FIJI Water Flying Fijians coach Mick Byrne is impressed with his team after they moved up in the World Rugby ranking.
Fiji is now in 10th spot after their 21-12 victory over Georgia last weekend and Wales are out of the top 10 for the first time in history after losing to Australia 25-16 in Sydney, Australia.
“It’s great playing Tier One nations, you get points on the ladder and it gives us great opportunity,” Byrne said.
Byrne believes they need to work on their set pieces, scrum, and settle early in defence to counter the All Blacks next Saturday.
There are no major injuries in camp although a few players have niggling injuries from last weekend.
“Caleb Muntz has been running well and we expect him to join training this week,” Byrne said.
The head coach was impressed with the team bonding in camp.
“There is excellent connection that has created a natural bond, there is high energy in camp and the boys are enjoying each other’s company,” he said.
Byrne is also impressed with the depth of the squad, saying it has been improving every year.
“The Northern Hemisphere players play in the international arena every week in their competitions. The growth in the Flying Fijians over the years has been incredible. The Drua team has created more professional depth, and I think the depth of the squad has improved, making sure we can do the work,” Byrne said.
Byrne is also excited about the new direction the Fiji Rugby Union (FRU) is heading in.
“I’m excited with the new starting point, the new direction for FRU.
“Excited with the new opportunity, new group of people working together. Now we have Test matches against Tier One nations, now we need to prepare better. We are going in against some well-resourced team, it’s a new beginning and exciting times for us.”
Byrne confirmed Semi Radradra joined camp last week and has been training with the team.
The Flying Fijians will travel to San Diego, USA at the end of this week and will play the All Blacks next Saturday.
“It is great to play on a neutral ground. We are expecting the All Blacks to play well and they will give us a good game.”
