Samoa sent a strong warning to the Vodafone Fijiana XV after thrashing Tonga 64-14 on Tuesday setting the stage for a physical and high-stakes Oceania Rugby Women’s Championship final tomorrow at Lawaqa Park.
With both teams unbeaten, the clash at 4pm promises to be a bruising encounter as the tournament’s two most dominant sides go head-to-head for regional supremacy.
Fijiana head coach Ioan Cunningham knows his side will need to step up, particularly in kicking accuracy, after missing several conversions in their 59-5 win over Tonga last Friday.
“For our next game against Samoa, we will work on our kicking accuracy for kicking goal,” Cunningham said.
Despite the wet conditions Friday, Fijiana showcased their attacking firepower, running in 11 tries and giving valuable minutes to debutants and young talent a move Cunningham says is key to building depth.
“It was great to see the new and young players come on the field to make an impact as we want to grow some depth in our team.”
Samoa’s clinical performance against Tonga, which featured powerful forward play and pace out wide, signals a major challenge for the Fijians.
Saturday’s final is expected to be a fierce contest between two proud Pacific rivals, both eager to lift the regional title.
