Rugby Union

Foley's final countdown as Spears make Japan decider

By AAP Newswire

May 31, 2026

In-demand former Wallaby Bernard Foley will take his final bow in the Japan Rugby League One decider after Spears Funabashi Bay beat Saitama Wild Knights 26-24 to qualify for next week's championship game.

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Flyhalf Foley has been linked to a return to the Waratahs, whom he kicked to victory in the 2014 Super Rugby final against the Crusaders.

The Spears prevailed on Sunday in a tight contest that swung on the first-half yellow card awarded against Southport School (Gold Coast) old boy Dylan Riley, with the Wild Knights centre sent to the sideline for a deliberate knock-down.

Replacement Spears centre Halatoa Vailea scored during the Brave Blossoms international's absence and later sensationally charged down a conversion as Foley's side held off a late charge from the Wild Knights to complete a thrilling victory.

Despite outscoring their rivals four tries to two - two of which came in the final three minutes - the Wild Knights were left to rue a high error count and some poor discipline.

The Spears will face the Kobe Steelers, with former Wallabies coach Dave Rennie chasing his first club title since 2013 after his side thrashed Tokyo Sungoliath 69-23 in Saturday's opening semi-final.

The incoming All Black boss saw his side set several records as they ran riot in the second half, after having only led by eight points at halftime.

The points tally was a record for a playoffs match in the five years of League One, and for its predecessor Top League, which inaugurated in 2003.