Flying Fijians head coach Mick Byrne is experimenting with various player combinations within his 28-member squad during the Pacific Nations Cup (PNC) competition. In an interview, Byrne mentioned that the interaction between forwards and backs is consistently improving. He noted that while the squad is relatively small, they have enough backs, allowing them to test different combinations without being overly reliant on specific players.
Byrne acknowledged that the team’s combinations may evolve as the competition progresses, noting it is a work in progress where all players are actively utilized. He emphasized that no players are left on the sidelines, which is crucial in such a compact squad.
Looking ahead to the upcoming match against Tonga, scheduled for next Friday, Byrne expressed awareness of the challenges the team will face. He compared playing in Tonga to facing other Pacific teams on their home turf, highlighting the strong support these teams receive from local fans.
Byrne stated that the pressure from the enthusiastic home crowd will be significant, but he urges his team to maintain focus on their goals, allowing any external noise to fade away as they prepare for the challenge.
In another note, prop Ben Tameifuna will lead Tonga into their PNC opener against Samoa in Apia, which both teams desperately need to win.
This weekend’s schedule includes:
– Today: 4pm Samoa vs. Tonga
– Sunday: 1pm USA vs. Canada
Recent results show Fiji defeating Samoa 42-16 and Canada losing to Japan 28-55.