Fiji-born Wallabies centre Samu Kerevi is facing a challenging start to his season in Japan with the Urayasu D-Rocks as they suffered a significant defeat, losing 62-19 to the Shizuoka Blue Revs. The newly promoted club has struggled defensively, conceding a total of 93 points over the first two weekends of the Japan Rugby League One competition.
Kerevi, alongside fellow former Wallaby Israel Folau, has now begun the season with a 0-2 record. They aren’t alone in their early struggles; Verblitz recruit Joseph Manu, who joined from the NRL, also experienced disappointment as his team lost 21-17 to Mie Heat. Manu, who scored a try on debut last week, came off the bench for this match.
In another close match, ex-Wallaby flyhalf Bernard Foley had a chance to secure victory for Spears Funabashi Tokyo Bay against the Wild Knights but missed a late penalty goal attempt, resulting in a narrow 26-24 defeat. This loss marks the 16th time in the last 17 encounters that Spears have been unable to overcome the Wild Knights.
On a brighter note, the Kobe Steelers claimed their first win of the season with a 36-18 victory over the Yokohama Eagles, marking a successful start for coach Dave Rennie. Meanwhile, the Brave Lupus Tokyo showcased an impressive performance, securing their second win of the title defense by dominating Sagamihara Dynaboars 61-8, where they remarkably scored seven tries in a span of just 20 minutes.
Despite a rough start for some teams, there is hope for improvement and thrilling moments to come as the season progresses in Japan Rugby League One.
The initial results may be disappointing for Kerevi and his teammates, but the competition often sees shifts in momentum, and with such talented players, there is a strong possibility of a turnaround as the teams adjust and grow throughout the season.
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