Who made the decision for Nemani Nagusa to be replaced in the second half when the momentum was on for the Fiji Airways Flying Fijians? The burly Nadroga No.8 has come of age and this was reflected in his play.

He was tenacious in defence, always around to provide support  and was aggressive in the breakdowns which caused a few anxious moments to the Irish.

Then all of a sudden he was gone and we lost the momentum allowing Ireland to claw their way to a 23-20 win.

It would have been better to sub veteran flanker Akapusi Qera, who again showed that he is losing the sting when it comes to the final quarter. This is at a very crucial stage where there’s a need to up the tempo especially when the scores a close.

England showed it when they ran in four tries in the final seven minutes against Australia. It’s something to learn from especially missing an opportunity where we could have come out as winners.

On the same note, it was great to have big Nemani Nadolo and Levani Botia back in Test rugby. Big Nem showed his class and skills when he set-up Henry Seniloli to score the first try while Botia after playing at flanker for his club took time to settle down but once he did he was back to his usual best.

Ratings:

1.Campese Ma’afu: Stood his ground in the scrums.- 6

2.Tuapati Talemaitoga: A big improvement. Lineout throws were spot on and was always in the thick of things- 7

3.Manasa Saulo: Again strong in the scrums. – 6

4.Api Ratuniyarawa: Gave away a penalty but was at his usual- 5

5.Leone Nakarawa: Superb in the lineouts but has become predictable with his off-loads- 6

6.Dominiko Waqaniburotu: Took time to settle down. Strong in defence. -4.5

7.Akapusi Qera: Again started well but seems to be struggling towards the end of the game.-5.5

8.Nemani Nagusa: He is making the position his own. Aggressive in the breakdowns, strong tackles and always keep on trying. -7

9.Henry Seniloli: Need to control his pack but should master it if given more game time.-5

10.Ben Volavola: Controlled play well, made a couple of good tackles– 5.5

11.Nemani Nadolo: Good kicking skills, great turn of speed and was a threat with ball at hand- 6.5

12.Levani Botia: Had to adapt to the position after playing flanker for some time. Very ruthless in defence. -5

13.Jale Vatubua: Has a promising future. Great tackler but needs to connect his passes when on attack. -5

14.Timoci Nagusa: Always reads the game well and executes his move perfectly.-6.5

15.Kini Murimurivalu: Good positional play and joins the backline move every time he sees an opportunity. – 5.5

Edited by  Grace  Narayan

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