FIJI Airways Fiji 7s men’s team captain Jerry Matana says it’s all down to seriousness from today.
Matana says the preparations have gone well for his team.
“We have prepared well. All the fun and jokes are over now and it’s about executing all those things we’ve learnt during the training sessions,” Matana said.
He added earning a final spot in the team wasn’t easy and every player will give their best shot.
“There were very good players in the extended squad and every player in the final team knows that. The players have earned their spot in this team and that is a personal win for everyone.”
The national 7s captain called for support from fans as the tournament begins today.
“Out fans are our biggest motivation so I urge them to please pray for the boys. It’s not going to be easy but I can assure everyone that the boys will put their body on the line on on game day.”
Fiji last won last year defeating Kenya in the final.
Fiji has won the Singapore title four times.
Pressure is on as title defence begins
“THERE will always be pressure.”
These were the words of Fiji Airways Fiji men’s 7s coach Osea Kolinisau heading into the Singapore 7s starting today.
Kolinisau said the team knew about the pressure whenever they take the field.
“In Fiji we know that whenever a rugby team plays, where it he 7s or 15s, we expect them to win,” the national 7s coach said.
“It’s about absorbing that pressure and turning in into positive things.
Nothing comes easy on the series now and we need to work hard to get wins.”
He added that being the joint leaders of the series will put them in the limelight.
“We know a lot eyes will be on us so we just have to stay humble. We have a good team and it’s all about putting things together in the ground now.”
Fiji is pooled with Spain, Great Britain and South Africa at the tournament.
Fiji takes on Great Britain in their opening match at 4.32pm. They then play Spain at 7.58pm before taking on South Africa at 11.46pm.
Meanwhile, the Fijiana side open their campaign against Australia at 3.26pm.
They then play USA at 6.30pm before they face Japan at 10.18pm.
