Debutant Jansen scores on his first Ireland start as Farrell's side edge Japan 36-20

Sean Jansen scored on his Ireland debut as Andy Farrell’s reshuffled side defeated Japan 36-20 in a Nations Championship bonus-point win in Newcastle, Australia, maintaining a perfect record through two matches in the Northern Hemisphere group.

New Zealand-born Jansen, who plays his club rugby for Connacht in the United Rugby Championship, started at number eight and crossed in the 50th minute. Named player of the match, he described the occasion as a privilege. “I’m just so privileged to be able to wear this jersey, and what a win,” he said. “When the team got selected, us boys were so stoked, man, and it was a dream come true.”

Farrell made nine changes from the narrow win over Australia, with Tadhg Beirne captaining Ireland for the first time and hooker Ronan Kelleher reaching 50 caps. Billy Bohan, Sam Illo and Bryn Ward also earned their first caps off the bench, making it four debutants on the day.

Nick Timoney, Tom O’Toole, Robbie Henshaw and Tom Stewart added Ireland’s other tries, with Ciaran Frawley kicking three conversions and Harry Byrne contributing a conversion and a penalty.

Despite the comfortable winning margin, Ireland were far from flawless. The lineout repeatedly caused problems, and Farrell admitted the scoreline was generous. “Relief, more than pleased,” he said. “The scoreline flattered us but delighted for the whole group. It was far from perfect and there were a few errors out there but we stuck at it and kept squeezing them until the end.”

Jansen acknowledged Japan’s quality, noting they pushed Ireland throughout. “They’re a very fit team and they were in there for the whole 80 minutes. Credit to them — they throw the ball around and they’re very fit, so we’re just happy to win the game.”

Ireland now face their sternest test of the competition when they meet Southern Hemisphere group leaders New Zealand in the third round.