Maori All Blacks stole with an absolute steal of a victory. Credit to Japan for putting in an immense performance after last weeks thumping. They showed a lot of character to play the way they played today. New Zealand did well to ensure that there were no gaps on defence throughout the game. That was an incredibly exciting game of rugby. My heart rate is through the roof, and that is why we love rugby. Thank you for following Ultimate Rugby. Enjoy the rest of the international fixtures this weekend.

Japan are pushing to try and grab what would be a deserved victory, but the Maori team hold strong.

Pryor gets over to put Maori All Blacks in the position to win it.

Now the Japan line out is not straight.

Leitch leaves the field after a real captains performance.

Another dominant Japanese scrum. Penalty near the halfway line.

Royal doesn't throw in straight. And the Maori line out keeps struggling.

Pryor gives away a penalty on the 22m. Japan have the opportunity to put themselves ahead.

Japan struggling to find any gaps in the Maori defensive line.

Crosswell has been immense on defence. But this Maori team will need to gather some momentum some how if they hope to grab this game. Japan are doing all the playing right now.