Henry Pyrgos and Greig Laidlaw kick Scotland to victory over Japan

Henry Pyrgos and Greig Laidlaw shared kicking duties as Scotland booted their way to a 21-16 victory over Japan in Tokyo.

The duo fired over seven penalties between them, but the result was particularly cruel on the hosts who dominated possession and scored the only try midway through the first half.

Japan had gone into the contest hoping to secure a first success over the Scots in a full international and, for 70 minutes, they appeared to be on course to do so.

But after failing to take advantage of some excellent opportunities to put daylight between themselves and the visitors, Laidlaw made them pay during the latter stages.

When Laidlaw replaced Pyrgos with 50 minutes on the clock, Japan led 16-9 and were seemingly well on top.

However, the Brave Blossoms were unable to force home their advantage and whenever they infringed in their own half, Laidlaw's right foot inflicted some painful damage on Jamie Joseph's team.

His successful kicks on 53, 61, 71 and 78 sealed the deal for Scotland but one they hardly deserved.

If Japan were left searching for any positives, they can take great pride in their 21st minute try which began close to their own posts and after, some excellent running and nifty ball-handling, ended with Kaito Shigeno racing over the line.

Yu Tamura kicked Japan's remaining points but Scotland survived a fierce Japanese onslaught after the break which ultimately meant the enthusiastic home fans left the Ajinomoto Stadium empty handed.