Asian rugby makes good on Eastern promise

Asian rugby makes good on Eastern promise

Talek Harris, Agence France-Presse/Hong Kong

Asian teams have taken a string of high-profile scalps at the
World Cup Sevens tournament here, indicating they are closing the
gap on more established rugby nations.

Japan, which is hoping to host the 2011 World Cup, set the
ball rolling with a surprise victory over Canada. But South Korea
and Taiwan really turned heads with wins against powerful Tonga
and Six Nations country Italy respectively.

Japan went on to down Portugal while only a late break-out
saved Ireland's blushes against South Korea, who were camped on
the Irish line throughout their group match.

Japan coach Kazuhiko Honjo, now eyeing the second-tier plate
trophy, said a good performance here will secure the 2011 World
Cup and give Asian rugby a further boost.

"If we play well in this tournament then the World Cup will
come to Japan," he said.

"Asian rugby is getting much stronger both in sevens and 15-a-
side, and we will only get stronger."

Honjo said Japan had prepared well for the World Cup Sevens
and had a never-say-die attitude that was popular with the fans.

"We've got a size handicap but we never give up, particularly
in defense. That's why the crowd likes us so much -- it's the way
we play."

South Korea coach Sung Hae-kyung said development programs and
increased investment in various countries were improving Asian
rugby.

"Generally in Asia the standard is getting better, especially
in Taiwan," he said. "They're really investing a lot of money and
effort which is good to see.

"It's a credit to all the individual rugby unions in Asia
which are putting a lot of time and effort into their development
programs. Here at the World Cup everyone can see that the gap is
getting closer."

Sung also supported Japan's bid for the 2011 World Cup, saying
it would raise rugby's profile in Asia and attract more
investment.

During a visit to Japan in February, International Rugby Board
chairman Syd Millar praised the facilities there and said the
Yokohama stadium was worthy of hosting a World Cup final.