Source: FRU

Fijian rugby captain Waisea Nayacalevu says Japan will be efficient in the set pieces, an area the Flying Fijians will have to work hard on on Saturday night.

Being five points ahead of their rivals, Fiji just need to avoid a heavy defeat to claim the Pacific Nations Cup.

Nayacalevu, who was rested against Manu Samoa last weekend, gets the captaincy back as the Fijians look to build on their Pacific Nations Cup wins over Tonga and Samoa.

Japan, who narrowly lost to Manu Samoa three weekends ago but beat the ‘Ikale Tahi last week, would not be an easy beat for the visitors, Nayacalevu said.

“Japan will present a different challenge for us and they are very good at the set pieces and are very strong,” he said.

“But it will be a good test for us.”

Nayacalevu pairs Vilimone Botitu in midfield – the third combination head coach Simon Raiwalu has tested over the three Tests so far.

“He is a good player and I am excited to partner with him in midfield,” Nayacalevu said of Botitu.

Raiwalui said the team was relishing the challenge the Brave Blossoms would provide.

“We’re really looking forward to this part of our preparation, it’s the end of our first block (of games) so we understand how tough it’s going to be.

“We know Japan is a good team, plays a very high tempo game and are well organised so we are just looking forward to the challenge.”

He said the game would give him the opportunity to allow players to prove themselves before the Flying Fijians World Cup squad was announced.

Ten Fijian Drua players are in the team, with their captain Meli Derenalagi leading from the back of the scrum.

Derenalagi will team-up with flankers Lekima Tagitagivalu and Kitione Kamikamica as the loose trio.

Halfback Simione Kuruvoli gets his second start while the experienced Ben Volavola will get his chance to show himself at flyhalf, after the Drua’s Caleb Muntz started against both Tonga and Samoa.

Flying Fijians lineup:1. Eroni Mawi, 2.Sam Matavesi, 3. Luke Tagi, 4. Albert Tuisue, 5.Temo Mayanavanua, 6. Lekima Tagitagivalu, 7. Kitione Kamikamica, 8. Meli Derenalagi, 9. Simione Kuruvoli, 10. Ben Volavola, 11. Selestino Ravutaumada, 12. Vilimoni Botitu, 13, Waisea Nayacalevu (Captain), 14. Jiuta Wainiqolo, 15. Sireli Maqala; Reserves – 16. Tevita Ikanivere, 17. Peni Ravai, 18. Mesake Doge, 19. Te Ahiwaru Cirikidaveta, 20. Joseva Tamani, 21. Frank Lomani, 22. Teti Tela, 23. Ilaisa Droasese