The first leg of the Super 7s Series over the weekend recorded a high number players being carded over the two days at Lawaqa Park, Sigatoka.

More than 15 players were sent off which includes two red cards to national squad member, Sevuloni Mocenacagi.

World Rugby Sevens Series referee Tevita Rokovereni said they wanted to set the standard as a build up to the Tokyo Olympics in July.

“I think the number of cards reflected the standard and where we are at the moment.

“Coaches, match officials and players need to be well versed and briefed on what needs to be done to avoid being carded,” he said.

“We should try to eliminate or reduce the number of cards in the next series. We will talk it over with the coaches and provide them with the statistics. I’ve already spoken with national coach, Gareth Baber.

“We will review and see what the coaches can do to change behavior of players.

“And we hope come the next series, players will be more disciplined,” Rokovereni added.

Pace and Intensity

“I think the intensity of the game was there for all to see.

“The two Cup quarterfinals between Tabadamu-Police Blue and Police White-Raiwasa Resort Taveuni went into extra time.

“The games were tight and competitive and that is the standard we wanted going forward.

“Compared to the competition in the World Sevens Series, we’re right up there as from the quarterfinals.

“We are doing what we are told to do, like cutting foul plays, changing the tackle height.

“The message to the players is come the next series, we will maintain the standard.

“We are preparing for Tokyo Olympics, we need high standards from our 7s players

“Any player who wants to join the national 7s team needs to know what’s expected and play to the standard required.”

The second leg of Super 7s Series will be at Prince Charles Park, Nadi on February 19-20.

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