Leawere makes six changes to his match-day squad
Swire Shipping Fijian Warriors Head Coach Kele Leawere has made six changes to the 23-member match day squad for the clash against Tonga A in the World Rugby Pacific Challenge at ANZ Stadium in Suva tomorrow.
Leawere said “We have a few niggling injuries and it’s also important to give game time to other players and test different combinations.”
Tight-head Prop Immanuel Naciva comes into the side alongside Joseva Nasaroa and hooker Lino Vasuinadi in the front-row.
Leawere has maintained his second row combination of Chris Minimbi, Anasa Qaranivalu and Vilive Miramira.
In the backline, Taniela Soqonawasaloa replaces Filimoni Savou and pairs up with Jonetani Vasurakauta in the midfield. Marika Vularewa starts ahead of Jiuta Wainiqolo who has been rested for the match.
Osea Waqa has been cleared from a knee injury to guide the side at full back.
Hooker Temesi Murivalu and utility back Alipate Waidilo will provide depth on the bench for the young Fijian Warriors side.
“I trust this set of players and I know they can do the job tomorrow against Tonga.
“Even-though we are missing some of the experienced players, there are others who can drive the team” said Leawere.
He added the players are aware of the expectation on their second WRPC match tomorrow.
He said “Tonga is a good physical team.
“They will come with all guns blazing after losing to Japan in the opening match last Friday”.
“We have ironed out on a few creases and the players have been told to stick to the game plan” Leawere said.
In the opening match at ANZ Stadium tomorrow, Junior Japan take on Samoa A at 2.30pm before the Swire Shipping Fijian Warriors face Tonga A at 5pm.
Tickets available at the gate, $10 for grandstand, $5 adult embankment, $2 child embankment with free entry for students in uniform after school.
Swire Shipping Fijian Warriors team V Tonga A
- Immanuel Naciva
- Lino Vasuinadi
- Joseva Nasaroa
- Isoa Nasilasila
- Chris Minimbi
- Anasa Qaranivalu
- Vilive Miramira
- Josateki Tuituba
- Simione Kuruvoli
- Tuidraki Samusamuvodre
- Epeli Momo
- Taniela Soqonawasaloa
- Jonetani Vasurakauta
- Marika Vularewa
- Osea Waqa
Reserves
- Jone Naqiri
- Temesi Murivalu
- Apakuki Naivanawalu
- Seeto Yabaki
- Talatala Tokibau
- Kitione Salawa
- Taitusi Lilisinu
- Alipate Waidilo