Fiji Water Flying Fijians head coach Mick Byrne is counting on his team’s fitness ahead of their Pacific Nations Cup semi-final against the United States Eagles on Saturday at Chichibu Memorial Stadium in Tokyo, Japan.
Byrne highlighted that fitness has been a key strength for the players throughout their campaign in the Pacific Nations Cup. He noted their ability to maintain performance late in matches, applying continual pressure on their opponents.
“We’re trying to progress as a team and put pressure on, and that’s a challenge,” Byrne said after the team’s arrival in Japan. He mentioned that the players have been dedicated during training sessions.
He added that the upcoming match presents a set of challenges, particularly concerning their defense. “It’s going to be more physical as we need to get off the line well and make our tackles,” he explained. While he acknowledged that players sometimes experience instinctive slips in adapting to new laws, he stressed the importance of disciplined play.
Byrne emphasized the necessity of maintaining possession and being disciplined while facing the USA, warning against giving free opportunities through risky offloads.
He reported a positive atmosphere within the camp, with all players in good shape. Byrne pointed out the performance of young players Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula and Inia Tabuavou, commending Armstrong-Ravula’s strength in the territorial battle and ability to chase and regain the ball after high kicks. He also noted that Tabuavou has adapted well to the inside center position.