While we didn’t come away with the points again Japan on Tuesday night, we were pretty dominant.

They looked strong and sharp throughout the 90-minutes.

It was another example of how the national side has taken things to the next level in recent years.

Japan are one of our biggest rivals in the Asian confederation and, while they were away from home, we controlled the game for the most part.

Unfortunately we couldn’t find the final blow, but in matches like that it’s important you at least come away with a share of the spoils.

When teams are trying to catch you on the counter the match can quickly slip through our fingers if you’re not careful.

They piled numbers behind the ball in the second half, but always looked a half chance to snatch another goal on the break.

It was pleasing to see that didn’t happen.

Most importantly the point keeps us undefeated to start the group stage.

It’s still a long way to go before we book our spot in Russia, but things are different heading in the right direction. 

Let’s hope that can continue.