Japan look to beat heat, Volcanoes

CALAMBA, Philippines (May 2) – Japan held a shortened training session Friday on the eve of their Asian 5 Nations opener against the Philippines.

 

With the temperature approaching 35C, head coach Eddie Jones led his side through a 30-minute practice at The Eagles Nest stadium, before the players headed for an ice bath.

“We’ve trained really hard this week so that has hopefully fixed any complacency the players may have,” Jones said. “Besides they know there is competition for places now.”

Jones admitted the ground – situated right alongside a highway 40 minutes south of Alabang – was different from what the players are used it. But he said it would be good to experience such challenging conditions.

“It’s good for us. It’s all about adjusting to everything we are given.”

New cap Kotaro Matsushima admitted he was “surprised” by the field and its rather basic infrastructure.

“I never imagined I would making my international debut at such a place. But it feels good. I just want to do my job, which is to run, look for space and counter-attack. I want to play so that the forwards don’t get tired.”

With the temperature and humidity expected to remain the same comeSaturday’s 3.30 p.m. kick-off, the players’ fitness will be tested. But with the game being a qualifier for Rugby World Cup 2015, Jones believes the players are in the right frame of mind.

“I am really pleased with the attitude they showed today and I hope we can carry it on through the year,” he said.

Fullback Ayumu Goromaru said the team was focussed and weren’t thinking too far ahead.

“Our forwards are focussing on the set piece and as a back, our job is to finish the job and score tries,” he said. “Our wings may be young but they’ve got wheels so if we get the ball we’ve got to use it and score.”