That is how Japan national coach, Jonathan Marskell, describes the future of Rugby League in Japan. Marskell's big words come after Japan's obvious lost to second placed Ireland in the World Cup.
The 30-14 loss was the result most punters expected but the scoreline was more favourable to the Japanese. Japan leading at one stage in the first half but eventually the Irish flair forced the mighty CHerry Blossom's to give in.
So far in the tournament after two games, the Japanese have lost 50 - 18 to Eurpoe and 30 - 14 to Ireland. Whilst many critics saw Japan as an easy route to the finals for Ireland and Europe, they have surprised many with some fantastic running and a an "All or Nothing" type theme.
"It is quite amazing, the amount of messages coming from japan wishing us good luck and good health. The support has really lifted some of the players which is great." said Marskell. "But the fact remains, we never came here to win the World Cup. We came here to show what Japanese Rugby League has become in the past decade. And in a few years to come, it shall be a force to be reckoned with."
Marskell's comments may be coming into fruitiion with an Asian club being admitted into the ASRL which could bring immense talent to the Japanese squad in years to come. Combine that with a new competition being set up in Japan called the JRL, the Japanese Rugby League Association have already taken huge steps to become what Australia, Ireland and New Zealand are at the moment.
"Guys like Andy Miller, Asuki Miyamoto, Totai Kefu and Adam Parker have been a godsend for us, they have each come from very distinct football careers in New Zealand and Australia, which meant that they brought a certain profesionalism which has definately been handed to home grown talent such as Daisuke Ohata and Toru Suzuki." exclaimed Marskell.
Andy Miller has been an exciting player for the Japanese with an exceptional kicking game.The Japanese squad have a buy this week but next week take on Samoa and Germany the week after, which will be a grudge match between coaches Brandell and Marskell. Captain Andrew Miller remains confident his team can beat Samoa and Germany, "We played decent footy against Ireland, if our defence can hold up, I think we can get away with a win or two. The thing we need to worry about is some of the Samoan backs, Doug Howlett especially who is fantastic. And as for Germany, we showed last time we played them that we could beat them, when we beat them before the World Cup."
