Jones happy with players after clinching ARC

FUKUOKA (May 9) –  Japan coach Eddie Jones said he was really impressed with his players after they beat South Korea 66-10 to clinch the Asia Rugby Championship.

“Today was all about attitude,” he said after the game at Level-5 Stadium. “Today the team were in their worst physical condition in three years in terms of fatigue and I am pleased they worked through it. We got a little tired 10 minutes after halftime but the reserves came on and did their job and lifted things again.”

Jones went on to say he was particularly impressed by the players’ ability to mix things up tactically and with their overall decision making.

“We have a very loose game plan at the moment and are trying different sorts of things and trialling different variations,” he said. “As we get closer to the World Cup we will tighten things up.”

Kensuke Hatakeyama, who is leading the side while Michael Leitch is playing Super Rugby also praised the mental apporach of the team.

“The attitude of the players was very good and we fought it out for the whole game,” he said. “Considering how intense the training has been I think we played well and I am proud of our effort.”

Hatakeyama said despite already winning the silverware Japan would do all they can to finish their ARC campaign off in style in two weeks’ time in Hong Kong.

“There are a lot of small mistakes today and while the scrum was working well we need to raise our level,” he said. “We will be working on keeping the ball against Hong Kong and improving our decision making.”