Ryan expects emotional players today when told they have been dropped

National men’s rugby sevens coach, Ben Ryan is expecting some of his players to shed tears when they are told today that their Olympic dream has come to an end.

Speaking to SUNsports yesterday, he says, with this done 13 able bodied men are going to carry the hopes of the nation to next month’s Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

“I am almost there really, we got a couple of sessions left, we got one this afternoon (yesterday) and two on Friday, then I will sit the boys down and tell them whether they are in or out,” he said.

Ryan said, he has made up his mind and knows what is in the player’s mind right now.

“We have always said we will pick on form and that is what we are going to continue to do. Saying that the regulars have also fronted up brilliantly, where they have put in all the hard yards as they don’t want to miss out on the Olympics. Also, you do look at what they have gone through in the past and how they have come out of it and if it has been positive that’s another big tick for their name for selection.”

Ryan said he knows the 12 players he is going to select but for the thirteen one it’s going to be a little of deliberation.

PIO TUWAI

Veteran prop Pio Tuwai came out of hospital and took to the sand dunes yesterday. Tuwai has had a few injury issues but has been giving his level best.

“His fitness is having a few issues. He is trying to keep up with the boys in fitness, will wait and see when the team gets named on Saturday but it has been hard for him,” Ryan said.

However, he is impressed with Alifereti Veitokani, Sevuloni Mocenacagi and Emosi Muluvoro.

“They have all got opportunity to get in the team. These guys have been the edges of really putting an outstanding week of training.”

Ryan added that robust forward Nemani Nagusa has lost a lot of weight.

“They had to double check when they saw him to ensure it is the same man because he has really trimmed down and is in good shape.”

Edited by Leone Cabenatabua

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