The Vodafone Fijiana XVs aim to extend their winning streak in the WXV3 when they face Samoa in Dubai on Sunday morning, according to Fiji time.
In a Zoom interview on Thursday night, head coach Mosese Rauluni emphasized the need for his team to respect their Pacific rivals, stating they will strive for a decisive victory. “Samoa is a very good side,” he remarked, highlighting their strong forward pack, which he expects them to leverage during the match.
Rauluni noted that the team’s morale is high and they are focused on their objectives since the start of the competition. He pointed out that Samoa, having lost their first game, will be eager to secure a win.
To effectively counter Samoa’s powerful forwards, Fijiana XVs will field six forwards and two backs on the bench. Rauluni stressed the importance of aggressive play at the breakdown while adhering to their game plan. He also mentioned that although there are some injuries within the squad, it provides an opportunity for the selected players to step up.
The coach acknowledged the challenging heat conditions but is pleased with how well the players are adapting. He stated that lessons learned from their previous match against Hong Kong, where they won 38-3, have been useful in identifying areas for improvement.
Starting first-five eight Jennifer Ravutia will partner with halfback Evivi Senikaviri to lead the team’s offensive efforts against Samoa.
Fijiana XVs captain Karalaini Naisewa anticipates a physical match and expressed confidence in her players’ ability to compete. “We trust our players will go out and fight. We have met them before and we know what they are capable of,” she said, emphasizing the need for the team to enhance their performance and work cohesively.
Rauluni reflected on past encounters against Scotland and the Netherlands, stating that they are making good progress. He cautioned that in their last meeting with Samoa, costly errors resulted in a loss, necessitating a top-level performance to maintain their chances in the tournament.
The match is scheduled to kick off at 2 AM and will be broadcast live on Sky Pacific.
Fijiana XVs lineup: 1. Bitila Tawake, 2. Loraini Senivutu, 3. Vika Matarugu, 4. Mereoni Nakesa, 5. Asinate Serevi, 6. Nunia Daunimoala, 7. Sulita Waisega, 8. Karalaini Naisewa (captain), 9. Evivi Senikaravi, 10. Jennifer Ravutia, 11. Kolora Lomani, 12. Talei Wilson, 13. Adita Milinia, 14. Repeka Tova, 15. Lusia Tisolo (vice-captain).
Reserves: 16. Keleni Marawa, 17. Salanieta Nabuli, 18. Tiana Robanakadavu, 19. Aviame Veidreyaki, 20. Alfreda Fisher, 21. Ema Adivitaloga, 22. Salanieta Kinita, 23. Merewairita Neivosa.