Wallabies start Les Kiss era with thrilling win over Japan

Japan 32-35 Australia, Osaka

Australia survived a red card and late Japan fightback to beat the Brave Blossoms 35-32 in Les Kiss’ first match as Wallabies coach.

Australia were pushed hard in difficult conditions, with the temperature staying close to 30 degrees throughout the match. The Wallabies also had to play a large part of the contest with 14 men after Miles Amatosero was sent off in the first half.

In the end, Australia’s bench proved decisive. The fresh impact of Angus Bell and Taniela Tupou helped the visitors control the final stages and hold off a fierce Japanese comeback.

Japan Strike First In Osaka

Japan made the sharper start and opened the scoring through fly-half Ryunosuke Ito, whose clever individual effort gave the hosts early momentum.

Australia eventually found their rhythm after Harry Potter produced a strong break. Hunter Paisami helped create the chance by picking off a loose pass, and the Wallabies moved the ball wide for Potter to cut back inside and score.

Sharp Australian handling then put Tom Wright into space, and he burned his opposite number to finish after a well-worked set play left Japan short of defenders. That gave Australia a 14-7 lead.

Red Card Changes The Contest

Australia’s attempt to build on their advantage was disrupted in the 32nd minute when Amatosero was yellow-carded for a dangerous cleanout on Warner Dearns near the Japan goal-line. The card was later upgraded to red before half-time.

Japan made the extra man count before the break, with No.8 Faulua Makisi crossing to level the scores at 14-14.

Bench Power Gets Australia Home

Despite being a player down, Australia rallied strongly in the second half. Fraser McReight and Max Jorgensen both crossed to give the Wallabies a nine-point advantage.

Japan stayed in the fight through Takuro Matsunaga, who kicked two penalties to cut the gap to three points.

The key moment came with 10 minutes remaining. Tupou powered over from close range to give Australia a 10-point lead and create vital breathing space.

Japan refused to go away. Captain Warner Dearns scored late to set up a tense finish, and the hosts had one final chance to attack. But Tupou helped dislodge the ball in the closing moments, allowing Australia to secure a hard-fought 35-32 victory.