After a thrilling 50-19 win against Tonga in the Pacific Nations Cup, Fiji’s captain Tevita Ikanivere and coach Mick Byrne reflected on the team’s performance and key moments that shaped the game.
Ikanivere, who earned the title of Man of the Match, emphasized the importance of the team’s discussions during the match that helped shift the momentum in Fiji’s favor.
“We talked about our discipline, as we allowed Tonga to get back into the game at the end of the first half. Against a strong team like Tonga, if you give them even a little room, they will capitalize on it. Our main goal was to keep our discipline and control, which we successfully maintained in the second half,” Ikanivere stated.
Coach Mick Byrne noted the ongoing development within the team, especially for the players who are in their third year of professional rugby.
“There is significant growth in this team. Many players are in their third year of professional rugby and are learning more about themselves. Today’s match was another opportunity for them to understand that they cannot ease off,” Byrne explained.