Warriors ready to combat Junior Japan’s physicality.

The Swire Shipping Fiji Warriors are preparing for a fast paced and physical battle against Junior Japan in what could be the deciding match of the World Rugby Pacific Challenge this Tuesday at ANZ Stadium.

Head Coach Senirusi Seruvakula has tweaked the run on team slightly to add more height and physicality in the forward line naming Vodafone Fiji Under 20s Captain Raikabula Moemoedonu for his first start in the Warriors jersey.

“We know Japan will play a fast game and bring a lot of physicality and in order for us to win we have to have our defence right” he said.

“We’ll use Voka in the locks for this match and bring in Moemoedonu to the 6 for his size and physical presence.”

The rest of Seruvakula’s forward line will remain consistent with the Fiji Airways Fijian Drua forward pack of Mawi, Dolokoto and Tagi leading the front row and hard running John Dyer at number 8.

Explosive centre Tuidraki Samusamuvodre will start in 12 for the match after making an impressive impact off the bench against Tonga A and will be joined by newcomer Veresa Tuqovu who Seruvakula has kept an eye on through the Fiji Rugby Academy programme.

“Tuidraki is back to full fitness from his injury which brings him into the run on team and after seeing Tuqova put in some solid work this last few weeks against the Warriors, we’ve put him in there to get capped and see how he can perform at this level. I believe he’ll go well.”

Frank Lomani will continue to lead the team with the Head Coach applauding the Flying Fijian scrum half for his debut Captain’s performance.

“Frank did a good job in his first game, and I know he will continue to develop as a leader the more experience and maturity he gets.”

The Swire Shipping Fiji Warriors play Junior Japan at 5pm this Tuesday 12th March at ANZ Stadium. Tonga A meets Samoa A in the opening match at 2.30pm.

Tickets are on sale at Fiji Sports Council or from the gate for $10 grandstand and $5 embankment, children under 12 free.

Swire Shipping Fiji Warriors v Junior Japan
Tuesday 12 March, 5pm at ANZ Stadium.

1. Eroni Mawi
2. Mesulame Dolokoto
3. Luke Tagi
4. Peni Naulago
5. Mosese Voka
6. Raikabula Momoedonu
7. Saimoni Uluinakauvadra
8. John Dyer
9. Frank Lomani (Capt)
10. 10 Caleb Muntz
11. Tira Wilagi
12. Tuidraki Samusamuvodre
13. Veresa Tuqovu
14. Vereamu Dikidikilati
15. Enele Malele

RESERVES

16. Veremalua Vugakoto
17. Immanuel Naciva
18.Alifereti Rabukawaqa
19. Richard Derenalagi
20. Alifereti Loaloa
21. Simione Kuruvoli
22. Fabiano Navable
23. Osea Waqa