FIJI Water Flying Fijians coach Jake White has challenged his players to prove their worth against Japan today, warning that representing Fiji comes with the expectation of winning Test matches.
White wants an immediate response from his side after their previous defeat to Japan, saying the players had let themselves down and must show they can meet the demands of international rugby.
“The expectation in Fiji is that we win Test matches. They let themselves down,” White said.
The South African, who begins his tenure as head coach, said facing the same opposition again offered his players an opportunity to respond and demonstrate their ability.
“As a coach, all I would like is to see there’s a reaction,” he said.
“And the reaction means that they get another chance to play against the same opposition. And they need to show me and the Fijian supporters whether or not they’re good enough.”
Having previously coached in Japan with Toyota, White understands the threat posed by a team renowned for its organisation, discipline and collective approach.
He said Japan’s improvement under coach Eddie Jones meant Fiji could not afford to rely solely on individual brilliance.
