Fiji’s Flying Fijians coach Mick Byrne has expressed his admiration for the team’s performance following their 42-16 victory over Samoa in the opening match of the 2024 Asahi Super Dry Pacific Nations Cup in Suva last Friday.
Byrne noted the impressive effort from the young squad, which included seasoned players, as they rose to meet the challenge. “They did well right from the start,” Byrne stated. He highlighted the team’s discipline, particularly in the first half, despite having only three training sessions leading up to the match. Byrne credited the coaching staff for effectively guiding the players.
The coach also praised the debutants for their strong performances and for rising to the occasion in front of the home crowd. “You know they’ll be nervous and trying to play well. I thought they handled it well once they got the ball,” he commented.
With a bye week ahead in Pool A of the Pacific Nations Cup, the Flying Fijians are now focusing on their next significant challenge against Tonga.