Ireland Rugby Union Tour of Japan 1985
In the summer of 1985, the Ireland national rugby union team embarked on a tour of Japan, marking a significant period of international engagement for the squad. Led by Ciaran Fitzgerald, the Irish side played a total of five matches across the country, including two high-profile clashes against the Japan national team.
Key Facts
- Total Matches Played: 5
- Record against Japan: 2 wins, 0 draws, 0 losses
- Tour Captain: Ciaran Fitzgerald
- Notable Scorers: Trevor Ringland and Michael Kiernan
- Cap Status: The IRFU (Irish Rugby Football Union) did not initially award caps for these internationals.
Match Analysis: Ireland vs. Japan
The tour featured two primary international fixtures against the Japanese national side, both of which resulted in decisive victories for Ireland.
The First Clash in Osaka
The opening encounter took place in Osaka, where Ireland demonstrated their dominance early on. The match ended in a convincing 48–13 victory for the visitors. A standout performance came from winger Trevor Ringland, who managed to score three tries during the match.
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The Second Tie in Tokyo
The second international match was held at the Chichibu ground in Tokyo. This fixture proved to be more competitive in the early stages, with both teams locked in a 12–12 draw at half-time. However, Ireland surged in the second half, led by Michael Kiernan, who scored two tries. This second-half spurt allowed Ireland to secure a final score of 33–15.
Tour Summary Table
| Opponent | Played (P) | Won (W) | Drawn (D) | Lost (L) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Japan | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 |
| Other Opponents | 3 | 3 | 0 | 0 |
| Total | 5 | 5 | 0 | 0 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who captained the Ireland team during the 1985 tour of Japan?
The team was led by Ciaran Fitzgerald.
Did the players receive official caps for the matches against Japan?
No, the IRFU did not initially award caps for these international matches.
How many tries did Trevor Ringland score in the Osaka match?
Trevor Ringland scored three tries in the first clash in Osaka.
What was the half-time score of the match in Tokyo?
The score was level-pegging at 12–12 at half-time before Ireland took the lead in the second half.
What was the final score of the second match against Japan?
Ireland won the second match at the Chichibu ground with a final score of 33–15.