Goneva to start for Flying Fijians against Samoa

Veteran utility back Vereniki Goneva will start on the wing for the Fiji Airways Flying Fijians in the final World Rugby Pacific Nations Cup match against Samoa at ANZ Stadium this Saturday.

The 35‑year‑old is back from injury and has been given the nod to start in his first match this season.

Coach John McKee said Goneva is a very experienced player and a role model for others in the team.

Alongside him, Setareki Tuicuvu will make his second appearance for the Flying Fijians after earning his first cap against France in November last year.

McKee has named an experienced front‑row led by hooker Sam Matavesi and Props Campese Ma’afu and Peni Ravai.

The locks are Tevita Cavubati and Leone Nakarawa while the flankers are Skipper Dominiko Waqaniburotu and Semi Kunatani.

Viliame Mata retains his position at number eight.

Half‑Back Frank Lomani and Fly‑half Ben Volavola start after missing the Canada match last week.

McKee will test a new combination in the mid‑field patterning Levani Botia and Semi Radradra in the centre.

The Fiji Airways Flying Fijians face Manu Samoa at 7.15pm at ANZ Stadium this Saturday.

Fiji Airways Flying Fijians match‑day 23

1. Campese Ma’afu

2. Sam Matavesi

3. Peni Ravai

4. Tevita Cavubati

5. Leone Nakarawa

6. Dominiko Waqaniburotu

7. Semi Kunatani

8. Viliame Mata

9. Frank Lomani

10. Ben Volavola

11. Patrick Osbourne

12. Levani Botia

13. Semi Radradra

14. Vereniki Goneva

15. Setareki Tuicuvu

Reserves

16. Mesulame Dolokoto

17. Eroni Mawi

18. Kalivati Tawake

19. Tevita Ratuva

20. Peceli Yato

21. Nikola Matawalu

22. Josh Matavesi

23. Kini Murimurivalu

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