Eroni Sau during training in Las Vegas on February 28, 2018. Photo: Gabby Abariga
The Fiji Airways Fijian 7s team are focused on their first pool game against Russia today.
Speaking to World Rugby during the Parade of the Nations in Las Vegas yesterday captain Seremaia Tuwai said they are focused on their first game since it is always a hard one.
“We have a lot of new boys in the squad and so the New Zealand Sevens win gave us a big boost and we are excited for this weekend’s tournament,” he said.
Tuwai said Las Vegas was a very special tournament for the team,
“For me and the squad, it is always exciting to come to Vegas because there is such a great Fijian community who come out from all over the States to support us so it is special for us- it’s a Fijian family away from home.”
According to World Rugby, Las Vegas is set to host crowds of over 50,000 at the Sam Boyd Stadium where the teams will be looking to secure valuable points which will help them climb the series table and improve their Rugby World Cup Sevens seedings ahead of San Francisco in July.
The tournament has been swept by both South Africa and Fiji in recent years winning the last five between them, so teams will be looking to end their usual stronghold.
Top-of-the-table Springbok player Branco du Preez returns to the scene of happy memories in Las Vegas. Du Preez played in his 50th tournament for the Blitzboks at the Sam Boyd Stadium last year as well as claiming victory for South Africa.
“This is one of my favourite tournaments, no doubt the crowds really get behind you and it’s an awesome venue to play in,” said Du Preez.
“I like the fact that the pitch is slightly smaller and play a bit more direct. We have done well in the past and I am determined to contribute to another successful effort and just enjoy the rugby. We are focusing on ourselves and taking it game by game and we really appreciate the support we get here and want to thank the South African fans and everyone in Vegas for making us so welcome.”
Fiji, on the back of their win in Hamilton - their first in New Zealand since 2010 - will be eager to build on last year’s runners-up position in Las Vegas.
Edited by Grace Narayan
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