Flying Fijians vs Maori All Blacks coverage

Flying Fijians vs Maori All Blacks coverage

By fijivillage
Friday 12/07/2019

Coverage of the Flying Fijians as they faced the Maori All Blacks in a series of historic tests in Fiji and New Zealand along with the wider build up of the Flying Fijians team to the Rugby World Cup.

Go to the latest story.


Flying Fijians to focus on their rucks and defence during training camp

By Navitalai Naivalurua
Wednesday 03/07/2019
The Fiji Airways Flying Fijians during their training camp yesterday

The Fiji Airways Flying Fijians will be focusing on their rucks and defence during their training camp.

Coach John McKee says he knows they have got some very good attacking players but they need to have good defence so they will be putting a lot of focus on the defence from the start of their campaign.

McKee says they have structured a different Flying Fijians programme for this year where they will set different focuses for each phase of the training.

He says leading into the Maori All Blacks games, their big focus will be around the ruck areas adding he can see this is going to be a critical area for performance in the Rugby World Cup.

Fiji plays the Maori All Blacks at 3pm next Saturday at the ANZ Stadium and you can catch the live commentary of the match on our sister station, Viti FM.

The two teams will meet again on the 20th of this month in Rotorua.



6 players with All Blacks experience named in Maori All Blacks team

By Naveel Krishant
Wednesday 03/07/2019
[Photo: RugbyPass]

6 players with All Blacks experience have been named in the Maori All Blacks team to face the Fiji Airways Flying Fijians in two test matches this month.

The players are Akira Ioane, Elliot Dixon, Te Toiroa Tahuriorangi, Bryn Hall, Nathan Harris and Tyrel Lomax.

Isaia Walker‑Leawere who has links to Fiji has also been named in the team.

Other top players are Otere Black, Ben May, Reed Prinsep, Sean Wainui and Shaun Stevenson.

Maori All Blacks Head Coach Clayton McMillan  says the squad named was an exciting mix of vast experience and new energy.

McMillan says Fiji is a fantastic and exciting opposition who play a similar game to the Maori All Blacks.

He says they  know Fiji will be looking to use this Series as preparation for their Rugby World Cup campaign.

Fiji plays the Maori All Blacks at 3pm next Saturday at the ANZ Stadium and you can catch the live commentary of the match on our sister station, Viti FM.

The two teams will meet again on the 20th of this month in Rotorua.

Forwards

Hookers:

Ash Dixon (Ngati Tahinga) Hawke's Bay / Highlanders

Nathan Harris (Ngati Apakura /Tainui) Waikato / Chiefs

 

Props:

Tyrel Lomax (Ngai Tuhoe/Muaupoko) Tasman / Highlanders

Ben May (Ngati Maniapoto) Hawke's Bay / Hurricanes

Marcel Renata (Ngati Whanaunga/Ngai Takoto) Auckland/ Blues

Ross Wright (Ngati Whatua/Ngati Porou) Northland / Blues

 

Locks:

Tom Franklin (Ngati Maniapoto) Otago / Highlanders

Pari Pari Parkinson (Te Whanau a Apanui) Tasman / Highlanders

Isaia Walker‑Leawere (Ngati Porou) Hawkes Bay / Hurricanes

 

Loose Forwards

Whetukamokamo Douglas (Ngati Porou/Ngati Whakaue) Canterbury / Crusaders

Elliot Dixon (Ngapuhi) Southland/ Highlanders

Akira Ioane (Ngapuhi/Te Whanau a Apanui) Auckland / Blues

Mitchell Karpik (Rongomaiwahine/Ngati Kahungunu) Bay of Plenty / Chiefs

Reed Prinsep (Te Rarawa) Canterbury / Hurricanes

 

Backs

 

Halfbacks:

Bryn Hall (Ngati Ranginui) North Harbour / Crusaders

Jonathan Ruru (Ngati Kahungunu/Rongomaiwahine) Auckland / Blues

Te Toiroa Tahuriorangi (Ngati Pikiao) Taranaki / Chiefs

 

First five‑eighths:

Otere Black (Ngai Tuhoe/Te Whanau a Apanui/Ngati Tuwharetoa) Manawatu / Blues

Jackson Garden‑Bachop (Ngati Awa)      Wellington / Hurricanes

Fletcher Smith (Ngati Kahungunu) Waikato / Hurricanes

 

Midfielders

Alex Nankivell (Ngapuhi) Tasman / Chiefs

Rob Thompson (Ngati Kahungunu / Nga Rauru) Manawatu / Highlanders

Teihorangi Walden (Te Atiawa)      Taranaki / Highlanders

 

Outside backs:

Jordan Hyland (Ngai Tahu) Northland / Highlanders

Shaun Stevenson (Ngapuhi) North Harbour / Chiefs

Sean Wainui (Ngai Tuhoe/Ngati Porou) Taranaki / Chiefs



Priority put on team culture and behaviour - McKee

By Iva Danford
Wednesday 03/07/2019
Fiji Airways Flying Fijians Coach John McKee

Fiji Airways Flying Fijians Coach, John McKee says they will put a high priority on team culture and behaviour which plays a vital part in the performance of a team.

McKee says they can have a world class programme, coaches and players but if the players do not really follow the team culture and behaviour on a daily basis, it will affect the team’s performance.

He says that he has been waiting for this time as the team assembles so that they can show what they are capable of.

The Flying Fijians squad will be having a training session at the Sigatoka Sand Dunes this Friday as part of the camp schedule.

Fiji plays the Maori All Blacks at 3pm next Saturday at the ANZ Stadium and you can catch the live commentary of the match on our sister station, Viti FM.

The two teams will meet again on the 20th of this month in Rotorua.



McMillan looking forward to seeing what Akira Ioane will deliver against Fiji Airways Flying Fijians

By Naveel Krishant
Thursday 04/07/2019
Akira Ioane [Photo:TVNZ]

Maori All Blacks coach Clayton McMillan is looking forward to seeing what Akira Ioane will deliver against the Fiji Airways Flying Fijians.

McMillan spoke about Ioane's non‑selection in the All Blacks team for the Rugby Championship, hoping to get the best out of the barnstorming loose forward.

He says that Ioane was a strong performer for them on the end of year tour last year adding depending on who people talk to, Ioane had some good moments in Super Rugby this year.

Ioane is one of the six players with All Blacks experience who are included in the Maori All Blacks team to play Fiji in two test matches this month.

McMillan says he is not privy as to why he has not been selected in the All Blacks, but clearly there is areas for improvement.

All Blacks coach Steve Hansen indicated that fitness was once again the reason for passing on Ioane.

Fiji plays the Maori All Blacks at 3pm next Saturday at the ANZ Stadium and you can catch the live commentary of the match on our sister station, Viti FM.

[Source:TVNZ]



For some time we've been wanting a strong international opposition, and Fiji certainly fits that bill- McMillan

By Naveel Krishant
Friday 05/07/2019
Maori All Blacks coach Clayton McMillan

Maori All Blacks coach Clayton McMillan says for some time they have been wanting a strong international opposition, and Fiji certainly fits that bill and they are looking forward to the challenge of playing Fiji in back to back fixtures.

McMillan says Fiji is a fantastic and exciting opposition who play a similar game to the Maori All Blacks.

He adds they know Fiji will be looking to use this Series as preparation for their Rugby World Cup campaign.

McMillan says these next two fixtures will allow players to showcase what they have, and really put their best foot forward for higher honours.

Fiji plays the Maori All Blacks at 3pm next Saturday at the ANZ Stadium and you can catch the live commentary of the match on our sister station, Viti FM.



Coach John McKee impressed by the level of commitment by the players

By Semi Turaga
Friday 05/07/2019
[Photo: Fiji Rugby/Facebook]

Fiji Airways Flying Fijians Coach John McKee has been impressed with the level of commitment by the players in their first week in camp preparing for their test match against the Maori All Blacks. 

Today the team’s commitment, fitness, endurance and team bonding was tested when they went through an explosive session at the Sand Dunes in Sigatoka.

Veteran lock Leone Nakarawa says before the training session they were told by the trainer that he doesn’t care what your name is and where you come from because training at the sand dunes will test your character.

The Flying Fijians break camp today and will gather again on Sunday in Suva.

Fiji plays the Maori All Blacks at 3pm next Saturday at the ANZ Stadium.



Flying Fijians hopeful Matavesi battles the Sigatoka Sand Dunes for the first time

By Naveel Krishant
Saturday 06/07/2019
Fiji Airways Flying Fijians snaping a group shot after training at the Sigatoka Sand Dunes [Photo:Fiji Rugby Union]

It was the first time that Fiji Airways Flying Fijians hopeful Sam Matavesi trained at the Sigatoka Sand Dunes yesterday.

Matavesi who plays as a hooker says it was very tough, they had to warm up where they had four sets, up and down the hill and his legs were done.

He says it was good to test themselves after a weeks training and after the session every‑one was tired but were together which is good.

Coach John McKee has been impressed seeing the level of commitments the players have put in during the first week in camp.

The Flying Fijians broke camp yesterday and will gather again tomorrow in Suva.

Fiji plays the Maori All Blacks at 3pm next Saturday at the ANZ Stadium and you can catch the live commentary of the match on our sister station, Viti FM.



Tahuriorangi hopes for a full stadium when Maori All Blacks take on the Fiji Airways Flying Fijians

By Naveel Krishant
Saturday 06/07/2019
Maori All Blacks half‑back Te Toiroa Tahuriorangi [Photo:Stuff.co]

Maori All Blacks half‑back Te Toiroa Tahuriorangi is hoping for a full stadium when they take on the Fiji Airways Flying Fijians.

Tahuriorangi says it is pretty exciting and obviously this Fijian team is coming off a good win against France last year.

He says some of them have played in Fiji  and the culture and the environment is second to none.

Fiji plays the Maori All Blacks at 3pm next Saturday at the ANZ Stadium and you can catch the live commentary of the match on our sister station, Viti FM.



It's encouraging to see young and local players pushing for a spot in the national team- Volavola

By Naveel Krishant and Iva Danford
Sunday 07/07/2019
Bernadette Rounds Ganilau and Ben Volavola during his Q&A session at the Fiji Red Cross Charity Ball

Fiji Airways Flying Fijians fly‑half Ben Volavola says it is encouraging to see young and local players doing well and pushing for a spot in the national team.

During a Question and Answer session at the Fiji Red Cross Charity Ball, Volavola says this improves the entire squad.

He says they bring the ideas together and without any ego they are able to expand their game and that is a testament to the results they have been getting in the last three years.

Volavola is expected to be a part of the national team when they play the Maori All Blacks.

Fiji plays the Maori All Blacks at 3pm next Saturday at the ANZ Stadium and you can catch the live commentary of the match on our sister station, Viti FM. 



Training at the Sigatoka Sand Dunes helps develop mental toughness - McKee

By Naveel Krishant
Monday 08/07/2019
[Photo: Fiji Rugby/Facebook]

Fiji Airways Flying Fijians coach, John McKee believes training at the Sigatoka Sand Dunes helps develop mental toughness.

As the Fiji team gets ready to face the Maori All Blacks this Saturday, McKee says it helps the players push on when the players maybe tired.

He says that it is good to have the players back in camp.

The national team will start training again today after getting the weekend off.

Fiji plays the Maori All Blacks at 3pm this Saturday at the ANZ Stadium and you can catch the live commentary of the match on our sister station, Viti FM.



Flying Fijians selection will be based on effort put into training on the field and off it - McKee

By Naveel Krishant
Monday 08/07/2019

Fiji Airways Flying Fijians coach John McKee says the selection of players in the team will be based on the efforts they put in training on the field and off it.

McKee says it will depend on their discipline is around nutrition, getting good rest and recovery.

He says they have a very strong squad and a lot of players are going head to head to be selected.

The Fiji will start training today for their blockbuster clash against the Maori All Blacks.

Fiji plays the Maori All Blacks at 3pm this Saturday at the ANZ Stadium 



Road to the Rugby World Cup begins this Saturday against the Maori All Blacks - Mata

By Navitalai Naivalurua
Tuesday 09/07/2019
Flying Fijians flanker Viliame Mata

Flying Fijians flanker Viliame Mata says their road to the Rugby World Cup begins this Saturday against the Maori All Blacks.

Mata who was part of the team that won against France 21-14 in last years test match stated that the team have been polishing their scrum which has been one of their main area he sees as a weak link in the team.

Mata says he is hopeful their defense line against the Maori All Blacks will be strong and can hold them out.

He hopes people will turn up in numbers to support them which he adds will also be a massive boost to the team.

Coach John  McKee will name his 23 member team on Thursday.

The Fiji Airways Flying Fijians will take on the Maori All Blacks this Saturday at 3pm at the ANZ National Stadium 



A number of players currently in the squad came in with injuries - Mckee

By Navitalai Naivalurua
Tuesday 09/07/2019
The Flying Fijians during their training camp at Albert Park

Fiji Airways Flying Fijians Coach, John McKee confirms that a number of players that are currently in the squad came in with injuries.

Four players including Vereniki Goneva, Semi Radradra, Josh Matavesi and Nikola Matawalu were seen training on the sideline yesterday due to injuries.

McKee says they will make further assessments with the medical team later this week to confirm if they are fit to play in this week’s game.

He will name his 23 member squad to take on the Maori All Blacks.

Fiji will take on the Maori All Blacks this Saturday at 3pm at the ANZ National Stadium.

You can also catch the live commentary of this game on our sister station, Viti FM.



It's a massive privilege to be part of a squad that has so much potential - Volavola

By Semi Turaga
Tuesday 09/07/2019
Flying Fijians flyhalf Ben Volavola

Flying Fijians flyhalf Ben Volavola says it is a massive privilege to be part of a squad that works so hard and has so much potential.

In an interview with Fijivillage, Volavola says it is a  blessing to be part of the team because there are people who miss out. 

Volavola who now plays for Racing 92 in the Top 14 competition in France says he has really enjoyed watching local players pushing for starting positions in the team and that has helped improve the team’s collective strength.

He plays alongside Leone Nakarawa, Virimi Vakatawa and Joe Rokocoko at Racing 92.

Volavola says playing the Maori All blacks is a great start to their campaign.

The Flying Fijians camp has tested the team’s commitment, fitness and endurance and Volavola says he is grateful for the different characters in the team that make those funny moments happen during a hard day or where something gets tense.

The Fiji Airways Flying Fijians play the Maori All Blacks at 3pm this Saturday at the ANZ Stadium and you can catch the live commentary of the match on our sister station, Viti FM.



Maori All Blacks arrived into Fiji lastnight

By Semi Turaga and Navitalai Naivalurua
Wednesday 10/07/2019

The Maori All Blacks arrived in the country last night and they are ready to take the field this Saturday.

The team performed the ‘haka’ at the Nadi International Airport before they were accorded a traditional welcome ceremony.

Meanwhile, Flying Fijians flyhalf Ben Volavola says playing the Maori All Blacks is a great start to their campaign.

Volavola who now plays for Racing 92 in the Top 14 competition in France says he has really enjoyed watching local players pushing for starting positions in the team and that has helped improve the team’s collective strength.

He plays alongside Leone Nakarawa, Virimi Vakatawa and Joe Rokocoko at Racing 92.

The Flying Fijians camp has tested the team’s commitment, fitness and endurance and Volavola says he is grateful for the different characters in the team that make those funny moments happen during a hard day or where something gets tense.

The Fiji Airways Flying Fijians play the Maori All Blacks at 3pm this Saturday at the ANZ Stadium 



Fiji Football Association is now facilitating the process for Gamel to travel more often to France to sort out family issue

By Dhanjay Deo and Naveel Krishant
Wednesday 10/07/2019
Fiji Soccer Head Coach Christophe Gamel

Fiji Soccer Head Coach Christophe Gamel says the Fiji Football Association is now facilitating the process for him to travel more often to France and this should solve his family issue.

Gamel had earlier told FijiVillage that he has a major family issue in France which he is trying to fix.

After having meetings with the Fiji FA, Gamel is now confident that he will overcome family issues and wants to continue to honor his contract with the Fiji Football Association.

Gamel is contracted with the Fiji FA till 2022.



Some Maori All Blacks are like brothers but on the field they will be our enemy - Nakarawa

By Navitalai Naivalurua
Thursday 11/07/2019
Fiji Airways Flying Fijians lock Leone Nakarawa

Fiji Airways Flying Fijians lock Leone Nakarawa says even though some of the Maori All Blacks players are like brothers, that will be put aside this Saturday.

Nakarawa who is regarded as one of the best rugby players expects a close game against the Maori All Blacks.

Meanwhile coach John McKee says the players are prepared for the two games against the Maori All Blacks and the game this Saturday.

McKee will name his 23 member team today.

Fiji play the Maori All Blacks at 3pm this Saturday at the ANZ Stadium 



Walker-Leawere to start for Maori All Blacks against Flying Fijians

By Dhanjay Deo
Thursday 11/07/2019
Isaia Walker-Leawere who has links to Fiji will start for the Maori All Blacks against the Flying Fijians. Photo: All Blacks

Former Flying Fijians Captain, Kele Leawere’s son, Isaia Walker‑Leawere has been named in the Maori All Blacks starting 15 to face Fiji Airways Flying Fijians this Saturday.

Walker‑Leawere had a good Super Rugby season with the Hurricanes.

Top players such as Ash Dixon, Tyrel Lomax, Reed Prinsep, Akira Ioane, Te Toiroa Tahuriorangi, Otere Black and Fletcher Smith will also start for the Maori All Blacks.

The Fiji 15s team will play Maori All Blacks at 3pm this Saturday at the ANZ Stadium and you can catch the live commentary on Viti FM.

The team is (with Province, Investec Super Rugby Club, and Iwi):

1: Ross Wright (Northland) - Ngati Whatua / Ngati Porou 2: Ash Dixon (Captain) Hawkes Bay/Highlanders - Ngati Tahinga 3: Tyrel Lomax (Tasman/Highlanders) - Ngai Tuhoe / Muaupoko 4: Isaia Walker-Leawere (Hawke’s Bay/Hurricanes) - Ngati Porou 5: Tom Franklin (Bay Of Plenty/Highlanders) - Ngati Maniapoto 6: Reed Prinsep (Canterbury/Hurricanes) - Te Rarawa 7: Mitch Karpik (Bay of Plenty/Chiefs) - Rongomaiwahine / Ngati Kahungunu 8: Akira Ioane (Auckland/Blues) - Ngapuhi / Te Whanau a Apanui 9: Te Toiroa Tahuriorangi (Taranaki/Chiefs) - Ngati Pikiao 10: Otere Black (Manawatu/ Blues) - Ngai Tuhoe / Te Whanau a Apanui / Ngati Tuwharetoa 11: Sean Wainui (Taranaki/Chiefs) - Ngai Tuhoe / Te Aitanga a Mahaki / Nga Arikikaiputahi / Ngati Porou 12: Teihorangi Walden (Taranaki/Highlanders) Te Atiawa 13: Rob Thompson (Manawatu/Highlanders) - Ngati Kahungunu / Nga Rauru 14: Shaun Stevenson (North Harbour/Chiefs) - Ngapuhi 15: Fletcher Smith * (Waikato/Hurricanes) - Ngati Kahungunu

16: Nathan Harris * (Bay Of Plenty/Chiefs) - Ngati Hikairo / Waikato Tainui 17: Haereiti Hetet * (Waikato) - Ngati Maniapoto 18 Marcel Renata (Auckland/Blues) - Ngati Whanaunga / Ngai Takoto 19 Pari Pari Parkinson (Tasman/Highlanders) - Te Whanau a Apanui 20 Whetukamokamo Douglas (Canterbury/Crusaders) - Ngati Porou / Ngati Whakaue 21: Bryn Hall (North Harbour/Crusaders) - Ngati Ranginui 22 Alex Nankivell * (Tasman/Chiefs) - Ngapuhi 23 Jordan Hyland * (Northland) - Ngai Tahu

*denotes uncapped for Maori All Blacks



President Konrote tells the Flying Fijians to accept victory with humility and defeat graciously

By Naveel Krishant
Thursday 11/07/2019

President, Jioji Konrote told members of the Fiji Airways Flying Fijians to accept victory with humility and defeat graciously.

While accepting the team’s i-tatau at State House today, Konrote told the players they are not alone in their efforts to do well for their families and the nation.

He told the players to maintain their healthy lifestyle as Fiji is losing too many of our people through hypertension and diabetes.

Players like captain Dominiko Waqaniburotu, Ben Volavola, Leone Nakarawa, Josua Tuisova, Patrick Osbourne, Nikola Matawalu, Frank Lomani and Semi Kunatani were present at the i-tatau as the team begin their journey to the Rugby World Cup in Japan.

The Fiji team begin their road to the Rugby World Cup when they take on the Maori All Blacks at 3pm Saturday at the ANZ Stadium and you can catch the live commentary of the match on our sister station, Viti FM.



Flying Fijians squad to take on Maori All Blacks named

By Semi Turaga
Thursday 11/07/2019

A powerful backline including Josua Tuisova and Eroni Sau on the wing as well as Waisea Nayacalevu and Levani Botia in the midfield will start for the Fiji Airways Flying Fijians against the Maori All Blacks this Saturday.

Ben Volavola will start at flyhalf while Alivereti Veitokani is at full black.

Frank Lomani starts at halfback ahead of Nikola Matawalu, Serupepeli Vularika and Henry Seniloli.

Viliame Mata gets the Number 8 jersey.

The flankers are Semi Kunatani and Captain Dominiko Waqaniburotu.

Leone Nakarawa and Albert Tuisue are the locks.

Sam Matavesi starts at hooker ahead of Mesulame Dolokoto while Peni Ravai and Manasa Saulo are the props.

The reserves bench includes Mesulame Dolokoto, Eroni Mawi, Kalivati Tawake, Api Ratuniyarawa, Nemani Nagusa, Henry Seniloli, Sevanaia Galala and Patrick Osbourne.

The Flying Fijians will play Maori All Blacks at 3pm this Saturday at the ANZ Stadium and you can catch the live commentary on Viti FM.

Fiji Airways Flying Fijians Squad:

Peni Ravai

Sam Matavesi

Manasa Saulo

Albert Tuisue

Leone Nakarawa

Dominiko Waqaniburotu

Semi Kunatani

Viliame Mata

Frank Lomani

Ben Volavola

Eroni Sau

Lepani Botia

Waisea Nayacalevu

Josua Tuisova

Alivereti Veitokani

Reserves

Mesulame Dolokoto

Eroni Mawi

Kalivati Tawake

19. Api Ratuniyarawa

20.Nemani Nagusa

21.Henry Seniloli

22.Sevanaia Galala

23 Patrick Osbourne



Mid-field pairing of Levani Botia and Waisea Nayacalevu will be tested against the Maori All Blacks

By Navitalai Naivalurua
Friday 12/07/2019
Fiji Airways Flying Fijians coach John McKee believes new mid-field pairing of [L-R] Levani Botia and Waisea Nayacalevu will be tested against the Maori All Blacks tomorrow

Fiji Airways Flying Fijians coach John McKee believes new mid-field pairing of Levani Botia and Waisea Nayacalevu will be tested against the Maori All Blacks tomorrow.

McKee says their match tomorrow is an important one as they want to start their campaign on a high note.

McKee says it is always a hard decision to select players for a game since there are a lot of players right across the park in the team.

He says Alivereti Veitokani will provide some attacking quality from the full-back position and he sees Veitokani playing as fly-half in the future.

Fiji will take on the Maori All Blacks at 3pm at the ANZ Stadium tomorrow and you can catch the live commentary of this game on Viti FM.



Sau and Osbourne out with injury allowing Murimurivalu and Nakosi to make the lineup

By Naveel Krishant
Friday 12/07/2019
[L-R] Kini Murimurivalu and Filipo Nakosi [Photo: blog-rct]

Kini Murimurivalu and Filipo Nakosi have been brought in to the match day 23 for the Fiji Airways Flying Fijians.

Nakosi will start on the wing in place of Eroni Sau who is injured while Murimurivalu replaces Patrick Osbourne on the bench.

Osbourne is injured as well.

Coach, John McKee says Osbounre and Sau were injured in training yesterday.

He adds this should make any difference to their game plan tomorrow.

The Fiji Airways Flying Fijians had their captains run this morning at the ANZ Stadium.

Fiji will play the Maori All Blacks at 3pm tomorrow at the ANZ Stadium and you can catch the live commentary of the match on our sister station, Viti FM.



McKee stresses that their main challenge today is to match the Maori All Blacks in the full 80 minutes of the game

By Navitalai Naivalurua
Saturday 13/07/2019

Fiji Airways Flying Fijian coach John McKee stressed their main challenge today is to match the Maori All Blacks in the full 80 minutes of the game.

McKee says he knows most of their players have just came out of Super Rugby which makes them match fit for this game.

He also stated that they look a bit messy at sometimes and this can help us in completing our combination during the game.

He adds the Maori All Blacks will also be like them trying to put their combination together because it is always difficult in the first game.

The Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama also handed the players their rugby jersey’s last night at the Grand Pacific Hotel and this will also be the first time for brother’s Josua Tuisova and Filipo Nakosi to play together.

Fiji will play the Maori All Blacks at 3pm today at the ANZ Stadium and you can catch the live commentary of this game on Viti FM.



Brothers Nakosi and Tuisova will start for the Flying Fijians against the Maori All Blacks today

By Navitalai Naivalurua
Saturday 13/07/2019

Brothers Filipo Nakosi and Josua Tuisova will start for the Fiji Airways Flying Fijians against the Maori All Blacks today.

Nakosi replaces Eroni Sau in the wing due to an injury which he suffered during their training session on Thursday while Tuisova will be on the other side of the winger position.

Kini Murimurivalu is also brought in to the 23 member squad replacing Patrick Osborne on the bench.

Flying Fijians Coach John McKee stressed their main challenge today is to match the Maori All Blacks in the full 80 minutes of the game.

Fiji will play the Maori All Blacks at 3pm today at the ANZ Stadium and you can catch the live commentary of this game on Viti FM.



Waqaniburotu says the team is aiming for historic win today

By Navitalai Naivalurua
Saturday 13/07/2019
[L-R] Flying Fijians captain Dominiko Waqaniburotu and Maori All Blacks Captain Ash Dixon

Flying Fijians captain Dominiko Waqaniburotu says the team is aiming for an historic win today while Maori All Blacks Captain Ash Dixon says they will perform to their outmost best.

Waqaniburotu says with the few days of preparation he is sure they will pull off a historical victory against an opponent they have only come close to beat in recent years.

Maori All Blacks Captain Ash Dixon says that it does not really make a difference that they have players from the Super Rugby competition.

Dixon says one of factor they are trying to cope with is the weather which most of the boys are not very familiar with.

The Fiji Airways Flying Fijians will take on the  Maori All Blacks at 3 o’clock this afternoon at the ANZ Stadium and you can catch the live commentary on our sister station Viti FM.



PM congratulates Flying Fijians on beating Maori All Blacks

By Semi Turaga
Sunday 14/07/2019
[Photo: Prime Minister Bainimarama]

Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama has congratulated the Fiji Airways Flying Fijians for their convincing win against the Maori All Blacks.

Speaking to the players after the perfect start to the 2019 RWC campaign beating the Maori All Blacks with a score line of 27‑10 in the Pacific Test Series at ANZ Stadium in Suva, Bainimarama urged the players to continue the great team work they displayed during the game.

Bainimarama who is also the President of Fiji Rugby Union met and congratulated all the players individually yesterday.

He says whatever level of performance they put out they need to that continue next week.

The Flying Fijians play the Maori All Blacks in Rotorua, New Zealand next Saturday.



McKee names team for 2nd test match against Maori All Blacks

By Naveel Krishant
Friday 19/07/2019
The Fiji Airways Flying Fijians during their match against the Maori All Blacks

Fiji Airways Flying Fijians Coach John McKee has made ten changes to the team that will play the Maori All Blacks in the second test match tomorrow.

As anticipated, Alivereti Veitokani will start as the fly‑half with Kini Murimurivalu to start at fullback.

Patrick Osbourne and Filipo Nakosi are the two wingers while Jale Vatubua and Waisea Nayacalevu will partner in the centres.

Campese Ma’afu, Veremalua Vugakoto, Lee Roy Atalifo, Tevita Ratuva, Api Ratuniyarawa, Dominiko Waqaniburotu, Mosese Voka and Nemani Nagusa will start in the forwards.

The Flying Fijians will play the Maori All Blacks at 7.35pm Saturday in Rotorua.

Fiji will play Maori All Blacks at 7.35pm tomorrow at Rotorua International Stadium.

Fiji Airways Flying Fijians

1.Campese Ma’afu

2.Veremalua Vugakoto

3.Lee‑Roy Atalifo

4.Tevita Ratuva

5.Apisalome Ratuniyarawa

6.Dominiko Waqaniburotu

7.Mosese Voka

8.Nemani Nagusa

9.Henry Seniloli

10.Alivereti Veitokani

11.Filipo Nakosi

12.Jale Vatubua

13.Waisea Nayacalevu

14.Patrick Osbourne

15.Kini Murimurivalu

Reserves

16. Samuel Matavesi

17. Joeli Veitayaki

18. Luke Tagi

19. Albert Tuisue

20. John Dyer

21. Serupepeli Vularika

22. Sevanaia Galala

23. Josh Matavesi



Flying Fijians will try to improve on their ball retention and discipline against Maori All Blacks

By Navitalai Naivalurua
Friday 19/07/2019
Fiji Airways Flying Fijians Coach John McKee conducting training

Fiji Airways Flying Fijians Coach John McKee says two important factors they will be trying to improve in tomorrow’s match are ball retention and discipline during their defence.

McKee says they expect a different and challenging match against the Maori All Blacks where the host team will want to bounce back on their home territory and turn the table on them.

He says they will need to be very patient with the ball to build pressure on the host team where he revealed that in their game last week they made many line breaks but they also turned over too much ball.

McKee stressed it is important for these players to grab this opportunity and make a strong statement so that they stake a spot in the final 31 member squad for the Rugby World Cup in September.

McKee has named his 23 member team that will take on the Maori All Blacks which includes a mixture of local and international players such as Leeroy Atalifo, Alivereti Veitokani, Filipo Nakosi, Jale Vatubua, Veremalua Vugakoto and Josh Matavesi.

Fiji will play the Maori All Blacks at 7.35pm tomorrow at Rotorua International Stadium.



Flying Fijians aiming for their 9th win over the Maori All Blacks

By Naveel Krishant
Saturday 20/07/2019

The Fiji Airways Flying Fijians will be aiming for their 9th win over the Maori All Blacks in Rotorua tonight.

Fiji has played the Maori All Blacks 30 times with the Maori All Blacks getting 20 wins and two matches have ended in a draw.

Last weekend Fiji created history by beating the Maori All Blacks for the first time in 62 years.

Players like Alivereti Veitokani, Kini Murimurivalu, Filipo Nakosi, Dominiko Waqaniburotu , Jale Vatubua , Waisea Nayacalevu and Mosese Voka will start for Fiji.

On the other hand it is about redemption for the Maori All Blacks.

Lock Tom Franklin says last week it was a bit of a smack in the face but the players  are keen for a bit of redemption.

He says they have  been working really hard and everyone has been doing their part behind the scenes to get ready to prepare to go to battle again and try and redeem themselves.

Fiji play the Maori All Blacks at 7.35 tonight.



Flying Fijians vs Maori All Blacks live updates

By Fijivillage
Saturday 20/07/2019

Maori All Blacks beat the Flying Fijians 26-17.

PLAY BY PLAY

Flying Fijians

Final score:
17-26

Maori All Blacks

Flying FIjians TIME Maori All Blacks
Crucial turnover by Nemani Nagusa after MABs had all the momentum early on 3'  
Charge down on Veitokani kick gets hacked forward and gathered by Nayacalevu almost resulting in a try but he knocks it on 5m from the tryline 5'  
Waqaniburotu toes the ball ahead after a low pass then passes between his legs to Veremalua to score in the corner. TRY FIJI!!!! 8'  
  10' Bad exit by Seniloli and a penalty has given the MABs a lineout 5m from their tryline
  13' Try to Wainui in the corner after an aimless kick by Fiji to exit their 22
  23' Rolling maul from MABs from the 5m line defended well by Fiji and results in a knock-on over the tryline. Fiji ball.
Great clearing kick from Veitokani after Fiji sustained pressure for a lengthy period. Fiji lose the ball after the lineout. 26'  
Veitokani misses a penalty attempt from near half way. 29'  
Fiji get a penalty and take the lineout attacking and making it into the 22 31'  
Nakosi sets up Fiji's attack but the MABs steal the ball on the tryline and clear the ball 34'  
Some massive hits from Vatubua stops MABs attack 38'  
  39' Fiji fail to take a high kick in midfield almost resulting in a try for the Maori All Blacks
HALFTIME
Flying Fijians TIME Maori All Blacks
  43' Try to Maori All Blacks under the posts after a lineout from the 5m line
Veitokani kicks a penalty on the 22m line 51'  
  54' Maori All Blacks get a scrum near the 22m after holding up Josh Matavesi
  56' Maori All Blacks scrum leads to a penalty near the 5m line after some indiscipline from Fiji
Fiji give away another penalty on the tryline and the ref warns them the next infringement will result in a yellow card 58'  
  59' Veitokani drops a cross-kick resulting in a try for the Maori All Blacks in the corner. Conversion misses.
  62' Veitokani drops another kick which leads to a dominant Maori scrum then penalty
  64' Try to Walker-Leawere after a lineout
Fiji score a try after a dominant scrum on the 5m line 76'  
  80' Maori All Blacks grinding it out for the win.
FULLTIME


Flying Fijians go down to the Maori All Blacks 26-17

By Naveel Krishant
Saturday 20/07/2019

The Maori All Blacks have beaten the Fiji Airways Flying Fijians 26-17 in their second test match in Rotorua.

Fiji scored first through Veremalua Vugakoto as Fiji took a 7-0 lead.

Sean Wainui scored for the Maori All Blacks as they leveled the scores to 7-7.

Both teams were locked 7-all at half time.

The Maori All Blacks scored three tries in the second half through Rob Thompson, Isaia Walker-Leawere and Alex Nankivell.

Mosese Voka scored a consolation try late on as the Maori All Blacks held on for the win.

PLAY BY PLAY

Flying Fijians

Final score:
17-26

Maori All Blacks

Flying FIjians TIME Maori All Blacks
Crucial turnover by Nemani Nagusa after MABs had all the momentum early on 3'  
Charge down on Veitokani kick gets hacked forward and gathered by Nayacalevu almost resulting in a try but he knocks it on 5m from the tryline 5'  
Waqaniburotu toes the ball ahead after a low pass then passes between his legs to Veremalua to score in the corner. TRY FIJI!!!! 8'  
  10' Bad exit by Seniloli and a penalty has given the MABs a lineout 5m from their tryline
  13' Try to Wainui in the corner after an aimless kick by Fiji to exit their 22
  23' Rolling maul from MABs from the 5m line defended well by Fiji and results in a knock-on over the tryline. Fiji ball.
Great clearing kick from Veitokani after Fiji sustained pressure for a lengthy period. Fiji lose the ball after the lineout. 26'  
Veitokani misses a penalty attempt from near half way. 29'  
Fiji get a penalty and take the lineout attacking and making it into the 22 31'  
Nakosi sets up Fiji's attack but the MABs steal the ball on the tryline and clear the ball 34'  
Some massive hits from Vatubua stops MABs attack 38'  
  39' Fiji fail to take a high kick in midfield almost resulting in a try for the Maori All Blacks
HALFTIME
Flying Fijians TIME Maori All Blacks
  43' Try to Maori All Blacks under the posts after a lineout from the 5m line
Veitokani kicks a penalty on the 22m line 51'  
  54' Maori All Blacks get a scrum near the 22m after holding up Josh Matavesi
  56' Maori All Blacks scrum leads to a penalty near the 5m line after some indiscipline from Fiji
Fiji give away another penalty on the tryline and the ref warns them the next infringement will result in a yellow card 58'  
  59' Veitokani drops a cross-kick resulting in a try for the Maori All Blacks in the corner. Conversion misses.
  62' Veitokani drops another kick which leads to a dominant Maori scrum then penalty
  64' Try to Walker-Leawere after a lineout
Fiji score a try after a dominant scrum on the 5m line 76'  
  80' Maori All Blacks grinding it out for the win.
FULLTIME

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