The final round of the regular season in Japan Rugby League One has concluded, setting the stage for the highly anticipated semifinals. The Saitama Wild Knights, Yokohama Eagles, Tokyo Sungoliath, and Brave Lupus Tokyo have secured their spots in the knockout phase, promising thrilling matchups ahead.
Wild Knights Dominate Eagles in Japan Rugby League One Semifinal
In a preview of their upcoming semifinal clash, the Saitama Wild Knights overwhelmed the Yokohama Eagles with a 43-14 victory in Oita. Despite a mistake-ridden second half, the Wild Knights’ dominance was evident throughout the match.
Brave Blossoms centre Dylan Riley played a pivotal role in breaking the game open for the league leaders, scoring a double strike in the final 10 minutes of the first half. His personal try tally for the season now stands at an impressive 14, joint second on the rankings.
Jesse Kriel’s Sensational Solo Try Highlights Japan Rugby League One
Springbok Jesse Kriel provided a moment of brilliance for the Eagles, scoring one of the best tries of the 2023/24 Japan Rugby League One season.
His fantastic solo effort showcased his exceptional skills and provided a glimmer of hope for the Eagles in the face of a dominant Wild Knights performance.
Spears Bid Farewell with Impressive Win
The outgoing champions, Kubota Spears, ended their season on a high note, overpowering Tokyo Sungoliath with a 45-26 victory. A late surge saw the Spears score three tries in the final 13 minutes, securing their fourth win in five matches against Sungoliath.
Sungoliath, who will face Brave Lupus Tokyo in the semifinals, have now gone three weeks without a win. They will need to regroup and address their recent form to mount a serious challenge in the knockout phase.
Brave Lupus Tokyo Welcomes Back Mo’unga
Brave Lupus Tokyo welcomed back All Black flyhalf Richie Mo’unga as they trounced Shizuoka Blue Revs 59-20. Mo’unga made an immediate impact, scoring 19 points, including a try, in his return from bereavement leave.
The Brave Blossoms trio of wing Jone Naikabula, loose forward Michael Leitch, and lock Warner Dearns also contributed to the nine-try haul against a struggling Blue Revs side.
Heat and Dynaboars Impress in Final Round of Japan Rugby League One
Despite being headed to the Replacement Battle, the Heat put up a valiant effort against the Steelers, narrowly losing 31-33.
English flyhalf James Grayson starred for Sagamihara Dynaboars in their 46-36 victory over the Liners, collecting 21 points and finishing fourth on the individual rankings.
Verblitz Finish Strong, Black Rams Fall Short
Verblitz secured a comfortable 45-18 win over the Black Rams, with All Black scrumhalf Aaron Smith scoring two tries in the final moments. Despite the victory, Verblitz dropped one place in the rankings to finish seventh.
The Black Rams, led by England loose forward Nathan Hughes’ two tries, put up a fight but ultimately fell short. Hughes’ season total now stands at 10 tries, with the Replacement Battle still to come.
As the semifinals approach, fans can expect intense battles between the top teams in Japan Rugby League One. The Wild Knights and Brave Lupus Tokyo will aim to maintain their momentum, while the Eagles and Sungoliath will look to bounce back and secure a place in the final.