The Fiji Airways Fijiana 7s team is optimistic about showcasing its improved performance this weekend at the Vancouver 7s. Head coach Richard Walker has emphasized a focused approach to the team’s preparations, honing in on discipline, sharper restarts, and a more cohesive squad following lessons learned from competitions in Singapore and Perth.
Walker noted that instead of overhauling their approach, the coaching staff has identified four key areas for improvement. Notably, enhancing one-on-one tackling and refining their dynamics around the ruck have emerged as top priorities after the team conceded numerous penalties in their recent outings.
The team is also revisiting its kick-off strategies, which were previously a significant strength during the Dubai and Cape Town tournaments but faltered in the last two events. Building more consistency in attack remains crucial, and Walker is confident that the intensive training will pay off during the Vancouver tournament.
The Fijiana began the season on a strong note with a fourth-place finish in Dubai, but subsequent sixth and seventh placements in the latest tournaments underlined the need for adjustments. Walker highlighted the challenge of managing back-to-back tournaments and integrating five new players, including several making their debuts, who took time to acclimate to the World Series’ intense environment.
As the team heads to Vancouver, Walker is hopeful that the stability brought by retaining the core group from the Perth leg will enhance their performance. With no debutants in the lineup this time, the players’ familiarity with one another is expected to facilitate better execution of their game plan.
The Fijiana is eager to convert their enhanced preparation into results and improve their standings. Their matches in Vancouver kick off tomorrow against Australia at 9:31 AM, followed by encounters with the USA at 12:57 PM and hosts Canada at 4:46 PM. Fans can catch the live action of Fiji’s games on FBC TV, providing a chance to support the team as they aim to reaffirm their status in the competition.