Japan's 'unique' speedsters size up another surprise

TOKYO - Japan wasn't expected to reach the Rugby World Cup quarterfinals, but the host squad has confounded critics and surprised the sport by unleashing a "unique" style - a combination of high-speed attack and defensive tenacity.

After Japan won four out of four games to top Pool A, the rugby world has been awash with praise for the one-time whipping boys, who have been forged into a formidable unit by coach Jamie Joseph.

The ex-All Black has assembled a squad that features an almost equal split of native Japanese and foreign-born players who have qualified for their adopted country through residency.