On June 8, 2013, two years after the Rugby World Cup 2011 (where Japan suffered only devastating defeats and no wins), a match between Japan and Wales was held at Kintetsu Hanazono Rugby Stadium. Japan had never beaten Wales so the game drew a lot of attention.
Shota Horie (HO) and Fumiaki Tanaka (SH), who were then playing in the world's "Super Rugby" professional league, joined Japan in the battle to upset the renowned Welsh team, the world's 5th highest ranking national team and former European championship winners.
"No More Mistakes Like at Hanazono" Led to a Historic Victory.
As many of the regular Welsh players were absent due to overseas tours, Wales selected a team of large and well-built players, which presented a challenge for Japan.
Japan struggled against Wales, which took advantage of the Japanese team's characteristics with respect to the number of passes and quick moves it makes, which are quite different from those of other national teams.
In the first match in Hanazono, Japan came very close to winning although it eventually lost 18-22. The team had proudly stood up to the Welsh but HC Jones was nevertheless frustrated, commenting: "We used to lose by about 50 points, but this time it was a close game. So, we've lost and we are not happy."
The second match was played at Chichibunomiya Rugby Stadium on June 15th.
To exact a measure of revenge for the defeat at Hanazono and to take the advantage of opportunities opened up by smart attack moves, Tanaka aggressively charged along the side of the field and advanced his forwards. In the latter half, Japanese tries following a wave of attacks and penalty goals contributed to a historic victory over the Welsh by a score of 23-8.