Fiji is the most successful team in the competition, claiming five PNC titles, including a four in a row between 2015 to 2018.
Fiji’s first match during the Pacific Nations Cup was against Tonga on the 2nd of July at the ANZ Stadium, followed by their game against Australia A on the 9th of July at Churchill Park and finally against Samoa on the 16th of July at Churchill Park.
Vodafone Flying Fijians Coach Vern Cotter says they had a perfect first 40 minutes but the players lost control of the game in the second half against Samoa.
Cotter says they did nearly everything right in the first half and took a lead of 17-3.
He adds he thinks they would have come even stronger in the second half but then they slipped.
Cotter says Samoa scored first in the second half and then probably took the control of the game whereas Fiji kept on making simple errors.
Vodafone Flying Fijians Coach Vern Cotter says the players need to pick up the momentum and have the right mindset if they want a positive outcome against Samoa.
Cotter says they have had a couple of injuries in the team after two games therefore it gives an opportunity to other players to step up, take the responsibility and face the challenge
Fiji will take on Samoa at 3.30pm today at Churchill Park.
Tonga will take on Australia A at 12pm.
Vodafone Flying Fijians coach Vern Cotter says the midfield combination of captain Waisea Nayacalevu and Vilimoni Botitu is important as it gives him options going into future tests and the Rugby World Cup next year.
Nayacalevu will start at centre tomorrow after missing out last week due to a slight shoulder injury.
Cotter adds it’s nice to have an older head with a youngster in the midfield.
Fiji will take on Samoa at 3.30pm tomorrow at Churchill Park.
Tonga will take on Australia A at 12pm.
Samoa have won the Pacific Nations Cup after edging the Vodafone Flying Fijians 23-20 in an epic encounter at Churchill Park.
Fiji dominated the scrums in the first half which enabled Fiji to dominate possession and territory.
Albert Tuisue scored Fiji’s first try after they were awarded a penalty in the Samoan 22 and opted to tap and run.
Frank Lomani scored a brilliant individual try from the base of the scrum to extend Fiji’s lead.
Ben Volavola kicked a penalty on the stroke of half time as Fiji led 17-3.
Samoa came out a changed team in the second half and rectified their weakness to reduce the deficit from penalties and two tries.
Samoa scored 20 points in the second half to win the title.
In another match, Australia A beat Tonga 39-22.
Expect the Samoans to come out firing when they battle it out against the Vodafone Flying Fijians for Pacific rugby supremacy at Churchill Park tomorrow.
Coach Seilala Mapusua says pride is on the line, as the match against Fiji is the battle of the Pacific.
Mapusua has named his strongest side for their final PNC match with players like captain Michael Ala'alatoa getting another start at prop.
Former All Blacks and three-time Super Rugby title-winning Crusaders loose forward, Jordan Taufua has been named to start after he made his debut against Tonga last week.
Samoa will take on Fiji at 3.30pm tomorrow.
The first match will see Tonga taking on Australia A at 12pm.
Vodafone Flying Fijians coach Vern Cotter says he thinks the main message is enough talk and let’s get on with it.
Cotter says let’s build on the things which they did well against Tonga.
He adds they all know that they weren’t good enough last week so let’s get better this week.
Fiji will take on Samoa at 3.30pm on Saturday at Churchill Park in Lautoka.
The first match will see Tonga taking on Australia A at 12pm.
In-form Vodafone Flying Fijians prop Manasa Saulo has been picked to start in his third consecutive Pacific Nations Cup match when they take on Samoa on Saturday.
The veteran prop says he is expecting an intense match and is aware of the physicality that the Samoan forwards will bring.
Saulo was not selected for national duties after the 2019 Rugby World Cup as he struggled with form, but forced his way into the team for the PNC after having an impressive season with the Fijian Drua in the Super Rugby Pacific competition this year.
Fiji will take on Samoa at 3.30pm on Saturday at Churchill Park in Lautoka.
The first match will see Tonga taking on Australia A at 12pm.
Flying Fijians Lineup:
1.Eroni Mawi
2:Sam Matavesi
3.Manasa Saulo
4.Apisalome Ratuniyarawa
5.Tevita Ratuva
6.Isoa Nasilasila
7.Rusiate Nasove
8.Albert Tuisue
9.Frank Lomani
10.Ben Volavola
11.Vinaya Habosi
12.Vilimoni Botitu
13.Waisea Nayacalevu
14.Jiuta Wainiqolo
15.Setareki Tuicuvu
Reserves
16.Tevita Ikanivere
17.Haereiti Hetet
18.Luke Tagi
19.Temo Mayanavanua
20.Kitione Kamikamica
21.Peni Matawalu
22.Setareki Tamanivalu
23.Josua Tuisova
Vodafone Flying Fijians coach Vern Cotter has made eight changes to his side to face Manu Samoa in their final Pacific Nations Cup this weekend.
Saracens prop, Eroni Mawi, Sam Matavesi and Manasa Saulo will make up the front row.
Tevita Ratuva will pair up with Apisalome Ratuniyarawa at locks.
The back-row will see Isoa Nasilasila making his first start at flanker with Rusiate Nasove at number 7 and Albert Tuisue at number eight.
Ben Volavola will start at flyhalf while captain Waisea Nayacalevu and Vilimoni Botitu will form the midfield combination.
Vinaya Habosi, Jiuta Wainiqolo and Setareki Tuicuvu are the back three.
Fiji will take on Samoa at 3.30pm on Saturday at Churchill Park while Tonga will face Australia A at 12pm.
Flying Fijians Lineup:
1.Eroni Mawi
2:Sam Matavesi
3.Manasa Saulo
4.Apisalome Ratuniyarawa
5.Tevita Ratuva
6.Isoa Nasilasila
7.Rusiate Nasove
8.Albert Tuisue
9.Frank Lomani
10.Ben Volavola
11.Vinaya Habosi
12.Vilimoni Botitu
13.Waisea Nayacalevu
14.Jiuta Wainiqolo
15.Setareki Tuicuvu
Reserves
16.Tevita Ikanivere
17.Haereiti Hetet
18.Luke Tagi
19.Temo Mayanavanua
20.Kitione Kamikamica
21.Peni Matawalu
22.Setareki Tamanivalu
23.Josua Tuisova
| Date | Time | Team | Team | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
The Vodafone Flying Fijians are expecting a different Samoan team in this weekend’s final round of Pacific Nations Cup.
The last time the two teams met was in 2019 where Fiji won 10-8.
Flying Fijians coach, Vern Cotter says they still lack good finishing especially when there is a break or good set piece play.
Meanwhile, Samoa’s coach Seilala Mapusua says they are expecting Fiji to come back stronger after their loss to Australia A last week.
Fiji will play Samoa at 3.30pm this Saturday at Churchill Park.
Vodafone Flying Fijians coach Vern Cotter says they have a few decisions to make before the final team is announced for the Samoa clash.
Cotter says they have to improve in areas such as the rucks, be aggressive in their carries and not lose possession.
He further says they are looking at some options for the centre role.
Fiji will play Samoa at 3.30pm Saturday at Churchill Park.
Meanwhile, Australia A will face Tonga at 12pm.
Vodafone Flying Fijians Coach Vern Cotter says this weekend, they have to live up to the trademarks that the team is known for.
Cotter says they would also like to see a big improvement on how they express themselves on the field.
He adds it is also about character.
Fiji will play Samoa at 3.30pm at Churchill Park in Lautoka.
Meanwhile, Australia A will face Tonga at 12pm.
Ben Volavola is expected to start at fly-half for the Vodafone Flying Fijians against the unbeaten Samoan side in their Pacific Nations Cup this weekend.
Coach Vern Cotter confirms Teti Tela had to fly back to Australia to welcome his newborn.
Cotter is also expected to make some changes in the midfield with Filimoni Botitu expected to get his first start alongside captain Levani Botia.
Cotter adds that Botitu can also play at fullback.
The Flying Fijians final 23 will be named on Thursday.
Fiji will play Samoa at 3.30pm at Churchill Park in Lautoka.
Meanwhile, Australia A will face Tonga at 12pm.
The Vodafone Flying Fijians will be looking to redeem themselves against a formidable Samoan side this weekend after their loss to Australia A last week.
Fiji’s coach Vern Cotter has admitted that inconsistency had cost them the game last week.
Flyhalf Teti Tela had missed a few crucial kicks while Ben Volavola did not capitalize on some opportunities in their second half.
Fiji is in 3rd place in their Pacific Nations Cup table followed by Tonga at 4th. Samoa is leading the points with Australia A sitting at second place.
The final round of the PNC will be played at Churchill Park on Saturday, Australia A will take on Tonga at 12pm while Fiji will face Samoa at 3.30pm
Vodafone Flying Fijians coach Vern Cotter has indicated changes to the line-up for the final game against Samoa in the Pacific Nations Cup this week.
Cotter says they will look at the team strategically before deciding on who will play.
The coach says they will do a review early this week as Mesulame Kunavula, Kitione Kamikamica and Teti Tela have picked up injuries.
In the final round of the PNC that will be played at Churchill Park on Saturday, Australia A will take on Tonga at 12pm while Fiji will face Samoa at 3.30pm
Meanwhile, Samoa is sitting at the top of the PNC standings while Australia A is in 2nd place.
Fiji is in 3rd place followed by Tonga at 4th.
Vodafone Flying Fijians coach Vern Cotter says it’s disappointing that we could not rise to the challenge that Australia A offered s as we complicated things by not sticking to the simple things and doing them well.
Cotter says he believed that Fiji still had a chance to win with 15 minutes remaining in the game but the players lost sight of their strengths and started playing as individuals.
Cotter says the 32-18 loss to Australia A really hurt them as they lost a lot of possession, struggled to take kick offs and inaccurate and inconsistent in what they did.
The coach says the team needs to present themselves in the best manner against Samoa and they have week to get it right.
The Flying Fijians will take on Samoa in their must-win final Pacific Nations Cup match at 3.30pm on Saturday at Churchill Park.
The Vodafone Flying Fijians have lost to Australia A 32-18 in their second game of the Pacific Nations Cup at Churchill Park.
Fiji started off well with Seta Tamanivalu scoring in the first half and captain Levani Botia getting a try just before half time.
Teti Tela missed a few penalties and conversions in the first half and was substituted by Ben Volavola in the second spell.
Fiji’s final points came from a try to lock Api Ratuniyarawa with Volavola missing the conversion.
Filipo Daugunu scored one of Australia A’s four tries.
The Flying Fijians will face Samoa in a must-win game at next Saturday at 3.30pm Churchill Park.
Meanwhile, Samoa has defeated Tonga 34-18 in their second game to top the PNC standings.
| 3 - 0 | ||
| 7 - 3 | ||
| 10 - 3 | ||
| 8 -10 | ||
| 15 - 8 | ||
| 13 -15 | ||
40' Teti Tela misses a penalty. Half-time score. Australia lead 15 - 13 | ||
| 22 - 13 | ||
| 18 - 22 | ||
| 29 - 18 | ||
| 32 - 18 | ||
Samoa has defeated Tonga 34-18 in their second game to top the standings at the Pacific Nations Cup.
Tonga started the first half strongly after scoring two tries and kicking two penalties to lead 18-10 at the break.
Samoa were too powerful in the second half as hooker Ray Niuia scored three tries while Tumua Manu and Theodore McFarland got a try each.
Samoa will play the Vodafone Flying Fijians at 3.30pm at Churchill Park next Saturday.
Vodafone Flying Fijians prop, Mesake Doge says to wearing the white jersey in front of his family will be very special for him when they take on Australia A in the Pacific Nations Cup this afternoon.
From humble beginnings playing grass-root level rugby in Fiji, to the elite level in Europe, he says the exposure in his younger days paved the way for him to be named in the team.
Doge played for Ra Provincial in his primary school days and went on to join Queen Victoria School where he played in all the grades.
He says 2011 was the most memorable as he was part of the historic win for QVS when the decision was made to contest the Deans Trophy in the Under 18 age group.
The 29-year-old went on to play provincial rugby for Vatukoula, Tailevu and Naitasiri before moving abroad where he was contracted in Romania, France and now in Wales.
Doge has been named in the team to play Australia A at 3.30pm at Churchill Park today.
Vodafone Flying Fijians coach Vern Cotter says it was a hard decision to rest Jiuta Wainiqolo after he had a good outing against Tonga.
Cotter says there’s a lot of competition within the team and everyone is excited to see Josua Tuisova start for the Flying Fijians tomorrow.
The coach says Tuisova hasn't played test rugby in awhile and he will bring the power on the right-wing.
Fiji will meet Australia A at 3.30pm tomorrow at Churchill Park.
Meanwhile, Samoa will play Tonga at 12pm tomorrow also at Churchill Park in Lautoka.
Vodafone Flying Fijians Coach Vern Cotter says he will not disrupt the halfback and flyhalf combination of Frank Lomani and Teti Tela as they dictated the pace of the game against Tonga well.
He says Ben Volavola will provide good cover for the flyhalf and fullback position.
Cotter adds they expect Australia A to come out firing after their narrow loss to Samoa last weekend.
He says Fiji will need to be smart in their defense.
Fiji will meet Australia A at 3.30pm tomorrow at Churchill Park.
Meanwhile, Samoa will play Tonga at 12pm tomorrow also at Churchill Park in Lautoka.
Australia A has made eight changes to their starting line-up that will take on the Vodafone Flying Fijians in the second Pacific Nations Cup match tomorrow.
Filipo Daugunu and Seru Uru will start at wing and lock respectively, while Jock Campbell will start at fullback in place of Reece Hodge.
Mark Nawaqanitawase has been named on the bench.
Other players that will start for Australia A include Matt Gibbon, Tom Robertson, Ryan Lonergan, and Hudson Creighton.
Australia A will meet Fiji at 3.30pm tomorrow at Churchill Park.
Vodafone Flying Fijians loose-forward Rusiate Nasove has been rated as the most hard working player in the team by coach Vern Cotter.
Cotter praised Nasove for his defensive efforts, saying he is the type of player who works hard from start to finish and he deserves to be in the starting line up this Saturday.
Nasove has retained the number 7 jersey in the team to face Australia A.
Nasove is one of the 16 Fijian Drua players that have been named in the Flying Fijians squad for the for the Pacific Nations Cup.
Fiji will take on Australia A at 3.30pm Saturday at Churchill Park.
Flying Fijians team vs Australia A:
1. Haereiti Hetet 2. Sam Matavesi 3. Manasa Saulo 4. Isoa Nasilasila 5. Api Ratuniyarawa 6. Mesualme Kunavula 7. Rusiate Nasove 8. Albert Tuisue 9. Frank Lomani 10. Teti Tela 11. Vinaya Habosi 12. Levani Botia (C) 13. Setareki Tamanivalu 14. Josua Tuisova 15. Manasa Mataele
Reserves 16. Mesu Dolokoto 17. Eroni Mawi 18. Mesake Doge 19. Temo Mayanavanua 20. Kitione Kamikamica 21. Peni Matawalu 22. Vilimoni Botitu 23. Ben Volavola
Vodafone Flying Fijians coach Vern Cotter has made six changes to his starting side to take on Australia A in their second Pacific Nations Cup match this Saturday.
Cotter has retained the halves combination of Teti Tela and Frank Lomani to direct their running rugby again this week.
A robust backline has been named with captain Levani Botia and Setareki Tamanivalu in the midfield while Vinaya Habosi, Josua Tuisova and Manasa Mataele make up the back three.
Two changes have been made in the forwards with Sam Matavesi starting at hooker while veteran lock Api Ratuniyarawa will pair with Isoa Nasilasila.
Fiji will take on Australia A at 3.30pm Saturday at Churchill Park while Tonga will face Samoa at 12pm.
Flying Fijians team vs Australia A:
1. Haereiti Hetet 2. Sam Matavesi 3. Manasa Saulo 4. Isoa Nasilasila 5. Api Ratuniyarawa 6. Mesualme Kunavula 7. Rusiate Nasove 8. Albert Tuisue 9. Frank Lomani 10. Teti Tela 11. Vinaya Habosi 12. Levani Botia (C) 13. Setareki Tamanivalu 14. Josua Tuisova 15. Manasa Mataele
Reserves 16. Mesu Dolokoto 17. Eroni Mawi 18. Mesake Doge 19. Temo Mayanavanua 20. Kitione Kamikamica 21. Peni Matawalu 22. Vilimoni Botitu 23. Ben Volavola
Filipo Daugunu will start for Australia A when they take on the Vodafone Flying Fijians at Churchill Park on Saturday.
Australia A coach Jason Gilmore says Daugunu missed their first Pacific Nations Cup match last week because of a minor injury but he is 100% fit and will start this weekend.
Mark Nawaqanitawase and Seru Uru are also expected get a start.
The Flying Fijians will meet the Australia A at 3.30pm on Saturday.
| Date | Time | Team | Team | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Vodafone Flying Fijians winger Josua Tuisova has praised the performances of Jiuta Wainiqolo and Vinaya Habosi.
He says both players have been performing really well in their rugby career, and he is looking forward to playing alongside them.
Tuisova says Habosi has been making headlines in the Super Rugby Pacific while Wainiqolo made his name in the European Championship.
He adds if he gets the chance to play this weekend, he will give his 100%.
Meanwhile, Fiji will meet Australia A at 3.30pm Saturday.
In another match, Tonga will play Samoa at 12pm Saturday.
Reece Hodge will miss the Pacific Nations Cup clash against the Vodafone Flying Fijians this weekend.
Hodge has been added to the Wallabies squad for the rest of the England series.
Queensland Reds flyhalf Lawson Creighton has been added to the Australia A squad after his breakout season.
Fiji will play Australia A at 3.30pm this Saturday at Churchill Park.
Expect some changes in the Vodafone Flying Fijians when they meet Australia A in their second match of the Pacific Nations Cup.
Coach Vern Cotter says some players got injured while others are fatigued from their match against Tonga.
He says this is also an opportunity for other players to step up and get some game time.
Some players that are likely to start this weekend are Levani Botia, Manasa Mataele, Josua Tuisova, Sam Matavesi and Albert Tuisue.
Fiji will meet Australia A at 3.30pm Saturday at Churchill Park.
Vodafone Flying Fijians halfback Peni Matawalu is grateful that he made the 36 member squad for the Pacific Nations Cup and he has been learning a lot from the experienced players.
He says this time last year, he was with the Fiji Corrections Service but he did not expect to celebrate his 25th birthday playing for the national squad.
Matawalu says they have been preparing well and are ready to take on Australia A this weekend.
Matawalu is a former Namosi Rugby player who joined the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua for this year's Super Rugby Pacific competition.
Fiji will face Australia A at 3.30pm this Saturday in Lautoka.
Former Wallabies winger Lote Tuqiri believes that the Vodafone Flying Fijians is in the right direction to cause some major upsets in next year’s Rugby World Cup.
Tuqiri says the current Flying Fijians style of play has more structure and control which gave them a dominant performance over Tonga.
Tuqiri was impressed with the Fijian Drua players especially with Teti Tela.
Meanwhile a total of 43 players from the Super Rugby Pacific were selected for their respective nations with 16 picked for Fiji, 14 for Manu Samoa and 13 for Tonga.
Flying Fijians coach Vern Cotter says Super Rugby for the Fijian Drua has put these players in demanding situations, and they have learnt to respond accordingly.
The second round of the Pacific Nations Cup moves to Churchill Park this Saturday with Samoa taking on Tonga at 12pm while the Flying Fijians will battle it out with Australia A at 3.30pm.
Vodafone Flying Fijians captain Waisea Nayacalevu says they are excited to have won against Tonga but at the same time there is a lot to work on.
As Fiji prepares to face Australia A this weekend, Nayacalevu says they know they did some mistakes on the field.
He says they have to reset, refocus and polish on those areas.
Fiji plays Australia A at 3.30pm Saturday at Churchill Park.
The new players in the Vodafone Flying Fijians team jelled in well and were supported by the experienced players according to coach Vern Cotter and captain Waisea Nayacalevu.
5 players made their debut in the 36-0 win over Tonga yesterday with Vinaya Habosi and Kalaveti Ravouvou grabbing a try each in their first match for the Flying Fijians.
Other debutantes include Isoa Nasilasila, Seta Tamanivalu and Rusiate Nasove.
Cotter says it is pleasing that the whole squad was involved in the match.
He says this gives them more depth.
The Flying Fijians will now take on Australia A at 3.30pm next Saturday at Churchill Park.
Vodafone Flying Fijians flyhalf, Teti Tela says it is an honour for him to rub shoulders with the big names in the squad as they prepare to take on Tonga in the Pacific Nations Cup this afternoon.
Tela has been in impressive form throughout the Super Rugby season this year and has been given the responsibility to guide Fiji from number 10.
The 31-year-old says it is exciting for the Drua players to play with Europe based players and they are hoping for a good campaign.
Tela adds it means a lot to be back in Fiji.
In the last 6 meetings with Tonga, the Flying Fijians have won on five occasions.
Fiji will play Tonga at 3.30pm today at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva and you can catch the live commentary on Viti FM on 92FM, 92.2FM and 92.6FM.
You can also download the fijivillage app to listen to the commentary through the live radio option.
Australia A will face Samoa at 1pm.
Fan turn up at the HFC Bank Stadium in support of their teams.
The Vodafone Flying Fijians put on a clinical performance to thrash star studded Tonga 36-0 in the Pacific Nations Cup at the HFC Bank Stadium this afternoon.
Tevita Ratuva opened the scoring in the 6th minute before Jiuta Wainiqolo crossed over in the corner to extend Fiji’s lead.
Kalaveti Ravouvou then scored Fiji’s third try on his debut to put Fiji in a commanding position.
Fiji were down to 14-men in the first half after Teti Tela was shown a yellow card for throwing the ball away.
However, it did not make much of a difference as Frank Lomani kicked a penalty to extend Fiji’s lead to 22-0 at the break.
The Flying Fijians continued their dominance in the second half and fullback Setareki Tuicuvu scored their 4th try after brilliant work from captain Waisea Nayacalevu.
Vinaya Habosi then capped of a wonderful performance with a try on debut.
The much talked about Israel Folau was quiet in the early stages before being replaced due to an injury.
In another match, Samoa stunned Australia A 31-26.
The Flying Fijians will now take on Australia A in their second match at 3.30pm next Saturday at Churchill Park.
Match Report
74th minute: Good break by Wainiqolo but Fiji knock-on. Fiji 36-0 Tonga
62nd Minute: Another try for Fiji as Vinaya Habosi finishes a brilliant passage of play. Fiji 36-0 Tonga
58th minute: Former All Black Seta Tamanivalu is on to make his debut for the Flying Fijians. Fiji 29-0 Tonga
57th minute. Tela converts to make it 29-0
55th minute: Try time for Fiji as Setareki Tuicuvu scores after brilliant work from captain Waisea Nayacalevu
50th minute: Another disallowed try for Tonga due to a forward pass as Fiji survive again. Fiji 22-0 Tonga
48th minute. Great defence from Fiji on the line to win a penalty. 22-0
46th minute. Play held up following an injury to a Tongan player Fiji 22-0 Tonga
44th minute. Scrum penalty to Fiji. Fiji 22-0 Tonga
Teti Tela restarts in the second half.
HALF TIME: Fiji 22 - 0 Tonga.
36th minute: Frank Lomani extends Fiji's lead from a penalty in the absence of Teti Tela. Fiji 22-0 Tonga
33rd minute: Scrum for Tonga inside their own half. Fiji 19-0 Tonga
30th minute: Teti Tela shown the yellow card for throwing the ball away. 19-0
28th minute: Malakai Fekitoa crashes over but the try is disallowed because of a knock-on. Fiji 19-0 Tonga
27th minute: Penalty to Tonga inside Fiji's metre line. Scrum to come. 19-0
25th minute. Tevita Ratuva knocks on from the restart. Lineout to come inside the Fijian 22. 19-0
24th minute: TRY!!!. Kalaveti Ravouvou scores the 3rd try for Fiji. Fiji 19-0 Tonga
18th minute: William Havili kicks it out on the full. Fiji scrum.
15th minute: Brilliant defence from Fiji on their own 5 metre line. Scrum for Fiji. Still 12-0
14th minute. Penalty to Tonga inside the Fiji 22. Lineout to come
Conversion unsuccessful. Fiji 12-0 Tonga
11th minute. Try for Fiji as Jiuta Wainiqolo dives over in the corner. Fiji 12-0 Tonga.
Tela kicks for touch. Another lineout for Fiji inside the Tongan 22. Fiji 7 -0 Tonga
10th minute. Another scrum penalty for Fiji
6TH minute: TRY!! Tevita Ratuva crashes over for Fiji. Fiji leads 5-0. Tela converts to make it 7-0
6th minute: Solid scrum for Fiji and they get the penalty. Fiji 0 - 0 Tonga
4th minute: Penalty for Tonga and they kick for touch
Teti Tela announces himself with a beautiful 50-20. Scrum for Fiji 5 metres from the Tongan try line. Tonga 0- 0 Fiji
A big tackle forces a knock-on from Tonga. Scrum for Fiji
Fijian Drua centre Kalaveti Ravouvou who will make his debut for the Vodafone Flying Fijians this afternoon is relishing the opportunity to play against a star studded Tongan backline in their Pacific Nations Cup clash.
The 22-year-old was a revelation in the Super Rugby Pacific this year and will come up against former All Black Malakai Fekitoa in the midfield who is making his debut for Tonga.
Ravouvou says this will not be any different from Super Rugby where they have played against a number of experienced players.
Meanwhile, captain Waisea Nayacalavu says he is looking forward to partnering with Ravouvou in the midfield.
The Flying Fijians will play Tonga at 3.30pm today at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva and you can catch the live commentary on Viti FM on 92FM, 92.2FM and 92.6FM.
You can also download the fijivillage app to listen to the commentary through the live radio option.
Australia A will face Samoa at 1pm.
Fijian Drua star wing Vinaya Habosi is nothing but grateful and blessed to be named in the Vodafone Flying Fijians starting 15 to face Tonga in their PNC opener tomorrow.
Habosi was unstoppable in his debut season for the Fijian Drua in Super Rugby Pacific scoring a number of incredible tries and fans will be eager to see what the Nadroga man will do in the white jumper.
Recovering from the injury that ruled him out of the Fiji side to play the All Blacks last July was the biggest challenge that the former fire fighter had to overcome in his rugby career so far.
Habosi is confident of Fiji’s chances in their match against Tonga highlighting that he will be banking on his experience from playing in the Super Rugby when they face big names in rugby tomorrow.
The Flying Fijians play Tonga at 3.30pm tomorrow at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva and you can catch the live commentary on Viti FM on 92FM, 92.2FM and 92.6FM.
You can also download the fijivillage app to listen to the commentaries through the live radio option.
Rugby fans will be in for a treat tomorrow as the high flying Vinaya Habosi and former Wallaby Israel Folau will clash on the wings when Fiji faces Tonga in their Pacific Nations Cup clash.
Folau will return to Test rugby for the first time since he was sacked by Rugby Australia three years ago while Habosi scored 6 tries in his debut Super Rugby season.
Former All Blacks Malakai Fekitoa and Charles Piutau will be making their debut for Tonga tomorrow with both players set to start.
Meanwhile former All Black Seta Tamanivalu has been named on the bench for the Flying Fijians.
The Flying Fijians play Tonga at 3.30pm tomorrow at the HFC Stadium in Suva and you can catch the live commentary on Viti FM on 92FM, 92.2FM and 92.6FM.
You can also download the fijivillage app to listen to the commentaries through the live radio option.
A number of players have not been selected to play for the Vodafone Flying Fijians in their Pacific Nations Cup opener as they joined the camp late.
They are captain Levani Botia, play-maker Ben Volavola, Josua Tuisova and Aminiasi Tuimaba.
With 9 Fijian Drua players in the starting 15, Flying Fijians coach Vern Cotter says these players joined the camp early.
Teti Tela will start at No.10 while five players will be making their debut against Tonga.
Drua stars such as Vinaya Habosi, Isoa Nasilasila, Rusiate Nasove and Kalaveti Ravouvou will also be in the starting 15 while former All Black Seta Tamanivalu will make his debut from the bench.
Other players are Haereiti Hetet, Tevita Ikanivere, Manasa Saulo, Tevita Ratuva, Mesulame Kunavula, Albert Tuisue, Frank Lomani, Jiuta Wainiqolo and Setareki Tuicuvu.
Sam Matavesi, Eroni Mawi, Luke Tagi, Api Ratuniyarawa, Kitione Kamikamica, Peni Matawalu and Manasa Mataele are in the reserves.
Fiji will face Tonga at 3.30pm Saturday at the ANZ Stadium and you can catch the live commentary on Viti FM on 92FM, 92.2FM and 92.6FM
Vodafone Flying Fijians midfielder Waisea Nayacalevu says he is excited about the future of 15s rugby in Fiji as the inclusion of 16 players from the Fijian Drua in the team for the Pacific Nations Cup is a testimony of our progress.
While speaking to Legend FM Sports at the launch of the PNC yesterday, Nayacalevu says the side will be balanced with the experience of the Europe based players and Fijian Drua players.
Nayacalevu says fans can expect an exciting clash when they take on Tonga at 3.30pm this Saturday at the ANZ Stadium. You can catch the live commentary of the match on Viti FM on 92FM, 92.2FM and 92.6FM.
Tickets for the match can be purchased from the Fiji Sports Council.
Grandstand tickets are $50 for Platinum and $35 for Gold and $12 for children under-12.
Concrete Embankment tickets are $25 and $5 for children under-12 while grass embankment tickets are $10 and $2 for children under-
Vodafone Flying Fijians lock Api Ratuniyarawa has no intentions of retiring from international duties yet as he has set his focus on the Pacific Nations Cup and the 2023 Rugby World Cup.
While speaking at a Flying Fijians press conference, Ratuniyarawa says he has just signed a contract for two years with London Irish and he will still be playing rugby after the World Cup next year.
The 35-year old made his debut for Fiji in 2012 and has played 36 test matches.
Meanwhile, Fiji will meet Tonga in their first PNC match at 3.30pm Saturday at the ANZ Stadium.
You can catch the live commentary of the match on Viti FM on 92,92.2 and 92.6FM.
Tickets for the match can be purchased from the Fiji Sports Council from Thursday.
Grandstand tickets are $50 for Platinum and $35 for Gold and $12 for children under-12.
Concrete Embankment tickets are $25 and $5 for children under-12 while grass embankment tickets are $10 and $2 for children under-12.
Despite being injured at a young age, Flying Fijians player, Isoa Nasilasila, did not let go of his dream to be part of the national 15s rugby team.
Speaking after the Flying Fijians' first training session at the Sigatoka Sand Dunes, Nasilasila says he injured his ankle while preparing with the Vodafone Fiji Under 20’s in 2019 and it was one of the toughest times in his rugby career.
He says he kept pursuing his dream to be part of the Flying Fijians when he went to Australia and was fortunate enough to be part of the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua during the Super Rugby Pacific competition.
Nasilasila is part of the 34-member squad for the Pacific Nations Cup that will also feature Tonga, Samoa and Australia A.
Fiji is the most successful team in the competition, claiming five PNC titles, including a four in a row between 2015 to 2018.
Fiji’s first PNC match will be against Tonga at 3.30pm next Saturday at the ANZ Stadium.
Former All Black Seta Tamanivalu says he feels blessed after being given the opportunity to represent his country of birth following a stint in New Zealand.
The former Lelean Memorial School student will be making his debut for the Flying Fijians in the Pacific Nations Cup which kicks off next week.
Tamanivalu was part of the Crusaders side which won the Super Rugby titles in 2017 and 2018.
He has played for the Chiefs in 2015 and 2016.
Tamanivalu was also a member of the Fiji Secondary Schools Under-18 rugby league squad that toured Australia in 2010.
The 30-year-old says playing for the Flying Fijians is a massive opportunity.
Fiji’s first PNC match will be against Tonga at 3.30pm next Saturday at the ANZ Stadium.
Some key players were not considered for the upcoming Pacific Nations Cup for the Flying Fijians next month because of injuries and rehabilitation.
Flying Fijians coach, Vern Cotter says these players are Semi Radradra, Peceli Yato, Viliame Mata, Meli Derenalagi, Kitione Salawa, Vilive Miramira, Samu Tawake and Peni Ravai.
16 players from the Fijian Drua have been included in the Flying Fijians squad for next month’s PNC.
Former All Black Seta Tamanivalu is also set to make his debut for Fiji.
The Drua players includes star winger Vinaya Habosi, Ilaisa Droasese, Kalaveti Ravouvou, Apisalome Vota, Teti Tela, Frank Lomani, Simione Kuruvoli, Peni Matawalu, Rusiate Nasove, Te Ahiwaru Cirikidaveta, Isoa Nasilasila, Manasa Saulo, Mesulame Dolokoto, Tevita Ikanivere and Haereti Hetet.
The backline also features Josua Tuisova, Ben Volavola, Vilimoni Botitu, Waisea Nayacalevu, Jiuta Wainiqolo, Manasa Mataele and Setareki Tuicuvu.
Eroni Mawi, Sam Matavesi, Luke Tagi, Mesake Doge, Tevita Ratuva, Temo Mayanavanua, Ratu Leone Rotuisolia, Apisalome Ratuniyarawa, Albert Tuisue, Mesulame Kunavula and captain Levani Botia complete the forward pack.
Fiji’s first match during the Pacific Nations Cup is against Tonga on the 2nd of July at the ANZ Stadium, followed by their game against Australia A on the 9th of July at Churchill Park and finally against Samoa on the 16th of July at Churchill Park.
16 players from the Fijian Drua have been included in the Flying Fijians squad for next month’s Pacific Nations Cup.
Former All Black Seta Tamanivalu will is also set to make his debut for Fiji.
This includes star winger Vinaya Habosi, Ilaisa Droasese, Kalaveti Ravouvou, Apisalome Vota, Teti Tela, Frank Lomani, Simione Kuruvoli, Peni Matawalu, Rusiate Nasove, Te Ahiwaru Cirikidaveta, Isoa Nasilasila, Manasa Saulo, Mesulame Dolokoto, Tevita Ikanivere and Haereti Hetet.
The backline also features Josua Tuisova, Ben Volavola, Vilimoni Botitu, Waisea Nayacalevu, Jiuta Wainiqolo, Manasa Mataele and Setareki Tuicuvu.
Eroni Mawi, Sam Matavesi, Luke Tagi, Mesake Doge, Tevita Ratuva, Temo Mayanavanua, Ratu Leone Rotuisolia, Apisalome Ratuniyarawa, Albert Tuisue, Mesulame Kunavula and captain Levani Botia complete the forward pack.
The Flying Fijians will take on Tonga in their first match on 2nd July at 3.30pm at the ANZ Stadium.
They will then face Australia A on July 9th at Churchill Park at 3.30pm.
In their final pool match, the Flying Fijians take on Samoa on July 16 at 3.3opm at Churchill Park.
Young rugby players looking to play for the Flying Fijians should set their sights on being part of the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua as coach Mick Byrne believes that is an easier pathway.
He has identified a number of players from the Drua team that have the potential to make the Flying Fijians.
Byrne will be meeting with Flying Fijians head coach Vern Cotter to present names of possible players that are ready for selection.
The Drua will meet the Chiefs in their final Super Rugby Pacific match for the season at 3pm Saturday in Lautoka.
All platinum tickets have been booked while the $95 tickets are selling very fast.
The silver and bronze tickets which cost $35 and $20 are still available.
The $20 tickets can only be purchased at the Lautoka City Council.
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