Coach Raiwalui Wants Consistency from Referees

Flying Fijian’s head coach, Simon Raiwalui, believes the balance of power in world rugby is shifting fundamentally after his side’s history-making 30-22 win at Twickenham.

“The gap is closing, which is good for rugby in general,” Raiwalui told The Guardian.

“It’s been really good to watch the progression of teams who have traditionally struggled.

“There’s been more of a level playing field in terms of preparation.

“We’ve been together for seven or eight weeks and you see the benefits. It’s going to be the closest World Cup we’ve seen.”

Raiwalui, whose side will be in Wales’s pool next month, said he was surprised no further action was taken after a head on head collision in the second half between Joe Marler and Albert Tuisue.

“During the game we thought it was clear head contact,” said Raiwalui.

“I thought it was a clear shot to the head. Referees have the toughest job in the world but all you want as a coach is consistency.”

Tuisue was taken off the field for a H.I.A (Head Injury Assessment) test, which he passed and was allowed back to play.

Ravutaumada shines 

Flying Fijians winger Selestino Ravutaumada was named the Player of the Match.

He dazzled the England backs with his footwork to set up tries to captain Waisea Nayacalevu and Simione Kuruvoli.

“We’ll prepare for the World Cup and we’ll see it from our first game (against Wales),” Ravutaumada said.

“I’m proud and excited of the win and to get this award. From now on we’re going ahead as planned but we need to keep our discipline.”

Meanwhile, gutted England captain Courtney Lawes who was playing his 100th Test match said they were not good enough for the day.

“I don’t know what to say,” Lawes said.

‘They (Fiji) are a good team with phenomenal players.”

However, the lanky lock forward said it is what is and they need to focus on the Rugby World Cup.

“We were not good enough in the tackle area but we’re not going to give up,” he added.

Story by: Leone Cabenatabua  - leonec@fijisun.com.fj