The Rugby World Cup often throws up typical David v Goliath clashes and the tournament is best remembered for its’ giant-killing acts. And this year, on the second day of the competition, there has already been one of the biggest shocks in recent memory!
Somehow, someway, the Japanese minnows have slayed a giant in South Africa 34-32.
In added time Japan managed to score in the corner after a flowing move, which was caused by a forceful run by Michael Leitch. The break was followed by some rapid interpassing and Japan managed to open up a gap for Karne Hesketh to pierce and storm over the line for the game winner.
This feat is undoubtedly the greatest in Japanese rugby history so far and the team’s performance has already turned more than a few heads on social media.
Here’s how twitter reacted.
Oh my god!!! The biggest upset in World Cup history!!!! @JapanRugby unbelievable scenes!!!
— Tom Varndell (@Tom_Varndell) September 19, 2015
Not a rugby union man & make no secret of it – but that was great drama. Well done Japan!! World Cup needed an early game like that
— Guy Mowbray (@Guymowbray) September 19, 2015
Japan. Beats. South. Africa. At. Rugby. ❤️
— colin murray (@ColinMurray) September 19, 2015
Unbelievable game of rugby. Hats of to Japan. 👏👏👏
— Jonathan Joseph (@Jonathanjoseph0) September 19, 2015
I think im turning Japanese , I think im turning Japanese ,I really think soo Amazing performance @JRFURugby #RWC2015
— Gareth Wyn Jones (@1GarethWynJones) September 19, 2015
What a match!! @JRFURugby thoroughly deserved that win. One of the greatest ""David v Goliath" moments in sporting history. #shock
— Rob Henderson (@robhendo13) September 19, 2015
Absolutely cracking day of rugby today! The tournament has really come alive. Superb efforts from Japan & Georgia #RWC2015
— Russell (@RusscoKin) September 19, 2015
That's what the #RugbyWorldCup is all about,well done @JapanRugby great result 😊
— Gary the legend73 (@irishgary38) September 19, 2015
Japan. Rugby. Goosebumps. #japan
— Jason Kyme (@Jekyme) September 19, 2015
It wasn't a dream @JRFURugby pic.twitter.com/zPRAjBIyn2
— Paul Graham (@Wombat80) September 19, 2015
So much for #experience and 880+ caps nothing will beat passion – Japan showed how it's done #RugbyWorldCup #Springboks #japanrugby
— Mark Hutchinson (@Markornan) September 19, 2015
Possibly the best sporting performance I've ever seen. Enjoy your moment in the spotlight, @JRFURugby. You truly deserve it. #RWC2015
— Josh Barnett (@Josh_No90) September 19, 2015
Do you think this is the biggest shock in Rugby World Cup history?