Manuma Samoa had no answer for the Japan XV onslaught as they were humbled 48-5 in a one-sided clash in the opening day of the Pacific Rugby Challenge at Apia Park on Wednesday.

“Japan was just pure class today and we've got to take that loss, take the learnings, and try and get better for Tonga,” said Manuma Samoa captain Ivan Fepuleai.

From the start, Japan proved to be too much for Samoa, with hooker Kenshin Shimzu scoring the first try within the first few minutes. Samoa quickly responded with their only try by Afoa Moleli, but it was downhill from there.

Japan's Takaya Motohashi scored their second try soon after, that was converted. Samoa received a yellow card for foul play by openside flanker Joseph Silva, just before halftime. 

At halftime, Japan led 12-5. After the breather, it was an onslaught by the visitors who dominated the game against their bigger opponents.

With one man down, Manuma Samoa couldn't stop Kenji Sato from scoring right out of a scrum. Not long after, flyhalf Ryonsuke scored another try, leaving Samoa frustrated.

Japans XV capitalised on Samoa's mistakes, scoring the last three tries back to back due to the Manuma Samoa's continuous offsides.

In the last 15 minutes, Manuma Samoa's captain Ivan Fepuleai was taken off injured, and the team struggled to recover. Japan secured their win with Kotaro Okawa's try in the corner in the final minute as Japan XV ended the game with a powerful victory. 

After the match, Manuma Samoa head coach, Mailo Potumoe Leavasa, acknowledged Japan's dominance and was disappointed in the result.

"We're going back and reviewing our game and learning from our mistakes, and we'll focus on Tonga," Mailo said. 

Despite the loss, the team is hopeful as they face Tonga A in the next match.

Apart from the scoreline, the bare stadium was a sight for sad eyes as not many Samoans gathered in support of Manuma Samoa, despite Fepuleai being hopeful for the home support.  

"Even though we didn't do them proud today, I hope they can come and support us against Tonga because hopefully, we will put in a better performance," said Fepuleai. 

The next match day for the Pacific Rugby Challenge is Monday 15 April. Japan XV will face the Fiji Warriors at 12.30 pm while Manuma Samoa takes on Tonga A at 4 pm.