PNG, Samoa, Tonga prime opposition for Fiji: Ryan

Papua New Guinea, Samoa and Tonga have been rated by Fiji 7s coach Ben Ryan as teams they are wary off at this week’s Pacific Games 7s tournament that starts today in Port Moresby.

Ryan told PACNEWS upon their arrival at Jackson International Airport  Tuesday that Samoa is always a tough team to play against in any 7s tournament.

“ I haven’t seen the team yet  so I don’t know the strength of the side  they brought over  but they will be looking to qualify for Olympics in November, so I’m sure with the new coach as well  they send for this tournament I’m sure they will be a huge threat as well .They always tough to play against.

“I think PNG, Tonga and Samoa this three will make up a prime opposition this week,” Ryan told PACNEWS.

He said although there were several changes in the team, he is adamant the team will deliver.

“We obviously got a good squad here for this week’s competition.  Seven changes from the team that played in London gives me chance to blood in new players.

“We just had two days training before we came out here. We ‘ve been under cooked  but it’s going to be a long three days I’m sure they will learn on the field and it should be a great tournament for us,” he said.

Ryan said they want to maintain Fiji’s 7s team status as the number one team in World Rugby 7s series and the expectation from the public in Fiji is nothing less a win for a gold medal.

“The boys had done their share and they are on a high and the support is huge at the moment where ever we go, so it’s good hopefully they will rise up to the challenge of being the best team in the world that means every game you have to defend that title in my mind and that will start with PNG.

“They know, they understand   how the selection been made and they also know like I do the way   the team is selected for Fiji. There is an expectation they will do well, obviously the team I think has lost a couple of Pacific Games final to Samoa. We certainly keen to trying keep this good vibe around Fiji sevens and make sure that we can do our best and hopefully win the gold medal on Friday night,” a confident Ryan said…..PACNEWS

Author: 
PacNews