FIJI Water Flying Fijians hooker Sam Matavesi is raring to go against England in the quarter-final of the Rugby World Cup.
Matavesi lost his father earlier in the week but has rejoined camp and has been named on the bench against the English.
Coach Simon Raiwalui said Matavesi was looking forward to the match.
“We had a setback during the week with Samuel Matavesi’s father passing away.
“He came back this morning (Friday). He was adamant that he wanted to be here. He’s a fantastic young man, very good at his details, so there are no worries there. It’s just a matter of him grieving but I have no doubt that he will be ready to play.”
The national mentor also explained on starting Albert Tuisue in the crucial encounter.
“Albert brings great versatility in the second row and the back row. He also brings us a bit of power through the second row, an extra ball carrier which is going to be important this weekend, so it is good to have him back in the pack.
“I think we are still looking to free ourselves up.
“Obviously we weren’t pleased that we lost last weekend and against Georgia, we were stagnant in attack. We have worked at freeing ourselves up and enjoying the occasion.
“It’s massive for our country. We came to this tournament to succeed; we got through the first part and we want to continue.
“We are a nation of 900,000 people that lives and breathes rugby, and I don’t know how many Fijians worldwide.
“We had massive support from the French, from the people who come to the ground. We really want to enjoy the occasion and show our best rugby.”
