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Physical contest expected from Georgia
Fiji Airways Flying Fijians coach John McKee is expecting a physical battle against the Gerorgian Lelos this Saturday at ANZ Stadium in Suva.
Speaking ahead of team training this afternoon, the head coach expressed his team will be working hard to continue to build the momentum they created particularly in the first half of last weekend’s victory against Samoa.
“The first Test in the series is always a good indicator of where we can improve and build” he said.
“Our combinations are starting to gel and we will be looking to increase our rhythm in attack”
Watching them against Tonga, McKee notes the visitors are still playing the direct style he encountered here two years ago.
“We know Georgia will be a strong and physical team” he said “They pose threats in their forward line and have some dangerous backs”
A dangerous backline is also in store for the Fiji Airways Flying Fijians with the squad boosted by the inclusion of Timoci Nagusa, Nemani Nadolo and Semi Radradra into camp today.
“It is good to see the squad strengthened by those guys coming in and the coaches will be keeping a close eye on how the combinations form across the week”
“We will be looking to select the combinations that suit our game plan and match up against Georgia this Saturday”
Training at Albert Park this afternoon, the Fiji team were in high spirits following their win but are under no illusions that Saturday’s match will be a big challenge.
Execution of core skills under pressure and discipline for the full 80 minutes will get the job done against Georgia.
“We need to lift our defensive presence across the field with discipline a critical focus for us both in our preparations and for a good performance on the weekend.” said McKee.
The Fiji Airways Flying Fijians will meet the Georgian Lelos at 3.30pm on Saturday 16th June at ANZ Stadium. The opening match at 1.00pm will see Manu Samoa take on Ikale Tahi Tonga.
There will be a guest appearance by members of the Fiji Airways Men’s 7s team at half time of the match.
Tickets are on sale from $15 through Fiji Sports Council, FRU and online at Ticket Direct.