Fiji Water Flying Fijians Head Coach Mick Byrne expressed his frustration regarding a recent match, suggesting that his team was not fairly treated, particularly referencing a tackle incident involving Irish player Sam Pendergast. After Pendergast made contact with Fiji’s openside flanker Kitione Salawa, the referee, Hollie Davidson, issued only a yellow card, which Byrne found questionable, playfully remarking, “Aww, no I think he was wearing a green jersey, so it stayed yellow.”
Despite his grievances regarding the officiating, Byrne acknowledged that his team’s high penalty count in the first half was a significant issue that they must address. He reflected on their eagerness to perform, stating, “It was definitely on us… sometimes with our enthusiasm to get the job done, especially early on. I think at the end of the day, it is on us, not on the referee, and we need to get better.”
This perspective showcases a constructive approach to the team’s performance, highlighting an opportunity for growth. Coaches and teams alike often face challenges with officiating, but focusing on self-improvement can lead to better outcomes in future matches.
In summary, while Coach Byrne expressed disappointment about certain officiating decisions, he also took responsibility for his team’s performance, emphasizing the need for improvement and accountability. There is hope that by addressing these issues, the Flying Fijians will enhance their game in upcoming competitions.
Leave a comment