FIJI Airways Fijiana head coach Richard Walker says his side must improve on key areas following consecutive pool losses at the Perth 7s.
Speaking to this newspaper, Walker identified kickoffs, setting offloads, and ball presentation as crucial aspects the team needs to sharpen.
The Fijiana went down 34-15 to the United States in their opening match and suffered a heavier 36-5 defeat to New Zealand in their second pool game.
“We have to better our kickoffs, setting off loads.”
The Fijiana started their campaign with a defeat to the United States, despite an early try from Reapi Ulunisau giving them a brief advantage after USA was reduced to six players. The Americans hit back quickly and went on to dominate, with speedsters Ariana Ramsey and Susan Adegoke crossing for two tries before halftime.
Although Ulunisau and Kolora Lomani responded with tries for Fiji, two late scores from the USA sealed the victory.
In their second pool match, Fiji struggled to find rhythm, failing to score for over 13 minutes and giving away costly errors against a tough defensive side. It wasn’t until the final play that captain Verenaisi Ditavutu finally broke through to score, leaving the Fijiana still searching for their first win of the tournament.
