Eddie Jones believes Japan can keep alive their dream of reaching their first ever World Cup quarter-final when they play Samoa on Saturday.

– ENGvAUS: Owen Farrell looks ahead to crucial clash
– #360fans: RWC15 preview – Scotland v South Africa
– UAE: Harlequins thrash Dragons with gears to spare
– RWC: Savea scores three as NZ edge past Georgia

However, the ‘Brave Blossoms’ coach said it was dependent on them staying in touch for the first hour as they did in their historic victory over South Africa and then striking the killer blow.

Pool B is in a state of flux with Scotland topping the table on a maximum 10 points from two games and South Africa second on seven.

One of those sides will drop points when they clash today which will propel the winner of Japan and Samoa – both on four points – right back into the mix for tickets to the last eight.

Samoa coach Stephan Betham, who has had to rouse his team after their 46-6 thrashing by South Africa last weekend, said the stakes are clear.

“It’s do or die for both teams and I’m sure they are feeling what we are feeling. It’s backs against the wall for both teams and whoever wins will have a great shot at making the quarter-finals,” he declared.

Jones, who steps down after the World Cup, added: “It’s the most experienced team to ever play for Japan. We know we’ve got a big task ahead of us. If we can stick with Samoa for the first 60 then for the last 20 we should be able to come home pretty well.”