The Fiji Water Flying Fijians are gearing up for an exciting Autumn Nations series, starting with a highly anticipated match against England next Sunday at Allianz Stadium in Twickenham. This matchup holds significant weight, particularly given Fiji’s historic victory over England earlier this year, where they won 33-22 in a memorable game witnessed by over 30,000 fans. This victory marked Fiji’s first win against the Red Roses and set a positive tone for their rugby ambitions.
Their previous encounter with England in the quarter-finals of the 2023 Rugby World Cup ended in heartbreak for the Flying Fijians, as they narrowly lost 30-24. Despite a commendable comeback where they leveled the score, England secured their semi-final position with a late drop goal and a penalty from captain Owen Farrell.
Ahead of the upcoming contest, head coach Mick Byrne is focused on matching England’s physicality while retaining Fiji’s signature free-flowing style of play. He has urged his players to make a strong start, emphasizing the importance of taking the initiative and avoiding the need to catch up during the game. “Take it to them. Just get on the front foot and go after the game,” Byrne stated, highlighting his desire for a proactive approach that could lead to a successful outcome.
This match serves as not only a chance for redemption following their previous defeat but also an opportunity for the Flying Fijians to illustrate their progression as a team. After facing England, they will also take on France and Spain in the series, presenting them with a solid platform to demonstrate their growth and resilience on the international stage. Byrne considers these fixtures essential for building the squad’s experience and reputation, preparing them for future challenges.
Excitement is building for next Sunday’s kickoff at 5:40 AM, with fans hopeful that the Flying Fijians can harness their prior experiences to deliver a standout performance. The camaraderie and spirit of growth within the team foster a positive outlook for Fijian rugby enthusiasts, who are eager to see their national side progress in this autumn tour.