Japan out to play spoilers role in KL

19/02/2002

JAPAN, in Group B with Malaysia, dropped three players from the Six-Nation
team and are ready to play the spoilers role in the World Cup starting on
Sunday at the National Hockey Stadium in Bukit Jalil.
They did a minor overhaul in defence, midfield and forward towards the
purpose.
Japan arrived yesterday and according to team manager Nagai Toichi the
three players who were dropped were not consistent in their form.
"We dropped a forward, a midfielder and a striker and in their place we
have named Ryuji Furusato, Kazuyuki Ozawa and Takaya Fukuoka.
"Our target in the World Cup is to finish eighth and it can be achieved
if we manage to upset a few teams in Group B," said Nagai.
The number eight seems to be the favourite of most teams who have arrive
in Malaysia with Spain, Poland, Japan and South Africa all saying that
they would love to finish in that position.
So far, only Malaysia, India and Pakistan have said that they want the
trophy itself.
Japan had training matches in Singapore against Pakistan (where they
lost 3-1) and Belgium (drew 1-1) and Nagai was amazed with the
transformation of the Belgium side.
"They (Belgium) have added a new players to their team and they have a
totally different playing style than the team which played in the
Champions Challenge in December. I won't be surprised if they upset some
better teams in Group A," predicted Nagai.
In their last encounter against Malaysia in the Six-Nation, Japan won by
a golden goal but Nagai was not willing to gloat on the win.
"Malaysia are a tough side and we have always had problems against them.
Then again, we will also have problems beating South Korea, India and
Australia in our group."
So, how did Japan come out with the No 8?
Nagai was all smiles when asked the question but did not answer. When
asked if they are thinking of beating Cuba, Poland and the hosts to reach
the target, nagai said: "That is what we must do to reach our target."
Malaysia meet Japan on Feb 26 and the hosts must bring out their best,
because Japan have formulated special plans to seal three points from the
match.
jugjet@nstp.com.my
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