The Fiji Water Flying Fijians are not shying away from the weight of expectation as they prepare to open their Pacific Nations Cup (PNC) campaign on home soil next week.
Team captain Tevita Ikanivere said the team welcomed the pressure from fans who expect nothing less than victory.
“That’s what we want. We are playing to this. We prepare to add this,” Ikanivere said.
“Coach said we just had a great session, and we’re looking just to build on our systems both in attack and defence and set piece. The results will take care of itself next week when we do the work.”
Swire Shipping Fijian Drua flanker Motikiai Murray added that Tonga’s size and physicality would demand a strong response from Fiji.
“I think it’s going to be a physical game for us, especially the forwards, they’re big and strong. We’re expecting good pressure from them, and we’re ready to take care of it,” Murray said.
The squad includes three uncapped players, but Ikanivere said they had already shown their quality.
“They may be uncapped but they are not new to rugby. They’re in the squad because they deserve it,” he said.
“People may think we have pressure on our shoulders, but it’s also a privilege. The competition we have now is high and they’ve looked good on the field. The boys are gelling well and looking forward to the game.”
Murray said new players were being challenged to rise to the Flying Fijians’ standards.
“The new players need to rise up to the standard we set in this team,” he said.
The Flying Fijians face Tonga next week Saturday August 30, at the HFC Bank Stadium in what promises to be a bruising opener.