McKee names team for 2nd test match against 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
By: Naveel Krishant
McMillan gives same 23 players the chance to bounce back against Fiji (Thursday 18/07/2019)
New Zealand Maori rugby coach Clayton McMillan has given the same 23 players the chance to bounce back this weekend against Fiji, but has made several tweaks to the run‑on side, including the benching of All Blacks hopefuls Akira Ioane and Te Toiroa Tahuriorangi.
He has made five personnel changes to his starting lineup for Saturday night's revenge match against Fiji in Rotorua.
Bryn Hall, Alex Nankivell, Jordan Hyland, and Pari Pari Parkinson will all run on for the Maori All Blacks this week.
Isaia Walker-Leawere will start from the bench.
Fiji play the Maori All Blacks at 7.35pm on Saturday in Rotorua.
Maori All Blacks
1: Ross Wright (Northland) ‑ Ngati Whatua / Ngati Porou
2: Ash Dixon (Captain) (Hawke’s Bay/Highlanders) ‑ Ngati Tahinga
3: Tyrel Lomax (Tasman/Highlanders) ‑ Ngai Tuhoe / Muaupoko
4: Tom Franklin (Bay Of Plenty/ Highlanders) ‑ Ngati Maniapoto
5: Pari Pari Parkinson (Tasman/Highlanders) ‑ Te Whanau a Apanui
6: Reed Prinsep (Canterbury/ Hurricanes) ‑ Te Rarawa
7: Mitch Karpik (Bay of Plenty/Chiefs) ‑Rongomaiwahine / Ngati Kahungunu
8: Whetukamokamo Douglas (Canterbury/ Crusaders) ‑ Ngati Porou / Ngati Whakaue
9: Bryn Hall (North Harbour/ Crusaders) ‑ Ngati Ranginui
10: Otere Black (Manawatu/ Blues) ‑ Ngai Tuhoe / Te Whanau a Apanui / Ngati Tuwharetoa
11: Sean Wainui (Taranaki/ Chiefs) ‑ Ngai Tuhoe/Te Aitanga a Mahaki/NgaArikikaiputahi/ Ngati Porou
12: Alex Nankivell (Tasman/Chiefs) ‑Ngapuhi
13: Rob Thompson (Manawatu/ Highlanders) ‑ Ngati Kahungunu / Nga Rauru
14: Jordan Hyland (Northland) ‑ Ngai Tahu
15: Shaun Stevenson (North Harbour/ Chiefs) ‑ Ngapuhi
16: Nathan Harris (Bay Of Plenty/Chiefs) ‑Ngati Hikairo / Waikato Tainui
17: Haereiti Hetet (Waikato) ‑ Ngati Maniapoto/Pouri Rakete‑Stones (Hawke's Bay) ‑ Ngapuhi
18: Marcel Renata (Auckland/ Blues) ‑ Ngati Whanaunga / Ngai Takoto
19: Isaia Walker‑Leawere (Hawke's Bay/ Hurricanes) ‑ Ngati Porou
20: Akira Ioane (Auckland/Blues) ‑ Ngapuhi / Te Whanau a Apanui
21: Te Toiroa Tahuriorangi (Taranaki/Chiefs) ‑ Ngati Pikiao
22: Fletcher Smith (Waikato/ Hurricanes) ‑ Ngati Kahungunu
23: Teihorangi Walden (Taranaki/Highlanders) ‑ Te Atiawa
By: Naveel Krishant
Volavola keeping his hair natural now and listening to gospel music before every game (Thursday 18/07/2019)
Apart from displaying his natural raw talent on the field, Fiji Airways Flying Fijians Flyhalf Ben Volavola is now also keeping it natural when it comes to his hair.
In an interview with Fijivillage, Volavola said it was the right time to make the change.
Volavola also says that he loves to listen to gospel music before every game.
Volavola was part of the Flying Fijians team that delivered the historic 27-10 win over the Maori All Blacks last Saturday.
He will not play this weekend.
The Flying Fijians meet the Maori All Blacks at Rotorua International Stadium in New Zealand at 7.35pm Saturday.
By: Semi Turaga
Our loss to Fiji on Saturday was a wake up call - Maori All Blacks lock Franklin (Thursday 18/07/2019)
Maori All Blacks lock Tom Franklin says their loss to Fiji on Saturday was a wake-up call for their side.
Franklin says it was a bit of a smack in the face for the boys but they have been working really hard and everyone has been doing their part behind the scenes to get ready to battle against the Fijians and try to redeem themselves.
He says they were not surprised by the way Fiji played, they were disciplined, they held the ball for long periods of time and they've got that Fijian flair with the offloads which is pretty hard to stop.
Franklin says their focus this week has been on being smarter across several smaller aspects of their game.
He adds the fact they hadn't played together was not an excuse.
He says they have good rugby players who have been playing in the Super Rugby competition and they should have been better so they are looking forward to the game on Saturday.
The Fiji Airways Flying Fijians will play the Maori All Blacks at 7.35pm Saturday in Rotorua.
By: Navitalai Naivalurua
Veitokani likely to be shifted to fly-half against Maori All Blacks (Wednesday 17/07/2019)
It is highly likely that Alivereti Veitokani will get more game time as the fly-half against the Maori All Blacks this weekend in New Zealand.
Veitokani started as the fullback last week and during the second half shifted to the playmaker’s role after Ben Volavola was substituted.
Coach John McKee has opted not to take Volavola this week, with Josh Matavesi and Veitokani the options at fly-half.
McKee had earlier highlighted that he would like to see Veitokani playing more at fly-half.
The Fiji Airways Flying Fijians will play the Maori All Blacks at 7.35pm Saturday in Rotorua.
By: Naveel Krishant
The cold is not enough to cool the confidence in our chance to win- Ikanivere (Wednesday 17/07/2019)
A big test for the Fiji Airways Flying Fijians will be coping with the cold weather in New Zealand.
Prop Tevita Ikanivere who is in Rotorua for the first time says the cold was not enough to cool the confidence in their chance to win on Saturday.
Ikanivere said the game being played in Rotorua instead of one of the country's main centres was good for them as it allowed the team to experience the culture and customs of locals.
The Flying Fijians will start their training session today at the Puarenga Park in Rotorua.
Fiji will play Maori All Blacks at the Rotorua International Stadium in New Zealand at 7.35pm Saturday.
[Source:Rotorua Daily Post]
By: Navitalai Naivalurua
New players to impress McKee in 2nd game against Maori All Blacks (Tuesday 16/07/2019)
The 11 new players that have been included in the 26 member squad to face the Maori All Blacks this weekend will have a chance to impress selectors ahead of the Rugby World Cup.
Fiji Airways Flying Fijians coach, John McKee says that every player in the team is vying for a spot for the World Cup and these players have the opportunity to show what they can do in the field.
McKee says he will be trying out new combinations in this game where he will give the opportunity to other players to step up.
He adds they will be expecting a tough match against the Maori All Blacks this weekend where they will be trying to avenge their 27-10 loss on last Saturday.
Some of the new players that are travelling with the 26 member extended squad include Leeroy Atalifo, Tuvere Vugakoto, Tevita Ratuva, Johnny Dyer and Josh Matavesi.
Some players that have not been included are Ben Volavola, Josua Tuisova, Viliame Mata, Leone Nakarawa and Levani Botia.
Fiji plays the Maori All Blacks at Rotorua International Stadium in New Zealand at 7.35pm Saturday.
By: Navitalai Naivalurua
Maori All Blacks to avenge their 27-10 loss to the Fiji Airways Flying Fijians (Tuesday 16/07/2019)
The Maori All Blacks will be aiming to avenge their 27-10 loss to the Fiji Airways Flying Fijians when they will face them in Rotorua in their second test match this Saturday.
Maori All Blacks Coach Clayton McMillan says they gave away a lot of opportunities during their match last Saturday which resulted in a disappointing loss.
McMillan says their scrum was good throughout the game but their individual efforts were not good enough to beat Fiji.
He says their plan for this week is to improve on those areas they are not performing in and try to get their game back on track.
Flying Fijians coach John McKee has named 11 new players who were not part of the historic win last weekend in his 26 member squad for the final test match against the Maori All Blacks.
Some of the new players include Leeroy Atalifo, Tuvere Vugakoto, Tevita Ratuva, Johnny Dyer and Josh Matavesi.
The Flying Fijians meet the Maori All Blacks at Rotorua International Stadium in New Zealand at 7.35pm Saturday.
By: Navitalai Naivalurua
New combination to be tried out this week against the Maori All Blacks by Flying Fijians (Monday 15/07/2019)
Fiji Airways Flying Fijians Coach, John McKee says he will be trying out new combinations in their second test match against the Maori All Blacks this weekend.
McKee says that they will start training tomorrow and they expect a tough test match.
McKee says that this will give opportunity for other players to step up and show what they can do to secure a spot for Rugby World Cup.
McKee has named his 26 member extended squad for the final test match against the Maori All Blacks where 11 new players who were not part of the historic 27-10 win last weekend was included in this squad.
Some of the players that have missed out are Ben Volavola, Josua Tuisova , Viliame Mata, Leone Nakarawa and Levani Botia.
The Flying Fijians meet the Maori All Blacks at Rotorua International Stadium in New Zealand at 7.35pm Saturday.
By: Iva Danford
Matawalu,Radradra and Goneva most likely to feature in the Pacific Nations Cup - McKee (Monday 15/07/2019)
Fiji Airways Flying Fijians Coach John McKee says Nikola Matawalu, Semi Radradra and Vereniki Goneva are most likely to feature in the Pacific Nations Cup.
McKee says because of their injuries they were not considered for the two test matches against the Maori All Blacks.
McKee has named his 26 member extended squad for the final test match against the Maori All Blacks where 11 new players who were not part of the historic 27-10 win last weekend was included in this squad.
Some of the players that have missed out are Ben Volavola, Josua Tuisova , Viliame Mata, Leone Nakarawa and Levani Botia.
The Flying Fijians meet the Maori All Blacks at Rotorua International Stadium in New Zealand at 7.35pm Saturday.
Fiji Airways Flying Fijians 26 member squad.
Leeroy Atalifo.
Campese Ma’afu.
Peni Ravai.
Luke Tagi.
Kalivati Tawake.
Joeli Veitayaki.
Sam Matavesi.
Tuvere Vugakoto.
Api Ratuniyarawa
Tevita Ratuva.
Albert Tuisue.
Johnny Dyer.
Nemani Nagusa.
Dominiko Waqaniburotu.
Mosese Voka.
Frank Lomani.
Henry Seniloli.
Serupepeli Vularika.
Josh Matavesi
Alivereti Veitokani
Sevanaia Galala
Waisea Nayacalevu
Jale Vatubua
Kini Murimurivalu
Filipo Nakosi
Patrick Osbourne
By: Navitalai Naivalurua
McKee names his Fiji Airways Flying Fijians squad for final Pacific Series Test match against Maori All Blacks (Monday 15/07/2019)
Fiji Airways Flying Fijians Coach John McKee has named his 26‑member extended Fiji Airways Flying Fijians squad for the final Pacific Series Test match against the Maori All Blacks in Rotorua this Saturday.
McKee is traveling with 11 new players who were not part of the historic 27‑10 win over their New Zealand counterparts last weekend in Suva.
Some of the players including Ben Volavola who played last Saturday at the ANZ Stadium are not in the squad.
The team left for New Zealand earlier this morning.
McKee says the plan has always been to give as many players as they can the opportunity across the first two games as a lead up into the Pacific Nations Cup.
Luke Tagi, Joeli Veitayaki, Ratu Veremalua Vugakoto, Johnny Dyer, Mosese Voka, Frank Lomani and Serupepeli Vularika are the local players who have made it into McKee’s extended squad.
The Flying Fijians meet the Maori All Blacks at Rotorua International Stadium in New Zealand at 7.35pm Saturday.
Fiji Airways Flying Fijians 26 member squad.
Leeroy Atalifo.
Campese Ma’afu.
Peni Ravai.
Luke Tagi.
Kalivati Tawake.
Joeli Veitayaki.
Sam Matavesi.
Tuvere Vugakoto.
Api Ratuniyarawa
Tevita Ratuva.
Albert Tuisue.
Johnny Dyer.
Nemani Nagusa.
Dominiko Waqaniburotu.
Mosese Voka.
Frank Lomani.
Henry Seniloli.
Serupepeli Vularika.
Josh Matavesi
Alivereti Veitokani
Sevanaia Galala
Waisea Nayacalevu
Jale Vatubua
Kini Murimurivalu
Filipo Nakosi
Patrick Osbourne
By: Semi Turaga
Fiji Airways Flying Fijians expect strong comeback from Maori All Blacks in 2nd test match in NZ (Monday 15/07/2019)
The Fiji Airways Flying Fijians are expecting a strong comeback from the Maori All Blacks in their second test in Rotorua in New Zealand this Saturday.
Coach John McKee is hoping that Fijians that live in New Zealand show up to support the Flying Fijians.
A couple of players had some niggling injuries in the match against the Maori All Blacks last Saturday and McKee says they will be making some decisions on that.
He says at this stage of the campaign they are not going to push anyone to ensure they have the strongest possible group going forward.
The Flying Fijians meet the Maori All Blacks at Rotorua International Stadium in New Zealand at 7.35pm Saturday.
By: Semi Turaga
PM congratulates Flying Fijians on beating Maori All Blacks (Sunday 14/07/2019)
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.
By: Semi Turaga
Flying Fijians beat the Maori All Blacks 27-10 after 62 years (Saturday 13/07/2019)
The Fiji Airways Flying Fijians have created history at the ANZ Stadium this afternoon beating the Maori All Blacks 27-10 after 62 years.
Fiji last beat the Maori All Blacks in 1957 where they won 17-8 in Carisbrook in Dunedin, New Zealand.
FT | Congratulations to @fijirugby on securing their first win against the #MaoriAllBlacks since 1957.
— All Blacks (@AllBlacks) July 13, 2019
We look forward to the re-match in Rotorua next weekend.#FIJvMAB pic.twitter.com/gj5NuRAdr4
Flying Fijians Captain Dominiko Waqaniburotu says its an amazing achievement for the team as they only spent two weeks in training for their first game.
Maori All Blacks Captain Ash Dixon commended Fiji’s offload game.
The Flying Fijians led 12-nil at half time.
What a start @fijirugby! #FlyingFijians 👏 We love seeing the support for the team at the stadium and around the world. Final score @fijirugny 27 - Maori All Blacks 10.
— Fiji Airways (@FijiAirways) July 13, 2019
Fiji’s first try came from Alivereti Veitokani who cut through the defence in the 21st minute after receiving a brilliant cut out pass from Flyhalf Ben Volavola.
Full Time. It's perfect start to the season. Fiji Airways Flying Fijians beat Maori All Blacks 27-10. #itsfijistime #fijivsmaoriallblacks
— Fiji Rugby Union (@fijirugby) July 13, 2019
Volavola then successfully kicked the conversion.
In the 32nd minute, Number 8 Viliame Mata pushed his way through in the corner to score Fiji’s second try.
The conversion was missed by Volavola.
Maori All Blacks Flyhalf Otere Black got a yellow card in the 37th minute.
Fiji extended the lead early after halftime through a penalty conversion by Volavola.
In the 46th minute, the Flying Fijians displayed running rugby at its best with great off loads from Captain Dominiko Waqaniburotu and Filipo Nakosi allowing centre Waisea Nayacalevu to score another try.
Fiji extended their lead to 22-nil after another successful conversion by Volavola.
Wing Sean Wainui pulled one back for the Maori All Blacks in the 54th minute. The conversion by Otere Black was unsuccessful.
Wainui scored his second try for the Maori All Blacks in the 69th minute. The conversion by Otere Black was also unsuccessful.
The winning try for Fiji came in the 72nd minute after a great set of offloads led Waisea Nayacalevu to score in the corner.
The Flying Fijians play the Maori All Blacks in Rotorua, New Zealand next Saturday.
Meanwhile, two former rugby players were honoured today and capped at half time of the Flying Fijians and Maori All Blacks game.
These two players were Josaia Radrodro who made his Test debut in July 25th , 1970 and Ilai Koroitamana who represented Fiji as half back for the Fiji 7’s Team at the Hong Kong in 1985.
By: Semi Turaga and Iva Danford
Flying Fijians currently leading Maori All Blacks (Saturday 13/07/2019)
The Fiji Airways Flying Fijians are currently leading the Maori All Blacks and look set to break the losing streak they have had since 1957.
By: Semi Turaga
Waqaniburotu says the team is aiming for historic win today (Saturday 13/07/2019)
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.
By: Navitalai Naivalurua
Brothers Nakosi and Tuisova will start for the Flying Fijians against the Maori All Blacks today (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.
By: Navitalai Naivalurua
McKee stresses that their main challenge today is to match the Maori All Blacks in the full 80 minutes of the game (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.
By: Navitalai Naivalurua
Maori All Blacks rugby team hosted today by students and teachers of Stella Maris Primary School (Friday 12/7/2019)
The Maori All Blacks rugby team was hosted today by students and teachers of Stella Maris Primary School.
The Maori team was accorded the traditional escort by the class 8 students when they arrive and also the Fijian war dance.
The Maori team also took time to answer some of the questions from students, questions such as what makes a good rugby player and who is the most disciplined player.
The Maori players entertained the students with their traditional haka which most students only see on television and also had a time to dance with the students.
Students and teachers of Stella Maris thanked the Maori All Blacks team for choosing their school as part of their community visit in Fiji.
By: Navitalai Naivalurua
Sau and Osbourne out with injury allowing Murimurivalu and Nakosi to make the lineup (Friday 12/07/2019)
[L-R] Kini Murimurivalu and Filipo Nakosi
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.
The Fiji Airways Flying Fijians had their captains run this morning at the ANZ Stadium.
The team ran their plays that they may use against the Maori All Blacks tomorrow.
The team also practiced their ‘cibi’ for tomorrow’s game.
More to follow.
By: Naveel Krishant
Mid-field pairing of Levani Botia and Waisea Nayacalevu will be tested against the Maori All Blacks (Thursday 11/07/2019)
[L-R] Levani Botia and Waisea Nayacalevu
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.
By: Navitalai Naivalurua
Flying Fijians to take on Maori All Blacks named (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
By: Semi Turaga
President Konrote tells the Flying Fijians to accept victory with humility and defeat graciously (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.
By: Naveel Krishant
Walker-Leawere to start for Maori All Blacks against Flying Fijians (Thursday 11/07/2019)
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
By: Dhanjay Deo
Some Maori All Blacks are like brothers but on the field they will be our enemy - Nakarawa (Thursday 11/07/2019)
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.
By: Navitalai Naivalurua
Mixture of local and overseas based players will be one of their strengths this week - Ma'afu (Wednesday 10/07/2019)
Fiji Airways Flying Fijians Prop, Campese Ma'afu says the mixture of local and overseas based players will be one of their strengths this week.
The veteran prop who was part of the team that won against France last year highlighted that the local boys in the team have been stepping up to the challenges during their training.
Ma'afu says a win against the Maori All Blacks on Saturday is important as they have just come together in a short period of time.
The Fiji Airways Flying Fijians play the Maori All Blacks at 3pm this Saturday at the ANZ Stadium.
By: Navitalai Naivalurua
Maori All Blacks arrived into Fiji lastnight (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 .
By: Semi Turaga and Navitalai Naivalurua
It's a massive privilege to be part of a squad that has so much potential - Volavola (Tuesday 09/07/2019)
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.
By: Semi Turaga
A number of players currently in the squad came in with injuries - Mckee
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.
By: Navitalai Naivalurua
Road to the Rugby World Cup begins this Saturday against the Maori All Blacks - Mata (Tuesday 09/07/2019)
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
By: Navitalai Naivalurua
Flying Fijians selection will be based on effort put into training on the field and off it - McKee (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
By: Naveel Krishant
Training at the Sigatoka Sand Dunes helps develop mental toughness - McKee (Monday 08/07/2019)
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.
By: Naveel Krishant
Tahuriorangi hopes for a full stadium when Maori All Blacks take on the Fiji Airways Flying Fijians (Saturday 06/07/2019)
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.
By: Naveel Krishant
Flying Fijians hopeful Matavesi battles the Sigatoka Sand Dunes for the first time (Saturday 06/07/2019)
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.
By: Naveel Krishant
Coach John McKee impressed by the level of commitment by the players (Friday 05/07/2019)
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.
By: Semi Turaga
Time management is one of the key principles in developing your business further- Sauturaga (Friday 05/07/2019)
Former Flying Fijians forward, Vereniki Sauturaga says that time management is one of the key principles in developing your business further.
Sauturaga who received the award for the Banana Farmer of the Year at the Agriculture Show in Valelevu says he chose to get into banana farming because banana plants will keep on producing fruits every month, and you do not need to replant banana suckers like cassava or dalo.
He says last year he earned a lot from his 2.6 hectares of banana plantation where he collected 116 crates of bananas and sold it at $30 a crate.
He adds this year he has planted 2,110 banana suckers and he hopes to get another good sum of money from the expansion of his farm and business.
The Former Flying Fijians prop says he is aiming to become a commercial banana farmer and believes that this is possible with good record keeping.
He is urging youths who have left school to take up farming as a profession, because there is a lot money when you use a piece of land wisely.
By: Navitalai Naivalurua
McMillan looking forward to seeing what Akira Ioane will deliver against Fiji Airways Flying Fijians (Thursday 04/07/2019)
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]
By: Naveel Krishant
Priority put on team culture and behaviour - McKee (Wednesday 03/07/2019)
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.
By: Iva Danford
6 players with All Blacks experience named in Maori All Blacks team (Wednesday 03/07/2019)
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.
Introducing your #MaoriAllBlacks squad to take on Fiji in a two match series this month.
— All Blacks (@AllBlacks) July 2, 2019
FULL STORY ???? https://t.co/V9hRJOZlTG pic.twitter.com/2eWOy0FEat
Maori All Blacks Head Coach Clayton McMillan says the squad named was an exciting mix of vast experience and new energy.
?? Stay tuned for the naming of the 2019 #MaoriAllBlacks squad! pic.twitter.com/fZls4Ifx8C
— All Blacks (@AllBlacks) July 2, 2019
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) Waikat
Stay tuned for the latest news on our radio stations
