Wales secured a nervy 28-21 victory over Japan in their Nations Championship opener at the Principality Stadium, a win that offered more questions than answers. Captain Dewi Lake admitted his side let themselves down during patchy periods, while head coach Steve Tandy acknowledged he expected better performance. Despite the win, Wales spent long periods defending, enjoying only 40% territory and possession, and were out-tackled 227-115.
Wing Louis Rees-Zammit was the standout performer, earning man-of-the-match honors with a stellar display, crossing for a try and contributing five of Wales' 16 line-breaks. Back-rowers Aaron Wainwright and Jac Morgan excelled, with Wainwright topping the Nations Championship tackling charts with 20 tackles. The victory marked Wales' fourth win in 13 internationals under Tandy, ending a run where they had not secured a Sunday Test victory in recent times.
With tougher tests against New Zealand and Australia looming, the team will look to build on this scratchy but successful start to the campaign.
Source: BBC Sport · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing