The coaching style of Flying Fijians assistant coach Aaron Mauger has provided significant benefits to the players, according to head coach Mick Byrne. In an interview with SUNsports, Byrne praised Mauger’s rugby intelligence, emphasizing that the squad learns valuable lessons during daily training sessions.
Mauger, a former All Blacks second-five eighth who has played in 46 Tests and 89 Super Rugby matches with the Crusaders, has previously served as head coach for the Highlanders and Moana Pasifika. Byrne noted that Mauger’s approach is more akin to that of a teacher, highlighting his detailed coaching methods.
As the Fiji Water-sponsored national rugby team readies for a challenging match against the USA in tonight’s Pacific Nations Cup semi-final, which kicks off at 10:05 PM at the Prince Chichibu Memorial Stadium in Tokyo, Japan, Byrne acknowledged the strengths of the opposing team. He remarked on the USA’s well-coached structure and an effective kicking game led by their flyhalf.
Byrne stressed that the Flying Fijians will need to match the physicality of the USA, particularly concerning their forward pack. He noted the impressive returns of players Meli Derenalagi, Kitione Salawa, and Elia Canakaivata throughout their Pacific Nations Cup campaign. The team has been advised to maintain possession and adhere to their game plan.
The confirmed team list is as follows:
1. Eroni Mawi, 2. Tevita Ikanivere (c), 3. Samuela Tawake, 4. Isoa Nasilasila, 5. Temo Mayanavanua, 6. Meli Derenalagi, 7. Kitione Salawa, 8. Elia Canakaivata, 9. Frank Lomani, 10. Caleb Muntz, 11. Epeli Momo, 12. Inia Tabuavou, 13. Iosefo Masi, 14. Vuate Karawalevu, 15. Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula
Reserves include: 16. Mesulame Dolokoto, 17. Haereiti Hetet, 18. Peni Ravai, 19. Leone Rotuisolia, 20. Albert Tuisue, 21. Peni Matawalu, 22. Apisalome Vota, 23. Ilaisa Droasese.