AICHI, Japan (Reuters) -Winger Damian Penaud scored two tries as France put collectively a strong second-half efficiency for a commanding 42-23 victory over Japan within the first take a look at on the Toyota Stadium in Aichi on Saturday.
The two international locations have been stage at 13-13 at half-time after a sprightly first half show by the hosts however the power and health of the French proved decisive within the second interval in swelteringly scorching and humid circumstances which dictated a number of water breaks.
Penaud took his worldwide attempt tally to 18 but it surely was the triumphant return of flyhalf Matthieu Jalibert after severe harm that marked the French success.
A thigh tear had stored the 23-year-old out of the crew for the final eight months however he reminded spectators of his class in establishing two of the 5 French tries, whereas fullback Melvyn Jaminet added 17 factors together with his boot.
France’s different tries got here from Matthis Lebel, Yoram Moefana and alternative hooker Pierre Bourgart. Jaminet struck over 4 conversions and three penalties.
Japan scored two tries by Tevita Tatafu and Siosaia Fifita with flyhalf Seung Sin Lee including the conversions and three penalties.
Jalibert wasted little time in making his mark with a quick-thinking lengthy go out to Penaud on the wing for the primary attempt contained in the opening two minutes.
JAPANESE ATTACK
It was anticipated this might set the tone for a dominant efficiency by the vacationers, regardless of leaving a lot of their Six Nations-winning crew at dwelling for the tour, together with World Player of the Year Antoine Dupont.
But Japan, who had 4 regulars out with COVID-19 infections, had different concepts with an attacking method as they greater than matched the French aptitude and Tatafu’s attempt put them 10-7 forward after 14 minutes.
Kicks on both aspect then ensured parity at half-time.
After the break, Jalibert’s decisive break arrange Lebel and successfully ended the house resistance as France went forward within the forty sixth minute and didn’t look again.
France confirmed energy although the midfield as Moefana broke by for Penaud to end within the 58th minute and three minutes after Moefana scored a brilliant particular person attempt, with a weighted chip excessive of the Japan defence and a fast assortment to go over.
A ahead drive 12 minutes from time ensured a fifth attempt as alternative hooker Bourgart drove over the road however there was a final gasp comfort for Japan with Fifita ending.
The two international locations meet once more subsequent Saturday within the second take a look at in Tokyo.
(Writing by Mark Gleeson in Cape Town; Editing by Gareth Jones)
