We’re up for it, says the Flying Fijians

By Ilia L. Likou 13 July 2017, 12:00AM

Facing Manu Samoa this Saturday is a real challenge for the Flying Fijians.

These were words from Fiji’s captain, Akapusi Qera in an interview with the Samoa Observer yesterday.

“That’s the truth, Samoa is a good team and we know that most of their players are playing a high level of rugby.” Captain Qera said.

“That is something that we are trying to study to overcome. But at the end of the day, it’s going to be a big challenge and we are expecting this (game) to be one of the toughest ones from over these six weeks.

 “What is so hard is the fact that we are taking this game on as defending champions of the Pacific Nations Championship (P.N.C.), so there’s an expectation and it’s not easy.

“We know the expectations demanded of us this Saturday.

”So we are not taking this game lightly,” Captain Qera said quietly.

“To be honest, we are looking forward to it.

“As I’ve mentioned earlier, Samoa is a good team and watching their game against Tonga last week, I know they’ll be making some changes.

“We’re expecting that, I know Samoa will be up for it as well. 

“And I tell you there’s nothing else on our minds at this time.

“All we have to do is to stay focussed and see what is next.

“For the rugby fans,  I think it’s going to be a super game to watch and be part of and may the best team win!

Fiji secured their qualification for the 2019 Rugby World Cup after battling back from seven points down in the second half to beat Tonga 14-10 in their Pacific Nations clash in Nuku'alofa on Saturday.

Captain Qera added that winning that game last week was one of their aims to qualify for the World Cup.

“Our goal now is to defend the N.P.C. championship and we’re looking forward to that.”

The Fijians, as the top-ranked Oceania side, will join Australia, Wales, Georgia and either Canada or Uruguay in Pool D in Japan in the Rugby World Cup.

By Ilia L. Likou 13 July 2017, 12:00AM
Samoa Observer

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