The performance of a handful of Swire Shipping Fijian Drua players in the Super Rugby Pacific competition has caught the attention of FIJI Water Flying Fijians head coach Mick Byrne.
He acknowledged players such as Tevita Ikanivere, Ponipate Loganimasi, Motikiai Murray, Selestino Ravutaumada and Etonia Waqa.
While also acknowledging the overall performance of the Fijian Drua this season, he noted Ikanivere’s ability to transform the flow of the game.
“I’m really impressed with his contribution when he’s come on in the game to change the shape of the game,” coach Byrne said on Saturday.
As for Murray, he credited the flanker for showcasing his prowess on the field this season.
“I think Motikiai Murray has shown us this year that he’s worth considering and looking at,” he said.
He then highlighted the efforts put in by Loganimasi and Ravutaumada.
“And our backs, our back three. Ponipate, he’s had some outstanding moments in Super Rugby. Selestino looks really solid, all these boys have done well,” he added.
In Waqa’s case, coach Byrne mentioned how he had the ability to dominate on the field.
“I’ve been really impressed with Etonia Waqa at times when he’s got a little bit loose around the field,” he said.
“I say loose, I mean a little bit of space around him.”
“He looks lightning, he’s also been really strong in contact and he’s broken tackles, made some good tackles, and I really like the way he’s very reliably in line-out defence.”
Meanwhile, he hoped the players would get to have more successful weekends of the remaining Super Rugby Pacific rounds.
“But some of our players have done well, I’m really looking forward to them having another couple of successful weekends before the season finishes and getting them together for the Flying Fijians,” he said.
