Osea Kolinisau, the head coach of Fiji’s men’s rugby sevens team, is determined to keep the momentum going after their impressive victory in the Dubai Sevens tournament. With a final score of 19-5 against Spain, Fiji ended a long losing streak in the HSBC Sevens World Series, a win that Kolinisau described as a relief.
“It’s been a long time coming,” Kolinisau stated, expressing his happiness over the team’s performance at the tournament. He emphasized the importance of consistency moving forward, aiming for Fiji to contend for and secure additional titles throughout the season. Reflecting on the team’s hard work over the past six months, he noted their disappointment at the Olympics and reiterated his belief that such effort ultimately leads to success, which they experienced in Dubai.
Adding to the joy, utility back Filipe Sauturaga received the honor of Player of the Final. Debutant Kavekini Tanivanuakula shared how this experience has been transformative for him, attributing his success to divine guidance and the support of his coaches and teammates. For Tanivanuakula, winning in his debut has been a dream fulfilled, and he looks forward to improving his game in the upcoming Cape Town tournament.
Newcomer George Bose also acknowledged the team’s collective effort and the necessity for improvement, particularly in defense, as they gear up for their next challenge. “To be in the national sevens team is a different level,” he noted, stressing the need for a mindset shift to maintain high standards.
Fiji’s victory marks their first win at the Dubai tournament since 2016, bringing hope and boosting morale as the team prepares for future competitions.
This achievement not only highlights the resilience of the Fiji rugby sevens team but also sets a promising tone for their upcoming matches. With a renewed sense of determination and strong foundations, Fiji appears poised for a competitive season.
In summary, Fiji’s success in the Dubai Sevens reflects their hard work and team spirit, while setting the stage for greater achievements in the future. Coaching and camaraderie continue to play pivotal roles as the team aims to make its mark in the upcoming events.
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