Japan coach John Kirwan says the Rugby World Cup minnows are finally starting to make their mark.
Kirwan is preparing his team for their clash against the All Blacks this Friday in Hamilton and is eager to help the Cherry Blossoms atone for their 1995 humiliation against the New Zealanders,when they lost 145-17.
"We're really excited. I think we were initially disappointed about lost opportunities on Saturday night [in the 47-21 loss to France], but very proud of the way we played. We need to make sure we keep improving and have another big one this week," he told Radio Sport.
The so-called smaller teams have so far surpassed expectations at the Rugby World Cup. Canada upset Tonga 25-20, while the Tongans managed to limit the All Blacks to a 41-10 win. Namibia posted 25 points against Fiji, and Wales were heartbroken after losing 17-16 to the Springboks.
Japan thrilled the North Habour crowd with their brand of running rugby, despite eventually losing to the French. They weren't short of support either.
"It's always nice being in New Zealand. I think New Zealanders enjoy the way we play," Kirwan said.
He said smaller rugby nations have come a long way in recent times.
"I've often said that the IRB has done a great job since the last World Cup. How do you improve? Through competition. We've been playing in the PNC tournmanet now for five years, we won it this year. The first year we got beaten by 60 points."
Kirwan said having a strong domestic competition was key for developing nations.
"I think the Japanese rugby team has that now. Then you have to make sure you're playing teams around your ability and up. Our next step would be to play teams like Scotland and Wales, teams that are above us in the rankings."
He stressed that the aim is still to win two games at the tournament.
"Our goal this week is to be competitive against the All Blacks. It doesn't have anything to do with the score, it's all about showing the world that we're the most improved rugby team at the World Cup."
