The Fiji Water Flying Fijians are ramping up their preparations for a crucial Round 3 Asahi Dry Pacific Nations Cup match against Tonga. Coach Mick Byrne has confirmed that the team has increased the intensity of their training sessions at the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua Base in Nadi as they gear up for the showdown in Nukuʻalofa.
Speaking to the media, Byrne talked about the importance of the upcoming match and detailed the team’s approach in the lead-up to Friday’s game. “We’ve lifted the intensity in our training, introducing more contact drills and game-speed scenarios,” Byrne said. “This is to ensure the players are fully prepared for the physicality and pace of the match against Tonga.”
However, Byrne also noted that a few players are nursing minor injuries, which has led to some adjustments in the training routine. “We have a couple of players with niggling injuries, so we’re keeping them out of contact drills to allow them to recover fully. They’ve been working hard on their rehab, particularly on the bike, and their intensity remains high.”
Despite these challenges, Byrne is confident that the team is on track for a strong performance. “The players are eager and ready to go. We’ve put in the work, and now it’s about executing on the field.”
The match between Fiji and Tonga is set for 3:00 PM on Friday at Teufaiva Sport Stadium in Nuku’alofa. The Pacific Nations Cup continues on Saturday with Japan facing the USA.
