The Fiji Airways Fijiana 7s team is gearing up to enhance their performance as they prepare for the upcoming tournament in Perth, following a careful analysis of their recent showing in Singapore. Head coach Richie Walker addressed the media from Perth, highlighting their commitment to strengthening defensive strategies ahead of fierce competition.
Walker pinpointed critical areas for improvement, underscoring the importance of translating strong performances into victory on the scoreboard. He stressed that the team must maintain consistency while adhering to their game plan to effectively navigate the challenging pool they will face in Perth.
“Our main aim is to keep the consistency with the players. We will be looking at a tough pool in Perth, and we just need to stick to our defense and game plan,” Walker stated. He acknowledged the team’s progress, notably praising their efforts during the Dubai and Cape Town tournaments, where they showcased commendable rugby.
Despite needing improvements, Walker expressed optimism about the team’s potential. “The girls played some excellent rugby; compared to Dubai and Cape Town, they’ve taken steps forward,” he observed. He conveyed confidence that with a focus on their attacking strategy and solid defensive execution, they could overcome any rival globally.
Key insights from their Singapore performance demonstrated the team’s capacity to push forward and put their opponents on the defensive. “If we get that right, we can beat any team in the world,” Walker asserted.
The Fijiana will kick off their matches against the USA at 2:30 PM on Saturday, followed by games against New Zealand at 5:58 PM and Japan at 8:52 PM. Should they advance, the women’s cup semi-finals are set for Sunday at 4:13 PM, with the final scheduled later that evening at 8:28 PM. With a commitment to improvement and a focus on their strengths, the Fijiana 7s team is poised for an exciting tournament ahead.