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Last Updated: Sep 13, 2007 - 3:38:57 PM |
Johnstone said the national side was lucky to earn a bonus point victory against the gritty Japanese outfit.
Despite the close encounter Johnstone admitted a win though was vital. "To get five points from the first encounter is important," Johnstone said. "However, I'm disappointed with how the team performed, especially the back line. I have never seen the Fiji backline make so many mistakes. They dropped the ball and lost it in the tackle situation."
Fiji led Japan 10-9 at half-time and held on for an unconvincing 35-31 victory at the end.
Johnstone was impressed with the line out. However, he said Fiji still has got a lot of work to do with its scrums. "Against Canada they will have to control possession," Johnstone said.
"They will have to control the ball especially in the tackle situation. If we can play that bad and earn the crucial five points it means the team has obviously a lot more to offer."
Meanwhile, Johnstone says Argentina has set the early pace.
He said the Argentineans have put pressure on Ireland and France. "Argentina plays one dimensional rugby," the former All Black said. "They are really putting their hands up. But it's too early to predict things at this stage. "I'm expecting South Africa, New Zealand and Australia to be there near the end. The next exciting match will be between South Africa and England. I would love to watch that as it would be very interesting."
Johnstone coached the Fiji side to the RWC in 1999.
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