National Vodafone 7s mentor Ben Ryan has issued a stern warning to his troops to play well in this weekend’s Japan 7s otherwise they will be axed from the team to play in the Hong Kong 7s.
Ryan challenged his players to deliver quality performances this weekend in order to maintain their spot for Hong Kong next weekend.
He said the boys had prepared well and were keen to justify their selection.
“I have told the players to keep quality performance in Tokyo otherwise I might make changes when we come for the Hong Kong leg,” said Ryan.
“From my head coach’s point of view, every tournament is crucial therefore I challenge the boys to give their best in Tokyo this weekend.
“I am looking forward to getting back into the pitch with these boys as this year there has been a lot of competition for places and I believe the boys are pretty keen to go out and show their worth.”
Ryan said the side was injury-free and his aim was to finish the series on a high note and improve on Fiji’s ranking in the IRB series.
He said competition would be tough and he’s called on his troops to deliver what’s expected from them.
“You never know what is going to happen from now onwards as New Zealand and South Africa are well ahead of us on points.
“I am not really concerned about them but I am more concerned about us ,and with four tournaments left we need to do well in the remaining 24 games.”
Ryan said he had faith in the Osea Kolinisau-captained team to make the nation proud during these two tournaments.
Fiji is pooled with Samoa, USA and France at the Japan 7s and will face France in their opening game.
Team: Pio Tuwai, Jasa Veremalua, Apisai Domolailai, Setefano Cakau, Leo Naikasau, Benito Masilevu, Emosi Mulevoro, Waisea Nacuqu, Vatemo Ravouvou, Osea Kolinisau, Donasio Ratubuli, Samisoni Viriviri.
Meanwhile, the Vodafone Fiji sevens team will come up against Fijian Virimi Vakatawa for the first time in the IRB World Series.
The Racing Metro club rep has been roped into the France sevens side for the Tokyo and Hong Kong 7s.
The former Lelean Memorial School student will become the first ever Fijian to play for the France sevens side.
Vakatawa told the Metro website that he was happy to have been selected and becoming the first ever Fijian to play sevens for France.
He adds it will be interesting for him as France is pooled with Fiji.
Vakatawa says he hopes to get a run against Ben Ryan’s men….
SUVA, 1(FIJI TIMES/FBC SPORTS)
