Japan and Georgia square off on Saturday after recording disappointing recent defeats against England and Fiji respectively.
Japan v Georgia
Saturday 13 July 2024 | 12:05
Yurtec Stadium, Sendai City
After sitting out last week, the Brave Blossoms get the chance to make amends for their 17-52 thrashing at the hands of England two weeks back when they welcome Georgia to the Yurtec Stadium in Sendai on Saturday. That result was a tough one to take for Eddie Jones and his new team, but one would think they will make more of a fist of it against the Lelos here.
With Italy up next for Japan, it’s important they build some momentum as Jones looks to get his players familiar with the way he wants to play leading up to the next World Cup.
Georgia fell to a disappointing 12-21 defeat to Fiji on the weekend in Batumi. Currently ranked 14th, two spots below their opponents this week, they are firmly seen as underdogs heading into this one.
If Richard Cockerill’s charges can trouble the Japanese in contact and stifle the breakneck speed at which they like to play, they could have an opening. The breakdown will also be vital, and a scrap on the floor will definitely suit the eastern Europeans. That said, it would be a surprise if Eddie doesn’t figure out a way to outwit Georgia’s power game.
Verdict: Japan to win
The hosts should record their first win of the season in Sendai.
