The Flying Fijians will have to be ready for Manu Samoa despite the challenges they’re currently facing.
Samoa pulled out of their Northern Hemisphere tour due to financial challenges.
It was not only that as Samoan legend Brian Lima’s contract as the national 7s coach was terminated along with his management.
Flying Fijians coach Mick Byrne says these off the field challenges sometimes create an anger energy that they’ll have to be ready for.
“In my time in the game I think, there’s a lot of issues that happen off the field but when players turn up on game day, none of that matters”.
Meanwhile, Flying Fijians and the Vodafone Fijiana XV presented their itatau to President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere at the State House, in preparation for the Pacific Nations Cup and the Vodafone Fijiana XV’s series of international matches next month.
In accepting their itatau, the President expressed his heartfelt gratitude to both the teams management and players for the kind gesture.
Ratu Wiliame proudly acknowledged the remarkable achievements of both rugby teams, stating that they have brought immense pride to all Fijians.
“We would like to thank you for your unwavering commitment to uplifting the image of rugby both locally and internationally. Because of your outstanding performances you have become role models for our younger generations, inspiring them to work hard and pursue careers in rugby.”
Ratu Wiliame further expressed his gratitude to the Fiji Rugby Union and administrators, coaches and team officials for their commitment and hard work in nurturing rugby players to participate internationally.
The Flying Fijians will take on Samoa at 6pm this Friday at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva while the Vodafone Fijiana XV prepare for a series of international matches, including the upcoming WXV 3 tournament in Dubai next month.