Canada’s men's rugby team faced a tough opening challenge in the reimagined Pacific Nations Cup, suffering a 55-28 loss against Japan on Sunday at Vancouver’s BC Place. 

Despite a spirited comeback, the hosts were unable to overcome Japan's relentless pressure and precision.

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Japan stormed out of the gates, establishing a commanding 14-0 lead within the first eight minutes. 

Canada appeared to get on the scoreboard shortly after when Andrew Coe crossed the try line, but his effort was disallowed due to a knock-on. 

Japan continued its dominant first-half display, running in three more tries and adding a penalty kick by the 26th minute, leaving Canada trailing 38-0.

Canada finally broke through just before halftime, with Coe successfully finishing a kick-and-chase in the 37th minute. Peter Nelson's conversion made it 38-7 heading into the break, offering a glimmer of hope for the Canadians.

Reflecting on the game, Canada’s captain, Lucas Rumball, acknowledged the slow start. 

“I'm disappointed in that first 25-30 minutes," Rumball said. "I don't think we did ourselves justice. Japan came in with speed, and we didn’t adjust quick enough. But we found our feet and got into the game better after that."

Japan extended its lead early in the second half, but Rumball quickly responded with a try, converted again by Nelson to make it 45-14. 

Canada continued to fight back, with Talon McMullin scoring his first international try five minutes later after a slick pass from Andrew Quattrin. Nelson's successful conversion brought the score to 45-21.

Despite Japan adding to its tally in the 68th minute, Canada kept pushing, with Takoda McMullin also scoring his first try for the national team in the dying minutes. Nelson, 4 for 4 on conversions, brought the score to 55-28 after Japan sealed the victory with a late try in extra time.

Canada’s four-try effort earned it a valuable bonus point in the Pacific Nations Cup standings, providing a small consolation in defeat. 

Head coach Eddie Jones praised the young players who made an impact, including the McMullin brothers and Ethan Fryer. 

“There are a lot of positives, but we need to figure out how we handle the first 20 minutes of games,” Jones said.

Canada now shifts its focus to a crucial matchup against the United States in Los Angeles on Aug. 31.

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