Usasz: Aiming for success against Russia

USA scrum-half Tim Usasz believes the Eagles will view Russia as their must-win game at the World Cup.

The Americans have previously only registered two victories over Japan in the tournament's history, losing their other 15 games.

And they face a tough time in New Zealand after being grouped with Australia, Ireland, Italy and Russia.

However Nottingham No.9 Usasz, who was part of the Eagles squad that toppled Russia in the Churchill Cup Bowl final at Worcester, is confident another win at the World Cup is on the cards.

"Russia will be the match that we will probably target," Usasz admitted to skysports.com.

"We've only won once in the World Cup since 1987 and that was also against Japan in 2003 in Australia so it would be nice to add to that.

"We've played Russia a few times in the past and we've beaten them a few times but they are still the good team.

"We will obviously play to win every game but we have to be realistic and we know that it will be an uphill challenge at times."

The Eagles won over a lot of fans four years ago, particularly when Taku Ngwenya outgassed South Africa's speedster Bryan Habana for a memorable try.

And Usasz insists the Americans have some quality individuals in their line-up.

"Taku Ngwenya set the 2007 tournament on fire when he beat Bryan Habana for pace but he has got better and better since then," said the 28-year-old Usasz.

Exciting

"We've then got Todd Clever who is now playing here in Japan but has had Super Rugby experience.

"Those are the obvious guys to watch out for but we have also got the likes of Chris Wyles, who won the Premiership title at Saracens along with Hayden Smith.

"Then there is Paul Emerick who's in his third World Cup and still a strong runner. It is a very exciting squad with some guys who have a wealth of experience."

Despite winning the Churchill Cup Bowl in the summer, the Eagles have subsequently lost back-to-back Tests against North American rivals Canada.

However Usasz, who is likely to star in the final warm-up game against Japan, believes the US are heading in the right direction.

"I absolutely cannot wait for the World Cup," said the 14-time capped half-back.

"We are in Japan for our last warm up game before we then head off on September 1 for New Zealand.

"Everyone is training really hard and there is a good buzz within the squad. Although we lost to Canada, we are honestly not that far away from getting it right.

"It is hard for us as a side as we don't get a lot of time together as a squad we come together in June and November and that is it, so it takes time to gel."