WINGER Joji Nasova has been given the nod to start on the wing for FIJI Water Flying Fijians against Japan in the final of the Pacific Nations Cup today.
Nasova’s ascension to the starting lineup of head coach Mick Byrne’s match-day 23 comes after a captivating start in the white jumper during the semi-final match against Canada last week where a try of his helped Fiji win 63-10.
He fills in the role once occupied by Seta Tamanivalu, who Nasova had exchanged places with last week when he came on in the second minute following Tamanivalu being sent off for a head injury assessment (HIA).
His performance in the clash against Canada garnered the praise of head coach Byrne.
“I like the way he came off the line and brought us back infield from the sideline and gave us an opportunity to get a good ruck on the edge and play from there,” Byrne said.
“He did really well, I’m very happy with him.”
Nasova had joined the team to replace Semi Radradra, who was initially named but pulled out of the team due to an injury sustained in training.
Radradra, at the time, had also been in Fiji to collect important travel documents from the Japanese Embassy in Tamavua, Suva.
Meanwhile, Ponipate Loganimasi takes up the role of full-back again this week and his performance in the position last week had pleased Byrne.
“I think Poni (Ponipate Loganimasi) really handled himself really well at full-back. I like the way he covers the ground,” he said.
“He was very good for us.”
Fiji takes on Japan in the finals which kicks off at 1.35pm at the America First Field in the USA.
