Eddie Jones, who previously led the Japan national team between 2012 and 2015, is employing a unique coaching strategy ahead of the upcoming second Test against Australia. Following a narrow 35-32 defeat in Osaka last week, Jones has introduced footage of geese flying in formation to teach his players about effective support play.
The coach explained that the lead goose represents the ball-carrier, while the rest of the flock demonstrates the importance of following and reacting to that leader. Jones noted that Japan’s support play lacked precision in the first match and hopes this visual analogy will encourage his squad to respond more effectively to the ball-carrier’s movements during the rematch in Townsville.
For the upcoming contest, Jones has shuffled his lineup with five changes, including a starting position for centre Shunsuke Uenobo and the inclusion of university student Yoshitaka Yazaki on the wing. Australia, playing under the guidance of head coach Les Kiss, remains focused despite an early red card for Miles Amatosero in the previous fixture. Jones stated that his team is eager to redeem themselves and approach the second match with newfound intensity.
