The Vodafone Fijiana XV’s team will remain committed to their attacking style of rugby despite preparing for a physically demanding Test against South Africa this weekend.
Interim head coach Mike Legge said the team had spent the opening days of camp sharpening its contact work while ensuring it stayed true to the brand of rugby that has defined its recent performances.
While acknowledging South Africa’s size and physicality, Legge said Fiji would not drift away from its strengths. Instead, the team would focus on improving the collision area and making better use of space out wide.
“We just want to continue to play our style of game… we’ll work hard on the collision, work hard on what we do on the edges as well,” Legge said.
The coach said the Test would pit two sides with contrasting playing styles against each other, creating an exciting contest for fans.
Preparations are continuing with several players expected to join camp in the coming days, while a handful of squad members remain on modified training programs as they recover from injuries sustained during the Super Rugby Women’s final. Legge expects those players to return to full training later this week.
He also confirmed that Jade Coates is due to link up with the squad today, further strengthening the team’s preparations ahead of Saturday’s clash.
With the match scheduled to be played at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva, Legge is hoping home supporters will create a strong atmosphere for the national side. He believes the team’s loyal supporters will once again turn out in numbers and encouraged families attending the Vodafone Deans quarter-finals to stay on and support the Fijiana.
“I think it’s going to be a really good game. Two different, very different styles of rugby.”
The Fijiana will complete their final training sessions later this week before taking on South Africa in what shapes as one of their toughest Tests of the season.
The Vodafone Fijian XV will take on the Springbok’s women on Saturday August 8 at the HFC Bank Stadium.
