The FIJI Water Flying Fijians experienced a tough match, falling 21-34 against France in Bordeaux. This loss, following their defeat to England (18-38), has prompted critical reflection and determination among the team as they prepare for the 2027 Rugby World Cup.
Head coach Mick Byrne discussed the match, pointing out that early mistakes allowed France to gain a significant advantage. However, he praised the team’s resilience and their ability to regroup during the game. “We let them get away early and did not quite hang onto the ball or play in the right areas,” Byrne noted. “But when we did, and we held onto our structure, we asked a lot of questions and got back into the game.”
Captain Tevita Ikanivere mirrored these thoughts, showing confidence in the squad’s abilities. “We have the courage. We have the firepower to take on any team in the world. It comes down to the little moments and little disciplines, and I think we can do it come 2027,” he shared, emphasizing the importance of skill and strategic development.
Despite the disappointing outcomes, the Flying Fijians are eager to learn and grow from these experiences. They managed to close the score gap to just seven points before France extended their lead again, demonstrating their potential. Looking ahead to their final Autumn Test against Spain this Sunday at the Estadio Ciudad de Malaga, the players are focused on consolidating their strengths and addressing key areas for improvement.
The upcoming match against Spain presents an opportunity for the Flying Fijians to conclude their Autumn Tour on a positive note. Supporters remain hopeful that the lessons learned from previous matches will lead to a stronger performance, fostering a renewed sense of confidence as they gear up for future challenges, including the prestigious 2027 Rugby World Cup. As they continue to develop as a competitive presence in international rugby, the Flying Fijians are a team to watch in the coming years.