The head coach of the Flying Fijians, Mick Byrne, has stressed the significance of remaining focused and maintaining intensity during their bye week as they prepare for their upcoming match against Tonga in the Pacific Nations Cup. The team will compete against Tonga at Teufaiva Stadium in Nuku’alofa, Tonga, on September 6. Byrne emphasizes that diligent preparation is crucial for their success.
He stated, “During a bye week, it’s essential to keep our focus. We have increased the intensity in our training sessions, and when there’s no game focus until later in the week, we need to find other ways to channel our energy, which we have accomplished by enhancing our training intensity and incorporating some contact work.”
The coaching staff is also being mindful of player recovery, particularly for key athletes like Selestino Ravutaumada, Temo Mayanavanua, Inia Tabuavou, and Vuate Karuwalevu, who are currently undergoing rehabilitation. Byrne remarked, “There’s no sense in exhausting them this week. We need to keep them ready, ensure they’re working hard in rehab, and receive the appropriate recovery support.”
Despite having a compact roster of 28 players, Byrne is optimistic about their capacity to create effective combinations for the game against Tonga. He commented, “Playing Tonga in their home ground is akin to facing Samoa in Samoa or Fiji in Fiji; we are familiar with the enthusiasm of the fans in the Pacific Islands. It will provide a positive pressure for us, and we aim to stay focused on our objectives.”
Byrne concluded with a call to stay committed to their goals, stating, “We must concentrate on getting the job done.”