Lake says Wales underperformed despite win

Japan head coach Eddie Jones expressed his disappointment after his team failed to secure their first-ever victory against Wales in Cardiff. Despite the loss, Jones stated that he felt proud of his youthful squad but acknowledged that they lacked the necessary clinical edge to win.

According to Jones, the match was a missed opportunity for his side to make history. He noted that the visitors failed to convert three key scoring chances within the 22, whereas Wales proved more efficient in their attacking entries.

The coach also raised concerns regarding the officiating of New Zealand referee Paul Williams, particularly at the contact area. Jones questioned the consistency of breakdown penalties, noting that while he was not complaining, he felt his team did not receive favourable decisions.

"That could have been a historic win for us but you've got to be good enough to take advantage of those mistakes," Jones said. "If you watch rugby now, once you get in the 22 and if you don't take points from that, that's the difference in the game."

Reflecting on the refereeing, he added: "I hope I'm not going to get in trouble for this but there was one penalty for not supporting your weight at the breakdown and it was against us. That can be the difference between winning and losing. I'm not complaining, I'm just saying sometimes you don't get the rub of the green. That can happen. You've got to suck it up and get on with it. Actually maybe I am complaining!" Japan are scheduled to play England at Allianz Stadium at Twickenham next Saturday.