I have to be ruthless, we need to cut out mistakes at training because when it happens on game day, we pay the price and we can’t afford that-Senirusi Seruvakula

Local players need to learn the hard way and Senirusi Seruvakula’s ruthless tactics during training are making them better players.

After winning three out of four games so far in the 2018 Australia National Rugby Championships, the Fiji Airways Fijian Drua head coach wants his men to up the tempo. He wants get it right in round five against the NSW Country Eagles at the ANZ Stadium, Suva today.

Players were forced to roll on the muddy patch of Bidesi Park yesterday after they make a mistake. “I have to be ruthless, we need to cut out mistakes at training because when it happens on game day, we pay the price and we can’t afford that.

“Coaching these local players you have to be tough and strict,” Seruvakula said.

The Nasautoka, Wainibuka native knows that he can’t afford a repeat of last year if they are to host a home semi-final next month.

Leading the NRC points’ standings, the Fijians were in a very similar spot last year with three rounds to go.

But after a bye and two losses at home to Queensland Country (17-24) and Sydney Rays (29-36) and more players out for international duty, it undid all their good work in the early rounds. They later went down to Queensland Country 21-57 in the semi-final in Brisbane.

After four rounds, Seruvakula believes the players are coping and learning from the experience.

“We need to have discipline on our defence and offence, maintain possession,” he said.

“We are building up slowly in our accuracy rate in the lineouts from 63 percent in the second round to 86 in the fourth round.

“The players are getting confident playing at this level.”

Former Queen Victoria School student Mesulame Dolokoto makes his start at hooker.

“Dolokoto has been consistent on big games and I’m excited to see him play,” he said.

Seruvakula has rested halfback Frank Lomani and centre Cyril Reece.

“Frank and Cyril are not injured but need to rest since they played in the last four rounds. They should be ready for the next game against Canberra Vikings at Lautoka next week.

“We have selected the best team and I’m expecting them to deliver.”

The match kicks off at 3pm.

Edited by Osea Bola

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