Fiji expects tough match against Samoa

Fiji 7s coach Gareth Baber says they are really keen to make an impact in the Paris 7s as the team prepares for their opening match against Samoa tonight.

Baber says Fiji is in a really tough pool as they have to meet Pacific rivals Samoa, Russia and Australia which have been all strong teams this season.

He told ABC’s Pacific Beat that the team is expecting tough matches against Samoa, Russia and especially Australia.

Tabadamu rover Samu Bale and Army forward Paula Dranisinukula will make their debut for the Vodafone Fiji 7s team in the Paris 7s.

Uluinakau Babas wing Glen Cakautini is the 13th player in the squad.

Baber says he has been impressed with the performance of the new players and their selection is part of a much bigger plan.

The rest of the squad includes Jasa Veremalua, Kalione Nasoko, Setareki Bituniyata, Sevuloni Mocenacagi, Captain Osea Kolinisau, Waisea Nacuqu, Jerry Tuwai, Amenoni Nasilasila, Vatemo Ravouvou and Mesulame Kunavula.

Fiji will play Samoa in their first pool game at 8 tonight.

Our second pool game is against Russia at 11.26 tonight and our final pool match is against Australia at 3.14am tomorrow.

The medal quarter finals will start at 8.28pm tomorrow, the medal semifinals will be played at 12.18am Monday while the medal final will be played at 3.33am Monday.

Barring any upsets, Fiji is likely to meet South Africa, Canada or Scotland in the quarter finals, they are likely to face England or USA in the semifinal and can face New Zealand or Australia in the final.