New Breed Of X Factors For The Flying Fijians
A couple of Fiji Airways Flying Fijians newcomers are expected to show their worth against the Barbarians in Twickenham, London on Sunday (Fiji time).
This was the gist of head coach John McKee’s message after their training run in London yesterday.
“We had a good start in the team room before training and that really got them going,” McKee said.
“A lot of energy in the gym and some really good work on the field followed by another run in the afternoon so the first day went really well.”
Japan-based winger Patrick Osborne and Bordeaux lock Tevita Ratuva were playing a leading role during training.
“We want to do the core things of the game well because to be successful we need to do that.”
McKee said they also focused on their defence which was really important.
“In terms of play with the ball in attack we want to stress the Barbarians defensive system.
“ We want to go at them hard and look to create opportunity in the edges.
“For us it’s about sticking to our system and playing within our systems and discipline to do that.
“That will create opportunities for us and we also got a few special players who we are expecting them to show their worth.”
Also flying out of the country to London yesterday are FRU chief executive officer John O’Connor and board chairman Francis Kean.
MCKEE’S FINAL ASSIGNMENT?
Meanwhile, the Barbarians is going to be McKee’s final game with the Flying Fijians.
His contract is expected to expire after the November 16 clash. McKee guided the Flying Fijians to the 2015 and 2019 Rugby World Cups where they failed to go past the pool games.
On the other hand, he has coached the Flying Fijians to win over Scotland, France and the Maori All Blacks.
CONTENDERS
It is understood that Clermont coach Frank Azema is interested in coaching the Flying Fijians.
Azema is the current coach of Peceli Yato and Setareki Tuivucu.
Since 2011, Clermont has been working closely with Nadroga Rugby with Franck Boivert being the Nadroga Rugby technical advisor.
Edited by Leone Cabenatabua
Feedback: simione.haravanua@fijisun.com.fj
