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With a daring move, Australia rested 13 key players and named their most inexperienced captain in over six decades. Despite the risks, this gamble proved successful, as the Wallabies defeated their former coach's Japanese squad 19-15 in wet and windy Tokyo.

Ending a Slide and Maintaining a Perfect Record

The close victory halts three-match losing streak and maintains the Wallabies' perfect track record versus the Brave Blossoms intact. Additionally, it prepares the team for the upcoming fixture to rugby's hallowed ground, where the squad's top XV will strive to repeat last year's dramatic win over England.

Schmidt's Canny Tactics Bring Rewards

Up against the 13th-ranked team, Australia faced much on the line following a difficult home season. Coach Joe Schmidt opted to give less experienced players an opportunity, fearing fatigue during a grueling five-Test tour. The shrewd though daring approach echoed a previous Wallabies attempt in recent years that ended in a historic defeat to Italy.

First-Half Struggles and Injury Blows

The home side started with intensity, including hooker a key forward delivering several monster hits to rattle Australia. But, the Wallabies regained composure and improved, with their new captain scoring near the line for a 7-0 lead.

Fitness issues struck early, with locks locks substituted—one with bruised ribs and his replacement the other with concussion. The situation required an already reshuffled Wallabies to adapt their pack and tactics on the fly.

Frustrating Offense and Breakthrough Score

Australia pressed repeatedly near their opponents' try-line, hammering the defense via one-inch punches yet failing to score for thirty-two rucks. After testing central channels without success, the team eventually went wide from a scrum, with a center breaking the line before assisting Josh Flook for a score that made it eleven points.

Debatable Decisions and Japan's Fightback

A further apparent score from Carlo Tizzano got disallowed twice because of questionable rulings, summing up an aggravating opening period experienced by the Wallabies. Wet weather, limited strategies, and the Brave Blossoms' courageous defense kept the match close.

Second-Half Action and Nail-Biting Conclusion

The home team came out with more vigor after halftime, scoring via a forward to narrow the deficit to 14-8. The Wallabies responded quickly with Tizzano scoring from a maul to restore an 11-point advantage.

But, Japan responded immediately when the fullback fumbled a grubber, allowing Ben Hunter to cross. With the score 19-15, the match was on a knife-edge, with Japan pressing for their first-ever win against the Wallabies.

During the final stages, the Wallabies showed character, securing a crucial set-piece then a penalty. The team stood firm in the face of a storm, sealing a hard-fought victory that prepares the squad up for their European fixtures.