After an impressive 50-19 win against Tonga in the Pacific Nations Cup, Fiji’s captain Tevita Ikanivere and coach Mick Byrne offered their perspectives on the team’s performance and key moments from the game.
Ikanivere, who earned the title of Man of the Match, emphasized the importance of mid-game discussions that shifted momentum in Fiji’s favor. “We talked about our discipline. We allowed Tonga to come back into the game toward the end of the first half. A strong team like Tonga can capitalize on any space you give them. Our main objective was to maintain discipline and control, which we successfully achieved in the second half,” Ikanivere noted.
Coach Mick Byrne highlighted the progression and development of the team, particularly among players who are in their third year of professional rugby. “There’s a lot of growth happening in this team. Many players are in their third year and are learning more about themselves. Today’s match provided another opportunity for them to realize they can’t let up at any point,” he stated.