SPORTS

Warriors Aim To Defend Title

Despite winning the World Rugby Pacific Challenge title four times in a row, there are only six players in the current 31-member squad who were part of the team last year.
13 Mar 2020 11:57
Warriors Aim To Defend Title
Junior Japan during their training run at Bidesi Park, Suva on March 12, 2020. They face the Swire Shipping Fijian Warriors tomorrow to decide the 2020 World Rugby Pacific Challenge winners. Photo: Ronald Kumar

The Swire Shipping Fijian Warriors will be out to prove themselves in the decider against Junior Japan, yet again

Despite winning the World Rugby Pacific Challenge title four times in a row, there are only six players in the current 31-member squad who were part of the team last year.

Skipper Tuidraki Samusamuvodre, Osea Waqa, Simione Kuruvoli, Filimoni Savou, Joseva Nasaroa and Immanuel Naciva will once again guide a young and energetic pack on Saturday at the ANZ Stadium, Suva.

Samusamuvodre said:“We have a talented group of players who have been working hard and preparing well for Saturday’s game.”

The Fijian Warriors are largely made of the players currently in the U20 programme and those who took part in the Junior World Championship last year.

Head coach Kele Leawere said: “It’s a new beginning for these young players.

“I know they must be excited but at the same time they need to remain focused for the final match.

“In the past years we have had players who played for the Flying Fijians in the team.

“I have told the players, the previous teams have left a legacy which we need to continue.”

Leawere said despite beating Tonga A 47-0 on Tuesday, there is still some work to be done before the final match.

“Especially our set-piece and our backs need learn to retain possession and play smart.”

Tonga A takes on Samoa A at 1pm, Swire Shipping Fijian Warriors meet Junior Japan at 3.30pm and the Fijian Latui faces China Lions at 6.15pm

Edited by Leone Cabenatabua

Feedback: oseab@fijisun.com.fj



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