FIJI Waters Flying Fijians fullback Salesi Rayasi continued his sublime form with a man-of-the-match performance in Bordeaux Bègles’ 50-28 victory over Northampton Saints in round three of the Investec Champions Cup over the weekend.
Rayasi’s dynamic play was pivotal in both defence and attack, showcasing his attacking prowess and rugby intelligence on the field.
A standout aspect of his performance was his seamless partnership with Bordeaux’s fly-half, Matthieu Jalibert.
Rayasi’s ability to synchronise effectively with Jalibert’s game management and playmaking proved a game-changer for Bordeaux.
Their chemistry enabled fluid attacking moves, with Rayasi frequently providing perfect support and timing to Jalibert’s tactical kicks and passes.
Statistically, Raiyasi was impressive: he made 12 tackles with a 92% success rate, carried the ball 15 times for a gain of 85 metres, and completed four line breaks.
He also contributed two assists that directly led to tries, highlighting his impact in creating scoring opportunities.
His agility and vision helped maintain Bordeaux’s momentum and continually applied pressure on Northampton’s defence.
Rayasi’s relentless work rate and commitment energised the team, establishing him as an invaluable member of the side.
His well-established synergy with Jalibert adds a significant dimension to Bordeaux’s attacking options, making them a formidable combination on the field.
With the Flying Fijians preparing for their Nations Championship campaign, Rayasi’s exceptional form will provide reassurance to head coach Mick Byrne.
His strong performances in club rugby will be a major boost for the national team, offering reliability and creativity in the backline as they aim to make their mark on the tournament.
The weekend’s display further cements Rayasi’s reputation as a rising star in rugby, promising exciting contributions in future fixtures for both Bordeaux and the Flying Fijians.
