Play For Pride, Flying Fijians Told
Vodafone Flying Fijians captain Waisea Nayacalevu has faith in his players to stand up to the challenge and beat Manu Samoa in tomorrow’s Pacific Nations Cup clash.
“I believe in the boys to do the job,” he said after the team announcement yesterday.
The Samoans under head coach Seilala Mapusua and Tana Umaga are on a high as they remain unbeaten and a step away from winning the PNC.
Nayacalevu said he is aware that the Flying Fijians have never lost to Samoa in the PNC since its inception.
“My message to them (players) is to have pride in the jersey and who they represent.”
This is not the first time that Nayacalevu is pairing with Vilimoni Botitu in the centre.
“I paired up with him in the last November tests. I’m looking forward to another good game. Samoa is always tough.”
Nayacalevu showed glimpses of class as he twice broke up the Tongan defence to set-up Jiuta Wainiqolo and Setareki Tuicuvu to score tries.
Head coach Vern Cotter said, “I believe in this team with Waisea Nayacalevu and Botitu (Vilimoni) in the mid-field.
“It is important that we get a look at these two. We know what Levani (Botia) brings at 12 now it is an opportunity for Vilimoni (Botitu) to show what he brings in that position. We know what Waisea can do at 13.
“And as captain, Waisea has been there for a long time and it is good to have an old head with a younger head.
“And these are all combinations and options that are very important going into autumn in November and then going into the Rugby World Cup next year,” he added.
Feedback: waisean@fijisun.com.fj
