Japan, USA, Fiji claim Pacific Nations Cup wins

Japan thrashed Tonga 41-7 in the Pacific Nations Cup, while the USA stunned Samoa and Fiji cruised past Canada.

Japan secured a confidence-boosting win ahead of the World Cup when they ran in five tries to sink the out of sorts Pacific Islanders.

Amanaki Mafi, Asaeli Ai Valu and Timothy Lafaele all crossed as the Brave Blossoms took a 21-0 lead at the break. Tonga hit back with a converted score of their own, but their joy was short lived. Japan added two further touchdowns to complete a lopsided victory.

Elsewhere, AJ MacGinty slotted a last-minute penalty to hand the USA a riveting 13-10 win over Samoa. MacGinty was the star of the show for coach Gary Gold’s side, accounting for all their points with a self-converted try and two penalties.

HE'S DONE IT!!!! MATCH WINNER by @Aj_MacGinty !!!!!

USA 13-10 SAM#USAvSAM | #PNC2019 pic.twitter.com/ukxXwDg9iJ

— USA Rugby (@USARugby) August 3, 2019

Credit: sarugbymag

Fukuoka steps two players to score great try - Pacific Nations Cup

Give the ball to Josua Tuisova and he'll do the rest. #PNC2019 pic.twitter.com/bGtYs98tBu

— World Rugby (@WorldRugby) August 4, 2019

Fiji's Viliame Mata finishes a sweeping move for @fijirugby in the World Rugby Pacific Nations Cup #PNC2019 pic.twitter.com/6FhRcp6pOH

— World Rugby (@WorldRugby) August 4, 2019

Japan power over in front of a packed out crowd in Hanazono as they notched up 41 points against Tonga in the World Rugby Pacific Nations Cup #PNC2019 pic.twitter.com/jfBv7gTDSb

— World Rugby (@WorldRugby) August 4, 2019

Peni Ravai is pure power. The Fijian maul was too good to stop. #PNC2019 pic.twitter.com/QB1RBwuVyY

— World Rugby (@WorldRugby) August 4, 2019