WATCH: Ireland beat Japan to secure 2019 Junior World Cup place

It took a 76th minute try from Tommy O’Brien to finally give the Irish U20s their first win of the tournament and in the process confirm their place at next season’s tournament.

The 39-33 win over Japan was Ireland’s only win of the tournament and a deserved reward for an injury hit squad.

Tries from Jonny Stewart (4 mins), Dan Sheehan (10) and Peter Sylvester (33) established a 22-12 half-time lead for Ireland. Outhalf Harry Byrne was instrumental chipping in with 19 points including four penalties in the second half, to finish with 42 points for the Championship.

Japan’s danger man Siosaia Fifita kept them in touch with a quick-fire brace of tries nearing the hour mark. Fellow Japanese winger Halatoa Vailea’s 72nd-minute score, converted by Yuto Mori, made it a one-point game.

However, Ireland regrouped and put Tommy O’Brien over in the left corner and debutant Dylan Tierney forced a last-minute penalty at the breakdown to finally settle the issue.