Fiji Water Flying Fijians head coach Mick Byrne is unfazed by the perception that his team has become a “second-half team.” During his tenure, he’s heard varying opinions about the team’s performance at different stages of matches. “Before I joined here, they were telling me Fiji was the first-half team and they die in the second half. So, I’m not sure we can please everybody,” he remarked with a smile.
The Flying Fijians are coming off a narrow 21-18 defeat against the Wallabies, where they showcased significant improvement in the second half, a performance they hope to build on as they prepare to face Scotland this Saturday at HFC Bank Stadium in Suva. “They’re excited,” Byrne said, noting their determination to learn from their recent match, despite feeling “gutted” by the loss. However, he insists they are not mentally distressed but rather focused on enhancing their performance.
Byrne emphasized how crucial the short turnaround between games is for maintaining high energy levels within the team. “A short week is really good for us because the excitement about getting out on the field and having another go is good,” he said. His satisfaction with the halftime adjustments made against the Wallabies was evident, as they nearly turned the game around after addressing their slow start.
Historically, Fiji has found success against Scotland on home soil, most recently soundly defeating them in 2017. With ticket prices accessible for families and supporters, excitement is building as fans rally behind the Flying Fijians for this upcoming match. This clash presents an opportunity for the team to not only recover from their previous defeat but also reinforce their reputation in the international rugby arena.
As the Flying Fijians prepare for this significant match, the focus remains clear: execute their game plan effectively, maintain possession, and showcase their fighting spirit. With local support expected to be robust, the atmosphere is set for an exhilarating contest that embodies the passion and culture of rugby in Fiji. The Flying Fijians look forward to channeling their determination into a strong performance that can pave the way for future successes.
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