The resolve prevalent within the FIJI Water Flying Fijians which showed itself on the field in their Test against Scotland was noted and commended by Fiji Rugby acting chief executive Koli Sewabu.
Sewabu was present at the Test with FRU board chair John Sanday, where the Flying Fijians won 29-14 over the Scots.
He said the heart to play for Fiji was evident in the players and ultimately proven in the winning mark set.
“I guess it’s just the attitude and the heart to represent our nation. Obviously, it’s changed from those years, there’s a little bit more structure, but the flair is not taken away,” Sewabu said.
“And just the opportunity to see our rock stars who are plying their trade in Europe, to be here and for our people to witness that, so it’s an awesome opportunity.”
He highlighted how the lali being beaten prior to the Test match, signalling to a call for action for the players.
“To have that all today and then with the call to action from the lali and just to have everyone here, it’s been an awesome week for Fiji, especially as we start to prepare for what’s coming in the next year or so, being in the tier one space and being able to compete and obviously beat tier one nations.”
As the Flying Fijians subsequently delivered a win following their march onto the field with the beating of the lali, he mentioned the vast attendance of fans, supporters and the players families.
“It’s great to see the crowd here today, it’s been a while to see this many people turn up so vinaka vakalevu to everyone turning up,” he added.
He was also present during the special capping ceremony of former Flying Fijian players who toured Wales and Ireland in 1995 and shared his sentiments on it.
“Getting them capped was an emotional time and you don’t realise that until you are off the field or you’re away from rugby.”
Following the 29-14 win, the Flying Fijians now look ahead to the Pacific Nations Cup next month.
