Why Momo? Coach tells

He maybe be written off by rugby pundits but not for Fijian Drua head coach Glen Jackson. The 50-year-old has named winger Epeli Momo in the starting line-up to face the Hurricanes at Churchill Park, Lautoka, tomorrow.

Jackson told SUNsports that they need size and sevens (rugby) speed on the wings to contain the physicality of the Hurricanes wingers of Fehi Fineanganofo and Bailyn Sullivan.

He said Momo has a key role to play as they prepare for the third round.

Momo partners Super Rugby debutant and former Fiji men’s rugby sevens starwinger Jioji Nasova.

Jackson said he has faith in Momo to handle the physical contest and provide a strong presence out wide and under the high balls.

“We’ve gone with Momo again as well — just a bigger body,” Jackson said.

“We think the Hurricanes will hit us hard, so his size and height give us something on one wing.

“Then, obviously, Jioji, with his sevens (rugby) years of experience, we’ll give him the license to light it up the match and we’re hopeful that he will enjoy his debut.

I’m hoping that we can get as many balls into his hands as possible.

“Ilaisa Droasese is a quality footballer and a quality person. We’ve been working hard with him to build understand-ing in the back three and what he can bring on the fi eld.”

Jackson also praised Isikeli Rabitu, who impressed last week and is expected to line-up against Jordie Barrett.

“It’s another big match for Rabitu. The backs can only be as good as the front football they get, so the battle up front will be crucial,” he said.

“I gave Isikeli praise last week, and I’ll continue to. He was one of the biggest players on the fi eld.

“He’s young, explosive and extremely brave. He won’t be overawed. Against someone like Jordie Barrett, he’ll look forward to the challenge.”

Feedback: waisean@fijisun.com.fj