venue for the opening match of the 2019 tournament.

Garry Ringrose scored Ireland's first try just five minutes in when he picked up an errant Japan pass and ran over from halfway.

Josh van der Flier, Kieran Marmion and captain Rhys Ruddock added tries with Paddy Jackson kicking the extras as Ireland took a 28-8 lead at halftime.

Japan defended better after the break and was rewarded when Akihito Yamada crossed to cut the lead to 28-13.

Sean Reidy scored a late try converted by Jackson.

Ireland was missing 11 players involved in the British and Irish Lions tour to New Zealand, and used the tests against Japan to give younger players international experience.

Japan was missing wing Shota Emi, flanker Hendrik Tui and center Timothy Lafaele through injury, while William Tupou was unavailable due to a three-match ban for a dangerous play out of the loss to Ireland last weekend.