We Didn't Play Smart, Gollings Tells
A tactical change in the second half where Tamani was moved to halfback and Waisea Nacuqu at playmaker failed to click.
Monday 29 January 2024 | 11:00
The failure of the Fiji Airways Fiji men's rugby sevens team to utilise possession resulted in their 22-7 loss to Australia in the Cup semifinal of the Perth Sevens in Western Australia, yesterday.
That was the view of head coach Ben Gollings when interviewed by World Rugby.
"We didn't use our possession well," he said as they held Australia 7-7 at halftime.
He indicated that the players did not play smart when they dominated possession in the first half.
Individual play, loose passes, handling errors and lack of creativity in setting up play marred Fiji's chances.
Gollings opted to start Terio Tamani at playmaker with Pilipo Bukayaro at halfback.
A tactical change in the second half where Tamani was moved to halfback and Waisea Nacuqu at playmaker failed to click.
The Australians exploited Tamani's shortfalls at halfback as they ran away with the win.
Australia's coach John Manenti urged his players at halftime to stay consistent with their game.
"Don't get lazy.
"Keep recycling the ball and hold on to possession," he said.
Earlier on, Argentina was impressive in their 24-5 win over Ireland in the first Cup semifinal.
Meanwhile, the Fijiana 7s team finished eighth after losing 26-5 to Canada.
Ben Gollings, Fiji 7s head coach.
Feedback: leonec@fijisun.com.fj
