Flying Fijians Ready for Tongan Storm: Byrne Rallies Nation for Blockbuster Pacific Showdown
FIJI Water Flying Fijians head coach Mick Byrne says his team is sharpening preparations after sitting out the opening round of the Pacific Nations Cup with a bye. With Tonga coming off an impressive win against Samoa, Byrne believes Fiji must hit the ground running when they face the in-form side this Saturday.
Starting the tournament without a game has its challenges, Byrne admits. Unlike last year when Fiji opened their campaign with a match and had a break later, the reverse schedule this year demands a different approach.
“Last year we played first and then had our bye. This year we’ve had the bye first, so we need to make sure our training sessions replicate game-day physicality. Tonga is coming in strong, so we need to be ready,” Byrne explained.
The Flying Fijians have been putting in focused work during training, preparing specifically for the physical and tactical challenges the Tongan team will bring. Tonga’s dominant performance over Samoa has made them a team to watch, and Byrne knows Fiji must rise to the occasion from the first whistle.
Off the field, the coach is counting on the passionate home support to lift the team. He says the players are looking forward to playing in front of a sea of blue at Suva’s HFC Bank Stadium.
“Our fans are the best in the world. We’re expecting a loud and proud Fijian crowd, and that energy will help push the boys over the line,” Byrne added.
The Flying Fijians will take on Tonga at 3pm this Saturday at HFC Bank Stadium in Suva, with hopes high for a winning start to their Pacific Nations Cup campaign.
