Fiji-born winger Jone Naikabula had a standout performance and scored a try in Japan’s 55-20 victory over the Pacific Nations Cup opener in Vancouver on Monday. Naikabula sprinted over 40 meters unchallenged to secure a remarkable try for the Cherry Blossoms. He also played a crucial role in setting up several additional tries during the match.
Lock Warner Dearns shone with a Man of the Match display, scoring two tries in the commanding win. Other try scorers for Japan included Tomoki Osada, Seungsin Lee, Dylan Riley, Kanji Shimokawa, and Malo Tuitama.
In Round 2 of the Pacific Nations Cup, Samoa will host Tonga at Apia Park on Saturday following their 42-16 loss to Fiji in Suva last week, while Canada is set to face the USA Eagles on Monday. The FIJI Water Flying Fijians will have a bye in Round 2 and are scheduled to travel to Teufaiva Park in Nukualofa next week to take on Tonga.