28 Sep 2011

Kirwan believes Japan has raised style of play

8:33 am on 28 September 2011

Japan coach John Kirwan believes his side has made big inroads in the style of game it plays despite another winless rugby world cup.

The disappointment on the faces of the Japanese players was clear after Canada came back in the later stages of the game in Napier last night to claim a 23-all draw.

Kirwan says while Japan didn't meet its goals at the tournament, the side put together some impressive periods of play and executed a good style.

The former All Black says the players need to improve how they handle themselves in critical moments of games when they are under pressure.