Japan 33-21 Romania: Hosts see off stubborn Romanians
Last Updated: 10/06/17 2:22pm
Michael Leitch scored a second-half try as Japan beat Romania 33-21 in Kumamoto on Saturday.
Romania took an early 6-0 lead with two long-range penalties from Florin Vlaicu, but Japan took control when Akihito Yamada sprinted over from 30 meters in the 12th minute and Kenki Fukuoka added another try 10 minutes later.
Jumpei Ogura converted both tries, and added a penalty as the hosts took a comfortable 23-9 lead at half-time.
Leitch, Japan's captain at the 2015 Rugby World Cup, gave Japan a 28-9 lead only 90 seconds after the break.
Mihai Macovei and Sione Fakaosilea scored second-half tries, converted by Vlaicu, as Romania fought back in the final 30 minutes.
Romania threatened to close the gap to just one score but Japan defended well to close the game out and claim the victory.
