England vs Japan: Autumn Nations Series - LIVE!
Following what has seemed like a tough and challenging autumn for England, Steve Borthwick finally enjoyed a moment of relief as his team comfortably defeated Japan with a score of 59-14. England had endured some intense, close matches earlier this month, suffering losses against Australia and New Zealand. However, that wasn't the case in this match. In truth, the outcome was decided within the first 15 minutes.
At that point in the match, Borthwick’s team had already scored two tries, maintaining a scoring rate of about a point per minute. They went into halftime leading 35-7, with Japan unable to compete against England’s strength and intensity. Despite the strong winds and heavy rain, fans at Allianz Stadium felt assured that their team would hold onto this advantage.
England's win breaks a streak of five consecutive losses, but it wasn't unexpected. Japan has never managed to defeat England, who previously dominated them 52-17 during the summer—their last victory before today. Eddie Jones, who has been largely absent this week due to illness, fielded a team with little experience, and that became evident in their performance.
Latest Updates on England vs Japan
Final Score: England 59, Japan 14
The game concludes with a mishap in the middle of the field, marking the end of England's journey in 2024.
The year ends on a positive note, with Borthwick’s team decisively defeating Japan in a manner that was anticipated.
AFP through Getty Images
79 minutes: Just one minute left on the clock, and England has a lineout a little over five meters from the goal line.
Cowan-Dickie makes a fantastic pass, and he's stunned by the outcome. Japan decides to go with the scrum.
76 minutes: Tatafu sends a long ball out wide, and Naikabula believes he’s made a break, but it was obviously thrown forward.
Scrum is chaotic and requires a fresh start. When it doesn't succeed on the second try, England is able to spread the play wide.
However, Smith chooses to make a kick. The ball wobbles into the Japanese 22-meter area and goes out of play.
73 minutes: England interrupts the lineout and gains possession of the ball. This isn't the outcome Japan was hoping for.
The game has come to a halt as Cowan-Dickie requires medical attention.
72 minutes in: Japan is now pressing forward. They have the advantage of a penalty in England’s 22-yard area, but their pass out wide goes directly out of bounds.
The penalty has been taken, and the ball is sent to the corner. A lineout will take place on the 5-meter line soon.
70 minutes: How aggressive is England's approach as we enter the last 10 minutes?
Japan is ripe for opportunity; their time has passed.
England Triumphs 57-14 Over Japan: Roebuck Scores
A smart throw by Randall puts Japan in a tough spot, as it leads to a lineout deep within their own 22-meter area.
The pressure is mounting; England manages to intercept the lineout, and now they are on the attack once more.
Smith made a fantastic pass to Roebuck, who then dodged inside and showcased his strength. He glided past the defenders to score his first try on the international stage.
It’s straightforward for Smith, who contributes a few more points.
This game has become exciting once more, and it seems like there are still a few goals to be scored.
England Triumphs 50-14 Over Japan: Cowan-Dickie Scores
Roebuck made a break for the line... but was stopped just a few meters away! What tremendous defense!
It seems like it's only a matter of time; England is very close.
Cowan-Dickie makes a strong attempt and scores from just a short distance, marking his second goal of the game.
England Defeats Japan 45-14; Himeno Scores At 62'
A beautiful pass creates the opportunity, and then Smith steps up as the last defender to stop Osada.
However, Japan maintains their fast-paced play, and they find ample room as Himeno makes his way over.
