InsideJapan News Network
Tuesday,
20th
September
2011
In Japan Sports News,
In Japan Sports News,
Japan aim to be 'most improved'
The Japanese rugby team is aiming to become the most improved side ahead of hosting the World Cup in 2019.
Team coach John Kirwan, a former All Blacks player, also hopes to end the side's victory drought and top its 52-8 win over Zimbabwe in 1991.
Kirwan said: "We've had a goal for the last two years to win two games at the World Cup and we would like to be the most improved. Our World Cup starts now," the AFP quoted.
Despite New Zealand thrashing Asia's top-ranked team 83-7 last Friday, Japan is broaching tomorrow's clash against Tonga with determination.
James Arlidge, fly half, said: "We've been planning for this, so for us confidence is really high, we know we have to have a great game."
He added that the "boys" were relaxed and confident, although they were nervous too.
Kirwan has decided to approach tomorrow's fixture with a similar team he used for the side's meet with France in their opening match.
It is the first time Tonga and Japan have met in a Rugby World Cup game.
Posted by Mark Smith
Team coach John Kirwan, a former All Blacks player, also hopes to end the side's victory drought and top its 52-8 win over Zimbabwe in 1991.
Kirwan said: "We've had a goal for the last two years to win two games at the World Cup and we would like to be the most improved. Our World Cup starts now," the AFP quoted.
Despite New Zealand thrashing Asia's top-ranked team 83-7 last Friday, Japan is broaching tomorrow's clash against Tonga with determination.
James Arlidge, fly half, said: "We've been planning for this, so for us confidence is really high, we know we have to have a great game."
He added that the "boys" were relaxed and confident, although they were nervous too.
Kirwan has decided to approach tomorrow's fixture with a similar team he used for the side's meet with France in their opening match.
It is the first time Tonga and Japan have met in a Rugby World Cup game.
Posted by Mark Smith
Latest Headlines
-
Click on a region above to expand
Order a
Hyper excited about Japan -
17/02/2012
InsideJapan meets Masterchef at Destinations - 27/01/2012
Show Time for IJT – Get your FREE tickets here! - 01/12/2011
Show all stories >>
InsideJapan meets Masterchef at Destinations - 27/01/2012
Show Time for IJT – Get your FREE tickets here! - 01/12/2011
Show all stories >>
-2010.jpg "The Guardian, The Observer - Travel Awards 2010 Winner - Best tour operator (small)")
.jpg "Inside Japan Tours - Silver at the British Travel Awards 2009")
