The Vodafone Fijiana XVs aim to extend their winning run in WXV3 as they face Samoa in Dubai on Sunday morning (Fiji time).
In a recent Zoom interview, head coach Mosese Rauluni emphasized that the team respects their Pacific rivals and will be fully committed to securing a victory. “Samoa is a very good side,” he noted, acknowledging their strong forward pack which could pose challenges on the field.
Rauluni mentioned that the team’s morale remains high and their focus has been unwavering since the competition began. He pointed out that Samoa, having lost their opening match, will be eager for a win. “We will not take them lightly,” he added.
To match Samoa’s powerful forwards, the Fijiana XVs will feature six forwards and two backs on the bench. Rauluni stressed the importance of being aggressive at breakdowns and adhering to their game plan. Despite a few injuries among the players, he sees this as an opportunity for those selected to step up.
The team has also taken lessons from their first game, a 38-3 victory over Hong Kong, China, and identified areas for improvement. First-five eight Jennifer Ravutia will team up with halfback Evivi Senikaviri to helm the attack against Samoa.
Fijiana XVs captain Karalaini Naisewa anticipates a physical contest and expressed confidence in her teammates’ ability to perform. “We trust our players will go out and fight. We’ve played against them before and know what they are capable of,” she stated, emphasizing the need for teamwork to counter their opponents.
Rauluni reflected on previous encounters with Samoa, acknowledging that mistakes had cost them in the past and stressed the necessity of bringing their best game to stay competitive.
The match is scheduled to kick off at 2 am and will be broadcast live on Sky Pacific.
The lineup for the Fijiana XVs includes:
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 are: 16. Keleni Marawa, 17. Salanieta Nabuli, 18. Tiana Robanakadavu, 19. Aviame Veidreyaki, 20. Alfreda Fisher, 21. Ema Adivitaloga, 22. Salanieta Kinita, 23. Merewairita Neivosa.