The Vodafone Fijiana XV team delivered an impressive performance against Hong Kong China, winning 38-3, setting them up for their next match against Samoa on October 12 in Dubai. Coach Mosese Rauluni acknowledged that the team was sluggish in the first half, allowing their opponents too much possession and committing penalties. He noted improvements in the second half but highlighted the need to address some mistakes that caused pressure on the team.
Rauluni expressed satisfaction with the result, especially after recent defeats to Scotland and the Netherlands. He believes the victory has provided players with increased confidence heading into the challenging game against Samoa. He emphasized the importance of solid set-pieces and improvements in physical play and defense for the upcoming match.
Captain Karalaini Naisewa, who scored twice during the game, praised the team’s performance and pointed out that the weather in Dubai will be similar to Fiji’s conditions. She mentioned the necessity of addressing errors in the upcoming week and recognized the challenge posed by Samoa, stating the team aims to come out strong. Naisewa also indicated that the players need to enhance their fitness levels to secure a win in their next match.
The match saw Fiji’s first try scored by prop Anasimeci Korovata, followed by two tries from Naisewa and a series of successful conversions by Luisa Tisolo, who converted multiple tries to contribute to the final score.
In related news, the national under-18 schoolboys team achieved a 26-14 victory over Australia in their opening match at Lawaqa Park, Sigatoka, with their next match scheduled for 3 pm tomorrow.