Fiji Airways men’s rugby sevens team head coach, Osea Kolinisau, has emphasized three key areas of improvement ahead of the Hong Kong Sevens tournament this weekend. Following their narrow loss to South Africa in the Cup semi-final at the Canada Sevens, Kolinisau identified decision-making, consistency, and defence as critical focus points for his squad.
Reflecting on their performance in Vancouver, where they failed to capitalize on a one-man advantage, he noted, “We were leading 5-0 but ended up playing as individuals rather than as a cohesive unit.” He expressed that rushing decisions and a lack of patience contributed to their missed opportunities, a concern also echoed from their earlier competitions in Cape Town and Perth.
Kolinisau’s leadership, now in his first full season since taking charge in March 2024, reveals a commitment to fostering ownership and trust within the team. “I want the boys to have confidence in the process we’ve established,” he said, highlighting the importance of maintaining focus during high-pressure situations.
Despite a mixed track record—with a win in Dubai, a third in Cape Town, and finishes of fourth and fifth in Vancouver and Perth, respectively—Kolinisau remains optimistic. He believes that with a young and talented roster, they can build upon their defensive strategies, essential for winning championships. “You can win games with attack, but defense wins you championships,” he stated, reinforcing his aim to reshape Fiji’s reputation as not only an attacking force but also a defensively robust team.
This weekend, Fiji’s matches include facing the USA, Ireland, and Argentina. The women’s team will also compete against Ireland, France, and Great Britain. Kolinisau’s emphasis on cultivating teamwork and strategic play underlines a hopeful outlook for both squads as they aim to leave a strong impression on the international stage.
The tournament presents a vital opportunity for Fiji’s rugby sevens teams to shine, with expectations high that they can translate past experiences into a successful campaign in Hong Kong. Fans and supporters remain enthusiastic about witnessing the team’s growth and resilience as they navigate this significant challenge.
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