‘Give No Penalties’

‘Give No Penalties’

The Flying Fijians will need to match the All Blacks in all facets of play if they are to get an upper hand in Saturday’s Test match in San Diego, United States of America.

This was the view of Super Rugby Pacific winning coach Vern Cotter.

Speaking to SUNsports yesterday, the Blues head coach stressed the need for the Flying Fijians to match the All Blacks in terms of physicality.

“Then they (Flying Fijians) must play with confidence,” Cotter said.

“They (Flying Fijians) must construct their set piece, kick smart and get back in the game as quickly as possible. That is up off the ground with a high work rate.”

He reiterated the need for the Fijians to be disciplined and to avoid giving away penalties.

“There must be no penalties,” Cotter reiterated.

However, with the All Blacks head coach, Scott Robertson and his assistant coaches still settling into the role, Cotter says, Fiji head coach Mick Byrne will see this as a good opportunity to disrupt the All Blacks.

The All Blacks are coming in after winning the two Test series against England. The Scott Barrett captained- side won both Test matches 16-15 and 24-17.

Cotter said he is expecting Robertson to make some changes in his Match 23 squad.

“There will be changes as they look to give opportunities to players who are on the fringe and the others before the Four Nations,” he added.

Cotter said Byrne, his assistant coaches and players would excited by this opportunity to play the All Blacks on a neutral turf.

“They have to do well and show the improvements made over the Rugby World Cup and Super Rugby. We’re looking forward to it and it will be a great contest.”

 

Feedback: leonec@fijisun.com.fj 

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