Japan fell just short of a win over New Zealand today after a spirited display.
Action from today's clash between New Zealand and Japan. Image: Shuji Kajiyama JAPAN HEAD COACH Jamie Joseph said teams are not scared of the All Blacks any more after his side pushed them all the way before losing 38-31 in Tokyo on Saturday.
The All Blacks have endured a turbulent year that has included a home series loss to Ireland, a heavy defeat in South Africa and a maiden loss on home soil to Argentina. “Having played for the All Blacks, one of the things we used to talk about 25 years ago was that everyone was a wee bit scared of us.Japan loose forward Michael Leitch, who was also born in New Zealand, believes the All Blacks’ air of invincibility has gone.
“It’s doable, and we showed that today. Give us an extra 10 minutes and who knows what would have happened.”