Fiji team to face England at Twickenham

Nov 18 • General News, International • 1598 Views • Comments Off on Fiji team to face England at Twickenham

The Biggest Game of our Lives

A much more experienced side has been named by National Head John Mckee to face the England XV, currently second in the World Rugby rankings table.

The players are said to be well aware of the team’s performance last week against the Barbarians and the team environment has been really positive this week.

Head Coach John Mckee said: “There has been a real focus and intensity in training this week as we have prepared for the England match. For the team, it has been about understanding and clarity around the game plan and executing under pressure. I have seen that happening each day and that gives us confidence that we can impose our game on Saturday”

Joining the team this week are Peceli Yato and Josh Matavesi, which creates a competitive atmosphere with key positions.

John Mckee said:” This team in the best that can represent Fiji this week and we see some of our most experienced players returning for this Test. This team gives us the balance of being strong on the set play at scrum and lineout, as well as exiting our defensive zone, along with having the mobility to play our attacking game.”

A lot of positives have come from the Barbarians game last week and the players have become tighter as a group both on and off the field.

The team knows of the immense challenge that lies ahead and it’s good to see the positive vibes in the camp.

Fiji rugby is grateful to the Rugby Football Union for the opportunity to play England and having consistent matches with Tier 1 nations is beneficial for teams such as Fiji.

On the expectations for Saturday, said Mckee: “It doesn’t get bigger than playing England at Twickenham in 2016. It is in games like this that Fiji can really make their mark on the world stage.

“The team will have to be at their absolute best and very disciplined over the 80 minutes to succeed. Teams such as England will capitalize on any mistakes and give away penalties will give them field position and put us under pressure. The team has prepared well, the performance is in their hands, and they will go onto the field against England with fire in their bellies and Ice in their minds”

Fiji match-day 23 for the Old Mutual Wealth Series game against England

Campese Maafu
2. Sunia Koto Vuli
3. Manaia Saulo
4. Apisalome Ratuniyarawa
5. Leone Nakarawa
6. Dominiko Waqaniburotu
7. Peceli Yato
8. Akapusi Qera (captain)
9. Seru Vularika
10. Josh Matavesi
11. Nemani Nadolo
12. Albert Vulivuli
13. Asaeli Tikoirotuma
14. Benito Masilevu
15. Metuisela Talebula

Replacements

16. Tuapati Talemaitoga
17. Peni Ravai
18. Leeroy Atalifo
19. Nemia Soqeta
20. Naulia Dawai
21. Eremasi Radrodro
22. Nikola Matawalu
23. Kini Murimurivalu