A STATEMENT win over France on Saturday has booked the debutant Vodafone Fiji Bulikula a historic spot in the Rugby League World Cup semi-finals.
However, the team is aware they will need to sharpen their execution and improve their performance around dummy-half when they meet Australia in the semi-finals on Sunday.
Bulikula vice captain and fullback Cassie Staples said there were areas to address despite Fiji’s convincing 54-6 victory over France, which secured the side a place in the semi-finals.
Staples said the final score did not reflect the intensity of the contest, particularly in the first half, when France challenged Fiji in several areas.
“Credit to France, I thought they played really well, especially in that first half, and challenged us with things we need to work on,” Staples said.
“It was a tough first half. The scoreboard didn’t really reflect that, but I’m proud of the girls and proud of the result.”
She said the team had aimed to deliver a complete performance but would need to work on its play around dummy-half before facing the Jillaroos.
Staples said the players would focus on improving their execution and completing their sets during the week rather than looking too far ahead to the Australian challenge.
Australia would provide a tough test, with Staples describing them as a talented side featuring some of the best players in the competition.
However, she remained confident in Fiji’s attacking approach, saying the team would continue to back its skills and execution against any opposition.
The coaching staff will also assess injuries and minor knocks before selecting the best players for the semi-final.
Bulikula’s defensive coach Isaac Michael confirmed there were no major injuries following the France match.
The semi-final will be a significant occasion for the Bulikula, who are featuring in their first Women’s Rugby League World Cup and have now reached the last four.
Fiji will face Australia on Sunday, November 8, at the Allianz Stadium in Sydney, Australia at 6.45pm.
