Share

Jones: One of my best days

Brighton - A last-minute Karne Hesketh try secured a 34-32 win over two-time champions South Africa in one of the biggest shocks in Rugby World Cup history on Saturday.

Japan attacked the Springboks from the first minute in an inspiring performance in the Pool D opening match in Brighton.

After Ayumu Goromaru scored 24 points including an brilliant try to keep Japan in the game, Hesketh finally pierced South Africa's desperate defence in the dying seconds to claim the famous win.

Japan's players went on a lap of honour with national flag amid a roars of support from the 29,000 crowd.

"It's a fantastic achievement," said coach Eddie Jones who will leave the team after the World Cup.

"We worked really hard for this - but look for me personally its right up there with my best days in the sport," said the coach who guided Australia to the 2003 final and was member of the Springboks coaching team for their 2007 World Cup triumph.

South Africa went into the game expecting a big win but Japan were never overawed.

The Asian champions, who will host the 2019 World Cup, had won only one previous World Cup game against Zimbabwe in 1991. They have drawn two and lost 21.

But they are determined not to be the whipping boys of this tournament.

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
25% - 1273 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
29% - 1471 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2250 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE