Official Website of Fiji Rugby Union
Bill Mata is ready for the next task if named to face Wallabies.
Flying Fijians tough forward Viliame Mata is looking forward to another scintillating performance if he’s named in the run-on team to face Australia in their second Rugby World Cup pool match on Monday.
Mata was in devastating form against Wales featuring at number 8. He had an action-packed performance filled with powerhouse carries into the Wales defence. He regularly got over the gain line and was a go-to ball carrier for the side. He was strong defensively, too and won a turnover.
Mata said he is ready for the big game against Wallabies and is expecting a tough challenge.
“It’s always a great honor to represent Fiji and to get selected to play the Flying Fijians is very special.
“From the start of week one when we marched into camp in Taveuni was to go all out and we did give our best but unfortunately we didn’t get the results we have the same goal ahead but just a different team now so we are going to give all our best.”
He added the players regrouped and analyzed the game against Wales.
“We are ready for the challenge. We have to throw our bodies on the line if we are to win this match. It’s a crucial game and against a better opponent and we will prepare very well for the game” said Mata.
The 31-year-old said the players need to believe in themselves and work hard towards achieving the goal on Monday.
Head Coach Simon Raiwalui said Viliame Mata has been a leader in the group and performed very well in the first group.
“He has always been working hard and a very fantastic player plus performs to his very best against any team” said Raiwalui.
Mata featured against the Wallabies in the 2019 World Cup for only 40 minutes and was replaced due to an injury he sustained in the first half of the match.
Fiji plays Australia at 3.45FJT on Monday.