Caleb Muntz’s performance in the FIJI Water Flying Fijians’ 24-19 triumph over Wales has garnered the praise of head coach Mick Byrne.
Muntz successfully converted four penalty kicks, scored a try and made a conversion, helping his side avenge the 26-32 defeat they suffered during the 2023 Rugby World Cup in France.
The rousing display of agility, skill and flair demonstrated by the Rava, Cakaudrove lad led to him being named player of the match for the 19 points scored in the intense clash.
Byrne highlighted the youngster’s display on the field as a formidable one and how he stood out from other players coming into large-scale rugby competitions.
“Caleb’s growing (in) every game. He’s a young player, he’s only had one full season of Super Rugby and he got injured during the World Cup and I think he probably stamped himself in tier one rugby today (yesterday),” Byrne noted.
“Not many fly-halves come out and do what they do in Principality Stadium and it’s a tough place to come and play a game, and he (Muntz) did that.”
Byrne emphasised the pride he felt in seeing Muntz’s electrifying showcase and how happy he felt.
Fiji suffered numerous blows in the match having winger Semi Radradra sent off for a dangerous tackle.
Elia Canakaivata was sent to the bin for trying to stop a rolling maul, eventuating in a penalty try to Wales.
Josua Tuisova scored Fiji’s other try, showing his power in fending off two Welsh defenders on his way to the tryline.
The Flying Fijians will now take on Spain in its next match at 2am on Sunday.
The team will then take on Ireland next week in their last match of the season.
