The Fiji Water Flying Fijians are set to embark on their Autumn Nations series with an exciting matchup against England next Sunday at Allianz Stadium in Twickenham. The history between these two teams adds extra significance to this encounter, as Fiji achieved a historic victory against the Red Roses, winning 33-22 during the buildup to the 2023 Rugby World Cup. This marked their first-ever win against England in a match attended by over 30,000 fans.
The Flying Fijians faced England again in the quarter-finals of the 2023 Rugby World Cup, where they narrowly missed out on a semi-final spot after a heart-wrenching 30-24 defeat. Fiji made a valiant comeback in that match, leveling the scores at one point, but England’s late drop goal and penalty from captain Owen Farrell ultimately sealed their progression.
As they prepare for the upcoming match, head coach Mick Byrne emphasizes the importance of matching England’s physicality and maintaining their trademark free-flowing style. Byrne expresses a desire for his team to start strong, stating, “Take it to them. Just get on the front foot and go after the game.” He stresses the need to avoid playing catch-up rugby, encouraging his players to deliver a performance that can lead to a successful outcome.
This match is not only an opportunity for the Flying Fijians to seek revenge for their previous defeat but also a chance to demonstrate their continued evolution as a team. Following their opening match against England, the Flying Fijians will subsequently face France and Spain in the series, creating a narrative rich with potential for growth and resilience. Byrne believes that these fixtures are crucial for preparing the team for future competitions, enabling them to showcase their development on an international stage.
The anticipation for next Sunday’s kickoff at 5:40 AM is palpable, with fans eager to see if the Flying Fijians can channel their past experiences into a strong performance. The spirit of unity and growth among the squad looks promising as they embark on this autumn tour, providing a hopeful outlook for Fijian rugby enthusiasts.