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With Dan Sheehan rested ahead of next week’s match against New Zealand in Auckland, Tadhg Beirne made nine changes to captain Ireland for the first time. 33-31 win over Australia last week in sydney
But while Ireland tried to do some good work, Beirne was frustrated by his team’s weakness in set-pieces, both of Japan’s tries coming after Irish line-out mistakes.
“We just shot ourselves in the foot a little bit, whether it was discipline or giving them access, especially in the second half, we camped on our own line,” Beirne said.
“There were some errors in the game, particularly around set-pieces which gave them energy and gave them opportunities to attack, but credit to the boys, we fought hard at times to keep them out and get the win.”
Jansen’s performance was positive for Farrell – one of four debutants in the Ireland squad alongside Billy Bohan, Sam Ilow and Brian Ward.
The New Zealand-born back row was denied a try in the first half when he was stopped by a great tackle from Tienan Costley, but the 27-year-old came on in the second half to ease the pressure on Ireland.
Jansen said it was a “dream come true” to win his Test bow – and his display clearly left an impression on his coach.
“The way Shane Jansen attacked the game as a rookie was a lesson for everyone,” Farrell said.
“To be man of the match and play for the first time is a huge achievement for him and a great lesson for others.”
