Fiji’s head coach Mick Byrne expressed his dissatisfaction following a match where he felt his team was at a disadvantage. During the post-match news conference, he commented on an incident involving Ireland’s Sam Pendergast, who received a yellow card for a shoulder-to-head contact with Fiji’s Kitione Salawa. Byrne jestingly remarked that Pendergast’s green jersey influenced the referee’s decision to issue only a yellow card rather than a more severe penalty.
Despite his frustration about the refereeing, Byrne acknowledged that many of the penalties against Fiji in the first half were due to their own mistakes. He emphasized the need for improvement, stating, “It was definitely on us,” and noted that sometimes their eagerness to perform contributed to their penalties.
The coach’s recognition of the team’s accountability suggests a commitment to growth and development, hinting at potential adjustments in training to enhance discipline on the field. As Fiji looks ahead, their focus will be on refining their game strategy, which could lead to a more favorable outcome in future matches.
In summary, while there were controversies during the game, Byrne’s ability to take responsibility for his team’s actions could serve as a foundation for future success.
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