THE “Stretcher” Viliame Satala has called on the Vodafone Fiji 7s players to put more emphasis on their game plan rather than be intimidated by the presence of rugby super star Sonny Billy Williams and the others featuring for their respective teams in this weekend’s Wellington 7s.
He has been there and done that.
Satala was part of the Fiji 7s team that stunned the power-packed All Blacks 7s team at the same venue in 2000.
New Zealand had the services of the late rugby legend Jonah Lomu and former All Blacks full-back Christian Cullen.
Satala is best remembered for a smashing tackle on Cullen in the second spell which had Cullen stretchered off.
“The boys should focus more on their game rather than Sonny Bill Williams and the likes,” he said.
“The players should focus on their job description and how well they can contribute to help the team win.
“I am sure the boys are aware that all teams in the competition are equally good and we cannot afford to underestimate any team in our pool games.
“And if they meet New Zealand later in the competition the boys must remember that Sonny Bill William is only one player and there are six more alongside him that are equally good.
“At the 2000 Wellington 7s, we never focused on Lomu alone but the whole team and the ball carrier, which was the reason we won.”
Satala believes the national side has nothing to lose and defence plays a key role to success.
“There are no weak teams these days and it’s important for the players to treat all games as the final,” he added.
“The team that defends well will win the tournament and that’s what we did in 2010.
“But I believe the boys know what is required and I am confident they will do well.”
The former Flying Fijians centre said Ryan was doing wonders with the team and sent his well wishes to the boys this weekend.
Fiji will face Japan, Wales and Argentina in the pool games.
The 12 players selected for Wellington: Osea Kolinisau, Pio Tuwai, Semi Kunatani, Apisai Domolailai, Jasa Veremalua, Isake Katonibau, Jerry Tuwai, Emosi Mulevoro, Nasilasila, Vatemo Ravouvou , Savenaca Rawaca and Sevuloni Mocenacagi.
