Junior Japan No.8 in top form and will be the man to watch

The Junior Japan rugby side are ready to face the Fijian Warriors in the second round of the World Rugby Pacific Challenge clash at the ANZ Stadium, Suva tomorrow.

Speaking to SUNsports yesterday Junior Japan manager Nana Oki said they had assembled their fittest team ever to play in the competition and are confident of a win.

“We lost to Warriors last year and our aim this year is to win the Pacific Cup Challenge,” he said.

“We’ve a very young and skilful side and the fitness level will be the biggest asset for us and that will help us beat Fiji Warriors,”

The Junior Japan side are bolstered with three Tongan players and a New Zealander who they use in the forwards to counter the Warriors.

No.8 Tevita Tatafu who has been playing in the competition since he was 19-years-old, is now in devastating form. Last Friday, the 22-year-old scored three tries against Tonga A.

“These foreign players have been playing for us in the past Pacific Cup Challenge and they will play a crucial role in the team. We are also using this competition as a platform for the 2019 Rugby World Cup and a win in the Pacific Cup will be a morale boost for us.”

Fijian Warriors lock Tevita Ratuva takes a two handed catch in a lineout move during training at Buckhurst Park, Suva on March 11, 2018. Photo: Simione Haravanua

Fijian Warriors coach Senirusi Seruvakula said it would be a tough game against Junior Japan and they are working on their strategy for the match.

In yesterday’s training session at Buckhurst Park, the Warriors were in top shape as they were fine tuning their set pieces for this must win clash.

“We need to be strong in the forwards as well as discipline wise in this match because Junior Japan’s strengths are on these areas,” Seruvakula said.

TOMORROW’S FIXTURES

– 2.30pm: Samoa A v Tonga A

– 5.00pm: Fijian Warriors v Junior Japan

Edited by Leone Cabenatabua

Feedback:  leonec@fijisun.com.fj