Japan opened its build-up toward the 2003 World Cup with a resounding 59-19 win over Russia at the National Stadium in Tokyo on Sunday.
With qualifying games against South Korea and one other Asian country in June and July, the Japanese were keen to put behind them their recent lackluster tour of New Zealand and put on a display that would give them confidence for their World Cup campaign.
"We wanted to use our pace out wide and I am happy we were able to do that," coach Shogo Mukai said after the game. "However we still need to brush up on our technique around the gain line. Tonga, which we play next week, and Korea both have different styles so we need to adapt to each game."