AR7s Series - Japan too strong to hold for the Tuskers

Sri Lanka Tuskers failed to score against the Asian heavyweights Japan losing 21 - 00 in their second game at the Asian Sevens Series, first leg in Hong Kong.

Tuskers had possession early on inside the red zone but unfortunate to exit pass the Japanese defense. Kavindu Perera went in to contact and lost the breakdown clash in isolation. Japan turned their defense in to possession and then in to points as the veteran player Katsuyuki Sakai scored the first try. 

With the restart Tuskers struggled once again inside the 22m but was fortunate to get a penalty. As a result half back Sudam Sooriarachchi made a thumping kick-chase but he couldn't claim the bouncing ball which was never predictable. Player of the tournament two weeks ago at the Asian Games, Kavindu Perera uncharacteristically missed Naoki Motomura on defense as he storm through for the try.

HT : SL 00 - 14 JPN

Sri Lanka had couple of possessions in the second half with Naveen Henakankanamage and Rehan Silva making some yards. The only realistic opportunity to score a try was when Srinath Sooriyabandara kick chased his grubber, unfortunately knocked-on on collection in the absence of Japanese sweeper cover. 

Eventually it was Japan who held firm on their defense and added the counter punch. Sakai scored his second try and sealed the win.  

Sri Lanka will play Chinese Taipei at 9.20 am SL tomorrow in their final pool game. If the Tuskers win then will meet Hong Kong in the cup semi final as the hosts top the other pool.