Malcolm Marx’s Kubota Spears underlined their early-season dominance in Japan Rugby League One with a ruthless demolition of Cheslin Kolbe’s Suntory Sungoliath.
A win for either team would’ve taken them to the top of table after the first three rounds of the new season, and last season’s beaten finalists took full advantage, putting an under-par Suntory side to the sword with an emphatic 79-20 win.
Kolbe opened Suntory’s account with a pair of penalties, briefly hinting at a response, but the match swung decisively midway through the first half when one of his attempted clearances was charged down – a moment Kubota punished immediately as the floodgates began to open.
SAFFAS ABROAD: Kolbe lights up Japanese league
Marx didn’t cross the whitewash, but his influence was unmistakable. The reigning World Rugby Player of the Year produced a powerful break from near halfway in the 31st minute that dragged defenders deep into Sungoliath territory, ending in points for Kubota.
Minutes later, the Bok hooker again burst down the touchline before linking play to send his forwards charging onto the front foot, further stretching a retreating defence.
By half-time, Kubota had already surged clear, effectively settling the contest.
Suntory showed occasional flashes after the break, with Kolbe continuing to probe, but Kubota’s physical edge and relentless tempo proved overwhelming.
The emphatic win keeps Kubota unbeaten and joint top of the table with 14 points.
Photo: @rugjpn365/X
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