Kicking game key for Scots against Bok-slayers Japan

Rugby Union - Scotland v Japan - IRB Rugby World Cup 2015 Pool B - Kingsholm, Gloucester, England - 23/9/15 Japan and Scotland fan pose for a photograph outside the stadium before the game Reuters / Eddie Keogh Livepic

GLOUCESTER, England (Reuters) - Scotland will need to kick well and play a clever tactical game if they are to overcome crowd favourites Japan in the Rugby World Cup Pool B clash on Wednesday, said former Scotland scrum half Mike Blair.

"I think the way to beat this Japanese team is to put pressure on them in their own third. Kicking to the corners, making them have to exit, rather than a free-flowing loose game," Blair, who has won 85 caps and played in three World Cups for Scotland, told Reuters.