Fijiana XVs aim to rebound against Scotland as Alfreda Fisher leads in Manchester
The Vodafone Fijiana 15s will again be captained by 21-year-old Alfreda Fisher when they face Scotland in a Sunday-morning showdown in Manchester. Head coach Ioan Cunningham praised Fisher’s relentless work rate and leadership, saying she inspires the team and was pivotal in their try against Canada. “Alfreda is a superstar for us. She leads with her actions, and you can see it in big moments,” Cunningham said, noting her influence on the squad’s approach.
Scotland arrive after a strong start, including a 38–8 victory over Wales, and will present a different challenge with their northern-hemisphere style, robust set-piece, and defensive structure. Cunningham stressed Fiji will need to win quick ball, be sharp at the breakdown, and create space for their athletic players to shine.
Vice-Captain Bitila Tawake said the squad is focused and maintaining composure, despite the usual nerves at this stage. “There are nerves and emotions, but we’re staying calm and focusing on the small details,” she said. She also highlighted the energy Michella’e Stolz and Alowesi Nakoci will bring in the starting lineup as a key spark for the Fiji backline.
Both coach and players also thanked Fijian fans for their support, urging continued positive messages that lift the players and the nation. “Keep those positive messages coming,” Cunningham concluded. “The players are giving everything for Fiji, their families, and their villages, and your support carries us into every match.”
Context and outlook
Scotland sits among the world’s top teams, setting a high bar for Fiji as they contest Pool B. Fiji are looking to translate promising moments into consistent 80-minute performances, with a game plan that blends sevens pace with 15s discipline, set-piece reliability, and smarter game management to challenge elite opposition. Kick-off is scheduled for 1:45 am Fiji time on Sunday, with venues and scheduling continuing to reflect the tournament’s England-based fixtures.
What to watch
– Ball retention and decision-making under pressure, especially from Fiji’s backline with sevens experience.
– Set-piece stability in scrums and lineouts, and how Fiji exits under Scotland’s defensive pressure.
– Leadership and squad depth to sustain 80 minutes of intense rugby.
Outlook
This match offers Fiji a real chance to demonstrate growth and resilience on the world stage. If they maintain intensity, tighten execution, and exploit quick ball, they can push Scotland further than the opener suggested and continue inspiring a new generation of women’s rugby players in Fiji and the wider Pacific.
Positive note
Momentum within the Fijiana program is growing, with depth and a clear strategic plan fueling belief that they can contend with top-tier nations and deliver exciting rugby in England.
Key takeaways
– Alfreda Fisher captains a squad blending sevens experience with Drua talent.
– Scotland’s challenge tests Fiji’s ability to balance pace with discipline and set-piece reliability.
– Kick-off is at 1:45 am Fiji time; fans’ support remains a vital boost for the team.
Additional value for WordPress
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Logical context
This fixture continues Fiji’s trend of tackling tougher pools while leveraging a blend of sevens speed and 15s structure. A disciplined, high-tempo approach could pressure Scotland, but Scotland’s form suggests Fiji must execute well in both set-piece and open play to upset expectations.
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