The Fiji Airways Flying Fijians Head Coach, John McKee has named an experienced side to take on Tonga in the Pasifika Challenge that will take place at Auckland’s Eden Park, New Zealand tomorrow.
John McKee says that he’s very pleased to be able to announce a very strong line-up to play Tonga in their final test match, before the team travels to Japan for the 2019 Rugby World Cup.
“We know Tonga will bring a lot of physicality in attack and defense in this match,” McKee
The Flying Fijians’ preparation since July 01 has been all about the Rugby World Cup, but McKee says that when the Fiji team crosses the white line tomorrow, the match will be about nothing other than Fiji versus Tonga.
“Our players know they will have to stand up in this physical contest to be successful in the outcome of this match,” McKee
In-form Hooker, Sam Matavesi joins experienced Props- Campese Ma’afu and Kalivati Tawake in the front-row while Tevita Cavubati and Leone Nakarawa partners at the Locks.
Skipper, Dominiko Waqaniburotu and Semi Kunatani are on the Flanks and Peceli Yato will start for the first time at number eight this season.
In the backs, Frank Lomani and Ben Volavola will maintain their places at scrum-half and at number 10.
The team also notes a very powerful centre combination of Levani Botia and Semi Radradra at number 12 and 13 respectively.
Vereniki Goneva and Josua Tuisova are on the wings, while Alivereti Veitokani is at full-back.
Coach McKee knows that Tonga will bring a lot of physicality in attack and defence tomorrow’s match, his players know they will have to stand up in this physical contest to be successful in the outcome of this match.
He adds that it’s also important for the team to build their momentum towards next month’s big game in Japan- from tomorrow’s match.
The Fiji Airways Flying Fijians will take on Tonga at Eden Park tomorrow at 4.30pm, and of course you can also catch the Live coverage of the game on Fiji One.
