Great Britain men's sevens skipper Tom Mitchell admitted his relief and delight after his side edged past New Zealand's conquerors Japan 21-19 to make it two wins from two at the Rio Olympics.

Team GB only just maintained their 100% start after Japan missed a last-gasp conversion attempt to grab a draw.

James Rodwell scored twice and Marcus Watson added another ascaptain Mitchell, from East Grinstead, converted all three tries.

Mitchell said: “We like to keep it interesting for the fans. Sevens is one of the games where a lot can happen in 14 minutes and the reason it is in the Olympics is because it is so exciting.

“There were a few things we didn’t get right in that one and they are very good side.

“They had a lot of confidence after their victory earlier in the day (against New Zealand) so we had to play well.

“I’m really pleased with the way the boys stuck at it, came together, didn’t panic and got the score we needed with Marcus Watson off the bench.

“That bench is so important as it was always going to be a 12 man effort in these sorts of games.

“It is always tight at this level and if you are not on your metal you we come out on the wrong side of the result.

“That wasn’t really the performance we would have liked but a few things went our way and we have two wins from two.

“The rugby is the same as a normal tournament but the buzz around the place is like never before. It is an amazing opportunity for us to represent Team GB at the Olympic Games so this has been a very special opportunity for us.”

Earlier, Japan caused arguably the greatest upset in rugby sevens history by claiming a stunning 14-12 win against New Zealand at Deodoro Stadium.

Great Britain got their campaign off to a good start with a comfortable 31-7 win over Kenya.