vs England

著者：株式会社ミラック光学　代表取締役 村松 洋明

Although the result was disappointing for us, the World Cup is still on. I have already reset my mind and am concentrating on cheering for the next match against Samoa !
Although the points difference seemed to widen in the end, I think the Japanese national team did their best against England of the birthplace of rugby and which Japan had never beaten before.
Until the 15th minute of the second half, the score was 12-13 and the scrum which was expected to be significantly inferior, was evenly matched and they did not falter far from being pushed. (Japan may push in the opposite direction once or twice ?) Although Japan still had some issues with lineouts and dealing with mauls, I think Japan’s goal line defense did a good job of persevering.
I think that “woulda, coulda, shoulda” was not a good idea, but if Japan would have scored a try with Lemeki’s attack in the 21st minute of the first half and Matsushima’s big gain in the 17th minute of the second half, things might have played out a little differently. Throughout the match, loose balls seemed to mysteriously end up in England’s pockets. It is felt like there was no luck in this match.
I think it’s all about the players’ comments after match rather than the comments of an amateur like me.
I hope that Japan will reflect on what they regret about this loss and what needs to be corrected in the games against Samoa and Argentina.

However, I’m still extremely disappointed…..

Coach Sue of Sendai Ikuei High School said this after the summer Koshien final.

“Life is a consolation match.”

The real battle begins after losing !! Good luck Brave Blossoms !!