THE Fiji Water Flying Fijians head coach Senirusi Seruvakula has urged his players to combine Fiji’s natural attacking flair with discipline and accuracy as they prepare for their second Pacific Nations Cup clash against England.
After an entertaining display in their opening outing against Wales, Seruvakula said his side would continue to embrace its trademark rugby style but stressed that success against England would depend on executing their structures at the right moments.
“It was entertaining watching the boys play a Fiji style of rugby but at the same time, we have to be smart in our structure. We must know when to play our structure, and that’s very important,” Seruvakula said.
He believes Fiji’s attacking brand and offloads remains one of their greatest strengths and intends to use it again this weekend.
“Our offload too is our weapon. It was our weapon going into last week’s game and it will be our weapon again this week,” he said.
However, Seruvakula warned that flair alone would not be enough against England, with discipline and precision becoming major focuses during preparations.
“We just have to be disciplined on both sides of the ball, and accuracy is very important for us and that’s what we’ve been talking about over the last couple of days.”
The Flying Fijians coaching staff have also been assessing their midfield options following the absence of experienced centre Semi Radradra due to injuries.
Seruvakula expressed confidence in the combination that impressed in the opening match and hinted that Kalaveti Ravouvou is likely to start in the No.13 jersey.
“The boys did a good job last week. There’s about a 90 per cent chance that Kalaveti Ravouvou will take the No.13 jersey,” he said.
Seruvakula believes Ravouvou’s inclusion will strengthen the partnership in midfield while maintaining defensive stability.
“We need that combination with Kalaveti coming in to replace Semi Radradra, but it is very important, especially in our defence.”
Seruvakula said his side must remain composed, stick to their systems and capitalise on opportunities while maintaining the discipline and accuracy that could prove decisive in one of their toughest tests of the Pacific Nations Cup campaign.
He also urged the Fijian public and supporters to continue their support and prayers towards the Flying Fijians as they prepare for their second Pacific Nations Cup match against England.
The Flying Fijians will take on England this Sunday at 1.10am.
