Fiji must be smarter against England: Coach

Fiji Water Flying Fijians interim coach Senirusi Seruvakula says his side will stick to its attacking brand of rugby against England but must improve its discipline and decision-making after letting victory slip against Wales.

The Flying Fijians face England this weekend at Hill Dickinson Stadium, Liverpool, England on Sunday 1am (Fiji time).

He said improving the set piece would also be a priority against a powerful England pack.

“Our offloading game is one of our biggest weapons, but we have to know when to play and when to keep possession.

“Sometimes we need to take contact, secure the breakdown and build pressure instead of forcing passes.

“Our scrum and line-out need to improve. England are strong up front and we’ve been working hard on those areas this week.”

He added last week’s loss was disappointing and they have learnt a lot of lessons.

Despite the defeat, Seruvakula believes the performance showed Fiji can compete with Tier One nations.

“It was a good benchmark for us. We now know where we stand against Tier One opposition and there are plenty of lessons we can take into this week’s game.

“We have to be disciplined on both sides of the ball, be patient when we have possession, win our collisions and play our style of rugby.”

He said the squad had recovered well from the disappointment in Cardiff.

“The players are in good health. We’ve reviewed the Wales game and everyone knows how painful that loss was.

“Our first training sessions have been encouraging and the boys have brought plenty of energy.”

Seruvakula said Fiji would continue to play with flair but need to be smarter about when to attack.

Despite England’s dominant record over Fiji, Seruvakula said confidence within the squad remained high.

“Everyone wants to represent Fiji against England. Last week’s defeat hurt, but we’ll do everything we can to bounce back.”

Lineup

The Flying Fijians have made several changes to their starting XV as they look to bounce back against England in Sunday's Nations Championship clash at Hill Dickinson Stadium.

Captain Tevita Ikanivere again leads the side from hooker, with Eroni Mawi and Mesake Doge completing the front row. Tevita Ratuva and Isoa Nasilasila pair up in the second row.

The back row sees Peceli Yato return at blindside flanker, Lekima Tagitagivalu at openside and powerhouse Levani Botia at No.8.

Halfback Simione Kuruvoli links up with flyhalf Caleb Muntz, while the midfield features Jiuta Wainiqolo at inside centre alongside Josua Tuisova, whose return adds significant power and experience.

On the wings, Kalaveti Ravouvou and Vuate Karawalevu provide pace and attacking flair, with Salesi Rayasi named at fullback.

The bench offers plenty of impact, including Sam Matavesi, Livai Natave, Peni Ravai, Temo Mayanavanua, Elia Canakaivata, Pita Gus Sowakula, Frank Lomani and Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula.

Fiji will be aiming for a much-improved performance after falling 39-24 to Wales in their opening Nations Championship match, while England will be looking to build on their winning start.

Flying Fijians XV

1. Eroni Mawi
2. Tevita Ikanivere (c)
3. Mesake Doge
4. Tevita Ratuva
5. Isoa Nasilasila
6. Peceli Yato
7. Lekima Tagitagivalu
8. Levani Botia
9. Simione Kuruvoli
10. Caleb Muntz
11. Jiuta Wainiqolo
12. Josua Tuisova
13. Kalaveti Ravouvou
14. Vuate Karawalevu
15. Salesi Rayasi