The Vodafone Flying Fijians are expecting a tough battle from Samoa in their Pacific Nations Cup clash at Apia Stadium on Saturday.
Speaking to SUN sports yesterday Flying Fijians head coach John McKee said they are aware of areas Samoa would come in very strongly.
“We expect them to be very strong in the forwards, so our forwards will need to be stronger to contain them,” he said.
“Our defence around the rucks need to be strong so we can stop them before they reach the advantage line. They also have a very good backline so we have threats all over the place as such our defence has got to be very good.”
McKee said they need to execute their chances better than what they did against Tonga.
“Poor execution of the pass meant that we didn’t turn opportunities into points. Our focus will be on our execution and how to turn them into points.”
The Akapusi Qera-led side arrived in Apia early yesterday morning after flying from Nuku’alofa to Nausori before they caught a connecting flight to Nadi and then to Apia.
After the much-needed rest, the players had a team review, which was followed by an afternoon training session at Apia Park.
McKee said they were happy to be in Samoa following a very hard fought game against Tonga.
“The game this weekend means a lot for us because we want to win and retain the Pacific Nations Cup.
“We expect a very tough match and we know that Samoa are desperate for a win and also to qualify for the Rugby World Cup. We come here with some confidence from our success so far in this campaign, but we know that doesn’t count for anything.”
Photo: Fiji Sun