Eddie Jones bid farewell to Japan as the Brave Blossoms ended their stunning World Cup campaign Sunday night to become the first nation to win three group games but fail to reach the quarter finals.
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Japan have already caused the biggest sensation in World Cup history by beating South Africa 34-32 in their opening Pool B game.
But the simple victory over the USA gave a fitting send-off to Jones, who now leaves the post to coach the Stormers in South Africa.
The winning points came from Kotaro Matsushima, Yoshikazu Fujita and Amanaki Mafi tries, and the kicking of full back Ayumu Goromaru.
Japan, the most improved team at the WC, by a mile. Well done to all the players and Eddie Jones.
— Kobus Wiese (@4KobusWiese) October 11, 2015
The 2019 World Cup is the first time the tournament will be hosted by an emerging rugby nation, meaning the Brave Blossoms were under pressure to show they merit the award.
“The guys have all played above themselves, they have worked hard, they played with a real spirit, they played how rugby should be played,” said Jones.
“When I took over Japan I wanted to bring pride back in the national team and I think we have done that so it is someone else’s turn to take it over.”
