The coaching approach of Flying Fijians assistant coach Aaron Mauger has had a significant positive impact on the players. This sentiment was expressed by head coach Mick Byrne during a recent interview.
Byrne praised Mauger’s exceptional rugby intelligence, stating that players are gaining valuable knowledge during their daily training sessions. Mauger, a former All Blacks player, has an extensive career, having played 46 Tests and 89 Super Rugby matches, and has previously coached teams like the Highlanders and Moana Pasifika.
Byrne noted that Mauger’s teaching-oriented and detailed coaching style is greatly benefiting the squad. With the Fiji Water sponsored national rugby team facing a tough match against the USA in the Pacific Nations Cup semi-final, scheduled for tonight at the Prince Chichibu Memorial Stadium in Tokyo, this coaching style is crucial.
The USA team is recognized for being well-coached and physically strong, making the upcoming match a challenging one. Byrne emphasized the importance of maintaining possession and sticking to their gameplan, as the USA is expected to leverage their well-structured forward pack.
The team’s lineup for the match includes: Eroni Mawi, Tevita Ikanivere (c), Samuela Tawake, Isoa Nasilasila, Temo Mayanavanua, Meli Derenalagi, Kitione Salawa, Elia Canakaivata, Frank Lomani, Caleb Muntz, Epeli Momo, Inia Tabuavou, Iosefo Masi, Vuate Karawalevu, and Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula.
The reserves consist of Mesulame Dolokoto, Haereiti Hetet, Peni Ravai, Leone Rotuisolia, Albert Tuisue, Peni Matawalu, Apisalome Vota, and Ilaisa Droasese.