THE ability to change the momentum of a Test match through its replacements could become one of the biggest advantages the FIJI Water Flying Fijians take into the Nations Championship as head coach Jake White looks to build a squad capable of competing for 80 minutes.
Fiji’s 34-28 victory over Japan provided an early indication of the importance of impact players, with replacements making valuable contributions during a tightly contested encounter in Tokyo.
While the starting XV established the platform, replacement prop Mesake Doge and experienced fly-half Ben Volavola proved particularly important in the closing stages.
Doge brought fresh energy into the forward pack and won crucial breakdown penalties, helping Fiji regain momentum when Japan threatened to take control.
Volavola, meanwhile, provided composure and experience at a critical stage, landing two important penalty goals to help Fiji protect its six-point advantage and kept Fiji in the right side of the field in the final quarter of the game.
White was particularly pleased with the team’s ability to manage the closing stages, highlighting the importance of having players who could execute under pressure.
“The most important thing that we try to do is just try to get some control,” White said after the Japan victory.
“I think everyone knows that Fiji can score some really good tries, and I think the way we played in the last 10 to 15 minutes is something that’s been lacking with Fiji for a long time.”
Fiji plays France at 8.10am on Sunday.
They then take on Ireland next Sunday before playing Italy in their last tour match on November 22.
