Kirwan: Breakdown was key

Japan coach John Kirwan admitted Tonga’s physicality had been crucial in his side’s 31-18 World Cup Pool A defeat in Whangarei.

Kirwan’s men ran in tries from Kensuke Hatakeyama, Michael Leitch and Alisi Tupuailei, but also conceded three tries as Vili Ma’afu, Lua Lokotui and Fetu’u Vainikolo crossed for Tonga, with 16 points from Kurt Morath sealing the South Sea Islanders’ win.