Basiyalo ready for next game

Swire Shipping Fijian Drua debutant, Isikeli Basiyalo has made his mark in his first Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific game by scoring a try in their 24-22 win over Western Force at Church­ill Park, Lautoka, on Saturday.

Speaking to SUNsports after the game, Basiyalo said that he was excited about his first game and be able to score a try.

"I thank God almighty for giving me the strength and the power so I can score my first point for the team," he said.

Basiyalo said despite the team making many errors, they still managed to pull out a win.

He also noted that there were ar­eas that he needs to work on be­fore the next Drua game, which is against the Brumbies at GIO Sta­dium in Canberra, this Saturday night.

"I need to communicate more with other Drua players, so we can have better connection and properly work out our game plan," he said.

Basiyalo said their lack of com­munication has been costly, result­ing in them conceding penalties to their opponents.

"We will go back, reset and learn from our mistakes," he said.

Basiyalo acknowledged his par­ents for their support towards his rugby career.

"They've supported me through­out my career since secondary school, Fiji Under-20 and now the Drua," he said.

Basiyalo said without the support of his parents he would not be able to come this far.

"For all the fans and supporters, thank you for supporting us today and this win is dedicated to you all," he said.

Team-mate Isikeli Rabitu said Basiyalo had worked hard when going through the Drua pathway, which led to his selection to the main team.

"Basiyalo is a great player and I've known him for a while since we were part of the Fiji Under-20 team. He has showed his worth to be part of the senior Drua team and I'm excited about him scoring his first try in his first appearance for the Drua," he said.

Rabitu said Basiyalo was a deter­mined and courageous who refuses to give-up even during our training sessions.