MILTON KEYNES, ( FIJI TIMES/ DINFO) –Fijian Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama has praised the Flying Fijians coaching panel for their efforts at the Rugby World Cup.
Speaking from Milton Keynes Bainimarama said despite losing their first three matches the national team contested well against the likes of England, Australia and Wales.
“The RWC is now over for Fiji and the Flying Fijians but we have ended on a high note having won the last game against Uruguay. I think everyone would have seen the Flying Fijians game over the past couple of weeks in the world cup competition, it’s been very exciting,” the PM said.
He added with the coaching staff members, he was sure they would be able to put together a formidable team in the next RWC.
“I am sure the coaching panel and management would have already planned something for 2019.
“They’ve (Flying Fijians) played above expectations and thanks to the coaching team, John McKee and the rest of his team.
“They have done extremely well and there is no doubt they will put an excellent team together for the 2019 game,” Bainimarama said.
Meanwhile, the Minister for Youth and Sports Honourable Laisenia Tuitubou has sent a congratulatory message to the Vodafone Flying Fijians after their last winning match at the 2015 Rugby World Cup against Uruguay.
“On behalf of Government and the whole nation, I congratulate the Vodafone Flying Fijians team for their overall performance at the 2015 Rugby World Cup,” said Minister Tuitubou.
“Statistics and rugby commentators all agree that Fiji made a huge impact at this year’s RWC in every aspect of the game,” said Tuitubou. “We met with three top ranked teams in a span of 14 days and we gave them all worthy competitions.”
“Even though the scoreboard didn’t reflect their gallant efforts, the last winning match against Uruguay was a well-deserving one.”
Tuitubou was full of praise towards the patriotism and sacrifices showed by the overseas-based players and their efforts to come represent their country.
“These overseas-based players have not only made Fiji proud on the field but they have also contributed effectively towards Fiji’s economy like every Fijian sportsmen and women playing in other countries around the world,” said Minister Tuitubou.
Minister Tuitubou was also full of praise to the coaching team headed by John McKee, Tabai Matson, Mosese Rauluni, Allan Muir and Frans Ludeke.
“The nation also acknowledges the coaching panel efforts in proving to the world that Fijian rugby players can match the top rugby nations in every aspect of the game,” said Tuitubou.
Tuitubou reiterated that Government will provide assistance to the Fiji Rugby Union in ensuring that McKee and his coaching team are retained to ensure Fiji’s rugby development from where we left off at the 2015 RWC.
He was also elated at coach McKee’s comments after the Uruguay game that he is “for Fiji rugby and he’s committed to Fiji”.
