Richie Mo’unga, the renowned All Black player, made a significant comeback following his bereavement leave. He demonstrated his prowess by contributing 19 points, including scoring a try, as Toshiba Brave Lupus convincingly defeated Shizuoka Blue Revs with a score of 59-20 in the final round of Japan Rugby League One.
This strong performance by Brave Lupus, particularly Mo’unga’s impactful return, sends a clear message ahead of their upcoming semi-final clash against arch-rivals Tokyo Suntory Sungoliath on May 19. Brave Lupus has already defeated Sungoliath twice this season, and they are poised to make it a hat-trick, especially considering Sungoliath’s recent struggles leading up to the playoffs.
The regular season of the league concluded in Tokyo during Japan’s Golden Week holiday celebrations, with today’s only match witnessing Urayasu D-Rocks securing a rematch against Hanazono Kintetsu Liners in the Replacement Battle. D-Rocks emerged victorious against NEC Green Rockets Tokatsu with a score of 48-28, despite losing star player Israel Folau to injury early in the game.
Green Rockets, coached by Wayne Pivac, will still advance to the promotion series despite losing both matches in Division Two’s Placement round. They will face Ricoh Black Rams Tokyo, who suffered a significant defeat against Toyota Verblitz, marked by notable performances including All Black scrumhalf Aaron Smith scoring two consecutive tries.
In other league matches, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Sagamihara Dynaboars concluded their season with a win, while notable performances were observed from players like Quade Cooper and James Grayson. The Division One/Two Replacement Battles are set to begin on May 18, with several teams vying for promotion opportunities.
Meanwhile, Hino Red Dolphins were crowned champions in Division Three, although they suffered a defeat to Shimizu Corporation Koto Blue Sharks, who staged an impressive comeback despite facing two yellow cards. Kurita Water Gush Akishima secured a victory against Mazda SkyActivs Hiroshima and will compete in a Replacement Battle for a chance at promotion against Japan Steel Kamaishi Seawaves.
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