Why Nasove At No.7 Again? Cotter Tells
Rookie Vodafone Flying Fijians open side flanker Rusiate Nasove is living up to the expectation of his older cousin and France-based Peceli Yato.
After he was selected for the Flying Fijians, Yato who could not make the team due to injury reminded Nasove that to play in the position he must be brave, fearless and not show any sign of weakness.
Nasove rose to the challenge in the 36-0 win over Tonga in his Test debut last Saturday and yesterday retained the No.7 jumper for tomorrow’s crucial Pacific Nations Cup clash against Australia A at Churchill Park, Lautoka.
The Waicoba, Nadroga native has impressed Flying Fijians head coach Vern Cotter with his never-say die attitude.
During the press conference Cotter said, Nasove has a high work rate.
“He (Nasove) was everywhere.”
Vodafone Flying Fijians head coach Vern Cotter.
Photo: Ronald Kumar
“He was the most hardworking player on the paddock. If you look at his tackles, cover tackles, wide channels and the number of carries, his defensive efforts showed. He’s a tireless worker and you can’t go wrong with people that are going to work from start to finish. He deserves another start this week against the Australians.”
On that note, Cotter challenged upcoming lock Isoa Nasilasila to lift his game.
“To have Api Ratuniyarawa and Isoa Nasilasila in the lock is great. It’s a good mix, they finished the game together last week. Api has been sharing his experience so Isoa needs to step-up, two games in a row for him. He played well last week and now he gets to play in his second test. He is going to work on his consistency in making sure that he performs at a better level.”
Cotter is retaining the halves partnership of Teti Tela and Frank Lomani.
“Nine and ten they run the game and we knew there were going to be a couple of changes through injuries,” he said.
“We don’t want too many changes on decision making in the team because nine and ten run the team. Ben (Volavola) has come a little bit late into the squad, Tela and Lomani played well. Volavola will come off the bench because he can play both at ten and full-back.
Captain Levani Botia starts at second five eight and is excited to play alongside former All Blacks centre Setareki Tamanivalu.
“I’ve only played against him in France but now I’m playing with him. This is a great opportunity for me and I’m blessed with the opportunity,” Botia said.
“He’s (Seta) one of the great players, we are trying to use him as well. He’s big and massive with speed to burn. I’m excited to play alongside him. It’s going to be exciting to play with other new young players.”
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