**Wales End Losing Streak in Kobe Thriller: Player Ratings and Key Moments**
After 644 days of disappointment, the Wales rugby team finally savoured victory again, overcoming a resilient Japan side with a 31-22 win in Kobe. This hard-fought encounter saw Matt Sherratt’s men dig deep to secure a result that broke a prolonged losing run, despite notable anxiety as another second-half collapse threatened. Tries from Josh Adams, Kieran Hardy, and Dan Edwards provided just enough cushion to see the team over the line.
The match unfolded with Wales showing ambition from the outset, adapting well to a physical Japanese challenge. Blair Murray, at full-back, delivered a standout performance. His pace and vision set the stage for Wales’ early success, consistently beating defenders and creating opportunities, including a crucial break that set up the opening try. His work under the high ball and a pinpoint 50:22 kick underlined a well-rounded display.
Tom Rogers, occupying the right wing, was subjected to a barrage of tests from Japan’s kicking game. Remaining collected, he dealt with the aerial threat calmly and still offered Wales a sharp attacking edge, both with ball in hand and with his measured tactical kicking. On the opposite wing, Josh Adams, though forced off at half-time, delivered one of his most assured Wales displays since the World Cup with an impressive work rate, safe high-ball handling, and a perfectly timed line to set up Hardy’s second try.
The midfield pairing of Johnny Williams and Ben Thomas displayed a blend of muscle and subtlety. Williams brought physical presence and hard metres, while Thomas’s passing helped create overlaps and kept the Japanese defenders guessing. Both played pivotal roles, even if the partnership is still seeking its best form.
At fly-half, Dan Edwards enjoyed a promising first Test start for Wales. Controlling the game with confidence and kicking accurately, he also slotted the late try that finally put the result beyond doubt. Scrum-half Kieran Hardy’s performance was a tale of two halves. His dynamic first period, which included two tries and rapid distribution, gave Wales the advantage, but he faltered after the break with wayward kicks and a stray pass that was ruthlessly punished by Japan.
Among the forwards, Aaron Wainwright stood out with his industrious carrying and adept offloading, topping the carrying charts and providing stability in broken play. Yet it was Josh Macleod, the Scarlets captain, who emerged as the game’s standout. Macleod’s relentless tackling and, crucially, his work at the breakdown—where he secured four turnovers, including two vital penalties in the closing stages—earned him ‘man of the match’ honours and proved decisive in stemming Japan’s late charge.
The Welsh pack as a whole worked doggedly, with Teddy Williams and Freddie Thomas making dents in defence and offering options at the lineout. Dewi Lake’s energy was also telling, both in carries and tackles, as he maintained set-piece stability. Nicky Smith anchored the scrum effectively in the opening period before being substituted.
Among the replacements, Taine Plumtree deserves special mention. His intervention following a period of Japanese pressure—covering back to clear the lines, defending robustly, and delivering a deft flick pass to set up Edwards’ try—was instrumental in steadying the ship at a critical juncture. Debutant Chris Coleman and returnee Gareth Thomas also provided valuable ballast from the bench.
While some fringe players, such as Reuben Morgan-Williams and Tommy Reffell, had limited time to shine, others seized their opportunities, suggesting Wales have discovered new depth as they prepare for upcoming fixtures against the Wallabies. The victory, however, was very much a team effort, with defensive resolve and collective resilience ultimately turning the tide.
For coach Matt Sherratt, this long-awaited win serves as both a relief and a foundation to build upon. Nonetheless, the second-half lapses will offer plenty of food for thought as Wales look to develop consistency and rediscover the winning habit. With a host of players stepping up, especially Macleod and Murray, the future looks a touch brighter for Welsh rugby as the summer tour continues.