The Vodafone Flying Fijians are slowly building strength and depth in key positions during the World Rugby Pacific Nations Cup.

The rotation of players by head coach John McKee and his coaching staff is working close to perfection as we build up to the Rugby World Cup in September.

Since the first test against the Maori All Blacks on July 11, almost all the players have had game time.

And despite the different combinations over the past two weeks, the performance and outcome has been really encouraging.

The fact that we scored 30 points each in two games is a good indicator that we can achieve more.

We beat Tonga (30-22) and we should have beaten Manu Samoa but instead drew 30-30.

It’s almost likely that will play Samoa again the final but first we must take care of the Brave Blossoms tomorrow.

Again McKee is fielding a new set  with lock forward Leone Nakarawa, vice-captain Vereniki Goneva and prop Manasa Saulo the only players  who have been playing throughout.

The key changes:

• Hooker Tuapati Talemaitoga starting.
• Malakai Ravulo at No.7;
• Levani Botia at No.12 should provide the spark;
• Metuisela Talebula on the wing with Napolioni Nalaga.

“I have throughout the tournament taken into account game-time to give all players game-time in the lead up to RWC2015 and to work on various combinations,”McKee said

“This is a very important match in terms of both our RWC 2015 preparation and this tournament.

“Japan plays a very up-tempo game.  We will need to be patient in controlling field position and not get caught playing too much in our half.

“I’m very pleased with the way the squad has trained this week and expect to see this transfer into a strong performance in Thursday’s game.

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