COACH: GIVE US TIME
Fiji Airways Fijian 7s coach Gareth Baber said inconsistent performance and not reacting well mentally in big games really hurt them during the Sydney Sevens.
Speaking to SUNsports yesterday Baber said the key for them is to improve in this weekend’s Hamilton Sevens.
“We lack consistency in our performance and mentally have not reacted well in the games against USA and New Zealand in the 5th place playoff,” he said.
“This is hurting us and needs improvement. There are obvious issues which you can address on a training field and some which require more work off the field with honest feedback both as a team and one-to-one with coaches.”
The side are well aware of disappointed fans that took to social media to criticise the team’s performance on the final day.
Baber said: “None (of the critics) would have been critical on Friday and Saturday during the pool games.”
This was when the Fijians edged out New Zealand 19-17, wallop Samoa 31-5 and Russia 24-0 to top pool A.
“This is a good achievement for a team where majority of the players are new to the series. Three players made their series debut in Sydney.
“There have been many changes over the last six months and the players need time to develop relationships and understanding.”
Baber said every team have to come through experiences like this before they excel.
QUICK RECOVERY
However, Baber said, looking ahead to the Hamilton 7s in New Zealand, the first thing on their agenda is for players to recuperate.
“The plans are to recover quickly and review what we need to put right in seven days.”
The Fijians are in Pool A where they face Sydney Sevens champions Australia, Wales and Spain.
Series leaders South Africa are in Pool B where they take on England, Russia and the 16th team that is yet to be decided.
Argentina top Pool C along with New Zealand, France and Scotland. USA are in Pool D with Kenya, Samoa and Canada
The two-day Hamilton 7s gets underway on Saturday.
Edited by Leone Cabenatabua
Feedback: peni.komaisavai@fijisun.com.fj
