Rugby: Samoa crush Japan in 10-try romp

Samoa joined the American Eagles at the top of the Epson Cup rugby table after a 10-try rampage against Japan in Apia yesterday.

In blazing conditions, the home team cruised to a 68-9 victory. The Japanese had no answer to the Samoans' pace, power and physical presence.

Winger Elvis Sevealii starred with four tries - three in the first half.

The Japanese managed three penalties in the first half, but it was all to no avail as they were left not just battered and bruised, but well beaten at the end.

South Africa opened their international season with a predictably easy 51-18 victory over Canada in East London yesterday.

The match gave a clear indication of coach Nick Mallett's new vision for Springbok rugby.

They ran in eight tries and played expansive rugby in direct contrast to the defensive tactics employed at last year's World Cup.

The test also enabled Mallett to try out some new combinations, the most notable of which was the shifting of fullback Percy Montgomery to first five-eighths.

Canada's captain, Al Charron, had the honour of scoring his country's first try against the Springboks.

The South Africans play England in Pretoria next Sunday in the first of two tests.

In Manchester, New Hampshire, centre Mike Mullins scored a hat-trick of tries as Ireland swamped the United States 83-3 in the second match of their tour.