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Japan and HK setting the pace

Monday 05th May 2008

Hiroki Yoshida crosses for one of Japan's tries

Japan and Hong Kong would appear to be going head to head for the Asian Five Nations title after both won their second round matches at the weekend.

Japan were the more impressive, smashing Arabian Gulf 114-6 in Osaka, while Hong Kong got through 23-17 at home to Kazakhstan.

Hong Kong, who prepared for the competition with two Tests against Tunisia, had to ward off some spirited resistance from a Kazakhstan outfit who were playing their first international in six months.

The hosts led 13-3 at half-time after two penalties by Justin Temara and a try by prop Peter Spizzirri, but two second-half tries by Kazakhstan - including one by full-back Maxim Lifontov who tallied 12 points in the match with a penalty and two conversions to add to the try - and a try by replacement hooker Ivan Ossikovskiy late in the match saw Kazakhstan emerge with some satisfaction.

"It was a big improvement from last week. We used the ball better and we also created more opportunities today," said Hong Kong coach John Walters.

"I felt we started better today. We kept the pressure on and used the ball a bit better. We played a bit more to pattern today."

Kazakhstan coach Valeriy Popov was quite critical of his team.

"The quality of our game leaves much to be desired. We felt we were like students and this was a learning experience for us," he said.

"We can see from the score that it was an exciting and dynamic game. The audience saw a spectacular game visually.

"This is the first time we have participated in this kind of tournament. Playing against strong Asian teams such as Hong Kong, Japan and Korea will help to raise the status of Kazakhstan and motivate us to play better."

Japan ran in 18 tries in all, with no fewer than 13 of their players dotting down. The ton-up was secured by Koji Shinozuka's try in the 72nd minute.

Korea had a free week after their first weekend win over the Arabian Gulf.