TOWNSVILLE, Australia — Townsville locals who supported the Brave Blossoms in their 2003 World Cup games cheered on Japan against Australia A in the Pacific Nations Cup on Saturday night, but the Blossoms lost control of the game after the first 20 minutes and lost 71-10.
The small but cheerful crowd, however, ensured there was a World Cup atmosphere. "Japan is my home team," said Skye McKenna, a supporter who traveled from Cairns, 280 km north of Townsville, for the game.
McKenna arrived with the "Tora! Tora! Tour(a)!" tour organized by the Brothers Rugby Union Club, a group of 20 cheerful rugby players wearing specially made Japan-themed T-shirts and armed with jugs of beer.
"They played really well. That cat who scored running on the side-line, he was really good," said McKenna, a petite blonde wearing a big Japan flag bandana, who also plays winger for the Brothers Club's girls team.
She was referring to Bryce Robins and his try in the 16th minute. "I know he is Kiwi, but we forgive that, because he is Japanese for us," McKenna said. Indeed, the foreign players naturally blend in as all-important parts of the Blossom's squad.
Robins showed his strength both at center and fullback, while forward Hare Makiri played brilliantly as open-side flanker against Tonga and No. 8 against Australia A. The two young former New Zealand Maori players, sporting matching soft-core mohawk haircuts at the game, proved to be versatile and indispensable parts of the forward and back lines, respectively.
"I am very proud to represent Japan," said Makiri. "When I stand between two Japanese players during the anthem, I feel their awe and excitement; it becomes a part of me."