Fijiana 15’s coach Moses Rauluni says it was a rusty start to the week, with players not putting in their maximum effort as they prepare for their first Test against Japan.
However, things took a positive turn during Thursday’s captain’s run ahead of their Test against Japan.
The former national skipper says that the players seemed to lack undivided attention in the first two days but came out firing yesterday, requiring minimal assistance from the coaches.
“We did walk through on Monday there was a lot of drop-ball and I don’t know if the mind-set was right but they have fixed it within the group and it did not really take us to do it which I’m really happy about and that’s what happens on the field you know they are the ones that have to fix mistakes and hopefully they can rectify things on Friday night and I’ve got all faith in this group and the new group coming in next week.”
Rauluni said they relied on the players to improve on what lacked on the field and they did not disappoint.
He said they can’t be more ready than they are right now for tonight’s highly anticipated Test against a well-structured Japan side.
He emphasises that it is important for the players to have enough rest before they take the field.
Rauluni said that at the moment he is not concerned about the rankings.
“Can’t be any ready as that’s the last session we’ve had so it’s all about preparing well, hydrating well, eating well and having a good sleep and waking up with the mind-set to win.”
Instead, he is focused on exploring the country’s talent pool to ensure there is depth in the team for other upcoming Tests.
Meanwhile, the coach announced his match day 23 squad naming Aviame Veidreyaki on the bench who is expected to make her debut.
Rauluni has named a strong front row with Ana Korovata as loosehead prop, Litia Marama as hooker and Vika Matarugu as tighthead prop.
In the second row, Doreen Narokete will partner with Mereoni Nakesa.
Nunia Uluikadavu will be blindside flanker paired with Sulita Waisega at openside and Fulori Nabura will wear the number eight jersey.
In the backline, Evivi Senikarivi starts at halfback with Merewalesi Rokouono as fly-half.
Adita Milinia and Merewairita Neivoisa will be on the wings.
Merewai Cumu will lead the pack at inside centre with Atelaite Buna on the outside and Luisa Tisolo at fullback.
On the bench are Keleni Marawa at hooker, with Loraini Senivutu and Tiana Robanakadavu covering prop.
Asinate Serevi and debutant Aviame Veidreyaki will cover the locks. Setaita Railumu is the backup halfback, Sala Kinita will cover fly-half, and Jeniffer Ravutia completes the match day 23.
The last time Fijiana hosted a Test was in 2022 against Canada and the team look forward to putting on a show in front of their home fans.
The Fijiana and Japan will clash at 6pm at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva.
