International rugby thrilled fans in Grafton as Japan Under-23 defeated Fiji Under-20 48–39 at the Hay Street Rugby Fields during the Coffs Coast Festival of Rugby.
Coached by Eddie Jones, the Japanese side showcased strong attacking rugby in front of one of the largest crowds seen at a local rugby match in the city.
Jones said bringing international fixtures to regional areas was important for grassroots development.
“It was a great showpiece for rugby coming out to the country area,” he said.
Earlier, the Australian Stockman Rugby side defeated the Grafton Redmen 50–7 in the curtain-raiser match.
Redmen coach Gary Powell said the experience would help prepare the side ahead of the Mid North Zone season.
The international fixtures formed part of a broader regional rugby festival designed to strengthen pathways and showcase elite talent in country centres.
From the Northern Rivers Times News Desk