Fiji Water Flying Fijians head coach Mick Byrne has heaped praise on debutant Salesi Rayasi, following an impressive performance during the recent test match against the Wallabies. Rayasi, playing at fullback, not only scored a try but also demonstrated his strong game sense throughout the match. “He read the game well, he’s a very balanced player,” Byrne noted, highlighting Rayasi’s solid outing and ability to handle pressure.
Rayasi started the game strongly, executing key plays such as clearing pressure early in the match and making a significant interception just before half-time. His standout moment came when he skillfully stepped a defender and powered over for Fiji’s first try, a highlight of his debut.
Although the Flying Fijians faced a narrow defeat, losing 22-18 to Australia, Rayasi’s performance was a bright spot, embodying the promise of new talent joining the squad. His journey from the French Top 14 with Vannes to the international stage has garnered optimism among fans, as many see him as a potential solution to Fiji’s fullback challenge.
Looking ahead, the Flying Fijians are set to face Scotland this Saturday at HFC Bank Stadium in Suva, where the squad hopes to build on the momentum from their last match. Rayasi expressed eagerness to perform well in front of the home crowd, especially with family traveling from New Zealand to support him.
This ongoing integration of fresh talent like Rayasi into Fiji’s rugby framework signals a bright future for the team. The blend of experienced players coupled with promising newcomers continues to excite fans and enhance the team’s prospects on the international stage. The Flying Fijians remain committed to showcasing their growth and competitive spirit, offering hope for inspiring the next generation of rugby players in Fiji.
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