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.