Ireland continued their summer tour with a 34-20 victory over Japan in Newcastle. Still, Andy Farrell’s experimental side were forced to work hard for the win after a performance that lacked the fluency expected.

With several changes made ahead of next weekend’s meeting with New Zealand, Farrell handed opportunities to several players looking to impress. Some took their chance, with debutant Sean Jansen named Player of the Match after a standout display, while others found the challenge of international rugby more difficult.

Japan struck first after capitalising on an early Irish error, with a stolen lineout leading to a try for Tyra Main. However, Ireland responded well as Nick Timoney crossed for his first score of the game before Cian Prendergast O’Toole added another first international try.

Despite Ireland holding the lead, the performance remained untidy, with their lineout continuing to cause problems. Several opportunities were lost through poor execution, allowing Japan to remain in contention.

Ireland did manage to build momentum before half-time, with Robbie Henshaw powering over from a well-worked maul to extend their advantage. The visitors went into the break leading 19-13.

Japan came out strongly after the interval and applied pressure on the Irish defence, reducing the gap before replacement Hayate Era crossed for a try, bringing the score back to 26-20.

Farrell’s side needed a response and found it through debutant Sean Jansen, who finished off a patient attack to score his first Ireland try and put some breathing space between the teams.

Replacement Nathan Doak and Harry Byrne helped Ireland close out the game, with Stewart adding a late try after a superb pass from Doak to secure the 34-20 victory.

While the result gives Ireland another important win, Farrell will know there is plenty to improve before facing New Zealand next weekend. The lineout issues remain a concern, and the performance lacked the consistency required at the highest level.

However, the main objective was achieved, with several players allowed to stake their claim for a place in the squad, and Jansen in particular making a strong case after his Player of the Match display.

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