Player Ratings: Japan Vs All Blacks - Lipovitan-D Challenge Cup

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Post on Oct 26, 2024

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Player Ratings: Japan vs All Blacks - Lipovitan-D Challenge Cup

The Lipovitan-D Challenge Cup saw the Brave Blossoms of Japan take on the mighty All Blacks in a captivating clash. While the final score reflected a dominant All Blacks victory, Japan showcased their grit and determination, pushing the world champions to the brink in several moments. Let's delve into the individual performances of both teams with our player ratings:

Japan

Fullback: Ryohei Yamanaka (7/10) - Yamanaka was a constant threat in attack, showcasing his pace and agility to break through the All Blacks defense. He also tackled fiercely, making several crucial interventions.

Wingers: Kotaro Matsushima (7/10), Siosaia Fifita (6/10) - Matsushima was his usual elusive self, forcing the All Blacks to make some desperate tackles. Fifita provided solid support, but lacked the same attacking spark as Matsushima.

Centers: Timothy Lafaele (6/10), Ryoto Hongo (6/10) - The center pairing worked hard in defense, but struggled to create opportunities going forward. They were outmuscled at times by the All Blacks' larger frame.

Fly-half: Lee Seung-sin (7/10) - Seung-sin dictated the pace of the game for Japan, orchestrating attacks with his pinpoint kicking and clever passing. He was also a reliable option off the tee, converting Japan's lone try.

Scrum-half: Yutaka Nagare (7/10) - Nagare was a tireless worker, directing the Japanese attack with quick passes and clever distribution. He consistently challenged the All Blacks defensive line, making it difficult for them to settle into their rhythm.

Forwards:

• Props: Keita Inagaki (6/10), Koo Ji-won (6/10) - The Japanese props held their own in the scrums, but were out-powered by the All Blacks' front row.
• Hooker: Atsushi Sakate (6/10) - Sakate was a workhorse for Japan, providing a solid platform at the base of the scrum and making crucial tackles.
• Locks: Jack Cornelsen (6/10), Michael Leitch (6/10) - Leitch continued his consistent performances, leading by example with strong tackles and powerful runs. Cornelsen was solid in the lineout.
• Flanker: Kazuki Himeno (7/10) - Himeno was a standout performer, making several impactful tackles and contributing heavily to Japan's aggressive defensive strategy.
• No. 8: Latu Manulua (6/10) - Manulua was involved in some of Japan's most potent attacking moves, but was ultimately outmatched by the All Blacks' back row.

All Blacks

Fullback: Damian McKenzie (8/10) - McKenzie was a constant threat, showcasing his exceptional pace and kicking skills. He orchestrated the All Blacks attack with precision and was instrumental in their dominant victory.

Wingers: Will Jordan (8/10), Mark Telea (7/10) - Both wingers scored spectacular tries, demonstrating their speed, agility and finishing ability. They were a constant headache for the Japanese defense.

Centers: Rieko Ioane (7/10), Quinn Tupaea (7/10) - Ioane was a physical presence in the midfield, making powerful runs and contributing to the All Blacks' dominance. Tupaea showed his versatility, defending well and linking up with the backs effectively.

Fly-half: Beauden Barrett (8/10) - Barrett controlled the game with his intelligent kicking and accurate passing. His tactical acumen allowed the All Blacks to build pressure and dominate possession.

Scrum-half: Aaron Smith (8/10) - Smith was a master of the service, consistently providing quick and precise passes to his backs. He was also a reliable option off the tee, converting the majority of the All Blacks' tries.

Forwards:

• Props: Ethan de Groot (8/10), Angus Ta'avao (8/10) - The All Blacks props dominated the scrum, pushing the Japanese pack backwards on numerous occasions. Their powerful scrummaging played a pivotal role in securing victory.
• Hooker: Samisoni Taukei'aho (8/10) - Taukei'aho was a constant threat, providing a strong platform at the base of the scrum and making crucial tackles. He also added to the All Blacks' score with a well-taken try.
• Locks: Sam Whitelock (8/10), Scott Barrett (8/10) - Whitelock and Barrett were a formidable pairing, dominating the lineouts and making numerous tackles. Their experience and leadership were crucial to the All Blacks' dominance.
• Flanker: Ardie Savea (9/10) - Savea was the standout performer for the All Blacks, leading by example with his ferocious tackling, powerful carries and game-changing runs. His impact on the game was undeniable.
• No. 8: Hoskins Sotutu (8/10) - Sotutu was a powerful presence, contributing heavily to the All Blacks' dominance in the contact area. He was a force to be reckoned with in both attack and defense.

Conclusion

The Lipovitan-D Challenge Cup match between Japan and the All Blacks was a compelling contest showcasing the contrasting styles of these two rugby powerhouses. While the All Blacks' experience and power ultimately proved too much for Japan, the Brave Blossoms demonstrated their resilience and potential, leaving a positive impression on the rugby world. This match provides a glimpse into the exciting future of Japanese rugby and the ongoing development of the sport in Asia.