Jake White made a winning start as Fiji head coach after his side edged Japan 34-28 in a thrilling contest in Tokyo on Saturday.
The former Springboks coach marked his return to international rugby management with an entertaining victory over a Japan side coached by Eddie Jones, his former technical adviser during South Africa’s triumphant 2007 Rugby World Cup campaign.
With less than a year remaining before the next World Cup, White will be encouraged by the character Fiji showed in a closely fought encounter played in difficult, rainy conditions.
Fiji edge Japan in seven-try thriller
The hosts made a blistering start when Naoto Saito crossed for an early try, but Fiji responded quickly through Kitione Salawa.
Captain Tevita Ikanivere then finished off a counterattack to put Fiji ahead before Japan hit back through Warner Dearns.
Fiji regained the advantage when Tuidraki Samusamuvodre capitalised on a defensive mistake, but Japan levelled again after Faulua Makisi crossed while Fiji were temporarily reduced to 14 men.
Fiji’s Motikai Murray initially received a yellow card, which was later upgraded to a red, adding another layer of drama to an already unpredictable contest.
Volavola makes the difference
Fiji regained control early in the second half when Terio Tamani scored to put the visitors back in front.
Japan refused to surrender and Dearns completed his brace to bring the hosts back into contention.
However, substitute Ben Volavola proved decisive.
The experienced fly-half kept his composure from the kicking tee, converting two penalties after the break to ensure Fiji stayed ahead and secured a memorable 34-28 victory.
The result gives White the ideal start to his Fiji tenure and comes just one month after Japan defeated Fiji 20-15 in the Pacific Nations Cup final.
White reunited with Eddie Jones
The match also carried an added storyline because of the relationship between the two coaches.
Jones worked alongside White as South Africa’s technical adviser during the Springboks’ successful 2007 World Cup campaign.
White subsequently went on to coach in Australia, France and Japan before taking charge of Fiji earlier this month.
The new Fiji coach is reportedly working alongside fellow South Africans Gert Smal and Allister Coetzee as he prepares the team for the next phase of its development.
White’s record with the Springboks remains impressive. He coached South Africa in 54 Tests, winning 36, losing 17 and drawing one.
Fiji turn attention to Europe
The victory provides valuable momentum ahead of Fiji’s European tour next month.
Fiji are scheduled to face France, Ireland and Italy, while Japan will take on Wales, England and Scotland.
For White, the European campaign will provide another important opportunity to assess his squad and establish his style ahead of the World Cup.
After an entertaining first outing, Fiji supporters will be hoping Saturday’s victory is the beginning of a successful new era under the former Springbok coach.
Can Jake White lead Fiji to a major World Cup challenge?
