The head coach of the Flying Fijians, Mick Byrne, expressed optimism and determination as his team prepares for their upcoming Test against Spain on Sunday. This comes on the heels of their remarkable 24-19 victory over Wales at the Principality Stadium—a historic achievement, marking the first occasion in which Fiji has defeated Wales in Cardiff.
The match was marked by a chaotic first-half that included yellow cards for both teams, along with a red card issued to Fiji’s center, Semi Radradra. Despite this adversity, Wales initially took the lead as they aimed to snap a nine-match losing streak. However, the Flying Fijians made a strong comeback after halftime, securing their historic win.
Looking ahead to the next game, Byrne emphasized the need for the team to refocus. “We got Spain next; we played well on the weekend and they got a good victory, going in high and in good form,” he stated. He believes that resetting the team’s mindset will position them well for future matches, particularly against Ireland later this month.
Byrne also reflected on the valuable experience of playing European teams at their home venues, expressing his delight for the players who had worked hard for this success. He noted the significance of this victory for those who have previously competed at the Principality Stadium without securing a win.
A particular mention was made of fly-half Caleb Muntz, who was awarded Player of the Match for his outstanding performance, scoring a try and converting four penalties. Byrne praised Muntz for his growth in Tier One rugby, highlighting the challenges he faced over the past year.
With an eye on the future, Byrne expressed hopes for Fiji’s inclusion in the Nations Cup in 2026, seeing it as an essential step toward the preparation for the 2027 Rugby World Cup. The upcoming match against Spain will take place at José Zorrilla Stadium in Valladolid.
As the Flying Fijians continue to build on their recent success, the focus remains on harnessing their strengths and achieving further milestones in international rugby. The determination shown by Byrne and his players encapsulates a sense of hope for the future of Fijian rugby.
Summary: The Flying Fijians head coach Mick Byrne expresses excitement and determination after a historic win over Wales as they prepare for their next match against Spain. The team aims to build on their recent success, focusing on resetting their mindset and making the most of upcoming opportunities, showcasing their growth in international rugby.
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